Chapter 4 - The Abyss

Scene 1

Welcome to Arc 2 of the Sigurd campaign. Arc 2 because I feel that the last chapter more or less satisfactorily concluded what, in a normal campaign, would have been an entire adventure. Now it's time to start a new adventure. Last time, we were told that Sigurd was going to plan revenge against Nicholas Waltzier after his troops ended up causing Dendrin's death.

I didn't know what was going to happen from then on, what that revenge would be like, so I decided to use the Instant Game system to generate the plot of a new adventure and go from there.

Opposition: Movie Monsters
Actions + Thing: Launch Special Ops
Actions + Other Things: Cover Up Revenge

Interpreting these results, I imagine that Sigurd will go with a few other members of the order on a special mission of secrecy to take revenge on Nicholas Waltizer, without going directly against him, as this would break the "truce" agreed between them. This Movie Monsters opposition interested me, and I can imagine his army basically being made up of monsters. For some reason, it makes me imagine classic monsters as the leaders of each faction of the army - mummies, frankesteins, werewolves, aliens, etc.

Setup:

Location: Hovel + Volcano

I imagine it as the military base being inside an inactive volcano, and for humans, you have to descend by small elevators in wooden huts located on the edge of the volcano.

Is someone important from the order (Gooslymn, Calliope, Kovas) with me? (Likely)
Mythic: Yes

Is it Calliope? (Likely, she's the only one from these 3 that seems to be the most closer to Sigurd. Gooslymn is the leader of the order so I don't think he would risk himself, and Kovas doesn't likes Sigurd enough)
Mythic: Yes

I don't want to add more characters, it would get too "noisy", let's say


Climbing

The wind howled around Sigurd and Calliope as they climbed the icy slopes of the dormant volcano, their boots slipping on the slick surface. The cold was biting at their exposed skin, and they pulled their fur cloaks tighter around themselves in a vain attempt to ward off the chill. With each step, the weight of the packs on their backs seemed to grow heavier and heavier. With their breath pluming in the frigid air, they paused for a moment to catch their breath.

"We're almost there," Calliope said, her teeth chattering. "Just a few more steps."

Sigurd nodded, his gaze fixed on the entrance to the volcano. The huts on the edge were barely visible through the swirling snow, and he could only hope that the plan would work. Taking a deep breath, he continued climbing, the weight of his burden seemingly growing with each step.

Do they have guards? (Very Likely)
Mythic: No

Calliope was right, though. Soon, they reached the huts, their feet sliding on the ice and snow. Cautiously, they opened one of the doors and stepped inside, closing it quickly behind them to keep out the cold. They were greeted by a warmth that was almost overwhelming, and they breathed a sigh of relief.

In front of them was a huge elevator, its mechanical gears whirring and grinding, the air filled with a metallic stench. They opened the iron gate and stepped inside, their fingers brushing against the rough surface of the walls. Calliope touched the lever gently, her hand steady despite the tremors that wracked her body. With a quick motion, she pushed it forward, and the elevator shot downward, the cables and levers singing a screeching song. The elevator came to a stop with a thud, and the gates slowly creaked open.

Hut

Do we see guards there? (Likely)
Mythic: No

Let's use the Random Location Crafting rules from Mythic Magazine Vol. 2 to generate what the interior of the volcano looks like. I will just skip every room that doesn't has anything interesting when generating stuff with Novelai, and jump towards the ones with interesting things to see, so the story can stay focused.

First room is just Expected in everything, so, I will just let the Ai generate whatever, then, the next room has Location: Random (New Full)

Beyond them lay a massive chamber, filled with pipes and machinery, the sound of their footsteps echoing across the space.

They walked cautiously, their eyes darting around in search of danger. Everything seemed still, the air heavy with tension and anticipation. No guards or monsters met their path, and they made their way down the corridors, the floors sticky with oil and sweat.

Chamber1

{The next location they find is still empty, but seems to be full of new weapons or machinery. Be creative on it's description}

Without a word, they reached the end of the corridor and stopped, their mouths falling open in disbelief. In front of them were barrels upon barrels of weapons and ammunition, each one gleaming in the light. There were swords and axes, bows and arrows, guns and rifles, all laid out neatly in rows.

Barrelchamber

Calliope picked up one of the weapons. It was a bow, its wood polished and smooth, the string taut and ready for use. She lifted it, admiring the way it gleamed in the light, and placed an arrow in the string. It felt comfortable, natural, as if it were a part of her.

"These weapons look brand new," Sigurd whispered, his eyes widening as he examined one of the guns. "They must have just arrived recently. Do you think they're already preparing for an attack on us too?"

She agrees? (Likely)
Mythic: No

"I don't think so," Calliope replied, setting the bow back down. "Nicolau Waltzier may want to take over Aidgard, but I don't think he wants a war with us just yet. These weapons must be for something else, something bigger."

"Something bigger?" Sigurd muttered, but it made sense, Nicolau wouldn't waste time with so many weapons to defeat a small order of wizards.

"It's too bad we can't take these weapons with us," Calliope sighed, running her finger along one of the gun barrels. "It would give us a real advantage in our fight against Nicolau Waltzier."

"I don't think we could get all these weapons out of here and leave without attracting attention," Sigurd said, shaking his head. "And besides, we came here for sabotage, not theft."

Calliope nodded, her lips pursed in disappointment. "You're right. We'll just have to make do with what we have."

