Apr 29, 2025 10:53 pm
IC stuff goes here.
The Adventure
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Apr 29, 2025 11:25 pm
You're in Rackon's Bluff, a small settlement of roughly 200 souls in the southern part of the Deep Wilds. As the name implies, the village sits on a small hill, surrounded by a palisade wall. As with most places in the Ironlands, the buildings are simple wooden structures with thatched roofs.
The village is named after Rackon Thalken, a legendary Ironsworn...and infamous womanizer. It's said he had twenty children from six different women, but nobody knows for sure; the numbers change depending on who's telling the tale.
After Rackon retired from adventuring, he decided to found a small settlement with his "family." Though the quarrels between all involved were as legendary as Rackon himself (and sons, daughters, and lovers frequently departed in a rage), the settlement held together. More people joined them. Now, centuries later, the Bluff is well-established.
Though there are a few tidy plots of farmland at the base of the hill, the forest presses close. Hunting and gathering are primarily how the villagers sustain themselves. Occasionally someone will stumble upon something interesting in the wilds, and travel to other villages to barter it, but generally there isn't much trade.
It's the end of autumn, and the weather is still cool. But winter is coming. Snowstorms, biting winds, and bone-chilling temperatures will be here soon enough.
You sit in the home of Caldus Thalken, a distant descendant of Rackon. He's the village elder, as this title traditionally goes to the eldest Thalken, male or female. Like Rackon, he's a former Ironsworn, now retired.
Though white-haired and a bit stooped, veins bulge on his hands and forearms, and his gaze is penetrating. This is a man who's seen much, and who would still be a dangerous foe in battle, were he pressed into action.
His two-room home is tidy and Spartan. A fire crackles in the hearth. Perhaps surprisingly, you see few trophies from his life of adventuring. The only truly eye-catching objects are a sword hanging above the fireplace, some green gems inlaid in its pommel, and a humanoid skull hanging right above that.
The village is named after Rackon Thalken, a legendary Ironsworn...and infamous womanizer. It's said he had twenty children from six different women, but nobody knows for sure; the numbers change depending on who's telling the tale.
After Rackon retired from adventuring, he decided to found a small settlement with his "family." Though the quarrels between all involved were as legendary as Rackon himself (and sons, daughters, and lovers frequently departed in a rage), the settlement held together. More people joined them. Now, centuries later, the Bluff is well-established.
Though there are a few tidy plots of farmland at the base of the hill, the forest presses close. Hunting and gathering are primarily how the villagers sustain themselves. Occasionally someone will stumble upon something interesting in the wilds, and travel to other villages to barter it, but generally there isn't much trade.
It's the end of autumn, and the weather is still cool. But winter is coming. Snowstorms, biting winds, and bone-chilling temperatures will be here soon enough.
You sit in the home of Caldus Thalken, a distant descendant of Rackon. He's the village elder, as this title traditionally goes to the eldest Thalken, male or female. Like Rackon, he's a former Ironsworn, now retired.
Though white-haired and a bit stooped, veins bulge on his hands and forearms, and his gaze is penetrating. This is a man who's seen much, and who would still be a dangerous foe in battle, were he pressed into action.
His two-room home is tidy and Spartan. A fire crackles in the hearth. Perhaps surprisingly, you see few trophies from his life of adventuring. The only truly eye-catching objects are a sword hanging above the fireplace, some green gems inlaid in its pommel, and a humanoid skull hanging right above that.
[ +- ] Image
Apr 29, 2025 11:31 pm
"Thank you for coming, Ironsworn. Please, help yourself."
He gestures to the table he's sitting at. On it sit two wooden pitchers, along with two cups: one pitcher has ale, the other spring water. There's also a loaf of bread, some cheese, and some roast venison.
"I'll get to the point. We sit within the Wilds, so we know there will always be strange beasts and such to deal with. But a new threat has arisen, one that concerns even an old adventurer like myself."
"You know of the Broken, the pitiful, feral people who populated these lands before we arrived? A number of them live to the southeast of the Bluff. Usually, they're little more than nuisances, content to gnaw on bones or claw at each other. A show of force from us when they act up, and they usually scurry back into the deep shadows of the woods."
"But now something emboldens them. Our hunters and scouts report seeing a strange red gleaming in their eyes on occasion; when that red is present, the Broken attack with tremendous ferocity, and usually do not stop until either they or their opponents are slain."
"Not only that, woodland creatures, even usually harmless ones, have gone red-eyed and attacked us. Just yesterday, a pack of hunters was attacked by rabbits, of all things. One even lost an eye, so quick and nimble are those animals."
"This all started two weeks ago. Since then, five have been killed, and eight maimed. This is unacceptable! We will have retribution."
"Both my heart and my head tell me some fell force is behind this. Find them, kill them. No quarter. They don't deserve mercy. If this isn't controlled, though, and is rather some random natural occurrence...well, we'll cross that bridge if we come to it."
"I suggest you head southeast, where the Broken traditionally reside; we've seen little red-eye activity from any other direction."
He gazes wistfully at the sword and skull, then sighs.
"I wish I could go with you, but those days are past. My responsibility lies here."
"Will you help us, Ironsworn? The Bluff would be indebted to you, until the end of your days."
He gestures to the table he's sitting at. On it sit two wooden pitchers, along with two cups: one pitcher has ale, the other spring water. There's also a loaf of bread, some cheese, and some roast venison.
"I'll get to the point. We sit within the Wilds, so we know there will always be strange beasts and such to deal with. But a new threat has arisen, one that concerns even an old adventurer like myself."
"You know of the Broken, the pitiful, feral people who populated these lands before we arrived? A number of them live to the southeast of the Bluff. Usually, they're little more than nuisances, content to gnaw on bones or claw at each other. A show of force from us when they act up, and they usually scurry back into the deep shadows of the woods."
"But now something emboldens them. Our hunters and scouts report seeing a strange red gleaming in their eyes on occasion; when that red is present, the Broken attack with tremendous ferocity, and usually do not stop until either they or their opponents are slain."
"Not only that, woodland creatures, even usually harmless ones, have gone red-eyed and attacked us. Just yesterday, a pack of hunters was attacked by rabbits, of all things. One even lost an eye, so quick and nimble are those animals."
"This all started two weeks ago. Since then, five have been killed, and eight maimed. This is unacceptable! We will have retribution."
"Both my heart and my head tell me some fell force is behind this. Find them, kill them. No quarter. They don't deserve mercy. If this isn't controlled, though, and is rather some random natural occurrence...well, we'll cross that bridge if we come to it."
"I suggest you head southeast, where the Broken traditionally reside; we've seen little red-eye activity from any other direction."
He gazes wistfully at the sword and skull, then sighs.
"I wish I could go with you, but those days are past. My responsibility lies here."
"Will you help us, Ironsworn? The Bluff would be indebted to you, until the end of your days."
Apr 30, 2025 9:09 pm
Gevin enters the room and greets elder Caldus. He is an average sized man in his early 30s and is wearing a brown leather jerkin, black cloth pants and a leather cap, which he takes off out of respect. His weapons and shield were just outside the door, only a dagger adorns his belt. When he is offered a drink, he walks to the table. Picks up the pitcher of ale, fills a cup halfway and then adds water until full, as is the custom of his village. Then he sits down on a stool and listens to what the elder has to say as he sips the drink.
"That sounds serious, Elder." He says after hearing the story. "I too have heard the tales of the broken. They can be tricky to deal with when they ambush you, but as you say should be easily repelled." He strokes his beard. "These red eyes do indeed make me think of foul magics." He takes a minute to consider his options.
"Very well." He continues. "I will head southeast then at first light tomorrow. I will take the time until then to prepare for the journey." He finishes his drink, gets up and kneels in front of Elder Caldus. With a fist pressed against his chest he says "Elder. I vow to get to the bottom of this and if within my power, put an end to it."
"That sounds serious, Elder." He says after hearing the story. "I too have heard the tales of the broken. They can be tricky to deal with when they ambush you, but as you say should be easily repelled." He strokes his beard. "These red eyes do indeed make me think of foul magics." He takes a minute to consider his options.
"Very well." He continues. "I will head southeast then at first light tomorrow. I will take the time until then to prepare for the journey." He finishes his drink, gets up and kneels in front of Elder Caldus. With a fist pressed against his chest he says "Elder. I vow to get to the bottom of this and if within my power, put an end to it."
OOC:
I think I share a bond with this elder, as we are of the same descent.Rolls
Swear a vow - (1d6+2+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2+1 : (6) + 3 = 9
1d10 : (7) = 7
1d10 : (4) = 4
Apr 30, 2025 9:31 pm
OOC:
Yes, we'll say you have a bond with Caldus. But shouldn't the roll be 8 instead of 9, since your Heart is 1? Regardless, it's still a strong hit, so you're emboldened and ready to adventure!"Rise, Gevin. The iron has tasted your promise, and the spirits and gods also bear witness. May your path be true, and may you not falter when the shadows gather. Know this: such a vow is not made lightly, nor will its weight lessen until it is fulfilled… or broken."
He then relaxes a bit, and offers you a warm smile.
"Since you are my kin, my heart feels lighter knowing you are undertaking this quest. It will be difficult, I feel, but the descendants of Rackon aren't known for slothfulness or cowardice."
But now he lets out a chuckle.
"Well, there are some exceptions, as you well know...but let's not get into that."
And so Gevin Obrek swears an iron vow, and thus begins the quest. What will he do now?
Apr 30, 2025 9:35 pm
OOC:
You're right, I used wits instead. My mistake! Still the same result, luckily. :DApr 30, 2025 10:45 pm
Gevin takes advantage of the time he has to tell his family and a few friends he is leaving for a while and to get ready for the journey tomorrow. Food, water, a warm cloak, ... . Things to survive the harsh incoming weather for multiple days. Then he heads home to get some rest. He will need it!He awakes to the sound of the rooster's cock-a-doodle-doo just before sunrise. The perfect time to pack up and head out. He knows where to go. Southeast, about half a day's walk away is a clearing that is often used as a meet-up spot for the hunters of the village. From there he will have to look for a trail or any signs of activity. Perhaps he'll be lucky enough to meet someone along the way to talk to.
But those are things he will figure out later. Now it's time to go.
OOC:
I'm not sure if you want me to ask questions that I think new players would have. But in this case, they would probably ask "How much money do I have and what does survival gear cost?"But those are things he will figure out later. Now it's time to go.
OOC:
Do I roll for the journey here already? Or would that start from the clearing I'm already familiar with?Apr 30, 2025 11:59 pm
OOC:
Your supply is already at +5, and Ironsworn rules state that bartering is usually the primary form of trade. I suppose you could have some silver pieces and trinkets, but supply is supposed to be more abstract compared to something like D&D. I'd say the Secure an Advantage move is your best bet. How have you handled an issue like this in your games?Yes, your journey starts here, so roll Undertake a Journey when ready!
May 1, 2025 11:45 pm
OOC:
The way I usually play it is, my character has everything that would be reasonable. Here you could say the elder supplied some currency or barter to trade with for your journey or that Gevin has enough to get basic supplies. Anything special may require a roll. Either secure advantage or sojourn.
If you're unsure wether the character has enough money or stuff to trade, Delve also has a "check your gear" move. That way you can roll to see if you could do it without a more difficult route.
It kinda depends wether you want to risk a potential pay the price for a mechanical advantage.
In this case, I just said those things as flavor :) no need for any real advantage. :)
Rolls
Undertake a Journey (wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (5) + 2 = 7
1d10 : (8) = 8
1d10 : (5) = 5
May 2, 2025 9:28 pm
OOC:
I'll also give you +1, since you share a bond with this community. But you still only beat one of the challenge dice, so a weak hit.However, the wind switches after a bit, bringing in warmer air. Gevin has to drink more from his waterskin than anticipated, and there are only a few drops left when he arrives at his destination.
OOC:
You reach a waypoint (the clearing, I believe) and mark 3 progress for the journey. However, the weak hit means you lose 1 supply.For supply: yes, an Ironsworn would have reasonable adventuring gear. I like that this game reduces the emphasis on gear/supply, so players aren't worrying about rations or whatever.
I also like any "supply flavor," as long as it doesn't bleed over to OP mechanical benefits. I know players like to min/max, but those poor GMs (me!) have to challenge them SOMEHOW. 😎
May 2, 2025 11:02 pm
OOC:
Thnx. I wasn't sure about the bond, so didn't mention it :)You'll find I'm not much of a min/maxer. I just enjoy the stories, even if it ends in death.
Seems like we're on the same page for that kinda stuf. Awesome.
I've added a journey on my char sheet and marked 3 progress.
OOC:
I think a new player would be like. "I go to the clearing what do I see?" And leave the rest to you. But I thought it might be useful to give you a hint as to what I expected to find. Feel free to ignore that and go in a different direction though.May 3, 2025 7:41 pm
Quote:
I think a new player would be like. "I go to the clearing what do I see?" And leave the rest to you. But I thought it might be useful to give you a hint as to what I expected to find. Feel free to ignore that and go in a different direction though.OOC:
Yeah, that's what I'm trying to figure out how to handle. As I mentioned in the OOC chat, for a strong hit, and any partial success portion of a weak hit, I would give the player reasonable agency to advance the narrative. So yes, they could find a spring in this instance, or meet a fellow villager. But that can get confusing, especially when IMO most people are used to a fully DM-driven narrative. I'm already seeing that co-op might be the best option for this system.However, you first notice a red-haired woman sitting on a log, her right leg splayed out in front of her. The leg is bandaged at the thigh; you notice some blood has seeped through. The woman doesn't seem to be in critical condition, though, as she waves at you pleasantly as you get closer.
Once you're within earshot, the woman addresses you....
[ +- ] Image
May 3, 2025 7:56 pm
You now see this is Etta Karl, a hunter from your village. Etta is an excellent shot with a bow, and has won many a bet from men who underestimate her ability. While dedicated to the Bluff, she's also a bit of a wild card; for example, she occasionally paints her face with temporary tattoos, sometimes even writing provocative words on her flesh. Her tattoos now are smeared, evidently from some sort of exertion.
"Ho there, Gevin! What brings you out here? Maybe looking for me? How sweet! I always knew you had a soft spot for feisty redheads!"
She points to her injured leg and shakes her head.
"Was out here having a look-see, maybe bag some small game if I could. Then, outta nowhere, a hawk swooped down on me! Red eyes, of course. Talons and beak tryin' to rip me to shreds. Bow was useless close range, so I hadda use me knife. Got the bastard, but not before he got me."
She now reaches behind her and lifts up the slashed and bloodied remains of the hawk. After letting you gaze at it for a moment, she tosses it contemptuously aside.
"I'm fine, can walk back to the Bluff, no problem. Just needed to patch myself up. But watch yourself, Gevin, if you're plannin' on stayin' out here. You never can tell when one o' them red-eyes will pop up and try'n end ya."
"Ho there, Gevin! What brings you out here? Maybe looking for me? How sweet! I always knew you had a soft spot for feisty redheads!"
She points to her injured leg and shakes her head.
"Was out here having a look-see, maybe bag some small game if I could. Then, outta nowhere, a hawk swooped down on me! Red eyes, of course. Talons and beak tryin' to rip me to shreds. Bow was useless close range, so I hadda use me knife. Got the bastard, but not before he got me."
She now reaches behind her and lifts up the slashed and bloodied remains of the hawk. After letting you gaze at it for a moment, she tosses it contemptuously aside.
"I'm fine, can walk back to the Bluff, no problem. Just needed to patch myself up. But watch yourself, Gevin, if you're plannin' on stayin' out here. You never can tell when one o' them red-eyes will pop up and try'n end ya."
May 3, 2025 10:44 pm
Gevin was happy to see a familiar face. Though less happy to see her injured. "Good morrow, Etta. He greets her. Before he can ask what happened she's already explaining. He lets her finish as he sits near her on a rock.
"These things are seriously dangerous, aren't they?" He asks, already knowing the answer. Inside his head the thoughts start to race. Am I really the right person for this?
But he has to press on and fullfil his vow. He fills his water skin and gets ready to continue. "It just so happens I'm here to find out what exactly is going on." He looks at her leg. "I could use a bow at my back, if you won't slow me down." That last part he says with a teasing grin and wink.
"Which direction from here were you attacked?" While waiting for an answer, Gevin attempts to inspect the bird carcass. Perhaps there is a clue to be found.
"These things are seriously dangerous, aren't they?" He asks, already knowing the answer. Inside his head the thoughts start to race. Am I really the right person for this?
But he has to press on and fullfil his vow. He fills his water skin and gets ready to continue. "It just so happens I'm here to find out what exactly is going on." He looks at her leg. "I could use a bow at my back, if you won't slow me down." That last part he says with a teasing grin and wink.
"Which direction from here were you attacked?" While waiting for an answer, Gevin attempts to inspect the bird carcass. Perhaps there is a clue to be found.
May 3, 2025 10:48 pm
OOC:
From what I've seen on the internet, this game is either played coop, or with a guide who only facilitates the play. Giving the players ideas to create their own story. While it's possible to use it for a premade campagne, I think you could find a system that does that better.That being said, so far I'm enjoying the test run. :)
May 3, 2025 11:19 pm
OOC:
I'm actually improv-ing this quest, at least to an extent. I have some story beats in mind, and a Big Bad, but you can push the story in different directions. For example, you created the clearing and the spring, so it made sense for me to make a character for you to meet, since the clearing would be frequently used by the village.But again, the Controlling Hand of the GM™ can probably still be felt.
What do you think about switching to co-op? I can play Etta and join you. Then each of us can unleash our creativity. And since we're both familiar with the system, we can hash out any mechanics issues.
I know it's early to be switcheroo-ing, but I already have enough data to realize that even a "hands-off" GM feels awkward. As you note, there are better systems for GM-driven play.
May 4, 2025 6:37 am
OOC:
I think you're doing a great job so far.If you want to play Etta, by all means join me :D
I'm happy to switch it up. It's your test run after all! Explore to your desire.
May 4, 2025 6:44 pm
OOC:
Cool. 😎I'll join you then. Lemme get all the stuff set up.
For a vow, the rules state one person should do the actual move, with others using the Aid Your Ally move if they want. But Etta wasn't with you when you took your oath, so I'd like her to make her own vow. It'll have the same mechanics as yours, and she'll also be on the same Undertake a Journey as you. Plus, it'll make sense narratively, as you'll see shortly.
Also, I think it's fair to start her at 4 health instead of 5, due to her injury.
May 4, 2025 7:42 pm
It takes a moment for the full import of Gevin's words to sink in. When they do, her face flushes to nearly match her hair.
"Wait a minute...you took an Iron Vow?!"
Dammit! Why him, and not me? But...what was stopping me! Nothing!
As she broods, she points to the west.
"Hawk attacked me only about 50 yards from here."
More brooding. She massages her leg gently. Looks at her bow. Reaches behind her to feel the fletching of her arrows.
"So, Gevin...do you truly want my help? No teasing a poor wounded lass, now."
"Wait a minute...you took an Iron Vow?!"
Dammit! Why him, and not me? But...what was stopping me! Nothing!
As she broods, she points to the west.
"Hawk attacked me only about 50 yards from here."
More brooding. She massages her leg gently. Looks at her bow. Reaches behind her to feel the fletching of her arrows.
"So, Gevin...do you truly want my help? No teasing a poor wounded lass, now."
May 4, 2025 8:35 pm
OOC:
All sounds perfectly reasonable to me.I seem to remember reading somewhere that even the creator says the rules should never hinder the story. If it makes sense to do something, do it.
An example that was used was; you start a journey, but half way there, you find a person who knows the way. If they want to be your guide then you can simply reach your destination without rolling. :) I quite liked that fact and it makes sense.
May 5, 2025 12:52 pm
Gevin gives a 'humpf' "You call that wounded? I've seen you come back with far worse!" He smirks. "You have experience with this area. Your knowledge and fighting strength would be of great use." He continues. "So yes, I'd be happy to have your company."
He heaves his backpack onto his shoulders again and walks in the direction that Etta pointed at before. "50 yards? That's not too far. Do you need help with the bandage? If not, I'd like to get going." He says, eager to continue his missions, but also slightly worried for Etta's wound. Even though he made light of it, wounds can always go ugly quickly if not taken care of.
He heaves his backpack onto his shoulders again and walks in the direction that Etta pointed at before. "50 yards? That's not too far. Do you need help with the bandage? If not, I'd like to get going." He says, eager to continue his missions, but also slightly worried for Etta's wound. Even though he made light of it, wounds can always go ugly quickly if not taken care of.
May 5, 2025 9:44 pm
Etta laughs at Gevin's teasing, but does quickly stand up, to prove she is indeed capable of aiding him. This causes her to wince, but that doesn't concern her; as long as they stop every so often so she can rest and change her bandages, she should be fine. It'd also be helpful if they could find plants with healing properties to apply to the gash, but with their combined abilities, that shouldn't be an issue.
"Eager to make a name for yourself, eh? Be leery, Gevin...I've heard even Rackon himself got into trouble sometimes by being too hasty! Oh, but who am I to lecture you on patience?"
She laughs again heartily, but then her expression becomes serious.
"You took an Iron Vow, yes? What did you say, exactly? If you'll hold a moment, I would also like to make a vow. I want to be your Ironsworn partner in this, not some tagalong with little responsibility."
"Will you hear my vow, Gevin?"
"Eager to make a name for yourself, eh? Be leery, Gevin...I've heard even Rackon himself got into trouble sometimes by being too hasty! Oh, but who am I to lecture you on patience?"
She laughs again heartily, but then her expression becomes serious.
"You took an Iron Vow, yes? What did you say, exactly? If you'll hold a moment, I would also like to make a vow. I want to be your Ironsworn partner in this, not some tagalong with little responsibility."
"Will you hear my vow, Gevin?"
May 7, 2025 3:16 pm
Gevin didn't consider that Etta may want to join in this vow. So far, even though it hadn't been that long, it was his burden to bare. He had not thought about sharing it with someone until just now.
"Uhm..." He stumbles "Yes, of course I will hear your vow." Then he explains his own vow and gives the information he had gotten from elder Caldus. "I would be honored if you vow to join me in this." He looks around for a good symbolic place to do the vow at. "How about over there, near the waystone?"
"Uhm..." He stumbles "Yes, of course I will hear your vow." Then he explains his own vow and gives the information he had gotten from elder Caldus. "I would be honored if you vow to join me in this." He looks around for a good symbolic place to do the vow at. "How about over there, near the waystone?"
May 8, 2025 10:00 pm
OOC:
Figured we have a bond, so +1. Weak hit, take +1 momentum.Placing her hand on the rough stone, she takes a deep breath, then speaks:
"I swear to aid Gevin Obrek in his mission to investigate the cause of this red-eye witchery, and end it if it's in my power to do so. Let Gevin, the spirits, and the gods hear this vow."
But as soon as she finishes, doubt creeps into her mind. How exactly were they supposed to find the cause of this? Just keep meandering south, directly into clear danger? Gevin also seemed to have doubts....
"Well...[long pause]...that's that. Few words, but they feel...heavy. But don't worry, Gevin; I'm no oathbreaker. I intend to stay by your side until this is finished."
"So, what now? Shall we continue south? I don't believe you'll find anything of note in this area. Oh, what about your supply? Do we need to fortify ourselves for the journey?"
Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Swear an Iron Vow - (1d6+2+1)
(1) + 3 = 4
May 11, 2025 4:39 pm
"I think if you bring water, we'll be alright for the journey." Gevin says. "We can forage for food if needed."
He looks to the direction Etta mentioned she was attacked at earlier. "We go that way and see if we can find anything that brings us to the source." Though unsure of how to handle this, he knows which way to go and is quite determined about it. Hopefully that'll remain that way as the journey progresses.
