Session 1: The Broken Cart

Feb 24, 2017 2:58 am
Sunlight danced its way through the leaves and branches overhead, sending shadows skittering nimbly across the well-worn road. A breeze whispered coolly against the skin, keeping the heat and insects from getting too close. Its whisper was echoed by the rustling overhead, and in the near distance, the sound of a babbling stream could be heard over the smattering of conversation. The noon meal had just faded from memory, and there was another few hours left before arriving at the next safe place to sleep.

Coming around a bend in the forest road, a pitiful sight is seen. A handcart, abandoned and alone, rested haphazardly in the middle of the path. It sat at an angle, a wheel on one side and a bare axle on the other. Its canvas-covered load teetering precariously above.
Mar 7, 2017 2:31 pm
Crash cocks his head slightly to the side and stares down the path before he looks to the others and then starts to look around. A hand wrapped in bandages points at the scene ahead as he starts to audibly sniff the air as his gaze darts around to look at the area. His head moves upright and he grunts quietly to himself.
OOC:
Crash is trained in Perception.
Mar 7, 2017 4:31 pm
Ythindra sweeps along as majestically as she can. She notices first Crash's alarm, before the cart.

"Do you sense something, my friend?"

She wonders again at her volatile companion. Like her, he doesn't exactly fit into village life. Before long, whatever initial wonder occurs is replaced with suspicion and then wariness. Of course, they are usually right to be wary, though the truth doesn't ease the hurt.

Her other companions, even Zandoran, have misgivings. She mostly wonders how long they can stay together, without some binding force.

She self-consciously brushes her hair away from her scarred face. Let them see and beware.
Mar 7, 2017 4:44 pm
Cueing off Crash's heightened state, Mig instinctively steps off the center of the path, checking for both exits and likely places of concealment. In the same step, he arms his bracer shield and loosens his grip on his staff. He check's the faces of his companions, looking for any register of alarm, validation for his own uneasy feeling.
Mar 7, 2017 4:51 pm
Zandoran reacts to Crash a split second after Mig, even in their short time together Zandoran had learned to trust the wild man's instincts for possible trouble. He immediately checks the location of the key for the manacles that hold Crash in check just incase he needs to free the beast...
At the same time he rolls his shoulders loosening up incase trouble is a foot
Last edited March 7, 2017 4:52 pm
Mar 7, 2017 5:18 pm
Remnant says:
OOC:
Crash is trained in Perception.
OOC:
Go ahead and give me a Perception Roll. Difficulty started at 3, so you will need to roll a 6 or higher
Mar 7, 2017 5:22 pm
OOC:
Rolls

Rolls

Task Level 3 Trained drops level to 2 (Need a 6) - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Mar 7, 2017 5:33 pm
Awareness heightened, Crash looked over the scene and saw a faint trail leading from the cart into the brush on the side of the road. It looks like it was made fairly recently.

The sound of the stream is suddenly punctuated by a loud wooden CRACK, followed quickly by a crash. As he was studying the brush and forest that direction, Crash saw the sounds distantly mirrored in a flutter of leaves and shadow.
Mar 7, 2017 5:59 pm
Crash's eye narrow as he sees the trail going into the brush and with the sudden adage of sound and movement shambles in the direction to see what is transpiring his mouth already partially open as he moves.
Mar 7, 2017 6:34 pm
"If this is an innocent accident, that will not be a good first impression," Zippo sighs seeing his companion moving forward. Hesitantly he follows, ready to draw his swords.
Mar 7, 2017 6:41 pm
"Livings, always better than good impressions while dying. Maybe taken like prey, trail fresh." Crash utters in a broken raspy voice over his shoulder his teeth bearing as he goes crashing into the bushes to give chase and find out hopefully what actually happened.
Mar 7, 2017 6:44 pm
Zandoran quickly fishes the key out of his pocket as he steps infront of Crash... Woah big man, if you're sensing what I think you're sensing you'd probably do better with those things off... so saying Zandoran steps forward and releases the manacles.
Mar 7, 2017 6:56 pm
Whispering to those near, "They could be looking for a branch to replace a broken spoke... Let's not tear them apart without some answers. Plus, their crash and splash hiding technique doesn't make for a successful ambuscade."

Mig parallels the trail, scanning all directions, including the trees above, for any other signs.
Mar 7, 2017 7:26 pm
Ythindra will Scan the area of the disturbed brush.
[ +- ] Scan
Mar 7, 2017 7:44 pm
Crash rotates his hands and massages his wrists free of his manacles, "Or dumping body... maybe hung then fell in water... need to look to know." he offers back still looking in the same direction. Once free Crash moves to bush through the bushy areas to find out.
Mar 8, 2017 4:00 pm
OOLIN takes cover by the cart as the warriors tense up and prepare for a fight. She looks nervously in Ythindra's direction as well. She and the one called Crash unnerve her no end. Only Mig's comforting presence and Ythindra's power to heal cybernetics have kept OOLIN from fleeing so far.

Those implants stir now, opening and retracting, nervously shifting and settling like feathers in patterns OOLIN still doesn't understand.
Last edited March 8, 2017 4:04 pm
Mar 9, 2017 3:10 am
Staying near the cart with most of the others, Ythrinda taps into the nanoverse and is able to get a better sense of the scene before her. There's nothing overtly different about the bushes near the cart - they're the same variety as the other flora they've been walking past. There is evidence that branches have been pushed aside before springing back in place: leaves showing their undersides, twigs broken, and the like. From what she can tell, someone passed through the bushes at some point in the last hour.

Freed from his manacles, Crash moves through the brush toward the noise along with Zippo. They enter a newborn patch of sunlight and see a tall, lanky man hacking at the branches of a fallen tree with an ax. He looks up, startled. Warily, he asks, "Ho there! Who are you, and what do you want?"
Mar 9, 2017 2:14 pm
Crash waves sidestepping the man at some distance to inspect the waters and what was going downstream, "Random hodge podge of travelers... Saw the cart overturned... Missing a wheel. Yours? Or Yours now?" Crash asks.

He didn't really see the point to being overly polite yet, doing so he'd likely still get the same reaction of fear and a repulsed nature. The man hadn't hucked the ax in his direction yet or bolted so he was either still thinking on what to do or distracted with the task as hand, Crash opted to make small talk and keep him calmish until he figured things out for himself.
Mar 9, 2017 3:37 pm
Ythindra cautiously approaches whoever has caused Crash to speak. She beckons her companions to spread out a bit.
Mar 9, 2017 3:51 pm
Already on the move as soon as he'd heard the strangers voice, Zandoran does as Ythindra bids and moves away from her a short way. Also mindful of not spooking the gentleman he approaches with caution
Mar 10, 2017 2:28 am
The man's eyes nervously flicked from the odd, bandaged man to the others who were approaching. He answered carefully, "It's mine, and it's mine now." He licked his lips and tightened his grip on his axe, "If you're looking to make it yours, I'm sure we can come to an agreement without resorting to violence."
Mar 10, 2017 3:12 am
OOLIN stays by the one-wheeled cart. Curious, she peeks under the canvas.

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Mar 10, 2017 3:23 am
Peering under the canvas reveals an assortment of branches and sections of wood. A closed box rests toward the back of the cart with a haversack lying on top of it.

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Mar 10, 2017 4:04 am
OOLIN knows she shouldn't, but she's unable to curb her curiosity. She reaches for the box...

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Mar 10, 2017 4:18 am
It opens easily, revealing a collection of intricately-carved wooden items. Creatures, flowers, people, faces, and other unique shapes all depict the skills of an obviously talented whittler. There's also a thin, canvas sleeve containing an assortment of small knives.

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Mar 10, 2017 4:26 am
Mig hears Crash interacting with someone somewhere through the trees. Carefully arcing his way through the woods, he makes his way to to a point on the creek, downstream of the conversation.
Mar 10, 2017 4:28 am
The carvings are beautiful but OOLIN decides she's done enough prying, and puts everything back. She wonders what the others are up to.
Mar 10, 2017 6:41 am
"Calm down," Zippo tries to reassure the man. "We are just travelers that came by. We're not looking for trouble. If you leave us be, we'll leave you be."

