The heroes located the theives' guild & infiltrated it with little trouble. A living cube of jello had to be put down after it tried to eat Anderson & Dexter. The rest of the guards were no threat.
The guild was located beneath the city of Sayre, in the ruins of the previous city. Several buildings and part of a street have been excavated. One of those buildings was an old temple, though there were no signs of what god it had originally been dedicated to. Once inside it was quickly apparent the current residents worshipped Tiamat (greed and envy).
The Filth King was located in the main sanctuary with several guildies. They were quickly dispatched. The guild leader refused to surrender & fought to the death. Across a small crevase is a pile of coins, tribute to Tiamat. Standing over the coinage is a crude statue of the five headed dragon.
The adventurers are no closer to revealing who hired the thieves to villanize the githzerai. Those activities should dwindle now though.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Session 35 Rewards
Ring of Shadow Travel
Ring of the Dragon Emperor
500 gp
2000 xp each
Encounters:
800 xp Trapped entrance
3800 xp Cube room (Gluttonous Cube, 5 thugs)
5400 xp Tiamat shrine (Filth King, 9 thugs)
Ring of the Dragon Emperor
500 gp
2000 xp each
Encounters:
800 xp Trapped entrance
3800 xp Cube room (Gluttonous Cube, 5 thugs)
5400 xp Tiamat shrine (Filth King, 9 thugs)
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Session 34 Recap
Most of the Githzerai at the Akma’ad monastery died in the Githyanki attack, including two of their three leaders. Elder Odos is now the sole Githzerai official on this continent. The remaining 50’ish Githzerai at the monastery will follow him wherever he goes. Odos asked the strangers from Elsir Vale to accompany them to the nearby city of Sayre.
The Githyanki have attacked various towns, villages and monasteries across the continent over the past 6-9 months. Leaders from various countries are meeting in Sayre to discuss an alliance against the Githyanki. Odos promised to attend.
So, the Githzerai and the adventurers loaded up on the last flying gallion & traveled 5-6 hours the following day. Githyanki assassins struck that afternoon. A pair attacked the adventurers on deck, and another pair went after Odos below deck. Some were killed, some thrown overboard.
Tokk’it landed the ship a few miles from town. Half of the travelers continued towards Sayre on foot. While passing a farm, mounted guards hailed the travelers. The Captain offered to introduce the non-Githzerai travelers to Telicanthus. The glass artisan was buying supplies nearby and would certainly be interested in anyone with a flying ship. They paid no attention to the Githzerai. The adventurers declined and continued on to Sayre.
The gate guards gave the Githzerai trouble. At first, they wouldn’t admit the “bandits, cutthroats and murderers” into the city. The Elsir heroes vouched for their travel companions and talked the guards down. The guards reluctantly granted entrance.
Walking through town, there were obviously various classes of neighborhoods. Some were cleaner and better patrolled. Most had beggars asking for money. Everywhere the group went, the Githzerai were scrutinized with unwelcome looks.
Their first stop was The River Jewel, the finest inn in town. Rooms here were 10 gold per night, which includes meals, drinks, baths and a very secure and comfortable room. Some of the adventurers paid for rooms. Others decided to shop around for something more affordable. The party eventually followed the Githzerai to the Plaza of Vision in Riverdown, a rundown neighborhood near the waterfall. The resident Githzerai were hold up in a large warehouse there. There were many beggars here, but not one approached the group or asked for money.
The warehouse was housing many refugee Githzerai in addition to the normal citizens. Bedrolls were everywhere. Elder Odos was greeted by several quasi-leaders and warmly welcomed in. The adventurers also found Amyria here.
Amyria pulled the party aside and explained the current situation to them before dinner. The locals were hostile towards the Githzerai for some reason. This has been a recent development. Githzerai have lived in Sayre for decades without trouble. Gossip suggests the bias against them stems from Telicanthus, a Githyanki citizen of high stature among the nobles. None of Amyria’s local contacts can provide any proof of Telicanthis even speaking poorly of the Githzerai. He’s a wealthy, skilled artisan; a member of the local artisans’ guild; and occasional instructor at the university. Many of the local politicians, craftsmen and nobles consider Telicanthus a good person and a friend.
After dinner, the Githzerai discuss how they should deal with this situation. Each leader expressed his/her opinion to Odos in a fairly calm, organized debate. A younger man wished to take the fight to the Githyanki and anyone that sides with them (including citizens of Sayre). He obviously had a military background. An older gentleman wished to abstain from this confrontation & withdraw to the astral sea. And the lady has been a long time resident of Sayre and wishes to remain, but would try to avoid more conflict. Amyria shares what she believes to be a vision from Bahamut. In it, she saw Sayre as a communication hub for the Githyanki forces. She believes the Githzerai should stay and help the other races, working with them against the Githyanki. The heroes of Elsir Vale also contributed. All of the good races are best served by working together against the common threat.
Odos listened intently and considered the arguments. If the Githyanki did in fact have a valuable asset in Sayre, it would be advantageous to eliminate it. Openly attacking a respected citizen would be unwise. But if the Githyanki asset could be identified and exposed to the locals, there would be a justifiable course of action. The Githzerai would observe for a brief time and attend the coalition meeting. If the opportunity arrises to set things straight in Sayre, the Githzerai might remain to help. If things remain hostile and the other races are disrespectful, the Githzerai will withdraw to the Astral Sea.
When the adventurers left the warehouse, they were beset by a dozen "beggars", the local thieves guild. One was interrogated, and their hideout entrance has possibly been identified. A good nights rest at the River Jewel was followed by breakfast the next morning. Telicanthus has left invitations with the innkeeper. The travelers are invited to a wine party at his home two nights hence.
