Merchants and Marvels (Inactive)

Game Master Mowque

A clever merchant attempts to make a fortune in the Inner Sea Region.


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Sasthiss takes the healing silently, with no expression in her eyes.

As they walk, she talks, "I was trained in many things, my lord. I am talented with a blade, can use a bow with skill. I am adept at the use of poison and infiltration. Cutting a throat means nothing to me in the service of my tasks. I have trained long and hard at this skills, and consider them my life." she says simply.

She guards the door with the solidly of a stone.

Inside, Rileng looks at the sack.

The bag contains five items. Two are strange religious symbols, of very exotic design. One made of alabaster and one of onyx. They seem to depict a man and woman in embrace, and the two items look to fit together.

A third is a ring of Powerful Blood Magic, highly illegal. Only useful to those who use innate magic to rage.

Fourth is a small, heavy box. It looks to be made of lead, black and dark.

Lastly, is a vial of a thick white liquid. It is stopped tight and sealed with melted lead.

You do know the Lord will be looking for this stuff once he sorts through the carnage? He might not know YOU have it but I'd be careful.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Woot page 3 :)

Rileng looks over each item closely, calling upon his worldly and scholarly knowledge.

Knowledge (Religion) vs Alabaster Symbol: 1d20 + 15 + 1d6 ⇒ (9) + 15 + (1) = 25
Knowledge (Religion) vs Onyx Symbol: 1d20 + 15 + 1d6 ⇒ (9) + 15 + (3) = 27
Knowledge (Arcana) vs Blood Ring: 1d20 + 15 + 1d6 ⇒ (12) + 15 + (2) = 29
Knowledge (?) vs Box: 1d20 + 15 + 1d6 ⇒ (16) + 15 + (6) = 37
Craft (Alchemy) vs Vial: 1d20 + 23 ⇒ (20) + 23 = 43

Regardless it seemed the targets were what the pathfinders were interested in. He would not put it pass them to send such a party, he would have to meet with the venture captain again it seemed.

I think it's clear that Rileng is not greedy, he just wanted to know and does not trust the lord enough to let him see the goods in detail if asked. Anyways, bring them back helps improve his standing with the lord as much as keeping them from getting stolen to begin with. >:)


Rileng examines the items int urn, casting an experienced and critical eye over them.

The vial was the easiest, Rileng could identity it quickly. It was daemon's seed, a very powerful extract. It had punishing effects but greatly enhance the ability of anyone who partook of it. Very illegal. Feel free to look it up on the srd

The Blood Ring was what he expected. It could make the magic bloodragers stronger and harder to defeat. Same

The symbol's meant little to him. He knew they were not symbols of any gods he recognized, of Avistan or Tian Xia.

Lastly, the box. There was little special about it. Just a solid, well made box with no sign or emblem. It opened easily enough, revealing three separate compartments, all empty.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

It seemed what he did learn was the truth of the pathfinder captain's words. Sadly she had chosen a most unwise route in her dealings, if she was the cause. Which considering everything it certainly made a strong case to be. Carefully he marks each item with invisible ink, perhaps a pointless act. Yet one never knew when a pointless act could be of aid, he puts them back in the sack. Mixes an extract and once more the sack disappears where none could find it. The lord would get back his items, but first he had to collect his payment from the Aspis Consortium before he could bring this day to a close.

With Sasthiss in tow he makes all haste to the Bronze House, paying the expense of a fast carriage. He would not be waylaid a second time, not without drawing the city guard without a doubt. While keeping alert none the less he used his time in the carriage to bring up the full accounting of his bill. He had a certain figure in mind and the Aspis would do well to be near it.

Time to get my pay and wrap up the longest day in Rileng's life in recent memory. xP


Rileng arrives at the Bronze House in early evening, just as the sun is starting to glide towards the horizon, creating long shadows in the warm golden light.

The guards at the door nod at Rileng but stop him firmly, 'We are ordered to clear you but not this...thing/" he points a spear as Sasthiss. The vishkanya glares at him flatly but remains silent.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng looks the guard in the eye.

"Well then you can fetch my payment and I'll be on my way. Truthfully I could care less, that's the kind of mood I'm in. I'll just let the lord know and you can explain it to your boss."

He pauses for a moment and just before the guard reacts.

"You know what, just send me my gold. I don't have time for this."

He turns and starts to leave at a walk. Keeping his guard up, waiting for the reaction. The Aspis had done nothing but cause him problems and prove to be utterly useless. They had no right to demand anything from him at all, not even for him to wipe his feet before entering the door. Just another reason to increase the bill or if they proved to prideful, he would seek out the spice guild master. Broker a deal then promptly cut off something for the insult earlier today. He would get his gold and repay a blood debt all at once.

