Ascension - Merchant's Guild

Game Master bbangerter

Cliff Face


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Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

Cormick moves back into the office area, looking through the partialy burnt papers and other documents in the room.

While looking through items in the room, he is also thinking about the demons and who brought/sent them here.

kn Arcana: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (15) + 12 = 27

Did the demons disapper after they where killed, indicating a summoning? Or did they remain, indicating a calling via a gate or partal spell? How powerfull of an individual would be needed to do this? That type of thinking / mental exercise.

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On Going Effects: Heroism, 45 min; Honeyed Tongue, 60 min; Message (Party), 160 ft, 60 min;


Demon corpses are still there. Add 2 Mwk longsword to the loot.

For these particular creatures a wizard or cleric of strong will and power could have called them. 7th+ level

If the succubus was gated in as well then someone of notably strong ability is behind it. 11th+ level. Several wizards of the tower could manage it, though it seems more likely they'd involve themselves with devils over demons.

You've also heard there of a retired wizard, one time adventurer, living as a hermit on the islands of Ioso who might manage it. Not much is known about her as she discourages visitors.

Outside of the empire there is the mage-king of the Haedron's, but that is quite some distance to the west.

Other possibilities would be a group ritual, but such a practice would be dangerous. If the creatures were summoned in such a manner it is unlikely any involved would be well enough known to draw public attention, and just as likely then that none would have the power to control such creatures.

As Cormick looks through the documents all but one of the unburned pages are that of day to day government affairs. Tax rates and revenues. Budget information for the city guard and other government projects.

The remaining page contains writing in a stylish script of unknown tongue, though you believe it is probably draconic.

Cindy, single floor building, but assuming then you head to the only other room, Lyetia's bedroom.
The bedroom of the governor's secretary is fairly plain. Her clothes from the party as strewn across the bed. A small wardrobe sits in one corner. Under the bed is a small iron bound chest.

Aerin then exploring the main room with the guards.
The main room contains a small table and a couple of chairs. Cupboards contain food items, dried fruits and meats, nuts, and a fresh block of cheese. Plus two bottles of wine.


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

Cindy will cast Detect Magic and study the room. She will look for clues and will investigate both the wardrobe and the iron bound chest.


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

Cormick whispers to the others in the adjoining rooms, "Miss Cindy, can you read the draconic languages? I have found an out of place piece of paper with something other than the day to day affairs."

Cormick continues to speak, but loudly so the other can hear, as they continue their searching, "I know I am not the most well versed in magical arts, but if these demons did not disappear or melt away, doesn't that indicate a very powerful spell caster is involved with this whole dangerous business?

---------------------------------
On Going Effects: Heroism, 40 min; Honeyed Tongue, 30 min; Message (Party), 160 ft, 30 min;


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

Responding to Cormick Cinday says No, I do not speak it natively, but if I prepare I will be able to read it in the morning.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

via message I am quite fluent in that language so no need to wast magic.

I am going to go around the house to see if i find anything interesting while the guards finish exploring the rest of the house inside.. I'll yell if i need help she says walking out


Nothing on or in the wardrobe emanates anything magical. The chest itself is emitting a moderate aura of evocation.

Ignoring the document for the moment, Aerin scouts the outside of the house and finds a cellar door in the back leading down into a small room with a few sacks and small barrels lining the back wall.


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

Cormick will look through the desk for anything interesting, even casting a Detect Magic incase some goodie is squirreled away in the desk.

---------------------------------
On Going Effects: Heroism, 40 min; Honeyed Tongue, 30 min; Message (Party), 160 ft, 30 min; Detect Magic;


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

Cindy pulls the chest out from under the bed and brings the entire chest into the main room. Found this. Might be trapped.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

DM:
aerin will take her time to look for a secret stash or anything that looks out of place/ ordinary while casting Detect Magic


As Cormick scans the desk for magical auras, he uncovers and inkwell sitting in the drawer that is giving off a weak aura of conjuration.

Aerin:

No magical aura's emanate from the cellar, though in going through the items you do "uncover" a scroll case.


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

Cormick snags up the inkwell and carries it and the draconic paper to where Cindy is at, studying the object with this detection spell as he walks.

