As the adventurers prepare to begin their attack, you hear an audible sigh from the goblin leader's helmet. "Big mistake, uplanders... ksssh-thock. No profit gain in this." He directs his minions forward, and the battle begins.

Bluehand points forward, and issues orders for his goblin soldiers, the quicker ones immediately moving forward in two line formations before aiming their rifles and firing. Though most of the attacks miss, enough find their mark to badly wound Samel and graze Sureiya.

Bluehand quickly passes through the ranks of his own soldiers, brandishing the Enigma Codex, which seems to be projecting an image of small, clock-like cogs whirling rapidly before the goblin. Suddenly, a blast issues forward, freezing those caught within in time--which is the entire party.

The Bluetruth warriors advance and use their gunblades to make ranged attacks. Samel is crit once for 17 damage and hit once for 16 damage. Sureiya is crit once for 17 damage and hit once for 17 damage. Samel is bloodied.
Tribunus Bluehand moves forward and uses steal time, attacking Will in a close blast 5. The entire party and all summons are hit except Torinn, those who are hit are stunned until the end of Bluehand's next turn, while Torinn is dazed until the end of Bluehand's next turn.

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 75/78 HP (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, +2 AC, +2 Reflex
Apsaumbas (Myn's Owlbear): 39/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 89/89 HP (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 44/44 HP resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs close/area attacks
Sureiya (Anonkun): 52/86 HP (2/10 Surges)
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 74/74 HP (1/8 Surges)
Spirit Companion (Voyager):
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 69/83 HP (1/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning
Samel (NPC): 31/64 HP Bloodied (7/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic

Enemies
Tribunus Bluehand (Enemy) -57 HP
Bluetruth Warrior 1 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 2 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 3 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 4 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Hardhelm (Enemy)
Bluetruth Hardmind (Enemy)
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 1 (Enemy)
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 2 (Enemy)
XL-Class Magitek Gobtank (Enemy)

After absorbing the time from his foes, Bluehand re-assesses the situation. The dragonborn managed to not be completely overwhelmed by the codex's power, perhaps due to divine protection, but with his mount frozen in time, the goblin does not seem overly concerned.

"Ignorant and unworthy have no place in Gobbitopia!" Bluehand announces, raising the book high. With a brilliant flash, a silvery outline of white light forms in the shape of a great fortress beside the goblin. An instant later, it becomes sold, forming what appears to be an enormous construct, twitching forward and back with whirling gears and blasts of steam erupting from egresses that form at its joints. You hear a deep, resounding voice in your minds, which you somehow definitely know comes forth from the machine:

I am Alexander, the Creator. All who seek utopia are subject to judgment protocols.

The construct's eyes glow a bright red, and the party becomes dimly aware of a divine curse--or judgment decree, perhaps, as Alexander would call it--affecting each of them. This curse promises a swift end unless the affected target is at full vitality when judgment is rendered. Then, from the shoulders of the hulking behemoth erupt strands of divine energy, which arc forward and rain down upon the party, piercing their bodies with searing radiance. Though Samel manages to resist some of it, and the ebony fly barely survives the attack, the damage is clearly done--though only Torinn is able to writhe as the rest of the party remains frozen in time and space.

Torinn gathers his wits, and quickly assesses the situation--his mind is still fogged, so his full complement of actions is unavailable. Rutger is frozen in mid-stride, as is the rest of his party. He's affected by a potent divine curse which was somehow issued forth by this apparently sentient construct. And he's facing down a great multitude of enemies. It would take some sort of divine miracle to overcome these odds.

So the accursed construct cometh unto us once more... now to Toril...

It is Asgorath's voice that resounds then, as the tiny dragon appears near the dragonborn paladin and time-frozen shaman.

Thus is the true power of the Enigma Codex, to manifest this immortal machine, touched by that which sleeps beyond the stars...

Tribunus Bluehand spends an action point! Tribunus Bluehand uses summon Alexander, conjuring Demi-Alexander.
Demi-Alexander uses divine judgment, affecting Torinn, Samel, Bernkastel, Myn, Sureiya, and Sid. When divine judgment fully charges, each creature not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value.
Demi-Alexander spends an action point! Demi-Alexander uses mega holy, hitting everything in the party for 27 radiant damage and missing the ebony fly for 13 radiant damage. Rutger, the owlbear, and Samel reduce the damage to 17 due to resistance. Sureiya is bloodied and gains 10 temporary hit points, Sid is bloodied.

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 48/78 HP (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, stunned
Apsaumbas (Myn's Owlbear): 22/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes, stunned
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Stunned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 62/89 HP (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic, dazed
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 27/44 HP resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs close/area attacks, stunned
Sureiya (Anonkun): 25/86 HP Bloodied + 10 THP (2/10 Surges), stunned
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 53/74 HP (1/8 Surges), stunned
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): Not summoned allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 36/83 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning, stunned
Samel (NPC): 14/64 HP Bloodied (7/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, stunned

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 2 rounds until Divine Judgment
Tribunus Bluehand (Enemy) -57 HP, 8 AP
Bluetruth Warrior 1 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 2 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 3 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 4 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Hardhelm (Enemy)
Bluetruth Hardmind (Enemy)
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 1 (Enemy)
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 2 (Enemy)
XL-Class Magitek Gobtank (Enemy)

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each creature affected by it that is not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Demi-Alexander uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Demi-Alexander can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

>>79062
Torinn waits for a better opportunity to present itself.
Delay, fail save against dazing

<No action> Superior Will-granted save vs. stun (19, success) https://orokos.com/roll/629526

How was the shaman hearing all this while frozen? Maybe control over time isn't such an absolute thing? So, with a sharp cracking sound, the shaman somehow breaks free from the time-stop and rejoins the regular flow.