The Githyanki have attacked various towns, villages and monasteries across the continent over the past 6-9 months. Leaders from various countries are meeting in Sayre to discuss an alliance against the Githyanki. Odos promised to attend.
So, the Githzerai and the adventurers loaded up on the last flying gallion & traveled 5-6 hours the following day. Githyanki assassins struck that afternoon. A pair attacked the adventurers on deck, and another pair went after Odos below deck. Some were killed, some thrown overboard.
Tokk’it landed the ship a few miles from town. Half of the travelers continued towards Sayre on foot. While passing a farm, mounted guards hailed the travelers. The Captain offered to introduce the non-Githzerai travelers to Telicanthus. The glass artisan was buying supplies nearby and would certainly be interested in anyone with a flying ship. They paid no attention to the Githzerai. The adventurers declined and continued on to Sayre.
The gate guards gave the Githzerai trouble. At first, they wouldn’t admit the “bandits, cutthroats and murderers” into the city. The Elsir heroes vouched for their travel companions and talked the guards down. The guards reluctantly granted entrance.
Walking through town, there were obviously various classes of neighborhoods. Some were cleaner and better patrolled. Most had beggars asking for money. Everywhere the group went, the Githzerai were scrutinized with unwelcome looks.
Their first stop was The River Jewel, the finest inn in town. Rooms here were 10 gold per night, which includes meals, drinks, baths and a very secure and comfortable room. Some of the adventurers paid for rooms. Others decided to shop around for something more affordable. The party eventually followed the Githzerai to the Plaza of Vision in Riverdown, a rundown neighborhood near the waterfall. The resident Githzerai were hold up in a large warehouse there. There were many beggars here, but not one approached the group or asked for money.
The warehouse was housing many refugee Githzerai in addition to the normal citizens. Bedrolls were everywhere. Elder Odos was greeted by several quasi-leaders and warmly welcomed in. The adventurers also found Amyria here.
Amyria pulled the party aside and explained the current situation to them before dinner. The locals were hostile towards the Githzerai for some reason. This has been a recent development. Githzerai have lived in Sayre for decades without trouble. Gossip suggests the bias against them stems from Telicanthus, a Githyanki citizen of high stature among the nobles. None of Amyria’s local contacts can provide any proof of Telicanthis even speaking poorly of the Githzerai. He’s a wealthy, skilled artisan; a member of the local artisans’ guild; and occasional instructor at the university. Many of the local politicians, craftsmen and nobles consider Telicanthus a good person and a friend.
After dinner, the Githzerai discuss how they should deal with this situation. Each leader expressed his/her opinion to Odos in a fairly calm, organized debate. A younger man wished to take the fight to the Githyanki and anyone that sides with them (including citizens of Sayre). He obviously had a military background. An older gentleman wished to abstain from this confrontation & withdraw to the astral sea. And the lady has been a long time resident of Sayre and wishes to remain, but would try to avoid more conflict. Amyria shares what she believes to be a vision from Bahamut. In it, she saw Sayre as a communication hub for the Githyanki forces. She believes the Githzerai should stay and help the other races, working with them against the Githyanki. The heroes of Elsir Vale also contributed. All of the good races are best served by working together against the common threat.
Odos listened intently and considered the arguments. If the Githyanki did in fact have a valuable asset in Sayre, it would be advantageous to eliminate it. Openly attacking a respected citizen would be unwise. But if the Githyanki asset could be identified and exposed to the locals, there would be a justifiable course of action. The Githzerai would observe for a brief time and attend the coalition meeting. If the opportunity arrises to set things straight in Sayre, the Githzerai might remain to help. If things remain hostile and the other races are disrespectful, the Githzerai will withdraw to the Astral Sea.
When the adventurers left the warehouse, they were beset by a dozen "beggars", the local thieves guild. One was interrogated, and their hideout entrance has possibly been identified. A good nights rest at the River Jewel was followed by breakfast the next morning. Telicanthus has left invitations with the innkeeper. The travelers are invited to a wine party at his home two nights hence.
Session 34 Rewards
Boots of Eagerness
3000g (cash, jewelry, silver swords, etc.)
2400 xp each
Encounters:
4500 xp Assassins (2 Githyanki)
3000 xp The Debate (skill challenge)
4500 xp Beggar Attack (12 humans)
3000g (cash, jewelry, silver swords, etc.)
2400 xp each
Encounters:
4500 xp Assassins (2 Githyanki)
3000 xp The Debate (skill challenge)
4500 xp Beggar Attack (12 humans)
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Session 33 Recap
The Githyanki assault on the monastery had been raging all day. The third war galley was a wreck and bodies were everywhere. By the time the adventurers arrived, the Githyanki had breached the walls in a couple places. Githzerai were fighting desperately to hold those breaches. And the avalanche defense atop the cliff was still unused.
The heroes first visited the cliff overlooking the monastery. They beat down nearly a dozen githyanki guarding the defense mechanism, and even threw several off the cliff. Despite damage to the release levers, the avalanche was released and many Githyanki below perished under tons of rock. The front gate was now half buried, and the bulk of the attacking forces were slain or scared off.
As the heroes descended to the battlefield, they noticed a group of attackers on the north side, hiding near the ship wreckage. As they approached, chanting could be heard. A ritualist was attempting to open a magical passage in the monastery wall. That ritual was never finished.
The only large group of Githyanki left were forcing their way into a wall breach on the south side. The Githzerai there were badly wounded and wouldn't have held out much longer. The adventurers dropped in on them from a higher level and tore up most of the marines. This group used better tactics though and put up a good fight. The Githyanki captain put a hurtin on Anderson. The remaining Githyanki in the field scattered and fled when their captain went down.
