1.3 - The Wyr River: Deeper Darkness

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Feb 13, 2015 5:10 pm
Having recovered from your ordeals and splitting your spoils, you head out of the cavern and east toward the other tunnels.

As you come to the intersection, all is quiet. The only light source is the glow globe that Yui carries and it is set to low. The only sounds you hear are your own foot falls and water dripping, echoing from all around. You all at one time or another look at Darazen; having found some mud at the bottom of the pool and from the mudmen themselves, he looks pretty convincing as a mudman. You see the archways opening paths north and south and the path continuing east. The archways each have a script written above them in a language long since forgotten. Looking down each tunnel, each ends in darkness.

Utazó, Yui and Darazen have decided to head north, past the archway and into the tunnel. After about 23 or so yards, Utazó sees the beam crossing the floor. She stops the party, bends down and finds some fine dirt/sand. She blows the sand from her hand and shows the others the beam. "I don't think we want to step on that. Be careful where you step, the debris on the floor is looser here."

(Speed rolls from Utazó, Yui and Darazen)


Khoren, Tara, and Osred (PM Acknowledged): Your party has left you here to fend for yourselves. GMs LOVE it when a party splits up. Should I bring out the Wizen now? Just kidding! Summoning a red dragon.

Looking to the east, the tunnel starts south but looks like it turns north near the edge of the darkness. Thirty of so feet in, you see the red eyes of a rodent, scurrying away with a scrap. It disappears into a small hole leaving it quiet and dark.

The tunnel to the south is silent and well traveled. You see the floor rise about 50 feet in and then darkness, or is it? There appears to be a little bit of shadows playing at the far end. A slight draft of fresh air comes drifting past you.

Which way are you exploring?
Feb 13, 2015 6:44 pm
Standing up Utazó places a hand against the wall to help her steady herself as she carefully steps over the beam. "Careful there mud man" she jokingly says to Darazen, "wouldn't want any of you dripping off into the beam."

Rolls

Speed Roll - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Feb 13, 2015 7:49 pm
"Good luck, friends." With a mock salute, Yui leaves with Utazo and Darazen, tossing Khoren a glow globe on the way out. Hope we see them alive again Yui thinks with a smirk.
Although then again there's no reason for me to get cocky either.

Yui carefully hops above the beam (OOC: If this was a spy movie there'd be a hundred more red beams to stylishly traverse.)
Last edited February 14, 2015 5:50 am

Rolls

Speed roll - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Feb 13, 2015 7:55 pm
(Hopefully the red beam is just for decoration, I'm not rerolling that I've only got 2 XP).

(Han: "Don't get too cocky, kid."
Yui: "What? I didn't hear you over the sound of me tripping the light trap.")

Sorry guys.
Feb 13, 2015 8:10 pm
Darazen is not enjoying being coated in mud. He is way more sophisticated than that. The mud is so thick Utazo probably doesn't notice the silent scowl in response to her "joke".

Delicately, Darazen attempts to step over the beam. (ooc: oops)

...and with an XP point tries again...
Last edited February 13, 2015 8:11 pm

Rolls

Speed check - (1d20)

(2) = 2

XP: reroll speed check - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Feb 13, 2015 10:04 pm
Sorry Darazen...Me and you deserve a DUNCE cap from the GM.

DUNCE Cap
Artifact
Effect: You're foes laugh in the face of your grace.
Feb 13, 2015 10:10 pm
Kaizival says:
Sorry Darazen...Me and you deserve a DUNCE cap from the GM.

DUNCE Cap
Artifact
Effect: You're foes laugh in the face of your grace.
Ooc: I never said I was dexterous.
Feb 13, 2015 10:42 pm
WOW! I ALMOST got Darazen there. The difficulty over this loose terrain was just a 1(Target: 3) in case your foot slipped or you kicked a rock. I am going to wait on Tara to catch up. He's home now. I am not sure what happened to Khoren.
Feb 13, 2015 10:59 pm
OOC: Oh, so we didn't screw up. Nice! Hope Tara hurries, our successful defeat of the rock ridden floor has gotten Yui and I all riled up.
Feb 13, 2015 11:14 pm
It's not a fence you two, JUST STEP OVER IT!!! Utazó screams to herself as she looks on in disbelief at the awkwardness displayed by both Yui and Darazen as they each try to clear of beam of light that runs along the ground.

"Wow, that was... Uh, congratulations..."
Feb 13, 2015 11:19 pm
Darazen blushes under the mud.
Feb 14, 2015 12:00 am
Having cleared the beam, the two stooges join Utazo on the other side. As if it was a chasm... Yui, trying to regain her regality, haughtily gestures the others forward. (GM, what do we find after the beam?)
Feb 14, 2015 12:06 am
As Yui's light disappears down the northern tunnel, plunging Khoren into nearly total darkness, he whispers quietly to Osred and Tara. "I can't see in the dark. If we don't have our own light, we better follow them."
Feb 14, 2015 5:49 am
Qralloq says:
As Yui's light disappears down the northern tunnel, plunging Khoren into nearly total darkness, he whispers quietly to Osred and Tara. "I can't see in the dark. If we don't have our own light, we better follow them."
(OOC: Wait. None of you has a light? Can anyone (besides me) see in the dark? There was no point in splitting up if you all follow us. If absolutely no one in Khoren's group has a light, maybe you could do a sneak attack by darkness? Or earlier Yui could toss Khoren a glow globe so he can see. Yeah, I'll do that. Editing the previous post now.)

" "Good luck, friends." With a mock salute, Yui leaves with Utazo and Darazen, tossing Khoren a glow globe on the way out."

(If you want to follow us, that's fine, but I think we should enact our previous plan for the most fun.)
Last edited February 14, 2015 5:52 am
Feb 14, 2015 6:12 am
(Ooc: I think we should stick together).
Feb 15, 2015 6:25 am
Tara pockets the Speed Boost cypher and looks at the small group that was left by themselves and says "I do have a glow light, but I think splitting the party up is insane. There is safety in numbers." And guides her group after the other group.

Rolls

Speed Roll? (Specialized) - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Feb 15, 2015 2:35 pm
Khoren nods at Tara, and follows her after the other three, making sure that Osred comes with us as well. As they move forward, a few well practiced gestures remove the mud and gore from his clothes. After they jump over the light beam, he offers Osred and Tara the same courtesy. "It seems that unless we are totally covered in mud, we are susceptible to their weapons. Would you like me to instruct the numenera to clean your weapons and clothes?"

Rolls

Speed check - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Feb 15, 2015 5:23 pm
"Missed us already?", Utazó asks as the the others join her, Yui, and Darazen. "Looks like it might be some sort of trap or warning device", she says as she motions towards the beam. "Any ideas?"
Feb 15, 2015 6:25 pm
Darazen activates the Cats Eye cypher just to be sure. The dim glow was doing his head in. Addressing Utazo he says "I guess who ever is more stealthy than me should have a look ahead and the rest of us will follow at a respectful distance."
Feb 15, 2015 8:08 pm
"I'm not exactly the stealthiest, but I can see in the dark and the darkness should give me cover." With a nod Yui carefully scouts ahead, scanning the darkness carefully as she tiptoes forward.
Feb 15, 2015 10:38 pm
Tara nods to Khoren, "Thank you.. Yes, please" (for having the Numenera clean her clothes).
She indicates the compass Tara had used to track them that Khoren had placed onto his belt. "Are we going the right direction? You seemed to be able to get it to work a lot better than I could."
Feb 16, 2015 12:55 am
Qralloq says:
Khoren nods at Tara, and follows her after the other three, making sure that Osred comes with us as well. As they move forward, a few well practiced gestures remove the mud and gore from his clothes. After they jump over the light beam, he offers Osred and Tara the same courtesy. "It seems that unless we are totally covered in mud, we are susceptible to their weapons. Would you like me to instruct the numenera to clean your weapons and clothes?"
As you try to take Osred by the arm to prod him to follow, you notice that his arm is stiff and he is staring into the south tunnel. You prod him again and he does not even blink. A tear forms in his eye and after a moment, he blinks it away. He turns to you and Tara. "I am sorry. I cannot continue with you all. I cannot begin to explain it, but I know I must return to my home. I know that if I do not, my family will suffer more than they are. Please, I wish you well and hope to hear songs of your exploits. If you ever Auspar, please look me up and I will buy you all an ale and a meal."

Without waiting for word, Osred turns walks away into the south tunnel.
Feb 16, 2015 2:00 am
Darazen senses his telepathic link with Osred fade. ***bye Osred***
Feb 16, 2015 2:18 am
(Can we have Osred's loot?)
Feb 16, 2015 2:27 am
Khoren appreciates Osred's need to care for his family, but is somewhat suspicious as to the timing. Still, he is a strange sort and perhaps the numenera have been whispering to him. Khoren will hiss at Tara, Yui and Utazo to draw their attention and halt their progress. Khoren holds up a finger to indicate the universal signal to wait a moment. He will then escort Osred to the tunnel that Tara entered by, and help him leave, then return to Darazen. If, however, Osred is really enthralled by some demonic hellbeast, Khoren may intercede in Osred's involuntary march to disaster.
Feb 16, 2015 2:40 am
Hearing Khoren's hiss, Utazó hunkers down and keep her eyes focused on the unexplored tunnel.

I hope Khoren knows what he's doing. Bad enough we're losing Osred, we don't need to be adding to that list.
Last edited February 16, 2015 2:43 am
Feb 16, 2015 4:22 am
Tara wishes Osred a safe, speedy travels.
Feb 16, 2015 3:54 pm
Kaizival says:
(Can we have Osred's loot?)
No....he will need to in his travels home.
Feb 16, 2015 4:23 pm
After what seems like an eternity, Khoren returns and reports that Osred is safely on the surface. He reports the entrance was smaller than he thought it would be and very hard to see (He wonders how Tara found it to begin with). It is now up to Osred and his resourcefulness to get home. Near the entrance, Khoren found a cypher. It is a ceramic sphere similar to the other found, except it has blue veins of minerals streaking through it. Khoren says using it will cause anyone in an immediate radius to be sicken and nauseated for 25-30 seconds.

Yui and Utazó are focused ahead, trying to make sure they are not seen and that they can see ahead of them. They are still within sight of the rest of the party. You both see something scurry from one side to the other before disappearing behind a rock. The floor of northern path gradually descends about 15 feet and is curving to the east before it makes a drastic turn east about 25 yards ahead. Your eyes, adjusted to the darkness, see a faint glow against the far wall.

I need rolls on the following, and let me know if you are using any effort:
Yui and Utazó: Speed or Intellect
Darazen, Tara and Khoren: Intellect
Feb 16, 2015 4:35 pm
Concentrating, Yui focuses her willpower.

I'll save my XP, I'll keep that awful roll and try to roll with it.
Last edited February 16, 2015 4:37 pm

Rolls

Roll with intellect effort - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Feb 16, 2015 4:48 pm
Khoren, having returned to the group, shrugs and pulls out his left punch dagger, using his right arm to cloak himself near the wall. Ready for ... something ... he nods to the others.

Rolls

Intellect check - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Feb 16, 2015 7:01 pm
Darazen focuses his cat's eyes to keep a close watch on Utazo and Yui ahead.

Rolls

Intellect roll - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Feb 16, 2015 9:07 pm
Tara is relieved to see Khoren return safely and smiles at him..

Rolls

Intellect - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Feb 16, 2015 9:53 pm
"Did you see that?", Utazó whispers as she gives Yui a nudge.

Rolls

Intelligence Roll (No effort) - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Feb 17, 2015 1:40 am
Utazó, knowing there was one trip beam, has been watching for others. He spots not one, but several crisscrossing from one wall to the other and from floor to ceiling. The beams are very dim red, almost invisible and the first one is just ten inches from Yui. There are no gaps large enough to squeeze, crawl or jump through.

Further down the tunnel, there is a definite light and shadow flickering on the wall.
Feb 17, 2015 2:08 am
"I wonder if we should bypass this 'trap' by using an artifact to pass through the walls. If we did, and left this active, we might catch whoever is down that hallway unawares." Khoren pauses, and then continues in a lower voice, leaning forward with a slight glower. "However, we must decide what we will do with what opposition we meet. Should we treat them the same as they did the caravan, that is, deadly and with no warning, or do we want answers from them?"
Khoren also took the new sicken/nauseating sphere cypher, leaving the prodstick behind.
Last edited February 17, 2015 2:09 am
Feb 17, 2015 2:26 am
Darazen listens to Khoren's suggestion about passing through the wall to avoid the beams. He whispers a response, "We probably do need to go this way, but I'm a little nervous about bypassing these beams. Heck, I barely managed to step over one of them! I'm wondering if there's a way to turn the beams off? If we really think this is our ultimate destination, maybe we should search the rest of these tunnels before trying to go this way? The commander showed me a waterfall in his mind. Maybe we should look for it?"

"Another thought is, maybe these artifacts can deactivate the beams? They must pass through here somehow?"

(Darazen uses Numenera training and effort to determine if there is any synergy between the beams and the artifacts)
Last edited February 17, 2015 2:35 am

Rolls

Examine artifact, Numenera traing with effort - (1d20)

(12) = 12

10 min recovery - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Feb 17, 2015 2:48 am
There does not appear to be a link between the artifacts and the light devices, though all the beams seem connected.
Feb 17, 2015 3:36 am
"Whoa..." Yui noticing the beam just in time falls backward to avoid it. "Way too close... I say we look in the other tunnels, guys. For now these beans are a dead end."

"Wait..." Yui looks above the beams at the ceiling. (Can we climb over the beams?)
Last edited February 17, 2015 3:38 am
Feb 17, 2015 3:43 am
Qralloq says:
"However, we must decide what we will do with what opposition we meet. Should we treat them the same as they did the caravan, that is, deadly and with no warning, or do we want answers from them?"
Utazó whispers back to Khoren, "I want answers first! I want to know what the hell is going on down here and I think whoever appears to be down the hall there might be a start. Khoren, if you think your device will allow us to get around the trap and spring an ambush of our own, then I'm willing to try."
Feb 17, 2015 12:19 pm
"What about the waterfall? I think it's s mistake to try to get past these beams without further research."
Feb 17, 2015 2:15 pm
Khoren holds up a warning hand, quietly saying "tchht!" and turns to the south, away from the beams, listening intently.

Rolls

Intellect check - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Feb 17, 2015 3:59 pm
Khoren whispers without moving "Three mudmen coming. As soon as they see us, kill them and save their prisoner."
As soon as the mudmen falter in their advance toward us, Khoren will leap and attack, using Push esotery with effort for damage to knock the lead one (i.e., not holding the prisoner) into the tunnel wall (roll below for the appropriate time).

Rolls

Intellect check, Push esotery (with effort for damage) - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Feb 17, 2015 4:36 pm
Qralloq says:
Khoren whispers without moving "Three mudmen coming. As soon as they see us, kill them and save their prisoner."
"If someone is heading this way from the other side of trap, this will certainly draw their attention.", Utazó thinks to herself as she quietly gets into position behind Khoren and crouches, hand on the hilt of her sword. "I'd still like to keep one of these sons of abhumans alive, but failing that, maybe the prisoner will be able to tell us something."
Feb 17, 2015 5:55 pm
(ooc: from which direction are the mudmen coming?)
Feb 17, 2015 6:14 pm
Merlin says:
(ooc: from which direction are the mudmen coming?)
I'm assuming from the south, as that's the way Khoren turned when he gave us the warning.
Feb 17, 2015 7:36 pm
(ooc: cheers, szemely)

Darazen turns to the south and attempts to see the mudmen with his Cat's Eyes. ***how does Khoren know they have a captive?***

Rolls

Cat's eyes... see in dark, cypher expert - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Feb 17, 2015 8:21 pm
Coming into sight, you see three mudmen, leading a prisoner. They don't seem to care about stealth.

One of the mudmen is holding a dim light stick, one is holding the rope of the prisoner and the last holds a prod stick and pack (most likely the prisoners gear). They are making no secret of who they are and are about 25 yards away. They walk right through the light beam. They have no idea you are there, yet.
Feb 17, 2015 9:22 pm
Darazen attempts to communicate telepathically with the captive. ***do you need help? Don't speak, just think***

(ooc: ahem!!! That deserves a reroll. 1 XP spent coming up...)
Last edited February 17, 2015 9:24 pm

Rolls

Communicate telepathically - intellect - (1d20)

(1) = 1

Communicate telepathically - intellect (retry) - 1XP - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Feb 18, 2015 12:01 am
Tara will wait til they get into immediate range (so the others are ready) and then rush out and punch the lead mudman.

OMG.. *this* is the reason I prefer real dice..
Least then if the die fails me I can throw it across the room!
Last edited February 18, 2015 12:04 am

Rolls

Attack Roll - (Effort to hit) - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Feb 18, 2015 12:03 am
You 'hear' a reply:

Yes! There are three of them, and the one in the back has all of my tools. Get me out of this and I'll repair anything you need!
Feb 18, 2015 12:04 am
Yui quietly crouches opposite Khoren and Utazo. Motioning to the others, she mimes bashing someone on the head with the hilt of a sword. I'll try to take one alive.
She then puts her hands behind her back as if they were bound, and then gestures at the prisoner and then makes a jerking gesture away from the mudmen. After that, she points at everyone with an inquiring look. Someone should get the prisoner away from the mudmen so they don't try anything funny. Yui then quietly draws her katana.

