Fiffin

"Is that all? Surely you can do better!" their leader crows as you attack from all sides, deflecting sword and arrow with sharp gestures summoning sheets of rock and gusts of wind. Despite the bravado, each parry he makes pushes him more and more offbalance. He pauses and looks to the entrance, attention drawn to the fury of the cyclops. "It seems our time is at an end. Enjoy the company of that fool." he sneers, voice dripping with disdain. With a swift incantation and flourish of his hands, the mage conjures galeforce winds to take flight, sailing backwards into the dark tunnels after the cultists.  

Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have destroyed the dungeon core. The floor guardian approaches. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have one free invoke left on this aspect. and has Mephit KnowledgeYou recall hearing more about these creatures, and how best to deal with them. You have one free invoke on this aspect.. He suffers from Mental FatigueThis is a minor consequence from the psychic attack of smoke mephits. It lasts for one full scene after treatment. and Slow PetrificationYou are fighting off a hostile magic that constricts your chest and dulls your movements. I have one free invoke on this aspect.. Myria is Sharp EyedYour eyes are adjusting to the cavern gloom. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect.. She also Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. He was showered in Liquid LuckYou are covered in the glowing lifeblood of the dungeon core. Every monster wants you dead, but everything you do turns to gold: add +1 to all rolls for the remainder of the quest.. I have three fate points left in this scene.  Conflict: The Beating Heart  Dark Mage+5 Provoke, Shoot +4 Athletics, Lore, Will +3 Investigate, Notice, Physique, Stealth +2 Contacts, Deceive, Empathy, Fight, Resources +1 Anything Else Relentless Training Mastery of Wind and Stone Mephit Summoner Counterspell: Once per quest, I can force a single magical action to fail without a roll. This does not apply to rituals and spells that take time to cast. Escape Plan: Once per quest, if I would get taken out, I can spend a fate point to concede instead. CultistsQuartet: Knife and Shadow +4 Duo: Knife and Shadow +3 Solo: Knife and Shadow +2 Vahn Markus Olenna Dungeon Core Sisyphus   ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙💙💙💙💙 (2:) (4:) (6:) ❤️❤️/❤️❤️/❤️🖤/🖤🖤 ❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤 ❤️❤️❤️ & 🖤🖤🖤 (2: Mental Fatigue, 6: Slow Petrification) ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤🖤🖤 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤 🤍🤍🤍🤍🤍🖤 Narratively all turns occur roughly at the same time and their mechanics are resolved at the end of the round. Therefore any boosts earned or advantages created are unavailable until the following round. Any action taken by intruders that would draw attention fills the Sisyphus track by one. Some examples include making noise, moving around with lights, or a single round of combat. The guardian will interrupt whatever the party is doing once the track is filled. Vahn's strikes tear through the weakened core, and the last of its life ebbs into the surrounding pool. The cultists flee into the tunnels as you deal with their leader, while the shuddering tread of an approaching giant becomes unmistakable - Sisyphus is nearly upon you.

One of the cultists falls to your arrows - his vessel is dashed against the stones, its contents flowing into the water. Their leader narrows his eyes and makes a long slicing motion with one arm, before returning his attention to deflecting Myria's whirling bladestorm. A thin shimmering splits the distance in an instant, catching Markus full in the chest and throwing him backwards. The cartographer tumbles over into the shallow water, struggling to rise.      

Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have discovered the dungeon core, its chamber fully lit by summoned magelight. The guardian's attention is elsewhere and he has yet to notice you. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect. and has Mephit KnowledgeYou recall hearing more about these creatures, and how best to deal with them. You have one free invoke on this aspect.. He suffers from Mental FatigueThis is a minor consequence from the psychic attack of smoke mephits. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full scene after treatment.. Myria is Sharp EyedYour eyes are adjusting to the cavern gloom. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect.. She also Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have three fate points left in this scene.  Conflict: The Beating Heart  Dark Mage+5 Provoke, Shoot +4 Athletics, Lore, Will +3 Investigate, Notice, Physique, Stealth +2 Contacts, Deceive, Empathy, Fight, Resources +1 Anything Else Relentless Training Mastery of Wind and Stone Mephit Summoner Counterspell: Once per quest, I can force a single magical action to fail without a roll. This does not apply to rituals and spells that take time to cast. Escape Plan: Once per quest, if I would get taken out, I can spend a fate point to concede instead. CultistsQuartet: Knife and Shadow +4 Duo: Knife and Shadow +3 Solo: Knife and Shadow +2 Vahn Markus Olenna Dungeon Core +2 Sisyphus   ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙💙💙💙💙 (2:) (4:) (6:) ❤️❤️/❤️❤️/❤️❤️/❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤 ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙🖤🖤 (2: Mental Fatigue) ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤🖤🖤 💛💛💛🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤 🤍🤍🤍🤍🖤🖤 Narratively all turns occur roughly at the same time and their mechanics are resolved at the end of the round. Therefore any boosts earned or advantages created are unavailable until the following round. Any action taken by intruders that would draw attention fills the Sisyphus track by one. Some examples include making noise, moving around with lights, or a single round of combat. The guardian will interrupt whatever the party is doing once the track is filled. "Brothers!" he calls out to the men behind him, barking an order. "We have what we came for! Take it and go!" His minions seize the earthen vessels and make for darkened side passages, as the dark mage remains behind to cover their retreat. You can see his petrified arm swiftly returning to its normal state, the stone cracking and crumbling away as he flexes his fingers. A black book hangs at his side, a source of ominous power. "You dare to challenge me? Do you even know whom you face?"

Beyond, magelight illuminates a vast chamber with several side passages. Tunnel runoff collects in a shallow underground pool. The stonework here is choked with twisted vines and knotted roots, extending in all directions like an intricate web. Their tangled mass stretches throughout - rising to meet in the center, where a bulbous growth pulsates with an otherworldly energy, and the surface of the surrounding waters ripple in response. Darkrobed men circle round the dungeon core, their gaze transfixed on glowing ichor spurting slowly and unevenly from a tap driven through its side. The fluid gathers in earthen vessels below, and one man raises a cup to the flow.   "Ours at last, and without anyone the wiser!" their leader exults, momentarily distracted in his triumph.           Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have discovered the dungeon core, its chamber fully lit by summoned magelight. The guardian's attention is elsewhere and he has yet to notice you. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect. and has Mephit KnowledgeYou recall hearing more about these creatures, and how best to deal with them. You have one free invoke on this aspect.. He suffers from Mental FatigueThis is a minor consequence from the psychic attack of smoke mephits. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full scene after treatment.. Myria is Sharp EyedYour eyes are adjusting to the cavern gloom. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect.. She also Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have three fate points left in this scene.  Conflict: The Beating Heart  Dark Mage+5 Provoke, Shoot +4 Athletics, Lore, Will +3 Investigate, Notice, Physique, Stealth +2 Contacts, Deceive, Empathy, Fight, Resources +1 Anything Else Relentless Training Mastery of Wind and Stone Mephit Summoner Counterspell: Once per quest, I can force a single magical action to fail without a roll. This does not apply to rituals and spells that take time to cast. Escape Plan: Once per quest, if I would get taken out, I can spend a fate point to concede instead. CultistsQuartet: Knife and Shadow +4 Duo: Knife and Shadow +3 Solo: Knife and Shadow +2 Vahn Markus Olenna Dungeon Core +2 Sisyphus   ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙💙💙💙💙 (2:) (4:) (6:) ❤️❤️/❤️❤️/❤️❤️/❤️❤️ ❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤 ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙🖤🖤 (2: Mental Fatigue) ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤🖤🖤 💛💛💛🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤 🤍🤍🤍🤍🖤🖤 Olenna has the initiative and any action she takes within the first round is resolved instantly. Narratively all other turns occur roughly at the same time afterwards and their mechanics are resolved at the end of the round. Therefore any boosts earned or advantages created are unavailable until the following round. Any action taken by intruders that would draw attention fills the Sisyphus track by one. Some examples include making noise, moving around with lights, or a single round of combat. The guardian will interrupt whatever the party is doing once the track is filled.

The passage gradually descends, the ground beneath your feet sloping downward, guiding you deeper into the underground labyrinth.  

Myria receives no answer, and drawing closer you realize these figures are statues, each with an iron guildplate around their neck. The man closest to the archway has a hand raised in greeting and a look of complete surprise. The other two are together: one a swordsman, weapon readied and his furious expression directed past their leader; the last a seemingly desperate mage with a tearstained face, both hands pressed against her companion's shoulder as if attempting to cast a spell. The archway is empty, and leads deeper into the mines.