Yeah everyone has a thug the size of an orge but I bring a skinny little snake woman and their flipping out, Rileng says bite me! >.>


The guards stare at each other then one shouts, 'Hey, slow down! The Boss wanted to see you!" A few other guards fan out, not aggressive, but in fair numbers. A few others doing business top and stare at the unfolding scene.

You can walk away if you want

"Just following orders sir. Go on in and we can keep your friend out here. Security, you understand?" the guard adds placatingly.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng stops and turns slowly on the guard.

"Security he says. TO THE NINE HELLS WITH THAT!"

He stomps up to the guard and plants a pointer finger hard into his chest.

"Your guards ran off at the first sign of trouble. Did they even get reinforcements. Not at all, so I will make it simple for you. She comes in with me or I don't come in at all. Your boss loses his deal and owes a debt from services rendered. Your orders excuse means nothing to me, so you can let us in or run to your boss and have him tell you to let us in."

He removes his finger and gives him a fiendish smile full of teeth. His voice softening but with an undeniable edge.

"Make your choice quickly. If it takes you longer then two minutes, I am leaving. I wonder if losing this deal and the mound of gold it would bring is worth your stubborn empty head. Personally I bet it's worth a dozen easy."

He was playing things a bit hard, but he had a hard day. The Aspis showed a great lack of control in the entire proceedings and now they wanted him to bend over to do things their way. After all that he had done already, that was not going to happen. More then a sack of gold was coming his way, respect or pain. That was what they would give or end up getting. Nothing hurt the consortium more then a blow to their coffers and no doubt losing the lord would do just that.


discrimination is a terrible thing

The guard swallows and stammers, 'uh, yes sir. this way, sir." and personally leads Rileng into the Bronze House. Many people stare at the event, and Rileng notices a few people catching his eye. He is making a name for himself.

He and Sasthiss are led into another spartan room, perhaps the same one Rileng was in before, it is hard to tell.

A few silent minutes past and then the door opens, and two hulking guards enter, both armed to the teeth. Behind them comes Maiveer Sloan, followed by his half-orc guard. The room suddenly feels very full, but Sloan ignores the brutes around him.

'I hear you made a scene at the door." Sloan says mildly, 'I apologize. The Consortium is not loved by all, security is a real concern, doubly so with...unknowns bearing weapons." he flicks a hand at Sasthiss.

'So, Korlt ran in here hours ago yelling about some sort of attack. The fool said you were dead and the ship had sunk into the bay. What is the truth?" he says, his voice scornful of the Aspis negotiator.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng's smile is slow and with no shortage of smugness. Yet he does not allow it to creep into his voice, he did not make it a habit of poking people in sore spots. Not unless it was with a blade at least. He let it go, he got what he wanted after all.

"The truth is that despite all set backs and with my personal intervention."

He brings a hand to his side, presenting Sasthiss.

"As my newest associate and gift from said lord can attest."

He lowers his hand once more.

"I not only did my job well, I manage to salvage Korlt's and gain the agreement. He will take 19,000 gold coins for his spices, due to my direct assistance."

He gave that a moment to sink in before continuing.

"Now, I am here to collect my fee and bring this contract to a close Mr. Sloan. No doubt your time is precious and our business is concluded."

He watched everything carefully. He had one last thing for Sloan, but that very much depended on his reaction and payment.

Taking 10/20 on perception and sense motive with inspiration.


Maniveer takes a breath and Rileng can tell the man is grudgingly impressed.

"Only 19,000? I figured Korlt was a fool for even suggesting it. No matter who his father is, the man is no genius." the Gold Agent shrugs and looks at Rileng.

"What do you think is a fair price, master Sulfach? Counting in your time and cleverness both?"


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

So he still wanted to play did he, fine. He was going to make him pay through the teeth then.

"I would say 5,000 gold coins is a nice round number."

If he accepted the amount he would be happy, but he did not expect it.


Sloan snorted, loudly. "5,000? You must be dreaming, friend. I admit you did a good job, but don't let survival go to your head. We didn't build this house and the organization behind it by giving our money away. I'll give you 1,000 and even that is too much." he says, eyes dark.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng lets his stone face linger just long enough to make Sloan nervous.