(OOC: Hi Objulen! We'll make sure you leave the mudmen with your head attached! :) )
Feb 18, 2015 12:06 am
(OOC: Yes Hi Objulen!)
Feb 18, 2015 12:07 am
(OOC: I hope so! And hello!)
Feb 18, 2015 12:53 am
Anyone attacking who has not rolled, I need a roll (might, speed or intellect...depending on your attack)
Feb 18, 2015 12:58 am
Vult will wait to act until the mud people are distracted.
Feb 18, 2015 1:28 am
Utazó sizes up the mud man leading the prisoner and nods to Yui. Leaving one alive would be good, but I'm done playing. Maybe pushing my sword through his abdomen won't actually kill him...

When the mud men are within immediate range Utazó will rush the one leading the prisoner and swing her sword down on him.
Last edited February 18, 2015 2:06 am

Rolls

Might Roll for the attack. - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Feb 18, 2015 1:33 am
When the mudmen get close, Yui will wait till the others attack, and them attempt to swiftly bash a mudman on the head with the hilt of her katana, knocking him out.

Rolls

Knock out mudman- speed effort - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Feb 18, 2015 2:04 am
Darazen whispers to his comrades, "The captive will help us. He told me. Let's free him."

With that Darazen unleashes onslaught on the lead mudman.

(Ooc: welcome Objulen)

Rolls

Onslaught mental - intellect - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Feb 18, 2015 2:58 am
This is a surprise round. They did not see or hear you and certainly were not expecting anyone in their tunnels.

Surprise Round

R:S - Khoren, from the shadows concentrates. Focusing on the lead Mudman (M:1) up front, he leaps out and makes a gesture to push him into the wall. The mudman is lifted off his feet and flies into the wall with a crushing blow (10 dmg). The sound of bones breaking hangs in the air for a moment.

R:S - Tara moves quickly and sees Khoren take out the leader. Changing targets, she turns toward the next one (M:2) holding the rope of the prisoner. Her foot hits a loose stone and slips, but she recovers.

R:S - Utazó, seeing Khoren and Tara leap out, follows suit. She charges to the second mudman (M:2) and slashes with her sword (4 dmg). Stunned at the sudden appearance of people and being attacked. He drops the rope and fumbles for his weapon.

R:S - Yui springs from the rocks and tries to make an arial attack on the mudman leading the prisoner (M:2). She uses the hilt of her sword to hit him on the head (2 dmg and stunned)

R:S - Darazen, seeing the attacks focused on the other two, changes his target. He concentrates and unleashes an onslaught attack on the last mudman (M:3) (4 dmg)

R:S - Vult is holding his action, waiting for the distraction. (Will move to top of the round next round)

R:S - The Mudmen Mooks:
Mud Man (M:1) Eyes wide in shock and pain, he dies against the tunnel wall
Mud Man (M:2) Fumbled for his weapon, he dropped to his knees, stunned
Mud Man (M:3) Suprised at the attack, he holds his weapon (prod stick) up defiantly for a moment, then panic sets in and he turns to run.


Results (Note: After this battle, I will not be displaying the list of opponents and the stats. This is just to get you used to what happens behind the scene)
Mud Man (M:1) Dead
Mud Man (M:2) 6 dmg and stunned
Mud Man (M:3) 4 dmg
Feb 18, 2015 3:06 am
Tara sees her first target taken out, her second target slumps to the ground stunned.. She looks for the third mudman and realizes he's about to make a break for it.. She spins and sweeps the mudman (M:3) legs with her foot.
Last edited February 18, 2015 3:07 am

Rolls

Might Attack - Effort to Hit - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Feb 18, 2015 3:15 am
Resisting the urge to finish off the stunned mudman (M:2) Utazó raises her sword to his throat. "Move and you're dead!", she growls in the most intimidating voice she can muster.

She'll take a wait action. If M:2 makes any kind of move, she'll punch him in his mucky face! (Unless of course someone else finishes him off by then.)

Rolls

Might Roll (punch if needed) - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Feb 18, 2015 3:16 am
As the mudman drops the rope, Vult strains against his bonds, trying to break free.

(OOC: Spending a level of Might Effort)
Last edited February 18, 2015 3:17 am

Rolls

1d20

(13) = 13

Feb 18, 2015 3:29 am
Darazen focusses another mental onslaught on M3.

(Ooc: nice roll... I'll take the damage)
Last edited February 18, 2015 3:36 am

Rolls

Onslaught mental - intellect - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Feb 18, 2015 3:55 am
I knew that would not last long.

Turning east to run, the mudman (M:3) leaps and tumbles east, dropping his prod stick. He knows he cannot take you all on, especially being out numbered. He has to get to reinforcements.

Vult twists and turns his wrists and with a grunt, breaks free of the ropes binding his hands.

Tara seeing the mud man (M:3) leaping tries to counter. He is well trained and very fast. He cartwheels and flips and Tara catches his feet with hers, sending him reeling and off balance. (2 XP)

Darazen thinks, "not so fast" and focuses another onslaught attack on the mud man (M:3) (2+3 dmg). His mouth opens to let out a warning as he falls, his face locked in look of pain and panic. He hits the floor and slides, breaking three of the beams.

Mudman (M:2) sits, stunned and unmoving, sword at his throat. He swallows and in raspy voice says, "Chara Key".
Feb 18, 2015 4:05 am
Khoren starts to run after the last mudman, then pauses and concentrates on him, using Push to interupt the escape and fling him back toward the prisoner.

Rolls

Intellect check, Push esotery - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Feb 18, 2015 4:27 am
Darazen relaxes, sensing the situation is just about under control... Until the beams were broken! Damn! Now what's going to happen? Turning to Utazo's captive he hears the phrase "Chara Key". Hmmm, no idea what that means. Drawing on Numera training, his education and his intellect Darazen tries to probe the captive's mind for more precise information.

Rolls

Telepathy, Numenera and knowledge - intellect - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Feb 18, 2015 4:40 am
Pulling her foot back to deliver a savage kick to mudman M2, Yui barely kills her momentum to avoid hitting Utazo. Trusting the others to take care of the last one, she kneels next to M2 with Utazo.
"Chara Key, eh? I like how you blurt something out without any sort of provocation. You're a good little prisoner, aren't you?" Yui looks at him with what one could describe as a smile honeycoated with poison. "But let's see your face, shall we? I'd like to see your face while we chat." With that, trusting Utazo to stop him/her from moving, Yui starts scraping the mud from his face, making sure to pull and pinch lightly at what she thinks are his eyebrows, mouth, and nose.

(OOC: GM, this better not kill him like Utazo sitting on the other one's chest did. I'm only getting the mud off, see? No foul play.)
Feb 18, 2015 4:54 am
Tara prepares to enter the beams to retrieve the body of the mudman, but pauses a moment to see if anything untoward happens because of the beams being broken.
Feb 18, 2015 12:46 pm
Merlin says:
Darazen relaxes, sensing the situation is just about under control... Until the beams were broken! Damn! Now what's going to happen? Turning to Utazo's captive he hears the phrase "Chara Key". Hmmm, no idea what that means. Drawing on Numera training, his education and his intellect Darazen tries to probe the captive's mind for more precise information.
Trying to communicate, you find his mind simple. You see images, a wall of water... a black sky with a blue dot in it.... the queen and her court.... a few various (and mundane) missions. As you start to probe deeper, you hear
Quote:
nuqneH, wej jIHvaD 'oy'. jegh'a' jIH. legh chavmoH. Hegh neHbe' jIH.

GHERTLHUD batlh
You search your own memories ... "Hurt me not, I ask. I am yours. Your service is my bidding. I do not wish to die."
It is the last part that... "GHERTLHUD batlh" .... "GHERTLHUD batlh" ... The queens divine? No... For my honor? ... No...

"For the honor of my queen" Yes, that's it. What is he planning?

As a few of your party gather around him, he eyes you with malice. He opens his mouth with a bloody grin and holds a small ceramic and synth sphere in his teeth.

(Speed defense roll: Darazen, Yui, Utazó and Vult)
Feb 18, 2015 12:50 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
Tara prepares to enter the beams to retrieve the body of the mudman, but pauses a moment to see if anything untoward happens because of the beams being broken.
You pause to listen and there is quite. No alarms, no smell of burning flesh, no ...nothing. You bend over and drag the mudmen off the beams.

From somewhere deep in the lost caverns inside some forgotten chamber, a panel now flashes. There is no one there to see it.
Feb 18, 2015 12:52 pm
Kaizival says:

(OOC: GM, this better not kill him like Utazo sitting on the other one's chest did. I'm only getting the mud off, see? No foul play.)
You are standing behind him, cleaning his face and hair. You are pulling and tugging the mud from his hair with gusto, causing some pain, but no damage. You see Utazó's eyes widen in fear.
Feb 18, 2015 3:39 pm
Breaking free and seeing that his serendipitous benefactors have the situation well in hand, Vult rubs his wrists and hastily says, "Thank you." with a synthetic timbre to his voice. Retrieving his equipment, he turns towards the interrogation, diving for cover as he notices some sort of cipher in the creature's mouth

Rolls

Speed Defense - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Feb 18, 2015 4:45 pm
Darazen looks perplexed. As the thought, ***For the honor of my Queen*** flashes into his mind he suddenly notices the sphere in the mudman's teeth. ***shit!*** Hoping the insight into his thoughts gives him "a jump" on the captive's next action, Darazen shouts, "Take cover!" and leaps for cover himself.

(ooc: Rule clarification: when we take an action does it cost anything if we don't use effort?)

(ooc: use an XP to reroll)
Last edited February 18, 2015 4:46 pm

Rolls

Speed defense - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Speed defense with XP - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Feb 18, 2015 6:19 pm
Just after Tara drags the body of the mudman clear of the beams she hears "Take Cover!". Tara drops to the ground and puts the mudmans body between her and the voice, hoping his body will take the brunt of whatever it is that sounded so urgent.
Feb 18, 2015 7:52 pm
Yui leaps away as fast as possible

Xp to reroll
Last edited February 18, 2015 7:53 pm

Rolls

Get away! With speed effort - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Try 2 - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Feb 18, 2015 9:20 pm
"MOVE!!" Utazó yells, as she dives off to the right, making sure to drag her sword across the mud man's neck in the process.

Rolls

Speed Roll (Trained in speed defense and with effort) - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Feb 18, 2015 9:39 pm
Springing, leaping and diving away from your captive at Utazó 's command, you all find cover. Utazó's blade finds its mark, but not before the mudman bites down and breaks the sphere. For a moment, nothing happens; then, an instant later the area around the mudman seems to contract in on itself. Rocks and loose debris in the immediate area pummel his head, centering on his mouth. His shoulders shudder. Blood from the gash on his neck flows up towards his mouth. Suddenly, everything seems to compact. It lasts a moment, then stops. Still on his knees, his head looks 5 times smaller than it should and it riddled with pot-marks and small stones embedded. He falls forward, clearly dead.
Feb 18, 2015 9:53 pm
Vult rises from the ground, again, grumbling with a synthetic voice. Drawing a deep and seemingly inappropriate breath for what is, by all outward appearances, an android, Vult speaks in a masculine voice as he finishes collecting his gear, "Thanks once again for the help. I am Vult, and, due to these abhumans, find myself rather alone in hostile territory." Smoothing out leather armor and swinging the backpack in place, he finishes by replacing a bow and a small polearm in their proper holsters. "I am in your debt, a debt I would be able to repay best by traveling with you."
Last edited February 18, 2015 10:15 pm
Feb 18, 2015 10:10 pm
Tara checks the vital signs of the (M:3) mudman she has and then takes any obvious weapons. Then will get up and drag it back to where the others are before doing a more thorough search/interrogation/mercy kill. Upon approaching the group "The beams were crossed, but nothing seemed to happen so I went in and dragged him out just in case.. Seems quiet down that way for now." she sees the other mudman with a shrunken head, embedded rocks and stab wounds.. Tara's metal masks right eyebrow quirks upward in an arch.. "I'm not sure I want to know.."
Turning to Vult, the metal eyebrow's narrow and she looks him over appraisingly.. "So.. Vult was it? How did you come to be captured by these.. abnormals?"
Last edited February 18, 2015 10:16 pm
Feb 18, 2015 10:16 pm
***I am so relieved that cypher went off. We'd look pretty stupid if he was just sucking a mint***
Last edited February 18, 2015 10:19 pm
Feb 18, 2015 10:24 pm
Walking over to the corpse nonchalantly, Vult sifts through the remaining debris.

(OOC: intelligence test to determine more about what kind of reaction caused the incredible shrinking head. Specialized in Numenera)

Rolls

1d20

(16) = 16

Feb 18, 2015 10:39 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
Tara checks the vital signs of the (M:3) mudman she has and then takes any obvious weapons. Then will get up and drag it back to where the others are before doing a more thorough search/interrogation/mercy kill. Upon approaching the group "The beams were crossed, but nothing seemed to happen so I went in and dragged him out just in case.. Seems quiet down that way for now." she sees the other mudman with a shrunken head, embedded rocks and stab wounds.. Tara's metal masks right eyebrow quirks upward in an arch.. "I'm not sure I want to know.."
Turning to Vult, the metal eyebrow's narrow and she looks him over appraisingly.. "So.. Vult was it? How did you come to be captured by these.. abnormals?"
Looking back at the woman, Vult replies, "A few associates joined me in a search for Numenera above ground, looking for ciphers and the like. We were ambushed by these ... creatures. They murdered my companions and dragged me underground. I suppose they didn't quite know what to do with me, or had some other purpose in mind."

He returns to his work, "But what would your name be?"
Feb 18, 2015 10:44 pm
"Looks like we kill these mucky bastards without question from here on out." Utazó mutters into the ground.

Brushing herself off she hears Tara mention the beams. "Hmmm, breaking the beams didn't seem to do anything at all. Time for a walk."

"I'm going to look up ahead a bit, make sure we didn't draw any attention from whatever was moving around up there." she says to the others as she points down the northern tunnel with her sword. Putting herself about 10 feet north of the rest of the group, she grouches down once again and tries to see if the light Yui and her saw before is still there.

Rolls

Intellect Roll - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Feb 18, 2015 10:48 pm
"My apologies, I am Tara" she says while she mentally berates herself for failing common courtesy.
Feb 18, 2015 10:58 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
"My apologies, I am Tara" she says while she mentally berates herself for failing common courtesy.
Making a brief shrugging motion, Vult responds, "Nice to meet you."
Feb 18, 2015 11:54 pm
"I'm Yui." Clearly untrusting of Vult, she says: "Take off your mask. I'd be more trusting if I could see your face." She waits a moment and then adds an insolently grudging "please". Must not forget my manners after all..
Last edited February 18, 2015 11:54 pm
Feb 19, 2015 1:40 am
Utazó takes off north and east. She gets to the point of the beams and seeing the tracks where Tara pulled the mudman back. One of the beams is still broken by a glob of mud or a rock. Focusing down the tunnel, the same dim light is refracting on the wall.

There is no movement or sounds coming from the tunnel.
Feb 19, 2015 2:26 am
Objulen says:
Walking over to the corpse nonchalantly, Vult sifts through the remaining debris.

(OOC: intelligence test to determine more about what kind of reaction caused the incredible shrinking head. Specialized in Numenera)
It looked and acted like a detonation device that increased the gravity centering around the area it was activated.
Feb 19, 2015 2:44 am
"Well, Tara it seems the mudman had a gravity bomb of some kind." Vult states, standing as he slides metal hands together, scraping off dirt and grime.
Kaizival says:
"I'm Yui." Clearly untrusting of Vult, she says: "Take off your mask. I'd be more trusting if I could see your face." She waits a moment and then adds an insolently grudging "please". Must not forget my manners after all..
An impressive face with metal eyes projecting a dim blue glow match Yui's. "Nice to meet you, Yui..." He answers, the synthesized tone friendly, though quickly tinged with hesitation and awkwardness.

"Um... hmmm.... how to put this." Vult takes a deep breath. "If I said I wasn't wearing a mask, well, would you...." trailing of with a heavily exhalation.
Last edited February 19, 2015 3:21 am
Feb 19, 2015 3:27 am
"Hi Vult" says the tall robed figure of Darazen. ***Pleased to meet you*** he adds telepathically. He doesn't wait for response as he sets off after Utazo.
Feb 19, 2015 3:52 am
"Hmph, sexy. I just don't like being able to read you is all." As Yui says this, she slowly (so as not to alarm him) reaches out and runs her hand along Vult's face, feeling the material and tracing it's shapes delicately. Who are you?She smiles after some consideration. "You'll do. We all wear masks in one way or another in this group anyway, it seems. I like you, I think." With that, Yui rises and follows Utazo and Darazen, gesturing to Vult and the others to follow.

