Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Index > Game Forums > zz Hiptos: Sands of Fate (on indefinite hiatus)

Be sure to read and follow the guidelines for our forums.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 17, 2019 6:02 am

Oct 17, 2019 6:02 am

Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcTlkAy75ybQkJBKwjPWiyi7j24uwZMsWv3R9iuWaiBhZvdCPcDF

Music

Dawn comes during Jana's shift. To her alarm, she finds all the raiders' bodies have disappeared! Faint drag marks, almost completely erased by the sandstorm, mean the bodies were taken early in the night. Whatever took them came and went without any of you the wiser.

You prepare to push on towards Shunet El Zebib. This is the deep desert; the caravans do not venture here. Creatures roam these sands that even the druids have never seen before, as well as vengeful ghosts from Hiptos' past. Those explorers - brave, foolish, or both - who have come here in search of treasure have never been heard from again.

OOC:

It's time to Undertake A Perilous Journey. Jana will be the Trailblazer, so I need 2 other volunteers to take the roles of Scout and Quartermaster. All three, roll+WIS.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 17, 2019 9:58 am

Oct 17, 2019 9:58 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Akh will act as quartermaster.

Rolls

Quartermaster - (2d6+1)

(16) + 1 = 8

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 17, 2019 3:44 pm

Oct 17, 2019 3:44 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana takes careful bearing with the sun and sets off into the trackless waste.

Rolls

Follow me - (2D6+1)

(16) + 1 = 8

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 17, 2019 6:43 pm

Oct 17, 2019 6:43 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro nods to his companions as everyone prepares to leave and calling Jei'nine to his side starts scouting ahead of the party.

[ +- ] Racial Ability

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 20, 2019 5:59 pm

Oct 20, 2019 5:59 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

In the pink of dawn, you collect precious dew to moisten your lips before quickly breaking your fast, and setting off across the wastes with Jana as your guide. It's not long before you are tailed by a pack of jackals, answering the question of what stole the bodies in the night. The cowardly beasts hound you for miles, but give up the chase as the sun climbs and begins hammering down on the anvil that is the deep desert.

In the night your camp is visited by apparitions of strange creatures that Akh explains are called "fish." The wizard shares something he read, theorizing that all this is ancient seabed. These specters may have been haunting these wastes since the dawn of time.

OOC:

Consume another ration.

On the second day, the rolling dunes give way to soft sand beds that stretch as far as the eye can see. Heat waves dance across the shimmering expanse, occasionally swept by hot, dust-laden wind. You come upon a field dotted with sand funnels, each a dozen feet across, and almost as deep. Soro warns that such pits are dug by huge, voracious, insectile beasts called myrmeleons, that wait for unsuspecting prey to stumble into their traps. The ranger points out an armored head, armed with a pair of fearsome mandibles, half hidden in the sand, lying in wait.

What do you do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 20, 2019 6:29 pm

Oct 20, 2019 6:29 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana turns to Soro Samma N'Sei

These are dangerous pathways, do you think it would be helpful to have eyes in the sky. I can fly above and help pick the safest path.

OOC:

Since we had another night at camp there would be more healing if needed. I will put the roll here just 8n case.

Rolls

Song of healing - (1D6)

(4) = 4

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 20, 2019 6:41 pm

Oct 20, 2019 6:41 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Roll Spout Lore, Jana. You're just as likely as Soro to know something about these creatures. In fact, take +1 on the roll to represent your combined knowledge.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 20, 2019 7:05 pm

Oct 20, 2019 7:05 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

We had to deal with these creatures near our oasis.

Rolls

Spout lore - (2D6+1)

(61) + 1 = 8

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 21, 2019 1:12 am

Oct 21, 2019 1:12 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana knows that one must walk without rhythm so as not to attract the creature. And of course, don't fall into the pit! If only you could all fly!

What do you do?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 21, 2019 2:05 am

Oct 21, 2019 2:05 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"Jana, Soro, I'll trust your judgement, you choose if we go through or around. If you want I could summon an unseen servant to walk away from us with rhythm to distract them."

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited October 21, 2019 2:06 am

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 21, 2019 4:50 am

Oct 21, 2019 4:50 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

My fear is that if the unseen servant draws them out, they could then see us and attack. I don't know how good their eyesight is. It might come in handy if one comes our way, we could freeze and you could cast it behind the creature.

'The Swordsman'

Oct 21, 2019 9:41 am

Oct 21, 2019 9:41 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"Is there no way around?" asks the Swordsman. The others are nearly surprised by his croaking voice, as it is the first time rhe nameless warrior has spoken since the duel.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 21, 2019 9:46 am

Oct 21, 2019 9:46 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The myrmeleon field is vast, though there is probably a way around. Perhaps Jana's idea to survey it from the sky is a good one. There is also enough space in between funnels for two or sometimes even three to walk abreast, but you're unsure if that would be safe to do.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 21, 2019 2:40 pm

Oct 21, 2019 2:40 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Unfortunately my nameless friend it would take us days to circumvent this killing field. I fear we must work our way through it. Though In this task, sight from above would give us an advantage. Jei'nine and I can mark a path and we must walk as disjointedly as possible. No pattern must emerge from our footfalls.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 21, 2019 3:03 pm

Oct 21, 2019 3:03 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Those who attempt this crossing on the ground, Defy Danger (DEX).

If Jana offers guidance from the air as suggested, and succeeds on a Roll+WIS, your Defy Danger rolls will benefit from a +1 bonus.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 21, 2019 4:59 pm

Oct 21, 2019 4:59 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I will lead you by the shortest path. Once I get in the air, I will circle to see it all, the lead. Rember, be aware of each other so you don't slip into marching in unison.

With that, Jana shimmers and disappears, replaced by a hawk which takes to the air.

Rolls

Shape change - (2D6)

(14) = 5

Wisdom check - (2D6+1)

(11) + 1 = 3

'The Swordsman'

Oct 21, 2019 5:16 pm

Oct 21, 2019 5:16 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman looks up into the sky, squinting at the speck of the hawk backlit by the relentless fiery sun beating down on the party.

He shrugs in resignation to the fates and tries to follow the bird as best he can.

OOC:

So I take it no +1 from Jana lol

Last edited October 21, 2019 6:17 pm

Rolls

Dex based Dune walking (to avoid the worms and collect the spice) - (2D6+1)

(66) + 1 = 13

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 21, 2019 5:21 pm

Oct 21, 2019 5:21 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Mark 2 XP, Jana. You get 1 hold, which you then spend on flight. Let's see those Defy Danger rolls from the others (no +1 from Jana).

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 21, 2019 5:37 pm

Oct 21, 2019 5:37 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro leads doing his best to mark the safest passage for the others.

Rolls

Defy Danger - (2d6+1)

(15) + 1 = 7

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 21, 2019 7:03 pm

Oct 21, 2019 7:03 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh starts by summonning his unseen servant, thinking of using it to distract the creatures,
"By the power of the old gods, lend me the spirits of your servants to obay my will and serve me."Pointing away from the group but toward the creatures, "Go that way, walk 2 step each second."
Then Akh starts walking his own way, taking great care to count his steps in his head to make sure they are no rhythm to them...

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited October 21, 2019 7:05 pm

Rolls

unseen servant (2d6+Int) - (2d6+2)

(25) + 2 = 9

defy danger (2d6+Int) - (2d6+2)

(35) + 2 = 10

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 21, 2019 7:25 pm

Oct 21, 2019 7:25 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

I am so jealous of all these rolls. All your 1's are mine.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 21, 2019 8:34 pm

Oct 21, 2019 8:34 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

more xp for you !

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 22, 2019 8:51 am

Oct 22, 2019 8:51 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Akh, what's your complication for that 9 on Cast A Spell?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 22, 2019 9:25 am

Oct 22, 2019 9:25 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Spell is forgotten...

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 22, 2019 2:59 pm

Oct 22, 2019 2:59 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana shapeshifts into a hawk and takes to the air. Her wings are strong, but there's something wrong with her vision -- it's as if she is seeing through her halfling eyes rather than her hawk eyes! What could be wrong? Could it have anything to do with losing the precious water that is her connection to her home oasis?

Akh sends his invisible servant across the field as a distraction, while he and his companions attempt the crossing. It's a clever ploy -- there are suble shifts in the bottoms of the pits as their denizens react to the potential meal.

Both Akh and the Swordsman quickly master the irregular gait that Soro teaches them. Ironically, it is Soro himself who missteps, sending a pebble skittering down one of the funnels. Immediately, an insectoid creature, as large as a horse, bursts from the sand, mandibles seeking. The ground disturbed, its neighbors emerge in turn. It seems these myrmeleons suffer from limited vision, relying instead on vibrations in the ground to "see." They know you're nearby, but unless you fall in their traps, you're probably safe.

http://footage.framepool.com/shotimg/qf/423311309-antlion-larva-franconia-head-anatomy.jpg

The going is painstakingly slow, but you're doing it -- you can get past this! You're about halfway across when you notice the jackals are back. Light on their paws, they navigate the field much more quickly than you. They are gaining on you.

What do you do?

Jabes.plays.RPG sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

'The Swordsman'

Oct 22, 2019 3:04 pm

Oct 22, 2019 3:04 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman readies the bow he had taken from the dead raider and prepares to shoot an arrow at the lead Jackal.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 22, 2019 3:23 pm

Oct 22, 2019 3:23 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Don't wait, kill as many as you can before they close on us. But make sure to keep your footfalls irregular. Try and drop them into the pits if you can! Soro deftly strings his bow as he keeps moving and looses an arrow at the pack.

OOC:

Rolling a second defy danger just in case you needed it for the pits.

Last edited October 22, 2019 3:25 pm

Rolls

Volley - (2d6+1, 1d8)

2d6+1 : (64) + 1 = 11

1d8 : (4) = 4

Defy Danger - (2d6+1)

(52) + 1 = 8

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 22, 2019 3:44 pm

Oct 22, 2019 3:44 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

If you are moving while fighting, definitely continue to roll defy Danger DEX against the sandpit traps.

Soro, your bowshot is dead on, and the lead jackal goes down with a whimper. But then...

OOC:

Choose who stumbles and starts sliding down a pit: you, or Jei'nine. Then, describe what you do about it.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 22, 2019 4:16 pm

Oct 22, 2019 4:16 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Still timing his steps in his mind, Akh continues for a little while, not wanting to be stuck between his companions and the jackals, before turning around and firing a magic missile into the closest unarmed jackal.
Amenemhet, Master of magic and fire, let me borrow your flames to smite my enemies.

Edit: Missing a step, Akh falls into one of the pits, but somehow manages to fire his magic missile into a myrmeleon instead of a jackal...

OOC:

If the outcome I wrote is not the one you wanted to add, feel free to change it Jabes. :)
Also, I added 1 xp...

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited October 22, 2019 4:22 pm

Rolls

Defy Danger (2d6+Int) - (2d6+2)

(12) + 2 = 5

Magic Missile casting / Magic Missile Dmg - (2d6+2, 2d4)

2d6+2 : (46) + 2 = 12

2d4 : (43) = 7

'The Swordsman'

Oct 22, 2019 5:49 pm

Oct 22, 2019 5:49 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

How many jackals are we talking about?

The Swordsman keeps moving as he looses an arrow into the pack of jackals.

Rolls

Defy danger (dex) - (2d6+1)

(43) + 1 = 8

Volley - (2D6+1)

(36) + 1 = 10

Damage - (1d10)

(8) = 8

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 22, 2019 6:23 pm

Oct 22, 2019 6:23 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Down to 8 jackals.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 22, 2019 6:27 pm

Oct 22, 2019 6:27 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Firing off his arrow and striking true Soro steps to close to a pit and starts to slide into it. As he slides Soro grabs the end of his bow and thrusts it toward his closest companion hoping they can grab it and haul him back out.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 22, 2019 6:51 pm

Oct 22, 2019 6:51 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh and Soro both go tumbling down one of the deadly traps!

OOC:

Swordsman, choose one of them to save, then roll+Bond.

'The Swordsman'

Oct 22, 2019 7:01 pm

Oct 22, 2019 7:01 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The nameless warrior, seeing Akh fall down into a pit reaches his bow towards the strange necromancer to help him from further sliding down to the massive pincers of the pit’s occupant.

Rolls

Roll (bond?) - (2D6)

(16) = 7

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 22, 2019 7:15 pm

Oct 22, 2019 7:15 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

You have 1 bond with Akh, so that's 2d6+1, resulting in an 8.

