DM Salsa Presents: Guardians Three - Seekers of the Lost Grail of the Phoenix (Inactive)

Game Master AdamWarnock


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Malicious chains and shackles clattered and clanked as behind the small ship full of black-clad figures and two silver-haired young girls the ancient temple burned a sullen crimson. It dyed the black clouds red with its light and embers shone briefly like yellow and orange stars amid the smoke. The leader of the raiders turned from the scene he'd wrought and smiled beneath the mask that hid his face.

"Well, we only managed to grab two of you," he said in a voice like rancid oil, smooth, but unpleasant. "but don't worry, we'll have your sister soon enough, and then," he reached up with both hands and squeezed the two sisters' face like some overbearing grandmother doting on them as his voice grew softer and more fervid with anticipation, "the real fun begins."

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Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Only one remained free. She could only watch as her sisters and friends were taken away as the temple blazed in the night. Seven were taken, and only she remained to search for them. The first chill winds of winter blew in and reminded her that she needed food and shelter. Otherwise she would not last long enough to even begin her quest. She prayed for her goddess to watch over those the cultists had taken and set to work. The night would only grow longer and there was much to do.

==Nine Months Later==

The sun dawned on the waking town of Spindle, bathing it in a golden light. fishing boats were already descending to the ocean below to catch their quarry to bring to the market and larger ships that plied the skies arrived and departed for other islands near and far. Farmers tended the terraced fields. Shepherds saw to their flocks of sheep and rothe. Shopkeeps and merchants began to hawk their wares in the streets and squares of the town.

Fate has marked six of the people now going about their business for great quest. They are as yet unaware of their impending meeting, and the danger that lurks in the shadows. The gods watch and wait to see whose champions will prevail. The future grows clouded and tumultuous. Those gifted with foresight and prophecy feel dread as the veil hides what is to come. The heroes of a new age have been decided and the first chapter of a new legend is beginning.

Drausk:

You day began with the arrival of the ship you were working on at Spindle's docks. At first, your only concern was getting some breakfast of something other than shipboard slop. Along the way, you ran across a dispute between three elves, one having tossed out her former lover and the elven woman he'd been cheating on her with with not a stitch of clothing. You became involved, mainly because the crowd was blocking your path to the smell of bacon and eggs frying. After helping the jilted elf rid her home of the other elves' effects, and smashing some expensive items on the street below including a lute and a couple of bottles of wine, you were treated to breakfast for the trouble by the red-headed and fiery-tempered elf who introduced herself as Red, though her real name, she admitted, was Ariel. Over the remains of your first servings, she asked about what it was you did before leaving your tribe.

Now that you've answered, she looks at you, not with condemnation or contempt, but sorrow.

"I know all too well. I grew up on the streets of Akiheton, and there are things that I have done that I'm not proud of," Red replies to your apology.

The mention of the male elf you ran into brings an entirely different set of emotions and expressions to the surface.

"That a#*!&** was my lover and I guess fiance. He wanted to marry me, or so he said, but I guess he wasn't all that serious about it since he could live off of me and sleep with whomever he wanted while I worked," she says before angrily ripping a bite out of the sausage she'd ordered for her second helping of breakfast.

Dr. Xavier Monroe:

You'd found the small bistro on your second day in Spindle and the food was good enough and the place peaceful enough that it made the perfect place to eat breakfast and catch up on your reading. Even in the short time you've been there, you've realized that newcomers, such as yourself were rare and most of the clientele are local regulars.

You've seen the redheaded elven woman before, but you've never seen the orc or half-orc she was with before, nor do you recognize his garb. They sit close enough to you that you're able to overhear their conversation and the discovery that Red's companion is a shaman is no small one. The specifics of many of the tribes that existed on the less civilized islands were scarce, and the opportunity that had almost literally fallen into your lap is one that any academic would take advantage of.

Now how to go about it?

Egryzon:

The presence pulls you onward. For the past few days you’ve roamed Spindle looking for... something. You’ve been unhampered for the most part, though there was that gang of children that had thought you an easy mark. While you didn’t hurt them, much, you certainly managed to scare them off. Since then, things have gotten exceedingly dull.

”Oi! You there with the white scales,” a gruff voice calls to you, ”have a job for you if you’re interested in some quick coin.” The man, all of a fearsome five feet tall and two feet wide at the belly looks at you, his skin marred by pockmark scars, the telltale sign of a smith you’ve learned in the months since leaving the wilds for the more civilized lands. The presence, which had been content with your wanderings suddenly urges you to take the job.

Zaknador:

Your stay at the small shrine that was dedicated to all of the gods that were not central to Spindle’s culture has been a pleasant one for the most part. An elven priest of Abadar has been rather cool when dealing with you, but has so far remained polite. The current ranking priest of the shrine, a graying priestess of Erastil has added an errand to your usual chores that you’ve performed in return for the room and board. You make your way to the smithy on the other side of the island known as the Sun and Moon Forge and Smeltery. You’ve heard rumors of this place being the best place for quality work, especially if it is time sensitive. The fires burn all day and night and the need for fuel is frightening. The heat can be felt from nearly a hundred yards away. Up close, it’s sweltering.

”I’m sorry, but the order isn’t ready yet,” a young human man answers when you ask about the item you’ve been sent to pick up. The priestess, an old human woman named Madrigal, assured you that it would be ready when you came.

Sannah:

The trip so far had been without trouble. You had found each contact without issue and each leg of the journey was smooth as the silks you'd found yourself next to on this final leg. Secret archives and libraries tended to require covert means, which often meant a lack of accommodations that could attract attention.

Which made the presence of a well dressed man waiting for you on pier as your ship pulled in puzzling to say the least.

"Ah Miss Trexl, I presume," the man states more than asks in a smooth and polished accent, "allow me the pleasure of introducing myself, I am Anderson Malgrave. I've been tasked by my master to escort you to his manor. He is quite eager to meet you."

A porter offers to take you pack as you step off the gangway and onto the pier.

Zendara:

You'd just finished helping offload cargo from the three day run to Hendael when your stomach rudely reminded you that it'd been several hours since your last meal. After receiving your pay. Your strange appearance rated no more than a second look from a few of the strangers who'd not heard of you. As you make your way towards breakfast, you hear a moan coming from between two warehouses in the shadows of the Night Quarter, the part of Spindle that never saw sunlight. Investigating, you find a young woman, no older than her late teens at most, lying in a pool of blood with one hand over a wound in her belly. Her clothing, while once fine, is little more than rags on her gaunt form.

Whoever she is, she is badly hurt and likely on the verge of starvation.


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Girl in Alley:

Shabti look human, just a little extra idealized. Hopefully not too strange. :)

Without hesitation, Zendara attempts first aid.

heal check: 1d20 ⇒ 15

Wow, can't believe I made the check with zero bonuses. :)

Not sure how far you wanted us to go, so I'll just take it through the evening and you can throw any of it out if you were planning something before that.

Satisfied that the girl won't bleed out, she then picks her up and carries her to whichever is closer:
--The temple of Milani
--The temple of any other God that is likely to offer healing
--Any healer not at a temple that Zendara would know about

knowledge local: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8

Unfortunately, she probably doesn't know any healers around here.

After her wounds are taken care of (which Zendara happily pays for), she will take her back to the inn where she stays when she isn't at sea, and buys her a meal (as much food as she wants), and if the girl is willing, pays for a room for her as well (not her own though; she would like to get to know and trust the girl and help her further, but in the meantime she plans to avoid getting robbed). She spends time talking to her, trying to find out about her background, how she got hurt, and if there are immediate threats to her welfare that she should be aware of. She doesn't rush the girl, but lets her tell it in her own way, taking as much time as it takes.

Also, if there is no place to receive healing for some reason, she'll just take her back to the inn as well, but would be more insistent about the room, because she needs time to heal.

She then buys her some clothes, taking her along to try things on if she is healed, but going alone with the girl resting at the inn if she is not.

If nothing additional has happened by that point, Zendara orders hot baths for the both of them, gets the girl settled in her room, and tells her to knock if she needs anything, and retires to her own room to read and sleep. She is very adamant about her independence, but she feels strangely happy that she had someone to take care of today.


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Just a heads up, don't take things too far ahead in your posting. A few minutes is fine but the entire day is a bit much.