"Ugh, that's better," the shaman shakes her head clear, and looks with disdain at mostly everyone else still being frozen. At least Lord Asgorath is fine, so the shaman addresses the tiny dragon.

"So that's Alexander? I had the impression we didn't know where it was...?"

The shaman throws out an earth archon spirit to deal with Sureiya's wounds, then focuses on repairing the flow of life in the invoker's body herself (he was *supposed* to hit them before they hit all of us). The taller spirit shows up to try and throw off all those bullets' trajectories.

"You can still hear me, right? You heard Lord Asgorath; considering Alexander, our only hope is to stick with the plan," the shaman calls to the frozen losers, implying that getting the book may stop Alexander, too.

<Minor action> Inspiring Word for Sureiya, who spends a surge. Surge value is 22, and Sid's armor set bonus should heal him for 3 more. 22+4+3d6+3 = 41 HP healed. https://orokos.com/roll/629532
<Standard action> First Aid: Grant Second Wind (Heal DC 10, which is an autopass for me). Target: Samel, who spends a surge. Surge value is 17, and Sid's armor set should heal him for 3 more, for a total of 20 HP healed.
<Minor action> Conjure the Spirit of Athas, 1sq south of Samel. Elevation 0.

The shaman snaps to her senses and begins to do her best to heal her allies. Even as she does so, however, the hardened goblins advance and begin their own form of assault, wounding Samel with another gunshot and attempting but failing to dispel the freshly-summoned Spirit of Athas.

Bluehand directs the tank to move around the enormous construct and flank, and though it moves fairly quickly it is not quite fast enough to make the entire trek immediately. The tiny dragon begins to speak in response to "Bernkastel"'s comments,

'Tis but an avatar... that it held such power was unknown even to me. Though it possesseth only a fraction of the construct's true strength, it is not to be underestimated...

Bernkastel saves against being stunned due to Superior Will.
Bernkastel uses inspiring word, allowing Sureiya to spend a surge and regain 41 hit points.
Bernkastel uses first aid, allowing Samel to use his second wind to regain 20 hit points.
Bernkastel uses spirit of athas, conjuring her elemental spirit.
The bluetruth hardhelm moves and activates its hardhelm aura. It attack Samel twice with its gunblade, hitting once for 14 damage.
The bluetruth hardmind moves and activates its hardmind aura. It uses dispel magic but fails to dispel the Spirit of Athas.
The XL-class Gobtank double moves.

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 48/78 HP (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, stunned
Apsaumbas (Myn's Owlbear): 22/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes, stunned
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Stunned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 62/89 HP (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic, dazed
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 27/44 HP resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs close/area attacks, stunned
Sureiya (Anonkun): 66/86 HP + 10 THP (1/10 Surges), stunned
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 53/74 HP (1/8 Surges), stunned
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 36/83 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning, stunned
Samel (NPC): 20/64 HP Bloodied (6/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, stunned

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 2 rounds until Divine Judgment
Tribunus Bluehand (Enemy) -57 HP, 8 AP
Bluetruth Warrior 1 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 2 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 3 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 4 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Hardhelm (Enemy) hardhelm aura
Bluetruth Hardmind (Enemy) hardmind aura
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 1 (Enemy)
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 2 (Enemy)
XL-Class Magitek Gobtank (Enemy)

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each creature affected by it that is not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Demi-Alexander uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Demi-Alexander can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

Allies in the hardhelm aura gain resist 5 to weapon attacks. Allies in the hardmind aura gain resist 5 to implement attacks. These auras have no effect if the monster of origin cannot take opportunity actions.

>>79066
I don't think Sureiya can break stun. Posting for Samel.

<No action> Superior Will saving throw: 11 (rolled in roll20)

With a brief flash of light, the invoker repels the foul influence that held him still. He raises his staff, and points his free arm to the book-bearing goblin. "A puppet calling itself the creator, hah! That clanging contraption of yours is no god, heathen! In the name of Oghma, I order you to surrender your book, that the Lord of Knowledge may determine what to do with it! Or I shall be forced to demonstrate firsthand the power of true divinity!"

<Free action> Delay, at most until just after Myn's turn.

Last edited at 18/06/09(Sat)02:13:01

Though Samel manages to shake off the effects of being frozen in time, Sid and Sureiya are not so fortunate. Lacking a clear shot on other targets, the larger artillery-like manned vehicles turn their guns on Samel, though only one manages a glancing hit.

Sureiya is stunned.
Samel saves against being stunned due to superior will.
Sid is stunned.
The BOOMTypes move. One boom cannon hits Samel for 9 damage (reduced to 4), and the boom barrage misses Samel.

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 48/78 HP (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, stunned, divine judgment
Apsaumbas (Myn's Owlbear): 22/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes, stunned
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Stunned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 62/89 HP (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic, dazed, divine judgment
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 27/44 HP resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs close/area attacks, stunned
Sureiya (Anonkun): 66/86 HP + 10 THP (1/10 Surges), stunned, divine judgment
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 53/74 HP (1/8 Surges), stunned, divine judgment
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 36/83 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning, stunned, divine judgment
Samel (NPC): 21/64 HP Bloodied (6/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, divine judgment

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 2 rounds until Divine Judgment
Tribunus Bluehand (Enemy) -57 HP, 8 AP
Bluetruth Warrior 1 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 2 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 3 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Warrior 4 (Enemy)
Bluetruth Hardhelm (Enemy) hardhelm aura
Bluetruth Hardmind (Enemy) hardmind aura
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 1 (Enemy)
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 2 (Enemy)
XL-Class Magitek Gobtank (Enemy)

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each affected creature not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Alexander Prime uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Alexander Prime can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

Allies in the hardhelm aura gain resist 5 to weapon attacks. Allies in the hardmind aura gain resist 5 to implement attacks. These auras have no effect if the monster of origin cannot take opportunity actions.