The Swordsman reacts quickly, and Akh is able to grab hold of the bow. But he's still on the slippery slope, scrabbling for a foothold!

There's no help for Soro -- he's slipping and sliding. The monster below, already wounded by Akh's arcane bolts, isn't taking any chances -- it digs at the sandy slope, collapsing it further, drawing its meal closer.

What do you do?

'The Swordsman'

Oct 22, 2019 7:47 pm

Oct 22, 2019 7:47 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Using his considerable strength, the Swordsman tries to pull Akh up over the edge of the sandy pit.

Rolls

Strength - (2D6+2)

(56) + 2 = 13

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 22, 2019 7:59 pm

Oct 22, 2019 7:59 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman effortlessly hauls Akh out of immediate danger. Now Soro is down there alone, face to face with the monster! Jei'nine barks frantically at the creature, and seems about to charge down the slope to Soro's aid.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 22, 2019 10:39 pm

Oct 22, 2019 10:39 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana lands near the edge of the pit and draws her bow. She lets loose a volley of arrows into the carapace of the foul pit fiend.

Rolls

Volley. Not sure pluses or minuses - (2D6)

(13) = 4

Damage he said hopefully - (1D6)

(2) = 2

Dexterously avoiding danger - (2D6+1)

(45) + 1 = 10

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 22, 2019 10:45 pm

Oct 22, 2019 10:45 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Thanks friend... In all the time they had known each other, that was probably the first time Akh had called the Swordsman's a friend...
...But this is far from over, I'll try to help Soro, take care of those jackals for now...
Akh turn towards Soro, hoping he is not too late...
Amenemhet, Master of magic and fire, send your flames to burn this insect.

OOC:

Akh casts magic missile at the myrmeleon, hoping kill or at least scare it enough to let Soro come back up...
edit: I'll draw unwanted attention...

Last edited October 22, 2019 10:45 pm

Rolls

Magic Missile casting / Missile Magic damage - (2d6+2, 2d4)

2d6+2 : (14) + 2 = 7

2d4 : (14) = 5

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 23, 2019 12:22 pm

Oct 23, 2019 12:22 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Jana, Volley is roll+DEX, so that's a 5. Mark 1 XP.

Jana's landing is rough. Prepared to shoot an arrow at the myrmeleon, she instead has to focus her attention on not tumbling into the pit! Her arrow flies -- and buries itself in the back of Soro's knee! (Soro takes 2 damage - armor is ignored)

As Akh flings his magics, a cold dread grips his heart. Something old and dangerous -- a presence he has felt in the back of his mind since the day his search for lost knowledge unlocked his first spell -- that presence reached out. He can only shudder at the thought of what it would be like if that presence actually touched him.

Once more, Akh's spell slams into the monster in the pit. Wounded, the creature flails angrily, unable to see its attacker. But its meal is now within reach of its hungry maw! What do you do, Soro?

The jackals, eight in number, draw nearer. You can now see the whites of their eyes, and their slavering jaws.

What do you do?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 23, 2019 4:15 pm

Oct 23, 2019 4:15 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Just before Soro reaches the myrmeleon, Akh throws his bag of book (4/5 uses, 2 weight), hoping the creature will munch on that instead of his companion...
"See Soro !? I told you, knowledge is power !! Now get out of there !!"

OOC:

not sure what stats to add so I'll throw the dice and you add what you want...

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited October 23, 2019 4:17 pm

Rolls

thrown bag of books (2d6+?) - (2d6)

(64) = 10

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 23, 2019 7:52 pm

Oct 23, 2019 7:52 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

I think the team would be better off without me?Also, do the Jackals not trigger the pit things.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 24, 2019 6:21 am

Oct 24, 2019 6:21 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Without Jana and Soro's combined skill, this group would be eaten alive by the desert in no time!

The jackals are lighter and nimbler than you, but they have lost several of their number to the pit traps. That is part of the reason there are now only a few remaining from what was originally a large pack. I'm sorry I've failed to narrate that.

In this particular situation I think Aid fits Akh's book throw. That will give Soro +1 to his next roll, whether he decides to run or fight.

Akh sacrifices his precious books. The heavy tomes skid down the sandy slope, and the hungry myrmeleon thinks it's another tasty treat come its way. That gives Soro enough of an opening to make his move.

Nearby, yet another jackal falls, howling, into one of the sandy pits, to be torn apart and devoured by the monster lurking within! The survivors are desperate now. They are almost upon you!

What do you do?

'The Swordsman'

Oct 24, 2019 11:50 am

Oct 24, 2019 11:50 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman shoots another arrow at the pack, hoping to thin it out.

Rolls

Volley - (2d6+1)

(55) + 1 = 11

Damage - (1d10)

(2) = 2

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 24, 2019 1:12 pm

Oct 24, 2019 1:12 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

That wounds the pack alpha, but doesn't take it down. The hounds are still coming. They're right on top of you. It's time for swords, fangs, fists!

What are you doing about that myrmeleon, Soro?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 24, 2019 1:52 pm

Oct 24, 2019 1:52 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh, trying to buy some more time for Soro to get out of there, sends another missile in the myrmeleon.
Get out Soro!! Hurry up !!"
Akh sends another magic missile, hoping not to feel the foreign presence in his mind...
Amenemhet, Master of magic and fire, send your flames to burn this insect.
Akh, feels the presence reaching out again, this time his mental defences are ready ...But still, the mental touch shakes him... (-1 ongoing to casting )

[ooc]Soro, don't forget you have +1 to your next action.

Last edited October 24, 2019 1:55 pm

Rolls

magic missile casting / magic missile dmg - (2d6+2, 2d4)

2d6+2 : (52) + 2 = 9

2d4 : (23) = 5

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 24, 2019 1:54 pm

Oct 24, 2019 1:54 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Let's pause that for now. I want to see what Soro does immediately after the book throw.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 24, 2019 3:25 pm

Oct 24, 2019 3:25 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Sorry for my delayed posting

Soro, gives a curt command to Jei'nine to join him in the attack and then rounds on the myrmeleon, using the distraction of the books to stab into the joint between head and thorax of the beast.

OOC:

I added the +1 mentioned above to my attack.

Rolls

Hack and Slash (spear attack) - (2d6+2, 1d8+3)

2d6+2 : (33) + 2 = 8

1d8+3 : (4) + 3 = 7

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 24, 2019 3:42 pm

Oct 24, 2019 3:42 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana sees that Soro seems to have things in hand, and is unwilling to aim that close to an ally if it can be helped, Jana turns and looses an arrow at a jackal.

Rolls

Volley - (2D6+1)

(24) + 1 = 7

Damage - (1D6)

(1) = 1

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 25, 2019 6:34 am

Oct 25, 2019 6:34 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro's spear comes out the back of the myrmeleon's head just as Akh's magic bursts the monster's abdomen. It's quite dead. Ranger and companion try to scramble up the slope but it soon becomes obvious it will be near-impossible without help and a rope.

Jana's arrow puts the alpha down. Half the remaining jackals seem ready to tuck their tails and run, but a new alpha steps up, snarling, and urges them on.

Soro, as you pause to puzzle out how to climb out of the sand trap, you see where Akh's bundle of books landed nearby. It looks like there are other things half-buried in the sand here. You can hear the jackals snarling and howling up above.

What do you do?

'The Swordsman'

Oct 25, 2019 10:45 am

Oct 25, 2019 10:45 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman steps forward with the Sword of Vengeance and tries to dispatch the lead jackal.

With a downward thrust, he stabs the ancient blade into the canine just as the jackal lunges for a bite. The last meal of the would-be lead jackal is the worn and pitted metal of the Swordsman’s weapon.

Last edited October 25, 2019 10:50 am

Rolls

H&S - (2d6+2)

(55) + 2 = 12

Damage - (1d10+1)

(9) + 1 = 10

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 26, 2019 3:18 am

Oct 26, 2019 3:18 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Relieved to see Soro in no more immediate danger, Akh turns to help the swordsman by trying to thin the herd...
Amenemhet, Master of magic and fire, send your flames to fend off those beasts.
The missile has barely left his hand that Akh feels it leave is mind. He'll have to find another way to make himself useful...

OOC:

casting magic missile (-1 ongoing)

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited October 26, 2019 3:19 am

Rolls

Magic Missile casting / Missile Magic damage - (2d6+1, 2d4)

2d6+1 : (51) + 1 = 7

2d4 : (43) = 7

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 27, 2019 5:07 am

Oct 27, 2019 5:07 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Teeth grind against metal as the Swordsman slowly withdraws his ancient blade from his last kill, just as Akh's magic tears apart another jackal. The four that remain decide this fight just isn't worth it. Their next meal will just have to be their slain packmates. They slink away, dragging the bloody corpses with them.

Now it's just you and the fully alert myrmeleons, though the monsters are saying in their lairs... for now. Soro and Jei'nine are still in the bottom of one, ankle deep in fine sand and myrmeleon guts. They will probably need rope, and someone to haul them out.

Soro, Akh's books are nearby. Some are ruined by the myrmeleon gore, but not all. There seem to be other items in the bottom of the pit as well.

What do you do?

OOC:

Some of you carry Adventuring Gear in your packs.

Quote:

Adventuring Gear (5 uses)
Adventuring gear is a collection of useful mundane items such as chalk, poles, spikes, ropes, etc. When you rummage through your adventuring gear for some useful mundane item, you find what you need and mark off a use.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 27, 2019 3:09 pm

Oct 27, 2019 3:09 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro grabs the bag of books and heaves it up to Ahk. Thank you for using such precious material for that distraction. There are other items down here in the sand, toss a rope down and I'll see if there is anything worth its water down here. Soro signals Jei'nine to help him in the search.

[ +- ] Animal Companion

Rolls

Discern Realities - (2d6+1)

(44) + 1 = 9

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 27, 2019 3:31 pm

Oct 27, 2019 3:31 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Discern Realities is Roll+WIS so that's actually an 11! You get three questions.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 27, 2019 6:04 pm

Oct 27, 2019 6:04 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana keeps an eye out of more enemies. Ready to warn her team of any danger that may approach.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 27, 2019 6:20 pm

Oct 27, 2019 6:20 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Looking at Soro, "Isn't that a rope in your backpack ? Throw it up when you're ready and we'll pull you out... Could you also bring back my books ? Maybe I can save a few of them..."

OOC:

I saw on your sheet that you had adventuring gear...

Last edited October 27, 2019 6:20 pm

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 28, 2019 2:32 pm

Oct 28, 2019 2:32 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Very true, I do have a rope easy to hand. Haul your books up first, I think there might be something else down here in the sand. Soro will tie the bag of books to the rope and toss the loose end up to his companions. Then sifts through some of the surrounding area.

[ +- ] Three Questions

Last edited October 28, 2019 3:40 pm

'The Swordsman'

Oct 28, 2019 3:27 pm

Oct 28, 2019 3:27 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman sheaths the Sword of Vengeance and grabs the end of Soro's rope. He prepares to haul up the ranger when the elf signals that he is ready.

Last edited October 28, 2019 3:27 pm

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 28, 2019 3:28 pm

Oct 28, 2019 3:28 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

You're limited to the questions prescribed by the move. There is an advanced move that allows you to make your own questions.

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 28, 2019 3:39 pm

Oct 28, 2019 3:39 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jabes.plays.RPG says:

OOC:

You're limited to the questions prescribed by the move. There is an advanced move that allows you to make your own questions.

OOC:

Sorry I thought those were just examples... I edited my original post.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 28, 2019 3:45 pm

Oct 28, 2019 3:45 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Oops, I later edited that response to add, "But I see no reason to drag this out. Will post what you discover in a little bit." My internet's been wonky, so the edit didn't take.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 28, 2019 4:33 pm

Oct 28, 2019 4:33 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh gets his books back. One out of the four is completely soaked in myrmeleon goo and beyond saving.

The pit seems safe enough, even though Soro is aware that all that stands between him and the dead myrmeleon's neighbor is a few dozen yards of loose sand. There's not a whole lot of debris here, but there are a few curiosities mixed in with the animal bones -- a coin here and there (8 in all), a mallet and a pair of rusted but serviceable picks, a cast iron pan, a brass key, a disk of lapiz lazuli. Might there be more valuable items buried deeper? A tempting thought, but Soro doubts it would be safe to dig around -- every moevement here causes a small sand slide risking a bigger one, and might attract the neighbors. Best to get scarce.

What do you do?