Next Location: Random (Modern Cold)

Together, they continued through the maze of corridors and rooms, their eyes scanning every corner for danger. As they turned a corner, they gasped, their feet skidding to a halt. Before them was a massive room, the walls lined with consoles and switches, the floor slick with oil. In the center of the room stood a bizarre contraption, a metal monstrosity that towered above everything else.

Chamber2

"What the hell is that thing?" Sigurd muttered, staring up at the monstrosity. It was covered in tubes and wires, its body a mesh of metal and plastic.

Calliope recognizes that thing? (Unlikely)
Mythic: No

Calliope reached out a trembling hand, her fingers tracing the cold metal. "I don't know," she breathed. "But it doesn't look friendly."

As they looked closer, they could see tiny switches and knobs, blinking lights and dials. Lining the base were thick cables that stretched into the walls, and above them was a gigantic bell that hung from the ceiling.

this action requires special information (+2), this action requires me be part of a class I am not (+2), the action is unlikely to succeed (+2), I have allies on the scene (-2)
DC: 19
Roll... 4 + Intelligence (2) = 6

Sigurd tried to understand what it could be, his mind racing as he pictured what the contraption could do, but nothing came to him. Maybe is was a boiler? It had heating coils for sure... and wires seemed to run from everywhere, including several moving parts and gear mechanisms. But he had never seen anything like it, not even in Torke's workshop.

Location: Known
Object: Damaged Helpful

Is it another room with a large contraption? (50/50)
Mythic: Yes

Is the damaged stuff a weapon? (50/50)
Mythic: Exceptional Yes!
Random Event: NPC Action (Nicolau) - Failure of Business

They left the strange machine behind and continued exploring, their eyes wary and alert. As they passed through another hallway, and entered another empty room, they froze in shock. Inside was another contraption, but next to it lay a massive cannon, its barrel cracked and broken. Sigurd knelt down, his fingers running along the jagged edges of the barrel, his brow furrowed in confusion.

Cannon

"This must be what they're working on," Calliope murmured, her voice soft. "It seems like they're trying to build a new weapon of some sort, but they're having trouble getting it to work."

Sigurd nodded, glancing back at the machine behind them. "That thing looks like it might be part of it. Maybe it's supposed to work in tandem with the cannon, like a generator or something."

Let's damage it even more
I have allies in the scene (-2), Sigurd has biomechanical arms (-2), the weapon is already damaged (-2), I'm a warrior, so the action should be more easy (-2), the action is easy to succeed in general (-2)
DC: 5
Roll... 10 + Strength (4) = 14

"I think you're right," Calliope agreed. "And since they don't have any engineers here, they must be struggling to fix the cannon. That means we have a chance to break it so it can't be fixed."

Sigurd grinned, cracking his knuckles. "Leave it to me."

He approached the cannon, his eyes taking in every detail. It was massive, easily twice the size of a man, its surface pitted and scarred. He ran his hands along the cool metal, feeling the roughness beneath his fingertips. He circled it, examining the joints and seams, looking for any weak spots. Finally, he found what he was looking for: a narrow crack near the base, running along the side. Carefully, he inserted his fingers into the crack, feeling the strain on his muscles as he pulled with all his might. A loud grunt escaped his lips, followed by an ear-splitting crash. His head snapped up, his eyes widening at the sight in front of him. He had broken the cannon in half, the metal buckling beneath his bare hands. With another sharp tug, the two pieces fell away, clattering to the ground in a cloud of sparks and smoke.

"Let's get out of here before they discover us," Sigurd growled, wiping the sweat from his brow. Calliope grinned and took off into the darkness, her footprints fading in the oil-stained floors. Behind them, the machine flashed and hissed, the gears groaning under the weight of the fallen cannon.

Encounter: Military, Armed

Is this a group of enemies? (50/50)
Mythic: No
Random Event: New NPC - Befriend Ambush

Is this some of the Movie Monsters that lead the army? (Likely)
Mythic: Yes

Detail Check: Professional Artist (identity)
Irresponsible Wary (Personality)

What kind of Movie Monster this would be? I decided to ask Bing Chat, this was the response I got:
"Maybe the movie monster is a former soldier who was experimented on by a secret military program that gave him enhanced abilities and weapons, but also made him unstable and prone to violence. He is a professional artist who uses his skills to create elaborate traps and disguises for his victims, but he is also irresponsible and wary of anyone who might discover his secrets or challenge his authority."
Then, I asked it to search for movie monsters which would fit this description, so I got this
"The Predator from the Predator franchise"

So, I will create a monster NPC based on the Predator.

As they ran through the corridors, a low rumble echoed in the distance, shaking the floor beneath their feet. Sigurd felt his heart race, his eyes searching the shadows for danger. Suddenly, something hit him hard in the back, sending him sprawling to the ground.

"Get up!" Calliope yelled, hoisting him up and dragging him to his feet. A soft hissing sound grew closer, and he glimpsed a flash of fangs and mandibles in the darkness.

A towering creature with glistening green scales and razor-sharp claws emerged from the shadows, its mandibles snapping and twisting as it lunged towards them. Its eyes burned with an unnatural light, and its tongue lashed out, tasting the air. It moved with a grace that belied its immense size, its movements fluid and smooth, like a predator stalking its prey.