>>79068
With no other options, Torinn steels himself for the worst.
total defense

>>79068
"Very well, silence it is! Then Oghma retorts in kind," retorts Samel. He then steps forth, and begins speaking terrifying words of power that cannot be heard, but seem to boom and shake the air around them regardless, shocking the goblins to their core. An aftershock soon follows, blasting them with yet another shockwave.

Reminder that Samel has Superior Reflexes giving him CA for his first turn.

<No action> Religion check on Alexander (19), Dungeoneering check on Hardhelm (32) and Hardmind (34), Dungeoneering check on Bluehand (27)
<Minor action> Word of Vigor. Everyone in Samel's close burst 1 can spend a surge and heal surge + 2d6. Samel does this himself, with Sid's armor set, healing for 17+6+3=26 HP. Also, all targets get +2 to hit for a round from Battle Cleric's Lore (as far as I can understand, even with no surge spent, since they're still targets).
<Move action> Move 1sq southwest.
- Action Point - (On spending the AP, everyone has +5 to hit targets of the AP attack for a round)
<Standard action> Silent Malediction against Bluehand, Hardhelm, Warrior 1, Hardmind, and Warrior 2. I assume the warriors try to shift out of there, so I'll roll for the others only. Attack vs. Fortitude.
>Bluehand: 42 vs. fort, 15 damage, stunned (save ends).
>Hardhelm: 39 vs. fort, 15 damage, stunned (save ends).
>Hardmind: 34 vs. fort, 15 damage, stunned (save ends), and the malediction effect pushes it 1sq southwest.
>Samel: Dazed until EoNT.
<Standard action> Thunder of Judgment, target Bluehand, Hardhelm, Hardmind. Staff expertise, so no OA triggers.
>Bluehand: 41 vs. fort, 16 damage, dazed until EoNT.
>Hardhelm: 43 vs. fort, 18 damage, dazed until EoNT, and the malediction effect pushes it 1sq northwest.
>Hardmind: 29 vs. fort, 19 damage, dazed until EoNT.


Last edited at 18/06/09(Sat)17:10:37

Torinn adopts a defensive stance, and Samel's potent divine power washes over the clustered goblins. Two of the goblin warriors manage to dodge out of the way, but Bluehand and the hardened goblins are caught in the blast of thunder and stunned. Samel quickly unleashes yet another blast of thunder, further disabling the goblins. However, suddenly, Bluehand stands upright before the deva as if nothing had happened.

"Kssh-thock! Uplander is gravely mistaken! Bluehand now stronger than the gods! Bluehand holds whammy-strength of universe itself!" The goblin boasts, gesturing to his allies. "Pssh-tock! Destroy the summons! Let uplanders face judgment alone."

The goblin warriors move closer to the divine construct, and unleash a flurry of bullets on the party's summons. The owlbear and ebony fly fall quickly, vanishing into the ether, but Rutger proves hardier and most of the bullets glance off his barding.

"Bluehand is invincible! Bluehand holds power over all creation!" the goblin cries, raising the Enigma Codex high into the air. The enormous automaton response in kind,

Fatal exception! Manipulation of the time-stream by malicious entities is not permitted!

With another flash of light, a potent shield surrounds everything but Demi-Alexander itself. Gears within it begin to whir as it continues to charge divine judgment, and it then announces,

I so decree: those who are unworthy will show obsequence.

With that, it fires a sweeping burst of light that drives the adventurers to their knees before the enormous construct, each of them unwillingly adopting a stance of utter supplication. A snarl is rendered from the back of Asgorath's throat, and it says,

The goblin is already given to madness... the corrupt power of the tome fills him... perhaps the time is come to resume mine century-old struggle...

Myn is stunned.
Torinn uses total defense.
Samel uses silent malediction, dazing himself. The bluetruth warriors shift out of the blast. It hits the hardmind, hardhelm, and Bluehand for 15 thunder damage, and they are stunned (save ends). The hardmind reduces to 10 thunder damage. Malediction pushes the hardmind 1 square.
Samel spends an action point! Samel uses thunder of judgment, hitting Bluehand for 16 damage, the hardmind for 19 damage, and the hardhelm for 18 damage. All are dazed. Malediction pushes the hardhelm 1 square.
At the end of Samel's turn, Tribunus Bluehand uses rewind, resetting his state to the start of Samel's turn.
The bluetruth warriors attack summons in order: young owlbear, ebony fly, Rutger. The young owlbear goes down first after being hit twice, then the ebony fly takes a hit and Myn is dismounted, falling to the ground. They only manage to hit Ruger once for 8 damage (reduced from 13).
Tribunus Bluehand uses astral flow, allowing Demi-Alexander to use its daily ultimate power. Demi-Alexander's perfect defense renders his allies immune to damage and attacks until the end of Bluehand's next turn. Tribunus Bluehand moves back.
Demi-Alexander charges divine judgment. Demi-Alexander spends an action point! Demi-Alexander uses supplication in a close blast 10, hitting the party for 34 radiant damage (Samel reduces to 24, others reduce to 29, Bernkastel takes full 34). Anyone hit is stunned until the end of Alexander's next turn and anyone in the area of effect is knocked prone.