Spellcraft, inkwell: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 12 + 2 = 30

"Look at what I found in the office, not sure what it is just yet, but it looks interesting," he says has he nears Cindy with the inkwell in hand.

"Let me take a look at that chest," as he shifts his arcane sight to the chest while the spells duration continues.

Spellcraft, chest: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 12 + 2 = 32

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On Going Effects: Heroism, 40 min; Honeyed Tongue, 30 min; Message (Party), 160 ft, 30 min; Detect Magic;


The inkwell is endless. Regardless of how many times you dip a quill into it it will never run out. The particulars of the magic will not allow you to pour and endless amount of ink into another container however. Price 500gp, or sell for half.

The chest will erupt in an explosion of fire if opened. DC25 disable device to by pass or a successful dispel magic.


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

"Well there is a magical trap on this chest. Let me take it outside where there is a little more room incase something goes wrong."

He carefully picks up the chest and carries it outside, where Cormick will attempt to disable the trap.

Once outside and the area is cleared, retrieves his lockpicks from this vest and casts Bestow Insight on himself and begins to work.

Disable device: 1d20 + 9 + 4 + 2 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 9 + 4 + 2 + 3 = 28
Skill, Magic Lockpicks(Competence), Heroism(Morale), Bestow Insight(Insight)

Once complete, he steps back 35 feet, and cast Open/Close on the chest, fliping the chest top open.

On the off chance that the chest is locked also, here is a disable device to unlock the chest.
Disable device: 1d20 + 9 + 4 + 2 + 3 ⇒ (7) + 9 + 4 + 2 + 3 = 25
Skill, Magic Lockpicks(Competence), Heroism(Morale), Bestow Insight(Insight)

----------------------------
On Going Effects: Heroism, 40 min; Honeyed Tongue, 30 min; Message (Party), 160 ft, 30 min; Bestow Insight, +3 Disable Device, 6 min; Detect Magic;


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

Cindy offers guidance for each check.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

Found something she thinks to herself as she comes back toward the party with her find


Inside the chest is a bag of coins and gems. 4000gp worth

Also in the chest is a wand of...
Spellcraft Cormick: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (1) + 12 = 13
Spellcraft Cindy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14
Spellcraft Aerin: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17
decompose corpse. 8 charges remaining

Aerin returns with a scroll case from the cellar.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

ok so we have found a bunch of things. How about exaining them ? or should we bring everything back to the govenor's mansion ? she says


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

Cormick looks to the guardsmen, "You men should great heroism and bravery in helping defeat these two demons. I am saddened and releaved that you only suffered a few burns and not a horrific death. Would you wo go secure a cart and prepare to bring thier beast's bodies back to the govenor's mansion, please? You others go secure the outside parameter.

Bluff, Diplomacy: 1d20 + 21 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 21 + 2 = 42
Bluff, Diplomacy (Honeyed Tongue): 1d20 + 21 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 21 + 2 = 41

Silver Tongued You can shift a creature's attitude by three steps with Diplomacy.

If the do as instructed, Cormick will hand over the draconic note to Aerin once they are out of sight.

----------------------------
On Going Effects: Heroism, 30 min; Honeyed Tongue, 20 min; Message (Party), 160 ft, 20 min; Bestow Insight, +3 Disable Device, 5 min;


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

And aerin will read it along with the other scrolls


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

Cindy will ask about what Aerin found at the governor's house once they are in private. And to be safer she will do so through the message spell.


The guards nod to Cormick begin to carry out his instructions.

The paper in draconic reads:

We passed through the saddle two days ago and took the settlement with ease. None escaped to give alarm. These people are indeed weak and frail. My warriors thirst for battle and await your further instructions.

There is no indication of how old the message is.

Of the other papers and scroll case Aerin retrieved, one is a document giving off an aura of transmutation, bearing the official seal of the tower and instructing governor Alding to send a small contingent of troops to the pass to Gumlat. The scroll case contains two scrolls of 'Secret Page'.


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

These scrolls of Secret Page makes me want to look through everything again looking for secret pages. Is there a sure way to do that? I believe a Detect Magic spell would reveal the presence but not content of such a page. But it is not a witch spell so am not sure. Cindy will cast Detect Magic and begin to scan the room again.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

Only a dispel Magic will do Cindy a simple Detect magic won't do. But from what we can see here this is an elaborate case of misdirection and treachery in order for those who took over Gumlat to consolidate their holdings. We should report these finds at once. This is circumstantial evidence that the secretary was in ligue with outside interest.