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 28, 2019 4:58 pm

Oct 28, 2019 4:58 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro quickly gathers the items that are easy to hand then motions for the others to lower the rope and scales it out of the pit. Let us be away from these pits. I care not to face another one of these pit dwellers.

'The Swordsman'

Oct 28, 2019 6:07 pm

Oct 28, 2019 6:07 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman heaves at the rope, pulling the lighter elf out of the fine sandy pit.

Once Soro is with the group, the nameless warrior nods in acknowledgement to the ranger in recognition for his victory against the beast.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 28, 2019 8:51 pm

Oct 28, 2019 8:51 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Let's be on our way quickly, but be sure to keep your steps uneven, I think they are riled up.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 28, 2019 9:46 pm

Oct 28, 2019 9:46 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Discarting his unnusable book, "Soro, never forget, even if knowledge is invaluable, the value of a life is still greater..."
Akh then proceed to continue his way, concentrating on his steps to keep then irregular...

Rolls

defy danger (int) - (2d6+2)

(66) + 2 = 14

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 29, 2019 7:48 am

Oct 29, 2019 7:48 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

You quickly put the myrmeleon pits behind you. By Jana's reckoning, you should reach your destination the next morning -- that is, unless you keep marching through the night, in which case you would arrive before dawn.

By Akh's count, your food and water will only last two more days. If you spend any significant mount of time delving into the ruins, there won't be enough provisions to make it back to Sietch Jalmud. Jana knows of a small oasis near the ruins -- there will be water, perhaps dates to eat, but not much else.

Music

As the sun is westering, you come to an area marked by turmeric-yellow sands dotted with chalk-white stone formations. You hear faint whispers, but it could just be the wind against the rocks. Your footfalls echo dully as if the ground beneath your feet is hollow.

You still have an hour, maybe two, before sunset. What do you do?

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CI-mgTwXAAE3eub.jpg

'The Swordsman'

Oct 29, 2019 2:03 pm

Oct 29, 2019 2:03 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman is out of his element, so he keeps his counsel. He sips a small drink from his disconcertingly light waterskin as he looks around at the rock formations for signs of danger.

Last edited October 29, 2019 2:03 pm

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 29, 2019 3:25 pm

Oct 29, 2019 3:25 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Although Jana doesn't worry about food and water now, she remembers a time when she did. There will be enough water, and that is the main thing. It will be tough, but doable.

I don't reccomend traveling through the night. A defendable camp should be found now, while we have light.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 29, 2019 4:26 pm

Oct 29, 2019 4:26 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

These chalky rock formations might lend some measure of shelter. Jana knows you could keep going another hour and camp amongst the last few formations. Beyond that, it's open desert again all the way to the oasis.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 29, 2019 5:55 pm

Oct 29, 2019 5:55 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

If we go to the edge, we will be able to see enemies coming in one direction at least.

'The Swordsman'

Oct 30, 2019 5:36 pm

Oct 30, 2019 5:36 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman nods in agreement with Jana and points towards the last outcrops as he croaks "Lead on little one."

Jabes.plays.RPG

Oct 30, 2019 5:47 pm

Oct 30, 2019 5:47 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

An hour later, as the sun sets, you arrive at the last of the rock formations. You find a suitable spot, and prepare to make camp.

'The Swordsman'

Oct 30, 2019 6:30 pm

Oct 30, 2019 6:30 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman offers to take first watch and keeps lookout while his companions rest.

Rolls

take watch - (2d6)

(65) = 11

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Oct 30, 2019 6:42 pm

Oct 30, 2019 6:42 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

While setting up camp, Jana sings the songs of water and food.

I will take last watch

Rolls

Healing for all - (1D6)

(6) = 6

Watch roll - (2D6)

(46) = 10

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Oct 31, 2019 12:20 pm

Oct 31, 2019 12:20 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I'll take middle watch. Make sure to conserve as much as you possibly can, though I thank you for healing my friend.

Rolls

take watch - (2d6+2)

(46) + 2 = 12

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Oct 31, 2019 3:58 pm

Oct 31, 2019 3:58 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Happily skipping a turn if nobody asks him, Akh takes an hour to study his spellbook before going to sleep...

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 3, 2019 12:35 pm

Nov 3, 2019 12:35 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

You spend the night on the fringe of the chalk formations. Before you stretches the last expanse of open desert. You can almost imagine your destination just beyond that rise on the horizon. It's a clear night; three moons are waxing full, the fourth waning gibbous. The other two are barely-discernible crescents.

Music

Swordsman: The white rocks creak, as if speaking to each other in an ancient tongue man has forgotten. You've been taught this is just the change in temperature, but it's hard to shake off old myths. A falling star streaks across the sky just before it's time for you to wake Soro.

Soro: With the moons this bright, the constellation of The Veil is no longer visible. Instead, The Sword arcs slowly across the firmament. You sill surely see blood spilt again this day.

Jana: The sky lightens during your watch. In the grey of morning, you hear a droning overhead, as if from a giant insect flying by. There's not enough light to see, but before it fades from your hearing, it heads in the direction of Shunet el Zebib.

OOC:

If you haven't yet, consume a ration, and heal damage equal to half your max HP. Don't forget to add the extra healing from Jana (6 HP).

As soon as there's enough light, you break your fast and break camp. You are on your way before dawn comes. A couple of hours later, you crest the rise and see the ruins in the valley before you a short distance away is the oasis.

Where do you go first?

'The Swordsman'

Nov 3, 2019 2:36 pm

Nov 3, 2019 2:36 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

sorry I haven’t been book keeping my HP, based off of the above what should the Swordsman’s current HP be?

The Swordsman pours the last few drops of his precious water into his mouth. Looking at the oasis, he is glad for their halfling guide knowing that without her and Soro, he would be feeding the vultures by now.

With the morning sun already bearing down, he squints at the tiny green lifeline in the vast sea of sand, his crow’s feet wrinkles betraying years of exposure to the harsh elements.

"Water first."

Last edited November 3, 2019 2:41 pm

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 3, 2019 4:17 pm

Nov 3, 2019 4:17 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana is glad to hear the swordsman has some survival sense, maybe we can make a desert survivor of him yet.

Yes. Water first. Always. Be careful as we approach, we are not the only thirsty things in the desert.

Jana remembers her watch.

And keep an eye to the sky, something big flew over our camp in the early hours.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 3, 2019 9:50 pm

Nov 3, 2019 9:50 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Looking nervously in the skies for any non-identified flying creatures, Any idea what it could be ?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 4, 2019 12:11 am

Nov 4, 2019 12:11 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Spout lore.

It sounded like a giant insect, what I know about things like that are...

Rolls

Spouting lore - (2D6)

(62) = 8

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 4, 2019 6:01 am

Nov 4, 2019 6:01 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana knows that the myrmeleons are the larvae of great, diaphanous-winged insects, but those aren't known to be dangerous. Of course, other creatures roam these lands, and here in the deep desert, there are those that no one has ever seen - or lived to tell the tale.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 4, 2019 5:00 pm

Nov 4, 2019 5:00 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

If it is, what I hope, then it is the final stage of those giant insects we fought. I hope it is them, because they are large but harmless. There is an off chance it is something I haven't encountered. So, better safe than sorry.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 4, 2019 5:13 pm

Nov 4, 2019 5:13 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"Bah !... It seem like everything in this desert wants to kill us. At least in a city, only half of everything is after your hide, or you pockets..." With a subtle smile, Akh winks at Soro, hoping he got the joke...

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 4, 2019 6:36 pm

Nov 4, 2019 6:36 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Almost everything here doesn't care if you live or die, which is worse. You can bargain with something that wants you dead.

Last edited November 4, 2019 6:37 pm

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 5, 2019 9:33 am

Nov 5, 2019 9:33 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

It's a small oasis. A cluster of date palms, heavy with fruit. The water from the well is clean and cool.

OOC:

Moving forward, we are going to track water as a resource separate from rations. For simplicity's sake, we will say a waterskin holds 5 uses (5 days' worth), and it is 1 weight. Your waterskins each currently contain 3 uses of water. If you take the time to pick fruit and draw water from the well, you may each add 1 use to your rations and your water.

Jana is exempt from all this, thanks to the druid move, By Nature Sustained.

The ruins of Shunet El Zebib are a stone's throw away. A squat, nondescript structure surrounded by the crumbling remnants of a shoulder-height perimeter wall. It's remarkably unimpressive. How could this possibly hold treasures or forgotten lore from the time of the ancients?

What do you do?

'The Swordsman'

Nov 5, 2019 2:05 pm

Nov 5, 2019 2:05 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The nameless warrior picks dates and fills his waterskin.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 5, 2019 4:30 pm

Nov 5, 2019 4:30 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

While she does not need to, Jana takes one deep drink of water. It is more a religious experience than sustenance.

Once done she keeps an eye on their destination while everyone else prepares their rations.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 5, 2019 5:02 pm

Nov 5, 2019 5:02 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Following Jana and Soro's instructions, Akh refills some of his rations and water. "Well, I'm ready to go. I'm pretty sure we shouldn't waste any more time than we should here..."

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited November 5, 2019 5:02 pm

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 6, 2019 2:16 pm

Nov 6, 2019 2:16 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Recovering from hard travel is never wasted time. While in the desert it is best to conserve and not over extend yourself while still acting with purpose. And there is a comfort in knowing that everything you see can kill you, cities are so confusing with their soft sidedness. Soro gathers fruit and water with the rest of them, then points to the ruins and wordlessly nods to his companions assessing their readiness to proceed.

'The Swordsman'

Nov 6, 2019 2:53 pm

Nov 6, 2019 2:53 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman removes his battered helm to reveal his bald head etched with countless scars. He stoops down at the oasis to scoop a handful of water and splashes it over his head and then replaces the helm. Nodding to Soro, he wordlessly indicates his readiness to proceed.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 7, 2019 3:15 am

Nov 7, 2019 3:15 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Refreshed, you all trudge over to the ruins. Strangely, there's a breeze that seems confined to this immediate area (you do not see wind-blown dust anywhere farther out). And there's a droning, buzzing sound that gets louder as you draw near to the heavily-pockmarked perimeter wall. It's exactly the sound Jana heard back at camp.

Casting your gazes skyward, you see nothing flying about -- but you do see some movement inside those strange holes in the mudbrick wall.

What do you do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 7, 2019 4:31 am

Nov 7, 2019 4:31 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I suggest that we try to avoid poking or even looking in those holes. Let's look around for a way in that doesn't involve disturbing the holes.

She looks around.

I know I said they were usually harmless, but it is better safe than sorry.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 7, 2019 7:23 pm

Nov 7, 2019 7:23 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Though you keep your distance as you skirt the perimeter, the wall seems to shift and the buzzing intensifies menacingly as you step through one of the gaps to enter what would have been the courtyard of old. The churning wind, fanned by innumerable wings, smells sickly sweet, like wild honey.

Dozens of giant wasps, as large as Jana, emerge from what was once the wall, now their hive. They approach, close enough for you to see your reflections in their multifaceted eyes. Obviously, they see you as a possible threat to the colony. But they do not yet attack.

The open entrance to the ruin is just a few dozen paces away.

What do you do?

https://vignette.wikia.nocookie.net/gamelore/images/2/21/Wasp_token.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20160619041202

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 7, 2019 10:10 pm

Nov 7, 2019 10:10 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I haven't run across a swarm like this. My best guess is to back towards the entrance quickly
Try not too look threatening, or like wasp food.

'The Swordsman'

Nov 7, 2019 10:13 pm

Nov 7, 2019 10:13 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman listens to Jana and starts backing up towards the entryway, leaving the Sword of Vengeance in its sheath, for now.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 8, 2019 4:57 pm

Nov 8, 2019 4:57 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro tries to remember anything he can about these creatures as he follows Jana's advice.

OOC:

Can I roll a Spout Lore to see if I've run across these in the past?

Rolls

Spout Lore - (2d6)

(14) = 5

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 9, 2019 6:05 am

Nov 9, 2019 6:05 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Mark 1 XP, Soro.

Soro has never heard of such humongous wasps. Of the ordinary variety he knows that some produce nourishing honey just like bees. He also knows that they only attack if you provoke them.

Akh, you feel in your bones that with the proper Ritual you can repel or possibly even control these giant insects. But it will require certain reagents you don't have on hand. Not to mention, a thimble-full of fresh wasp brains.

