The Lone Adventurer

TLA Session 0

In this preliminary, Session Zero episode, I talk about the what and the why of Solo RPGs, my goals and preparation for this 5th Edition D&D solo game, how I intend to approach the podcast, and the reasons behind some of the decisions I’ve made.
 
Links
Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eQFxhCZ8tqDql3PwmYjcwWZM-AcWQOHE3PZayNAsYi8/edit?usp=sharing
Tale of the Manticore: https://taleofthemanticore.podbean.com/
1 PC 5e houserules: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OGLf6d8k5nQEt2bBWRxScjMzhs2LTm8h7XcwTS8Pqs8/edit?usp=sharing
Me, Myself and Die: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtiBzkVoYrugJkrpW7_75Ag
The Bad Spot: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSHZfmwfiIxCpKrQFrr7YyQ
The Mythic GM Emulator: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/20798/Mythic-Game-Master-Emulator
Mina’s Character Sheet L1: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1p0CWxi4hF4uLQ131qY0YkhT_smHD7gbZMOwqrZ_W_Xs/edit?usp=sharing
Microscope: https://www.lamemage.com/microscope/

TLA Chapter 1 Night Flight

In this episode Mina finds herself on the run from a pack of mech-fixated maniacs, and we learn who sent her to investigate them, and why. 
 
Links
Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EqdqyTweQpTiPuKanq7kYbkstQfMbUx5CjmYmwgyvDE/edit?usp=sharing
Level Up Monstrous Menagerie: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/376472/Level-Up-Monstrous-Menagerie-A5E#:~:text=The%20Monstrous%20Menagerie%20provides%20nearly,khalkos%20and%20the%20phase%20monster.
Mythic GM Emulator: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/20798/Mythic-Game-Master-Emulator
Kobold Fight Club: https://koboldplus.club/#/encounter-builder
 
Game Mechanics
SCENE 1: Night Flight
MINA Cast Feather Fall (reaction)
FATE Do enemies follow? (Likely) 04 Exceptional Yes (1d6+2=7 enemies)
DESCRIPTION What do they look like? 20 Crazily 67 Modern
FATE Members of a Machine Cult? (Likely) 51 Yes (Level Up MM pg 472)
FATE Does Mina land on Rooftops? (50/50) 57 No (streets)
FATE Streets busy? (unlikely) 11 Yes, and Random Event
EVENT NPC Action (Machine Cultists) 17 Antagonistic 86 Hope (Threaten)
FATE Do all enemies land safely? (50/50) 42 Yes 
FATE Do enemies attack? (A sure thing) 64 Yes
FATE Any into Melee range round 1? (Unlikely) 46 No
Kobold Fight Club 7 Cultists (Deadly)
INITIATIVE
Cultists 20
Citizens 18
Mina 7
 
NPC Tactics
 
NPC opponents have an Aggression rating of 1 to 6, with most starting on 4.
 
To find an opponent's tactic for the round, roll 2D6 of the same colour and one of a different colour. If the single die comes up a 1, 2 or 3, continue the same tactic from the previous round. On a 4 or 5, total the two same-coloured dice and add Aggression, then pick from the Tactic table. If it shows a 6, roll it again and pick an action from the Twist table.
 
As they take or inflict wounds, gain or lose the advantage in a fight, NPC opponents' Aggression will raise or lower. Experienced fighters will change only a small amount, while green, frightened or vengeful opponents will change more. Each time someone in the fight (either PC or NPC) suffers a setback, there should be a chance for Aggression to change. If the NPCs are nervous or demoralised, Aggression will drop when they suffer a setback and rise when a PC does. If they are angry or undisciplined, Aggression will rise when they suffer a setback and drop when a PC does.
 
If you don't want to bother with Aggression, roll 3D6 for a tactic. If you want a more straightforward fight, without unexpected moves, drop the Twist die.
 
NPC Tactic table
Panic - flee without caution, open self up to opportunistic attack
Surrender - throw down weapons and submit to opponent
Disengage - attempt to divert opponent's attention away from self
Retreat - move towards cover or out of range
Guard - defend only, no attack
Probe - attack cautiously, testing opponent's defenses
Wear down - draw the fight out and try to tire the opponent
Stand-off - wait for opponent to make the next move
Balance - attack and defend evenly, no particular strategy
Feint - try to trick opponent into defending against the wrong move
Reverse - rapidly switch from aggressive to defensive fighting to off-balance opponent
Taunt - try to anger or dismay opponent into making a mistake
Press - keep opponent on the defensive and hope their skill is inferior
Strike - try to penetrate opponent's defence with a fast attack
Charge - attack with ferocity, risking injury to wound opponent
Frenzy - attack wildly, risking death to wound opponent
 
Twist Table
Re-enforce - Call for help from allies/bystanders
Change - weapon/objective/ground
Disadvantage opponent - throw a burning candelabra, maneuver into uneven terrain, cut a curtain so that it falls over their head
Advantage self - take the higher ground, move so that they are not facing the sun, draw/pick up a second weapon
Bargain - try to persuade opponent to surrender/back out of combat/change sides
Trick - try to convince opponent they are about to suffer a setback or gain a false advantage
ROUND 1
Cultists Double Move (Difficult Terrain)
Citizens (aggro 1) 1 Twist (Trick)
9 Wear down
Divert/ distract
Mina Stealth (ADV) vs PP 10: 15 Success. Move away.
FATE: Cover nearby? (Likely) 10 Yes
DESCRIPTION What sort of cover? 24 Defiantly 93 Tranquil (bath house)
FATE: Does the airship crash this turn? (50/50) 57 No
Huge explosion  (Infernal Powder)
 