Edit: unfortunately, that's a miss :/
What do you think would go wrong here?
He looks to the direction Etta mentioned she was attacked at earlier. "We go that way and see if we can find anything that brings us to the source." Though unsure of how to handle this, he knows which way to go and is quite determined about it. Hopefully that'll remain that way as the journey progresses.
OOC:
Rolling for the journey.Edit: unfortunately, that's a miss :/
What do you think would go wrong here?
Last edited May 11, 2025 4:40 pm
Rolls
Undertake a Journey (wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (4) + 2 = 6
1d10 : (9) = 9
1d10 : (6) = 6
May 11, 2025 8:21 pm
Quote:
What do you think would go wrong here?OOC:
Up to you! Since this is now co-op, with me being only sorta the GM, you can push forward the story on your moves as well.What "perilous event" will we encounter?! 😲
May 11, 2025 8:25 pm
OOC:
I usually consult the action & theme tables for this. So I'll do that here. :) As far as I know there's no wrong way of doing it so this is what I went with for my Solo games.Action & Theme: Remove Burden
The only burden I can think of right now is Etta's leg. Perhaps it proves more serious than she assumed and needs to be looked at before we can continue.
"That doesn't look good, Etta." He says pointing to the blood she may not have noticed. "Would you allow me to have a look at it? It's always easier to bind someone else's wounds rather than your own." He frowns, realizing he should have offered that before. "I'm sorry I didn't realize that back at the clearing."
OOC:
Let me know what you think of this approach :DLast edited May 11, 2025 8:38 pm
Rolls
Action & Theme - (2d100)
(2441) = 65
May 11, 2025 8:43 pm
OOC:
Totes_McGee says:
What "perilous event" will we encounter?! 😲Often just having to do another roll is already a bad thing, because you will most likely have another weak hit or miss :P
That being said, if you want to do that differently, I'm all for experimenting! :D I'm happy to adapt to your vision of how to play. The aim is to give you insight into what works for you and what doesn't.
If you leave the choice to me, I will do it my way. So, feel free to be the 'director' of this game still.
May 11, 2025 8:56 pm
OOC:
Yup, that works! I'm going to use the Aid Your Ally (Secure an Advantage) move to set up your next move."Oh, this ain't nothin', Gevin! Barely a scratch!"
But then she steps on a rock awkwardly, and grunts in pain. The blood running down her leg also drips onto the path, turning a few spots of dirt maroon.
After a heavy and grumpy sigh: "Fine, take a gander at it." Then smirking: "But this better not be an excuse to get your hands on these fine, shapely legs o' mine!"
Finding another log to rest on, she dexterously and quickly removes the soaked-through bandage. With her precise hands and focus, she could probably make a fine healer. She then reaches into her pack and pulls out another bandage.
While waiting for Gevin, she uses her waterskin to wash away some caked-on blood. The wound is long, but doesn't appear to be that deep...though the fact that it's still bleeding is surely concerning....
OOC:
Strong hit, so you get the benefits. Looks like you have two choices from Secure an Advantage.Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(3) = 3
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Secure Advantage, Aid Ally, +edge - (1d6+3)
(2) + 3 = 5
May 11, 2025 9:25 pm
Quote:
Something else I tend to do is start slow and build up as more misses stack. I've found that if you start with a serious danger or problem on your first or second miss, things can spiral out of control in a bad way.Often just having to do another roll is already a bad thing, because you will most likely have another weak hit or miss :P
That being said, if you want to do that differently, I'm all for experimenting! :D I'm happy to adapt to your vision of how to play. The aim is to give you insight into what works for you and what doesn't.
If you leave the choice to me, I will do it my way. So, feel free to be the 'director' of this game still.
OOC:
Yeah, that's fine. Do your thang!For my part, I've found that PbP is so slow that people (myself included) can lose interest if there's not something awesome, epic, or dangerous happening. My approach isn't exactly "all killer no filler," but it's probably more hectic than an IRL game where the narrative moves forward at a measured pace.
At least, that's my intent. Whether I succeed is a different story. Since I do like the roleplay/storytelling aspect as well, maybe it balances out, and my style is actually "normal"?
Anyway, between your style and mine, we should have some interesting stuff happening!
May 11, 2025 9:33 pm
OOC:
Quote:
Anyway, between your style and mine, we should have some interesting stuff happening!May 13, 2025 6:47 am
Gevin kneels in front of Etta to take a good look at the wound. At least with her cleaning it with water, it looked better already. But the flow of blood wasn't stopping. "Looks like a nasty cut. I have nothing to sew it shut with in my backpack, so I'll have to just put enough pressure on it and hope that does the trick." He tells her. "I do have some poultice that I brought from the village. Though it's actually to cure itching, it may be useful to plug up the wound a bit."
He takes a bandage and places it on the back of her leg. "Hold this and brace yourself for some pain." Then he takes the poultice and applies it generously. When that's looking good he starts to wrap it as tightly as possible.
I think supply makes the most sense here. That will bring us down to 3 supply, unfortunately.
He takes a bandage and places it on the back of her leg. "Hold this and brace yourself for some pain." Then he takes the poultice and applies it generously. When that's looking good he starts to wrap it as tightly as possible.
OOC:
That's a weak hit. So Etta regains 2 HP, but Gevin suffers -1 supply or momentum.I think supply makes the most sense here. That will bring us down to 3 supply, unfortunately.
Last edited May 13, 2025 6:50 am
Rolls
Heal (taking the +1 from secure an advantage) (wits) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (5) + 3 = 8
1d10 : (6) = 6
1d10 : (8) = 8
May 13, 2025 8:28 pm
Etta grimaces as Gevin does his work, but when he's finished the wound does feel better. More importantly, it's no longer dripping blood.
The archer paces back and forth, then squats and stretches to test the leg further. While still sore, she should be able to keep pace with Gevin without much difficulty.
"Not bad! I thought you had hands o' stone, but you did pretty well there! Now let's get moving, eh? No need to waste more daylight!"
The duo now proceed in their mission. They examine the area where Etta was attacked, but find nothing of note, so they decide to proceed in a generally southward direction.
The further they go, the more rugged the trails are, until they're mostly walking on narrow game trails. The woods press close, and the noises coming from the forest are perplexing. One moment, they hear the normal sounds of birds, beasts, and the wind in the trees. The next, it's eerily silent.
As they round a corner, they see what at first appears to be a normal forest scene: three deer, a buck and two does, walking on the trail towards them, about thirty yards away. But then the deer notice them...and both Gevin and Etta clearly see a red gleam in their eyes.
The deer let out a horrible blow and wheeze, and rush towards the two Ironsworn!
The archer paces back and forth, then squats and stretches to test the leg further. While still sore, she should be able to keep pace with Gevin without much difficulty.
"Not bad! I thought you had hands o' stone, but you did pretty well there! Now let's get moving, eh? No need to waste more daylight!"
OOC:
Agree on supply being depleted. Updated my sheet. Now rolling for Undertake a Journey...which is a miss!The further they go, the more rugged the trails are, until they're mostly walking on narrow game trails. The woods press close, and the noises coming from the forest are perplexing. One moment, they hear the normal sounds of birds, beasts, and the wind in the trees. The next, it's eerily silent.
As they round a corner, they see what at first appears to be a normal forest scene: three deer, a buck and two does, walking on the trail towards them, about thirty yards away. But then the deer notice them...and both Gevin and Etta clearly see a red gleam in their eyes.
The deer let out a horrible blow and wheeze, and rush towards the two Ironsworn!
OOC:
Time for our first battle! I'm saying these deer are Troublesome foes. Rolling Enter the Fray next. Looks like +heart is the most accurate roll.Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
Undertake Journey, +wits - (1d6+1)
(1) + 1 = 2
May 13, 2025 8:48 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. I choose to take initiative. Posting my attack next, then stopping to let you catch up.But she recovers quickly enough, notching an arrow and jumping behind a tree for cover.
Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Enter the Fray, +heart - (1d6+2)
(1) + 2 = 3
May 13, 2025 8:54 pm
OOC:
Weak hit, so I inflict harm and lose initiative. 2 harm from my bow, so 6 progress added to the deer, right?Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Strike, +edge - (1d6+3)
(3) + 3 = 6
May 14, 2025 10:06 pm
OOC:
Yes, 6 progress is correct. Not bad! Rolling my enter the frayRolls
Enter the fray (+heart) - (1d6+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+1 : (2) + 1 = 3
1d10 : (7) = 7
1d10 : (5) = 5
May 14, 2025 10:11 pm
OOC:
That's a miss - Pay the priceOOC:
I don't have advantage, so rolling a face danger here. I get a +1 bonus from my Shield Bearer asset/Last edited May 14, 2025 10:35 pm
Rolls
Face danger +iron - (1d6+4, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+4 : (3) + 4 = 7
1d10 : (4) = 4
1d10 : (4) = 4
May 14, 2025 10:13 pm
OOC:
That's a strong hit with a twist! :D I'm not sure if that also gives us progress. I don't think it does.So I gain initiative. For the twist, I will do an Action & Theme roll. Maybe it sparks a neat idea. You could also look at it as a "critical success", but I prefer to have something unexpected happen usually.
Action & Theme: Advance Decay. --> What do you think about the introduction of necromancy?
Last edited May 14, 2025 10:17 pm
Rolls
Action & Theme - (2d100)
(6928) = 97
May 14, 2025 11:26 pm
OOC:
No, you didn't harm the deer with Face Danger, so looks like no progress. But you get +1 momentum, right?Agreed with the matching numbers introducing a twist. And fine with necromancy.
If we manage to complete this quest, I'll share what I'd planned as DM, and we'll see how much things diverged!
Also, I'm embarrassed that I originally put "horns" instead of "antlers" for the buck. Two different things! My dad would've been so disappointed! 😭
May 15, 2025 8:18 am
OOC:
LOL. I actually wanted to write "antlers" instead of hooves, but when I saw your "horns" I got confused. And the I also thought maybe does don't have antlers. :PIf you have a pre-planned twist that your adventure was heading to. By all means, go for it! The book states that even after you roll for inspiration, if you're unhappy with the result you can roll again or pick something else completely.
I'm curious to see what you have envisioned either way :)
I really love this game for the fact that you can be surprised by what happens even in a solo adventure. You can just set a starting point and end up somewhere you never imagined it would get to. I've had some crazy "OMG THIS FITS PERFECTLY!!" moments. Where you wonder how random dice can make such amazing sense.
May 15, 2025 9:10 pm
OOC:
Does don't have antlers, correct. Only males (bucks) do. And antlers shed and then regrow annually, unlike horns. Probably a minor point, but if I ever play an RPG with any hunters, I'm sure they'd correct my terminology if I err.Nah, you can introduce necromancy. I have no problem re-rolling if it's a weird outcome, but I feel like this can fit somehow.
I'm happy to ride the rollercoaster. I'll have plenty of opportunity to toss in cool stuff when it's my "turn."
May 16, 2025 10:00 am
Gevin gets ready as the doe turns to come in for another attack. Bit this time he's ready. Holding his axe low he sweeps it just above the grass to hit the doe in it's legs while trying to hide behind his shield.
OOC:
Rolling a strikeRolls
Strike (+iron) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (3) + 3 = 6
1d10 : (10) = 10
1d10 : (1) = 1
May 16, 2025 10:04 am
OOC:
Weak hit: I do 2 harm, completing our fight track but lose initiative. So I can't end the battle. Have to think about about how I want to RP this result.
That just leaves the last doe to deal with. The dizzy vision makes it hard to see what that one is doing exactly.
"I'm alright." He calls out to Etta before she has the change to ask.
OOC:
I'm going to introduce the twist after the fight. The situatio is a bit too hectic now.Last edited May 16, 2025 11:13 am
May 16, 2025 8:08 pm
OOC:
Strong hit! Will end the fight next.Then again, red-eyed rabbits had mauled a group recently, so there shouldn't be much shame in getting assaulted by deer....
Though a bit out of sorts, the archer takes a deep breath to focus, notches another arrow, and sends it flying. It nails the remaining doe in the neck, causing it to tumble like the buck she shot.
With momentum now in her favor, Etta moves to end the fight....
Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(3) = 3
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
Clash, +edge - (1d6+3)
(6) + 3 = 9
May 16, 2025 8:16 pm
OOC:
Damn, dice gods almost forced a weak hit....After retrieving her arrows from the corpses, and wiping down both them and her dagger on the grass, she returns to Gevin's side.
"Invigorating little fight, eh? Though seeing such peaceful creatures filled with such rage...I know I'm a hunter, and have shot my share of deer, but still...."
OOC:
Want to mark progress on our quest? We haven't learned much of importance, so I'm ambivalent. Though maybe we should wait for whatever you've got brewing, because that'll be a more appropriate chance to progress.Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(9) = 9
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
May 16, 2025 8:48 pm
OOC:
Oh, for Clash's strong hit, I'll take +1 momentum. Easy choice, since deer progress was maxed out.May 16, 2025 9:20 pm
OOC:
Nice rolling!I agree, the fight alone is not significant enough.
I'll post something tomorrow about the twist and mark progress for that find.
That fight went very well. Haha
May 17, 2025 9:41 pm
Gevin breathes heavily. "Even though I knew this was happening, I didn't expect this." He says, still recovering from the surprise. "I understand now how the bird was able to hurt your leg."
He walks over to the doe he cut and grabs his dagger to cut off a chunk of meat. "Might as well use the meat for food tonight, right?" That's when he notices something's wrong. "Etta, come and smell this." He holds up a cut off piece of meat. "It smells off to me. Even though I just cut it. It even looks like it was left in the sun for a few days."
"What do you think?"
He walks over to the doe he cut and grabs his dagger to cut off a chunk of meat. "Might as well use the meat for food tonight, right?" That's when he notices something's wrong. "Etta, come and smell this." He holds up a cut off piece of meat. "It smells off to me. Even though I just cut it. It even looks like it was left in the sun for a few days."
"What do you think?"
May 18, 2025 7:25 pm
"The smell? You sure you didn't get bashed in the nose, Gevin?"
But after sniffing the meat, Etta wrinkles her nose and frowns. And Gevin's right: it doesn't look like meat cut from a freshly-slain deer.
"Gods...more strangeness. I think this is something new. I certainly don't remember anyone else mentioning anything similar. And we both examined the hawk that cut me. Nothing off with that meat, right?"
"Well, we're definitely not eating that for supper. But should we do anything with the corpses? Burying them will take time and energy...burning them might draw attention. Or do you want to cut 'em up even more, see if there are any more surprises?"
But after sniffing the meat, Etta wrinkles her nose and frowns. And Gevin's right: it doesn't look like meat cut from a freshly-slain deer.
"Gods...more strangeness. I think this is something new. I certainly don't remember anyone else mentioning anything similar. And we both examined the hawk that cut me. Nothing off with that meat, right?"
"Well, we're definitely not eating that for supper. But should we do anything with the corpses? Burying them will take time and energy...burning them might draw attention. Or do you want to cut 'em up even more, see if there are any more surprises?"
May 19, 2025 7:47 am
"You're right, I didn't notice it with the bird." Gevin agrees. "Though, I'm no expert of bird hunting." Did he really check that bird well enough. He's unsure.
"I say we leave them here for the wolves, if they're still interested in off meat." He tells Etta. It's not like they were leaving behind a friend. These are just wild animals. "Animals die all the time, right? Let's keep going."
I'm also going to mark progress on the vow track since this is something specific that we've found. Even though we don't yet know what it means.
It doesn't have to have anything to do with necromancy. We can still find a different reason for the decay. I say we leave it open-ended until the dice tell us more :)
"I say we leave them here for the wolves, if they're still interested in off meat." He tells Etta. It's not like they were leaving behind a friend. These are just wild animals. "Animals die all the time, right? Let's keep going."
OOC:
Going to roll another undertake a journey already. If you want to do something before, feel free. We'll just say it happens before we continue the trip.I'm also going to mark progress on the vow track since this is something specific that we've found. Even though we don't yet know what it means.
It doesn't have to have anything to do with necromancy. We can still find a different reason for the decay. I say we leave it open-ended until the dice tell us more :)
Rolls
Undertake a journey (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (2) + 2 = 4
1d10 : (3) = 3
1d10 : (4) = 4
May 19, 2025 7:55 am
OOC:
A weak hit again. So we mark progress but take -1 supply.We're now down to 2 supply. Maybe we should think about resupplying or making camp. Or risk it :D
Do you have an idea for a new location? If not, I'll use the oracle.
May 19, 2025 8:19 pm
OOC:
Isn't that a miss, since you have to beat the challenge dice, not just match?You can decide the location, since I created the last one.
May 19, 2025 8:54 pm
OOC:
I beat the 3 but not the 4. So weak hit. Am I seeing it wrong?Descriptor & Location: Broken Camp
Aspect & Focus: Inaccessible Supply
(I replaced some of the rolled words with what I thought would work better)
Once they get there, they spot a camp site in a small clearing. From a hidden spot in the bushed nearby, it looks abandoned. The bonfire that had likely been roaring not long ago has already been reduced to smoldering ash, which is causing the large amounts of smoke. "It looks like whoever was here already left. Could it be hunters from a village nearby?" He asks Etta quietly, just in case. "Did you see anyone while you were out in the wilderness alone?"
OOC:
This camp in some way holds an "inaccessible supply". Maybe a hidden cache?Last edited May 19, 2025 10:03 pm
Rolls
Aspect & Focus - (2d100)
(2540) = 65
location & descriptor - (2d100)
(1215) = 27
May 19, 2025 11:26 pm
OOC:
Oh yeah, you're right. Weak hit for you. Brain lapse. 😭Rolling Gather Information. Weak hit for me also. Taking +1 momentum.
Leaving Gevin for the moment, Etta slips quietly through the undergrowth, keeping eyes and ears open as she circles the small clearing. She doesn't notice anything amiss for several minutes, and is about to step into the clearing and whistle for Gevin, when she hears a grunt nearby.
Dropping down on all fours, she slithers closer to the noise. Finally she glimpses three male forms through the leaves and vines: the Broken, as she can tell from their filthy appearance and feral twitchiness. She also catches a gleam of red eyes.
The three are lying in a small depression, and are almost impossible to spot unless one is dangerously close to them. They're gazing intently at the campsite, occasionally letting out quiet grunts or snarls; perhaps this counts as their language. Though Etta considers herself well-versed in the world around Rackon's Bluff, the ways of the Broken are difficult to fathom.
The Broken have a large, tattered pack on the ground nearby; it doesn't look like something the craftspeople at the Bluff would create, but rather a strange mixture of tied-together vines, leaves, and bark. For the pitiful Broken, this is likely considered expertly designed.
The pack looks filled with supplies...and indeed, as Etta watches, one of the Broken reaches inside, pulls out a gourd that apparently serves as a waterskin, and takes a long gulp. Another pulls out a handful of something (a fruit and nut mix?) and munches the snack slowly.
Straining to be even quieter, Etta crawls back to Gevin. After catching her breath and making sure she wasn't followed, she tells him what she saw.
"I think this is clearly a trap, Gevin. Those three are well-hidden, watching the campsite like hawks, and probably have enough supplies to stake out this area for days. I doubt anyone ever truly used this site; the Broken started the fire to draw the unwary, and they almost succeeded."
"Even if it was made by others, they're no longer nearby. Killed by those Broken, maybe? Or perhaps they escaped by the skin of their teeth? Doesn't really matter; we can daydream about the possibilities all day, doesn't change the fact that we gotta handle this situation somehow."
"And those red eyes...I thought that meant the person or animal was always in a rage, unable to think or plan clearly. But no...not these Broken, at least...."
"What shall we do, Gevin? It would be nice to have those supplies o' theirs...but they outnumber us by one. Maybe we could distract 'em and grab the pack, then disappear...but who knows? Maybe they're good trackers, and will pick up our trail and ambush us anyway. Killing 'em now may save us a heap o' trouble in the future...."
OOC:
I'm thinking they'll be Dangerous foes if combat occurs.Rolls
Gather Information, +wits - (1d6+1)
(6) + 1 = 7
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
May 20, 2025 7:09 am
OOC:
I like what you added in that last post :D Nice!After thinking it through some more, he continues. "Alright. I will go off east and make some noise to hopefully lure them to me. Then I will hide. Meanwhile, you grab the bag and come back here. If they're smart, they will leave 1 guard behind. I'm sure you can handle that with a well-aimed arrow. If something goes wrong, we will make Rackon's hunting sound as a sign that we need to get back together."
OOC:
Since it's tough in PbP to really have a back-and-forth discussion, I'm going to go ahead with this plan. But in your next post, if you want to, you can still reply and make changes to this plan and I will adjust what Gevin does based on that.For example we can have a different meet-up point after the heist.
Once there he closes his eyes and quietly says "Mara of Nowhere, Goddess of Trickery, lend me your powers of deception and allow us to make this a fruitful journey. We honor you and will repay our debts with sacrifice."
OOC:
Rolling my aspect "Shadow-walk"Rolls
Shadow-Walk - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d10 : (5) = 5
1d10 : (9) = 9
May 20, 2025 7:14 am
OOC:
Well darn... A miss on that one :(So, this is something that the game doesn't really mention. If you miss on an aspect roll there is no specified result.
In the spirit of the game that on a miss you "pay the price", I usually add a bad thing related to what I just did.
OOC:
Taking -1 spirit.Do the broken come? - yes
Do they all come, or just some? - all of them (very convincingly with a 99 :D)
Last edited May 20, 2025 7:20 am
Rolls
Do the broken come to find the source of the noise? (Likely) - (1d100)
(59) = 59
Do they all come, or just some? (50/50) - (1d100)
(99) = 99
May 20, 2025 10:14 pm
Etta nods as Gevin outlines his plan.
"Agreed. Be careful. You're not as stealthy as me, you know. Since we joined forces, I sometimes think I'm traveling with a mammoth, so loud are your steps."
She chuckles softly and slaps Gevin on the back. Then she drops down and starts crawling and shuffling back to the Broken.
Again she gets into position without being seen or heard...and just in time, as she hears "Natasja! Can you hear me?" only a few seconds after settling into a waiting crouch.
The Broken hear it too, and with collective growls they're on their feet, each one wielding a crude battle-axe...and all of them rush towards the noise!
Gods! They left the pack behind, but can Gevin outwit all three? I better do something to confuse 'em even more....
Ignoring the pack for now, she notches an arrow....
"Agreed. Be careful. You're not as stealthy as me, you know. Since we joined forces, I sometimes think I'm traveling with a mammoth, so loud are your steps."
She chuckles softly and slaps Gevin on the back. Then she drops down and starts crawling and shuffling back to the Broken.
Again she gets into position without being seen or heard...and just in time, as she hears "Natasja! Can you hear me?" only a few seconds after settling into a waiting crouch.
The Broken hear it too, and with collective growls they're on their feet, each one wielding a crude battle-axe...and all of them rush towards the noise!
Gods! They left the pack behind, but can Gevin outwit all three? I better do something to confuse 'em even more....
Ignoring the pack for now, she notches an arrow....
OOC:
Going to use Secure an Advantage (with my Archer talent) and then Face Danger to distract the Broken.Rolls
Secure an Advantage, +1 from Archer, then "line up your shot" option - (1d6+3+1)
(2) + 4 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
May 20, 2025 10:19 pm
OOC:
Still only a weak hit, but I get +2 momentum from Archer and Secure an Advantage. Now rolling Face Danger.Identical numbers!
Unfortunately, the Broken are moving too swiftly, and the forest is thick. Her arrow doesn't track as she wishes. It THUNKS into a tree right in front of the feral men, so close she may have even grazed the cheek of one!
