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Creative Corner => Current Games => Play By Post => September 1776 => Topic started by: bhu on July 01, 2016, 05:00:44 PM

Title: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 01, 2016, 05:00:44 PM
The setting: A rural town not far from Philadelphia (and by not far I mean a Few days ride).  It has been a few weeks since news of the destruction of New York by fire at the hands of the British.

Except that's not exactly true, according to old Sheriff Barnes.  If you listen to him Washington used a form of alien science we'd call magic o open a door to multiple realities in the hope of destroying the British, and lost control.  Even before then you knew something was up due to the prisoner he kept locked out of sight in some sort of circle etched into the cell floor.  It looks like something out of a book on witchcraft.  No one knows who the prisoner is, but he taught Sheriff Barnes some tricks, which Barnes taught to you.  You learned in order to humor him as they never really worked.

Until now.  Now Barnes is dead, killed by a 15 foot high monstrosity that looked like some sort of spider or crab.  Now your tricks work just fine, and you have to wonder who the unnamed prisoner is, and why he's where he is, because Barnes died before he could tell you everything.  No you have to see to the defense of your town somehow, and maybe get word through to Philadelphia, where Barnes assured you there was help.

And to make things worse it's raining like hell.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 02, 2016, 10:35:39 AM
To the group: To everyone who has worked with Elizabeth before, you know her as a relatively serious-minded investigator who tends to have a business-first sort of attitude on the clock, and a rather deadpan sense of humor. She lightens up off the clock, and will have drinks and play cards with the guys (if they're into that sort of thing).

She's in her late 30s, has a slender build, and keeps her straight, brown hair tied back in a pony tail most of the time. She usually wears guy's clothing as she tends to get messy in the shop/lab and while crawling on the ground looking for clues. Her most noticeable features are a series of scars on the left side of her face and neck, as well as the missing lobe from her left ear, missing left pinkie, and partially missing left ring finger. She said there was an explosion when she was 15 while experimenting with some black powder.

Pic:
(click to show/hide)



Until now.  Now Barnes is dead, killed by a 15 foot high monstrosity that looked like some sort of spider or crab.  Now your tricks work just fine, and you have to wonder who the unnamed prisoner is, and why he's where he is, because Barnes died before he could tell you everything.
Bhu: Is there any chance we'd get to look at the scene of the attack? If so, I'd like to look for any clues, taking 20:

Search = 20+17 = 37.


Once everything calms down from the attack and Elizabeth has time to clear her head, she storms over to the jail to talk to the prisoner.

"Who are you, and why are you imprisoned here?"

Sense Motive = d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 6 + 10, total 16



No you have to see to the defense of your town somehow,
OOC: when you say "defense", do you mean against eldritch abominations, or is the town worried about attack from the British?

How many people saw the 15-foot tall monster attack?


and maybe get word through to Philadelphia, where Barnes assured you there was help.
Did Barnes give any sort of clue as to what type of help?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 02, 2016, 04:30:14 PM
The town is worried about both.  You did arrive at the scene of the massacre, but too late to stop the monster or save the Sheriff.

Barnes implied there were constables and government officials in Philadelphia who knew the truth.

Sol and genius do yuo want to be present for the interrogation?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on July 02, 2016, 08:40:30 PM
Yeah, give me a couple hours and I'll have something up for you.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on July 02, 2016, 09:50:11 PM
Samuel has been one of the, maybe only, town doctor for a few years now.

Things known by the majority of townsfolk, our freely offered if asked:
Samuel is in his mid thirties (36), and was born a few towns over. He studied medicine under the town doctor there, but left about ten years ago to start his own practice. He settled in (what's the town's name?) Soon after. As the years have passed, he has made a name for himself and built a house on the outskirts of the town. Nice house, but nothing impressive, a quite place to call his own. Most of his medical work happens within the patients home and he uses a light weight buggy and stout horse to make most of his house calls. Otherwise, he didn't socialize much, but he is polite to anyone he encounters.

Aside from his medical practice, he did have a taste for fine food and good whiskey. Each week, he stops by the local store and picks up fresh groceries and a new bottle of whiskey. He has a deal with the shop owner to make sure he keeps a good bottle ready for him and to let him know if he ever gets a chance to get a new whiskey he hasn't had before. Rye preferably, but a good bourbon, Irish or scotch is always a nice change.

Samuel is 6 ft tall, with brown hair and grey eyes. Usually seen wearing tailored clothes and carrying a leather bag with his medical tools. During train, he wears a heavy trench coat to ward of the weather.

Samuel could easily be asked to be present for the interrogation as a nod to the health of the prisoner.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 03, 2016, 02:47:13 AM
Sol?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 10, 2016, 06:39:49 PM
The investigation turns up little beyond dismembered bodies.  The rain has washed away most possible evicence , other than huge tracks of a kind you've never seen.

Upon asking the prsioner he replies


"I am no one, and I am here because I know the truth."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 10, 2016, 08:58:09 PM
The investigation turns up little beyond dismembered bodies.  The rain has washed away most possible evicence , other than huge tracks of a kind you've never seen.

Can we see where they go?


Upon asking the prsioner he replies


"I am no one, and I am here because I know the truth."

"What truth do you know? How did you learn it?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on July 10, 2016, 09:52:13 PM
In the middle of the interrogation, the door was kicked open.  The smell of leather, blood, and dirt drifted from this scraggly man wearing a heavy coat and hat which covered his eyes, further obscured by some bandages wrapped about his head from a recent.. infraction which got a bit rough.  Grayed out brown muttonchops sprayed out from the sides of his face, and his breath was heavy with brandy.  He had the look of a ruffian or an outlaw, few would expect him to be an officer of the law.

Lionel was late.  He had gotten the news while he was self medicating himself in the pub.  The old man was dead, and someone, or something was to blame.  Though to be fair, bring in his cups wasn't the reason he was really late.  Quietly he patted the pocket on his coat, feeling a familiar and forgotten little book at his side.

"Where is he?" he announced with a bassy smoker's grumble.  "Who will we be hanging for this one?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 10, 2016, 10:17:01 PM
"It's not a he so much as... an it. It was some huge monstrosity. The rain washed away almost everything I could hope to find, save for some rather large tracks. I'm asking this guy the sheriff had kept locked up why he's here."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 11, 2016, 03:09:30 AM
The investigation turns up little beyond dismembered bodies.  The rain has washed away most possible evicence , other than huge tracks of a kind you've never seen.

Can we see where they go?


Upon asking the prsioner he replies


"I am no one, and I am here because I know the truth."

"What truth do you know? How did you learn it?"

The tracks go off into the Deep Woods.

"I learned the true way the world works from my Master."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 11, 2016, 10:50:58 AM
"Who was or is your master? Did your master teach you any tricks?"

OOC: remember the 16 Sense Motive I rolled in the first post, which should kick in after we've been talking a minute, to see if he's lying.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 11, 2016, 05:30:49 PM
ooc: he ain't lying yet, but he ain't giving up much either


"My Master taught me many thing, parlor tricks were not among them."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 11, 2016, 09:55:26 PM
"And who is your master? How did you find each other?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 12, 2016, 01:26:07 AM
"Some questions are best left unanswered."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on July 12, 2016, 05:44:48 AM
"That so?" muttered Lionel from under his breath.  He heard enough, this cheeky prisoner was playing games with them.  He kicked a nearby stool closer so that he could interrupt this little interrogation, taking a place uncomfortably close.

"The way I see it, I don't think you understand the s'tuation you're in.  Barnes is dead.  I've got people telling me that it was some kind of monster.  15 feet tall.  Big fangs.  Probably a thousand limbs.  Whatever.  Do you know how fukkin absurd that sounds?

The way I see it, a police officer died all horrible.  The only witness is a man already in jail for crimes.  A man who has a motive to escape, and a motive not to tell the truth.  Better tell a story about a boogeyman, so they don't realize what a sick fuck you are and hang you for your crimes.  Hell, if I tell the people about what you did to Barnes, I think they might skip the hangin' for somethin' more... biblical."

He slapped his hand on a nearby table, brandy soaked breath getting up in his face as he leaned in.

"So, we're gonna do this again.  The lady asked you a question.  I think this is one best answered."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 12, 2016, 08:05:53 AM
Bhu: is the prisoner remaining inside the circle on the floor?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 13, 2016, 12:48:05 AM
yes, in fact until Lionel pulled up a chair he didn't even bother to look up and notice any of you at all while he was speaking.  He is now gazing intently at Lionel and smiling.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 13, 2016, 09:31:07 AM
"Lionel, make sure during your interrogations that you don't grab him and pull him out of that circle. I don't know why he's in there, but it's certainly for a reason.

Well, this is proving less than useful for the time being. Do any of you want to venture out into the rain to see if we can find more information out, there."


To the prisoner: "When was the last time you were fed?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 13, 2016, 05:06:38 PM
"I do not require food in the same manner you do, nor am I capable of eating the same as you.  I will let you know when the time comes, and you will bring me something living to eat.  A chicken or squirrel perhaps."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on July 13, 2016, 05:13:27 PM
Samuel pulls a hip flask from his coat pocket and takes a sip while the interrogation is beginning. He leans up against a wall, available should they need him, but out of the way. At the mention of rain raw chicken or squirrel, he perks up.

"Aren't you worried 'bout eatin' raw meat? Makes most sicker than a dog."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 14, 2016, 01:22:00 AM
"I didn't say raw, I said living."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 14, 2016, 08:19:08 AM
Elizabeth sighs and puts her forehead between her first two fingers and thumb.

"This is less than productive. I think we should either see where the tracks go, or look to coordinating the town's defense before heading to Philadelphia."

Bhu, do I recognize the circle on the ground? If so, do I know how long it lasts?

Knowledge (TMWNMTK) = 1d20+11

Rolled 1d20+11 : 5 + 11, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on July 14, 2016, 10:03:35 AM
"Next time he's ready to eat, I want to be here. Maybe I could learn a little something. "
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 15, 2016, 12:18:06 AM
wobby

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 15, 2016, 08:29:14 AM
"Next time he's ready to eat, I want to be here. Maybe I could learn a little something. "
Elizabeth smirks slightly.

"Looking at that circle more closely, I think anyone who goes in can't come out. I'm not sure if entering from the outside will break it, or not. In fact, him asking for a live animal may be a ploy to do just that. So. no live animals are to cross that circle, for the time being"

Sense Motive to see if I think he's trying to trick me into breaking the circle: 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 10 + 10, total 20


"I think our three priorities should be: first, to fill in other constables about the handling of this man here. Second, we should investigate those tracks before the rain destroys them. I'd like to get a good idea where they're heading. Thirdly, we should see to the town's defenses, and head out to Philadelphia.

How does everyone feel about that?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 15, 2016, 04:51:18 PM
wobby 
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 17, 2016, 09:31:39 PM
To group: "Just to reiterate: nothing live passes through that circle.

Is everyone fine with the plan?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on July 19, 2016, 07:55:50 PM
"Nothing live, got it. You seem to know quite a bit about these things. Study them somewhere?" He directs his question at Elizabeth.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 20, 2016, 08:14:03 AM
To Samuel: "I learned some... tricks over the years as my studies have taken me out of the realm of the strictly mundane. I can go into more detail when we're not around the prisoner."

To the group, away from the prisoner: "I have a bit of an understanding of how these sorts of things work, but there is just... so much to learn. And the more I learn of it, the less sense everything else makes. It's rather disappointing to see twenty years of scientific study become somewhat obviated.

As for the 'tricks', I can turn myself into a hawk or rat, banish creatures from the other realm out of this one, 'burn' things, for lack of a better word; it's not really fire. I can gain some control over the minds of others, usually as a distraction or to make them more friendly or receptive; it's not actual mind control. I can make people see or hear things that aren't there, view a location remotely, and provide some amount of physical protection for myself.

Now, some of these things I only have a passing knowledge of, and they all come at a bit of a... cost. Using them tends to weaken me and give me one hell of a headache. It's why I usually stick to more traditional methods of investigation. Given what we're up against, I may be in for some more headaches, soon."


OOC: By this point, working with Elizabeth, you would know she has some knowledge of these types of things, but you might not have seen her cast a spell directly. She does so sparingly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on July 20, 2016, 12:43:30 PM
To Elizabeth when she is talking about her tricks:

"I would love for you to tell me more when we have them time. Always looking to learn something new. It's why I became a doctor."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 20, 2016, 05:26:56 PM
After informing the other constables of the prisoner, you head off into the woods on horseback.

Survival rolls to follow tracks plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on July 20, 2016, 09:26:43 PM
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 21, 2016, 08:07:49 AM
Survival -> 1d20+1

Rolled 1d20+1 : 8 + 1, total 9
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 21, 2016, 05:26:51 PM
:headdesks:  Okay Sol, save da party
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 23, 2016, 06:06:01 PM
rollin' fer sol

Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 23, 2016, 06:07:59 PM
Damn...

Okay it's getting harder and harder to follow but the tracks lead to an old farm of some sort.  Probably an outcast who didn't fit in in one of the towns and moved to the middle of nowhere to live.  There are no lights on, and the doors and shutters are open.  You hear nothing but the howling of the wind and rain.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 24, 2016, 08:30:40 AM
Do the tracks stop somewhere abruptly or lead to a building, or something?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on July 24, 2016, 12:09:47 PM
Cheeky bastard was smiling at him.  Grinning like a madman.  Looked more like a mad bloodthirsty predator than a man from this angle.  A bit too much to be honest.  Lionel figured the punk was trying to rattle him, reverse this interration.  That meant this one was smart, but Lionel was too, he wasn't about to be outdone.

"Heh."  He offered a cold grin in return.  "Grinning in the face of danger, raw living meat... you're a real sick one, but the act doesn't work.  I've seen people worse than you, the only kind of monster you are in the human kind."

He leaned back and slid the stool he was sitting in to the side carelessly.  "Come on, he's not talking.  Let him stew a bit, we've evidence to collect.  I'm sure we'll have enough to bag his ass.  Don't let him out of your sight."  He slapped the nearest guard (or PC) on the back and will follow them.  Quietly to Elizabeth as they leave, he mutters "You don't actually believe the hocus pocus, do ya?  I know you like your tricks, but those are just parlour stuff."  Barnes always was the superstitious type.  Just like John was.  Rambling on about spells and magic and other nonsense.  He may not be a skeptic in the supernatural, but 'giant monster' was not his first go to explination for this.  He'd get to the bottom of it, he was sure of that.

He'll leave with the others.  The others must be rattled, bcause somehow he's the one who finds the trail (thanks for rolling for me Bhu).  Tracks.  These were people footprints, and there wasn't much to go on that these were related to the case.  But these tracks were all they had for the moment, and it was time to see what lay at the end of this path.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 24, 2016, 03:06:02 PM
Quietly to Elizabeth as they leave, he mutters "You don't actually believe the hocus pocus, do ya?  I know you like your tricks, but those are just parlour stuff." 

"It took me a while to accept it, but yes. I've spent two decades studying chemistry, mechanics, and natural science. It was hard for me to come to grips to, when I was confronted by other... truths. I had to see them with my own eyes to believe it. I believe in studying things through observation in a controlled fashion and learning from them. The things I've seen are not explained by natural science."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 24, 2016, 03:43:29 PM
Th tracks lead towards the barn...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 24, 2016, 07:47:05 PM
"Well, fellas, I think we should check it out, but we probably shouldn't be seen. I should be able to get in and out of there without too much trouble. Wait here, and... er, don't freak out. It's one of those tricks I was talking about, earlier."

You see Elizabeth pull out a pewter rat miniature from her pocket, that she is often seen fumbling with. She focuses on it, and throughout the course of a minute, she is transformed into a rat. Once she gets her bearings, the rat scurries toward the barn.

Bhu:
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 24, 2016, 09:21:49 PM
Willpower Saves to avoid san loss for those seeing this for the first time.

Robby
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 25, 2016, 06:54:28 AM

Robby
(click to show/hide)
Bhu

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 25, 2016, 04:39:48 PM
robby 
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on July 25, 2016, 05:20:11 PM
Will save

(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 25, 2016, 05:58:54 PM
genius you're ok, Sol still need will save
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on July 25, 2016, 07:42:51 PM
"It's no wonder you and Barnes got along." Lionel replied.  There were many things he didn't understand, but there was an explanation for everything.  Actually, no, that wasn't true.  People's behaviors could be difficult to explain sometimes.  But things like the sun rising, and watering being wet, that was constant.

Which is why he was quietly annoyed at himself as Elizabeth pulled a magic trick he couldn't figure out.  Turning into a rat.  That didn't actually happen, did it?  Yet there it was, right in front of him.  Maybe she stepped out of sight and dropped a pet rat, something trained.

Urgh.

Will:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 25, 2016, 07:52:15 PM
You lose no San either, although you find this damn disconcerting.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 25, 2016, 09:02:41 PM
Bhu, can I get in the house? I want to see if anyone lives inside.

Are there any animals around?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 26, 2016, 02:02:54 AM
If there are you don't hear any.  You get into the house easy.  It's damn dark, and even with your low light vision you can't see much as teh rain outside blocks most of the moon and starlight.   You can smell spoiled food though.  Spoiled food and blood.  Ans what's likely gunpowder.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 27, 2016, 06:41:31 AM
I don't want to get lost in there, so I'll head back to the guys, and change back once I'm far enough away from the barn that I'm not worried about being seen.

To the group: you see a rat approach, that pauses when it's a bit away from you. Then, it starts to grow, and turns back into Elizabeth. She walks up to you.

"The thing is in the barn. It's huge, and it's too dark to make much out in the way of details. They way it's breathing makes it sound injured, but I don't know that we can just shoot it to death; at least, not with just the three of us. There's a thick trail of some sort of slime leading into the barn. I'm not sure how long this thing is going to stay here.

I went to the house. It's dark, but it smells like spoiled food, blood, and gunpowder. My guess is, the homeowners shot at this thing and got killed, but I can't really tell without any more light, and I don't dare light the place up with that... thing so close by."


Bhu, how far is this farm from the town?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 27, 2016, 03:47:26 PM
About 6 miles out
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 27, 2016, 09:42:47 PM
Would some of the creature's slime count as something "linked to it" for Banish? If so, how close do I have to get to the barn to get some?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 28, 2016, 01:17:25 AM
yes and the longer you wait the closer youll need to be due to the rain
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 28, 2016, 06:32:26 AM
"I'll be right back, I hope. I need to collect some of that slime before the rain washes it away... unless one of you is really good at sneaking and wants to volunteer."

Assuming I'm the one who goes:
Move Silently -> 1d20+1

Rolled 1d20+1 : 14 + 1, total 15

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 28, 2016, 03:56:34 PM
The noise from the thunder and rain obscure your presence.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 28, 2016, 10:25:31 PM
I'll regroup with everyone.

"I may be able to attempt a ritual to banish this thing from this world... assuming it wasn't summoned by someone else. It's risky, and I'm not sure I'm good enough. Bringing a militia here to shoot the thing up after burning the barn down is probably just as risky. We can try to go to Philadelphia, where I've been assured help is waiting. I don't know what kind of help, and if it will be too late.

Do either of you have thoughts on the matter?"


Bhu, how long does it take to travel to Philadelphia?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 29, 2016, 12:01:07 AM
about a day on foot, quicker by horse
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on August 03, 2016, 07:38:56 AM
"Philadelphia send like the wise choice. More help cannot hurt the situation. And if you're not sure about banishing this in your own, let's not go getting out our selves killed on hopes."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 03, 2016, 11:11:09 PM
"We should leave quickly. Lets inform the most senior guards of the situation so they know about the barn, and remind them about the prisoner and that damned circle. It's late enough, we should probably leave early morning, and hope this storm passes."

Bhu, we have access to horses, correct?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 04, 2016, 12:20:38 AM
yup, comes with the job

where you guys staying for the night
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 04, 2016, 07:21:54 AM
I was just planning at my house.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 04, 2016, 03:40:21 PM
The ride back is a touch spooky.  Several times you'd swear you were being watched from the shadows.  One of the constables greets you as you return.  "There's been an incident.  Four men are dead, and no one saw what did it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 04, 2016, 10:19:03 PM
"Oh for f-  What do you mean an incident? Who is dead and how? Is the prisoner still in the circle?"

If the prisoner is still contained, Elizabeth goes to examine the bodies, taking 20 on Search for a total of 37. If not, she searches the room.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 05, 2016, 12:09:45 AM
'The...prisoner is still accounted for.  Old Joe found the bodies.  Says the McClaren family invited him over for dinner, and he found whats left of em.  He's in a bad way.  Getting stone drunk down at the Inn."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on August 05, 2016, 08:41:14 AM
I should take a look at the bodies. Maybe they can tell us something.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 05, 2016, 01:39:02 PM
You all ride out to the McClaren farmhouse in the pouring rain, still with the feeling of being watched.  There are two constables on guard when you get there, as the women and children were apparently unharmed.  There are four bodies in the yard, cut up pretty badly.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on August 05, 2016, 03:52:24 PM
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 05, 2016, 06:55:39 PM
genius
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on August 05, 2016, 07:09:25 PM
"I can't see much between the light and the train, but those aren't animal marks. You see the edges of the wounds? They're to straight and even for teeth or claws. That was done by a blade. At a guess, probably a large knife.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 05, 2016, 10:03:30 PM
Elizabeth searches for any obvious clues as to who else might have been here.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 06, 2016, 01:11:18 AM
Gimme a spot and search roll, will be tough in the current circumstances.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 06, 2016, 09:33:06 AM
I was planning on taking 20 for the roll (which would be a 37), but if I have to roll:

Search:
Rolled 1d20+17 : 4 + 17, total 21


Spot:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 7 + 1, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 06, 2016, 09:38:24 AM
OOC: Looking back at my sheet, I think I have an extra +1 I can't account for in my Search score. So, the mod should probably be +16, for a modified check of 20. Also, I have a magnifying glass, so if it would be relevant for any given clues, add an extra +2 for finding those.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 06, 2016, 04:42:20 PM
You can take 20  :D

There are tracks quickly washing away that might be a human beings.  They come from the forest behind the house, and leave in teh direction you came from...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 07, 2016, 09:48:25 PM
Elizabeth asks the women and children if they saw anything.

Sense Motive = 1d20+10

Rolled 1d20+10 : 5 + 10, total 15
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 08, 2016, 12:26:56 AM
They seem to be in shock.  The children are curled into balls and scream if anyone so much as touches them.  The women are pale and on edge, refusing to move from their childrens side and staring back the way you came.  Interviewing them might take time, and something tells you leaving them here for the night is a bad idea.  Also, you have an old man swiftly getting drunk who was a witness back in town.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 08, 2016, 10:05:23 PM
Elizabeth tells the guards: "Get these people to a safe place to stay the night in town, by other people. Keep at least two people on guard at all times, and keep someone who can see them. We'll travel back to town with you. I need to talk to someone quickly."

Once we get back to town, she seeks out the guy who is getting smashed.

"I need to talk to you urgently. I need you to stop drinking for the time being, and I'll buy your next bottle, afterward. I need to know what you saw. I understand it might sound crazy, but I need you to be as specific and honest as possible."

Elizabeth tries to see if she can get a pot of coffee made, somewhere, to help him sober up, and tries to get him to eat some bread. Once he starts talking -> Sense Motive = 1d20+10.
Rolled 1d20+10 : 2 + 10, total 12

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 09, 2016, 12:05:51 AM
"They came from the forest...they looked like people till they got close up and you realize they ain't natives.  Least not any I've ever seen.  They looked ... hungry."

It's about this point you realize he's been staring past you instead of at you this whole time.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 09, 2016, 08:49:38 AM
She asks what they looked like, what they were wearing, and what all they did. Were they speaking?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 09, 2016, 01:44:12 PM
"They din't say nuthin'.  Weren't wearin' nuthin'.  They just came out of the woods and tore the men apart, and left when a few of the wives got off gunshots.  They don't look like nuthin' ah've ever seen.  One of 'em took a musket ball in the shoulder."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 09, 2016, 05:04:08 PM
"Did it bleed?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 09, 2016, 10:48:20 PM
"Yes'm."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 14, 2016, 06:39:08 PM
Are the tracks washed away at this point where we won't be able to follow them?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 15, 2016, 05:22:59 PM
most likely yes, but if they come out after the rain the mud will make them easy to follow
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 16, 2016, 09:48:15 PM
"I think we should get some rest near these people, wait for daylight, and see if we can find them. Someone should keep watch throughout the night. I feel like I'm being watched."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 17, 2016, 02:41:58 AM
Anyone voluntering or shall watch be kept by the npc constables  :plotting
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 17, 2016, 10:30:18 PM
Elizabeth will take first watch. She hopes her acquaintances will, too.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 18, 2016, 02:51:56 AM
spot and listen checks from those on watch plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on August 18, 2016, 06:35:24 PM
Lionel had been quiet this whole time.  Something was bothering him.  Besides the fact that Elizabeth turned into a rat.  More than the general panic of things cryptological.  The problem was that he heard this before.  Not this exact thing, of course not, but the mad talk of magic and the supernatural.  First his crazy old uncle, and then Barnes.  He would have to put things to the side.  There's been a murder it seems.  Spoiled food, bodies, gunpowder.  These things, he pondered if they were related directly with the suspect.

He may not believe in Elizabeth's tricks, but there was something to be said to psychological warfare.  Plus, that slime was evidence.  They needed it.  The party turned back for the moment to regroup back home, only to find... more death.

"Devil's balls, we leave for a few hours and there's already a mass murder.  Alright, let's see them."

It was a real mess.  Knife wounds likely, this was definately a weapon.  While Elizabeth went off to find the drunken witness, Lionel chose to stay here and keep an eye on the bodies and the surroundings.  He'll stay up to watch during the night too.  After all, if these psychotic fools were still about it would be best if someone was waiting for them with a big stick, so to speak.

Listen:
Rolled 1d20+6 : 17 + 6, total 23


Spot:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 3 + 1, total 4
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 18, 2016, 10:09:26 PM
Spot = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16


Listen = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 3 + 1, total 4
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 19, 2016, 02:27:04 AM
genius you taking a watch?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: geniussavant on August 19, 2016, 12:44:47 PM
Yes,

Spot
Rolled 1d20+1 : 3 + 1, total 4


Listen
Rolled 1d20+1 : 8 + 1, total 9
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 19, 2016, 05:45:48 PM
The night is calm for the most part though near dawn you are all awakened by hearing this in the distance  http://soundbible.com/1458-Monster-Roar.html
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 19, 2016, 10:03:03 PM
Is it in the direction of the barn?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 20, 2016, 02:02:39 AM
Difficult to say, the Inn you're staying at is on the outskirts of town (you came back to interview the old guy remember?).  It definitely isn't near though.  But it has people out on the street, guns drawn.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 21, 2016, 03:12:14 PM
"Perhaps now is a good time for me to try banishing that gigantic... thing. I don't know if it will work, and it will take a little over an hour for me to do the ritual. Are you both fine with that? I'll need you two to guard me, because I cannot be interrupted once I stop."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 22, 2016, 05:35:25 PM
You keeping the proceedings secret from the mundanes?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 22, 2016, 08:55:43 PM
I think we would have to.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 23, 2016, 07:46:36 PM
Remember the critter appears if you are successful and then begins to fade as long as the circle isnt broken.  How do you wish to isolate the non participants?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 23, 2016, 10:24:48 PM
I'd suggest going back to the jail and trying it down there. How far out are we?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 24, 2016, 03:00:11 AM
outer edge of a small town
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 25, 2016, 09:45:47 PM
Sorry. I meant how far from the jail?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 26, 2016, 06:51:00 PM
http://13160-presscdn-0-69.pagely.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/03_02_Colonial_Williamsburg.jpg we'll use dis as a map for now.  The Inn you're at is the same space as the Williamsburg Inn.  The jail is at the Spa of colonial Williamsburg
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 27, 2016, 12:29:11 AM
So, under a quarter mile. I'll check with the other guys before I start the ritual.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 28, 2016, 05:47:40 PM
Is there enough space in the jail to do this ritual, or do I need to be out in the middle of the woods?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 29, 2016, 01:54:34 AM
It requires a fire so outside seems likely.  Also you need two other participants.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 29, 2016, 07:05:49 PM
This might not work. We need someone to guard us. Are any of the other guards in the know about Barnes' beliefs?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 30, 2016, 12:55:13 AM
you are uncertain.  You're pretty sure a few must be cause they used ti guard the old man whose prisoner
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 31, 2016, 06:36:17 AM
I'll ask them what they've seen, working under Barnes, and to be truthful. I'll explain that the recent events have made this important.

