Murphy (Kim) Large Air Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] add +4 Str +6 Dex +4 Nat AC 29 CMB 13 CMD 28 HP 72/96 Wis +4 Monday February 4th, 2019 1:50:19 AM
[Carl - sorry for all the tsurris "Ix, my paladin friends perceive within you an evil bent. A few of your actions this day tend to confirm that. However, your desire to stop your father from an unwise, unwarranted assault I see as a good thing. That, and your aim to help move him from his radical goals - a good thing. At the risk of irritating some of my friends - I like you, Ix. I shall remember you in my prayers - and among those prayers is that you turn your own heart away from evil, and toward what is good, and noble, and kind - to learn to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly in service to the good.
"Your father's redemption may be a strong first step in that new path."
"That said, in the next few moments there may be a few spells which might mitigate Anur's initial reactions - especially those of a violent nature. A slow spell. Calm emotions? Being tied up with rope, until he agrees to terms?"
"Friends - suggestions? Besides puncturing, bludgeoning, or slashing? Let's try to skip those options."
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20+3=7 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+11=28 ; d20+18=21 ; d20+9=24 ; Monday February 4th, 2019 3:39:54 AM
Taila subtly points to the Azata explaining to the Azata using a message cantrip, that the toughest battle is through the next door -- the pilot of this-this craft!
Talia knowing that it could quite be possible that Ix will turn on us as soon as we engage Anur, or worse, she quickly goes through all her Skill checks making sure she is missing anything:
Talia will first concentrate on Ix and his person, clothing, mannerisms, etc, will trying to use her Diplomacy skill to determine something Humbles Sword can use in the upcoming battle.
"Mister Ix, Did you become a power spellcaster from your own innate drive & talent or did Anur influence you?" asks Talia of Ix while using her Diplomacy skills, while observing his mannerisms.
Talia will also try to recognize any item, symbols, or markings on his attire.
Talia Status: =============================== Overlight flight | 651 of 660 minutes left Stoneskin | 101 of 110 minutes left Mage Armor | 6591 of 6600 minutes left Mirror Image | 8 of 11 minutes left Summon Monster V | 11 minutes of 11 minutes left - Azata
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 Monday February 4th, 2019 5:35:11 AM
Succotash listens to Murphy's plead with Ix, and for the first time he actually agrees with the Druid. He would much rather see the gnome turn to the ways of goodness and justice, as he would prefer to see anyone following said path, and so he keeps his mouth shut throwing up a silent prayer to Pantheon that Ix would in fact heed Murphy's words, however, he is still prepared to drop the smite on Ix if needed, as such he keeps his detect evil trained on the gnome hoping that he witnesses a change.
To Murphy he says, "I have some rope, but it's currently in my saddlebags, which I left with Miss Piggy. I could summon her if needed, in fact I was considering doing so when we get to the head, I would love for everything to run peacefully, but having her strength in the final fight, if it comes to that, could be helpful".
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Monday February 4th, 2019 2:49:44 PM
"this guy has double crossed us over and over and now we are concerning ourselves with the redemption of his father? I cannot believe you guys. Once this thing is no longer moving directly toward our hometown, and once it's been either destroyed or taken control of, then, and only then, will I consider any sort of goodwill for this gnome."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Monday February 4th, 2019 6:25:46 PM
“Fair enough. But I’m always willing to help the souls of the needy, even if I know I’m killing them after.”
To Murphy: understand, though. You are neither Anur nor Ix, just like I’m not really Shah.
“Honestly, an elevated charm person or calm emotion is all that’s needed. We are just going to talk to the guy, for now.” (She readies a bloodwitch lore followed by a charm person.)
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Monday February 4th, 2019 6:26:48 PM
Bliss changes back into a halfling and talks to his skeptical friend. "Well sure, Hobie. The only reason we are talking is to get this iron giant moving away from our home. If it keeps on threatening our people, we start fighting again."
"It's just that our whole mission is to stop the attack on our town. If we can do that without further loss of life, that seems good to me? Even heroic, maybe?"
"Maybe this Mister Ix can find some common ground with us? That's what Mister Murphy is trying to arrange, right?"
He waves when Ix responds to his words. "See?"
[OOC to Carl: Sending positive vibes to you and your family.]
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 52/52) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3)(performance 2 Monday February 4th, 2019 7:21:12 PM
Zaragosa would dismiss his invisibility, "I'm up for keeping a giant construct."
Murphy (Kim) Large Air Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] add +4 Str +6 Dex +4 Nat AC 29 CMB 13 CMD 28 HP 72/96 Wis +4 Monday February 4th, 2019 11:47:04 PM
"Succotash - Sure, it would be nice to see Miss Piggy," Murphy responds. "If you want, go ahead and call her, and bring up the rope."
He turns his attention to Ix. "Hope you don't mind - and I understand the potential disorientation... hmm. So long as the helmet is removed, and he be given a moment to adjust to the disorientation - tying him down may be irritating to him, but far less so than if he starts wildly casting spells at these intruders, and Hobie shares some bird feathers on a stick with him."
He turns to his friends. "So, I'm going to ask - say, ah, there you are, Jack - say, you have very nimble fingers, from what I've observed. How about you and Succotash gently circle the rope about him a few times, then pull it snug as a bug in a rug as soon as Ix goes for helmet removal? If someone has a tanglefoot bag, then one of those splashed on his lap and arms might also prove a beneficial restraint.
"Following these indignities - a charm person, or calm emotions, may further mitigate undue consternation.
"Sure an' you betcha he'll feel sore about all this after a while, so we may need to further explain that we are treating him with relative respect, considering that he was just about to stomp our town to smithereens. And that there were several who thought it better he die, rather than be momentarily restrained. His choices include:
1. Suffer trial and sentencing. Or, 2. Be remanded to the care of his son, and return home to consider major repentance from the sins he was about to commit.
"Finally - if, after trying for a few rounds to use non-lethal constraints, it looks like Ix's persuasion, and our pointing out we're not trying to kill him, but rather we ARE stopping him from attacking our town, not to mention us - if he continues to attempt lethal force - that's when sharp things may need to be used.
"Ix Revon, I'm hoping for everyone's sake that we can do this, and we all live to see the end of the week. If you have novel insight or ideas, tell us. I'm not going to let Anur get away with causing significant harm to my friends. I do want to give you a chance to do what you have asked for.
"Friends, last chance to refine our proposed course of action."
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 Monday February 4th, 2019 11:48:24 PM
While waiting for something to transpire, Talia strikes up a conversation with the Azata. So, Mister Azata warrior, how's "Elysium"? Any machines on Elysium?" asks Talia of the warrior.
Talia Status: =============================== Overlight flight | 651 of 660 minutes left Stoneskin | 101 of 110 minutes left Mage Armor | 6591 of 6600 minutes left Mirror Image | 8 of 11 minutes left Summon Monster V | 11 minutes of 11 minutes left - Azata
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
DM Carl Monday February 4th, 2019 11:50:44 PM
Thanks, folks...
***
Murphy starts making plans, and wonders if Ix himself can be redeemed.
"I am selfish, and conniving, and cold-hearted. I'm also practical and realize unrestrained evil intentions never work out well for the evil doer in a world where the Dragon Consortium and groups such as yourselves exist. Above all, I want a long, comfortable life. I can't change who I am at heart, but you can trust me not to throw away the chance you folks have given me." He flashes a grin. "Gonna have some trouble with humility, though. Just don't have that in me."
Talia makes plans with her summons and asks Ix about his abilities.
"I'm a bard by trade, dear. I had quite the following back home before Anur went nuts."
You see no instruments on his person. Perhaps he's a vocalist? Maybe a story teller?
Succotash finds himself agreeing with Murphy. That's refreshing.
Hobie is still not ok with any of this.
"Fair enough, Hobie. Fair enough."
Pressi makes plans to charm Anur and calm his emotions.
A cold shiver runs down Bliss' spine when he hears Pressi mention calm emotions, as if a memory from another life is trying to surface to warn him of danger. He shakes it off and it's gone. He's on board with stopping this Giant without further loss of life.
Zaragosa makes an entrance. He's on board with keeping this awesome Giant.
The party ascends the ladder and find themselves in the room Hobie's clairvoyance spell saw before they entered the Giant. Standing on a pedestal is a massive dwarf. If not for his full, waist long beard and the fact that he's about as wide as he is tall, he could almost pass for a short, stocky human. He wears an ornate, bronze set of full plate armor that is of masterful quality and almost certainly enchanted. The symbol of Scald is engraved in the metal. He is an imposing figure, to say the least.
On his head is a leather headband, attached to a metal cable. Pink orbs float around each hand and foot, mimicking the movements of the Giant as he walks in place. His eyes are glazed over and he gives no indication he's aware of your presence at all.
"Ok Press, the headband gives pretty strong protection against enchantments, so if you wanna try and charm him, wait till it's off. And in case you can't tell by looking at him, Anur's not dying alone if this gets violent...and I can assure you he will want to get violent.
Whatever happens, though, thanks."
He doesn't waste any time; he removes the headband from Anur. The effect is immediate. Anur seizes up and collapses to the floor, shaking and mumbling loudly, but incoherently.
"Come on, old man. Pull yourself together. We've got intruders."
The Giant has stopped.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears Tuesday February 5th, 2019 1:08:50 AM
"Would you believe we are travelling mushroom salesmen?" askes Kezzem. He readies his dagger to attack Ix should he make any hostile action against the party.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 d20=14 ; d20=17 ; d20=8 ; d10=8 ; d10=8 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2019 5:40:28 AM
"Well so much for Miss Piggy and the rope", Succotash says while he detects evil on Anur, and makes ready an action to charge Anur if he tries anything. He will only charge if it looks like Anur or Ix are going to cast a spell, or attack, and if he attacks he will use power attack and vital strike. perception 14+7=21
readied action: 17 possible crit 8+22(a)+2(b)-3(c)=29 to confirm, 38 for the total attack roll 8+8(d)+13(e)+9(c)=38 damage (68 if confirmed)+(4+5=9 holy)
(a )strength+BAB+magic+weapon focus+size (b) charge (c) power attack (d) vital strike (e) 1 1/2 half strength+magic
Murphy (Kim) Large Air Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] add +4 Str +6 Dex +4 Nat AC 29 CMB 13 CMD 28 HP 72/96 Wis +4 d20+11=13 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2019 5:52:39 AM
[Friends - please read Murphy's post right before our DM's post - it contains several things we could have done to prep for this moment. Ropes, tanglefoot bags, and Other Stuff. Jack & Succotash were mentioned.]