The Githyanki had learned about the meeting of the Githzerai elders here and made a good attempt at wiping them out. Over 100 Githzerai lost their lives, with fewer than 50 surviving. An assassin/spy struck from within moments before the attack began. Two of the three Githzerai elders were lost.
Odos of the House of Reprisal survived. This old blind (?) man is the only remaining leader in the mortal world. He has promised to attend a meeting (regarding the Githyaki attacks) in Sayre (a nearby Human city). His people may be able to avoid the rest of this war if they return to the Astral Sea.
The heroes first visited the cliff overlooking the monastery. They beat down nearly a dozen githyanki guarding the defense mechanism, and even threw several off the cliff. Despite damage to the release levers, the avalanche was released and many Githyanki below perished under tons of rock. The front gate was now half buried, and the bulk of the attacking forces were slain or scared off.
As the heroes descended to the battlefield, they noticed a group of attackers on the north side, hiding near the ship wreckage. As they approached, chanting could be heard. A ritualist was attempting to open a magical passage in the monastery wall. That ritual was never finished.
The only large group of Githyanki left were forcing their way into a wall breach on the south side. The Githzerai there were badly wounded and wouldn't have held out much longer. The adventurers dropped in on them from a higher level and tore up most of the marines. This group used better tactics though and put up a good fight. The Githyanki captain put a hurtin on Anderson. The remaining Githyanki in the field scattered and fled when their captain went down.
The Githyanki had learned about the meeting of the Githzerai elders here and made a good attempt at wiping them out. Over 100 Githzerai lost their lives, with fewer than 50 surviving. An assassin/spy struck from within moments before the attack began. Two of the three Githzerai elders were lost.
Odos of the House of Reprisal survived. This old blind (?) man is the only remaining leader in the mortal world. He has promised to attend a meeting (regarding the Githyaki attacks) in Sayre (a nearby Human city). His people may be able to avoid the rest of this war if they return to the Astral Sea.
Session 33 Rewards
+3 Totem of Nature's Balm
Ritual Book (Pass Wall)
Blue Glass Disk (Sending Stone)
6000 gp (cash, jewelry, silver swords, residium, etc)
2700 xp each
Encounters:
4400 xp Falling Rock (11 Githyanki)
4400 xp Ritualist (9 Githyanki)
4700 xp Breach (10 Githyanki)
Ritual Book (Pass Wall)
Blue Glass Disk (Sending Stone)
6000 gp (cash, jewelry, silver swords, residium, etc)
2700 xp each
Encounters:
4400 xp Falling Rock (11 Githyanki)
4400 xp Ritualist (9 Githyanki)
4700 xp Breach (10 Githyanki)
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Session 32 Recap
Three months went by in Overlook with minimal events or news. With Zithiruun and Sarshan dead, things in the Vale had been very peaceful. Life in the city had almost returned to normal. There was still ongoing construction. And the various churches had been assigned new clergy.
The adventurers were enjoying a nice lunch one afternoon when three city guards burst into the tavern. The sergeant quickly spotted the heroes and tried to catch his breath before speaking. "A war galleon is FLYING towards the west gate! The captain would like you present in case theres trouble."
The "Conquerer" made a rough landing about a hundred yards from the wall. A lone Githzerai stood on deck. He beseached the city guard of Overlook to call forth it's heroes, the slayers of Zithiruun. When the heroes presented themselves, he looked a little confused. They were... not what he expected. He was very polite & formal. He asked several questions to verify their experience.
Tokk'it had come from a Githzerai monastery on the other side of the mountains seeking aid from Overlook. The monastery is under attack by Githyanki. He asked for any heroes, adventurers & troops Overlook could offer. The city guard declined to offer up troops with enemies so near. Less than an hour after his arrival, the ship was taking off again, with Tokk'it and 5 adventurers onboard.
While the ship appeared to be somewhat new, it had recently been through some heavy attacks. There were a few holes in the hull and burnt areas everywhere. Tokk'it had stolen the Githyanki ship from the battle that morning. The Githyanki tried to catch him & bring the ship back, but their dragons couldn't keep up with the flying ship. He out ran them, but they weren't far behind.
On the way to the monastery, 2 Githyanki appeared out of the clouds mounted on red dragons. They engaged the ship & it's new crew, but couldn't best the heroes of Overlook. Tokk'it pressed on, intent on arriving at the monastery before it got too dark.
A third dragon rider was patrolling near the monastery. It came up out of no where & laid into his enemies more fiercely than his counterparts. This Githyanki champion proved much tougher, but still no match for Tokk'it's new friends. The deck was awash with dragon blood again.
During that fight, the ground troops spotted their missing ship. The captain of the "Sacrifice" loaded some marines & moved to intercept. Tokk'it kited them around briefly & then landed the ship (roughly again). The Sacrifice landed nearby & marines swarmed over the rails. Several of the Githyanki had admirable abilities, but most just died quickly.
After the fight the adventurers quickly assessed the situation. The Conqueror was near finished, but the Sacrifice was in good shape. Nearly 200 Githyanki were assaulting the monastery a quarter mile away. And the monastery's avalanch defense was still untriggered.
The adventurers were enjoying a nice lunch one afternoon when three city guards burst into the tavern. The sergeant quickly spotted the heroes and tried to catch his breath before speaking. "A war galleon is FLYING towards the west gate! The captain would like you present in case theres trouble."
The "Conquerer" made a rough landing about a hundred yards from the wall. A lone Githzerai stood on deck. He beseached the city guard of Overlook to call forth it's heroes, the slayers of Zithiruun. When the heroes presented themselves, he looked a little confused. They were... not what he expected. He was very polite & formal. He asked several questions to verify their experience.