Sense Motive, to see if I feel they're holding back:
Rolled 1d20+10 : 3 + 10, total 13
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 31, 2016, 04:46:55 PM
They look damn uneasy.  "You mean the prisoner don't you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 01, 2016, 09:55:19 PM
"Yes. You know some strange things have happened since Barnes died. Your full honesty is not only appreciated, but necessary. I'm not judging; I just need to know what you've seen."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 02, 2016, 05:55:38 PM
"I don't think our prisoner is human.  I've seen Barnes feed him live rats."

"Same here.  He scares the hell out of me, but Barnes always said we couldn't kill him, and we couldn't let him go.  Never understood why.  Said we'd need him when the End Times came."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 02, 2016, 07:36:56 PM
"End times." *sighs* "Why am I not surprised?

What did you see or hear of the attack that took Barnes' life? Did you hear the noise out from the distance in the forest ten minutes ago?"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 02, 2016, 07:37:49 PM
Elizabeth is attempting to gauge how open these men might be to magic/the ritual:

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 13 + 10, total 23
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 03, 2016, 12:57:51 AM
They know about as much of Barnes' death as you, and are highly suspicious it happened the way it did.  They seem terrified of magic, but would be open to the ritual to gain revenge for the old sheriff. They did hear the roar.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 03, 2016, 09:53:28 AM
"Before I met Barnes, while studying natural science, I learned about what you might call 'magic'. It's not so much of sorcery as you might think in fairy tales, but more of a deeper understanding of how the world actually works. It's something I feel I could spend my entire life studying and never fully understand; rather, I'd still barely understand it. Barnes knew far more than me, but he and I were on the same page about these issues.

I went with the other two constables to where that monster was that attacked Barnes and I saw it. It is monstrously huge, and I do not think all of the men and muskets in this town could kill it, or if we could, it would come at a prohibitively high cost. I do know a bit of banishing such creatures back to the realm where they came, but I need two other people for the ritual, and it cannot be interrupted. The ritual will bring the creature here, but physically bind it. I'd like the other two constables to guard us while we do this, to make sure that we do not stop. Are you willing and able to help? You need to be able to maintain your focus no matter what you see, knowing that this should save a great many lives."


Bhu: does it matter who the other two people in the ritual are? My thought was to have them help with the ritual, leaving the other two PCs (who are hopefully more skilled) to guard us.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 05, 2016, 04:56:34 PM
You can use anyone you want, so long as you make sure they know their part.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 05, 2016, 10:47:17 PM
If they agree, I'd say have them help and have the other two PCs stand guard. We should do this out somewhere remote. I'll stress to them that the ritual summons and binds the creature, so they can't cut and run, or it won't stay bound.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 06, 2016, 06:43:39 PM
In that case you just need to wait for the rain to stop so you can build the fire and make the circle.  Are you doing anything but drilling them on the necessaries in the meantime?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 06, 2016, 08:03:16 PM
Drilling them on the important stuff, and probably taking a shift watching the family. If the rain holds up, taking a nap.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 07, 2016, 06:55:30 PM
The rain holds through the night into morning.

At which point an exhausted, terrified young man bursts in gasping for air.  Once you get a shot of rum in him, and he catches his breath he informs you of another murder in the night.  A local apartment was apparently broken into, and several people murdered and partially eaten, with none of their neighbors being the wiser.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 07, 2016, 08:44:42 PM
Elizabeth wipes the sleep out of her eyes and heads over with at least one other person to take a look.

"We may need to get the townsfolk consolidated in bigger groups until we can catch the culprits, but we don't want to start a panic."

She examines the area, both looking for cause of death, and any clues as to how many people there were, what they might have been (if not people), and where they went or came from.

She takes 20 on search, for a total of 36.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 08, 2016, 01:29:16 AM
Sol, what are you doing?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on September 14, 2016, 11:47:04 PM
When it came to Elizabeth, and frankly when it came to Barnes as well, Lionel mostly humored them and their strange beliefs.  But lately the unexplained was right in his face.  The obvious was Eliabeth's strange rat trick, but other things have been weighing on him as well.  He had taken out a notepad and was scribbling things within, muttering something darkly to himself.  So here he was, getting involved with this binding ritual. 

"They don't believe he's human, eh?  That's bad for him.  We execute humans, other things don't get due process." he cursed, muttering something about how Barnes has been too kind to this one.

His mistrust wasn't entirely unfounded.  The next morning, and there were more deaths in this town.  He didn't know how he was doing it, but he was certain that the prisoner was somehow involved.  If he were to believe that magic was a thing, then it opened up the possibility that that man was somehow able to kill outside of his bindings.  It just opened up too many questions, and he admitted this time he couldn't find the answers.

He went to go see Elizabeth.  Fortunately looks like she was also at the murder scene.  Two birds with one stone.

"Liz.  I need to confide in you.  You believe in Barnes occult crap, right?  These murders... what are they?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 15, 2016, 04:36:52 PM
Tracks appear to be pretty similar to those you found at the farm, ditto with the wounds on the corpses.  This time however, the bodies have been partially eaten...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 15, 2016, 09:02:04 PM
"Liz.  I need to confide in you.  You believe in Barnes occult crap, right?  These murders... what are they?"
Bhu, checking what Elizabeth knows with Knowledge(TMWNMTK): 1d20+11
Rolled 1d20+11 : 12 + 11, total 23
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 15, 2016, 11:10:25 PM
Some of the natives used to have stories of cannibal men that weren't men.  They would raid villages under the cover of darkness of really bad weather to hide their kidnappings and feasting.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 16, 2016, 08:34:07 AM
"Liz.  I need to confide in you.  You believe in Barnes occult crap, right?  These murders... what are they?"
"They look like people, but really aren't. They eat humans and attack under cover of darkness, like from sever storms. More attacks are likely, and we should probably get anyone in remote houses to a few central buildings here and get anyone able bodied on guard. I hate to start a panic, but we have two attacks already.

I don't know if they're vulnerable to conventional weapons, but we'll find out."


Elizabeth sets out to rally more guards and to get people to the center of town.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 16, 2016, 04:40:45 PM
You could also seek out the local natives but with the Paxton boys committing a massacre a decade or so back there's a lot of hard feelings.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 16, 2016, 06:37:38 PM
How far out are they?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 16, 2016, 11:53:58 PM
The Conestoga are on the other side of the state, the Susquehannock are bitter and dangerous, the Iroquois are at war with the other Indian nations, and the Delaware, Shawnee and Seneca are fleeing into the state.  The Iroquois are widespread right now, and would be easy to find as they trade with white men for guns.  Prolly no more than a few days at most even if you dont know where they are.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 17, 2016, 07:09:26 AM
Right now, the focus is on riding out this storm, and keeping the townsfolk safe. Elizabeth wants constables and conscripts to travel in twos to the more remote houses, to bring them more centralized buildings in town. Once the people aren't scattered in remote houses, she wants pairs of people to keep watch near the perimeter. We don't need our guards being the next victims.  ;)

Is there a bell or anything that is rung in times of emergencies?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 18, 2016, 05:17:36 PM
The town church has one yes
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 18, 2016, 10:05:32 PM
Elizabeth will have someone ring the bell. As people gather, she'll give them instructions to get armed, stay in groups of at least two, and to work on getting anyone in remote hoses to central buildings.

She'll warn them about the recent attacks, although she will avoid mentioning "monsters". At this time, she'll say "They may be natives, but don't get trigger happy just because you see a native. Now's not the time for more bloodshed; we need to keep safe."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 19, 2016, 12:18:51 AM
People are rounded up pretty quickly, along with arms and ammo.  Everyone holes up in the church or nearby buildings,  Pretty much everyone is accounted for by evening, at which point a lone rider comes into town.  He looks somewhat confused as no one really comes out to meet him, and the place looks like a ghost town.  It obviously makes him nervous as he draws a pistol.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 20, 2016, 09:54:23 PM
What time of day is it, is the storm gone, and how's the visibility?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 21, 2016, 12:10:12 AM
The sky is cloudy and its twilight, meaning once dark hits there'll be no visibility beyond torchlight.

"Hello?  Is anyone here?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 25, 2016, 06:41:36 AM
"Yes! Who goes there? From where did you come?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 27, 2016, 06:03:58 PM
"Names Tom Corbin, out of Philadelphia.  I was sent to check on outlying towns.  Washington and the British have clashed at New York some days back, and the city is burning still."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 27, 2016, 09:47:21 PM
"That... doesn't bode well. We're dealing with the aftermath of something here, too. I was considering going to Philadelphia soon before the storm picked up.

I'm Constable Elizabeth Schumacher. Are you familiar with the sheriff from this town?"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 28, 2016, 01:36:58 AM
"Barnes? Aye.  He's the other reason I'm here.  We should have heard news from him by now, as he corresponds with us.  Is he here?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 28, 2016, 07:54:40 PM
"No, he... died last night. We were told to come out your way for help if anything had happened."

Elizabeth makes sure everything is clear and comes outside, approaching Tom.

"Why are you looking for him?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 13 + 10, total 23
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 30, 2016, 01:09:08 AM
"Barnes..was our contact here, him being the Sheriff and all.  He knew the area well."

He ain't fibbin', but you get the impression he's trying to read you too.

"Who was his next in charge?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 01, 2016, 08:51:48 AM
"There are three of us who were in charge under him. I've taken point on securing everyone for the night.

So, what is it you need? Did you run into anything strange on your way over here?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 02, 2016, 05:40:38 PM
"Only unusual in that there's no one on the road between here and Philadelphia, and I've passed many an empty or gutted farm on the way here.  I'd assumed the British might be on the move, but now I'm not so sure.  What exactly happened here?  Indians?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 03, 2016, 08:53:50 PM
"...Sort of. They're not from any of the nearby tribes. I'm not sure they're even...

They seem to attack under cover of darkness when there's chaos and confusion. While I tend to take legends and tales with a grain of salt, these attacks bear a striking resemblance to some tales I've heard. After the second attack last night, I had everyone go out in pairs getting everyone from remote buildings into town."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 04, 2016, 06:29:05 PM
"So it's spread this far already...you were right to bring everyone in.  You and I might need to have a private chat depending on how you answer the following: Is the prisoner still locked away?  I'm pretty sure you know which one I mean too."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 04, 2016, 08:51:42 PM
"No. The other two in charge and myself left early in the evening to investigate Barnes' murder, before the attacks started last night. We put our best men in charge of him with explicit instructions not to let him out or let any living thing into his cell. While we were out, he got away.

That being said, yes, I agree about the chat in private. I have a space we can use."


Elizabeth checks with her comrades to see if they want to be included or keep an eye on things here. She makes sure the other guards have the general order and peace under control. She's not planning on keeping the citizens all locked down at this point in the day, but everyone is strongly advised not to venture off without at least one other person with them. She wants the militia to stay together a bit longer until the outer buildings have been cleared.

To Tom, as they head to Elizabeth's place: "So... I'm assuming you have a bit of an idea about what is attacking? I don't fully understand the cause of it, but I know far more than most anyone in this town."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on October 04, 2016, 09:21:49 PM
Leon seemed somewhat relieved by Elizabeth's explaination of their opponent.  Cannibals.  Lunatics.  Murders.  Now this... this was something he understood.

"Well when you put it tha' way, it doesn't sound too bad."

Idly he wondered if their prisoner was one of them.  The way he seemed eager for random uncooked flesh was just the kind of debased madness he'd expect from a cannibal.  Right now, Liz had a good idea and he was going to follow through with it.  Bells were rung, people were rounded up, guards were at the ready.  And Leon was off helping.  It was his turn off the watch and he used it to sharpen and fiddle with his various tools, when there was word of an outsider approaching.  By the time he gets there this new person, one Tom Corbin, was talking to Elizabeth.

"What do you know about our prisoner?" he said, stepping in just in time to hear Tom mention if the prisoner was still locked away.  "And who might you be?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 05, 2016, 08:50:41 PM
"Yes, the prisoner is locked up. The men watching him have been given explicit instructions not to let anything living pass into his... circle.

Also, yes: as Leon asked, what do you know of him?"



Elizabeth checks with her comrades to see if they want to be included or keep an eye on things here. She makes sure the other guards have the general order and peace under control. She's not planning on keeping the citizens all locked down at this point in the day, but everyone is strongly advised not to venture off without at least one other person with them. She wants the militia to stay together a bit longer until the outer buildings have been cleared.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 06, 2016, 04:42:39 PM
"I know there are a great many people who think he's the Devil himself, and they may not be too far wrong.  Are there plans to defend both him and the townsfolk?  We cannot afford to let him loose."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 06, 2016, 09:11:49 PM
"We're still working on that. The... thing that attacked Barnes went to an old farm a ways out from here, last night. I saw it, but didn't dare attack it. I might have a way to get rid of it...

I doubt that man is the devil. I don't believe in the devil, although I'm sure he knows far more than he lets on."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 06, 2016, 11:55:05 PM
He leans close to whisper "He is far less human than he appears..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 08, 2016, 08:41:10 AM
Quietly back:

"That doesn't surprise me. I didn't construct the circle he's in, but I understand the gist of it. He keeps trying to get us to feed him live animals, which I think is a trick to break it.

Do you know where he came from or how Barnes got him?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 08, 2016, 05:14:49 PM
"Yes, but I'm not going to talk about that where there may be ears listening."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 09, 2016, 07:00:02 AM
Elizabeth suggests going to her house and checks to see if Leon wants to come.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on October 12, 2016, 08:28:23 PM
He nods sagely.  "Agreed, let's be on our way."  He wondered about Elizabeth's theory here, that feeding him live animals would lead to his escape.  It was absurd, but... well, he couldn't put anything past this man right now.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 14, 2016, 04:48:51 PM
After giving the other constables directions you get to your house without incident, though dark is beginning to fall.  Feel free to question away.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 15, 2016, 09:27:16 AM
After giving the other constables directions you get to your house without incident, though dark is beginning to fall.  Feel free to question away.
"How did you come to know Barnes? How did you learn about the prisoner? What has been happening in Philadelphia?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 15, 2016, 04:23:01 PM
Before speaking he pulls an odd looking lens set into a monocle and peers at the both of you through it, particularly Elizabeth.

"Barnes has taught you some things,  that might be good.  I know Barnes because he and I had the same teacher, the thing that sets in your cells at this very moment.  The Seal he resides in is designed to block his powers, and he cannot leave it unless it is destroyed, but anything moving inside it is vulnerable.  Philadelphia is under siege by ... things.  Not so obviously under siege that we have to inform the populace just yet, but close.  No ships that leave the sight of land have returned, and we're running low on powder.  The Indians have largely fled into hiding, and outlying farms are gone or left empty."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 15, 2016, 09:27:24 PM
"We were attacked by some colossal beast, which killed Barnes. I tracked it to a farm a ways from here, and managed to get a look at it and collect a sample of its ichor. I was hoping to banish it, but I am not sure I am strong enough. I fear we would not survive a fire fight with it.

After that, we were attacked by human-looking beasts that eat people and attack under cover of darkness in the storm. Two families were attacked, so I had everyone from outlying buildings brought into town, and had no one travel alone. That all happened last night."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 16, 2016, 05:40:20 PM
"That presents a problem.  We need to quickly rid ourselves of both, before either of them frees the prisoner accidentaly."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 17, 2016, 08:08:41 PM
"Do you feel the banishing is prudent? I have to others to help me with it, but I need some people to help keep watch. Is this something you could aid in?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 17, 2016, 11:13:59 PM
"It is, but the fire required will mean we need to do it outside, which leaves us open to attack if unguarded.  And if we are guarded then we need to explai our witchcraft to the people before they burn us."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 20, 2016, 01:22:52 PM
Elizabeth smirks.

"Do you have any other ideas how to confront this thing? Do you want to go see it?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 22, 2016, 01:06:26 AM
"None, and no.  Best we start now and explain when we have to."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 23, 2016, 01:44:26 PM
Elizabeth suggests working with their new companion and the doctor. Lionel can gather some constables to help keep guard.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on October 24, 2016, 09:54:43 AM
"I still don't see why we can't stab the things until they stop moving." Lionel muttered to himself, taking a drink from a canteen.  "I'd say we take out those cannibals first.  Small.  Human.  Been more recently active.  The other thing sounds little more than a wild beast to me."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 24, 2016, 09:23:40 PM
"My hope is the big one can be disposed of in an hour, and then we have time to track the others. I guess I don't know how long either of them will stay where they are..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 29, 2016, 04:58:41 PM
Do you have the mineral powder for the spell?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 30, 2016, 10:46:03 PM
Do you have the mineral powder for the spell?
Yes. It's listed as "herbs/minerals".
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 31, 2016, 06:21:02 PM
Okay you set up and begin the rituaal, and believe it or not it's successful as an image of the injured beast appears.

And it is truly awful.  Far worse than you were able to make out when it was in the darkness of the barn.

Willpwoer saves plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 31, 2016, 08:52:44 PM
Will = 1d20+3

Rolled 1d20+3 : 4 + 3, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on October 31, 2016, 08:58:55 PM
Lionel watched the others form their little magical deal here.  He was paying more attention than normal, muttering to himself, and scribbling something in his notepad.  In truth he was writing this all down, even the seals being drawn.  He wanted to compare him to his Uncle's research.  If this worked, then his Uncle was less mad than he assumed.  And that was dreadful.

And then it happened.  A foul miasma rose, and images began to flicker in front of him.

"What.... what is that?"

Will:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 4 + 1, total 5
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 31, 2016, 09:55:47 PM
Rolled 1d10 : 7, total 7
  You both lose this much San, now all you have to do is not break the circle.  At which point you hear gunfire from the direction of teh church.  You know if you leave the circle the creature will manifest physically, but you also know the entire towns firepower with the exception of you is at the church.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 01, 2016, 07:36:23 AM
Elizabeth reiterates: "Do not break the circle, or everyone dies."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 03, 2016, 01:49:05 AM
It eventually fades from view and everyone gains 10 San.   Also everyone participating takes 1 point of ability damage of their choosing, and Robby lost a certain amount of san/hum depending on his ranks in the spell.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 04, 2016, 09:08:01 PM
Elizabeth has two ranks in Banish.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 04, 2016, 10:43:09 PM
1 point each, which you'll gain back banishing the critter.

You guys charging headlong toward the noise or being sneaky?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 05, 2016, 08:29:55 AM
1 point each, which you'll gain back banishing the critter.
Is it banished already? I thought we just gained back Sanity and not Humanity.


You guys charging headlong toward the noise or being sneaky?
If the banishing is complete, I'd run up until we start getting close, then slow down as we near it. Gun drawn, of course.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 05, 2016, 04:47:06 PM
1 point each, which you'll gain back banishing the critter.
Is it banished already? I thought we just gained back Sanity and not Humanity.


You guys charging headlong toward the noise or being sneaky?
If the banishing is complete, I'd run up until we start getting close, then slow down as we near it. Gun drawn, of course.

Nothing happened during the wait period, so I fast forwarded.  You do regain Hum for defeating some critters too.

spot and listen rolls plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 05, 2016, 08:49:36 PM
Listen -> 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 18 + 1, total 19


Spot -> 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 6 + 1, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on November 15, 2016, 07:29:39 AM
It's probably a good thing that Elizabeth warned him not to depart, for the gruff enforcer was about to stand himself up and interrupt.  Though perhaps he was looking too hard, too engrossed in this... thing before him.  What the hell was that?  Was it really their opponent?  It made his eyes hurt for some reason, and he pulled his hat over his face grunting.  The pressure faded, and soon he felt better.   His eyes burned red with fatigue.   1 Charisma damage.

"That... whatever that was.  Is it done?"

Wait, what's that sound?

Listen:
Rolled 1d20+6 : 18 + 6, total 24


Spot:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 16 + 1, total 17
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 15, 2016, 04:56:29 PM
Something is pretty stealthy, but you both gradually realize someone or someones is following you back to the church and trying to remain out of sight.  You are currently about halfway there, and just outside a house.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 15, 2016, 10:02:21 PM
Elizabeth turns, with her pistol: "Show yourself! Slowly..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 17, 2016, 12:15:24 AM
You can see dim man-like shapes sneaking through the forest.  You aren't certain but you may be outnumbered.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 17, 2016, 09:26:21 PM
How far are they from us? How far out are we from town?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 18, 2016, 04:56:00 PM
You're on the outskirts of town, rounding your way around to the Church (which is also on the outskirts).  There's about 50 ft of open space between the housing you're near, and the forest where the bad guys are.  They'er using the trees as cover.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 19, 2016, 08:43:38 AM
"Run!"

Elizabeth makes a break for the buildings to get out from the trees, where they might get attacked. Are there any civilians around?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 19, 2016, 03:47:28 PM
no, everyones at the church
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 19, 2016, 10:45:36 PM
I'd say get to the church, if it looks like we can make it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 20, 2016, 01:56:46 AM
depends on how quick your assailants are and if they have friends ahead waiting to cut you off.  you can still hear sporadic gunfire from the church
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 20, 2016, 08:09:12 AM
"Get to the church!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 20, 2016, 02:39:07 PM
more spot/listen rolz plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 21, 2016, 03:35:31 PM
Spot = d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 17 + 1, total 18


Listen = d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 28, 2016, 11:25:44 PM
Sol?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on December 02, 2016, 07:30:08 PM
Listen:
Rolled 1d20+6 : 12 + 6, total 18


Spot:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 8 + 1, total 9


Leon was quick on his feet, grabbing his weapons as he took off after Elizabeth.  "It's the cannibals, isn't it?  Let me fight them, I'll take them down.  But how many of them are there?  Maybe we can lead them into a death trap..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 02, 2016, 08:04:46 PM
Your sharp senses and quick thinking prevent them from cutting you off, though now you have a second much closer group giving chase.  Upon seeing the church you see piles of dead bodies, mostly cannibals.  Initially they appear human, but getting closer you realize that only seems that way from a distance.  They are pale, hairless, greasy, foul smelling humanoids.  They have no obvious eyes with cracked teeth, complex ears, and crude weaponry.  None are wearing clothing.

Fortitude and Will saves plz.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on December 02, 2016, 09:01:48 PM
Fort
Rolled 1d20+4 : 16 + 4, total 20


Will
Rolled 1d20+1 : 6 + 1, total 7


"What th...

I thought these things were supposed to be human dregs.  What's... what's wrong with their faces..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 05, 2016, 04:42:32 PM
Their Stench is Overwhelming, but you manage to fight past it.  And lose
Rolled 1d6 : 5, total 5
San.

Need saves from Robby
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 05, 2016, 08:52:53 PM
Fort ->1d20+3
Rolled 1d20+3 : 13 + 3, total 16


Will ->1d20+3
Rolled 1d20+3 : 12 + 3, total 15


(Sorry. I missed the two posts on the previous page and didn't realize I was holding it up.)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 05, 2016, 09:00:26 PM
You manage to shrug off both stench and fear.

Roll initiative gentlemen

crittter init
Rolled 1d20-1 : 14 - 1, total 13
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 05, 2016, 10:40:20 PM
Initiative = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 7 + 1, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on December 12, 2016, 08:20:22 PM
Lionel had a terrible feeling.  The smell was overwhelming, but his other senses still felt like someone was watching him.  His hands instinctively gripped his gun and axe alike, crouching down.

"Who's there!?"

Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Time for initiative!
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 13, 2016, 12:58:32 AM
NPC init
Rolled 1d20+2 : 15 + 2, total 17


Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 13, 2016, 01:02:55 AM
Round 1

17 Philly Constable whose name I have somehow forgotten
16 Sol, Guard 1, Guard 2
13 Critters 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
8 Robby

Constable opens fire while drawing hatchet
Rolled 1d20+4 : 4 + 4, total 8

dmg if necessary
Rolled 2d8 : 8, 1, total 9


Guards follow suit
Rolled 1d20+2 : 13 + 2, total 15
Rolled 1d20+2 : 14 + 2, total 16

dmg if necessary
Rolled 2d8 : 3, 3, total 6
 
Rolled 2d8 : 2, 1, total 3
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 13, 2016, 01:04:01 AM
The first guard blows out the back of one of their heads, the others miss, Sol you're up
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on December 13, 2016, 05:20:16 AM
A fight has broken out and the gunfire begins, a thunderous chaotic cacophony which briefly lights up the night with the muzzle flashes.  One goes down before he even gets to them, and he quickly draws his gun on another coming into view.

Attack:
Rolled 1d20+4 : 4 + 4, total 8


Damage:
Rolled 2d6 : 3, 5, total 8


Discharging his handgun packs a powerful punch, but it sounds like that's a good many of these... things.  (How many actually?)  He'll grip his axe in his other hand ready to swing it at the nearest punk who gets too close.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 13, 2016, 09:14:15 PM
the filthy subhumanoids attack
Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6
on the philly guy
Rolled 1d20+1 : 10 + 1, total 11
on sol
Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21
on G1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 11 + 1, total 12
on G2
Rolled 1d20+1 : 3 + 1, total 4
on Robby

either of you hit?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 13, 2016, 09:15:18 PM
rolling crit for sol
Rolled 1d20+1 : 13 + 1, total 14
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 14, 2016, 01:38:41 PM
I don't think Elizabeth was targeted.

Elizabeth shoots the closest one:

Attack = 1d20+3 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+3 : 1 + 3, total 4


Damage = 2d6 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 4, 1, total 5


She then reloads as a move action.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 14, 2016, 01:39:50 PM
(Just realized "on Robby" meant I was targeted. That was a miss.)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 14, 2016, 04:16:40 PM
Sol does a 14 confirm a crit on you?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on December 16, 2016, 07:44:22 AM
Not today you don't (defense 18)!  Assault from ahead, he moves his axe up in defense.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 16, 2016, 08:40:56 PM
then you are clubbed for a normal
Rolled 1d6 : 1, total 1


Robby is up
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 16, 2016, 09:18:38 PM
Elizabeth attempts Exploit Weakness (DC 15) against the nearest target:
Rolled 1d20+7 : 2 + 7, total 9
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 16, 2016, 09:20:04 PM
Having failed, she shoots at it, again:
(+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+3 : 8 + 3, total 11


(+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 5, 5, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 17, 2016, 12:17:33 AM
It's right on top of you (it missed you narrowly with a club).  The gun will provoke an aoo tho (unless you wanna switch to melee (though I will let you know that shot damn near puts it down).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 17, 2016, 07:48:15 AM
I forgot to mention a five-foot step. If there's space, she'll do that first. If not, she'll fire point-blank, because she is not very good at melee. That, and she'd have to draw a knife, or pistol-whip it with a very fancy pistol.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 17, 2016, 03:55:06 PM
Round 2

17 Philly Constable whose name I have somehow forgotten
16 Sol, Guard 1, Guard 2
13 Critters 1, 2, 3 (dead), 4, 5 (down 10)
8 Robby

Constable aims his hatchet
Rolled 1d20+1 : 4 + 1, total 5


Guards do same
Rolled 1d20+1 : 4 + 1, total 5
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 17, 2016, 03:55:33 PM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6
forgot guard 2
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 17, 2016, 03:56:02 PM
well that sucked the big one...

