The Lone Adventurer

The double score begins. Beneath the city, Valerian and his team attempt to infiltrate the Machine Cult, whilst above it the Spider's crew approach the Mustang, intent upon carrying out a daring kidnapping. Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NVkR2Y1QemV6TPf-es90t02eBqoxnFRsTZ4ikoVHNi0/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ Blades in the Dark: https://www.evilhat.com/home/blades-in-the-dark/ Alone in the Dark: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/282013/Alone-in-the-Dark-Solo-Rules-for-Blades-in-the-Dark Solo Oracles: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J_GVM_dVe3YMYAQaP-KIqOC91vFk56y9HOPKMybY_sk/edit?usp=sharing Faction clocks: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KWuAPc4iv7hElXLepV0XTqVP9IRAdNsdqwD1wSDyAys/edit?usp=sharing Mechanics Alpha Team: Spider, Sallow, Crater The Plan: Stealth The Detail: Sneak on board the Mustang to kidnap the sisters from the Silver Nails Starting Position: Mixed (risky) CLOCK: Get out with the Sisters 0/12 Opening Scene description: 242, 565 (lobster claw, radiant cracked circle) Rigid Silver Nails control over fractured stalemate: tense standoff, on the verge of exploding SIMPLE Q: Have they been to the Mustang before? (50/50) Yes, but (a long time ago) Who is there? Underworld Crows Lord Tortemus, the Night Queen’s Shadow (the Undying) The Fog Hounds The Circle of Flame Houses (50/50) 2,2 No Institutions (Unlikely) 1 No, complication (Lord Tortemus) Fringe (Very unlikely) No ACTION: Spider: Study: Get the read of the room, Risky, standard: 1d: 6: Success CLOCK: Get out with the Sisters 2/12 ACTION: Spider: Consort: pump an acquaintance for information, Risky, standard: 2d+1d: 4,5: Success with a Consequence: Take 1 Heat CLOCK: Get out with the Sisters 4/12 SIMPLE QUESTION: Do folks know why Lord T is here? (Unlikely): 5 (Yes, but) COMPLEX Q: What do you mean, But? 442, 212 (explosive fireworks, broken shield) Explosive threat to the defenders SIMPLE Q: Location on the Sisters? (50/50) 1,1 Complication COMPLEX Q: what sort of complication? 524, 451 (dripping wax seal, envelope) Half the complex is sealed off, VIPs by invitation only Bravo Team: Visitor, Flint, Trace The Plan: Deception The Detail: Infiltrate the Underpipes disguised as Cultists, to find the source of the powder Loadouts: all Normal Starting Position: Mixed (risky) CLOCK: Uncover the source of the Powder 0/12 Opening Scene description: 543, 254 (pair of pistols, pair of crescents) Everyone pointing weapons (Mexican standoff) ACTION: Flint: Command: win confidence, Risky, standard, 1d +1d (Trace Assist, 1 Stress, 1/9): 6,4 (success) CLOCK: Uncover the source of the Powder 2/12 ACTION: Valerian: Sway: take us back to your base, Risky, standard, 2d: 3,6 (success) CLOCK: Uncover the source of the Powder 4/12 GM Oracle: signal impending trouble COMPLEX Q: Trouble, you say? 415, 143 (Anubis, dripping test tube) Chemical weighing of souls ACTION: Valerian: Survey: hunt for a way out, Desperate, standard, 1d+1d (push, 2 Stress): 6,3 (Success) CLOCK: Uncover the source of the Powder 6/12 COMPLEX Q: What does he see that can help them? 234, 631 (crossed axes, potion bottle) There is conflict over the oil

With Slate freed from Ironhook Prison it’s time to lick wounds, take stock and consider next steps. Will the risk have been worth it? Has Tatters survived? And can Slate provide information that will lead the Web to their enemies? Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YrAG0ltDYZJ37KEvcOwzM5kH4Wqd2lg1FVO3X7UVjxY/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ Blades in the Dark: https://www.evilhat.com/home/blades-in-the-dark/ Alone in the Dark: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/282013/Alone-in-the-Dark-Solo-Rules-for-Blades-in-the-Dark Solo Oracles: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J_GVM_dVe3YMYAQaP-KIqOC91vFk56y9HOPKMybY_sk/edit?usp=sharing Faction clocks: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KWuAPc4iv7hElXLepV0XTqVP9IRAdNsdqwD1wSDyAys/edit?usp=sharing Logen Ninefingers: https://www.amazon.co.uk/First-Law-Trilogy-Boxed-Set/dp/1473213703/ref=asc_df_1473213703/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=311040647414&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3871577687881209943&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9041106&hvtargid=pla-434044947806&psc=1&th=1&psc=1 Dungeon World solo campaign: https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/2021/03/13/under-ironroot-intro/ Mechanics Downtime 1 PAYOFF: 2 basic +3 for Higher Tier target: 5 REP 6 COIN HEAT: 4 (loud and chaotic) +1 (Devil’s Bargain) +1 (Hostile turf): 6 HEAT ENTANGLEMENTS: Flipped: Laroze lost as a contact (now working for the Unseen) DOWNTIME ACTIVITIES: Valerian: Recover 1/4 (Sawtooth) Valerian: Vice (shopping) 6 stress cleared (1/9) Tatiana: All stress cleared, Haunted Alphonse: Vice (Dust) 1 stress cleared (5/9) Alphonse: Reduce Heat: Wreck (destroy records) 2d 3: -3 Heat (3/9) XP Valerian: 2xp deception Tatiana: 2xp desperate 2xp arcane, 1xp vice Alphonse: 1xp desperate 1xp violence Crew: 1xp theft, 1xp higher tier, 1xp reputation Faction clocks updated FREE PLAY: Spider & Slate Scene start as expected? (50/50) Yes COMPLEX Q: Repercussions of breakout? 224, 514 (shattered circle, ripples) Fragile stalemate broken. Bluecoats at war. Unpredictable aftershocks. Heat. SIMPLE Q Any leads on the Unseen or Cult? (50/50) 5,6 Yes COMPLEX Q nature of lead 554, 532 (eyeball, two half figures) Unseen agents identified WHO? (pg 302) NPC 1: Mara Vale: Local, cute female Goals: respect, Methods: espionage, Profession: butcher Traits: candid, Interests: pets, Quirks: decision by committee NPC 2: Lynthia Vale: Local, wiry female Goals: Happiness, Methods: hard work, Profession: messenger Traits: daring, Interests: drugs, Quirks: a fraud Mara and Lynn, a Cutter and a Hound, sisters. SIMPLE Q: working for the Unseen? (Very Likely) 6,1,5,3 Yes ENGAGEMENT ROLL Alpha Team: Spider, Sallow, Crater The Plan: Stealth The Detail: Sneak on board the Mustang to kidnap the sisters from the Silver Nails Loadouts: all Medium Twist: Moving Target Engagement Roll: 2D Luck: +1D Bold & Daring: +1D Aid (Slate): +1D High Tier target: -1D Second Storey: +1D Result: Mixed (risky) ENGAGEMENT ROLL Bravo Team: Visitor, Flint, Trace The Plan: Deception The Detail: Infiltrate the underpipes disguised as Cultists, to find the source of the powder Loadouts: all Normal FLASHBACK: Spider: get 3 Cultist outfits from Jeren, Bluecoat archivist (1 stress, 1/9): Consort + Push (1 stress, 2/9): 3D: 6,5.4: success Engagement Roll: 3D Luck: +1D Bold & Daring: +1D Vulnerability: +1D (Cult helmets) High Tier target: -1D Second Storey: +1D Result: Mixed (risky)