Surely the guardian could not protect anything hidden in such a small passage. Ignoring the scavengers, you continue between the stone columns. The humanlike figures are turned away from you, facing a giant archway in the wall.

The air grows heavy with the stench of decay as you cross underneath the table. Moldering refuse is strewn haphazardly across a stained and pitted floor, or piling at the base of stone pillars that form legs supporting the gigantic furniture. Rounding an overturned and oversized cup, you come face to face with a few hunchbacked scavengers picking through the bones; startled, the pale goblins turn and flee through a man-sized opening in the wall nearby.

With a crack of thunder, the electrical discharge of your magitech rapier tears apart the remaining summons. Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You stand on a stone ledge overlooking a vast cavern dimly lit by a fiery pit in the center. The guardian's attention is elsewhere and he has yet to notice you. Large boulders and crumbling structures scattered throughout the area provide cover from his baleful gaze. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect. and has Mephit KnowledgeYou recall hearing more about these creatures, and how best to deal with them. You have one free invoke on this aspect.. He suffers from Mental FatigueThis is a minor consequence from the psychic attack of smoke mephits. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full scene after treatment.. Myria is Sharp EyedYour eyes are adjusting to the cavern gloom. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect.. She also Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have three fate points left in this scene.  Stress Tracker  Vahn Markus Olenna Sisyphus   ❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤 ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙🖤🖤 (Minor Consequence) ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤🖤🖤 🤍🤍🤍🤍🖤🖤 You take a moment to inspect the fallen adventurer and collect the bronze guildplate as proof of his death. According to the plate his name was Tomas, sent on a routine gathering mission for the valuables found in these mines. The other three members of his party are nowhere to be seen. A path winds downward from your ledge into an area known as the Chamber of Bones. There remnants of prior meals rest atop a gigantic stone table surrounded by highbacked chairs. The cyclops is still kneeling back in his workshop, having stirred only slightly from his endeavor.

Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have entered the upper mines. This entire cavern is dimly lit by a fiery pit in the center. The guardian's attention is elsewhere and he has yet to notice you. Large boulders and crumbling structures scattered throughout the area provide cover from his baleful gaze. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect., has Mephit KnowledgeYou recall hearing more about these creatures, and how best to deal with them. You have one free invoke on this aspect., and has a boost named Push them Back from his holy water arrows. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. She provoked the imps with Come Get SomeYour plan to draw their attention might have worked a little too well. and her Fortified MindYour will is adapting to the painful mental assault. You have two free invokes on this aspect. is becoming used to their attacks. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have three fate points left in this scene.   Swaying Rope Bridge Not Safe at All Fallen Adventurer Stone Ledge Shortcut to Bats Pitch Black Mineshafts Cobwebbed Catwalk Snaking Side Passages   Chamber of Bones Oversized Furniture Remnants of Past Meals Deeper into the Mines Cyclopean Workshop Fiery Pit Blazing Heat Glittering Gemstones Mushroom Grove Giant Mushrooms Thick Swirling Mist Deeper into the Mines The summoned creatures grow more frenzied in the singleminded psychic attack on Olenna, determined to bring down their defiant quarry. Your skirmish with the imps may have gone unnoticed by the cyclops, but it seems unwise to let this continue much longer.    Conflict: Dealing with Devils  Vahn Markus Olenna Smoke MephitsSpiteful Summoned Spirits Shadows in the Dark Three Packs: Provoke +4 Will and Deceive +3 Two Packs: Provoke +4 Will and Deceive +2 One Pack: Provoke +3 Will and Deceive +1 Sisyphus   ❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤 ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙🖤🖤 (Minor) ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙💙🖤🖤🖤 ❤️❤️❤️/❤️❤️🖤/🖤🖤🖤 🤍🤍🤍🖤🖤🖤 Narratively turns occur roughly at the same time and their mechanics are resolved at the end of the round. Therefore any boosts earned or advantages created are unavailable until the following round. These spirits are immune to physical attacks, and dim light raises the difficulty of relevant tasks by one. Any action taken by intruders that would draw attention fills the Sisyphus track by one. Some examples include making noise, moving around with lights, or a single round of combat. The guardian will interrupt whatever the party is doing once the track is filled.

Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have entered the upper mines. This entire cavern is dimly lit by a fiery pit in the center. The guardian's attention is elsewhere and he has yet to notice you. Large boulders and crumbling structures scattered throughout the area provide cover from his baleful gaze. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect. and has a boost named Push them Back from his holy water arrows. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. She provoked the imps with Come Get SomeYour plan to draw their attention might have worked a little too well.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have three fate points left in this scene.   Swaying Rope Bridge Not Safe at All Fallen Adventurer Stone Ledge Shortcut to Bats Pitch Black Mineshafts Cobwebbed Catwalk Snaking Side Passages   Chamber of Bones Oversized Furniture Remnants of Past Meals Deeper into the Mines Cyclopean Workshop Fiery Pit Blazing Heat Glittering Gemstones Mushroom Grove Giant Mushrooms Thick Swirling Mist Deeper into the Mines Your foes unleash a mental onslaught that delivers sharp spikes of pain, the air crackling with malevolent energy. Blending in with the shadows, they make a difficult target for Markus. Your taunting brings the others a short reprieve, as the insulted imps cease their attack and turn as one to overwhelm you.    Conflict: Dealing with Devils  Vahn Markus Smoke MephitsSpiteful Summoned Spirits Shadows in the Dark Three Packs: Provoke +4 Will and Deceive +3 Two Packs: Provoke +4 Will and Deceive +2 One Pack: Provoke +3 Will and Deceive +1 Sisyphus   ❤️❤️❤️❤️ & 💙💙🖤🖤 ❤️❤️❤️ & 💙🖤🖤 (Minor) ❤️❤️❤️/❤️❤️🖤/🖤🖤🖤 🤍🤍🖤🖤🖤🖤 Narratively all turns occur roughly at the same time and their mechanics are resolved at the end of the round. Therefore any boosts earned or advantages created are unavailable until the following round. These spirits are immune to physical attacks, and the dim light raises the difficulty of tasks by one. Any action taken by intruders that would draw attention fills the Sisyphus track by one. Some examples include making noise, moving around with lights, or a single round of combat. The guardian will interrupt whatever the party is doing once the track is filled.

Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have entered the upper mines. This entire cavern is dimly lit by a fiery pit in the center. The guardian's attention is elsewhere and he has yet to notice you. Large boulders and crumbling structures scattered throughout the area provide cover from his baleful gaze. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect. and an unnamed boost from his knowledge of monsters. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have three fate points left in this scene.   Swaying Rope Bridge Not Safe at All Fallen Adventurer Stone Ledge Shortcut to Bats Pitch Black Mineshafts Cobwebbed Catwalk Snaking Side Passages   Chamber of Bones Oversized Furniture Remnants of Past Meals Deeper into the Mines Cyclopean Workshop Fiery Pit Blazing Heat Glittering Gemstones Mushroom Grove Giant Mushrooms Thick Swirling Mist Deeper into the Mines Your assault proves effective, banishing four of the shrieking imps. The rest descend on the party, no longer bound by whatever held them in check.    Conflict: Dealing with Devils  Smoke MephitsSpiteful Summoned Spirits Shadows in the Dark Three Packs: Provoke +4 Will and Deceive +3 Two Packs: Provoke +4 Will and Deceive +2 One Pack: Provoke +3 Will and Deceive +1 Sisyphus   ❤️❤️❤️/❤️❤️🖤/🖤🖤🖤 🤍🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤 Vahn has spent his turn. Remaining turns within the round occur roughly at the same time. These spirits are immune to physical attacks.

Flickering firelight reveals a glint of bronze on the figure, your advance slowing with the realization that the incessant humming comes from a fallen adventurerHe must have been one of the team sent to the mines before your party. One hand clutches his throat, and the other is stretched towards the bridge.. Now that you have a closer look, there are writhing shadows covering his body. Smoke billows forth from his face, curling into the shape of dancing imps. They cavort about him, a macabre display of delight over their kill. You suddenly recognize these creaturesThese are smoke mephits - winged servitors of a wind mage, their aethereal forms immune to physical attacks. As summons they are strictly bound to the wording of their invocation, and whatever instructions their master has given them since., calling back to an earlier conversation with Fin. They watch you intently but make no move - you have the initiative.