Now they know it's an arrow, and that it came from behind them! Reckoning that an archer is more dangerous than some random voice, they wheel around, and head back towards Etta!
Dammit! That's what I get for bragging about my stealthiness and precision....
She glances at the pack quickly, then with another curse she slips away without taking it. The extra weight and bulk would slow her down, and a stolen pack might enrage the Broken even more. And the Broken were fast; taking even a couple of seconds to secure the pack may be her undoing.
The archer manages to slip behind a large oak tree, and nestles down into some thorny undergrowth. She doesn't think the Broken saw where she went, but she's not completely sure. So she waits, wondering what will happen next. She's not confident enough to slip back to their designated meeting spot, so Gevin will hopefully wait a bit, and not do anything idiotic in a misguided attempt to save her....
OOC:
So rather than taking the "sacrifice resources" option for Face Danger and losing more supply, I think losing the Broken's pack counts as enough failure, and so our supply will remain at +2. Sound fair?And if you want to talk through options before committing to a post, feel free. But I should be able to handle whatever you throw at me.
Rolls
Face Danger, +edge - (1d6+3)
(3) + 3 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
May 22, 2025 7:41 am
OOC:
I'm fine with that. Would have been nice to have those supplies, but it did say they were "inaccessible" :DAlright. Same on my end. Go for what you think works. It makes playing this coop game much smoother when the players just accept what happens and move forwards. Too much discussion makes it very tedious.
After waiting another half minute, he decides to to shout again, just as he did before. "Natasja? Where are you? Tasja?" Hoping that this will do the trick.
OOC:
I'm going to rule this as a "compel" action. Since I'm trying to persuade the broken to come my way. On a weak hit, they will split up and we'll each have to deal with our part of the threat.On a miss, I'm not sure yet.
Rolls
Compel with a lie (+shadow) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d10 : (9) = 9
1d10 : (6) = 6
Action & Theme for the miss - (2d100)
(3592) = 127
Action & Theme again. They were not helpful - (2d100)
(4693) = 139
May 22, 2025 8:16 am
OOC:
Action & Theme: Falter Loss Mourn LawI still don't have an amazing idea with these prompts. I'm going to interpret is as a bad thing with the laws of nature -> the branch breaks and I fall.
If the broken show up now, he'll be in a terrible spot. He looks around for a different place to hide or an escape.
OOC:
Taking 1 harm. The broken are not compelled.May 22, 2025 7:00 pm
OOC:
By taking 1 harm, I think you reduced Health by 1? Asking because I know there's an Endure Harm move.Looks like all 3 Broken are still after me? I'm going to roll Face Danger again in an attempt to hide better, and use my Infiltrator ability.
Update: a miss! Time to pay the price....
But either the feral beings don't hear it, or they don't care, as their rustles, stomps, and snarls get ever closer to her....
Bastards! They don't have special senses, do they? Usually, no, I don't think so...but with that foul red magic...?
She tangles herself up in the undergrowth even more, and rubs dirt on her hands and face to camouflage herself better. But it's all for naught, as the Broken roar around the oak tree, and almost instantly spot her! Waving their axes and hooting, they surround her, then start hacking at the undergrowth to draw her out.
What now, Etta?! Fight or flight?!
Rolls
Face Danger, +shadow, +Infiltrator - (1d6+2+1)
(2) + 3 = 5
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(9) = 9
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
May 22, 2025 7:17 pm
OOC:
Flight is the decision! Rolling Face Danger again to hightail it. Not using Infiltrator again, because although it says "traverse" is a possibility, this situation doesn't feel in the spirit of the ability.Update: big hit! Taking +1 momentum.
Which, it turns out, is plenty swift. Though the Broken shriek and scamper after her, with one even throwing his axe in her direction, Etta is like a deer, bounding over or dodging around every obstacle in her path.
Soon the Broken's cacophony fades, but Etta keeps running, though her legs ache and sweat pours from her. Finally, she stumbles over a root and crashes into a bush, which is a strong signal to stop and get her bearings.
Crouching and readying an arrow, she listens closely for about a minute, but can hear nothing but the wind moving through the woods.
Think I've lost 'em. They'd be raisin' a ruckus if they were near. By the gods, I haven't run like that since I was a girl! I need to rest a bit...but where's Gevin? Wonder if I can signal him somehow....
Rolls
Face Danger, +edge - (1d6+3)
(6) + 3 = 9
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
May 22, 2025 8:50 pm
OOC:
Oh, I forgot about the endure harm move. Thanks for the teminder!I'll roll that one too
That's a hit! Taking +1 momentum
Last edited May 22, 2025 8:51 pm
Rolls
Endure harm - (1d6+4, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+4 : (6) + 4 = 10
1d10 : (2) = 2
1d10 : (7) = 7
May 22, 2025 9:20 pm
Gevin slowly gets up, he's in some pain, but it'll wear off soon. The odd thing is that he's still not hearing anyone nearing his position. That must mean... Etta could be in danger!
He hurries back to the camp whrre they found the broken. Making sure that he doesn't make too much noise as he gets close. To his surprise and confirming his worries, the pack is still there, but the broken aren't.
Would it be safe to grab it? The opportunity might not present itself again.
He decides to take just a moment to make sure nobody is near.
He hurries back to the camp whrre they found the broken. Making sure that he doesn't make too much noise as he gets close. To his surprise and confirming his worries, the pack is still there, but the broken aren't.
Would it be safe to grab it? The opportunity might not present itself again.
He decides to take just a moment to make sure nobody is near.
OOC:
rolling gather information.Rolls
Gather information (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (3) + 2 = 5
1d10 : (2) = 2
1d10 : (9) = 9
May 22, 2025 9:33 pm
Is that Etta's arrow? Gevin's focus is pulled to an arrow he noticed while looking around. It definitely looks like one of Etta's. That must mean she was in a fight! But where did she go?
This news worries Gevin. He needs to find out more.
This news worries Gevin. He needs to find out more.
OOC:
roll was a weak hit. Taking+1 momentum but not the packMay 23, 2025 1:02 am
OOC:
Also rolling Gather Information to try and reunite.Weak hit. +1 momentum. Now at +9, so need to burn soon.
Suppose those feral beasts found Gevin and killed him? Will I be able to avenge him? And what about my vow? Do I dare continue alone, if he's lost?
Suddenly, a yellow-blue spectral form appears in front of her! It's human-like, but she can't determine the gender; the shapes and colors bend and flow, like dye poured into clear liquid.
It doesn't attack her, or even move in her direction. Instead, it beckons her to follow.
A ghost? Spirit? No, I think it's a glimmer. I've heard tales. They appear when someone is lost, and either help one find their way...or lead one further astray.
Not wanting to alert the Broken (or any other dangers) she steps a few feet closer and "loud whispers":
"You there! What do you want with me?! Can you help me find my sworn ally, or are you intent on trickery?!"
No answer. Not surprising, as glimmers weren't known for their conversational ability. The being only continues beckoning.
It hasn't tried to harm me, and I don't feel in danger. I feel...like I'm on the cusp o' something. Strange...I'll notch an arrow and follow it for a few steps, see what happens....
She does so. The being floats away, continues to beckon. So she keeps following it....
And suddenly, she's not in the forest at all, but in a village...Rackon's Bluff! But not the one she knows. Huts have been moved around, vines are growing on the palisade wall, and she doesn't recognize anyone she sees.
"What is this?! You there, what's going on?!"
But nobody answers her, or even acknowledges her presence. In desperation, she rushes up to a stooped old woman and tries to grab her by the shoulders...and passes right through her!
What...?! Is this an illusion? Or...have I been transported through time, and exist now as some sort of wraith? Glimmers are capable of such things....
As she whirls about, she notices everyone is heading out of the village. They all seem despondent, beaten...not the proud, boisterous people she knows.
She follows, not knowing what else to do. Just outside the walls, everyone has congregated around some sort of mound. A bloody mound, with torn clothes...dead eyes...and swarming flies. Human bodies! At least ten of them, stacked haphazardly on top of each other!
On the other side of the mound stand ten fierce warriors, both male and female. At the center stands a redheaded woman with facial tattoos...holding a bow...a triumphant sneer on her face.
Is that...me?! It has to be! I'm older, a bit heavier...but such arrogance! Such scorn! I'm...I'm terrible!
Before she can call out, her doppelganger clears her throat and speaks, and now Etta has no doubt it's a future version of herself:
"People of Rackon's Bluff! I've called you here today to witness the end of tyranny! No longer will the Thalken bloodline lord over this village! No longer will people who aren't descendants of Rackon be treated like second-class citizens!"
She points at the mound.
"There lie the last of the Thalkens. For months, they've hounded us from their secret camps in the wilds, not content to surrender this village, though we've made it clear their time is done! No, they'd rather destroy everything than give up what they perceive to be their lordly rights!"
"But my warband and I finally found them...and we killed them. The loremasters have confirmed it: all the Thalkens are dead. Well, all that matter...there may be a Thalken in some far-flung wasteland, but they're no threat to the Bluff."
"And so I rename this village...to Hope Bluff! All who believe in equality and comradeship are welcome! But the power-mad, the underminers, the rogues, the thieves...those are our eternal enemies!"
"Now let the last Thalkens burn! Let the gods, the spirits...let Rackon himself...witness these last betrayers turned to ash!"
She nods, and one of her warband empties a jug onto the mound. Oil, as "past Etta" sees as she steps closer. Then with a quick motion, the other Etta lights a torch and tosses it onto the mound. The bodies erupt, and a crackling, horrible bonfire sends its ghastly light onto the bystanders.
Overwhelmed, "past Etta" runs past the numbed bystanders, until she's right in her counterpart's face, though as before, nobody can apparently see her. "Future Etta's" face is in rapture...seeing such demented joy makes "past Etta's" skin crawl.
"What are you doin', you stupid bitch?! Hope? Equality? Comradeship? Fuckin' hypocrisy! How many have ya killed to put yourself in charge?! And where are you at, you gods-damned glimmer?! What, you think I actually believe that this is my future?! It's a trick! Why would I destroy the Thalkens, when they've...they've...take me back now, or I swear I'll...."
Then she feels queasy, and as if she's being sucked through some kind of vortex...and then she's back in the forest, and Gevin is standing only 30 feet away!
"Gevin?! Am I...really back?! I...I...."
She drops to her knees, and begins sobbing.
OOC:
This is relevant to her background vow, so I'm marking one tick. Who knows if we'll play long enough for background vows to meaningfully progress, but I might want to solo Etta in the future.Rolls
Gather Information, +wits - (1d6+1)
(1) + 1 = 2
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
May 23, 2025 2:01 pm
OOC:
Nice. Great background addition!I'll post something later today probably. (possibly tomorrow)
Last edited May 23, 2025 2:01 pm
May 23, 2025 9:55 pm
Gevin hears Etta not far from him before he sees her. He was pretty sure she wasn't there a second ago, though it looks like Etta has also camouflaged her skin so perhaps he overlooked that spot in his haste.
He hurries to her as she starts to sob. "Etta, what happened? Is it your leg again? Are the broken nearby?" He has a million questions about their plan but safety first. He grabs his axe just in case danger lurks near them.
"They didn't come to me. I suppose my shouting was unsuccessful." He lets her know, still scanning the vegetation closely.
He hurries to her as she starts to sob. "Etta, what happened? Is it your leg again? Are the broken nearby?" He has a million questions about their plan but safety first. He grabs his axe just in case danger lurks near them.
"They didn't come to me. I suppose my shouting was unsuccessful." He lets her know, still scanning the vegetation closely.
OOC:
Not gonna roll anything here. I think we've stacked enough complications for now 😅May 24, 2025 8:53 pm
It really was Gevin! She was back in her own time! This comforting revelation causes her to laugh, which mingled with her tears is probably even more confusing to Gevin.
Finally, she composes herself enough to rise and speak:
"I'm fine, Gevin...physically, at least. Mentally...well, that's a bit of a tale."
"So, our plan: all three of the Broken rushed towards you when you began calling. I got worried, so I fired an arrow to distract them. It didn't work; they all came after me instead, and found me without much effort. And I didn't even get that pack. I'm sorry, Gevin...I should've trusted you to handle your part, and kept that arrow in my quiver. I'll make it up to you...somehow...."
"But I managed to elude them...rarely have I run that fast...and then...."
Should I tell him the truth? No, I can't! He'll start asking questions...lose his faith in me...but if I lie now, and he finds out the truth later....
"I saw...something. I believe it was a glimmer. I questioned it, but it only beckoned. I didn't feel in danger, and I didn't know where you were, so I followed...foolishly, perhaps, because yeah, we're reunited, but what I saw...."
"I was taken somewhere. The future? An illusion? No idea. I was back in Rackon's Bluff, but it was under siege...by a terrible army of these red-eyes. Broken, all sorts of animals, even some Elves and rare beasts. They rampaged through the Bluff, slaughtering without mercy. And I...I could do nothing. I was some sorta ghost or wraith...I couldn't touch anything, and nobody could see or hear me. So I had to watch...while it all ended...."
She lets out a mix between a sigh and another sob.
"And then that glimmer (or whatever it was) dropped me back here. Sorry for the waterworks, Gevin, but I'm telling you: it felt real. I don't know if the glimmer was trying to motivate me or break my spirit...but...."
"It looks like you're favoring your left side. Did something happen? Lemme have a look. It'll take my mind off...all this."
Hopefully, Gevin won't detect she's lying...but Etta still feels an emptiness inside her. Shouldn't she trust her Ironsworn companion with the truth?
Alas, it's too late now....
Finally, she composes herself enough to rise and speak:
"I'm fine, Gevin...physically, at least. Mentally...well, that's a bit of a tale."
"So, our plan: all three of the Broken rushed towards you when you began calling. I got worried, so I fired an arrow to distract them. It didn't work; they all came after me instead, and found me without much effort. And I didn't even get that pack. I'm sorry, Gevin...I should've trusted you to handle your part, and kept that arrow in my quiver. I'll make it up to you...somehow...."
"But I managed to elude them...rarely have I run that fast...and then...."
Should I tell him the truth? No, I can't! He'll start asking questions...lose his faith in me...but if I lie now, and he finds out the truth later....
"I saw...something. I believe it was a glimmer. I questioned it, but it only beckoned. I didn't feel in danger, and I didn't know where you were, so I followed...foolishly, perhaps, because yeah, we're reunited, but what I saw...."
"I was taken somewhere. The future? An illusion? No idea. I was back in Rackon's Bluff, but it was under siege...by a terrible army of these red-eyes. Broken, all sorts of animals, even some Elves and rare beasts. They rampaged through the Bluff, slaughtering without mercy. And I...I could do nothing. I was some sorta ghost or wraith...I couldn't touch anything, and nobody could see or hear me. So I had to watch...while it all ended...."
She lets out a mix between a sigh and another sob.
"And then that glimmer (or whatever it was) dropped me back here. Sorry for the waterworks, Gevin, but I'm telling you: it felt real. I don't know if the glimmer was trying to motivate me or break my spirit...but...."
"It looks like you're favoring your left side. Did something happen? Lemme have a look. It'll take my mind off...all this."
Hopefully, Gevin won't detect she's lying...but Etta still feels an emptiness inside her. Shouldn't she trust her Ironsworn companion with the truth?
Alas, it's too late now....
OOC:
Rolling Heal next to patch you up.May 24, 2025 8:55 pm
OOC:
Weak hit, so you're healed up! I'll take -1 momentum.Once finished, Etta smirks and twirls her hands in front of Gevin.
"All better, eh? These hands are magic!"
But then her expression darkens as she once again examines her surroundings.
"Let's get outta here. Too much danger 'n weirdness about. We'll be pushing our luck if we stay. We can talk more as we move."
OOC:
Propose Undertake a Journey again, and then if we're lucky we can Reach Your Destination. I'll let you get caught up before making another move, though.Rolls
Heal - (1d6+1)
(2) + 1 = 3
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
May 26, 2025 8:27 pm
"Woaw, woaw, woaw. Backup a second." Gevin says while Etta is looking over his injury. "You saw a glimmer and it showed you the future?!?" He says incredulously.
"I'm glad I found you, but that's serious. And you're going to tell me everything again... Slowly... As we walk." He pretty much orders her. "But, you're right. We should move. I also didn't manage to grab the pack, unfortunately. We'll have to manage without."
He thanks her for tending to his wounds, gets his things and gets ready to set off.
"I'm glad I found you, but that's serious. And you're going to tell me everything again... Slowly... As we walk." He pretty much orders her. "But, you're right. We should move. I also didn't manage to grab the pack, unfortunately. We'll have to manage without."
He thanks her for tending to his wounds, gets his things and gets ready to set off.
OOC:
Rolling the journeyRolls
Undertake a journey - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (5) + 2 = 7
1d10 : (3) = 3
1d10 : (7) = 7
May 26, 2025 8:29 pm
OOC:
another weak hit. So progress but down to 1 supply.Rolling to complete the journey.
Edit: oooh!! Success with a twist. Interesting. So we find a bunch of red-eyed creatures. Likely the source of the problem.
Action & theme: overwhelm leader
After hiking another couple of hours and using much of what's left of their food supply, they reach a glade. A stream trickles down between the small hills of lush grass. It doesn't seem like the kind of place where evil creatures come from. "I think we may have gone the wrong way." He says to his companion.
That's when they hear a voice from behind a large rock. "No! Don't. I created you. You must obey me! Back off! Down!" followed by the snarling of wolves.
Gevin looks at Etta and motions for them to split up and go around the rock.
Last edited May 26, 2025 8:48 pm
Rolls
Reach your destination VS 9 - (1d10, 1d10)
1d10 : (2) = 2
1d10 : (2) = 2
Action theme - (2d100)
(6211) = 73
May 27, 2025 1:07 am
As they walk, Etta explains everything in detail again. Thankfully, Gevin seems to take her tale at face value.
I'll have to memorize everything I've told him, because I'm sure others will question me when...if...we return to the Bluff. Gods, I've never been good at lying...but it's for the best....
Then they hear a human voice along with the snarling of wolves, and Etta goes into stealth mode. Creeping around the rock, she peers out....
A woman in a cloak and well-designed leather armor stands in front of three wolves. Though she tries to stand tall, Etta notices that she's swaying gently. She wields a staff with a large red gem set in the top. Oddly, she also wears a carved wooden mask; Etta can see nothing of her face, and the mask's eyeholes are deep shadows.
The wolves are normal sized wolves, and they advance slowly, snarling and slavering. Their eyes flicker between the tell-tale red and their normal color.
The woman holds out her staff, and the red gem glows like fire: "Down! I won't say it again. I am your mistress, and you will heed me!"
This must be the witch behind all this! But why is she having trouble subduing these animals? Has her magic over-strained her? And what's hiding behind that mask?
The wolves won't be cowed, however. Howling balefully and tossing their heads, they seem to shake off whatever the woman is doing. All three lunge...and the woman lets out an equally baleful shriek. Not of fright, it seems, but of frustration and confusion.
"Betrayed!! Destined to be alone! So be it, you mongrels!"
With a wave of her staff, an arc of red light or magic hurtles towards the wolves. It slams into them like a magical scythe, dropping them instantly. The wolves whimper for a few seconds, and roll around in the grass futilely, until death takes them.
The woman, however, is no longer standing. She's dropped down to a knee, and is panting heavily; the hand that holds the staff trembles. Etta isn't sure, but she also thinks she hears...sobbing?
Looks like that fatigued her even more. Should we strike now, or wait and gather more information? There could be more to this situation than meets the eye....
She slips back towards the center of the rock, hoping to catch Gevin's attention.
I'll have to memorize everything I've told him, because I'm sure others will question me when...if...we return to the Bluff. Gods, I've never been good at lying...but it's for the best....
Then they hear a human voice along with the snarling of wolves, and Etta goes into stealth mode. Creeping around the rock, she peers out....
A woman in a cloak and well-designed leather armor stands in front of three wolves. Though she tries to stand tall, Etta notices that she's swaying gently. She wields a staff with a large red gem set in the top. Oddly, she also wears a carved wooden mask; Etta can see nothing of her face, and the mask's eyeholes are deep shadows.
[ +- ] Image
The woman holds out her staff, and the red gem glows like fire: "Down! I won't say it again. I am your mistress, and you will heed me!"
This must be the witch behind all this! But why is she having trouble subduing these animals? Has her magic over-strained her? And what's hiding behind that mask?
The wolves won't be cowed, however. Howling balefully and tossing their heads, they seem to shake off whatever the woman is doing. All three lunge...and the woman lets out an equally baleful shriek. Not of fright, it seems, but of frustration and confusion.
"Betrayed!! Destined to be alone! So be it, you mongrels!"
With a wave of her staff, an arc of red light or magic hurtles towards the wolves. It slams into them like a magical scythe, dropping them instantly. The wolves whimper for a few seconds, and roll around in the grass futilely, until death takes them.
The woman, however, is no longer standing. She's dropped down to a knee, and is panting heavily; the hand that holds the staff trembles. Etta isn't sure, but she also thinks she hears...sobbing?
Looks like that fatigued her even more. Should we strike now, or wait and gather more information? There could be more to this situation than meets the eye....
She slips back towards the center of the rock, hoping to catch Gevin's attention.
OOC:
I'm thinking this "witch" will be a Dangerous enemy in her current condition.May 27, 2025 10:16 pm
OOC:
Sounds like progress on our vow. We're at 4 now.Knowing that Etta will have his back, he steps forward from behind the rock. Shield raised, just in case. "You there. What is the meaning of all this?" He simply asks. "Are you the one who has been causing animals to turn feral and vicious in these lands?"
The woman is startled and quickly recovers her composure, not allowing another to see her in a weak state. "What's it to you?" She replies.
"I live in these lands. My village forages and hunts in its woods." Gevin tells her. "If this is your doing, then you are causing us great harm." His voice sounds stern but just. "We will not sit idly by." He waits for a few seconds but gets no answer. "What is your business here?"
OOC:
I think that's a compel with intimidation/threat.Last edited May 27, 2025 10:18 pm
Rolls
Compel (+iron) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (2) + 3 = 5
1d10 : (6) = 6
1d10 : (8) = 8
May 27, 2025 10:19 pm
OOC:
That's a miss :(They refuse and we pay the price.
Do you want to start combat or do you have another idea?
May 27, 2025 11:45 pm
OOC:
I'll be the good cop to your bad cop. 😎Rolling Gather Information (ask questions).
Update: weak hit. +1 momentum.
But then she pauses. The woman was evidently sobbing after slaying the wolves, and she mentioned "destined to be alone." And that mask...why hide her face? Had something happened to make her alienated and bitter?
Etta also considers her glimpse into her own future. This woman reminded her of the "conqueror of the Thalkens" Etta. It seemed shameful to simply attack this "witch," when she could be just a miserable wretch in need of guidance and compassion.
Ugh, these thoughts o' mine...just last week, I would've attacked this woman instantly. But after what I've seen....
"My ally speaks true, stranger. If you are behind these red-eyes, you have much to answer for. But we both saw what just occurred with these wolves. You mentioned loneliness, and I thought I heard you crying. You also appear weak from your exertions. And I'm sure there's a story behind that strange mask o' yours. Tell us your tale, and your goals, and maybe this meeting won't end in bloodshed."
The woman looks in Etta's direction, but since she's masked, it's impossible to read her facial expression. Her hands, however, do clench tightly around her staff.
The woman: "Are you daft, Etta?! Yes, I know who you are...and you as well, Gevin."
She cackles, letting her revelation sink in.
