MoF's Hells Rebels

Game Master MordredofFairy

Skills Spreadsheet | Party Loot
Kintargo | Tactical Map


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Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

"What if someone of his actual family shows up looking for him? Though I guess they would probably have done so already by now if they cared..." Miranda ponders.


HP 40/42 | AC 17/14/13 | CMD 19 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +4 | Per +12 | Init +3;
Class and Skills:
Gunslinger (Pistolero) 4/VMC Cavalier (Dragon) | Acro +9 Climb +8 Heal +9 (+11 stabilize dying), Sense +9;
Combat:
Grit 4/4 | 30 ft. | Melee +6 (rapier/gladius) Melee +6 (mwk morningstar) Ranged +7 (+9 mwk pistol, +8 up to 30 ft., +10 mwk pistol up to 30 ft.) CMB +6;

Hearing no objections to his question regarding the found alchemical supplies, Boros whistles softly and tunelessly as he quickly and carefully appropriates the aforementioned materials; if any objections are raised at a later point, he can claim in all honesty that he did ask, and nobody said anything to stake their own claim. And he's sure nobody will complain overmuch about the results in any case, having seen what his pistol can do when an opportunity is available to use it. Still, he will at least keep the powder materials separate from the rest, if anyone wants a claim on the latter.


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

You know make as much boom-powder as you can :P


Hells Rebels Tactical Map

With the riddle surrounding Varus and the missing girls almost solved, Nissim decides not to take the books for additional study, while Boros gladly bags the alchemical ingredients found after hearing no objections.

Aldous, meanwhile, suggests to present a well-faked claim on the place of residence above. When he mentions the necessity of a key, Nissim realizes there is a small key-ring on the work table, near the papers, and points such out to the Barrister.

Miranda is still feeling sorry for the girl and what happened to her when the suggestion is brought up. Contemplating the feasability, she joins in the discussion.

Varuzhan and Lily remain outside, with Rexus. Rexus did his best to comfort Lily, who seemed distraught about what had happened inside the secret room...back then, and now, but felt was necessary to talk about it:"You know, Boros is right. Their parents may still have hope for them. We should probably let them know, somehow. Without drawing any attention to ourselves."

The Strix, ever ready, watched over the lizard while waiting for his comrades - there was still the waterway to check, after all.

@Wax+Seal: The usual idea is that the seal acts as a certificate of validity regarding the sender, not the recipient. But you can, if careful, heat a sealed envelope from behind and open it without significant damage...it's not easy to get right, but possible.
Also, housekeeping just cleaned the room...probably, you would have time to take a closer look. But IF you try and take over the place by presenting a fake letter, there's no reason to take the risk, so I left that open for now.


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

Miranda shuffles outside to the fresher air and less dead company, both big positives. "We can't draw attention to Varus either or they might come poking around. Ah! Why did our hideout have to be a creepy murder scene?" The tiefling sighs and throws her arms up in the air. Hrhm. "But I suppose it will be good practice - we might have to get rid of some Thrune bodies soon enough ..."


"A paramour, then," Aldous says, taking Miranda's question into consideration. "Recently married, they expect to be travelling back and forth from Westcrown, where Varus will be doing business."

"But, I don't think we need to worry too much about the family showing up here. It is likely he kept this place secret from most anyone in his public life."

Sighing, he looks to others. "As for notifying the families of the girls. I... don't agree. Unless there is a way to do it with complete anonymity, it is too dangerous."


hp 39/39 (7 temp HP) | AC 17/13/14 | CMD 20 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +5 | Per +9 (+14 dark/dim); Darkvision; low-light | Init +3 | Mage Armor, False Life

He hadn't immediately considered the option, but once the barrister issues his assessment, Varuzhan nods in agreement. "Aldous is right. The girls are already dead, and notifying their families will do nothing but draw dangerous attention to us. It is a harsh decision, but the right one for our group."