Feeling his tired legs from a long walk he continues. "But if you want to sell it fair and square. We might be interested. Why don't we go back to the road and discuss it with our traveling companions."
Mar 10, 2017 10:03 am
"Not mine, Don't want." Crash states shaking his head, "If your's help fix if broken maybe. What in cart besides not extra wheel?"
Last edited March 10, 2017 5:17 pm
Mar 10, 2017 4:41 pm
Hearing that the conversation isn't escalating, and not really noticing anything out of the ordinary floating down the stream, Mig makes his way back to a place where he can see the cart in the path, and waits.
Mar 10, 2017 11:22 pm
Visibly relaxing, the man answers, "I'd rather not sell it. To be honest, I feared you might the bandits everyone is talking about. But as a fellow traveler, I'd certainly appreciate some help." He struck his axe into the trunk at his feet. Striding to the base of a nearby tree, he pulled out a broken wheel, "The name's Khoj. I'm a woodcarver by trade, but I didn't make the cart you saw. Now I'm wishing I had taken a closer look at it. You see here how the spokes twisted as they broke? Whoever made this either didn't pay enough attention to the grain or they chose from a poor selection of materials." Looking wistfully back at the fallen tree, he added, "I hoped to bind this together well enough to get to Yahmin before nightfall. Those stories about bandits aren't just told to scare the children." Looking at those near him he offered, "I'd be in your debt if you'd help me."
Mar 11, 2017 1:35 am
Crash will watch the man work inching closer and squatting and ask various questions about things like why the way the grain of the wood was important or why wood wasn't just wood and just broke because it's wood. If the broken wooden pieces weren't wanted he will inspect then and sniff them a bite chewing on it to get a feel of why it broke. Once the man made his way back to the cart Crash will stare at the other wheel more closely and prod it at times looking to see what the man does as well to assist him.

"Bandits in area, help so he not killed and dragged into forest and forgotten... fix wheel... wooden wheel... weak. Make better wheel" Crash explains to the others.

Almost intuitively Crash seems to pick up things quickly when it's explained what they're trying to do and the knowledge and understand comes to Crash understanding how to repair recalling other times he has watched people do work he fills in gaps. Crash will spark conversation about tales of what they bandits have supposedly done in the area.
OOC:
Flex Skill is Repair, and I have tools if that would be an asset. If others wants to assist maybe njohn858 could explain if people think it's worth while.
Mar 11, 2017 6:22 am
Once it is obvious that there is no danger Zandoran will walk over to Crash with the manacles. Once Crash is safely shackled he'll turn his attention to helping with the repairs.
Whilst I have no skill with repairing myself, I would often help Brother Drindal whilst he fixed the carts at the Temple... For is it not written "Many hands make light work"
Mar 11, 2017 7:43 am
While everyone is talking about repairing the cart, OOLIN puts her palm against the broken wheel. With whirring and clicking, her cybernetics extend and unfold, probing, clasping, repairing.
[ +- ] whir, clickety-clack...
Last edited March 11, 2017 12:48 pm
Mar 11, 2017 8:02 am
OOC:
hmm, really need to see "ghost in the shell" again
Mar 11, 2017 12:44 pm
"Don't think I'll get used to that any time soon," Zippo says with a smile, seeing OOLIN's cybernetics get to work. While some help out with the wheel, he decides to keep an lookout in case the previously mentioned bandits decide to show up.
Last edited March 11, 2017 12:45 pm
Mar 11, 2017 2:27 pm
Ythindra stays by the cart, resting one leg on it while watching the road. "Life on the road. Sometimes a traveler is simply that, sometimes they're bait for something else."
Mar 12, 2017 5:10 am
Once Mig sees everyone back on the path near the cart, and on friendly terms with the stranger, he steps out of the forest. He looks to meet Zippo's eye and offers a sort of neutral/indifferent shrug of the shoulders, as if to say seems harmless enough.
Mar 12, 2017 5:10 am
Once Mig sees everyone back on the path near the cart, and on friendly terms with the stranger, he steps out of the forest. He looks to meet Zippo's eye and offers a sort of neutral/indifferent shrug of the shoulders, as if to say seems harmless enough.
Mar 23, 2017 3:11 am
Happy to have help, and doubly happy to have someone he could explain woodcraft to, Khoj set to cutting a section from the fallen tree and planing it as best he could with his axe. He talked freely throughout the process, telling Crash about how the grain is what gives wood its strength and how the same piece of wood can be weakened by not paying close attention to what the grain is doing.

Having repaired the wheel as best he could, he directed the others to lift the cart so he could reaffix it. When it was in place, OOLIN easily set the final pin with her strange hands. Satisfied, he stepped back to study their handiwork, pushing the cart slightly to see how it'd roll, "Well, I think that'll do it. I really appreciate your kindness to a stranger on the road. It's not much, but I have some carvings I could give you as a thank you." He started pulling back the tarp when an arrow sprouted from the canvas, trapping it in place.

At the same time, Zippo saw movement in the brush. A burly man rose from the bushes, a greatsword hung casually from one hand. He called out, "I'll be taking those carvings, old man, and I'll be thanking you for the fixed up cart as well." Looking at the others, he continued, "And we'll be taking your stuff too. No one needs to get hurt, just leave your gear and move along."
Mar 23, 2017 11:07 am
As the bandit appears Zandoran immediately moves closer to Ythindra to protect her... Frantically wishing that he hasn't been so quick to re - cuff Crash. Standing nonchalantly he'll turn to the assailant Greetings neighbour, I assure you, there's no need for violence. For is it not written "I can't be having with that kind of thing" Whilst he is talking Zandoran is also trying to attract Crash's attention
Last edited March 23, 2017 11:07 am
Mar 23, 2017 11:52 am
Crash's eyes flash as his face cloth drops a bit revealing teeth that bite down rapidly in anticipation, "Always need for VIOLENCE!" he growls bolting for the would be robber.

Lazy one... not alone unless strong. Crash thinks to himself.

"Smell cowards hiding." he spits rushing the man his voice more beastly as his mouth snaps shut and open again his eyes wild and fierce.

Zandoran will likely notice finally Crash moves about as freely with the shackles on as he does with them off plus they look pretty battered as if used to bludgeon things.
Mar 23, 2017 1:27 pm
Ythindra prepares herself for violence. In her experience, if an initial foray doesn't drive of the bandit, things are going to get ready bad.
Mar 23, 2017 2:55 pm
Mig immediately moves up the road, triangulating himself between the bandit and the cart. This man is a fool, or he is not alone. He checks on his companions, seeing their equally fortifying response to this new threat. Though still strangers, to some degree, their tactical intuitions might be the tie that binds them together.
Quickly concluding that his friends are as ready as they could ever be to defend against an ambuscade, Mig checks the surrounding forest looking and listening for any sign that would support his latter suspicion; that this man is not alone.

Mig nods at Zip.
Godric sent a note to SelectiveAmnesia
OOC:
Quick question on the burden of responsibility for skill checks, etc. So, when we were scouting the area initially, I assumed that if there was something to find, you'd have asked for a roll. So, is that the case? Or, if I want to use a skill to detect something, should I offer the roll and then let you determine the difficulty and outcome?
Example: when I was downstream, if I had made an Intellect check to see if there were multiple prints by the stream, or "whatever", should I have offered to roll for that instead of waiting for GM to initiate? Likewise, in this situation, I am scanning the woods for sign of any more bandits. Do I need to offer the roll or would you ask me to do it only when necessary?
Last edited March 23, 2017 2:59 pm
Mar 23, 2017 4:41 pm
Seeing Mig nod at him, he nods back and moves slowly away from the cart in the opposite direction to spread them out and give room to maneuver. He keeps his hands raised, trying to conceal his forearm blades under his shirt. Hearing Crash speak he smiles at the bandit. "Let me just tell you. This is not your day. I suggest you to turn back while you still can."
Mar 24, 2017 3:57 am
OOLIN cowers by the cart, undecided whether to hide or flee.
Mar 29, 2017 1:44 am
OOC:
@remnant, would you accept a GM Intrusion? If so, who are you going to give the other XP to?

For those who are unfamiliar with Cypher, if there is a way I (the GM) can inject some sort of twist into the story, and it pertains to a character in particular, I'll offer a GM Intrusion. If accepted, the player receives 2 XP - one to keep, and one to give to another player. The player has the choice to reject the GM Intrusion, but it will cost them 1 XP.

