GM Rednal's Rise of the Runelords: AE (Inactive)

Game Master Rednal

Shalluk gathered up the dagger and tiara. He wasn't desperate enough to strip a corpse of her clothes, and he refused to touch the obsidian unholy symbol with anything but a crossbow bolt.

Standing with a slight groat, the Tiefling moved over to the strange well, closing his eyes for a moment before opening them to detect any signs of magic, the undead or the living within it. It didn't seem like it should have any spirits or monsters within it - yet - but it might tell him if another was on its way, and he should warn the others before his speech was taken from him again.

Looking at the retched pool of water, Tanwen takes a bar of soap out and tosses it in, at the very least it would smell slightly better in the room.

The bar of soap bobs to the surface of the strange waters, even as Shalluk takes a moment to turn his magical sight onto it... and is almost blinded by the amount of energy infusing every part of the well. It's not an overwhelming aura, but it's close - the entire structure radiates extremely strong necromantic energy, and one glance is enough to make it clear that none of you have the training to decipher its properties. All you do know is that it dimmed earlier, when one of those strange creatures was created.

Turning away and retching as the neromantic might almost overwhelmed him, Shalluk paused while he fought to regain command of his stomach. "It is...powerful. I have no idea how to destroy something such as this. It is Necromantic, so...a massive dose of positive energy, perhaps?" Blinking to remove his unusual sight, Shalluk glanced at it again. Maybe they could just drain it...

"And how would we even acquire a massive dose of positive energies? We would have better luck boiling the waters away with intense heat, after all we did just come through the glassworks to come here, I could try gathering some molten glass and transferring it here, though that might take time, time which might be better spent looking for who would bring such a vile thing here in the first place." Tanwen clearly is convinced that the destruction of this pool is beyond them, at least for now.

"and risk whatever happens when you breathe that in? No thank you, maybe someone in town would know what to do"

Reluctantly, Shalluk nodded. He hated leaving the...whatever the hell the pool was behind. But he didn't see another way to stop it. Once they were done they might be able to seal it in, smash it and fill the basic with concrete and rubble. Wouldn't be terribly usable then.

"Where to, then?"

GM, can I see the previous maps so I can see where we missed? Or did we get everything down here?

You've been everywhere of relevance. Incidentally, you've also seen everything you need to know. If you're still unsure, try looking at what's already happened and extrapolating. ^^

"I suppose we go back to those stairs we came across before, and ascend up them." Tanwen suggests.

Unless of course I'm mistaken and we've already transversed up the stairs.

Oh, we know what we need to do we? Let's see...

Shalluk took one last glance at the pool, recalling what the woman did before the monsters emerged. She had used blood to activate it. Her blood specifically? Any blood? Shallul glanced at his own red skin and the taint within his veins. Would his work?

"I think I can turn it on," Shalluk whispered. But what good would turning it on do? He didn't want to create more monsters, he wanted to destroy them. Shaking his head, Shalluk turned. "Let us check out that stair well. I would like to seal these caves off until we understand better what this place is." And they could consult with the more knowledgable people above, the diary of the Half-Elf Tsuto and any historical texts he could find. He wanted to know what this thing was...

Yeah, I think I see how to break it, but I don't think Shalluk would.

The only stairs you haven't been through yet lead upwards into another room. (B4) Water ripples quietly in the circular stone pool here, the rim of which is lined with skulls (and detecting of moderate magic). The water is unusually fresh and pure-looking - not blessed or magical in and of itself, just very clean.

"Is this some sort of perverse bath?" Tanwen asks as she moves closer to the pool.

Perception: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (10) - 1 = 9

The pool could definitely be used for such purposes - it's large enough for that, and the interior of the pool is definitely conducive to people cleaning themselves off.

Caleanon casts detect magic on the water

The pool detects of transmutation magic - which is probably why the water within is so pure. It doesn't seem like something that would be very easy to replicate, though - whatever techniques were used to make this were clearly quite advanced.

"Some kind of cleansing pool?" Shalluk mused as he looked at the water, "To prepare for the chambers below?" He shrugged his thin shoulders as he glanced at the waters again. It didn't especially matter, really. Perhaps it could be used as an additional watersource for the town?