The woman: "It seems you want me to surrender without a fight. Do you think me a complete idiot?! You care nothing for my tale or my goals...you fear the power I wield, and only seek to stall in the hope of gaining an advantage. But you should've struck earlier, when I was on my knees! Now it's too late!"
OOC:
Continued. Rolling action/theme in next post to determine the complication.Rolls
Gather Information, +wits - (1d6+1)
(3) + 1 = 4
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
May 28, 2025 12:14 am
OOC:
"Charge loss." Interesting!The magic also stabs into their minds, filling them with an overwhelming sense of loss, alienation, and futility. They also notice images swirling within the red storm: a beautiful woman staring at her reflection in a pool of water, cruel laughter from unknown villagers, a shifting figure cloaked in shards of broken glass, dreary campsites in desolate places, deep tombs filled with shadow and cobwebs.
Gods! Is she assaulting us with her rage and madness?! Are those images her life story?! I can't take much more o' this. Got to...do something...!
OOC:
Rolling Face Danger to get out of this. You should roll something similar. Is the woman distracting us so she can escape, or is this the prelude to battle?! We'll just have to see how the rolls go and whose turn it is!Rolls
Action - (1d100)
(99) = 99
Theme - (1d100)
(92) = 92
May 28, 2025 12:29 am
OOC:
Miss! I'll suffer -2 spirit, since she was Dangerous."Gevin! Can...you...hear me?! Stop her! Ugghh...."
She collapses into a fetal position and begins howling in agony.
"Too much! Too much! TOO MUCH!"
Rolls
Face Danger, +heart - (1d6+2)
(1) + 2 = 3
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
May 28, 2025 8:31 pm
Gevin raises his shield, but it's no use against the magical essence that comes from the woman's staff. Images start to appear in his now bitter-cold mind. Things that may be the past, present or the future. He sees a man dressed in black with a greatsword in hand, an image of himself covered in spiders. Flashes of images keep popping up. He tries to block it, regain control over his own mind.
He manages to open his own eyes again for a few seconds and sees the woman pointing the staff at them. He hasn't broken the spell, but perhaps if he can just distract the woman long enough for them to get the upper hand.
It takes him a great amount of effort but he manages to get a few words out loud enough for the witch to hear them. "Wolves ... Behind ... You!" He says as if warning her of an incoming attack from behind. Sometimes the oldest trick in the book is famous for good reason. Let's hope this is one of those times.
He manages to open his own eyes again for a few seconds and sees the woman pointing the staff at them. He hasn't broken the spell, but perhaps if he can just distract the woman long enough for them to get the upper hand.
It takes him a great amount of effort but he manages to get a few words out loud enough for the witch to hear them. "Wolves ... Behind ... You!" He says as if warning her of an incoming attack from behind. Sometimes the oldest trick in the book is famous for good reason. Let's hope this is one of those times.
OOC:
Face danger with deceptionRolls
Face danger +shadow - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (2) + 2 = 4
1d10 : (9) = 9
1d10 : (5) = 5
May 28, 2025 8:39 pm
OOC:
Using my momentum (+6) to turn that miss into a weak hit. Now resets to +2As the cost I will take -2 spirit as well
Gevin and Etta a released from their mind-prison. However it takes a second for Gevin to get his bearings again after this barrage of thoughts.
While still a bit dizzy, he grabs his axe and runs towards his foe.
OOC:
Combat it is then! :)Not sure if I can use shadow here for my enter the fray. She knows we're there, but she is distracted temporarily. I'll use heart in this case.
Rolls
Endure stress (2) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (2) + 2 = 4
1d10 : (7) = 7
1d10 : (2) = 2
Enter the fray (heart) - (1d6+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+1 : (2) + 1 = 3
1d10 : (4) = 4
1d10 : (8) = 8
May 28, 2025 8:45 pm
OOC:
Yikes, another miss. This game can be rough! :DMy price is that I lose my shield.
May 28, 2025 9:53 pm
OOC:
Rolling Enter the Fray.Update: miss-o-rama! I'll hang on to my momentum. I want to save it to secure a strong hit.
I'll say I tweak my injured leg. Taking -1 health.
Unfortunately, like Gevin, Etta is still too weak to enter the fight in earnest. She flails against the large rock they'd hid behind earlier, hitting her injured leg. Pain shoots through her, nearly dropping her again.
Would the poultice hold, or would the leg begin oozing blood? Would the witch notice her injury and target it?
Doesn't matter. I won't retreat unless Gevin does. We must prevail!
OOC:
Rolling Clash next.Rolls
Enter the Fray, +heart - (1d6+2)
(1) + 2 = 3
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(9) = 9
May 28, 2025 10:10 pm
OOC:
Excellent! Strong hit. I choose to inflict +1 harm. That should put us at 6 progress already, right?"Alright, witch! Now you'll see why Etta Karl is undefeated in archery contests!"
'Undefeated' is definitely a stretch, but her skill would be apparent to the most jaded observer, as she fires off three arrows so fast it's difficult to follow her movements!
All three strike true! One hits the witch in the shoulder, the other in the stomach, and a precisely-placed one hits her hand, causing her to drop her glowing staff.
But though she curses and screams, she still scrambles for the fallen staff. The battle isn't done yet!
OOC:
I have initiative, but I'll wait for your move.Rolls
Clash, +edge - (1d6+3)
(6) + 3 = 9
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
May 28, 2025 10:34 pm
OOC:
Looks like I should've rolled the Endure moves for the spirit loss and my injured leg. Rolling now!Update: weak hit for stress, so I simply press on.
Strong hit for harm, so I'll take +1 momentum.
Rolls
Endure Stress, +spirit - (1d6+3)
(1) + 3 = 4
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Endure Harm, +health - (1d6+4)
(1) + 4 = 5
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
May 30, 2025 9:43 am
OOC:
I've added a progress track for this combat with 6 checks.As the weapon is directed at him, Gevin stops dead in his tracks and puts his hands up. "My friend here will not hesitate to shoot you down." He responds to the witch. "Even if that means my possible demise. The damage your are causing is a far greater loss than one ironsworn. I suggest you take your own advice and put down your weapon so that you may live." He tells her, trying to de-escalate the situation. Perhaps she will see reason in this request.
OOC:
It's a long shot cause I'm not good at this. So let's see what happens.Rolls
Compel (+heart) - (1d6+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+1 : (5) + 1 = 6
1d10 : (10) = 10
1d10 : (6) = 6
May 30, 2025 9:48 am
OOC:
Wow, lucky on the d6, but unlucky on the d10s unfortunately.The woman repeats her words. "Put down that bow!"
OOC:
Taking 2 damage.Now at 3 health, I press on.
Let's raise the stakes here, just for fun :D
I see 3 outcomes:
- You drop your bow and we see what happens next.
- You shoot and Gevin has to roll either Face Death or Face Desolation.
- You shoot and by some miracle (extreme result?) save Gevin from death.
What do you think?
You are also welcome to ignore the above and go for something else, of course.
Last edited May 30, 2025 9:53 am
Rolls
endure harm (2) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (4) + 3 = 7
1d10 : (4) = 4
1d10 : (10) = 10
May 30, 2025 8:46 pm
OOC:
Sorry, Gevin, but I ain't dropping my bow! Let's see how Strike plays out.Update: good roll, but I'm burning my +10 momentum to ensure a strong hit. I retain initiative, and that maxes out our progress track.
I'll try to end the fight next.
If I do what she asks, she'll simply slay us both...and with ease. Hold on a few seconds longer, my friend....
She notches an arrow and takes a deep breath. This time, she aims directly for the witch's head. A tougher shot, but necessary to end this foul being's torture of Gevin.
The arrow flies true, but the witch tilts her head at the last second, saving her life. Still, the arrow slices the side of her head as it whizzes past, causing her to yelp in pain. The red magical storm diminishes in intensity.
Time to end this!
Rolls
Strike, +edge - (1d6+3)
(6) + 3 = 9
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(9) = 9
May 30, 2025 8:59 pm
OOC:
Rolling End the Fight. Victory!If you want to make Gevin suffer even more, go ahead. I guess you can retcon in her firing a last-ditch burst of magic or something.
Therefore, it was time to get up close and personal.
Quickly strapping her bow to her back, Etta draws her dagger and lunges at the witch. The witch, clearly surprised at this change of tactics, gets slashed a few times before she can even think to defend herself.
By the time she does, it's too late. Etta blocks the witch's weak staff parry, yanks the staff from her hands, and then cracks her over the head with her own weapon. The witch flops to the ground, bleeding and defeated, and again sobbing at the injustice of it all.
As Etta looks around to make sure no more threats have emerged, she feels an odd sensation washing over her. Power...glory...transformation...the staff's red gem thrums.
The staff! I feel...incredible! But I shouldn't use it just yet...if I can even figure out how. It seemed to drain her, after all. First, I must make sure Gevin isn't lost or dead....
Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
May 30, 2025 9:22 pm
OOC:
Marking 2 progress for our vow, which puts us at 6. Will we try to fulfill our vow, or keep building up progress to ensure success? Stay tuned!May 30, 2025 10:19 pm
Gevin is still breathing when Etta reaches him. But he's in a bad way. His face and arms are all bloody from where he scratched himself violently and he appears to be unconscious. In his mind, he's still fighting a battle, trying to find the way out of the maze the staff put him in.
He walks through a thick jungle. This is where the spiders attacked him last time. If he could only get to the waterfall and pass through it, he'd be safe. The only problem is that a giant spider is blocking his path to the falls. It looks dangerous and would probably eat him as a snack if the opportunity presents itself.
Gevin grabs a cotton tail reed and ties some cloth to it, torn from his own clothes. A few sticks for support and he's got something that resembles a large rodent. With some luck that will distract the spider just long enough for him to slip through. He throws the reed in the direction he's not planning of heading to and hopes for the spider to take the bait.
He walks through a thick jungle. This is where the spiders attacked him last time. If he could only get to the waterfall and pass through it, he'd be safe. The only problem is that a giant spider is blocking his path to the falls. It looks dangerous and would probably eat him as a snack if the opportunity presents itself.
Gevin grabs a cotton tail reed and ties some cloth to it, torn from his own clothes. A few sticks for support and he's got something that resembles a large rodent. With some luck that will distract the spider just long enough for him to slip through. He throws the reed in the direction he's not planning of heading to and hopes for the spider to take the bait.
OOC:
Using my asset: Animal Kin for a +1 when trying to control an enimalRolls
Face danger (+shadow) - (1d6+3+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3+1 : (2) + 4 = 6
1d10 : (5) = 5
1d10 : (3) = 3
May 30, 2025 10:24 pm
OOC:
Close one, but a strong hit on that face danger!+1 momentum and +1 momentum from my asset
Gevin opens his eyes again. He's not near any waterfall. He is.. in the glade with Etta and... The witch! He suddenly remembers and touches his face. The water he felt wasn't water, it was blood. His blood? His skin stings and he can barely see with his blood soaked eyes. "Etta?" He calls out.
OOC:
I think we should either find out more about the staff or destroy it for more vow progress. With 8 marks I'm confident to complete the vow.May 31, 2025 8:53 pm
Quote:
With 8 marks I'm confident to complete the vow.OOC:
Famous last words!Luckily, Gevin awakens and calls for her. Crouching beside him quickly, Etta drops the staff and grabs his hand. The rush of power fades, and she feels normal again...but there's a whisper in her mind, a whisper telling her to use the red gem's power to fulfill her desires.
She pushes those thoughts aside as best she can. "Gevin, we did it. That filthy gods-damned witch is defeated. But you're...OK, I'll be blunt: you're in bad shape. Try to relax and gather your thoughts while I patch you up."
OOC:
Rolling Heal next.May 31, 2025 8:54 pm
OOC:
Miss! Poor Gevin!Rolling on the tables for Pay the Price: "Hide Creation."
Oh boy, you're in for it now!
Then she suddenly feels an unstoppable wave of nausea. She can't even get away from Gevin before vomiting. Whatever is roiling inside her must come out now!
She opens her mouth, but normal vomit doesn't come out. Instead, a reddish ooze spews forth, splashing on Gevin's back and the nearby ground. The ooze also hits Etta's foot. Immediately, it starts to burn through their clothes, and then their flesh!
Hollering and cursing, Etta uses a cloth to wipe it off her foot and shoe, but the damage has been done. Her flesh sizzles and bubbles.
"What in----?! Gevin, I'm sorry. I----"
Then she glances at the staff. The red gem is pulsing exactly in sequence with the ooze.
"The witch! She must've...put something in me during the fight! Some despicable, hidden magic, just waiting to erupt!"
A dozen questions swirl in her mind. If she hadn't puked up this disgusting substance, would it have eaten her from the inside? And why didn't it burn her to begin with? Was the effect delayed? Would there be long-term damage?
Perhaps it was best to just suffer their wounds for now. They needed answers, and the witch had them....
OOC:
In solidarity, I'm taking -1 health. Up to you how much you want Gevin to lose.Rolls
Heal, +wits - (1d6+1)
(3) + 1 = 4
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Action - (1d100)
(74) = 74
Theme - (1d100)
(27) = 27
May 31, 2025 9:27 pm
OOC:
Rolling endure harm.Weak hit. I press on.
Rolls
Endure Harm - (1d6+3)
(3) + 3 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
May 31, 2025 10:09 pm
The red ooze washes over Gevin's back and eats through his armor and clothing. Strangely enough though, it doesn't harm him. Instead it seems to seep into his back where it disappears under his skin.
He breathes a sigh of enjoyment as the red liquid soothes him. He turns his head to face Etta and she notices that some of his facial wounds have somehow gotten better. Then she notices why that might be. As Gevin opens his eyes, Etta sees that one of them is red, just like the broken they saw earlier today.
"Thanks. That actually feels good." He tells her, without having noticed the hole in his clothes.
Which seems like a cool complication to deal with later on. 😁
He breathes a sigh of enjoyment as the red liquid soothes him. He turns his head to face Etta and she notices that some of his facial wounds have somehow gotten better. Then she notices why that might be. As Gevin opens his eyes, Etta sees that one of them is red, just like the broken they saw earlier today.
"Thanks. That actually feels good." He tells her, without having noticed the hole in his clothes.
OOC:
I'm going to give myself +1 health. But I think Gevin has been infected by the red magic. Which seems like a cool complication to deal with later on. 😁
May 31, 2025 10:33 pm
The look on Etta's face reveals that something is definitely going on. "What's wrong?" He asks and notices the burn on her foot. "That wasn't the poultice you put on my back, was it?" His eyes drift to the pulsing crystal on the staff.
"That thing. We need to do something about it. Maybe we should..." He was going to say destroy it, but some inner part of him held him back. Why destroy such a powerful artifact, after all. It should be studied, put to good use perhaps. His mind is flooded with positive ideas about the staff. "... Take it with us. We can learn about the red eyes and perhaps reverse its effect on the creatures."
With the healing from the ted ooze he feels ok to stand up again at this point. "Are you alright?"
"That thing. We need to do something about it. Maybe we should..." He was going to say destroy it, but some inner part of him held him back. Why destroy such a powerful artifact, after all. It should be studied, put to good use perhaps. His mind is flooded with positive ideas about the staff. "... Take it with us. We can learn about the red eyes and perhaps reverse its effect on the creatures."
With the healing from the ted ooze he feels ok to stand up again at this point. "Are you alright?"
Jun 1, 2025 7:40 pm
OOC:
Nice twist. Looks like Etta will have to kill Gevin...I mean exorcise him.Which isn't true. Her foot is burned, and her leg wound has reopened. And Gevin had absorbed that red ooze, practically sighing in contentment!
Is he corrupted now? Or does one red eye mean he's halfway there? If he attacks me, can I take him? At range, maybe, but in close....
She picks up the staff in what she hopes is a non-threatening, non-covetous way, and walks over to the witch. It was time to reverse all this strangeness, before it led to catastrophe.
Etta: "OK, witch: it seems you've infected both of us with magic. Tell us how to undo it...NOW."
The witch lets out a hacking cough: "And why...would I do that? I'm near-death, my plans are in ruins. Why should I help those...who defeated me?"
Etta: "If you don't, I'll give you a taste of my dagger again."
Witch: "Torture, hm? I wouldn't last...five minutes under your...heh...tickling. So go ahead. Finish me off, and my knowledge...will be lost forever. Good luck...mastering the gem's power...on your own."
Etta mutters some curses, and ponders. If she were alone, she'd kill the witch right now, and worry about any consequences to her mind and body later. But she couldn't leave Gevin to his strange fate.
Etta: "You know, I could always patch you up, make sure you recover...then commence with the 'tickling,' as you put it. Then you and my dagger could spend a long time together. But you're clearly tough, and I'm in haste. Let's make a deal. What do you want in exchange for your knowledge?"
OOC:
Rolling Compel next, +heart as I'm bartering with her.Jun 1, 2025 7:42 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. Let's see how we wheel and deal....She pauses in her speech to cough again.
Witch: "Therefore, I make this oath: if you let me live, and let me depart unmolested, I will travel to the coast, find the first ship that departs into the unknown, and leave the Ironlands forever. If you want, you may escort me, but I also swear to do no harm to anyone else during this journey, unless compelled by self-defense. I swear this on Malkath's Vestige."
In response, the gemstone flashes once...but black instead of red. The temperature seems to drop twenty degrees, and a gloom seems to settle on the area, though no storm is overhead. Then the moment passes.
Etta stares at the gemstone. So that was its name. And it was clear that it "heard" the witch's oath, and that breaking it would be her undoing.
Etta: "Impressive, witch. Am I supposed to gape in awe? But I have some questions: what of this Vestige? How much will you actually teach us? And what happens if you reach a land far beyond the Ironlands? Will you continue your cruel ways?"
A long pause as the witch considers.
Witch: "Veyla, the Waking Mirror is my patron. As you know, transformation...is one of her domains. My...plans have failed in the Ironlands. It is time for...something new...though it pains me to give up my life's work. I pledge to do no harm to others, unless compelled by self-defense, for the rest of my days...and beyond, if there is something for me beyond death."
"As for the magic, I will teach you the basics: how to undo your effects, and how to cast simple spells. But to truly master the Vestige, you must commune with it. I can only do so much."
"Again, I swear all this on Malkath's Vestige."
And again, the Vestige hears and answers. Now Etta has to pause as she considers.
Etta: "Suppose you make it to a place far beyond the Ironlands. Can the Vestige's power cross such vast distances? You could get a safe distance away, break your oath, and suffer no consequences."
Witch: "These oaths cannot be escaped. Now, make your decision quickly, or...aid me...before I perish."
The simple and stern way she says this convinces Etta. But what about Gevin? She turns to him.
Etta: "I believe her oath is binding. Should she break it, she'll suffer. I think we should agree to her terms. But what do you think?"
Rolls
Compel, +heart - (1d6+2)
(4) + 2 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
Jun 3, 2025 7:03 am
Gevin follow along as Etta is bartering with the witch. Somehow, he understands her. He feels a connection there, which he hadn't felt before. Perhaps that's also how she knew their names when they first showed up. He thinks about this and then it hits him. "Reina." He says a bit randomly in between their talking. "Your name is Reina. I don't know how I know this, but I do."
"I believe she is being truthful." He replies to Etta. "This gem will surely hold her to her vow, like an ironsworn." He starts to gather his things, still unaware of his red eye. "Let's start our journey back as soon as we can. Can you patch her up enough to start moving?" It hadn't occurred to Gevin that Etta may be in bad shape too. With her leg wound opened up again, she was in a bad way to start a long journey. He only notices when she winces a bit later on when she thinks nobody is watching.
"Actually." Gevin says. "We're running a bit low on supplies. It maybe better for us to set up camp here. We can rest until morning and make sure we can do the trip in one go. I'm feeling a bit better, let me go and set some traps for small game and we can have a good supper."
"I believe she is being truthful." He replies to Etta. "This gem will surely hold her to her vow, like an ironsworn." He starts to gather his things, still unaware of his red eye. "Let's start our journey back as soon as we can. Can you patch her up enough to start moving?" It hadn't occurred to Gevin that Etta may be in bad shape too. With her leg wound opened up again, she was in a bad way to start a long journey. He only notices when she winces a bit later on when she thinks nobody is watching.
"Actually." Gevin says. "We're running a bit low on supplies. It maybe better for us to set up camp here. We can rest until morning and make sure we can do the trip in one go. I'm feeling a bit better, let me go and set some traps for small game and we can have a good supper."
Rolls
resupply (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (6) + 2 = 8
1d10 : (2) = 2
1d10 : (6) = 6
Jun 3, 2025 7:17 am
OOC:
Nice! a strong hit. :D We're back to +3 supplyHopefully his actions will help Etta. With that wound she should take things easy for a while. "Let me take a look at your leg again, Etta." He offers. While he was out in the woods, he gathered some healing herbs to use for anyone who's still wounded. "I found some hallowleaf. That should soothe the pain I'm assuming you're in." He spends some time binding her leg again, hopefully getting her ready for the journey tomorrow.
Rolls
Heal (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d10 : (5) = 5
1d10 : (8) = 8
Action & Theme - (2d100)
(1915) = 34
Jun 3, 2025 7:24 am
OOC:
Action & Theme: Threaten Secret.Weak hit: Gevin is going to find out that he's got a red eye.
He needs time to think this through. With too many questions, he just sits down, not returning to camp.
Jun 4, 2025 9:23 pm
OOC:
Wasn't that heal a miss? I'm gonna hold off RPing any healing until confirmed.Etta: "There. We've done the best we can. Time must do the rest. Now: this so-called Malkath's Vestige."
A heavy sigh from Reina. Perhaps having seconds thoughts? But then: "You're right. It is time for your...tutoring. Listen carefully...."
Reina details about twenty chants that aid in utilizing the gem's power. Everything from controlling other beings to firing magical bolts to implanting corrupting magic in others. But she stresses that the chants only trigger and focus the gem.
Etta practices as Reina teaches, until she's certain the witch has fulfilled her end of the bargain.
OOC:
I'm thinking we can make up these chants as needed, rather than detailing everything now. And the quest will end soon, anyway.Etta: "What is this Vestige, exactly? How did you acquire it? And what were your goals? And the mask? You've told us nothing about yourself."
Reina: "And I plan to keep it that way. Our deal did not include my life story. You must be content with unanswered questions."
Etta: "Tell me something. It seems you were ill-treated. If there's a greater evil out there, I need to know. Protecting Rackon's Bluff is our responsibility."
Reina chuckles: "And do the citizens of the Bluff respect your contribution, or see you as a non-Thalken outsider? You see, my quarrel was with the Bluff itself...like you. Yes, while I wielded the gem I could read the surface thoughts of you and Gevin. I know your hidden rage and frustration; I felt the same. The Bluff broke me...though others will argue I broke myself...."
She shakes her head: "It matters not. My path has changed, and I will say no more. Let me go, as promised."
Etta opens her mouth to argue, then mimics Reina's sigh. It wasn't the ending she'd hoped for...but on the other hand, she felt it was time to end this.
Etta: "Fine. You're free to go. I would say good luck, but such words would probably sound insincere."
Reina: "I understand, Etta. But you've spared my life, when you could've slain me with a single thrust of your dagger. That's certainly the equivalent of good luck. And rest easy: I have no intentions of forsaking my vow. If I do, you should know, if you still wield the Vestige. My fate will be terrible if that happens, believe me."
After a last look at the staff and gem, Reina hobbles away. She gets on a game trail heading southwest, and is soon lost to sight.
OOC:
Adding 2 progress, so now at 8. Rolling Fulfill Your Vow next. Fingers crossed!Jun 4, 2025 9:25 pm
OOC:
Vow complete! +2 XP.Etta still has plenty of questions, but the answers will have to linger for now. Tonight, they can bask in their success, and then head back home.