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 19/78 HP Bloodied (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, divine judgment
Apsaumbas (Myn's Owlbear): 0/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes, stunned
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Stunned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 33/89 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic, divine judgment
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 0/44 HP resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs close/area attacks, stunned
Sureiya (Anonkun): 57/86 HP (1/10 Surges), divine judgment
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 19/74 HP Bloodied (1/8 Surges), divine judgment
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 7/83 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning, divine judgment
Samel (NPC): 23/64 HP Bloodied (5/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, divine judgment, dazed

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 1 round until Divine Judgment
Tribunus Bluehand (Enemy) -57 HP, 8 AP, immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Warrior 1 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Warrior 2 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Warrior 3 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Warrior 4 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Hardhelm (Enemy) -33 HP, hardhelm aura, stunned (save ends), dazed, immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Hardmind (Enemy) -29 HP, hardmind aura, stunned (save ends), dazed, immune to damage and attacks
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 1 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 2 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
XL-Class Magitek Gobtank (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each affected creature not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Alexander Prime uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Alexander Prime can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

Allies in the hardhelm aura gain resist 5 to weapon attacks. Allies in the hardmind aura gain resist 5 to implement attacks. These auras have no effect if the monster of origin cannot take opportunity actions.

The stunned condition inflicted by supplication lasts until the end of Alexander's next turn. It has an aftereffect of dazed (save ends).

>>79071
<No action> Superior Will saving throw vs. Stun. (7) https://orokos.com/roll/630688
<No action> Heroic Effort, +4 to succeed on the save.
<No action> Flowform Armor to save against the aftereffect: Daze, save ends. (4) https://orokos.com/roll/630689
<Free action> Symbol of Scorned Fate, delay the daze effect from affecting me. http://funin.space/compendium/item/Symbol-of-Scorned-Fate.html

The shaman manages to overcome most of the divine influence, but the lingering effect is taken care of by her holy symbol of Asgorath, which glows and forestalls her affliction for a while longer. She shakes her head again. "How are WE the ones manipulating the time-stream?? Look next to you!" the shaman complains to the robot.

Actions to be posted later if necessary.

Though difficult to notice before, there is clearly an aura of blackness tinged with blue softly emanating from Tribunus Bluehand's body as he holds the book aloft. The goblin tucks the book under his arm as he backs away, causing the aura to fade, and he then turns to face the shaman.

"Kssh-thock. Foolish and ignorant! Tome of Allthoughts orders time-stream as is meant to be!" calming himself once more, Bluehand seems to take a more conversational tone as he continues. "Time is flat round-shape, uplander. When Bluehand manipulates time, it is because Bluehand has already manipulated time, we merely reach-up that point."

Seeming not to address the subject directly, Asgorath merely continues to speak cryptically,

Be warned... the power over time is not the domain of the realms beyond... rather 'tis the power of this construct, coveted by those that dwell beyond the stars... twisted to their sinister purpose...

Myn reasons that the book madness probably results from delusions of grandeur on the goblin's part and not any intrinsic properties of its own.

Torinn spits blood at the giant construct and tries to summon whatever strength his body has left. No prayer would help here.

use solid greaves to negate falling prone

Last edited at 18/06/10(Sun)19:13:00

With a mighty roar, the tiny dragon morphs and transforms into the gigantic, translucent serpentine monstrosity you faced back at the Well of Dragons. Hovering over the entire party protectively, it begins to bestow upon the party its blessings.

So be it. I had preferred to stand watch longer, but to ensure Xymor's gambit gets its rightful chance, I shall take it upon myself to face that which does not belong in this realm...

The goblins all seem taken aback by the sudden appearance of the great wyrm, even Tribunus Bluehand to some extent. It takes advantage of their confusion, emitting a soft glow which envelops the party, clearing their minds of the destabilizing influence of Alexander, and removing its divine curse--by drawing the curse upon itself. The immortal construct then booms,

Omega-Class Threat detected. Redirecting combat protocols... withdrawal of assistant units decreed a necessity.

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 19/78 HP Bloodied (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, prone
Aspaumbas (Myn's Owlbear: 0/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Not summoned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 33/89 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 0/44 HP, resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs. close/area attacks
Sureiya (Anonkun): 57/86 HP (1/10 Surges), prone
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 19/74 HP Bloodied (1/8 Surges), prone
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 7/83 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning, prone
Samel (NPC): 23/64 HP Bloodied (5/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, prone

Allies
Remnant of Asgorath: divine judgment

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 1 round until Divine Judgment
Tribunus Bluehand (Enemy) -57 HP, 8 AP, immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Warrior 1 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Warrior 2 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Warrior 3 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Warrior 4 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Hardhelm (Enemy) -33 HP, hardhelm aura, stunned (save ends), dazed, immune to damage and attacks
Bluetruth Hardmind (Enemy) -29 HP, hardmind aura, stunned (save ends), dazed, immune to damage and attacks
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 1 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
Gobwalker Mark III-BOOMtype 2 (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks
XL-Class Magitek Gobtank (Enemy), immune to damage and attacks

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each affected creature not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Alexander Prime uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Alexander Prime can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

Allies in the hardhelm aura gain resist 5 to weapon attacks. Allies in the hardmind aura gain resist 5 to implement attacks. These auras have no effect if the monster of origin cannot take opportunity actions.

The stunned condition inflicted by supplication lasts until the end of Alexander's next turn. It has an aftereffect of dazed (save ends).

>>79076
The shaman looks up at Lord Asgorath, then around herself at the now-freed allies. "Mr. Sturmgust, we need to keep Lord Asgorath at full strength! Or at least able to endure the curse!" the shaman quickly calls from the floor.