Sol you're up
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on December 30, 2016, 05:15:05 PM
That miserable aberrant actually struck him, but the damage was glancing.  The sting of impact was ignored as he pushed his attacker off with his boot and tossed aside his firearm in favor for a firm grip on his axe.

"DIE!"

Attack
Rolled 1d20+6 : 12 + 6, total 18


Damage
Rolled 1d8+5 : 1 + 5, total 6


The best way to deal with monsters... is to be the bigger monster.  Lionel would have no mercy for these subhumans.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 30, 2016, 06:42:17 PM
the critters go for it again

on the constable
Rolled 1d20+1 : 9 + 1, total 10


on Sol
Rolled 1d20+1 : 19 + 1, total 20


on guard 2
Rolled 1d20+1 : 4 + 1, total 5


on Robby
Rolled 1d20+1 : 3 + 1, total 4
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 30, 2016, 06:43:23 PM
Sol is hit for
Rolled 1d6 : 6, total 6



Robby is up
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 02, 2017, 08:41:59 PM
Elizabeth takes a five-foot step back, reloads, and fires:

(+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+3 : 2 + 3, total 5


(+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 6, 1, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 03, 2017, 01:39:54 AM
Alas you miss

The guards and constable fire up their hatchets again

Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21


Rolled 1d20+1 : 14 + 1, total 15


Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 03, 2017, 01:41:39 AM
critical confirmation for the constable
Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6


damage
Rolled 1d6+1 : 5 + 1, total 6


Rolled 1d6+1 : 6 + 1, total 7


Rolled 1d6+1 : 5 + 1, total 6


Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 03, 2017, 01:44:05 AM
17 Philly Constable whose name I have somehow forgotten
16 Sol, Guard 1, Guard 2
13 Critters 1 (down 6), 2 (down 6), 3 (dead), 4 (down 7), 5 (dead)
8 Robby

The guards accompanying you strike true, felling one of the subhumans.  You notice their blood is black and oily.  Sol is at bat again.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on January 15, 2017, 10:45:06 AM
Leonel spits out a bit of blood at the one who attacked him and swung up the back end of the axe to knock him off his balance. 

"Get the... hell... off me!!!"

He pushed forward relentlessly and brought the axe down hard in an overhead swing.

Rolled 1d20+6 : 7 + 6, total 13


Rolled 1d8+5 : 7 + 5, total 12
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 15, 2017, 06:21:55 PM
The remaining critters flee as you crush it's skull, robby you get AoO.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 16, 2017, 12:20:17 PM
The remaining critters flee as you crush it's skull, robby you get AoO.
With a ranged weapon? Elizabeth didn't have a melee weapon out.

If so, here are the rolls:

Attack = 1d20+3 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+3 : 9 + 3, total 12


Damage = 2d6 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 5, 3, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 16, 2017, 07:28:24 PM
Your shot just barely misses.  Are you guys pursuing into the woods or heading for the town church?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 17, 2017, 08:56:07 AM
My vote is for the church, at this time.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 17, 2017, 07:43:23 PM
Sol?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 24, 2017, 09:06:28 PM
I'll assume he tags along.  The church scene is grim.  Dead things and people are scattered about, and while it looks like the towns folk won, they paid a bit of a cost for it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 25, 2017, 11:11:05 PM
"If they retreated from here and from us, I'm hoping they're weakened. Is anyone strong enough to come with us? We still need to keep some guards here in town."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 26, 2017, 02:00:50 AM
there are volunteers but they seem more willing than able.  Most are shaking like leaves in a whirlwind, old, injured or have no combat experience.  How many do you want?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 27, 2017, 02:50:01 PM
It might be best for them to stay. Lets see if the core group can track those that fled. Depending on how things go, I might shapeshift to get a better look later on.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 27, 2017, 07:35:37 PM
The core group of youu guys and the three constables are injured as well, and you have no idea how many of those things are out there
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 28, 2017, 09:10:08 AM
Perhaps it's best to patch the wounded. Elizabeth can attempt Aid Another on a Heal check, but she's not very skilled at healing.

If needed: Heal = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 28, 2017, 05:39:52 PM
You patch up a couple people who might've bled out otherwise.  The sight of you helping and the extra constables restoring order seems to have helped calm people.  They seem more determined now.  Your volunteers are no longer shaky, just not hugely experienced.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 31, 2017, 09:20:58 AM
For the time being, I want to track them and see where they are. I don't want to jump into combat. I may do some scouting on my own, depending on what we find. Can anyone track?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 31, 2017, 07:16:10 PM
It's the 1700's, most men capable of hunting  do so, at least occasionally.  Volunteers are found.  What direction are you headed in?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 01, 2017, 09:18:03 AM
The way the creatures ran, starting at the location of our skirmish, following any tracks.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 02, 2017, 11:45:36 PM
survival rolls plz, will take more time than usual with it being night and all
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 03, 2017, 09:19:53 PM
survival rolls plz, will take more time than usual with it being night and all
Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 04, 2017, 06:49:52 PM
Thats good enough no one else needs to roll.

They're headed inlands towards teh mountain ranges.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 06, 2017, 08:04:30 AM
I suggest heading out at day, so we don't have to camp in the open. If we see signs we're getting close, Elizabeth will go ahead (so the volunteers don't see), and turn into a hawk.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 06, 2017, 07:18:12 PM
Ut'll be some travel to follow.  Are you waiting for day, and if so where are you staying?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 06, 2017, 08:30:32 PM
It doesn't have to be late morning. I just want a chance to rest in town before heading out. Anywhere works to sleep. It might be a good idea to keep people in a few central buildings, with people taking watch.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 07, 2017, 12:04:37 AM
You guys sending guards back to the jail?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 07, 2017, 10:52:25 AM
Yeah, and we should check in it before we leave.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 07, 2017, 08:32:45 PM
The door has been torn of the hinges or broken in.  There are more of those things dead in the prisoners cell, and he has a wound.  The blood trails from the bodies looke like they begin within the circle.

"looks like you fellows have some problems."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 08, 2017, 07:36:45 AM
Knowledge (TMWNMTK) -> d20+11

Rolled 1d20+11 : 20 + 11, total 31


Was the magic of the circle broken?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 08, 2017, 04:28:38 PM
Your gues is yes, and whatever he did blew them open and pushed them back out, cause he's covered in the black blood too.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 08, 2017, 09:14:36 PM
I guess what I meant is, is it still broken?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 08, 2017, 11:42:00 PM
Your pretty sure it's not, but there's always a chance it's been weakened.  He might bear close watching.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 09, 2017, 03:44:05 PM
Elizabeth asks him how many came.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 09, 2017, 07:51:28 PM
"Not many more than what you see here.  Their deaths discouraged the others, and were they not starving I doubt those two would have tried.  Savages they may be, but they recognize the truth of things."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 10, 2017, 03:02:44 PM
"Do they see things we don't?

Elizabeth orders two guards at all times watching the cells, and no one crosses that circle.

OOC: what do the wounds look like in the creatures? How hurt is the prisoner?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 10, 2017, 05:39:44 PM
"That's...a difficult question.  You see the same things they do, it's just that their species hasn't evolved a psychic block that edits out truths they don't find comfortable."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 11, 2017, 08:36:47 AM
OOC: what do the wounds look like in the creatures? How hurt is the prisoner?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 11, 2017, 04:27:34 PM
soory  :blush

Prisoner is unhurt.  The wounds on the things are like nothing you've ever seen.  They're huge, like something the size of a house smashed them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 11, 2017, 08:00:53 PM
Elizabeth makes sure at least two people can guard this place at all times. She'll leave volunteers behind if she has to. She makes sure they know never to cross that circle or allow anything living through it for any reason.

With that, she make sure she has some food and water and basic travel supplies, and makes sure the men are all ready to go.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 11, 2017, 08:07:27 PM
all is ready, and you head back out to where you last saw the tracks.  Survival rolls plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 13, 2017, 09:26:55 AM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 10 + 1, total 11
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 13, 2017, 09:01:08 PM
Nuthin'

Sol you're up
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 16, 2017, 02:49:52 AM
rollin for sol amd the hunters

Rolled 1d20+3 : 10 + 3, total 13


Rolled 1d20+4 : 9 + 4, total 13


Rolled 1d20+2 : 12 + 2, total 14


Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 16, 2017, 02:50:44 AM
You all manage to come up short.  You heading in the last known direction of the tracks?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 16, 2017, 08:57:04 AM
Yes, and try again in a more clear spot.

Survival:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 13 + 1, total 14
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 16, 2017, 05:18:38 PM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 8 + 1, total 9

Rolled 1d20+2 : 4 + 2, total 6

Rolled 1d20+3 : 19 + 3, total 22

Rolled 1d20+4 : 16 + 4, total 20
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 16, 2017, 05:19:21 PM
Okay two of the hunters pick up the trail of something barefoot, and you're off.

Spot listn rolls pz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 16, 2017, 09:39:22 PM
Spot
Rolled 1d20+1 : 7 + 1, total 8


Listen
Rolled 1d20+1 : 14 + 1, total 15
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 17, 2017, 01:46:19 AM
You manage to hear a sound, right before a primitive spear bounces off a tree next to you.

nishutive time!

hunters:
Rolled 1d20+2 : 9 + 2, total 11

Rolled 1d20+2 : 3 + 2, total 5

Rolled 1d20+2 : 13 + 2, total 15


bad guys:
Rolled 1d20-1 : 11 - 1, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 17, 2017, 09:53:43 AM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 17, 2017, 09:57:18 AM
I'm assuming Elizabeth goes first. She draws her pistol and shoots the closest guy.

Attack = 1d20+3 (+1 of within 30')
Rolled 1d20+3 : 3 + 3, total 6


Damage = 2d6 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 3, 1, total 4
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2017, 05:23:43 PM
rollin for sol (I think we lost him)
Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2017, 05:29:20 PM
Round 1

!6: Sol, Robby
15: Hunter 1
11: Hunter 2
10: Bad guys 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
5: Hunter 3

Robby your shot goes wide. 

Sol
Rolled 1d20+4 : 3 + 4, total 7
Rolled 2d6 : 6, 3, total 9

Hunter 1
Rolled 1d20+2 : 19 + 2, total 21
Rolled 2d8 : 4, 8, total 12

Hunter 2
Rolled 1d20+2 : 16 + 2, total 18
Rolled 2d8 : 6, 8, total 14
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2017, 05:33:13 PM
Sol's shot goes wide as well
Hunter 1 nearly drops one, Hunter 2 kills his outright

bad guys
Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21
Rolled 1d6 : 3, total 3

Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Rolled 1d6 : 4, total 4

Rolled 1d20+1 : 6 + 1, total 7
Rolled 1d6 : 1, total 1

Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21
Rolled 1d6 : 1, total 1

Rolled 1d20+1 : 14 + 1, total 15
Rolled 1d6 : 4, total 4

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2017, 05:35:32 PM
critical confirmation rolls
Rolled 1d20+1 : 13 + 1, total 14

Rolled 1d20+1 : 7 + 1, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2017, 05:39:58 PM
Robby you take 6 points
Sol takes 4 points
Hunter 2 takes nothing I shouldnt have rolled for the dead guy  :blush
Hunter 3 takes 4 and returns fire

Rolled 1d20+2 : 18 + 2, total 20
[2d8]
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2017, 05:40:15 PM
Rolled 2d8 : 7, 5, total 12
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2017, 05:42:25 PM
Round 2

!6: Sol (down 4), Robby (down 6)
15: Hunter 1
11: Hunter 2
10: Bad guys 1, 2, 3 (down 12), 4 (dead), 5 (down 12)
5: Hunter 3 (down 4)

Robby you're up.  They're still at range flinging spears
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 19, 2017, 07:21:38 AM
Are we surrounded, or could I be taking cover behind trees?

Status:
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 20, 2017, 01:54:40 AM
This appears to be a small group.  There are trees you can hide behind
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 20, 2017, 12:32:44 PM
Move action to take cover, and another to reload.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 20, 2017, 06:09:30 PM
Sol yer up, you fired last round
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on February 21, 2017, 04:51:58 PM
The last few hours was a pain fueled blur.  He had gotten injured in the last fight, and he took care of it with his trusty alcohol based medication he kept in his flask.  It kept him buzzed, but somewhere along the way he lost a few hours.  Or days.  He wasn't sure anymore.  All he knew now is that his gun is in his hand and he needed to reload.  As much as he would love to take the fight to melee, the rain of attacks would prove bad for his health.

He follows the lead, taking cover and reloading.  "Come on, get in there!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 21, 2017, 08:06:02 PM
the hunters reload, and the two uninjured bad guys fling spears once more

Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21

Rolled 1d6 : 1, total 1


Rolled 1d20+1 : 16 + 1, total 17

Rolled 1d6 : 4, total 4
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 21, 2017, 08:09:52 PM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 19 + 1, total 20

Rolled 1d6 : 3, total 3
  critical confirmation
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 21, 2017, 08:11:39 PM
Round 3

!6: Sol (down 4), Robby (down 6)
15: Hunter 1 (down 4)
11: Hunter 2 (down 4)
10: Bad guys 1, 2, 3 (down 12), 4 (dead), 5 (down 12)
5: Hunter 3 (down 4)

Hunters 1 and 2 are injured as 3 reloads.  Robby is up;
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 22, 2017, 08:07:23 AM
Elizabeth studies the closest uninsured bad guy (DC 15, use Int for attacks if successful).

Rolled 1d20+7 : 11 + 7, total 18
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 22, 2017, 08:10:21 AM
(The above was a move action)

Having succeeded in analyzing her foe, Elizabeth takes aim and shoots:

Attack (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+6 : 4 + 6, total 10


Damage (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 3, 5, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 23, 2017, 12:39:24 AM
Your shot goes wide

Sol you have a chance still
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on February 25, 2017, 07:30:48 AM
That he does.  He pokes his head out of cover and takes aim for the eyes!

Attack:
Rolled 1d20+4 : 9 + 4, total 13
  Roll high!

Damage:
Rolled 2d6 : 6, 2, total 8
Even higher plz!
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 25, 2017, 03:13:27 PM
Sol drops one as  the hunters open fire as well

Rolled 1d20+2 : 20 + 2, total 22

Rolled 2d8 : 3, 4, total 7


Rolled 1d20+2 : 18 + 2, total 20

Rolled 2d8 : 2, 1, total 3


Rolled 1d20+2 : 10 + 2, total 12

Rolled 2d8 : 2, 5, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 25, 2017, 03:15:20 PM
The hunters drop 2 more, with the other two now at pretty far range.  You guys can reload and fire but there'll be penalties.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 26, 2017, 01:04:11 AM
Can we close the gap and get behind another tree? If so, how far is it?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 26, 2017, 10:05:17 PM
They're about 60 feet away from you, trees are plentiful
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 27, 2017, 07:19:47 AM
Reload and move to a tree 30' away.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 28, 2017, 12:51:26 AM
Sol?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on March 11, 2017, 04:39:52 PM
He also needs to reload and they are getting away.  Because of the short range of his gun and their distance, he'll focus on moving closer, with cover, over anything else.  At worse he'll hit him with his axe.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 11, 2017, 05:09:55 PM
You can both fire, but this is the last shot, so make it count.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 14, 2017, 03:01:07 PM
Shoot at one studied earlier:

1d20+6 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+6 : 20 + 6, total 26


2d6 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 5, 2, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 14, 2017, 03:02:14 PM
Crit confirm:

1d20+6 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+6 : 15 + 6, total 21


2d6 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 3, 6, total 9
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 14, 2017, 11:38:52 PM
You put a hole through his back the size of Rhode Island.

Your turn Sol.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on April 04, 2017, 05:17:45 AM
It's his last shot, make it count!

Attack:
Rolled 1d20+4 : 19 + 4, total 23

You can never see the dice before rolling.  Maybe it's super high.  Maybe it's a nat 1...

Damage:
Rolled 2d6 : 4, 2, total 6


But that won't stop me, or bullets.  Maybe steel could stop the bullets, but not flesh for sure.  Unless it was... eldritch flesh.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 04, 2017, 07:45:36 PM
It doesnt bring him down, but it leaves a nasty wound.  There's a chance he'll bleed out before he gets where he's going.  Assuming he works like people.

What do you do now?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: SolEiji on April 04, 2017, 08:17:16 PM
He's out of our range and on the run, correct?  But he's leaving a blood red trail in his wake.

Do we have backup?  Dogs?  We'll track and chase the bastard down, the good old fashion human way!  Become the implacable pursuer, let his last thoughts be the terror of the chase!
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 05, 2017, 02:50:09 AM
black blood actually, it looks like oil

survival rolls to follow
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 05, 2017, 10:06:28 AM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 9 + 1, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 05, 2017, 05:41:27 PM
ouch, sol gimme a survival roll
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 13, 2017, 05:57:21 PM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 17 + 1, total 18
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 13, 2017, 05:58:23 PM
The trail runs directly towards the mountains.  He made it about a quarter of a mile before collapse.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 13, 2017, 08:09:12 PM
Did anyone else run with him, or was he alone? Is he moving?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 13, 2017, 08:57:34 PM
He was the last of the things you encountered.  He (?) is not moving, and his body looks almost sort of deflated.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 14, 2017, 02:44:34 PM
"Gross./font]

Elizabeth approaches, cautiously, with her gun drawn.

Spot, to look for any movement (him or anything else):
Rolled 1d20+1 : 9 + 1, total 10


If she gets up to him, Search, to look for anything relevant:
Rolled 1d20+17 : 13 + 17, total 30


Knoweldge(TMWNMTK), just to see what she knows about any of this:
Rolled 1d20+11 : 10 + 11, total 21

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 15, 2017, 02:50:51 AM
The scholar Flavius Josephus mentions them in some of his works, referring to them as Troglodytae (ehich you know is no their real name since it just means cave dweller).  They are primitive brutes, widely regarded to have degenerated to being not so far above beasts.  They will kill and eat anything made if flesh, no matter how repulsive, but prefer men when they can get them.  They have a clicking language that reminded earlier scholars of bats.

The body is decomposing rapidly into a black, tar-like substance.  All that is left behind is a primitive warclub.  Even it's bones seem to be dissolving.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 15, 2017, 03:06:38 PM
We should regroup and get back on track, now that they're dead.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 15, 2017, 05:16:35 PM
Perception rolls as you head into the mountains
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 16, 2017, 09:30:36 PM
Spot:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 2 + 1, total 3


Listen:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 11 + 1, total 12
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 29, 2017, 08:48:23 PM
rolling for Sol
listen
Rolled 1d20+6 : 11 + 6, total 17


spot
Rolled 1d20+1 : 7 + 1, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 29, 2017, 08:49:09 PM
Mr. Whitechapel raises a hand as you near the foot of the mountains and whispers "We are not alone."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 30, 2017, 01:01:12 PM
Elizabeth readies her pistol.

"Can you see anything?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 30, 2017, 08:56:05 PM
"No, but I can hear them.  To our left."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 01, 2017, 10:14:06 AM
Elizabeth gets behind a tree.

"Lets take cover."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 01, 2017, 09:41:09 PM
Hide rolls plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 02, 2017, 08:35:10 AM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 9 + 1, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 17, 2017, 08:23:58 PM
sol
Rolled 1d20+5 : 1 + 5, total 6


2 constables
Rolled 1d20+4 : 10 + 4, total 14


3 hunters
Rolled 1d20+3 : 19 + 3, total 22
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 17, 2017, 08:29:07 PM
omfg

You're all hiding behind trees when an unfortunate wind reveals Sol's PC.  Thee subhumans emerge from a cave nearby and charge him screaming all the way.  That screaming is joined by many other screams from across the mountain.  You have 2 rounds until they reach Mr. Whitechapel
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 18, 2017, 09:24:43 AM
We should probably kill these three, move away, and hide our asses.

Init, if needed:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 2 + 1, total 3


Elizabeth studies one as a move action. If she makes a DC 15 check, she adds Int to hit instead of Dex:
Rolled 1d20+7 : 1 + 7, total 8


Attack. Add +3 to this result if the above check is at least 15:
Rolled 1d20+3 : 9 + 3, total 12


Damage, if needed:
Rolled 2d6 : 1, 4, total 5
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 24, 2017, 09:23:00 PM
Whitechapel and the others open fire

Rolled 1d20+4 : 10 + 4, total 14


Rolled 1d20+2 : 11 + 2, total 13


Rolled 1d20+2 : 4 + 2, total 6


Rolled 1d20+2 : 4 + 2, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 24, 2017, 09:23:55 PM
2 hits
Rolled 2d8 : 5, 1, total 6


Rolled 2d8 : 6, 2, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 24, 2017, 09:26:12 PM
1 monster is dead, one is horribly wounded, 1 more round till they reach sol
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 25, 2017, 07:53:19 AM
Reload and fire

Attack:
Rolled 1d20+3 : 20 + 3, total 23


Damage:
Rolled 2d6 : 4, 1, total 5
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 25, 2017, 07:54:42 AM
Looks like a possible crit...

Confirm:
Rolled 1d20+3 : 11 + 3, total 14


Extra damage:
Rolled 2d6 : 1, 5, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 27, 2017, 05:45:28 PM
which one you aiming at?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 30, 2017, 08:08:08 AM
Closest one to us.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 31, 2017, 09:21:00 PM
Theyre both about the same, one is badly wounded, one is untouched
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 01, 2017, 08:07:49 AM
Shoot the wounded one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 01, 2017, 06:01:37 PM
It pretty much explodes.

Sol grabs his hatchet while the hunters reload.

We'll say you go first on this round.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 02, 2017, 08:13:36 AM
At this point, it will be reload and shoot, again, targeting the closest not in melee.

Attack: (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+3 : 14 + 3, total 17


Damage: (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 1, 4, total 5
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 02, 2017, 07:03:17 PM
thers only one left and he'll be in melee with sol
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 02, 2017, 11:44:15 PM
Elizabeth has -4 to hit, then. She will take a five-foot step closer, so long as it doesn't put her in melee. She wants to get within 30 feet, if not, already.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 03, 2017, 08:28:41 PM
It still hits, catching it squarely in the shoulder.  Sol swings
Rolled 1d20+6 : 10 + 6, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 03, 2017, 08:29:17 PM
sol hits
Rolled 1d8+5 : 5 + 5, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 03, 2017, 08:29:50 PM
And swiftly finishes it.  I imagine you guys are beating feet back to town?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 05, 2017, 08:23:24 AM
I'll tell them to go, and I'll catch up. When they're safely away, I'll turn into a hawk and scout the area. I'll privately let Sol know my plans. He can do what makes the most sense to him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 05, 2017, 06:41:20 PM
We'll assume he heads back to town. 

Where are you heading as a hawk?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 05, 2017, 08:44:37 PM
Flying low, over the trees, looking for a lair and/or info on how many are out here. If there are any clearings, she will fly high enough not to draw attention or be shot.

Spot, if needed:
Rolled 1d20+9 : 9 + 9, total 18
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 05, 2017, 08:57:35 PM
There are dozens of them coming from caves in the mountains.  Not as many as the towns population, but enough to be a serious threat.  You notice there are only adults, no children, and the females (?) fight along with the males.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 05, 2017, 09:49:01 PM
When you say "coming", do you mean "in pursuit of the group" (as near as I can tell)? Do they move at a normal human speed?

Elizabeth flies low toward her companions. If she finds them, and is far enough away from the cave dwellers, she'll land near (but out of site) to her friends, change back, and run and catch up.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 06, 2017, 08:22:43 PM
They are likely headed for their comrades whose screams they answered.  They likely only have a general direction, and are moving at human speed.  But they will catch up if you don't haul ass.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 07, 2017, 07:41:58 AM
She looks for the group, changes back (out of site), and tells them about the large group in pursuit.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 07, 2017, 08:23:26 PM
I imagine you're all headed for safety then?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 07, 2017, 10:34:46 PM
Yes, back to town.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 08, 2017, 12:29:24 AM
gimme a few stealth rolls
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 08, 2017, 08:21:54 AM
A few?

Hide 1:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 2 + 1, total 3


Move Silently 1:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 17 + 1, total 18



Hide 2:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 13 + 1, total 14


Move Silently 2:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 8 + 1, total 9



Hide 3:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21


Move Silently 3:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 13 + 1, total 14
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 08, 2017, 07:45:18 PM
There are some pretty close calls but you make it back without too much trouble.  The cave people shy away from moving too far from the mountians (maybe because it's daylight).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 09, 2017, 09:00:50 AM
How far is it from the cave to the town? How far did they follow us?

Also, how big is the town?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 09, 2017, 05:59:23 PM
Less than a day by horse
The town is only a few hundred people
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 10, 2017, 08:45:03 AM
I don't want to start a panic, but Elizabeth wants to gather any appropriate elders/council and guards, and inform them of the situation.

Since they rely on melee, we could build some crude fortifications designed to break a charge and slow them. We'll need a vigilant guard posted, always in pairs (at least).

Elizabeth will help with work and guarding until the town is in a stable place where she can leave for a bit. She wants to look into the possibility of using explosives to cave in their lair.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 10, 2017, 07:05:44 PM
For explosives you'd need black powder, and that would mean going by horse to Philadelphia. 

Work on the fortifications begins almost immediately.  Over the next few weeks you quickly learn the Troglodytae do not care for bright light as they only venture out on nights, and generally on dark nights with no moon or inclement weather.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 06, 2017, 07:56:28 AM
We should clear as many of the surrounding trees as we can for the lumber, to deny them cover.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 06, 2017, 07:16:51 PM
Weeks pass and you see no news from outside town.  In fact you see no travelers or visitors at all.  The clear cutting is done by day and easily accomplished.  Defensive walls are quickly finished, and the local smiths are working on crossbows to make up for the shortage on guns and powder.  Guards are posted on the farming fields, but the monstrous primitives do not seem to be interested in them.  You suspect they may be purely carnivorous.  What do the two of you wish to do?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 07, 2017, 08:06:42 AM
How is the prisoner faring in all of this?

If the locals are comfortable, I'd suggest the two of us head to Philly if it doesn't take too long to get there.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 07, 2017, 06:00:55 PM
The prisoner seems distracted, as if listening to something only he can hear.  The townsfolk are ok with you going for help, but you mihgt need to spend the night in Philly, as your return journey would put you back in town well after nightfall.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 09, 2017, 12:20:52 AM
One night is fine by me. I'll gather a horse and enough food and water for a couple days.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 09, 2017, 07:25:36 PM
spot/listen rolls from you and sol on the way there.  gimme 3 each
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 10, 2017, 12:41:21 PM
Spot 1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 6 + 1, total 7


Listen 1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 1 + 1, total 2


Spot 2
Rolled 1d20+1 : 7 + 1, total 8


Listen 2
Rolled 1d20+1 : 13 + 1, total 14


Spot 3
Rolled 1d20+1 : 11 + 1, total 12


Listen 3
Rolled 1d20+1 : 1 + 1, total 2

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 27, 2017, 04:17:19 AM
listen
Rolled 1d20+6 : 19 + 6, total 25
 
Rolled 1d20+6 : 13 + 6, total 19
 
Rolled 1d20+6 : 4 + 6, total 10


spot
Rolled 1d20+1 : 14 + 1, total 15
 
Rolled 1d20+1 : 9 + 1, total 10
 
Rolled 1d20+1 : 12 + 1, total 13
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 27, 2017, 04:22:41 AM
There are times you think something is about, but thanks to the sharp ears of your partner you manage to kick th horses into high gear and leave... whatever is out there behind. 