But where was Gevin? He'd been gone a long time....
OOC:
We can end this episode of The Ironsworn Adventures™ now, or tie up any loose ends.If you want to continue for a bit, I'm thinking after we camp we can "teleport" back to Rackon's Bluff, since the surrounding area won't be that dangerous anymore.
Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Jun 5, 2025 10:35 am
OOC:
Oh yes it was a miss, but I think I just mis-typed. I didn't actually add any health since in RP it failed even before attempting to do anything.Nice! Happy to see we finished the vow. :D
I think we should just narrate how they get back and what happens when they report back. Then we'll be good to start something new when we can. :)
If you want to do any RP for the reporting, I'm also up for that.
Jun 5, 2025 8:43 pm
OOC:
OK. I'm gonna roll a brief Face Danger, as Etta tries to use the staff to cleanse herself. Then you can handle the camping, journey back, or whatever else you think is appropriate.Jun 5, 2025 8:44 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. I'll take -1 momentum.After what seems like an age, it feels like something is draining out of her. A few seconds later, she feels normal again; no more troublesome magic within.
If it weren't for my leg, I'd be able to prance about like a pony. But this took forever. Reina was right; the chants help, but practice is still needed. And Gevin is still out there somewhere....
Rolls
Face Danger, +wits - (1d6+1)
(4) + 1 = 5
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Jun 6, 2025 1:57 pm
Gevin returns after what seems like ages. He had gone to get water and some more herbs, but is empty handed when he gets back. When questioned about what happened all he says is "I'm tired. I need sleep." And so he begins to set up camp.
One of the first things he notices is that Reina is no longer there. It didn't surprise him. The witch didn't strike him as the social type. Heck he wasn't interested in talking to her anyway. Let alone the fact that she did this to him. This red eye. Part of him had considered killing her at night in hopes of undoing this curse now bestowed upon him.
Was it his own mind thinking? Or was it the gem's influence? He didn't know, but something inside him kept him from blaming the vestige. Possibly that was also the vestige protecting itself. No matter right now. He decided to deal with it later.
"Good night." He simply told Etta as he turned on his side and tried his best to sleep at least some.
One of the first things he notices is that Reina is no longer there. It didn't surprise him. The witch didn't strike him as the social type. Heck he wasn't interested in talking to her anyway. Let alone the fact that she did this to him. This red eye. Part of him had considered killing her at night in hopes of undoing this curse now bestowed upon him.
Was it his own mind thinking? Or was it the gem's influence? He didn't know, but something inside him kept him from blaming the vestige. Possibly that was also the vestige protecting itself. No matter right now. He decided to deal with it later.
"Good night." He simply told Etta as he turned on his side and tried his best to sleep at least some.
Rolls
Make Camp (+Supply) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (2) + 3 = 5
1d10 : (10) = 10
1d10 : (1) = 1
Jun 6, 2025 2:06 pm
OOC:
Weak hit on the camp. So I believe we each choose 1 option. The rules are a bit unclear on this. It says on a strong hit all players can choose, but on a weak hit it doesn't mention that. I suppose it's implied.I will take the +1 spirit. I think that's what Gevin needs most right now.
In any case, they decide to return to the bluff now that the threat was dealt with... sort of. The mood is not as festive as it should be after completing such a vow. For Gevin it has brought on new kinds of worries. But an Ironsworn perseveres.
OOC:
There's a move in the Ironsworn:Starforged rules called "Set a Course". It's kinda like the combat move "Battle" that lets you just do a combat in one move. I'm going to use it here, since we're still in the wilderness.
Rolls
Set a Course (+supply) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (2) + 3 = 5
1d10 : (9) = 9
1d10 : (8) = 8
Jun 6, 2025 2:09 pm
OOC:
Well, that's a miss. :/I'm seeing 2 options for when we pick this up again.
1. We get blocked or distracted on the way to the village.
2. We get to the village, but something bad has happened there.
I think we should make this relate to Etta's dream/vision. What do you think?
Jun 6, 2025 8:13 pm
OOC:
For Make Camp, looks like each of us choose 1 on a weak hit. I take +1 momentum.I'm fine with either option. If we're stopping for now, we can decide on our next course if/when the game resumes.
And for my XP, I'm probably gonna save up and purchase a new asset, which will take another quest.
Jun 6, 2025 9:19 pm
OOC:
Yeah makes sense, let's stop for now and pick (or roll for it) when it becomes relevant again :)I think I'm also going to save my XP.
Jun 7, 2025 12:06 am
OOC:
Aight. 👍Are you gonna stay in the game or leave? It doesn't bother me if you stay. All I'll be doing is playing my solo adventure. But if you want to leave to avoid game clutter, no prob.
Jun 7, 2025 8:59 am
OOC:
I'll stay. I might check out your solo game if I find myself with spare time 😁Jun 24, 2025 6:42 am
TheGenerator says:
OOC:
Well, that's a miss. :/I'm seeing 2 options for when we pick this up again.
1. We get blocked or distracted on the way to the village.
2. We get to the village, but something bad has happened there.
I think we should make this relate to Etta's dream/vision. What do you think?
Rolls
Action & Theme - (2d100)
(2465) = 89
Aspect & Focus - (2d100)
(6787) = 154
Jun 24, 2025 7:26 am
OOC:
A&T: Remove DreamA&F: Expansive Environment
So it's definitely related to the dream.
With caution, they approach the bag and snatch it to gain some supplies for their journey back. However, opening the bag reveals an unwelcome truth. Aside from some useful supplies, the bag contains items that are marked with a symbol.
"Etta, look at this." Gevin says. "These items have a Thalken symbol." As a descendant of Rackon Thalken, Gevin knew the symbol well. Though he was not a Thalken by name, the blood ran through his veins. He had had lessons about the history of the village and everything that came with that. Good and bad.
"Do you think someone got ambushed and stolen from? Or perhaps this camp was made by a Thalken." It was unclear why a backpack with of Rackon's Bluff's supplies was all the way out here in the wild. As Gevin looks around, it's not impossible for the camp to have been made by a Thalken. Some of the techniques used were similar to that of the village. But then again anyone could use that style. "We should tell the elder about this."
With new knowledge they continue on to the Bluff.
OOC:
I interpreted the oracle this way:We find out something that removes the dream aspect of Etta's dream. So there is now a seed for that dream to become reality or at least to be based in truth. Though it's still vague and can go in many directions from here.
It's also a clue found in a far away location. A spot that suggests the Thalken influence expands beyond what we knew.
Also I created a background vow. The one I had before (Become a legend) was just a placeholder. I've changed it to "Become the leader of a village". I think that will be interesting in combination with your vision. Since Gevin is technically a Thalken by blood, it can create a nice conflict.
Jun 25, 2025 12:24 am
OOC:
Yes, it seems Etta and Gevin are on a collision course....😈For your vow: you want to become the leader of ANY village? It doesn't have to be the Bluff? Or are you intent on ruling the Bluff one day?
I'm going to go ahead and move us back to the Bluff, so we can get crackin' on something else...maybe? There will be some drama, of course.
I shouldn't be so dismissive. This could be important. But that vision the glimmer showed me...and talking with Reina...and Malkath's Vestige...I've enough on my plate, without worrying about some convoluted Thalken plan.
Once they resume their journey, Etta moves closer to Gevin, putting the Vestige within his reach. She doesn't want him to think she's claimed it for her own. Though she does enjoy the power coursing through it....
Etta: "Gevin, what you said about being cursed...I don't think you need to worry. Reina explained much. Using her teachings, I'm almost certain I cleansed myself of any magical corruption. I can teach you what I've learned, or I can simply try to expel any dark forces from you myself. Just let me know."
She leaves it at that. She doesn't know why Gevin wouldn't want to be exorcised...unless he's too far gone already?
No, that's a ridiculous thought. He's just overwhelmed, probably, and fatigued from our mission. In time, he'll come around....
And so their journey continues....
They make it back to the Bluff as the sun is setting, so most of the villagers are either already home or heading there...or heading to the longhouse to drink, cause trouble, and perhaps find romance or lust.
Their arrival causes quite a stir. Their fellow villagers pepper them with questions, and both of them answer as best they can. Many comment on Malkath's Vestige...too zealously for Etta's liking.
I can already see people covet this red gemstone. We can't let its seductive power tear the Bluff apart....
On the other hand...why not? But she pushes this villainous, ungrateful thought aside....
They eventually make it to Caldus's home. The elder eagerly invites them in, and shoos away the other villagers. After offering them food and drink, he sits, and waits for Etta's and Gevin's tale.
Both Ironsworn take turns detailing their adventure, with one offering up details if the other forgets something. Caldus's mood becomes almost cheerful as they talk...until they discuss their showdown with Reina.
Finally, the story is told. There's a long pause as the elder looks at them sternly.
Caldus: "It's certainly impressive that you've retrieved this so-called Vestige, and seemingly ended the threat to the Bluff...but you let that vile woman escape? How could you be so stupid?!"
Etta's face reddens, and she has to stop herself from whacking Caldus with the staff: "We've explained that in detail, old man. Reina's knowledge would've been lost, if not for our efforts."
Caldus: "You think calling me old wounds me? I may be old, but I know how to handle witches such as Reina: by destroying them. I don't care what duplicity she used, or what vows she made you utter. Suppose she breaks her vow of innocence, finds some other artifacts, and assaults us again? The blood of the dead will be on your hands, Etta Karl and Gevin Obrek."
Again, Etta has to stop herself from doing or saying something she'll truly regret. She glances at Gevin and waits for him to speak.
Maybe he can make this ancient dolt see reason. Or will he bow under Caldus's pressure? What will I do then?
And what about the pack with the Thalken symbols? Will Caldus tell us anything if he knows, or brush us "failures" aside?
Jun 25, 2025 4:27 pm
OOC:
The vow is ANY village. I thought about specifying the Bluff, but I didn't want to limit it in such a way. It leaves more room for adjusting based on the journeys to come. Of course at this time, it's most likely the Bluff that Gevin has in mind.He wasn't sure if it was true, or just a trick of his mind, but to Gevin it seemed like the red eye enhanced his vision in the dark. If he switched between his left and right eye there was a difference. Not anything grand, but just barely noticeable. He started to wonder if the vestige's power was in any other way helping him. Perhaps it wasn't such a curse after all.
"Elder Caldus, please." Gevin said, literally standing up for Etta. "Etta does not deserve such accusations. I was the one sent to complete this task. I will take responsibility." He says with confidence. "Did you not once tell me that an ironsworn's best property is compassion?"
"We have the vestige and Reina's word. I believe that is enough to keep the Bluff safe." He realizes that he's back-talking the village elder and sits back down as to not seem too rebellious.
OOC:
Gonna roll a compel for this.Rolls
Compel (+heart) +1 for the bond - (1d6+1+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+1+1 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d10 : (8) = 8
1d10 : (4) = 4
Action & Theme (for what Caldus wants to focus on next) - (2d100)
(5835) = 93
Jun 25, 2025 4:44 pm
OOC:
Well that's unlucky ...Miss: They refuse or demand something - pay the price
A&T: Impress History
The elder sits down on a stool. "Very well." He says. "You two think you know it all better than some old man." He scoffs. "Well, there is a task that would be given to ironsworn in the past to see if they needed to prove themselves." He looks up, checking for the reaction of the two before him.
"I agree that you have returned safety to the Bluff... for now. And so I suppose we can manage without the two of you for a time." At this he stands up and heads over to a small book shelf, grabs one and flicks through it. "The books talk of a place of power at least a week's walk from here. They say that venturing there is a true test for Ironsworn and that those who return from it are forever hardened."
He puts the book in front of them, opened at a page that shows a crude map. Rackon's Bluff is marked on it and so is the destination. In between are some symbols that likely denote landmarks, but it's unclear what they mean exactly.
"If you are so keen on taking matters into your own hands. I suggest you go there and see for yourselves what it means to be an Ironsworn. Then return to me and see if you are still of the same mind."
OOC:
What do you think? Interesting as a new quest?I'm open to other suggestions as well. Or if you want to add more detail to it, go for it. I'll wait to post Gevin's reply.
Jun 25, 2025 10:04 pm
OOC:
Yeah, that quest is fine with me. To be clear: Caldus isn't explaining the symbols/pack until we complete this quest?I'm going to tie up some loose ends....
As if we haven't already done so! We were both injured and altered, yet this fossil remains unimpressed!
She clenches the staff tightly and focuses her anger, causing the Vestige to flicker. Hopefully this gives Caldus pause.
Etta: "I am indeed up for this quest, if Gevin is. If we return hardened, as you put it, perhaps we'll receive a warmer welcome."
Caldus chooses not to respond directly to this barb: "I'm glad to hear it, Etta. But the Vestige...will you be taking it with you?"
Etta: "I will. I'm the only one who has any idea how to manipulate its power. Gevin doesn't yet want to learn. Leaving it here would likely cause problems."
Caldus: "How so? You don't trust us to manage such an artifact? If you teach myself and the loremasters, we'll be good stewards. The Vestige seems like an incredible tool. The enemies of the Bluff would quail, if we used its power cunningly."
Etta: "Again, no. Unless you're demanding the Vestige. That's another matter entirely...."
Caldus thinks long and hard about this, but finally sighs.
Caldus: "Fine. Keep it...for now. You'll need it on your quest...probably more than we'll need it here."
Etta: "Thank you, elder. Before we move on, I have some questions. As we told you, Reina mentioned a connection to the Bluff, but never gave us details. Do you know anyone by that name?"
Caldus: "You should have interrogated her more thoroughly...but we've already argued this. Give me a moment to consult with my records."
He pulls more books down from his bookshelf, and flips through them. They appear to be genealogical records, organized in a way that allows Caldus to find what he's looking for fairly quickly. He reads some entries several times, then speaks:
Caldus: "The books record two Reinas. One was a weaver. Got married, had four kids, died aged 70, about 30 years ago. Doubtful it's your Reina, for the other entry is far more interesting."
"It says there was a Reina who lived here roughly 100 years ago. Not a Thalken; her family name was Ulster, and they were from the north. Apparently beautiful, but vain. Then something happened to her. The entry says she 'looked into a pool of unknown power and origin.' It destroyed her beauty; it seems her face became a horror to behold, but the rest of her body remained unaffected."
"Reina left, and was never heard from again...until now, apparently. Reading between the lines, it seems the people of the Bluff weren't as compassionate regarding her situation as they could've been."
Etta: "So that's why she wore a mask, and why she attacked the village! Vengeance for being treated like some...some gruesome leper. But 100 years ago?!"
Caldus: "You said Veyla, the Waking Mirror was her patron. Or so she claimed. If she was aided by a deity, many things become possible."
Etta considers all this. It was certainly strange to attack a village for something that happened there a century ago. That amount of rage and hate seemed ludicrous. On the other hand, suppose Veyla had manipulated Reina? The Goddess of Transformation could've strung along Reina for decades, until finally somehow putting Malkath's Vestige in her grasp.
A lot of unanswered questions...but Reina is gone now, and if she keeps to her vow, we'll never see her again.
Etta: "What do you think of this, elder?"
Caldus: "I admit, it gives me a new perspective. I don't condone Reina's actions...but we cannot allow indifference, hypocrisy, and foolishness to alienate our friends and family. I don't want to see more Reinas created because we didn't support someone when they were suffering."
You're a hypocrite yourself, you fucker. You can't even apologize to us. All you can muster is some general statement about acceptance....
Etta, with a bit or sarcasm: "Hmmm....interesting thoughts." Turning to Gevin: "Well, are you up for this quest, Gevin? And if so, when are we heading out? I suggest we at least rest tonight. For my part, I expect to get piss-drunk at the longhouse in celebration of our exploits."
Jun 26, 2025 3:40 pm
OOC:
Totes says:
To be clear: Caldus isn't explaining the symbols/pack until we complete this quest?Regarding the symbols in the book, I'm not sure Caldus knows. He may not even have done this himself.
I think the vow for this quest will not be to Caldus, but to ourselves. We don't need to do it in his home.
Caldus: "Yes, long ago. The symbols on the page denote landmarks. I remember this one was a rock that resembled an eagle up high on a cliff. The others are long gone from my memory."
It's not clear whether Caldus is telling the truth about forgetting the landmarks or not. Perhaps this is part of the test.
Gevin takes parchment and a quill to make a copy of the map.
Gevin: "Very well, we'll figure it out. Now what about this backpack and the camp? Is this not a more pressing concern?"
Caldus: "Hard to tell at this point. Not everyone who grows up in the Bluff stays there for life. It's possible that another village created that camp as an outpost. It could even be a nomadic group. All I know was it wasn't anyone from here, unless it was done without consulting me." He pauses and considers this. "I will ask around. When you return I will know more about it."
Caldus: "I suggest you both get enough rest to gather your strength for the next journey."
After leaving the elder's abode, Gevin exchanges thoughts with Etta. "I don't think you did the wrong thing letting Reina go. Elder Caldus may not have done so, but you are not him. If it wasn't for your compassion, I would have been on that mission alone and possible would not have made it back." He puts a hand on Etta's shoulder. "Thank you."
"Now, how about we get a stiff drink?!"
OOC:
Unless you want to add more, I think we can skip to when we start the next journey.To make it there, we can do the sojourn move, I believe. I'll leave that to you.
The way I've done it in the past is that each player makes a short narration about what they do to get ready for the next quest.
Does that work for you?
Last edited June 26, 2025 4:01 pm
Rolls
Has the elder done the quest? (50/50) - (1d100)
(66) = 66
Jun 26, 2025 7:09 pm
OOC:
Yeah, let's Sojourn. Weak hit. I'll take +2 supply, so we're back up to max.Etta: "Compassion? Sure you're talking about me? But seriously: I appreciate you not browbeating me like that old windbag. And yes...it's time to guzzle some ale!"
She turns away and heads down the village's main path, trying to keep her expression neutral.
If he knew what I truly felt and thought... and I still haven't told him the truth about that glimmer-vision. Ah, fuck it...drink and merriment will whisk my troubles away, at least for tonight....
Etta awakens with the rooster's crow...reluctantly. Groaning, she rolls around in her bed, wishing the sun would go away for a few more minutes.
The previous night had been as celebratory as expected. Etta had reunited with her parents (Keegan and Lyla) briefly, then headed out for drink.
The longhouse was filled, and there were plenty of villagers who opened their doors to let the festivities trickle in. Many a toast was given to Etta and Gevin, and several people gave them gifts of food and trinkets...but as before, Etta noticed whispers and hard stares, clearly directed at Malkath's Vestige.
She overheard one comment that particularly riled her up: "Caldus let her keep it? The old man's losin' his wits...."
But the night was so glorious that the normally combative Etta went with the flow...more or less. The drink made her giddy and witty...but not lustful.
And she certainly could've found a lover. Either an old flame, or some new man, someone who looked at her differently now that she was a returning heroine. But she went home alone around one in the morning, and wasn't filled with regret.
Well, maybe a little regret.
Would've been nice to wake up beside some strapping lad...but my head still ain't right. Guess drink alone ain't gonna clear it. Need time as well.
Finally, she gets up. The Vestige is right where she left it, leaning against the nightstand. The gemstone barely gleams, as if it's also groggy. Etta starts fixing a breakfast of eggs and bread.
Her "home" is little more than a shack on her parents' property. She was still too young to have her own space...or that's the excuse she usually gave. In reality, she could've parlayed her skills into better accommodations, but she'd never taken that step.
Now's the time, I guess. If I'm an Ironsworn, I can't keep acting like a child.
After her breakfast is finished, she dresses, packs her gear, and tidies up the shack. Last night's fun still weighs her down; she hopes Gevin will agree to a moderate travel pace, if they are setting out today. If they aren't, Etta has no qualms with sticking around the Bluff for a few days.
Rolls
Sojourn, +heart, +bond - (1d6+2+1)
(6) + 3 = 9
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Jun 28, 2025 9:41 pm
OOC:
Damn that's unlucky rolling that 10 when you had a 9 on the action result.The move says "If you share a bond take 1 more". So I think we each get 1 choice + a shared one. Since supply is shared, I'd say let's use the shared option for that one. So, you can pick again for Etta :)
I'm picking +2 Spirit for Gevin.
"Here's to another great adventure." He toasts. He enjoys Etta's company as they drink together. Until one of the patrons makes a comment about Caldus letting Etta 'keep it'. "Hey, why don't you mind your business, huh?" He shouts back probably more angry than he should be.
Normally this would most surely result in a brawl of some sort, but somehow the man simply apologized and left the longhouse. Gevin found that odd, but was soon distracted by a cute looking girl that was shyly glancing at him. "Well Etta, I don't know about you, but I think I might get lucky tonight." He winks, finished his ale and wishes his companion a good night. "See you in the morning."
Gevin woke up in a house that wasn't his. He had a minor headache, but it was all worth it. He had a great night. Best one in weeks! He hurriedly grabbed his stuff, took a last look at the woman he had spent the night with and headed to his home to get ready to leave town.
As he washed his face, once again he saw the red eye staring back at him. It made him shudder but at the same time it made him realize the importance of being an ironsworn. These things happen to people who can carry the burden so that others may live without these worries. He looked himself in the eyes and grabbed his dagger to swear upon the iron it held. "To protect the Bluff and the people within, I vow to find out what it means to be an ironsworn."
Once in the village square, he saw Etta already there and good to go. He waved, still looking happy. "I'm good to go, Etta. Just need to pick up some bread on our way out."
OOC:
Should we start a new thread for this new quest?Last edited June 28, 2025 9:44 pm
Rolls
swear a vow (+heart +bond) - (1d6+1+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+1+1 : (5) + 2 = 7
1d10 : (3) = 3
1d10 : (10) = 10
Jun 28, 2025 9:44 pm
OOC:
Weak hit on the vow - I start with more questions than answers and get +1 momentum.Jun 29, 2025 6:14 pm
OOC:
Gevin got lucky! I was going to have Etta hook up with someone, but decided her mood wasn't right. Maybe later. 😎For the extra Sojourn choice, I'm taking +2 momentum.
What rank is this quest, and the journey to get there? Caldus said it's at least a week's walk, right?
Let's keep the story in this thread.
Etta: "You sure you don't wanna tarry a bit, get some more rest with that...new friend o' yours?"
But Gevin is ready to leave, so they head out. Etta also says an Iron Vow, so that they're both bonded together for this quest once again.
While they know which direction they're supposed to be heading, they don't know what the map's landmarks mean. Etta suspects Caldus remembered all of them, but didn't tell them to challenge them...or maybe he was just being spiteful.
Etta gazes at the map, then at the Vestige. Could it help? Reina had taught her various tricks, but using this magic was still risky.
I have to learn sometime. And the sooner, the better...then Caldus and the loremasters won't dare take this from me.
Etta: "Hold on a second, Gevin. I want to try something with the Vestige."
OOC:
Rolling Secure an Advantage to prepare.Rolls
Secure an Advantage, +wits - (1d6+1)
(4) + 1 = 5
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Jun 29, 2025 6:25 pm
OOC:
Miss! Etta won't truly attempt to use the Vestige now, and I'll take -1 spirit as a penalty.What's wrong with this damnable thing?! Or is it me?
Whatever the case, she feels that pushing harder would cause harm...or even outright catastrophe. So she pulls herself back, and the Vestige's red light dims.
Gevin now hears a string of curses that would astonish the saltiest sailor. Finally Etta is able to speak normally, and addresses her Ironsworn companion:
"Sorry. Fuckin' thing is bein' ornery. I guess we just keep walking towards the first waypoint, unless you wanna try and untangle the meanings yourself."