Rolls

Intellect-trained - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Feb 19, 2015 5:21 am
Tara mentally sighs.. ~That woman is either completely insane, or brilliant~ she thinks to herself.. The metal masks smirks a little ~Probably both~ and then she follows the rest of the group after having searched the bodies for anything useful.
Feb 19, 2015 12:41 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
Tara mentally sighs.. ~That woman is either completely insane, or brilliant~ she thinks to herself.. The metal masks smirks a little ~Probably both~ and then she follows the rest of the group after having searched the bodies for anything useful.
You find no cyphers, one glow stick, one prod stick and 32 shins.
Feb 19, 2015 2:24 pm
The cloaked man removes himself from the wall by the beams and edges forward, stopping before the former prisoner. With his cloak drawn around him, he takes stock of Vult and then looks at him directly with a dark eye. "I am Khoren Apraxin. We expected heavy resistance in these tunnels, not allies. You are most welcome." Khoren will then take the rear and follow the others.

It seems that these mudmen aren't completely ruthless, if they took a prisoner. Or did they have some darker purpose. Khoren mumbles the phrase "darker purpose" a couple times softly to himself.
Feb 19, 2015 2:34 pm
Kaizival says:
"Hmph, sexy. I just don't like being able to read you is all." As Yui says this, she slowly (so as not to alarm him) reaches out and runs her hand along Vult's face, feeling the material and tracing it's shapes delicately. Who are you?She smiles after some consideration. "You'll do. We all wear masks in one way or another in this group anyway, it seems. I like you, I think." With that, Yui rises and follows Utazo and Darazen, gesturing to Vult and the others to follow.
Vult stands passively as Yui approaches, his eyes locked on her as she explores his face, and remains silent to her words beyond a polite, but incredulous, "Thanks?"

As she leaves to follow the others, Vult joins Tara in collecting the spoils before following the others, drawing his bow and knocking an arrow, ready for any other attackers they might stumble upon.

(OOC: was the in roll for Yui for something directed towards Vult?)
Feb 19, 2015 2:42 pm
Qralloq says:
The cloaked man removes himself from the wall by the beams and edges forward, stopping before the former prisoner. With his cloak drawn around him, he takes stock of Vult and then looks at him directly with a dark eye. "I am Khoren Apraxin. We expected heavy resistance in these tunnels, not allies. You are most welcome." Khoren will then take the rear and follow the others.

It seems that these mudmen aren't completely ruthless, if they took a prisoner. Or did they have some darker purpose. Khoren mumbles the phrase "darker purpose" a couple times softly to himself.
"Trust me, you're even more welcome." Vult answers, his tone gracious, as Khoren passes by to join the others.
Feb 19, 2015 7:17 pm
As they walk, Yui turns to Vult. "How did you get captured?" She draws her katana as they walk.
Feb 19, 2015 7:54 pm
"Long-story short? We were exploring ruins topside for Numenera to sell, and then we were ambushed. My associates were murdered, and I was captured, probably since I'm all shiny." Vult finishes with a grim sigh.
Feb 19, 2015 9:36 pm
Tara says "Yo! Khoren!" and as Khoren looks back tosses him the glow stick she just found. "Here, for you." she says with a smile. With that, she puts the prod stick on her belt and places the shins in a side pocket of her pack and follows along with the others, drawing her sword-staff.
Feb 19, 2015 10:58 pm
Looking back it appears that everyone has finished with the mud men and joined Utazó. Focusing back on the light down the tunnel she asks, "See that light ahead? Doesn't look like there's any kind of movement up there, but I think we should still move slowly."

charakey? What the hell is a charakey? she ponders to herself as she slowly stands and starts moving forwards towards the light. "Vult, is it? In the time that you spent as a hostage did you overhear any conversations as to what is going on down here?"
Last edited February 19, 2015 10:59 pm
Feb 19, 2015 11:03 pm
(OOC: That's a good question. What did Vult hear, almighty GM?)
Feb 20, 2015 12:22 am
The party regroups and moves ahead. Utazó scouts ahead with Darazen, staying 10-15 ft ahead of the group while Yui tries to get a read on the newcomer, Vult. Tara and Khoren take up the rear. The light on the tunnel walls takes on a sort of shimmer. Still leading down, the tunnel widens and turns south, continuing on 25-30 yards before turning west.

http://www.numeneraJournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/assassin-heart-cavern2.png
I have got to find and load my mapping software, really.... these hand drawings are.... well, old school!

The tunnel opens up into a large domed cavern, about 90 ft in diameter. The walls are black and smooth, small lights twinkle like stars on the walls and ceiling, though the ripples of blue light washing over them make the hard to see. This dome is definitely not natural.

In the center of the floor, a pedestal or raised platform folds a synth frame. A few lights blink on the outer edge. The frame is about 8 ft high by 6 ft wide and filled a flowing water. The water itself is what is giving the blue and white glow that is rippling throughout the room and into the tunnels.

Laying scattered around the floor are 6 or 7 mudmen, weapons in hand, blood and innards all around them. From behind the frame, a creature leaps and charges at you (Utazó and Darazen). It heard something in the tunnel, or it is just trying to flee.

http://www.numenerajournals.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/Golthiar.gif

Roll Initiative
Feb 20, 2015 12:29 am
grandmaster says:
I have got to find and load my mapping software, really.... these hand drawings are.... well, old school!
If by 'old school' you mean 'freaking awesome' then I agree. Roll for initiative, Suckas!!!

"What in the hell is that thing?" Utazó yells as she reaches for her sword.
Last edited February 20, 2015 12:29 am

Rolls

Speed (Trained in Initiative) - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Feb 20, 2015 12:31 am
Initiative:

Rolls

1d20

(13) = 13

Feb 20, 2015 12:41 am
Walking side by side with Tara, Khoren whispers "That mudman killed himself rather than talk to us. What madness! I wonder what he thought would happen?" What have they been told about topsiders, or us in general? "Best be prepared for more insani.... Utazo!"

Rolls

Speed check - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Feb 20, 2015 12:42 am
Yui leaps away from Utazo and Darazen, hoping to avoid the charge of the creature. Quickly glancing around the room, she spots (and smells, ugh) the disemboweled mudmen.

Huh? ("Flee?") What would this thing possibly have to run away from?

Rolls

initiative - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Feb 20, 2015 2:34 am
Tara's attention is immediately brought forward when Khoren shouts for Utazo.. her grip on her sword-staff becomes firmer.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Feb 20, 2015 4:05 am
Darazen's mind is a whir as he quickly processes the room, the carnage and the charging creature.
***Is this the creature we first saw in bonds when we first came down here?***
***weren't there 6 mudmen escorting it...? Dead now***
***maybe it's friendly?***
***maybe it's scared***
***what the hell is it anyway***
As the creature charges Darazen tries to step aside while also probing its mind to try and calm and reassure it.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Step aside/ dodge - speed - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Attempt to telepathically calm creature, effort - intellect - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Scan creature, trained creature knowledge, intellect - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Feb 20, 2015 4:45 am
(The gods of luck and good fortune are with Darazen today. You should give us some.)
Feb 20, 2015 12:10 pm
(Ooc: Kai, haha I know! That's me rolling ones from now on)
Last edited February 20, 2015 4:04 pm
Feb 20, 2015 3:37 pm
While this thing is big and hulking and it swings its arms/limbs around at a good speed, it is not fast....it will take three rounds to get to the dome entrance.

This creature, moving towards you and the entrance, picks up the carcus of one of the mudmen, spearing it and tossing it in the air. It then bats at it with its second arm, sending the body flying into the wall with a crash.

It stops, its stalked eye moving around and seeking something, what you are not sure. It pauses and seems to relax.
Last edited February 20, 2015 3:38 pm
Feb 20, 2015 3:41 pm
Deftly, Darazen steps into the shadows realizing that this creature probably doesn't like mudmen, and Darazen is disguised as one. He hadn't considered that when protecting himself with the mud. ***lesson learned***

Remarkably, as the creature charges it is ponderous in the extreme, and actually plods along slowly, giving Darazen more time to react than he thought. The creature is in pain, and is claustrophobic in these caverns. It wants to escape. Darazen senses this through its thoughts. He shares this information with his friends, "Let it leave and I don't think it will attack us. I will try to learn what it knows".

***We are friends. You may leave. Or you can help us.***
Feb 20, 2015 3:43 pm
When Vult sees the creature relax, he'll put away his weapon and amicably call out from a short distance, "Hello. What brings you down here?"
Feb 20, 2015 4:06 pm
Darazen communicates with Vult. ***Careful, he's not sure about you!***
Feb 20, 2015 4:19 pm
Merlin says:
Darazen communicates with Vult. ***Careful, he's not sure about you!***
"I wasn't planning on running forward to give him a hug." Vult says towards Darazen. Turning back to the creature, he says in a friendly tone, "I was dragged down here by the mudmen. Did they bring you down here too?"
Feb 20, 2015 4:54 pm
Yui slowly sheathes her sword, although she doesn't relax and has her light blades ready. I can't shake this feeling. Something is wrong. Yui examines the creature and is now sure it's afraid and just wants out. Poor thing, what have they done to you? Yui moves a little bit so she has a better view of the frame in the middle.

(I'd examine the frame and the room but for some reason the dice widget is out. I'm guessing it's due to the site redesign.)
Feb 20, 2015 5:20 pm
Tara lowers her weapon and steps aside to allow the creature to pass. She studies the creature as it moves along to better understand it.

(Ya, latest mod destroyed the dice/deck options and a few other things)
Feb 20, 2015 6:01 pm
It stalk stops and focuses on Vult. Several flashes of light come from somewhere near the eye and focus on Vult. It appears to tense up, standing taller, but waits.

(Vult: Intellect check 1d20)
Feb 20, 2015 6:03 pm
i know the dice roller is down....I sent him a msg to that. We can wait until it is back up, or can I trust you with real dice and posting you results?
Feb 20, 2015 6:11 pm
(Ooc: I can use a different dice roller. No d20's on hand.

And I won't cheat ;-)

http://www.brockjones.com/dieroller/dice.htm seems decent)

Vult will spend a level of effort concentrating on the light pattern, and got a 14
Feb 20, 2015 7:37 pm
Utazó, seeing that the beast appears to have calmed a bit, lowers her sword and moves slowly off to creature's right. It may be acting calm, but I'm not letting go of this sword until it's gone.
Last edited February 20, 2015 7:37 pm
Feb 20, 2015 7:57 pm
Khoren also waits to see what the beast will do. His cloak is wrapped around him, and both punch daggers are drawn, but concealed beneath the cloak. He neither speaks nor moves nor makes direct eye contact, unsure of what might provoke the creature.
Feb 21, 2015 12:16 am
"I think it's trying to communicate with those lights." Vult states, intrigued.

"I might be able to communicate with it if I can jury rig a light source. Korean, can I have that light source?" Vult asks as he kneels, slowly, to gather some tools.

"Also, Darazen, can you let it know we're trying to communicate and ask for more details about it's light language?"

(OOC: Vult will attempt to decipher the creative's language, using a level of effort, possibly modified by what Darazen does. 1d20 roll of a 9)

(OOC: Vult will attempt to rig up a blinking light, assuming Korean gives him the glow rod 1d20 roll of a 16)

(OOC: Vult will attempt communicate with the creature, spending a level of effort, possibly with an asset, depending on Korean's actions and the success of the second action. 1d20 roll of a 4)
Feb 21, 2015 6:41 am
Darazen looks on with curiosity as Vult starts to rig something up to communicate with the creature. Having only met the masked wonder a few minutes ago he really doesn't know what to make of him, and has had little opportunity to find out. Certainly the creature seemed startled by Vult, and Darazen really expected the stranger to heed his warning.

Darazen's insight into the creature did identify it's plant based and it communicates with others of its kind with lights. Maybe Vult realized that too. But really, that's not a skill we are going to learn in a couple of minutes, unless Vult knows what he's doing. Well, he doesn't, because he's asking for my help.

Concerned that the creature will be spooked by Vult's behavior, Darazen continues to try to communicate telepathically. ***Don't worry about Vult, he's harmless. He wants to talk to you using lights. What can we do to help you?***
Last edited February 21, 2015 6:44 am
Feb 21, 2015 4:21 pm
ooc: "I am Graat. No, not Groot... we don't have license for that".

Vult attempts to rig up something and talk back to this creature, while Darazen let's it know your party means it no harm. It is not moving, in an aggressive manner, but it's stance is still very defensive.

"Why do you hide?" Why not show yourselves?, it asks of Darazen. It asks the same of Vult, but Vult is focused on making his machine. "I...I...I just want to see the blue sky again. I... We only live underground as infants. I need to see the sun again."

Vult finishes his machine. He lights it up and attempts to signal the creature. He uses several quick bursts of light.

The creature pauses a moment, then shudders and shakes. Its limbs come down and it seems to be more relaxed. It flashes back at Vult, much slower this time and speaks to Darazen at the same time. "I am impressed, most humans cannot figure out our language so quickly. Not that you did completely, but I got the meaning, I think. Though I am not sure I know what you meant by 'elderberry pie'. Still, if you are willing to show yourselves and let me pass, I will do you no harm as well. Besides, I am not sure how much fight I have left in me." It turns a bit and exposes a very large gash near its back. It is still wet with sap.
Feb 21, 2015 4:55 pm
Khoren watches the plant beast for a bit, and his eyes drift to the broken mudmen. His eyes widen suddenly, and he edges slowly edges toward Darazen. "Are you sure you want to be covered in mud?" he asks in a whisper. "Would you like me to ask the numenera to remove it from you?"
If Darazen agrees, Khoren will use hedge magic to clean the mud from Darazen.
Feb 21, 2015 5:07 pm
Qralloq says:
Khoren watches the plant beast for a bit, and his eyes drift to the broken mudmen. His eyes widen suddenly, and he edges slowly edges toward Darazen. "Are you sure you want to be covered in mud?" he asks in a whisper. "Would you like me to ask the numenera to remove it from you?"
If Darazen agrees, Khoren will use hedge magic to clean the mud from Darazen.
ooc: Darnit! :)
Feb 21, 2015 5:53 pm
Darazen responds to Khoren gratefully. ***Yes please!***

Accepting Khoren's assistance he steps from the shadows and responds to the creature. ***Hello, my name is Darazen. We can show you the way to the surface.***
Last edited February 21, 2015 5:56 pm
Feb 21, 2015 6:41 pm
Vult continues a few series of flashes, eventually communicating crudely with the creature. "I think I'm making progress." He says thoughtfully, trying a more meaningful sequence:

Hello, I am Vult. How are you? Can we help you?

(OOC: let me know if Vult needs to test intellect)
Feb 21, 2015 7:24 pm
The rest of the party sees this creature stop moving, stand up straight and, as best as you all can tell, relax its stance. The eye stalk looks over those who have revealed themselves and it offers a slight bow (pun intended).

Its focus turns towards Darazen and he sees a piece of mud drop off. "You missed a spot." he tells Darazen in his mind while pointing to the mud glob. "I was a bit worried, but I understand now, I think. This creature, Vult... he is not like you. But, he explained your deception was meant for these others... " as he bats at one of the bodies. "So, you would lead me to the surface, to safety? I have nothing to offer you, except my gratitude. I don't suppose any one in your party knows anything about healing." It shudders a bit and looks to droop.

He turns to look at Vult. "You, my strange man..." he flashes ... I must say, you adapt well. My name is Birtwood. I am sorry to hear about your trouble with these...things. They killed my companions, but kept me. I don't know why, they kept talking about my Numenera, I don't have any.... and I am certainly not like you. I would not know what to do with Numenera anyway... it is not 'natural'.

Rolls

Testing the dice roller that is back. (Shins around the room when you search) - (2D20)

(149) = 23

Feb 21, 2015 7:39 pm
XP earned:
Yui and Darazen: 1 xp each (for making such an effort to cross that first beam)
Khoren: 1 XP for taking the lead, scouting ahead and facing danger
Tara : 1 XP for figuring out that not all traps are real (though I should give it to the Mudman, he broke them)
Darazen : 2 XP (for reaching out to this creature, a GOLTHIAR, and calming it down)
Vult : 2 XP for discovering its way of communication.

I think I will give everyone else in this party 1 more additional XP for having to put up with the site's issues. Thanks for your patience. It is not my site, and I am grateful for Keleth's fast response. I know he was embarassed. I also know this party is one of the most active games on the site right now. Thanks for sticking with it and making this game fun.
Feb 21, 2015 7:46 pm
grandmaster says:
I think I will give everyone else in this party 1 more additional XP for having to put up with the site's issues. Thanks for your patience. It is not my site, and I am grateful for Keleth's fast response. I know he was embarassed. I also know this party is one of the most active games on the site right now. Thanks for sticking with it and making this game fun.
ooc: Thank you, too. I think we are all pleased with the pace that you have been able to maintain. I check the site often for updates, and look forward to reading each post. And Keleth is amazing.
Feb 21, 2015 8:04 pm
I haven't played in many play by post games, but I've gotten the impression that most aren't as good as this one :-)
Feb 21, 2015 8:13 pm
grandmaster says:
He turns to look at Vult. "You, my strange man..." he flashes ... I must say, you adapt well. My name is Birtwood. I am sorry to hear about your trouble with these...things. They killed my companions, but kept me. I don't know why, they kept talking about my Numenera, I don't have any.... and I am certainly not like you. I would not know what to do with Numenera anyway... it is not 'natural'.
Vult's voice sounds excited, "I think we've got it! Birtwood -- that's it's name -- says he was captured by the mudmen and brought down here. It seems they're collecting Numenera, which is why they spared me."