Philadelphia is a worrying sight.  From on high you can see there are few ships in the harbor, and much fortifications being done.  Guards are watching crops in the outlying fields with muskets, and it isn't long down the road before several obviously terrified men wearing some sort of makeshift uniform demand you halt.  They have muskets drawn, and are sweating profusely despite te chill.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 27, 2017, 07:56:33 AM
"We are from the neighboring town, putting up similar defenses. I come to seek news from the East, and to look for provisions. Is there someone I can talk to?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 28, 2017, 03:35:55 AM
Orders are barked down the line and you are told to hold.  Eventually a militiaman of undefined rank approaches. 

"You'll pardon our caution, but how are you alive?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 28, 2017, 07:20:15 PM
"A lot of shooting. Even more running. A fair amount of luck.

Everyone back home is building fortifications. I've come to see if we can get more provisions. We're running low on powder, if nothing else. We found a cave in a mountain housing dozens of these... things. I'm not sure we have a big enough force to take them.

We've mostly been attacked by primitive human-looking cave-dwellers who attack at night. Is that what has been attacking you, or something else? What news is there from the sea? I see it is largely empty."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 01, 2017, 07:40:57 PM
"The sea is lost to us, and I would suggest you avoid it.  We are low on powder as well since trade has apparently been cut off.  Philadelphia is under seige by all manner of things.  You must have God's own luck to have reached us..."

sense motive roll plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 02, 2017, 09:27:42 AM
Sense Motive:
Rolled 1d20+10 : 17 + 10, total 27
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 02, 2017, 10:29:20 PM
you get the feeling he's implying you may be an enemy...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 03, 2017, 10:05:06 AM
Elizabeth hesitates before answering.

"We're on the same side. We survived by knowing when to attack, when to hide, and when to run. We only fought things that look like men who do not use tools, but they tend to attack at night. I saw some monstrous thing the size of a building and just turned back. I'm sure there's some luck involved, but we're not in league with whatever is out there.

What manner of attacks have you suffered?

If your supplies are also low, it's probably best for us to head back and hold down the fort back home."


Does Elizabeth know of any scholars in the city who might know any relevant things?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 03, 2017, 10:24:25 PM
You know the Sheriff had contacts among the constables and city government.


"We have been under siege by all manner of things.  As night is approaching I'm afraid you'll have to stay the night somewhere.  If you leave now you will not make it back.  Do not trust the woods or waters. "
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 04, 2017, 08:10:50 AM
Elizabeth mentions that she worked under Barnes and asks the guard if he knew him. If not, she asks to talk to some of the other constables here.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 05, 2017, 06:12:12 PM
"You're Barnes' deputy?   What happened to him?  We need to contact him about...something."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 05, 2017, 09:53:32 PM
"He died the night all of this started. I've been left in charge. Anything you would have needed to tell him you can tell me. I'm fully aware of the things he knew and was involved in."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 06, 2017, 05:50:42 PM
"I'll have to pass you up the chain for that."

You're taken to a local residence, and after the occupant is woken up, you're introduced to a local constable by the name of Haskins.  Hes looking at you kind of strangely and dismisses the men who brought you (much to their consternation). 

"Can you prove you're Barnes' deputy?  There are ... things he might have shown you that you could use as proof."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 07, 2017, 06:47:31 AM
Assuming Lionel is the only other one around, Elizabeth turns herself into a hawk.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 07, 2017, 08:07:46 PM
The constable was apparently expecting something more subtle and nearly has a fit.

"No more of that please.  News has reached me of Barnes passing.  How fares his prisoner?  Who is watching him?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 13, 2017, 12:48:46 PM
"His mood has changed since the storm. He's watched by several guards who have been instructed not to pass through his circle nor allow any living creature to pass through."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 13, 2017, 08:56:23 PM
"Are these guards...trained?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 13, 2017, 11:45:19 PM
"...No. Not more than to not break the circle or listen to him.

Who or what is he? Barnes never gave me a straight answer."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 15, 2017, 09:32:20 PM
"A...teacher of sorts.   We honestly don't know who he is, or if he's human.  He taught most of us what little we know, but he's far too dangerous to let loose, and we don't know how to kill him.  And things are so bad now we may need what he knows.  If your guards don't have the appropriate knowledge, leaving them alone with him is a serious problem.  You may have nothing to go back to."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 16, 2017, 10:09:44 AM
Elizabeth puts her head down, with her forehead held by her thumb and two forefingers, thinking.

"I fear traveling here was a bad idea. I should probably leave at first daylight, tomorrow. Is there any information you need from me, or any you can think to give me before I leave?

Is the prisoner in any way responsible for what has been happening? Do we know what his motivations are and if he'd want to stop it?

I originally came to get some powder, but it seems you are in as short of supply as we are. We found a cave full of troglodytes that have been attacking us. I was hoping to blow up their entrance, but that may be a lost cause.

Do we know what has caused all of this problem? Perhaps there's some way to reverse it."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 16, 2017, 08:26:03 PM
Elizabeth puts her head down, with her forehead held by her thumb and two forefingers, thinking.

"I fear traveling here was a bad idea. I should probably leave at first daylight, tomorrow. Is there any information you need from me, or any you can think to give me before I leave?

"Trust no one.  Strangers may be one of us in form only."

Quote
Is the prisoner in any way responsible for what has been happening? Do we know what his motivations are and if he'd want to stop it?

"We do not believe he is responsible, and his motivations are unguessable to us.  We do not believe he is human any longer, if he ever was."

Quote
I originally came to get some powder, but it seems you are in as short of supply as we are. We found a cave full of troglodytes that have been attacking us. I was hoping to blow up their entrance, but that may be a lost cause.
  "Give us a description before you leave in the morning, and we'll see what we can do."

Quote
Do we know what has caused all of this problem? Perhaps there's some way to reverse it."[/color][/font][/size]

"That's above my pay grade."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 16, 2017, 10:17:34 PM
Elizabeth gathers what provisions she can, even if it's just a meal for a day, and finds a place to stay. She explains the troglodyte's appearance and habits, as well as the location of their cave. She asks if there's anyone else who needs to see her before she leaves.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 17, 2017, 05:08:00 AM
""Many but we do not have the time now.  Go with speed, and may luck follow you."

couple of perception rolls for trip back
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 17, 2017, 08:06:04 AM
Spot 1:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 3 + 1, total 4


Spot 2:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 1 + 1, total 2


Spot 3:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 12 + 1, total 13



Listen 1:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 16 + 1, total 17


Listen 2:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 16 + 1, total 17


Listen 3:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 6 + 1, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 18, 2017, 08:45:57 PM
Your listen rolls fortunately make up for your spot, and you're able to avoid incident.  Twice something large and unseen crashes through the woods nearby as you hide.  Another time you see the trogs in the distance as night is approaching and you return home. 

Which for whatever reason has big fires going and is lit like the sun.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 19, 2017, 10:28:35 AM
Elizabeth rushes in to check on the status and make sure no buildings are on fire. If everything is "okay", she checks on the prisoner, and which ever poor soul is watching him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 19, 2017, 07:24:21 PM
The townsfolk have apparently figured out the trogs don't care for light, hence the bonfires.  The prisoners guards appear terrified and sweating.  Once you retun they flee, not even bothering to wait till you relieve them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 20, 2017, 07:16:11 AM
Elizabeth does that whole rubbing her forehead with her fingers thing, then slowly advances into the room to inspect the state of the prisoner and his circle.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 22, 2017, 07:10:04 PM
"So you've survived travel into the periphery of the event.  You may be worth something after all."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 23, 2017, 08:22:43 AM
Elizabeth raises an eyebrow, seeing if he continues.

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 19 + 10, total 29
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 23, 2017, 10:45:42 PM
Elizabeth raises an eyebrow, seeing if he continues.

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
(http://minmaxforum.com/Themes/thingamajig/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Rolled 1d20+10 : 19 + 10, total 29

He seems genuine.  "I'm guessing now that you're the new sheriff you have questions."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 24, 2017, 10:58:41 AM
"Yes, and no shortage of them.

Were you the one who trained Barnes? How did you learn what you know? What is currently happening, and what caused it?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 24, 2017, 09:11:41 PM
"I trained Barnes, as I was trained by another.  It is tradition to pass on one's skills as much as it is to compete with them for power and a place among eternity."


"Your last question is...not as easily answered.  Due to the coming wars between countries knowledge which should be exposed to only those with the wisdom to use it has become widespread.  My guess is someone opened a doorway improperly and now we will all pay a price for it.  Worse yet it will attract the attention of things neither of us have much of a chance of putting down again.  The end of your world is upon you madam, and now you will have a choice in which way you wish to die.  For to live will mean sacrifices on your part that you may be unable to make."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 25, 2017, 12:05:51 AM
"What kind of sacrifices? Is there any way to close the door before too much attention is attracted?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 25, 2017, 07:38:01 PM
"The Door has likely already been closed, else you would not be here.  As for your other concern, did Barnes not tell you there is a price to pay for the power he was teaching you?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 26, 2017, 08:10:09 AM
"Yes, in such that I was warned not to delve too deeply. I know the notion of 'sanity' is one from a human perspective.

So, it's a matter of living through and driving back whatever made it through?"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 26, 2017, 08:53:35 PM
"Neither is that simple.  You risk far more than your mind using Their sciences.  The door opened was some distance from here, perhaps in another state and yet I still felt it.  Sending what came through back will be virtually impossible, as you'd need to know what it was and where it came from.  And as it was opened improperly you could have dozens of beings from other worlds, times or realities.  Their destruction is not so easily attained either.  The door may or may not have adapted them to life here, but if they can survive they might not be matter as you understood it.  To your advantage many of them will likely devour one another, leaving only the most potent to deal with."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 28, 2017, 08:45:09 AM
"What else do I risk learning and using their sciences? So, I basically spend the rest of my days as a monster hunter until they're all dead, they go into hiding, or I die?"

Elizabeth mildly smirks: "I suppose being a constable was getting a bit mundane."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 28, 2017, 08:00:01 PM
"That will take forever to tell fully.  The short form version of it is this: most life has evolved to be blind to the truth.  Once that lie is ripped away and an individual learns the truth about the universe, he leaves behind his old life, along with the mental and physical limitations of his species.  He leaves behind whatever makes him one of his species as well.  To be a monster hunter as you call it, you will need to become a monster,  And one day a hunter may come for you.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 29, 2017, 10:27:02 AM
"...Joy. I suppose, given long enough, I'll forget what side I'm on?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 29, 2017, 11:42:39 PM
"You will be on the same side you have always truly been on, you're own.  It's just that your perception of your needs will alter.  You may or may not still identify as human, and you may or may not still defend them.  We all change in different yet similar ways."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 30, 2017, 01:40:17 PM
Flatly, "How do you identify?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 14 + 10, total 24

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 31, 2017, 12:34:26 AM
"With myself."

hhe isnt fibbing
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 31, 2017, 09:15:34 AM
"Thank you. I'll come back to check on you in a bit."

Elizabeth makes sure the prisoner is fed, taking the usual precautions. She then goes to check on each of the guards who kept watch on him, one at a time.


OOC: Aside from a healthy dose of common sense and skepticism, what would be needed for someone to be qualified to watch the prisoner (from Elizabeth's point of view). Does someone need to be trained in any magic to do so, or just simply be made aware of it?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 31, 2017, 08:54:37 PM
Someone with enough knowledge of what he is to not be tricked into letting him out, and maybe with a strong will so they aren't easily intimidated.   Preferably someone with some magical training.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 01, 2017, 08:20:13 AM
Someone with enough knowledge of what he is to not be tricked into letting him out, and maybe with a strong will so they aren't easily intimidated.   Preferably someone with some magical training.
Elizabeth doesn't know anyone in town like that, does she?

She goes to question the guards who watched the prisoner to see what happened when she was gone. Given their reaction, her initial thought is to not use them because they may be weak; however, they may have also been exposed to some of the truth.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 01, 2017, 05:47:59 PM
You know of no one with real knowledge besides you and the former Sheriff.  The guards say the prisoner "did things".  They seem vague, as if they only half remember what happened, but you get the impression the prisoner may have the use of some power within the confines of the circle, and has been using it to spook them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 02, 2017, 09:50:56 AM
Elizabeth isn't sure what to do in terms of finding someone to watch him when she needs to travel. While she's around town, she'll look for people who seem to have their shit together pretty well as potential candidates. She's going to need some lieutenants, at the least.

She goes out to see how the town's been doing with defenses, fires to ward off the troglodytes, and how food stores are doing. Does the town have a sustainable way to grow enough food on its own? Before this all went down, how much did the town do on its own and how much was trade?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 02, 2017, 07:47:48 PM
The town is moderately self sufficient, mostly trading for things it cant make on it's own like shot, powder and rifles.  It has farms, which the Trogs are raiding for who knows what reason.  Game is becoming scarce tho.  Fuel for the fires is also getting harder to gather as wood for the winter will be needed.  Winter may starve the Trogs out as they would not be prepared for it being recent arrivals.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 05, 2017, 08:44:46 AM
We'll have to make sure to store fuel as well as food for the winter. Elizabeth advocates for armed excursions going deeper into the woods to get fuel, if needed. Are there any skilled hunters with bows? If so, Elizabeth wants her teaching anyone capable of firing a musket how to use a bow, and to have bows made for people, as powder becomes more scarce.

How far off is winter?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 05, 2017, 05:34:27 PM
There are plenty of proficient bowhunters thanks to decent relations with natives.  It is currently September.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 06, 2017, 08:02:07 AM
At this point, since Elizabeth doesn't have any current leads, she's going to focus her efforts to make sure that enough stores of food and firewood are built up for the winter. She'd like to focus on extra firewood to hopefully last at least a month or two in for keeping bonfires going, as the troglodytes may get desperate if they begin to freeze or starve. She will accompany well-manned groups if needed to travel further for wood and game.

During all of this, she wants to keep her eye out for potential lieutenants. She'll have a few other prospective people work with the prisoner (keeping an eye on them from an adjacent room) to see how they handle him. She's looking for people she can introduce the truth of the situation to. Elizabeth's concern with telling everyone is a combination of panic and being burnt at the stake as a witch.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 06, 2017, 04:36:30 PM
It quickly becomes evident the Trogs are carnivores only.  The raided farms are only mising live animals, their food stores are untouched.  Dried and smoked meats have a bite or two taken from them before being tossed aside.  It also becomes apparent wooden spears and dartsd are the limits of their tech, as nimble animals like birds are still available.

You find a couple of gentlemen who don't scare easy, but they firmly demand to know wtf is going on in exchange for their services.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 07, 2017, 08:35:38 AM
It quickly becomes evident the Trogs are carnivores only.  The raided farms are only mising live animals, their food stores are untouched.  Dried and smoked meats have a bite or two taken from them before being tossed aside.  It also becomes apparent wooden spears and dartsd are the limits of their tech, as nimble animals like birds are still available.
Then it seems we should avoid hunting in the area at all costs, in hopes that the animal population can bounce back after winter.

You find a couple of gentlemen who don't scare easy, but they firmly demand to know wtf is going on in exchange for their services.
"That's fair. The truth is far stranger than imagined.

What are your beliefs on religion, witchcraft, and science? How open of a mind do you have?"


Sense Motive, mainly to make sure she's not about to be lynched.
Rolled 1d20+10 : 20 + 10, total 30
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 07, 2017, 08:39:22 PM
"Don't care for much of any of the above.  You sayin' the freak is a witch?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 08, 2017, 08:59:08 AM
"It's a bit more complicated than that. The short answer is that these things are more intermingled than most people think. There's far more to the world than what we readily understand. It's not something humans are particularly well-suited to understand.

In terms of what's been going on: there is another world that is alien to ours. Someone (I've heard Washington) opened a 'door' to this world in hopes of summoning a monster (I've heard to fight the British). He lost control, and many... things poured out before it was closed. I'm honestly not sure what to do in the long term. I traveled to Philadelphia at great risk only to find they are in the same situation, with low supplied. Further travel is too dangerous. In the short term, we need to stock up to ensure our own survival. Based on what we've seen, I think the cave-dwellers will not last the winter, but they may become extremely aggressive as they get desperate. I know that they are not the only things out there. I saw some monstrous creature about as big as a barn. It struck the first night of the storm, when Barnes died. We wounded it and it slinked back to lick its wounds.

Sadly, I seem to be one of the only people here who understands the nature of things, and I cannot be at more than one place at once. I'm in need of strong-willed men to help keep us all alive. You're going to see things that don't make any sense and that shouldn't be, and I'm going to need you to not shit your pants when you do. None of us asked for this, but it's now the grim reality we live in.

As for the prisoner, I need to keep him around to see what he knows and how much use he can be. He's not to be released, and any promises he makes are not to be trusted. Apparently, he was Barnes' former teacher, and Barnes 'locked' him in a magic circle, of sorts. It's not something I fully understand, but I know that no living things (including food) are to cross that circle. Sadly, Barnes died before I could learn much more, and I've been trying to piece together what I can."


After a bit of a pause: "So... Any questions?"


OOC: How long does the magic circle last? Knowledge (TMWNMTK):
Rolled 1d20+11 : 20 + 11, total 31
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 08, 2017, 08:19:25 PM
Unless destroyed it's likely permanent, though there may be loopholes around it that he may know that you don't.  For instance, you aren't entirely sure what his limits are.  If someone croses the circle he could control them into erasing it, an act he can't perform himself.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 09, 2017, 09:34:20 AM
So, how do my hopeful lieutenants take what I told them?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 09, 2017, 07:05:17 PM
"So Barnes was a witch then?  Always knew the bible thumpers were full of it.  Why haven't you told the town?  Is it because you'd think they'd panic?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 09, 2017, 10:12:05 PM
"Pretty much. It's a lot for anyone to take in, and even people who are prepared can still end up losing their mind. The last thing we need is the whole town running amok when everything is so fragile right now."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 11, 2017, 12:12:46 AM
"That won't be easy with monsters running about.  Best we get out in front of things with an official story before someone fills in the blanks."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 11, 2017, 08:03:39 AM
"That sounds like a good idea. Do you have any suggestions other than what I told you? I'm a bit more... used to these things, so I want some other opinions."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 13, 2017, 12:13:54 AM
"Skip the witches, just tell em monsters are here.  Hell maybe tell em the injuns accidentally released something.  Wait, how many people can unleash these things?  Can this happen again?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 13, 2017, 08:31:40 AM
"Wait, how many people can unleash these things?  Can this happen again?"

"That I have no idea about. From what I understand, very few people know (knew?) about this sort of thing. I'm sure it could happen again. I've been trained a bit in how to put things back, but it's risky. The smaller creatures are easier to just kill.

I'm not sure how much of that I want to tell them."


If they don't have any objections, Elizabeth will organize a town meeting for later in the day.

OOC: I'll have her give an official statement if no one in the group objects. Also, how many men am I talking to, now?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 15, 2017, 01:32:45 AM
Just 4.  They want to be sure to be present at the meeting in case stuff goes sideways.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 15, 2017, 08:22:43 AM
Elizabeth calls for a town meeting later in the day, while the sun is still up (so we have less concern over trog attacks). She makes sure all four are there.


"Everyone, I know that the last few weeks have been a particularly trying and confusing time. I've been out trying to investigate the nature of these attacks... and the cause is as bizarre as it is alarming.

Just before the night of the big storm where Barnes died, someone opened a 'door' of sorts, to another world. Strange and alien creatures poured through the door for the brief time it was opened, but it has been closed. I went to Philadelphia to discuss this with people with more information. Their city is in a similar situation as ours, plus they are not able to travel by sea. Traveling between towns is exceedingly dangerous, as well.

So, what this means for us is that we must be self sufficient and vigilant going forward. We cannot rely on trade from other cities, and we cannot count on getting more powder for our guns. Anyone able to hunt or fight must become proficient in bows and spears. For the time being, our biggest threat is the cave-dwellers that have been attacking our city. I struck out to their cave some time ago, and there are many of them, but they do not appear to be advanced in any meaningful way. They are crude, carnivorous, and they fear light. They do not venture out into the sun. The good news is they may all freeze in the coming winter. The bad news is they've been making game in the area scarce. My only hope is that they perish this winter, and the animals return next year.

I wish I knew more about the nature of the events, but we're all going to have to stick together and deal with whatever comes our way. If any of you see anything unusual of any sort, please tell us. Any weird occurrence might be a sign to something more important.

Are there any questions?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 16, 2017, 03:26:38 AM
A hundred voices speak at once, most in a panic.  Nerves are obviously frayed and hanging by a thread.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 16, 2017, 07:17:11 AM
Elizabeth tries to calm everyone down, and addresses them one at a time once it's quiet enough to hear someone speak.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 20, 2017, 12:24:05 AM
(Apologies for the delay, I've been doing massive overtime)

Gimme some diplomacy roll
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 20, 2017, 10:25:19 AM
Gimme some diplomacy roll
(I knew you were going to ask for that.)

Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 21, 2017, 12:07:20 AM
You succeed in calming down a chunk of the crowd but there's still some people going hysterical and crying about the armageddon.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 21, 2017, 08:32:39 AM
"Please: worrying about Armageddon is not helpful. So far, we've been able to weather the problems by being smart and prepared and that's what we're going to continue to do. I didn't tell you all this because I wanted to panic you, I told you because it's what I learned and I think you deserve to know the truth. Also, we're in a much better place to plan rationally if we know what's going on."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 22, 2017, 06:08:42 PM
there are cries of 'whats next'
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 23, 2017, 10:33:59 AM

"We'll all find out together, if we keep our wits and plan rationally.

Our first priority is securing food and wood for the winter, and keeping vigilant for threats."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 23, 2017, 08:58:57 PM
Much of the day is figuring out how to organize things and who is in charge of what.  Any plans for the evening?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 24, 2017, 07:31:20 AM
Right now, Elizabeth is at a loss for long term plans (not that she's telling them that). Her thoughts on blowing up the trog cave have been dashed, and travel isn't safe.

If she's able, she wants to go through Barnes' possessions to see if he has any interesting books (the sort that destroy sanity).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 24, 2017, 09:39:20 PM
make dem search rolls  :D
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 25, 2017, 08:25:47 AM
make dem search rolls  :D
If she can take 20, she will (for a total of 37). If not, here are three rolls. Let me know if you need more.

Search 1:
Rolled 1d20+17 : 18 + 17, total 35


Search 2:
Rolled 1d20+17 : 12 + 17, total 29


Search 3:
Rolled 1d20+17 : 4 + 17, total 21
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 25, 2017, 06:19:16 PM
good lord you put a lot into search...

You find a locked hidden room with his personal effects, charts, records, books etc.  It'll take weeks to go through it all.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 26, 2017, 11:30:18 AM
good lord you put a lot into search...
OOC: She's an investigator! There's at least a feat and a class feature giving her bonuses, in addition to max ranks and an 18 Int.

You find a locked hidden room with his personal effects, charts, records, books etc.  It'll take weeks to go through it all.
Barring anything obviously pressing to work on, this seems like the best course of action.

OOC: I hope I'm not missing an obvious adventure cue.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 27, 2017, 02:56:33 AM
No cues.  There's a ton of correspondence between him and various colonial governments regarding the pending possibility of war, with veiled allusions as to how "magic" should be used appropriately.  Barnes feared gaining the attention of someone he refers to time and again as "the Enemy", and you're pretty sure he doesn't mean the British.  There is also much conversation regarding the prisoner, who is referred to as Niemand, which is German.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 27, 2017, 08:02:11 AM
What is said about Niemand? Are the correspondences dated? How long have they been talking about Niemand and "the enemy"?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 01, 2017, 04:27:55 PM
They've been discussing both several years, and at one point Niemand was considered an ally but they began discussing methods of imprisoning him as he was considered too dangerous to be free yet they were uncertain they could actually kill him.  Apparently they've been planning for inevitable war with the british since they discovered "magic".
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 02, 2017, 10:31:09 AM
What did they fear from Niemand? Just that they couldn't be certain what he'd do, or was there some overt threat? Is there any mention how Niemand came upon his powers? Are there other names of individuals listed who are aware of the current situation?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 02, 2017, 09:19:13 PM
It would appear they believe he is in some way corrupt or inhuman.  Or maybe both.  He is hinted at as having taught them all, but no mention is made of his teacher.  The other individuals are referred to as initials or obvious pseudonyms to avoid detection.  It's possible they thought their mail might be intercepted, maybe by the British.  A lot of it is openly seditious.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 03, 2017, 08:59:26 AM
If Elizabeth cannot find anything of more use, she will lock the room back up, figuring she can look stuff up later, if needed. She'll spend most of her time helping to coordinate preparing for winter and setting up defenses.

If any groups go out in search of food or wood, she will go with to help keep guard.

She plans to not leave the town on her own, but she will venture out with one or more armed people if there is something that needs to be investigated (following tracks, strange noises, sitings, or whatever). If something strange is seen, she is willing to secretly turn into a hawk and fly around to scout it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 05, 2017, 04:34:06 AM
what are you doing with the prisoner come meantime?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 05, 2017, 08:37:07 AM
I'm not planning on killing or releasing him, yet. At this point, Elizabeth or one of her lieutenants will feed him and not break the circle. Was there any information as to what Niemand was doing prior to all this? Was he just a hermit, or what?

If there is not much information, Elizabeth will ask him:
Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 9 + 10, total 19
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 06, 2017, 03:16:25 AM
"There are others older than myself in the world, though no man so old as I present.  I do what all our kind must, I study the truth in order to better defend myself and increase my place in the universal hierarchy.  By opening your eyes Barnes has taken away the defense mankind relies on: ignorance.  You can only pursue my path now or perish.  And likely you will perish if you choose to walk the road I have anyway."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 06, 2017, 07:38:45 AM
"How does one 'increase their place in the universal hierarchy'?"