Zendara:

I was meaning more your style of dress. Zendara does dress like a pirate, right?
Anyway, I'll use your actions up until you get to the healer.

As you work to staunch the bleeding, you notice that the girl's hair is the color of platinum. Her skin is deathly pale from blood loss and even now you can see several large bruises beginning to form.

Once you have a rough bandage wrapped around her belly, you pick her up and carry her. It takes a moment of thought, but you remember the closest healer is back towards the docks. A few minutes later, you arrive at Stiener's house of healing. The gruff man answers the door and looks down at the unconscious girl in your arms.

"Godsdammit Zendara. It's too early in the mornin' for this shit," he growls as he turns and leads you to the back where an table is set up for surgeries.

"Put her down here and hold her tight," he tells you as he grabs a glass bottle full of a clear liquid and a set of surgeon's scissors. It's only as you lay her out on the table that you find the knife wound in her leg. Steiner quickly cuts away the clothing around the wounds and the crude bandage you used. Then he uncorks the bottle, takes a swig, and pours some of it on both her wounds.

Strength check please.


Init+2 HP45 AC20 T13 FF17 | CMD 22 | fort +7 ref+7 will+5 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Acro+8 Appra+5 Bluff+10 Climb+8 Diplo+10 DDevive+10 KnArcarna+7 KnDungeon+7 KnEng+7 KnHist+9 KnLocal+7 KnNature+7 KnNoble+7 KnPlanes+7 KnReligion+7 Linguistics+5 Oratory +7 Perception+12 Ride+6 SMotive+6 Spellcraft +8 Swim+8

Darusk & Red:
Breakfast had been surprisingly good, he didn't normally go for a cooked breakfast, but this had really hit the spot. As he digested and read the Spindle Gazetter, Dr Munroe wondered what the Professor had seen in his divination. Whatever it was must have been important for he'd been sent packing so fast his head spun. Then nothing, Spindle was as quiet as ever, well except for the rather unusual couple a few tables over. A flame haired full blooded elf sitting next to a very tall and impressively scarred orc, curious. No a half orc and not actually a couple, body language suggesting they were friends. Dr Munroe found the hald orc's scarration fascinating, this individual was clearly some sort of shaman from a tribe he'd never heard of. Obviously there was only one thing to do, he neatly folded the Gazetter and went over to introduce himself.

From Drausk and Red's point of view.
Almost all the patrons in the Bistro were clearly locals, except for a rugged looking man in an explorer's outfit a couple of tables over reading the local rag. At first you didn't pay him much attention but then you noticed him looking at you. When your eyes met he smiled and walked over saying, "Good morning fellow travelers! Would you mind if I join you for coffee? Name's Munroe. It promises to be another slow day in Spindle and I wondered if you'd care to share a few tales of far off lands?" His voice was educated and surprisingly musical for a human. There was something about the way he put it that made this rather forward suggestion seem eminently reasonable. He didn't appear to be looking for trouble, his countenance was relaxed and apart from a coiled whip at his side (which would be next to useless in a real fight) he seemed entirely unarmed. He's going to try and draw you into some small talk before casually asking where you hail from.


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Steiner's HealMart:

Oh, yep. Totally piratey clothes. Sorry I didn't get what you meant.

I agree that it is too early, Steiner. The thugs in the alley apparently do not agree. You should take it up with them. ... Or perhaps I should, in your behalf. I'll buy you breakfast after, in addition to your more than reasonable fee. What do you think?

She says all this while following his directions and helping get the girl laid out; just trying to cheer him up a little and also make sure the girl gets the best care possible.
Diplomacy on Doctor: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17

Does she know of any magical healer/temple anywhere? If she does, she would still of course want to get her stable first, but she would probably carry her there next, worried that she wouldn't recover without that kind of help.

She attempts to secure the girl, as instructed.
Strength Check: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 = 14

If she fails, or the girl wakes up and needs to be calmed down, she'll probably use her spell-like suggestion ability, with the instruction Stay calm and let the doctor work. We're trying to help you. She would get a will save for that, but if you judge it a reasonable request, she would get negatives on the roll.

She'll also talk to her if she wakes up and tell her a story about an exciting pirate adventure that she was in (perhaps some slight exaggerations to make it more exciting), in order to distract her and keep her mind engaged as much as possible while the doctor is working.
Diplomacy on Girl: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17


Aasimar Bard (archaeologist) 4 / Monk 4 HP:48/48 AC:19/19/16 F:+7 R:+7 W:+9 Init:+8 Perception: +14 Resist:Acid 5, Cold 5, Elec 5 Ki:6/7

On the pier:

Sannah give the 1st mate a nod as she rose smoothly and made her way out of the hold, up onto deck.

She easily accomodated the movements of the deck as the skyship maneuvered into dock, stepping off the gangplank the moment it touched 'ground'.

Sannah watches as the two men approach and listens attentively as Malgrave speaks. She waves off the porter , shouldering her own pack, and asks, "Does your master have a name?", suspicious despite knowing that she'd be contacted by someone here in Spindle.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16


Male Drow Elf Cleric 4/ Wizard 4 (Gestalt) HP:35/35 AC:13 FF:10 T:13 AC(MA):17 AC(SH):17 AC(MA+SH): 21 F:5 R:4 W:8 Perc:+10 Init: +7 SR:15

The Sun and Moon Forge and Smeltery:

Zaknador is polite and respectful of the Elven priest. He tends to his daily chores and then makes his way towards the smithy. When informed that the order is not ready, he response in a calm neutral toned voice.
Thank you young man, would you have any idea as to when lady Madrigal's order will be completed?


Male Kobold Summoner 4 / Hydrokineticist 4 / Gestalt 4 HP: 23/23 | AC: 18/13/16 | Fort: +4 / Ref: +6 / Will: +7 | Init: +4, Darkvision 60 ft., Light Sensitivity | Perception: +8

Smith:
The kobold roamed the wilderness, producing a crystal of ice between his thumb and forefinger and absentmindedly rotating it as he moved. Although his determination to fulfill his guide's wishes was as strong as when he first left his tribe, days of aimless wandering had dampened the kobold's enthusiasm, and Egryzon hoped that he might finally stumble upon something to satisfy his guide. Nevertheless, Egryzon couldn't really complain about the current situation; he admittedly felt the beginnings of frustration, but the kobold savored every moment in which he had access to the full extent of his gifts, even those that seemingly prolonged his quest.

Pulled from his thoughts by an unexpected noise, the kobold starts, causing his fingers to reflexively snap shut and crush his creation. Looking around, Egryzon identifies the source of the sound: a huge man who responds to Egryzon's glance by offering him a job of unknown specifications. Upon hearing of a monetary reward, Egryzon decides to accept, and the approval of his guide hastens his response.

Striding over to the smith, Egryzon stares up at the man, shielding his eyes from the light of the sun in the process. "I am quite interested. What do you need?" he asks.


male half-orc Sorcerer(Orc Blood)/Oracle (Dragon Mystery)4th,HP:28 F/R/W:+4/+4/+9,Init:+1 Per:+4,AC:14,Bite+5,Flachion+6

Drausk nods as he eats through his plate morsels hanging or dripping from his mouth as his oversized teeth worked the food as best as it could given the monstrous set of teeth he was cursed with.

"Eh it happens, products of our upbringings and all" he said followed by a blech before he drank some ale which also ran down his chin. When she cursed and spoke harshly of the ill equipped man he nodded and smiled.

"Eh My tribe we did not marry. You chose a mate via combat for the most part. Often the strong would prey on the weak and make themselves their mates, often by force. For those of us who were lucky and earned esteem either as a warrior, raider, hunter or shaman we were paired off and mated. I myself had a beautiful orc maiden Gurra was her name. One of the keenest shots of the whole tribe, so devoted was she to her Archer that she came to the Shamans to have her breast removed. I know not if our pairing was love, but we did make love like those strange long eared creatures...I think you call them rabbits. Gurra did bare me two sons and a daughter before I left..." He stopped when the man came over and cocked a brow.

"I do not mind if you buy more food for us, to come empty to another cook fire is not something one should do. For to do so is an insult, which would unkind bring about you having to fight or suffer a scar" He said eyeing the strange man with a hat before he shoveled more food into his mouth.