He lights up a reply: I was dragged down here by those creatures too. We call them 'mudmen'. The Numenera are ancient machines, poorly understood by most and generally quite powerful. That's why the mudmen spared me too.

Are you hurt?
Feb 21, 2015 8:21 pm
Objulen says:
grandmaster says:
He turns to look at Vult. "You, my strange man..." he flashes ... I must say, you adapt well. My name is Birtwood. I am sorry to hear about your trouble with these...things. They killed my companions, but kept me. I don't know why, they kept talking about my Numenera, I don't have any.... and I am certainly not like you. I would not know what to do with Numenera anyway... it is not 'natural'.
Vult's voice sounds excited, "I think we've got it! Birtwood -- that's it's name -- says he was captured by the mudmen and brought down here. It seems they're collecting Numenera, which is why they spared me."

He lights up a reply: I was dragged down here by those creatures too. We call them 'mudmen'. The Numenera are ancient machines, poorly understood by most and generally quite powerful. That's why the mudmen spared me too.

Are you hurt?
Birtwood responds: Yes, and I am afraid I am losing my life fluid. When in the pod, our mates can usually help, but I am alone down here. The light of the sun also helps me grow strong.
Last edited February 21, 2015 8:21 pm
Feb 21, 2015 8:26 pm
grandmaster says:
Birtwood responds: Yes, and I am afraid I am losing my life fluid. When in the pod, our mates can usually help, but I am alone down here. The light of the sun also helps me grow strong.
Vult's voice sounds concerned, "Birtwood says he's bleeding badly, and could use some sun. Is anyone decent at first aid?"

Vult blinks back a reply, I'm not much of a healer, but I'm seeing if any of the other's with me are.

"Or, botany?" Vult says, a bit perplexed
Last edited February 21, 2015 8:32 pm
Feb 21, 2015 8:55 pm
grandmaster says:
XP earned:
Yui and Darazen: 1 xp each (for making such an effort to cross that first beam)
Khoren: 1 XP for taking the lead, scouting ahead and facing danger
Tara : 1 XP for figuring out that not all traps are real (though I should give it to the Mudman, he broke them)
Darazen : 2 XP (for reaching out to this creature, a GOLTHIAR, and calming it down)
Vult : 2 XP for discovering its way of communication.
Utazó is suddenly overcome by a feeling of sadness. She's not sure why...

:-)
Last edited February 21, 2015 8:56 pm
Feb 21, 2015 8:55 pm
Yui stands up straight and, not really knowing how to communicate with Birtwood, does her best and flashes him a kind smile. It's okay, we're here to help. You have nothing to fear. Yui turns to Darazen and Vult. "Maybe one of you can ask him about that frame? Something about it creeps me out." Yui visually examines the frame as she asks.

(OOC: Thanks to all. I appreciate Keleth's efforts and its nice seeing our game being so popular on GP (500 posts! :)
Last edited February 21, 2015 8:56 pm

Rolls

Examine synth frame - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Feb 21, 2015 9:24 pm
Kaizival says:
Yui turns to Darazen and Vult. "Maybe one of you can ask him about that frame? Something about it creeps me out." Yui visually examines the frame as she asks.
"Sure." Vult responds. "I think he," he pauses, "or she? Anyway, he or she will probably be chattier if anyone can provide some kind of healing or a way topside. Even a shaft to the sky would be welcome at this point, I'd imagine."

Vult looks around at the others, waiting to see if anyone replies.
Feb 21, 2015 9:28 pm
Birtwood is about 20 feet from the entrance to the dome and the exit out. Those looking past the synth frame will see a pile of rubble and pool of water at its base. There appears to be a crudely made table or raised slab with some tools and (dried) mud.

As you are looking around, the water in the frame shimmers and ripples a bit more and two men step out of it. One is wearing similar armor to what the commander wore and the other wears leather and a helm (NPC1). Both have goggles over their eyes and are armed with swords, though the commander's looks cleaner, more well cared for. The other (NPC2) is wearing leather.

They step aside and two men more come through. One (NPC3) is in a synth type of armor and wielding a sword. He steps aside. The other (MM) is head to toe in mud and looks like he's been through a horrific battle and says out loud, "See Commander? LT? It broke loose... its friends must have followed us... it was so fast....it was awful... they picked us off like we were toys. It....it.... it is THERE!" pointing at Birtwood.

Another ripple and another person (NPC4) steps through. She immediately bumps into the mud man, knocking him down the mound a few steps. She looks down at her flowing robe now covered in mud and makes a small gesture with her hand. The mud dries and falls off and the fabric regains its luster, her robe seems to be flowing on a breeze. With one hand, she brushes her short, blonde hair, removing any dirt from it. The other hand raises cypher of some type, pointing it straight in up in the air and pushes a button. Darkness sweeps over the room, swallowing any light. She whispers, "That should keep them from talking to each other."

The affect spreads from the top of the dome around and down all edges. She drops the cypher to the ground as the curtain of darkness descends over her.

(Those 10 feet from the entrance and inside the tunnel notice the effect stops there.)

Roll Initiative
Last edited February 21, 2015 9:31 pm
Feb 21, 2015 9:42 pm
Utazó tightens the grip on her sword...

Rolls

Initiative (Trained) - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Feb 21, 2015 9:48 pm
Oh crap, here we go again. (Ooc: do Darazen's cats eyes help in this darkness? I think he is near the entrance because he hid as soon as creature charged).

Darazen finds to some relief that the Cats Eyes cypher he'd activated earlier penetrates the darkness easily, and immediately focusses on the woman creating the darkness. ***Well, I've been saving this for dark days, so now's as good a time as any*** He smirks to himself at his little joke. He then activates the Stim Injector cypher.

Raising his hand he points his fist towards the female and the ring on his finger flashes.

(Ooc: I don't know if I roll for this, but this is the shocker cypher... )
Last edited February 22, 2015 4:57 am

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Feb 21, 2015 9:53 pm
"Dammit!" As darkness covers all, Yui's eyes adjust and she can see through the darkness (Vision skill, unless this darkness is different). "Everyone, I can see through this! Lets stick together, I'll tell you where they're coming from!" Yui draws her katana and grips it tightly. We can do this.

(GM, Yui can see in the dark, unless this darkness is different? I'd like to coordinate with the party and 'spot' the enemy for them. if it's okay you can PM me the enemy's locations?)
Last edited February 21, 2015 9:56 pm

Rolls

initiative - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Feb 22, 2015 1:30 am
As the portal opens and more mudmen emerge, Khoren raises an eyebrow enigmatically. This one is different, she, too has hedge magic. Underneath his cloak, Khoren grasps of a cypher of his own, hoping to use it soon. Soon, my beautiful one, we shall see your glory.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Feb 22, 2015 4:11 am
Tara vocally calls from the area free of darkness to let the others know that it ends 10 ft from the entrance to the dome, and to use her voice to lock in on the exit.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Feb 22, 2015 4:03 pm
"Dammit" Vult grumbles in a whisper, gripping his bow and arrow, trying to locate one of these newcomers as the darkness falls.

(EDIT: OOC: And apparently falls over.)
Last edited February 22, 2015 4:04 pm

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(1) = 1

Feb 22, 2015 8:54 pm
(Are we still here? Its been unusually quiet...)
Feb 22, 2015 9:10 pm
Kaizival says:
(Are we still here? Its been unusually quiet...)
Yes, sorry, was waiting on one player and then spent the day at a faire. Combat will resume shortly.
Feb 23, 2015 12:30 am
Quick Note: When using cyphers, please include a few things.
First, tell me the level of the cypher. It usually determines duration or damage.
Next, put your cyphers and add a note to each with any description or anything you are given into your character sheets. It is a tickler to me.
In addtion, do not remove a cypher from your character sheet until combat is over.
Finally, when planning your attack, remember that most cyphers take an action to activate. There are some that are swift or fast (and those should be in your notes).

I am not harping on anyone in particular. Part of it was me being a little lax in the combat.
Feb 23, 2015 1:40 am
These men and women were expecting to fight one or more Golthiars and were not expecting you. Still, they were prepared for battle as the woman clearly showed when she turned out the lights. This is not a magical darkness in that if you have goggles or cats eye or can see in the dark, you are not hindered.

This is not a surprise round. Forgive me. I asked for initiative rolls, but I did not ask for actions. I assumed after the last battle initiated that everyone would have them, rolling initiative and posting actions and alternative actions. So, some of you are readying weapons and cyphers when you might have been able to pull them out and use them. The plus side is that they are a full round away from most of you.

Round One

R:1 - Utazó pulls her sword and adjusts its grip. "Old friend, we dance again."

R:1 - Yui draws her katana and grips it tightly. "Everyone, I can see through this! Lets stick together, I'll tell you where they're coming from! We can do this."

R:1 - Darazen pulls out his shocker cypher and aims it at the woman (NPC4). Ozone fills the air and the sound of a spark can be heard. He catches her mid air (9 dmg).

R:1 - Commander (NPC1: Cmdr) sees only the one Golthiar accompanied by these other humans and yells out, "Get them! They are aiding the Numenera beast. Kill them, my LTs, but leave the beas..." His eyes land on Vult. He raises his hand to point to Vult and orders, "That one, sub-commander, keep him alive too! Kill the rest." He turns turns and moves towards Birtwood, pulling a cypher out.

R:1 - Tara calls to the others that the range of darkness ends some 7-10 feet inside the tunnel and if you want to lock onto her voice to exit, this is the way to go.

R:1 - Birtwood calls out to Darazen and Vult (which fails as the light is dampened), I cannot see in the dark! I must have light. It tries to listen to Tara's voice and blindly starts walking towards it.

R:1 - (NPC2: SubCmd) nods to the commander and turns his focus on Vult. He leans in and attempts to mindslice (Onslaught Vult: 1D20 Intellect Defense)

R:1 - (NPC3: LT1) acknowledges, "Yes Sir!" He charges, sword drawn at Darazen. (It will take him a full round to get to you).

R:1 - (NPC4: LT2) acknowledges, "Yes Sir!". She turns to towards Darazen. With a fluid motion, she flips and jumps in his direction. She starts into her second flip when she is hit hard by something electrical. Ozone fills the air and she is knocked down.

R:1 - Mudman (MM) raises his prod stick and races towards Vult. He will get there at the end of this round.

R:1 - Khoren reaches into a pocket of his cloak and pulls a cypher. Focusing on the woman, he prepareds to use it.

R:1 - Vult reachs to his pack to get his bow. It gets caught on a clip or tie. He tugs harder to get it loose, but it is stuck tight. One last tug and it breaks free of its bond, but with more force than he was expecting. It wretches from his hand and lands a short distance away.

Roll your defenses if you were attacked, give me your actions and alternate actions.
Feb 23, 2015 1:51 am
Vult will scramble for his bow, picking up and knocking an arrow, ready to search for a foe.

He stumbles for a moment as he collects the weapon.
Last edited February 23, 2015 1:53 am

Rolls

Intelligence Defense - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Feb 23, 2015 1:59 am
Utazó, thinking that she has not yet drawn any unwanted attention towards herself, decides to attack. "Left or Right, Yui?" she yells as she starts her charge towards the last enemy she saw before everything went dark.

"One quick charge, then back towards Tara's voice. How could this possibly go wrong?"

Rolls

Might Roll (with effort) - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Feb 23, 2015 2:09 am
Khoren reconciders his action (it wouldn't help this plant beast if I blew up his portal) and, leaving the cypher in his belt for now, instead grabs his other punch dagger and charges towards the acrobatic LT. As she falls to the ground, Khoren slides to her side and attacks with both daggers.
Edit: target was NPC4
Last edited February 23, 2015 2:33 am

Rolls

Punch dagger - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Punch dagger - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Feb 23, 2015 2:15 am
(I was confused by your wording, although I'll assume I can see as Darazen can hit one with a cypher)

About to yell out the locations of the enemy, Yui gets distracted by Vult's plight and moves to cover Vult as he grabs his bow.

Next round, if mudman MM gets near Vult as he retrieves his bow, Yui will protect Vult and skewer MM with her katana. If she hits: "Die, you bastard!"

(Did Vult just get a GM intrusion?)
Last edited February 24, 2015 2:58 am

Rolls

Stab Mudman and Cover Vult-speed effort for damage - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Feb 23, 2015 4:23 am
Darazen hears Birtwood's plea for light and says telepathically ***can your light skills neutralize the darkness?***

The thought is fleeting, as he realizes two of the lieutenants are running towards him. He hit the female pretty hard, but doesn't seem dead. **damn** Then he sees Khoren move towards her ***go get her Khoren***

He turns towards the lieutenant charging him, and realises he's wearing armour. He attacks with mental onslaught. Speaking aloud he says, "help!"

Rolls

Mental onslaught with effort - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Feb 23, 2015 8:44 pm
Tara tests and realizes she cannot see in the darkness (no goggles, no cats eye cypher).. So she continues to let her voice be a beacon for those striving to find the light.. ~Gee.. I sound like some street preacher..~ Tara's mask smirks a bit.. ~Come to the light!~ (ooc: There is peace and tranquility.. in the light! LOL) Almost as an afterthought, Tara will try to stomp at a regular interval not knowing if the vibrations could be felt by Birtwood or not, but figuring it can't hurt to try to give the plant creature additional sources to potentially hone in on.
She has a prepared action that when any enemy comes into the light, it's getting punched in the face. (Birtwood does not qualify as an enemy under these circumstances)
Last edited February 23, 2015 8:58 pm
Feb 23, 2015 10:48 pm
Darazen realizes he's one of the few who can see in the darkness, and begins to back up towards Tara's voice.
Feb 24, 2015 4:10 am
Vult fails to defned against the onslaught from the sub-commander (2 point intellect damage), but you would not know it as he fights through the pain.

Round Two

R:2 - Utazó runs forward, completely blind and swings at .... the darkness. His opponent though has moved, running towards Darazen. She thinks "How could this possibly go wrong?" She turns and tries to hear Tara's voice over the commotion. She is faint, and echoing through the domed chamber. "Now I know how this could go wrong."

R:2 - Yui sprints over a dead mud man and side steps the slick blood. She flips, landing between Vult and the mudman (MM) on one knee, a wicked grin on her face and her katana pointing forward. The mudman, not being able to see in the dark and charging wildly at Vult, impales himself on the katana (4 dmg). The weight of his body draws it down, the prod stick clatters to the floor. The mudman is sucking air.

R:2 - Darazen turns to the LT (NPC3: LT1) and pleas for his friends to help. He focuses on the LTs mind and tries to slice it (2 dmg). He slowly tries to back away.

R:2 - Commander (NPC1: Cmdr) Still running towards Birtwood, the commander stops short. He throws a small sphere toward Birtwood and it hits the ground near Birtwood's feet and explodes. The shock wave knocks Birtwood forward (5 damage).

R:2 - Tara continues to speak out, reciting bad movie puns and worse jokes, even forming a beat which she stomps to... anything to make sound and vibrations to lead her party towards her.

R:2 - Birtwood stumbles, but regains his footing. He is swinging his limbs about, hoping to catch anyone near him (and secretly hoping they are not one of his new friends). He is pushed forward with some force and comes falling out of the darkness, near Tara's feet, and does not move.

R:2 - (NPC2: SubCmd), his focus on Vult, he is surprised that his onslaught did nothing. With his sword raised, he charges towards Vult. "There is more than one way to bring him down!", he thinks.

R:2 - The LT (NPC3: LT1) raises his sword and swings at Darazen (1D20 Speed defense)

R:2 - (NPC4: LT2) falls to the ground with a thud, the smell of burning flesh burns her nostrils. She tries to get up, but her finely tuned muscles don't respond. She feels a sting in her side, then....nothing.

R:2 - Mudman (MM) runs into a katana he did not see and is on the ground, grasping for air and bleeding.

R:2 - Khoren puts the cypher back in his belt and charges the LT (NPC4:LT2). Sliding, he sinks both daggers into her, hilt deep (2 X 2 Dmg). Khoren hears an exhale, then silence.

R:2 - Vult feels a tinge of pain, but picks up his bow and knocks an arrow, aiming for a foe. In luck, one (NPC2: SubCmd) is coming straight for him. He lets the arrow fly and.... (waiting on an attack roll)

Defense rolls, if you are being attacked. Actions, alternate actions with action rolls for the next round.
Feb 24, 2015 4:45 am
"Damn it all!" Yui sees the commander throw the cypher at Birtwood. She abandons her katana, leaving the mudman to impale himself, and charges towards the Commander. She draws her dagger and the blade in her sleeve flips out, and growls "You'll eat your intestines before I'm done with you!"

(I'll spend this round charging at the commander.)

Next round if I get to him: With a pulse of her legs, Yui transforms her charge into pure airborne momentum. Leaping, she'll try to sink both blades into the commander's throat or head. (this is Yui using effort to get more damage).

Rolls

dagger attack-effort for damage - (1d20)

(12) = 12

forearm blade attack - (1d20)

(8) = 8

Feb 24, 2015 4:59 am
Vult let's an arrow fly towards his foe, grunting as he strives to strike his foe and avoid injury.