Xalgaroth

"Xalgaroth..." Calliope breathed, her eyes wide with fear. She backed away, her hands reaching for her bow, but Sigurd held her back.

"Stay still," he whispered, his gaze fixed on the monster. "Don't let it sense you."


Scene 2

Chaos: 6

Setup: Let's have a battle against the Xalgaroth in the hallway.

The scene goes as expected.


4 turns at best, let's go

Turn 1:
active opposition (+2), the enemy is able to camouflage himself with his surroundings (+2), this is the enemy's base (+2), I have allies in this scene (-2), I'm outnumbering the enemy (-2)
DC: 17
Roll... 13 + Strength (4) = 17 (tie)

The Xalgaroth crept closer, its eyes narrowed, its claws digging into the concrete floor. Its mandibles clicked and clacked, and its tongue flicked out, tasting the air. Sigurd held his breath, his muscles tense, waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike. Calliope stood beside him, preparing a spell, her breathing shallow and quick. The air hummed with anticipation, and the Xalgaroth coiled itself, ready to pounce.

With a roar, it leapt at them, its claws slicing through the air like knives.

"Now!" Sigurd roared, charging towards the monster. His fist caught it square on the jaw, his knuckles crunching from the impact. It staggered backwards, crashing into a nearby pipe. Steam hissed and jetted from the ruptured pipe, enveloping the Xalgaroth. Sigurd didn't wait, delivering a flurry of blows to the monster, his fists connecting with flesh and bone. But the Xalgaroth was fast, its claws raking across Sigurd's chest, tearing the skin and drawing blood. Sigurd stumbled, his hands clutching his wounds, and the Xalgaroth pressed its advantage, slamming him to the ground. Calliope lunged forward, casting a spell, and a ball of fire shot towards the Xalgaroth, its flames hot and hungry. The Xalgaroth dodged aside, and the spell impacted against the wall, melting the metal like butter.

Turn 2:
Same Dc
DC: 17
Roll... 11 + Strength (4) = 15 (failure)

Blending into the environment, the Xalgaroth camouflaged itself with the shadowy corners and crevices. It hissed and slunk through the corridors, its tongue tasting the air, searching for a scent. As Calliope and Sigurd scrambled through the tunnels, their senses on alert, they didn't realize the Xalgaroth had been following, patiently stalking them through the shadows, waiting for the opportunity to strike.

Suddenly, something caught Calliope's eye.

"Look out!" she screamed, pushing Sigurd out of the way. The Xalgaroth struck her, knocking her unconscious. Sigurd roared in anger, launching himself at the beast, his fists flying. But the Xalgaroth was fast, its claws slashing and stabbing, its mandibles clicking and clacking. Sigurd fought back, his muscles straining, his lungs burning.

Turn 3: Plot twist
Pc Negative (Trick of Ideas)
I think this turn will need a roll
active opposition (+2), the enemy is able to camouflage himself with his surroundings (+2), this is the enemy's base (+2), the enemy has tricked Sigurd (+2). I will no longer have the bonus from allies because Calliope is unconscious.
DC: 23
Roll... 18 + Strength (4) = 22 (fail)

The Xalgaroth pinned him against the wall, its fangs inches from his throat. Sigurd struggled, but the Xalgaroth was too strong, its claws digging into his flesh, drawing blood.

"Please..." Sigurd gasped, his breath ragged. "Spare Calliope..."

The Xalgaroth cocked its head, its tongue flicking out, tasting the air. Then, it released Sigurd, letting him slide to the floor, and slunk back into the shadows.

Sigurd crawled over to Calliope. Her pulse was faint and her body was covered in a sheen of sweat, but she was alive. Relief flooded him, and he gently scooped her up in his arms, his eyes stinging with tears.

The Xalgaroth will trick Sigurd

"I will get us out of here," he promised, pressing a kiss to her forehead. The Xalgaroth, however, had other plans. It camouflaged itself once more, blending in with the shadows. As Sigurd hoisted Calliope to his back and prepared to leave, the Xalgaroth crept closer, its eyes glowing with an eerie light. Before Sigurd could react, the Xalgaroth swung its claw, connecting with Sigurd's shoulder and sending him sprawling to the ground once more.

The Xalgaroth growled, its tongue clicking. It had enjoyed the chase, but now it was time for the real fun to begin.

Turn 4:
active opposition (+2), the enemy is able to camouflage himself with his surroundings (+2), this is the enemy's base (+2), last turn was favorable towards the monster (+2)
DC: 23
Roll... 18 + Strength (4) = 22 (fail)

I think Sigurd will fall unconscious on this one, bros...

It crouched over Sigurd, its massive claws inches from his face. Sigurd stared up at it, his heart pounding in his chest. The Xalgaroth picked him up and threw him against the wall, his spine cracking from the impact. Then, the Xalgaroth tore open Sigurd's chest with one mighty blow, spilling his blood across the concrete.

Licking its fangs, the Xalgaroth watched as Sigurd slowly sank to the ground, his eyes fluttering shut. Sigurd was defeated, his flesh torn and broken, his blood oozing from his wounds. The Xalgaroth licked its fangs again, its tongue touching Sigurd's lips, tasting his bitter defeat.

Then, the Xalgaroth slunk back into the shadows, its mission accomplished. Sigurd lay there, his body broken and bruised, his blood pooling around him. Calliope still lay unconscious, unaware of Sigurd's fate.