Jun 29, 2025 6:26 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. I press on.Rolls
Endure Stress, +heart/spirit - (1d6+2)
(5) + 2 = 7
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
Jun 30, 2025 5:45 pm
OOC:
I'm thinking the vow is either Dangerous or Formidable.For the journey we could split them up for each waypoint. In that case I'd say a Troublesome journey each time.
Or it can be one big journey, probably Formidable in that case.
That second option may be the best way. It's would be possible that we find a guide at some point, but if that happens we can just mark progress without rolling if we feel that it fits the story.
When Etta tries to use the Vestige to help them on their way, he gets a strange feeling. The light of the gem makes him feel a bit woozy in the head. He holds his hand up to block the Vestige from his view and as soon as Etta stops, the feeling subsides quickly. "Well, it was worth a shot." He says, deciding not to mention this feeling to Etta.
"We know we need to go south-west." He mentions, looking at the map. "It will take us into the ragged coast. I guess it's one of those 'You'll know it when you see it' kind of deals." He shrugs and starts walking. "Come on, we're losing daylight."
OOC:
Even though we haven't decided on the rank, I'll roll for the journey.Rolls
Undertake a Journey - (1d6+2+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2+1 : (2) + 3 = 5
1d10 : (1) = 1
1d10 : (10) = 10
Aspect & Focus - (2d100)
(4335) = 78
Jun 30, 2025 5:59 pm
OOC:
That's a weak hit -> -1 supply but we reach a waypoint.A&F: Active Trail
After walking some more, they come across a trail in the forest that shows recent footsteps. "Hey Etta, look at this." Gevin says pointing to the prints. "Someone was here recently. They were heading in the same direction that we are. Let's keep our eyes open. With any luck it's be someone who knows their way around here and can tell us more about what we're looking for."
Jun 30, 2025 8:23 pm
OOC:
It's your quest, so I'm fine with any of the options you've presented.That's a miss. Let's see what happens....
Then they notice something up ahead. It looks like three people sitting in a small clearing. Perhaps they've stopped to rest, as Etta planned to? Though something seems off....
They move closer, and call out a greeting, but only one person glances in their direction. They then realize why: two of the three have been cruelly slaughtered, opened up from shoulder to navel. Their lifeless eyes stare at nothing, and their weapons lay useless by their sides. Both are men, and have the look, even in death, of Ironsworn or adventurers, but Etta has never seen them before.
The remaining "person" stands and stares at them. He's dressed in slashed and stained leather armor, a leather helmet, and wields a colossal greatsword; the sword is covered with blood and guts. His black eyes seem to pierce their innermost thoughts, and his flesh is wrinkled and sickly-looking. He also has seemingly-critical wounds, but they don't seem to bother him.
He speaks, and his voice is both cunning and whiny, like a hapless peasant with delusions of grandeur: "Well met, travelers. I hope this scene doesn't frighten you...too much. These two were unsettled by my...unfortunate appearance, and attacked me immediately. I had to defend myself."
Gods, what is he?! A husk? A wight? Something worse?
Etta smiles, and tries to keep her tone jaunty: "Well, it seems you're a formidable warrior, since you dispatched these two with ease. But who...what...are you, exactly? 'Scuse me for being forthright."
Man: "I can be a valuable ally, or a deadly foe. Which will you choose?"
Etta: "Allies, o' course! But why so threatening? We haven't instigated anything, have we?"
Man: "Not exactly...but you're poised to either run or fight. I can see it in both your eyes...in your minds, too. Do not attempt either; it will end badly for you. Rather, let us discuss how we can help each other. For isn't that one of the pleasures of existence? To aid your fellows?"
Evil, power-mad trickster. The longer we banter with this monstrosity, the more likely we end up in its web of lies.
She glances at Gevin, wondering how he'll respond....
OOC:
This is actually a husk, which are usually Formidable. However, since he's damaged from his recent fight, I'll drop him down to Dangerous. Should make it more interesting.Rolls
Gather Information, +wits - (1d6+1)
(1) + 1 = 2
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
Jul 1, 2025 6:57 am
OOC:
I'm going to set both the quest and the journey to Formidable. That does mean it will take a lot longer than the previous vow.If it's too much for you, I'm happy to lower one of them to Dangerous.
Cool encounter! Well thought up :)
Looks like Gevin also doesn't know this person.
He decides to defuse the situation. Play along so that this person will lower their guard. "Excuse our reflexes, but I'm sure anyone would have the same reaction if they come across a person standing over two men in such conditions." He acknowledges. "As you correctly commented, we are simple travelers on our way to the village of Cliffhold in the south." He had heard of a village by that name before, but was not at all sure it was in the south. "We only got vague landmarks to follow and are searching for one of them. Perhaps, as you say, we can help each other." He intentionally relaxes his stance to show he's not out to harm the husk but remains vigilant to any sudden moves.
"What is it that you would need help with in return?"
Last edited July 1, 2025 7:53 am
Rolls
Does Gevin know this husk? (unlikely) - (1d100)
(62) = 62
Compel with a lie (+shadow) - (2d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
2d6+2 : (53) + 2 = 10
1d10 : (4) = 4
1d10 : (4) = 4
Action & Theme (what does this husk want?) - (2d100)
(722) = 29
Character goal for the husk - (1d100)
(15) = 15
Action & Theme for the twist (optional) - (2d100)
(1846) = 64
Jul 1, 2025 7:13 am
OOC:
I accidentally rolled 2d6 for my action, but either of the dice would have given me a result higher than 4, so I'll still count it as a success. (If it was only one, I would have rerolled)Strong hit with a twist +1 momentum (now at +6)
A&T for the husk: Avenge Solution --> This isn't making a whole lot of sense to me. I'm going to focus on the first word only.
Character goal: Seek a truth
A&T for the twist: Deflect Corruption --> My idea here is that the Vestige acts as either a repellant or a cure to this husk. I don't know how to incorporate that into the story yet. If you want to in your post, please do. Or if you have another idea, also fine :)
"Since I need him to talk, I cannot outright kill him. As you can see here, however, sometimes my instincts take over and I miss that opportunity. I know of this Cliffhold you speak of, and it's likely that I know the landmark you are looking for. If you can help me get the information I need from this man, I will aid you in finding your way."
Gevin looks at Etta and then replies. "Will you also be striking down this third man? We did not come here to kill random individuals or aid someone in doing so."
The husk doesn't hesitate. "Oh yes. I have every intention to kill him too. As would you if you knew what he did." The man says resolutely. "You have my offer. Take it or leave it."
Last edited July 1, 2025 7:36 am
Rolls
Does he want to kill the third man? (50/50) - (1d100)
(77) = 77
Jul 1, 2025 7:29 pm
OOC:
Fine with the ranks. This'll be a meaty quest.Regarding "Deflect Corruption": also not sure how to incorporate it right now. We'll see if an opportunity arises.
We'll play along for now, but end this thing if we get an opportunity. We've sworn no Iron Vow, so my conscience is clear. Backstabbing evil is a virtue, not a sin.
Etta: "I have the same concerns as my companion...but we are in need of guidance. We accept your offer...though as we travel, maybe we can convince you not to kill this man."
Man: "You won't, but you can certainly try. Hearing your arguments will be an amusing way to pass the time."
He points his greatsword to the south.
Man: "The man I seek headed that way. Attacked me along with his friends, but then scurried away once the battle got heated. As expected of swine such as him. He calls himself Sann the Red, on account of his red hair and beard...and the blood he's spilled. He's tall, pale, lean, and usually fights with a spear. You'll know him when you see him."
Etta: "And you won't tell us how he's wronged you?"
The man glowers and grinds his teeth so loud she can actually hear them: "No. As I said, that's my business."
Etta: "Well, what do we call you? And can you at least give us an explanation for your...condition?"
Man: "A name?" He snickers. "Call me Truth-Eater. And I am a husk, as you've certainly surmised. But be assured: there are good husks and bad husks. I'm certainly a good husk...as long as you fulfill your end of our bargain."
Bullshit. But we've made our choice. We'll just have to keep alert....
OOC:
Rolling Undertake a Journey next.Jul 1, 2025 7:31 pm
OOC:
Big miss! Let's see what happens....Gods, this is torture. Such a pathetic creature....
She tries to make Gevin understand her intent with subtle words and gestures, so she doesn't alert Truth-Eater. Hopefully he realizes that she plans to get rid of this husk at the first opportunity.
They make good progress, as the husk's wounds don't slow it down in the slightest. The path eventually dips down into a low area, with hills on either side. The hills aren't that tall, but their sides are steep, and they're covered in dense thickets and gnarled trees.
A prime spot for an ambush....
As soon as she thinks this, an arrow whizzes towards them from one of the hills, piercing Truth-Eater's thigh! The husk lets out a roar-whine, yanks the arrow out, and readies his greatsword.
Truth-Eater: "Who dares?! Is that you, Sann?! I would've thought you'd still be running, like a whipped dog!"
A cocky, raspy voice answers from the hill: "Running from what? You? You're a sad, hapless man...or husk, I should say. Easy to trick, easy to humiliate. I admit, you surprised us earlier...but Sann the Red doesn't get fooled twice."
Truth-Eater's screams seem to shake the very trees: "Idiot! Blackguard! Charlatan! Your death is near! Me and my allies will make sure of that! But not before I force you to talk!"
Sann: "Oh, they're your allies? Willing allies, or have you mesmerized them? It doesn't matter, I suppose. You two, either help us destroy this husk, or stand aside. If you fight with it, you die. We have you outnumbered."
Truth-Eater: "More lies! You can't possibly have found more of your sinister friends already!"
Etta draws her bow, deciding to keep the Vestige hidden for now. But which side will they fight on? Or will they do nothing, and let this strange feud play out?
OOC:
Not assigning a rank to Sann and his possible allies yet, to add suspense. You can handle this however you want; Etta will (probably) go along with it. And if she disagrees, well, more tension!Rolls
Undertake Journey, +wits - (1d6+1)
(2) + 1 = 3
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Jul 2, 2025 2:44 pm
Gevin had no way of knowing which party was in the right here. Would this husk be true to its word? Would Sann even let them go after defeating the husk if they helped? There was no clear answer. But he had made a deal with Truth-Eater. From their limited interaction, it did seem that it was a 'husk of its word'. And it didn't lie about wanting to kill Sann.
He grabs his shield and gets in front of Etta. If there were others, then he would be ready to take the hit and let Etta do what she does best. "I say we take the husk's side on this one, Etta." Gevin tells her in a low voice so Sann can't hear, now positioned in a defensive stance. "Even though I don't agree with its methods, it seemed somehow trustworthy." Hopefully his judge of character isn't wrong.
Even so, it might pay off to try and end the fight without bloodshed. "Listen, buddy." He calls out to Sann as the husk advances. "I don't know if you saw what this husk did to your 2 companions, but I can tell you it wasn't pretty. And attacking will only get you in more trouble. So I suggest you put down your weapons and answer some questions. As for your other friends, they might want to reconsider and make a run for it while they still have the chance or suffer the same fate."
He grabs his shield and gets in front of Etta. If there were others, then he would be ready to take the hit and let Etta do what she does best. "I say we take the husk's side on this one, Etta." Gevin tells her in a low voice so Sann can't hear, now positioned in a defensive stance. "Even though I don't agree with its methods, it seemed somehow trustworthy." Hopefully his judge of character isn't wrong.
Even so, it might pay off to try and end the fight without bloodshed. "Listen, buddy." He calls out to Sann as the husk advances. "I don't know if you saw what this husk did to your 2 companions, but I can tell you it wasn't pretty. And attacking will only get you in more trouble. So I suggest you put down your weapons and answer some questions. As for your other friends, they might want to reconsider and make a run for it while they still have the chance or suffer the same fate."
OOC:
Doing a compel. If that fails I'll enter the fray.Rolls
Compel with intimidation (+str) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (4) + 3 = 7
1d10 : (6) = 6
1d10 : (2) = 2
Does Sann have more allies around? (50/50) - (1d100)
(58) = 58
If yes, how many? - (1d4)
(1) = 1
Jul 2, 2025 2:57 pm
OOC:
Strong hit on the compel -> +1 momentum = +7Sann: "Your delusional pleads will not work here! I know what this thing is out for and there is no way you'll capture me willingly! ATTACK!"
In the bushes next to Etta and Gevin a rustle gives away the position of another person. Gevin quickly moves his shield to guard from that side but not incoming attack follows. Instead, through the shrubbery Gevin and Etta spot another armed man running away.
"Looks like your friends are leaving, Sann." Gevin says with a smirk. This seems to shake Sann's confidence at least somewhat. He lets loose an arrow, aiming it at Gevin this time. A low shot, going for the belly. It strikes the shield, deflecting the attack but the arrowhead flies up uncontrolled and cuts Gevin's forehead. Lucky for him, it's only a superficial wound. It'll bleed something fierce, but nothing life-threatening. "Son of a...!" Gevin exclaims.
OOC:
Weak hit on the face danger. So I succeed but at a cost.Taking 1 endure harm -> strong hit - Shake it off. (+1 HP, -1 momentum) back to +6 momentum :)
Your turn
Last edited July 2, 2025 3:04 pm
Rolls
Face danger (+str +shield) - (1d6+3+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3+1 : (3) + 4 = 7
1d10 : (4) = 4
1d10 : (8) = 8
Endure harm (1) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (6) + 3 = 9
1d10 : (8) = 8
1d10 : (4) = 4
Jul 2, 2025 9:25 pm
OOC:
Strong hit. I'll make another move and add +1.Then again, Gevin's intimidation had worked, and Sann now appeared to be out of allies. Anyway, the two Ironsworn were a team; now wasn't the time to argue.
The trio wait for more attacks...but none come. The husk finally lets out another wail.
Truth-Eater: "The bastard's trying to escape...again!"
He plunges up the hill, heedless of the thorns and branches clawing at him. Etta opts not to follow. Instead, she races down the path, planning to loop around to the other side of the hill, in the direction she suspects Sann is retreating.
She's able to slip into the woods through a less-dense spot, and sure enough, there's Sann, exactly as Truth-Eater described him. His face is contorted by rage and confusion, and he seems to be muttering to himself as he runs.
Your plans have collapsed, Sann, and it's only going to get worse....
Etta doesn't think he's seen her, so she prepares to strike....
Rolls
Secure an Advantage, +edge - (1d6+3)
(3) + 3 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Jul 2, 2025 9:36 pm
OOC:
Good god almighty! 😭Kicking my ass, plus a twist....
She lands hard on her side, knocking the wind out of her. She can do nothing but wheeze for a few moments.
Finally struggling to a sitting position, Etta tries to understand what happened. In a few seconds, she thinks she's figured it out: Sann and his allies had covered a natural pit, about 15 feet deep, with forest debris, in the hopes of someone stumbling into it.
And I'm the fool who ended up falling. They knew the path I took was the easiest way to the back of that hill, and planned for it. Clever fuckers! Luckily they didn't put spikes or something down here; probably didn't have time.
She begins climbing out of the pit, but she's lost whatever momentum she had. Hopefully the others aren't stymied by Sann's trickery....
OOC:
I'll take -2 momentum as my penalty. Technically I'm in the fight, but narratively at a huge disadvantage.For Sann's rank, I think he'd normally be Dangerous, but since Truth-Eater is helping us, we drop him down to Troublesome. We can narrate the husk attacking in conjunction with us, and sharing our rolls, instead of creating entirely new stats for him.
Or if you have other suggestions, I'm all ears.
Rolls
Enter the Fray, +shadow, +bonus - (1d6+2+1)
(1) + 3 = 4
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Jul 4, 2025 7:02 am
OOC:
Looks like Etta may have ... twisted an ankle 😎.I agree. We've technically already been fighting with entering the fray. So Dangerous seems good. Though it seems like it's going to be more like a chase scene than a fight.
I believe NPC should never roll any dice. So yes, let's have TE do things based on our rolls.
OOC:
With the trap, I'm going to say that we've been ambushed here. So entering the fray with wits.Rolls
Enter the Fray (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d10 : (9) = 9
1d10 : (9) = 9
Jul 4, 2025 7:14 am
OOC:
Wow... The dice really aren't being nice to us!With his last bit of reaction he tries to grab onto the man's leg. With any luck it would spare him a trip down to the bottom. Or at least drag the guy with him.
Rolls
Face danger (+Edge) - (1d6+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+1 : (2) + 1 = 3
1d10 : (2) = 2
1d10 : (2) = 2
Is successful, does the guy fall down too? (50/50) - (1d100)
(2) = 2
Jul 4, 2025 7:28 am
OOC:
Another twist but a strong hit this time!Gevin gets advantage and +1 momentum
The other guy does not fall
But then he spots something... Where the buttons are missing and the vest is revealed, a symbol is stamped on the leather vest. The symbol of a mountain peak in front of a swirl. The second symbol from the book that they need to find to get to the place Elder Caldus talked about. He realizes that this guy will know more about it. This symbol does not depict a landmark as such. But it's likely the symbol of a village or group of people.
The man reacts by trying to shake off Gevin. So far he's not reached for his weapon yet. But he won't be surprised for long.
OOC:
This is going to be 1 progress for our vow.You're up :)
Last edited July 4, 2025 7:30 am
Jul 4, 2025 8:04 pm
OOC:
So Dangerous or Troublesome for this fight? With this one dingus returning, Dangerous seems appropriate; if it was just Sann, then Troublesome, as I mentioned. I'm marking it as Dangerous for now.Big buff hit. +1 momentum, +6 progress.
But it is dangerous, so she notches an arrow and tries to aim. She doesn't have a good angle at first...but then the man bends down to try to extricate himself from Gevin with a sword-slash, and Etta has her target. With a twang, the arrow flies, hitting the balding man in the shoulder!
He hollers and tumbles backwards, dropping his sword in the process. Gevin either still has hold of his ankle, or has grabbed the top edge of the pit...maybe both.
With the immediate danger dealt with, Etta listens intently as she tries to climb out of the pit. She thinks she can hear Truth-Eater's strange wails nearby; he's probably so obsessed with catching Sann that he hasn't even noticed their predicament....
Rolls
Turn the Tide (Strike), +edge - (1d6+3+1)
(5) + 4 = 9
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(3) = 3
Jul 4, 2025 8:23 pm
OOC:
Trying to climb out of the pit. Success! +1 momentum.Once back "above ground," she quickly surveys the scene. Sann's friend is groaning and trying to pull out her arrow; not currently a lethal threat, but one they should deal with before confronting Sann.
She again hears Truth-Eater's wails, but now they're mixed with Sann's threats and curses, as well as the clash of iron. It seemed like the husk had finally gotten the duel he craved. The woods are too thick for her to see what's exactly happening, though.
She bends down to help her Ironsworn companion....
OOC:
You're up. I can Aid Your Ally if you're in a bind, but I assume you can handle it.Rolls
Face Danger, +edge - (1d6+3)
(3) + 3 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(3) = 3
Jul 4, 2025 8:38 pm
Gevin, still clinging onto the man's leg, which is making the situation quite awkward, gladly accepts Etta's hand to get out. He ties to pull himself up swiftly."Nice shot!" He tells her with a grin. "You saved my bacon there... Again!" He's got a few scrapes on his legs and elbows, but nothing to worry about. He then proceeds to kick man who had kicked him before right in the place where the arrow is still lodged. Not in a way to harm him, but just hard enough for him to think twice about trying anything.
"Let me deal with this asshole. You go and find Sann." He says to Etta. "This man has some information for us. I don't want to let him get away."
OOC:
Strong hit to pull myself up, so +1 momentum (now at +8)"Let me deal with this asshole. You go and find Sann." He says to Etta. "This man has some information for us. I don't want to let him get away."
OOC:
Hope that's ok for youLast edited July 4, 2025 8:44 pm
Rolls
Face danger +iron - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (4) + 3 = 7
1d10 : (3) = 3
1d10 : (2) = 2
Jul 4, 2025 9:07 pm
Trusting that Etta can handle Sann, Gevin turns his attention to the guy who pretended to run. He picks up the sword that the man had dropped when he got shot. "Alright, you bastard. This is how this is going to go. You're going to get rid of those knives there and throw them into the bushes." He points the sword at the daggers attached to the belt.
For a second, the man hesitates to consider his options. But it's clear that he's not in a good position to do anything heroic. Reluctantly he listens and tosses the weapons aside. "Whatever you think I know. I can tell you I don't." The man says. "Sann doesn't tell me about his plans nor his past. I'm useless to you."
Gevin grins. "Well, good thing I don't want to know anything about Sann then, huh?" He rests the tip of the sword on the shoulder where the arrow has hit him. The man winces and cries out in pain.
Baldy: "Just tell me what you want to know then. Or are you planning on torturing me?"
Gevin: "Well.. That will depend on your answers." He says with a serious look. "I need to know where you got that leather vest and what that symbol on it means."
I don't have time to write the outcome of this move. Feel free to continue the story already.
For a second, the man hesitates to consider his options. But it's clear that he's not in a good position to do anything heroic. Reluctantly he listens and tosses the weapons aside. "Whatever you think I know. I can tell you I don't." The man says. "Sann doesn't tell me about his plans nor his past. I'm useless to you."
Gevin grins. "Well, good thing I don't want to know anything about Sann then, huh?" He rests the tip of the sword on the shoulder where the arrow has hit him. The man winces and cries out in pain.
Baldy: "Just tell me what you want to know then. Or are you planning on torturing me?"
Gevin: "Well.. That will depend on your answers." He says with a serious look. "I need to know where you got that leather vest and what that symbol on it means."
OOC:
Compel with intimidation.I don't have time to write the outcome of this move. Feel free to continue the story already.
Last edited July 4, 2025 9:08 pm
Rolls
Compel +iron - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (2) + 3 = 5
1d10 : (2) = 2
1d10 : (8) = 8
Jul 4, 2025 9:22 pm
OOC:
Miss! I'm taking 2 harm.Another miss for Endure Harm! -1 momentum. Lost initiative.
Etta: "C'mon, Gevin! You saw what happened when I ran off by myself! No tellin' what other traps they set up! Tie up this fool, and then let's help the husk together!"
But then the fight comes to them! Both Sann and Truth-Eater burst through some bushes, Sann thrusting with his spear, the husk swinging mightily with his greatsword. Sann is bleeding and gasping, but the husk looks worse; on top of its previous injuries, Sann's spear has cut deep into the left side of its face, making the monstrosity even more grotesque.
Shit, I can feel their hatred from here! But they're both consumed with the battle, so I should be able to get a good shot off....
But who to shoot? A convenient "miss" that actually hit the husk could give Sann the victory. Then what? Would Gevin believe she'd fired erroneously, or instantly understand her ploy?
Grumbling, she decides to fire at Sann. They could always kill the husk later, after their business with it was concluded...but she had a feeling things wouldn't unfold that way....
But just as she's about to shoot, Sann does an incredible move. He plants his spear point-first into the ground, then uses it to vault at Truth-Eater, hitting him with both feet right in the head! Another pitiful wail from the husk, who stumbles into a tree.
Thinking Sann will pause, Etta fires...and misses! Because Sann wasn't done. He flows immediately into another move. Pulling his spear out of the earth, he spins, and then flings it at Etta!
Pain and confusion crash against her. She looks down, and sees that the spear has driven deep into her right side! With trembling hands, she tries to pull it out, but then her legs collapse.
Etta: "Urrkk...that...stings...."
Sann: "Nice try, little girl! But I was slayin' people while you were still suckin' on your mommy's teats!"
But without his spear, how will he keep fighting? Will he use his bow, or does he have even more tricks up his sleeve? Will the trio really be overwhelmed, even though they have the numbers advantage?