ROUND 2
Cultists (aggro 6) Perception vs PS 11: 17 Success.
1  Same (Chase Mina)
Citizens (aggro 1) 4 Change Tactic
6 Retreat Remove from Character List
Mina Crossbow 2 Miss, Move (into bath house)
FATE Notable occupants? (50/50) 71 No (bathers)
FATE Does the airship crash this turn? (50/50) 35 Yes
FATE Any cultists hit? (50/50) 99 Exceptional No (Bath house hit)
DEGREE (Motif) 1 Minimal damage 
DANGER (Motif) 1 Easily avoided threats
 
ROUND 3
Cultists (Aggro 5) 5 Change Tactic
8 Probe
Mina Double Move
FATE Does she get clear? (50/50) 61 No (spotted in side alley)
SCENE 2: Street Pursuit (Chaos Rank 6)
 
SCENE MODIFIED 5 Altered (Fire is spreading rapidly)
 
https://www.hipstersanddragons.com/new-chase-mechanics-5e-dnd/
 
Chase Rules
Determine starting gaps (X) and gaps required to escape (X + 3, 4 or 5)
Quarry and pursuer roll for complication (DMG pg 254)
Quarry and pursuer select appropriate skills and roll, adding any move modifier
Success for quarry vs pursuer adds one level of separation (gap). 
Success for pursuer vs quarry is no change
Success for pursuer by 5 reduces 1 gap.
Participants move and dash each turn, or lose a gap for each not taken
If a pursuer ends their turn with zero gaps they may attack (successful grapple will end the chase and return the scene to normal combat)
No opportunity attacks allowed during a chase
Participants can dash 3+CON mod times. Each additional dash requires a DC10 CON check, or add 1 level of Exhaustion
 
CONDITIONS Mina 2 gaps away from Cultists, needs +4 gaps (6)
 
ROUND 1 Mina Comp 19 (none)
Cultists Comp 20 (none)
Mina check Athletics 14
Cultists check Athletics 6
Result Mina 3 gaps away
 
ROUND 2
Mina Comp 3 (stained glass, STR check)
Cultists Comp 5 (slippery ground, DEX check)
Mina check STR 9
Cultists check DEX 12
Result Mina 2 gaps away
 
ROUND 3 
Mina Comp 12 (none)
Cultists Comp 16 (none)
Mina check Athletics 17
Cultists check Athletics 1
Result Mina 3 gaps away
 
FLASHBACK
FATE Was she sent to the airship? (50/50) 39 Yes
DESCRIPTION Who by? 36 Foolishly 36 Flawless 
FATE A faction rep? (Somewhat Likely) 65 Yes
FATE House Montisario? (50/50) 59 Yes
 
ROUND 4
Mina Comp 17 (none)
Cultists Comp 13 (none)
Mina check Athletics 3
Cultists CON check 17 (passed)
Cultists check Athletics 1
Result Mina 4 gaps away
 
ROUND 5
Mina Comp 12 (none)
Cultists Comp 10 (impassible obstacle, DEX check)
Mina check Athletics 4
Cultists CON check 16 (passed)
Cultists check Athletics 10
Result Mina 3 gaps away
 
ROUND 6
Mina Comp 14 (none)
Cultists Comp 1 (horse and cart, DEX check)
Mina check Athletics 14
Cultists CON check 19 (passed)
Cultists check DEX 3
Result Mina 4 gaps away
 
FLASHBACK
FATE Were they carrying explosives? (Likely) 43 Yes (Infernal Powder)
FATE Did Mina set the fire? (Somewhat Likely) 12 Yes 
FATE Did they see her face? (Unlikely) 80 No
 
ROUND 7
Mina Comp 4 (barrels, DEX check)
Cultists Comp 17 (none)
Mina CON check 3 (1 level Exhaustion)
Mina check Athletics 14
Cultists CON check 9 (1 level Exhaustion)
Cultists check DEX 5
Result Mina 5 gaps away
 
ROUND 8
Mina Comp 4 (barrels, DEX check)
Cultists Comp 17 (none)
Mina CON check 3 (1 level Exhaustion)
Mina check Athletics 14
Cultists CON check 9 (1 level Exhaustion)
Cultists check DEX 5
Result Mina 5 gaps away
 
ROUND 9
Mina Comp 18 (none)
Cultists Comp 5 (Mina trick, INT check)
Mina CON check 5 HERO POINT 5 (2 levels Exhaustion)
Mina check Athletics 6
Cultists CON check 20 (1 level Exhaustion)
Cultists check INT 9
Result Mina 3 gaps away
 
ROUND 10
Mina Comp 7 (brawl, DEX)
Cultists Comp 11 (none)
Mina CON check 9 HERO POINT 7 (3 levels Exhaustion)
Mina check Athletics 12
Cultists CON check 8 (2 level Exhaustion)
Cultists check Athletics 3
Result Mina 4 gaps away
 
ROUND 11
Mina Comp 2 (crowd, STR check)
Cultists Comp 19 (none)
Mina CON check 14 (3 level Exhaustion)
Mina check STR 10
Cultists CON check 2 (3 level Exhaustion)
Cultists check Athletics 5
Result Mina 5 gaps away
 