"Let us head back and report on what we've found. I'd like to see if we can find out what the thing below is, and how to destroy it?" Now knowing how to seal off the caves would help too. The town could focus on overland defence. Still, they needed to somehow deal with the Goblins before that became an issue...

Shalluk started slightly as he realized what he was considering. Shaking his head a little, he moved towards the exit back to the glassworks.

Cale'anon takes a closer look and smell breathing deeply through the nose directly above the water he responds to the tiefling's statements with the suggestion "maybe if we mix the two pools they'll destroy each other?"
know(nature): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21
perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (12) + 9 = 21
spellcraft : 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22
know(arcana): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25

"I don't think that is how it works, this water seems to simply be purified, if clean water was the answer then any water purified enough could be used, and that just seems to simple."

Heading back towards the glassworks was a fairly simple and straightforward affair - you'd cleared out the sources of trouble, and navigating to the entrance of these caverns, and from there to the crossroads in the tunnel, was a simple matter.

"Naw this water looks magic" he says tapping his lightly glowing eyes "it might be holy or something

"Try it if you wish, but I am convinced that it would be a waste of time." Tanwen says, moving with Shalluk back towards the exit.

"The water is not magic, just clean." Shalluk added. "It is the skull cleaning and producing the water that are magical. And if this is the cleansing pool for some ritual involving the thing bellow, as the skulls producing the water suggest, I cannot believe its creators would be foolish enough to leave the key to it's destruction so close and readily available." Shalluk turned with a shrug. If the Elf wished to try it, he would be happy to hear the results, but the chances seemed unlikely that pure water could combat whatever that...thing...below was. Holy water seemed posible, however, and the pool might be a good way to produce that.

As they returned to the glassworks Shalluk glanced at the now deserted building, wondering what would become of it. Presumably Ameiko would take it over, or at least inherit it. Maybe she would then sell it? She didn't seem the sort to want more than her own inn.

"I would suggest we explain what we saw to the sheriff," Shalluk murmured, "And then I would like to talk to the good father about the thing below. If he doesn't know of it he might know someone who does."

Cale'anon drinks a tiny sip of the water and swishes it around in his mouth, since both of the others were apparently 100% positive it was benign and he couldn't see anything other than the fact that the aura was transmutation, but if nothing happens and he can't taste anything off he spits it out at least 20ft away from the pool, and then follows his friends. if my previous skill checks do reveal anything else that would contradict this, or the others stop me I don't do this

There's no particular effect from drinking the water - not unless you count getting less dehydrated if you swallow it, anyway, but that's more of an innate trait of most safe-to-drink liquids.

"Then let us be on our way to converse with the sheriff." Tanwen says agreeing as Cale comes to the realization that there is nothing special about the water.

Shalluk nodded, and headed towards the sherriff's office. Once the town was prepared they could deal with the other issues...

It didn't take long at all to get to the Sheriff's office once you were above ground, and they wasted no time at all in ushering you into his office. "Well?" he asked, looking up as you came in. "What did you find?"

"The tunnels themselves seem to be safe, for now," Shalluk reported in a slightly tired tone. "There were some monsters below, but they have been dealt with. I would suggest guarding the glassworks, however. Just to be safe."

Pausing, the Tiefling added slowly, "Additionally, there appears to be some ruins below the town. They are...magical in nature. Some of it seems to still be active. I am worried about the...nature...of some of the magic below, and would like to look into it. Are there any experts on the history and ruins found in this area?"

"Brodert Duink would know the most - he lives over by the Old Light, and knows more about old ruins than anyone else I've ever met. Did you see any signs of immediate problems? If it's dangerous, we need to start making plans." the Sheriff said, frowning slightly.

Shalluk considered. "I don't think so. I believe gurading the tunnel - heavily - to prevent any attacks, and rigging a system to seal it off in the event of an emergency, would be prudent. However, Tsuto's journal mentions some of his fellows were considering an overland approach. With the quasit he mentioned he wished to ally with... no longer available, Tsuto missing and the tunnels sealed to them, I suspect that an overland attack will be there next option." Shalluk considered his next words for several moments, taking a deep breath to steady his shaking nerves. "I believe we will need to strike at Thistletop before they are ready for that, break whatever is binding this group together. An attack in numbers will result in casualties, no matter what we do."