<Standard action> Plant Battle Standard of Healing, 1sq north of the shaman. (Some free-action item swapping and same-action draw-and-use is involved.)
<Free Action> Sudden Call Spirit Companion, 2W of the shaman, elevation 1 (above Myn).
<Minor action> Healing Spirit: target self, secondary healing goes to Sid (the shaman heals 19+2+3=24 HP, and Sid heals 3d6+4=18 HP (rolled 14 on 3d6, in roll20).
- Then the Battle Standard of Healing heals everybody for 3 HP.
- Myn: 19 to 22, Torinn: 33 to 36, Sureiya: 57 to 60, Bern: 19 to 43 to 46, Sid: from 7 to 25 to 28, Samel from 23 to 26.
<Minor action> Call Forth the Spirit World.

Last edited at 18/06/10(Sun)23:43:42

The shaman calls out instructions even as she sees to her healing duties, but Sid seems clearly confused by this call. "E-erm, defend Asgorath?! But--"

The gnome is cut off by the dragon's interjection,

'Tis not thy fight, chosen of the gods. The struggle between myself and this accursed construct has been a century in the making.

With that, the dragon opens his maw, and blasts the assembled goblins with pure divine energy, stripping away the protection afforded by Alexander. The construct immediately responses,

Safe transit protocol acknowledged. Transferring to secure location...

The goblins seem every bit as confused as one by one, both the armored goblins and the goblins driving mechanical monstrosities vanish from your site in columns of light, being teleported to who-knows-where. Bluehand, the last to be teleported, is the only one who isn't glancing around in confusing, his unreadable masked face staring directly at the party until he is gone. The immortal construct then continues its spiel,

Solo combat mode engaged. Unrestricted warfare and lethal force are authorized.

You all immediately feel the divine will of the construct try to force its way into your heads--though it has little immediate effect, you can no longer maintain the presence of mind to carefully time your actions. Sid looks just as confused as before, but his face twists in resolve to do as the shaman asks to the best of his own ability.

Bernkastel calls forth her spirit companion and plants the battle standard of healing. Bernkastel uses healing spirit, healing herself and Sid, as well as the rest of the party. Bernkastel uses call forth the spirit world.
The Remnant of Asgorath uses animadversion, removing the effect of perfect defense from the goblins. Demi-Alexander responds by teleporting the goblins elsewhere. Demi-Alexander engages its solo combat protocols, gaining access to its full suite of actions, including its legendary actions.
You are now all subject to Demi-Alexander's providence trait. As long as you are within 20 squares of Demi-Alexander, you cannot delay or ready actions.
Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 22/78 HP Bloodied (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, prone
Aspaumbas (Myn's Owlbear: 0/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Not summoned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 36/89 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 0/44 HP, resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs. close/area attacks
Sureiya (Anonkun): 60/86 HP (1/10 Surges), prone
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 46/74 HP (1/8 Surges), prone
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 28/83 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning, prone
Samel (NPC): 26/64 HP Bloodied (5/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, prone

Allies
Remnant of Asgorath (Ally?), divine judgment

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 1 round until Divine Judgment

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each affected creature not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Demi-Alexander uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Demi-Alexander can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

Demi-Alexander's providence trait prevents enemies within 20 squares from delaying or readying actions.

"So... this is the world-ender true form?"
The ranger, who had been unable to move at all for most of the time here, stares in awe at the god and the conjuration from Bluehand's book. It almost distracts himself from the fact he is able to move again.

Then he stands up and readies himself. "What the hell we doing here?" he says, as he hurls nightfall against Alexander. "Shaman, isn't this a bit out of our reach?"

Stand up
Quarry Alexander
Ranged twin strike, if one of them hits, 16 damage.

Last edited at 18/06/12(Tue)22:36:28

Sureiya and Sid stagger to their feet, with the tinker gnome being slightly revitalized by Samel's earlier healing, but neither manage to land a solid blow against the immortal construct that stands before them. Even as Sid pulls himself up, however, the fortress booms,

Re-calibrating threat assessment protocol...firing.

Suddenly, from each of the construct's two shoulders erupt reddish beams of flame, which arc up and then streak downward. Sureiya manages to catch Nightfall back in his hands just as it crashes down upon him, scorching the ranger badly. Asgorath is also targeted by the fiery beams, which total six, three to each target, though the ghostly dragon seems less affected by them. Sid desperately does his best to apply a healing infusion to the great dragon, before firing off a bolt in panic that deflects off the summoned construct's metal armor.

Sid spends his last surge to regain 32 hit points from Word of Vigor.
Sureiya stands from prone and sets his quarry.
Sureiya misses Demi-Alexander twice with ranged twin strike.
At the end of Sureiya's turn, Demi-Alexander uses blazing scourge, hitting Sureiya 3 times for 16, 19 and 24 fire damage (reduced to 11, 14, and 19). It also hits Asgorath twice for 17 fire damage and 17 fire damage (reduced to 12). It misses Asgorath once.
Sid uses resistive formula on Asgorath. Sid stands from prone. Sid uses magic weapon but misses Demi-Alexander.

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 22/78 HP Bloodied (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, prone
Aspaumbas (Myn's Owlbear: 0/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Not summoned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 36/89 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 0/44 HP, resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs. close/area attacks
Sureiya (Anonkun): 16/86 HP Bloodied (1/10 Surges)
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 46/74 HP (1/8 Surges), prone
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 60/83 HP (0/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning
Samel (NPC): 26/64 HP Bloodied (5/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, prone

Allies
Remnant of Asgorath (Ally?) -24 HP: divine judgment, resistive formula

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 1 round until Divine Judgment

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each affected creature not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Demi-Alexander uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Demi-Alexander can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

Demi-Alexander's providence trait prevents enemies within 20 squares from delaying or readying actions.