Murphy drops his wild shape. With one hand he tosses (without an abundance of finesse: Ranged touch 13) the 50' silk rope he has coiled on one hip to Jack. With the other, he reaches into his haversack and extracts a pair of tanglefoot bags. "Wrap him, Jack. I'll seal him! Kezzem, you've nimble fingers, too. Help Jack tie him up before he hurts himself, or others."
He offers the second tanglefoot bag to whoever thinks he (or she) would be good at using on on the prone fellow.
Mentally he signals to Pressi, "Say, wouldn't it give Ix some plausible deniability if he is tanglefooted, too?"
Murphy (Kim) Large Air Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] add +4 Str +6 Dex +4 Nat AC 29 CMB 13 CMD 28 HP 72/96 Wis +4 Tuesday February 5th, 2019 5:56:44 AM
"No, Succotash - it's not too late - at least for rope. And non-lethal things. C'mon, folks. Panic is Not Yet In Order. Here, take this tanglefoot bag, unless someone else does so first. LET'S DO THINGS TO CONTAIN, NOT DESTROY!! We are better than that. I hope."
(Didn't see Succotash's post until after mine.)
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears d20+20=22 ; d3+2=5 ; d6=4 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2019 11:27:43 AM
OOC: Kezzem's readied attack.
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Tuesday February 5th, 2019 2:09:18 PM
Hobie makes sure to stand back around 30 feet if possible, with at least the two Paladins between him and Anur.
As soon as the headband comes off, Hobie casts Slow on both Anur and Ix. Will Negates, DC 18, If successful, it lasts 5 rounds.
https://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/s/slow/
=============== Mirror Image- Currently 6 Hobies- Roll a 6 to hit him instead of an image =============== Boots of Speed Rounds Used 5/10
Elemental Arrow: Electricity
Fire Arrows Remaining 35/50
Kezzem's Ring of Shield Other (+1 AC, +1 Saves, Kezzem takes half damage)
Bliss laughs out loud when Kezzem mentions being mushroom sellers!
He readies a nasty witch gaze to focus on this Anurs fellow if he attacks [-2 on next attack or skill check, no save].
He watches closely for any kind of funny business. (Perception 39)
Murphy (Kim) Large Air Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] add +4 Str +6 Dex +4 Nat AC 29 CMB 13 CMD 28 HP 72/96 Wis +4 Tuesday February 5th, 2019 8:12:28 PM
"Take any weapons he has on him!" Murphy interjects since no one seems to be taking him up on using the rope, or taking the tanglefoot bags.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Tuesday February 5th, 2019 8:24:20 PM
Pressi casts surrender blood in preparation of casting charm.
But since Murphy is still interested in holding off, Pressi also casts “like calls to like,” moving herself into the shoes of Ix and Anur. (+18 to social roles)
Quickly, she begins talking, ascertaining how he feels, trying to smooth over his initial opinion of them (diplomacy roll).
DM Carl d20+8=14 ; d20+13=29 ; Tuesday February 5th, 2019 10:43:27 PM
Two folks posted yesterday while I was typing up the post. I'm going to ret-con some stuff...
***
Succotash indicates he may be willing to allow Anur to walk, but will resort to lethal force without much hesitation. He suggests tying up Anur and ponders summoning Miss Piggy.
"Rope? You think rope is going to do anything against my dad? You underestimate this man, Succotash. Plus, you can count any chance of talking this out goodbye if you take him hostage. I can't stop all of you if this is the path you want to take, but I hope you didn't go to such great lengths to avoid unnecessary killing only to throw it away on that idea."
Murphy asks Ix for some advice before things get started.
"My dad respects strength. He loathes weakness. Be real careful, Murph. You talk a lot, and my dad's not a patient man. If he thinks you're trying to sweet talk him, or talk over him, it's going to get ugly."
Ix removes the headband from Anur. It swings free on a metal cable connected to the ceiling where it vanishes through a small hole there. Anur seizes up a bit, but Ix is there to catch him and guide him safely to the floor. The strain of that burden obvious on his face. He breathes a sigh of relief when Anur is safely on the ground. He kneels on the ground and places Anur's head on his knees, waiting for him to come to. It would be a tender moment, but there's really nothing tender about Anur at all.
Succotash detects evil on Anur and is probably not surprised to find he registers. He and Kezzem are ready to strike at a moment's notice. Kezzem dusts off the mushroom farmer chestnut. Bliss chuckles, then gets ready to look real mean at Anur.
Hobie is less trusting, as usual, and casts a slow spell on the two men. The magic breaks through Ix's defenses, but wash right off Anur. Ix shoots Hobie an annoyed look, but there's no time to do anything now.
Pressi makes appropriate preparations, including putting herself in their hosts' shoes.
Anur's fugue comes to an abrupt end. Ix immediately jumps to his feet.
"Dad, get up. We have uninvited guests." Anur looks up, sees the party, and gets slowly to his feet.
"Ix, what is this? YOU HAD ONE JOB, BOY." He eyes you all quickly, eyes finding the holy symbols of the paladins. "Great...adventurers, right?" He turns to Ix. "Go. Fetch Shan and Minh. We'll deal with these...for goodness sake, boy, THEY'RE HALFLINGS. You couldn't handle a few halflings? We are going to have words later."
Ix blanches. "Dad, they're dead. Shan, Minh, most of the crew and almost all the guardian constructs. They defeated them all."
Anur looks shocked. For the moment, he has nothing to say.
Pressi is the first to start talking, though what she says is a mystery to your humble narrator...
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20+15=35 ; d20+12=22 ; d20+14=25 ; Wednesday February 6th, 2019 12:54:16 AM
Talia subtlely points to the Azata warrior and using the message spell explains to the Azata warrior, "The is the evil ring leader, the high priest of Scald. If he moves against us, drop him as he is the essence of Evil!" The White-haired Elven-like warrior scans the scene with several skills to seize up this encounter -- when Anur attacks or attempts to move against the halflings, the Warrior will respond with a slam attack and then draw his scimitar.
Talia meanwhile withdraws a tanglefoot bag from her haversack.
Perception Check: 35 (NAT 20); Sense Motive: 22; & Stealth: 25 ( for Sneak attack)
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 651 of 660 minutes left Stoneskin | 101 of 110 minutes left Mage Armor | 6591 of 6600 minutes left Mirror Image | 8 of 11 minutes left Summon Monster V | 11 minutes of 11 minutes left - Azata
Str 20, Dex 18, Con 19, Int 13, Wis 14, Cha 15 Base Atk +7; CMB +12; CMD 26 Feats Blind-Fight, Improved Initiative, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception) Skills Bluff +12, Fly +22, Handle Animal +12, Perception +15, Ride +14, Sense Motive +12, Stealth +14
OFFENSE
Speed 40 ft., fly 100 ft. (perfect)
Melee +1 scimitar +13/+8 (1d6+8/18–20) or slam +12 (1d6+7)
Ranged +1 composite longbow +12/+7 (1d8+6/×3)
Special Attacks whirlwind blast
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 6th)
At Will—blur, charm person (DC 13), gust of wind (DC 14), mirror image, wind wall
2/day—lightning bolt (DC 15), cure serious wounds
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
[OCC: Have an upper respiratory illness and was sleeping.]
Murphy listens as Pressi speaks with Anur and Ix. He hands off his tanglefoot bag to Jack. When he perceives it an appropriate moment to step into the conversation, he says:
"Anur. We could have attacked you to kill you. Though I dislike killing. But we will do so to defend our people. We protect the little town you set out to smash - Humble's Ford. Halflings.
"After we wiped your defenses below, we came for you. We might have killed him, who has attacked us," he nods in the direction of the one Anur calls son. "But in the end this - Ix? - made a compelling appeal to spare his life and yours. ​ "The conditions? Total and irrevocable surrender of this machine and all its capabilities. A solemn vow from you, Anur, and Ix, never to return against the people of Crescent Valley, nor to lend any support whatsoever to such an attack."​
"Before you decide," and Murphy wild shapes into a large earth elemental (with huge capabilities), 16’ tall, with strong limbs. He concludes in a gravelly voice, "Hear her out." He lifts his massive arm in Pressi's direction. And lends her his support (+2 diplomacy, very large boyfriend, etc.)
Active Spell Effects: - Freedom of Movement (All combat maneuver checks made to grapple the target automatically fail): 61 minutes - Longstrider: 9 hours 42 minutes (land movement +10) - Mage Armor (+4 AC): 128 minutes - Barkskin: 61 minutes 6 rounds (Nat AC +4) - Owl's Wisdom (+4 WIS) 5 minutes - Stoneskin (DR 10/adamantine): 55 minutes From wild shape DR/5; immune to bleed, critical hits, and sneak attacks, and more (see header).
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 d20+7=21 ; d20=2 ; d10=5 ; d10=7 ; d6=5 ; d6=4 ; Wednesday February 6th, 2019 5:36:44 AM
"Know this Anur, I will drop the smite on you faster than you can blink if you try anything stupid! but I gave Murphy my word that we will try this the bloodless way", Succotash begins. He than adds, "If you choose to leave, I give you my word, as a Paladin of Pantheon, no harm will come to you, but if you choose to stay and fight, your death is on you!"