The Web, a crew of spies and scoundrels including Valerian, Tatters and Alphonse, have broken into Ironhook Prison disguised as a pair of Bluecoats with a prisoner. Their goal? To spring Slate, the head of a rival crew of spies and thieves known as the Wraiths. Having found their target, all that remains now is to break him out of arguably the highest security compound in the entire city. Of course, they have meticulously planned for this, but you know what they say about the best laid plans… Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sHpH5UuUBycYVdSymtg-yMXVoAkzYzlXz2psuefLcWc/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ Blades in the Dark: https://www.evilhat.com/home/blades-in-the-dark/ Alone in the Dark: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/282013/Alone-in-the-Dark-Solo-Rules-for-Blades-in-the-Dark Solo Oracles: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J_GVM_dVe3YMYAQaP-KIqOC91vFk56y9HOPKMybY_sk/edit?usp=sharing Faction clocks: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KWuAPc4iv7hElXLepV0XTqVP9IRAdNsdqwD1wSDyAys/edit?usp=sharing Mechanics Score 1 Scene 3: Running for it Scene start as expected? (50/50) Yes, but: Prisoners fleeing, chaos DANGER CLOCK: Capture 0/6 ACTION: Tatters: Hunt: follow map to exit to patrol ring, Desperate (1 XP), Standard, 1d +1d (Push, 2 stress, 7/9) +1d (Valerian Assist, 1 Stress, 5/9) 2,6,6 (Crit, increased effect) CLOCK: Break Slate out of prison 3/8 FLASHBACK: Alphonse Command: threatening prison guard’s family if he doesn’t open the door, Risky, Standard (2 stress, 4/9), 1d +1d (Push, 2 stress, 6/9) +1d (Valerian Assist, 1 Stress, 6/9): 1,3,6: success CLOCK: Break Slate out of prison 5/8 ACTION: Tatters: Tinker: call lift, Risky, Standard, 1d, 4 (success with consequence) CLOCK: Break Slate out of prison 7/8 CONSEQUENCE: Take 2 Stress (9/9) Trauma: Haunted. Tatters is out of action. RESIST (Resolve 1d): 5, 1 stress (8/9) The team make it to the top of Ironhook ACTION: Tatters: Attune: Teleportation Ritual, Desperate (1 XP), Great, 2d +1d (Valerian Assist, 1 Stress, 7/9) +1d (Devil’s Bargain: +1 Heat): 5 (success with serious consequence) CLOCK: Break Slate out of prison 8/8 Complete CONSEQUENCE: Take 2 Stress (9/9) Trauma: Haunted. Tatters is out of action Downtime 1 PAYOFF: 2 basic +3 for Higher Tier target: 5 REP 6 COIN HEAT: 4 (loud and chaotic) +1 (Devil’s Bargain) +1 (Hostile turf): 6 HEAT ENTANGLEMENTS: Flipped: Laroze lost as a contact (now working for the Unseen) DOWNTIME ACTIVITIES: Valerian: Recover 1/4 (Sawtooth) Valerian: Vice (shopping) 6 stress cleared (1/9) Tatiana: All stress cleared, Haunted Alphonse: Vice (Dust) 1 stress cleared (5/9) Alphonse: Reduce Heat: Wreck (destroy records) 2d 3: -3 Heat (3/9) XP Valerian: 2xp deception Tatiana: 2xp desperate 2xp arcane, 1xp vice Alphonse: 1xp desperate 1xp violence Crew: 1xp theft, 1xp higher tier, 1xp reputation Faction clocks updated