"The sooner, the better." the Sheriff agreed, nodding. "It's easy to underestimate goblins when they're out of sight, but they're dangerous - and more so in large numbers, when you can never predict what they're going to do. I don't think they'll be expecting any kind of assault on their home." ...And it wasn't hard to tell that he was interested in how willing you'd be to go there.

"Agreed, we have the upper hand and it's time now to act before we lose it." Tanwen said confidently, volunteering for a suicide mission strike on the goblin's homes.

Shalluk glanced at the others for a moment. I wonder if insanity is in by blood? Attacking the stronghold of a pack of Goblins did not seem like a good way to avoid the dangers that Shalluk had fearfully dodged his entire life, but he was tired of avoiding everything that meant he was alive as well. He had felt more alive, taking risks, these last few days than ever before in his life.

"How far away is Thistletop?" Shalluk glanced down. "I believe we should rest, and I would like even more bolts to deal with strange creatures, but...I think, tomorrow, I can get us to the place with some rough directions within the hour, if it is no further than 50 miles from here."

"Thistletop is six miles away, but the Nettlewood blocks it from land, and it can take awhile to get through there if you're not good at finding trails and such." the Sheriff answered. "You'll also need to be prepared... and I think this will help." He pulled out two bags of coins, passing them over to you.

You've each received 500 GP.

Nodding his thanks, Shalluk took the coins and looked in the bag. Roughly 500gp...added to what he had saved, scrimped and acquired he now had...over 2000gp? That couldn't be right. Could it? How had he ended up with so much gold? "I...thank you. I am most grateful."

"Thank you very much sheriff, and we'll do our best to handle this goblin threat, hopefully we won't get lost on our way to Thistletop." Tanwen, admittedly was not terrible at finding paths, but she certainly wasn't the best.

Tanwen is +5 survival, Shalluk is +6, we're either going to need some good rolls or someone with higher wisdom, well at least we both know which direction is north.

"A job well done deserves fair pay." the Sheriff answered with a smile. "Of course, I'm not expecting you to do this next job by yourselves. I've also found some help for you - they should be at the Rusty Dragon a little later today."

Sitting in the Inn of the Rusty Dragon in the shadowed corner is a slender man with shoulder length black hair. He wears a blackened cloak emblazoned with a clasp with the all seeing eye of Nethys.

I was told to meet a pair of men here...... Where are they

Tyranius takes a small sip from his tea. The herbal scents filling the inn with a pleasant smell.

To his side hang a sheathed shortsword and a fan-like structure with five 10 inch blades secured to a sturdy handle known as an iron claw.

Further contemplating Tyranius was surprised that the Sheriff had asked him to meet here as he had only just arrived back in Sandpoint. It looks as if a bit has happened while he was gone.

Thanks for having me!

Thanks for being here.

Shalluk nodded, absent mindedly jingling the bag of coins again absent mindedly. "We shall go and meet them."

Mentally weighing his options as he headed towards the Inn, Shalluk decided it was going to require some additional supplies to launch an assault on the Goblins. If nothing else he wanted other kinds of bolts. The creature below the town had been virtually immune to his attacks. He needed something that could punch through those strengths. Some additional armour, wands and potions may also be useful.

He would talk it over with the new recruit and Tanwen.

Entering the Inn, Shalluk glanced around at the now semi-familiar people and spotted a well armed man he didn't recognize. Moving over, he murmured, "Excuse me, would you happen to be the gentleman the sheriff asked us to meet? I am Shalluk," he added.

"And I am Tanwen Anwyl, charmed I'm sure." Tanwen adds to the tiefling`s introduction. It was certainly odd to see such a well armed man in the Rusty Dragon at this time of day, indeed this was the time when the tavern was filled with day drinkers, alcoholics who cared for little then to drink, good customers when you work at a tavern, but not when you work at a brothel.

The chelish woman pushed her hair aside as she examined the man, who seemed to carry enough weapons to take on an entire room of goblins, this man was certainly not a day drinker, if the tea didn't give that away, the portable armory did. Only carrying two weapons herself, Tanwen could help but make a statement to the man. "Either you expect to grow a dozen more arms, or you expect to face something with a dozen hands, if the former happens, please let me know." She says with a smile and a wink.

"Excuse me, would you happen to be the gentleman the sheriff asked us to meet? I am Shalluk," he added.

Tyranius stands and wipes his hands on a cloth napkin. Well met. I am Tyranius Tekushikume.