@godric, to answer your question, I'll take both. If you want to roll for something preemptively, that's fine, but if there's something to be discovered, and you're doing something that might lead to your discovery, I'll certainly ask for a roll.
Mar 29, 2017 2:31 am
OOC:
Sure I'll take the intrusion other xp to Mig
Last edited March 29, 2017 2:32 am

Rolls

extra xp spinner - (1d5)

(1) = 1

Mar 29, 2017 2:50 am
The man gave a small smile at Crash's forward rush and made a small motion with his hand. Another arrow flew through the trees, burying its head and most of its shaft in Crash's shoulder, halting the monstrous, bandaged man. In the moment of ensuing silence, eight men either rose from the bushes or stepped from behind trees. They carried an assortment of swords, daggers, clubs, and bows, and each wore a hungry expression. Their leader answered Zandoran, "I agree, no more violence is necessary. But I warn you, we will be taking your shin, cyphers, and weapons. The question is whether you will walk away from this with your life."

Khoj looked furtively from those who had recently helped him to those standing menacingly a short distance away. He cautiously moved around the wagon near OOLIN, placing it between himself and the bandits.
OOC:
@remnant, you take 4pts Might damage (minus your Armor rating).
Mar 29, 2017 4:39 am
Mig slowly raises his open hand to the men in the trees and adopts a friendly tone.

"Please, sirs. Our friend is harmless. Curious, yes, but driven by impulses not his own. Forgive him."

His arm raised, palm open, his Synth Bracer vibrates against his arm, ready to unleash its fury. In an attempt to be diplomatic and at the same time distract them for just an instant, Mig hails Zip on the opposite flank of the men in the trees with a question, drawing the men's attention away from himself.

"Zip, what say you. Let's attend to Crash and let these fine men have their cart back."

Then, without warning, Mig's hand clenches into a fist and power detonates from his arm, blasting across the party of ambushers, focusing on the leader.
OOC:
I'm not sure how long the Force Ray lasts. It shoots 300' (Damage +6) so the attackers are well within range. If it is more than just a burst, I'd strafe across the party, hitting as many as I can with the blast.

I'm not sure how to read the skills chart, but I have Attr = S and Prof? = T in Initiative.
If I need to spend Speed points for Effort, I would do that as well. Speed 13, Edge 1, Effort 1
Last edited March 29, 2017 4:42 am
Mar 29, 2017 5:28 am
OOC:
I'll need you to make an attack roll with the Cypher. As it's a ranged attack, it will be based on your Speed pool. You can also spend Effort to either decrease the difficulty or increase the damage by 3. Doing so will cost you 3pts from your Speed pool. (minus your Speed Edge if you have any)

Attr indicates which pool that skill is associated with: (M)ight, (S)peed, or (I)ntellect.
Prof indicates the level of skill: (T)rained or (S)pecialized

I'll also need an initiative roll from everyone. This is also a Speed action, so if you spend Effort on it, you'll need to subtract 3 from your Speed pool (minus any Edge you may have). If you are trained in Initiative, it also reduces the difficulty by one.
Mar 29, 2017 7:22 am
As the bandits appear Zandoran, realising that fighting is inevitable, adopts a fighting stance.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Mar 29, 2017 12:33 pm
OOC:
I guess since it's a GM intrusion no Speed Defense roll?
Crash stutter steps but keeps his footing as he feels the arrow rush into him.

Better me than the others, they're probably not use to such things happening to them. he thinks looking from the arrow to the leader.

"I ask you same question... not predators... scavengers... scavengers always stringy meat." Crash spits back venomously licking his lips.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Mar 29, 2017 1:49 pm
Remnant says:
OOC:
I guess since it's a GM intrusion no Speed Defense roll?
OOC:
Correct - in this case, the GMI was you taking the hit. Had you refused, I would have asked for a Speed Defense roll.
Mar 29, 2017 2:02 pm
OOC:
Cool, no worries not Crash's first time getting shot based on his actions or looks. XD
Mar 29, 2017 6:43 pm
As Mig makes a racket Zippo lowers his arms to his sides and presses the release on his blades, ready to fight.

Rolls

Initative - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Mar 29, 2017 6:50 pm
Mig is Trained in Initiative (reduce difficulty by 1).
Mig has 1 Edge in Speed so will spend 2 points for 1 Effort (reduce attack difficulty by 1).

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Speed Attack with Force Ray cypher - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Mar 29, 2017 11:57 pm
Ythindra squeaks when the bushes sprout adversaries, and gets ready to defend the troupe.

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Mar 31, 2017 5:38 am
OOLIN ducks behind the cart. She's never been in a fight before. Or has she? Broken images flash in her mind - fragments of memories buried deep: a training room... hunter bots... metallic claws...

Rolls

Initiative - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Mar 31, 2017 4:19 pm
A band of brilliant purple light flashed from Mig's hand and into the leader's chest, knocking him completely off his feet. He landed beneath the cover of the bushes, a trail of smoke wafting toward the sky. The air was suffused with the smell of burnt flesh.

The other bandits looked at each other, uncertain as to whether they should continue their attack against such a foe. Then the leader crawled to his knees and painfully pointed toward the trail, "Kill them! I want that weapon!"
OOC:
@godric, you did 7 points of damage (rolling a 17 deals an extra 1pt to your damage), and the leader is quite injured. You also get a +1 to your next attack roll as a Minor Effect for your Initiative roll of 19.

Here's the initiative order. In Cypher, it's a matter of going before or after your combatants, and that'd determined by whether or not you beat their Difficulty Level (tie goes to the PC). So you don't necessarily have to go in this precise order, but if you're after the Bandits, you'll need to wait until they go.

1.
Mig
OOLIN
Crash
Zandoran
Zippo

2.
Bandits 1-8
Bandit Leader

3.
Ythrinda


Mar 31, 2017 4:39 pm
OOC:
Do I go again? Or, was that my turn?
I do have the Special Ability: Quick Draw (Tier 1) but that indicates it's for "thrown" weapons, not "ranged"...
Also, does the cypher I just used have more than one use? Or is it dead/drained/finished?
Mar 31, 2017 4:42 pm
OOC:
cyphers are always one shot devices...
Mar 31, 2017 4:45 pm
OOC:
That's what I thought. And, I'm assuming that our characters know this too... which means the reaction by the leader (wanting the cypher) and the reaction of the henchmen (hesitating) would mean they think it has another shot in it. Which is fine by me, just clarifying my strategy for moving forward.
Mar 31, 2017 4:48 pm
OOC:
You get to go again as part of the turn order, and @willadams is right. Cyphers are one-use items. Mig is still wearing the device, but its energy has been depleted.
Mar 31, 2017 4:54 pm
Zandoran can feel his heart quickening at the risk of danger, but using breathing techniques he learned at the monastery he rapidkt brings it under control. He quickly moved towards the closest bandit and strikes with his fist

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(8) = 8

Mar 31, 2017 4:58 pm
Mig drops his foot back into a fighting stance—raising his staff up, parallel to the ground, perpendicular to his body. His arm points directly at the fallen leader. Before firing his Forearm Buzzer (Damage 2), he says, "Go ahead and take it, if you can, it won't bring you back from the dead." Saying this, Mig fires two buzz-blades into leader's face and prepares to mix it up with his quarter-staff.
OOC:
If this is part of my same attack, then I'm assuming I can't use Effort again.
If it's different, I'll spend the Speed points to reduce the difficulty again.

Rolls

Forearm Buzzer (Dam = 2) + Effort (if allowed) - (1d20)

(1) = 1

Mar 31, 2017 5:03 pm
OOC:
Unbelievable... I was really expecting a 19 or 20... !
Mar 31, 2017 5:05 pm
The bandit charged to meet Zandoran's attack's with a raised club but fell under the relentless pummeling dealt him. The bandit swayed precariously on his feet under the barrage of fists.
OOC:
You deal 5 pts of damage (4 from your fists being a Medium weapon, and 2 from Fists of Fury, offset by the Bandit having an Armor of 1)
Mar 31, 2017 5:08 pm
Godric says:
OOC:

If this is part of my same attack, then I'm assuming I can't use Effort again.
If it's different, I'll spend the Speed points to reduce the difficulty again.
Unbelievable... I was really expecting a 19 or 20... !
OOC:
It's a different attack, so you can use Effort and spend the appropriate points.