Init+2 HP45 AC20 T13 FF17 | CMD 22 | fort +7 ref+7 will+5 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Acro+8 Appra+5 Bluff+10 Climb+8 Diplo+10 DDevive+10 KnArcarna+7 KnDungeon+7 KnEng+7 KnHist+9 KnLocal+7 KnNature+7 KnNoble+7 KnPlanes+7 KnReligion+7 Linguistics+5 Oratory +7 Perception+12 Ride+6 SMotive+6 Spellcraft +8 Swim+8

Drausk & Red:
"A healthy appetite I see! More of the same? Ok then!" replied Munroe jovially. He wandered off and came back shortly with a platter piled high with steaming sausages, rashers of bacon, eggs, toast and so on which he put down on the table. He was followed by a waiter carrying a large jug of black coffee, who placed three cups on the table and poured a little into each.

Munroe took his his hat off, sat down and had a sip of coffee, "Not bad. Must be quite a pain for them to get the beans, they don't grow round here. Something about the soil and the climate. I once visited a plantation, a month away by air boat on one of those floating volcanic islands. When I first saw it, the peak was nestled in clouds belching out a great plume of fire and ash! Somehow despite the sundering the volcano was still active, perhaps it contained a portal to the elemental planes, who knows? Certainly made my visit exciting. I asked the plantation owner why they'd farm such a place. The soil he told me had special properties not found elsewhere. I think he was a little mad, but the coffee was very good and the wine even better. I had to wait a week for the eruption to die down enough before it was safe to visit the crater. Up there there's a tiny pre-sundering monetary carved deep into the rim, some how it always survives the eruptions unharmed. There's a strange vibe to it, like you're in another world. It's filled with stone inscriptions in a language nobody understands anymore." Somehow the man's unlikely tail seemed so vivid you could clearly imagine yourself standing there feeling the hot sulfurous air waft up from the roiling lava lake below.

Oratory: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27

Munroe took another sip of coffee before asking, "So... You two look like you've traveled the world, do you have any stories to share?"


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Zendara:

"Just hold her down and make sure she doesn't fight too much," Steiner grumbles as he pours. The silver-haired girl lets out a scream and starts to fight, but you manage to hold her down enough for the healer to work. Stitching the wound shut before applying what meager healing magics he has to close it, leaving behind an angry red scar. He then quickly repeats the process on the wound in her thigh, causing her to cry out again in pain. Thankfully, the somewhat bloody work is finished quickly and the girl collapses back into unconsciousness.

Speeding things along

After you run an errand to get her some new clothes and food for the girl, you find her lying on a cot covered by a threadbare blanket. A sailor is now on the table arguing with Steiner as his broken arm is set. When you set the two bundles you are carrying, the girl wakes up.

"Wh-where am I," she asks in a weak voice, "who are you?"

Sannah:

"My master is Lord Ferrianus Dulci, Miss Trexl," Malgrave answers, and you recognize as the name of your contact here. "If you'll come this way, there's a carriage waiting to take you to Lord Dulci's manor. He is most eager to meet with you."

Anderson is polite and is being truthful as far as you can tell. The porter, likewise, does not harbor any designs that you can divine from his posture and expression. The only unusual thing here is that you normally initiate the meetings with your contacts, not the other way around.

Zaknador:

The young man scurries off and a few minutes later, a short man, barely five feet of height though with an ample belly nearly half that wide, comes huffing up to you.

"Ol' Madrigal's order? Yeah, Red was workin' on that one. Took off early this mornin' but I don't know why it's not with the others ready to be picked up," he says in a booming voice, almost as if he's used to always yelling and doesn't realize how loud he actually is. "I've got some lads lookin' for it now. Perhaps I can interest you in some o' our wares in the meantime?"

Egryzon:

"Great," the man booms as he nearly knocks you down with what he clearly intended to be a friendly pat on the shoulder. "I need you to find an elf, a fiery-headed one named Ariel, though most know her as Red. She'll either be in her flat over Bern's Baked Goods or at some eatin' place known as the Three Meals. Do that, and there's ten crowns in it for ya. Tell her that I need her to look at some goods that some lads are lookin' to sell."

Roll me a Knowledge(Local) DC 10 to know where those places are. If you fail, then you'll need to ask. If you succeed, go ahead and jump into Dr. Monroe's and Drausk's thread. If you fail, roll 1d3. On a 1 you know where her apartment is and will need to ask about the restaurant. On a 2 you know where the restaurant is, but will need to ask about her apartment. On a 3 you need to ask about both.

Drausk and Dr. Monroe:

Just a heads up, coffee is a rich man's drink in this setting.
Red gives a snort of amusement when Drausk brings up bunnies and their predilection for making more bunnies at a prodigious rate.

"Why didn't you bring them with you," she asks when the half-orc shaman mentions his children.

The elven woman looks a little surprised by Dr. Monroe's sudden appearance, and is impressed with his tale.

"Oh no," she says, waving off the doctor's assumption, "I was born and lived in Akiheton before I moved to Spindle." Looking at the coffee, she asks, "can I get some cream and sugar?"

Once she'd finished mortifying connoisseurs of coffee from across the Sundered Lands, she looks to Dr. Monroe.

"Since you introduced yourself, most people call me Red. Mind telling us if you're some sort of explorer or scholar. You seem to be one of those bookish types."


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Lunch at the HealMart:

Hi, Zendara says, I'm Zendara, and this is a place of healing, where we try to help people that are hurt or sick.

Let's get you dressed, and we can talk over lunch, okay? I brought us some food.

She tells Steiner they're going in the other room, and she helps the girl (if she needs/accepts the help) get dressed (very carefully, so as not to reopen any wounds) in some of the sturdy, functional, comfortable clothes that she bought her. There is a little bit of style to them, but they aren't girly at all, because it never occurs to Zendara that anyone would want that.

After getting her dressed, she lays out the abundant meal, and eats some, but mostly watches the girl eat because she wants to make sure that she is going to be okay. As the girl is eating, she tells her a bit about herself. Nothing about the torture, but emphasizing that she was once trapped in a very bad place and she found a way out with some help, and now she wants to help other people too, because we all find ourselves in bad spots sometimes.

She's trying to reassure the girl and not pressure her, but hopes that helping her feel safe and taken care of will prompt her to tell some of her own story.

Diplomacy to help the girl feel safe: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

When the girl looks like she is ready to pause in eating, she'll stop telling her stories about her own life and ask
What's your name?


Male Kobold Summoner 4 / Hydrokineticist 4 / Gestalt 4 HP: 23/23 | AC: 18/13/16 | Fort: +4 / Ref: +6 / Will: +7 | Init: +4, Darkvision 60 ft., Light Sensitivity | Perception: +8

Smith:
Knowledge: Local: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (6) - 1 = 5
1d3 ⇒ 3

Egryzon nods. "All right,' he says, beginning to set off; however, Egryzon quickly changes his mind and turns back as a look of hesitation crosses his face. "I'm not that familiar with this town; where, exactly, can I find these places?"


Init+2 HP45 AC20 T13 FF17 | CMD 22 | fort +7 ref+7 will+5 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Acro+8 Appra+5 Bluff+10 Climb+8 Diplo+10 DDevive+10 KnArcarna+7 KnDungeon+7 KnEng+7 KnHist+9 KnLocal+7 KnNature+7 KnNoble+7 KnPlanes+7 KnReligion+7 Linguistics+5 Oratory +7 Perception+12 Ride+6 SMotive+6 Spellcraft +8 Swim+8

Drausk & Red:
Right I guess the sundering made lots of stuff expensive, having to be transported by air.
Munroe smiles, "Father liked cream in his coffee too, annoyed the heck out of various stuffy types. I usually prefer mine black, but perhaps a dash of cream this one time."

When asked if he was an explorer or scholar he replied easily, "A bit of both as it happens. I'm interested in archaeology, the past is fascinating the world was once very different." Turning to the half orc he asks, "Looks like our friend here is enjoying the food, this bistro is quite a find. So I'm curious, was my guess right, have you traveled far?"


Aasimar Bard (archaeologist) 4 / Monk 4 HP:48/48 AC:19/19/16 F:+7 R:+7 W:+9 Init:+8 Perception: +14 Resist:Acid 5, Cold 5, Elec 5 Ki:6/7

On the pier:

After waving off the porter, Sannah fixes the man with her singualar gaze then nods, "While it is irregular....lead on, Ser Malgrave."