Vahn feels an absence, as if the spirit of Aku were distracted, and his silent prayer goes unanswered. Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have entered the upper mines. This entire cavern is dimly lit by a fiery pit in the center. The guardian's attention is elsewhere and he has yet to notice you. Large boulders and crumbling structures scattered throughout the area provide cover from his baleful gaze. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect.. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have four fate points left in this scene and a boost called Sleeptooth Poisoning.   Swaying Rope Bridge Yea, Looks Safe Strange Humming Stone Ledge Shortcut to Bats Pitch Black Mineshafts Cobwebbed Catwalk Snaking Side Passages   Chamber of Bones Oversized Furniture Remnants of Past Meals Deeper into the Mines Cyclopean Workshop Fiery Pit Blazing Heat Glittering Gemstones Mushroom Grove Giant Mushrooms Thick Swirling Mist Deeper into the Mines In the end, you avoid descending into the center and follow the ledge circling the chamber. A wide chasm separates you and the ramp leading down, its gap spanned by a rope bridge. The worn wooden planks creak and groan with every step, but they hold, and you carefully make your way forward. The humming grows louder when the rest of your party is only halfway across. A figure appears slumped against the wall on the shadowy ledge ahead.    Overcome: Something Amiss  Choose someone to lead the way - whoever crosses first must overcome Notice +4 to recognize the imminent danger. Other party members may provide teamwork or create advantages. Lighting torches at any point will lower the difficulty to +3 but fills the aggression track by one.

Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have entered the upper mines. This entire cavern is dimly lit by a fiery pit in the center. The guardian's attention is elsewhere and he has yet to notice you. Large boulders and crumbling structures scattered throughout the area provide cover from his baleful gaze. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect.. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have four fate points left in this scene and a boost called Sleeptooth Poisoning.   Swaying Rope Bridge Yea, This Looks Safe Strange Humming Sound Stone Ledge Shortcut to Bats Pitch Black Mineshafts Cobwebbed Catwalk Dark Side Passages Piled Dirt Mounds Chamber of Bones Oversized Furniture Remnants of Past Meals Deeper into the Mines Cyclopean Workshop Fiery Pit Blazing Heat Glittering Gemstones Mushroom Grove Giant Mushrooms Thick Swirling Mist Deeper into the Mines Your efforts fend off the giant bats long enough to proceed without issue. Leaving them behind, you emerge onto a wide ledge that offers a sweeping view of an immense cavern. Below you a fiery pit in the center casts flickering shadows on the rugged rock walls and fills the air with smoke. A hulking figure is crouched before it - the gigantic Sisyphus, engrossed in some unknown taskWatching closely, you see Sisyphus lower one arm into the pit, retrieving its fiery contents and slathering them across the face of a massive boulder, tracing some pattern along its surface with a blackened thumb. He appraises the cooling results with the trained eye of an artisan.. He appears formidable but also completely absorbed in his own world, remaining unaware of your presence in the recesses above. Your ledge encircles the chamber, providing a vantage point to observe the scene below. Here and there are ramps leading downward, providing access to the lower levels and the center of the chamber. Strangely patterned boulders and scattered ruins provide limited cover throughout the area, potentially serving as strategic positions should the need arise. There is no sign of the dungeon core; it must rest somewhere deeper in the uncharted reaches of the mines.    Exploration and Sisyphus  This scene gives the party multiple zones to choose from, each with its own path leading downward. Toggle the spoiler above for more details! Sisyphus has an aggression track with six stress slots - any action taken by intruders that would draw his attention fills the track by one. Some examples include making noise, moving around with lights, or a single round of combat. The guardian will interrupt whatever the party is doing once the track is filled.  Dim Light and Darkness  Poor lighting raises the difficulty of all tasks by one. You can only flee or riddle in darkness - you cannot read, draw, fight, search, or cast spells on others.

Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have entered the Foul-Smelling Passage, following a Dimly Lit and Narrow Ledge with Slippery Footing leading around the Open Chasm. The guardian cannot reach this area, and a colony of Giant Bats have claimed it for themselves.  Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect.. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have four fate points left in this scene and a boost called Sleeptooth Poisoning. The passage widens, revealing a vast expanse only partially lit by sunlight filtering through cracks and fissures in the ceiling, its depths shrouded in darkness. Above you comes the fluttering of leathery wings, from creatures clinging to the stalactites or flitting between perches. The cavern is their domain, and they follow your every move with beady eyes, their screeches echoing throughout. A narrow ledge along the rim is covered in some whitish substance, its surface slick and uneven, and a foul smell assaults your senses. Loose rocks threaten to give way beneath your weight, adding to the difficulty of advancing.    Deeper into the Mines  Each adventurer must test to overcome Athletics +2 to progress without complication.   Contest: Warding off the Bats   Choose someone to shoo away your newfound friends. Each round your leader rolls for both sides, testing Provoke to overcome their Will +2. Other party members may provide teamwork with Provoke or create advantages. Continue rounds until one side wins - whoever achieves three 'victories' first.