Sense Motive:
Rolled 1d20+10 : 17 + 10, total 27
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 07, 2017, 02:32:22 AM
"By leaving oneself behind.  At the moment you are nothing more than an animal confined in space and time.  Now that you have tasted knowledge you can become something more than that, and if you are lucky you may even choose what.  But likely that decision will be made by who or whatever takes you as a student.  To become more than an animal you will need to stop thinking like one.  Giving up the conditioning imposed on you by your culture is difficult but necessary.  But once you do you will find yourself bound less by space and time, and will evolve.  In time you meet others who have evolved, and who will be allies or rivals.  Do not trust them.  There is a finite amount of space available for those such as we.  If you can join the evolved you may well achieve what you would now refer to as godhood, but which you will realize is only the first in a long line of steps upward.  The gods are not defined by limits, they impose them on the rest of us by setting the laws by which things work.  We either adapt to those rules, and join them after a few millenia, or we perish."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 07, 2017, 09:10:59 AM
"Is the god the Christians refer to as YHWH one such 'god', or is that just Hebrew mythology?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 08, 2017, 04:05:51 PM
"Uncertain.  Many of the old 'gods' are nothing more than hoaxes made up by charlatans in order to gain ssocial power.  Some of the old legends have a hidden truth behind them, some don't.  The methods you and I use are rare, and often described in uncertain terms, and there are times when they simply won't work.  We are at the end of a long dry spell, and what people ignorantly refer to as magic is coming back into the fore."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 09, 2017, 09:23:42 AM
"Is there something external, eroding at human's 'defense mechanism', or is this part of some natural cycle? Is this some result of us embracing science to the point where reality starts pushing back?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 09, 2017, 08:50:31 PM
"The universe has a cycle, and 'magic' waxes and wanes with that cycle.  Our former species, and trust me the term former applies, and various others do not naturally have the ability to use the true science of the worlds.  They evolved to be psychically blind.  You can't perceive the truth, and the truth can't perceive you.  But once you encounter the truth by blind chance that defense is gone, and you must learn it's ways to defend yourself or perish.  By teaching you what he did, Barnes exposed you, and now you must deal with the consequences.  Whatever fool opened that door and bungled it will have drawn the attentions of entities from beyond our own space and time, meaning mankind's defense will be gone soon.  Many of you will encounter the truth, but not by chance anymore.  There are things far more powerful than us, and you do not gain their attention unless you have some means of defense against them.  Things could go well, the breach might not have been bad enough to be noticed by the truly powerful.  Maybe you'll just have to deal with the usual rubbish that crosses over when opportunity presents itself.  Maybe the consequences might not appear for centuries.  After all time works differently for Them.  So you face a set of unpalatable options.  Make your knowledge public and hope the masses have the wisdom to use it.  Form a secret cabal and hope they have the wisdom to use it.  Or try to become your people's lone champion fighting an ever more difficult battle."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 10, 2017, 07:27:51 AM
Elizabeth was flirting somewhere between the second and third option. She's chosen to tell a select few the truth, but has not yet confided in them about her abilities. For the time being, she'll keep things as-is, keeping an eye on each of them to make sure they aren't getting suspicious. Depending on how things play out, she might tell one or more of them.

Her first priority is to make sure then town is defended, stocked, and the people aren't going to crazy. Is she a defacto leader at this point, or has anyone challenged her direction?

She will accompany expeditions out of town for supplies, investigate any signs of unusual activity, and once a week*, she plans to secretly fly over the forest as a hawk to keep an eye on things.


* She does this once a week to avoid accruing too much sanity/humanity damage. Let me know if I need to roll anything.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 13, 2017, 03:58:09 AM
It would appear that though there are townsfolk who disagree with you, none of them wants the responsibility of replacing you.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 13, 2017, 08:20:07 AM
Fair enough. What are their disagreements?

Does anything happen on any of the excursions for wood/food? Does she see anything as she scouts the area as a hawk?

OOC: do I have to roll anything each time she turns into a hawk?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 14, 2017, 04:53:18 PM
No rolls, jsut a point of Sanity/Humanity each casting. 

The disagreements are basically racists wanting to blame this on the natives, various political factions or demagogues seeking to score points, and militants wanting to wipe out the trogs.

Excursions are done only on sunny days to minimize problems.  There are no encounters with the local natives at all.  When flying over the local hills/mountains you see ever growing piles of bones outside the caves, but the trogs don't come out in daylight.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 15, 2017, 11:31:29 AM
Elizabeth will stress to the town how dangerous attacking the trogs is, due to the number of them.

Does she know where the natives live/lived? Does she see any while out flying? She's considering talking to them to see how they're handling things. Does she have any contacts among the tribes?

As for the demagogues seeking personal power in this, Elizabeth wants to keep an extremely close eye on this problem. She sees this as the second greatest threat to everyone's safety. Dangerous enough that she may act to stop it.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 15, 2017, 08:17:17 PM
There is no sign of the natives.  Only Barnes ever really met with them, and due to a recent massacre south of you, they may not be in a talking mood anyway.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 16, 2017, 08:25:40 AM
Elizabeth will not talk to them, then. Is there anything concerning to Elizabeth about any of the people trying to play the situation for a power grab?

OOC: I noticed the humanity rules allow me to regain a point each day I don't cast. Is there anything similar for sanity? How many times Have I turned into a hawk to go exploring so far?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 16, 2017, 08:29:38 PM
Not for sanity, it's more trickery.  It's been three weeks.  So far no sign of the trogs (but the weather has been good), nor of the natives.  No one seems up to challenging you yet.  You've been a hawk three times or so.  But the local farmers say rain is coming.  That means trogs.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 17, 2017, 07:58:31 AM
But the local farmers say rain is coming.  That means trogs.
Because it puts out fires or make it less sunny? How are the town's defenses? How have the bows/archery training been going?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 18, 2017, 02:53:31 AM
Defenses and training are progressing nicely.  They think it means trogs because heavy rain is expected, and that means little to no sun/starlight, and no bonfires.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 18, 2017, 09:20:58 AM
How is the town's rope supply? If we have a lot, we should tie some shin-high between lots of trees to make trip wires to slow them down, as they get near the town. Breaking up a charge could buy us valuable time. Also, tying old pots or bells to some could help with detecting them before they draw near.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 19, 2017, 11:58:00 PM
You do have rope, but it is pointed out by the towns hunters that if the trogs only come out at night they should have eyes like a cats.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 20, 2017, 07:55:03 AM
Yeah, it'd be a waste.

Elizabeth can't think of much to do for preparations other than to make sure people are sleeping enough during the day to make sure night shirts are well-manned.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 22, 2017, 04:26:22 PM
The rain has come , and it lasts all day well into the night.  Bad rain too, with high winds.  Where will you be at?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 23, 2017, 05:38:25 PM
One of the posts for guarding. If they tend to come from one direction, probably on the center of that side of the town's defenses.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 24, 2017, 05:57:05 PM
spot rolls plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 25, 2017, 08:48:43 AM
I'll assume you need three.

Spot 1:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 19 + 1, total 20


Spot 2:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16


Spot 3:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 1 + 1, total 2
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 25, 2017, 09:08:29 PM
You get lucky and spot a group of raiders.  You waiting in ambush or going out to attack?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 26, 2017, 09:35:35 AM
I don't want to break cover, and neither should anyone else with bows and guns.

Once they've been approaching for one round, Elizabeth will attempt to study the opponent (Smart Hero, Exploit Weakness) by making a DC 15 Int + Smart level check as a move action. If successful, she adds Int to hit against that foe.

Int + Smart level = 1d20+7
Rolled 1d20+7 : 9 + 7, total 16


She will wait to shoot until they get within 60 feet.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 26, 2017, 09:37:54 AM
Having passed the check, she uses her Int mod to attack against this one. He's three range increments out, so she'll have -4 to hit.

Assuming nothing stops her from attacking, or the situation doesn't change, Elizabeth shoots that zombie when it closes within 60 feet.

Attack = 1d20+6-4
Rolled 1d20+2 : 8 + 2, total 10


Damage, if needed = 2d6
Rolled 2d6 : 2, 5, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 26, 2017, 06:46:40 PM
You narrowly miss, and now it's on in earnest.  Nishutive please.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 27, 2017, 08:42:32 AM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 18 + 1, total 19
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 27, 2017, 06:02:40 PM
sol
Rolled 1d20+1 : 16 + 1, total 17


NPC's
Rolled 1d20+1 : 6 + 1, total 7


trogs
Rolled 1d20-1 : 4 - 1, total 3
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 27, 2017, 06:03:54 PM
Round 1

Robby 19
Sol 17
NPC's 7
Trogs 3

Jesus, dem rolls...

Your up.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 27, 2017, 09:04:59 PM
Elizabeth reloads as a move-action and fires at the trog she studied.

Attack = 1d20+6 (-2 for every 20' away beyond the first 20'), +1 if within 30'
Rolled 1d20+6 : 17 + 6, total 23


Damage = 2d6, +1 if within 30'
Rolled 2d6 : 5, 5, total 10



Jesus, dem rolls...

Lets just use those rolls for the rest of the fight...  :flutter
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 28, 2017, 06:12:43 PM
The target is quite badly wounded as Sol opens fire on him as well.

Rolled 1d20+4 : 17 + 4, total 21
 
Rolled 2d6 : 2, 1, total 3
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 28, 2017, 06:15:18 PM
between the two of you it dies spectacularly.  And now the townsfolk inexpertly unleash teir bows

Rolled 1d20+1 : 2 + 1, total 3
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 28, 2017, 06:16:25 PM
Most of their arrows go wide.  The trogs charge to close the distance, and we're back to you.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 29, 2017, 11:46:24 AM
Elizabeth reloads as a move-action and fires at the closest trog.

Attack = 1d20+3 (-2 for every 20' away beyond the first 20'), +1 if within 30'
Rolled 1d20+3 : 18 + 3, total 21


Damage = 2d6, +1 if within 30'
Rolled 2d6 : 3, 2, total 5
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 30, 2017, 05:27:29 PM
You open a nasty flesh wound as sol attacks

Rolled 1d20+4 : 9 + 4, total 13
 
Rolled 2d6 : 5, 5, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 30, 2017, 05:28:25 PM
It's head explodes as the second musket ball hits.  Once again the colonists open fire 
Rolled 1d20+1 : 10 + 1, total 11
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 30, 2017, 05:29:20 PM
Most of the arrows still fly wide, and now it's down to hand to hand in some places.

AoO as the Trogs try to scale the defenses
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 31, 2017, 08:35:34 AM
Elizabeth won't waste her time with an AoO, as she doesn't even have a melee weapon out. How many of them are there compared to us. She's considering falling back and doing something drastic (casting a spell).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 04, 2017, 03:53:04 AM
Hard to tell.  You think you outnumber them, after all you aren't hearing sounds of battle elsewhere.  This could either be a test of your defenses, a distraction, or just desperation.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 04, 2017, 08:55:45 AM
For now, Elizabeth will fall back out of melee range and shoot, when she gets the chance.

Attack = 1d20+4 (assuming within 30')
Rolled 1d20+4 : 18 + 4, total 22


Damage = 2d6+1 (assuming within 30')
Rolled 2d6+1 : 5, 2 + 1, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 05, 2017, 09:22:19 PM
sol reloads and fires
Rolled 1d20+4 : 1 + 4, total 5
 
Rolled 2d6 : 1, 4, total 5


the colonists switch to hatchets and knives
Rolled 1d20+1 : 7 + 1, total 8
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 05, 2017, 09:24:14 PM
both are somewhat ineffective and you are both charged
Rolled 1d20+1 : 6 + 1, total 7
 
Rolled 1d20+1 : 12 + 1, total 13
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 05, 2017, 09:25:10 PM
and apparently the turn is now yours as you are the only accurate person in an entire battle...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 06, 2017, 08:15:35 AM
How many are on Elizabeth, now? Just one?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 06, 2017, 09:47:58 PM
yes
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 07, 2017, 09:06:06 AM
She takes a five foot step back, deftly reloads (as a move-action), and shoots him (hopefully in the head):

Attack = 1d20+4
Rolled 1d20+4 : 13 + 4, total 17


Damage = 2d6+1
Rolled 2d6+1 : 6, 3 + 1, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 09, 2017, 12:19:18 AM
His face explodes in a shower of oily black gore.

We shall resume when you return from vacay
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 13, 2017, 08:48:34 PM
sol switches to hatchet

Rolled 1d20+4 : 3 + 4, total 7


 as do the hunters
Rolled 1d20+1 : 8 + 1, total 9
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 13, 2017, 08:49:45 PM
really? jebus...

and the trogs hammer away at your line
Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21
  and sol
Rolled 1d20+1 : 17 + 1, total 18
  and you
Rolled 1d20+1 : 8 + 1, total 9
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 13, 2017, 08:50:32 PM
Everyone else does not fare well in the melee exchange, but you are missed (and get an AoO)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 14, 2017, 08:07:24 AM
Elizabeth does not have a melee weapon out.

Throwing caution to the wind, she gets desperate, and hopes a display of raw power will scare them away, more than anything. She backs up five feet and casts Burn on the nearest trog, doing untyped damage if her check is successful against her foe. Before casting, she lets out a shout to get their attention.

Casting check = 1d20 + 4 (HD) + 4 (Int) (this is opposed by the same check for the trog; 1d20 + HD + casting mod)
Rolled 1d20+8 : 13 + 8, total 21


If successful, damage = 1d8
Rolled 1d8 : 4, total 4
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 15, 2017, 01:32:17 AM
It causes much consternation and jabberinig, and your foes begin backing away.  Eventually they turn and scurry back into the wind and rain, disappearing from sight.

On the downside there are people staring at you.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 15, 2017, 08:20:01 AM
I figured as much.

"I'm not sure how long that will hold them back, so we should keep the posts manned throughout the night.

But, yes, I did learn some... unsettling truths about the world in my studies. 'Magic' is an easy way to describe it, although it's not really accurate. It's something I use very sparingly, for my own safety, and I don't use any sort that would cause danger to others, such as opening the gates that let in the monsters. I only did what I did out of desperation, as I saw them breaking our lines.

I imagine you all have some questions for me."


As Elizabeth talks, she makes very sure to not let herself get surrounded by crazy townies. If people start to rush her, she'll turn into a hawk.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 15, 2017, 08:22:42 AM
Side note: do I gain any sanity back from killing monsters? I don't remember if humanity works that way.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 16, 2017, 02:44:41 AM
sanity yes, humanity no

Not many questions yet as noise tells you the trogs are trying another point of entry on the far side of town
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 16, 2017, 08:02:26 AM
Elizabeth rushes over to the area with the noises, reloading her gun on the way.

sanity yes, humanity no
How much?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 17, 2017, 02:47:43 AM
6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 17, 2017, 08:08:51 AM
What's happening when Elizabeth gets over there?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 19, 2017, 09:47:36 PM
Much the same as it was where you were.  The townsfolk barely holdign their own.  It occurs to you the trogs may just be testing defenses to see where you're weakest.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 20, 2017, 08:52:12 AM
Elizabeth is hoping a raw display of power several times in rapid succession will dissuade them. Enough townsfolk already know Elizabeth knows magic. She casts Burn, again.

Casting check = 1d20 + 4 (HD) + 4 (Int) (this is opposed by the same check for the trog; 1d20 + HD + casting mod)
Rolled 1d20+8 : 19 + 8, total 27



If successful, damage = 1d8
Rolled 1d8 : 3, total 3
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 20, 2017, 09:31:07 PM
These Trogs retreat but seem less scared than the others (your spell is not as effective this time, though it does harm him).  You kind of get the feeling they take note of you though...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 21, 2017, 07:55:39 AM
You kind of get the feeling they take note of you though...
She expected as much. She yells to the group:
"I can explain later. Right now, what we need is a show of force to get them to back down."

She'll give it one more attempt:

Casting check = 1d20 + 4 (HD) + 4 (Int) (this is opposed by the same check for the trog; 1d20 + HD + casting mod)
Rolled 1d20+8 : 4 + 8, total 12



If successful, damage = 1d8
Rolled 1d8 : 7, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 27, 2017, 08:42:54 PM
They start to scatter for real this time.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 27, 2017, 10:32:50 PM
Elizabeth runs to check on any other areas.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 29, 2017, 12:09:08 AM
The hordes seem to be peeling back.  Coincidentally the rain is beginning to let up.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 29, 2017, 08:04:19 AM
Elizabeth makes sure that the threat is really over before she changes her focus. She keeps an eye on the townsfolk to make sure none grab her to lynch her, or something. She tries to see if she can find any of the lieutenants in whom she'd previously confided. If she finds any, she wants to make sure they still have her back after her improvised display of power:

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 12 + 10, total 22


Once things calm down, she addresses the town.

"I only had time to talk to some of you, before the second attack. What I did, I did only to protect us, as our lines were breaking. I assume you have some very fair questions for me."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 04, 2017, 07:18:19 PM
"ARE YE A WITCH!?!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 05, 2017, 06:29:08 AM
Elizabeth wants to explain this all to everyone, or even dismiss them out of hand, but she knows exactly the level of ignorance and superstition she's dealing with.

"...Not really. I'm a scientist who studies how the world works. In recent years, I've discovered some rather weird... secrets; things that don't work how we'd expect. This is similar to that gate someone recklessly opened.

As I learned about these things, I learned about their dangers. As such, I use this knowledge as sparingly as possible. Still, as I told you before, some fool opened up a gate that let in these... creatures. Them threatening to overrun our lines pushed me into a show of force. One I hope I will not have to do again, before they likely freeze this winter."


OOC: Did Elizabeth get any sanity back after the fight?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 08, 2017, 12:23:26 AM
6p ts

There is some muttering but no one appears ready to challenge you.


Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 10, 2017, 11:46:22 PM
Elizabeth looks to her lieutenants to see how they're handling it. Is there any sign of the trogs?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 15, 2017, 12:55:01 AM
They seem more shocked at the fury of the trogs, and that the monsters turend and ran.  They felt certain there would be far worse casualties.  The trogs have retreated out of range of the light.  They could still be nearby, but without risking the dark there's no way to tell.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 15, 2017, 08:51:12 AM
"We should still remain vigilant, in case they're planning a counter attack. I'll stand ready, in case I'm needed again."

Elizabeth goes between the various guard posts to see how things are going. She'll stay up until daylight, making sure everyone is still safe.

She'll talk to anyone willing to see how they're doing, and try to get a read on how they feel about the situation and her. Sense Motive = 1d20+10

Rolled 1d20+10 : 6 + 10, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 17, 2017, 01:08:27 AM
People are shit scared of you, but since you don't appear to itend to eat their faces they'll take you over the trogs.  The rain stays with the morning.  You getting any rest?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 18, 2017, 08:31:47 AM
As soon as we have daylight and can see past our defenses, Elizabeth will try and get some sleep. She'd like one of her guys to keep watch over her place, in case some crazed local decided to purge the evil from the city, or some such. She's down a few ability points, and is hoping to get those back.

What is the current date? Elizabeth is counting down until the freezing weather.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 18, 2017, 05:29:37 PM
It's the first week of October, the leaves are turning
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 20, 2017, 08:12:46 AM
I'm assuming Elizabeth gets a chance to rest? She has three points of ability damage she wants to heal, so if at all possible, she's going to try to refrain from anything too crazy for three days.

Unless there's another attack, or the locals go crazy, she wants to limit herself to checking on the situation, defenses, and supplies during these three days.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 22, 2017, 01:05:38 AM
you visiting the prisoner any?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 22, 2017, 08:04:49 AM
That's actually a good point.

Elizabeth will do that before taking any rest, just to make sure the attack hasn't affected anything. If the circle is unbroken, she'll take her rest after checking on him. Does he say anything? Elizabeth wasn't planning on being talkative.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 23, 2017, 01:04:14 AM
The circle is unbroken.  He's smiling lots but doesn't offer conversation.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 23, 2017, 06:47:51 AM
"Are you happy about something?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 9 + 10, total 19


Her hunch is that he's gloating about the whole "he who fights monsters" thing.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 24, 2017, 04:32:15 PM
"Perhaps I know whats coming."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 25, 2017, 12:06:25 AM
"What's coming?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 7 + 10, total 17
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 25, 2017, 03:57:18 PM
"Death most likely.  I hear there's a tribe of creatures up in the mountains now.  If the door opening was large enough for that many to come through, then others will have taken an opportunity.  You'll need to keep watch.  Trust no one."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 26, 2017, 08:12:18 AM
Elizabeth leaves after that, to see if she can get some rest.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 29, 2017, 01:28:18 AM
Rest is forth coming.  There are no visitors to town.  You assume they're getting picked off one by one.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 30, 2017, 08:29:17 AM
After healing up, Elizabeth surveys the situation. How's the weather and the locals? Is everything fine with the prisoner?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 01, 2018, 05:52:09 PM
Getting cold early.  The locals are steadily reinforcing defenses and consolidating food and supplies in one location for better protection.  The prisoner is quiet with his head cocked to one side.  As if he's listening for something.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 02, 2018, 12:51:46 PM
If Elizabeth is happy with the progress on the defenses, she looks for some privacy, turns into a hawk, and then begins spiraling outward from the town, looking for anything out of the ordinary.

Spot = 1d20+9
Rolled 1d20+9 : 3 + 9, total 12


How much Sanity/Humanity damage does she take?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 05, 2018, 12:01:18 AM
1 point

You can see smoke on the ditant horizon, which likely means a fire of some sort in a town.  You've heard no sounds of distant warfare certainly.  The trogs are absent during the day, but you see movement here and there in the forests of something big.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 05, 2018, 08:06:05 AM
but you see movement here and there in the forests of something big.

One single big thing, or several in different spots? Elizabeth goes to investigate, but she'll likely want to get lower to the tree line as she gets closer.

On a related note: are there ever any other birds in the sky?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 07, 2018, 09:50:52 PM
There are birds, with an occasional fleeting glimpse of something to far away to be identifiable (but you're pretty sure they aren't birds).  When you get close to the treeline make a will save.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 08, 2018, 08:49:27 AM
Will = 1d20+3

Rolled 1d20+3 : 3 + 3, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 14, 2018, 09:43:56 PM
Rolled 1d10 : 2, total 2
  sorry for the delay, work has been bad
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 14, 2018, 09:44:50 PM
Something unseen is moving the trees.  Something large and manifestly not of this world.  You lose 2 sanity.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 15, 2018, 09:37:41 AM
Something unseen is moving the trees.  Something large and manifestly not of this world.  You lose 2 sanity.
Despite the san loss, have I seen it yet? If so, how big is it, what direction is it heading, and what is it doing?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 21, 2018, 05:29:20 PM
It is invisible, you know of it's passsing only by the trail of destruction it leaves through the forest.  It can evidently bend tress from the ground, but fortunately is heading into the mountains.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 22, 2018, 08:50:50 AM
I want to inspect a ways behind it; maybe a quarter mile, or so. Is it leaving footprints? Any other clues?

Search = 1d20+17, take 20 = 37
(If forced to roll because I can't spend the time, otherwise, just take 20):
Rolled 1d20+17 : 7 + 17, total 24


Knowledge (TMWNMTK) = 1d20+11
Rolled 1d20+11 : 6 + 11, total 17
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 28, 2018, 12:19:49 AM
IT's leaving a trail of some kind, like it's scouring the ground as it goes.  You believe it's a servitor of some kind, but summoned by who or for what purpose youo're uncertain.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 28, 2018, 08:35:35 AM
Which direction is it heading? How far is it currently from town?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 29, 2018, 01:44:59 AM
It's headed into the mountains, far from civilization, though it may encounter the Trogs.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 30, 2018, 08:40:45 AM
Lets hope.  :smirk

As long as she's out this far, Elizabeth decides to go check on the trogs, as well.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 04, 2018, 11:23:50 PM
There are bodies in the mountains.  Some of them Trog, some of them human, most partially eaten.  It would appear they are hunting stragglers from our (or nearby) town(s), and they aren't above cannibalism.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 05, 2018, 10:17:22 AM
If nearby towns aren't too far out, Elizabeth would like to check on them, as well.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 05, 2018, 08:50:55 PM
most towns are a few days ride or even a few weeks
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 06, 2018, 10:38:31 AM
Do you know how that would translate to flying? The hawk's speed is 60'.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 13, 2018, 03:21:24 AM
About the same, most horses are 50-60 ft.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 14, 2018, 08:57:28 AM
That's more than she's willing to invest in the trip.

How are the trogs looking? Do they appear starved compared to earlier in the year?

Do there seem to be signs of anything else in the forest (apart from that huge thing)?

Other than that, Elizabeth will head back to town if nothing catches her eye. She wants to see to a rebuilding of defenses in case the trogs launch an even more desperate attack in the future. Does it look like the weather will be clear for a while?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2018, 08:08:37 PM
The trogs seem watchful.  They do not appear to be traveling in anything other than large groups.-
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 18, 2018, 08:56:01 PM
Presumably they've been picked off by something big, and they're learning.

Elizabeth heads back to make sure defenses are good and that the bow training is going nicely. She's also going to advocate that any hunting/supply groups go out at least eight people strong.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2018, 09:02:16 PM
There is news from Philadelphia.  They have returned to the old method of producing gunpowder with urine instead of saltpetre.  It takes forever, but it means the colonies won't run dry.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 19, 2018, 09:32:35 AM
Do people in the town know how to produce using this method? I'm assuming Elizabeth could probably figure it out with her +10 in Knowledge (Physical Sciences).

If you need a check for her figuring it out, teaching people, or whatever: 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 5 + 10, total 15
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 19, 2018, 09:10:55 PM
You can substitute manure of some kind (preferably bat, but cow will do) and urine for the saltpetre.  This requires a 10 month process.  You can make it much quicker by substituting potassium chlorate, but that requires substantial chemical knowledge and equipment in your era.  It's also highly fucking unstable, particularly paired with sulfur, and could easily result in death.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 20, 2018, 08:39:41 AM
Elizabeth will opt to avoid the super dangerous method. She instructs the people to start gathering the necessary supplies to get a head start on production, as well as to make sure we have enough cows kept alive for this reason, alone (and, presumably, milking).

Are there any nearby caves or other known sources of bats?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 22, 2018, 01:50:20 AM
Yes, cuurently they're in trog territory.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 22, 2018, 07:54:47 AM
From the town's perspective, what's the difference on using cow manure instead of guano? At this point, getting guano means a lengthy travel and a vicious fight (using up more powder). If it's not necessary or even really important, Elizabeth wants to opt to use cow manure until winter has a chance to start killing the trogs.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 25, 2018, 08:39:44 PM
Guano is just higher in nitrates.  You can try making up for ti by using the urine of wine drinking men (seriously I looked this up).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 26, 2018, 08:39:22 AM
You can try making up for ti by using the urine of wine drinking men (seriously I looked this up).
Elizabeth is absolutely not adverse to this sort of experimentation. She blew off one-and-a-half of her fingers and part of her ear when she was in her teens, experimenting with explosives. She is highly interested in these sorts of things.

She's relying on her reputation among the town as someone who has weird esoteric knowledge, yet gets results. She'll talk to anyone known to be a drinker, and explain that their urine will be an important part to increasing the speed at which we can synthesize gunpowder.

Her first three priorities are:
1) Make sure we have enough food for the winter
2) Make sure defenses are as secure as possible
3) Make sure arms production and training are as efficient as possible.

Unless something pressing happens, she will continue investing all her time into making sure these three needs are meet. Once a week, she will turn into a hawk and fly a spiral around the city, to make sure nothing is out of the ordinary. She will also check on the trogs at the end of her exploration.

Once per day, she will pay a visit to the prisoner, to make sure all is well. She will also talk to anyone watching him, once per day. She wants to make sure they seem okay, and want to pick up if he's saying or doing anything odd, when she's not around.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 26, 2018, 09:10:51 PM
You should have enough stored food for the winter, your only concern is the game you will need to supplement it with.  The Trogs will make hunting parties troublesome.

The defenses are proceeding nicely.

Arms production doesn't seem problematic, but training moves as quickly as it can.  A lot of these people were not meant to be combatants.

About three weeks out there are signs of something near the town, but you have yet to see what it is.  You are finding the husks of dead animals that seem drained of fluid though.  That something has hit the Trogs as well, for they are not much leaving their caves.

The prisoner seems distracted during his visits, as if listening to something only he can hear.  You have to rotate his guards often.  They can't seem to say why, but he terrifies them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 27, 2018, 09:43:14 AM
You should have enough stored food for the winter, your only concern is the game you will need to supplement it with.  The Trogs will make hunting parties troublesome.
Elizabeth advocates for fairly large hunting parties during this time, and she will go out with them.