On a 1, I get to inject a GM Intrustion for free. (yay!) unless you opt to spend 1 XP to reroll.

Also, the Quick Draw ability will cost you 2 Speed Points if you want to use it. If you're using that and spending Effort, you'd reduce your Speed pool by 4 (Ability (2) + Effort (3) - Edge (1))
Mar 31, 2017 5:17 pm
OOC:
Since this is our one and only encounter, I will spend all the points I can. But NOT the XP, I'll take the GM Intrusion!
Mar 31, 2017 5:23 pm
Zippo jumps into action, spotting the two nearest bandits he attempts to hit one with each arm.
OOC:
If possible I would like to attack two bandits, if not I'll focus on one.

Rolls

Attack 1 - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Attack 2 - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Mar 31, 2017 5:27 pm
As violence erupts both round OOLIN and in her mind's eye her body reacts in way she doesn't understand: she falls into a kind of trance, her eyes taking on an expression both vacant and predatory, as strange protrusions of unknown metal sprout from her back like the spiny wings and barbed tail of some great bird of prey. She rises into the air above the cart, and one of her tail spines shoots down towards the bandit leader. looking like she is preparing to strike.
OOC:
The levitation is a cypher. I hope it's okay that I reflavored her Dart Thrower as a cybernetic tail spine thing.
Last edited March 31, 2017 6:09 pm

Rolls

Dart Thrower. Mod: -1, Dmg: 2 - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Mar 31, 2017 5:31 pm
Godric says:
OOC:
Since this is our one and only encounter, I will spend all the points I can. But NOT the XP, I'll take the GM Intrusion!
OOC:
Please make an attack roll for your second shot.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Mar 31, 2017 6:01 pm
Zippo engages with two of the bandits, one of which was able to parry the attack, though the other received a nasty slice across his chest.
OOC:
Your first attack hit, inflicting 1pt of damage (2 dealt from the Light weapon, though offset by the bandit's armor).
Mar 31, 2017 6:04 pm
Jabes.plays.RPG says:
OOC:
The levitation is a cypher. I hope it's okay that I reflavored her Dart Thrower as a cybernetic tail spine thing.
OOC:
I'm ok with your reflavoring the Dart Thrower. Activating a cypher takes an action, so you can either activate it or do the attack. Your call.
Mar 31, 2017 6:10 pm
njohn858 says:
OOC:
I'm ok with your reflavoring the Dart Thrower. Activating a cypher takes an action, so you can either activate it or do the attack. Your call.
OOC:
Oops, sorry about that! Seems a shame to waste the 17 but let's go with the cypher as I like the mental image. Edited my post.
Apr 1, 2017 2:31 pm
Moving again suddenly after being attack and the chaos of battle swirls around him Crash barrels onto the injured leader his mouth opening wide and his jaw popping as he attempts to sink his teeth into the side of the man's neck.
OOC:
If it hit's Natural Weapons for Crash does 4 damage
Last edited April 1, 2017 2:31 pm

Rolls

Melee Attack - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Apr 6, 2017 2:46 am
The leader twisted away from Mig's flying buzzers escaping unscathed. But a piece of his still-smoldering shirt was cut cleanly, falling to the ground where the woodland detritus caught hold of the flame.

Sailing over the small flames was the monstrous form of Crash who tackled the leader and bit deeply into his throat. Blood spurted around Crash's lips, coating his face with a ruddy paint.

Coming to the defense of their leader, one of the bandits stabbed at Crash with a long knife while another went for Mig.

Meanwhile, the man that Zandoran was pummeling brought his club around, trying to knock his foe down. Another bandit came up behind Zandoran and tried to stab him in the back while his attention was diverted.

Zippo's combatants moved in rhythm with each other, crudely hacking at him, one especially wary the forearm blades having tasted its keen edge.

Stepping up onto a nearby stump, the one with a bow sighted down an arrow and let it fly toward the now-floating OOLIN. He caught sight of Ythrinda, and yelled to his cohort to grab her.

Hearing the call to action, a bandit sprung toward the badly scarred woman and attempted to tackle her to the ground.
OOC:
I need one Speed Defense roll from Crash, one from Mig, two from Zandoran, two from Zippo, one from Ythrinda, and one from OOLIN.

If you're Trained in Speed Defense, this will reduce the difficulty by one, and you can spend Effort on it if you'd like.

The fire (caused by the GMI) is small now, but it will only grow if left alone.....

Ythrinda, you're up!
Apr 6, 2017 3:12 am
Ythindra flinched from the attack, raising her arms to shield herself. "Faaa!" She lurches forward, glaring hard at the attacker. Psychic energy lashes out.

Rolls

Speed Defense - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Esotery - Onslaught - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Apr 6, 2017 3:21 am
Shielding herself with her arms, Ythrinda was able to deflect the attack. The bandit, however, bore the full force of her glare and felt a part of himself wither away inside.
OOC:
I'm assuming you're opting to deal 2pts of damage, bypassing Armor? The alternative would be for Onslaught to be a physical attack, dealing 4pts damage, but armor would be applied.
Apr 6, 2017 3:35 am
OOC:
Right. Bypass armor. I'll be specific next time.
Apr 6, 2017 4:45 am
Mig stands his ground, quarterstaff at the ready.

Rolls

Speed Defense - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Apr 6, 2017 4:47 am
OOC:
My shield only comes in to play when/if there is a hit/damage to be assessed, right? Also, I have 1 Edge in Speed, and 1 Effort, so how do we attach that to our roll?
Apr 6, 2017 5:12 am
OOLIN tries, but fails to twist away from the arrow. Unbidden, one of her tail spikes shoots towards the archer in retaliation.
Last edited April 6, 2017 11:16 am

Rolls

Speed Defense + Effort - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Tail Spike (Dart Thrower). Mod: -1, Dmg: 2 - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Apr 6, 2017 7:43 am
OOC:
don't have my books worth me atm, can I apply effort to both defence rolls?
Apr 6, 2017 1:32 pm
OOC:
You can it would be 3 each per roll unless you have speed edge so that's be 6 speed from the pool.
Apr 6, 2017 3:17 pm
Zandoran starts to dodge the clubs as the bandit swings it at his head. As he moves he catches sight of the second attacker out of the corner of his eye so turns the duck into a roll.

Trained in Speed defence, effort (with speed edge) applied to 2nd defence.

Rolls

Speed defence - (1d20)

(13) = 13

2nd Speed defence - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Apr 6, 2017 4:26 pm
Zig tries to dodge out of the way, dodging and weaving around the thugs.
OOC:
Trained with All Speed defend tasks

Rolls

Speed Defense #1 - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Speed Defense #2 - (1d20)

(9) = 9

Apr 6, 2017 4:47 pm
Godric says:
OOC:
My shield only comes in to play when/if there is a hit/damage to be assessed, right? Also, I have 1 Edge in Speed, and 1 Effort, so how do we attach that to our roll?
OOC:
A shield provides an Asset to the Speed Defense roll, reducing the difficulty by one. If you want to also spend Effort on it,
you would reduce your Speed Pool by 2 (normally it's 3, but your Edge of 1 reduces the cost). When you carry a shield, you also get a +1 Armor (due to your Foci ability), which comes into play when you take damage.
Apr 6, 2017 5:23 pm
Mig's staff and shield easily block the bandit's attack even as the arrow flies past him to pierce OOLIN's strange flesh.

Zandoran's limbs are a blur as he turns aside the club from the injured bandit, and his reactions proved to be just fast enough to twist past the other's outstretched knife as well.

Not to be outdone by one who refused to carry a blade, Zippo smoothly dodged the attacks from both of the bandits he was engaged with.
OOC:
OOLIN, you take 4pts Might damage (reduced by your Armor rating)

Once we resolve Crash's Speed Defense roll, we'll be back at the top of the order. (OOLIN, I'll resolve your attack at that point)
Apr 6, 2017 6:48 pm
OOC:
Did read I needed to roll.

Rolls

Speed Defense Roll - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Apr 6, 2017 11:24 pm
Crash looked up from his kill in time to see the bandit attempt to stab him. He lithely scurried to the side, easily evading the attack.