The wasps lose interest in you as you back away from their home and towards the entryway to the ruin itself. Inside is a dark hallway

Are you doing anything before entering?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 9, 2019 6:55 am

Nov 9, 2019 6:55 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I suggest lighting a torch. Also, if we leave by this door, remember not to threaten the wasps.

OOC:

I thought of this likely too late, but did I get enough time watching the wasps for me to add them to my shape shift list? Also, do they count as animals as far as my Spirit Tongue is concerned?

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 9, 2019 10:52 am

Nov 9, 2019 10:52 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Good thinking!

The wasps, not just yet. In general, fighting a natural creature will enable you to add it your shapeshifting options (so yes to the myrmeleons and jackals!). Without fighting, maybe an hour of observation.

Yes, I think Spirit Tongue should work on the wasps.

Jana can understand the wasps communicating with each other via pheromones and flight patterns. They are saying, "Guard the hive! Guard the young!"

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 9, 2019 1:48 pm

Nov 9, 2019 1:48 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"I don't know if it would work, but I could always try to make us invisible one by one to pass..."

deadpool_qc sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

Last edited November 9, 2019 1:49 pm

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 9, 2019 3:48 pm

Nov 9, 2019 3:48 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

I suspect I am not describing the situation well enough. You have gotten past the wasps without incident by choosing not to provoke them. You are now at the entryway to the ruins proper.

Before you is a dark hallway, and you are free to enter.

Akh, such a ritual might be possible, but you'll have to find a place of power first. Perhaps there is one to be found within.

Do you dare enter?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 9, 2019 4:54 pm

Nov 9, 2019 4:54 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

I think it is my fault. I started discussing an exit plan before we had entered. Kind of threw things off track.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 9, 2019 6:11 pm

Nov 9, 2019 6:11 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Facing the dark hallway, Akh turns to the swordsman, "Take your sword out, I want you to be prepared for anything..." Once the swordsman takes his sword out, Akh casts a spell on it.
"Amenemhet, Master of magic and fire, let there be light !"
Flames appear on the sword, as bright as a torch, but strangely they do not appear to emit heat or sound...

OOC:

casting light on the sword of vengeance

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited November 9, 2019 6:13 pm

Rolls

casting light - (2d6+2)

(35) + 2 = 10

'The Swordsman'

Nov 10, 2019 3:21 am

Nov 10, 2019 3:21 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman holds the Sword of Vengeance aloft, the silent flames flickering in the darkness of the tomb.

He walks slowly and carefully looking for any sign of danger.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 10, 2019 4:26 am

Nov 10, 2019 4:26 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana readies the bow she had acquired from fallen enemies and follows the swordsman into danger.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 11, 2019 2:51 pm

Nov 11, 2019 2:51 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

With the Swordsman in the lead, flaming sword held high, you step into Shunet El Zebib.

Music

Murals cover the hallway's limestone walls depicting the deeds of the long-forgotten god-pharaoh entombed here, but the images have long become too faded to make out any details. The hall slopes gently downward, then is abruptly broken by winding stone steps descending into the earth.

At length, you come to a small, limestone chamber. On the far wall is 12-foot tall statue of the god-pharaoh seated on a basalt throne. In the pharaoh's lap sits an unlit brazier. A stone leopard stands sentry against each wall to your left and right. There are no obvious exits from the chamber other than the one through which you entered. Could this be it? You came all this way for what? On the floor, in the middle of the room lies an old skeleton, a scrap of rotted fabric, a rusted pickaxe head. Probably a grave robber. He must have been just as disappointed as you are right now.

What do you do?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 11, 2019 4:39 pm

Nov 11, 2019 4:39 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh goes to examine the statue of the god-pharaoh, more precisely the brazier on his lap...

OOC:

Discern realities... What here is not what it appears to be?

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited November 11, 2019 4:46 pm

Rolls

discern realities - (2d6+1)

(51) + 1 = 7

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 11, 2019 5:05 pm

Nov 11, 2019 5:05 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana will search the skeleton discerningly.

OOC:

edited to add question. I want to know how he died, so I guess...

What should I be on the lookout for?

Last edited November 11, 2019 5:06 pm

Rolls

Discern realities - (2D6)

(34) = 7

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 11, 2019 5:22 pm

Nov 11, 2019 5:22 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

This place is very, very old. Ancient. But Akh senses magical residuum here. Behind each stone leopard, and yes, behind the god-pharaoh too! Three hidden doorways! But how to open them? It has something to do with the brazier.

Studying the bones, Jana finds numerous tooth marks. This man was mauled by one or more ferocious beasts. A leopard, for example.

What do you do?

'The Swordsman'

Nov 11, 2019 6:13 pm

Nov 11, 2019 6:13 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman sets Akh’s magical flames flickering on the relic-sword into the brazier.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 11, 2019 6:20 pm

Nov 11, 2019 6:20 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Nothing happens. Perhaps it needs some real fire?

In the flickering light, it almost seems like the stone leopards have twitched, but you know it's just your eyes playing tricks.

What do you do?

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 13, 2019 2:56 pm

Nov 13, 2019 2:56 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Animals normally don't hunt indoors. Soro says as Jana stands up form examining the bones. I think there are guards here we do not know about.

OOC:

rolling Discern reality:
What is about to happen?
What should I be on the lookout for?
What here is not what it appears to be?

Last edited November 13, 2019 2:57 pm

Rolls

Discern Realities - (2d6+3)

(66) + 3 = 15

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 13, 2019 3:28 pm

Nov 13, 2019 3:28 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

A perfect roll! But describe exactly how you are investigating.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 13, 2019 5:08 pm

Nov 13, 2019 5:08 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Natural animals don't hunt inside, magical ones do as they are created to do. Please be careful of those statues.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 13, 2019 6:12 pm

Nov 13, 2019 6:12 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro circles the room, spear in hand, with Jei'nine sniffing. Then weaves his way between the statues back to his companions.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 13, 2019 6:55 pm

Nov 13, 2019 6:55 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro and Jei'nine confirm the location of the three hidden doorways. Not by detecting magical residuum, as Akh did, but by listening to the shape of echoes in this chamber, and the air currents as evidenced by the eddying of dust blown by Jei'nine 's snuffling. Soro's own examination of the bones reveals a fragment of stone tooth, embedded in the skull, that perfectly matches the chipped remnant in the upper jaw of the statue on the left. All evidence points to a mauling by the stone leopards. But what activates them? And how does one gain access to the doors? Might triggering the latter also trigger the former? There are no secret switches anywhere. The Swordsman might have been on the right track, but the magical flames dancing around the Sword of Vengeance does not burn, and cannot ignite anything.

What do you do?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 13, 2019 8:55 pm

Nov 13, 2019 8:55 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

After thinking a while, Akh decides to ta a chance, Be ready for anything..." and proceeds to light a torch and use it to try igniting the brazier...

'The Swordsman'

Nov 13, 2019 10:26 pm

Nov 13, 2019 10:26 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman readies his shield in preparation for an attack from the stone leopards.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 14, 2019 11:07 am

Nov 14, 2019 11:07 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Music

The brazier comes alive with green fire. With a ponderous grinding of stone, the three doorways slowly slide open. You note that the one to your left does not open all the way. It seems some of the mechanisms here, magical or not, have not escaped the ravages of time. The stone leopards turn their heads towards you. A voice speaking in the Old Tongue, booms from the statue in the center.

Dae aslahtakk arda.
Ada altaaet.
Sajid nafsak qab'l al'akiyya.
Taqdim alturh alkhasi b'ka.

Akh translates:

Lay down thine weapons.
Perform the obeisance.
Prostrate thyself before our Magnificence.
Bring forth thine offering.

The stone leopards are crouched to pounce, but appear to be awaiting your response. What do you do?

Jabes.plays.RPG sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 14, 2019 4:23 pm

Nov 14, 2019 4:23 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I suggest we try it their way. Put down our weapons and bow. Any suggestions for an offering? I could offer some dates. Or coins?

Jana carefully puts her bow, arrows, and spear on the ground.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 14, 2019 4:47 pm

Nov 14, 2019 4:47 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"I'm trying to remember what the god-pharaohs traditionally liked..." while thinking, Akh puts his scimitar on the ground and prostates himself.

OOC:

Spout Lore...

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited November 14, 2019 4:50 pm

Rolls

Spout lore - (2d6+2)

(11) + 2 = 4

'The Swordsman'

Nov 14, 2019 4:55 pm

Nov 14, 2019 4:55 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman places his relic blade on the ground and prostrates himself before the stone leopards. He makes sure the Sword of Vengeance’s handle is within short reach.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 14, 2019 5:20 pm

Nov 14, 2019 5:20 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I am trying to think of what would be the best offer.

Rolls

Spout lore - (2D6)

(66) = 12

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 14, 2019 5:33 pm

Nov 14, 2019 5:33 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Mark 1 XP, Akh.

Music

Historical accounts of the god-pharaohs are few, and are often of dubious provenance. From what Akh has read, the whims and appetites of those mercurial personages were varied, and mutable as the seasons. There was he who favored the blood of virgins, and there was she who preferred milk and honey. One made his priests bring him frankincense and myrrh. Another flogged the cleric who sacrificed a spring lamb, when that cult knew full well the god-pharaoh preferred the still-beating heart of a human boy.

The guardians turn to Soro, who has yet to respond. The voice booms again:

Lay down thine weapons.
Perform the obeisance.
Prostrate thyself before our Magnificence.
Bring forth thine offering.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 14, 2019 5:39 pm

Nov 14, 2019 5:39 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro joins his companions, placing his weapons on the ground in front of him as he prostrates and proffers the most valuable thing he can think of, his waterskin.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 14, 2019 7:29 pm

Nov 14, 2019 7:29 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The offering is not only acceptable, it is perfect. As Soro lays down his waterskin, Jana completes the sacrifice by slashing it open and spilling the precious contents on the ground. The voice speaks one last command: "ENTER, FAITHFUL SERVANT."

Music

Three doors now lie open. One to the north, in the base of the throne, one to the east, and the half-open one to the west. The guardians sit still as you rise, but snarl and poise to strike when you attempt to retrieve your weapons.

What do you do?

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 14, 2019 7:44 pm

Nov 14, 2019 7:44 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Leave your weapons. We can retrieve them when we exit after exploring the tunnels. I'm almost positive the guardians will keep anyone from walking away with them while we explore. Which way? Soro tries to look down each in turn without disturbing the guardians and will retreat if they growl or make any threatening moves.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 14, 2019 7:45 pm

Nov 14, 2019 7:45 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"No choice but to leave those here for now... North first ?"

'The Swordsman'

Nov 14, 2019 10:20 pm

Nov 14, 2019 10:20 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman looks at the flickering light from the Sword of Vengeance dimly illuminating the chamber and croaks "A swordsman without his sword..." and shakes his head dubiously. "Give me the torch." he says to Akh, holding his hand out.

Last edited November 15, 2019 12:56 am

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 16, 2019 8:36 am

Nov 16, 2019 8:36 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

I hate retcons, but in order to make Jana's Spout Lore count for something, and also because reasons, I have edited this post to have Jana do something very important. As a matter of principle, I would normally not puppet your PC like this, but I beg your indulgence this one time.

Stand by for additional narration.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 16, 2019 3:31 pm

Nov 16, 2019 3:31 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

No problems here.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 16, 2019 6:52 pm

Nov 16, 2019 6:52 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Everyone leaves their weapons in the antechamber, including -- surprisingly -- the Swordsman.

Music

You duck through the doorway to the north. A long hallway stretches in front of you, sloping gently downward. Wall sconces burning with pale green fire bathe the murals with an eerie glow. The torch held aloft by the Swordsman is a beacon of life as you descend into the sepulcher. The leopard guardians may have protected this place for centuries from looters and such, but they have done nothing to stop the intrusion of vermin. Now and again, a beetle or scorpion crunches underfoot, and glittering eyes watch you from the hearts of gossamer webs.

At length, you emerge onto a platform overlooking a great shaft or pit. You glimpse the god-pharaoh's sarcophagus atop a marble dais, four levels below. On the second level, you see a doorway on the east side. And on the third level, a doorway on the west side. It's now easy to guess where the other tunnels from the antechamber lead.

What do you do?

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcQzMHFaw-RJWl97fO2eCybaAaz55q_cyozZ44foqDj6zEQS3FOH

'The Swordsman'

Nov 16, 2019 7:09 pm

Nov 16, 2019 7:09 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman, normally sure if himself expresses a moment of doubt, asking Akh "What are we doing here wizard?"