Summary Last season, on the Lone Adventurer, the House of Whispers agent Mina Montisario and her companion Cadmus of the Church of Ankhra, learned of a Piperunner plot to destroy the city using vast quantities of high explosives. Working alongside her sworn enemies, the deranged terrorist Cult of the Great Machine, Mina was able to thwart the Piprunners plans, but not the plans of the Cult. They remain intent on bombing the city, and in particular Mina’s own wedding, a high society event organised by her scheming cousin Alexis, new head of the House of Whispers. This wedding, an alliance between Houses Montisario and Toreth, is intended to shore up both houses’ interests in the face of a deadly new threat; the mysterious criminal organisation of shapeshifters, known only as the Unseen, has made a direct attack on House Montisario, killing the previous Whisperer. This, and the destabilising impact of the Cult’s bombing campaign, has thrown the uneasy alliances that exist between the city’s countless factions into chaos, and the city now teeters on the brink of all-out civil war. And throughout, Mina’s steps have been dogged by a mysterious Visitor. This man, Valerian, is part of a shadowy espionage organisation led by a woman known as the Spider. Their motives are shrouded in mystery, but they appear to be set against the Cult and the Unseen, and have attempted to use Mina as a pawn in their game. Mina had hoped to draw them into her own plans against the Cult’s attack on her wedding, but the Visitor could not be found. We’re about to find out why. Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/175HaWAZ_7e7WMm_AG7zk5jmm5UULo6MAWdb95Xp-j7A/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ Blades in the Dark: https://www.evilhat.com/home/blades-in-the-dark/ Alone in the Dark: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/282013/Alone-in-the-Dark-Solo-Rules-for-Blades-in-the-Dark Solo Oracles: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1J_GVM_dVe3YMYAQaP-KIqOC91vFk56y9HOPKMybY_sk/edit?usp=sharing The City of Kyras LANDMARKS 1 The Void Sea 2 The Underpipes 3 Ironhook Prison 4 The Dominarium 5 The Bloodpits DISTRICTS Chaintop (Barrowcleft). Residences and markets for the farmers who work the fields and eeleries. The Rose Quarter (Brightstone). The grand mansions and luxury shops of the wealthy elite. The Slopes (Charhollow). A crowded district of tenements and stacked houses. The Bridges (Charterhall). The city’s civic offices and the hub for shops, artisans, and commerce. The Mercer’s Quarter (Coalridge). The remnants of Doskvol’s original hilltop mining settlement, now home to laborers and industrial factories. The Spot (Crow’s Foot). A cramped neighborhood of multi-level streets, ruled by gangs. The Docks. Rough taverns, tattoo parlors, fighting pits, and warehouses. The Iron Spire (Dunslough). A labor camp served by convicts and a ghetto for the destitute poor. The Rat-Run Markets (Nightmarket). The trade center for exotic goods imported by rail. Many vendors also trade in illicit goods. The Gilded Gardens (Silkshore). The “red lamp district” and artist community. The Lavenders (Six Towers). A formerly rich district, now worn down and dilapidated. The Orchidium (Whitecrown). The sprawling estates of the Lord Governor, Hunter Commander, Master Warden, and Doskvol Academy. Factions The Unseen (IV S) Infiltrate the City Council 8 Expand into other cities 8 The House of Whispers (II W) Win House Montisario influence on the City Council 6 Rise in Tier 8 The Cult of the Machine (III W) Awaken the Great Machine 12 Convert the Unbelievers 8 The Wraiths (II W) Recruit expert thieves 8 Secure an arcane ally 6 Mechanics Starting Situation: The Unseen at war with the House of Whispers. The Cult of the Machine at war with everyone. Many other factions in open combat. One other faction seeks an alliance to avoid being destroyed. SCORE 1 COMPLEX Q: Why are we breaking into Ironhook Prison? 334, 263 (wounded hand, crowned skull) To forge an alliance with Slate, the leader of the Wraiths, by breaking him out. LINKED CLOCK 1: Find Slate: 0/4 LINKED CLOCK 2: Break Slate out of prison 0/8 The Plan: Deception The Detail: disguise and infiltration Loadouts: all Light Engagement Roll: Bold & Daring: +1D Vulnerability: +1D Aid (Harker): +1D High Tier target: -1D Second Story: +1D Result: Desperate position SCENE 1 COMPLEX Q: what obstacle do they face? 614, 244 (fish bones, broken helm) Starving inmates have had enough, and turn on the guards. It’s a full-blown prison riot! How do the crew get out alive? DANGER CLOCK: Alert: 0/4 FLASHBACK: This riot is part of the plan, set up by Harker (Valerian 1 Stress) How do the crew fare in the chaos? FORTUNE (3D): Good Result: provides cover GROUP ACTION: Prowl to avoid getting drawn into the fighting (Position Risky, Eff

Season 2 is coming, and it’s time to change things up. In this pre-season Session Zero I talk about a new focus for the upcoming episodes, a corresponding mechanical change of approach, and some of the challenges that change may entail. Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/15HHKCE_G2MBky8pDHbCevi5_4-tUh2a0bjXYg-sPu-k/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/

The big day finally arrives. Everyone who's anyone is invited to the social event of the season, including a horde of mad bomber cultists intent on blowing the entirety of Toreth Palace into kindling. Mina has a plan, and she has some contacts, but is that going to be enough? Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_3-zNlRrWmUB4jZhKm-ZTxAiTyYHeSoX28SK3jjElIk/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ Mythic Assistant: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=hu.glezmen.mythicassistant&hl=en_GB&gl=US Adventuresmith: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.steavesea.adventuresmith&hl=en_GB&gl=US CritDice: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.vuesoft.critdice&hl=en_GB&gl=US The One Ring: https://freeleaguepublishing.com/en/games/the-one-ring/ Eldritch Horror: https://www.fantasyflightgames.com/en/products/eldritch-horror/ Five Leagues from the Borderlands: https://www.modiphius.net/pages/five-leagues-from-the-borderlands Five Parsecs from Home: https://www.modiphius.net/pages/five-parsecs Speedpaint: https://www.thearmypainter.com/speedpaint/ Mechanics SCENE 52: DIGBY AND THE VISITOR Chaos Factor 3 Altered Scene: no FATE Did Visitor make contact (50/50) exceptional no EVENT Mistrust Prison (enemy faction boss HQ is on the Hook) Visit Digby M/F/NB male C 4, A 2, N 3, O 3, E 4 Motivations Encourage the Law Hinder Success Spoil beauty Relationship: distrustful Starting Mood: cautious UNE Response: will he say if the House know the Visitor? No FATE: does the House know him? (Likely) yes Mina Insight 19 vs DC 12: she knows he knows UNE Discussion: Demeanour mysterious, Bearing secrets, Focus current story The mysterious Digby speaks of secrets regarding the PCs current story EVENT: what secrets? Relates to NPC action (Cult), Waste Dispute SCENE 53 THE ALCHEMICAL TUTOR Chaos Factor 4 Altered Scene: Interrupt (Ambiguous Event) Move New Ideas (flyers proposing mass deportations) Visit Doctor Kropp M/F/NB non-binary C 3, A 5, N 3, O 2, E 2 Motivations Operate vigilance Process the church Defile nature Relationship Loved Starting Mood neutral UNE Discussion: Demeanour friendly, Bearing happiness Focus parents FATE: Is Mina’s mother alive? (50/50) no FATE: does he know how infernal powder be neutralised? (Likely) exceptional yes (he invented the technique) Mood sociable UNE Response: will he share the knowledge? Yes EVENT; how? Vengeance disruption (divinity: Bless!) FATE: any devotant? (Very Likely) yes SCENE 54 BEHIND THE SCENES Chaos Factor 3 Altered Scene: no House Toreth Security Chief Camilla Hargrave M/F/NB: F C 2, A 2, N 3, O 4, E 2 Motivations Produce the populous Assist justice Maintain harmony Relationship: friendly Starting Mood: cautious UNE discussion Demeanour mysterious, Bearing whispers Focus weapons UNE BINARY: Do they go along with the plan? Yes Anhra High Devotant M/F/NB F C 5, A 1, N 2, O 4, E 3 Motivations Abduct wealth Plunder gluttony Damage charity Relationship: neutral Starting mood: sociable UNE discussion Demeanour friendly, Bearing delight, Focus flaws UNE BINARY: Do they go along with the plan? Yes SCENE 55 WEDDING DAY Chaos Factor 2 Altered Scene: no FATE: do the cultists sense a trap? (50/50) exceptional no FATE: do the cultists resist the blessing? (50/50) no FATE: Is the High Dominar present? (50/50) no