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Zendara:

The girl needs more than a little help getting up and dressed. Her wounds were not in danger of reopening, but she'd been badly beaten and is weak from hunger. She tears into the food with wild abandon and misses most of what you say. Her hunger sated for the moment she falls back onto the bed, exhausted.

"Audria," she answers in a voice that sounds rusty from disuse, "I have no way to repay your kindness. All I had was taken from me. I have nothing."

Zendara, in the future, would you mind playing that out? She doesn't have to be a grand storyteller or anything, but I would appreciate it. It's one of the things I like about roleplaying games and I find that doing that makes for a much richer story than just paraphrasing it. There are times that it's better to do that, like when giving a report, but those times are going to be few and far between in this game.

Egryzon:

The man steps and thinks for a moment before telling you how to get to both places.

I wasn't expecting that out of Egryzon. Go ahead and join up with Drausk and Dr. Monroe.


Drausk and Dr. Monroe:

It was a rich man's drink before the Sundering, too. :P
As your conversation continues, you both notice a white-scaled kobold enter the bistro and begin to look around.

Sannah:

"Of course, Miss Trexl. If you'll come this way," Malgrave says as he motions for you to make your way down the pier. A short distance away is a fine carriage that seems more at home in a large city than a town like Spindle. The ride isn't overly long, but Malgrave is not much for conversation.

The manor you arrive at sits at the edge of the island with a breathtaking view of the islands and sea to the south. The building is no less impressive, richly ornamented and decorated as it is. Frescoes and sculpture tell a story fit for the epics of old as you are lead through the halls. The office that you are escorted to is large, with dark and warm walls of exotic woods and shelves of books and trinkets from the simple to the ornate. The man you now find yourself meeting is in his mid thirties. His handsome face bearing a few small scars and his dark hair beginning to gray at the temples. His eyes light up when they see you.

"Ah, Miss Trexl! It is truly a pleasure to meet you," he says in a deep, smooth baritone, "I am Lord Ferrianus, though in this particular setting, feel free to address me as Ferri. I was impressed with what I've heard of you, but I must admit that nothing I had learned from my sources prepared me to meet such a beautiful woman."

He motions over to a small nook in the corner where a few chairs and a couple of chairs were set up.

"Please have a seat, Malgrave will send up some tea and refreshments while we talk. I'm afraid that other than what ship you'd be on and who to look for, I know next to nothing about why you are here in Spindle," Ferrianus admits. He politely waits for you to seat yourself in one of the chairs before taking one for himself and crossing his legs as he makes himself comfortable.

"If you'd be so kind, would you mind filling me in so that I may support your endeavours as best I can. As I say, details have been sparse, so other than to prepare a room for your stay, I've been unable to do anything that might aid you," he asks.


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Seafood Discussion:

Oh, sure. I didn't write that part out because I felt like it was just copy and paste from my backstory, but I'll try to be more detailed in the future. The story is also my favorite part.

Audria is a beautiful name says Zendara, reaching over and smoothing Audria's platinum silver hair out of her face.

There is no need to repay me. I allocate money each month to my "Help people in alleys" fund anyway, so you were already in the budget. And you do have something. Some clothes, and a friend. It's a good place to start.

Now, would you like to sleep awhile before dinner, or are you up to talking a little? I'd like to know a little bit more about you, and I'm afraid you missed some of my brilliant witty banter at lunch because you were distracted by the delicious food I made myself. She laughs. Just joking. It was Hazel, about a block down. That woman is a wizard with fish. Makes you really not mind eating fish every day, as long as she is the one that makes it. Zendara smiles.

You do look tired. If you want to sleep for a while, do you have a favorite food I can pick up for dinner? I'm afraid it's almost all seafood this close to the docks, but there are many different varieties.

If there is no temple, is there anywhere around here that Zendara can obtain a potion or a scroll or something that will heal Audria more than this? I am totally kicking myself for not taking any cure spells even though they are on the bard spell list, and that's on me as the player just assuming there would be other healers around, but being a caster at all, Zendara has to know that there are better healing methods, and she wouldn't be averse to spending money to obtain them.


Male Drow Elf Cleric 4/ Wizard 4 (Gestalt) HP:35/35 AC:13 FF:10 T:13 AC(MA):17 AC(SH):17 AC(MA+SH): 21 F:5 R:4 W:8 Perc:+10 Init: +7 SR:15

The Sun and Moon Forge and Smeltery:

Zaknador gives a simple nod to the man.
Thank you for checking on the item.
He walks around looking at the wares that are displayed.

So good Sir, would you tell me about your wares....that is if you have the time. I do see that you are very busy and do not wish to interrupt your work any further.


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Zendara:

There are a number of places you could go, but most of them are a fair walk away. The closest would be the small temple with shrines to many of the gods not worshiped by most of the people in Spindle. As for the rest of it, don't worry about it.I tend to focus more on social encounters and roleplaying than combat, so I enjoy it when players get involved.

Audria gives a quiet chuckle at your jokes.

"Thank you all the same," she says before looking down at her hands. "It's been so long since I could choose what I eat, I couldn't tell you if I had a favorite food or not. I was hoping that I could get money and supplies from Albia's church in Akiheton, but without my holy symbol, they'd never believe that I am who I am. If I have to spend years working to get them and to replace what I've lost, I'll never find them."

Audria curls up, burying her head into her knees and begins to sob.

"It's hopeless," she cries, "it's just so hopeless."

Zaknador:

"Certainly, sir! I'm always happy to help anyone who comes to my smithy. We've several skilled smiths and e'en a true artificer. While we mostly deal with tools, we do have a number o' fine blades an' instruments to choose form," the man says as he shows you around. He isn't idly boasting either about the variety. Everything from simple to tools to elaborate instruments that are as much art as function fill the shelves and tables of the showroom. Even the least of the items is of good quality, but it's obvious that some of the items are made by far more skilled hands.

As you look about, you notice that some of the items have a peculiar draw to them. It's a feeling you've not felt since the calamity that befell your old home. As you study them, you notice that all of the items are made by the same person. The man, once again, was not idly boasting. He really does have an artificer in his employ.

Zak would know from both his past and his studies with the Nethian clergy that artificers are among the few people who can still craft enchanted armor, weapons, and tools. A town like Spindle having even one is, frankly, astonishing.


Male Drow Elf Cleric 4/ Wizard 4 (Gestalt) HP:35/35 AC:13 FF:10 T:13 AC(MA):17 AC(SH):17 AC(MA+SH): 21 F:5 R:4 W:8 Perc:+10 Init: +7 SR:15

The Sun and Moon Forge and Smeltery:

Zaknador is taken aback as the smith declares that they have an Artificer on staff. He quickly lets his vision flow into the spectrum of the arcane auras and lets his eyes glance over each and every piece. He studies the pieces that are obviously created by the same hand.
Constant effect: Detect Magic
I do not know if it is wise to let everyone know that you have such a treasure. I am certain that I do not want anyone to know of my own skills in such fields.
I am certain that the artificer is of the utmost skill...judging by these pieces here. They do have a talent that is on par with the best that I have crossed paths with. It must be an honor to work with such talent...

He continues to look over the items.
I am interested in some tools of a perticular trade. Gem cutting tools are hard to come by these days as well as are jewlers loupe.


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Zaknador:

While none of the items have any enchantments upon them, there is definitely a presence there, more felt than seen. Fire and flames, powerful and graceful as they dance upon a roaring wind.

The men almost can't keep from grinning with avarice as you mention needing special tools.

"You there, boy! Go fetch Reesus," he commands one of the young children helping to clean the place. As you get a better look, you see that it's a young girl, though she seems too afraid to correct the man on this as she nods and runs off.

The man gives a chuckle as he turns back to you.

"Reesus is the one that makes all o' the more delicate like things, which is what I guess you're looking for. He'd be the one to ask about what's available. It's too fragile to display here in the open," he says as he leans on a counter.

"And truth be told, it may be an 'onor to work with other Artificers, but not with this one. Too much attitude and thinks too highly of herself just 'cause she's doin' 'man's work' if she'd find a proper man to bed, she'd probably lose that stuck up attitude like she's worth something more than what she brings in. Only reason I put up with her is 'cause she is an Artificer and not just another smith," he confides in you, either not caring or not realizing the bigotry he's displaying.