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

"Yes, Detect Magic will help us determine if a page is under the affects of magic, which would include a casting of Secret Page. But only the special word or a successful casting of Dispel Magic would reveal the true content of the page. I have heard also that high masters of magic can use True Seeing cast in combination with Comprehend Languages to reveal the pages content, would also work."

"I did not detect any other magical auras in the office when I checked earlier, but I could have missed something."

"I don't even think a casting of the Identify spell would reveal the special word, as it is not a command word. Until now, I had never thought much of the Secret Page spell, but I can see many possible uses for such a spell."


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

Well, it seems you have two scrolls to consider with. Cindy says with a smile.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

It is only a dispel magic or nothing. So not much we can do for the moment. How about going back then? My body is still in a world of hurt and i could use the rest.


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

"Yes, lets go back with the evidence and bodies. I unfortunately will not have anymore arcane powers to heal you until we have rested some." Cormick says sadly.

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On Going Effects: Heroism, 20 min; Honeyed Tongue, 10 min; Message (Party), 160 ft, 10 min;


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

Cindy makes a final scan of the place using Detect Magic to make sure none of the writings radiate even the dimmest of magics and the agrees to head back.


With the aid of a cart the two dead guardsmen are brought back to the governor's mansion. Governor Alding's face is impassive as what was found as Lyetia's home is related to him.
Any particular details you want omitted or embellished on? Will add more info and conversation depending on what you do/don't do here.

With an undertone of anger, "That treachorous woman has worked for me for several years now. There is no telling for certain with whom and how deep or wide spread her lying influence has reached. What you found at her home, for the time being at least, must be kept hidden from the public. Now about those supplies you asked for, provide me a list of what you need and I will see it is acquired."
Let's go with 4000gp worth of items (adamantine arrows or the like), wands, scrolls, potions. If there are other specific items don't hesitate to ask for those either.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

we could grab scroll of dispel magic for the secret page

There is definitely a plot to keep you distracted with problems in order to buy time for those in Grumlat to fortify their holding on the place. But it also seems like they want to increase their gains on Coran


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

I do not think we have found a page that we think has Secret Page cast on it yet. Its just that finding two scrolls of the spell has made me suspicious that other, potentially more important writing, could be hidden with the spell.


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)
GM Ascension wrote:

With the aid of a cart the two dead guardsmen are brought back to the governor's mansion. Governor Alding's face is impassive as what was found as Lyetia's home is related to him.

Any particular details you want omitted or embellished on? Will add more info and conversation depending on what you do/don't do here.

With an undertone of anger, "That treachorous woman has worked for me for several years now. There is no telling for certain with whom and how deep or wide spread her lying influence has reached. What you found at her home, for the time being at least, must be kept hidden from the public. Now about those supplies you asked for, provide me a list of what you need and I will see it is acquired."
Let's go with 4000gp worth of items (adamantine arrows or the like), wands, scrolls, potions. If there are other specific items don't hesitate to ask for those either.

Lets make sure we all have cold iron weapons with this purchase. Scrolls of Dispel Magic sound good too. Weapon Blanches are the way to go for Adamantine arrows. Maybe some way to align weapons to good as well. What we hunt can drain levels so protection from that is good. Plus a way to repair the damage is smart. Also as more powerful demons have SR its better to try to buff us than do de-buff them. Lets get our list together.


Governor Alding continues. "The saddle? That could refer to one of several locations nearby, assuming they are referring to the more well known areas that are used as passes. There is one to the north and east that is used as a trade route to some of the barbarian tribes. It's four days travel from here. There is also one to the south and west into the Chaggath spine. It isn't so much a used route of any kind as it is a well known landmark. Generally those fool hardy enough to want to test their skill against various creatures that live in the mountains. This second location is about three days journey from here."


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

These locations should be investigated on the assumption that some may be out of our control she says softly


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

Governor, can you send men to one of the locations while we check the other?