"We have little opportunity to intervene in this conflict. It would be best to retreat while we have the chance."

"The foolish goblin leaked too much information for his own good today. The book won't escape our next meeting."

Despite his words, Myn feels compelled to place a curse on the construct in defiance as he begins his exit.


Minor action: Stand up.
Move action: Ethereal Stride 5 north.
Minor action: Curse Demi-Alexander.

The warlock seems to be looking to make an escape, which seems like a brilliant tactical move given the current situation. With a roar, the spectral dragon makes use of Sid's healing infusion to shield itself from a focused blast of fire, which burns through Asgorath's defenses and still leaves it singed somehow.

It would be wise to take your flight now, children of the gods.

Myn stands from prone, teleports, and curses Demi-Alexander.
Remnant of Asgorath uses the resistive formula, granting itself and Sureiya 32 temporary hit points.
At the end of Myn's turn, Alexander uses incinerating heat, missing the Remnant of Asgorath for 31 fire damage (reduced to 26, halved to 13) and ongoing 10 fire damage (save ends).

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 22/78 HP Bloodied (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, +2 to all defenses, +2 AC, +2 Reflex
Aspaumbas (Myn's Owlbear: 0/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Not summoned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 36/89 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 0/44 HP, resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs. close/area attacks
Sureiya (Anonkun): 16/86 HP Bloodied (1/10 Surges) + 32 THP
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 46/74 HP (1/8 Surges), prone
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 60/83 HP (0/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning
Samel (NPC): 26/64 HP Bloodied (5/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, prone

Allies
Remnant of Asgorath (Ally?) -24 HP: 19 THP, divine judgment, resistive formula, cursed (Myn), ongoing 10 fire damage (save ends)

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 1 round until Divine Judgment

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each affected creature not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Demi-Alexander uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Demi-Alexander can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

Demi-Alexander's providence trait prevents enemies within 20 squares from delaying or readying actions.

Torinn grants his aid to Asgorath before taking a parting shot and running. He wanted to stay and fight, but there was little else he could do.
Divine mettle to grant Asgorath a saving throw with +5 bonus
Dragon breath vs Alexander (30, 12)
Move away

Torinn's breath doesn't seem to affect the metallic monstrosity standing before him, but his divine healing power is enough to quench the strange radiant flames still engulfing the great dragon god's apparition. The dragonborn also begins to retreat, which does seem like a sound strategic play at this juncture.

Asgorath's surge value/THP count increased by 8 due to math change.
Torinn uses divine mettle, causing Asgorath to succeed on its save (it gets a +10 bonus due to Torinn's bonus and being a solo).
Torinn uses dragon breath but just barely misses Demi-Alexander.
Torinn moves. Demi-Alexander does not yet use its final legendary action.

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 22/78 HP Bloodied (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, +2 to all defenses, +2 AC, +2 Reflex
Aspaumbas (Myn's Owlbear: 0/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Not summoned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 36/89 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 0/44 HP, resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs. close/area attacks
Sureiya (Anonkun): 16/86 HP Bloodied (1/10 Surges) + 32 THP
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 46/74 HP (1/8 Surges), prone
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 60/83 HP (0/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning
Samel (NPC): 26/64 HP Bloodied (5/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, prone

Allies
Remnant of Asgorath (Ally?) -24 HP: 27 THP, divine judgment, cursed (Myn)

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy) 1 round until Divine Judgment

Notes
When divine judgment fully charges, each affected creature not at its maximum hit point value will take radiant damage equal to that creature's maximum hit point value. Divine judgment has a range of 20.

Divine judgment fully charges after Demi-Alexander uses two additional standard actions to charge it, at which point it immediately happens. Demi-Alexander can only spend one standard action each round to do so.

Demi-Alexander's providence trait prevents enemies within 20 squares from delaying or readying actions.

>>79083
>>79085
Myn and Torinn should be healing 9 from CFTSW.

Posting for Samel.
>>79087
"Hmph, for all his tricks, the poor fool flees at the first glimpse of true divinity!" Samel scoffs at the retreating goblin.

Samel heals 9 from CFTSW. (to 35 HP)

<Minor action> Healing Word for Asgorath, who gets +2 to hit until EoNT. Also can spend surge and heal +3d6 HP.
<Move action> Stand up.
<Move action> Shift away, 1sq NE.

rin wheres shaman token max HP fix it still says 80

Samel is quick to make his own withdrawal, restoring some of Asgorath's hit points while he does so. However, Demi-Alexander's onslaught continues, and more of the radiant streams of energy rain down upon the party and Asgorath.

Then, suddenly, the field of view for the entire party begins to turn white, as a bubble of energy builds in front of the great construct's face, becoming larger and large as streams of energy are pulled towards it, until it suddenly explodes into an enormous beam. This lance of pure radiance is so bright that it blots nearly blinds each of you, though it does not seem to burn anything except the spectral image of a god before you. The Remnant of Asgorath writes and roars as it is pierced by the beam, and it's quite difficult to tell just how much damage was dealt to the translucent divine dragon, but it definitely seems diminished to a significant degree. However, it does not fade from view. Instead, it again begins to speak,

Children of the Gods... know that Xymor's scheme is not for naught. I shall return.