Male Kobold Summoner 4 / Hydrokineticist 4 / Gestalt 4 HP: 23/23 | AC: 18/13/16 | Fort: +4 / Ref: +6 / Will: +7 | Init: +4, Darkvision 60 ft., Light Sensitivity | Perception: +8

Drausk, Munroe, and Red:
Egryzon thanks the smith, then quickly scatters, slightly shaking his head as he leaves. The kobold had found it somewhat difficult to swallow his pride and ask a question that simple, but keeping his guide pleased was more important to him than emotional matters.

Upon arriving at the Three Meals, Egryzon pushes his way into the establishment. The kobold's gaze flits around the room before resting on a table occupied by three patrons, one of whom, an elven woman with striking, red hair, seems to match the description he was given. Seeing no need to dally, the kobold walks briskly to the table.

"You. Elf," he says, ignoring the other diners, " Are you the one called 'Red?'"


male half-orc Sorcerer(Orc Blood)/Oracle (Dragon Mystery)4th,HP:28 F/R/W:+4/+4/+9,Init:+1 Per:+4,AC:14,Bite+5,Flachion+6

Drausk laughed as the man asked him about his past and travels. It was an odd thing to ask him but hell few ever did.

"Trust me My story is not one for the faint of heart, nor do I care to regale many with too many details. Mostly it was boring serving one captain after another until my gut led me here." He said before she shrugged at the whole coffee thing.

He was not a fan of the dark liquid swill. It seemed to lack the certain something that made liquor, ale, and beer so tasty."You should drink ale, it will taste better and will give you the right amount of kick to start the day!"He chuckled raising his glass.

percepion for the kobold: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 4 = 13


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Sad times at the HealMart:

Zendara is moved by Audria's pain. So young, and already so disillusioned? It isn't right.

Zendara moves over to sit beside Audria, and offers comfort while she sobs.
Audria honey, it isn't hopeless. It is never, ever hopeless, okay? I don't know everything you are going through, and I'm not saying it isn't hard, but I've been through a lot of really, really bad things. And every time, I've gotten out out of them. You mentioned a holy symbol... don't you believe that the gods will help us?

All we need is a plan. You can't sit around and wait for the gods to help you, you see... you have to jump in and do something, so they have something to work with. So, let's see. You need money, supplies, a holy symbol, and more healing so you aren't in so much pain, and are ready to jump into the plan with both feet.

Let's see... <She looks up at the ceiling and pretends to be counting> carry the one...

She finishes her pretend counting and gets a smile on her face like she's just discovered something.

Perfect. My "Help people in alleys" fund seems to be more than sufficient for all of that. I've been putting money into it for years, and then I just never see anyone in an alley. Sometimes washed up on the beach, you know, but I just leave those people there because it isn't really covered under the fund. She laughs to make sure Audria knows she is joking.

Audria, honestly, don't you see? The gods are blessing us already by bringing us together. We can do this. Anything you need, we can get.

Not trying to jump ahead and miss conversation, but just for when you want to move forward: Once Audria is calmed down and asleep, Zendara plans to go get several healing potions (I budgeted 4 on my character sheet (extras for unforeseen circumstances)) and dinner, and bring them back. Zendara's top priority is to get Audria healed and mobile, so that she can come with her to get geared up with whatever she needs. She is also worried about the attack in the alley. Audria was already wearing rags and starving. Why would someone attack her in that state? If someone is after her specifically, Zendara wants to be there to stop them, and she can't do that if Audria is stuck at the healer's place and she has to keep leaving her.


Init+2 HP45 AC20 T13 FF17 | CMD 22 | fort +7 ref+7 will+5 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Acro+8 Appra+5 Bluff+10 Climb+8 Diplo+10 DDevive+10 KnArcarna+7 KnDungeon+7 KnEng+7 KnHist+9 KnLocal+7 KnNature+7 KnNoble+7 KnPlanes+7 KnReligion+7 Linguistics+5 Oratory +7 Perception+12 Ride+6 SMotive+6 Spellcraft +8 Swim+8

"Ale to start the day?" Grinned Munroe, "That's uh quite... Oh my goodness!" What appeared to be an Kobold with sweeping horns casually sauntered in seemingly intent on talking to the Elven woman. A part of Dr Munroe's brain noted she was known as Red, although that almost certainly not her real name.

Glancing first at the Kobold and then at the half orc, Munroe asked casually, "Friend of yours?"


male half-orc Sorcerer(Orc Blood)/Oracle (Dragon Mystery)4th,HP:28 F/R/W:+4/+4/+9,Init:+1 Per:+4,AC:14,Bite+5,Flachion+6

"What it's Ale" He says with a chuckled before he shakes his head.

"That is rude, I know no Kobolds except the few who I fought and slew in combat." Drausk drank even more of his ale before he followed it with a belch and then shoveled more food into his mouth. As he did he called to the Kobold.

"Scaled One what is it you seek here?" It was considered rude by most civilized folk but Drausk did not grow up around such social normals and instead continued showing his true savagery in the minor actions learned from his people.


Male Drow Elf Cleric 4/ Wizard 4 (Gestalt) HP:35/35 AC:13 FF:10 T:13 AC(MA):17 AC(SH):17 AC(MA+SH): 21 F:5 R:4 W:8 Perc:+10 Init: +7 SR:15

The smithy turns back towards Zaknador to see him smiling. His face drips with malice. As he recites practiced arcane phrases, he picks up a small iron knife that was on display and holds it up in front of the man's face. His other hand makes mystic gestures in the air. The finely crafted blade glows briefly as the magic takes hold of the man. He is unable to move at all as Zaknador steps closer to the man, his eyes glowing red with anger. If you were in any Drow city they would be flossing their teeth with your intestine. You should respect any and all that ply their trade with the arts. You should respect those that work for you and above all else you should apologize to me for having to listen to your childish rants.
Zaknador pulls forth a ball of blackish substance that smells like rotten eggs and the smithy's pants. He holds it up in front of the man's face all the while smiling wickedly. His voice rises and lowers as he repeats the arcane phrases. His hand tracing symbols in the air as the black sphere starts to glow from within. The ball soon burst into flames and Zaknador pulls the man's bottom lip down opening his mouth.
You will not feel a thing......maybe...I am not sure which will be more painful, the actual spell or the wait.
He places the bead of fire inside the man's mouth and pushes his jaw back up, closing the mouth.

Turning to walk away from the smithy and just as he gets outside the delayed spell goes off. The building burst into flames as all the windows blow out from the impact. Death was instant.
Should not have been disrespectful of the women...cause she is an Artificer and not just another smith.

Breaking away from his wondering dreams..
Yes...of course not just another smith....Reesus does all the delicate work around here? What is the name of your Artificer?


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Drausk, Dr. Monroe, and Egryzon:

Red gives a sigh and takes Drausk's half empty mug before downing what was left and putting it back in his hands.

"If you're looking for Red, you've found her, so tell me why you've been looking," she says to Egryzon.

Zendara:

It takes several minutes for Audria to cry herself out. Your offer to help, however, does not go unheeded.

"I'm sorry, Zendara. You've been kind to me and I do appreciate that, but..." her voice fades, swallowed up in the emotional turmoil that still roils in her heart. "I've looked for three seasons and have found nothing. No sign of my sisters or those taken from the temple I was at. The trail I follow is no more. Albia guides those that follow her, but she works through those that follow her. They'll never believe me without my holy symbol. If I had it, I could heal my own wounds and get the aid I needed, but it's gone. Just like my friends, my sisters, everyone I knew. They're all gone."

Tired and hurting, she turns and leans on you, softly crying into your shoulder.

Zaknador:

Holy! Next time he fantasizes like that, could you italicize it so that I know that you're not killing a man in cold blood. That would not be a pleasant way to go.

"Eh, not really sure. Ari-something, but e'eryone 'round here knows her as Red cause o' her hair an' her temper. Some days, she's as like t'deck someone as look at 'em," The man answers. "And, yeah, Reesus is the one that handles all o' the delicate stuff. Most o' the rest don't 'ave the patience or the nimble fingers for it."

The man goes on, gossiping about everything from the going-ons in town to speculating about Red's lovelife. The few minutes you have to wait prove to be a test of your patience to not reduce the slimy blowhard to cinders.

Although, it might be a cause of out of the frying pan and into the fire.