Female Aasimar Oracle 3 HP 26/26 GS 1/1
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 18/13/15/14 | Fort/Ref/Will +03/+04/+03(+04n) | Init +03
Trained Skills:
+13: Diplomacy, P(Sing); +10: C(Culinary); +09: Stealth; +08: K(His, Rel), Spellcraft; +07: K(Pla); +06: K(Nat), Perception; +05 Handle Animal

"I'm... afraid that I do not agree." Lily says, moving to the door frame and leaning against it. She didn't look inside, though it was still clear that her face was streaked in mascara from her earlier reaction to the scene. "My sister attends that school. My sister could have been one of these girls. It... is very easy for me to empathize with the families of these girls. But even beyond that. For what purpose are we stepping into this rebellion? To overthrow Thrune? And then what? Are we to keep people safe by hiding the truth from them, or is this merely to keep us safe, no matter the costs to those who have already lost something dear to them?" she asks, motioning one hand into the room, though she still doesn't allow her eyes to meet the gruesome scene once more.

"I don't know how to tell them. I don't know what to tell them, but they deserve closure."


hp 39/39 (7 temp HP) | AC 17/13/14 | CMD 20 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +5 | Per +9 (+14 dark/dim); Darkvision; low-light | Init +3 | Mage Armor, False Life

"Well, if we're gonna let them know, one way might be to find someone we trust at Lady Docur's school? But I'm not the right person to know anyone from that institution."


Male Human | HP: 31/31 | AC: 12 (12 Tch, 10 Fl) | CMB: +2, CMD: 14 | F: +8, R: +6, W: +6 | Init: +8 | Perc: +8 (Low Light Vision), SM: +8

"Lily is right. The girl's parents need to know what happened. It's simply indecent to leave them never knowing. But yes, we do need to protect ourselves and this place. I think both can be done."

Nissim pauses to take off his spectacles and begins checking them for acid damage.

"The parents would need to be spared few if any details. Their questions would need to be answered to the extent they would not seek to have the matter further investigated. The facts about the summoned demon should be enough to give them pause about going to any authorities."

"Perhaps Lily and Aldous should be the ones to contact them. Lily has a connection to the school, and so, indirectly, a connection to the parents. Aldous would be best at carefully explaining to them the... difficulties, that could arise for them if the authorities were made aware. Certainly the current government would frown on upon a case of multiple deaths with a summoned demon at the center. Its interest would likely center on that fact rather than the deaths. I doubt any of the family members would want to be caught in that web."

"We can arrange for the bodies to be returned to them if they wish it. If they absolutely insist, they could even be brought to see this room. Those things would only add to their understanding of why these events must be kept buried."

"As for explaining our role, that is simple. We were engaged by the Lauria to investigate disturbing noises in the sub-basement, and stumbled upon everything here quite by accident. It's not even far from the truth."


HP 40/42 | AC 17/14/13 | CMD 19 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +4 | Per +12 | Init +3;
Class and Skills:
Gunslinger (Pistolero) 4/VMC Cavalier (Dragon) | Acro +9 Climb +8 Heal +9 (+11 stabilize dying), Sense +9;
Combat:
Grit 4/4 | 30 ft. | Melee +6 (rapier/gladius) Melee +6 (mwk morningstar) Ranged +7 (+9 mwk pistol, +8 up to 30 ft., +10 mwk pistol up to 30 ft.) CMB +6;

Liatening to the debate around informing those who most need to know the final fate of the two missing girls, Boros is visibly pleased when it settles into a workable solution that should cover all of their respective concerns. "Well," he remarks with a satisfied smile. "I'm pleased that we've decided to do what's right, and not just what's easiest. Which is somethin' we need to keep firmly in mind for the future, eh? Doin' what's easiest is what got this nation o' yours into a place where deviltry is considered normal, isn't it," he adds over his shoulder as he leaves the room.


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

"And doing what's right gets you an all expenses vacation courtesy of the inquisition." Miranda quipped back at Boros. With a pained grin she added "But that probably isn't a good argument for our country is it..."