The spike flew from OOLIN's tail and struck the archer in his shoulder who looked down at it, a puzzled look passing across his face.
OOC:
We're back to the top of the order, so Mig, Crash, Zandoran, Zippo, you can take your actions.

OOLIN, you dealt 1pt damage.
Apr 7, 2017 7:59 am
For a second Zandoran is undecided on which foe to attack, but decides to finish off his first target before concentrating on the knife wielder. He quickly circles around to place the club holding bandit between him and the knife guy and then launches a series of furious kicks hoping to put the foe down for good.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(8) = 8

Apr 7, 2017 1:08 pm
Crash rolling to the side looks at his new prey blood tripping from his mouth as a cracking sound escaped his mouth as it opened before he dove at the new one his eyes wild with the adrenaline pumping through him to down another foe in a similar fashion.
OOC:
If it hits Crash enables Cruel: When you use force, you can choose to maim or deliver painful injuries to draw out your foe's suffering. Whenever you inflict damage, you can choose to inflict 2 fewer points of damage (-2 Damage total for the attack) to decrease the difficulty of the next attack against that foe by one step. For cinematic Crash drags him into the brush while maintaining eye contact with him. }XD
Last edited April 7, 2017 1:11 pm

Rolls

Attack Roll - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Apr 7, 2017 3:25 pm
Mig exhales slowly as he reflexively leans on his training. He rolls with the tide.

As it is with all of Time,
so it is with Now.
Now is combat.
Combat ebbs.
Combat flows.
A time to advance,
a time to recede.
The moon breathes,
the waves respond.


Mig steps back parrying the blow, allowing the onrushing attack to break upon The Sand. As the blow dissipates like foam across his shield, he recognizes the moment for what it is. A brief interlude of stillness, The Stand.

"Crash! Now is not the Time." Mig calls out without ever taking his eyes off the enemy.

And then, like the sea, the moment passes and the currents resume their dance.

He spins forward on his left leg, drawing his right knee up high and tight. The Spiral of Lux. He plants his foot firmly behind his opponents gravitational center. Pulling on the lunar power stored in the soil, Mig draws it up his legs into his spine, directing it out through his arms to his hands. Rip Tide. The slack comes out of his hands at the last moment as his staff snaps back hard against his foe's occipital lobe. Eclipse.
OOC:
Might: 15, Edge: 1, Effort: 1
Applying Effort (with Edge 1), reduces Might > 13
Last edited April 7, 2017 6:25 pm

Rolls

Eclipse (Quarterstaff Attack = +4 Damage) - (1d20)

(8) = 8

Apr 7, 2017 6:22 pm
OOC:
I don't think Muscles of Iron would be useable if it's an attack you're attempting from what you posted.
Apr 7, 2017 6:25 pm
OOC:
Oh, I didn't read that correctly! You're right, other than attack rolls. I will edit the post.
Apr 7, 2017 6:30 pm
OOC:
As we get experience though and you upgrade your Might Edge it'll definitely be beast mode for tasks you're attempting involving Might Pool.
Apr 8, 2017 3:31 pm
"We told you to turn back," Zippo sighs as he thrust out with both hands, his body spinning and weaving between the two bandits he's engaged with. "Your deaths are your own doing."
OOC:
I have these two abilities:
Dual Light Wield: You can use two light weapons at the same time, making two separate attacks on your turn as a single action. You remain limited by the amount of Effort you can apply on one action, but because you make separate attacks, your opponent?s Armor applies to both. Anything that modifes your attack or damage applies to both attacks, unless it?s specifcally tied to one of the weapons. Enabler
Thrust (1 Might point): This is a powerful melee stab. You make an attack and in?ict 1 additional point of damage if your weapon has a sharp edge or point. Action

Can they be combined. If so I will spend a Might point to use it now.

Rolls

Attack vs Bandit 1 - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Attack vs Bandit 2 - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Apr 9, 2017 12:36 am
OOC:
Enablers can be used without requiring an action but any cost if it has one must be paid to 'enable' them if there is one, Thrust works off a sharp pointy weapon so as long as you have one it can be applied. Also light weapons reduce the difficulty one step down. If you have Edge in Might apply that as well.
Apr 9, 2017 4:11 pm
The confused look only lasted a moment, and the archer drew and released another arrow at OOLIN with a practiced motion.

The bandit tried to block Zandoran's kicks, but they kept coming at him too fast. One caught him under the jaw, snapping his head back. His neck broken, he fell limp to the ground at the feet of his friend. Looking from the body up to Zandoran, the other bandit stabbed forward with his knife.

The man let out a bloodcurdling scream as Crash tackled him and started dragging him into the bushes. Terror gave him strength and he stabbed back even as he was being dragged.

Mig's staff gracefully comes around and makes hard contact with the bandit's skull. The explosion of pain had him staggering back a few steps before he recovered and came back swinging his short-sword.

Reflecting the hazy light filtering through the smoke, Zippo's forearm blades sparkled as they pressed the attack. Taking advantage of openings obvious to him, he sunk his blades sunk deep into one bandit's stomach and the other's thigh. Both continued to press the attack though, confident that the two of them could take down this lone combatant.

Head pounding with a killer headache, the bandit drew a wicked looking knife and slashed at Ythrinda, trying to add another scar to her horrible visage.
OOC:

OOLIN, I need one speed defense roll
Zandoran, you are able to finish off the bandit. I need one Speed Defense roll.
Crash, you deal 1pt damage and your next attack is at -1 Difficulty. I need one Speed Defense roll.
Mig, you deal 3pts damage to one bandit and 1pt to the other. I need one Speed Defense roll.
Zippo, you deal 2pts damage to both bandits (factoring in the Thrust activation for each attack). I need two Speed Defense rolls.
Ythrinda, I need one Speed Defense roll and your action
Apr 9, 2017 4:27 pm
OOC:
That's the expected reaction in this situation.

Rolls

Speed Defense Check - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Apr 9, 2017 5:33 pm
Zandoran sees the knife coming towards him and dodges to the left ready to attack again

Rolls

Speed defence (trained) - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Apr 10, 2017 1:14 am
OOLIN sees the arrow coming and tries to dodge.
Last edited April 10, 2017 1:15 am

Rolls

Speed Defense - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Apr 10, 2017 4:03 am
Let the Winds Blow.
Mig maintains the motion of his staff, whirling it about himself in defensive arcs. He's not a little surprised that the man who took the blow to the head is still on his feet, let alone coming back for more.

"Hard head indeed" he says aloud.
Last edited April 12, 2017 2:18 pm

Rolls

Speed Defense - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Apr 10, 2017 12:38 pm
OOC:
Speed Defense (trained)

Rolls

Speed Defense #1 - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Speed Defense #2 - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Apr 10, 2017 12:52 pm
Ythindra wines as the knife slices at her face and she turns as fast away as she can.

"You cannot win here!" she screams, unleashing a torrent if psionic energy once more.

Rolls

Speed Defense - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Onslaught, bypass armor, effort for extra damage - (1d20)

(1) = 1

Apr 21, 2017 3:54 am
Ensconced in their own miniature battles, each proved their prowess over the bandits and each attack was either dodged, blocked, or parried. Ythrinda, though, knew something was off as the psionic energy left her, and the bandit felt a kind of miraculous peace suffuse through him. Ythrinda watched him straighten slightly as his aches and pains suddenly seemed distant; he looked at her in a newfound light and gave a tentative smile then began coughing as the smoke that was filling the area reached him.
OOC:
The natural 1 you rolled on your attack triggered a GM Intrusion, which resulted in you healing him instead of dealing damage. He's back at full health
The sound of metal clashing and grunts of exertion and pain were met with the growing sound of crackling wood and vegetation as the fire continued its quickening consumption of the forest. The leaves above were beginning to be obscured by the smoky haze rising from the flora below. And in the chaos, Khoj grabbed the handles of his wood-filled cart and began trudging up the path, the recently-mended wheel wobbling slightly.
OOC:
Back at the top of the order (Mig, OOLIN, Crash, Zandoran, Zippo)
Apr 21, 2017 12:25 pm
Crash tugs along into the underbrush the man victim flailing along the way. Staring into his eyes and out the sight of others he clamps a claw down on the man's jugular as he releases his teeth from the man's flesh. His jaw makes a popping sound several times as his maw grows larges as he descends on the man.
OOC:
Medium attack one step down due to Cruelty last round and applying effort to damage (Edge of 1 in might so -2 Might)
OOC:
Update damage is 4+3 for 7 damage for the minor effect instead of extra damage (=1) could I go with everyone else hears the bandit screaming and the sound of rending flesh and the gnashing of teeth from the bushes, if possible blood splatter narratively into the air and all over Crash for when he stands up smiling mouth still agap. Unsure if he's still alive though.
Last edited April 21, 2017 12:29 pm

Rolls

Medium Melee - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Apr 21, 2017 12:47 pm
OOLIN's next tail spike shoots down towards the bandit leader.