As the Xalgaroth blended back into the darkness, it smiled, its mandibles clicking and clacking. It had done its job well, and soon, Nicolau Waltzier would reward it with the sweet taste of victory.


Scene 3

Chaos: 7

So, as I said, Sigurd has a bit of a plot armor here - he still needs to grow old before he can die, and at least achieve one dragon skull as his acomplishment.

So, let's ask some questions.

Was I rescued by someone (Very Unlikely, Yes is Favorable)
Mythic: No

Am I in jail? (Likely, No is Favorable)
Mythic: Yes

Is Calliope with me? (50/50, Yes is Favorable)
Mythic: No

Is there any other prisioners with me? (50/50, Even Favorability)
Mythic: Yes
Random Event: NPC Positive (Demiurge) - Triumph of Illiness

Detail Check (How the jail looks like?): Disfavors PC - Reassuring Mysterious

Setup: So, Sigurd wakes up in a jail cell, next to some jailmates who are here longer than him. They seem to be cursed with something that slowly rots their flesh. Calliope is nowhere to be seen.

Scene is altered... Using the Mythic Magazine for Altered Scenes, the alteration is that there is a extra character in this scene.

Is it a guard? (50/50, No is Favorable)
Mythic: Yes
Random Event: Move Towards a Thread (Sabotaging the Mormon's army) - Inquire News

Oh, I know exactly what to do here...


[ Scene: Sigurd wakes up in a jail cell, next to some jailmates who are here longer than him. They seem to be cursed with something that slowly rots their flesh. Cast: Sigurd, the jailmates, man in black (guard). ]

Sigurd awoke with a start, his heart racing. His head throbbed, and his vision swam, his thoughts muddled and confused. He tried to sit up, but pain shot through his body, and he groaned, clutching his ribs.

Looking around, he saw that he was in a jail cell, a massive iron door sealing him inside. The room was shrouded in shadow, and a thick layer of grime coated the walls. One corner held a sodden mattress, and in the other was a bucket, its contents overflowing. Sigurd felt his mouth grow dry, and his throat tightened, as panic began to set in.

Prison

Just then, his gaze landed on a cluster of figures in the gloom. Three men sat huddled against the wall, their features obscured by shadow. As Sigurd approached, he saw that their clothes hung loose on their gaunt bodies, their skin yellow and cracked like ancient parchment. One had a hook for a nose, while another had one eye that bulged grotesquely from its socket. Sigurd flinched, taking a step back.

"Welcome to Hell, newcomer," Hook Nose croaked, his voice raspy and thin.

One-Eye chuckled, his single eye rolling in its socket. "Yeah, welcome to Hell. Hope you enjoy your stay."

"Who are you? Where am I?" Sigurd asked, his voice shaking.

One-Eye chuckled.

"Newcomers usually aren't here for too long. But you'd be better off hoping you won't rot to the core before he comes."

"Before who comes?" Sigurd cried, grabbing the bars in desperation. The iron was hot to the touch, the heat pulsating and undulating beneath his fingertips.

"Ahh, here comes the man himself." said Hornface with a grin. A man clad in black clothing, holding a kerosene lamp descended down the stairs. He was tall and lean, his face hidden beneath the shadow of his hat. His boots click-clacked on the stone steps, echoing throughout the darkness. The men in the cell cowered in fear, their yellowed eyes wide with fear.

Men in Black

"Unlock the cell. It's time for another interrogation," the Man in Black said with a harsh voice.

"Sir! This guy is a newcomer and doesn't really tell where we are and why he was thrown in the cell."

"Ah, a newcomer eh? Well, we shall find out soon enough," the Man in Black said, unlocking the cell and entering. His amber-coloured eyes glowed and flickered in the darkness, and when he lifted his head and stared at Sigurd, its look was malevolent, causing the hairs on the back of the fighter's neck to rise in fear and warning.

I'm still on the dormant volcano? (Unlikely, Even Favorability)
Mythic: No

The Man in Black grabbed Sigurd by his shirt collar, lifting him off his feet, and threw him across the cell, his body crashing against the wall. Before Sigurd could react, the man wrapped his long fingers around the fighter's throat, his grip unwavering as he tightened his hold.

"Let's see if this helps in your memory," the Man in Black hissed. "What were you doing trespassing on our military fortress?"

Let's try resist the interrogation
opposition is active (+2), I'm in a stressful situation (+2), inside a prison (+2), but I'm a Warrior (-2)
DC: 19
Roll... 3 + Willpower (3) = 6

The man threw a vicious punch at Sigurd's stomach, driving the air from his lungs and leaving him breathless.

"Stop trying to act innocent. I know who you are, you and the rest of your cowardly Order. You destroyed our experiment, didn't you?"

Another blow landed on Sigurd's jaw, splitting his lip and filling his mouth with the metallic taste of blood.

"Talk!" the Man in Black shouted, his eyes flashing with anger.

"Revenge," Sigurd spat out between bloody teeth, his voice dripping with venom.

"Revenge for what?" the Man in Black asked, raising an eyebrow.

"For Dendrin. For everyone you bastards murdered," Sigurd snarled.

The Man in Black stepped back, a slow smile forming on his lips.

"Ah, Dendrin, the little trickster," he replied. "It's always amusing how humans become when those who're close to them are captured, tortured and killed."

Another blow, and the fighter staggered back, his legs wobbling.