ROUND 12
Mina Comp 2 (crowd, STR check)
Cultists Comp 1 (crowd, STR check)
Mina CON check 10 (3 level Exhaustion)
Mina check STR 16
Cultists CON check 2 (4 level Exhaustion)
Cultists check STR 9
Result Mina 6 gaps away, and free

TLA Chapter 2 The Visitor

In this episode Mina returns home only to find an unwelcome visitor waiting for her, with a truly nefarious proposition. Will Mina betray her own House, or will she risk conflict with a group capable of penetrating one of the most secret organisations in the city?
LINKS
Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BJ6rM2nlHck4PTZekyKmpIKlEPOADiJgIcW4N2Koxb8/edit?usp=sharing
MECHANICS
SCENE 3: Return to the Rookery (CR 7)
SCENE MODIFIED 7
Altered (Lab disrupted)
FATE has someone been here? (50/50) 3 Exceptional yes (they are still here)
FATE The Whisperer? (Somewhat Likely) 100 Exceptional No
FATE A rival House? (50/50) 17 Yes 
Description: Who? 74 Naturally 6 Average (nondescript)
Event: 96 Guide 36 Bureaucracy (fraud)
FATE Blackmail? (Likely) 37 Yes
FATE: over tonight's events? (Likely) 74 Yes
SCENE 4:  To Arms
SCENE MODIFIED: 7 Altered (The box is real)
FATE: Is the box still there? 48 Yes

TLA Chapter 3: The Missing Link

This episode sees Mina find some sanctuary, but that doesn’t mean her troubles are over. She faces a dangerous setback and a night of chilling nightmares before the dawn. 
LINKS
Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1w4TEp_aJN-4FtEd7p9_M5Sg6TX1wWKpd9FHKtzSItKU/edit?usp=sharing
MECHANICS
Scene 5: Studying the Folder
Chaos Factor 7
SCENE ALTERED? 3 (Altered) 65 Attach 91 Weapons (folder is trapped: Glyph of Warding)
Exhaustion Level 2 (Disadvantage on Ability Checks, Speed halved)
Glyph spotted? Arcana (+6) vs DC 17 at Disadvantage: 10 (fail)
Glyph deals 5d8 (24) thunder damage: 14/38 HP
FATE: does she attract attention? (50/50) 46 Yes
FATE: danger? (Unlikely) 68 No
FATE: thrown out? (50/50) 91 No (Innkeeper investigates
http://chaoticshiny.com/chargen.php
Innkeeper: Caelia, gnome, curious, suspicious
Any tracking or scrying magics spotted? Arcana +6 vs DC 16 at Disadvantage: 15 (fail)
Any clues spotted? Investigation +6 Vs DC 16 at Disadvantage: 12 (fail)
FATE: folder destroyed? (Likely) 17 Yes
DESCRIPTION: where did she first find the cultists'? 94 Softly 42 Hard (monastery)
FATE: does she manage a long rest? (Likely) 94 No
EVENT: 25 Dominate 17 The Spiritual
FATE: nightmares? (50/50) 47 Yes
Scene 6 Nightmares
Chaos Factor 8
SCENE ALTERED? 3 altered (wakes up, another nightmare)
Nightmare Generator
Falling
Chased
Burned
Trapped
Shamed
Bereaved
Isolated
Confused
4, 2, 6, 5
FATE: does her father leave her a message? (50/50): 29 yes
DESCRIPTION: 69 Ruin 5 Inside (mausoleum)
Scene 7: Montage
Chaos Factor 7
SCENE ALTERED? 6 Interrupted
Event focus: Close a Thread: Explain the explosion in the sky
FATE: Does Mina get 2 days to recover? (Likely) 77 Yes, Random Event
Event focus: Move towards a thread: Resolve trouble with the Whisperer

TLA Chapter 4 Into the Underpipes

Mina visits the Necropolis hoping to find clues, but runs into an unforeseen complication. Instead, she’s forced to take a perilous journey into the unknown, in search of answers that she hopes will explain the mystery of the Infernal Powder.
Links
Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/11T9fnLz-pXpvO1TjnC6xxzVkdrs6JD4BbTH6hiobTgM/edit?usp=sharing
CHAPTER 4: Mechanics
SCENE 8 
Chaos Factor 6
SCENE ALTERED? 3 Altered (ceremony in progress)
FATE: Did Mina see the cultists' meet anyone? (50/50) 46 Yes
DESCRIPTION: who? 80 Partially 98 Watery
FATE: From the underpipes? Yes (piperunners)
FATE: Did the barrels exchange hands? (50/50) 46 Yes
FATE Does Mina know how the tipoff was received? (Very unlikely) 54 No
FATE is access restricted? (50/50) 94 Extreme No (encouraged)
Hunt for clues: Investigation +6: 26
FATE: Is there a clue to be found? (50/50) 94 Extreme No (area scrubbed clean, then ceremony)
Thread closed: investigate necropolis
Thread opened: investigate underpipes
Character added: Piperunners
Chaos Factor: 5
SCENE 9
Chaos Factor 5
SCENE ALTERED? 1 Altered (pipe flooded)
Into the Unknown: 3 Common, Discovery, Danger
16: 2 way junction
6/2 Shaft
11/4 Creature looking for food
12/5/12/2/4/9/6 Fire snake X 2
Initiative
Mina: 18 Dagger: +3 to hit (1d4+1) x2 (piercing) Each hit causes 1hp damage to Mina
Snakes: 19 Bite and Tail: +3/ 4 damage
FATE Melee range? (50/50) 13 Yes 
 