"Oh I was waiting for the punch line, sad. Here I thought my employer would pay me more then people I don't work for. I did my job and your job, not only that I did it better. Your getting an exclusive deal and foot in the door with a new supplier that no one else has. But I understand, after having your man run at the drop of a hat your pride is wounded. I'll be nice then for your sake, 3000 gold and a favor. Let's be straight you really owe me more then one after all this mess, but again I'll settle because I'm a nice person."

His words were warm but his eyes were cold. Their was always the spicers if he wanted to be cheap. Then again he could get into the spice trade himself, he could play both against each other and be the lord's representative. Sloan would regret pushing him over a few thousand.


Sloan's eyes are just as cold, his face revealing little at this point. "You forget who you are arguing with? I am not some fishwife on the docks selling cod. I am a representative of the largest commercial concern in Avistan and you will remember your place. Boldness has it's place, and that is not here, not now."

He shakes his head, "2,200, not a coin more. What is the favor?"


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng gave nothing away. If that was how he was going to play things with him after all he had done. Then the Aspis Consortium would not be in his good graces, something they may regret one day. But today was not the day, perhaps it was but it was not known. On to business regardless.

"Agreed then. The favor is a rather simple one, I need a discreet and trust worthy cleric with the power to cast spells that speak to the dead. I respect all religions and philosophies, so I assure you they will not offend me."

He was holding his little tidbit in reserve, he needed everything in hand before the time would be right to deliver it to Sloan.


Sloan raises an eyebrow but nods. "Fair enough. A minor enough offer. I have a few favors I can call it easily enough. May I ask who you are interrogating from beyond the grave? Anything to do with this affair?"


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng gave a slight nod, seated as he was.

"The Aspis Consortium's interest retreated with Korlt. Now that our agreement is complete, I must act in the best interest of my new employer as is my way."

He got up, dusting himself off and smoothing his clothes.

"Send me a summons when you have arranged things. If their is nothing else I have another appointment I must attend to."

He gave a slight smile as he waited for his gold.

"Oh it nearly slipped my mind, one last detail. Korlt was presented with a bejeweled blade from the lord, a gift to the consortium as is apparently their custom when starting a business relationship. I would hope in all the confusion and claims of my demise, that he did not gloss over that. I would not like to think that the consortium would be cheated by one of it's own when an outsider like myself has only dealt with you fairly."

While he did not change his tone or smile, the words slide like a bare knife on soft flesh. Sloan best get his own house in order before he starts looking upon another.


The various guards watch Rileng closely as he stands up, the slightest tensing of muscles, the potential of action.

Sloan nods, 'One of the guards grabbed the blade, thankfully. As for the cleric, will tomorrow be soon enough?" He writes a short note and hands it to the investigator, 'This will ensure your payment when you give this to the doorman."


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng takes the note.

"Tomorrow will be fine. Thank you."

With that he bows and leaves. Stopping only to get his money and shortly leaving the Bronze House behind, good riddance to the lot of them. He arranges for a carriage to take him back to where the lord is docked. Time to get in his new employers good graces even more, as well as find out a little suspicion of his. He keeps his guard up and reminds his new bodyguard to do the same.


The carriage ride back to the semi-deserted dock is quick, rolling through the evening streets, the sky growing faint and dark. The honest merchants are heading home, and the busy docks begin to quiet. The porters, sailors and captains heading home or searching for entertainment.

Sasthiss is quiet at his side, her eyes glittering in the fading light, taking in the scenes outside the carriage.

They are dropped off outside the boat, where Rileng sees a few sailors guarding the gangway. They don't look nearly as efficient (or deadly) as the vishkanya had.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng walks right up to them.

"I need to see the lord, gentlemen. I have something for him that he will be glad to see."

Once they let him pass and stand before the lord, he bows.

"Apologies for returning so quickly and without proper notice. But I felt you would not wish to wait."

He twirls his empty hand and the sack appears, it's top firmly in hand.

"I believe these are the items the thieves stole from you. I retrieved them earlier. My lord."

He was careful in his wording, he was not dumb enough to lie. He was his new employer after all.


Rileng is led into the bowels of the ship, down dark passageways, reeking of sea salt and varnish. The room he finally enters is as luxurious and elegant as he imagined, fit for an emperor.

Incase hangs from the timbers above, giving the room a spicy scent. Tapestries cover the wooden hull, giving the room a soft feel, completed by the endless series of pillows and carpets. The rakshasa sits, reclining, on a divan, his two slave girls at his feet, placidly looking at Rileng with wide eyes.

The bull's eyes are unreadable when Rileng holds up the sack.