"Where are your fancy spells now?" the man sneered, grabbing Sigurd's chin and forcing him to look in his eyes.

Oh yeah, my fancy spells. It would be nice to use them now, right? Maybe a movement spell to remove the gravity of the room?
I'm in a stressful situation (+2), getting punched in the face (+2), but I'm a Warrior (-2), also I Know Spells to Break The Great Delusion (-2)
Dc: 15
Roll... 3 + Willpower (3) = 6

Sigurd tried remembering a quick spell, but his mind was blank.

"Scared, warrior?" the Man in Black said, letting out a mocking chuckle. He slammed a knee in Sigurd's stomach and knocked him to the ground, delivering a kick to his ribs for good measure. Blood filled the fighter's mouth as he bit down on his tongue, the pain radiating throughout his body.

He will tell me anything about that spell affecting the other prisioners? (50/50, Even Favorability)
Mythic: Yes

"Scared, warrior?" the Man in Black said, letting out a mocking chuckle. He slammed a knee in Sigurd's stomach and knocked him to the ground, delivering a kick to his ribs for good measure. Blood filled the fighter's mouth as he bit down on his tongue, the pain radiating throughout his body.

"You're pathetic," the Man in Black said, spitting on Sigurd's face. "And soon, you'll be just like the others. Rotting away in this hellhole, your flesh slowly peeling off, piece by piece."

Sigurd gasped, the air rushing from his lungs.

"That's right. This is the spell that will slowly eat away at your skin, your bones, your organs. It's a special creation of our master, and it's only a matter of time before it takes its full effect."

Is Calliope in jail too? (Likely, No is Favorable)
Mythic: Yes

"Where... Where is Calliope?" Sigurd asked, struggling to speak through the blood.

"The dirty wench? The girl was imprisoned too and taken from the base. She's awaiting trial like you. So, she's not going to rescue you this time, mercenary," the man snorted. "Because, that's all what you are, right? Just a coward and a simpleminded fighter."

I will try to bluff a bit
active opposition (+2), stressful situation (+2), inside a prison (+2), but I'm The Hero of the Prophecy (-2) and I have spells to break the illusion (-2), also, what I'm going to say it's probably a well-known fact (-2)
DC: 15
Roll... 1 + Influence (2) = 3

Sigurd prepared a response, but another punch silenced him, his words dying in his throat. The Man in Black turned and walked out of the cell, closing the iron door behind him with a clang. Sigurd slumped to the ground, his body wracked with pain, his mind reeling from the torment.

Well fuck. It's over.

Scene 4

Chaos: 8

I don't really have other place to go, I guess Sigurd is going to spend this scene talking with his inmates and examining the cell, searching for any weak spot on the walls or something like that

The scene is changed...

  • Remove/Reduce Activity:
  • Remove Character (Prisioners, only character in this scene)
  • Add Character
    (Is it the Man in Black? No is Favorable
    Mythic: Yes)

Random Event: NPC Positive (Army of the Mormon) - Open of Jealously
Jealously: in a way that shows an envious resentment of someone or their achievements

So, I'm on my cell, but it's now empty besides me and the Man in Black, which is watching me from outside. From the Random Event, I guess later the Army will try to torture me a bit for invading their headquarters.


Sigurd opened his eyes to find himself alone in a new cell, his body aching from the beating he had received. He could taste blood in his mouth, and his ribs throbbed with each breath. He struggled to his feet, his legs unsteady, and limped towards the barred window that overlooked the courtyard below. Outside, the moon hung heavy and bright in the night sky, casting a pale glow on the worn stone cobbles beneath.

But before he could reach the window, he heard the sound of footsteps and the jangle of keys. Turning, he saw the Man in Black enter the cell, flanked by two massive guards who were almost as large as him.

Do they look human? (Unlikely, Even Favorability)
Mythic: No
Random Event: Move Away From a Thread (Defeat Nicolau The Mormon) - Work of Benefits
Work: activity involving mental or physical effort done in order to achieve a purpose or result.
Benefits: bring advantage to.
bring advantage to an activity involving mental or physical effort done in order to achieve a purpose or result.

Is this related to the weapons they have? (50/50, No is Favorable)
Mythic: No

Oh, okay, so they just want to kill me. That's all.

Detail Check (what they look like?): Favors NPC (Order of the Golden Pen) - Colors Liquid.
They look like as if they're made of ink

Ink

Their faces were hidden beneath hoods, and their bodies seemed to be made of ink, their limbs flowing and shifting, their features indistinct.

"Time for some questioning," the Man in Black smirked, his amber-coloured eyes glittering in the moonlight. Sigurd backed away, his fists clenched, but one guard grabbed him by the throat and lifted him off his feet, pinning him against the wall.

Let's see if I can find any weak spot on this new cell so I can escape
Opposition active (+2), I'm outnumbered (+2), I'm on a stressful situation (+2), this action would require me to be a rogue (+2), and it's unlikely to succeed (+2), on my favor, I have that I'm a warrior with biomechanical arms and that I know spells to break the great delusion (-4)
CD: 21
Roll... 12 + Intelligence (2) = 14
Man... I really need some Deus Ex Machina right now

Sigurd's eyes darted across the room, searching for a way out, but there was none. He struggled against the guard's grip, his lungs screaming for air, but the ink creature was impossibly strong, its fingers digging into Sigurd's windpipe.