Rolls
Strike, +edge - (1d6+3)
(1) + 3 = 4
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
Endure Harm, +health - (1d6+1)
(5) + 1 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(10) = 10
Jul 6, 2025 10:55 am
Gevin looks a bit confused when Etta protests. Had he misjudged her abilities? Even without his help, surely she would have been fine to get out of that pit. Or was he overestimating her strength? "Uhm, sure." Is all he can say before the others burst in and as Gevin is tying up the man, Etta gets hit hard. Strengthening the idea that Etta is not infallible.
He has only had the chance to tie up the wrists. It'll have to do. "If you try anything, you'll regret it." He tells his captive and jumps up, axe in hand. With determination, he starts to run towards Sann and picks up his shield, which had dropped to the floor earlier, on the way there. But he's not fast enough. Sann pulls a dagger from somewhere in his clothing and goes in for another strike at Truth-Eater.
Seeing few options, Gevin decides to hurl his shield at the duo in hopes of disrupting the attack.
"Catch!" He calls out to the husk.
He has only had the chance to tie up the wrists. It'll have to do. "If you try anything, you'll regret it." He tells his captive and jumps up, axe in hand. With determination, he starts to run towards Sann and picks up his shield, which had dropped to the floor earlier, on the way there. But he's not fast enough. Sann pulls a dagger from somewhere in his clothing and goes in for another strike at Truth-Eater.
Seeing few options, Gevin decides to hurl his shield at the duo in hopes of disrupting the attack.
"Catch!" He calls out to the husk.
Rolls
Clash +Edge +1 from my shield - (1d6+1+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+1+1 : (3) + 2 = 5
1d10 : (3) = 3
1d10 : (8) = 8
Jul 6, 2025 11:02 am
OOC:
That's a weak hit -> I do harm but then pay the price. We're at 8 progress. The shield flies on beyond them and lands somewhere with a clang. It's hot something hard but there's not time to worry about that now. At least his action had had the hoped for result. Gevin keeps running.
OOC:
The shield has been damaged and will need repair before being able to use it again.You're up.
Last edited July 6, 2025 11:02 am
Jul 6, 2025 6:04 pm
OOC:
Strong hit. No progress added. Will try to end the fight next.Deciding to copy Gevin, she hurls the spear back at its owner. But like Gevin, her aim is off; it sticks into the ground in front of Sann, doing no direct damage. Sann is still off-balance from Gevin's shield-throw, however, and trips over the spear-shaft!
It seems their combined attacks have chipped away at Sann's strength and resolve. Can they end this fight?
Rolls
Face Danger, +edge - (1d6+3)
(5) + 3 = 8
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(3) = 3
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Jul 6, 2025 6:11 pm
OOC:
End the Fight. Welp, we lost! 😭Update: but not really!
Sann: "A fine scuffle this was! But it ends now. I didn't want to use this...but needs must when the devils drive, as they say...."
He pulls a small round object from a pocket. It's smooth, jet-black, and fits in the palm of his hand. With a laugh, he tosses it into the air. It bursts, making a sound like water rushing from a collapsing dam, and darkness spreads outward!
Etta tries to limp away from the effect, but it's futile. The darkness washes over her almost instantly: cold, silent, all-encompassing. She tries to yell, but her words come out as whispers. She tries to squint through this void, or whatever it was, but she can barely see her hand in front of her face.
Finally she relents, and crouches down in a defensive posture. She hopes Sann and his friend choose to escape, rather than continue fighting. If they had a way to see through this darkness, they could easily murder the trio.
Then she senses something near. Focusing her senses as hard as possible, she waits...until something slashes at her shoulder! Sann's spear!
How can he see?! Or is he just blind as me?! Doesn't matter...I got my second wind now!
Somehow, she dodges the worst of the attack, and then counter-attacks with a fury that clearly surprises Sann. Again and again she cuts her foe with her dagger, until Sann drops the spear and crumbles. Almost too late, she remembers that Truth-Eater wants to question this man. So she pulls back the dagger from his throat, instead knocking him unconscious with a brutal kick to the head.
A few moments pass, and light and sound slowly return. Finally most of the effect dissipates, and she can see better, though a gray haze remains hanging about the immediate area.
Gevin is near, and seems fine. Truth-Eater is also "fine"...or as fine as an already-wounded husk can be. He stares at Sann covetously, drool literally running down his half-ruined face.
Sann's friend is a few yards from where she remembered him. Maybe he attempted an escape, then decided against it once the darkness descended.
Truth-Eater: "Well done, Etta! Exceptional! Marvelous! Now I'll tickle this bastard a bit, make him talk...oh, the thrills of vengeance...."
Etta: "And then you'll tell us what you know about our mission, right?"
Truth-Eater: "Of course, of course! Now excuse me. This'll get ugly, and I want our special conversation to be private...."
The husk grabs Sann by a leg, and drags the man's unconscious body behind some trees. Etta can hear chuckles and muttering. As soon as Sann wakes up, she has no doubt his screams will echo through the forest.
She plops down beside Gevin. "Dunno what the hells that darkness was, but it nearly finished us. Bastard was crafty, I'll give 'im that. Gimme a second...I need to...[groan]...put myself back together first...."
OOC:
I'm rolling Endure Harm for the cost.Rolls
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
Jul 6, 2025 9:22 pm
OOC:
how did we lose? We were at 8 progress. So a weak hit is a win at a cost, no?Jul 6, 2025 10:26 pm
OOC:
Damn, I messed up. Need to stare at the numbers harder, I guess. I'll edit my post.Jul 6, 2025 10:52 pm
OOC:
So Endure Harm reduces my health to zero, I believe.Then the strong hit gives me +1 momentum.
I don't have any special ideas for the matching dice right now.
Rolls
Endure Harm, +health - (1d6+1)
(5) + 1 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
Jul 8, 2025 4:54 pm
OOC:
Hmm, I might have a twist idea.He kneels down beside her. "You did great. Hang on while I try to help you." Then he turns his head to the tied up man. "I can see you, by the way. If you don't scurry your way back here right now you won't have any legs to scurry with." He didn't mean to be so threatening, but at this point he had run out of patience and the intimidation seemed to work well on this guy. It would keep him in line.
As expected, the man thinks better of what he's doing and starts moving back towards them.
Gevin grabs his backpack and pulls out some strips of cloth to use as bandages. "I brought some more poultice in case something like this happened." He tells her. "This will sting like a bitch."
Rolls
Heal (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (4) + 2 = 6
1d10 : (4) = 4
1d10 : (7) = 7
Jul 8, 2025 4:59 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. The heal works but I will lose 1 momentum. Back to +7You regain 2HP
Now going to use the result of my earlier compel move for the guy to tell me what I want to now. Since the compel worked I get a +1 on gather information.
Rolls
Gather Info (+wits +1) - (1d6+2+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2+1 : (4) + 3 = 7
1d10 : (1) = 1
1d10 : (1) = 1
Jul 8, 2025 5:02 pm
OOC:
ANOTHER TWIST! lolI'm going to stick with only what I had in mind already.
Strong hit: +2 momentum -> +9 now
OOC:
Will finish this later. If you already want to take action, you can come up with what this man tells us.The twist I had in mind is that the symbol is somehow related to healing. Either a healing spring or a group of shamans or something like that. Which would come in handy after this fight :)
Last edited July 8, 2025 5:03 pm
Jul 9, 2025 8:45 pm
OOC:
I'll let you handle Sann's friend. I've got some story regarding Sann and Truth-Eater....Etta: "Patchin' me up? Where have I heard this song before? I guess this is the...[cough]...life of an Ironsworn. Maybe you'll let me repay you by...."
She was going to finish with "using the Vestige to cleanse you," but Gevin had made it clear he was going to continue in his altered state. Pressing him on this matter would just generate discord.
But why am I scared of discord? Etta Karl ain't never been before.
Gevin then moves over to Sann's friend, leaving Etta sitting by herself. She sighs, gulps down water, and tries to relax. Gevin had done his bandaging well, but she was still far from full strength.
Then screams ring out, causing some nearby birds to fly off in alarm. Etta starts, then realizes it's Truth-Eater beginning his sadistic work. In between Sann's screams, she can hear the husk's chilling giggles.
Is this what we are now? Callous adventurers who let husks torture people? I thought I could ignore it, but it's too much! I don't care what Gevin thinks, or what deal we made with Truth-Eater...I have to do something!
Rising slowly, she shambles through the woods, until she reaches the torture site. The scene nearly makes her vomit. Sann is already missing several important pieces of himself, and Truth-Eater is literally capering about in delight.
Etta: "Enough! Gods, he's already suffered enough!"
The husk whirls in her direction, and his joy instantly turns to frenzied malice.
Truth-Eater: "Interloper! I should strike you down right now! I told you this was to be private!"
Etta: "I don't care! Kill him and be done with it! Your vengeance must be satisfied by now!"
Truth-Eater: "Satisfied already?! You cannot be serious! I've only just begun! And anyway, he hasn't told me what I need to know, so I must continue!"
Etta: "He's three-quarters dead already! Keep it up, and he'll be truly dead, and all his knowledge will be lost!"
Truth-Eater: "Nonsense! I have ways of prolonging his existence. You think this is the first person I've tortured? Not hardly! Now leave, Etta, or we will come to blows."
Etta touches the wound to her stomach, and her still-mending leg wound. She feels the sweat from her exertions running down her body. She doubts she can take the husk solo. With Gevin's help, maybe. But Gevin was busy...and was he as concerned about this situation as she was?
Then she has an idea. It was time to be covert and cunning for once....
OOC:
Possibly important roll coming. Or aren't they all important?!Jul 9, 2025 8:48 pm
OOC:
Miss! "Escort Prize." Having a tough time coming up with something fitting, so I'll ignore that action/theme. I have a relevant idea anyway.She then retreats loudly and obviously, and Truth-Eater starts capering again. But Etta doesn't go far. Instead she drops prone, then crawls back slowly, one foot at a time, until she can see the scene between some bushes. She forces herself to watch for a bit, to ensure Truth-Eater doesn't see her.
Convinced she's well-hidden, Etta carefully unstraps her staff, and focuses on Malkath's Vestige. Her plan is to somehow shoot a magic bolt at Sann, putting him out of his misery. If the bolt is small enough, and she shoots it when the husk is capering, her magic may go unnoticed.
Still think we should just destroy the bastard. But maybe this'll be a deed worthy of an Ironsworn...and really fucking satisfying.
She concentrates, remembering Reina's tutelage. Her recent failure in using the Vestige is also very much on her mind.
The gemstone glows red, and Truth-Eater turns his back on Sann during a bout of maniacal laughter. Now was the time!
A tiny red bolt does fly towards Sann...but it doesn't kill him. Instead, it somehow mentally connects him with Etta! All his pain, lies, impotent rage, guilt (he has guilt?!), and shattered dreams flow into her, overwhelming her psyche! It's similar to the effect Reina bombarded them with, except even worse.
Etta can barely scream, before her body shuts down, and she's lost in an astral dungeon of torment!
OOC:
Losing -2 spirit. Rolling Endure Stress next.Rolls
Face Danger, +wits - (1d6+1)
(1) + 1 = 2
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(4) = 4
Action - (1d100)
(94) = 94
Theme - (1d100)
(69) = 69
Jul 9, 2025 9:15 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. I press on.Rolls
Endure Stress, +heart - (1d6+2)
(5) + 2 = 7
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(6) = 6
Jul 10, 2025 9:14 pm
"Fine... I'll tell you what I know. Just don't let that husk get me too." The man says.
Gevin: "That'll depend on your information. I want details."
The man swallows hard and continues to talk nervously. "Yes. Yes of course. And then you'll let me go, right?" There is no answer from Gevin.
Man: "Alright. Well this leather vest, I got it from Steelharbor. It's one of the towns to the south west. It's a trading village with small boats. I bought the vest from a market. It was already used but still serviceable."
Gevin: "And the symbol?"
Man: "The symbol, they told me, belongs to a religious group in the area. They call them 'The monks'. I don't know if that's their real title. People go to them in search of healing. Both physically and mentally. They say that they can perform miracles. That's why I thought this vest would protect me even more than any other."
At this point the screaming starts. Off in the bushes Truth-Eater is also getting information. Gevin shudders. He didn't think it would be this bad, but he kept himself strong with the thought that Sann deserverd whatever was coming to him.
Man: "Please don't let that thing get me. Please I beg you!" He starts to plead.
Gevin: "What else can you tell me about these monks? Where do they live?"
Man: "They live in a temple outside the village. I've never been there, but they say it's built into a mountain. That's why they have this symbol. That's all I know, I swear!"
Gevin was inclined to believe what this man was saying. The fear in his voice was real. "Etta, what do you think we should do with this one?" He asks as he turns to see... no Etta in sight. He hadn't noticed her leaving. "Etta?" He looked at various directions she could have gone. Then another scream from the bushes.
The man speaks up "I saw her go that way." and points in the direction of the screams.
"Well shit." Gevin replied. "Fine, you can go. But if you ever try to get in our way again I won't be so lenient. I don't forget a face." He looked the man straight in the eyes, showing off his one red eye.
Man: "O-o-of course! No way I'd do that. I'm going home. Can you untie me?" He held up his hands.
Gevin looked at him. "I'm sure you can figure out a way to get those off. Head that way." He said, pointing in the opposite direction to where Etta went.
As soon as the man was out of sight, he moved to go and find Etta. He started where she was sitting before and looked at the ground. Perhaps footprints or blood would show him the way. If all else failed, he'd have to take the man's word.
Gevin: "That'll depend on your information. I want details."
The man swallows hard and continues to talk nervously. "Yes. Yes of course. And then you'll let me go, right?" There is no answer from Gevin.
Man: "Alright. Well this leather vest, I got it from Steelharbor. It's one of the towns to the south west. It's a trading village with small boats. I bought the vest from a market. It was already used but still serviceable."
Gevin: "And the symbol?"
Man: "The symbol, they told me, belongs to a religious group in the area. They call them 'The monks'. I don't know if that's their real title. People go to them in search of healing. Both physically and mentally. They say that they can perform miracles. That's why I thought this vest would protect me even more than any other."
At this point the screaming starts. Off in the bushes Truth-Eater is also getting information. Gevin shudders. He didn't think it would be this bad, but he kept himself strong with the thought that Sann deserverd whatever was coming to him.
Man: "Please don't let that thing get me. Please I beg you!" He starts to plead.
Gevin: "What else can you tell me about these monks? Where do they live?"
Man: "They live in a temple outside the village. I've never been there, but they say it's built into a mountain. That's why they have this symbol. That's all I know, I swear!"
Gevin was inclined to believe what this man was saying. The fear in his voice was real. "Etta, what do you think we should do with this one?" He asks as he turns to see... no Etta in sight. He hadn't noticed her leaving. "Etta?" He looked at various directions she could have gone. Then another scream from the bushes.
The man speaks up "I saw her go that way." and points in the direction of the screams.
"Well shit." Gevin replied. "Fine, you can go. But if you ever try to get in our way again I won't be so lenient. I don't forget a face." He looked the man straight in the eyes, showing off his one red eye.
Man: "O-o-of course! No way I'd do that. I'm going home. Can you untie me?" He held up his hands.
Gevin looked at him. "I'm sure you can figure out a way to get those off. Head that way." He said, pointing in the opposite direction to where Etta went.
As soon as the man was out of sight, he moved to go and find Etta. He started where she was sitting before and looked at the ground. Perhaps footprints or blood would show him the way. If all else failed, he'd have to take the man's word.
Rolls
Gather information (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (5) + 2 = 7
1d10 : (8) = 8
1d10 : (7) = 7
Jul 10, 2025 9:30 pm
OOC:
Well that's a miss. But I think it might fit with what I wanted to do anyway.I'll suffer 2 spirit.
After walking for about a minute he pushes some branches aside and spots Truth-Eater working on Sann. The sight almost makes him vomit.
And, not far away, in the shrubs is Etta ... holding the vestige. He wanted to shout out 'no!', but he didn't want to give away his position to the husk. He seemed preoccupied and that was a good thing.
Then a red light appeared from out of nowhere. Too late. Etta had already done something. As she falls to the ground, Gevin gets a splitting headache behind his red eye. It blurs his vision and he drops down to one knee.
The husk turns around, having heard Etta's short scream. "I told you to STAY OUT!" It yells and marches towards her. Gevin wants to do something, but the dizziness is blinding. All he can do is power through as he watches the husk move to Etta. A weak "don't" escapes Gevin's lips.
Then there's a loud cracking noise and Truth-Eater is knocked backwards with great force. It stumbles and falls onto it's back with a groan. Fresh, or perhaps not so fresh blood pours from its wounds. It cries out in rage and scrambles back to its feet. "How dare you! Witch! You will die for that!"
OOC:
I'm returning back to a previous twist:Quote:
A&T for the twist: Deflect Corruption --> My idea here is that the Vestige acts as either a repellent or a cure to this husk. I don't know how to incorporate that into the story yet. If you want to in your post, please do. Or if you have another idea, also fine :) But at the same time, we're likely getting into a new fight. Perhaps you can still do something to avoid that.
Strong hit on my endure stress -> taking -1 momentum for +1 spirit
Your move :)
Last edited July 10, 2025 9:32 pm
Rolls
Endure stress (2) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (5) + 3 = 8
1d10 : (4) = 4
1d10 : (3) = 3
Jul 10, 2025 11:40 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. The husk will want something in return. I guess I still take +1 momentum?This damnable artifact! Why do I keep messing up?!
She glances around slowly, the simple act of turning her neck requiring tremendous effort. Gevin was near, but was also out of sorts. Had the Vestige affected him as well, or had Truth-Eater and his friend assaulted him?
She doesn't have time to call out to Gevin, as the husk is advancing rapidly, his greatsword promising a gruesome death!
Etta lurches to her feet and shoves the staff and the Vestige in front of her. Pushing past her fatigue, she yells at Truth-Eater in as commanding a tone as she can muster:
Etta: "Stop right there, or be destroyed!"
The gemstone flashes bright-red, and the husk stares at it...and stops, thankfully. In all the chaos, it apparently hadn't gotten a good look at the Vestige until now.
Truth-Eater: "What is that thing?! Why did you hide it from me?!"
Etta: "You're seriously asking that?! But I'll tell you what it is, now that I've unleashed it, and you feel its might: it's called Malkath's Vestige, and its powers are incomprehensible to one such as you. It was created centuries ago by a great and terrible wizard named Malkath. I am his direct heir, and thus able to wield this artifact."
The husk's lips twitch as it processes this: "Filthy, lying harlot! If it's as powerful as you say, you would've used it by now! And look at you! You can barely stand! Either you're exhausted from the earlier fight, or using this Vestige depletes you! I'm betting on the latter!"
Etta: "Then place your bet, husk. Come forward, and see what happens."
The husk snarls at Etta...but then stamps the ground and wails, like a toddler throwing a tantrum.
Truth-Eater: "I'm besieged by liars, backstabbers, thieves, and vermin! When will I get my deserved vengeance, and then my deserved peace?!" A long pause. "Fine. I won't attack you or Gevin...for now. But I want something in return for my...benevolence."
Etta: "I don't think so, husk. You're in no position to bargain. And you still owe us information!"
Truth-Eater: "That agreement is null and voice, because you invaded my private vengeance, and then repulsed me with that blighted artifact! I'm in a perfect position to negotiate! You two are dead on your feet! Do you really think you can make it through this wilderness unscathed, if I choose to stalk you? That Vestige may keep me at bay when you're controlling it, but what happens when you fall asleep? What happens if I find allies and ambush you? What happens----"
Etta: "Alright, alright! You've made your point! What do you want in return for being a nice husk?"
The husk licks its lips: "I want you, Etta."
Etta: "That better not mean what I think it means...."
A mocking cackle: "I don't mean physically. I know I'm...quite a sight. And I doubt I can...perform like that anymore. I mean mentally, spiritually, psychically. I believe you can use the Vestige to connect with others, right? I felt...something like that. Sann did too, I believe. Connect with me, show me your wit, grace, bravery...and your sensuality."
Now it's Etta's turn to laugh: "Sann must've knocked out some o' your brains, such as they are. Ain't no way I'm connecting with you."
Truth-Eater: "Don't think of it as connecting, then. Think of it as...buffeting me with your essence. It might make me...happy. It might change me. Isn't that what you want? I'm not pure evil, Etta, no matter what you think. Husks aren't born, they're made! I was made!"
Loathsome, vile thing. There's no joy, love, or hope within your carcass. If only we were at full strength....
Etta: "And if I...waft my essence over you, we're even? You go your way, we'll go ours?"
The husk nods, and puts his hand on his chest: "Yes. I plan to spend days chatting with Sann here anyway. You'll be long gone when I'm finished. But if we ever meet again in the far future, well...who knows what will happen then?"
Always plotting more malice, you rotting jackass....
Etta: "Fine then. I'll give it my best shot. Get ready, because I'm not keepin' this up for hours on end...."
Rolls
Compel, +shadow - (1d6+2)
(4) + 2 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(1) = 1
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Jul 11, 2025 12:35 am
OOC:
Weak hit. I'll take -1 momentum.Here goes. I hope the bastard doesn't infect me with his villainy....
The magic meshes with the husk, and Etta feels its presence. Rage, madness, and lies worm their way into her mind. But there's also...something else? An image flashes into view: Truth-Eater as he existed in life. A lean, strong man saving a caravan from bandits, his greatsword ferociously cutting through bodies.
Was it real? A trick? Etta doesn't care. She just wants this to be over. She focuses on her selfhood: her emotions, thoughts, dreams. Then she sends this essence over to the husk. She feels resistance at first...then acceptance.
Then it's over. The Vestige goes dim, and the two stare at each other.
Truth-Eater smiles...a genuine smile, not its usual sadistic, mocking grimace: "That was...special, Etta. I mean that truly. There's more to you than I expected. More than Gevin knows, eh? But I won't reveal what I saw. That would...tarnish what we just experienced."
"Well..." He tilts his head and looks her up and down, like he wants to...what? Hug and kiss her? Sweep her off her feet? "Our agreement is complete. You're free to leave. If you do, I say...farewell. Until fate brings us together again...or not."
The husk turns slowly away and heads back to Sann. Etta slumps down, literally unable to anything more. Even with Gevin's help, they'll be delayed if they decide to leave now.
Rolls
Face Danger, +wits - (1d6+1)
(6) + 1 = 7
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Jul 11, 2025 8:27 am
Just as the bond between Sann and Etta ends, so does Gevin's headache. He shakes his head, literally trying to shake the feeling. It works. He feels better and ready to take action. But it seems in the mean time, things have calmed down. Etta and Truth-Eater are settling this without bloodshed it seems.
Gevin decides to remain hidden for now and instead of speaking up, he circles around between the branches towards Etta. Trying to stay out of sight of the husk.
He hears bits and pieces of the conversation, but not everything. If he had, he would have told Etta not to link with this creature.
Gevin decides to remain hidden for now and instead of speaking up, he circles around between the branches towards Etta. Trying to stay out of sight of the husk.
He hears bits and pieces of the conversation, but not everything. If he had, he would have told Etta not to link with this creature.
Rolls
Staying hidden. (Face Danger + Shadow) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (2) + 2 = 4
1d10 : (7) = 7
1d10 : (10) = 10
Jul 11, 2025 8:32 am
OOC:
That's a miss. I'm going to use my momentum to turn it into a weak hit.When he's about 5 meters away from Etta, he sees her slumping down onto the ground. The husk turns away, back to its victim. This is their chance to get out. Legs still burning, he crouches next to his friend and whispers. "Put your arm around my shoulder and lets get out of here."
OOC:
Enduring harm 1 for the ivy.Strong hit, I'll take +1 momentum
I'm going to mark 1 progress on our vow because of the information Gevin got about "the monks". Giving us 2 progress in total.