Tokk'it had come from a Githzerai monastery on the other side of the mountains seeking aid from Overlook. The monastery is under attack by Githyanki. He asked for any heroes, adventurers & troops Overlook could offer. The city guard declined to offer up troops with enemies so near. Less than an hour after his arrival, the ship was taking off again, with Tokk'it and 5 adventurers onboard.
While the ship appeared to be somewhat new, it had recently been through some heavy attacks. There were a few holes in the hull and burnt areas everywhere. Tokk'it had stolen the Githyanki ship from the battle that morning. The Githyanki tried to catch him & bring the ship back, but their dragons couldn't keep up with the flying ship. He out ran them, but they weren't far behind.
On the way to the monastery, 2 Githyanki appeared out of the clouds mounted on red dragons. They engaged the ship & it's new crew, but couldn't best the heroes of Overlook. Tokk'it pressed on, intent on arriving at the monastery before it got too dark.
A third dragon rider was patrolling near the monastery. It came up out of no where & laid into his enemies more fiercely than his counterparts. This Githyanki champion proved much tougher, but still no match for Tokk'it's new friends. The deck was awash with dragon blood again.
During that fight, the ground troops spotted their missing ship. The captain of the "Sacrifice" loaded some marines & moved to intercept. Tokk'it kited them around briefly & then landed the ship (roughly again). The Sacrifice landed nearby & marines swarmed over the rails. Several of the Githyanki had admirable abilities, but most just died quickly.
After the fight the adventurers quickly assessed the situation. The Conqueror was near finished, but the Sacrifice was in good shape. Nearly 200 Githyanki were assaulting the monastery a quarter mile away. And the monastery's avalanch defense was still untriggered.
Session 32 Rewards
+3 Amulet of Elegy
Broken Blue Glass Disk
5,000 gp
2280 xp each
Encounters:
3600 xp Persuit (2 Githyanki, 2 red dragons)
3600 xp Champion (1 Githyanki, 1 red dragon)
4200 xp War Galleon (13 Githyanki)
Broken Blue Glass Disk
5,000 gp
2280 xp each
Encounters:
3600 xp Persuit (2 Githyanki, 2 red dragons)
3600 xp Champion (1 Githyanki, 1 red dragon)
4200 xp War Galleon (13 Githyanki)
Re-group
The Heroes of Elsir Vale finally came to a calm point in time. The Vale was safe. All known enemies and threats were resolved. They are renowned, wealthy and have a steady income. Many of the adventurers chose to stow their traveling gear and settle into a normal life for a while. Peleus continues to defend the Vale and travel abroad, but this road isn’t traveled alone (by wise people anyway).
The Freeriders adventuring group reached a similar point in their careers. Megan Swiftblade’s group had fought in the recent battles in and around Overlook. They had defended the pass against Orcs, Goliaths and Trolls. And in their earlier days, they had roamed the Vale championing those weak and innocent people beset by evil. Megan chose to retire after her brush with death.
So, Peleus joined forces with the Freeriders, and the various retired adventurers went their ways. A new band of heroes now walks the streets of Overlook, ready to defend their homeland at a moment’s notice:
Morgan – The half-elf warlock with fiery red hair.
Dexter – A Halfling rogue of extraordinary dexterity.
Anderson – The human paladin of Ioun.
Ash – The longtooth shifter, a shaman spirit healer.
And Peleus – The Eladrin Warlord / glaive fighter.
The Freeriders adventuring group reached a similar point in their careers. Megan Swiftblade’s group had fought in the recent battles in and around Overlook. They had defended the pass against Orcs, Goliaths and Trolls. And in their earlier days, they had roamed the Vale championing those weak and innocent people beset by evil. Megan chose to retire after her brush with death.
So, Peleus joined forces with the Freeriders, and the various retired adventurers went their ways. A new band of heroes now walks the streets of Overlook, ready to defend their homeland at a moment’s notice:
Morgan – The half-elf warlock with fiery red hair.
Dexter – A Halfling rogue of extraordinary dexterity.
Anderson – The human paladin of Ioun.
Ash – The longtooth shifter, a shaman spirit healer.
And Peleus – The Eladrin Warlord / glaive fighter.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Session 31 Recap
The heroes pressed on to the third floor of the Djinni tower. This floor was lined with numerous statues of Djinni gods. To gain access to the next level, one had to properly greet and appease two of the statues. The group found that 15 of the statues in the room had a slight glow about them. They attempted to identify the various gods by name, title and domains. Then they started greeting them. Each statue responded to the greeting and made a request of the adventurer. Prove yourself a worthy ally. It took the group a few tries to understand the tests. Each test was based on the gods' domains. And each person was suited best for some of the test, but not others. Some mistakes were made matching people's skills to the gods, but most of the party passed the tests with little difficulty. Eventually Seregdur & Peleus were left with one statue. Seregdur passed & Peleus was left trying to force his way to the group through a magical barrier. Fey step worked, but left Peleus drained & tired.
The fourth floor was obviously the master's palace. It was large, open and luxurious. The Djinni tastes were again obvious. Sarshan and his lackeys quickly turned to acknowledge thier guests. Something was different about Sarshan this time. He had been experimenting with the Blood Chaos, and it had changed him. A fight ensued, and the heroes took out the lackeys first. Sarshan proved to be quite durable and thoroughly infused with Blood Chaos. His normal abilities allowed him to teleport almost at-will and triple attack. His newfound offenses included an acid aura and a blast of Blood Chaos. He inflicted damage on several targets every round and left some dripping with acid. Many of the heroes quaffed acid resistance potions, but the attacks continued inflicting damage, only slightly diminished. The adventurers focused everything they had on their target. Many were bloodied and healing was running short. Then Rathos fell to the acid slime. He couldn't get it off quickly enough, and it transformed him into a puddle of Blood Chaos. The others doubled their resolved and beat Sarshan down.