(OOC: broke the chain!)
Last edited February 24, 2015 4:59 am

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Defense - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Feb 24, 2015 2:17 pm
Hearing Darazen's call for help, Khoren runs back toward the other LT (NPC3: LT1), his punch daggers dripping a fine trail of LT blood. He slides the last few meters and slashes his daggers into the LTs back. I have no idea what's going on on the other side of that wall of darkness, but hopefully the others are watching each others backs.
If LT1 somehow goes down before Khoren attacks, he'll exclaim "To Tara!" to Darazen and then charge back toward the polka party.

Rolls

Punch dagger attack on NPC3: LT1 - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Punch dagger attack on NPC3: LT1 - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Feb 24, 2015 2:24 pm
(ooc: thanks Khoren, nice rolls!)

Seeing the LT1 swing a weapon at him, Darazen tries to dodge out of the way. ***note to self, stay out of combat***

As he moves he sees Khoren move swiftly and plunge daggers into his attacker's back. Barely pausing for breath Darazen flashes a word of ***thanks*** into Khoren's brain. If he has time he hits the LT1 with another mental onslaught.

(ooc: use an XP to reroll onslaught). Interesting, that doesn't work.
Last edited February 24, 2015 2:26 pm

Rolls

Dodge - speed roll - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Mental onslaught - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Feb 24, 2015 2:27 pm
(ooc: use an XP to reroll onslaught)

Rolls

Mental onslaught - XP reroll - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Feb 24, 2015 4:16 pm
Tara, upon seeing Birtwood stumble out of the darkness and collapse on the floor, drags the poor plant creature further into the hallway and the light... She leaves a minor glowglobe next to Birtwood and takes up a position between Birtwood and the darkness, she'll continue her verbal beacon and discontinue the stomping.. "Birt has come into the light, but he's hurt." Tara sets back into her waiting stance.. to attack any enemy that emerges from the darkness.
Feb 24, 2015 10:26 pm
Hearing Tara yell out to attract the others Utazó thinks, "Oh Tara, My O, My. You certainly have quite The Knack for this." and giggles to herself, although she's not sure why. Focusing in on Tara's voice, Utazó will work her way over, and assuming she gets there, take up a fighting position to Tara's right.

Rolls

Speed Roll (if needed for finding her way to Tara) - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Feb 25, 2015 3:52 am
Vult defends against the onslaught from the sub-commander (0 point intellect damage).

Round Three

R:3 - Utazó clears her mind and focuses on listening for Tara. She is pretty sure which way the sound is coming from. She walks in that general direction, sword in front of her. The hilt grows cold and a moment later, she is surrounded by streaks of light in the darkness. It is cold, almost wet. "Now I know how this could go wrong."

R:3 - Yui releases her dagger and turns to face the commander. She sees him running towards Birtwood and makes a line to intercept him. She charges, hoping to catch him before he gets to Birtwood.

R:3 - Darazen sees a sword coming right at him and weaves to one side. He focuses on the LTs (NPC3: LT1) mind and tries to slice it, but the vision of that sword is too hard to shake. "Must stay out of battle...must stay out of battle."

R:3 - Commander (NPC1: Cmdr) seeing his cypher work so well, he charges forward. "The Queen will get her prize...and maybe a bonus too". He steps out of the darkness as Tara turns around.

R:3 - Tara upon seeing Birtwood stumble out of the darkness and collapse on the floor, drags the poor plant creature further into the hallway and the light... She leaves a minor glowglobe next to Birtwood and takes up a position between Birtwood and the darkness, she'll continue her verbal beacon and discontinue the stomping.. "Birt has come into the light, but he's hurt." Tara sets back into her waiting stance.. to attack any enemy that emerges from the darkness.

R:3 - Birtwood lies on the ground. He is trying to focus on the pain, on catching his breath. His stalk looks up to see this "commander" step out of the darkness and Tara step between them. Then he blacks out.

R:3 - (NPC2: SubCmd) is struck by an arrow from Vult. he knows he must close the distance or take another arrow. He steps forward, raises his sword and swings. (Vult: Defense roll)

R:3 - The LT (NPC3: LT1) raises his sword to swing at Darazen. His eyes open wide as he is caught by Khoren.

R:3 - (NPC4: LT2) is dead.

R:3 - Mudman (MM) is dying.

R:3 - Khoren is filled with adrenaline and leaps to his feet.He quickly turns toward Darazen's plea and steps over to help. Focusing on Darazen, the LT (NPC3: LT1) does not see Khoren coming as Khoren plunges his punch dagger into the backside of the LT (2-1 dmg). Khoren reaches around and sinks his other dagger into the LTs neck (2 + 4 dmg). The LT drops to his knees, grasping his neck.

R:3 - Vult aiming at the sub commander (NPC2: SubCmd) and lets the arrow fly. With a thumps, the arrow finds its mark (4 - 1 dmg).

The smell of ozone seems to fill the air for a moment and darkness starts to lift. The commander exclaims, "Damn!"

Defense rolls, if you are being attacked. Actions, alternate actions with action rolls for the next round.
Feb 25, 2015 4:32 am
Darazen is impressed that he dodged the blow, but even more impressed with Khoren's reactions to intercept the LT1. As the bad guy drops to his knees Darazen blasts him with a physical onslaught. ***thanks Khoren!***

(Yo! And that's what you call a re Roll!)
Last edited February 25, 2015 4:35 am

Rolls

Physical onslaught - (1d20)

(4) = 4

XP re roll: physical onslaught - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Feb 25, 2015 6:57 am
I'll stick with my previous rolls for attacking the commander. (Nice job Khoren, saved Darazen's bacon.)
Feb 25, 2015 2:18 pm
The blood arcs from the attackers neck in a satisfying arc, pattering lightly on the ground more than a meter away. Khoren, rips his daggers free and turns, once again, this time to race to Tara. She says there is light on the otherside of that wall of numenera darkness. He focusses on her calls, and sprints towards her, hoping he doesn't trip on... Is the darkness lifting? Good fortune, that.

Rolls

Speed check, running through darkened area - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Feb 25, 2015 3:42 pm
Vult let's another arrow loose as he twists out of the way of the incoming blade.

Rolls

Bow + level of speed effort - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Speed Defense - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Feb 25, 2015 7:15 pm
"Someone needs to get out here and help Birt.. he's unconscious." Tara says into the darkness to her group.. Tara's metal mask turns to the Commander. "The Queen can go suck an egg! As for you, you can suck on this." *The metal mask twists and conforms into a menacing look* as Tara strikes out with her Sword-staff with a vicious strike.

Rolls

Attack - 1 lvl Effort to Dmg - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Speed Defense - 1 lvl Effort - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Attack - reroll - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Feb 25, 2015 7:22 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
"Someone needs to get out here and help Birt.. he's unconscious." Tara says into the darkness to her group.. Tara's metal mask turns to the Commander. "The Queen can go suck an egg! As for you, you can suck on this." *The metal mask twists and conforms into a menacing look* as Tara strikes out with her Sword-staff with a vicious strike.
(ooc: wow, that sucks, do you want to borrow my dice?)
Feb 25, 2015 8:39 pm
XP award 2 XP to Tara, for helping Birt and defending him and for trying to bring the party and fight to her.
Feb 25, 2015 10:13 pm
Utazó, not quite sure where she's at, backs up a few steps and once again tries to work her way towards Tara.

Rolls

Speed Roll (Trying to get herself to Tara) - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Feb 26, 2015 2:58 am
The darkness lifts and the light from the frame once again lights the area.

Vult defends against the sword of the sub-commander. He swings, twists and turns and hits Vult (4 points, might damage).

Round Four

R:4 - Yui stops behind the Commander (NPC1: Cmdr). She swings her dagger and her forearm blade, but the commander is quicker and more seasoned. She misses with both attacks. .

R:4 - Darazen focuses on the LT (NPC3: LT1), his eyes wide and sees him wretch in more pain. (4 + 3 - 1 dmg).

R:4 - Commander (NPC1: Cmdr) stands tall, his sword in hand; he smiles and brings is down at Tara (Tara: Speed defense roll)

R:4 - Tara turns to the commander (NPC1: Cmdr), her mask twists and turns into menacing look. Keeping herself between the Birtwood and the commander, she takes a swing at him and misses.

R:4 - Birtwood lies on the ground. His breathing is labored, but steady.

R:4 - (NPC2: SubCmd) steps up to Vult and slices at him with the sword. He misses as Vult steps back and hits him with another arrow.

R:4 - The LT (NPC3: LT1) crumples to the ground, dead.

R:4 - (NPC4: LT2) is dead.

R:4 - Mudman (MM) is bleeds to death.

R:4 - Khoren pulls his daggers from the LT and turns the sound of Tara, a short distance away. Standing before Tara is the Commander with a sword in hand. Khoren sprints to her aid.

R:4 - Vult steps back and aims at the sub commander (NPC2: SubCmd). He lets another arrow fly and it hits the subcommander hard in the shoulder (7-1 dmg). He staggers, weakened.

Defense rolls, if you are being attacked. Actions, alternate actions with action rolls for the next round.
Feb 26, 2015 3:13 am
Vult stands over the staggered sub-commander, his voice dripping with loathing, as he draws back another arrow, "I'm going to make all of you pay for killing my friends."

Rolls

Defense (assuming that Vult is being attacked) - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Arrow to the Sub-Commander's face - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Feb 26, 2015 4:27 am
"Hmmm, you're interesting." Yui whispers. "You think you're special." With that, Yui makes as if to attack but instead hops back and starts heckling the Commander, trying to get in his face. She pulls an eyelid down and says "Blugh! You look like a hamster, with those big eyes and fat frakkin' cheeks of yours! And that mouth! You lick your mother (OOC: Who smells like a hamster) with it?" Yui pulls on her cheeks while making farting and squeaking sounds. (I'll try to distract the commander from Tara so he misses, you can do it Tara!)
Last edited February 26, 2015 4:30 am

Rolls

Heckle commander mercilessly-distract-intelligence effort - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Feb 26, 2015 4:52 am
(Ooc: haha, nice post Kai)

Sensing the lieutenants mind pop, Darazen takes a deep breath, grateful for Khoren's intervention. Swiftly turning he sees the Commander bear down on Tara, who is heroically defending Birtwood. Darazen raises a non-existent eyebrow when he notices Yui call the Commander a hamster, and puff his cheeks out. ***She's crazy, but I like her***.

Hoping to assist Tara against her tough opposition Darazen focusses his mind yet again.
Last edited February 26, 2015 2:32 pm

Rolls

Mental onslaught, with effort for damage - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Feb 26, 2015 5:10 am
Khoren sprinting, leaps into the air over Birtwood's still form, legs scissoring as he covers the remaining distance to the commander (NPC1:Cmdr). He lands 2m short of the commander, and rolls, slashing both daggers at the commanders knee and thigh as he rolls past. Mass murder, robbery, kidnapping, slavery... These guys are a riot!.

Rolls

Punch dagger attack - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Punch dagger attack - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Feb 26, 2015 6:25 am
Tara avoids the commanders sword.. "Nice blade, you must've stole it.".. She continues to use her Sword-staff to make vicious slices at the commander, while using it's sheer length to keep the Commander at bay and away from Birtwood until help can arrive to treat him.

Rolls

Attack - Effort to Hit - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Speed Defense - Specialized - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Feb 26, 2015 3:55 pm
The commander, his sights set on Tara, dances around, trying to find a way into her defenses. Her staff sword keeps him at bay until....he sees she over extends when defending left. He strikes and does 4 points of (Might) damage to Tara

Round Five

R:4 - Yui leans over the commander's (NPC1: Cmdr) shoulder and whispers, "Hmmm, you're interesting. You think you're special." With that, Yui makes as if to attack but instead hops back and starts heckling the Commander, trying to get in his face. She pulls an eyelid down and says "Blugh! You look like a hamster, with those big eyes and fat frakkin' cheeks of yours! And that mouth! You lick your mother (OOC: Who smells like a hamster) with it?" Yui pulls on her cheeks while making farting and squeaking sounds in an attempt to distract the commander.

R:4 - Darazen focus shifts from the LT (NPC3: LT1) to the commander's (NPC1: Cmdr) mind. He pushes, trying to find a weakness in the commanders mind, but the commander seems to be well trained. He also senses another.

R:4 - Commander (NPC1: Cmdr) focused on Tara is startled when Yui steps behind him and starts taunting him. He looks Yui over and smiles, "Ah, someone I can get closer to." He turns his attention on Yui, taking a wild swing with his sword. (Yui: Speed defense roll)

R:4 - Tara keeping herself between the Birtwood and the commander, continues to try to hit the commander and keep him at bay with her staff sword. She takes a swing at him and misses.

R:4 - Birtwood lies on the ground. His breathing is labored, but steady.

R:4 - (NPC2: SubCmd) staggered from the last hit, tries to get his legs back underneath him and his sword is raised in defense.

R:4 - The LT (NPC3: LT1) is dead.

R:4 - (NPC4: LT2) is dead.

R:4 - Mudman (MM) is dead.

R:4 - Khoren sprints towards the Commander (NPC1: Cmdr), legs scissoring as he covers the remaining distance. He lands 2m short of the commander, and rolls, slashing both daggers at the commanders knee and thigh as he rolls past. The first misses its mark while the second one finds meat (2 + 4 - 1 dmg) Mass murder, robbery, kidnapping, slavery... These guys are a riot!", he says to no one in particular.

R:4 - Vult steps back again, setting his sights on the face of the sub commander (NPC2: SubCmd). His voice dripping with loathing, "I'm going to make all of you pay for killing my friends." The arrow finds its mark (4 dmg) and the subcommander is no more.

Suddenly, the commander's eyes widen for a second and he quickly stops his attack on Yui. He throws down his sword and drops to his knees, his hands raised. "I surrender! I surrender. Please... "
Feb 26, 2015 4:44 pm
Tara sees the Commander fall to his knees and surrender and assumes one of the Nano's on her team must've done something to instigate this.. Hoping to push the advantage Tara yells out "YOUR COMMANDER HAS SURRENDERED!! YOU UNDER HIS COMMAND SHALL ALSO OR HIS AND YOUR LIVES BE FORFEIT!! THROW DOWN YOUR WEAPONS AND CANCEL THE DARKNESS FIELD!!".
Feb 26, 2015 5:12 pm
(ooc: congrats Grant, you made the 500th post!!)

Darazen is surprized that the commander surrendered. Everyone else sacrificed themselves instead of surrendering, but here is a leader surrendering. Something doesn't seems right.

Tara's speech is impressive, but she must be in some kind of battle blindness - she doesn't seem aware of the actual situation. Reaching into her mind Darazen attempts to calm her... *** Tara, the darkness has been lifted, and only the commander is alive. But be careful. Something isn't right.***

Reflecting back a split second Darazen realizes that his last mental attack on the Commander sensed "another". *** what was that?**

(ooc: makes an int roll to determine presence of another?)

Rolls

Intellect check with knowledge skill, trained, no effort - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Feb 26, 2015 5:17 pm
Khoren says to Tara, "I believe that he is the last of those that came through the portal. Can someone attend to Birtwood, perhaps we can spare," then with a menacing glare at the Commander, he continues "at least one life today."

Khoren then calls to Darazen. "Would you like to interrogate this one? If he impresses you, then I promise to keep Tara from avenging these wounds to Birtwood. Yui, please make sure that he doesn't have any surprises on his person." Khoren then nods to Utazo and Vult, and, if they don't move to assist Birtwood, and then glances meaningfully at the portal. He keeps his punch daggers at the ready near the Commander.
Feb 26, 2015 5:46 pm
(ooc: I did!? Woohoo!)

Tara blinks and rescans the area, and realizes that they are correct.. She mutters "Battle focus.." then in a normal tone.."Sorry, I was so focus'd on keeping the Commander away from Birtwood I lost track of all else save that immediately around me." She looks at Darazan and nods "Thanks". Tara, seeing that Khoren has things under control, will take up a position near the portal to deal with anything that comes through.
Last edited February 26, 2015 5:46 pm
Feb 26, 2015 5:47 pm
Vult swing around, leveling his bow at the commander and drawing back the string. His breathing is fast as shallow as he stands motionless for a few seconds. Lowering his bow and taking a deep breath, he looks around for other foes before catching Birtwood's fallen body. Holstering his weapon, recovering the light machine and walking over to the plant person's side, he sifts through his bag for some tools.

"I'll give this a shot." Vult's voice lacks confidence as he examines Birtwood's wounds.

(OOC: Intelligence test, with a level of effort, to see if Vult can determine how to help stabilize Birtwood. The wood is more compatible with his current repair tools, but he needs to make sure he doesn't block something vital.

If he can figure something out, Vult will try to heal Birtwood, also spending a level of effort on the attempt. Otherwise, he'll try to modulate his light machine to produce a bright, steady stream and see how that helps Birtwood.)

Rolls

Figuring out Birtwood's anatomy - (1d20)

(18) = 18

'Stitching' up Birtwood's worst wounds or adjusting his light - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Feb 26, 2015 5:48 pm
Darazen's hooded head nods in response to Khoren. "Of course. I will try to understand.... him." The last word is emphasized with a little more venom that perhaps he intended. Behind the words, Darazen's mind is still analyzing what he sensed, but he's not sure whether he should speak aloud, thus alerting the commander. Darazen reaches out to Khoren telepathically.