"I wondered...when we couldn't find the items, I had assumed the invaders had taken them. You have done well, my newest servant. Your talents grow before my very eyes. Did you investigate the items inside?"


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng did not miss a beat.

"I was inclined to check that they were not decoys. I would be doing you a disservice if I said I knew what they all were. But I knew enough that they were true and not fakes. If you wish to share what they are with me, I welcome it. If not then it is no longer my concern."

He lowers the sack on the floor softly.

"A question in turn if you would allow me, my lord. Was the bejeweled blade you gave the Aspis Consortium a Raktavarna?"

He gave a slight smile and quickly follows.

"My agreement with them is complete. As expected their generosity for my efforts was lacking. I felt only the need to confirm that your gift was received by those it was meant for and nothing more. I have arranged to begin tracking down what is left of the thieves tomorrow as well."

He watched the lord carefully and everything for that matter. He didn't think for a moment that the lord was only as powerful as his coin purse. Many had already made that mistake about him.

Take 10/20 on perception and sense motive with inspiration.


The rakshasa eyes grow wider, "You are well-learned, translator, to even know the name Raktavarna. We are far from my lands." the tone is not all complimentary and an edge of guard enters his voice.

He goes on however, "Finish your vengeance, it is worthy. Then return and I can find work for you that will pay well." the yellow eyes glitter in the lamplight. One hand picks up the strange, simple box and hefts it.

"I look forward to your service, translator."


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng bowed.

"I look forward to serving someone worthy, with honor."

He looks him in the eye on that last word.

"It is my hope then when I return, I will know everything to do with these thieves and share with you, those that have interfered with our business. Until then great lord."

Unless their is something else, he leaves. Catching a carriage with his bodyguard in tow and returning to his inn. Finally he would rest, then tomorrow he would get to work on these thieves, the guildmaster, and the venture captain. Honestly he had dealt with criminals more honorably then these so called city folk, perhaps they knew not the consequences of such dishonor. Then again maybe none enforced it.


When Rileng enters his rented inn room, he finds a small note passed under the door. After checking for magic, traps or poison, he opens it. The note is short and terse.

All work on the Imperium is stopped. By Order of the Council of Ushers. They came in person to make sure. What to do?

Korlos Undershale
Master Shipwright

Otherwise the night passes quietly enough.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Before going to sleep, he writes a reply to be sent.

Find out why and prepare a bill for the delays at their expense. I'll see what I can find out on my end.


Go ahead and post the next morning's stuff


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

As Rileng sleeps he dreams, a city of false smiles and empty eyes. A city were the light holds only lies and the darkness flows with truth. A voice both alien and familiar whispers of blood and honor, old ways from his youth. Merciless and uncaring as the city has exposed itself to be. He walks the streets with these whispers, incessant upon his mind. Until he finds himself before a massive temple of gold and white, a golden key falls upon his hand. The whispers disappear and the key's head shows a scene of wealth and a different city unlike any he knows, yet his eyes fall lower. Where the dull block like teeth of the key should be, instead are slanted sharp edged teeth. A single deep voice speaks only this. True law and justice can never be broken.

He wakes early before the dawn, rested yet energized by the vivid dreams that quickly fade as his wits come about him. He runs his fingers through his mid length hair, only a few stray bits stick out from their customary slicked back place. He gets up and washes himself quickly, getting dressed, and mixing his extracts. He would be well prepared today and by his dreams or will. He would make all those that brought unfairness to his life pay their debt. Indeed, they would bring war and ruin to him then he would return it in kind. He was a merchant and trader, a businessman. Yet that was not all he was, he was more or less based on how one perceived it. He would use everything that he was to take back the peace they robbed from him.

After checking himself once more to make sure everything was accounted for he makes sure Sasthiss is ready as well. He arranges for a letter to be sent to Shelia Hiedmarch.

Letter:

Dear Miss Shelia Hiedmarch, Venture-Captain of the Pathfinder Society

I would like to meet with you to discuss some matters that you may find interesting. Send me your reply declining or meet me outside the Cathedral of Abadar two bells before sundown.

Rileng Sulfach

With that taken care of he gets a carriage and heads to the Cathedral for morning ceremonies. Call him superstitious, but if one dreams of his patron god. It does not hurt to check in. Until he heard back from the Aspis concerning the cleric and the rest of the city was fully awake. He had little work to do anyways. Not to mention he could not carry around so much gold or invest it in the imperium until it was running once more. Abadar was a god whose faithful were fine bankers, gaining some interest while keeping his gold safe made sense with this cities crooked officials. It seemed.