Last edited July 11, 2025 8:44 am
Rolls
Endure harm (1) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (6) + 3 = 9
1d10 : (8) = 8
1d10 : (4) = 4
Jul 11, 2025 8:31 pm
Etta still wishes she could do something for Sann. Not save him; he'd proven to be a scoundrel, and his death wouldn't cause her to shed tears. But put him out of his misery, before his mind disintegrated from the pain of torture...if it hadn't already.
But she'd already tried to surreptitiously kill him, and failed. They had a chance to get away from Truth-Eater, and she felt they had to take it.
Maybe I just need to toughen up. Weren't we ready to torture Reina and Sann's friend, anyway? Maybe my feelings towards this husk are affecting my judgement. An Ironsworn shouldn't wring their hands over tough choices such as this.
She gladly accepts Gevin's help, and the two move slowly away. They get back on the path and begin heading south. Sann's screams resume, but fade as they move away. Finally, the normal noises of the forest return...though the memories of Sann's agony still drift through her mind.
Etta: "Thank you, Gevin. I don't know how much you heard or saw, but I took a gamble with the Vestige...and messed up. Only after...connecting...with the husk was I able to douse the bastard's anger."
She ties a cloth over the gemstone, so the Vestige's eye-catching redness can't be seen. Then she straps the staff securely to her back. Once done, she draws her trusty bow, caressing the wood with her hands.
Etta: "It's pretty fuckin' obvious I need more training with the Vestige, so I ain't gonna use it unless things are dire. I trust my bow, and my dagger, if need be."
"Maybe the damned thing just needs to be destroyed. Seems like it...I dunno...seduces you with the promise of power, then betrays you when you need it most...."
"Anyway, did you learn something from Sann's friend? I think I heard something about monks before I snuck away...."
But she'd already tried to surreptitiously kill him, and failed. They had a chance to get away from Truth-Eater, and she felt they had to take it.
Maybe I just need to toughen up. Weren't we ready to torture Reina and Sann's friend, anyway? Maybe my feelings towards this husk are affecting my judgement. An Ironsworn shouldn't wring their hands over tough choices such as this.
She gladly accepts Gevin's help, and the two move slowly away. They get back on the path and begin heading south. Sann's screams resume, but fade as they move away. Finally, the normal noises of the forest return...though the memories of Sann's agony still drift through her mind.
Etta: "Thank you, Gevin. I don't know how much you heard or saw, but I took a gamble with the Vestige...and messed up. Only after...connecting...with the husk was I able to douse the bastard's anger."
She ties a cloth over the gemstone, so the Vestige's eye-catching redness can't be seen. Then she straps the staff securely to her back. Once done, she draws her trusty bow, caressing the wood with her hands.
Etta: "It's pretty fuckin' obvious I need more training with the Vestige, so I ain't gonna use it unless things are dire. I trust my bow, and my dagger, if need be."
"Maybe the damned thing just needs to be destroyed. Seems like it...I dunno...seduces you with the promise of power, then betrays you when you need it most...."
"Anyway, did you learn something from Sann's friend? I think I heard something about monks before I snuck away...."
OOC:
I'm up for undertaking a journey. Or maybe making camp, since my spirit and health are low.Jul 13, 2025 12:38 pm
Gevin can't help looking worried. "I too felt a part of the pain from the Vestige. Right behind my eye. I suppose it's logical that I'm still linked to it somehow." He tells her. "Perhaps you're right. Using it a little less will be safer. Especially when you're as exhausted as we are right now. But don't give up. You have a connection with it. You just need to hone that connection."Gevin tells Etta about the symbol of the monks and village of Steelharbor. By the time he's done talking, they've reached a small stream. A good opportunity to clean themselves up. "We should renew our bandages now that we have the chance. Maybe even spend the night here." He offers. "We have a few hours of daylight left. We can use it to set up a somewhat comfortable camp."
He tried to not make it obvious, but it was mostly for Etta's sake that they needed to stop. She had noticeably burnt through a lot of her energy and could surely do with some rest.
Thus the two divided up the tasks to set up camp and got to work. They found a sturdy oak tree to sleep under, shielding them from the rain that seemed to be coming in. The light drizzle felt good on Gevin's skin but they needed to get some cover before the real rain started.
OOC:
Can you have bond with an item? I feel like that may be appropriate for Etta and the Vestige. Just an idea :)He tried to not make it obvious, but it was mostly for Etta's sake that they needed to stop. She had noticeably burnt through a lot of her energy and could surely do with some rest.
Thus the two divided up the tasks to set up camp and got to work. They found a sturdy oak tree to sleep under, shielding them from the rain that seemed to be coming in. The light drizzle felt good on Gevin's skin but they needed to get some cover before the real rain started.
Rolls
Make Camp (+Supply) - (1d6+4, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+4 : (6) + 4 = 10
1d10 : (5) = 5
1d10 : (5) = 5
Action & Theme - (2d100)
(6328) = 91
Jul 13, 2025 12:52 pm
OOC:
A very nice result there! Strong hit with a twistWe can each take 2 of the options. For Gevin, I'll take +1HP and +1 to the next undertake a journey roll
A&T: Challenge Decay
Gevin was almost nodding off when a growl snapped him right to attention. Not far away, possibly near the stream he heard what could be dogs or wolves. He grabbed a torch he had made from a branch and some oak sap during his watch and went out to investigate.
Out near the stream, in the light of the moon that was now coming through the dissipating clouds, a silver furred wolf was standing on top of what looked like a dirt mount, growling at a wild dog. The dog tried to come closer. A big mistake, cause the wolf snapped at it and drew blood. Whimpering, the dog made a run for it.
The wolf clawed at the mound it was standing on and that's when Gevin saw what it was. A shallow grave. A few fingers stuck out from the ground where the animal stood.
Gevin raised his torch and waved it while advancing. "Hey! Get off of there! Go!" He shouted at the wolf, threatening it with his fire. "Go on, leave!" The wolf eyed him and growled, trying to gauge its chances of taking on this interloper.
OOC:
Using my animal kin path for a +1Rolls
Shoo the wolf (Face Danger + iron) - (1d6+3+1, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3+1 : (5) + 4 = 9
1d10 : (2) = 2
1d10 : (8) = 8
Jul 13, 2025 1:02 pm
OOC:
Another strong hit +1 momentumHe walks over to the mound to get a better look. With a stick he found nearby, he pokes at the mount to reveal more. It was definitely a body under there. And it stank! The hand was easy to reveal and he noticed one of the fingers had a ring. He stuck the torch in the ground and used both hands to pry the ring off. Part of the finger came with it. Startled, he hurled the finger into the stream.
Even with the torch light, the ring was too muddy to get a good look at. He decided that would be something to do in the morning. But what to do with this body right now? If he left it here, the wolf would come back for a late night snack. But he'd have to risk it. Etta was alone and covering the whole grave with rocks could take hours. He tried to bury the hand again best he could and put a few rocks on it. Maybe that will deter any scavenger for now. Then he went back to Etta with the ring in his pocket.
In the morning he tells Etta what happened during his watch and shows her the ring.
Last edited July 13, 2025 1:04 pm
Jul 13, 2025 6:19 pm
OOC:
I'll take +1 spirit and +1 momentum. I also get +1 health from your choice, correct?Regarding bonding with the Vestige: I'm not sure if this artifact will be with us long-term. If it will be, I might make a custom asset for it. We'll see.
Over a breakfast of pemmican, Gevin tells her what happened last night. She's a bit irritated that he hadn't awoken her...on the other hand, she needed undisturbed sleep.
Etta: "Let's go have a look-see at this grave...and the ring, of course. If nothin' else, we can pile rocks on the spot to protect that poor bastard from scavengers, like you suggested."
OOC:
I've found some expanded oracles here. Don't get too excited, Mr. Oracle! 😁I'll use some now to spice things up.
Jul 13, 2025 6:20 pm
OOC:
I'm using the "3 or 4 dice" tables from Ironsmith: "Plunder Courage."Remarkably, the grave hasn't been completely dug up by scavengers. There's some evidence of digging, and it looks like something chomped off the forearm that Gevin noticed last night. But Gevin's intimidation, plus their campsite's proximity, must've made the animals of the forest reluctant to do more.
Etta: "Who buried this man? Or person. We don't know the gender. And why not pilfer the ring?"
They now look closer at the ring. In the daylight, they recognize it's made of silver. On the inside, a brief inscription is engraved. Each character is stern and spare, like a soldier’s marching order: no wasted lines, no softness, only meaning.
From ruin, resolve.
A thought stirs in Etta's mind. Always a rambunctious child, she'd never paid much attention to the lessons of the teachers and loremasters. But one tale stuck with her, because it dealt with heroism, tenacity, and doom....
Etta: "Do ya remember the story of the Shattered Banner, Gevin? From ruin, resolve...wasn't that their motto? They fought against some tyrannical would-be king...Osric the Pale Flame, think his name was...and even though it seems like they always lost their battles, they never quit. If I recall rightly, their tenacity drove Osric to fury, so he delved deep into the earth, looking for artifacts to finally annihilate them...but Osric was never seen again after that. They didn't beat him directly; they beat him by being stubborn bastards."
"But didn't that happen centuries ago? Maybe even millennia ago? I can never keep all those dates straight. If that is a Shattered Banner ring, did this corpse plunder it from some tomb...or have the Bannermen returned?"
Rolls
Action - (1d100)
(44) = 44
Theme - (1d100)
(76) = 76
Jul 14, 2025 7:21 am
OOC:
Quote:
I also get +1 health from your choice, correct?Yeah, a Vestige asset would also be cool if we get to that :)
Oooh I sure love me some oracles :D I bought that one. Thanks!
Jul 14, 2025 9:08 pm
OOC:
Makes sense regarding health. It does say companion instead of ally. I've dropped Etta's back to +2.AI can also whip up some oracles, if you want to dive down that rabbit hole.
Jul 15, 2025 7:31 pm
OOC:
I'm sure it can, but I'm not going to go there. I do like to use it as a tool every now and then. But I'll stick to the tables in books :)OOC:
See roll below"Yes, I do remember those stories." Gevin admits. "To be honest, I always thought that was all they were - stories. Not reality." He's a bit puzzled by the inscription of the ring. "Well, it could also just be someone who had this ring made in the memory of the story. Or an heirloom passed down for many generations." He continues.
"But, now that I think about it, didn't that same story also include an Ironsworn? Barlic the Brave if I remember correctly." He turns the ring over to look at it from other angles. "Etta, I think it's a sign that we're on the right track."
He considers the grave. "We should bury this person properly. Even if it's a scoundrel or a thief, this shallow grave is no resting place." He looks around at the trees. "Perhaps we can do it the old way and burn the body in a wood pile." Even though it had rained last night, there should still be enough dry wood around to make strong fire. "It would save us the trouble of digging. Besides, I have no shovel with me."
"I'll start gathering wood." Gevin says, holding his battle axe. "Can you see if you can figure out anything else about this person in the mean time?"
Rolls
Heal (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (4) + 2 = 6
1d10 : (4) = 4
1d10 : (1) = 1
Jul 15, 2025 7:53 pm
OOC:
Miss! Let's give these new oracles a workout."Strike Dream."
Etta: "Mighty convenient! I get to poke and prod a disgusting, foul-smelling corpse, while you go chop wood!"
While Gevin does his work, Etta puts on her gloves and drags the body out of the shallow grave. Pulling it into the open air seems to triple the terrible stench. The corpse's gray, maggot-ridden flesh also nearly makes her vomit.
Reminds me of seeing Sann's torture. Gods, was that only yesterday? Maybe it's a good thing this stuff still bothers me. I don't want to become a jaded Ironsworn, who feels nothing when stumbling upon death and torment.
The corpse is an older male; gray hair and beard cover his head. Despite his age, in life he would've been large and powerful; Etta had had to strain to pull out the body. He has on leather armor, but thicker than the light style Etta favors. She doesn't immediately notice any items of significance on him.
As for cause of death? Etta can't tell. She can't see any obvious wounds, and the corpse doesn't look stricken or emaciated, as if from some horrible disease. And though the man was older, he wasn't ancient; simply dying from old age didn't seem realistic.
Etta then notices the man's right boot is missing. She gingerly wipes dirt from the foot...and reveals that it's covered with blueish pustules. Their size varies, from freckle-sized to large ones the size of walnuts.
Etta immediately recoils, but perhaps not fast enough. Her actions have popped open some of the growths, and a thin blue mist is now drifted upwards!
OOC:
Now rolling to see if I can dodge it. For "Strike Dream," I think this plague-thing will trap whoever inhales it a flattering dream, and then spread corruption over its new host. Rinse and repeat to find new victims.Rolls
Gather Information, +wits - (1d6+1)
(1) + 1 = 2
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(3) = 3
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(9) = 9
Which Action table to use - (1d6)
(6) = 6
Which Theme table to use - (1d6)
(1) = 1
Action - (1d100)
(78) = 78
Theme - (1d100)
(65) = 65
Jul 15, 2025 8:40 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. Taking 1 harm, rolling Endure Harm next.The mist has thickened; it seems the pustules on the foot "told" some other, unseen pustules to also burst. The mist hangs in the air, like it's waiting for some hapless person to stumble into it. Thankfully, there's little wind, so it's not blowing in Etta's direction.
But Gevin has no idea what's transpired, so she calls out:
Etta: "Gevin! Don't go near the corpse! Follow my voice and meet me downstream!"
She moves even further away from the corpse, in case the wind switched or intensified...or the mist happened to have unusual properties, and could "seek out" new victims.
Never seen anything like that before, but I'm sure inhaling that shit would be fatal. Ain't no way that's some harmless perfume....
Rolls
Face Danger, +edge - (1d6+3)
(1) + 3 = 4
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(2) = 2
Jul 15, 2025 8:55 pm
OOC:
Miss. -1 momentum.Rolls
Endure Harm, +health - (1d6+3)
(2) + 3 = 5
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(5) = 5
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Jul 17, 2025 8:00 am
Gevin in the mean time had felled some young trees that would be easy to carry and found a patch of try tinder to light the fire with when Etta calls out. "Etta? What's going on?" He replies. He hangs his axe on his belt, grabs some of the tinder and heads in the direction of her voice.
"Pustules?" He asks incredulously when Etta tells her the story. He can tell from the look on her face that it's spooked her good. Knowing that this body is infected makes Gevin more worried about the dog and wolf than anything else. "No wonder he was in a shallow grave. They probably didn't want to spend much time around the body. All the more reason to burn it, I'd say. But we'll have to do it safely" He concludes. "If you're not up for it, I'll understand." He says, looking at Etta's bandages. "If any of the pus gets on your wounds, that could be bad."
He takes a moment to think. "Alright, how about this. We make the wood pile a bit away from the body and I drag it on there when we're ready." It seems like a plan that would work to Gevin. "I'll tie a cloth over my mouth and nose just in case and we can burn sage to clean the air."
Gathering the wood and creating the pile is easy. With the two of them gathering and hauling they get it set up in no time.
"Alright, now you stay here. I'll get the body." With a cloth secured around the bottom half of his face, and with a smoking bundle of sage in hand he walks to the body. Gevin had kept his gloves on for this to avoid any contact. He pulls on the man's arm to drag it to the pile. More pustules burst and leak as he moves it to the pile.
"Pustules?" He asks incredulously when Etta tells her the story. He can tell from the look on her face that it's spooked her good. Knowing that this body is infected makes Gevin more worried about the dog and wolf than anything else. "No wonder he was in a shallow grave. They probably didn't want to spend much time around the body. All the more reason to burn it, I'd say. But we'll have to do it safely" He concludes. "If you're not up for it, I'll understand." He says, looking at Etta's bandages. "If any of the pus gets on your wounds, that could be bad."
He takes a moment to think. "Alright, how about this. We make the wood pile a bit away from the body and I drag it on there when we're ready." It seems like a plan that would work to Gevin. "I'll tie a cloth over my mouth and nose just in case and we can burn sage to clean the air."
Gathering the wood and creating the pile is easy. With the two of them gathering and hauling they get it set up in no time.
"Alright, now you stay here. I'll get the body." With a cloth secured around the bottom half of his face, and with a smoking bundle of sage in hand he walks to the body. Gevin had kept his gloves on for this to avoid any contact. He pulls on the man's arm to drag it to the pile. More pustules burst and leak as he moves it to the pile.
OOC:
I'm not sure which stat to use here. I'm going for wits to be smart enough to do it safely. My other idea would be iron to rely on my constitution and hold my breathRolls
Face Danger (+wits) - (1d6+2, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+2 : (1) + 2 = 3
1d10 : (7) = 7
1d10 : (6) = 6
Action & Theme - (1d6, 2d100)
1d6 : (4) = 4
2d100 : (291) = 93
Jul 17, 2025 8:34 am
OOC:
Well, that's unfortunate. Miss -> Pay the priceA&T: Vanquish Plan
Then he spots something some hundred paces away through the trees. Another mound. Startled, he looks around and sees even more of them. "Etta, this isn't just one man buried here. It's a dozen!" He says as he comes to this dark realization. "We've got to get out of here. This is a foul place!" He's not sure if the arm had any pus on it and if any of it has touched his skin. He'll have to wash himself when he gets the chance. Was the stream they used to clean their wounds and drink from even safe? With all these bodies around it may very well have been contaminated or even the leading cause of these deaths.
The thought of this makes Gevin wretch. Still sitting on the ground, he loses his breakfast onto the wood pile. "I don't want to be here another minute." He says while wiping the sick from his mouth. He gets up and grabs his things.
OOC:
Going to test iron to see if Gevin got infected.Weak hit -> He's not infected, but he's going to be paranoid about it from a little while. -1 spirit and -1 momentum
Last edited July 17, 2025 8:37 am
Rolls
Face Danger (+Iron) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (3) + 3 = 6
1d10 : (2) = 2
1d10 : (10) = 10
Endure stress (1) - (1d6+3, 1d10, 1d10)
1d6+3 : (3) + 3 = 6
1d10 : (7) = 7
1d10 : (8) = 8
Jul 17, 2025 7:28 pm
OOC:
Going to Secure an Advantage, and then Undertake a Journey.Weak hit. +1 momentum.
Nothing to be done about it. It's not like I can carve a stone tablet explaining everything.
She then moves quickly downstream, looking for an easy way to cross the stream. After discussing the situation with Gevin, she agrees that they should be cautious around the waters. They'd used the stream before, but that didn't mean it was plague-free; they could've lucked upon an untainted area.
After a few hundred yards, the stream narrows, and turns sharply southwest. This turn has caused a decent-sized pile of driftwood to collect on their side. They should be able to hop, slide, and crawl across without getting too wet.
She explains her reasoning to Gevin, and the two prepare to cross....
Rolls
Secure an Advantage, +edge - (1d6+3)
(4) + 3 = 7
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(3) = 3
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(8) = 8
Jul 17, 2025 7:44 pm
OOC:
Weak hit. -1 supply. +1 progress.As they travel, Etta turns over the unanswered questions in her mind. Who buried these bodies? Where were they now? Why not burn the corpses, as Gevin planned? Maybe that was a cultural taboo? And was this strange plague serious, or just a localized phenomenon?
The day drags on, and they see no signs of people...but also no signs of beasts or monstrosities. Etta begins to relax. After the recent chaos and pain, a brisk, danger-free stroll in the forest perks her up.
They eventually reach a spot where the path widens significantly. Ruts, debris, and fire rings indicate this is a pitstop for travelers. And indeed, two travelers are here: an older, thin man, and a robust younger one. Both have thick black hair, angular facial features, and olive skin. Etta figures they have to be related.
The older man is unarmed, but the younger one has a short-sword and a shield. They stand before a medium-sized cart pulled by two mules. Various items, such as furniture, barrels, and filled-to-bursting canvas bags sit in the cart. The mules graze while the men chew on bread and some sort of fruit and nut mix.
They notice Gevin and Etta, and wave them over...but they don't smile, and their eyes probe the two Ironsworn carefully.
Older Man: "Greetings, travelers. I'm Malik, and this is my son Okoth. What brings you to these parts? Looks like you've been through a bit of adventure...."
Etta: "We have indeed. My name is Etta, and my companion is Gevin. We're both Ironsworn. We're on a journey of...discovery, I suppose you could call it."
Father and son look at each other, as if they don't quite know what to make of this.
Okoth: "That's an...intriguing Iron Vow. I thought knowing thyself was a requisite to becoming an Ironsworn, not something you worked on later. But I'm sure you both know your business."
Etta, sharply: "We do. We've been through perils that...." She stops and composes herself. Bragging about their adventures and arguing with these two strangers would accomplish little. "Anyway. We're heading to Steelharbor, or the nearby area. We believe we need to find a group called 'the monks.' They supposedly live in a mountain temple."
At this, both men let out oaths, and Okoth's hand goes quickly to his sword.
Okoth: "And what would you be wantin' with these...monks?"
Etta: "We don't know exactly...and I'll ask you to remove your hand from your sword. We have no quarrel with you, nor are we intent on spreading evil...but we will defend ourselves, if necessary."
Okoth grunts, but Malik puts his hand on his son's shoulder, and whispers in his ear. Okoth still glares at Etta, but he does relax his arm.
Malik: "Those monks you speak of call themselves the Lightbringers...and they're not thought of too highly in Steelharbor at the moment. That's where we're from. Family been there five generations...but no longer." He gestures to the wagon. "We're movin' on. Ya see, plague's hit Steelharbor. They call it the Azure Whisper. Covers your body in pustules, traps your mind in some sorta dream, wastes you away. Pustules then pop, release a mist, others inhale it, plague spreads."
Okoth: "Nobody knows the Whisper's origins for certain, nor do they know of a cure. It's devastated Steelharbor...devastated our family. Besides a few distant cousins, we're all that's left of the Hamad line."
Etta: "I'm sorry. What you describe is beyond horrific...but we've seen the effects of this plague before. Today, in fact. There are bodies buried in shallow graves north of here, by a stream. Do you know anything about this?"
Okoth is clearly surprised, but Malik nods.
Malik: "Most people burn the bodies of the infected, but there are lotsa different cultures in Steelharbor. Some of 'em don't believe in such things. I'm guessin' they dragged the bodies all the way out here, to satisfy their beliefs. And maybe the stream has a special significance to 'em? A lot o' work, and dangerous as all hells, but culture is tough to break, eh?"
Etta: "Indeed it is. But what of these Lightbringers? What have they done to draw the ire of the Steelharbor people?"
Okoth: "The monks were on good terms with the villagers for decades, if not centuries. Yes, they were eccentric, and a bit arrogant, and preferred to keep to themselves, but they did have astonishing healing abilities...or so the stories went. I haven't been to their temple personally. However, once the Azure Whisper arrived, the Lightbringers proclaimed that their temple was closed to outsiders, and anyone straying near it would be killed."
Malik: "The leadership of Steelharbor was naturally confused and alarmed, but all talks with the monks have failed. Their proclamation stands. Of course, now you get all sorta o' rumors: the Whisper was actually created by the monks to purify Steelharbor, stuff like that."
Okoth: "Something's changed. Have the monks been overtaken by evil leadership, or some foul force? We don't know. But if you seek them, be wary...and also be wary when discussing your goals. Others would have attacked you outright if they suspected you were allied with the Lightbringers."
While she considers all this, Etta turns to Gevin. Surely he had questions. It seems their quest had gotten more complicated...but that was normal by now, wasn't it?
Rolls
Undertake Journey, +wits - (1d6+1)
(5) + 1 = 6
Challenge 1 - (1d10)
(7) = 7
Challenge 2 - (1d10)
(4) = 4