As he is speaking, he readies an action to charge Anur with Vital Strike and Power Attack if he tries anything. perception 21
Readied action: 2+22(a)+2(b)-3(c)=23 for 5+7(d)+13(e)+9(c)+(5+4=9(f))=43 damage
(a )strength+BAB+magic+weapon focus+size (b) charge (c) power attack (d) vital strike (e) 1 1/2 half strength+magic (f) holy
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Wednesday February 6th, 2019 1:09:24 PM
DM How high is this room? I'm sorry if I missed the description.
If the room seems big enough that Hobie could fly up and stay out of Anur's physical reach, then Hobie will cast Fly and move straight up.
If the room isn't that big, Hobie will cast Haste on his party.
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Wednesday February 6th, 2019 5:44:03 PM
Bliss, in halfling form, has stern words for Ix's father. "Look, Mister Ix's Dad," he declaims, "the fighting is over and there's no way for you to invade our home any more. So you and Ix can just pack it up and go. You go back to your home, and we'll take this giant iron lumpen back to ours, where nobody will use it for making war no more."
He stands firm, hands on his hips, and then sprouts thorns all over as he deploys his bramble armor for some extra effect.
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 Wednesday February 6th, 2019 5:44:29 PM
[OCC: Do we have an idea of the size of this room from all the perception checks having been made?]
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Wednesday February 6th, 2019 10:08:01 PM
After Ix speaks, Pressi spends most of her time giving introductions. “Look, I can’t begin to imagine the things that you are feeling, but you should know we are prepared to pound on you a little, just a bit. Later. Take a moment to focus up, maybe share a drink?”
Pressi let others continue before speaking again. “Ok, let’s all give the guy some breathing room. Let him get his surroundings. The guy’s wife just died. Really nice woman, by the way. My condolences. She meant a lot more to me than you realize.
“Believe it or not, we’ve felt some of what you have. About family, or personal history, or religion. If you had just visited our town with a couple of questions, we might have helped you. Now, we are giving you one more chance. A chance to think about what’s truly important. The connections you make, the lessons you teach... the times you share, watching how things turn out.
“Shan died to protect you and Ix... from this machine more than us. It’s been growing in consciousness and malfunctioning more than you can imagine, and this single mindedness threatens everything you care about. But I know more than anybody what the focus to identity can do to a person. As great as this person you are trying to save might be... you’ve got a pretty great person right here, too. Maybe get to know him, and yourself.”
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Wednesday February 6th, 2019 10:23:28 PM
Ooc: apologies if the words tend to be vague or otherwise unmoving. I’m typing this off a phone in a hotel room. But I think I got the gist and invoking like calls is supposed to fill the gaps.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears d20+19=26 ; Wednesday February 6th, 2019 11:32:08 PM
"We're giving you a good deal here," says Kezzem. "It's the best outcome you are going to get. Sure, you may be thinking I can take a bunch of halflings, but people always underestimate us halflings. Listen to what your kid Ix says--we've fought our way here and overcome everything defense this place has thrown in our way, and we haven't lost a single man or woman doing so. We are offering to resolve things here without further bloodshed. It's a good offer. I suggest you take."
"And if you are still thinking of taking your chances, know this: we also have a pig."
Diplomacy: 26.
Murphy (Kim) Earth Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' tall add +8 ST -2 DX +4 CO +6 Nat AC 27 CMB 16 CMD 35 HP 118/96 WI +4. DR10/Adm Thursday February 7th, 2019 10:19:12 AM
Should it appear Anur is about to cast a spell, Murphy has prepared a counter spell - Greater Dispel Magic.
DM Carl d20+17=28 ; Thursday February 7th, 2019 11:04:47 AM
This room is circular w/ a 20' diameter and a 7' high ceiling.
***
Talia prepares her summon for attack, in case it comes to that. She looks around. In addition to the pedestal in the center of the room, there's a staircase that winds its way up the interior wall of the room, leading to a hatch in the ceiling. Upstairs, there's a lot of banging noises.
Succotash and Hobie are ready to throw down.
Pressi makes introductions, also making clear they are here to talk, but will throw down at a moment's notice.
Murphy speaks up, letting Anur know they could easily have killed him. Of course, looking at the dwarf in front of him, Murphy probably isn't too sure it would have been easy, even IF he was plugged in and helpless. He indicates Ix has made it possible for him to walk away.
Bliss and Kezzem speak up, indicating it would be a good decision to take the deal.
Pressi continues, trying to bring some empathy to the situation. Anur's eyes follow the two back and forth as they take turns talking. When Pressi starts talking about Shan, Anur decides he's got a few words of his own.
"My wife, the woman I loved, the woman who brought meaning and purpose to my life...meant a lot to you?" His face is a mix of anger and shock.
Ix speaks. "She certainly did change your outlook, father."
Pressi ONLY, Highlight to display spoiler: {Ix gives you a knowing look, and you realize what he's saying (bluff 28): who do you think radicalized him in the first place?}
Anur continues, "and now I'm expected to simply abandon what her and I started? To cowardly slink back home to do what? Drink myself to death? Spend the next two hundred years knowing I betrayed her, just so I can live out my days with this one?" He gestures to Ix. He takes a few steps towards Pressi, looking her straight in the eyes.
"Why would I ever do that?"
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 52/52) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3)(performance 2 Thursday February 7th, 2019 11:33:28 AM
Being that this family drama was beyond Zaragosa and his understanding, he would rather not talk and let the others sort it out, whether, through peace or war, he would try to be ready.
Murphy (Kim) Earth Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' tall add +8 ST -2 DX +4 CO +6 Nat AC 27 CMB 16 CMD 35 HP 118/96 WI +4. DR10/Adm Thursday February 7th, 2019 1:12:59 PM
"Right, be courageous and throw away the rest of your life this minute - omitting the fact that shows cowardice against facing the future, brave Anur. Or keep on attacking innocents who - until you moved against them - never had caused you harm. Plan to stomp them out. And if you can't, then pout and turn into a drunken lout. Because those are your only three options: Die today. Or kill the innocent. Or drown yourself in ale for the next twenty decades.
"Because NO other options exist," Murphy throws that in his teeth.
He pauses for a beat, then says, "NO chance that you could take your drive and intelligence and do something to build up the Wold, to benefit your people and the Wold at large. Right? You're not smart enough to come up with something like that, are you?"
One more quick pause, then the druid closes with, "Or, am I somewhere mistaken?"
========= [Sheesh - had I known the room dimensions, I don't think Murphy would have gone to earth elemental. He'll be in his horizontal position (the stats do describe them as "16' long").]
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Thursday February 7th, 2019 3:39:04 PM
(Since the room was only 7 feet high, then Hobie's action was to cast Haste,so everybody can count that they have Haste in effect)
with bow at the ready Hobie very dryly says "What SHE and I started."
"I know Dwarvish doesn't have different pronouns for subject and object, but in Common you need to use different pronouns. Common mistake."
"Please dude, I'm begging you. Surrender. If it weren't for the wordy Druid and this Paladin we picked up in an alternate dimension, you'd already be full of my arrows, the other Paladin's daggers (well actually they teleport back to him so you'd only keep the holes) and a bunch of claw marks."
"If you want, you can leave the giant right here, go far far away, and build a new war machine to terrorize somebody else's town. Just make sure we never know about it, and you're gold. But this time, you made a bad call choosing this particular town, and you can either fold or pay up in blood. That's it. Those are your two options."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 Thursday February 7th, 2019 5:14:59 PM
At Kezzem's mention of having a pig Succotash closes his eyes and focuses on Miss Piggy, willing her to his side, and as she appears, he says, "And here she is!" He then says to Miss Piggy while pointing to Ix and Anur, "If either of those two do anything aggressive, smite them!"
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20+3=21 ; d20+8=18 ; d20+18=21 ; d20+9=13 ; d20+5=16 ; Thursday February 7th, 2019 8:06:29 PM
Talia, now using her own skill set, slowly reaches into the haversack with her other hand to ready a Thunderstone! When both hands have readied their charges, Talia stealthily attempts to keep the Tanglefoot & Thunderstone in the shadows. She also attempts to discern what the High Priest of Scald might lead with as Talia feels in her gut, he'll never back down!
Skill Checks: -=-=-=-=-=-=- Sense Motive: 21 Perception: 18 Knowl (Arcana): 21 Spellcraft: 13 Sleight of hand: 16
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 651 of 660 minutes left Stoneskin | 101 of 110 minutes left Mage Armor | 6591 of 6600 minutes left Mirror Image | 8 of 11 minutes left Summon Monster V | 11 minutes of 11 minutes left - Azata
Str 20, Dex 18, Con 19, Int 13, Wis 14, Cha 15 Base Atk +7; CMB +12; CMD 26 Feats Blind-Fight, Improved Initiative, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception) Skills Bluff +12, Fly +22, Handle Animal +12, Perception +15, Ride +14, Sense Motive +12, Stealth +14
OFFENSE
Speed 40 ft., fly 100 ft. (perfect)
Melee +1 scimitar +13/+8 (1d6+8/18–20) or slam +12 (1d6+7)
Ranged +1 composite longbow +12/+7 (1d8+6/×3)
Special Attacks whirlwind blast
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 6th)
At Will—blur, charm person (DC 13), gust of wind (DC 14), mirror image, wind wall
2/day—lightning bolt (DC 15), cure serious wounds
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
[OCC: Have an upper respiratory illness and was sleeping.]
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Thursday February 7th, 2019 8:18:37 PM
Bliss laughs. "Mister, what are you talking about? There is so much to do in this Wold. Redeem the honor of the Red Dwarf Clan of the Scab! Visit the lost land of Turok Nor! Find the MIGHTY Axe of the Dwarf Lord's Revenge! If you do not like this son, go sire a dozen more, and do a better job this time. You're evidently a mighty dwarf, but I never heard of you -- go make yourself famous around the Wold! Dying won't honor your poor wife. Try to think of something that would make her proud!"
"I mean sure, if you wanna commit suicide by hero, okay, we'll put you down. Seems dumb to me, though. You have better things to do. Go do some!"
"Or stick with us and go on adventures! We're going to be famous some day, you betcha!"