Let me know if you want to gloss over his temple visit. ;)


We can keep it simple, unless you have more to do?

The temple of Abadar is a imposing structure of stone and metal, well guarded and furnished. The ceremonies are elegant, well-produced affairs. Abadar has a large following in the merchant city, and Rileng has trouble finding a space despite the huge temple space.

After he meets with the commercial bankers in he temple. The bankers are well-pleased to meet a fellow worshiper, doubly so such a rich one, and gladly provide their best services (Rileng notes his name and occupation are noted in the bank books along with his account).

The tiefling is given a strongbox where his money can be safely put. Interest rates are low, apparently the market is soft, but at least the gold is beyond approach. The Temple of Abadar in Magnimar has never been robbed.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

After having his money safely stored away and having yet to receive any word from the Aspis, his own meeting with the venture captain far off. He chooses to spend his time gathering information on Argold and the incident surrounding the imperium's sudden stop. He uses his magical garments to change from his normal garb to more modest and common ones. Simple clothes with a hooded cloak, he has his bodyguard stay alert watching his back with a brown hooded cloak as well. She would draw attention otherwise and he preferred she not advertise her protection when he was seeking information. She could put those skills of stealth to use that way as well. He used his own keen senses none the less in case any danger was lurking, he would not be surprised by mere thugs again or anyone for that matter if he could help it.

Diplomacy vs Argold: 1d20 + 18 + 1d6 ⇒ (19) + 18 + (5) = 421d4 ⇒ 1
Diplomacy vs Imperium Incident: 1d20 + 18 + 1d6 ⇒ (18) + 18 + (3) = 391d4 ⇒ 1

Takes 10/20 on perception with inspiration. Takes 2 hours to gather information.


Rileng trolls the docks and taverns for information on Argold. there is precious little hard data. But he does learn that a hard-drinking Ulfen adventurer drifted into town a few days ago, as part of a established Pathfinder group named the 'Bastic's Teeth'. They were not Magnimar natives.

The information on the Imperium requires a higher level sort of reconnaissance. The average dock worker or clerk doesn't know much about it. If you want to learn about the Council of Ushers, you'll have to RP interacting with some government types. Seem fair.

As Rileng checks back at his Inn, he does find a letter from the dockyard waiting for him. Inside it claims that the Council of Ushers have held the ship due to 'improper paperwork' that needs sorting out. Korlos thinks he can bribe the officials, but it'll take a fair bit of coin. Over 800 coins, to make sure it goes away. Otherwise, who knows? The shipwright things it might be a political move. he asks if Rileng made any political figures upset recently.

Along with the letter is a small halfling cleric. he eyes Rileng carefully, as if remembering a description. 'Master Sulfach?" he says, his voice a soft and quiet. 'I believe you requested my services?"


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

It seemed his theories proved correct on both counts. He would deal with them in time, first came the here and now. He bows slightly to the cleric.

"Indeed, do you have a preferred location or is my room acceptable?"

He would deal with the pathfinders first. Then came the council.

Short post tend to be from my phone.


You can always wait till you get home, if you desire longer posts. I simply don't post from my phone, ever.

The cleric nods, 'Your room will be fine. just be warned, I have the protection of the Consortium. I will be missed if...anything happens." he waves a hand, "No offence, friend. Just a standard precaution."


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng gives a friendly smile and speaks in a similar manner.

"If someone desires your death, they won't care a wit about the consortium. It's that simple, so no offense friend. But so long as you keep my secrets, I keep yours and the consortium's. If their were any secrets to be had that is. As their are not and this is simple business, we should both get on with it. As everyone's time is precious."

He leads the way with his ever vigilant bodyguard bring up the rear. He tells her to wait outside and guard the door. Once he gives the room a once over and seals any means of spying or exposure he turns to the halfling.

"Now then, I assume you have spells to speak to the dead and divine knowledge from their blood?"

Once the halfling confirms he produces the two vials of blood from the fallen pair.

"I need a blood reading, I know the answers to some of the results already as I know of the spell. But I rather confirm."

Once the blood biography spell has granted it's information he produces the two heads for the more direct spell of speaking to the dead. He let's the halfing choose the order of which head will speak first.


The soft-spoken cleric ignores Rilengs words and enters the room, patently waiting for the teifling's security to be finishes. He does eye Sasthiss with interest and curiosity.

Taking the blood vials, he casts Blood Biography on them.

The cleric points at the floor, and words appear on the wood floor of the inn room.