With only 48 hours to go before her arranged wedding, and the planned terrorist attack, Miona needs to take stock and get a plan in motion. But the news from the House of Whispers is not good, and there’s an unexpected visitor waiting for her there… Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pWT5HgwxHBtwaQW8SlbL6D7tddVZ1m37_XM2TWfrmsM/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ UNE: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/134163/UNE-The-Universal-NPC-Emulator-rev Friends: https://happiful.com/international-friendship-day/ Mechanics SCENE 49: Return to the House of Whispers Chaos Factor 2 Altered Scene: Altered (Duke Toreth arrives) FATE: Is Alexis having to deal with Shadow War (very Likely) yes FATE: Is he coping well? (Likely) no FATE: has progress been made against the Unseen? (50/50) exceptional no EVENT: what has gone wrong? Debase Attention EVENT: What is the nature of the Shadow War? Triumph Opulence SCENE 50 Meeting the Duke Chaos Factor 3 Altered Scene: no UNE: Tris Demeanour Friendly, Bearing Happiness, Focus Power FATE: Have they met before? (Likely) yes Age: older UNE: Tris Demeanour Friendly, Bearing Support, Focus Skills SCENE 51 Information Gathering Chaos Factor 2 Altered Scene: no FATE: did Mina find out anything about Tristan influencers? (Very Likely) exceptional no (Alexis interrupted) FATE: Any news from the monastery? (Likely) yes EVENT: what news? Arrive Dispute Between: Houses Underworld Orders Everyone ** Everyone & Everyone FATE: Does the Visitor make contact? (Likely) no FATE: Do the Cultists make contact? (50/50) yes EVENT: How? Abandon Stalemate (attack on the city)

In the aftermath of the war against the Piperunners, Mina is left facing another implacable foe. And even if she does survive, what price will she be forced to pay? Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1WKIggxPt0wNAMRZvltZHibhznT76I-4VLgWhF6xWLbk/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ The Science of Storytelling: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Science-Storytelling-Stories-Human-Better-ebook/dp/B07J2BN9L7/ref=sr_1_1?adgrpid=62546151740&gclid=Cj0KCQjwma6TBhDIARIsAOKuANxFz_4Wqt22ISs1mh-TnHuAXkKgIrpFX_78lBbSnZ71w0yyIFFgum4aAgVbEALw_wcB&hvadid=310559321985&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9045978&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=5718174129616949750&hvtargid=kwd-375593231506&hydadcr=11469_1841735&keywords=the+science+of+storytelling&qid=1651245220&sr=8-1 Sapiens: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Sapiens-Humankind-Yuval-Noah-Harari/dp/0099590085/ref=sr_1_1?crid=YVF6N40MVWEF&keywords=sapiens&qid=1651245256&sprefix=sapiens%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-1 Countdown Clocks: https://www.reddit.com/r/rpg/comments/bft68t/using_clocks_world_bitd_in_any_game/ Mechanics SCENE 46: Chaos Factor 3 Altered Scene: no FATE: Do the Cultists attack? (50/50) no FATE: Is she seen as an ally? (50/50) no FATE: Do they keep her prisoner? (50/50) no FATE: Is there a quid pro quo? (Likely) Celebrate Opulence FATE: do the cult know of the entrance to House Toreth? (50/50) exceptional no FATE: do they know who Mina is? (Unlikely) no FATE: Does Mina think the machine is made by the dwarves? (Unlikely) exceptional no FATE: Do the cult have leverage? (50/50) no SCENE 47 Chaos Factor 4 Altered Scene: no FATE: does the Cult knows the source of the powder? (Unlikely) yes Mina persuasion 13 vs Voice DC 15 fail (won’t reveal powder source) Mina Insight 13 vs Deception 5 (she knows he knows) Mina persuasion 19 (nat 20) vs DC 15 (Cult will assist with Cadmus recovery) FATE: Is Mina able to retrieve the ring? (50/50) no FATE: Has Cadmus been harmed? (Likely) no FATE: rescued by Antiope? (Likely) Exceptional no FATE: Antiope killed? (Likely) yes SCENE 48 Chaos Factor 3 Altered Scene: no FATE: Do the cultists remain with Mina? (Unlikely) no