"Good," the Man in Black said, watching intently as the guard delivered a vicious kick to the fighter's stomach. Sigurd doubled over, the blood rushing from his head as he sunk to his knees. Another blow caught him in the ribs, and he felt his bones crack, the sharp pain spreading through his body.

So, for the interrogation, I did the following:

{ What information does the Man in Black want from Sigurd now? }

• Does Sigurd know the location of the Order of the Golden Pen's headquarters?

• Has Sigurd received any messages or information from the outside world?

• What magic tricks does Sigurd possess that may pose a threat to Nicolau Waltzier and his followers?

Let's hope his will is strong enough to survive the questioning

The Man in Black circled Sigurd, his eyes glittering with malice.

"Tell me where your cowardly order hides now," he hissed, kneeling in front of the fighter. "Your pathetic leader, Calliope, may have escaped, but we know you've seen where they hide. Tell me, and your torture will end."

Sigurd glared at the Man in Black, and smiled with bloody teeth.

"Calliope escaped? Good," he choked. "She'll lead my order to your doom."

Opposition active (+2), I'm outnumbered (+2), I'm on a stressful situation (+2), on my favor, I have that I'm a warrior (-2), and a warrior with biomechanical arms (-2), haunted by the failures of his past (-2), also, knowing that Calliope escaped brings me strength (-2)
DC: 15
Roll... 17 + Willpower (3) = 20
Success...

The Man in Black's eyes widened, and he backhanded Sigurd, splitting his lip once more.

"Fine. Have it your way," he spat, rising to his feet. "We'll get the information out of you eventually."

He signaled to the guard, who withdrew a wickedly curved dagger from his belt. Its edge glinted in the light, and the ink creature held it aloft, the tip just inches from Sigurd's throat. The blade seared as it sliced across Sigurd's chest, carving a thin line of fire across his skin. The ink creature kept slashing and cutting, his face hidden behind the hood, his movements silent and methodical. Sigurd fought back the pain, his mind focused on the sound of Calliope's voice. He pictured her face, her smile, the light that danced in her eyes.

As Sigurd hung limp and bleeding, the Man in Black emerged from the shadows, his hand trailing across the stone walls. In his other hand, he held a scroll, its edges scorched and blackened.

"There seems to be some activity on the outer rim of our fortress," he began, his voice low and menacing. "Someone has been smuggling messages and information out. I suspect it's your little group of rebels, and I'd like some answers from you, warrior."

Let's try to intimidate him
Opposition active (+2), I'm outnumbered (+2), I'm on a stressful situation (+2), knowing that Calliope escaped brings me strength (-2), that information also helps me (-2)
DC: 17
Roll... 6 + Influence (2) = 8
Failure

"They're coming, and there's nothing you can—" Sigurd was interrupted by a swift kick to his stomach, driving the air from his lungs.

"Talk, or suffer," the Man in Black hissed, leaning closer, his amber eyes blazing. "Tell me everything you know, and maybe you'll be spared."

"I didn't received any message from anyone," Sigurd coughed, spitting blood on the ground.

The Man in Black smiled, his lips curling into a sneer.

Be creative with the torture method next

"Perhaps this will help loosen your tongue."

With a wave of his hand, the Man in Black summoned a ink guard carrying a strange device. It resembled a crossbow, except instead of arrows, it held a series of wires that crackled and sparked with electricity. Sigurd's eyes widened, and he struggled against his restraints, but the ink guard held him steady, placing the device against his chest.

The wires bit into Sigurd's flesh, the electricity arcing and dancing across his skin, leaving welts and burns in its wake. Sigurd cried out in agony, his body convulsing as the ink guard activated the device, the wires humming with energy. Smoke rose from Sigurd's chest, and he writhed in pain, his body ravaged by the current.

The Man in Black leaned forward, his eyes gleaming.

"Talk," he hissed, his lips curling into a sneer. "Tell me what I want to hear, and the pain will end."

"I'm telling the truth," Sigurd choked, his body wracked with pain. "I don't know anything about your spies."

The ink guard increased the voltage, the device humming with power. Sigurd gasped, his muscles tensing, the pain threatening to overwhelm him.

"You are lying, fighter," the Man in Black murmured, his voice soft. "I know that you are hiding something from me. Tell me the truth, or suffer the consequences."

Sigurd remained silent, his teeth bared, his breath ragged and strained. The ink guard twisted a dial, and Sigurd collapsed, his body twitching and shuddering, his heart hammering in his chest.

"Talk," the Man in Black snarled, his eyes blazing with fury. "Tell me the secrets of your magic, tell me how you defeated Count Grey."

Holy shit, I will tell you alright
Opposition active (+2), I'm outnumbered (+2), I'm on a stressful situation (+2), knowing that Calliope escaped brings me strength (-2), I know spells to break the great delusion (-2), and I'm the Hero of the Prophecy (-2)
DC: 15
Roll... 20! + Willpower (3x2=6) = 26

Sigurd raised his head, his lips curled in defiance.

"Better, I will show you."

With a flick of his wrist, Sigurd activated a spell, tearing the room from its foundations. The walls exploded outward, stone and mortar flying in all directions. The Man in Black was thrown back, his face splashed with crimson, his breath caught in his throat. Sigurd staggered to his feet, his chest smoking, his blood glistening in the moonlight.