ROUND 1
Snake 1 Bite 12 Miss, Tail 8 Miss
Snake 2 Bite 13 Miss, Tail 20 Hit 4hp (resistance to fire damage underwater)
Mina (34hp) Dagger 15 10hp Snake 1 (12 hp), 1 hp Mina (33hp)
 
ROUND 2
Snake 1 (12hp) Bite 18 Hit 4hp Tail 12 Miss
Snake 2 Bite 9 Miss Tail 12 Miss
Mina (29hp) Dagger 22 8hp Snake 1 (4hp), 1hp Mina (28hp)
 
ROUND 3
Snake 1 (4hp) Bite 12 Miss Tail 14 Miss
Snake 2 Bite 23 Hit 4hp Tail 10 Miss
Mina (24hp)  Dagger 16 10hp Snake 1 (dead) Snake 2 (16hp) Mina 1 (23hp)
 
ROUND 4
Snake 2 (16hp) Bite 11 Tail 8
Mina (23hp) Dagger 13 miss
 
ROUND 5
Snake 2 (16hp) Bite 21 4hp Tail 5
Mina  (Mina 19hp) Dagger 20 10hp (Snake 2 6hp) Mina 1 (18hp)
 
ROUND 6
Snake 2 (6hp) Bite 20 4hp Tail 15
Mina (14hp) Dagger 18 3hp (Snake 2 dead)
Bonus action: Healing surge 11hp (25hp total)

TLA Chapter 5 Caged

Mina begins her exploration of the Underpipes, and makes a surprising discovery that makes her reassess her quest. But she’ll need to avoid being discovered herself if she’s going to survive…
 
Links
Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1n568c4YkbsuKocfV-V0TWqrNtEpxrTAS-KXM3P9ALeI/edit?usp=sharing
Mina’s character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JGnbhd25G18rT_vAqkAUInVhukGgsvRLe960o_bUsi8/edit?usp=sharing
Cadmus’ character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iXvGMribhEAZnn5SixCj3G8ZLz_OK4jBEo_hg8DKgKc/edit?usp=sharing
Apocalypse World: http://apocalypse-world.com/
Ironsworn: https://www.ironswornrpg.com/
Dungeon World: https://dungeon-world.com/
FATE: https://www.evilhat.com/home/fate-core/
Mythic Magazine Volume 1: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/342536/Mythic-Magazine-Volume-1
Donjon: https://donjon.bin.sh/
 
Mechanics
SCENE 10 
Chaos Factor 4
SCENE ALTERED? 1 Altered (Extremely hot)
Common, Discovery: Heating pipes, find supplies
Investigation vs DC 16 Clues?: 12+2 (Guidance) Fail forward (Complication)
DESCRIPTION: 49 Healthily 43 Harsh
Complication Table
Use a monster, danger, or location move
Reveal an unwelcome truth
Show signs of an approaching threat
Deal damage
Use up their resources
Turn their move back on them
Separate them
Give an opportunity that fits a class’ abilities
Show a downside to their class, race, or equipment
Offer an opportunity, with or without cost
Put someone in a spot
Tell them the requirements or consequences and ask
 
3: Show signs of an approaching threat
Description: 43 Imprison 15 Innocent
Healer? (50/50) 27 Yes
Human? (50/50) 15 Yes
Imprisoned how long? 1d4 (Days to years) months
Sleight of Hand Vs DC 10: lockpicks +3 +3 (Guidance): 19 Success
NPC Behaviour Check
Context: Investigating the Piperunners
Cadmus: starting Disposition 2d10+-2 10 Active
Cadmus First Action: 2d10+2 16 Act out of Self Interest (runs), change context (Escape incareration)
Cadmus Action: 2d10+2 17 Take something (food/ water), change context (tend to Cadmus)
Context Modifier: -2 (Disposition 8, Passive)
FATE: does he know when they are coming back? (50/50) 27 yes
When? 1d4 (now, minutes, tens of minutes, hours) 4 hours
FATE: Does he know another way out? (No Way) 12 No
 
Result
Action
Context
4 or less
TALKS, EXPOSITION 
Character’s Action changes the current Context
5
PERFORMS AN AMBIGUOUS ACTION 
6-7
ACTS OUT OF PC INTEREST 
8
NPC CONTINUES -2 
The Character’s Action is within the current Context
9-10
NPC CONTINUES 
11
NPC CONTINUES +2 
12
CONTEXT ACTION
13
GIVES SOMETHING 
The Character’s Action changes the current Context
14
SEEKS TO END THE ENCOUNTER
15-16
ACTS OUT OF SELF INTEREST
17
TAKES SOMETHING
18 or more
CAUSES HARM
 