Murphy (Kim) Earth Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' tall add +8 ST -2 DX +4 CO +6 Nat AC 27 CMB 16 CMD 35 HP 118/96 WI +4. DR10/Adm Thursday February 7th, 2019 8:43:00 PM
Murphy laughs a gravelly laugh at Bliss's suggestions. "Lots of great things to do, sounds like. Say, friends - no one attack, seriously. Let him make up his mind. I suppose going on a three-day bender in mourning might not be a bad idea. But, after that..."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Thursday February 7th, 2019 10:29:03 PM
Pressi sizes up the dwarf before her. She gets Ix’s message about how radicalized he was by Shah, and wonders if she can do that himself.
“I get where you come from. I’ve been a religious warrior myself for a while... for four or five religions. And I can tell you right now that there’s no courage in fighting. Attacking is easy. Letting yourself be vulnerable? Putting others needs before yours? That’s the risky part.
“Besides, even the little I’ve picked up of this religion tells me that Shan cared about more than fighting enemies or dying for the cause. In the end, Shan died for the two of you, not for any cause. You really should consider putting The needs of others... like the guy you are still trying to save or your wife’s legacy... above your own emotions.”
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears d20+20=23 ; d3+2=5 ; d6=5 ; Friday February 8th, 2019 12:29:26 AM
"Ouch Ix, that had to hurt hurt," says Kezzem. "I felt that rebuke and I didn't even cast Shield Other on you."
"Anur, your son has done everything he can to convince us to allow you to live, and you go and spit in his face like that? You would really rather die than live and be with your son? That's...that's messed up. If by my birth family's standards."
"Ix, you deserve better than this. If this don't work out, maybe you can come find a new family in Humble's Ford. It worked for me."
Kezzem readies to throw a dagger at Anur at this first sign of hostile action.
Murphy (Kim) Earth Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' tall add +8 ST -2 DX +4 CO +6 Nat AC 27 CMB 16 CMD 35 HP 118/96 WI +4. DR10/Adm Friday February 8th, 2019 1:52:10 AM
Note: As stated in an earlier post, Murphy is prepared for a counterspell using Greater Dispel Magic should Anur go to cast a spell.
DM Carl Friday February 8th, 2019 12:13:15 PM
Anur listens as the party extols the many benefits of surrender. They make good points, but it's Bliss who gets his attention. He takes a few steps back from Pressi, closes his eyes, and retreats into his own head for a moment. He thinks long and hard before appearing to come to a conclusion. He points to Kezzem and Succotash.
"You two. I would see my wife again before I make a final decision. Will you bring her to me? You have my word I will stay my hand until you've returned."
Sense motive DC 15, Highlight to display spoiler: {He seems earnest.}
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Friday February 8th, 2019 2:39:06 PM
"Better hurry bros, I can't promise I'll stay mine."
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears Friday February 8th, 2019 5:56:09 PM
"Well, let's go get her Succo," says Kezzem. "You get one arm and I'll get the other. It will be just like that one weekend at my Uncle Bernie's."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 Friday February 8th, 2019 8:16:32 PM
Succotash decides to go with Kezzem to fetch the body, but before he does, he tells Miss Piggy to listen to Murphy and Pressi.
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Friday February 8th, 2019 10:36:56 PM
A light bulb goes off -- that's the power of roleplaying an 18 Int -- and Bliss realizes something. "Oh, his wife is ..." his voice drops to a whisper ... "one of the people we already killed? Oh."
Bliss covers his mouth with one hand.
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 52/52) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3)(performance 2 d20=2 ; Friday February 8th, 2019 10:39:20 PM
Sense motive 2 + 1 to make 3.
Zaragosa was always good at telling the truth but making it sound fantastic, not really good at lying or telling if someone else was lying, so he instantly just believes the man's words. He will follow the others to the body if they go
Murphy (Kim) Earth Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' tall add +8 ST -2 DX +4 CO +6 Nat AC 27 CMB 16 CMD 35 HP 118/96 WI +4. DR10/Adm d20+9=22 ; d20+31=45 ; Saturday February 9th, 2019 6:13:04 AM
"We can wait," Murphy says.
"So, it looks like piloting this is a very intense activity. The mind, the limbs, the gems work together to cause it to move. How long did it take to learn how to drive?"
Murphy looks about the head chamber, taking in his surroundings, the controls, what can be seen through the eyes of the iron giant. Is Humble's Ford yet in view? ======== Sense Motive 24 (forgot to add WIS bonus to roll). Perception: 47 (WIS)
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 Saturday February 9th, 2019 8:52:23 AM
Talia begins to whistle a tune that sounds like, "I owe, I owe, so it's off to work I go..." to break the uneasy silence that has descended over the pilot's room. Talia abruptly stops whistling and says, "I Wish My Brother George Was Here."
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 650 of 660 minutes left Stoneskin | 100 of 110 minutes left Mage Armor | 6590 of 6600 minutes left Mirror Image | 9 of 11 minutes left Summon Monster V | 10 minutes of 11 minutes left - Azata
Str 20, Dex 18, Con 19, Int 13, Wis 14, Cha 15 Base Atk +7; CMB +12; CMD 26 Feats Blind-Fight, Improved Initiative, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception) Skills Bluff +12, Fly +22, Handle Animal +12, Perception +15, Ride +14, Sense Motive +12, Stealth +14
OFFENSE -=-=-=-=-=- Speed 40 ft., fly 100 ft. (perfect) Melee +1 scimitar +13/+8 (1d6+8/18–20) or slam +12 (1d6+7) Ranged +1 composite longbow +12/+7 (1d8+6/×3) Special Attacks whirlwind blast Spell-Like Abilities (CL 6th)
At Will—blur, charm person (DC 13), gust of wind (DC 14), mirror image, wind wall 2/day—lightning bolt (DC 15), cure serious wounds
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
DM Carl Sunday February 10th, 2019 4:06:01 PM
Kezzem and Succotash head back down below. They have to fiddle with the gem-socketed wheel, but they know how it works by now. Zaragosa joins them, not trusting that Anur's not setting them up. Anur takes note, but doesn't object.
Back upstairs, tensions are high. Bliss worries they'll have to tell Anur his wife is dead, but he must be confused since Ix told Anur that just seconds before. Murphy has questions.
"Donning the control headband conveys everything one needs to know to pilot the Giant. It's rather effortless." He says nothing else during the entire affair.
Looking out the Giant's view window, one can indeed see Humble's Ford. It's quite the view! It looks deserted, which is good because that was the plan. Far, far off to the west is movement. It must be the citizens on their way to Hovel.
After a few minutes, Kezzem and Succotash return. They (presumably) gently place Shan on the control dais, then stand back.
Anur walks over and kneels before his wife. He strokes her hair once, then starts looking through her belt pouches. He is calm at first, then confused. He searches her entire person, becoming more and more frantic as he does so. "Where is it?" he says quietly to himself as he continues looking. Then, he stands, turns, and asks the party very loudly,
"WHERE IS THE SCROLL THAT SHE KEPT IN HER POUCH? SHE NEVER TOOK IT OFF HER PERSON. WHICH ONE OF YOU HAS IT?"
Ix pales a bit and takes a few steps back, though Anur doesn't see it as his back is to him. Ix locks eyes with Pressi, just a touch of panic in them.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 Monday February 11th, 2019 5:21:06 AM
Succotash isn't sure what to say, he's certain that the scroll mentioned is the one that Ix chucked our the door, but for some reason he isn't inclined to share the whereabouts of said scroll, feeling that it isn't his place to do so.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears Monday February 11th, 2019 11:40:54 AM
"Was it a love poem?" asks Kezzem. "I tried to write a love poem once. My cousin Kazzah told me I should compare her to a summer's day, so I said she was mucky with a chance of thunderstorms. Boy was I right about those thunderstorms!"
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20+11=20 ; Monday February 11th, 2019 11:53:46 AM
Talia pipes up to lend her ability of diplomacy to this very tense situation. [Diplomacy skill check: 20]
Talia beings with, "Dear High Priest of Scald. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Talia. I am, but a humble halfling amongst this group of adventurers. I believe that the scroll is somewhere nearby to be sure. Exactly, where, I am not 100% sure, but I know that there is one that might know of its whereabouts. Let me confer with my friends to see if we can help you with this task."
Quickly switching into one hand the thunderstone & the tanglefoot bag, and then indirectly pointing at Murphy, using the message cantrip, "think fast mister Murphy, do we point out Ix? Pressi? We knew where it was, perhaps its some distance behind us now?"
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 650 of 660 minutes left Stoneskin | 100 of 110 minutes left Mage Armor | 6590 of 6600 minutes left Mirror Image | 9 of 11 minutes left Summon Monster V | 10 minutes of 11 minutes left - Azata
Str 20, Dex 18, Con 19, Int 13, Wis 14, Cha 15 Base Atk +7; CMB +12; CMD 26 Feats Blind-Fight, Improved Initiative, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception) Skills Bluff +12, Fly +22, Handle Animal +12, Perception +15, Ride +14, Sense Motive +12, Stealth +14
OFFENSE -=-=-=-=-=- Speed 40 ft., fly 100 ft. (perfect) Melee +1 scimitar +13/+8 (1d6+8/18–20) or slam +12 (1d6+7) Ranged +1 composite longbow +12/+7 (1d8+6/×3) Special Attacks whirlwind blast Spell-Like Abilities (CL 6th)
At Will—blur, charm person (DC 13), gust of wind (DC 14), mirror image, wind wall 2/day—lightning bolt (DC 15), cure serious wounds
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Monday February 11th, 2019 12:48:37 PM
Hobie, feeling absolutely no loyalty to Ix, is the one to give him up.
"We gave the scroll to that treacherous gnome who calls you 'Dad'"
Murphy (Kim) Earth Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' tall add +8 ST -2 DX +4 CO +6 Nat AC 27 CMB 16 CMD 35 HP 118/96 WI +4. DR10/Adm Monday February 11th, 2019 1:21:11 PM
"The scroll was grabbed by a construct below, that went out a side door. The scroll went fluttering away about the time the construct was struck in the back by a large bolt. Ix was on the floor above," Murphy reports. "Did anyone see a gnome during that battle?"