Rolls

Tail Spike (Dart Thrower). Mod: -1, Dmg: 2 - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Apr 21, 2017 12:58 pm
Zandoran, having successfully dodged the knife attack, drops to his knee and delivers a double hand punch to the bandit's solar plexus

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Apr 21, 2017 4:44 pm
Ythindra changes tactics, cursing at her own misuse of her fickle magic. She dives forward hoping the smoke masks her intention. She flings her arm forward, pretending she is going to unleash more psionic energy, but stabs him with an animal stinger.
[ +- ] Cypher: Synth Stinger

Rolls

Speed defense - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Speed test, cypher - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Apr 21, 2017 4:57 pm
OOC:
Where do things stand with the bandits? Are they (minus the healed one) subdued? Are they also detecting the fire danger? Or does it seem like they were expecting the flames as part of their plan?
Apr 21, 2017 9:46 pm
"You fight well my friends, and as much as I enjoy spending time with you..." he takes his eyes off his targets for a moment, looking over at the fire. "...we really need to finish this up."

He strikes out again with both blades aiming low for one and high for the other.
OOC:
Spending 1 level of effort.

Rolls

Attack 1 - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Attack 2 - (1d20)

(11) = 11

May 2, 2017 3:48 am
Crash's jaws worked their way around the man's throat before locking down. The man's scream fell into a strangled gurgle before ceasing completely. Crash stood up from the bushes. His entire face was covered in blood, which also ran down the front of his chest.
OOC:
In combat, a 17 gives you a +1 damage. Minor effects come into play on a 19, and major effects on a 20. The bandit you were fighting is dead.
OOLIN's tail spike flew through the air, leaving little eddies of smoke behind it before hitting the archer.

Zandoran's double-handed punch hit the man with bone-crunching force. The bandit's ribs crumpled and his breath whooshed from him. He fell to the ground and curled into a fetal position, trying vainly to draw another breath.
OOC:
When factoring in the +3 damage bonus from rolling a 19, you slew the bandit.
The synth stinger slicing through the smoke, Ythrinda stabbed at the man, who easily batted her arm to the side.
OOC:
You missed the attack, but the cypher is still usable.
Zippo's blades both found their mark, severing the femoral artery of one bandit and stabbing deeply into the other's lung. Both slid off the blades and dropped to the ground.
OOC:
For the sake of expediency, I applied your Effort to damage as you hadn't specified and your natural roll beat their target number. Normally, what you're using your Effort on needs to be declared before the roll.
Seeing so many of his companions fall, the archer gave a loud whoop and disappeared into the smoke-filled forest. Hearing his cry, the other two remaining bandits also fled, the one engaged with Ythrinda giving her a sad smile before running away.

The spaces where they once stood were almost immediately replaced by smoke and flame. The fire, though having started small, was quickly escalating and would soon turn into an uncontrollable inferno.
OOC:
Everyone takes 3pts damage from being near the heat and breathing the smoke. As this is ambient damage, armor does not apply.
May 2, 2017 4:29 am
OOC:
Dumb question: that's Might damage?
May 2, 2017 4:33 am
Jabes.plays.RPG says:
OOC:
Dumb question: that's Might damage?
OOC:
Not a dumb question. I should have clarified. Yes, this is Might Damage.
May 2, 2017 4:37 am
"Noooo!" Ythindra screams in horror and runs blindly away from the flames, in full panic mode.
May 2, 2017 4:46 am
OOLIN hovers down to the ground and runs towards Mig. She seems to have snapped out of the strange trance that overtook her and casts fearful glances after Ythindra.
May 2, 2017 4:51 am
Zandoran immediately reacts to his mistresses cry of despair... His head whips around searching for sign of her and he locates her just in time to see her disappearing into the trees.... Coughing like a someone who had been smoking for 40 years, and with tears streaming down his face, he sets off after her
May 2, 2017 1:47 pm
"Calm her Zan... thoughts being... burned alive. Not feel safe..." Crash belts out as he bounds from the bush and tree line dragging the body of the leader in his mouth and arms to the road.

His eyes dance about hovering over the body as he looks at the fire, blinking quickly sniffing the air and twitching as he shakes his head the blood still drying on him.

Crash digs though his pouch of minor possessions and holds up a amber colors jaggest looking piece of rock or glass which he shoves into his maw with a clawed hand chewing it.

"I'll try... put out fire..."
OOC:
Succient Sap: A gummy resin that when chewed and swallowed by a creature, the difficulty of its next action is decreased by 3 steps. I don't need to know the level but let me know abstractly how difficult this is since I'm trying to be a fire fighter I may need to put some effort into this.
[ +- ] Succinct Sap
Last edited May 2, 2017 1:49 pm
May 2, 2017 6:28 pm
OOC:
Before deciding what to do... I still have questions:
The top of page 5 introduces some smoke, but no source.
Page 6 mentions that we hear crackling and the leaves above are partially obscured by some smoke.
Then, we're suddenly taking heat damage? Instinctively, I'd assume all living things would move towards the area where there is no smoke, or at least less of it. But, if we're close enough to a forest fire to sustain +3 damage in so few turns (measured by the 2-3 turns/actions we've taken since smoke first appeared), it seems trivial for party and bandits alike to continue skirmishing in face of such a great threat—abandoning the battle well before the threat of physical harm by fire. But, I digress...

Is the fire coming from one direction? All directions? Can we see fire, or just smoke? Is the road clear? Is the stream a safer option? I'm only asking because Mig wants to know! :)
May 2, 2017 7:09 pm
Godric says:
OOC:
Before deciding what to do... I still have questions:
The top of page 5 introduces some smoke, but no source.
Page 6 mentions that we hear crackling and the leaves above are partially obscured by some smoke.
Then, we're suddenly taking heat damage? Instinctively, I'd assume all living things would move towards the area where there is no smoke, or at least less of it. But, if we're close enough to a forest fire to sustain +3 damage in so few turns (measured by the 2-3 turns/actions we've taken since smoke first appeared), it seems trivial for party and bandits alike to continue skirmishing in face of such a great threat—abandoning the battle well before the threat of physical harm by fire. But, I digress...

Is the fire coming from one direction? All directions? Can we see fire, or just smoke? Is the road clear? Is the stream a safer option? I'm only asking because Mig wants to know! :)
OOC:
The fire was sparked by the GMI introduced here. It has continued to grow each round, which I've tried to portray in the narrative/abstract instead of outlining it (the fast rate being attributed to the dryness of the underbrush). At this point, the bandits have fled the battle in part due to the fire, and in part due to the whomping you were all delivering. In-character, it can easily be assumed that everyone was so focused on those they were fighting with they had stopped paying attention to what was going on around them. (lifting up the GM screen for a moment, they would have fled this round solely due to the fire had you all failed your rolls. I also referenced the corebook for the 3pts ambient damage from a minor fire (p94)).