SCENE 11
Chaos Factor 5
SCENE ALTERED? 8 No
Themed, Common, Discovery, Danger (Water, Cooling Pipes, condensation, slashing trap)
Donjon random Trap generator, CR 2 (https://donjon.bin.sh/5e/random/#type=trap;trap-level=2)
Guillotine Blade: DC 15 to find, DC 15 to disable; +8 to hit against one target, 2d10 slashing damage; heroic tier, dangerous
Target: Mina d20+8 17 hit 10hp (22/38hp remaining)
FATE: does Cadmus heal her? (Likely) 73 Yes (just)
Healing Word (3HP)
FATE: was he kidnapped (very likely) 98 extreme no (he came here willingly)
FATE: is he willing to talk? (50/50) 26 Yes
EVENT: why did he come here? 3 Neglect 32 Plans
FATE: Are they all bad? (Unlikely) 22 Yes, Random Event
EVENT: Remote Event 2 Starting 21 Messages (knocking pipes)

TLA Chapter 6 HydroClan

Mina and Cadmus stumble upon the site of a battle fought between unknown adversaries, and make much-needed camp. Will they make it through the night without interruption? And what strange new adversaries await them in the depths of the Underpipes?
 
Links
Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YnNlVXuY_8_vBHAxWPPti5q_wN-py7xzESU0VRXnX50/edit?usp=sharing
Mina’s character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JGnbhd25G18rT_vAqkAUInVhukGgsvRLe960o_bUsi8/edit?usp=sharing
Cadmus’ character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iXvGMribhEAZnn5SixCj3G8ZLz_OK4jBEo_hg8DKgKc/edit?usp=sharing
 
Mechanics
SCENE 12 
Chaos Factor 6
Altered Scene? 9 No
DUNGEON: Common, empty 78
DESCRIPTION 56 Irritatingly 70 Mysterious (incomprehensible machinery)
DUNGEON: Common, empty Waste line
FATE: Does the knocking stop? (Likely) 34 Yes
FATE: Lost? (50/50) 59 Yes
FATE: Deep? (Likely): 5 Exceptional Yes (inside the link!)
DUNGEON: Unique, Discovery, Danger Theme: Shadowy Forces
DESCRIPTION 4 Angrily 64 Messy (smashed outpost)
FATE: Bodies? (very unlikely) 37 Yes
FATE: Old? (50/50) 24 Yes
Discovery: find coins/ gems/ jewelry
Danger: trap: alarm DC 12 to spot (Mina Passive Perception 14, DC 15 to disable
Cadmus Action: 8 NPC Continues -2 (Disposition 6)
Mina Thieves’ Tools +3, Guidance +1 ADV (Cadmus helping) 5, 21 Success
Treasure: 14GP (gems are paste)
Investigate: what destroyed this place? Investigate +6 Guidance +3 18
DESCRIPTION  29 Energetically 65 Mighty (powered construct)
 
SCENE 13
Choas Factor 5
Altered Scene? Interrupt 86 Passion 22 Energy (drawn by magic)
FATE: Enemy creature? (50/50) 60 No
DESCRIPTION: 81 Peacefully 18 Delicate
FATE Long Rest? (Likely) 50 Yes
Mina full HP
Cadmus 3 levels Exhaustion 22hp
FATE: low on provisions? (Very likely) 8 Extreme Yes (out of provisions)
FATE: creatures edible? (Very unlikely) 38 No
Cadmus: cast Goodberry
SCENE 14
Chaos Factor 4
Altered Scene? 9 No
DUNGEON: Theme (Water) Unique (Control Chamber) Discovery (well) Danger (creature guarding: Human relocating attacking - cult fanatic and 4 cultists Donjon)
FATE: Great Machine? (Likely) 91 No
DESCRIPTION: 2 Adventurously 9 Classy 
FATE: Water cult? (Likely) 41 Yes
FATE: Linked to imprisoning Piperunners? (50/50) 94 Exceptional No (implacable enemies)
Aggression: 5
Passive Perception 14 vs 12: Stealth 2 (noticed)
Range: 60ft
FATE: Does Cadmus recognise them? (Very Unlikely) 81 No
Initiative:
Mina: 15
Cadmus: 12
Fanatic: 11
Cultists: 10
 
Round 1
Mina: move ready action: attack if attacked
Cadmus: Disposition 6: Talks/ Exposition 
Cultist Tactic: Probe - attack cautiously, testing opponent's defences 
Fanatic: Move to ½ cover, Spell (1/4 L1 slots used)
Mina: Pistol 19 vs AC 14 24hp piercing (Fanatic 15hp remaining)
Command (Mina) DC 12 WIS Save: 9 fail 
Cultists: 30 ft, ½ cover
 
Round 2
Mina: Grovel: prone 
Cadmus: Disposition 8: Seeks to end the encounter (surrenders)
Tactic: Aggression 4,  attack cautiously, testing opponent's defences
Fanatic: Hold Person (1/3 L2 slots used): DC 12 Cadmus (DIS) 12 15 saves (“seize them!”)
Cultist 1: Move 30’ Grapple vs Mina (prone) STR 11 vs DEX 11 (Mina higher skill Mod, avoids grapple)
Cultist 2: Move 30’ Grapple vs Cadmus STR 6 vs DEX 13 avoids grapple
Cultist 3: Move 30' Grapple Vs Mina STR 5 Vs DEX 9 avoids grapple
Cultist 4: Move 30' Grapple Vs Cadmus 7 Vs  9 avoids grapple
 