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Monday February 11th, 2019 2:13:57 PM
Pressi felt stuck, caught between Hobie’s anger and Murphy’s deflection and Kezzem’s... to think she once thought it could have been a message of love...
“What was it?” She demanded from both Anur and Ix. “Was it a code? A trick? Was it a scroll of resurrection? A curse? Why did you both want it? Were you keeping Shah from being raised, unaware that I can do that myself? Were you trying to protect dad or have him yourself? Or did you not care, Ix the wonderful genius?
“No matter. You want the scroll. Here it is!”
Pressi cast speak with dead upon Shan. “First, please forgive my weakness. Second, if you have something to say about this scroll, now’s the time.”
Murphy (Kim) Earth Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' tall add +8 ST -2 DX +4 CO +6 Nat AC 27 CMB 16 CMD 35 HP 118/96 WI +4. DR10/Adm d20+31=32 ; Monday February 11th, 2019 5:26:00 PM
[How much time has passed since the last time check, once the body of Shan Shalutch was returned by the paladins and the bard, and Anur started shouting? Five minutes? More? Need for spell durations.]
Murphy is confused when Pressi says about the scroll, 'Here it is.' She had sent Harper out to search for the scroll. She seemed to be acting as though it was genuinely Shan's scroll that had been passed to the construct, and flew out into the wind. Was it a different scroll entirely she had handed over?
Or was 'Here it is' meant to be answered by her speaking with Shan's spirit? Murphy keeps a close eye on Anur, ready to block him with a fist if he moves aggressively against Pressi, or with a counterspell should he be going to cast a spell. But also ready to just wait, if none of the above transpires. He keeps a bit of an eye on Hobie, as well, whom he figures has limited patience for negotiations. If loosing of arrows commences before a move to violence on the part of Anur, he is prepared to move to take the arrows in his own body. If, however, Anur initiates violence, Murphy will in no way hinder Hobie's response. ========== With somewhat divided attention, Murphy's perception is 32.
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Monday February 11th, 2019 6:59:30 PM
Bliss is confused. “What scroll?” He honestly asks.
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Monday February 11th, 2019 10:54:03 PM
“Sorry, the earth elemental requires precision of language. We gave the scroll to a construct that was being magically controlled by the gnome.”
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Monday February 11th, 2019 11:46:39 PM
Bliss puts his 18 Int to good use. "Oh yeah! Didn't it fly out in the wind when someone opened that door?"
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 Tuesday February 12th, 2019 5:46:33 AM
Succotash tightens his grip on Twinklesting, and he asks, "Guys why the subterfuge? Why is the truth so hard?" then to Anur he says, "In an act of good faith, Pressi here handed the scroll to a construct controlled by Ix. Then Ix threw it out the door. I neither know nor care about the scroll, I only want this situation to end. I've said it before, but I'll say it again, leave the Crescent Valley now and no one else needs to die, without the Iron Giant of course, or stay and we will cross swords, make your choice wisely! By the way, out of a love for the truth I offer this, your son is directly responsible for the deaths of several of your dwarves, as well as your wife".
Murphy (Kim) Earth Elemental [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' tall add +8 ST -2 DX +4 CO +6 Nat AC 27 CMB 16 CMD 35 HP 118/96 WI +4. DR10/Adm Tuesday February 12th, 2019 7:43:22 AM
"Loving truth - Ix is not the one who killed her, Succotash," Murphy responds. "That was her choice when we offered her an option to live, and she said she would oppose us, and support her husband in destroying our town, rather than surrender. Loving truth, do you recall your part? And, with her and the guards and constructs fighting us, I joined in against them all."
"Anur, to many on our way up we have offered terms, offered mercy. Most have rejected them, set on support of your dream. Most, therefore, have perished. Will that be your choice? I pray not. Shall we learn what Pressi discerns? If you will allow her, and the spirit of Shan Shalutch be willing to speak, we may learn her thoughts on this matter."
Murphy wonders how many different colors may have passed over Ix's face with all this going on. He marvels at how messed up this situation is, and holds little hope of it turning out well, considering ... the participants. All of us. A few moments ago, the wedge of hope seemed stronger. Still, he remains vigilant.
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 Tuesday February 12th, 2019 3:17:05 PM
Talia says, well this is awkward!" aloud to no one in particular.
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 650 of 660 minutes left Stoneskin | 100 of 110 minutes left Mage Armor | 6590 of 6600 minutes left Mirror Image | 9 of 11 minutes left Summon Monster V | 10 minutes of 11 minutes left - Azata
Str 20, Dex 18, Con 19, Int 13, Wis 14, Cha 15 Base Atk +7; CMB +12; CMD 26 Feats Blind-Fight, Improved Initiative, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception) Skills Bluff +12, Fly +22, Handle Animal +12, Perception +15, Ride +14, Sense Motive +12, Stealth +14
OFFENSE -=-=-=-=-=- Speed 40 ft., fly 100 ft. (perfect) Melee +1 scimitar +13/+8 (1d6+8/18–20) or slam +12 (1d6+7) Ranged +1 composite longbow +12/+7 (1d8+6/×3) Special Attacks whirlwind blast Spell-Like Abilities (CL 6th)
At Will—blur, charm person (DC 13), gust of wind (DC 14), mirror image, wind wall 2/day—lightning bolt (DC 15), cure serious wounds
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Kim for Jairus) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 52/52) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3) Tuesday February 12th, 2019 3:35:35 PM
J.T.T. Zaragosa speaks up, softly. "Let us all stop talking. Let Anur, and maybe Shan through Pressi, and Ix have their say if they will. Too many words," says the bard.
DM Carl d20=10 ; d20+15=20 ; d20+6=15 ; Tuesday February 12th, 2019 3:45:14 PM
About a mile away, in the village of Humble's Ford, a sleeping leopard suddenly darts upright. She has a sudden, intense need to find a scroll that smells of her master. She starts running towards the towering metal thing, but it's about three quarters of a mile away still.
OOC: At a hustle, it will take Harper about 7 minutes to reach The Giant (it's been four minutes so far). From there, she can make a DC23 perception check once a minute to search. It will take 2 successes to find the scroll. If she has more than the +5 to perception a regular leopard has, let me know...or heck, roll yourself.
Succotash isn't going to be the one to spill the beans.
Kezzem asks if it was a love poem. This really seems to anger Anur, and he starts marching over.
Talia is quick to intervene and try to calm down the situation. It doesn't appear to be working to well, but then Hobie goes full savage and points the finger at Ix.
Anur actually sighs in relief when he hears this. He quickly spins and asks, "Why didn't you say so, boy? Hand it over so we can finish all this." He holds out his hand expectantly.
Murphy explains it was taken by a construct, but that just makes Anur look at him funny. He turns back to Ix. "Construct took it? We both know they wouldn't do that less they were being controlled." His eyes narrow. "Son, what did you do?"
Pressi has a lot going on upstairs and demands to know what was in that scroll. She casts a speak with dead on Shan, but can tell before she finishes it's not going to work. Shan...Shan's not a corpse. What she is is not obvious to Pressi.
Anur takes a deep breath, then chuckles at a joke only he seems to get. He turns to Pressi, smiling but obviously not happy. "Tell me, little one. When was the last time you stopped to take a drink since you entered the Giant?" He looks up and around at everyone else. "You folks have had a busy time fighting your way through here. Anyone hungry? Tired?"
The answer, of course, is no. None of you are the least bit tired, winded, hungry, or thirsty. Touching your foreheads, you find no sweat.
"It's the magic of this place. Makes you part construct. My wife here isn't dead. She's broken. She always carried a scroll that would let me fix her." He pats a pouch on his belt. "Made me one too."
Succotash, Murphy, and Hobie start to have a back and forth, but Ix's warning about Anur proves accurate.
"ENOUGH! shouts the priest. In the small chamber, it takes a moment for the echos to die down.
Ix grips his cloak and vanishes. "Oh no you don't," mutters Anur under his breath. He walks to the dais, careful not to step on Shan. He...fiddles with the air, like there's something over the dais that none of you can see. He reaches out with his right hand, and pushes an invisible button in the air. Ix reappears and finds Anur's fist gripping the front of his cloak and shirt. He grasps his holy symbol with his other hand and casts his spell.
Spellcraft DC22, Highlight to display spoiler: {Destruction}
Murphy has planned on counterspelling. If he attempts to, he finds himself lacking.
OOC: I rolled for you to avoid an entire day of posting just for one roll. Rolled a 20. That's a fail.
Ix grits his teeth, but Anur's power is too much. He screams as he's engulfed in a sickly green flame. He doesn't scream long. When it's done, only his cloak and a few other belongings remain. Anur lets the cloak flutter to the ground. He takes a moment to wipe his eyes. He glances down at the dais, and makes up his mind.
He removes the axe from his back, then drops it. He does the same to his holy symbol. With practiced grace, he unbuckles his armor and lets it collapse around him. "What have I done?" he quietly asks himself.
He turns to face the party. He's still pretty intimidating, but objectively much less of a threat. "With the Encompassing Mind gone, the power that keeps us from truly dying...well, except for Ix here...it will fail in a little less than an hour. Help me find the scroll to save my wife, and I'll submit to your justice."
Pressi can feel Harper on the edge of her senses. She's almost here.
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 68/68) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3)(performance 2 Tuesday February 12th, 2019 4:05:46 PM
(OOC Thanks Kim! very grateful. health and work keep getting in my way)
Zaragosa was grateful that this was coming to an end, "That sounds like a fair deal. Unless the rest of you are upset about Ix?"
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20+9=17 ; Tuesday February 12th, 2019 5:00:12 PM
Talia is more than a bit perplexed as to Ix Revlon's fate...using her Spell Craft skill, she tries to recall that that bit of magic was that Anur used...on Ix. The Azata warrior seems poised to strike.
Pointing to Mister Murphy, and using the message cantrip, Talia asks Murphy, "What if we turn the Encompassing Mind back on?"
