DM Zyren's Heart of Light
Game Master Zyrenity

Solaric searches the library for any secret passages, especially behind bookcases. He also wants to investigate the large wooden table and the fireplace.

Perception 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11

Are there any other doors up here to other rooms? Does the library take up the whole top floor?

The spiral staircase you took onto this floor goes further on.

The first floor consists completely of the library.

Kirk continues up the staircase to the next floor, keeping wary of traps and other dangers.

Perception 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25
Stealth 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19

Kirk Spearborn, do not fear! I am right behind you with my blade at the ready. Just hold up your hand if you need me to wait. Yell loudly if you need me to come running!

Solaric continues to follow at a distance of about 30 feet. I am doing my best to be quiet and not awaken every stirring creature in this manor.

Stealth 1d20 - 6 ⇒ (8) - 6 = 2

The second floor consists of three rooms of which one is used as a storeroom, one is just a work space and the last only holds one shelf.

Mat

Kirk thoroughly searches the rooms, paying close attention to the workplace's desk for any clues taken from official documents that there might be.

Perception 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14

Kirk, sorry about all that noise coming up the stairwell. Dropping my shield was just an accident.

Solaric cautiously walks over and inspects the shelf at J2&3. I will not step on the rug at M2&3.

Perception 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11

Kirk Spearborn, do not fear! I am right behind you with my blade at the ready. Just hold up your hand if you need me to wait. Yell loudly if you need me to come running!

Pitr takes a tentative step onto the first stair, and then sighs, shakes his head and stomps up after the yelling half-elf.

At the top of the stairs, Pitr taps Solaric on the shoulder,
Seriously, Sir Chat-a-lot, are you going to announce our every move? You're not a bard by chance?

OOTS #766 ; )

Victoria remains at the top of the stairs and begins to gently recite incantations while sweeping her gaze across the room looking for anything out of the ordinary.

At various moments as we waited for Naga to return, Solaric takes time to privately make connections and converse with each of his aquaintances, hoping to build unity with the party.

The search of the desk unearthes that quite alot of hand written journals and books must have been produced here - a lot of ink stains prove that. Nevertheless, the desk is entirely empty, everything, even ink and pen have been removed.

The same is true for the shelf only traces of dust remain there.

The various chests and vases contain dried food and tools.

Solaric continues searching the room with the bare shelves. He carefully looks under the rug, looking for trap doors or secret compartments. If permissible, he will take a 10 on his perception check (10+5 = 15).

Taking ten is always OK if there is no direct threat.

You can't find any secret doors or compartments. The floor beneath the rug is rock solid.

There is still one floor above you left.

Kirk, visibly frustrated with their lack of findings, continues upstairs in the same manner.

Stealth 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20
Perception 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8

On the topmost floor are a bedroom with a large bed and a wardrobe, and a small reading room with a large fireplace and a lone velvet cushioned chair.

Mat

As usual, Solaric searches with great caution and care. He starts in the reading room around the fireplace and the velvet chair as well as under the rug. He will take a 10 on his perception check (10+5 = 15). Is the fireplace lit right now?

Victoria moves to the edge of the small carpet and begins to gently recite incantations while sweeping her gaze across the room looking for anything out of the ordinary.

Yes it is still lit, though the wood is nearly depleted. Obviously it was lit to warm the room until dawn.

Kirk checks the bedroom for clues or anything of significance.

Perception 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Pitr seems a bit frustrated and dejected.

Unless we missed a basement or something, it looks like the creep has disappeared again. Countess, is there any way we can get more information from the corpse downstairs? Maybe we can ask around the Church of Nethys, although supposedly a priest sent those thugs after us. We've got to check on those lawyers tomorrow as well. It might be time to get a little rest. I don't know what else we can do tonight. This wasn't exactly the way I planned to spend graduation night.

Sorry I didn't respond over the week-end, monitor died at home and our mobile network sucks in Swaziland os I couldn't even check the posts on the phone

I have to agree with Pitr, it is getting late and I don't think that any priest would enjoy us coming at 3 in the morning.

Solaric, do not worry my friend, we are all graduates here. There is no for you to try and prove yourself, as you have just as much right as the rest of us of being here, and you have already proven yourself invaluable. If it wasn't for you, I would be a piece of charred mage meat.

"Let's run through what we know... we have a corpse we believe to be Caliphas' ambassador Georgiu Alistrada clergyman of Nethys. The reason he was in the city was to attend the ceremonies and possibly look for possible acolytes. We also have a dead opera singer, who was, oddly enough, of Aasimar heritage found dead alongside him.
We have her fiancé who says she arrived alone, however we have reason to believe that Georgiu arrived in company. So one person is missing from this equation".