Round 3
FATE In a line? (50/50) 35 Yes 1d3 2 (1 of 2 L1 slots used)
Mina: stand, Tasha’s Caustic Brew DEX DC 14 Cultist 1 12 fail Cultist 3 19 success
Cadmus: Disposition 10: Context Action (under attack) 
FATE Both in range? (50/50) 16 Yes
Word of Radiance: CON DC 12 Cultist 2 12 success Cultist 4 14 success
Tactic: Aggression 5 Balance - attack and defend evenly, no particular strategy
Fanatic: Blindness (2/3 L2 slots used) WIS DC 12 Mina 15 success
Cultist 1: 10hp acid damage (dead) 
Cultist 2: dagger vs Cadmus AC 22 hit 4hp (18/22hp)
Cultist 3: dagger Vs Mina 19 hit 4hp (28/32)
Cultist 4: dagger Vs Cadmus AC 24 hit 4hp (14/22hp)
 
Round 4
Mina: Draw dagger (off hand), 17 hit Cultist 2 (7/9hp)
Cadmus: Disposition 12: Context Action 
Word of Radiance CON DC 12 Cultist 2 13 Cultist 4 15 both avoid
Tactic: Aggression 4 Twist: Change - weapon/objective/ground “Kill them!”
Fanatic: Close to melee, Inflict Wounds on Cadmus vs AS 9 Miss
Cultist 2 dagger vs Cadmus  AC 8 miss
Cultist 3 dagger vs Mina AC 9 miss
Cultist 4 dagger vs Cadmus AC 8 miss
 
Round 5
Mina: Move 30’ to cover (opportunity attack AC 22 hit 4hp (24/38hp), pistol 10 AC miss, HERO POINT 18 AC hit 24hp (Fanatic dead, cleave to Cultist 4, dead)
Cadmus: Word of Radiance CON DC 12 Cultist 2 6 fail 4hp (5/9hp) Cultist 4 1 fail 4hp (5/9hp)
Tactic: Aggression 2 Stand-off - wait for opponent to make the next move
Cultist 2 (5/9hp) ready attack if attacked
Cultist 3 (9/9hp) ready attack if attacked
 
Round 6
Mina: “drop your weapons and we won't kill you” (Persuasion 6) ready pistol if they move
Cadmus: move 20’, ready sacred flame if they move
Tactic Aggression 4 Stand-off - wait for opponent to make the next move
 
End Combat

TLA Chapter 7 The Climb

Mina and Cadmus find themselves within touching distance of freedom, but face seemingly insurmountable odds to attain it. Can they possibly overcome the massed might of HydroClan?
Links
Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xRd_qCajdPk1J51blWBEwicI5s1ooK7clxQ3wtcbcWI/edit?usp=sharing
Mina’s character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JGnbhd25G18rT_vAqkAUInVhukGgsvRLe960o_bUsi8/edit?usp=sharing
Cadmus’ character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iXvGMribhEAZnn5SixCj3G8ZLz_OK4jBEo_hg8DKgKc/edit?usp=sharing
Mythic GM Emulator Deck: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/257195/Mythic-Game-Master-Emulator-Deck
Skill Challenge: https://critical-hits.com/blog/2016/08/16/skill-challenges-in-5th-edition-dd/
Noble House Randomiser: https://welshpiper.com/random-noble-houses/
 
Mechanics
SCENE 15 Interrogation
Chaos Factor 5
Altered Scene? Interrupt: PC Positive: Arrive Goals
Cadmus reaction: NPC Continues, -2 (Disposition 4) 6 goodberries (20/22hp)
 
SCENE 16: The Climb
Chaos Factor 4
Altered Scene? Altered: they are being pursued. 
Skill Challenge: 3 moderate successes DC 15 each, penalties on failure, combat after 3 failures
Cadmus Athletics +3, help (Mina) 8 fail (0 of 3)
Consequence Use a monster, danger, or location move
Event: Persecute Competition (siren sounded, more HydroClan)
Mina Athletics +1 16 success (1 of 3)
Cadmus Athletics +3, help (Mina) 20 success (1 of 3)
Mina Athletics +1 3 fail (1 of 3)
Consequence show signs of an approaching threat 
Event Starting liberty ("free the great water spirit!")
Cadmus +3 help (Mina) 15 success;(2 of 3)
Mina +1 fail (1 of 3)
Consequence Turn their move back on them (2 x HydroClan cultists climb faster: combat)
Starting climb height: 80ft, exit at 120’
Mina on 2 of 3 Hero Points, no HD spent
Initiative
Water Weird 23
Mina 21
HydroClan bandits 11
Cadmus 7
HydroClan cultists 2
Round 1
Water weird (58/58 hp): trapped
Mina 34/38hp): Pistol 12 vs AC 12 hit 10hp: cultist 1 dead, cultist 2 8/9hp), Move 15’, Cultist Opportunity attack: 14 vs AC 17 miss: Mina at 95’
6 Hydroclan bandits (all on 11/11hp): Crossbow DIS for long range: 1 hit 5hp Mina (30/38)
Cadmus: Sacred Flame v Cultist 2 Dex 14 vs DC 12: miss, Move 10’, Cadmus at 90’
Hydroclan Cultist 2: move, scimitar 23 vs AC 14: hit Cadmus 4hp (16/22hp)
HydroClan Cultist 3-5 move up ladder, scimitar 8 vs AC 14 miss
 