First Set:
Who are you? Argold Longblade

What are you? I was a man...an adventurer for the Pathfinder Society

How was your blood shed? I was killed by a tielfing on the deck of the rakshasa's ship. He was stronger then he appeared.

When was your blood shed? Yesterday morning

Second Set:

Who are you? Arcaven Lathwellian

What are you? Half-elf investigator of the arcane...and adventurer for the Pathfinder Society

How was your blood shed? I was cut down by a teilfing working for a rakshasa.

When was your blood shed? Yesterday

GM Dice Work:
Roll 1: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6 Roll 2: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Lucky rolls

When Rileng asks for speaks to the dead the cleric sighs, rolls up his sleeves and nods. 'Care which one?" when Rileng shrugs, he picks the huge, bearded ulfen head.

'You'll get three questions each, so make them count. We'll do the barbarian, first."

The cleric concentrates, waves his hands and suddenly the mouth on the head...moves slightly, relaxing open.

'Go ahead." the cleric says, straining a bit.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

He had gotten another name and another confirmation, one pathfinder could be explained away. But two made it clear that they were sent. When it comes time to ask his questions, he thinks carefully.

"Were you sent by venture captain Shelia Hiedmarch to steal items from the rakshasa's ship? What are the names of your two accomplices during the thieft that took your life? What plans did Shelia have for the stolen items?"

When the cleric recast his spell on the next head he ask his next set of questions.

"How did the pathfinders learn of the ship and it's cargo? What orders were given regarding Rileng Sulfach if any? Where do you keep your most valuable items?"

He put in the last one due to the absence of a spellbook, odd for a wizard. They were a careful lot after all and the prospect of a hidden hiding place for valuables was not unappealing. Anyways he had run out of good questions at that point, why waste the chance.

The second set of questions are not set in stone, just figure if nothing pops out why waste the time. Hope I am not overstepping. xP


Argold answers are delivered in a gravely voice, a bit slurred. "Aye, we were sent to take the artifacts. My friends names were...Bastic and Mammor. No idea what Shelia wanted with them..." his voice dies and the cleric sighs, heavily, a bead of sweat on his face.

With the half-elf, her voice is crisp, even sarcastic. "Spies in the Aspis, of course. The name means nothing to me, although I gather he was the one who killed me? As for my valuables...I left them in the company of the Society, and it was a wise choice, no?" The head has a cryptic smile as the head falls back into unlife.

The cleric sits back, sweat clearly visible. The halfling looks quite spent, "Anything else, friend? It is harder then it looks. I think you got true answers though."


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng considered things for a moment before replying. He had what he needed and more, the next move would be with the venture captain herself. He was not overly bloody by nature but he did not suffer those that threatened him, not for long at least.

"No, you have done as asked. If you will give me your name and a way to contact you, I may have use of your talents in the future should you be interested. If not then I bid you good day and a safe journey."

Does Rileng have time to do more stuff before his meeting?


Plenty of time. It is early afternoon.

The cleric considers it then answers int hat same quiet voice, 'i do some work freelance. My name is Halfor Smallbloom. Ask around in the Underbridge, and you'll find me. Good day." the halfling nods and heads out the door, feet silent.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng leaves the inn with his bodyguard in tow and chooses to gather a little more information before meeting the pathfinder venture captain. He did not need it but it would not hurt.

Diplomacy vs Mammor: 1d20 + 18 + 1d6 ⇒ (4) + 18 + (3) = 251d4 ⇒ 4

Afterwards he takes a carriage back to the temple to meet up. He has used his magical garments to revert back to his favored style of clothes. No longer blending in nearly as well as before, his bodyguard on the other hand he keeps in her subdued attire. It was a boon for her and while he cared not at all about her reptile like nature, others were not as accepting and he did not want to tempt her. In his younger days he certainly was.

I doubt I'll get another pair of 1's and I don't want to be late.


There is no word on the street about Mammor, he must have been from out of town. Seems to be a trend.

With Sasthiss at his side, Rileng stands in large square around the massive Temple of Abadar. With the sun setting, the place is nearly deserted with only a few late bankers leaving for the day. Rileng can see the varied guards begin closing up the imposing structure for the night.

Sweeping the area carefully, he spots a woman sitting on a bench, on the edge of the square. She is wearing a white dress, so bright it nearly glows in the hazy dusk light. She raises a hand to beckon him. He can see it is Shelia from their tavern meeting.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

Rileng walks over and bows.

"Seems a habit with you. Waiting and waving, I jest of course. I was hoping we could go to a near by tavern, unless you have other plans. Or do you wish to speak on something in particular now?"