It all comes down to this. Mina Monisario, in disguise, must join with her sworn enemies, the fanatical Machine Cultists, in a final, desperate battle against the Piperunners for control of the explosives stashed beneath the Great Machine. And if she fails, the entire city is forfeit! Links Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cHMEBI3YqBE-RdihCbuZKqhC7XaGvAXaaXpGMkW8eWg/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ Advanced 5e Monstrous Menagerie: https://enpublishingrpg.com/collections/level-up-advanced-5th-edition-a5e/products/level-up-monstrous-menagerie-a5e?variant=41366519775426 Kobold Fight Club Plus: https://koboldplus.club/#/encounter-builder Mechanics SCENE 45: Chaos Factor 4 Altered Scene: No FATE: do the Cultists surrender? (50/50) No NPC Tactics NPC opponents have an Aggression rating of 1 to 6, with most starting on 4. 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. Roll 2D6 (gold), 1d6 (black). Black die 1, 2, 3: same tactic as previous round. Black die 4, 5: Gold dice plus Aggression= NPC Tactic Black die 6: Roll again for a Twist 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 Initiative Bandit Captain 21 (A5e MM 470) Starting Aggression 4 Cult Fanatic 20 (A5e MM 472) Starting Aggression 5 Mina 14 Squads of Bandits (x3) 13 (A5e MM 466 & 470) Starting Aggression 4 Squads of Cultists (x4) 10 (A5e MM 466 & 472) Starting Aggression 4 ROUND 1 FATE: Does he try to smash open a barrel? (50/50) yes Bandit Captain: Hatchet: Multiattack: 24 and 21 vs barrel AC15, 7hp and 5hp vs barrel, 6 of 18hp remaining (DMG 246) Cult Fanatic: Hold Person DC WIS: 4: Fail, Bandit Captain Paralysed (1 min, save at end of each turn). Concentration. Mina: Crossbow 16 vs AC 15: 8hp (57/65), draw sword, move to engage Bandit Squad 1. Bonus: Barbican Disarm Barbican: 30ft leap, Athletics check 15 vs DC 16, 4hp falling damage. Disarm (flare) Squad of Bandits 1: Twist: Reinforce FATE: More Bandits? (Likely) no (Jukti, joins next round Init 10) Squad of Bandits 2: Attack: crossbow vs Cultists 1: 17 vs AC 12: 20hp: 25/45 Squad of Bandits 3: Twist: change ground: leap 10’ to barrels, close on Barbican Squad of Cultists 1 (25/45): Move and attack Bandits 2: 14 vs AC 12: 30hp: 14/45 (bloodied) Squad of Cultists 2 Move and attack Bandits 2: 4 vs AC 12 miss Squad of Cultists 3 Move and attack Bandits 1: 14 vs AC 12: 20hp: 25/45 Squad of Cultists 4 Move and attack Bandits 2: 9 vs AC 12: miss ROUND 2 Bandit Captain (paralysed) Will save: 9 fail Cult Fanatic Maintain Concentration, Inflict Wounds vs Bandits 2: 22 vs AC 12: 8hp (7/45) Mina: Crossbow vs Bandits 2 15 vs AC 12: 8hp: squad becomes 2 bloodied bandits. Bonus Barbican: Dodge Squad of Bandits 1 (25/45): Complete portal Squad of Bandits 3 Attack Barbican (DIS) 7 vs AC 15, miss Ouma Jukti: Cone of Cold vs Cultists 4: CON save 15 vs DC 17: 78hp squad

Links Corey Mayo’s O Solo Mayo: http://webjudy.com/osolomayo/ Transcript links Session 0: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1eQFxhCZ8tqDql3PwmYjcwWZM-AcWQOHE3PZayNAsYi8/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 1: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EqdqyTweQpTiPuKanq7kYbkstQfMbUx5CjmYmwgyvDE/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 2: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1BJ6rM2nlHck4PTZekyKmpIKlEPOADiJgIcW4N2Koxb8/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 3: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1w4TEp_aJN-4FtEd7p9_M5Sg6TX1wWKpd9FHKtzSItKU/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 4 https://docs.google.com/document/d/11T9fnLz-pXpvO1TjnC6xxzVkdrs6JD4BbTH6hiobTgM/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 5 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1n568c4YkbsuKocfV-V0TWqrNtEpxrTAS-KXM3P9ALeI/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 6 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YnNlVXuY_8_vBHAxWPPti5q_wN-py7xzESU0VRXnX50/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 7 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xRd_qCajdPk1J51blWBEwicI5s1ooK7clxQ3wtcbcWI/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 8 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ro9GhVcPjAWSFal1sHQyCU4oVPvss3O7VlcQUSv4anw/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 9 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1YhGRF-ZUfINL8-ea2Mu3LSE9C4gMv-3O9Z5O1vaK4jY/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 10 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L--J0_zsmOtoxNXIOwcJS77KRDxbEqduNjomCRWl8xo/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 11 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Pzp5ZI6pfV0BoGjlCpB2XszX_uVIi_C_q7xeLbnsuII/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 12 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NzofrwSCc7SgKgMcUC1AhcNgfw-Q1sLv6wgqVic2z6A/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 13 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JBvJwZrNhl0NWbs0YYV5Mz01N3FY86P6z28Z65qFNWc/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 14 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UUCE_Q1j-ICt-EfzhrOECzGqsuiw8FrJvCN1oeXJuCI/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 15 https://docs.google.com/document/d/19CRry_yqe4hw0AmYD57au1MNqXhIH9rJqyXveLc1Y5I/edit?usp=sharing Chapter 16 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kZleqdp8rkFVDwkmOYlLKFatEvqDdFIr-P-PFcblvjo/edit?usp=sharing Bonus Episode 1 https://docs.google.com/document/d/1PqKhPnYeLkGOYqEFI2aE-avo0uQjEaSs5kOXCZzcyJk/edit?usp=sharing

Mina sneaks her way into Sanctum Eruptio in search of the Infernal Powder, but an unpleasant discovery awaits her. It’s all-out war between the Cult of the Great Machine and the Piperunners, with the very existence of the city at stake! Links Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1kZleqdp8rkFVDwkmOYlLKFatEvqDdFIr-P-PFcblvjo/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Blades in the Dark Twitter @TheLoneAdv Email [email protected] Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/ Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/ Circles in a circle: http://packomania.com/ Gunpowder Plot https://www.newscientist.com/article/dn4338-gunpowder-plot-would-have-devastated-london/ Beirut explosion: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-54420033 Mechanics SCENE 42: Interrupt: EVENT (from last scene and previous scene) Move away from a thread (track down the visitor) trust the intellectual +Abandon Stalemate Valerian daCosta (The Visitor) (Slide) Alphonse “Crater” Crabtree (Cutter) Israel “Flint” Locke (Lurk) Mordecai Rowe (Leech) Malory Crow (Hound) Tatiana “Tatters” Kamidev (Whisper) The Spider (Spider) FATE: Has Mina left this plane? (Has to be) yes EVENT: nature of stalemate: Lie Magic SCENE 43: Hunting for the Sanctus Eruptio Chaos Factor 2 Altered Scene: Altered (General Alert) Disguise Self time remaining: 41 minutes remaining Mina: Investigation to find the Sanctus: 14 vs DC 17: fail by 3. Fail forward (Chapter 5) with consequence. EVENT: Adjourn Victory (the attack begins, Mina is caught up in defence) DESCRIPTION: Efficiently Strong (fortified foundations, heavily guarded) FATE: Piperunners attack the Sanctus? (Very Likely) Exceptional No FATE: Gas? (50/50) Exceptional No FATE: Piperunners already in the Sanctus? (Likely) Yes SCENE 44 Assault on the Sanctus Erupto Chaos Factor 3 Altered Scene: No FATE: Do the PRs seal the doors? (Likely) no, Random Event EVENT (PC Negative) Inform Possessions FATE Disguise seen through? (50/50) no (Barbican) Mina (Bonus): Barbican attack PRs FATE Suspicions allayed? (Likely) yes FATE Barbican damaged? (50/50) no FATE into storage area? (Likely) exceptional yes FATE Jukti present? (has to be) no DESCRIPTION (PR forces) threateningly average FATE Is there an obvious entry point? (50/50) exceptional no FATE darkness? (50/50) no EVENT what are they doing? Create a representative (negotiator)