The party was semi-triumphant. Rathos could be restored, but the ritual needed was in his book, which transformed with him. The Planar Portal Key was also on Rathos. Teregor would have to perform the ritual, after acquiring it in the City of Brass. But hey... Sarshan and his network were no longer a threat.
The fourth floor was obviously the master's palace. It was large, open and luxurious. The Djinni tastes were again obvious. Sarshan and his lackeys quickly turned to acknowledge thier guests. Something was different about Sarshan this time. He had been experimenting with the Blood Chaos, and it had changed him. A fight ensued, and the heroes took out the lackeys first. Sarshan proved to be quite durable and thoroughly infused with Blood Chaos. His normal abilities allowed him to teleport almost at-will and triple attack. His newfound offenses included an acid aura and a blast of Blood Chaos. He inflicted damage on several targets every round and left some dripping with acid. Many of the heroes quaffed acid resistance potions, but the attacks continued inflicting damage, only slightly diminished. The adventurers focused everything they had on their target. Many were bloodied and healing was running short. Then Rathos fell to the acid slime. He couldn't get it off quickly enough, and it transformed him into a puddle of Blood Chaos. The others doubled their resolved and beat Sarshan down.
The party was semi-triumphant. Rathos could be restored, but the ritual needed was in his book, which transformed with him. The Planar Portal Key was also on Rathos. Teregor would have to perform the ritual, after acquiring it in the City of Brass. But hey... Sarshan and his network were no longer a threat.
Session 31 Rewards
+3 Amulet of Bodily Sanctity
+3 Hide Armor (Eladrin)
Link Portal Key (Daily)
2500 gp
1400 xp each
Encounters:
2500 xp Egyptian statues (skill challenge)
4500 xp The master (Sarshan, 2 shadar-kai, 2 shadow panthers)
+3 Hide Armor (Eladrin)
Link Portal Key (Daily)
2500 gp
1400 xp each
Encounters:
2500 xp Egyptian statues (skill challenge)
4500 xp The master (Sarshan, 2 shadar-kai, 2 shadow panthers)
Session 30 Recap
The party arrived in the Elemental Chaos a few miles from the City of Brass. The city was easily identifiable in the distance. The heroes were standing on one of several islands floating in a sea of lava. The largest island had an aribic style tower. Guarding the outside of the tower was a Beholder with duergar, salamanders and an elemental. The party hopped from island to island until they reached the tower island. They dispatched the Beholder with little trouble, more worried about falling into the lava than fighting.
The first floor of the tower was a reception hall. A dias on the far side was decked out with rugs and a throne. Tapestries decorated the walls. Pillows and arabic smoking pipes (sishas) completed the decorations. Leena (shadar-kai witch) was seated on the throne, several gnoll lackies around her. The party offered her terms for surrender, but that didn't do any good. The heroes tried to hold their ground, hoping the gnolls would advance, but that didn't happen. Instead, Leena and two gnolls started dropping spells on the group. The other gnolls held the stairs, and the fight quickly became an exchange of ranged fire. The heroes focused down their ranged opponents & closed in for the finish, but the last two gnolls fled. Towards the back of the dias was a levitation shaft. It went up & down. The party followed the gnolls up.
The second floor was largely a sand pit. On the opposite side was another levitation shaft going up. The two gnolls were found dead in the sand pit. One of the adventurers threw something into the pit & the sand (or something under the sand) reacted. Toradin walked accross the pit & was attacked by two sand elementals. These strange creatures tried to engulf their opponents, with little luck. They claimed Teregor, but he survived his short time "in" the elemental. The monsters were dispersed, and the party pressed on.
The first floor of the tower was a reception hall. A dias on the far side was decked out with rugs and a throne. Tapestries decorated the walls. Pillows and arabic smoking pipes (sishas) completed the decorations. Leena (shadar-kai witch) was seated on the throne, several gnoll lackies around her. The party offered her terms for surrender, but that didn't do any good. The heroes tried to hold their ground, hoping the gnolls would advance, but that didn't happen. Instead, Leena and two gnolls started dropping spells on the group. The other gnolls held the stairs, and the fight quickly became an exchange of ranged fire. The heroes focused down their ranged opponents & closed in for the finish, but the last two gnolls fled. Towards the back of the dias was a levitation shaft. It went up & down. The party followed the gnolls up.
The second floor was largely a sand pit. On the opposite side was another levitation shaft going up. The two gnolls were found dead in the sand pit. One of the adventurers threw something into the pit & the sand (or something under the sand) reacted. Toradin walked accross the pit & was attacked by two sand elementals. These strange creatures tried to engulf their opponents, with little luck. They claimed Teregor, but he survived his short time "in" the elemental. The monsters were dispersed, and the party pressed on.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Session 30 Rewards
Skull Mask (level 15)
Helm of Heroes
1000 gp
1980 xp each
Encounters:
4000 xp Sea of Fire (1 Beholder, 1 Duergar, 2 Salamanders, 1 Elemental)
3500 xp Reception Hall (1 Shadar-kai [Leena], 5 Gnolls)
2400 xp Sand Pit (2 Sand Elementals)
Helm of Heroes
1000 gp
1980 xp each
Encounters:
4000 xp Sea of Fire (1 Beholder, 1 Duergar, 2 Salamanders, 1 Elemental)
3500 xp Reception Hall (1 Shadar-kai [Leena], 5 Gnolls)
2400 xp Sand Pit (2 Sand Elementals)
Session 29 Recap
The portal in the swamp was located on a pier, some 100 feet from shore. Near the portal was a large tank of Blood Chaos. A pumping system was in place to both recieve and send the volatile liquid from/to the portal.