"Oh, Dahlin'! Are you the stranger that is asking about my goods," an effeminate man says as he enters the room. The look you see in his eyes is like the one the matrons would give a male they liked the looks of, that is to say, imagining what lay under your robes. The man is almost as slender as you are, and taller. His hair is well groomed, despite the heat and dryness that should have by rights turned it into a straw like mess. His brown eyes look you up and down before he continues.

"Should I bring them here, or should I take you to my personal workshop and give you a private viewing," he asks as he sultrily bats his eyes at you.

Out of the corner of your eye, you see the man you'd been listening to pinch the bridge of his nose and shake his head.


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

with Audria:

Zendara settles in, holding Audria and stroking her hair as she cries, and making the occasional comment or asking a question softly, trying to find a way to help her.

Audria, I know you've been looking for a long time, but all hope is not lost. We just need to get you the right kind of help. You can't keep trying to do this alone.

How do you know they won't believe you? If they serve your God as well, surely Albia can help them understand that you tell the truth.

If they won't help you, we can find others.

We could go see an artisan who could make a new holy symbol for you, but it sounds like another holy symbol won't do?

Is your holy symbol what was stolen from you in the alley? Is that why someone attacked you?

If she says that it is irreplaceable, then she asks these things:

Do you have any idea who took it? What did the person look like?

If we had a different holy symbol made, would that help you find your old one? For instance, there is a spell that helps people locate objects that they are familiar with. If you know that spell, and we could get you to the point where you could cast it, then I could go retrieve it from wherever it is. And if you don't know that spell, someone at the temple might have a scroll you could use. What do you think?


Male Kobold Summoner 4 / Hydrokineticist 4 / Gestalt 4 HP: 23/23 | AC: 18/13/16 | Fort: +4 / Ref: +6 / Will: +7 | Init: +4, Darkvision 60 ft., Light Sensitivity | Perception: +8

Upon hearing a sharp voice, Egryzon blinked in surprise and darted his head back and forth, noticing for the first time the nature of the elf's companions: a large, rugged man whose very being oozed adventure and sophistication, and a gargantuan half-orc, whom Egryzon hated himself for fearing, currently in the process of gulping down more food than Egryzon had seen in the last week. Realizing he should proceed with caution, Egryzon addressed the group, hoping to mollify all parties involved.

"I have come for a woman named "Red." I was sent by a large smith—not as tall as any of you, but I'd wager he was heavier than all of you, together." Egryzon turns his head and addresses Red directly. "He needs you to appraise something. I didn't bother to ask what it was, but it seemed important. Will you come with me?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (18) + 14 = 32


Init+2 HP45 AC20 T13 FF17 | CMD 22 | fort +7 ref+7 will+5 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Acro+8 Appra+5 Bluff+10 Climb+8 Diplo+10 DDevive+10 KnArcarna+7 KnDungeon+7 KnEng+7 KnHist+9 KnLocal+7 KnNature+7 KnNoble+7 KnPlanes+7 KnReligion+7 Linguistics+5 Oratory +7 Perception+12 Ride+6 SMotive+6 Spellcraft +8 Swim+8

Dr Munroe wasn't entirely sure what to make of the half orc's words. Clearly he had a very different upbringing as evidenced by his manner and the probably sacred tattoos and scars. This was fascinating stuff, and then there was the Kobold... For now he was content to watch and sip what was left of his coffee.


Aasimar Bard (archaeologist) 4 / Monk 4 HP:48/48 AC:19/19/16 F:+7 R:+7 W:+9 Init:+8 Perception: +14 Resist:Acid 5, Cold 5, Elec 5 Ki:6/7

At the manor:

If Sannah is impressed with the richness of the man's estate, her manner does not reveal so, but she nods politely at Lord Ferrianus' introduction.

She provides a smile at his compliment, remembering her diplomacy lessons, saying "Not as beautiful as your estate, Ferri."

Accepting her seat, she listens to his question attentively, then pauses, gathering her thoughts, "The Divinators have selected Spindle as a locus; a convergence of possibility, specifically regarding the discovery of an ancient relic. I am here to determine the validity of their divination. " she says, taking a moment to sample the tea.

"Being a man of influence, you no doubt have many ears in and out of town. Your help can begin with the provision of any and all instances of recent talk of new ruins explored, books or even scraps of paper discovered, anything, no matter how seemingly mundane, can be of importance in a case such as this. "


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Zendara:

"Yes, it was. Along with my sword, my armor, and what little coin I had," she answers, "the holy symbol I had was special, it was imbued with divine power. I don't know any spells that could find it, and if I ask the church, they'll never believe that I was given something like that."

When you bring up the attack, it takes a moment for Audria to remember where she is. For just a heartbeat, you can feel her tense up curling tighter in fear.

"They wore masks and hoods. I couldn't even tell you the color of their eyes. It all happened so fast, it's just a blur of steel, blood, pain, and fear."

She clings to your sleeve like a child and you can feel her trembling beside you.

"Please, don't leave me alone. I'm scared," she admits softly, "I'm scared and I don't want to be alone again."

Drausk, Dr. Monroe, Egryzon:

Red groans in exasperation as she hunches over the table.

"Great, the Pig wants me to run back down there to look at something he thinks is enchanted," she moans. She pays the balance owed on the food she'd ordered before Dr. Monroe joined the party and stands up.

"Sorry Drausk. If I don't go, I'll never hear the end of it, and I'll be too tired to be much company afterwards. It's a long hike to the Sun and Moon," she says, looking genuinely regretful about having to cut things short.

Okay, entirely up to you what you do, but I would appreciate it if you followed Red for a bit. Egryzon has yet to be paid, so he has a reason. I'm not sure how interested Drausk would be in purchasing some weapons, or at least window shopping. Following would show him a good bit of the town, however. Dr. Monroe, you'd know that magically enchanted items are worth their weight in anything valuable you care to name, so the chance to see something rare might be enough to entice him. But as I said, it's up to you. If you don't go, I have other ways of getting you together. They just take longer.

Sannah:

"I'm afraid that there's been no rumors of ruins, or anything else that you asked about. I am certain because when I learned of your coming, I redoubled my efforts to gather such information. Unfortunately, many of the islands near Spindle now are tame or too small to hold anything interesting," Ferri answers, "and believe me when I say my net is wide and not much can slip through it. If the Divinators have sent you, however, they had a reason. Did they happen to mention what it is they expected to be found?"

As he asks his question, Malgrave returns with several servants in tow, each carrying a tray arrayed with pastries and a tea set.

"My lord, Miss Trexl, pardon the intrusion, but I have tea and refreshments for you if you so wish to have them," he says while bowing deeply to both of you.

"Yes please," Ferri says before turning his attention back to you. "Miss Trexl,
I must insist that you try at least the tea and the raspberry tart. I've been blessed to have one of the finest cooks in all of the Sundered Lands and a personal stash of some of the finest teas that Malgrave is a master of brewing."

Once the refreshments are served, Malgrave excuses himself to run some errands in town.

"Where were we? Ah yes! I was asking if the Divinators happened to tell you what you're looking for," Ferri says once you two are once again alone.


Male Drow Elf Cleric 4/ Wizard 4 (Gestalt) HP:35/35 AC:13 FF:10 T:13 AC(MA):17 AC(SH):17 AC(MA+SH): 21 F:5 R:4 W:8 Perc:+10 Init: +7 SR:15

Sorry about that..I thought about making it in Italicized but felt it would take away from the dramatic effect. LOL

The Sun and Moon Forge and Smeltery:

Red...very well then...
Zaknador stops in mid sentence as the man calls him Dahlin...
Just my damn f@!&ing luck...A hedonistic matron mother wannabe...
Yes Sir, I am the one that is asking about the items you have created...here would be fine. I find the light here best suited for my eyes.


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

By the way, Drausk, Dr. Monroe, and Egryzon can join Zaknador if they followed Red.

Zaknador:

Oh believe me, it was plenty dramatic. Also a very nice window in Zak's head. I can see that I was mistaken about him being mostly even-tempered, unless I just happened to hit one of his hot buttons.

For the briefest of moments, you see Reesus pout, but just as quickly as the expression comes, it is gone.

"Very well," he says before turning to the girl that had gone to fetch him. "Be a doll and come with me. I need another pair of hands," he tells her.