As you approach the rotting timbers that frame the large gap in the hillside, the evidence of recent activity becomes apparent. There are fresh tracks leading inside - a group of four, maybe five. The mines are typically frequented by smaller parties to avoid alerting the guardian. Scene: Mines of Sisyphus You have entered the mines. The guardian cannot reach this area. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect.. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have four fate points left in this scene and a boost called Sleeptooth Poisoning.   Foul-Smelling Passage Narrow Ledge, Slippery Footing Open Chasm, Dimly Lit Giant Bat Colony Main Gallery Exit to Surface Large Cavern, Dimly Lit Mining Supplies Cramped Tunnels Pitch Black Twists and Turns Dry Heat, Dirt Mounds Stepping through the entrance, you find yourself in a cavernous hall. The ceiling stretches high above, supported by two massive stone columns that add an imposing presence to the space. The sunlight behind you casts a muted glow that illuminates the chamber. The air carries the scent of wood, earth, and the faint tang of minerals.  The passages leading deeper into the mines are too small for the guardian to wander through, so the Guild has set aside one section of this chamber for storage and preparation. Crates, sacks, barrels, and casks are all haphazardly arranged, holding provisions and supplies. A rack displays an assortment of tools - rows of picks and shovels stand ready for excavation work, their handles worn from use, and crude ladders lean against the wall.    Exploration  This scene offers the party multiple zones to choose from and explore further. Toggle the spoiler above for more details!

Olenna holds up a fist at the sound of an approaching patrol, then silently urges everyone off the path and into the undergrowth - narrowly avoiding a dozen goblins. Only afterwards do you feel something tugging at your clothes and pricking the skin. Your eyes focus in the dim light, and discover yourselves hidden among brambles with sharp crimson barbs. "Gallowbrush" mutters Vahn in disgust. You recall it now - also known as Sleeptooth, for the thorny briar has a lethargic effect on anyone unfortunate enough to be caught in it. There is a growing drowsiness, and you fight your way free of the bramble. Despite the minor setback, your combined expertise leads you from the gnarled wood without alerting its denizens. Scene: Surface Ruins You are on the second floor of the Tower and remain in the full light of day. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect.. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have four fate points left in this scene and a boost called Sleeptooth Poisoning.   Ancient Graveyard Road to the Watchtower Stone Memorials Gravesbloom Shamblers Forgotten Remnants Echoes of the Past Forest Clearing Entrance to the Mines Gnarled Wood Dense Canopy Winding Trails Plenty of Game Unusual Herbs Scattered Goblin Dens You are in a large clearing filled with tumbledown structures in a variety of shapes and sizes. Wooden beams creak under the weight of neglect, and ivy creeps along the weathered stone walls - but these desolate remnants are just another part of the dungeon, fixed in time. Were you to attempt altering it without spells, you would later find everything returned to its rightful place... which is why the mines here are considered so valuable. The area is deserted - the gatekeepers had mentioned another party bound for the mines, but there are no signs of their presence. They must have passed through quite a while ago. This seems as good a place as any to rest for a moment, before venturing into the dark underground.

Scene: Surface Ruins You have entered the Gnarled Wood. Sunlight is dimmed by the Dense Canopy overhead, and its Winding Trails can be disorienting. Throughout the wood are Scattered Goblin Dens who have laid traps for the unwary. Unusual Herbs can be found here, and there is Plenty of Game for hunting. Markus carries vials of Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect.. Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have four fate points left in this scene. You venture deeper into the wood, following paths that twist and turn without rhyme or reason. The ancient trees create a dense canopy overhead, casting shadows that dance and sway with each gust of wind. The forest is strangely quiet despite the wildlife, and there is a nagging sense you are being watched.     Challenge: Finding Your Way   There are four tasks your party must overcome to reach the ruins safely; one for each adventurer. All tasks are against +2 difficulty. You must guide the others around goblin dens with Stealth. You must avoid poisonous undergrowth with Academics or Lore. You must watch out for hidden snares and traps with Notice. You must puzzle your way through the maze with Investigate or Lore.