Governor Alding is quick to respond, "Absolutely. I can also send a couple of rangers with you if you'd like. Which of the two locations would you like to investigate? I'll also arrange for a couple of feather tokens so you can give me an update without the several days travel time to return."

Unless there is anything else, make your purchases, add two bird feather tokens as well, then rest till morning.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

Send us to the location you are most worried about she says


"I will make a call to arms, and should have a group of 100 men available in about a days time, ready to head to either location as called for."

The Governor equivocates on making a decision which location to send you though, "If the succubus has allied itself with something in the mountains, it is more likely to be something monstrous. If towards the barbarian tribes, if we assume one tribe that could be fifty to one hundred warriors, shaman, and druids. Of those two which do you feel you are better equipped to deal with or hinder till the cavalry can arrive?"


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

I think that the worst case would be it allied with the barbarians that took over Grumlat and trying to disrupt and retaliation we could mount. So i would say we head there.


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

"I suggest we head to the farther location, so the troops can arrive at the closer location at the same time as our arrival."


F Half Orc (Mystic) Scarred Witch Doctor 7 Hp 50/85 AC 19 (22) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +7)

I speak for the Mountains. I am better suited to fighting fewer foes that are more powerful.


Two in favor of the farther, possible barbarian incursion, one for the mountains. Heading to the farther location then.

Governor Alding arranges for two scouts to meet up with you in the morning, a man and a woman. Each wears leather armor, a short blade, and carries a longbow. Their manner suggests they are both skilled trackers and hunters.

They introduce themselves as Artus and Yaj.

With horses loaned from the governor the travel is swift and the group arrives in the area in the later afternoon of the third day. Artus points out the saddle in the distance, still a couple hours away. It could be reached with perhaps an hour of day light still remaining. The saddle rests between two tall hills spiked with jagged rocks and thick with pine. A clearly worn path snaking up over the top of it.

Where the party now sits astride their horses taking a look at the landscape ahead, several farm houses are scattered between here and the tree line at the base of the hills.

Artus and Yaj turn to the group, "How shall we proceed then?"

Just to give a feel for their skill level, both are 4th level rangers with the archery combat style.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

Aerin will need a few CLW in the morning please :)

I'll go scout ahead while you all set up watch here


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

Yep, was just waiting till we had a chance to rest. Only had a second level spell slot left and Cormick does not know Cure Moderate Wounds yet. Page of spell knowledge are on my personal list of magical items to aquire.

Overnight rest
Heal 6hp: Cindy Lu 70; Aerin 20; Cormick 31

Once we leave for the mountains
CLW, Aerin: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12 : Cindy Lu 70; Aerin 32; Cormick 31
CLW, Aerin: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7 : Cindy Lu 70; Aerin 37; Cormick 31
CLW, Cormick: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13 : Cindy Lu 70; Aerin 37; Cormick 44

If no encounters during the day, will use remaining curing
CLW, Aerin: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8 : Cindy Lu 70; Aerin 45; Cormick 44
CLW, Cormick: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10 : Cindy Lu 70; Aerin 45; Cormick 54


No encounters for the 3 days as you travel.

Artus and Yaj both offer to go scouting with Aerin, one each about half a mile off either side of the road.

Assuming that is agreeable Artus will take the west side of the road and Yaj the east side. If not, let me know.

Any particular actions from Cormick or Cindy? The closest house is perhaps 500' away. The farthest can be seen just barely at several miles.


Hp 66/66 AC (29/ T:23/ FF:17) (+10 Perc; +5 Init; Fort +7, Ref +9, Will +7)

Sure she replies to both people but really stay a way back for the moment we care more about not being seen than anything else. she says as both scouts leave her to take the center


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

Cormick will use the weapon blanch on his crossbow bolts and continue healing everyone to full.


Following near the road Aerin approaches the first of the farm houses. Upon getting within a hundred feet of it it is clear that the place is empty.

No chickens in and about the hen house. A single horse stall is empty, as is the pig kennel.


Male Human, Bard 8, (Init +2; Prec +10; AC 18/13/16; HP 67/78; Fort +3, Ref +9*, Will +8*; CMD 17)

Cormick watch Aerin in the distance, while she checks the first farm, ready to spur his horse forward if she indicates her need for assistance.

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