He would let her make the first move, after all. She had lost two of her people and due to her own failings. He found it a little odd, he expected a venture captain to be more subtle and wise. Her band had been anything but, they had failed for no other reason then poor choices. Such things fell upon the leader as much as the followers, or so it went in his far off land.


Lady Heidmarch takes in Rileng's bow coldly, "Save me the pleasantries. I'm not here to bandy words with you. You killed two of my friends." She holds up a white hand, 'I understand it was business, and I don't take it personally, but that doesn't mean I have to like you."

She waves at the buildings at the edge of the square, 'Just in case you are monumentally stupid, there are at least three archers and two wizards keeping an eye on things here, so don't try anything...direct. One of them, at least, is quite keen to put an arrow in you."

She shifts in her seat, 'So, why am I here? What do we have to discuss?"

Make a Will Save please


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

At the mention of reinforcements he glances about.

Perception: 1d20 + 22 + 1d6 ⇒ (3) + 22 + (3) = 28

Then fixes his keen eyes on her to see the truth of her words in case the spellcasters were using magic to mask their presence.

Sense Motive vs Shelia Hiedmarch: 1d20 + 17 + 1d6 ⇒ (2) + 17 + (4) = 23

He shakes his head an expression of exhaustion about the whole affair.

"Miss Heidmarch, your not very good at this, truth be told. Mr. Sloan does not fair much better. You ask why you are here, it is very simple. From the very beginning I was only interested in doing my job, I care little for the affairs of others and try my best to stay out of them. You dragged me into this and instead of staying back and watching. You chose to act rashly without thought. I may have cut down your friends, but you killed them as much as they themselves. Argold Longblade cut down dozens of deckhands whose only sin was doing their job of protecting their ship from attackers. He turned his blade on me, he made the first move. Not I, even animals will not allow themselves to be slaughtered. If I am guilty of anything, it is that I am a merciless combatant. I value my life and do not take light of threats to it. The same goes for your wizardress Arcaven Lathwellian, she attacked me as well. So I responded in kind. Bastic and Mammor did not escape me, please do not allow them to hold that illusion. Had I wished I could have easily chased them down. They left the ship and no longer threatened me nor continued to murder the crew. So I allowed them to escape. You say I killed two of your friends, I say I cut down two thieves that threatened me and spared another two."

This time he holds up his hand to stop any reply.

"Perception and opinion are varied and I am not done answering your question. In a single day I have not only learned of your group and collected the information needed to deal great harm to you and your group, by way of the law or your rivals. But I could have sought out what remained of Bastic's Teeth. I did not, instead I sought out the one who gave the order. Not to harm you or hold you accountable, that is your own burden. But to bring an end to this before it goes any further. I declined your request before out of honoring my word, yet I left it open that I would not be disinclined to help you in the future. I intended to position myself to aid you without breaking my word or risking myself. Had your band not meddled, I could have arranged it so that you could obtain your goal. Without innocent bloodshed I might add, instead you chose the tactic of a criminal and thug."

He shakes his head.

"Apologies I am not here to insult and should not judge. But the results being what they are, it should be understandable. I would like to find a solution to this crossroads we find ourselves on, a peaceful one at that. I have made my position clear and extended my hand, what of you?"

He had purposely peppered his gained information and did not lie when he said he could have used it. The city watch, Aspis Consortium, Hellknights, even some churches would come down on the Pathfinders if such brazen acts of theft and murder were known. The lord had broken no laws and his items had remained on his ship, until they disembarked he was well with in his rights. Why else had the pathfinder been reduced to theft and not had support from the city, because they knew full well they were in the wrong of it as far as the law was concerned. Had they stayed out of things he could have marked the items and if they left the ship, it would be easy enough to trace them back. Then the law could punish the lord and be rid of him for good, if the lord broke the law. But if and whats were moot at this point, he wanted peace with the pathfinders. He preferred a bloodless one but if they insisted, he had spoken true of his mercilessness.

Will Save: 1d20 + 7 + 1d6 ⇒ (18) + 7 + (4) = 29

Long post and taking no chances on will saves. They tend to suck hard. Burned some inspiration. xC


The investigator cannot see the hiding spots, but he can make a few educated guesses based on sight lines and the windows.

The Lady takes in Rileng's words, nodding along with him, her face growing less cold. When she answers, her voice is lower, softer.

"Do you know the Lord Harikiran? Do you know what he is?" she asks firmly, her voice growing in intensity. 'He is a monster. I do not use the term lightly. He is a slaver who uses the most foul magics upon innocent people in order to fulfill his most base desires. He will kill, torture, rape, poison for amusement or the most petty gain and think nothing of it." She pauses, gathering herself, calming.