Chapter 15 Show Notes With a death-defying leap, Mina escapes the battle atop the Great Machine. But more danger is waiting for her below, standing between her and the infernal powder she so desperately seeks. More danger, but also a potential ally… Links Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/19CRry_yqe4hw0AmYD57au1MNqXhIH9rJqyXveLc1Y5I/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Fast Character Generator: https://fastcharacter.com/ Antiope character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1k5-X1AVWScVFWWfL_yExCkIzPpJYGS0UqQ1qRxCWFAA/edit?usp=sharing Free Falling: https://keisan.casio.com/exec/system/1231475371 Mechanics SCENE 39: Falling Chaos Factor 5 Altered Scene No Sending Stone Feather Fall FATE: Cadmus reply? (Very Likely) Yes FATE: As expected? (50/50) No EVENT: What does he say? (Refuse Good) FATE Does she see the cache? (Likely) No FATE Lands unchallenged? (50/50) No FATE: Cultists? (Very Likely) Yes FATE: Anything else (50/50) No, Random Event EVENT (Move Away from a Thread (Track down the Visitor) Abandon Stalemate FATE Many? (50/50) Yes (1d6+4: 8) SCENE 40: Chaos Factor 4 Altered Scene: Interrupt (Introduce a New NPC) Kill Nature (Antiope) Antiope personality rolls 41123 C1 A3 N1 O2 E4 Mina Persuasion 5 FATE Antiope attacks cultists? (Likely) Yes Combat Initiative Antiope 11 Cultists 8 Mina 2 Round 1 Antiope (46hp) 1 hit, 3hp Cultists (1 @ 6/9, 7@ 9/9) 16hp vs Antiope, 4hp vs Mina Mina (50/54hp) Interact with Object (open bag of holding), Bonus (Barbican attack) Barbican: Rend (miss) Round 2 Antiope (30/46hp) Pack Tactics ADV: 2 hits 5 & 3 hp (Cultist 1 down), Bonus 2nd Wind, 10hp Cultists (7 @ 9/9) mis v Mina (Barbican reaction for DIS), 16hp v Antiope, 4 hp v Barbican Mina (50/54) 12hp (cultist 2 down, cultist 3 on 6hp, Bonus (Barbican attack) Barbican (17/21) 6hp (cultist 3 down) Round 3 Antiope (24/46) Pack Tactics ADV: Hit, crit: cultist 4 down, cultist 5 on 3hp Cultists: 4 v A, 4 v B, mis v A (Barbican reaction for DIS) Mina (50/54) 12 hp (5 down, cleave, 6 down) Bonus (Barbican attack) Barbican (13/21) 9hp (7 down) Round 4 Antiope (20/46) Pack Tactics ADV: crit x 2 14+7hp 8 down SCENE 41 Chaos Factor 3 Altered Scene: No Antiope motivations (UNE motivation tables) Fulfil charity Comprehend the elite Determine freedom FATE: treasure? (unlikely) no FATE does Antiope want to help? (50/50) no, random event EVENT Move away from a thread (track down the visitor) trust the intellectual (+Abandon Stalemate) Mina Persuasion (ADV) 20

Mina lays her plans against the Piperunners, but nothing can prepare her for the Hall of the Great machine. Can her desperate scheme possibly succeed, and what new city-shattering revelations lie in wait? Links Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UUCE_Q1j-ICt-EfzhrOECzGqsuiw8FrJvCN1oeXJuCI/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ RPG GNS Theory: https://cannibalhalflinggaming.com/2018/05/16/level-one-wonk-does-rpg-theory-gns/ In the Court of the Crimson King https://open.spotify.com/album/1Lzi2p6CUH156zbJTcOjNX Master of the Universe https://open.spotify.com/search/hawkwind%20master%20of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard https://open.spotify.com/artist/6XYvaoDGE0VmRt83Jss9Sn Mechanics SCENE 36: Imprisoned Chaos Factor 8 Altered Scene: altered (closely guarded) FATE: Long Rest? (Likely) Yes FATE: with Cadmus? (50/50) Yes FATE with Barbican? (50/50) Exceptional No Sleight of hand check + Guidance assisted by Cadmus (ADV) vs guard passive perception 10: 21 Create tinker’s tools Change spells: Extra spell: disguise self Change Guidance to Mage Hand Create sending stones FATE Has Mina heard of the Grand Duchess? (very likely) Exceptional Yes EVENT What has she heard? Judge Weapons SCENE 37: The Hall of the Great Machine Chaos Factor 7 Altered Scene: No FATE does Jukti travel with the group? (Very Likely) Yes FATE Many piperunners (Likely) Exceptional No FATE Cadmus? (50/50) No FATE Barbican (50/50) Yes DUNGEON Common, Discovery, Danger (Repair Station, Supplies/ Trade goods, slashing trap) FATE Many Machine Cultists at the Hall? (Likely) Yes FATE Any Piperunners in the Hall? (50/50) No FATE Very large? (Likely) Exceptional Yes FATE Too large? (Likely) Yes FATE any resistance to Mina approaching/ studying? (50/50) No FATE Does Mina understand anything she sees? (Unlikely) Exceptional No Mina Persuasion ADV from recording: Nat 20! SCENE 38 Chaos Factor 6 Altered Scene: Interrupt (Close a Thread: Track down the Infernal Powder) Malice Randomness FATE: In the Hall? Yes Mina Sleight of hand (Bag of holding) ADV from Barbican Help vs Passive Perception 11DC 10: 11 FATE: Do the Machine Cultists attack? (Very Likely) Yes (random event) EVENT NPC Positive (Jukti) Inspect Travel (Jukti sees Mina, and is watching) Mina Stealth (to cast Disguise Self unnoticed) no ADV due to Jukti’s focus: 4 Hero Point reroll: 18 Vs Jukti perception 9 success FATE did Jukti bring Mina's gun? (Very Unlikely) No FATE Jukti defeated? (50/50) Yes FATE Killed? (unlikely) No FATE Escapes? (50/50) Yes