Round 2
FATE: Weird released? (Likely): Yes
FATE? Attack HydroClan? (50/50): Yes
Water Weird: Constrict: 11 vs AC 12 miss, move to 60’
Mina (30/38): Pistol 12 vs AC 12 hit 1hp: cultist 2 dead, cultist 3 5/9hp), move (15’ to 110’)
6 HydroClan bandits: Crossbow DIS for long range:1 hit on Mina (25/38hp), 2 hits on Cadmus (6/22hp)
Cadmus: Move, dash (20’ to 110’)
HydroClan Cultists: move, 1 hit on Mina (21/38hp)
 
Round 3
FATE: Weird attack HydroClan? (50/50) Yes
Water Weird (58/58): Move, constrict 13hp, Cultist 5 dead
Mina (21/38hp): Bonus: healing surge: 6hp (27/38), pistol 20 vs AC 13 hit, Weird takes 18hp (40/58hp) 110’)
6 HydroClan bandits all miss
Cadmus (6/22hp) Move 10’ to 120’, open circular handwheel: Athletics DC 13: DIS 12 fail
HydroClan cultist 3 (5/9hp): hit Mina 4hp (23/38hp)
HydroClan cultist 4 (9/9hp): miss
 
Round 4
Water Weird (40/58): move, constrict miss Mina
Mina (23/38hp) Bonus: healing surge:7hp (30/38hp), pistol 20 vs AC 13 hit Weird takes 6hp (34/58hp)
6 HydroClan bandits: 1 hit on Cadmus, Parry
Cadmus: (6/22hp) open circular handwheel: Athletics DC 13: DIS 6 fail
HydroClan cultist 3 (5/9hp): miss
HydroClan cultist 4 (9/9hp): miss
 
Round 5
Water Weird (34/58): move, constrict hit Mina 13 (17/38hp), grappled, restrained escape DC 13
Mina (17/38hp): escape DC 13 STR 14, move (120’)
6 HydroClan bandits: hit Cadmus Parry, hit Cadmus 5hp (1/22hp)
Cadmus: (1/22hp) open circular handwheel: Athletics DC 13: DIS 8 fail, Bonus Healing Word 
FATE: Does he heal himself? Yes 4hp (5/22hp) (2/2 L1 spell slots used)
HydroClan cultist 3 (5/9hp): miss
HydroClan cultist 4 (9/9hp): miss
 
Round 6
Water Weird (34/58hp) miss
Mina (17/38hp) ready action (Cadmus help)
6 Hydroclan bandits: all miss
Cadmus: help
Mina: open circular handwheel: Athletics DC 13 ADV 9 fail Hero Point 16 success, Move
Water Weird Opportunity attack miss Mina
HydroClan cultist 3 (5/9hp) Opportunity attack: hit Cadmus 4hp (1/22hp)
HydroClan cultist 4 (9/9hp) Opportunity attack: miss
 
Scene 17: To the Surface
Chaos Factor 5
Altered Scene? Expected
FATE: Do the attackers continue? (Likely) No (screams from below: Weird attacks cultists)
FATE: Is the way out obvious? (Likely)Yes (tunnel up, grating, steps up from cellar- water pipes)
Cadmus: 3 Goodberries (4/22hp)
Description: Where are they? Joyfully Lavish
FATE: Noble House mansion? Yes
Fargalay
Monsitario
Toreth
Amberen
 
Toreth
 
House Toreth
Motto: By Quill and By Sword
Sigil: A golden two-headed roc on a scarlet field
An ancient noble house, historically militaristic, now waning in both size and political influence. They seek to reclaim old glories by seeking out power in the outer realms, and are intent on establishing a military presence in these strange new worlds. In Kyras they have secret ties to organised crime. 
 
Scene 17 continued in Chapter 8

TLA Chapter 8 The House of Whispers

Mina constructs a companion, and hopes to retain another, but shocking news throws her plans into disarray. With all other avenues seemingly closed, Mina is left with only one option; to return to the infamous House of Whispers.
Links
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ro9GhVcPjAWSFal1sHQyCU4oVPvss3O7VlcQUSv4anw/edit?usp=sharing
 
Mechanics
 
SCENE 17 (Cont)
 
FATE: Are they able to slip away unnoticed? (Unlikely) No
FATE: Ejected? (50/50) Yes, Random Event NPC Negative: HydroClan: Guide Messages (knocking on pipes)
FATE: Do Devotants have surnames? (Unlikely) No
FATE: Does Cadmus accompany Mina? (Very Likely)  Yes
SCENE 18: Level Up Montage
Chaos Factor 4
Altered Scene? No
FATE: room for Cadmus? Yes
FATE: Does Cadmus want to go back to the Order? (50/50) Yes
FATE: Will he return to her? (Likely) Exceptional Yes (he intends to leave the Order, swearing himself to her protection)
Level Up: 
HP to 
Battle Ready (prof with martial weapons, use Int for att/ dmg)
Spells: Heroism, Shield
Extra L1 spell slot
Steel Defender
Swap 1 Infusion (remove Cap of Water Breathing, add ???)
FATE: does Cadmus return (Very Likely) Yes
FATE: in Order robes? No
FATE: Does Cadmus know anything re Mina’s quest? (Very Unlikely) Exceptional Yes (NPC Negative) The Whisperer, Adversity News
 
SCENE 19: Plan next steps
Chaos Factor 5
Altered Scene? No
FATE: Does Cadmus know how The Whisperer died? (50/50) Yes
How? Event: Release Illness (Plague toxin)
FATE: Others dead? (50/50) No
FATE: Any clues who’s behind it? (Very Unlikely) No
FATE: Has Mina heard of attacks like this before? (Very Unlikely) No
 