Hells Rebels Tactical Map

"Lots of things are wrong with this country...", Rexus nods in reply to the ongoing conversation:"It's why there's rebels in the first place...people wouldn't be willing to risk their existance if things weren't that bad to begin with."
He sighs, probably remembering former comrades for a moment, before continuing:"I am both glad, and shocked that most of you agree to do whats right, and let their parents know. It shows that your hearts, your drive, your beliefs are all good. And that we are willing to do things that could get us all kiled simply because they are right. But then, we also let that informant go, so I guess we can just keep gambling."
Stepping over towards the water, slowly and carefully, despite the fact that the unconscious lizard behind him probably already ate anything that could have been dangerous, he takes a handful of it, lifting it up from the dark waters and letting it run through his fingers:"We can discuss the details on how to inform the girls later. If they attended the boarding school, they may not even be from Kintargo itself, which both complicates our task and makes it simpler at the same time. As for how to deal with the apartment, I'll leave that up to you. I would certainly sleep easier knowing it is inhabited by one or more of us, rather than being an unknown aspect in our further plans....that also leaves only one path we need to explore, before feeding your new pet and having dinner among ourselves - the waterway we came for...the water has some of that same green stuff on it as some of the walls and stairs, but otherwise it seems clear enough...at least no sewage water, this time. Shall we?"
The lot of you falling in line behind him keeping torches up above the water, which, as it turns out, is almost chest-high(except, of course, for Miranda...who could either swim, or try and get carried - surely someone would allow you to sit on their shoulders - the ceiling is just high enough for that.)
After 20 or 30 meters, the path broadens, getting just wide enough to hold a side-boat of a ship, with the leaked remains of one such on the ground. Beyond it, tied to the stone, is a tattered sheet of cloth full of holes, colored like the stone, possibly a sort of visual screen that would have hidden both entrance and a docked boat in better condition. Beyond, some natural subterranean cave could be seen, or at least, a very small part of such a cave, with the ceiling significantly lower than in the pathway, just high enough to allow the passage of a boat if the people inside duck down.
If someone is brave enough to walk a bit further, you will find the floor unsteady, with sharp rocks, and the passage blocked by large parts of the cave going underwater, and the only reasonable way forward blocked by a large mass of stones, probably shaken lose by an earthquake years ago, and now settled into place:"Seems that Demoniac had little interest in clearing a way to the outside. Figures. Guess that means if we want to use this tunnel, there's going to be a lot of work..."
Oh, feel free to try and learn more...location, amount of work, tide, painting skill of the one who made the cloth cover...whatever comes to mind. I did forward a bit since nothing was set to specifically happen here, but feel free to interrupt at any time with actions or questions.


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

"Mm..." Miranda nodded in agreement with Rexus and then gave the water an anxious look. While it looked cleaner then the sewer she didn't really want to swim in it. Really really not! "Uhm ..." she mumbled again and looked back and forth between Varuzhan and Boros with a hopeful expression.
_________________

Miranda peers down on from her lofty vantage at the sunken boat. "How long was it really since anyone moved slips trough these tunnels?" she wondered out loud, in part directed at Rexus. "I think we are going to need a new boat!" Looking further ahead she added. "And a new tunnel! Whew that's going to be a bit of mining. Maybe it is still possible to swim trough the underground part? Not that underwater caverns feels like a good way to do things but maybe with the right spell ... And on the bright side no-one is really going to notice *that*!"


HP 40/42 | AC 17/14/13 | CMD 19 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +4 | Per +12 | Init +3;
Class and Skills:
Gunslinger (Pistolero) 4/VMC Cavalier (Dragon) | Acro +9 Climb +8 Heal +9 (+11 stabilize dying), Sense +9;
Combat:
Grit 4/4 | 30 ft. | Melee +6 (rapier/gladius) Melee +6 (mwk morningstar) Ranged +7 (+9 mwk pistol, +8 up to 30 ft., +10 mwk pistol up to 30 ft.) CMB +6;