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 17, 2019 1:57 pm

Nov 17, 2019 1:57 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh, in awe of the view, doesn't even hear the swordsman's question... "This...is simply astounding !! The architecture here is magnificent !! We need to get to the bottom, to the sarcophagus... If we go to the third level by the western entrance, it should be possible to use a rope to get down..."

OOC:

What should I be on the lookout for?

Last edited November 17, 2019 1:57 pm

Rolls

discern realities - (2d6+1)

(34) + 1 = 8

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 17, 2019 3:52 pm

Nov 17, 2019 3:52 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

As comfortable as Jana is in the vast reach of the desert, she is equally as uncomfortable here. She defers to the wizard.

As you say, Akh

Last edited November 17, 2019 3:52 pm

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 17, 2019 5:49 pm

Nov 17, 2019 5:49 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh, you thought you saw a scuttle of movement down there. The west doorway. Or maybe it was just a trick of the light.

It looks like it might also be possible to rappel down those platforms jutting out towards the center from each level.

Do you return to the antechamber, or try the platforms?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 17, 2019 6:05 pm

Nov 17, 2019 6:05 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Swordsman, I think I saw some movement near the western doorway... Should take the long way around or try rappelling here?

'The Swordsman'

Nov 17, 2019 7:14 pm

Nov 17, 2019 7:14 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The rope down is risky, but if we go back to the stone leopards, they may want more sacrifices.

The Swordsman waves the torch in the direction Akh was looking earlier. What did you see?

Rolls

Discern reality (What is moving?) - (2D6)

(43) = 7

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 17, 2019 10:12 pm

Nov 17, 2019 10:12 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

You see nothing where Akh is pointing. But out of the corner of your eye, a shadow in the east doorway. In the blink of an eye, it's gone.

Music

A muffled clatter, as if from dislodged rubble, echoes from elsewhere. How many millennia has this ancient ruin been falling apart?

What do you do?

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 18, 2019 1:50 am

Nov 18, 2019 1:50 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I don't like the idea of having to give up more of our water to this place. Lets repel to the lower platforms and give Ahk the time he needs to investigate this place. Noticing Jana's unease Soro mentions an old story...

When my Clan first became water seekers, our chief went into the deepest desert to prove to the clan that he was worthy of his station as our leader. Many days passed before he returned to our hold and when he finals passed beneath its shade again he brought tales of the water he had found. It was in a tomb such as this that one of the caprice Pharaoh gods had had built. Below his sarcophagus was a crystal clear pool that was twenty one paces across and deeper than could be fathomed. Since that finding every water seeker starts his journey by making the trek to that tomb and meditating in the presence of more water than could ever be used. The denizen of this tomb was definitely more concerned about his possessions joining him in the afterlife but it is still just a tomb. As he's speaking he unwinds his rope and starts connecting it to a pillar so it can be released once they are on the next platform.

Last edited November 18, 2019 1:51 am

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 18, 2019 2:12 am

Nov 18, 2019 2:12 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

You misunderstand, I have no fear of the dead. If I offer no threat to them, they offer none to me. I just feel...uneasy when there is no sky above me. This is one of only three times where there was more than a tent wall between me and the sun or stars.

Jana smiles and grabs the rope.

Facing your fear is always the best option. Let's see if there is water here as well.

Last edited November 18, 2019 2:14 am

'The Swordsman'

Nov 18, 2019 2:42 am

Nov 18, 2019 2:42 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The man with no name suggests We should lower the little one first. She is light and if there is trouble I can pull her back up quickly.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 18, 2019 2:50 am

Nov 18, 2019 2:50 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"They made us leave our weapons, but I still have my magic. I'll provide cover if needed."

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 18, 2019 3:10 am

Nov 18, 2019 3:10 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Agreed, it makes sense for me to go down, but I can get down on my own. I would fly down, but I am not sure if there is enough room.

Jana prepares herself.

Wait here until I call or until you see me come back. Please don't shoot any hawks or step on any scorpions.

With that she laughs and her shape shimmers and shrinks. The scorpion that remains in the spot starts scuttling down the side. Just another creature going about its business.

OOC:

Forgot to add 1 to the roll, but it makes no difference.

Last edited November 18, 2019 3:15 am

Rolls

Shape change - (2D6)

(23) = 5

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 18, 2019 6:12 am

Nov 18, 2019 6:12 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

There is, in fact, plenty of space to fly. But the scorpion is a good idea. Nice and discreet.

Mark 1 XP, and 1 Hold.

Are you crawling down to the bottom? Or just one or two levels down?

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 18, 2019 2:34 pm

Nov 18, 2019 2:34 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

With the rope firmly attached Soro watches as Jana descends into the chamber. Stay safe, my friend.

As they wait for Jana to come back he will fashion a harness for jei'nine at the end of the rope so she can be lowered down with them.

Last edited November 18, 2019 2:35 pm

'The Swordsman'

Nov 18, 2019 3:13 pm

Nov 18, 2019 3:13 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman looks around for any object that could be used as a weapon.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 18, 2019 3:30 pm

Nov 18, 2019 3:30 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana scuttles to the bottom and discreetly checks the area for life, unlife, or any other threats.

Rolls

Discern realities if needed - (2D6+1)

(55) + 1 = 11

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 18, 2019 5:35 pm

Nov 18, 2019 5:35 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman finds nothing nearby. Perhaps down on the floor, where he spies the glint of metal.

Down at floor level, Jana finds this crypt is teeming with life. Beetles and ants hurry about, worms burrow in the dirt in the cracks, cockroaches and spiders lurk in dark crevices.

Jana, as you look about, a huge centipede, dwarfing you at almost two feet long, crawls out of a pile of skulls charges across the floor straight at you!

Battle Music

What do you do?

Jabes.plays.RPG sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 18, 2019 6:03 pm

Nov 18, 2019 6:03 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

let's make this a little more in my favour.

The scorpion shimmers and suddenly the centipede is charging the armoured form of an armadillo.

Rolls

Change to armadillo - (2D6+1)

(65) + 1 = 12

Hack and slash if the centipede continues the attack. - (2D6-1)

(53) - 1 = 7

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 18, 2019 6:17 pm

Nov 18, 2019 6:17 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Undettered, or just stupid, the centipede attacks the armadillo.

OOC:

That 7 is a hit. Roll your damage, Jana.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 18, 2019 6:38 pm

Nov 18, 2019 6:38 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The armadillo tends it with the powerful front claws made for digging.

Rolls

Damage - (1D6)

(4) = 4

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 18, 2019 6:46 pm

Nov 18, 2019 6:46 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Your claws penetrate the insect's chitinous shell, but only just! It lashes out with its pincer-like forcipules, pumping venon into your blood!

OOC:

Take the damage below (subtract your armor), and your bitten paw is numb and temporarily useless.

What do you do?

Rolls

Centipede bite - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 18, 2019 7:00 pm

Nov 18, 2019 7:00 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The rest of you can tell Jana is in a fight. She's way down there, and you're way up on the upper platform. What do you do?

Nov 19, 2019 12:37 am

Nov 19, 2019 12:37 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Can I Defy Danger and rappel down the rope?

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 19, 2019 1:13 am

Nov 19, 2019 1:13 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

There's no danger to you right now. If you mean the difficulty of a rushed descent, yeah go ahead and roll+DEX.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 19, 2019 1:41 am

Nov 19, 2019 1:41 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The shock of the poison in her system has made Jana less worried about stealth and more about survival. Her form blurs and changes once again. The centipede is now faced by the myrmeleon.

If the centipede runs away Jana will go back to her natural state and consume an antitoxin

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 19, 2019 1:55 am

Nov 19, 2019 1:55 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The centipede does indeed scuttle away when suddenly mandible to mandible with the terrifying myrmeleon! Jana slowly regains the use of her hand after ingesting the antitoxin.

There don't appear to be any more threats right now. Like everywhere else so far, the walls here are covered with hieroglyphs. Arranged around the sarcophagus are numerous piles of bones, canopic jars, once-expensive silks (now faded and brittle), ceremonial weaponry and armor (tarnished with age, but probably still valuable), and various ornate boxes and chests.

What do you do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 19, 2019 1:58 am

Nov 19, 2019 1:58 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana pulls out her bow and keeps watch until everyone has gotten back together.

Watch your step. There are big centipedes as well as standard scorpions and such down here.

Last edited November 19, 2019 1:58 am

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 19, 2019 2:02 am

Nov 19, 2019 2:02 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

You left all your weapons in the antechamber.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 19, 2019 2:54 am

Nov 19, 2019 2:54 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana is glad no one can see her embarrassed look when she catches her self reaching for weapons that aren't there.
She hears her mother's voice.
That is what you get for relying on weapons.

She awaits her comrades while keeping a wary eye.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 19, 2019 4:55 am

Nov 19, 2019 4:55 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Once Jana says it's safe down there, Akh goes down the rope, slowly, anxious to get down there and look at those hieroglyphs...

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 19, 2019 7:34 am

Nov 19, 2019 7:34 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Roll+INT, Akh. You are an expert at these ancient languages, but let's see to what degree you are able to interpret.

'The Swordsman'

Nov 19, 2019 1:38 pm

Nov 19, 2019 1:38 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman follows Akh, but he is more concerned with finding something, anything, he can use as a weapon.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 19, 2019 2:03 pm

Nov 19, 2019 2:03 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

After his companions descend, Soro fastens the harness to Jei'nine and lowers her down then descends the rope himself. As Ahk is studying the markings and the Swordsman is looking for a weapon, Soro and Jei'nine search the rest of the chamber for any danger or other secrets.

OOC:

What should I be on the lookout for?
What here is useful or valuable to me?
What here is not what it appears to be?

Last edited November 19, 2019 2:03 pm

Rolls

Discern Reality - (2d6+3)

(36) + 3 = 12

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 19, 2019 2:40 pm

Nov 19, 2019 2:40 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh almost forgets he is not alone, fascinated by all the lost knowledge around him...

OOC:

Akh will use one of his books to help decipher what language was used...

Rolls

Intelligence + books - (2d6+3)

(52) + 3 = 10

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 19, 2019 4:43 pm

Nov 19, 2019 4:43 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Everyone has a look around. The Swordsman finds a small arsenal -- spears, shields, maces, a lone khopesh, but most appear to be ceremonial. He wonders if they would be any good in an actual fight.

Akh, something has been bugging you about the way this crypt is laid out. Where are the accoutrements of royalty? The person in the sarcophagus was obviously important, but could not have been a god-pharaoh! You pore over your books and study the hieroglyphs. Two names stand out: the god-pharaoh Khut-hotep, and his most trusted advisor, a sorcerer named Nechepso. Slowly, you are starting to piece the story together. But then...

Soro, you and Jei'nine find the outline of a cunningly hidden door in the south wall. You have no clue how to open it though. As you feel around, there's a soft but ominous click, and the floor opens up under your feet!

OOC:

Roll Defy Danger (DEX) to avoid falling into the pit trap! Take a +1 bonus on the roll for the split-second warning.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 19, 2019 6:10 pm

Nov 19, 2019 6:10 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

There is a door over here... Soro says as the floor opens up beneath him.

OOC:

Rolling that danger

Last edited November 19, 2019 6:12 pm

Rolls

Defy Danger (Pit Trap) - (2d6+2)

(24) + 2 = 8

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 19, 2019 11:06 pm

Nov 19, 2019 11:06 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Don't know if I'm suppose to roll also, so here it is just in case...

Rolls

defy danger (dex) - (2d6)

(35) = 8

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 19, 2019 11:32 pm

Nov 19, 2019 11:32 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

The Defy Danger was for Soro only.

Soro and Jei'nine have just narrowly avoided falling into a wicked pit trap. Soro caught the edge, is now hanging one-handed. With his other hand he's got Jei'nine by the scruff of her neck. What do you all do?

'The Swordsman'

Nov 19, 2019 11:38 pm

Nov 19, 2019 11:38 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman drops the flimsy mace he was considering for use as a weapon and reaches over to grab Soro's arm and pull him and the dog to safety.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Nov 20, 2019 1:19 am

Nov 20, 2019 1:19 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

As the swordsman grabs his arm Soro uses the extra stability to hoist Jei'nine up over the ledge before pulling himself out of the pit.

OOC:

Not sure if we should roll another defy danger? Maybe with a strength modifier to hoist up my companion? Should SJoyner72 roll an aid maybe? Or is that too much rolling?