Samel uses healing word, allowing Asgorath to spend a surge and regain hit points to its full total.
Samel stands and shifts.
At the end of Samel's turn, Demi-Alexander uses its final legendary action. Demi-Alexander uses mega holy, an area burst 2 with 2 origin points, allowing it to target everyone. All creatures are hit for 20 radiant damage, Samel reduces to 10, Sid, Sureiya, and Asgorath reduce to 15.
On Demi-Alexander's turn, it uses divine judgment. Asgorath takes 474 radiant damage (reduced 469).

Player Characters
Myn Nthelsyr (George): 11/78 HP Bloodied (2/9 Surges), Darkspiral Aura 6, +2 defenses against self-effected enemies, +2 to all defenses, +2 AC, +2 Reflex
Aspaumbas (Myn's Owlbear: 0/39, allies get +2 power to damage against adjacent foes
Disembodied Hand (Myn): Passive Mode
Ebony Fly (Myn): Not summoned
Torinn Tormine (Astaroth): 25/89 HP Bloodied (1/11 Surges), resist 5 necrotic
Rutger (Torinn's Mount): 0/44 HP, resist 5 all when mounted/10 vs. close/area attacks
Sureiya (Anonkun): 16/86 HP Bloodied (1/10 Surges) + 9 THP
"Bernkastel" (Voyager): 26/74 HP Bloodied (1/8 Surges), prone
Spirit Companion (Voyager): Not summoned
Elemental Spirit (Voyager): allies within 2 have resist 5, adjacent allies and the shaman get +1 power to all defenses
Sid Silversprocket (NPC): 45/83 HP (0/11 Surges), resist 5 lightning
Samel (NPC): 16/64 HP Bloodied (5/7 Surges), resist 10 radiant/necrotic, prone

Allies
Remnant of Asgorath (Ally?) -462 HP (Bloodied):

Enemies
Demi-Alexander (Enemy):, cursed (Myn)

Notes
Demi-Alexander's providence trait prevents enemies within 20 squares from delaying or readying actions. It also prevents Demi-Alexander from ever provoking opportunity attacks.

>>79091
Torinn doesn't have anything he could say. Not in the face of all of this. He gives a nod, but he isn't sure what this means for the future.

The ranger tries to stop Alexander's massive beam attack, but the threatening aura from the cursed machine doesn't allow him to focus at all.

"Damn it!", he says, preparing to stand back.

Miss with disruptive strike!

>>79091
The shaman tries to blink away the spots in her vision. "Of course, Lord Asgorath. And I apologize for our failure here... Next time, the goblin and his book will be dealt with, along with Alexander. So... it's okay to save your breath. Your power is meant for much greater things."

Dwell not on failure. Perhaps this is merely fate.

With those final words, Asgorath lets loose an ear-splitting roar, and then lunges forward, winding its way around one of the construct's massive legs. The enormous serpentine dragon's body continues to surge forward, and the ancient primordial wraps around both of the machine's leg-like structures as well as the central portion, and then finally, the dragon's spectral jaws clamp down upon the head of the construct.

Demi-Alexander's voice does not sound, instead, both the immortal construct and Asgorath begin to glow with a brilliant light, and there is another massive roar as blinding radiance drowns out your vision--and then, suddenly, both are gone.

Sid scrambles to his feet, and looks around at the rest of the party, completely stunned by this turn of events.

"...I'm pretty sure that arrogant Bluehand didn't see any of this coming", the ranger says, after taking a deep breath.

"You must have a questions Sid. But first, tell us about what you found back inside of Gordias. Didn't you mention something about Alexander before?"

Last edited at 18/06/26(Tue)11:33:31

Sid looks as though he's snapped out of a trance by Sureiya's question, and turns to face the half-orc with a slow nod. "Alexander... well, that was the name of the overall project to create this gigantic machine. The unofficial name, at least. It was also the name given to the central portion of the machine, much like the arm sections were named Gordias and Midas. However, there was no engineer on the project named Alexander. If the project truly created a self-aware machine of some sort called Alexander, that is very much news to me. The tinker gnome sighs heavily, and suddenly looks quite weary. "Asgorath mentioned before that he battled this machine for days on end back in Abeir. If that is true, then it is an extraordinarily powerful weapon. I could not have imagined... I knew it was a threat, but this is something else entirely."

>>79097

"I don't suppose you have any idea as to how Mister Tribunus is likely to move from here, Mister Sid? Surely I am not alone in discomfort at the thought of him roaming free to utilize this weapon."

"The machine may be too difficult to wrest control of, but letting the artifact slip away as well would be unacceptably wasteful."

Sid nods, saying, "Bluehand will surely seek out the other portions of this weapon. If he's gone rogue, we won't be able to look at the overall movements of the Remnant to predict his actions either." Pulling himself up, the artificer adds, "You guys have more important things to do, with the Cult of the Dragon's worrying activities and all, but I can try to find Midas or Alexander first. If I do, I'll contact you again."

The ranger remains silent for a bit, thinking back in the whole situation.

"Still, isn't something off here? Bluehand behavior was strange. If he had access to such a powerful summon, he could have tried to deal with us at any time. But instead he invited us inside, then turned against us, lost, and still didn't care. What gives?" he exclaims, annoyed and confused.

Sid looks at half-orc with a serious expression. "Y-you're right, Sureiya. I know you don't put much stock in the goblin's claims to foresight, but if we were to consider them seriously for a moment... perhaps this cost him in some way that was no immediately apparent to us."