The heroes were quickly greeted by a Shadar-kai witch mounted on a large green dragon. They were quite unfriendly. They flew around the pier blasting the visitors from short range, trying to knock individuals into the water, or spread the group out. The duo had ranged attacks for individuals & groups. The heroes were determined though and coordinated their attacks well. They focused down the rider first. Then brought down the dragon.
The witch was in posession of several portal related items, including coordinates for Sarshan's new base in the Elemental Chaos.
The adventurers quickly surmised that the dragon's nest must be in the abnormally large tree (150+ feet tall) near the pier. They scaled the tree and cleared the nest of several young green dragons. This provided some nice loot and a safe place to rest, which they did.
Lizard men visited the tree during the night, but the group ignored them and they eventually left. The heroes destroyed the Blood Chaos equipment and went home the next morning. They would need to prepare for a trip to the Elemental Chaos.
The heroes were quickly greeted by a Shadar-kai witch mounted on a large green dragon. They were quite unfriendly. They flew around the pier blasting the visitors from short range, trying to knock individuals into the water, or spread the group out. The duo had ranged attacks for individuals & groups. The heroes were determined though and coordinated their attacks well. They focused down the rider first. Then brought down the dragon.
The witch was in posession of several portal related items, including coordinates for Sarshan's new base in the Elemental Chaos.
The adventurers quickly surmised that the dragon's nest must be in the abnormally large tree (150+ feet tall) near the pier. They scaled the tree and cleared the nest of several young green dragons. This provided some nice loot and a safe place to rest, which they did.
Lizard men visited the tree during the night, but the group ignored them and they eventually left. The heroes destroyed the Blood Chaos equipment and went home the next morning. They would need to prepare for a trip to the Elemental Chaos.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Session 29 Rewards
Deadly Curse Bracers (+ curse dmg)
Emerald Solitaire (+ Elven reroll)
Planar Portal Key (2 charges)
Ritual Book – Link Portal & various coordinates
+1 Silver Dagger
200 gp in residium
2000 gp
1400 xp each
Encounters:
4300 xp Pier (green dragon & shadar-kai witch)
2700 xp Dragon nest (3 green dragons)
Emerald Solitaire (+ Elven reroll)
Planar Portal Key (2 charges)
Ritual Book – Link Portal & various coordinates
+1 Silver Dagger
200 gp in residium
2000 gp
1400 xp each
Encounters:
4300 xp Pier (green dragon & shadar-kai witch)
2700 xp Dragon nest (3 green dragons)
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Session 28 Recap
Having locked virtually all the portals they could find in Elsir Vale, the adventurers took a well deserved rest. They spent two months in Overlook. Some income started trickling in from the diamond mines. This paid for furniture and a few employees to maintain the mansion. They were invited to several dinners and social events held by local nobles and wealthy merchants. The events were modest in light of the recent battle and strapped economy. The movers and shakers were obviously trying to publicly align themselves with the heroes.
The Lost Ones seemed to be cleaning house. Several leaders associated with General Zithiruun turned up dead. Then other people started dying too; Kalad the paladin, captain Aerun of the city guard and several adventurers. The council of elders at first asked the adventurers what they knew about these events. Later the council requested the group’s assistance. Megan Swiftblade, leader of the Freeriders adventuring group, has sent word to the council. Her group was investigating Zithiruun’s contacts in Overlook, which seemed to have led to multiple assassination attempts. She believes the recent murders are related to Zithiruun, even though he’s dead. She has asked for protection in exchange for information. The council has again turned to “The Heroes of Overlook.”
Megan Swiftblade fled home after the last failed assassination attempt. She hoped the troubles of Overlook wouldn’t reach that far. The heroes teleported to Brindol and made a short trip to Talar nearby. Two days passed with no contact. The adventurers waited in the Green Dragon Inn patiently.
That evening they were relaxing in the common room, when the whole building began to tremble. It reached earthquake level, and the patrons began to panic. Tables were overturned and people knocked down in the stampede to the door. The floor, ceiling and walls began to buckle and twist. Some of the heroes made their way to the door, pulling patrons out with them. Others stayed behind to coerce the scared, trampled and unconscious out. The floor collapsed dropping Toradin and others into the cellar. He managed to pull everyone out with assistance, and the building was cleared. Just in time too. The building caught fire, fell over & sank into… the cellar.
This wasn’t an isolated problem. The entire town was subject to the earthquake, and more. Lava was flowing down from the lone hill just east of town. Buildings were catching fire and people were panicked. Monsters were emerging from the lava to kill or burn anything in their path. The adventurers stepped up & handled them. Most of the monsters were slain. Two fled. The town was almost completely ruined. And this lava, was not of this world. It was made of elemental fire and acid.
Atop the hill was a stone mage tower. As the party watched, it sank into the hill, almost 40 feet of tower now submerged. (It didn’t burn down & fall over. It just sank.) The lava was flowing from a gapping hole in the side of the hill. They made their way around the lava to the tower. Two figures were spotted on the roof; an elderly man with a broken leg and a middle aged man hauling him out onto the roof.
The injured man was Falrinth the Seer, owner of said tower. The other was his “manservant,” Taylor. Gnolls had invaded his tower from the basement. They made off with his godchild, Megan Swiftblade, and injured him. Taylor helped him to the roof. “Please save Megan. She is the only family I have left.”