This is how I'm envisioning the scene. The fire is near the road, but is centralized and is expanding outward. At this point, everyone (with the exception of Ythrinda and Zandoran who have fled) is somewhere near/between the flames and were the cart is drawn (in-game, Khoj took it with him when he fled). The road is clear for the moment (though is obscured by smoke), and the stream that you heard previously is further in the forest than you have explored yet.

https://dl.dropbox.com/s/b792yglovftotr0/GP_TheCartFireScene.jpg


May 2, 2017 7:15 pm
OOC:
Might have gotten missed above Godric what would I be looking at to put out the fire abstractly is it feasible? Does the difficulty without revealing the level seem doable to Crash with the Cypher step down 3 plus some effort to drop it 4 levels?
May 2, 2017 7:31 pm
Remnant says:
OOC:
Might have gotten missed above Godric what would I be looking at to put out the fire abstractly is it feasible? Does the difficulty without revealing the level seem doable to Crash with the Cypher step down 3 plus some effort to drop it 4 levels?
OOC:
Hasn't been overlooked, I just hadn't responded to it yet (I have a few narrative ideas for how the cypher will play out that I need to settle on plus I wanted to see what everyone else was deciding to do). Putting the fire out is definitely feasible though it's a challenging task. The boost from your cypher will make it seem like a normal thing to do, and putting effort into it would make it even easier. Your action this time was using the cypher, you can make a roll on your next action to put out the fire.
May 2, 2017 7:54 pm
OOC:
Cool cool, *googles dogs putting out fires*.
May 2, 2017 8:23 pm
OOC:
Thanks, the map is very helpful.
I clearly missed the GMI note: what does GMI mean?
I asked earlier about the origins but didn't get the answer: I thought maybe it was part of the bandits plan to cut us off... I had explored the stream initially when we heard the sounds in the woods, but that is immaterial at this point.

I would argue that if the fire/heat is doing damage, there is no putting it out. I've worked with wildfires IRL and, once the trees catch, there's no stopping it from the ground. Just controlling it with firebreaks, heavy equipment, and tactical air support!
Mig beckons those he can see towards the road, a natural fire break. "Head for the road. We can always break for the stream if needed."
May 3, 2017 2:40 am
OOC:
GMI stands for GM Intrusion - some sort of complication triggered by either rolling a natural 1 or by the GM offering it to a player along with 2 XP. In this case, it was from rolling a 1.
I must have missed seeing your question about the origin, and I had forgotten about you exploring the stream. Sorry about that!

While I haven't fought any wildfires, I'm no stranger to them (living in Colorado Springs, we've had our fair share of them over the last couple of years), and I agree - once the flames have taken to the trees, it'd take a miracle to put out without some major intervention. At this point, though intense enough to burn hair and blister flesh, it's still just consuming the underbrush. Cyphers really shine in moments like this, allowing players to accomplish things that are wildly beyond their natural skill set.

@Qralloq, what direction is Ythrinda running?

May 3, 2017 2:46 am
Ythindra runs directly away from the fire. If she sees water, she will jump in.
May 3, 2017 3:16 am
Ythrinda tore across the road and into the forest on the other side, followed by Zandoran. Mig took charge of the situation and put the road between him and the flames. Heeding his advice, OOLIN settled to the ground nearby, and Crash dragged his prey in that direction.

Standing on the road staring into the fire, Crash was a horrific sight; his blood-coated face and chest glistened darkly in the red and orange flames. The shard of resin he put in his mouth was hard and tacky though quickly softened as he chewed on it. A tingling sensation started under his gums and spread throughout the rest of his body. He felt his limbs elongating, hands and feet flattening and spreading into wide, green fronds. A sinuous bark sprouted from his flesh, and he found himself several feet taller as he was now supported by a mass of what appeared to be roots and vines. A cool, silvery fluid beaded first on his woody face then the rest of his body. The secretion was minimal at first, but increased rapidly, some of it evaporating into a humid aura that surrounded him like a cloud.
OOC:
Ythrinda and Zandoran, you'll reach the stream next round.
Crash, go ahead and give me your firefighter roll.
May 3, 2017 12:27 pm
Crash blinks and looks down and tries to move his neck which seems to be stiffer than normal. Realizing his neck is a lot thicker he moves to put out the fire but trying to contain it and then slowly put it out.

"I am CRASH!" he yells out for some odd reason.
OOC:
Applying Effort, let me know which pool to pull effort from. So down four steps.

Rolls

Firefighting - (1d20)

(17) = 17

May 3, 2017 2:25 pm
Remnant says:
"I am CRASH!" he yells out for some odd reason.
Mig notices a small masked creature with delicate forepaws and a striped, bushy tail rocketing through the underbrush. Many other small woodland creatures can also be heard above and below, fleeing from the fire.

For the not the first time, Mig ruminates on his motives for leaving his home town. It was strange enough on its own, but outside those familiar walls, he finds the world just keeps getting stranger.
Last edited May 3, 2017 4:25 pm
May 5, 2017 3:17 am
With each flail of his newly grown fronds at the fire, more silvery fluid poured forth. The smoke pouring upward increased greatly, but between the batting of the flames and the liquid sap emanating forth, the fire was quickly put out. Surprisingly, Crash had barely registered the heat of the flames even as he reached into them with his own hands (OOC: would it be frands?). Standing over the smoldering remains, he towered above the others for a moment, then the woody transformation disappeared in a waterfall of silver fluid that poured over Crash's now-normal form and was quickly absorbed by the forest floor. The only remaining piece of evidence of the transformation was that the blood that had once soaked the man was now gone.


Tearing wildy through the undergrowth, Ythrinda's clothes caught on brambles, and branches whipped at her face and arms until she broke free onto the pebbled beach of the stream. Though wide, it did not appear too deep as it burbled along its route. By this time, Zandoran had mostly caught up with her and emerged from the forest behind her.
OOC:
@remnant, Effort would have come from your Speed pool
May 9, 2017 1:18 am
The smoke began to dissipate in the forest, though a few small rivulets continued their lazy upward climb from still-smoldering brush. The silence following Crash's unnatural transformation was gradually broken by the return of birds chirping.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

At the stream's edge, Ythrinda and Zandoran caught their breath. At first glance, this seemed to be a virgin stretch of forest. The sound of the stream overwhelmed most other noises, though the chattering of woodland creatures and the singing of birds occasionally broke through.
May 9, 2017 4:20 am
Ythindra plunges into the water then flings her hair about in a wild spray. She looks around maniacally, spying Zandoran. "What do we do!?" she cries out.
May 9, 2017 7:01 am
Zandoran, seeing Ythindra plunge into the river, comes to a skidding halt on the gravel banks of the river. Taking a couple of seconds to catch his breath... Well Ma'am we're away from any immediate danger from the fire, but being separated from the rest of the group isn't ideal. I suggest we get you out of there quickly, for is it not written "Don't go out with your hair wet, you'll catch your death" Taking a look around trying to get his bearings, then I suppose we'd better try and find our way back to the group looking up and seeing the thinning smoke looks like they've managed to put the fire out. Pity we could have used it to get you dry walking down to the edge of the river he extends his hand...
May 9, 2017 12:50 pm
Crash rolls his neck a few times and hears a satisfying crack. Scratching through his hair he finds a piece of wood that he stiffs before flicking away. Squating over the leader's body he looks around at the others before looking down at his chackles handing from one hand. He deftly attaches it back to his other hand and does something with a click. They look like they have been locked this whole time. "Where every go?' he ask while he searches the body for clues and cool stuff.
May 9, 2017 1:05 pm
OOLIN was about to start picking through the bandits' possessions in search of cyphers but she's more than a little afraid of Crash. She looks to Mig. "Is it safe?" she whispers.
May 9, 2017 1:14 pm
Crash cocks his head and sniffs the bodies from his vantage on the road, "They bodies... on fire... probably safe to eat... safer."
May 9, 2017 3:19 pm
Mig looks at OOLIN for a moment, then at the body. "He's dead," he says, answering her question with a gesture on his face that implies a proceed at your own risk sort of sentiment. Then he turns toward the general direction of the stream, and listens.

Hopefully they didn't go too far.
Jun 1, 2017 10:04 pm
Mig hums diligently as he oils his gear.
Jun 2, 2017 12:33 am
Ythindra calms immediately, hearing that the fire is out. "
Okay, let's find them,"
she says uncertainly.
Jun 2, 2017 3:44 am
As Crash bent down to examine the body, his attention was drawn to a strange section of skin peeking from his shirt - it appeared to be some sort of synth fused to the flesh. The synth was shaped in a series of interlocking hexagons, starting at the base of the man's neck and continuing beneath the jerkin.