Captured by the Piperunners, a helpless Mina and Cadmus discover the true ruthlessness of their foe, and the full terrifying scale of her master plan. Links Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1JBvJwZrNhl0NWbs0YYV5Mz01N3FY86P6z28Z65qFNWc/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Ring of Winter: http://dnd5e.wikidot.com/wondrous-items:ring-of-winter Personalities: https://www.verywellmind.com/the-big-five-personality-dimensions-2795422 Mechanics SCENE 34 Chaos Factor 7 Altered Scene: Interrupt (PC Negative) Oppress The Spiritual FATE: Cadmus hobbled by Mina? (50/50) Yes (had threatened to cut off his feet) FATE: Repurpose maintenance mechs? (Likely) No EVENT: what weapon? (Adjourn the Intellectual) FATE: Is there a CPU of the Pipes? (Likely) Yes FATE: Is the CPU the Great Machine? (Very Likely) Yes SCENE 35 Chaos Factor 8 Altered Scene: Interrupt (Move Away from a Thread - The Wedding) Attract Military FATE: Does she say why she wants to attack the city? (50/50) Yes Motivation (1d4) Fear Revenge X Altruism No Choice Revenge for what? EVENT: Stop Friendship (Betrayed) FATE: Betrayed Personally? (Unlikely) Yes How long ago? (d100) 86 years FATE Is she older than she looks? (50/50) Exceptional Yes (Ring of Winter) FATE: Does she come from the city above? Yes FATE Noble House? (50/50) Yes Fargalay Monsitario Toreth X Amberen Other

Our heroes must avoid the many dangers of the twisting tunnels of the Underpipes, but there are things far more lethal than magic-eating beetles down here. They soon come face to face with a terrible new foe, as well as a hated old one. Links Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1NzofrwSCc7SgKgMcUC1AhcNgfw-Q1sLv6wgqVic2z6A/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Names, by the Story Games Names Project: https://www.lulu.com/en/gb/shop/jason-morningstar/story-games-name-project/paperback/product-1qz67dg.html?page=1&pageSize=4 UNE: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/134163/UNE-The-Universal-NPC-Emulator-rev Mythic Deck: https://www.drivethrurpg.com/product/257195/Mythic-Game-Master-Emulator-Deck Tempting Fate: https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TemptingFate Mechanics SCENE 30 (part 2) Stealth: Mina (DIS) 10, Cadmus 17, Barbican 13 Perception Swarm (DIS): 4 SCENE 31: Investigating the pipes Chaos Factor 5 Altered Scene: Interrupt: Move away from a thread (Investigate the Whisperer’s death) Arrive Illusions (discuss Unseen: could be anyone, why a public death?) DUNGEON: Theme: Incredible Power, Unique (Faction Base), Discovery (Book/ scroll/ map): map of the Underpipes DESCRIPTION Innocently Poor FATE: Piperunners? (Likely) Yes, random event NPC Positive (Piperunners) Heal Suffering (Cadmus is back!) FATE Captured? (50/50) Exceptional yes (many enemies, disarmed) SCENE 32 Interrogation Chaos Factor 6 Altered Scene: no FATE: Piperunners hostile? (Likely) No, random event: Ambiguous Event: Extravagance Pain (flayed Hydroclanner) UNE: Lively crone (comparable power). Motivation: communicate disbelief, conceive propaganda, complete dissonance. Name: Ouma Jukti EVENT: why enmity with the surface? Bestow Assist FATE vs rival factions? (50/50) no (vs the surface) SCENE 33 Standoff Chaos Factor 7 Altered Scene: Interrupt: NPC Action (Machine Cultists) Antagonise Pleasures (they arrive mid discussion) EVENT: Why do they need healing? Betray Tension (conflict with other factions) Mina Investigation: Barrels, Machine Cultists: +6 vs DC 10: 15 FATE: Does she provide Infernal Powder source? (Very Unlikely) No FATE: Do the machine cultists recognise Mina? (50/50) Yes FATE: Do they want her dead? (50/50) Yes FATE: Does Jukti want her alive? (50/50) Yes FATE: Does this cause conflict between the Piperunners and the Cultists? (50/50) Yes FATE: Is their alliance an uneasy one? (50/50) Exceptional Yes FATE: Do the cultists back down? (Likely) Exceptional Yes