So, into the tower the adventurers went. It was not full of lava. Halfway down, they passed through the research room. Falrinth had been experimenting on Slaad, which broke free during the earthquake. That experiment was terminated. In the basement, they found an old tunnel. It had been bricked up for many years, but was now open again. The glow of lava was visible, so the party continued on.
A large cavern was found under the tower. A huge pool of the lava was still pouring out the side of the hill. Near the pool was a portal, and a gnoll shaman activating it. The gnolls & portal weren’t the interesting part though. Jimmy the bounty hunter was with them, and he had Megan tied up & gagged. Having fought gnolls before, the heroes were quick to pick their targets and eliminate them. Jimmy put up a fight at first, but eventually surrendered (again).
Jimmy was captured. Megan was freed. And a long discussion ensued about what was happening. It seems Sarshan wants loose ends tied up. Overlook had a lot of loose ends, including Megan Swiftblade. Jimmy worked for Sarshan, but his loyalty to that organization was… tenuous. He was more than happy to share info in exchange for his life. Peleus was even so generous as to let Jimmy keep most of his gear.
This portal leads to a swamp outside the vale. It is a staging point for several planned “lava” attacks. Any loose end that couldn’t be handled by normal means, would be visited by lava. But beware, the staging area is guarded by a green dragon and one of Sarshan’s Shadar-kai witches.
The Lost Ones seemed to be cleaning house. Several leaders associated with General Zithiruun turned up dead. Then other people started dying too; Kalad the paladin, captain Aerun of the city guard and several adventurers. The council of elders at first asked the adventurers what they knew about these events. Later the council requested the group’s assistance. Megan Swiftblade, leader of the Freeriders adventuring group, has sent word to the council. Her group was investigating Zithiruun’s contacts in Overlook, which seemed to have led to multiple assassination attempts. She believes the recent murders are related to Zithiruun, even though he’s dead. She has asked for protection in exchange for information. The council has again turned to “The Heroes of Overlook.”
Megan Swiftblade fled home after the last failed assassination attempt. She hoped the troubles of Overlook wouldn’t reach that far. The heroes teleported to Brindol and made a short trip to Talar nearby. Two days passed with no contact. The adventurers waited in the Green Dragon Inn patiently.
That evening they were relaxing in the common room, when the whole building began to tremble. It reached earthquake level, and the patrons began to panic. Tables were overturned and people knocked down in the stampede to the door. The floor, ceiling and walls began to buckle and twist. Some of the heroes made their way to the door, pulling patrons out with them. Others stayed behind to coerce the scared, trampled and unconscious out. The floor collapsed dropping Toradin and others into the cellar. He managed to pull everyone out with assistance, and the building was cleared. Just in time too. The building caught fire, fell over & sank into… the cellar.
This wasn’t an isolated problem. The entire town was subject to the earthquake, and more. Lava was flowing down from the lone hill just east of town. Buildings were catching fire and people were panicked. Monsters were emerging from the lava to kill or burn anything in their path. The adventurers stepped up & handled them. Most of the monsters were slain. Two fled. The town was almost completely ruined. And this lava, was not of this world. It was made of elemental fire and acid.
Atop the hill was a stone mage tower. As the party watched, it sank into the hill, almost 40 feet of tower now submerged. (It didn’t burn down & fall over. It just sank.) The lava was flowing from a gapping hole in the side of the hill. They made their way around the lava to the tower. Two figures were spotted on the roof; an elderly man with a broken leg and a middle aged man hauling him out onto the roof.
The injured man was Falrinth the Seer, owner of said tower. The other was his “manservant,” Taylor. Gnolls had invaded his tower from the basement. They made off with his godchild, Megan Swiftblade, and injured him. Taylor helped him to the roof. “Please save Megan. She is the only family I have left.”
So, into the tower the adventurers went. It was not full of lava. Halfway down, they passed through the research room. Falrinth had been experimenting on Slaad, which broke free during the earthquake. That experiment was terminated. In the basement, they found an old tunnel. It had been bricked up for many years, but was now open again. The glow of lava was visible, so the party continued on.
A large cavern was found under the tower. A huge pool of the lava was still pouring out the side of the hill. Near the pool was a portal, and a gnoll shaman activating it. The gnolls & portal weren’t the interesting part though. Jimmy the bounty hunter was with them, and he had Megan tied up & gagged. Having fought gnolls before, the heroes were quick to pick their targets and eliminate them. Jimmy put up a fight at first, but eventually surrendered (again).
Jimmy was captured. Megan was freed. And a long discussion ensued about what was happening. It seems Sarshan wants loose ends tied up. Overlook had a lot of loose ends, including Megan Swiftblade. Jimmy worked for Sarshan, but his loyalty to that organization was… tenuous. He was more than happy to share info in exchange for his life. Peleus was even so generous as to let Jimmy keep most of his gear.
This portal leads to a swamp outside the vale. It is a staging point for several planned “lava” attacks. Any loose end that couldn’t be handled by normal means, would be visited by lava. But beware, the staging area is guarded by a green dragon and one of Sarshan’s Shadar-kai witches.