They know we are on to them, and so they must move with haste... I know we are tired, but speed is of the essence."

The Countess looks her snake in the eye...

"Did I miss anything?"

Well if haste is of the essence Victoria, might I suggest taking my trusty mare to the solicitors place of operation while our other companions catch up with us on foot?

Knowledge local, for any information about the solicitors: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20

"A grand and generous offer Zahur, however I advise caution and moving as a group. This assassin has proved themselves resourceful and cunning, I'd certainly not hasten to them in anything less than a large group, lest they be brazen enough to attempt to dispatch early arrivers"

I wait for a decision, either going to the solicitor now or waiting until dawn.

I can see the sense in resting up first, and in light of Zahurs information I reckon an expensive solicitor might have good security - so we might be safe for a while - long enough to rest. So am happy to do so if the majority would prefer it

I understand your reasoning Victoria, but I don't think that the barrister would appreciate to be woken up this early in the morning by a young group of graduates. I think that we should either do this discreetly, with us going on horse being out of the question, or wait till morning where our detective work would not be so inconspicious.

Oh I forgot Kirk's, Solaric's and Victoria's search

All your attempts to find any further clues are futile. The Wardrobe has obviously been searched before. There are not traces of magic to be found.

Since Pitr already anounced that he would like to rest too and Kirk and Solaric are also exhausted after being awake for about 20 hours, I assume the whole party returns to the academy to take a rest.

6th of Clistril 7AM

As the sun creeps slowly over the mountains north of Karcau and bathes city and lake in rose light the city and the academy start to wake up. It's freezing cold and hoarfrost crests the roofs and streets of the city.

Since today is Starday the normal busy noises of the city hold off and there's only the hustle and bustle of the academy servants to be heard (most graduates are still asleep because of the festivities yesterday).

I assume you agreed on a meeting point and propose you meet on the academy square after you did your morning preparations.
Everyone who needs to regenerates 1hp.

Basilli, now is a good moment to join the group.

Knowledge (local) 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26

At the mentioning of "Wilbur and Sons," Kirk cocks his head quizzically. "I've actually heard a few things about that place," then continues to explain to his companions everything he knows of the chancellery.

As the group leaves the manor, Kirk sets his pack on the ground and lounges in one of the plushy chairs. "Why pay for a tavern when I can stay here for free? I'll meet you all in the morning." During the night, Kirk will sleep on his bedroll under the bed, if there's room. That way if he's walked in on, he'd at least have a good hiding place already picked.

The next day, Victoria appears once again elegantly dressed and well coiffured, however the crossbow she has slung over her shoulder is rather ostentatious.

She lazily waves her courtiers fan as she awaits the groups arival.

After doing his regular morning routine, Zahur proceeds to meet the rest of the group at the square.

Morning, I assume that we are now heading to Wilbur & Sons?

I approach your group in the square, limping with the support of my staff, bundled warmly against the morning's cold.

"So the masters were once again correct. Hail graduates and well met." I bow first towards Victoria, then towards the rest of the group.
"I was 'requested' to provide support and assistance to you by the Academic board." grinning good naturedly and in a false whisper to you all "Seems that they don't want to trust a Priest what with all the current faction struggles"
I spread my arms out expansively almost as if to hug you all.
"So here I stand, ready to accompany you."
Spying Zahur's harmed state I raise my eyebrows and proceed to roll up my sleaves
"Why I have not been amongst you a minute and already you need my treatment!" I gesture at Zahur and incant "May your wounds be closed, may your flesh be healed!"
Cure Light Wounds1d8 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5
Nodding contently at my work I turn to the rest
"Eh. Not my best work but ... I trust that shows my competency. Now then - where are we off to?"

At the square Solaric greets the group.

Good morning to you all. I trust you are all well rested. I was thinking this morning about that madman we met. Do you think there is a shrine to the Gray Master in this city? If there is, perhaps that may also lead to some clues.

At the sight of Basili, Zahur suddenly completely wakes up and gives the older man a bear hug while being careful of his leg.

Basili! It is so great to see you. It certainly isn't the first time that your healing magic has been of great help. I remember the days when I was learning combat or riding Night for the first times. Your magic was invaluable, if it was not for you I would certainly still have a number of broken bones or permanent injuries.

Upon receiving the healing, the Garundi gestures to his no longer existing wound.
See what I told you!

You are Basilli the Fair and Just?! Welcome and well met! Forgive me, but I was afraid that you were just one of the inquisitors sent by the Masters to motivate us. This is going to be a great day indeed! I remember the stories of when Kyle Lightfoot, that studious halfling, was being bullied by Charak Mastoon and Basilli summoned a Celestial Eagle. It came out of nowhere like a bright light and attached itself to Mastoon's hair. I never saw that thug ever run so fast! Sir, it is a pleasure to meet your aquaintance. Welcome! Solaric approaches and offers a strong handshake in greeting.