Using his biomechanical arms, Sigurd punched the ground, the magic exploding from his fists and tearing a hole through the earth. The ink guard lunged at Sigurd, but he spun, catching the guard with a powerful uppercut that sent it careening into the abyss.

Sigurdpower

"Curse you, fighter!" the Man in Black screamed, lunging at Sigurd.

Activating his gravity manipulation, Sigurd slung the Man in Black backwards, slumping him on the wall. He summoned the last of his strength, and focusing it on a point at the end of his fist, hurled a concentrated punch toward the Man in Black. The force of his own punch impacted on the Man in Black's body, knocking him into the room. His body was split in half, blood splattering on the rubble. The spell knocked Sigurd back as well, and he lay there, dazed and breathless, his vision darkening around the edges.

But, as he clung to the remains of the crumbling walls, he managed to push past the pain and stood up. The tunnel he created led outside his cell, and freedom called to him. Summoning the last of his strength, Sigurd staggered towards the exit, his body battered and broken, but his spirit unbroken.


Scene 5

Chaos: 7

Setup: Sigurd needs to find a way out from this place. Exploration time?

Scene is altered...

  • Remove an Object (rolling some descriptors for inspiration... Disgusting Smelly)

The dungeon he is looks really tidy and clean, for some reason. No corpses nowhere to be seen.


The tunnel Sigurd created opened into a stone passageway, lined with rows of cell doors, torches flickering in the darkness. The corridor stretched out ahead, twisting and turning like a giant serpent, the gloom hanging over it like a blanket.

The walls were etched with intricate ink patterns, curling and twisting like vines, and the ceiling stretched high above, arching into a vaulted dome, the pattern still visible, despite the dim light. The floors were smooth and free of dust, and the entire dungeon seemed sterile and clean, with no trace of rot or decay anywhere.

Dungeon

Do I see prisioners here? (Likely, Yes is Favorable)
Mythic: Yes

I will try to free them
I'm in a frantic situation right now (+2), I'm a warrior with biomechanical arms and the hero of the prophecy (-4), the action is easy to succeed in general (-2)
DC: 11
Roll... 18 + Strength (4) = 22

Prisioners yelled and screamed from inside their cells, banging on the doors and pleading to be let out.

In one cell, a girl sobbed, her body slumped in the corner, her hair matted and tangled. In another, an old man sat on a cot, his face pale and drawn, his gaze distant and unfocused. Sigurd ripped open each cell, with his biomechanical arms shimmering in the torchlight and their gears whirring and grinding.

"Come on! Let's go!" he yelled, motioning for the prisoners to follow. And so they did, the throng of bodies streaming past, eager to be free.

Now, I want to find the quickest exit from this place
I'm in a frantic situation right now (+2), I should have a map or atleast some guidance on where I am (+2)
DC: 19
Roll... 13 + Intelligence (2) = 15

I rolled a bit with the Location Crafter, but I will timeskip until I find something interesting.

{Write how Sigurd finds the kitchen, rushes past it, then finds more hallways with Ink Soldiers. Finally, he enters the large dining hall}

Sigurd dashed down the corridor, the prisioners trailing behind him. As he ran, he glimpsed the kitchen through a pair of swinging doors, but there was no time to investigate. Ahead, he could see a cluster of Ink Soldiers approaching, brandishing weapons and shouting at the prisioners.

"Stay together!" Sigurd yelled, pushing forward, knocking the Ink Soldiers aside. The prisioners followed, crowding behind him, desperate to escape.

As he pushed forward, Sigurd spotted a hallway that branched off to the left. Without hesitation, he turned and sprinted down the corridor, the prisioners hot on his heels. He heard the screams and shouts of the Ink Soldiers behind them, and knew that the chase was on.

But the corridor only led to another hallway, and another. The architecture seemed like a labyrinth, and no matter where Sigurd looked, there was no way out.

{Describe the dining hall in great detail, it is rustic, but also majestic}

Finally, Sigurd broke into the great dining hall, a cavernous space lined with wooden tables and chairs. Torches hung from the walls, casting a warm glow over the room.

There's a encounter here, let's see if it's an enemy (Likely, No is Favorable)
Mythic: Yes

Is it an individual? (50/50, Yes is Favorable)
Mythic: Yes

A monster? (Likely, Even Favorability)
Mythic: Yes

Detail Check: How it looks?
Focus NPC (Army of the Mormon) - Tentacle Fungal (Appearance), Control Entangle (Ability)

Wait, I've seen this creature before. Is it a Oalkwardner? (50/50, No is Favorable)
Mythic: Yes

The Ink Guards follow me here? (Likely, No is Favorable)
Mythic: Yes

But before Sigurd and the others could celebrate, a terrible roar echoed from the entrance, and in charged a pack of Ink Soldiers. They crashed into the prisioners, knocking them to the ground, pinning them beneath their weapons.

And from the shadows, emerged a hulking form, towering and monstrous, its scales glistening in the torchlight. Sigurd recognized the Oalkwardner from his encounter earlier, and knew that he was in trouble. The Oalkwardner roared, its jaws snapping and cracking.

Oalkwardner2

"Not you again..." Sigurd muttered, backing away, raising his hands defensively.