Scene: Surface Ruins You have entered the second floor of the Tower and remain in the full light of day. Markus carries vials of   Murena PoisonBrewed from the poisonous flesh of a serpentlike fish. Not effective against giants, elementals, or undead. You have two free invokes on this aspect. . Myria has a pouch of Blinding PowderA pouch tightly bound with cord, fit to burst. Filled with powdered glass, sand, or even metal shavings, it can be slung at your enemy. You have one free invoke on this aspect. and she Robbed a MerchantYou roughed up a crooked merchant and stole his goods. He totally had it coming, but you'll still have to lie low for a while. I have one free invoke on this aspect. It lasts for one full quest after The Beating Heart. back in the market. Olenna has a flask of Blue HasteThis liquor has a sharp and fruity flavor. Consume to gain +1 boost to any physical action. and a dingy bottle labeled Universal Solvent"Dissolves any adhesive, softening even the hardest Materials!" "Loosens stiff Joints and lightens Heavy limbs!" "Guaranteed Safe and Effective!" A dubious cure for petrification.. Vahn has  seen Spirit VisionsVahn's farsight has granted him vague and blurred visions of the gemstone mines. You have one free invoke on this aspect. but Aku Demands TributeYour mischievous patron desires sparkling tribute befitting its status. I have one free invoke on this aspect. in return. I have four fate points left in this scene.   Ancient Graveyard Road to the Ruins Stone Memorials Gravesbloom Shamblers Stone Watchtower Tall Landmark Forest Clearing Stairs to First Floor Gnarled Wood Winding Trails Plenty of Game Scattered Goblin Dens Ascending the stairs to the second floor, you are greeted by a slight breeze carrying an earthy scent and sounds of the wilderness, before emerging within the familiar ruin of a crumbling watchtower covered in creeping ivy. Despite its manmade appearance, this place is a fixed part of the dungeon - the surrounding forest never encroaching on its clearing. The stones looming over you form a distinct landmark that is easily visible from a distance, and a useful reference for adventurers. A stone road from the clearing leads directly toward your destination, but also into the area Lex warned you about.    Exploration  This scene offers the party multiple zones to choose from and explore further. Toggle the spoiler above for more details!

Your steps echo among the empty stone halls. These catacombs are dimly lit by everburning torches that give off no smoke or heat, and their dancing flames cast eerie shadows on the rough-hewn stone. Several interconnected passages or chambers branch off from the main corridor, and you can hear the distant sounds of dripping water. Despite the gloom, this area is generally considered safe. Smaller creatures may lurk in the shadowy corners, but with no core left to spawn monsters, many adventurers use the first floor as a place to regroup and rest between forays into the higher floors of the Tower. You find one such party waiting at the foot of the stairs leading up to the second floor.   "..." Their leader coolly regards your approach. There is a flicker of recognition in his eyes upon sighting Markus, and the swordsman nods his head in greeting.

You meet with the others later that afternoon outside the Tower of Athena. The gatekeepers there belong to your Guild; however instead of guarding the entrance you find them lounging about outside, playing cards and passing around a wine bottle. Some appear to be quite drunk, slurring their words. "Heading in, then?" calls out one of them cheerfully. He examines your guildplate and grunts with surprise. "Another group for the mines? Well, don't trip over each other." he says, shrugging and waving you onwards to the dungeon. The rest of them raise their cups and make a toast to your success.

The briefing comes to a close. Your guildplate grows warm, a sign that comes from having accepted the quest. Weighing the pros and cons of either approach, your party eventually follows Olenna's lead - deciding the forest ruins should be a simpler task than navigating ancient passages beneath the city. You descend the stairs into the Guild's common room. This early only a few mages are there, skipping Academy classes. The streets outside are filled with the sounds of merchants hawking wares, smiths hammering away at their forges, people going about their daily business - and the guards have dispersed, for now.     Preparation   You have a few hours to prepare for the upcoming Climb. You can visit a contact, browse the market, check the library, or handle some other small matter.

Rolia considers the group, gauging your reactions. "Yes, that about sums it up." she replies to Myria. "You can reach the mines through the second floor or the underwarrens. Whatever trouble there may be will depend on your approach - I'm sure by now you have some idea of what to expect from either." She raises an eyebrow at Olenna. "Sisyphus stalks the mine itself, and cannot leave its halls. The cyclops will begin hunting once alerted to your presence - try to avoid anything that would give yourselves away. Flee into the smaller tunnels if it sees you. Find the core and put an end to this!"