About three weeks out there are signs of something near the town, but you have yet to see what it is.  You are finding the husks of dead animals that seem drained of fluid though.  That something has hit the Trogs as well, for they are not much leaving their caves.
When she starts seeing this, she will order a stop to the hunting for a time being.

Her first thought is it reminds her of spiders. Does she see any signs of webs in the area?

Are any of the corpses close enough to town that a party (accompanied by her) could go out and retrieve? She would like to study one up close to see if it has specific injuries, and if she can find or identify any foreign substances (venoms, acids, whatever).


The prisoner seems distracted during his visits, as if listening to something only he can hear. 
Elizabeth asks him if he knows anything about these drained corpses.


You have to rotate his guards often.  They can't seem to say why, but he terrifies them.
Elizabeth listens to their concerns and accommodates them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 28, 2018, 03:36:17 AM
No sign of webs.  You can retrieve a corpse and find it little more than a husk.  There are obvious puncture wounds, and it looks as though most of the flesh was liquified and removed.

The prisoner doesn't know specifics, but he's heard rumors of beings that do something like what you mention and knows they arent to be trifled with as they are quite powerful and wily.  They can also alter their appearance, so he suggests  you be on guard for unusual behavior, and especially for noises that seem to come from nowhere.  After that he goes back to brooding.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 28, 2018, 07:57:50 AM
Elizabeth passes on her warning about unusual behavior to the lieutenants, and has the town know to report any unusual noises to her or her lieutenants.

She'd like to run some experiments in her lab on the corpse to see if she can glean any knew information. If applicable:

Knowledge (Natural Sciences) = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 4 + 10, total 14


Knowledge (TMWNMTK) = 1d20+11
Rolled 1d20+11 : 16 + 11, total 27
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 01, 2018, 02:56:36 AM
There are old stories of both the Japanese and Roman empires beset by spider like tricksters that were able to hollow out men and beasts and wear them like suits.  They were nocturnal, devious, and very dangerous, but they could sometimes be dealt with so long as they weren't hungry.  The corpses remind you a lot of the husks left over after actual spiders have fed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 01, 2018, 10:11:00 AM
Emma wants to talk to her lieutenants and any other "important" people in town, to look for any unusual behavior:

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 12 + 10, total 22


She otherwise keeps up the production of arms and defense.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 01, 2018, 10:11:41 AM
*Sorry. "Elizabeth", not "Emma".
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 03, 2018, 12:30:54 AM
They seem a litle off, but that might be that you make them nervous.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 05, 2018, 01:46:00 PM
Understandable. Even before the raw display of "magic" to the uninitiated, she's never been a "people person". At least she's good at reading them.

How are things going around town? Does the town still send out hunting parties? If so, Elizabeth wants to escort. If nothing else, to make sure no one gets nabbed and replaced. How successful have hunts been, recently?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 10, 2018, 01:24:32 AM
Hunts are more and less successful.  The trogs don't have bows, and seem to have nothing more complex than wooden javelins and throwing sticks.  So some game is more difficult for them, and thus there is less competition.  But since the new discovery there are less trog sightings.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 10, 2018, 07:59:47 AM
At this point, Elizabeth will continue on insisting on large groups when being out of town, she'll accompany them on any hunting groups, and continue making sure supplies, defenses, and powder production are all moving without impediment.

She will try to talk to different people throughout the day, each day, both to check on moral and news, but also to look for "weird behavior".
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 12, 2018, 09:18:22 PM
spot and sense motive checks plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 13, 2018, 08:21:03 AM
Spot = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 9 + 1, total 10


Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 13 + 10, total 23
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 14, 2018, 02:06:22 AM
You don't see any unusual behavior, but you can definitely sense some paranoia.  It also occurs to you there still haven't been much in the way of visitors.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 14, 2018, 08:02:15 AM
What do you mean "visitors"? I thought there was pretty much no travel.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 17, 2018, 01:35:19 AM
You would have expected some word maybe back from Philadelphia.  Perhaps survivors from elsewhere desperately looking for help.  Hell, maybe even rogue brits or mercenaries.  But no one has come into town, or even been spotted on hunts  Some of the hunters make it a point to peek in the abandoned outlying farms every so often even.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 19, 2018, 08:13:17 AM
What have they found in the farms? Has Elizabeth seen anything else on her flights?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 23, 2018, 01:29:59 AM
The farms are all empty, though most show signs of something haviing broken in at some point.  You're beginning to see various things wandering the woods during your flights.  Things you'd prefer not to get to close to.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 23, 2018, 08:04:56 AM
How large are they, and how far are they out from town?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 26, 2018, 12:15:15 AM
They vary from insects up to the size of cattle.  Most are pretty far out, andd are coming from the same direction NY is in.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 26, 2018, 08:07:48 AM
That doesn't sound good. New York would be a pretty far flight from here, right? Are they headed toward our town, or just wandering from that general direction?

Either way, Elizabeth warns her lieutenants.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 26, 2018, 10:00:52 PM
Wandering mostly, and NY would be out of state.

The guards are non-plussed.  They do mention hearing odd things in the night, but that could be their imaginations getting the better of them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 27, 2018, 09:40:43 AM
At this point, Elizabeth doesn't see a reason to change the current course of action:If she thinks she finds a lone creature, she might try to kill it to investigate it, further. It depends on the situation.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 28, 2018, 03:31:21 AM
The snow hits early in October.  Kind of unusual, but not too mush so.  Defenses are mostly done at this point, and training is well underway.  Hunters are complaining of odd tracks they cantt identify though, and come dusk one evening a party has not returned...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 28, 2018, 07:52:45 AM
  • Accompany hunting parties.
Did they go out alone? Elizabeth wanted to accompany them.

If we're assuming Elizabeth was otherwise occupied, she'll want to follow their tracks at first light, with some other people.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 31, 2018, 01:27:02 AM
You couldn't accompany all of them.  The now will complicate tracking them.  At best you could head in the direction they left and hope to stumble upon them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 02, 2018, 08:21:08 AM
That would be best. We'll need a few armed men to come with.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 02, 2018, 08:57:12 PM
The snow has stopped but the winds are still up.  There's no real tracks, but there are farm houses in the general direction they headed out, so they may have camped there overnight.  The closest is the old Johansson farm.  There is no smoke coming from the chimney as you near the farm.  The men hesitate to go out into the open without knowing whats inside.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 03, 2018, 04:19:54 PM
I'm assuming the wind is too bad to fly up as a hawk and the snow is too deep to run over as a rat, right?

How dangerous is it to use Open Window (http://minmaxforum.com/index.php?topic=5275.msg171504#msg171504) to look inside the house from such a near location? I'm assuming it carries the normal risks of being seen and having the window widened? What is the San/Hum cost?

Also, everyone in present company is well aware of Elizabeth's abilities (roughly) at this point, right?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 03, 2018, 06:41:58 PM
San/Hum depends on teh number of ranks you have.  The main danger would be botching the roll because who knows what would happen.  Also it's likely dark inside, and the window would mostly let you see darkness.  But if theres something on the other side that can come through, it may do so.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 04, 2018, 08:17:57 AM
How far out is the house from the woods? Is there any cover between here and there (out buildings, sheds, wagons, etc)?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 08, 2018, 08:15:35 PM
The back of the house has much less forest clearing than the front and sides.  There's plenty of cover via outbuildings (your behind one now) and such.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 09, 2018, 08:06:34 AM
Elizabeth tells the others: "I'll go up alone. It will be harder to see one person than many. Cover me if anything happens."

Elizabeth approaches from the side with the most cover (probably from the front or sides, where the woods are closer). She wants to see if she can get up to the house (not by any windows) without being noticed.

Hide (if needed) = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 4 + 1, total 5

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 09, 2018, 02:23:57 PM
You don't do a great job concealing  yourself, but the howling winds and snow probably help.  The house has no side windows, so you're approaching from the left.  Listen roll plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 10, 2018, 07:56:24 AM
Listen = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 14 + 1, total 15
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 11, 2018, 01:09:37 AM
You hear movement, do you have knowledge nature or the d20 equivalent?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 11, 2018, 08:04:53 AM
You hear movement, do you have knowledge nature or the d20 equivalent?
Just Physical Sciences, which is probably a stretch. That being said, she can make untrained Knowledge checks for anything DC 10 or lower (so, common knowledge).

Knowledge (Nature) - untrained = 1d20+4
Rolled 1d20+4 : 4 + 4, total 8


Knowledge (Physical Sciences) - if applicable for any reason = 1d20+6
Rolled 1d20+6 : 6 + 6, total 12
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 14, 2018, 01:17:41 AM
You have no idea what the hell this thing is.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 14, 2018, 07:13:50 PM
Elizabeth draws her gun, and motions for one of the lieutenants to come, if he's with the group.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 15, 2018, 01:30:54 AM
He sneaks forward.  "What's the plan?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 16, 2018, 08:58:57 AM
Elizabeth whispers to him: "What do you hear in there? I hear something, and can't make it out. I'm not sure it's animal or human..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 18, 2018, 12:43:07 AM
Rolled 1d20+3 : 4 + 3, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 18, 2018, 12:43:39 AM
"I've no idea..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 18, 2018, 08:17:11 AM
"Are you ready to go in there, with me? I have no idea what we'll find in there. If it seems hostile and impervious to harm, take the others and run."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 22, 2018, 06:54:38 PM
"Let's do this."

how are you proceeding?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 23, 2018, 08:14:18 AM
"Do you know the people who live... or lived here?"

OOC: does Elizabeth?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 23, 2018, 08:05:36 PM
umm...knowledge current events if you got it, int check otherwise
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 24, 2018, 08:05:39 AM
Int = 1d20+4
Rolled 1d20+4 : 20 + 4, total 24


I figured if she had any knowledge, she could call out to the occupants.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 25, 2018, 01:05:19 AM
It's a farm owned by wealthy german immigrants, the Gruber family.  It includes the patriarch Andreas, his wife, their widowed daughter and two grand-children.  There is also a maid/hired help.  Come to think of it you haven't seen them lately...

He's moderately wealthy and has no known enemies.  It's not occurred to you lately as everything else has been going on, but they have been conspicuously absent.  The maid had been fairly new as the old one left complaining the farm was haunted. 


It's then that you notice (spot roll plz)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 29, 2018, 07:30:39 PM
Spot = 1d20+1

Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 29, 2018, 10:23:58 PM
The firewood you're hiding near is fresh cut.  As in maybe a day old.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 01, 2018, 09:10:14 AM
Elizabeth points out the firewood. After that, she hides her pistol behind her and knocks.

"We're looking for some lost friends and are wondering if you've seen them."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 02, 2018, 02:49:37 AM
there are some hissing noises and scrabbling
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 02, 2018, 08:32:02 AM
Flatly: "Great."

Elizabeth pulls her gun out from behind her. Does she hear anything else?

Listen = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 2 + 1, total 3

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 03, 2018, 02:33:10 AM
nope
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 03, 2018, 07:56:04 AM
She'll try the door to see if it's locked. If so, she'll see if the guy with her can kick it open while she readies her pistol.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 05, 2018, 01:47:28 AM
He kicks open the door and you see small fury things scatter in the dark.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 05, 2018, 07:55:33 AM
How many?

Spot = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6


Knowledge(TMWNMTK) = 1d20+11
Rolled 1d20+11 : 13 + 11, total 24



Any idea what they are?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 06, 2018, 12:31:00 AM
You aren't sure.  At least not until the hunter with you says "goddamn fuckin' possums".

It's then that the smell of death hits you.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 07, 2018, 10:28:16 AM
Elizabeth enters cautiously, keeping an eye out for anything living or moving. She warns the hunter with her:

"Keep an eye on any corpses you find, in case... they are something more."

She wants to clear the building, room by room, before looking for any clues. If it's clear, she'll take 20 on Search to examine the bodies, and then anything else of interest in the house:

Search = 20+17 = 37
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 07, 2018, 10:14:44 PM
Once you get a light you realize there's a trail of blood coming into the house (it's likely hidden outside by the recent snowfall).  You find the maid dead in her bedroom, skull crushed.  Your partner finds the youngest child murdered in his bed, with a bloodstained mattock next to him.  The family safe has not been violated, and still has their savings (which is quite a lot of money).  There are several pheasants hanging in the kitchen, and dirty dishes.  Whoever did this was obviously not a robber, and may have stayed at the farm several days after the killings.

Eventually examining the outbuildings, you find the rest of the family in the barn, either killed there or drug from the actual kill site.  Skulls also crushed.  The cattle are in another barn, and have fresh food.  Whoever did this is not long gone or may be coming back.  He could be watching from a distance now.

will save plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 08, 2018, 08:03:04 AM
Will = 1d20+3
Rolled 1d20+3 : 13 + 3, total 16


"We should head back to the others."

Elizabeth closes the door. Is it still currently snowing? If so, and if there are any small branches available, she tries to obscure their tracks, so that new snowfall will cover them.

She heads back to the others, gun still out, in case she encounters anything on the way, or even back by the group.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 09, 2018, 02:29:45 AM
Your mind holds on and you do not give in to fear, some of the men aren't so sturdy.  What do you do next?  Go back to checking for the lost party or back to town?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 09, 2018, 10:23:34 AM
How many hours are we out from town, and how many until sundown? If we can press on looking for a bit and still make it back by dusk, I'd like to keep looking.

Edit: How much cattle is left? If there aren't any human inhabitants, it might be worth bringing them back to town...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 10, 2018, 01:09:07 AM
Cattle aren't big in America yet, so less than a dozen (which is still a lot of money).  You can press on a bit and make it back if there's no event that holds you up.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 10, 2018, 07:57:47 AM
I'd say press on, then try to swing back by the farm on our way back, and look for signs that whatever killed them has returned.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 13, 2018, 01:03:16 AM
Your initial thought is that it was a person.  They weren't eaten, so it's not the Trogs.  It's not a monster, because they wouldn't need a farm implement for a weapon.  Doesn't seem like the natives either.

The snow is pretty thick, not much game out.  It makes the woods eerily quiet.  You spot the next farmhouse in the distance.  The door is audibly flapping in the breeze.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 14, 2018, 08:32:07 AM
Elizabeth hoping one or more of the hunters didn't snap and do this.

Int check to see if she knows anything about the occupants of this farm house (1d20+4).
Rolled 1d20+4 : 16 + 4, total 20
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 14, 2018, 04:37:47 PM
This house is the property of a man named Schittenbauer.  One of the hunters tells you there are rumors he is the true father of Grubers son.  There are also rumors he was being sued because he claimed the boy was the product of an incestuous union between Gruber and his daughter.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 15, 2018, 09:08:25 AM
Elizabeth thinks it's odd that these people haven't had much of an issue from the trogs, but perhaps they've wandered in the wrong direction. She looks for any sighs of activity in the snow, but doesn't expect to find much due to the current snowfall.

Like the last house, she runs up quickly to get behind cover, takes out her pistol, and listens for any activity inside:

Listen = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16


She'll peek in the window if she doesn't hear anything dangerous sounding:

Spot = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 15, 2018, 11:25:29 PM
It's difficult to hear anything over the wind and the banging of the door.  As you look in the window the smell of death hits you again, and you can see what you're pretty sure are a pair of corpses on the bed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 16, 2018, 08:10:12 AM
Again, Elizabeth clears the rooms, gun drawn. Once she thinks it's empty, she'll search the area, taking 20.

Search = 20+17 = 37.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 20, 2018, 12:36:46 AM
As per the other farm nothing appears stolen, and a trail of blood leads from the door to the husband.  He has obvious wounds and blood on his hands.  The wife is clean but for bruising and smeared blood on her neck.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 20, 2018, 04:08:04 AM
It looks like she was strangled? How long does it look like they've been dead? Is there any sign of activity in the house (food left out, coals in the fireplace, etc)?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 20, 2018, 07:31:44 PM
gimme a medical check
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 21, 2018, 07:59:30 AM
About the closest Elizabeth has is Knowledge (Physical Sciences) = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 10 + 10, total 20


If it's supposed to be a Heal check, it'd just be her Wisdom mod = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 13 + 1, total 14
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 21, 2018, 10:35:00 PM
You don't think they're older than the other corpses, which would fit what you know already (and with current knowledge it's hard to tell).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 22, 2018, 09:15:51 AM
Elizabeth quickly scrounges for anything of value that would help the town survive the winter. She heads back and reports her findings.

If it's getting late enough, we should circle back, and she's planning on commandeering the cattle if it seems safe to approach the first farm.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 23, 2018, 12:09:58 AM
The farm is safe, but you might be leading them back to town in the dark.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 23, 2018, 08:01:43 AM
Safety first. We'll go back. We can check the weather tomorrow. The hunting party is still missing.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 26, 2018, 12:32:29 AM
The way back to town is uneventful, and the snow is pretty bad by the time you get there.  It's basically whiteout conditions.  The hunting party hasn't come back.  Have you told the men what to say about what you've found?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 26, 2018, 09:23:01 AM
I'll tell the ones I trust the details. The others I'll tell it looks like someone murdered the people in the farms semi-recently, and it doesn't look like animals.

At this point, we'll wait to see what the day looks like tomorrow.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 27, 2018, 09:05:34 PM
Conditions aren't much better when one of the missing hunters stumbles wounded and frozen into the town.  He immediately collapses, and is taken to the closest thing you have for a doctor for aid.  He does not regain consciousness, and the physician says he is suffering from exposure and shock.  He cannot identify the wounds on the man as they are not made by either tools or animals.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 29, 2018, 01:26:11 PM
Knowledge (TMWNMTK) to identify the wounds:
[roll]1d20+11[/roll]

Edit:
Apparently, the dice-roller has stopped working:
Is this related to the dice roller having stopped working?

Yep, the update did that.


I'll roll d20+11, but you can do your own roll if you'd rather -> 19+11 = 30
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 01, 2018, 03:44:27 AM
They are massive puncture wounds, meant to drain the body of blood quickly.  There's several possible culprits from legend, ome of which is a spider like being...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 01, 2018, 02:30:26 PM
"spider-like being" is a reoccurring theme from things Elizabeth has found. She has the man moved to a warm location and tried to get him hydrated, if at all possible.

From which direction did he come? Elizabeth cannot go out now, in bad conditions.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 03, 2018, 07:01:24 PM
Roughly the same direction you came from, just a little more to the west
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 04, 2018, 09:41:27 AM
She'll see if she or the doctor can get him to regain consciousness over the next few days. Strip him and try to get him warmed up in a bath. Does she see anything else unusual on him, other than the puncture wound?

How is the weather the next morning?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 05, 2018, 01:21:47 AM
wounds.  Nothing else seems unusual, but he is in bad shape physically and mentally.

The snow has slowed down so it isn't whiteout conditions, but it's kind of deep.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 05, 2018, 09:56:34 AM
It's going to be hard to find things by tracks, and dead bodies might be buried, but Elizabeth should head out with a group to look for survivors.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 10, 2018, 04:42:08 PM
The travel is extremely slow.  You don't find much of anything, but the cattle are still at the Gruber farm if you want to return with them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 11, 2018, 12:46:19 PM
Lets take them back, then check on the state of the returned hunter from the day before.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 11, 2018, 10:59:14 PM
He has not regained consciousness.  There is some kerfuffle over the cows as Gruber has no will leaving them to anyone, nor does he have relatives anyone knows of.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 12, 2018, 01:24:37 PM
"Resources are short, and, as you said: there was no will or living relatives. We can use them for food and the manure to help with producing more powder."

We'll want to make sure we don't keep them too far on the outskirts, where they might get attacked by trogs.

If the next day is still, Elizabeth wants to scout the surrounding area as a hawk. She wants to look for any more hunters, to see if any trogs are out (or if they're alive at the cave), and just is looking for anything else.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 13, 2018, 01:26:49 AM
The sky is still threatening and the winds are bad, but you have an opportunity.  You see virtually nothing but white, as the snow has convinced everything to stay put.  You do see smoke on the mountains however.  The trogs have obviously found a means of making fire.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 13, 2018, 08:02:32 AM
She's hoping the winter makes food scarce enough to hurt their numbers.

After she heads back, she lets the lieutenants know what she saw. She checks on the condition of the returned hunter. She checks on the prisoner.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 14, 2018, 12:40:26 AM
The hunter is worse than ever.  As you enter the room tthe prisoner speaks up.

"You need to kill him.  Sooner rather than later.  Preferably by fire or lye."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 14, 2018, 08:19:55 AM
"What's inside of him?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 3 + 10, total 13
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 15, 2018, 12:25:26 AM
"You've been paying attention then.  The 'spider' has laid her young in him, and it's not long before they hatch.   It would be a mercy to him to put a musket ball through his head and burn the body.  Beware though.  She'll know when they die, and she'll want revenge."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 15, 2018, 08:09:18 AM
Elizabeth quickly calls a meeting with her most trusted men.

"Some spider-like monster let him go because she laid eggs in him. There's nothing we can do to save him, and he's only going to get worse until he painfully dies when they hatch. We need to kill him and burn the body, but the mother will likely know and come for revenge.

Still, it needs to happen. I'm trying to think of how to spin this to the town. If I tell them we need to kill him to stop a monster infestation, they'll either panic or decide to burn me at the stake. I could maybe argue about him having a plague and being contagious. That might be the best way to go.

I'm thinking we quietly end his suffering here, say he expired due to an infection, and that he shows signs of being contagious, so we need to cremate him out of town."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 17, 2018, 01:20:28 AM
there is ony some mild grumbling "How do we know this?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 17, 2018, 07:58:01 AM
Elizabeth puts her forehead in her hand.

"It's a fair question, but there's no real way to prove this without waiting until its far too late. If even one of those things survives in the town, this problem will get much worse.

How I 'know' is by looking at the evidence, and comparing it to the esoteric tomes I've found and studied. Sure, individually, they look like collections of mythology, but collectively, they do a far better job of explaining things not understood than anything else. And while you might question the veracity of such texts, I ask you, 'How did I learn to conjure purple fire or turn into a hawk if these books are just rubbish?'

We need to act, and I think the best route is to smother him, take him out of the town, and burn him. I'll be the one to kill him, but I'll need a few people to help me carry him out, build the fire, and corroborate the story. Also, we'll need to go out of the town in force. We need to assume we could be attacked any time we're out, and the fire might attract the 'mother'."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 17, 2018, 03:41:28 PM
They aren't happy with this, but it is agreed too.  The doctor balks though, so you may need to do some persuading.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 18, 2018, 09:47:15 AM
Is the doctor in the room with him currently? Elizabeth wasn't planning on consulting him on this.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 18, 2018, 08:57:37 PM
He's being held at the doctors house to keep an eye on him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 19, 2018, 08:06:17 AM
Is the doctor aware of the magic that I used in the fight?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 20, 2018, 12:53:26 AM
Somewhat.  Are you explaining the infestation bit to him?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 20, 2018, 10:14:21 AM
Are you explaining the infestation bit to him?

Yes.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 25, 2018, 09:10:17 PM
He's just as leery now.  He worries if you kill the man here the parasites will leave the body.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 26, 2018, 08:48:06 AM
"Good point. We should take him out of town and kill him right before burning the body. We should be able to cover him in a shroud to take him out of town."

Is he fully unconscious? Is he moving about at all? Does he have any family here? Have they been visiting him?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 28, 2018, 12:48:29 AM
He is neither conscious or moving, and seems to have no one to speak of.  It's why he was on the hunting party.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 28, 2018, 11:12:30 AM
Lets take him out, shrouded, aiming to be quiet to not draw too many questions. We'll take some wood with us. Once we get far enough out, clear an area to build a good fire to burn him. Right when we're ready to build the fire, kill him. set the fire in a ring around the body, so any parasites fleeing have nowhere to go.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 02, 2018, 08:47:10 PM
It appears to work.  No parasites emerge, so perhaps they weren't far enough along in development.  The hunter never wakes, even when you put the musket ball in him.  One of the men says a short prayer.

It's then you hear an unearthly shriek in the distance.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 02, 2018, 11:47:57 PM
Knowledge (TMWNMTK) to identify it:
Rolled 1d20+11 : 9 + 11, total 20


What direction is it coming from?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 11, 2018, 01:22:22 PM
From your north.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 12, 2018, 08:21:13 AM
Just to make sure, the body is burning, right? We should run back to the town quickly, and be on the lookout for any lone travelers.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 16, 2018, 04:53:45 PM
The body is burning yes.  Your trip to town is uneventful.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 17, 2018, 01:35:40 PM
Is the thing still shrieking, or was that a one-off thing? Is anyone in the town acting differently?

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 11 + 10, total 21
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 21, 2018, 07:27:14 PM
one off thing

the townsfolk are as usual: terrified
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 22, 2018, 10:10:47 AM
Elizabeth tells the lieutenants that we need to keep a lookout for any creatures or lone travelers. She checks with the prisoner.

"Will this thing attack us directly, or wait to capture more hunters?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 22, 2018, 02:56:08 PM
"It will come at you sideways, in some way you aren't expecting.  It will be at least as well versed in the sciences as you, and is far more physically powerful.  It won't be direct unless the rage has consumed it, but it can always make more children.  This one incident won't make it careless.  Trust no one.  Keep your eyes open, and let no one outside of the city alone.  Establish a curfew, and make sure no night watchman is alone at his post.  Do you know any of the science of perception?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 22, 2018, 06:46:41 PM
"Just Open Door. Is there something else I should learn?"

Elizabeth sets up the curfew and paired watches and explains why.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 23, 2018, 08:18:02 PM
he looks stunned

"Perception is normally the first thing a Master teaches a student.  You will need to learn it quickly to survive."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 24, 2018, 09:10:06 AM
OOC: is he referring to Detect (http://minmaxforum.com/index.php?topic=5275.msg171504#msg171504)? How specific do I have to be when I choose what it detects? Can it be eldritch creatures, or does it need to be more specific?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 24, 2018, 10:54:39 PM
He is indeed.  You can be both general or specific, but I will need to finish the spells text.  Sorry about that, I thought I had it done.

edit: i has added some text to the spell to give you an idea
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 25, 2018, 08:00:42 AM
Elizabeth nods, and heads out of the jail. She again makes sure that people are moving about or taking their watches at least in pairs. She will go out with hunting groups to help keep things safe and look for any evidence of weird things moving about.

OOC: Elizabeth will make a note to learn that spell when she is able (i.e. when she gains a level). The ranks are purchased with skill points, right?

Also, did we ever get those cows back to town, or did we leave too late in the day for that?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 29, 2018, 08:05:35 PM
yup but you'll need a copy of the spell, make a bargain with an entity or have someone who knows it teach it to you


which iis kind of what yr prisoner is hinting at

A week passes before people in town start showing up dead with their blood drained.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 30, 2018, 09:58:22 AM
yup but you'll need a copy of the spell, make a bargain with an entity or have someone who knows it teach it to you

which iis kind of what yr prisoner is hinting at

I have to gain a level to learn it though, right? Is the idea she could start "learning" it now, then actually gain access when she levels?

If so, she'll let him teach her.


A week passes before people in town start showing up dead with their blood drained.

What do you mean by "showing up"? Is part of the group bringing dead people back from hunting trips?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 30, 2018, 09:04:51 PM
You can learn a spell any time, it's just to buy ranks in it after you need to level up and get skill points.  The prisoner would likely demand you take the Apprenticeship Flaw or set him free.