Let's dance
Turn 1
opposition active (+2), I'm outnumbered (+2), I'm on a frantic situation (+2), the failures of my past haunt me, and I wasn't able to defeat this creature before (+2), I'm a warrior with biomechanical hands (-2), my class is warrior (-2), the hero of the prophecy (-2), and I know spells now (-2)
DC: 15
Roll... 15 + Willpower (3) = 18

The Oalkwardner lunged, its claws raking across Sigurd's chest, drawing blood. But before it could attack again, Sigurd cast a spell, removing the gravity from the Oalkwardner and launching it upwards. The monster shrieked, slamming helplessly against the ceiling with its claws scrabbling at the stone, unable to break its fall.

Turn 2
opposition active (+2), I'm outnumbered (+2), I'm on a frantic situation (+2), the failures of my past haunt me, and I wasn't able to defeat this creature before (+2), I'm a warrior with biomechanical hands (-2), my class is warrior (-2), the hero of the prophecy (-2), and I know spells now (-2), the Oalkwardner doesn't have gravity now (-2)
DC: 13
Roll... 6 + Willpower (3) = 9

But Sigurd's concentration broke when the Ink Guards swarmed him from all sides. He ducked and weaved between the Ink Soldiers' blades and spears, casting spell after spell, sending them flying backwards. The prisioners scrambled for cover, diving under tables and hiding in corners, and the Oalkwardner, free from its gravity prison, fell over Sigurd with a thunderous crash.

The Oalkwardner pinned Sigurd to the ground and sank its fangs into the fighter's shoulder. Sigurd screamed in pain and struggled to break free.

Turn 3
Random Event
PC Negative (Develop Anger)
Develop: grow or cause to grow and become more mature, advanced, or elaborate.
Develop With Anger then, the Oalkwardner suddenly doubles it's size

The Oalkwardner pinned Sigurd to the ground and sank its fangs into the fighter's shoulder. Sigurd screamed in pain and struggled to break free. But the Oalkwardner was impossibly strong and held Sigurd tight.

To make things worse, the Oalkwardner began to change shape and size, growing bigger and bigger, its scales thickening and spreading across its body. Sigurd felt himself being crushed under the Oalkwardner's immense weight.

Turn 4
opposition active (+2), I'm outnumbered (+2), I'm on a frantic situation (+2), the failures of my past haunt me, and I wasn't able to defeat this creature before (+2), Sigurd was affected badly by the random event (+2), I'm a warrior with biomechanical hands (-2), my class is warrior (-2), the hero of the prophecy (-2), and I know spells now (-2)
DC: 17
Roll... 1 + Strength (4) = 5
Critical Failure

{Write how the Oalkwardner badly injuries Sigurd}

The Oalkwardner seemed determined to squash Sigurd into paste. Sigurd thrashed and kicked at the creature, but he was no match for it. The Oalkwardner continued to grow larger and heavier by the second. Soon it was twice Sigurd's size and three times heavier. Sigurd couldn't breathe; he couldn't move; he could barely even think.

All he could do was lie there and watch as the Oalkwardner grew and grew until it was a mountain of muscle and scale atop Sigurd's tiny frame. With a sickening crunch, Sigurd felt something snap inside him. Pain shot through him like a lightning bolt. His left metallic arm had been crushed beyond repair.

Turn 5
opposition active (+2), I'm outnumbered (+2), I'm on a frantic situation (+2), the failures of my past haunt me, and I wasn't able to defeat this creature before (+2), Last turn, Sigurd is on disadvantage on this battle (+4), and his left arm is gone (+2), I'm a warrior with biomechanical hands (-2), my class is warrior (-2), the hero of the prophecy (-2), and I know spells now (-2)
DC: 21
Roll... 20! + Strength (4x2=8) = 28

Using all of the strength he could muster from the remaining intact parts of himself, Sigurd managed to punch the Oalkwardner directly in it's hard jawline. The impact cracked the Oalkwardner's jaw and caused it's eyes to roll back into it's skull. For a brief moment Sigurd was able to snake himself free of the fallen monster's weight and crawl to a nearby window. With what little power he had left in him he punched through the glass and forced himself out the window, falling to the ground below. He landed on a pile of glass and debris with a sickening thud. Sigurd was exhausted and beaten but alive.

{Describe Sigurd's surroundings, outside the fortress}

Sigurd slowly stood up and gazed around him. The outside of the fortress was nothing but barren cold desert for miles around. The night sky was filled with a million stars and the moon shone overhead. The air was still and silent. Only the sound of Sigurd's ragged breathing could be heard. The fortress loomed behind him like a dark cloud, blocking the light of the moon and stars.

I need to at least give some advantage for the prisoners before I escape. I will cast something.
I'm on a stressfull situation (+2), I have no left arm anymore (+2), the action is unlikely to succeed (+2), I'm the hero of the prophecy and I have spells to break the great delusion (-4)
DC: 17
Roll... 3 + Willpower (3) = 6
Failure

{Write how Sigurd will try to cast some spells to break the fortress, but he's loosing too much blood, and is forced to just run away and leave the prisoners inside the fortress}

Sigurd gritted his teeth and summoned his remaining energy to cast one final spell. But his concentration faltered as blood poured from his wounds and stained the sand beneath him. The Oalkwardner stirred above him in the broken window. Sigurd knew that he didn't have the strength to defeat it again.

With a grimace of frustration and regret, he stumbled away from the fortress and into the desert beyond. The ink soldiers and Oalkwardner would have to wait for another battle.

Fortress

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Pub: 30 Aug 2023 15:15 UTC
Edit: 11 Sep 2023 13:20 UTC
Views: 95