Pleased but a little embarrassed Basilli returns the hugs and hand shakes.
Play acting gruffly at being annoyed he responds to the camaraderie by saying "Fair and Just?! Bah - stop it all of you or you'll turn my head! And Im slow enough as it is without having to walk backwards!! Now tell me what has been found and what steps we must needs take?"

After being briefed by the group, Basilli takes his place behind the party meleers.
"Lead on good friends and know that I will spare no effort in keeping you hale whilst we uncover this hateful plot"

Pitr watches the precedings with a bemused smile.

Good morning, Doc. Good to see you and thanks for cleaning Zahur up a bit. He can really get into trouble at times.
He shakes his head sadly and grins at Basili and Zahur.

My Countess, you do know how to accessorise. You might scare off all the boys with that little dart gun there.

We're still waiting for Spooky? I thought I was late. I just couldn't turn down a second round of breakfast this morning as it looks like we will be running all over town again today. I reckon we start at Wibur & co. when Spoo- Pitr catches Basili's look er, Kirk gets here then?

Since I didn't hear anything contrary I assume Kirk will accompany the party to the solicitor's home.

At such an early hour and especially on a Starday, Karcau's streets are mostly deserted. Before reaching the solicitor's home and office you have to pass through the gate which seperates the Marble District (no. 7 on the map, don't forget: the map is attached to my profile) from the rest of the city.

On the way to the gates you just encounter two straying cats and one of the city's employees on his duty to extinct the street lamps.

The gates to Marble District are all heavily guarded by a whole company (about 60 men) of the regualr city guard, spread evenly on the five gates.

At this time of the day only three men stand guard at the gate you approach. The highest ranking among them lifts his left hand (right hand resting on the pommel of his longsword) and says

Well met, what brings such an illustrious group to my gate?

Kirk arrives without ceremony. He nods to his former instructor, and joins the party quietly. "Where to today, then?"

Solaric steps forward and respectfully bows to the high ranking guard.

Good morning sir. We have business with Wilbur & Sons. We are in haste, so we kindly request that you open the gate and let us pass through.

Diplomacy roll please

Diplomacy 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (3) + 10 = 13

The guard eyes you critically

And what does this business look like?

My half orc friend here has been unjustly accused of assault with deadly force at the Snickering Madman. Solaric pulls Kirk Spearborn forward to present to the guard. We are all witnesses to the event and we urgently need to testify at the fine Barrister’s office this morning. I’m sure you can sypathize with this poor fellow. An injustice has been done that needs to be put right. Please sir, your help would be greatly appreciated.

Bluff 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9

Solaric, getting frustrated at the annoying guard, attempts to relax and refocus with a silent prayer.

Solaric continues to try and talk his way past the gurard. My good sir, tomorrow is Sunday and Wilbur & Sons will be closed. This testimony will be too late by then and all of our efforts will be for naught. Besides, do you know how long it took me to gather up all of these witnesses. You are clearly an honest man. Let me offer to give you a blessing from Iomedae to you and all of your worthy guards. Solaric pulls forth his holy symbol and attempts to cast a bless spell on the guards.

Iomedae adina seni korusun

After attempting to cast bless, Solaric waits to see how he responds.

Diplomacy 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (17) + 11 = 28

Sense Motive1d20 + 0 ⇒ (17) + 0 = 17

The guard furrows his brows after Solaric's first attempt to persuade him. He continues to listen and by and by his expression softens.

Ok, you convinced me...I won't question your cause any further and wish you best of luck...but if I get to know that you caused any problems, then...I think you already got a notion of what I mean, mhh?

He waves the other guard to open the gate and they let you pass.

My Countess, you do know how to accessorise. You might scare off all the boys with that little dart gun there.

"Why thank you gallant knight, I must say there is littel benefit in a lady wandering the streets like an unmade bed, and I would't like to be seen in the company of such rough men without making it clear that I was not some kind of brazen strumpet"

Noting him regarding the crossbow...

"I know it seems marginally less than lady-like, but a woman of refinement and breeding must know the rules of the hunt, and besides, it can be such delicious sport"

"Lovely speech there Sir Solaric, you were far more patient than I, I must admit I was quite set to order that natty little man out of our way! The cheek of a man of his station feeling he can simply detain people on the streets to answer his self important little questions"

"Aye, I was getting worried I'd have to make some threats to get at what we need. Good work, Solaric, and clever thinking." Kirk is immediately soaking in his surroundings as they pass through the gate.

Perception 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21

I assume that everyone has been brought up to speed about everything by now.