[Spellcraft skill check: 17]
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 643 of 660 minutes left Stoneskin | 93 of 110 minutes left Mage Armor | 6583 of 6600 minutes left Mirror Image | 2 of 11 minutes left Summon Monster V | 3 minutes of 11 minutes left - Azata
Str 20, Dex 18, Con 19, Int 13, Wis 14, Cha 15 Base Atk +7; CMB +12; CMD 26 Feats Blind-Fight, Improved Initiative, Iron Will, Skill Focus (Perception) Skills Bluff +12, Fly +22, Handle Animal +12, Perception +15, Ride +14, Sense Motive +12, Stealth +14
OFFENSE -=-=-=-=-=- Speed 40 ft., fly 100 ft. (perfect) Melee +1 scimitar +13/+8 (1d6+8/18–20) or slam +12 (1d6+7) Ranged +1 composite longbow +12/+7 (1d8+6/×3) Special Attacks whirlwind blast Spell-Like Abilities (CL 6th)
At Will—blur, charm person (DC 13), gust of wind (DC 14), mirror image, wind wall 2/day—lightning bolt (DC 15), cure serious wounds
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
Murphy was surprised his greater dispel magic did not counter whatever destructive spell that was. Close, but not enough. He winces as Ix screams. He understands the disdain that some of his friends hold the gnome, and he realizes that justice was served. Despite all his shortcomings, though, he rather liked him, and had hoped for a better filial relationship with his dwarf father.
The earth elemental shrugs his shoulders at Jack's question. "It's done, and there's a measure of justice there," he growls quietly.
Murphy has in the back of his mind been keeping track of the steps the giant has been taking. Rolling a survival check to recall (how well depends upon the roll) how many steps back it was the scroll fluttered away. He recalls that each step covers an average of 58 feet 8 inches (based upon the 20 seconds per step - both 20 seconds per step and 10 seconds per step were mentioned - the 20 figure makes more sense, and the machine was traveling at 2 miles per hour) - round to 60. Survival: 34 - he should have a fairly decent estimate.
Murphy reports the rough distance back that the scroll left the giant, based upon that time to when the giant stopped moving a few minutes ago.
Murphy responds to Talia's message (and relays telepathically their conversation to Pressi), "Let's hold off on that. If we can recover the scroll quickly, and obtain the formal surrender, then, perhaps."
"Bliss, can you go back to bird form? If so, you've gotten much better at tracking things of late. Would anyone else be able to join him in flight? And, Pressi, your Harper is hunting for it, too, am I right? I'll remain here. Those who would help in the hunt, help. Those who would remain, do so. Subject to what Pressi may desire on the matter, of course. If someone has a message spell who will remain here, can cast it upon one who is looking for the scroll - or vice versa - please do so."
He considers that not all of the party members may be up for letting Anur live - or Shan be 'unbroken.' He trusts to Pressi to work that one out with them. And says, telepathically, "Good luck, love, with helping our friends to sort this out. Let me know what I might do." ====== Spellcraft: 18 (try to figure out what spell Anur cast - failed vs DC22) Survival: 34 (estimate distance traveled since scroll left the giant)
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears Tuesday February 12th, 2019 6:53:08 PM
"You said you had a scroll too," says Kezzem. "Why don't you just use that one? For what I understand, there doesn't seem to be any point to saving it."
He changes into a cat and looks for a way out of the giant. If he can find one, he'll look for the scroll.
Perception checks (note, with scent) -- 30, 32, 37.
If he has time to take 20 ... 42.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 Wednesday February 13th, 2019 5:25:31 AM
Succotash is in a bit of a quandary, on the one hand he feels obligated to stay and guard his friends, on the other hand, he knows that Miss Piggy's nose could help find the scroll, and the only way to get her out of the head of the Iron Giant, is to leave the Giant and summon her, finally he thinks up a possible solution, and says, "Hey Pressi, when we fought that dragon in the battle with the Sar, you turned Piggy into a giant eagle, if you could turn her into some flying critter, her nose could be useful".
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Wednesday February 13th, 2019 4:03:53 PM
Hobie is dumbfounded by Ix’s destruction. Part of him is satisfied that Ix will no longer be a threat, part of him is sad that he doesn’t get to take Ix down himself, but most of him is just wary of Anur, not ready to let his guard down yet.
“I’ll stay on guard here in case of funny business while someone else finds the scroll.”
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20+11=14 ; Wednesday February 13th, 2019 6:07:40 PM
While awaiting the outcome of the search for the scroll, Talia finds herself stumped. "Er, Mister Anur, would you mind sharing with me, the spell you used to disintegrate Ix? As a spellcaster myself, I am always curious about spellcraft, but your skills and talent have stumped me. " [Skill check | Diplomacy: 14]
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 643 of 660 minutes left Mage Armor | 6583 of 6600 minutes left Stoneskin | 93 of 110 minutes left
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Spells Used: L1: 1 /6+2 L2: 1 /6+2 L3: 0 /6+1 L4: 2+ /6+1 (unsure of how many stoneskin spells I cast aside from on myself and Mister Murphy) L5: 3 /4+1 (including the one I just cast)
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Wednesday February 13th, 2019 8:39:23 PM
Pressi tries to hide her distaste at what Anur had done. She may not be Ix’s biggest fan but she isn’t summary execution’s biggest fan, either. And she isn’t sure she trusts Anur or even the dead wife more.
“And just what makes you think I’d be interested in further perverting nature in the name of some mocking desire to affront God hers... no, I’m just messing with you. Of course I’ll “repair” your dead wife. I’m dressed right out of the Goth catalog, and literally wearing chains. Let’s necromance this thing.... for 250 gold coins.”
If given, Pressi drops it on the floor and begins drawing a pentagram around it. “One quick divination should do the trick. I just ask where the scroll is, and my familiar picks it up. Nothing to it except 10 minutes of our time, the sacrifice, and a few candles... vanilla spice okay? I’m kind of running low.”
Except Pressi doesn’t plan on asking that question. Instead, she asks whether Anur or Shan will betray them. (Can someone roll bluff for me. Remember the like to like bonus, thanks.)
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Wednesday February 13th, 2019 8:50:51 PM
Hey wait! Bliss was so involved in the idea of searching for the scroll, he almost missed that Ix is dead!?!
As Bliss realizes that Ix's dad killed Ix, then, well, wowsy. The whole idea was to stop with the killing, and now Mister Ix is dead. This fellow -- his dad? -- wants to raise his wife? Bad idea! Then they will have to fight both of them, prolly.
Bliss has enough minutes on his shield to keep it still up, but not if Pressi is going to take 10 minutes. Bliss will wait too. Or if Bliss is outside searching for the scroll, then if he finds the scroll on his own, well, maybe he'll just rip it up. He does not want that lady back again. She was hard enough to kill the first time.
Murphy (Kim) Lrg Earth Elem [w/ Huge bonuses] 16' +8ST -2DX +4CO +6Nat AC27 CMB16 CMD35 HP118/96 WI+4. DR10/Adm d20+35=39 ; Wednesday February 13th, 2019 9:45:45 PM
Despite the header, this is for Pressi:
Bluff for Pressi on : 17 + 18 from like to like gives a 35 bonus: d20+35=39.
So, Bluff: 39
DM Carl d20+27=46 ; d20+18=34 ; d100=72 ; Wednesday February 13th, 2019 9:59:01 PM
There are mixed feelings all around. Did Ix deserve it? Maybe. Is summary execution like that ok? Probably not. One could argue he's the captain of a ship, but they're not out to sea.
Zaragosa is mostly ok with the arrangement.
Talia has never seen that spell cast before, and her knowledge of spellcraft is not helping. She wonders about turning the Encompassing Mind back on. A good idea, maybe they should try. She asks Anur to teach her that spell. "My magic ain't taught, it's given," is his reply. It seems his magic is divine in nature.
Murphy suggests they hold off and does more math in his head. He has a great idea of where the scroll would have been dropped, but it was a piece of parchment blown around by high winds over 200' high. Chaos theory makes an accurate calculation off the top of his head impossible. Still, he can figure within a few hundred square feet. He decides to leave the choice of how to proceed up to his companions.
Kezzem suggests using the scroll Anur has. Anur shakes his dead. "This one's an arcane scroll. She was supposed to cast it if I needed it. I can't cast arcane spells, and Shan was pretty clear that she was the only one who could use it." He procures the scroll and hands it over to anyone who wants to take a look. "See for yourself. Maybe you can make heads or tails of this."
Succotash asks Pressi to consider turning Miss Piggy into an eagle again. Your humble narrator might suggest something with a strong olfactory sense, like a vulture.
Hobie realizes they're not out of danger yet. He decides to keep an eye on Anur.
Pressi asks to be paid for her services. Anur's eyes flare with anger, but he brings himself back down. "You'll be taking me in and confiscating all my possessions, and you ask for 250 gold up front anyway? Fine." He tosses a small purse at Pressi. Maybe it's full of coin, maybe it's his dice pouch. He doesn't seem to realize the sacrifice is for casting the spell itself.
Bliss isn't sure he wants Shan back, but bides his time while Pressi works her magic.
Pressi's bluff is masterful (46). Anur's a great judge of character, but not that great. Pressi casts her spell, and she knows it succeeds (72/81 - pass). Anur's intentions are true. Shan will not seek to betray the party.
Meanwhile, Harper begins her search.
OOC: I mispoke earlier. I need survival rolls from Harper to track via scent, not perception.
When Anur protests the monetary request, Murphy explains, "It's a witchy thing, sir - the coin helps power the spell - it's not that she's greedy. I don't understand exactly how it all works."
He waits for a couple of minutes into Pressi's ritual, then talks to Kezzem. "While we're waitin' for someone to fetch the scroll, Kezzem, what was that you were saying this morning about a priest of Gargul, and dark days to come?"