SCENE 20: Return to the Rookery
Chaos Factor 6
Altered Scene? No
FATE: Anyone there? (Very unlikely) No
FATE: Does anyone come? (50/50) No
FATE: Is anyone following her when she leaves? (Unlikely) No
 
SCENE 21: Return to the House of Whispers
Chaos Factor 7
Altered Scene? No
FATE: Hostile Reception? (Unlikely) Exceptional Yes
Event: Ambush Stalemate (building defences activated to restrain invaders)
Animated Armour CR 1
Gargoyle CR 2
2 x Rug of Smothering CR 2
 
Initiative:
Cadmus 16
Rugs 14
Mina 13
Armour 8
Gargoyle 5
 
Round 1
Cadmus: surprised
Rug 1: Smother vs Mina: 9 (miss)
Rug 2: Smother vs Barbican: 10 (miss)
Mina: surprised
Barbican: surprised
Amour: Multiattack: Shove vs Mina: 22 vs 17: Mina prone, Grapple (ADV) 21 vs 9 Mina Grappled
Gargoyle: Multiattack: Bite vs Barbican 20 vs AC 15: 5 hp (16/21), Claw 12 vs AC 15: miss
 
Round 2
Cadmus: Bless (+1d4 attacks/ saves Mina, Cadmus, Barbican), Move 40ft out of melee
Rug 1: Smother vs Mina (ADV) 22 hit, Mina prone, grappled, restrained, blinded
Rug 2: Smother vs Barbican: 21 hit, Barbican grappled, restrained, blinded
Mina: 10hp (44/54) escape DC 13: 4 fail, bonus: Barbican Force Rend
Barbican (16/21): Force Rend + Bless vs Rug 2 (DIS) 17 hit 3hp (30/33), Barbican 3hp (13/21)
Armour: Multiattack Slam vs Mina (ADV) 21 hit 5 hp (39/54) Slam vs Mina (ADV) 13 miss
Gargoyle: Multiattack: Bite vs Barbican (ADV) 5 vs AC 15 miss, Claw 16 vs AC 15: hit 5hp (8/21)
 
Round 3
Cadmus: Sacred Flame vs Armour DC 12 2 5hp (28/33)
Rug 1: maintain smother
Rug 2: maintain smother
Mina: 10hp (29/54), escape DC 13 5 fail, bonus “get me out of here!”
Barbican: 10hp (dead)
Armour: Multiattack Slam vs Mina (ADV) 20 hit 5 hp (24/54) Slam vs Mina (ADV) 9 miss
Gargoyle: Multiattack: Bite vs Mina (ADV) 23 hit 5hp (19/54), Claw 15 miss
 
Round 4
Cadmus: Sacred Flame vs Armour DC 12 3 5hp (23/33)
Rug 1: maintain smother
Rug 2: Smother vs Mina (ADV) 20 hit
Mina: 20hp (0/54)

TLA Chapter 9 Alexis

Mina wakes to discover the identity of the new Spymaster, and it’s the last person she would wish it to be. But the bad news doesn’t stop there; the identity of the Whisperer’s murderer could spell doom for House Montisario, and the new spymaster’s plan to deal with the situation puts Mina right in the very last place she wants to be.
 
Links
Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YhGRF-ZUfINL8-ea2Mu3LSE9C4gMv-3O9Z5O1vaK4jY/edit?usp=sharing
Surprise: https://slyflourish.com/surprise.html
UNE (Universal NPC Emulator): or): https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/134163/UNE-The-Universal-NPC-Emulator-rev
Mechanics
SCENE 22: Cousin Alexis
Chaos Factor 8
Altered Scene: No
 
Who wakes her?
UNE privileged politician, comparable power, motivation: work the world 
Demeanor inquisitive
Bearing request
Focus fame 
FATE does she know him? Exceptional Yes (cousin, Male/ female/ non-binary: male Alexis Montisatio)
FATE: do they get on? Exceptional No
Mina Punch: miss
FATE does he accept it was murder? (Likely) Yes
FATE is his lackey a soldier? (Likely) Yes
Donjon Name Generator: Theny Veray
Male/ Female/ non-binary: nonbinary
Why the welcome? Expose Intrigues
FATE Shapechangers? (Very Likely) Yes
FATE Captured? (50/50) Yes
FATE Alive? (Impossible) No
 
SCENE 23: The Reveal
Chaos Factor 7
Altered Scene: Interrupt (NPC Negative) Truce Anger (Cadmus)
 
FATE are shapeshifters a known faction? (unlikely) yes
FATE criminal? (50/50) Exceptional Yes 
Event how does Cadmus know of the Unseen? Struggle Opulence
FATE did Cadmus grow up elsewhere than Kyras? (50/50) Yes: Ligzara (Tanth)
FATE: is it the same as what Cadmus saw? (Very Likely) Yes
What does Alexis want? Assist News
SCENE 24: Processing
Chaos Factor 8
Altered Scene: Interrupt, NPC Action (The Visitor) Inspect Home (In Mina’s room)
 
FATE is Duke Toreth fat, old and ugly? (50/50) Exceptional no
FATE does Mina believe Alexis is responsible for her father’s death? (50/50) yes