At the leader's side lay the greatsword he had wielded. It seemed to be made of good quality, and the fire didn't seem to have damaged it in any way.
OOC:
The greatsword is a Heavy, two-handed weapon, and deals 6pts of damage. If you are not trained in the use of Heavy weapons, using it will make the attacks one step more difficult.
~~~~~~~~~~~~

As Zandoran and Ythrinda start their journey back into the forest, a trio of shadows briefly pass over them. Looking up, they spot three golden creatures flying overhead, seemingly following the path of the river upstream.
Jun 2, 2017 1:14 pm
Crash inspects the sword and tests it's strength by biting on it a little at various points. He resolves himself to have a new metal cooking slab if they don't find someplace to sell it. Ripping off the man's shirt he inspects the oddity.

"Anyone know... what this do?" Crash asks aloud looking at the others wondering how to rip it off the body if no one had any idea what he was talking about.
Jun 2, 2017 1:32 pm
OOC:
If it matters, OOLIN is Skilled at identifying and understanding numenera.

Can I take my 10 minute rest now?

Rolls

Studying the oddity - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Jun 2, 2017 3:01 pm
Guiding Ythindra back through the forest is relatively easy and Zandoran takes the time to gently admonish his employer for running away M'lady, how am I supposed to watch over you if you insist on running away, thankfully nothing happened, this time. But what if there had been more of them in the bushes... And thankfully you didn't sprain an ankle tripping over a root
Realising that he's starting to sound like the old Abbot he shuts up until they reach the rest of the group...

Hey Guys... everyone alright after the fight? As I was hauling Ythindra out of the river we saw three golden flying creatures heading upstream. Anyone have any ideas what they are or where they could be headed??
Jun 2, 2017 3:02 pm
OOC:
So, right now—as far as location/proximity goes:
Mig, OOLIN, and Zip are on the road.
Crash is in the bushes near one of the fallen bandits.
And Zandoran and Ythrinda are in the woods across the road by the stream, but heading back to the road.
The dude with the cart has headed off up around the bend.
The bandits scattered (but might come back to finish what they started).

Does that sound about right?
Jun 2, 2017 3:23 pm
OOC:
looks like we posted at about the same time... Ythindra and Zandoran are back with the group on the road
Jun 2, 2017 3:40 pm
"Somebody better wrangle the creature. We need to get out of these woods." Mig nods towards Ythindra, implying it's her responsibility to fetch Crash from the smouldering wood. "Which way?"
OOC:
Those of us that were on the road weren't privy to the flying creatures. If it's something noteworthy, we should hear about it and decide if there course should impact ours.
Jun 2, 2017 3:44 pm
OOC:
Yes, Zandoran mentioned the flying creatures and their direction when he & Ythindra rejoined the group
Jun 2, 2017 3:47 pm
OOC:
I purposedly dragged the leader to the road before I started the process to put out the fire before going back to my sna err fallen combatant to investigate.
Jun 2, 2017 3:58 pm
OOC:
@jabes.plays.rpg - you can definitely take a 10min rest (based on the OOC thread, @godric and @remnant were doing likewise)

To recap the situation, all the PCs have reconvened near where you had originally met Khoj. Everyone is within Short range of eachother. Khoj has fled up the path pulling his cart. As he won't be moving very fast, it would be an simple matter to catch up to him. The bandits have fled away from the fight and fire, disappearing into the forest. If you wanted to follow them, I'd need a tracking roll, but it wouldn't be too difficult as they were in a hurry to escape.
Crash picked at the synth flesh but even though it was on top of the man's skin, it seemed like a part of it. Almost like a callous. Peeling back the shirt, it flowed over a portion of his chest, the hexagonal shapes larger in the center of the mass and smaller around the edges. OOLIN came closer and took a look at it, but didn't recognize what the patch of synth might mean. Comparing it to her own cybernetics, it looked like it had naturally grown there instead of being implanted.
Jun 2, 2017 3:58 pm
WillAdams says:
OOC:
Yes, Zandoran mentioned the flying creatures and their direction when he & Ythindra rejoined the group
OOC:
Ah, my bad. I thought I read that and then thought I imagined having read that...
Jun 2, 2017 5:07 pm
Ythindra's pride requires that she ignore Zandoran's admonishment. Instead, she focusses on Crash's find, and examines the synth flesh.

Rolls

Trained in numenera - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Jun 2, 2017 5:36 pm
"Flying creature... too high to eat..." Crash spouts wisdom from his point of view and stays still squatting watching others look over the body trying to figure things out so he does what Crash does. He sniffs the body and licks it to mark it for 'dibs'. He sniffs the odd skin as well. He's pretty sure it's not good eats already trying to think of something useful to say at looking at it for some time. After that he'll rest for a bit.

Rolls

Cypher... What do? (untrained) - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Jun 2, 2017 5:55 pm
"Well, do we want to follow the golden birds, or keep heading to Thriest? I know which sounds more interesting to me." Mig looks back up the road.
"Khoj is unreliable. Golden birds are interesting. They are either going somewhere, or running from something. I'm up for following the birds. They know something. Water flows where it will." Mig puts his chamois away and tightens his belts, indicating he is ready to move on.
Jun 2, 2017 9:24 pm
"I'm with Mig." OOLIN says simply.
Jun 2, 2017 10:28 pm
OOC:
@remnant, what are you rolling for? I've thought through a number of possibilities and while I've come up with some possibilities, I'm unsure....
Jun 2, 2017 10:50 pm
OOC:
I don't think perception would apply to identifying Numenera or organic implants so Cave Man identification process? I was actually expecting you to say Crash shocked his tongue or something.
Jun 3, 2017 1:05 pm
Confused by the oddity, Ythindra stands and looks at the others. "I agree, the birds seemed interesting enough. It gives us a random goal to pursue in case these ragabouts return with reinforcements."
Jun 3, 2017 3:00 pm
"Certain danger and adventure or the comfort of a tavern with a pleasant beverage in my hand? What should I choose," Zippo jokes, the pauses to think it over. "Who I'm kidding. I'd get bored just sitting and drinking anyway."
Jun 6, 2017 1:27 am
Neither Ythrinda nor Crash could make heads or tails of what was on the man - though to Crash, the realization tasted like dirty, ashen sweat.
OOC:
If I'm reading things correctly, we've got 4 votes (Mig, OOLIN, Ythrinda, and Zippo) to follow in the direction of the flying creatures. You don't all have to stay together - I'm fine with splitting up the party, so just let me know definitively which direction you want to take:

1. Chase after the bandits
2. Chase after Khoj
3. Go in the direction of the flying creatures
4. Other

Jun 6, 2017 4:54 am
"Alright, I'm for the birds." Mig starts walking, then pauses to check over his should to see if OOLIN and Zip have made up their minds and were ready to move.
Jun 8, 2017 6:47 pm
Crash 'pulls' the thing away from the body using his hands and mouth... putting it among his belongings and licking his lips he looks at the others and then up.

"Maybe not bird... maybe something big but high up?" he offers cocking his head to the side and looking to the skies in the direction mentioned they went.

"Goodbye Khoj the carver! Don't die! Dying is bad for you!" he offers up in the peddler's direction before shuffling in with the others if they were going bird watching/hunting.
Jun 8, 2017 8:42 pm
OOC:
sorry, thought I'd posted this before
Zandoran picks up his gear from where he'd dropped it when he ran off after Ythindra off after Ythindra. Returning to the group and seeing everyone still standing around... Come on people, let's get a moving, for is it not written "I'm not getting any younger stood around here all day"
Jun 12, 2017 12:18 am
Ythindra examines her companions. An unusual lot, full of surprises. No leader, she waits for the others to choose their direction, but she examines them for wounds.

Rolls

Perception, Is anyone obviously injured? - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Jun 13, 2017 3:09 am
Everyone trekked back to the stream and began to follow its path upstream. There was no sign of the golden fliers that had flown over Zandoran and Ythrinda, and after hiking along for a half mile or so, the stream's current increased as it narrowed around a low, steep hill. Rounding the bend, it was obvious that a section of the hill had recently collapsed into the stream, altering its flow. Trees still green with leaves lay toppled, their roots stretching toward the sky, and in a space cleared by the roots, a dimpled, golden surface of metal and synth peeked out.
OOC:
It looks like OOLIN and Crash are a bit low in their Might pool, but there has been ample time to roll for the 1-action and 10-minute recoveries, which are each a d6+1 (tier level). The rolled value can be divided as you like across your pools.

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