The bodies are murders in the night.  In each case that person was in a room alone and found dead.  No one was witnessed entering or leaving and no noise was heard.  Always at night.  The town is alive with rumors of vampires..
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 31, 2018, 08:20:57 AM
You can learn a spell any time, it's just to buy ranks in it after you need to level up and get skill points.  The prisoner would likely demand you take the Apprenticeship Flaw or set him free.
"Where will you go and what will you do if I release you?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 4 + 10, total 14



The bodies are murders in the night.  In each case that person was in a room alone and found dead.  No one was witnessed entering or leaving and no noise was heard.  Always at night.  The town is alive with rumors of vampires..
"We're still investigating, but it's safest to sleep in groups with at least one person keeping watch. We may have to tighten our perimeter in spots. It would be safest to burn the bodies after reading them their last rites."

To her lieutenants: "From what I can tell, it's effectively a large spider, that can lay it's eggs in people. It knows what many would refer to as 'magic'. I don't think it's a very straight-forward foe, and we cannot expect it to just show up and 'fight' us, some day. We're going to have to be smarter than it. I'm researching ways to find it while it is hiding."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 01, 2018, 12:22:26 AM
"Go?  Where can I go.  Washington and Franklin set in motion our shared destruction, and my enemies are everywhere.  You are the only promising student who could aide me and your education has gaps in it."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 01, 2018, 08:49:03 AM
Does she find him believable?

"You won't do anything to harm the citizens of this town?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 6 + 10, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 05, 2018, 09:49:29 PM
"Keeping us alive may occasionally require that."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 06, 2018, 08:44:16 AM
"How so?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 06, 2018, 06:48:30 PM
"Some things you will not be able to defeat, and a Bargain may be necessary.  They are rarely palatable to the less powerful side.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 07, 2018, 09:28:35 AM
"So long as it's as a last resort, and we can keep such deals as quiet as possible. The townsfolk are slowly learning the truth of things, but I can't see that working out well for a population, generally speaking. I'll be back in a few minutes."

Elizabeth goes to confer with the lieutenants.

"I may have to release the prisoner. As much as I don't like the idea, he knows more about what we're dealing with, and he's more on our side than any man-eating, human-incubating spider monster.

I have to learn the ins and outs of detecting other-wordly creatures, so I can better find this thing as it enters our town."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 08, 2018, 12:44:56 AM
"He's not human, that one. We've all seen him say or do things."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 08, 2018, 09:22:09 AM
"Can you elaborate?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 12, 2018, 04:12:07 PM
"He eats animals.  We've all fed him live rats.  One of them bit him and he closed the wound.  He knows our names and some details of our personal lives he shouldn't."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 13, 2018, 02:16:42 PM
Elizabeth puts her head in her hand.

"Nothing living was supposed to cross that circle.

At least we know that it doesn't seem to allow him to escape."


She looks off to the side.

"I'm struggling to find any other way to detect this thing that comes into our town at night and feeds on anyone it finds alone."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 20, 2018, 04:47:36 PM
"Did the Sheriff leave anything that could help?  He has to have some notes on the prisoner."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 24, 2018, 08:27:04 AM
OOC: I thought I remember Elizabeth searching really early and coming up with nothing. Is that correct?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 26, 2018, 07:33:00 PM
you did, but as i recall your rolls were meh

also i think maybe you searched his office and maybe house
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 27, 2018, 11:26:55 AM
She'll search his house...
Rolled 1d20+17 : 14 + 17, total 31


...the office...
Rolled 1d20+17 : 7 + 17, total 24


...and anything at the jail, if applicable.
Rolled 1d20+17 : 10 + 17, total 27
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 01, 2018, 11:53:48 PM
You do find a deed to another property on the outskirts of town.  One you were pretty sure was uninhabiited currently.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 02, 2018, 08:28:12 AM
Elizabeth wants to go check it out with one of her lieutenants. Armed. She wants to survey the outside before going in.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 09, 2018, 09:05:39 PM
The snow is still deep and the wind is high.  There doesn't appear to be any fire lit, though there is ample wood outside.  Odd for an uninhabited place.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 10, 2018, 09:54:41 AM
Is there less snow on the wood and/or the area around it? Any tracks?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 10, 2018, 08:40:56 PM
No, but it's probable someone did this before the first snowfall hit.  And it's just far away enough no one might notice.  But if it's uninhabited why pile wood?  And if it is, why no fire?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 11, 2018, 08:44:04 AM
Elizabeth sneaks up and peeks in the windows.

Hide:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 2 + 1, total 3


Move Silently:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 4 + 1, total 5
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 12, 2018, 02:22:08 AM
There is a loud noise as you step on a branch and it snaps.  Everyone is mortified but nothing seems to happen.  It's pitch black inside.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 12, 2018, 09:10:34 AM
Elizabeth walks up to the door. Is the threshold covered with snow, or is it under a porch? If it's not clear, she wants to physically remove the snow, and check how big the gap is between the door and the threshold. A mouse can squeeze under a 6mm gap, and she intends to take advantage of that, if she can find such a gap.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 13, 2018, 01:30:57 AM
It's covered in snow.  Removing it will take some work.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 13, 2018, 09:33:27 AM
How is the door locked?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 14, 2018, 12:12:41 AM
It's a combination lock.  Highly unusual and exppensive in this daye.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 14, 2018, 09:28:44 AM
Is it built into the door or attached to some other metal parts on the outside?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 16, 2018, 09:32:54 PM
attached
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 17, 2018, 08:53:58 AM
I don't know if Trapfinding is necessary to look for traps in d20 Modern, but Elizabeth will attempt to look for anything dangerous, if possible.

Search:
Rolled 1d20+17 : 2 + 17, total 19


If she thinks it's safe, she'll pour one of her vials of potent acid on the bolt, or whatever equivalent mechanical part she thinks will separate the locking mechanism from the door.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 19, 2018, 12:44:14 AM
It seems safe, roll damage.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 19, 2018, 09:36:19 AM
It's listed on the sheet as "2d6 splash / 2d10 immersion". I'm not sure which this would be, so I'll roll both, and you can use which is applicable.

Rolled 2d6 : 5, 4, total 9


Rolled 2d10 : 5, 4, total 9
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 20, 2018, 01:30:56 AM
we'll go with splash lol

wtf the only d20 modern equipment with hardness/hp are vehicles

it has continuing damage right?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 20, 2018, 09:56:50 AM
wtf the only d20 modern equipment with hardness/hp are vehicles

In 3E, steel has a hardness of 10. I now acid does full damage against objects (as opposed to half for fire and electricity, and a quarter for cold). I'm not sure if hardness applies. There were debates about that, but I lean toward "yes".


it has continuing damage right?

I'm not sure. I was trying to find a citation for the damage values I had on my character sheet. I'm not sure where they actually came from. I have more vials, and theoretically, if I poured enough, it might act more like immersion.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 24, 2018, 08:48:47 PM
The acid doesn't dissolve it, but it miht have weakened enough to break it off more easily.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 25, 2018, 09:10:17 AM
Elizabeth asks one of the stronger guys to attempt that. Perhaps using two pieces of firewood (holding one against the lock, and striking it with the other).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 26, 2018, 04:00:43 AM
Rolled 1d20+3 : 8 + 3, total 11
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 26, 2018, 04:03:23 AM
Okay it takes him a lot more time than you're comfortable with but you get the door open.  You notice it can be barred from the inside as well.  The men ask if they can start a fire to turn away the bitter cold.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 26, 2018, 09:02:33 AM
"Lets make sure it's clear, first."

She goes with them to check the rooms. Someone should keep an eye on the open door to make sure nothing comes in or goes out.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 28, 2018, 02:46:07 AM
It's a small house with few roons and an attic (possibly a cellar as well).  Perception rolls plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 28, 2018, 10:18:35 AM
Spot:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 19 + 1, total 20


Listen:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 29, 2018, 03:15:30 AM
search too plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 30, 2018, 09:40:46 AM
Search:
Rolled 1d20+17 : 15 + 17, total 32
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 30, 2018, 10:04:08 PM
+17?  daaayum
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 01, 2018, 10:00:36 PM
You hear nothing.  The small house appears to be empty of life (currently).  The furnishings are fairly sparse with only basic furniture plus some very odd things.  For example the kitchen contains not so much food as various chemicals.  The bedroom library has many books, none of them in english, none of them on subjects that would not prov troublesome if you were caught with them.  The floor underneath the bed has a hidden door leading to the cellar.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 02, 2018, 08:26:32 AM
Are there any signs that something has been here recently? Disturbed dust, or anything similar?

Elizabeth checks the cellar.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 03, 2018, 10:53:29 PM
No signs of disturbance.   You light a lantern to move into the cellar and immediately realize why it's hidden: this is a practicing scientists room, but the science is not Earthly.  Slates on the wall contain many equations, done in a mathematical system unknown to you.  Sigils of some form are on  the wall and floor, and there are more books in the corner.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 04, 2018, 08:32:22 AM
Knowledge (TMWNMTK) to identify anything on the slate or the books:

Rolled 1d20+11 : 2 + 11, total 13
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 07, 2018, 03:50:10 PM
You think the books are about the alien science but most aren't in a language you read.  The sigils might be wards of some kind.  The maths on the slate will take time, you've not seen anything like them.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 07, 2018, 10:37:08 PM
This is certainly worth looking into, later. For now, she looks to see if there is anything on the prisoner.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 08, 2018, 04:15:10 PM
how much time you spending?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 08, 2018, 09:59:44 PM
I want to make sure we get back before nightfall. Elizabeth will probably carry any interesting books back with her. Any chemicals that would be good for restocking her lab would be good, too.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 14, 2018, 12:50:12 AM
Are you trying to find a way to re-lock the door when you go/
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 14, 2018, 09:44:47 AM
The only way Elizabeth can think of is to bar it from the inside, find small hole, turn into a rat, and get out. Is that workable?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 21, 2018, 08:21:07 PM
yes, perception rolls for the trip back plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 22, 2018, 08:26:10 AM
Spot
Rolled 1d20+1 : 19 + 1, total 20


Listen
Rolled 1d20+1 : 12 + 1, total 13
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 22, 2018, 05:42:49 PM
You're being followed by something or someone thats been pretty good at remaining out of site.  The men do not appear to have noticed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 23, 2018, 08:31:50 AM
How far out?

Quietly, to the group: "We're being followed. I'm not sure, yet, by what."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 28, 2018, 04:19:06 PM
not beyond gun range.  it appears to be hiding behind terrain only popping up occasionally to keep track of you
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 28, 2018, 05:27:02 PM
To the group: "Pardon my language, but I'm done fucking around." She pulls her gun and turns toward where she last saw the thing.

Yelling: "Show yourself!"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 29, 2018, 07:21:28 PM
A dark figure peeks from behind a tree.  It is wearing what seems to be a black great coat and hooded cloak.  It towers over most of you standing well over 6 feet tall.  It makes no move toward you, nor does it speak.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 30, 2018, 09:32:12 AM
"Who are you?"

Spot to get a better look:
Rolled 1d20+1 : 13 + 1, total 14
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 06, 2018, 05:57:31 PM
shadows seem drawn to it, and you make out enough detail to realize it may or may not be human

"And what would my name mean to you youngling?  A newborn babe taking her first steps is not likely to recognize me."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 07, 2018, 09:20:37 AM
Knowledge (TMWNMTK) to get any idea:
Rolled 1d20+11 : 17 + 11, total 28
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 11, 2018, 04:13:26 PM
Definitely not human, but was once or has had extensive enough dealings with your kind to understand how you think.  Likely immortal, definitely dangerous, may or may not be susceptible to musket fire.  On the plus side you may be able to bargain with iit.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 12, 2018, 10:07:23 AM
OOC: Just to be sure, Barnes' body was found at the beginning of the campaign, right?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 14, 2018, 11:41:58 PM
yup
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 15, 2018, 09:48:11 AM
"Did you come here when the gate opened, or were you already here?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 19, 2018, 05:08:04 PM
"And which gate would that be?  There have been many, there will be many more.  Time and space are relatively meaningless concept with gates.  And by here do you mean this particular forest or this fragment of existence?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 20, 2018, 04:09:24 PM
"And by here do you mean this particular forest or this fragment of existence?"

"This planet.

Why are you following us?"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 27, 2018, 06:24:22 PM
"This 'planet' exists in many places, so I'm afraid that doesn't narrow it down much.  I follow because I have been watching the lodging you just left for some time.  And because I sense...potential in you."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 28, 2018, 05:09:01 PM
"I've been studying for a while. I knew the man who lived in the house, and was looking for information."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 30, 2018, 01:18:38 AM
"He must be dead then for you to have gained access."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 30, 2018, 09:08:53 AM
"Did he trap it?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 01, 2018, 12:07:47 AM
"No true practicioner leaves his lair unguarded unless he is dead or a fool.  Too many possibilities of things going wrong.  Too many apprentices vying to usurp the master."

You feel it may have taken a snarky shot at you with that last remark.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 01, 2018, 08:44:46 AM
"I'm not trying to usurp him. I'm looking for information now that he's gone. It's not like I can just... go to the library."

How are the other guys taking this conversation?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 02, 2018, 12:35:02 AM
they look like they're about to shit their pants

"I probably shouldn't let you live.  You seem to know just enough to bring trouble.  But then you may well attract enough attention that my own enemies get caught in the violence.  So I'll leave you with some advice.  Do not call up that which you cannot put down again.  Do not open doors or windows you cannot close.  It  is inevitable your Master will try to kill you, as you will eventually find it necessary to kill him for your own self-preservation.  And lastly, ever assume your master is dead.  Good day to you youngling, and beware Grandmother Spider."

and with that it is gone
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 02, 2018, 10:34:26 AM
To the group: "Well, that went about as well as it could have...

We should get back quickly before it changes its mind. I plan to check on the house again tomorrow at first light. You don't have to come with me if you don't want to."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 02, 2018, 09:30:44 PM
things are uneventful on the way back.  What are you doing next?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 03, 2018, 10:13:59 AM
First just to check on the state of the prisoner. Elizabeth has no plans to actually speak to him; she just wants to see if he's acting different.

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 16 + 10, total 26


If nothing is unusual there, she'll go back to her place and look over some of the books she took back with her.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 03, 2018, 07:56:58 PM
he sniffs when you enter  "You met someone out there."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 04, 2018, 10:11:58 AM
"Do you recognize the scent?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
(http://minmaxforum.com/Themes/thingamajig/images/dice_warn.gif) This dice roll has been tampered with!
Rolled 1d20+10 : 18 + 10, total 28

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 10, 2018, 08:56:28 PM
sorry, hit modify instead of quote

he seems truthful


"Yes and no.  I recognize the general family, but not the individual.  One of the eaters of the dead it would seem.  And they let you live.  That is a rarity, they do not like their existence known.  Were you forced to promise it anything?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 11, 2018, 10:12:59 AM
"No. It's hoping I'll destroy its enemies."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 17, 2018, 07:31:09 PM
"Your people are their enemies unless he has split with his kind."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 18, 2018, 10:18:43 AM
"I think he's hoping we'll kill each other.

Why would one of them split from their kind? Do they have any loyalty, hierarchy, or even government?"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 20, 2018, 03:37:49 AM
"Your past teacher never went beyond teaching you some basic tricks did he?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 24, 2018, 10:02:03 AM
"Mostly. I started as a scientist who noticed the world didn't always behave in ways I could explain."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 25, 2018, 01:54:27 AM
"And that is why you were noticed.  You stood out from the others because your ability to perceive the truth marked you"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 26, 2018, 08:31:08 AM
"Noticed by my teacher, or what I just met in the woods?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 26, 2018, 04:58:45 PM
"Given what you know I'd hesitate to call him a teacher."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 27, 2018, 11:23:59 AM
"If I could get a bit of respite from all the problems around here, I'd try to learn a bit more."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 31, 2018, 08:11:42 PM
"You will need to do both.  Has the truth of how the world works been explained to you?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 02, 2019, 09:24:35 AM
"Perhaps only partially. I know humans see illusions designed to cover the truth."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 02, 2019, 09:41:50 PM
"Our species main defense.  We won't have that much longer."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 03, 2019, 08:05:05 AM
"Until we're wiped out?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 21, 2019, 11:00:38 PM
"It was a form of herd immunity.  The fewer members of the herd with it, the less effective it is."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 22, 2019, 01:51:49 PM
"So... we adapt."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 27, 2019, 12:15:59 AM
"That would require the populace learning the basics as you have.  How many do you suppose are prepared for that?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 27, 2019, 09:05:00 AM
"Probably not."

Elizabeth heads out of the cell unless he adds something else. She wants to get rested up, and go back with a small group of people and a sled to pull back some stuff from the cabin before it sits unlocked too long. She'll possibly bring an animal or two to help pull the sled.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 27, 2019, 10:12:27 PM
Thats not a problem.  Perception checks on the way back.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 28, 2019, 09:52:47 AM
Spot = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 4 + 1, total 5


Listen = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 28, 2019, 08:34:35 PM
You stumble into a clearing and see this:  https://thoughtcatalog.files.wordpress.com/2018/02/woods.png?w=1140&h=755&resize=1140,755&quality=95&strip=all&crop=1
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 29, 2019, 09:37:42 AM
Is that the same entity I saw earlier?

Spot = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 16 + 1, total 17
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 03, 2019, 09:07:54 PM
That is not.  It remains silent.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 04, 2019, 12:17:05 PM
How far out, and what is everyone else doing?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 04, 2019, 09:00:57 PM
They're frozen in shock.  It's far enough out you'll get one, maybe two shots if it has intentions.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 05, 2019, 10:21:07 AM
Elizabeth puts her hand in her jacket on her pistol, but does not draw it.

"Who are you? What do you want?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 16, 2019, 03:20:19 AM
no response
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 16, 2019, 08:30:40 AM
For now I'm going to direct the group to go around it in a very wide half-circle, keeping the same distance, at a minimum.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2019, 10:03:06 PM
it follows silently
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 19, 2019, 10:03:38 AM
How far back? How fast is it moving compared to us?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 26, 2019, 03:01:39 AM
it's keeping pace, doesn't seem to be trying to get closer
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 26, 2019, 09:41:08 AM
For now we'll keep going, I'll keep an eye on the thing, and be in the rear.

If we get near the house and it still is following, I'll tell the others I want to split up and have them go to the house and grab any book, piece of equipment, or other valuable they can carry, and I'll see if it follows me instead. I'll circle through the woods to go wide around the house if it comes to that.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 01, 2019, 12:35:18 AM
"Is that wise?  We don't know what itis?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 01, 2019, 09:44:30 AM
"What are you suggesting?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 03, 2019, 08:59:13 PM
"It...well you only have so many shots..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 04, 2019, 09:49:07 AM
"I'm not planning on shooting if it comes to it. I just want to draw it away. I'd like to get what I came for, and even if we just turn back now, I can't say you'll be safe. I have a feeling it's coming for me, not us."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 04, 2019, 07:04:57 PM
You split off and it follows you.  How far are you going?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 05, 2019, 09:30:26 AM
Assuming it holds my pace and keeps the distance, I want to move long enough to give them some time to loot the house. I'm not planning on going out super deep into the woods, but rather to make a wide half-circle so I start heading back.

Does it just keep following the same as before?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 07, 2019, 01:14:05 AM
Once they go inside iit rapidly picks up speed and begins charging.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 07, 2019, 09:45:46 AM
Charging me or them? How far is it out?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 17, 2019, 04:49:57 PM
you, it also begins letting a screeching, metallic roar.  It's far enough that you've got this round to do soemthing.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 17, 2019, 05:52:59 PM
Knowledge (TMWNMTK) to glean any info: 1d20+11
Rolled 1d20+11 : 12 + 11, total 23


My original plan was to turn into a hawk and fly away, but I don't think I have time for that.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 17, 2019, 08:01:26 PM
If you have 6+ ranks you have time.  Given the darkness it's difficult to say what it is, but it appears roughly humanoid, which suggests it may not be one of the more powerful creatures out there.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 18, 2019, 10:01:41 AM
She'll start by firing a shot (hopefully attracting the attention of the others), and then reloading as a move action:

1d20+3 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 1d20+3 : 3 + 3, total 6


Damage (if needed) = 2d6 (+1 if within 30')
Rolled 2d6 : 2, 4, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 18, 2019, 08:49:11 PM
you miss horribly, but it does attract the others since you can hear them coming.  nishutive time!
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 19, 2019, 10:06:30 AM
Rolled 1d20+1 : 6 + 1, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 05, 2019, 01:24:56 AM
the hunters

Rolled 1d20+3 : 13 + 3, total 16


Rolled 1d20+3 : 2 + 3, total 5


Rolled 1d20+3 : 13 + 3, total 16


the critter

Rolled 1d20 : 1, total 1
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 05, 2019, 01:28:19 AM
Round 1: Fight!

Hunters 1 &2 16

Robby 7

Hunter 3 5

It 1


The first two hunters spend their turn running to you, so you're up.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 05, 2019, 09:21:03 AM
Elizabeth uses Exploit Weakness (Smart Hero ability, DC 15) to use Int instead of Str/Dex for attacks after having watched the creature.

1d20+4+3
Rolled 1d20+7 : 13 + 7, total 20


OOC: I'll roll the attack in the next post so I know if this worked or not.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 05, 2019, 09:22:27 AM
Having learned how to exploit the creature's weakness, Elizabeth takes a (hopefully) better aimed shot:

1d20+6 (+1 if within 30 feet)
Rolled 1d20+6 : 10 + 6, total 16


Damage (+1 if within 30 feet)
Rolled 2d6 : 5, 2, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 09, 2019, 11:20:38 PM
You hit it in the shoulder and you see bits of it fly off everywhere.  It makes no sound and seemingly takes little notice of it.  Hunter 3 rounds the bend as it charges you.

Rolled 1d20+4 : 5 + 4, total 9
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 09, 2019, 11:24:52 PM
It swings wide.  It might have been human once but it's seemingly disintegrating flesh looks as though it melted and resolidified turning it into a horrible parody of humanity.  It's wearing a Continental Army uniform that has seemingly fused with it in places.  The eyes are dead and cataracted over, and if it had intelligence once it doesnt seem too now.


Round21: Fight!

Hunters 1 &2 16

Robby 7

Hunter 3 5

It 1


Hunters 1 &2 draw hatchets and continue running tiwards you.  You're back up.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 10, 2019, 09:20:27 AM
Five-foot-step backward, then cast Burn, dealing untyped damage to the creature.

Rolled 1d8 : 7, total 7


Elizabeth will attempt to maintain concentration.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 14, 2019, 02:56:41 PM
Hunter three pulls his hatchet as well as you cause more of it's flesh to flake away.  It swings on you.

Rolled 1d20+4 : 14 + 4, total 18
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 14, 2019, 02:57:01 PM
Does an 18 hit?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 15, 2019, 09:54:22 AM
Does an 18 hit?

Yes. AC is 17.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 15, 2019, 07:41:12 PM
Rolled 1d3+4 : 2 + 4, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 15, 2019, 07:43:14 PM
It gives you a staggering blow.  If it is not stronger than a man, then surely it's at the upper limit of human ability.


Round3: Fight!

Hunters 1 &2 16

Robby 7

Hunter 3 5

It 1


Hunters 1 & 2 try giving it the chop:

Rolled 1d20+2 : 9 + 2, total 11
Rolled 1d20+2 : 5 + 2, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 15, 2019, 07:44:02 PM
One wiffs horribly, and the other hits to little effect.  You're up.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 16, 2019, 09:28:26 AM
One wiffs horribly, and the other hits to little effect.  You're up.

OOC: Do I have to make a Concentration check to keep up the spell? If so, here is the result:

Rolled 1d20+1 : 15 + 1, total 16
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 16, 2019, 09:30:01 AM
OOC: under 3.5 rules, that would make the DC 16 check.

Elizabeth takes a five-foot step back from the monster, trying to head toward some trees so she can try to gain cover against attacks. She continues to burn the monster:

Rolled 1d8 : 7, total 7
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 16, 2019, 08:05:19 PM
You continue blasting awa and the third hunter tries his luck with his hatchet

Rolled 1d20+2 : 20 + 2, total 22
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 16, 2019, 08:06:05 PM
No need to confirm as it's immune to crits

Rolled 1d6+1 : 4 + 1, total 5
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 16, 2019, 08:11:43 PM
Hunter three crushes it's skull from behind.  It falls and you see even without your efforts the former man was in horrible shape.  As it lays there disintegrating a voice issues from it without it's mouth moving:

"I can always animate another of Washington's byblows."

And then it begins melting into the snow.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 18, 2019, 09:22:12 AM
Does everyone appear to hear the voice? Is it a voice I recognize? (OOC: it's the same font as for the prisoner)
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 22, 2019, 09:33:00 PM
they all hear it

the voice is manifestly not human or recognizable
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on April 23, 2019, 10:06:11 AM
"If you're trying to send a message, what is it you want?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on April 30, 2019, 11:34:46 PM
"Revenge..."

and then it's gone
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 01, 2019, 09:34:40 AM
"That's not good.

We're already part way there, so lets get what we came for."
Elizabeth pushes on to the house.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 06, 2019, 07:41:09 PM
You have no further incident on the way.  What are you grabbing?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 06, 2019, 09:18:09 PM
What is there?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 07, 2019, 12:07:43 AM
yrs to the first, roll search/spot to see if you find new stuff
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 07, 2019, 09:08:41 AM
Search = 1d20+17
Rolled 1d20+17 : 14 + 17, total 31


Spot = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 9 + 1, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 13, 2019, 08:48:35 PM
you find a blade of some sort hidden in a wall compartment.

occult or history rolls can be made
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 14, 2019, 09:56:06 AM
you find a blade of some sort hidden in a wall compartment.

occult or history rolls can be made

TMWNMTK is probably most relevant: 1d20+11
Rolled 1d20+11 : 6 + 11, total 17



She has Theology/Philosophy, if that matters, but it doesn't sound applicable to me.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 14, 2019, 10:54:45 PM
you're guessing it's a sacrificial dagger.  There are stains on it, it's rusted to hell and back, and yet it seems to cut like it's made yesterday
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 15, 2019, 09:30:16 AM
Elizabeth keeps the dagger and looks for any useful books, chemicals, or food staples. She'll look for any books on the occult which might help with the dagger.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 20, 2019, 05:37:51 PM
There's still plenty of rare and occult books you weren''t able to nab last time (plus dangerous lab stuff).  There is still food preserved in a root cellar.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 21, 2019, 09:18:14 AM
I want to grab what we can. I want books on as wide a range of topics as possible.

What is the nature of the lab stuff? Elizabeth has a lab back home. Is there any equipment that would be useful to her, or any chemicals that would be useful or rare?

Food will probably be the lowest priority, grabbing things we're running low on, first.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 26, 2019, 09:29:40 PM
How much storage capacity did u bring?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 27, 2019, 11:07:34 AM
Elizabeth herself only has a Str of 8, so whatever she can fit in her pack. I'm not sure how many guys there are.

If it's still snow, we should be able to rig up a bit of a sled we can pull behind us for some stuff.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on May 27, 2019, 06:15:31 PM
You would need a sled or coach for all the books and lab stuff.  Sled might be risky for some of the chemicals.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on May 28, 2019, 10:23:20 AM
Dangerous chemicals can be left behind, unless Elizabeth sees an urgent need for anything. This trip is more about taking advantage of underutilized resources and gaining intelligence than anything else.

Knowledge/Craft checks to see if there's anything relevant to the city's current situation in the lab, here:

Knowledge (Physical Sciences) = 1d20+10:
Rolled 1d20+10 : 4 + 10, total 14


Craft (Chemical) = 1d20+10:
Rolled 1d20+10 : 3 + 10, total 13
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 05, 2019, 06:59:19 PM
There's some pretty rare chemicls, but not in huge amounts.  Ton of books tho.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 06, 2019, 11:37:43 AM
She'll keep the chemicals, and prioritize on books that seem most useful.