Another awkward minute or two passes before Reesus and his helper return with a cart weighed down with many, many different tools and instruments.

"These are some of my finest wares, dahling," he drawls, "are you lookin' for anythin' special?"


Male Kobold Summoner 4 / Hydrokineticist 4 / Gestalt 4 HP: 23/23 | AC: 18/13/16 | Fort: +4 / Ref: +6 / Will: +7 | Init: +4, Darkvision 60 ft., Light Sensitivity | Perception: +8

Road to the Sun and Moon:
"Good," Egryzon squeaks as he follows Red out of the bistro.

Nearing the Sun and Moon, Egryzon lets out a barely audible hiss of agitation; he never cared much for hot environments, and the searing heat of the furnaces was proving to be quite a nuisance. At least he would be out of the sun, though; that infernal thing was hell on his eyes. With a great deal of effort, Egryzon manages to force himself into the establishment, at which point he immediately begins searching for the man who employed him.

"Smith! I have brought you Red!" Egryzon calls, wandering the building.


Init+2 HP45 AC20 T13 FF17 | CMD 22 | fort +7 ref+7 will+5 | Resource Tracker
Skills:
Acro+8 Appra+5 Bluff+10 Climb+8 Diplo+10 DDevive+10 KnArcarna+7 KnDungeon+7 KnEng+7 KnHist+9 KnLocal+7 KnNature+7 KnNoble+7 KnPlanes+7 KnReligion+7 Linguistics+5 Oratory +7 Perception+12 Ride+6 SMotive+6 Spellcraft +8 Swim+8

"Enchanted?!" Dr Munroe was charmingly incredulous. To the half-orc he grinned, "Could be interesting. Chances are it's fake which is usually entertaining. Of course if it's real... Wow." Much had been lost since the sundering, enchanted items were now incredibly rare. At the height of the old order, the rarest of items had been invested with a spark of intelligence. A disproportionate number of these had survived the sundering and were often dangerous. The Arcanum always acquired such things to keep them out of the wrong hands. Dr Munroe didn't expect anything like that, but he had been sent to Spindle with great urgency by the professor. Tagging along with Red was now a matter of professional interest, if the Shaman came too so much the better.


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Taking Action:

Don't worry Zendara says, stroking Audria's hair. I won't leave you.[/b]

Zendara feels really out of options here by the girl's hopelessness and unwillingness to consider any other options than despair. She can understand a refusal to hope, because she has been there, but knows it is only a way to madness and inaction. Also, although she feels honest affection and a bond growing with the girl, she isn't sure whether the young woman's sense of time has been thrown a little off. If she so recently had coin, how could she have been starving and without food for so long? Nevertheless, she is determined to find some way to help her and bring her hope.

We do, however, need to go.

She pulls over the cloak from the traveler's outfit she bought Audria, and wraps her up in it, hiding her distinctive hair and making sure she is well bundled. She picks her up (being as careful as she can of her wounds and bruised body), pays Steiner for his help and time, with a nice bonus for his extra care and kindness in allowing them to stay so long, and begins the walk to the temple.


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Going to wait for Drausk to respond before moving things forward with Red and Zak.

Zendara:

[ooc]Sorry about that.

As you pick Audria up, you hear her sniffle and whisper "thank you."

Steiner, surprisingly enough, is locking the door, despite it only being noon. Without a word to you, he pulls the shades on all of the windows, darkening the inside of his shop. There's only you, Audria, and him in the house of healing, and you can feel the tension in the air. Something is very wrong here.


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Friend or Foe?:

Oh, definitely wasn't saying that to you, or being critical at all. I'm actually loving this so far. :) Just narrating/explaining the character's frustration as mental progression in deciding to get out of there.

Steiner, what are you doing?

Zendara likes Steiner; wants to trust him. Isn't going for her weapons yet. She is worried about this strange behavior though, and hopes she won't have to hurt him to get Audria to safety.


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Zendara:

heh, sorry. I guess that was the Paranoia talking.

Steiner sighs as he lights a pipe and moves as far from you as he can get.

"I really wish you'd just left the girl, Zendara," he says before taking a pull on his pipe and letting out in a long slow stream. "I have to admit, your cocky attitude and that bleeding heart of yours always did piss me off."

A moment later over a dozen men come streaming in from the back, moving to corner you and Audria. Behind them is a well dressed man carrying a cane and wearing a smile that brought nightmares of devils torturing you back from the darkest corners of your mind.

"Ah, so this is the pirate fisherwoman that everyone seems to talk about. There are some that say you can't be killed, but I think we both know better than that, don't we," the man says in a mockingly friendly voice. "Oh, forgive me. I seem to have misplaced my manners. I am Anderson Malgrave. I must ask you to surrender young Audria there to us. She's rather important you see."


Male Drow Elf Cleric 4/ Wizard 4 (Gestalt) HP:35/35 AC:13 FF:10 T:13 AC(MA):17 AC(SH):17 AC(MA+SH): 21 F:5 R:4 W:8 Perc:+10 Init: +7 SR:15

He is calm most of the time...unless it is bullying. If you are being a bully then he will not be happy at all with you. There is a difference between thinking it and acting on it...lol

The Sun and Moon Forge and Smeltery:

Zaknador sifts through the items that have been presented to him. He is careful and respectful of the work.
Some time ago I lost a satchel that had tools needed to cut and polish precious stones. I have been trying to find a replacement but have not had any luck as of yet. I am also looking for a Jeweler's Loupe.


male half-orc Sorcerer(Orc Blood)/Oracle (Dragon Mystery)4th,HP:28 F/R/W:+4/+4/+9,Init:+1 Per:+4,AC:14,Bite+5,Flachion+6

"Sure fine, Better to show and do the work instead of showing up later to get lashed for it, or branded or skinned" He said as he got up and stretched looking at the others. He wasn't much for weapons he didn't take by force. However, the soft folk tended to use money to purchase things.

AS they left he looked about the place and shrugged seeing a whole and shrugged."So do you enjoy working the forge? We had a few devoted elders who stoked the mystic flames to craft the Honorific weapons. Given to the worthy. I unfortunately never got one and would remain a lesser..." he let that thought drop as he watched red storm down the street.

"I think that you are full of Fire Red? Almost reminiscent of Gurra. May this Pig fear the fire in your soul!"He said right when they got to the building and he blinked.

"Ah so people buy weapons here?"


Aasimar Bard (archaeologist) 4 / Monk 4 HP:48/48 AC:19/19/16 F:+7 R:+7 W:+9 Init:+8 Perception: +14 Resist:Acid 5, Cold 5, Elec 5 Ki:6/7

At the manor:

Sannah acknowledges Malgrave's talents before he leaves, then samples some of the edibles provided, not realizing that the last leg of her journey had rendered her so hungry.

Looking up she could see Ferri's pleased look, that she so obviously enjoyed his cook's morsels.

Sannah returned Ferri's smile, "Your cook is indeed quite talented, Malgrave as well. As for what do we seek...", here she pauses, bringing the delectable tea back to her lips, sipping, regarding Ferri over the curve of the fine porceline, guaging..."As you know, every few years , word or rumor of the discovery of some relic or artefact rushes around, be it Arkik's Sword, or Ser Temil's Tabard or...in this case, The Grail of The Phoenix. As you also know, these rumors all end in...nothing. So will this one, I presume. " she says, putting down the cup, "But all must be investigated..." she finishes, her expression frank and open, watching Ferri's reaction.


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

Zaknador:

"Oh yes Dahlin', I have exactly what you're looking for right here," Reesus answers as he pulls out a finely made wooden case and opens it reveal a magnificent set of jeweler's tools. Everything that you'd need to cut gems and craft jewelry is neatly arranged in the velvet interior. In one compartment is the jeweler's loupe you asked about.

As you stand there looking over the tools, you hear voices from outside.


Drausk, Dr. Monroe, Egryzon, Zaknador:

"Among other things," Red answers before opening the door. The elf that enters lives up to her nickname with a mane of fiery red hair and eyes that blaze like stars. She's far from unattractive, but it seems that fatigue is wearing on her as the bags under her eyes attest.

"Alright, what do you have for me to look at this time," she asks the short, fat man who sends another young child scurrying off before turning to reply.

"So glad you could join us, Red. It took you–" the man begins, but is cut off by the snap in Red's voice.