Last edited November 20, 2019 1:21 am

Rolls

Defy Danger (Exit the pit) - (2d6+1)

(62) + 1 = 9

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 20, 2019 1:30 am

Nov 20, 2019 1:30 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

No, you're all good. Immediate crisis averted. Writing up my next post.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 20, 2019 11:54 am

Nov 20, 2019 11:54 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Everyone is back on solid ground now, but it sounds like that spiked pit trap also triggered something else. You hear the grinding and thudding of stone, as if great doors are sliding open or shut (you know not which) elsewhere in these halls.

Music

Akh hardly notices. So engrossed is he in his translation of the hieroglyphs.

...and so it was that the sorcerer, Nechepso, cast down the pharaoh, Khut-hotep, into the Black Pit -- into the bowels of the earth...

...then, Nechepso sat the throne, and claimed dominion... ...but Khut-hotep's power reached out from the depths and laid a curse on Nechepso and his court...

...a plague of locusts, wasps, flies, centipedes, spiders, lice, and every creature that swarmed upon the ground, and bit and stung... until Nechepso himself fell ill, laid low by a scorpion's sting...

...entombed above the Pit, to eternally guard and serve the one he usurped...

https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vfuo4ZiUPPQ/WuJ8fAo1AhI/AAAAAAAAJXI/xKXHKQBprzcdUs7LzyKXaFfGz-ZP9Aj0gCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot_2018-04-25-00-49-36.jpg

Akh is interrupted when the voice you heard in the antechamber rings out once more, echoing cold and menacing through the crypt. The sarcophagus trembles.

"The way is shut. The Pit is sealed. Why have you come?"

What do you do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Nov 20, 2019 4:52 pm

Nov 20, 2019 4:52 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Any idea Akh? Maybe we are here to bring the history of
Khut-Hotep's greatness to light?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Nov 20, 2019 4:58 pm

Nov 20, 2019 4:58 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh tries to answer to the voice...
"We have come for knowledge. Knowledge of the past so we can shape our own future. Knowledge to learn from past mistakes. Knowledge of power and how to use it safely."

Last edited November 20, 2019 5:01 pm

'The Swordsman'

Nov 20, 2019 5:31 pm

Nov 20, 2019 5:31 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman scoops up the mace he had been considering. He peers over into the spiked pit.

Rolls

Discern Reality - (2d6)

(34) = 7

Jabes.plays.RPG

Nov 24, 2019 10:27 am

Nov 24, 2019 10:27 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman looks down into a squarish pit about 20 feet deep, with spikes in the bottom. The voice must be referring to some other pit. Possibly not even a literal, physical pit.

OOC:

Choose Your Own Adventure time. See my OOC post.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Dec 7, 2019 7:55 pm

Dec 7, 2019 7:55 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The disembodied voice booms again. It seems to come from everywhere.

"Darest thou utter lies in our sanctum?! Thou offered water and performed the obeisance, but then sought to cross the forbidden Threshold. If ye be false supplicants, our servant, Nechepso, shalt deal with thee!"

The sarcophagus trembles anew, and the lid falls away. A mummy rises from it. The desiccated flesh underneath the linen wraps crawls with vermin. Nechepso sways on his feet, as if gauging you, or deciding what to do. Is he hesitating?

https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn%3AANd9GcSfZ3CHHcXZ2AQ12ai5XFzzVRMLW2AoGYBcjjqJzTX8SIAswf23

At length, the mummy speaks in a rasping voice, "Seek ye knowledge, you say? Of power? And of folly? Power IS folly. Flee while you still can."

What do you do?

'The Swordsman'

Dec 8, 2019 7:14 am

Dec 8, 2019 7:14 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I want my sword back Wizard, this place is accursed! Exclaims the man with no name.

OOC:

Hoe far to the chamber where we left our weapons?

Jabes.plays.RPG

Dec 8, 2019 7:26 am

Dec 8, 2019 7:26 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Far distance to where you began your rappel. Far distance again to the antechamber.

Reminder that the stone leopards are there. Also, Nechepso has not yet acted aggressively.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Dec 8, 2019 3:12 pm

Dec 8, 2019 3:12 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"Evil is always on the horizon, seeking more power. Even if power is folly, it is sometime needed to stop a greater evil. Is that not what you did with Khut-hotep ? I know this power will have a cost, but I am willing to pay for it. Will you try to stop us, defending the one you casted down ? Or will you fight your curse and let us do what we need?... We will not flee..."

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Dec 8, 2019 9:25 pm

Dec 8, 2019 9:25 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana lets the wizard do the talking. She prepares herself for whatever comes.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Dec 9, 2019 12:04 am

Dec 9, 2019 12:04 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro, like Jana will let Ahk try and talk the mummy down before he takes any action.

'The Swordsman'

Dec 17, 2019 3:00 pm

Dec 17, 2019 3:00 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman watches Nechepso intently.

OOC:

I got a 10!

What is about to happen?
What here is not what it appears to be?
What here is useful or valuable to me?

Last edited December 17, 2019 3:02 pm

Rolls

Discern Realities - (2d6)

(55) = 10

Jabes.plays.RPG

Jan 26, 2020 4:36 am

Jan 26, 2020 4:36 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Nechepso's mummified features are hard to read, but he appears to be dealing with some sort of internal struggle -- as if his body is being pulled in two directions at once.

"Twice a fool was I, seduced by promises of power, first by Khut-hotep, then by Amenhemet!" Nechepso laughs bitterly before lapsing into muttering in Hiptite too obscure and incoherent for Akh to follow, "huz dulur aljulus amat, alqiam 'abjad huz altahrir akharun..."

OOC:

What is about to happen?
Nechepso is curse-bound to safeguard this tomb's secrets. Whether that involves attacking you and your friends seems to hang in the balance.

What here is not what it appears to be?
Even as you you study Nechepso, out of the corner of your eye you notice movement among the piles of bones arranged around the sarcophagus.

What here is useful or valuable to me?
Nechepso appears to be hesitating. There may be time to flee. Or to launch a decisive attack.

What do you do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Jan 26, 2020 7:48 pm

Jan 26, 2020 7:48 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I don't like the look of this.

Something seems off friends, stay alert.

Rolls

Discern reality. What is out of place - (2D6)

(32) = 5

'The Swordsman'

Jan 27, 2020 3:12 am

Jan 27, 2020 3:12 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Sometimes life or death is decided in a split second decision: flight or flight.

The Swordsman decided for the former. Unarmed as he was, the nameless warrior was still a brutally effective fighter.

As the undead construct mumbled to itself in a language he couldn’t understand, the Swordsman decided that the only way out of this was to destroy Nechepso, or die trying while his companions escaped.

Rolls

Hack and Slash - (2D12+2)

(512) + 2 = 19

Jan 27, 2020 3:14 am

Jan 27, 2020 3:14 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

oops wrong dice values!

Rolls

Hack and slash - (2D6+2)

(34) + 2 = 9

Jan 27, 2020 3:18 am

Jan 27, 2020 3:18 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The fighter lands a blow on the dried up husk with his callused and meaty fist!

Last edited January 27, 2020 3:20 am

Rolls

Damage - (1D10)

(3) = 3

reroll damage: human ability - (1D10)

(8) = 8

Jabes.plays.RPG

Jan 27, 2020 10:55 am

Jan 27, 2020 10:55 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

A successful Discern Realities lets you "take +1 forward when acting on the answers" so the Swordsman's Hack & Slash resulted in a 10 rather than a 9. Nice punch!

Jana, mark 1 XP. That's going to have consequences.

Battle Music

The Swordsman's punch explodes Nechepso into a cloud of buzzing, swarming, biting insects!

Jana can tell these insects are unnatural. Such a wide variety of bugs (scorpions, centipedes, cockroaches, spiders, locusts, gnats, flies, beetles...) would normally not swarm together like this. And would not attack people the way they are attacking now! The swarm of vermin nearly engulfs the Swordsman, getting under his armor in the most uncomfortable places! Insects pour out of the sarcophagus and crawl out of the piles of bones scattered about, crawling and biting, hungrily burrowing into living flesh!

OOC:

Everyone takes the bite damage below (ignores armor). Then, roll Defy Danger (CON). Failure results in infestation, inflicting one or more debilities.

Rolls

Bite damage (ignores armor) - (1d2)

(1) = 1

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Jan 27, 2020 2:27 pm

Jan 27, 2020 2:27 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro and Jei'nine dance and dodge their way around the swarming insects, smashing a biting them as they avoid the pulsing mass of vermin. Smash or burn them!

HP: 19/20 | XP: 3/8

Last edited January 27, 2020 2:29 pm

Rolls

Defy Danger - (2d6+1)

(12) + 1 = 4

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Jan 27, 2020 2:38 pm

Jan 27, 2020 2:38 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

[editing] [edited]

OOC:

Sorry, text is in folowing post.

Last edited January 27, 2020 2:43 pm

Rolls

defy danger (con) - (2d6+1)

(45) + 1 = 10

magic missile - (2d6+2)

(25) + 2 = 9

magic missile dmg - (2d4)

(31) = 4

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Jan 27, 2020 2:41 pm

Jan 27, 2020 2:41 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh can only follow the swordsman's action, knowing his instincts are rarely off. He words the incantation for a magic missile and sends it into the mass of insects... He can feel the poison from the bites, but knows his body can handle it...

OOC:

hp: 18/19

Last edited January 27, 2020 2:44 pm

'The Swordsman'

Jan 27, 2020 3:12 pm

Jan 27, 2020 3:12 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman keeps smashing bugs with his thick boots.

Rolls

Defy danger (Con) - (2d6+1)

(22) + 1 = 5

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Jan 27, 2020 6:08 pm

Jan 27, 2020 6:08 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana is nearly overwhelmed both by the biting and the noise. Thousands of tiny voices all chittering angrily.

Rolls

Defy danger - (2D6+2)

(55) + 2 = 12

Jabes.plays.RPG

Jan 28, 2020 4:42 pm

Jan 28, 2020 4:42 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Soro and Swordsman: Mark 1 XP and take the Sick debility (-1 on all CON-based rolls).

Battle Music

You all desperately stomp and smash and swat the bugs away, but there's just too many of them. Akh's arcane missiles slam into the swarm, eviscerating countless bugs, but they keep coming! In the midst of the maddening, seething cloud of vermin, the vague shape of a malevolent face.

What do you do?

Jabes.plays.RPG sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Jan 28, 2020 4:46 pm

Jan 28, 2020 4:46 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Does anyone have a way to throw fire? That may help

Jana looks around for a possible way out.

Rolls

Discern realities. What did I miss? - (2D6+2)

(34) + 2 = 9

Jabes.plays.RPG

Jan 28, 2020 4:58 pm

Jan 28, 2020 4:58 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

There are lit torches in the wall sconces here and there.

There are no obvious exits at this level unless you count the door Soro found in the south wall that started all this trouble. The nearest exits, as you have observed before, are on the levels above you.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 1, 2020 6:19 pm

Feb 1, 2020 6:19 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

What do you do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 1, 2020 10:06 pm

Feb 1, 2020 10:06 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana grabs a torch and waves it around the swarm. Does it seem to have any effect?

Rolls

Base roll in case I need one. - (2D6)

(52) = 7

'The Swordsman'

Feb 1, 2020 10:40 pm

Feb 1, 2020 10:40 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Watching Jana, the Swordsman also grasps a torch from the wall.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 2, 2020 5:01 pm

Feb 2, 2020 5:01 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The swarm recoils from the flame of Jana's torch exactly the way ordinary bugs would. There is even the sizzle and acrid stink of burning insects as some of them are caught in the flame.

Nechepso roars with rage and the entire crypt shakes.

Battle Music

Swordsman and Akh, something has been nagging you this whole time. Everything about this place has been about bugs, from the myrmeleons, to the giant wasps, to the stories recorded in the murals, and this swarm form that Nechepso has taken. What of the stone leopards in the antechamber? They seem sorely out of place. But now you remember where you've seen their like before: the tomb of the Forgotten Warrior. Your minds go back to that ill-fated expedition where all but the two of you survived. From where no one made it out of the collapsing tomb except two men and an ancient sword. Now, as the pillars tremble here in the depths of Shunet El Zebib, your gazes meet and you each know both of you are having the same recollection. But what could possibly be the connection here?

What do you all do?

Jabes.plays.RPG sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 3, 2020 4:59 pm

Feb 3, 2020 4:59 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Feeling the countdown to get out has started, Akh looks around the room for an artefact, something that stands out. Akh remembers how the ancient sword stood contrasted in the hands of the statue holding it, a lone metal piece in a statue entirely made of stone...