***I appreciate you saving my bacon there, friend. If you are willing I would like to share a gift with you. A telepathic bond so you can communicate with me freely. I am about to delve into the commander's mind, but I want you to know, these "people" are bonded telepathically. I have experienced it twice now. I think the commander warned those on the other side of the portal that we are coming...***

Darazen strides to the commander and looks down into the commander's eyes. Darazen's shadowed face gives little in the way of emotional clues. The gem on his forehead glows blue, and his eyes seem to glow in sympathy. Then Darazen releases his thoughts and delves deep into the commander's mind.
Last edited February 26, 2015 6:15 pm

Rolls

Scan - (costs 2-1 int) - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Feb 26, 2015 5:53 pm
Khoren nods at Darazen and gives him a grim smile. His dark eyes, haunted by the sudden violence and retreating adrenaline, turn once more to the Commander.
Feb 26, 2015 8:33 pm
Objulen says:
Vult swing around, leveling his bow at the commander and drawing back the string. His breathing is fast as shallow as he stands motionless for a few seconds. Lowering his bow and taking a deep breath, he looks around for other foes before catching Birtwood's fallen body. Holstering his weapon, recovering the light machine and walking over to the plant person's side, he sifts through his bag for some tools.

"I'll give this a shot." Vult's voice lacks confidence as he examines Birtwood's wounds.

(OOC: Intelligence test, with a level of effort, to see if Vult can determine how to help stabilize Birtwood. The wood is more compatible with his current repair tools, but he needs to make sure he doesn't block something vital.

If he can figure something out, Vult will try to heal Birtwood, also spending a level of effort on the attempt. Otherwise, he'll try to modulate his light machine to produce a bright, steady stream and see how that helps Birtwood.)
After working on Birtwood for a few minutes, his breathing is better. There is a large gash in his back and the sap has stopped.He starts to come around. With a start, he sits up. His eye stalk darted from side to side at each of you. He settles down when he sees Tara and more so when he sees Vult.

He stares a moment at Vult and flashes, "Thank you, and thank your friends for me. This one", his eye goes to Tara for a moment, then back to Vult, "This one gave me her light and then put herself between me and that....that monster."

His eye stalk looks past Tara and sees the commander still alive. Looking back at Vult, he flashes something unintelligible.
Feb 26, 2015 8:57 pm
"Birtwood wants to thank us for rescuing him." Vult translates. "And Birtwood is especially appriciative of you Tara, for the light and protection." Vult tries to understand what Birtwood is saying afterwards, but can't. He takes the light, and modulates a message back to Birtwood:

We're happy to help. However, I can't understand what you're trying to say about the one we captured who attacked you. Would you plesae repeat it more slowly?

Pausing, Vult flashes a statement to Birtwood, I'm going to move you away from the monster. As long as Birtwood doesn't struggle and it's safe, he'll move him a decent ways away from the commander, incase of suicide-grenade, gently placing Birtwood in an out-of-the-way outcropping of rock. After helping Birtwood move, Vult will say to the group, "Remember what the Mudman did. It was depressing."
Feb 26, 2015 8:58 pm
"Huh. Guess I scared him, poor chap." However, Yui walks behind the Commander and starts patting him down. Something is off, this guy had a lot of bark. "Try anything funny and you eat a dagger."

Rolls

Search commander - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Feb 26, 2015 9:54 pm
Objulen says:
"Birtwood wants to thank us for rescuing him." Vult translates. "And Birtwood is especially appriciative of you Tara, for the light and protection." Vult tries to understand what Birtwood is saying afterwards, but can't. He takes the light, and modulates a message back to Birtwood:

We're happy to help. However, I can't understand what you're trying to say about the one we captured who attacked you. Would you plesae repeat it more slowly?

Pausing, Vult flashes a statement to Birtwood, I'm going to move you away from the monster. As long as Birtwood doesn't struggle and it's safe, he'll move him a decent ways away from the commander, incase of suicide-grenade, gently placing Birtwood in an out-of-the-way outcropping of rock. After helping Birtwood move, Vult will say to the group, "Remember what the Mudman did. It was depressing."
Birtwood stands and gingerly turns and twists. He follows you to an outcropping. Sorry, what I said should not be repeated. I cannot understand why you let him live, especially if what you told me he did to you and your party. Still, the ways of man have confused us for many seasons.

After working up a bit of a dressing for the major wound (and being damn glad your mending held), start looking for other wounds when you see something odd near the crux or joint of Birtwood's arm. It glitters by the light of the globe he is holding. You look closer, thinking maybe a dagger or some other weapon got lodged in there and left. It is not though, it is synth and has viens that seem to be pulsing through it.
Feb 26, 2015 9:56 pm
Tara smiles and gives a reassuring nod to Birtwood when she realizes he regained consciousness. Upon hearing Vults translation she asks him to tell Birtwood "I believe he would have done the same if our situations were reversed." She continues to guard the 'doorway'.
Feb 26, 2015 10:05 pm
Kaizival says:
"Huh. Guess I scared him, poor chap." However, Yui walks behind the Commander and starts patting him down. Something is off, this guy had a lot of bark. "Try anything funny and you eat a dagger."
occ: not one person said to secure him.

Yui tells him to sit still, kicks the sword away and proceeds to search him. He does not struggle at all. You find four daggers, very well made and balanced, one artifact (depleted), one cypher and 147 shins.

His armor is well made and includes a helm. Remembering the last mook, Yui asks him to open his mouth. He complies and she vigorously and forcibly searches and finds nothing. She steps back. "I think that is all of it"
Feb 26, 2015 10:07 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
Tara smiles and gives a reassuring nod to Birtwood when she realizes he regained consciousness. Upon hearing Vults translation she asks him to tell Birtwood "I believe he would have done the same if our situations were reversed." She continues to guard the 'doorway'.
Tara:Give me an intellect check
Feb 26, 2015 10:40 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
Tara smiles and gives a reassuring nod to Birtwood when she realizes he regained consciousness. Upon hearing Vults translation she asks him to tell Birtwood "I believe he would have done the same if our situations were reversed." She continues to guard the 'doorway'.
Vult will use the light machine to flash out Tara's message: Tara thanks you and says that she feels you would have done the same if your positions were reversed
Feb 26, 2015 10:45 pm
Qralloq says:
Khoren says to Tara, "I believe that he is the last of those that came through the portal. Can someone attend to Birtwood, perhaps we can spare," then with a menacing glare at the Commander, he continues "at least one life today."

Khoren then calls to Darazen. "Would you like to interrogate this one? If he impresses you, then I promise to keep Tara from avenging these wounds to Birtwood. Yui, please make sure that he doesn't have any surprises on his person." Khoren then nods to Utazo and Vult, and, if they don't move to assist Birtwood, and then glances meaningfully at the portal. He keeps his punch daggers at the ready near the Commander.
(OOC: actually khoren asked.)

"Anyone know what's wrong with him?" Yui asks, jerking a thumb towards the commander. "This is too weird."

(OOC: What is the cypher? And anyone want an extra dagger or cash?)
Feb 26, 2015 11:31 pm
Darazen emerges from his deep dive into the commander's brain, and shakes his head with disappointment. "I made contact with someone on the other side of the portal, but I couldn't communicate with him. I told him to surrender, and the commander surrendered instead. Dammit!"

Seeming a little distracted he reaches out to Yui and says, "I'll see if I can identify that cypher for you if you like?"

As he looks at the cypher, he adds, "I'll take the money too, if no-one wants it."

If agreed...
Last edited February 26, 2015 11:32 pm

Rolls

Int check - expert cypher use, trained in numenera - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Feb 26, 2015 11:36 pm
Vult pipes up, "I can always use shins for spare parts."
Feb 27, 2015 12:15 am
Umm... I could always use a few shins myself.. Seems I'm going to need to buy some goggles.
Last edited February 27, 2015 12:18 am

Rolls

Intellect Check - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Feb 27, 2015 1:54 am
(Okay everyone gets 20 shins apiece, and I'll give two of the daggers to Khoren and keep the other two.)

Yui hands out some shins, and then walks over to the synth frame. "Maybe something sneaky is going on here. She squats next to the frame and examines it.

Rolls

Examine synth frame - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Feb 27, 2015 2:07 am
Tara catches the 20 shins tossed to her and pockets them..

Must be nice that these dice like SOMEONE!! :/
Feb 27, 2015 2:18 am
Vult pockets the money, nodding a thanks.
Feb 27, 2015 3:44 am
Tara can't quite put a finger on a nagging feeling at the back of her mind and then she looks around and goes "Umm.. Has anyone seen Utazo?"
Feb 27, 2015 3:51 am
As Yui hands over the shins and leaves Darazen with the cypher he simply shrugs and pockets the device and the shins.

He closes his eyes and concentrates, maintaining his link with the stranger. ***What's on the other side of the portal?***
Feb 27, 2015 4:01 am
Merlin says:
As Yui hands over the shins and leaves Darazen with the cypher he simply shrugs and pockets the device and the shins.

He closes his eyes and concentrates, maintaining his link with the stranger. ***What's on the other side of the portal?***
Hey! I didn't say you could keep it! My cypher! What is it?
Feb 27, 2015 4:46 am
Darazen emerges from his trance, and refocuses with his surroundings. Ignoring Yui he says to the group,

"We have some decisions to make. If you think our journey through these tunnels has been tough it is going to be tougher on the other side of the portal. The Queen is on the other side with four commanders similar to this guy and several other assistants. Furthermore there are potentially 100 recruits should an alarm be raised.

"The reason we were raided was for our cyphers. That's what started this whole thing. The Queen wants a special cypher called the Assassins Heart. She has her troops searching for it. They don't know where it is."

Darazen pauses to allow the group to consider what he's saying. "It seems to me that if we go through the portal we may be facing perils beyond our abilities; whereas the Assassin's Heart is probably not over there...

"Then we have Birtwood. I suggest we escort him back to the surface so he can heal. I suggest we release the commander. He is harmless now. Also, where exactly is Utazo. Utazo, are you here?"

Wondering what his comrades might suggest he links to Birtwood. ***Have you heard of the Assassin's Heart?***
Last edited February 27, 2015 4:47 am
Feb 27, 2015 5:02 am
"We could try to destroy the portal." Khoren Apraxin holds up the Gravity Bomb we found earlier. "It might work, might not. We're wounded, and ill-equipped to take on an army."

Khoren circles around the commander and then looks past him at the synth portal longingly. He wraps his cloak around him, hiding his bomb and his hands. Hedge magic ripples his cloak in a local breeze.

"Please ask Birtwood's if there is another way to the surface."
Feb 27, 2015 12:30 pm
Vult nods in agreemeent. "We're not equipped to deal with a small army. If we want to sabotage the portal, though, that is something I can help with."
Feb 27, 2015 12:41 pm
Darazen nods. "That sounds like a plan. If I am right that the Assassins Heart is on this side of the portal, that would buy us time to find it before the Queen. But I do have two major words of caution: 1. I don't know where the heart is. It could be in the same realm as the Queen. Do we care? 2. We've lost Utazo. What if she passed through the portal?"
Feb 27, 2015 1:25 pm
Tara suddenly gets pelted in the head by something (1 pt might damage half point rounded up). She looks down at the shin landing at her feet.
Feb 27, 2015 1:33 pm
Commander: Uh, please, I don't mean to dispel your plans, but....it is said that 100 cycles or so past, a group of commanders tried to rebel, to flee, to escape.....it is told that they got through the curtain and tried to destroy it so as to prevent further pursuit. It is also said the curtain fought back; that the commanders and their followers were destroyed by demons of themselves. Now, I don't believe in all the stories told in our history, but this is one I don't think I would want to chance.
Feb 27, 2015 2:07 pm
Qralloq says:
"Please ask Birtwood's if there is another way to the surface."
Vult starts to signal Birtwood when Birtwood interrupts, "I think I heard him, he asked if I knew another way to the surface. I can hear and I think I understand your slower process of speech. I just have never had a way to communicate back, until now. Oh,met here was an occasional person like Darazen, but....it is rare. I don't know of another way, no. I have never been down here before. Like I said, I like to spend my time on the surface, in the light. I only know the way they used to bring me down here.
Feb 27, 2015 2:16 pm
(ooc: As Darazen is addressing the group, he rolls a speed check to see if he notices the shin hit Tara. If he does, he then tries to scan the area that the shin originated from).

Darazen responds to the commander, "Hmmm, so closing the portal is not a good idea? Still, we are in no shape to enter the portal. I, for one, need to rest. Birtwood needs to get to the surface. If we leave the caverns, do we think we can come back?"

(ooc: Darazen does have trained memory, and can recall maps, and clearly remember where we travelled and such nuances, even if I am a stupid player. I'll do an int check to answer my own question).
Last edited February 27, 2015 2:20 pm

Rolls

Speed check - notice source of shin - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Intellect check - Scan - identify source of shin - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Intellect check - memory - if we leave can we return? - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Feb 27, 2015 2:23 pm
Khoren nods at the commander's words and Darazen's response. He reluctantly tucks the Gravity Bomb away back in his belt, and approaches the commander, gesturing with a dagger that he should stand. "Through the portal and try to find a place to hide and rest, or stay trapped in these caves. There are two more tunnels we haven't explored."
Feb 27, 2015 2:54 pm
Merlin says:
(ooc: As Darazen is addressing the group, he rolls a speed check to see if he notices the shin hit Tara. If he does, he then tries to scan the area that the shin originated from).
You did not see it (it is not a boulder that came through, it was a shin... a small coin, gem or something similar). Nice try though.
Merlin says:
Darazen responds to the commander, "Hmmm, so closing the portal is not a good idea? Still, we are in no shape to enter the portal. I, for one, need to rest. Birtwood needs to get to the surface. If we leave the caverns, do we think we can come back?"
Commander: "I don't want to be in here when you try."

You know you still have a few of those devices, but you are pretty sure that even without those, there is a way to the surface.
Feb 27, 2015 3:29 pm
Merlin says:
Darazen nods. "That sounds like a plan. If I am right that the Assassins Heart is on this side of the portal, that would buy us time to find it before the Queen. But I do have two major words of caution: 1. I don't know where the heart is. It could be in the same realm as the Queen. Do we care? 2. We've lost Utazo. What if she passed through the portal?"
The Commander says out loud, "The queen could have it by now, but I doubt it. Word like that would have spread through the camp. And, I would suspect that she would recall her commanders for a review. She is obsessed with this thing, and this obsession has made her paranoid. Not that she does not have good reason to be. She's executed several commanders, reportedly for just having the wrong thoughts. That is why I mentally trained myself. I did not want to be her next target.

As for your companion, Utazo is it? I am afraid I did not see what happened to her. I know no alert was given before we came through, so there should not have been reinforcements. This was supposed to be a quick mop up and that beast (nodding towards Birtwood) broke free. I did not figure we needed to replace the guards on the other side, and no one should be there to relieve us for a few hours yet. And, she is not in the bodies on the floor."
Feb 27, 2015 3:34 pm
"Neat! Birtwood is starting to be able to understand us on his own -- or is it her own, Birtwood? Anyway, Birtwood says that the only way he or she knows of back to the surface is the way they took down." Vult's voice sounds excited.

He looks around. "Hmmm. Where did Utazo go...?"

Vult listens to the commander thoughtfully. "What did you want with Birtwood?"

(OOC: Taking an action to get a recovery roll for Int)

Rolls

Recovery - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Feb 27, 2015 3:43 pm
"I think we should finish exploring these caves, and maybe take a breather. We also need to figure out what to do with him." Vult's voice changes from nonchalant to disatisfied as he shifts topics, motioning towards the commander.
Feb 27, 2015 5:55 pm
OOC: unrelated

Rolls

gmail requested - (1d20)

(4) = 4

1d20

(11) = 11

Feb 27, 2015 5:59 pm
Tara upon being hit by the shin tries to discover where the shin originated from. Knowing where she was hit, how she was facing, the force of the hit, and where it landed after impacting with her.. Tara should be able to reason out where the shin came from.

Rolls

Speed Check - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Intellect Check - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Feb 27, 2015 6:07 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
Tara upon being hit by the shin tries to discover where the shin originated from. Knowing where she was hit, how she was facing, the force of the hit, and where it landed after impacting with her.. Tara should be able to reason out where the shin came from.
Tara turns toward the frame. ooc: look, it pays off like a slot machine

After a few moments, two more shins come flying out. (Tara: Speed defense to avoid them)
Feb 27, 2015 6:22 pm
OOC: unrelated

Rolls

1d20

(15) = 15

Feb 27, 2015 6:41 pm
Not even trying to avoid the shins, Tara reaches into the synth frame where the shins are coming out from and tries to grab whoever is throwing the shins at her.. and hopefully pull them through to her. ~Hmm.. If I were a greedy woman I'd have just opened a bag and let it pay the jackpot~

Rolls

Speed Check - (1d20)

(8) = 8

Intellect Check - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Might Check - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Feb 27, 2015 7:21 pm
(OOC: I seem to be behind all of you.)