Session 28 Rewards
Bag of Holding
+1 Hide Armor (Jimmy)
+1 Longbow (Jimmy)
1500gp
2600xp each
Encounters:
2000xp Earthquake Inn (skill challenge)
3000xp Lava Beasts (4 Chaos Maulers, 2 Skulking Terrors, 2 Firelashers, 1 Scion of Chaos)
3500xp Escaped Experiments (3 Slaad: gray, red, blue)
4500xp Bounty Hunters (Jimmy, 10 Gnolls)
+1 Hide Armor (Jimmy)
+1 Longbow (Jimmy)
1500gp
2600xp each
Encounters:
2000xp Earthquake Inn (skill challenge)
3000xp Lava Beasts (4 Chaos Maulers, 2 Skulking Terrors, 2 Firelashers, 1 Scion of Chaos)
3500xp Escaped Experiments (3 Slaad: gray, red, blue)
4500xp Bounty Hunters (Jimmy, 10 Gnolls)
Rituals
Animate Wood Golem
Mkt $ = 360gp
Level 6 ritual. 6-HD construct. Components = 1000gp
Animate Crystal Golem
Mkt $ = 840gp
Level 9 ritual. 9-HD construct. Components = 1600gp
Animate Lesser Bone Golem
Mkt $ = 840gp
Level 9 ritual. 9-HD construct. Components = 1600gp
Animate Greater Bone Golem
Mkt $ = 2600gp
Level 12 ritual. 12-HD elite construct. Components = 5600gp
Animate Clay Golem
Mkt $ = 5000gp
Level 15 ritual. 15-HD elite construct. Components = 9600gp
Many of the golem rituals are rare & worth more. The listed price is cost to copy.
Create Teleportation Circle
Level 15 ritual. Manual of the Planes.
Dark One's Blessing
????? Turns a mortal into a vampire.
Mkt $ = 360gp
Level 6 ritual. 6-HD construct. Components = 1000gp
Animate Crystal Golem
Mkt $ = 840gp
Level 9 ritual. 9-HD construct. Components = 1600gp
Animate Lesser Bone Golem
Mkt $ = 840gp
Level 9 ritual. 9-HD construct. Components = 1600gp
Animate Greater Bone Golem
Mkt $ = 2600gp
Level 12 ritual. 12-HD elite construct. Components = 5600gp
Animate Clay Golem
Mkt $ = 5000gp
Level 15 ritual. 15-HD elite construct. Components = 9600gp
Many of the golem rituals are rare & worth more. The listed price is cost to copy.
Create Teleportation Circle
Level 15 ritual. Manual of the Planes.
Dark One's Blessing
????? Turns a mortal into a vampire.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
Session 27 Recap
Galthius’ lair was far from vacant. Besides devils, the heroes encountered a number of constructs and undead (bone golems, a clay golem & mummies). Most of these were a nuisance and were easily dealt with.
Eventually the adventurers recovered the three key fragments and opened a door to the inner ring. Here, they found a number of captives locked in cages. The people were weak, but alive. Vampires had fed on them regularly. All were abducted from the city in the last 2-3 weeks. They begged for release, but warned the group about Galthius and his two concubines. The vampires were powerful, and utterly evil.
The stone statue in the center of the room came to life and addressed the intruders. It introduced itself as Galthius and invited them to come down & meet him. The statue bit was obviously an illusion controlled by the vampire from elsewhere. The “key” unlocked a spiral stairway leading deeper. As they descended, the party’s light sources dimmed. Silence and gloom pervaded this area. The stairway eventually opened into a large chamber with eerie candle light.
Three medium bone golems greeted the intruders almost immediately. The vampires sprang from hiding shortly thereafter. Their initial assault was viscous, bloodying half the party. The heroes weathered the attacks though and recovered quickly. Then they set about picking off the golems and concubines one at a time. Galthius and his minions threw every knock down, slow and dominate they could at the party, but couldn’t make anything stick for more than a round. The adventurers burned all of their healing and eventually triumphed, having outlasted the vampires.
The defeated vampires were located in their coffins and permanently dispatched. The party also located the mage’s ritual books, several magic items, tapestries, jewelry and some cash. They scoured the lair thoroughly and teleported back to Rhest.
Headmaster Qdoba placed the books in his library and further rewarded the heroes. “You’ve proven yourselves both capable and trustworthy. You are welcome here anytime. Perhaps you’ll find a need for the knowledge herein someday. Just don’t draw any attention to our academy. Your intentions may be peaceful, but others might not be as respectful of what we have here. ”
Eventually the adventurers recovered the three key fragments and opened a door to the inner ring. Here, they found a number of captives locked in cages. The people were weak, but alive. Vampires had fed on them regularly. All were abducted from the city in the last 2-3 weeks. They begged for release, but warned the group about Galthius and his two concubines. The vampires were powerful, and utterly evil.
The stone statue in the center of the room came to life and addressed the intruders. It introduced itself as Galthius and invited them to come down & meet him. The statue bit was obviously an illusion controlled by the vampire from elsewhere. The “key” unlocked a spiral stairway leading deeper. As they descended, the party’s light sources dimmed. Silence and gloom pervaded this area. The stairway eventually opened into a large chamber with eerie candle light.
Three medium bone golems greeted the intruders almost immediately. The vampires sprang from hiding shortly thereafter. Their initial assault was viscous, bloodying half the party. The heroes weathered the attacks though and recovered quickly. Then they set about picking off the golems and concubines one at a time. Galthius and his minions threw every knock down, slow and dominate they could at the party, but couldn’t make anything stick for more than a round. The adventurers burned all of their healing and eventually triumphed, having outlasted the vampires.
The defeated vampires were located in their coffins and permanently dispatched. The party also located the mage’s ritual books, several magic items, tapestries, jewelry and some cash. They scoured the lair thoroughly and teleported back to Rhest.
Headmaster Qdoba placed the books in his library and further rewarded the heroes. “You’ve proven yourselves both capable and trustworthy. You are welcome here anytime. Perhaps you’ll find a need for the knowledge herein someday. Just don’t draw any attention to our academy. Your intentions may be peaceful, but others might not be as respectful of what we have here. ”
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