OOC:

Will try to discern realities...
...What here is useful or valuable to me?

Last edited February 3, 2020 5:03 pm

Rolls

discern realities - (2d6+1)

(42) + 1 = 7

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Feb 4, 2020 2:24 pm

Feb 4, 2020 2:24 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro, seeing Akh trying to identify our query in this wretched hole while the swordsman and Jana try to disperse the swarms, he is very thankful that he didn't have time to take the harness off of Jei'nine. He strides over to rope hanging from the platform and prepares to scale the rope. I'm going to ascend to the level above us so I can haul you out. It doesn't look like we have enough fire to disperse this swarm.

'The Swordsman'

Feb 4, 2020 2:52 pm

Feb 4, 2020 2:52 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"I should never have left my sword!" spits the Man With No Name.

Not being the deepest thinker, the Swordsman nevertheless pauses to wonder what it is he is missing?

OOC:

Three questions!
1) What is about to happen?
2) What here is not what it appears to be?
3)Who’s really in control here?

Last edited February 4, 2020 2:54 pm

Rolls

Discern realities - what am I missing? - (2d6)

(64) = 10

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 9, 2020 8:30 am

Feb 9, 2020 8:30 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

If you've already done one Discern Realities during a scene, (for this scene that'd be The Swordsman, Jana, and Akh) you're probably not going to learn anything further with additional attempts unless the situation changes.

You'll notice that Jana didn't gain any new information the second time she tried it. (I merely restated information you already had, which was readily observable anyway).

That said...

Being nearest to Nechepso, the Swordsman notices a worn-out sword scabbard inside the sarcophagus, half-buried by seething scorpions and centipedes. Curiously, it bears a striking similarity to the Sword of Vengeance.

OOC:

Defy Danger (DEX) if you attempt to grab it.

There seems to be no end to the vermin. Akh watches the the vague face-shape fleetingly discernible in the swarm, and knows that is where everyone must direct their attacks if they hope to defeat Nechepso.

While Soro climbs the rope, he and Jei'nine are defenseless against the swarm.

OOC:

Defy Danger (CON), taking -1 on the roll because you are currently Sick.

What do you all do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 9, 2020 9:22 pm

Feb 9, 2020 9:22 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana listens to the swarm. Are they saying anything important? While she listens, she moves closer to the face with the Flame

'The Swordsman'

Feb 9, 2020 10:19 pm

Feb 9, 2020 10:19 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman reaches to grasp the sword

Rolls

Defy Danger (Dex) - (2d6+1)

(11) + 1 = 3

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 9, 2020 11:26 pm

Feb 9, 2020 11:26 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Look in the swarm, attack the face !! Akh follows his own words and sends a magic missile in it...

Rolls

magic missile - (2d6+2)

(53) + 2 = 10

magic missile dmg - (2d4)

(23) = 5

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 10, 2020 3:18 pm

Feb 10, 2020 3:18 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Attuned to the language of even the lowliest of beasts, Jana opens her mind to the voracious chittering of the swarm. The impetus is base, primal: Kill. Devour.

Akh's magic slams into Nechepso's face, drawing an enraged roar from the undead sorcerer.

The Swordsman's fingers close around he ancient scabbard, but gets viciously stung. He fights to maintain his grip on the relic as venom is pumped into his flesh.

OOC:

Mark 1 XP. Mark the damage roll below. Then, roll Defy Danger (CON) with -1 from Sick debility. On a failure, take the Shaky debility.

Jabes.plays.RPG sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

Rolls

Bite damage vs. Swordsman (ignores armor) - (1d2)

(1) = 1

'The Swordsman'

Feb 10, 2020 3:32 pm

Feb 10, 2020 3:32 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Gritting through the pain, the man with no name tries to hold onto the sword despite the venomous bite on his hand.

Rolls

Defy Danger (con) +1/-1 = +0 - (2D6)

(35) = 8

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 10, 2020 7:33 pm

Feb 10, 2020 7:33 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana continues to move forward with the flame. Qhe she gets close to The Swordsman, she grabs one of antitoxin.

Here...this should help.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Feb 11, 2020 2:44 pm

Feb 11, 2020 2:44 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Once Soro and jei-nine reach teh platform he grabs one of the torches from a wall sconce and hurls it at the face.

OOC:

Can I take a called shot with a thrown torch?

Rolls

Volley - (2d6+1)

(16) + 1 = 8

Defy Danger (Con -1) - (2d6-1)

(53) - 1 = 7

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 14, 2020 1:32 am

Feb 14, 2020 1:32 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Battle Music

It's an empty sword scabbard, worn with age. The nameless swordsman doesn't know why, but the ancient relic feels right in his hand, almost like it wants him to possess it. The last time he felt this way was when he first grasped the Sword of Vengeance. Several large centipedes, long as a man's arm, wind themselves around the warrior's arm and bury their venomous pincers in his neck! His vision swimming with more and more venom in his veins, the Swordsman struggles to stay upright. Just then, Jana rushes up with a vial of possibly lifesaving antitoxin.

Harried by the cloud of angry bugs, Soro and Jei'nine must fight for every inch up the rope. They're one level up when Soro turns around and hurls the torch at Nechepso's face.

OOC:

For this instance, Nechepso is well aware of you, and hardly defenseless. So we'll call that a regular Volley. Choose between the first two complications (put yourself in danger, or deal less damage). Then, roll your damage.

Jabes.plays.RPG sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 15, 2020 2:01 pm

Feb 15, 2020 2:01 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

who's turn is it ? I'll admit I'm a little lost... :)

If you have the scabbard, we have to get out, now !!

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 15, 2020 4:00 pm

Feb 15, 2020 4:00 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Remember that there aren't really "turns" in Dungeon World. Sometimes, I will put the spotlight on you ("What do you do, Akh?") but most of the time, feel free to describe your actions after I post narration.

In summary:

All of you are being swarmed by insects, but The Swordsman is in the worst of it.

The Swordsman has got himself a beat-up scabbard, which looks utterly useless to the rest of you. Jana is trying to hand him a vial of antitoxin.

Soro has climbed one level up with Jei'nine and has rolled an 8 on his Volley, so must choose between the first two complications (put yourself in danger, or deal less damage). Then, roll his volley damage.

Akh's magic missiles seem to be effective, particularly when aimed at Nechepso's face. Ordinary fire appears to be somewhat effective at keeping the bugs at bay, though it doesn't seem to affect Nechepso in any lasting way unless aimed at the face.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 15, 2020 6:37 pm

Feb 15, 2020 6:37 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Thanks, I'll have to get use to that lol

Keeping up with his magic barrage, Akh sends another one in Nechepso's face. Hurry up ! Get away, I'll keep him occupied !

OOC:

Result 9: Akh will draw unwanted attention...

[ +- ] Akh's Stats

Last edited February 15, 2020 7:09 pm

Rolls

magic missile - (2d6+2)

(52) + 2 = 9

magic missile dmg - (2d4)

(42) = 6

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Feb 17, 2020 5:58 am

Feb 17, 2020 5:58 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Having just collected himself and Jei’nine on the platform Soro’s throw is just a little bit of target. Not doing as much damage as he had hoped.

After tossing the torch he tells to his companions, Get to the rope I will help pull you out!

OOC:

so I think that torch did 2 damage. I tried putting 1d8-1d6 into the roller and it did it all weird.

Last edited February 17, 2020 6:04 am

Rolls

Volley damage - (1d8-1, 1d6)

1d8-1 : (6) - 1 = 5

1d6 : (4) = 4

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 17, 2020 11:00 pm

Feb 17, 2020 11:00 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana starts to slowly back towards the rope while keeping her torch in front of her.

Do any of you have oil, or anything flammable?

'The Swordsman'

Feb 18, 2020 12:32 pm

Feb 18, 2020 12:32 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Grunting his thanks, the man with no name bitrs the cork stopper off and downs the antivenin serum in one gulp. Spitting ancurse at the insect swarm he moves to the rope as well.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 18, 2020 1:37 pm

Feb 18, 2020 1:37 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Swordsman: Your vision clears as the antitoxin does its work. But there are still giant centipedes twined around your arm, latched to your neck. Do you do anything about them as you retreat to the rope?

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 18, 2020 1:46 pm

Feb 18, 2020 1:46 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro's flung torch hits Nechepso squarely on the "forehead" just as Akh's magical darts explode the undead sorcerer's head, and the swarm falls apart. Even though there is no longer a consciousness to direct them, the individual bugs are still a threat, but Jana keeps them at bay with her torch. What do the rest of you do?

'The Swordsman'

Feb 18, 2020 2:43 pm

Feb 18, 2020 2:43 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman uses his torch to burn away the centipedes.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 18, 2020 4:07 pm

Feb 18, 2020 4:07 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Do we have what we came for?

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 18, 2020 5:28 pm

Feb 18, 2020 5:28 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Don't worry if you can't see me, I'll still be here.
Akh cast Invisibility, trying to see if the insects still react to his presence...

Rolls

Invisibility - (2d6+2)

(46) + 2 = 12

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 23, 2020 5:39 am

Feb 23, 2020 5:39 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Battle Music

The centipedes writhe and fall away when the Swordsman burns them with his torch. Akh vanishes from sight, but most of the surviving insects are already scuttling away now that Nechepso has been bested. As the rest of you turn to the rope to escape this place, the tomb's pillars and walls shudder, and Khut-Hotep's funereal voice echoes from Shunet El Zebib's depths, "Abandon ye all hope of escape. I lay claim to thee. Ye shall take Nechepso's place as my servants." Ominous booming echoes up as if from the bowels of the earth. Something comes. And the walls begin to crumble and topple around you.

What do you do?

Jabes.plays.RPG sent a note to Jabes.plays.RPG

Akh, a gilded, earthen jar gets smashed open nearby, spilling clay tablets and papyrus. Most of it is shattered or crumbling. Do you take the time to sift through it? This entire place is about collapse on top of you!

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 23, 2020 5:54 am

Feb 23, 2020 5:54 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

When Jana gets to the rope she will start up. When she gets to the top, she waits for everyone to get there before she heads to the entrance.

'The Swordsman'

Feb 23, 2020 12:34 pm

Feb 23, 2020 12:34 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman stands by the rope watching Jana climb up. He looks around, holding his torch as he cries out for Akh, "Wizard! Where are you? We must flee now! "

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Feb 23, 2020 4:07 pm

Feb 23, 2020 4:07 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro seeing his companions starting to climb up the rope reaches over to help Jana up onto the ledge. Quickly Swordsman, the Wizard knows what he is doing. We must get out of here as quickly as we can or be buried forever.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 23, 2020 10:41 pm

Feb 23, 2020 10:41 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jabes.plays.RPG says:

Akh, a gilded, earthen jar gets smashed open nearby, spilling clay tablets and papyrus. Most of it is shattered or crumbling. Do you take the time to sift through it? This entire place is about collapse on top of you!

Akh can't stop himself, he goes to grab anything that looks like it's not gonna turn to dust, jamming it in his backpack then bolts to the rope. He starts climbing, yelling for his friends to pull up if they are still there.

'The Swordsman'

Feb 23, 2020 11:59 pm

Feb 23, 2020 11:59 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman waits until Akh passes him and climbs up before he tosses aside the torch and then begins climbing the rope hand over hand with the scabbard stuffed into his belt.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 24, 2020 5:33 am

Feb 24, 2020 5:33 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Hold on. Akh's split-second delay may or may not cost him. Roll Defy Danger DEX

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 24, 2020 10:38 am

Feb 24, 2020 10:38 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

defy danger (dex)....

Rolls

Defy Danger DEX - (2d6)

(46) = 10

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 24, 2020 3:45 pm

Feb 24, 2020 3:45 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Music

Working together, you clamber up level by level, all the way to the top platform, and make a mad dash up the entrance tunnel.

The stone leopards spring forward when you reappear in the antechamber, but bow low to the Swordsman when they register the sword scabbard tucked into his belt. Scooping up the Sword of Vengeance, the Swordsman sees it and the scabbard are a perfect match. The structure trembles violently, and Khut-hotep's voice booms once more, speaking words even Akh cannot decipher. The flame blazes high in the brazier. Did the god-pharoah statue just move, or was it a trick of the light?

What do you do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 24, 2020 5:42 pm

Feb 24, 2020 5:42 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Don't forget that when we get to the exit, if we get to the exit, don't charge toward the wall, you will arouse the anger of the giant wasps. I will try and talk us out.