Noting Miranda's expression as the water gets deeper and deeper, Boros pauses and pats his shoulder with his free hand, the other being occupied with keeping his pistol up and clear of the ruinous wet. "Right lass, come on up then. And mind the feet while you're climbin', there's places on me I'd like to not have used as a brace," he adds with a laugh. Once his passenger is settled firmly on her perch, he resumes wading forward, quietly glad that most everything he's carrying at the moment by way of equipment is either sealed against moisture or well able to withstand a brief enough dunk with no harm done.


hp 39/39 (7 temp HP) | AC 17/13/14 | CMD 20 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +5 | Per +9 (+14 dark/dim); Darkvision; low-light | Init +3 | Mage Armor, False Life

Varuzhan is regrettably oblivious to Miranda's need for assistance. What he does instead is to begin flapping his wings quite fiercely. The movement is awkward and clearly takes some effort, but he does his best to skim the water as opposed to going into the mucky water.

He seems most curious about the side passageway as opposed to the blocked path forward. "Do you know where this goes, Rexus? It could let us bypass this blocked path entirely."


Aldous rolls his eyes. Rexus... one could always count on Rexus to be the the goody two-bits. Sighing, the barrister wades into the water, forgetting about Miranda until the halfling speaks. "Slips... forgive me, but do you mean... your people, or small boats? Either way, I'd say it has been awhile, yes."

Running a hand along the tattered sheet, Aldous clucks approvingly. "Smart. We'll need a new one, of course. Perhaps a canvas sail, painted similarly, will hold up better?"

Picturing as best he can a map of the city, the barrister tries to imagine just where this tunnel would dump out to.

local to figure out the end point of the tunnel: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

"Yeah either really." Miranda chirps at Aldous. Leaning a bit forward over Boros head she attempts to take a closer look at the canvas. It was indeed quite tattered. But maybe..?

"Hmm. I think I could fix this instead. A bit of Mending should take care of the holes - but I might have to cut it into smaller pieces and sew it back together..." Yeah that should work. Hopefully it turns out well!

"Mm. Could you walk a bit closer so I can take it down, my trusty steed?" Miranda grinned and playfully poked Boros in the chest with her heels. She remembered that he nobles had done that to make their horses move so presumably it would work here too!


Female Aasimar Oracle 3 HP 26/26 GS 1/1
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 18/13/15/14 | Fort/Ref/Will +03/+04/+03(+04n) | Init +03
Trained Skills:
+13: Diplomacy, P(Sing); +10: C(Culinary); +09: Stealth; +08: K(His, Rel), Spellcraft; +07: K(Pla); +06: K(Nat), Perception; +05 Handle Animal

Lily doesn't really have any skills that I can see me leveraging at the moment.

"We should still have that ring for swimming, right? We could see the logical exit by... following it to the exit." she offers, "I'm not much of a swimmer, but... I'd be willing. My makeup is already a horrible mess anyway and..." she trails off, looking at her boots, before sighing.


HP 40/42 | AC 17/14/13 | CMD 19 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +4 | Per +12 | Init +3;
Class and Skills:
Gunslinger (Pistolero) 4/VMC Cavalier (Dragon) | Acro +9 Climb +8 Heal +9 (+11 stabilize dying), Sense +9;
Combat:
Grit 4/4 | 30 ft. | Melee +6 (rapier/gladius) Melee +6 (mwk morningstar) Ranged +7 (+9 mwk pistol, +8 up to 30 ft., +10 mwk pistol up to 30 ft.) CMB +6;

Giving his passenger a deadpan look, Boros does as requested. He can't resist a bit of commentary as he does so, however. "Really, I didn't take ya for the type to enjoy those sorts of games, lass. Maybe we should stop off at that brothel and pick up a riding crop, so ya can properly get into it," the soldier asks casually as he sloshes forward. He's about to say something more on the matter when he hears Lily's offer. Turning, he points at her and shakes his head. "Absolutely not," he barks sharply. "I'm no expert, but I know well enough that ya don't go muckin' about near a cave-in unless ya know what to do around one. And even then, ya don't go alone. Not gonna lose one o' ya to some foolish decisions like that," Boros finishes with a scowl as he resumes his approach to the ragged canvas tarp.