"We've been watching him for years, working here and there in the Inner Sea region, selling horrific goods, breaking laws, murdering. The smuggling of artifacts was the least of his crimes, even in our eyes."

"We made our 'thuggish' move because of desperation. You had been my last hop[e. When you spurned me, I did what I had to. There was no chance, after the Aspis bought the goods, or agreed to move them. The City Fathers would be happy to turn a blind eye to the rakshasas if it meant coin in their pocket. We had no allies, no friends interested in anything but profit and pain. So Bastic agreed to do it, despite the danger and likely repercussions. He knew he was breaking the law, so did I. We judged it worth it. Obviously we had not reckoned on you." She shakes her head sadly.

"Argold was always a loose arrow, dangerous, hard. I am sorry that he died, but not sorry you stopped him if he was killing others. Bastic usually kept him under control, but it was a rough mission."

She spreads her arms, 'Crossroadss, you say. We are not at them, not quite. It is you. Are you going to serve a bloodthirsty master with no sense of morals or decency? If so then we will be opposed. If not,t hen an accord can be reached and I will do my best to make it so."


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

What did Rileng save from, if it's a spell or something, he should be aware of it. Enchanters for example don't have any flashy spells but when they fail, their targets know it.

Rileng shrugs slightly.

"I know what Lord Harikiran is, not who he is. Not yet at least and I know the consortium is going to suffer for their partnership. This is not something that bothers me. The lord thinks himself cunning, perhaps he is. But so am I and he has hidden little from me so far. I have nothing against him and he has done what none in this city have. He has treated me fairly and honorably."

He quickly cuts off any protest.

"I do not pretend to say this makes him good in any sense. But it makes him, manageable. As well as agreeable to work for. I am not in his employ just yet and any job will be a case by case basis per agreement. I am an independent and will remain that way. I will not break the terms of any agreement I make as well. That said, the lord is a honorable paymaster. Unless I have a better offer or find his task unsuitable to my skills. I see no reason not to accept them, regardless of their source. All of us do not have the luxury of choosing how we make our coin or those we make it from. Walk among the slums if you think me false. I was hired as a translator and the lord was impressed with my skills in it that area, he was interested in those services. Given what I know now, I would rather remove myself from all this. Alas your people have only continued to drag me into their affairs."

He let's her curiosity inch in, she was a pathfinder after all.

"Your council has seen fit to meddle in the building of my ship. Supposedly bribes are required to restart construction, now my need for funds has been doubled. So here we sit, you ask me to spurn a reliable paymaster based on moral grounds. Yet the greed of your city, considering the profit from the build itself, chooses to choke me for even more coin. One must see the hypocrisy. You wouldn't happen to know a solution to all these problems would you?"

He had given her every chance. He could work for the lord but it was looking more and more like unneeded trouble. Anyways he had no taste for slavery, rape, and pointless murder. But the lord did pay his bills and what he did personally was not his concern. If the lord was the only honorable business to be had, he could not afford to be picky. If the pathfinders were interested in his services and could be counted on to pay their bills then all the better for both of them. As for the consortium, no doubt the lord intended to spy on their dealings and take advantage. The consortium will have a streak of bad luck in their business and as far as he was concerned they deserved it. Then their was the guildmaster, he had not forgotten but it had only been a day and he was far from done.


You don't notice anything

"Not my Council. Trust me, I had nothing to do with that. If you look into whatever is going on with the Ushers, you will not find me at the bottom with it. I am no friend to the Council." she pauses, purses her lips and gazes at the teilfing.

"Coin is all you are interested in?" She holds up a hand, 'I do not mean this as an insult, although I will say it is a poor way to decide your path. What if I could find you...another reliable paymaster, one that didn't enslave and drink the blood of the innocent? Are you open to hearing offers from rival paymasters?"

Her voice is questioning but quiet, 'I regret that you have been dragged into this, I do. But I hardly expected you to fight and defeat Bastic's team. Frankly, I didn't consider you at all...perhaps that was a mistake." She nods.


Male Tiefling Investigator (Empiricist) 7

A divination most likely then. My their are nosey people in Magnimar.

"I am hardly that simple my lady. If I would be so bold, your only mistake was haste and proper preparation, learn from it. As to offers of employ, I am always open to that. Only because someone does a job, does not mean they enjoy or even approve of it. I would not be against a more enjoyable vocation. Should it work towards freeing my ship as it were, all the better."

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