Mina and Cadmus have identified a way to reach the Underpipes, hidden beneath the gladiatorial Blood Pits of Kyras. Surely their attempt to sneak in unnoticed will go smoothly, and if they do make it down there, there’ll be nothing awful waiting for them. Right? Links Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Pzp5ZI6pfV0BoGjlCpB2XszX_uVIi_C_q7xeLbnsuII/edit?usp=sharing All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ Mina character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/18h9OxkNRKUGTruL1-28aPTOj08Q3fDkzIKO_j9Fddlo/edit Cadmus character sheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/10sZNAf3091QwA2sXI9volk5vzAyUZfKp2WwsgPdUets/edit Level Up: https://www.levelup5e.com/ 13th Age: https://pelgranepress.com/product-category/d20-games/archmage-engine/13th-age/ 13th Age Glorantha: https://www.chaosium.com/13th-age-glorantha-hardcover/#:~:text=For%20Game%20Masters%2C%2013th%20Age%20Glorantha%20includes%3A&text=More%20than%2060%20pages%20of,ve%20never%20heard%20of%20Glorantha. 5e Houserules: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1OGLf6d8k5nQEt2bBWRxScjMzhs2LTm8h7XcwTS8Pqs8/edit Mechanics SCENE 28: Beneath the Blood Pits Chaos Factor 6 Altered Scene: No FATE Healing potions (Very Unlikely) No, Event EVENT Introduce New NPC Intolerance the Innocent (Pit Master) FATE Human? (50/50) No (Cave Ogre) FATE Hostile to Cadmus? (50/50) Yes FATE Does he attack? (Very Likely) No Persuasion/ Deception at DIS vs WIS 10 (-1) 10 success Deception -1 vs WIS 10 (-1) 4 failure Cave Ogre (Pit Master Glugark) (2 x CR 2) AC12 HP 119 (14d10+42, bloodied 59) Speed 40 ft. STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA 19 (+4) 8 (–1) 16 (+3) v 10 (+0) 10 (+0) 8 (–1) Proficiency +2; Maneuver DC 14 Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 10 Languages Common, Giant Traits Elite Recovery. At the end of each of its turns while bloodied, the ogre can end one condition or effect on itself. It can do this even when unconscious or incapacitated. Actions Greatclub. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 13 (2d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage, and if the target is a Medium or smaller creature, it makes a DC 14 Strength saving throw, falling prone on a failure. Sweeping Strike. Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft., all creatures within 5 feet. Hit: 8 (1d8 + 4) bludgeoning damage, and if the target is a Medium or smaller creature, it makes a DC 14 Strength saving throw. On a failure, it is pushed 10 feet away from the ogre. Javelin. Melee or Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, reach 5 ft. or range 30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 11 (2d6 + 4) piercing damage. Rock (Only when Bloodied). Ranged Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, range 30/120 ft., one target. Hit: 14 (3d6 + 4) bludgeoning damage, and if the target is a Medium or smaller creature, it makes a DC 14 Strength saving throw, falling prone on a failure. Reactions (only when Bloodied) Reflexive Swat. When a creature the ogre can see within 5 feet hits it with a melee attack, the ogre makes a greatclub attack against it. Furious Smash (1/Day). When it takes damage or is targeted by a spell, the cave ogre roars and smashes the ground, a tree, or another object, sending debris flying in a 30-foot radius around the ogre. Each creature in the area makes a DC 14 Dexterity saving throw, taking 10 (3d6) bludgeoning damage on a failed save or half damage on a success. Until the debris is cleared, the area becomes difficult terrain, which the cave ogre ignores. Combat tactics Against foes it deems small and weak, the ogre charges into a group and uses its Sweeping Strike. It attacks a lone foe, or one that has proven itself to be a threat, with its greatclub. Initiative: Mina 20 Glugark 17 Cadmus 5 ROUND 1 Mina (54/54) Sharpshooter (-5/ +10): +2 vs AC 12: 8 Miss, Move away, Bonus: Barbican attack Barbican (21/21) Move forward, Rend +6 vs AC 12: 9 miss Glugark (119/ 119): Move forward, Greatclub vs Barbican: +6 vs AC 15: 25 hit 13 hp (8/21), Prone Cadmus (28/28) Bless Mina, Barbican, Cadmus (+1d4 attacks/ saves) ROUND 2 Mina (54/54) Sharpshooter (-5/ +10): +2 +1 (Bless) vs AC 12: 15 Hit, 38hp (81/119) Bonus: Barbican repair Barbican (8/21) Repair (⅓) 9hp (17/21) Stand from prone Glugark (81/119) Move, Sweeping Strike (Mina, Barbican), DIS vs Mina 17 (Miss), 14 vs Barbican (Miss) Cadmus (28/28) Sacred Flame DEX save DC 12: 15 miss, move out of reach ROUND 3 Mina (54/54) Sharpshooter (-5/ +10): +2 +3 vs AC 12: 19 Hit, 48hp (33/119 bloodied) Reaction: Furious Smash: Dex save DC 14 Mina: 16 5hp (49/54), Barbican 7 10hp (7/21), Cadmus 22 5hp (23/28), 30ft radius is Difficult Terrain Bonus Barbican repair Barbican (7/21) Repair (⅔) 7 hp (14/21) Glugark (33/119) Sweeping Strike (Mina, Barbican, Cadmus) DIS vs Mina 12 miss, 9 vs Barbican miss, 21 vs Cadmus, hit 8hp (20/28), fail STR save, pushed 10ft Cadmus (20/28): move to distract, Help action (Mina) FATE: Attract attention? (50/50) Yes Rounds until reinforcements? 1d4+2: 5 ROUND 4 Mina (49/54) Sharpshooter (-5/ +10): +2 +2 vs AC 12 ADV: 22 hit 46

Mina is given an unwelcome decision to make by an even more unwelcome visitor, and we learn more about the death of her father. With a decision reached, Mina and Cadmus start to lay their plans, but they are interrupted by an atrocity no-one could have predicted. Links Transcript https://docs.google.com/document/d/1L--J0_zsmOtoxNXIOwcJS77KRDxbEqduNjomCRWl8xo/edit?usp=sharing Ranks of peerage: https://debretts.com/peerage/ranks-and-privileges-of-the-peerage/ Mechanics SCENE 25: The Visitor Returns Chaos Factor 9 Altered Scene: Altered (the visitor is a magical projection) Mina: Mending FATE does V know who Cadmus is? (Likely) yes FATE does V know about the wedding plan? (50/50) no DESCRIPTION Verdict on death of the Whisperer: naturally aromatic EVENT What does he want? Event Focus NPC Action (The Underpipes) Carry Riches) The trail of the Infernal powder X Something she found there Take something down there Get something out of there Leverage? Praise News SCENE 26: Decision time Chaos Factor 8 Altered Scene: altered (innkeeper throws them out) EVENT: how does Mina think Alexis was involved in Baron Montisario’s death? Intolerance the Intellectual FATE: murdered by ‘lone gunman’? (50/50) Yes SCENE 27: Prepping for the Underpipes Chaos Factor 7 Altered Scene: Interrupt NPC Positive (Machine Cultists) Praise Fears FATE Certes? (likely) No FATE Key? (50/50) Yes 1d6: 1 Ankhra (terrorist attack on the Monastery of Thrice-Blessed Ankhra) FATE Attackers at the scene? (Unlikely) No FATE Suicide bombers? (50/50) Yes FATE Survivors? Yes FATE Describe attackers? (50/50) Yes FATE: is Cadmus willing to return to the Underpipes? (Likely) Exceptional Yes How did Cadmus enter the Underpipes? Triumph Tactics (below the Blood Pits) How did Cadmus find out about the entrance? Overthrow Misfortune Entrance description: Gladly Young FATE: Did Antiope escape? (50/50) Yes

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

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)

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 oute

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 o

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)

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)

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

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

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.hipstersan

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/