"I was on the other side of town and came as soon as I heard from the runner you sent. Now, what do you want me to look at," she asks again, her temper beginning to rise.

The man scowls at the Artificer and grumbles as he pulls a small pouch of coins from his belt and tosses them to Egryzon. (Egryzon now has 10 gp in silver and copper coins)

"Three guys brought in some goods that look to be good make. I wanted you to take a look an' see if any o' 'em was magic-like," the man answers in a gruff tone. A moment later, the young boy returns leading three rough looking men carrying expensive looking arms and armor that they obviously could not afford.

"Well, get to it," the man says as the gear is laid out on a free table. A two-handed sword, a much shorter blade, two daggers, a finely made pack, a suit of fine maile, a quiver of common arrows, and a pendant made of some silvery metal on a fine chain.

Red eyes the three men suspiciously before turning her attention to the first of the daggers.

Perception DC 15

Spoiler:
One of the men has fresh blood staining the ends of his sleeves. All three of them have freshly scraped knuckles.

Appraise DC 20 or Craft(Jewelry) DC 15
Spoiler:
Good gravy that necklace and the pendant are platinum!

Knowledge(Religion) DC 10
Spoiler:
That pendant is actually a holy symbol for Albia. a well made one at that.


Egryzon:

You're not sure why, but there's a slow, simmering anger coming from the Presence that's been guiding you.

Sannah:

"I'll be sure that they know," Ferri replies when you compliment the two men's skill.

He listens to your explanation and frowns in concentration.

"I see. Yes, and there I times I envy the Arcanum in Akiheton. They have the funds and manpower to sort through the dross relatively quickly while we of the Fastness must make do. The Divinators' predictions are little more than guesses most of the time," he says, not bothering to hide his contempt for the Divinators. "Sometimes I wonder if we'd be better off partnering or even merging with the Arcanum."

He gives himself a shake and smiles as he takes up his teacup and looks you in the eyes.

"Ah well, ours is not to ask why and whatnot. I do find myself curious though. What do you hope to gain from this? I've read the reports they sent me and have heard that you are the most skilled Explorator since Connot, so Sannah Trexl, what is it that you want most?"

Ferri's demeanor changes in a moment, going from almost foppish to intrigued and calculating so quickly that it's clear that he was wearing at least one mask. A man not to be trifled with, this Lord Ferrianus.


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Will she die during the prequel? Tune in next time to find out:

Seems like there would be time when he starts lighting up a pipe and not answering me that I could act, because that is when I would realize that he is definitely acting against me, rather than just guessing, as I was before. If so, I cast suggestion (spell like ability, don't have to do anything but think and speak) and say "let us out." If I can do that, I do.

Zendara doesn't bother to respond to Malgrave, although the part that really stung comes out as she casts a spell.

She 5-foot steps to the door so that she can get everyone in the cone, and she casts Sonic Scream. FISHERWOMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAN?!?

Sonic Scream Damage: 4d4 ⇒ (3, 1, 3, 2) = 9

If her suggestion worked and Steiner opened the door (in which case he probably wasn't in the cone, but otherwise he probably was because he had moved away from me before lighting the pipe), she then uses her move action to exit the establishment.

If it did not, then she draws her morningstar and prepares to give her life protecting the girl if necessary. She mentally prays to Milani to bless her in the cause of freedom.


Kassen Battle Maps | RotRL Battle Maps

General note to everybody, if you use a spell, please tell me if it has a save and what the DC is.

Zendara:

To be honest, I think that'd be a little quick to jump from "What's going on?" to "Oh crap, he has something against me!" However, I think a chase would be more interesting than what I had planned, so it's moot anyway.

Steiner's eyes glaze over as you weave your spell. Malgrave doesn't seem to notice until he begins to open the door.

"You moron! What are you doing," he cries, snapping Steiner form his trance-like state. realizing what was going on, the man lets out a curse, but it's too late. A brilliant flash of blue-white light surrounds you and you feel power tingling your nerves and flowing through you from Audria. One moment you are in Steiner's house of healing, the next you're a hundred feet away. The power fades and you see that Audria has passed out. As the power fades, so to does the glow you notice in her silver hair.

You have a head-start and a death scream tells you that running would be a good idea.

and the chase is on! What do you do?


Map / Loot CG Female Aasimar Gestalt Divine Marksman Ranger Arrowsong Minstrel Bard 6 | HP 27/45 | AC 19 / T 14 / FF 15 | Fort +6 / Ref +9 / Will +6 | Initiative +4 | CMB +7 / CMD +20 | Perception +15 | Diplomacy +15 | Bardic Performance 13/18 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 3/3 | Darkvision 60 feet | SR 8 vs. Evil | Active Effects: None

Running and Screaming and Hoping:

You have a good point. It did already feel strained, as you said, and I was already worried that I would have to hurt him. Honestly, I almost used suggestion to get out last turn, what with him locking the door and closing the shutters and saying nothing. So at least *I* felt like it wasn't a big jump to actually doing it, although the logic jump to "he is definitely a bad guy," you're right... is a stretch. Maybe Zendara just got too uneasy. In any case, I'd rather be running for it than cornered and dying, so thank you for going with it anyway.

Okay, where to run. As a player, I only know the ship she was working on, which may have left on another run already, the Inn I usually stay at, and the temple, and this place. Zendara would want to go to someplace public probably so that they can't murder her quietly in an alley, or get to high ground so she can get out her bow and start sniping them, so I guess this would be a knowledge local thing to see if I know a better place?

Knowledge Local: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22 <--Zendara considering (in her split second) What's the closest, busiest place to here that I might either be able to get protection or a good distraction?

I'm going to say it's likely that there is a tavern of some sort close to here where I might find some of my pirate buddies that know me and trust me, but feel free to switch that out to whatever brilliant idea you decide that I came up with for the knowledge roll, if it helps storywise. :)

Zendara runs full out towards the tavern [or insert another place], and when she gets there, she goes in and tells everyone, loudly, exactly who is after her and that they are trying to kidnap a girl and kill her. If she sees a crowd someplace closer she screams bloody murder at them saying the same. In fact, she just screams it to anyone at all, crowd or not. She wants this to be a public spectacle, and as uncomfortable for the hunters as possible. She'll consider stopping to make a stand if something comes up where it seems appropriate and involves someone she trusts a whole heck of a lot more than Slimy Surgeon Steiner, who is likely now dead. And good riddance too, she thinks. Calling me cocky. And to think I was going to tip the guy.

Her internal humor-as-a-defense-mechanism is helping her feel better, so she sticks with it: Freaking Anderson "Evil" Malgrave is next for calling me a fisherwoman. That's unforgivable.

Help! Anderson Malgrave is trying to murder us! she screams as she passes by the first few people.

Malgrave is a murderer! He killed Steiner in cold blood!

Anderson Malgrave is kidnapping people! Help us!

Help, help! Anderson Malgrave is trying to kill us!

She continues screaming similar things all the way to the tavern.


Male Kobold Summoner 4 / Hydrokineticist 4 / Gestalt 4 HP: 23/23 | AC: 18/13/16 | Fort: +4 / Ref: +6 / Will: +7 | Init: +4, Darkvision 60 ft., Light Sensitivity | Perception: +8

The Sun and Moon:
Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28
Still fidgeting uncomfortably from the intensity of the furnaces, Egryzon nevertheless manages to catch his reward and quickly examine its contents before stashing it in a pocket. The kobold then turns his gaze upward, scanning the room for signs of trouble; for most of his life, Egryzon had to defend his every victory, and the instinct did not die easily, making him confrontational when receiving payment.

When he notices Red's suspicion, Egryzon immediately turns his eye to the three newcomers, where it is caught by an unusual splash of red on their hands. At first, the kobold dismisses it as a temperature-induced hallucination, but he soon becomes convinced that the substance—which appears increasingly similar to blood with every second the kobold looks at it—is real. Rendered somewhat irrational by the combination of instinct and heat, Egryzon leaps to the conclusion that theft and combat were responsible and begins to turn intensely possessive. They want my reward, the delusional kobold thinks. I must assert my dominance.

"I know you're eyeing my coins." Egryzon growls, staring at the three, rough men, "You stole those weapons, and now you're thinking of stealing from me. I am much stronger than your other victim, though; touch my possessions, and the blood on your hands will mix with your own!"

Intimidate: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (11) + 12 = 23

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