Yui stares at Darazen for several moments, and then gives him a long scowl. She won't forget that...

Noticing the shins flying out of the portal, she walks over to it and will try to help Tara pull the coin tosser out.

OOC: Dammit! Sorry Grant, hope I didn't screw you up...)
Last edited February 27, 2015 7:22 pm

Rolls

Help Tara pull Mr. Money out of the portal-speed - (1d20)

(1) = 1

Feb 27, 2015 7:45 pm
(ooc: Grandmaster, PM on its way, with this roll...)
Last edited February 27, 2015 8:10 pm

Rolls

d20 roll - intellect - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Feb 27, 2015 8:12 pm
Kaizival says:

Yui stares at Darazen for several moments, and then gives him a long scowl. She won't forget that...

(ooc: hairs rise on back of his neck, while Darazen studiously avoids making eye contact. lol)
Feb 27, 2015 8:20 pm
Kaizival says:
(OOC: I seem to be behind all of you.)

Yui stares at Darazen for several moments, and then gives him a long scowl. She won't forget that...

Noticing the shins flying out of the portal, she walks over to it and will try to help Tara pull the coin tosser out.

OOC: Dammit! Sorry Grant, hope I didn't screw you up...)
Sorry, Yui, You wasted that one (and it pains me to say so). But, you and Darazen and the rest of the party are at the entrance to the dome. Tara took a defensive position in front of the frame, some 90 ft away. Other than the fact that she may have grabbed her head or neck, like she was swatting at a bug, you really don't know what was hitting her. There really is no way to notice the shin, or to examine them, or to race to her defense.

Perhaps I should have had this in a PM type, but I seem to have a number of those already going on.
Feb 27, 2015 9:13 pm
Tara reaches into the water wall and seems to be fishing. At first she is elbow deep, then arm, then shoulder.....she is craning her neck to keep on this side. Suddenly, she tenses, pausing for a second then tries to reset her feet to pull back.

Tara: speed roll to reset you feet, might roll to pull back
Feb 27, 2015 9:17 pm
Tara braces her feet and pulls with effort

Rolls

Speed - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Might - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Feb 27, 2015 9:26 pm
Tara is struggling with something in the waterwall, either she has something or something has her. She tries to plant her feet and pull and she starts to make some headway. The weight from the other side, and the pull are strong. With a grunt and a little effort, she rolls back, stumbles and lands on her back. With Utazo firmly in her grasp, the two land unceremoniously 10 ft from the base of the frame.
Feb 27, 2015 9:34 pm
Vult produces his bow as Tara crashes back, ready for an attack. As he sees what's happened, he chuckles, holstering his weapon and head over to help Tara and Utazo up.
Feb 27, 2015 9:35 pm
Tara smiles up at Utazo and mutters "Jackpot". "You can get off me now." Tara smirks.
Feb 27, 2015 9:42 pm
(Thank god I didn't screw that up...can you do pm type in these situations?)

Yui looks back at Darazen. "Now you're patronizing me! Hmph, keep the damn cypher, I don't want it!"(Darazen's reverse psychology at work... :)

"There you are! You alive?" Yui walks up to Utazo and smiles, glad she's safe.
Last edited February 27, 2015 9:43 pm
Feb 27, 2015 9:44 pm
XP Award: 3 points to Utazo for (1) discovering the portal and (1) going through it (even though it WAS a random chance) and (1) for great PM roleplaying.
Feb 27, 2015 9:45 pm
grandmaster says:
XP Award: 3 points to Utazo for (1) discovering the portal and (1) going through it (even though it WAS a random chance) and (1) for great PM roleplaying.
OOC: "Cool, you don't HAVE to use the same "three colors
Feb 27, 2015 9:53 pm
"Woo hoo! Utazo is back!" ***wtf?***
Feb 27, 2015 10:24 pm
With Vult's assistance Utazó reaches her feet and dusts herself off. Looking down at Tara she flashes an appreciative smile, offers a hand, and asks, "Can I have my shins back now?"
Last edited February 27, 2015 10:54 pm
Feb 27, 2015 10:34 pm
szemely says:
Looking down at Tara she flashes an appreciative smile, offers a hand, and asks, "Can I have my shins back now?"
Tara smiles up at Utazo, grasps her hand and pulls herself back up while asking as innocent as can be: "What shins?". She then smirks and points to the ground near the synth frame.. "I hadn't bothered to pick them up.. I was busy trying to find the source and pull it back into our universe.... You're welcome."
Feb 27, 2015 10:42 pm
GrantUrDeth says:
"I hadn't bothered to pick them up.. I was busy trying to find the source and pull it back into our universe.... You're welcome."
"I wasn't exactly sure how I arrived at the location on the other side of this portal. I had etched some clues into the shins, hoping that they would make it back to you guys. When I noticed your arm I just grabbed on and hoped being pulled through would actually bring me back here."

Utazó looks around the chamber, "I'm glad to see that everyone is all right. There are some things on the other side that I've never before seen. It's fascinating", scrunching her nose as the smell from the chamber finally hits her, "and a lot better smelling as well..."
Feb 27, 2015 10:46 pm
"I would love to see it, Utazo. Is there a safe place there for us to rest for a few hours?" Khoren looks at the portal with a naive curiousity. Well, not naive so much as utterly indifferent to the consequences.
Feb 27, 2015 10:49 pm
Suddenly remembering the commander and the telepathic link to... something else, Khoren attacks and kills the commander to death.
ooc: Spend xp to reroll second attack
Last edited February 27, 2015 10:50 pm

Rolls

Speed test, initiative - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Punch dagger attack #1 - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Punch dagger attack #2 - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Reroll of punch dagger attack #2 - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Feb 27, 2015 10:59 pm
"Khoren, what the fricking hell are you doing????"
Feb 27, 2015 11:48 pm
(I'm going to roll initiative and if it's higher, I'm saying I acted before Khoren, he's obviously lost it and needs to be stopped. Even if it's after the commander may be saved).

Yui tackles Khoren to the ground.

"WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU?!"
Last edited February 27, 2015 11:48 pm

Rolls

initiative - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Tackle Khoren-might effort - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Feb 28, 2015 5:26 am
Tara casts her eyes towards Khoren and Yui and sighs.. ~Good lord.. What have I gotten myself into?~ She resumes her post near the synth frame 'doorway'.
Feb 28, 2015 5:51 am
Qralloq says:
Suddenly remembering the commander and the telepathic link to... something else, Khoren attacks and kills the commander to death.
ooc: Spend xp to reroll second attack
(OOC: As Tara looks deep into the doorway she guards, she sees two familiar people...

Finding themselves all jumbled up, the two warriors gaze into each others eyes.
"Why do such a hurtful thing?" Yui asks quietly.
"I perceived ill intent from the commander to bring harm to you, it doth frightened me so, fair lady, my duty-"


Oops...awkward! Must be a parallel universe inside the portal, Tara thinks (just kidding all, really couldn't resist the joke) )

"Khoren, what's up with you?" Yui stands up and brushes herself off. "You better not be possessed now. Why'd you attack him?"
Last edited February 28, 2015 5:59 am
Feb 28, 2015 2:27 pm
"It seemed simpler," Khoren says enigmatically. He sheathes his daggers, kneels before the commander, looks into his eyes, and continues.

"Dear commander. My companions have intervened. It seems that your life is now your own. What do you plan to do with your new found freedom? Do you wish to return with us to our land and find a new purpose there? Do you wish to become defender and liaison to Birtwood's people? Or do you wish to wait until we are defenseless and call your Queen to you telepathically in hope of regaining her favor? Either way, you won't die at my hand."

With some simple gestures, the blood and the mud fall from Khoren's weapons and clothing, then Yui's.
Feb 28, 2015 2:39 pm
Darazen relaxes. "Well, we still have some decisions to make. I think we are all in agreement we need to rest? I need at least an hour, but would prefer more.

"Utazo, what can you recommend? Would we be safer to rest here or through the portal? The Commander says we have some time. No-one is looking for us... Yet."
Feb 28, 2015 4:29 pm
Qralloq says:
"It seemed simpler," Khoren says enigmatically. He sheathes his daggers, kneels before the commander, looks into his eyes, and continues.

"Dear commander. My companions have intervened. It seems that your life is now your own. What do you plan to do with your new found freedom? Do you wish to return with us to our land and find a new purpose there? Do you wish to become defender and liaison to Birtwood's people? Or do you wish to wait until we are defenseless and call your Queen to you telepathically in hope of regaining her favor? Either way, you won't die at my hand."

With some simple gestures, the blood and the mud fall from Khoren's weapons and clothing, then Yui's.
(OOC: Thanks Khoren, sorry, I kind of flipped out. It's nice having clean clothes)
Feb 28, 2015 4:46 pm
Qralloq says:
"It seemed simpler," Khoren says enigmatically. He sheathes his daggers, kneels before the commander, looks into his eyes, and continues.

"Dear commander. My companions have intervened. It seems that your life is now your own. What do you plan to do with your new found freedom? Do you wish to return with us to our land and find a new purpose there? Do you wish to become defender and liaison to Birtwood's people? Or do you wish to wait until we are defenseless and call your Queen to you telepathically in hope of regaining her favor? Either way, you won't die at my hand."

With some simple gestures, the blood and the mud fall from Khoren's weapons and clothing, then Yui's.
The commander looks back into your (Khoren's) eyes. You see something cold, dark, and calculating. He listens with intensity and as you finish your speech. A smile, almost imperceptible smile forms on his face and he whispers, "But, you will die, at MINE!"

The commander springs up with a snap. In one hand is a dagger and in his belt are several more. He makes a fluid thrust at you (Khoren: Speed defense roll). He turns and his sword flies through the air and into his hand. He puts his back to the wall and braces for his next attack. He smiles and says, "For the honor of the queen!"

Everyone: Roll Initiative and give me your actions
Feb 28, 2015 5:10 pm
Tara hears the commotion and sees the Commander spring into action.. with weapons.. ~What the hell?! How'd he get loose!? I'm sure they tied him up once I left.... I hope they tied him up after I left... oh gods.. they didn't tie him up did they..~ Tara mentally sighs while drawing her always loaded and ready crossbow and fires at the commander.

(OOC: I absolutely hate these dice. If these were real dice, I'd have thrown them across the room and set them on fire already!)
Last edited February 28, 2015 5:12 pm

Rolls

Initiative (untrained) - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Attack w/crossbow - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Feb 28, 2015 5:14 pm
Vult, about to comment, instead whips out his bow, takes aim, and looses an arrow at the commander.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Attack - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Feb 28, 2015 5:22 pm
Utazó reaches for her sword as she charges at the commander, "Why did I come back here again?"


EDIT: Going to add an attack roll, although I think I may be out of immediate range.
Last edited February 28, 2015 5:30 pm

Rolls

Initiative (Trained in Initiative) - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Attack Roll (no effort) - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Feb 28, 2015 5:47 pm
"Bugger, you try to be fair and reasonable, try to spare a few lives, and this is the thanks we get. Maybe we are fated to just maraud through this place in a blood thirsty rampage?"

Resigned to another exhausting combat, Darazen unleashes a physical onslaught on the Commander, while simultaneously adding the telepathic communication, ***why?***

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Physical onslaught - intellect with effort for damage - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Feb 28, 2015 6:01 pm
Khoren jumps back, hands empty. He flourishes awkwardly with his right hand at the commander, hoping the numenera slam him into the wall and give his companions time to get into position.
edit: xp for a reroll of push esotery
Last edited February 28, 2015 6:02 pm

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Speed defense (with effort) - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Push esotery (with effort for damage) - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Reroll - Push esotery attack (with effort for damage) - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Feb 28, 2015 6:36 pm
Merlin says:
"Bugger, you try to be fair and reasonable, try to spare a few lives, and this is the thanks we get. Maybe we are fated to just maraud through this place in a blood thirsty rampage?"

Resigned to another exhausting combat, Darazen unleashes a physical onslaught on the Commander, while simultaneously adding the telepathic communication, ***why?***
"I'm with you Darazen, I try not to be nice for once and this is what I get! I'd like some tea party interactions for once! For once!"
(OOC: This guy really couldn't have been nice for a while? It might have been more fun if we thought he was but he betrays us later, for example, especially after I tried to save him from Khoren)

(Another OOC: Didn't I take his daggers? I kept two for me and two for Khoren.)

Yui draws the commander's daggers and tosses them with all her might. She mutters under her breath about "nice" angrily.

(EDIT: I'm with you Tara, these dice would be nuked at my place)
Last edited February 28, 2015 6:38 pm

Rolls

initiative - (1d20)

(5) = 5

dagger 1 - (1d20)

(5) = 5

dagger 2 - (1d20)

(1) = 1

Mar 1, 2015 6:54 pm
XP Award: 1 XP to Yui, for tackling Khoren
XP Award: 1 XP to Khoren, for seeing something no one else saw in the commander

GM Intrusion: This fight was going to happen sooner or later. The commander is a very calculating and deceitful person. His plan was to secretly get his weapons back, and the scuffle between Khoren and Yui was a good time (tho you had me completely saying WTH! on Friday evening. He was looking for an opportunity, but figured it would be much later). He is very good moving metal (level 6), hence his sword returning to his hand. He cannot use it to attack, but he can use it to retrieve items or acquire them.

The reason I am explaining this is so that everyone understands. Even though the level to catch him absconding with You and Khorens weapons, plus his two daggers was very high (heroic - lvl 8), I still should have given both Yui and Khoren a chance to perceive. But, because they were distracted it would have been 2 levels higher, hence the 8 (6+2). Of course, 8 (24) is not possible on a D20, but if they were trained and spent effort, they still would have had a chance.

Therefore, I am going to give TWO intrusions, one to each. If they wish to refuse the intrusion, they can. However, it will cost them one XP. Refusing the intrusion will given them one of their blades back, the forearm blade since it is more attached.

I am working on the round results now. I will wait to post them until I get confirmation of acceptance or rejection of the intrusion from Yui and Khoren.
Mar 1, 2015 8:09 pm
(OOC: Not 100% sure what you said there but i think I get the gist. I'll accept the intrusion and take my XP).
Mar 1, 2015 8:58 pm
Kaizival says:
(OOC: Not 100% sure what you said there but i think I get the gist. I'll accept the intrusion and take my XP).
Okay, so nothing will change on your attack. As part of the GM Intrusion, you accept 1 XP and have to choose one other player to give 1 XP to. (This does not affect the XP you earned at the top of the message... your net XP gain is 2).
Mar 1, 2015 9:20 pm
(I give my XP to Darazen for sharing my feelings on killing the commander, Yui tries to save someone for once but he turns out to be evil after all)
Mar 1, 2015 10:10 pm
(I give the 1xp for the intrusion to Vult, for not leaping to interfere with my impulsive plan.)
Mar 1, 2015 10:13 pm
Khoren, seeing the darkness in his eyes, cool and calcuating, sees a glimmer and attempts to spring back. The commander reachs out with a dagger and makes contact, piercing Khorens armor and drawing first blood (2-1 pt Might Damge to Khoren)

Round one: Commander Fight

R:1 - Vult whips out his bow, takes aim, and looses an arrow at the commander. Surprisingly, it hits its mark, but his armor absorbs some of the damage (4-2 points damage).

R:1 - Khoren having jumped back grabs for his dagger and finds his hands empty. Instinct kicks in and he uses his hand to "push" the commander, the commander tries to stand strong but is pushed back into the wall (GM Note: The Push esoteries does not cause damage (page 36, Corebook). It can be used to knock someone over if they are balancing on an cliff side or a ledge and they will get damage from the fall, but not the attack itself. As a GM, I do give it dramatic effect and it is unexpected, so the next round of difficulty of any task for the subject of the attack is one more while they regain their footing).

R:1 - Utazó, hearing the comotion and hearing the gasps, sees the commander spring up and secure a weapon in his hand. Being 90 ft away (long distance = 50-100 ft), she charges towards the fight. She will arrive on the next round and be able to attack.

R:1 - Commander (NPC1: Cmdr), stumbles back against the wall. His head turns to look at Darazen and smiles. (Darazen : Intellect defense)

R:1 - Tara hears the commotion and sees the Commander spring into action.. with weapons.. ~What the hell?! How'd he get loose!? I'm sure they tied him up once I left.... I hope they tied him up after I left... oh gods.. they didn't tie him up did they..~ Tara mentally sighs while drawing her always loaded and ready crossbow and fires at the commander. She not so silenty curse the Fatum and she misses. She wants to strangle,crush or burn them.

R:1 - Birtwood (NPC) leaps to his "feet", he flashes a short message on the wall for all to see (only Vult will be able to read it, "I want him dead!"). He moves next to the commander and thursts his spear like limb into the commander (Roll: 8, success: 3 - 2 dmg). The commander turns and smiles, "Is that all you go...." and suddenly his face is engulfed in a very bright flash of light. (Roll: 15, success: 8 pts damage and blinded).

R:1 - Darazen, resigns to another exhausting combat. Darazen unleashes a physical onslaught on the Commander, while simultaneously adding the telepathic communication, ***why?*** and hears nothing. The Commander (NPC1: Cmdr) gets a slight look of pain on his face as his body is wracked with physical pain (4 - 2 dmg)

R:1 - Yui grasps for the daggers on her belt and searches frantically, only to come up empty handed. ooc: Maybe if you had not mocked him, the dice would have rolled better... or maybe the dice knew you had no daggers to attack with....