Not knowing what to expect he looks at the two questioningly. So why is the Sheriff requiring my skills? Surely there is someone more well suited for the task he is looking to accomplish.

"Either you expect to grow a dozen more arms, or you expect to face something with a dozen hands, if the former happens, please let me know."

Tyranius pats his backpack. The sound of glass jars filled with potions, acids and alchemist's fire. I just try to prepare for every situation as you should always expect the unexpected.

He sits backdown in the hard wooden chair as he offers the others chairs to the two companions. Care to join me and explain the situation?

Sitting slowly, Shalluk arranged his gear and crossbow so it hung more comfortably. Must work out how to do this better. Maybe the shop keeper could make some suggestions, or a black smith? Preferably something useful that wouldn't cost too much. Like I need to worry about money anymore? Hell, he could buy a home. A real home...

Shaking his head for a moment, Shalluk looked at the newcomer. "Tyranius? Well met. In essence..." Shalluk glanced at Tanwen. "You heard about the attack of Goblins during the festival? We have been investigating. Essentially, some renegades are helping them, organizing them into a force that will be difficult and dangerous for the town. We have dealt with some, but the bulk of there forces - and leadership - are at Thistletop. There are a few other details," he added, his eyes flicking across the inn searching for Ameiko, "But the essential piece of information is we intend to attack Thisletop and destroy this alliance before the town in put in danger."

Shalluk considered. When you said it like that, it sounded both possible and utterly insane. "I presume the Sheriff chose you to help us because he feels your skills, whatever they may be, will benefit the mission." And help us survive.

"That is the just of it, though you left out the part about Tsuto and the demoness." Tanwen added, thinking for a moment, Speaking of Tsuto, we should probably fill Ameiko in on all of this, she may want to know what her brother has been up to...

Tyranius gets an incredulous look on his face Who in their right mind would organize goblins?

Can you even organize the little rodents?

I had heard rumors of the attack during the festival but I was still on my way here when it happened..

Settling back in his chair. The wood creaks under his weight. I don't know what skills exactly the Sheriff is looking for in me. I am simply a jack of all trades.

Thinking for a moment Tyranius lets out a long sigh as he slumps his shoulders.

It definitely seems like you two have been through a lot to take on this investigation all on your own. The Sheriff must be desperate if he is asking for me. When do you plan on leaving for Thistletop and do we know anything about it's defenses?

Can chaotic goblins even organize enough to mount defenses? Maybe I will finally find enough power to bring back to the clan.

"From what we can gather, a malcontent woman, apparently the daughter of a former priest named Tobyn, is aiming to become a demon in the service of Lamashtu. She is using the Goblins to sacrafice the town, and if she is a priestess of Lamashtu she might be able to control them."

Shutai remembered the journal, and it's drawings, with some concern. "As for defences...we have to go past something called the Nettlewood to get to the Goblins themselves. Beyond that, we don't know much, but we plan to leave first thing in the morning. We need to re-stock and resupply as best we can."

Tyranius grimaces at the mention of Lamashtu. He had never had a good interaction with them in the past.

Lamashtu would explain a lot of your current troubles.

Looking at both of his new companions.I will be ready in the morning.

I need to meditate and clear my mind for what may come tomorrow. I must run through every possible scenario and prepare.

"Shalelu might know more. I remember when I asked around about the goblins before, her name came up, apparently she keeps the goblin populations in check." Tanwen adds in, truthfully she had half expected to find the mysterious Shalelu when the sheriff told them they were to meet someone in the Rusty Dragon. It would also seem that the Sheriff hadn't managed to get anything out of Tsuto, lest he would have mentioned it when they met up again.

Listening intently Tyranius puts a bit of thought into the matter as he sips his tea. Shalelu might know more about this Thistletop Tribe then and where we might be able to get in without having to fend off the entire tribe.

This is definitely not what I expected. I believed the SHeriff wanted something done quietly. TSurely that is why he requested me?

Shalluk nodded to the pair. "You check with her. I must see about getting some new equipment for myself. Shall we meet here again at dawn?" Shalluk glanced over at Tyranius. "I presume you've taken lodgings here?"

Assuming there are lodgings here Tyranius will purchase a cheap room with just a bed.

Tyranius nods his head in agreement.Yes, I have a room here in town. Do you know where I might find this Shalelu?