She'll want information on alien creatures and stuff for summoning and/or opening and closing portals.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 10, 2019, 08:07:59 PM
There's some stuff purporting to do that, but you'll have no idea if it's real till you take a good read.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 11, 2019, 10:05:39 AM
At this point, she'll have to do the best she can. She'd like to take the most back possible to make this trip worth while.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on June 11, 2019, 08:02:28 PM
listen and spot rolls for the return journey
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on June 12, 2019, 09:16:44 AM
Listen = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 3 + 1, total 4


Spot = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 5 + 1, total 6
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 02, 2019, 09:57:02 PM
You are surprised by a group of travelers. An old man and woman, their son, and his wife.  One of them nearly shoots you when yoou step around the corner of a hill.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 03, 2019, 03:01:26 PM
"Don't shoot!"

Do I recognize them from town? If not:

"From where are you coming?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 8 + 10, total 18
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 09, 2019, 06:09:12 PM
you don't recognize them

"We were part of a group fleeing New York before the fighting started in earnest.  There were several family's initially, but everywhere we've gone has been subsequently destroyed by...things.  We are hoping for refuge in Philadelphia.  All behind us is lost."

he is not fibbing
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 11, 2019, 10:07:44 AM
"I have seen some of what you describe. I have not been to Philadelphia in some time, so I have no idea if it still stands. Our settlement is not far from here. We could use more able bodies if you are willing. We have spent a lot of effort on fortifying our own town.

You will have to have a medical examination first, to make sure you're not... infected. We've had problems in the past."


To one of her lieutenants: "We'll need to keep an eye on them. Their story is quite believable, but this wouldn't be the first time something that appeared human snuck past our defenses."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 15, 2019, 10:35:43 PM
"What do you mean infected?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 16, 2019, 06:36:28 AM
"It's somewhat difficult to explain, but we've had issues of people seemingly normal at a glance who turned out to have some parasite."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 18, 2019, 09:29:01 PM
"We aren't worm-ridden."


He looks offended.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 20, 2019, 03:09:59 PM
"I mean no offense. Surely you realize these are... unusual times, and I have a community to keep safe."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on July 30, 2019, 10:56:30 PM
He grumbles a bit, but falls in line.  "I'm Joshua Hawken.  This my wife Ethel, my son Benjamin, and his wife Bethany.  Who might you be?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on July 31, 2019, 11:12:24 AM
He grumbles a bit, but falls in line.  "I'm Joshua Hawken.  This my wife Ethel, my son Benjamin, and his wife Bethany.  Who might you be?"

"Elizabeth Schumacher, town sheriff. From where did you come? Have you seen anything peculiar in your travels?"

If they submit to an examination, she'll look them over, looking for any evidence of things living in them.

Knowledge (physical sciences) = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 10 + 10, total 20


Knowlege (TMWNMTK) = 1d20+11
Rolled 1d20+11 : 10 + 11, total 21

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 12, 2019, 09:31:46 PM
"I have seen the Gates of Hell opened wide..."  He looks ill for a moment.  He grumbles a bit about the physical exam, but submits.  His family is clearly exhausted and undernourished.


"My grand children were taken in the night the first time we camped outside.  We've fled from town to town, from house to house.  There's always something there.  We stay a few nights and we realize one morning someone is missing, or something tries to break through the door in the night.  We saw what was left of a band of Washington's army.  They were terrible to look upon.  We escaped them at the cost of the lives of everyone traveling with us.  We're hoping Philadelphia stands still."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 13, 2019, 10:46:11 AM
Are they showing signs of parasites or being puppetted?

"What's the condition of Washington's army? Do you mean they've turned to banditry out of desperation, or are they no longer human?

I was at Philadelphia several months ago. They had hunkered down and are quite cautious. I have no idea if the city still stands. If it does, I have no idea if they will allow anyone to enter. You can come to our town for the time being, if nothing else, to rest a bit."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 13, 2019, 04:13:15 PM
No signs of bad stuff based on what knowledge you have.

"They were...they looked like their flesh had partly melted and then solidified.  Their uniforms were part of them now...I've nought seen anything like it, and I hope to never see it again.  We would welcome rest and food i you have any.  We are tired and hungry."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 14, 2019, 10:58:11 AM
"We'll have to see how much food we have to spare. We've been going out to remote, abandoned houses to scavenge for supplies. For a while, our biggest concern was these feral people from the north coming down to attack. They were pretty primitive, and the cold weather has kept them at bay.

Times are strange and we've had to adapt. Both in terms of how we cope, but also in terms of how we understand the world."


Elizabeth starts the group heading back to town, keeping an eye out for any danger. She wants to get the sled of supplies back before it gets dark.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 19, 2019, 08:02:28 PM
The trip back is uneventful, and there is no news on your return.  What are you doing with the travelers?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 20, 2019, 08:03:08 AM
Are there any empty houses from deaths since this whole debacle began? What are the food stores looking like?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on August 20, 2019, 04:51:00 PM
Several empty houses.  Hunting has gone well so food is ok.  The cave dwellers haven't been seen much.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on August 21, 2019, 08:40:56 AM
How far into winter are we? If it's nearing spring, Elizabeth will want to turn into a hawk and go check out their cave for signs of activity.

"We have some empty houses you can stay in for the time being. Right now, food isn't so scarce that you can't stay a while.

Tell me, what manner of things have you seen since all of... this started happening? I know you mentioned seeing the army as though they were shambling dead."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 10, 2019, 06:19:40 PM
(sorry i thought I'd replied already!)

You're into October, winiter is just unusually early.

"Dead?  No dead would have been a blessing.  It's like the flesh melted and reformed.  Their uniforms were part of them.  Some had their muskets fused into their hands.  Killing them was damnably difficult, but seemed the most merciful thing we could do.  They were all mad of course.  We also had run in's with some sort of strange cannibal tribe.  We thought them degenerates until we realized they weren't human and never had been.  One town was laid waste to in the night by an unseen thing, sparing only a few houses.  Those of us who survived fled during the day.  Nights are no longer safe at all."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 11, 2019, 07:45:17 AM
"We haven't seen any of the troops you described, but everything else is pretty spot on for what we've seen. We were attacked by primitive troglodytes, but the cold seems to have slowed them down. Which reminds me, I need to check on them, again. They're a ways north of here."

Elizabeth will make sure the newly acquired supplies are put away and check on the situation of things. If nothing requires immediate attention, she will settle down and read some of the new books they brought back.

At the first day of clear weather, she wants to turn into a hawk and check out the troglodyte cave.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 22, 2019, 01:54:02 AM
The books are the old Sheriff's notes on what he learned from his mentor...who is of course your prisoner.  Some are treatises of other authors on the nature of reality.

That night you have a dream of flying as a hawk over the freshly fallen snow.  You spy a dark blot in the distance, and as you get closer it is a woman covered in black whose face you cannot see.  As she look skyward hundreds of spiders pour forth from underneath her skirts ans spell the words "I know."

And then you wake up.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on September 22, 2019, 08:37:49 AM
Elizabeth will pour through the notes looking for any mention of such a woman, or anything similar with spiders.

Once it's light out, if the weather is good, she'll go out as a hawk to check on the troglodytes, and see if that woman was more than a dream. If she sees her (or any unidentified form), she will not approach closely.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 23, 2019, 03:08:23 PM
ooc you'll recall the spider like being whose parasitic offspring you killed that the prisoner refers to as 'her'.

I'll get you the other stuff as soon as I get back from doctors apppointments.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on September 30, 2019, 10:36:18 PM
You find an old latin text referring to the Aranea (latin for spiders).

"We called the beings in the old hills Spiders, for that is what they most closely resembled to us.  Physically they are like the little spiders who make webs in our gardens, but with some important differences.  Unlike true spiders they have 10 limbs, 8 being traditional legs, and 2 ending in hands with long, skeletal fingers.  They have high-domed, manlike skulls with two large, black eyes ringed with three smaller eyes underneath each one.  Their mouth parts more closely resemble those of a beetle.  Generally, their body is not segmented like a spiders, though their legs are, and their head rests on a short neck.  They seem to be covered in a coarse, leathery hide as opposed to a hard armor.  This appearance often goes unnoticed due to their abilities, which shall be discussed shortly.  Infants are not much bigger than large house spiders, but adults can be almost the size of men.  Queens are bigger, some being as large as cattle."

"They feed in much the same way as spiders, having a powerfully toxic bite, and wrapping their prey in webbing produced from their abdomen.  We have discovered only well-fed Spiders possess these abilities, so it is likely a byproduct of their digestion, or requires raw material to create.  We have not determined how much of each material a feeding produces within them.  Unlike true spiders they are not solo hunters or feeders of opportunity.  They travel in packs, and with the exception of the newly born are very intelligent.  While the young are little more than clever beasts, the fully grown Spiders are fiendishly clever, easily capable of outwitting the average man."

"The Spiders live in great hives, much like ants.  They generally build their nests in hills or mountains near the cities of men, as they consider us a resource.  It also makes assault upon their homes much more difficult.  We know little of their society, but have discovered that only one of them is capable of producing eggs at a time.  We refer to them as Queens, and if one dies, one of her children seems to replace her.  You will know the Queen, for she is bloated and ugly, and the others will give their lives to defend her.  We say her, despite the fact that the Spiders have no obvious genitalia, and do not appear to need them.  The Queen rules the hive, and appears to gain immense physical and mental power at the cost of 'her' races ability to camouflage.  They were parasites who fed of our efforts, as we were forced to make sacrifices to them to survive.  The Spiders must lay their eggs within living beings for them to gestate, and for this purpose we were forced to give them men and women, as well as cattle to feed upon.  They would only communicate with those of us who could learn the old ways, for they are not capable of physical speech, though their arts allow them to mimic such."

"Beware the Spiders, for they are very adept at the Old Arts once they attain the right age.  They can wear other beings larger than themselves in much the way we wear clothing, in order to manipulate them from inside like a puppet.  They use this to walk among us as adults.  This is fairly common, and it does not appear solely to find prey, bodies for their young, or to enforce their rule.  Their young use it to inhabit men and animals in order to get close to us to feed, but they are hardly masters of their craft.  They cannot speak and move stiff and awkwardly.  It often seems as though something is moving under the skin of those they infest.  They can only inhabit dead hosts, and are only capable of keeping the body viable for a short time before it's degeneration renders it useless.  The adults are much better, showing little sign of their handiwork, and capable of using the body to speak."

"They are masters of the mind, often communicating with us in dreams or waking nightmares.  Illusion and glamers are their foremost art, and they travel through Doors with ease.  These abilities laid waste to our defenses, and in truth we only rid ourselves from them when the stars turned, and the Arts were rendered useless.  When the stars are right again, they will visit our world again.  These records must be kept for this future day, lest the Spiders be forgotten."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 01, 2019, 08:22:20 AM
Elizabeth approaches the prisoner:

"Have you ever directly dealt with the aranea? If you were forced to deal with them on your own, what approach would you take?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 14 + 10, total 24
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 03, 2019, 02:43:41 AM

"Force is the only means by which you deal with the Aranea.  They consider other species resources or competition for resources.  If one approaches you with a deal it is because they consider you a potential threat.  Every negotiation will be a deceit to get you to lead your fellow men into slavery.  Once they set up a nest in the mountains pushing them out will be difficult at best.  You deal with them using the Arts, for nothing else will stop them."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 03, 2019, 08:44:19 AM
"Can they be Banished? If so, what sort of object ties them to this world?

I've read they are adept with illusions. I know some as well, but most of my other skills are at burning.  What's the most effective way to deal with them, singularly?"

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 08, 2019, 02:58:04 AM
"They can be Banished, but nothing links them here fut for the Door they used to arrive (ooc: you need an object for the spell that links you to the creature, such as a bit of it's blood or hide, or it's dead child or clothes, etc.).  They are still quite mortal, so sufficient firepower will do if your men can avoid succumbing to it's tricks."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 08, 2019, 08:47:31 AM
"I'd ask the best way to lure out the queen, but if I kill her, a new queen will emerge, won't she? She appeared to me in a dream last night."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 08, 2019, 10:30:04 PM
"A new Queen will emerge if there are more of them.  The Queens egg laying capacity is not endless, and is affected by how much food they are getting.  You killed her brood recently, so she may not have lain another one, especially given the Aranea's single mindedness when it comes to vengeance.  What happened in this dream?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 09, 2019, 08:34:16 AM
"I was flying as a hawk and spotted her in the distance. She was wearing black and I could not see her face. When I got near, she looked up and spiders poured from her skirt, spelling the words 'I know'. That's when I woke up."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 09, 2019, 06:22:24 PM
"I'd say that implies she know you killed her brood.  Since you were using the art to resemble a bird it's likely she knows that as well."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 10, 2019, 08:53:25 AM
OOC: do we have access to the remains of the aranea's child? I'm looking for something to banish her. I'm not sure how much time has passed.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 11, 2019, 02:07:18 AM
ooc: the bodies were burned, though their remains may still work
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 12, 2019, 11:29:33 AM
Elizabeth looks for her lieutenants and explains her intentions of wanting to banish the aranae. She’d like them present with guns if they agree, as well as any other men they trust.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 14, 2019, 01:40:22 PM
gimme a diplomacy roll
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 14, 2019, 09:07:28 PM
gimme a diplomacy roll

1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 20 + 1, total 21
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 15, 2019, 10:35:29 PM
Astonishingly, they have fallen enough that your asking them to aid you in witchcraft doesn't even make them blink. They ask for time to say goodbye to their families and ensure they have wills written.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 16, 2019, 06:19:05 PM
"If all goes well, I should be able to banish her without issue. If not, she can be killed with sufficient firepower. That's why I need all of you. Just keep your distance, be ready to fire, and maybe have a second gun on you so you don't have to waste time reloading."

Elizabeth prepares to start the ritual outside of town where everyone can comfortably find cover.

OOC: is there anything else to do ahead of time, or make a check?

Also, is it possible to cast Personal Ward for just 4d6 points, to limit the ability damage?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 18, 2019, 12:30:31 AM
ooc: Ward doesnt work on ability damage, I need to fix that.

Once you have everything ready it just needs to make a Save.  And apparently I forgot to make rules for Save DC's.  How many men are assisting with the spell and how many are standing guard?  You've got a dozem.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 18, 2019, 07:58:23 AM
ooc: Ward doesnt work on ability damage, I need to fix that.
No, I meant that the rules say you take one point of ability damage per 1d6 of temp HP rolled. I wanted to only gain 2d6 temp HP and take 2 ability damage rather than get 18d6 for 18 points of ability damage.


How many men are assisting with the spell and how many are standing guard?  You've got a dozem.
I didn't realize non-casters could assist in the magic. What does each do? Increase the DC?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on October 22, 2019, 10:30:28 PM
ooc: Ward doesnt work on ability damage, I need to fix that.
No, I meant that the rules say you take one point of ability damage per 1d6 of temp HP rolled. I wanted to only gain 2d6 temp HP and take 2 ability damage rather than get 18d6 for 18 points of ability damage.


How many men are assisting with the spell and how many are standing guard?  You've got a dozem.
I didn't realize non-casters could assist in the magic. What does each do? Increase the DC?

Assistants add 1 to the Save DC if they know the spell ritual (they don't necessarily know how to cast it).  You, and each of the participants take 1 point of ability damage of your choice.  You also take sanity and humanity.  I'll revise the cost on PW, that's prolly too much.  Since the spells have no levels I need to make rules for the Save DC.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on October 23, 2019, 08:28:48 AM
Assistants add 1 to the Save DC if they know the spell ritual (they don't necessarily know how to cast it).  You, and each of the participants take 1 point of ability damage of your choice.  You also take sanity and humanity.  I'll revise the cost on PW, that's prolly too much.  Since the spells have no levels I need to make rules for the Save DC.

So, I'd say six help with the spell and six stand guard. I want our best marksmen standing guard.

If the cost on Personal Ward isn't too high, I'd like to cast it ahead of time.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 25, 2019, 03:43:27 AM
How is everyone spaced?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 25, 2019, 09:07:37 AM
Are we supposed to be in a circle or touching, or anything?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 26, 2019, 10:02:14 PM
Participants need to be inside a circle of ground minerals big enough to contain them and a fire.  Non participants should probably be in it as well yoou're thinkinh
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 27, 2019, 01:13:28 PM
Does the circle keep them safe if they're not participating?

I'd like to position them so that they will hopefully not be firing in the direction of the participants.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on November 27, 2019, 07:04:53 PM
Insofar as you know yes, but if anyone breaks the circle the spell ends
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on November 27, 2019, 09:40:21 PM
I guess we'll try it, but Elizabeth stresses the importance of staying the course. Prior to this, she'll cast Personal Ward for 12d6 temp HP, and 3 ability damage (to Cha). She has her pistol loaded, of course.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 04, 2019, 08:44:09 PM
how many ranks in banish you got?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 04, 2019, 11:16:21 PM
how many ranks in banish you got?

2

At the time I selected that, I didn't see a reason to put more than that in:

Banish  
Banish attempts to send a creature from another world or plane of existence back where it came from.  This does not work versus Summoned or Called beings but only entities capable of traveling to our realm of their own volition.  The caster(s) must build a circle of ground minerals and herbs big enough to contain themselves and a fire.  They then begin a chant that requires them to remain within the circle until it is finished, after which they burn whatever object links to the entity to be banished.  If it fails a Willpower save, the entity immediately appears, regardless of where it currently is, and begins to fade away over the course of 3-30 rounds.  At the end of this time it is gone, and the fire may be extinguished and the circle broken.  Unlike most spells, anyone who knows this spell can contribute to it, adding +1 to the spells Save DC.  If the circle is broken before the being disappears the spell ends. 
Costs: Sanity and Humanity, 1 point of temporary Ability damage from each participant.
Requirements: Must be held in the last known place the entity appeared, it's lair, or some place with a connection to it.  Must be at least 3 participants.
Components: V, S, M (ground minerals and herbs to make the circle, and something that links to the creature to be banished)
Learning Time: 2 weeks (DC 16)
Casting Time: 1 hour ritual.
Range: n/a
Target: 1 creature.
Duration: Instantaneous.
Saving Throw: Willpower negates.
Adverse Effects: Side effects for long ritual spells that are cast incorrectly or interrupted (or for failing to learn the spell).
Spellcrafting: Prerequisites needed to craft a spell on your own, usually including time, Knowledge (Arcane) Check DC, and other components.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 05, 2019, 12:00:05 AM
you've got 2 in ward as well yes?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 05, 2019, 01:23:30 PM
you've got 2 in ward as well yes?
Yes. The only two I have 6 in is Glamer and Burn.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 11, 2019, 02:23:24 AM
ok you also take 2 San/Hum damage. 

Rolled 1d20+7 : 4 + 7, total 11
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 11, 2019, 02:25:37 AM
(Wow I did not expect her to fubar that roll).  IIt's several tense moments as the vision oof a massive, bloated spiderlike being pops into view and slowly fades out.

It iis done.  You hope.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 11, 2019, 08:22:45 AM
Once she feels the ritual is complete, Elizabeth sighs and sits on the floor.

"Thank you. I think that it's done. I know that wasn't easy for you."


OOC: are there any saves I have to make for the San/Hum damage? I'm currently at 55/60 San and 34/40 Hum.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 18, 2019, 06:35:03 PM
Nope,  You get 6 san back actually.  Whats next on the agenda?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 19, 2019, 09:39:06 AM
Whats next on the agenda?
Elizabeth wants information. She'll make sure things are going well in the city as far as food and defenses go. She'll scout around as a hawk to see if there are any signs of danger. She wants to check on the trog cave to look for signs of activity.

If all that comes back fine, she is thinking of going to Philadelphia to see how things are going.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on December 25, 2019, 05:52:24 PM
The city progresses well.  The trogs have not.  There is black blood on the snow surrounding their caves, and you recall they dissolve into a tarlike substance when they die.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on December 26, 2019, 09:40:52 AM
How far of a flight is it to Philadelphia?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 08, 2020, 12:47:29 AM
How far of a flight is it to Philadelphia?

Ummm...lemme figure out how fast a hawk is compared to a horse.  Some site has to have the info...
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 08, 2020, 08:11:44 AM
Just looking at the MM, a hawk has a fly speed of 60 feet and a light horse has a speed of 50. I'm not sure how much being able to fly rather than stick to paths helps.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 08, 2020, 11:57:37 PM
if you really push it you can reach Philly in a day
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 09, 2020, 08:40:43 AM
It'd be preferable to spending the night in the woods.

As Elizabeth gets ready to travel, she talks to her lieutenants to let them know she'll be gone seeing what's going on over there. She'll leave early in the morning on a day that looks to be clear.

If she makes it there, she wants to check out the area as a hawk to see what it looks like. When she gets near the city, she'll be sure to stay fairly low so as not to be seen from a great distance.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 10, 2020, 12:24:42 AM
gimme some spot rolls
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 10, 2020, 08:06:52 AM
gimme some spot rolls
I'm not sure how many you need, so here are three:

Spot = 1d20+9

Rolled 1d20+9 : 17 + 9, total 26

Rolled 1d20+9 : 11 + 9, total 20

Rolled 1d20+9 : 1 + 9, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 11, 2020, 03:07:32 AM
There have been obvious assaults upon the city and the outlying villages.  The townsfolk seem to have holed up in Philadelphia, which shows obvious signs of damage, and a great many corpses outside the walls that are not human.

You do not seem to be noticed as you enter the city limits.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 11, 2020, 08:51:44 AM
(OOC, it's been a while) Is there anyone in town that Elizabeth knows?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 14, 2020, 10:07:28 PM
You've met the occasional merchant or official when they passed through, but you aren't sure where most live (though finding their workplace in the morn will be easy enough).
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 15, 2020, 08:10:01 AM
Elizabeth thinks it would be prudent to try and catch some sleep for the night in hawk form. She'll look for a small, hopefully safe area where she can hide for the night. When she gets up, she'll try and go somewhere discreet before changing back to a human. She will only do so if the surrounding area looks safe.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 16, 2020, 06:34:06 PM
There are signs everywhere of combat.  Bullet holes, fire damage, broken and boarded windows.  The city has seen much violence, and you aren't sure the streets are safe, even as a bird.  They are remarkably empty but for the watch.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 17, 2020, 08:30:33 AM
Are there any buildings, or even sheds that appear empty?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 18, 2020, 03:05:35 AM
Several on the outskirts are abandoned, but those might leave you vulnerable.  They also seemed damaged.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 18, 2020, 09:08:15 AM
Elizabeth will try to stay awake through the night, then. Is there anything that looks like an inn or public space that is inhabited?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 20, 2020, 02:33:28 AM
There are numerous inns.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 20, 2020, 07:33:48 AM
If there are lights on in the inn, Elizabeth will turn back into a human in a nearby alley and proceed to the inn as soon as the coast looks clear. She'd rather not be accosted by guards in the night.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 22, 2020, 11:19:04 PM
hide rolll plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 23, 2020, 07:35:03 AM
Hide = 1d20+1
Rolled 1d20+1 : 17 + 1, total 18


That's in human form. If you meant hawk form, add 10 to the result.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 25, 2020, 02:43:03 AM
You easily find a place to hide and switch back, and you have no issues being spotted before enterinig an Inn.  They are a little surprised as the city has a curfew.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 25, 2020, 08:40:13 AM
Elizabeth has no intention of mentioning the curfew breach if they don't ask. She walks up to the desk/counter.

"I was hoping to get some food and a room for the night."

Is there a common room where other people are eating/drinking/talking?
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on January 28, 2020, 11:44:49 PM
there is a common room

"Why were you out after dark ma'am?  You know it isn't safe."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on January 31, 2020, 09:44:52 AM
"Why were you out after dark ma'am?  You know it isn't safe."

"Sorry, I wasn't planning to be. Time got away from me and I needed a place to stay."

Is she able to get any food? If so, she'd like to move to the common room close enough to hear other people talk.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 02, 2020, 02:39:56 AM
You get some worried looks, but they have soome stew and ale in the commons.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 03, 2020, 11:20:18 PM
Elizabeth gladly settles down with both stew and ale.

If there is space to choose a seat, she sits near enough to people that she can listen to them talk. She's hoping to catch some current events.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 13, 2020, 03:38:34 AM
There's a lot of whispering as you set down, listen roll plz
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 13, 2020, 08:22:57 AM
Listen = 1d20+1

Rolled 1d20+1 : 9 + 1, total 10
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 14, 2020, 03:24:02 AM
You aren't overhearing much when a gentleman approaches your table.  "Good evening madam, I am Constable Fitz-Hughes.  Might I have a word in private?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 14, 2020, 11:05:11 AM
"Certainly."

She glances around the room to see if anyone else is standing, possibly moving to take her into custody.

"Is something wrong?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10

Rolled 1d20+10 : 14 + 10, total 24
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 17, 2020, 04:06:40 AM
"No ma'am, I just have some questions."  he is nervous
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 17, 2020, 02:26:34 PM
She follows him.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 18, 2020, 09:10:43 PM
"How did you get here?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 19, 2020, 08:43:19 AM
"I need to show you something."

Assuming they're in private, she conjures a small ball of magic purple fire in her hand for a few seconds.

"Before you get mad or lynch me, I'm trying to figure out what Washington did and undo it. In the mean time, I'm just trying to keep the people in my town alive.

I'm a scientist who learned some... odd truths about our world. To answer your question, I flew here as a bird. I've come to learn what the current state of the city is, what problems have befallen you, and if there's anything here anyone has learned."


Elizabeth tries to read his reaction. If he seems like to turn hostile, she will try to charm him with Enthrall

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 1 + 10, total 11
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 20, 2020, 01:21:07 AM
"So you're another one.  Best I take you to the city hall, there'll be people wanting to meet you.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 20, 2020, 08:21:45 AM
"What do you mean 'another one'? Whom am I meeting?"

Sense Motive = 1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 11 + 10, total 21
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 23, 2020, 03:17:59 AM
"The government, or what's left of it.  They're...people like you.  Mostly"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 23, 2020, 09:20:51 PM
Elizabeth raises an eyebrow, nods, and head with him.

Along the way, she asks "How has the town been handling the monsters and the like?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 26, 2020, 02:18:01 AM
"As well as can be expected.  He takes you to the town hall and after some conversations several tense constables usher you into an office.  Setting behind a desk with his chairturned away from you is a man.

"Why have you come to Philadelphia."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 26, 2020, 08:04:05 AM
"I wanted to see how the nearest settlement is faring. We've been surviving, but barely..."
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on February 26, 2020, 05:56:08 PM
"And who are we?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on February 27, 2020, 08:42:14 AM
Sense Motive to see if Elizabeth can glean any info before answering:

1d20+10
Rolled 1d20+10 : 11 + 10, total 21
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 04, 2020, 09:44:08 PM
He wants to know where you came from, and if by 'we' you're referring to your town or something else.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 05, 2020, 12:44:04 AM
Elizabeth tells him the name of the town and that she's referring to the town.
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 05, 2020, 02:41:14 AM
"Not the largest of villages.  Nor the closest.  How have you survived when so many have failed?"
Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: RobbyPants on March 05, 2020, 08:10:30 PM
"As far as I can tell, by being proactive. It hasn't been easy and we've suffered losses.

I came to see how the city was faring and what I might learn about the threat."

Title: Re: Chapter 1: A New Beginning
Post by: bhu on March 10, 2020, 09:42:02 PM
http://minmaxforum.com/index.php?topic=19206.new#new  new thread