In a calmer voice, while Miranda examines the object of her attention, he clarifies his earlier words. "It's all well and good to do what we can for ourselves. But we need to recognize when we reach a point where we need experts. And that," he adds with a twitch of his head toward the blocked passage. "Is an expert's work for sure and certain. So we don't go pokin' around and we definitely don't explorin' all alone either."


Male Human | HP: 31/31 | AC: 12 (12 Tch, 10 Fl) | CMB: +2, CMD: 14 | F: +8, R: +6, W: +6 | Init: +8 | Perc: +8 (Low Light Vision), SM: +8

Nissim swishes through the water a little closer to the cave-in. Moving about to peer at it from different angles he mutter "It might be possible to get some idea about how stable it is. What risk would be involved in disturbing it."

K Dungeoneering(?): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14

wow


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

"Eh-heh..." Miranda gives a somewhat nervous laugh in reply to Boros suggestion and her face shifts a few hues closer to red. Luckily his reaction to Lilys swimming idea bought her a few seconds to think of a coherent reply (even if the abrupt turn was a bit jarring). Not that it helped much. She briefly considered a tail slap/whip but wasn't quite sure how to avoid the spontaneous combustion that would surely follow, so she discarded that though.

Maaaaaaybe I should think more about what we are doing right now instead? That seemed more productive. Readjusting her seating a little bit the halfling took a deep breath to refocus. "We might have to become experts ourselves then - I'm not sure 'explore secret hideout tunnels' is a quest we want to post in the taverns. Unless anyone knows a good diver? She nodded in Lilys direction "But maybe some precautions first..."

Unless Boros wants to pick up the topic again Miranda should be able to take 10 on a Craft:Conservator test to judge the feasability of restoring the cover.

Craft: Conservator: 10 + 9 = 19


Hells Rebels Tactical Map

Oh, life has been crazy the past weeks. Work is - fine, but so much other stuff going on. Including hardware failure on my home computer which only left me with my laptop for a week. Not even apologising, I did try to run at least 2 updates a week, life disagreed - but there's only so much stuff it can fling at me, so I'm still feeling positive. Thanks all for the patience, AGAIN! :P

Rexus responds to Miranda's suggestion "Aye, a new boat, and possible a new canvas. Uh, I appreciate you trying that, Lass, but maybe we should take it down and do that back where it's dry? I know you got it more comfortable than us others, but this water is not exactly warm or comfortable" Mending takes 10 Minuters per casting, and you will need to use multiple ones to try and get it in a better condition again. I am willing to let it work, though, considering almost all the stuff is still there, just tattered-

Nissim considers the stability of the tunnel...after all, the plan of using this pathway depended on being able to clear it, without another cave-in or collapse happening soon after. And any kind of significant pressure from above would make that...dangerous. Nissim even starts to get worried for a moment, before Aldous points out that the current likely location is below the park you kind of met up in.
It made sense, geographically, and meant there was little actual pressure from above. There were, however, large and old trees, with roots digging down towards water...possibly what had caused the cave-in to begin with. Either way, if it was properly cleared, it would be safe enough, even without further stabilization.
If the path continued that way, it would lead towards the final bent of the Yolubilis River(think imaginary line from V3 through V2 meeting the river)

Taking a closer look at the Cave-In, it would be hard to bypass it swimming. Someone could probably try and find another passage diving, but the sharp rocks, darkness, and not totally-clean water could make that a gamble if that person was to lose orientation.
Possibly, Miranda could squeeze past...but then, Boros would not want to see her forcefully push past a former cave-in - there was, after all, no guarantee it was all that stable- and as long as he was serving as steed, he conveniently had control over where Miranda could go.