'The Swordsman'

Feb 24, 2020 8:50 pm

Feb 24, 2020 8:50 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman, reunited with the Sword of Vengeace, brandishes the ancient weapon at the statue.

"Wizard! Let's follow the little one and begone from this place!

Last edited February 24, 2020 8:50 pm

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 24, 2020 9:39 pm

Feb 24, 2020 9:39 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The brazier crashes to the floor as the 12-foot statue begins to rise from its throne. When the Swordsman brandishes his sword at it, the stone leopards turn and pounce in obedience!

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Feb 24, 2020 10:45 pm

Feb 24, 2020 10:45 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I whole heartedly agree! Let us leave this place. Soro grabs his weapons from the floor and takes up a position next the the swordsman leaving the way open for Jana and Ahk to exit first.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 24, 2020 11:13 pm

Feb 24, 2020 11:13 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Not wanting his friends to be hurt, and knowing they wouldn't leave before he did, he hurried towards the exits, stopping just before he is near enough to disturb the giant wasp...

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 24, 2020 11:59 pm

Feb 24, 2020 11:59 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Leaving the giant statue to the stone leopards and the collapsing tomb, you hurry up the winding stairs and out into the open. With all of Shunet El Zebib shaking and trembling, the wasps are agitated. What do you do, Jana?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 25, 2020 12:04 am

Feb 25, 2020 12:04 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Everyone else will only hear buzzing and see Jana almost dancing.

Peace to you winged brothers. We do not want to harm your hive. We only want to leave in peace. There may be a large walker who follows our group who does not share our respect for your queen.

May we pass in peace.

Last edited February 25, 2020 12:05 am

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 25, 2020 12:47 am

Feb 25, 2020 12:47 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"Go away! Leave us alone!" the wasps threaten with their stings, but only to drive you away and make sure you stay away.

Deep rumbling issues from the tomb as it collapses underneath the sand.

What do you do now?

'The Swordsman'

Feb 25, 2020 1:00 am

Feb 25, 2020 1:00 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The taciturn warrior says in his gravelly voice "Let’s
get to the oasis. I might have soiled myself sometime between the swarm of insects and the giant statue."

He then cracks a rare grin and begins shaking with silent laughter.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 25, 2020 1:08 am

Feb 25, 2020 1:08 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Swordsman, when you begin to sheathe the Sword of Vengeance in the scabbard, you can almost swear the sword slid itself home of its own accord. The tomb of the Forgotten Warrior is many leagues from here. How could sword and scabbard have ended up apart? And what of the stone leopards at these two sites? Both tombs are now buried, so you may never know. The desert likes to keep its secrets.

You all return to the oasis. What do you wish to do here?

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Feb 25, 2020 1:24 am

Feb 25, 2020 1:24 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Soro keeps pace with his companions easily with Jei'nine loping at his heels. Once they reach the oasis he laments the slashed water skin that was offered to the statues in the antechamber and drinks from the spring. After some time in contemplation he turns to the rest of the group and asks a question, Have any of you ever seen a god materialize in such a way?

OOC:

Can I role a spout lore to see if Soro might be able to remember a story from his clan of something similar?

Last edited February 25, 2020 1:02 pm

Rolls

Spout Lore - (2d6)

(11) = 2

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 25, 2020 2:21 am

Feb 25, 2020 2:21 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Mark1 XP, Soro.

Your waterskin was slashed in the offering. It is useless and beyond repair.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 25, 2020 3:23 am

Feb 25, 2020 3:23 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Handing his water skin to Soro, I actually never read something like that. Had I not seen it with my own eyes, I would not even beleive myself....

Last edited February 25, 2020 3:25 am

Rolls

Spout Lore - (2d6+2)

(31) + 2 = 6

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Feb 25, 2020 1:10 pm

Feb 25, 2020 1:10 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

I edited my post above for continuity.

Thank you Akh Soro fills the waterskin after taking another deep drink from it and hands it back to the wizard. Does this appearance of a God-Pharaohs visage change our goals? Or do we continue and contemplate the repercussions of Nechepso being loose in the world later? Or do we have the hubris to think that we destroyed the God-Pharaoh?

'The Swordsman'

Feb 25, 2020 2:58 pm

Feb 25, 2020 2:58 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"I do not believe the God-Pharoh has been defeated. If anything we have drawn its ire." He takes the waterskin from Soro and draws the cold water into his mouth drinking deeply. He hands the empties waterskin back as he gazes to where the tomb entrance had stood.

The warrior's expression becomes blank again as he tries to recall anything having to do with what they just experienced.

Rolls

spout lore - (2d6)

(56) = 11

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 25, 2020 3:09 pm

Feb 25, 2020 3:09 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Mark 1 XP, Akh.

Neither Akh nor Soro have heard of god-pharoahs rising or manifesting in this way. Granted, very little is known of the god-pharaohs anyway. The four of you probably know more of Khut-hotep, and his servant and usurper, Nechepso, than anyone alive.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 25, 2020 3:10 pm

Feb 25, 2020 3:10 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman, however, remembers something...

OOC:

(standby)

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 25, 2020 7:15 pm

Feb 25, 2020 7:15 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Once again Jana takes one drink, even though her body does not need it. The sharing of the water with comrades is the important part.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 26, 2020 7:33 pm

Feb 26, 2020 7:33 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Something has been niggling at the back of the Swordsman's mind. The name Nechepso seemed vaguely familiar when Akh spoke it. It's only now that the fighter remembers he once heard it in reference to accounts of the exploits of a brilliant general whose name he doesn't remember ever having learned. Might the Forgotten Warrior and the brilliant general be the very same person? The Swordsman came away with the Sword of Vengeance after he and Akh barely made it out of the Forgotten Warrior's tomb alive. The other members of that expedition were slaughtered by stone leopard guardians just like the ones guarding Khut-hotep and Nechepso's tomb. Now, he's found the sword's scabbard, and the stone leopards bowed to him. The Forgotten Warrior... the general... that must be the connection here. But how? Sadly, even Akh is unable to puzzle it out. Not yet.

You've always felt like the Sword of Vengeance has a mind of its own. Now that you also bear its scabbard, that consciousness augments your own awareness in battle.

OOC:

This move is granted you as long as you bear both the Sword of Vengeance and its scabbard (Scabbard of the Forgotten):
Setup Strike. When you hack and slash, choose an ally. Their next attack against your target does +1d4 damage.

Feb 26, 2020 7:43 pm

Feb 26, 2020 7:43 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jabes.plays.RPG says:

OOC:

This move is granted you as long as you bear both the Sword of Vengeance and its scabbard:
Setup Strike. When you hack and slash, choose an ally. Their next attack against your target does +1d4 damage.

OOC:

sweet!

Last edited February 26, 2020 7:45 pm

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Feb 27, 2020 2:03 pm

Feb 27, 2020 2:03 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

As soon as the team is resting, Akh will study what he had managed to salvaged...

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 27, 2020 7:11 pm

Feb 27, 2020 7:11 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Jana looks at the canteens and tries to figure out if we have enough water capacity to make it safely out of the desert. If not, she could venture out and bring back canteens.

Rolls

Spout lore or whatever skill I would use - (2D6)

(43) = 7

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 28, 2020 4:36 pm

Feb 28, 2020 4:36 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh, one of your finds is a scrap of papyrus inscribed with a fragment of a spell to dominate a person and bend them to your will. There isn't enough here for you to learn to cast the spell, but with time and research you may one day manage it.

Also, there is a black, stone orb that fits comfortably in your palm. It feels warm to the touch, and produces dancing points of multi-colored light just under its surface as it is handled. At first you are unsure what it does, but you feel a quickening in the magical energies around you.

OOC:

Scintillating Orb (1 weight, dangerous.)
* When you Prepare Spells while possessing the Orb, count your Level as 1 greater than it is.
* When you Cast a Spell while holding the Orb, you can draw on its power to take +1 forward. When you do, the Orb takes +1 Stress. After you resolve the spell, roll+Stress. On a 10+, the Orb releases its Stress in a burst of magical energy, and the GM will describe what happens. The Orb resets its Stress back to 0 naturally while you sleep.

Jana, you determine that there is enough water for five days for everyone that needs it. Unfortunately, barring delays, it's a six-day journey back to Sietch Jalmud. You could all make for your home, the Golden Sky Oasis, and make it there in four, perhaps five days. You'd have to blindfold your friends for the last leg, or you could leave them a couple of days out, get supplies, and return to them. The easiest way yet might be to head home alone and either come back for them here, or rendezvous at Sakhra Crag. Or one of them might have better ideas.

What do you do?

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Feb 28, 2020 9:36 pm

Feb 28, 2020 9:36 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

We do not have enough water to get to the next oasis. We could try and push through, but you all would be at least one day with no water. More if we encounter trouble. That is cutting it very close.

You could stay here, and I will go to my home oasis and bring back extra water skins for the journey.

Since I don't need water, I will let you make the final decision.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Feb 29, 2020 4:33 am

Feb 29, 2020 4:33 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

If you ever find yourself unable to remember a person or place, refer to the World Almanac.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Mar 3, 2020 2:45 am

Mar 3, 2020 2:45 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

*bump*

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Mar 3, 2020 2:54 am

Mar 3, 2020 2:54 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

I think we should all go together to the next oasis. One day without water shoudn't kill us.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Mar 3, 2020 4:15 pm

Mar 3, 2020 4:15 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

One day without water will leave us perilously close to calamity. It might be possible for Jei'nine and I to find water outside of the oasis. Soro tries to remember any tales for folk lore about the region that might lead us to even a small source of water that could help us complete our journey without splitting up...

OOC:

I know spout lore is an intelligence based roll but this is kind of in Soro's wheelhouse. Any chance I could get a bonus to the roll.
I won't roll right away so it doesn't look like I'm asking for a bonus after my roll is garbage.

'The Swordsman'

Mar 3, 2020 4:33 pm

Mar 3, 2020 4:33 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"We could return to the Golden Sky Oasis." Offers the Swordsman.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Mar 3, 2020 8:35 pm

Mar 3, 2020 8:35 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

We could, and if it is the only way, we will. However, my people are very protective of the location. The last two days would require all of you to wear blindfolds while I lead you.

If you trust me to get you through, then it is an option.

'The Swordsman'

Mar 3, 2020 8:41 pm

Mar 3, 2020 8:41 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The Swordsman shrugs, a blindfold is better than dying of thirst

Jabes.plays.RPG

Mar 4, 2020 5:30 am

Mar 4, 2020 5:30 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

No roll necessary, Soro. You know well enough about the area. Your Waterseeker clan are among the very few people the Dunestriders trust. There is no water to be found any nearer than Golden Sky Oasis, or Sietch Jalmud.

Soro Samma N'Sei

JoHoover Inactive forever!

Mar 4, 2020 3:29 pm

Mar 4, 2020 3:29 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

Would I know the location of the Golden Sky Oasis? Could I help Jana lead the others?

I agree with the Swordsman, we should head to the Golden Sky with whatever restrictions would be needed.

Jabes.plays.RPG

Mar 4, 2020 3:31 pm

Mar 4, 2020 3:31 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

OOC:

The extent of the trust given to the Waterseekers, and whether that includes access to the oasis, I leave that up to Jana.

Machiabelly Inactive forever!

Mar 4, 2020 4:36 pm

Mar 4, 2020 4:36 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Then let us go that way. Soro will only have to cover their eyes for the very end. Close enough to call for help, but not the final path through the traps.

Everyone else will have to be blindfolded for the last two days.

Jana looks to her new allies.

Understand, this is not that I don't trust you...but my people have kept safe for generations by protecting our secret.

'The Swordsman'

Mar 4, 2020 4:41 pm

Mar 4, 2020 4:41 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

"Just don't let me walk off of a dune." grumbles the Swordsman.

deadpool_qc Inactive for 1 months

Mar 6, 2020 1:18 am

Mar 6, 2020 1:18 am

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

Akh carefully puts the papers back into his backpack, keeping the orb in his pouch. Well then, let's get on the road. Sooner we leave, sooner we get there...

Jabes.plays.RPG

Mar 8, 2020 4:09 pm

Mar 8, 2020 4:09 pm

Re: Chapter 1: Shunet El Zebib

The adventure continues in Chapter 2: Dunestriders.

Index > Game Forums > zz Hiptos: Sands of Fate (on indefinite hiatus)

Thread locked

Game Details

Characters
- JoHoover
  
  Soro Samma N'Sei