Looking down with a hand on his chin and another stroking his own mustache, the gnome begins to speculate, "We know very little about the Enigma Codex, aside from the fact that Asgorath mentioned it was touched in some way by the Far Realm. Bluehand called it the unexpected fruit of project Alexander. If we assume that Bluehand had some view of the future, it's possible that he knew beforehand that attempting to eradicate us directly would not net him the results he wanted, and perhaps even set him back in some way. Though this seems to have cost us the direct assistance of Lord Asgorath, maybe it's cost Bluehand even more?" Shaking his head softly, he elaborates, "It's almost as if he wanted to make sure we entered the machine before his goblins did--or at least, at the same time. Maybe he believed it'd... react... to us better?"

"What do those star-things see in that goblin? And Mr. N, for that matter," the shaman mumbles while staring at where Asgorath and the robot were fighting.

>>79099
"Oh, did Mr. Bluehand go rogue? Then we may as well tell the Remnant that he ran off with their Alexander-artifact and weapons. It might stall him."

>>79101
"Maybe calling Alexander and having it engage Lord Asgorath is expensive somehow," the shaman suggests. "And as mentioned before, since the voice belonged to your daughter, it was likely meant to react better to Mr. Sturmgust specifically. Mr. Bluehand said as much when he invited us inside."

Sid looks to the shaman and nods. "I agree, about the voice... though how he could know that disturbs me. The only conclusion I can draw is that he discovered it from the Enigma Codex. I also agree about informing the Remnant of his actions--it's clear to me that Bluehand is acting on his own here."

>>79103
"We could also ask them what happened to your daughter. But... since most of us are exhausted, should we rest for a bit before we visit these Remnant people?"

"You think he knew it wasn't gonna be his way? I don't know, he seemed very full of himself while using that freaking book", the ranger adds, still unsure.

Sureiya takes a look around the party and says, "in any case, the Shaman is right, we should rest before trying anything else."

>>79105

"I had resolved to combat another ten or twenty mechanical abominations, but perhaps a break may be prudent. This matter is of greater concern to me than the activities of the cult, but there is no helping the lack of information yet. As for contacting the remnant, I do not suppose that a letter would be sufficient?"

>>79106
"We couldn't ask them questions in turn with a letter."

>>79107

"Was the purpose not merely to enlist their aid in hindering Mister Tribunus? Surely we could not bring Mister Sid there to visit, and they would have little reason to commune with us on our own merits. If you yet think it the best use of our time, however, I will refrain from further resistance."

Myn dreams of a lifestyle free of menial tasks.

"They don't appear to be very reliable individuals. What do you think Sid? Is visiting them worth it?" Sureiya asks.

Sid looks back to the half-orc as he answers, "The Imperial legions are usually highly disciplined. For Bluehand to go off on his own like this--well, it's not something I would've expected! It certainly lends credence to the belief that the Enigma Codex is influencing them." Looking to the shaman, he does add, "It is possible that they'd be willing to cooperate with us concerning Bluehand, but it'd to some degree depend on who's in command. As Tribunus, Bluehand's rank was second only to a Legatus, and of course the reigning monarch. A Legatus would command the overall legion, but I don't know the exact make-up of the legions, as there was quite a shake-up upon arrival to Returned Abeir, with many of the legions needing to be combined into a smaller number." Looking around, he notes, "Not all of the soldiers here were goblins, and Bluehand's rhetoric seemed to place goblins above others. If he sent the non-goblins away as agreed beforehand, perhaps questioning them would give us a sense of who's in command."

>>79110
"Then checking the town shouldn't take us too long. Let's rest and find them tomorrow."

The party departs the area of the Imperial base camp and the large metallic structure, and begins to head back towards Loudwater through the heavily forested area surrounding the small town. It's about an hour into the journey when some rustling gives the keen-eared members of the group ample warning of an approaching figure--from the sound of things, just one, roughly humanoid in shape, approaching slowly and cautiously. The group halts progress briefly, and it's some time before the figure appears, though not in the way you might expect--a feminine figure, with distinctive clothing that suggests she is a human of Bedine ethnicity. Her turban and veil make it difficult out any features other than her piercing purple eyes.

"Adventurers. I've been keeping an eye on you lot," the female figure says, giving a slight bow of her head. Then, in a more respectful tone, she adds, "Allow me to introduce myself: Ruha, who is sometimes called the Harper witch." Though her features and voice suggest she is a young woman at first, the shaman's keen insight suggests that she's much, much older than she's letting on. She's clearly a powerful spellcaster, perhaps one who has lived far longer than the average human lifespan. "I've been keeping an eye on those... interlopers from Laerakond and their hired thugs as well. You had some dealings with them, yes? Perhaps we could share what we have learned? I'm aware you've been contacted by those who Harp before. We can help each other."

>>79112

Myn is alarmed by the sudden approach of the figure, bereft of warning. He nonetheless attempts to disguise his immediate suspicion of the intruder.

"A pleasure to meet you. I suppose the implication is that you have learned something of value, Miss Ruha?"

Diplomacy: 14

The half-orc feels a bit more relaxed after the figure present herself and replies.

"Sureiya here, good to meet you." Then he pauses for a moment and adds "Can you prove your affiliation to the Harpers?"

Ruha quickly displays the distinctive Harper pin on her clothing, the symbol of a harp. Turning to Myn to address the half-elf, she says, "Only what I managed to overhear in the conversations between those soldiers. They seemed quite confused by the actions of their commander, and were heading north and west to join up with something they called 'the fourteenth legion'. Thing is there's not much up there, unless you go all the way to Neverwinter, Luskan, or maybe Mirabar, and those are all a fair ways away on foot." Shaking her head to emphasize the point, she then adds, "It sounded like they were expecting a fight, but I don't know with whom."