Defense rolls, if you are being attacked. Actions, alternate actions with action rolls for the next round.
Mar 1, 2015 10:19 pm
Tara sprints over to get into immediate range of the commander.
Mar 1, 2015 10:25 pm
"Khoren was right, none of these abhumans should be left alive!" Utazó mutters as she finds herself within range of the Commander. Reaching back she unleashes an overhand swing of her blade down onto the commander.

EDIT 1: Oh, we're spending an XP on that mess.
EDIT 2: *grumble*
Last edited March 1, 2015 10:27 pm

Rolls

Attack Roll - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Attack Reroll - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Mar 1, 2015 10:42 pm
Khoren, finding himself weaponless, leaps at the commander and begins punching him in the sides as hard as he can, hoping to find a soft spot or at least bruise him through the armor.
(Dual Wield Light Weapons - punches also seem to count as light weapons - with effort for damage. But I'm not sure if effort counts for the whole action (the two attacks are a single action), or just one attack in that action.)

Rolls

Punch attack - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Punch attack - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Mar 1, 2015 11:13 pm
Blinded by the light Yui knows is the commander's head (OOC: the human torch!) she heads toward it. Khoren beats her to jumping on the commander as she would have done, so she instead grabs two rocks and starts smashing them as hard as she can into the bright light that is the commander's head. Hopefully this will make it up to you Khoren.

(OOC Edit: I'm just using rocks from now on)
Last edited March 1, 2015 11:13 pm

Rolls

rock 1 - (1d20)

(17) = 17

rock 2 - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Mar 1, 2015 11:30 pm
(Ooc: when Darazen attacked he applied effort to damage. Do I get the added damage, or do I get my effort back?)

Darazen feels the Commander attack his mind. ***you bastard*** he thinks as he pushes back to repel the attack.

Then he attacks back with mental onslaught.

(Ooc: Re roll intellect defense)
Last edited March 1, 2015 11:31 pm

Rolls

Intellect defense - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Mental onslaught - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Intellect defense reroll - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Mar 2, 2015 12:22 am
"Damn it!" Vult exclaims as Birtwood rushes the commander with his spear. Dropping his bow, he rushes to Birtwood's side, drawing his short poleaxe as he does so.

(OOC: action for movement and drawing a weapon.)
Mar 2, 2015 7:00 am
(OOC: Yui - LOL! Can't blame ya!)
Mar 2, 2015 2:44 pm
The Commander looks into Darazen's mind and attempts a mental onslaught, but Darazen is stronger. (0 dmg)

Round two: Commander Fight

R:2 - Vult rushes to back up Birtwood, dropping his bow and pulling his poleaxe.

R:2 - Khoren, finding himself weaponless, leaps to the side of Birtwood and tries to find an opening to punch through on the commander. He finds the rib cage and is able to delivery a bruising punch through the armor. (3-2 dmg)

R:2 - Utazó mutters "Khoren was right, none of these abhumans should be left alive!" as she finds herself within range of the Commander. Reaching back she unleashes an overhand swing of her blade down onto the commander shoulder, striking armor and slashing a hole through it. (4 - 2 dmg)

R:2 - Commander (NPC1: Cmdr) thinks to himself, ~"This.... this...this is impossible. I calculated the odds, waited for the best time, took advantage of an opportunity, the odds were in my favor.... 4,582.2394 to 1. My queen, I...I am sorry!~

R:2 - Tara sprints over to get into immediate range of the commander and finds him completely surrounded, his back to the wall, being pummeled.

R:2 - Birtwood (NPC), his spear like limb pinning the commander, pushes in and twists (Roll: 17, success: 3 + 1 dmg (No DR since his spear was already in the armor)).

R:2 - Darazen, seeing the hand in his mind, reaches out his own and grabs the thumb. He's seen this attack before and tries to emulate it mentally. He grasps the mental thumb and wretches it back. (2 dmg)

R:2 - Yui picks up two rocks. There is little to no room for her to get to the Commander from any side due to the others in her party. She mumbles to herself, "More than one way to skin a Skareete" and makes a leap up the wall. With a downward thrust, she uses one of the rocks to bash the helm of the commander, shattering it with the momentum carrying through to his skull. ( 2-2+4 damage)

The commander is a bloody mess, crushed and gored, his skull cracked open and his eyes wide and lifeless. Birtwood steps back and the body slides off his spike branch/arm.
Mar 2, 2015 3:05 pm
"There's no kill like overkill." Vult says with a grim tone, putting away his axe and searching the body for useful items or clues. He'll recover his bow when he has a moment

Rolls

searching the body - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Mar 2, 2015 3:14 pm
Khoren quickly retrieves his weapons, eyeing the sword briefly before discarding it. The two punch daggers return to their belt sheathes, and one of the other two daggers disappears under his cloak. The second dagger spends some time jammed through the commander's eye as far as he can push it, before being withdrawn. His hand runs over the blade and the hair and blood fall off. His gestures encompass Birtwood and his spear-branch as well, removing the gore.

He then stumbles a step toward Utazo, breathing heavily. "Did you find a place for us to rest through the portal?"
Mar 2, 2015 4:04 pm
As the combat ends, and the Commander slumps to the ground lifeless, Darazen stands motionless, head bowed, breathing heavily. His usual confident air, perhaps arrogance, seems to have waned; he somehow seems broken and exhausted.

Slowly raising his head he says, "I'm sorry, it... it seems I've made a mistake. I was only trying to help, but it seems I'm not as strong as I thought I was... these foes seem to be able to manipulate my powers."

He moves gingerly to the edge of the cavern, and slumps to the ground, back against the wall, knees clutched tight against his chest, head down... rocking gently. "I... I need to rest. I feel so tired..." He looks up. "I don't understand what's happening... I am too trusting. I believed the Commander, but he was manipulating me. I think I've alerted to Queen to our plans... She, she... knows we are coming... I am sorry."

His head bows again.
Last edited March 2, 2015 4:04 pm
Mar 2, 2015 4:42 pm
"Geez, we really beat the brains out of him (OOC: human torched, punched, stabbed, bashed, pushed, ouch)". Brething heavily, Yui stumbles over next to Darazen. "Ahh, we...really...need...to rest. Darazen, it's okay, none of this... would have happened... if I hadn't stopped Khoren, after all (sorry Khoren, I thought you'd lost it)." She lowers herself to the wall next to him and touches him lightly on the shoulder. It's okay, lets rest a bit.

"Utazo, can we... rest in the portal? We...need it."
Last edited March 2, 2015 4:45 pm
Mar 2, 2015 6:39 pm
"Pardon me, but am I the only one who thinks resting on the other side of a portal we know nothing about and that they could easily close behind us is a bad idea?" Tara looks at them incongruously. "Don't get me wrong, I'm all for resting, but the stolen items are on THIS side of the portal still.. as is the Assassins Heart. If we go through that portal, we're giving them the ultimate advantage." She looks at everyone in turn "We're not that far in, we can blow this portal, escort Birtwood outside to safety and freedom and rest outside, taking some shifts to make sure we all get rest.. and then we can go back inside when we're ready. If Birtwood wishes to come back in here with us that's fantastic, but I'd certainly understand if he wanted to get home to his friends and family after this traumatic experience.."
Mar 2, 2015 6:51 pm
Objulen says:
"There's no kill like overkill." Vult says with a grim tone, putting away his axe and searching the body for useful items or clues. He'll recover his bow when he has a moment
You find no shins or weapons other than the daggers and the sword. as you examine the bloody mass further, something catches your eye. His skull, now cracked open, shows more than just grey matter. There are small Numenera circuits, small wires and such that seem fused into skull. Looking at his arm where it meets the shoulder, there are synth cords and other Numenera. You find small ports or jacks cleverly disguised and hidden under his armor. Nothing you find is powered, though.
Mar 2, 2015 7:34 pm
Darazen closes his eyes and tries to rest.
Mar 2, 2015 8:04 pm
"Assuming that the commander was lying about the portal's defenses, I'm perfectly willing to sabotage the portal." Vult mentions as he returns the weapons he found on the commander to their respective owners.

"The commander seems to have some cybernetics, though they're unpowered. Maybe there's something we can use to start them back up and learn more about how this 'queen' operates." Vult says as he looks around.

Before he starts his work, he'll turn to Birtwood and ask, "Are you ok?"

Rolls

Searching for a power supply - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Mar 2, 2015 8:08 pm
Objulen says:
"Assuming that the commander was lying about the portal's defenses, I'm perfectly willing to sabotage the portal." Vult mentions as he returns the weapons he found on the commander to their respective owners.

"The commander seems to have some cybernetics, though they're unpowered. Maybe there's something we can use to start them back up and learn more about how this 'queen' operates." Vult says as he looks around.

Before he starts his work, he'll turn to Birtwood and ask, "Are you ok?"
Birtwood flashes back that he is okay. He still wants to see the sunlight again, he does not like the darkness. When it is dark is when he usually sleeps. "Sleep....that sounds good"
Mar 2, 2015 8:59 pm
"Well, *I* am going to escort Birtwood outside. You are all welcome to come with me as I won't be coming back into the tunnels until I have rested a bit. Vult, if you can blow the portal, I'm all for it.. As I said, what we're looking for is on this side of the portal... and it'll slow this Queen whoever's progress in obtaining the Heart of nothing else..".. And with that, Tara makes sure her gear is stowed and prepares to head to the surface, pausing a moment to see who all is coming before heading out.
Mar 2, 2015 9:11 pm
Khoren reluctantly holds out the pretty Gravity Bomb for Vult to use, should he need it in destroying the portal. "I don't think Birtwood will fit up the tiny hole to the surface from which you crawled, Tara. But if you know of another exit, please lead."
Mar 2, 2015 9:38 pm
"Tara, please wait a few minutes. There's some potentially useful Numenera in the commander that we might be able to use." Vult requests politely. "I'll be glad to join you when I'm done, but did you want me to try and sabotage the portal before we left...?" He leaves the question hanging as he starts pulling out tools and looking at the commander's body.

Rolls

Recovering Numenera - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Mar 2, 2015 9:54 pm
Vult takes the gravity bomb.
Mar 2, 2015 10:12 pm
"You can gravity bomb the portal for all I care.." and she glances at the Commander "As for it (indicating the commander), drag it with us and you can work on detaching the numenera in the light of day instead of the darkness of this cavern."
Mar 2, 2015 10:39 pm
Qralloq says:
"Did you find a place for us to rest through the portal?"
"I can't answer whether or not the other side of the portal is a good place to rest. What I do know is that destroying the gate would deprive us an opportunity to figure out what the hell is going on here", Utazó answers Khoren and then turns to the others.

"The portal took me to a large room with white walls and a large door that led to a large hallway. I wanted to explore the hallway and went to carve a message into the wall to let anyone else who may come through know where I was headed. The wall healed itself! I then cut my finger to leave a message in blood, but again, the wall wiped any evidence that I was there away. That's when I decided to test the portal by throwing shins marked with clues into it."

"There was also a single window in the room and I still can't believe what I saw. A landscape like none I had ever seen before, pockmarked and barren white, except for what appeared to be other rooms or buildings attached by some sort of tubing. Like a vast complex of some sort. Oh, and above the door in the room was a sign that read 'onba pha'."

Utazó raises her sword towards Birtwood, "I think we need to get the big guy above ground and then go and see what the hell is going on behind this portal. I could use a rest though first, maybe we can take shifts guarding this room, while we all get rested up."
Last edited March 2, 2015 10:41 pm
Mar 2, 2015 11:30 pm
Vult replies, pausing for the moment, "Tara, lugging a 350 some-odd pound body isn't easy. I want to get out with you and Birtwood as much as you do, but a little patience would help. Unless you want to help me lug the body, that is."
Mar 3, 2015 3:50 am
Tara shrugs then grabs one of the commanders legs and starts dragging it behind her as she heads towards the exit.
Mar 3, 2015 1:15 pm
Zzzzzzzzzzzz.... Is it an hour yet?
Mar 3, 2015 3:30 pm
Merlin says:
Zzzzzzzzzzzz.... Is it an hour yet?
Question of the day.
Mar 3, 2015 4:19 pm
"One minute, Tara." Vult says. "There's still the matter of sabotaging the portal. If we're going to do this, assuming the commander wasn't lying, we need to get most everyone away and be ready to run."
Mar 3, 2015 7:16 pm
"Do it, don't do it. I hardly care. I'm not going near this portal again unless it's to blow it up. I've stated my position and my concerns. Do what you want. I'll be on the surface if you want to discuss this further." and upon saying that Tara lets go of the commanders leg and starts heading to the surface with Birtwood.. and doesn't look back or stop until she gets there.
Mar 3, 2015 7:46 pm
[OOC: If you hadn't caught on.. I do thoughts as ~text~ in italics.. This post is almost entirely thought]

~If they think I'm going to stay down there and discuss the portal in front of the portal they have another thing coming. It wasn't so bad.. until I fished Utazo from the other side..~ Tara shudders slightly at the thought. ~My hand feeling like it was detaching from my arm.. the.. pulling.. the cold feeling.. It reminds me of stories told around the campfire at night about death and dying. Sure, Utazo saw some amazing things on the other side.. That's nice. I'd prefer to keep my feet a little more on solid ground for now. Besides, I am still interested in recovering the Captains bounty and finding that Assassins Heart.. whatever the hell that is.~ Tara's mask takes on a determined look. She glances over at Birtwood, and that golden metalic thing we saw a glimmer of in his bark. ~No idea what that is.. but the bigger problem is it's like something jumbles everyones thoughts down there. They didn't even tie up the commander, and then got into a tussle giving him a chance to escape? The only other option is that they are all mental.. which after seeing Yui.. wouldn't really shock me, girl is a tad scary sometimes, but I thought Darazen's head was screwed on a little tighter. Well, once we're on the surface, and Birtwood is more at ease and feeling a little stronger, and I can get a better look at that thing in his.. bark. We'll see if anyone else follows me out.. or if I have to start making alternative plans..~
Last edited March 3, 2015 7:47 pm
Mar 3, 2015 7:47 pm
~Darazen sinks into a deep peaceful sleep. His cocoon-like posture is comforting, much like a baby's fetal position in the womb. He is further comforted by the closeness of Yui, and her soft touch beside him. At the periphery of his senses he thinks he hears an argument, but that is nothing compared to the horrors he's witness over the last couple of hours. It is easy to ignore. Darazen has enjoyed a relatively comfortable life, safe in the confines of academic structure, looked after and cared for by his father Zen and his mother Dara. He feels foolish now that he ran away from home... why exactly? Petulance? And now he's caught up in a nightmare, fighting people with no sense of right and wrong. Evil... that's all he can describe them as.

He is floating, feeling is good. His mind replays conversations, the commander, the subcommander... the queen? The queen unclothed with her tight flesh and shapely form... voluptuous, sexy, insatiable... No...NO!... she is evil. She must be stopped.

His mind drags himself back to more pleasant thoughts... a meadow... flowers... blue skies...

The dream continues as Darazen continues to rest...
~

(ooc: adopting Tara's suggestion... also see strategy post)
Last edited March 3, 2015 8:03 pm

Rolls

1 hour rest... (hopefully) - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Mar 3, 2015 8:06 pm
Seeing Darazen resting, Utazó decides to take a bit of a rest herself. Moving over to the entrance of the chamber she finds the least mucky spot that she can and sits down. "Don't blow up anything while I'm resting, all right?", she says as she leans back a bit and closes her eyes.

Rolls

10 minute rest. - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Mar 3, 2015 8:15 pm
Khoren glances hard at Tara's back, then at Vult by the portal, then Yui and Darazen, and finally Utazo. With a sigh, he picks up the commander's sword, swings it a couple of times, and then sits near Utazo. "Watch out for the Wizen, we'll follow you when we can," he calls to Tara.

~Go through the portal. Go through the portal. Stop it. You have to go through the portal, it's your only shot. Stop it.~

Rolls

10 minute rest - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Mar 3, 2015 8:26 pm
Qralloq says:
Khoren glances hard at Tara's back, then at Vult by the portal, then Yui and Darazen, and finally Utazo. With a sigh, he picks up the commander's sword, swings it a couple of times, and then sits near Utazo. "Watch out for the Wizen, we'll follow you when we can," he calls to Tara.

~Go through the portal. Go through the portal. Stop it. You have to go through the portal, it's your only shot. Stop it.~
The sword feels light in your hands, and as you swing it.....

Intellect check: 1D20
Mar 3, 2015 8:48 pm
"Ahh.. sunlight.."

Rolls

Perception - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Mar 3, 2015 8:52 pm
Vult sighs as Tara heads to the surface, muttering under his breath, "Why is everyone so impatient." Setting back to work on the commander, he starts extracting Numenera, and then he'll ask everyone else remaining, "Is everyone ok with sabotaging the portal and possibly needing to run like hell?"
Mar 3, 2015 9:03 pm
I thought I locked this thread. :)
Mar 3, 2015 9:28 pm
OOC: Don't you know? I'm trained in lock picking ;)

Thread locked