He takes Anur up on this offer to look over the scroll. Often he has the read magic ability, but not today. "Yep, arcane," he says after taking a good look. "Say, Jack[/i], or [b]Talia, or anyone, can you make heads or tails of this scroll? Would love to know what the spell is called, at least. Sounds like it's custom for just this sort of situation. And the one we're looking for might be a clerical version of the same scroll?" he queries lightly in Anur's direction.
Once she is wrapping up her divination, Murphy queries Pressi telepathically for a mental report on what she figures out.
"So, shall we grant his request? Sure and he's evil, but I expect he'll keep his word to us. Who knows, may try to twist it down the road, but, I think Bliss's words had some good effect upon him..." Then he thinks to add, "By the way, if I had one more wild shape left, you know I'd be out searching for that scroll. Do you have it in you to do as Succotash requests - turning Miss Piggy into a bird that might be able to spot, or smell out the scroll? It's got your scent on it, and Shan's. If she were turned into a vulture or a parrot - both have a great sense of smell - that might do the trick. Let her smell you, and the ... Shan, then seek out similar scents along the pathway behind us.
"Might someone take up those things on the floor?" earthy Murphy asks - not singling out anyone, but hoping someone considers the request. He nods slightly toward Ix's cloak and items. He doesn't yet nod toward Anur's axe or armor or pendant, and wonders whether anyone might think of them, as well. Murphy has no access to storage at the moment. ========== Perception: 40 - just keeping an eye on things, and people. Among other things mindful of the area that Anur touched above the dais just before taking Ix by the collar.
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 d20+23=35 ; Thursday February 14th, 2019 3:34:45 AM
"Here let me take a look at the arcane scroll, I may be able to make use of it." Hobie will spend some time looking carefully at it, trying to decipher it (DC 20 + Spell Level) and see if he might be able to cast the spell, whatever it is.
Spellcraft = 35
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 d20+7=9 ; Thursday February 14th, 2019 5:29:02 AM
If Pressi turns Miss Piggy into a vulture, Succotash will take her down a level and open turret door and let Kade and company back in as Miss Piggy flies out after getting a good sniff of Pressi and Shan, survival 9. If she doesn't turn Miss Piggy Succotash will retrieve both Ix's and Anur's dropped items.
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20+18=25 ; d20+9=24 ; Thursday February 14th, 2019 11:23:53 AM
Talia accepts the task of looking at the scroll and using her knowledge of Arcana & of Spellcraft, might have an inkling of what it is or what it does.
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 643 of 660 minutes left Mage Armor | 6583 of 6600 minutes left Stoneskin | 93 of 110 minutes left
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 84/94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Thursday February 14th, 2019 3:04:24 PM
At Murphy's balking, Pressi almost shakes as she messages back. I chose to divine their motives rather than find the scroll because of your assurance that the scroll would be easy to find. (OOC: forgot to add it in, but Kim and I discussed what to divine over email.) If you don't have another wild shape or a better idea, we are toast. And no, I can't cast another bird shape. I've got a couple of L2 spells left and then I'm a rogue with cantrips.
After calming down, For what its worth, we can trust them. And other considerations aside, I do have an obligation to get her back up. Whatever happens tomorrow... we will figure that out then.
She tries to use one of the spell-granting gems. If she can get another divination (L4 domain spell), she will use that through her own wealth. If not, she tries to grab a Beast Shape 1 or 2 and turn the pig into a vulture.
And if nothing else works, she boosts Talia with a guidance. She is prepared to make a UMD roll as well, depending on what Talia finds.
--------------------
Harper status: heading away back to town
Pressi status:
Ritual of Warding Shared Spell: Shield of Faith (Bliss, Pressi only)(extended?)(Pressi casts surrender blood) crone form+ 2 int gears, 1 wis gear (Int 24, Wis 12) Like calls to like (+18 for 90 mins) surrender blood (CL+2 next spell or one minute)
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 84/94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes d20+1=13 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+1=7 ; d20+1=8 ; Thursday February 14th, 2019 3:06:33 PM
Harper's survival skill is well less than perception, but she soldiers on. (Last set 13 and 10. This set 7 and 8).
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 84/94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Thursday February 14th, 2019 3:10:13 PM
(At DC 23, Harper will need two nat 20s in a row.)
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Kim for Jairus) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 52/52) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3) Thursday February 14th, 2019 6:50:20 PM
"Hobie, if you have a good handle on it, you think you can cast it off the scroll? If it's all right with Anur?" Jack asks. He seemed to see the light go on in Hobie's eyes as the arcane archer looked over the scroll.
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 68/68) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3)(performance 2 Thursday February 14th, 2019 7:34:39 PM
Zaragosa would sigh at Murphey's question. "I actually haven't studied such things and don't know much about spell crafting."
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Thursday February 14th, 2019 8:06:59 PM
Evidently searching for the scroll is still a thing. So Bliss changes into a cat, leaves the giant, and searches his heart out. "I just home we get find it in (valen)time." he thinks.
(Per Feb 12 post ... Perception checks (note, with scent) -- 30, 32, 37. If he has time to take 20 ... 42.)
DM Carl Thursday February 14th, 2019 11:41:07 PM
I'm travelling today, so today's and tomorrow's posts are going to be short.
Hobie and Talia both inspect the scroll. It's difficult. It's like reading a book that's hundreds of years old. The language is arcane, but the dialect is foreign. Still, those two are sharp cookies and can figure it out with some work.
They deduce it is more closely related to the spell make whole than raise dead or resurrection. The materials are fresh, though. This scroll was made within the last few weeks, not centuries. With some study, they come to two conclusions. A: This scroll is tailor made for Anur and will not help raise Shan. B: Shan must be one smart cookie to have made this.
With enough study and effort, the two think they may be able to learn the secrets behind this magic and recreate it, but not in the time they have left.
Pressi is reassured that Anur and Shan aren't likely to double cross them. She could use one of the gems to turn Miss Piggy into a turkey vulture if she chooses.
Bliss offers to go look for the scroll. Anur nods and presses an invisible button over the dais. Immediately, the Giant starts moving downwards. It kneels, both arms outstretched in front of it, hands on the ground below. The "window" shimmers a bit, then vanishes. Fresh air floods the interior of the room. Looking out, the party finds themselves roughly 100' above the ground. The Giant's arms can be used as a ramp to descend below. It's treacherous and slippery. Most people would have a hard time keeping their balance. Bliss, especially CatBliss, will have zero issues and is able to run full speed downwards.
There's enough time for Bliss and Harper to work together and fully track down Pressi's scent on the scroll that MUST be around here somewhere.
OOC: Yes, taking 20 is acceptable here.
It takes the duo a full 20 minutes to track the scroll down, but they find it caught in a prickly shrub.
The question now is, does Bliss really want to give the scroll to Anur?
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears Friday February 15th, 2019 12:13:51 AM
Kezzem pulls Pressi aside. "Seems odd to have a scroll that will only work on one person, no? Seems kinda inefficient if you ask me. I wouldn't want a dagger that could only stab one person, you know?"
Murphy attends to the area that Anur presses, and marvels at the results. "Nice. I'll remain here." He reminds Bliss of the approximate area to seek in.
"How did you and your wife come to know one another, if I may ask, Anur? There's no requirement you answer."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 d20+7=10 ; d20+7=13 ; Friday February 15th, 2019 5:08:21 AM
Succotash and Miss Piggy will wait as patiently as possible, however, they will remain on the alert Succotash perception 10 Miss Piggy perception 13
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 84/94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Friday February 15th, 2019 3:56:18 PM
“Oh, I don’t know,” Pressi replied. “There’s a part of me that absolutely wants to make a dozen riffs on how they’ve literally pinned their survival on their enemy’s mercy. But deep down, like way way down... I actually find it sweet that they’d tie their survival to each other, that they would actually eschew logic and caution to build this....
“I’m not actually going to turn down Murphy’s proposal, am I. After all is said and done...”
Harper’s link interrupted Pressi’s chain of thought. Quickly, she used the gem to change miss piggy into a vulture and sent her off.
With that done, she takes some time to look at the interface equipment itself and scan for gem placement.
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 Friday February 15th, 2019 4:12:01 PM
Pointing to Mister Murphy, Talia sends another short message. "Mister Murphy, what do you think will happen once Shan is "Made Whole"?
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 623 of 660 minutes left Mage Armor | 6563 of 6600 minutes left Stoneskin | 73 of 110 minutes left
To Talia via her message spell, Murphy says, "I think she and her husband will talk. They will agree together to surrender terms. They will head back up to their home in the Scab and decide what to do with the rest of their lives. And, if they keep their word, they will not do harm to Crescent Valley. We spare his life and allow hers to be restored. Mercy triumphs. May this soften their ways. Time will tell."
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Friday February 15th, 2019 9:38:55 PM
Bliss thinks about what a hero does. "A hero would not make important decisions without his friends. A hero trusts his team."
He picks up the scroll and brings it back to the giant. He drops it in front of Mister Murphy.
DM Carl Friday February 15th, 2019 9:53:48 PM
Bliss knows better than to make a big decision like this without his friends. He climbs his way back up the Giant's arms and into the cockpit before dropping the scroll in front of Murphy.
If the party was pondering making a decision, Anur doesn't seem to notice. He walks over and scoops up the scroll.
...or does he? Maybe the party stops him? Let's see!
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 68/68) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3)(performance 2 Friday February 15th, 2019 11:42:18 PM
Zaragosa sighs as he watches both Anur and the party.
He'll back his party but he himself will not make a move against Anur
"Thank you, Bliss." He gingerly picks up the wax-sealed scroll (if the wax seal is still intact). He hands it to Pressi. "From my lady, for his lady, if you will," allowing Pressi to render the final decision.
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Sunday February 17th, 2019 10:03:01 PM
After dropping the scroll, Bliss twirls around, standing between it and the dwarf.
He waits and watches, happy to see it in Miss Pressi's possession.
DM Carl Sunday February 17th, 2019 11:32:20 PM
Anur watches the scroll move from the ground, to Murphy, to Pressi. He looks at her expectantly...
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 d20+7=24 ; Monday February 18th, 2019 5:17:30 AM
Succotash re-tightens his grip on Twinklesting waiting for Pressi's to decide what to do with the scroll, and Anur's reaction to the choice. perception 24
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20+8=20 ; Monday February 18th, 2019 11:48:32 AM
Talia looks around to see where everyone is and makes a snap judgment about what might go down after Shan is made whole.
[Skill check | Perception: 20]
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 623 of 660 minutes left Mage Armor | 6563 of 6600 minutes left Stoneskin | 73 of 110 minutes left
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 84/94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Monday February 18th, 2019 8:40:36 PM
Pressi wrinkles her nose at Murphy. “My comments were not meant to be taken as a challenge. Let’s lose the ego, lest that no become easier. Sir.”
After that wink, she gives Anur the scroll, eventually. “This scroll is a second chance. I have no illusions, if the situation were reversed, that you’d grant me the same courtesy. But that’s okay, I don’t need it. I just hope you don’t waste this second chance.”
"Challenge?? Ego?" Murphy is truly perplexed, wondering what Pressi may have taken as a challenge from him, and what ego has to do with anything. However, she did wink. Murphy feels like some sort of dolt who can't figure out what the joke was, or that he was even in the middle of one until the punchline hit the face of the sucker.
However, he is pleased with how she offered the scroll to Anur, especially the words that accompanied the gesture. "I'm casting owl's wisdom on myself. No one panic. I need all the wisdom I can get." He does so with one of the gems.
Now, he attends to what the cleric does - still mindful of the actions and attitudes of his friends, ready to shield friends and foe(s) alike from harm should it come to that.
Readied action: Interpose body between combatants. Only if violence arises. His will save (35 - or 33?) precludes the Id gem he bears from rousing him to unwarranted violence. Which is good. He doesn't want to punch Anur, or Shan, or anyone else as the scroll of - what, great mending? - no, 'make whole' - takes effect.
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Monday February 18th, 2019 10:14:08 PM
Bliss watches Anur as he is handed the scroll.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears d20+15=26 ; Monday February 18th, 2019 11:56:44 PM
Kezzem starts to finger his frost dagger, but thinking on what Anur has says, switches to his adamantine short-sword instead. He keeps an eye on him to see if now that he has what he wants if he will turn hostile.
Sense Motive: 26.
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Tuesday February 19th, 2019 5:48:16 AM
Hobie watches everything unfold, trusting Pressi's judgement.
He keeps an arrow trained on Anur, and one eye on the weapons he dropped to the ground. If Anur makes any moves toward the weapons rather than to Shan, Hobie will let the arrow loose.
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 Tuesday February 19th, 2019 5:48:16 AM
Hobie watches everything unfold, trusting Pressi's judgement.
He keeps an arrow trained on Anur, and one eye on the weapons he dropped to the ground. If Anur makes any moves toward the weapons rather than to Shan, Hobie will let the arrow loose.
DM Carl Tuesday February 19th, 2019 4:19:12 PM
Anur accepts the scroll with a sigh that's both contented and resigned. He may have saved his wife, but what of his own life? He simply nods sternly and accepts the scroll.
The rest of the party carefully watches what happens next, though Pressi's judgment is seldom questioned regarding these things.
Anur breaks the seal and uncurls the scroll. He wastes no time with speeches or niceties, choosing instead to recite the words listed on the scroll.
"Ang imong kaugalingon, gugma." The language is wholly unfamiliar*, and Anur seems to have great difficulty saying with words. The effect, however, is immediate, and Shan's eyes shoot open. She stands. The wounds on her body start fixing themselves. They don't heal, or fade. The tears in her skin jerk back together and fuse bloodlessly. Broken bones crunch back to place. It looks very painful, and Shan, despite her best efforts not to, winces as she talks.
"My thanks, Miss Pressi. I knew my faith in you was...wait, why am I already in the control room?" She looks around, eyes stopping and widening when she sees the pile of ash and the silver cloak that was once Ix Revon. She looks at the party, ready to jump into action, but not exactly poised to strike. Then, she looks to her husband and sees a man resigned to his fate. She looks down her eyes at him and starts to speak when the silence in the room is spoiled by a loud CRUNCH as her humerus is forced back into place. Despite herself, she cries out in pain. Anur is by her side in an instant. As the pain subsides, she hisses through clenched teeth, "Anur, what did you do?"
Anur seems lost for words, again.
*Linguistics, DC 30, Highlight to display spoiler: {Whatever language this is, it's likely the precursor several times removed to dwarven. It may be the first language spoken in The Scab. Translating it would take time.}
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 d20=8 ; Tuesday February 19th, 2019 4:43:16 PM
Talia Readies both the Tanglefoot bag & the thunderstone.
Linguistics check: 8
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 623 of 660 minutes left Mage Armor | 6563 of 6600 minutes left Stoneskin | 73 of 110 minutes left
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 84/94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Tuesday February 19th, 2019 10:10:02 PM
As things continue to move forward, Pressi surreptitiously scoops up some of Ix ashes under the guise of studying them further.
“What happened is that not a single one of you took the time to talk to each other and reflect. Don’t make the same mistake again. In the meantime, does anyone know where these crystals went? I’ve got a few other promises to fulfill here.”
The Unbelievable J.T.T. Zaragosa (Jack) (Jairus Houdek) (AC 24 CMD 22 HP 68/68) (spells left by lvl 5/5, 3/5, 0/3)(performance 2 Tuesday February 19th, 2019 10:14:06 PM
Zaragosa sighed in both relief and a slight hit of frustration. On one end he felt the woman didn't need to fight and die, on the other hand, Zaragosa was glad she was alive again. Though he didn't drop his guard as her reactions didn't make a lot of sense to him.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 25+1, touch AC 18+1; HP 87/119, CMD 24; Gears Tuesday February 19th, 2019 11:59:37 PM
"So...now what?" asks Kezzem.
"That sounds like a very old tongue," Murphy the amateur linguist remarks. "Thought I caught one dwarvish- sounding word in it."
"Shan Shalutch, I should have preferred we not battle you. Nor really, any of those who defend this walker. But as your husband, and you, showed no inclination to reverse course, and were intent on crushing our homes, our gardens, our places of worship, and, had it not been for someone who informed us of your intent, our people - we must defend our own. Several times we offered terms of mercy should the walker riders surrender. Yet nearly all who persisted in the goal of attacking our homeland have died.
"When Ix brought to his adoptive father's attention that there were invaders in the walker, and he came out of his pilot's trance, your husband found it hard to believe. He told Ix to get you, and Minh. Your husband learned you both were dead.
"Anur Daron learned from my companions some of what Ix had been about. He reduced his son to dust. Ix believed you, Shan, to be the reason for this... exercise. He wanted to return home with his father, and engage in a life with him which seemed to him perhaps less insane than the course you have been on.
"Domestic conflicts are complex and sometimes intractable. None of us pretends to any sure solutions. Except this one.
"You both will irrevocably surrender the Iron Giant to us. You will vow never to come against the halflings of Crescent Valley, nor to support others who may be so inclined.
"We could have ended both of you. Instead, as a gesture of and hope for a measure of good will, we chose otherwise. To let Anur live. To let you, Shan, come back from what appeared to be death. To let you two choose another route in life - so long as you promise what we have laid down. Never come against us halflings again. The Iron Giant and all that pertains to it is fully forfeit.
"My friends may have their own thoughts to tell you. My lady, Pressi, as well."
He holds out two of the gems recovered from the constructs battled in the upper chest of the giant, and drops them in Pressi's hand. "These are perhaps weaker than what you may need." He shrugs one shoulder to indicate his surmise.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 27/13/25 CMD 28 HP 113/113 Miss Piggy AC 27/11/26 CMD 23 HP 87/87 d20+7=8 ; Wednesday February 20th, 2019 5:26:21 AM OOC...Please ignore the roll, not sure where it came from
After Murphy's eloquent speech, Succotash adds, "Shan, I am sorry it was I that struck first when parlay failed, but like Murphy indicated we would have preferred that none of this violence was needed in the first place. I implore both of you to leave now, to return on pain of death, and let me add this, in the future, Never underestimate a band of determined halflings."
Talia (Jon-Paul) AC 27, HP 94/94, CMD 24 Wednesday February 20th, 2019 10:35:32 AM
Believing the issue to be near a positive conclusion, Talia tries to make herself useful. She places both items back into her haversack, and removes her empty map case hoping it will be big enough for Ix Revlon's ashes. She then proceeds to cast a cantrip of Prestidigitation to organize Ix's ashes into a pile and then places the case just to the side of Ix, in hopes that his parents understand the gesture.
Talia says, "I introduced myself to Mister Ix, and he was cordial to me. I hope you do not take offense at my gesture, but everyone needs a good "bonvoyagiee" and it is out of respect for him that I offer the only container I have as a means of transporting his remains."
Talia, then returns to her place.
Talia Status: -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Overlight flight | 623 of 660 minutes left Mage Armor | 6563 of 6600 minutes left Stoneskin | 73 of 110 minutes left
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 84/94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes Wednesday February 20th, 2019 11:17:53 AM
Pressi moves to help Talia collect ashes.
Hobie Browncloak (Nick T) HP 108/108 AC 27 Touch 19 Flat 21 CMD 29 Hero Points 6 d20+10=22 ; Wednesday February 20th, 2019 11:57:22 AM
Linguistics 22 - Hobie doesn't know it.
Hobie will join Talia using Prestidigitation to clean the ashes.
After Succotash apologizes for attacking Shan, Hobie will add, "I however don't in anyway regret that my arrow took your life. If either of you should ever threaten my home again, I won't hesitate to take it once more."
Bliss (Cayzle) HP80, AC25 Wednesday February 20th, 2019 2:02:31 PM
Still in cat form and ready to pounce, Bliss readies an attack in case violence does break out.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 22 (26), HP 84/94, CMD 21; Pressi's Notes d20+8=11 ; Wednesday February 20th, 2019 2:14:26 PM
Linguistics 11. At that point, she’s just ignoring you.
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