I may have missed prompts, I'll get back to them ASAP if so but wanted to get an update out. Varuzhan, which side passageway do you mean? There were no paths splitting off until you came to the remains of the boat, where you entered what seems like a natural cavern. The most prominent way out is blocked with a cave-in, but the cavern is at least 50 feet across at the broadest, and it's quite possible there's underwater passages past that barrier(or leading somewhere else, for that matter)-


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

"Oh no - I'm just taking a look to see if there is enough to salvage. I'll probably have to take it home to fix it up!" Miranda chirped from atop her lofty perch.


Male Human | HP: 31/31 | AC: 12 (12 Tch, 10 Fl) | CMB: +2, CMD: 14 | F: +8, R: +6, W: +6 | Init: +8 | Perc: +8 (Low Light Vision), SM: +8

"I can do the same type of work as you on the canvas" Nissim mentions to Miranda. "Both of us together can cut the time involved in half."

"Yes, this has been enough time in the water for me. We won't be clearing that passageway anytime soon regardless of whether it can be done or not. I think it's time to move on to other matters now. We should start thinking about what to do for the warehouse prisoners? That will take some preparation."


hp 39/39 (7 temp HP) | AC 17/13/14 | CMD 20 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +5 | Per +9 (+14 dark/dim); Darkvision; low-light | Init +3 | Mage Armor, False Life

I think I just misunderstood an earlier post.

"Well I don't have any ideas" says Varuzhan regrettably.

-Posted with Wayfinder


Female Aasimar Oracle 3 HP 26/26 GS 1/1
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 18/13/15/14 | Fort/Ref/Will +03/+04/+03(+04n) | Init +03
Trained Skills:
+13: Diplomacy, P(Sing); +10: C(Culinary); +09: Stealth; +08: K(His, Rel), Spellcraft; +07: K(Pla); +06: K(Nat), Perception; +05 Handle Animal

"I should be able to mend our wounds once we're back to the surface... possibly better than down here. Assuming we can avoid running into people. Coming back up with teeth and claw marks wouldn't be... ideal." Lily adds as she starts to head back the way they'd come.

"We actually have much to think about; the prisoners, the young women, this place..." she says as she opts to climb onto the bank, a step resulting in a squelching sound from her boot. She looks far more irritated than she likely should be at the noise, opting to unbuckle her boots and dump the water out of them, leaning against a wall as she does so. "Gods, I must look awful." she mutters to herself. Which was very true; those who didn't rely on makeup to accentuate their appearance likely didn't have to deal with the significant number of drawbacks that came with it when something went wrong. At the very least, her mascara had run, leaving her looking like she'd been trying out the Nidalese fashion scene. It wasn't working.


hp 39/39 (7 temp HP) | AC 17/13/14 | CMD 20 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +5 | Per +9 (+14 dark/dim); Darkvision; low-light | Init +3 | Mage Armor, False Life

Varuzhan flaps his way back onto dry land, feeling quite tired from the effort of flying. It would be something he'd need to work on if he ever presumed to start flying again. "At least we've secured this level. Boros has a lizard to attend to as well. Not bad for a day's work."


Aldous wrings his shirt out. "Indeed. Let's head to our respective homes, shall we? I can work on setting up a 'will' from our friend tomorrow. This evening, I suppose we should pay a visit to these girls' homes then?"

Frowning, the barrister cast a quick glance at Lily. "After warm baths, of course. We'll offer no condolences for anyone looking like the extras in a Nidalese off-off-Main Street show."


Female Aasimar Oracle 3 HP 26/26 GS 1/1
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 18/13/15/14 | Fort/Ref/Will +03/+04/+03(+04n) | Init +03
Trained Skills:
+13: Diplomacy, P(Sing); +10: C(Culinary); +09: Stealth; +08: K(His, Rel), Spellcraft; +07: K(Pla); +06: K(Nat), Perception; +05 Handle Animal

"They - well, most of the girls from Docur's - won't be from around here. More likely, we'll be informing the Lady of the House. That will be both good... and bad. Most of the girls come from nobility, and that makes them her responsibility... and also makes her more likely to dig. Or at least, I would hope so. My sister goes to the school, after all." she says as she tests her boot. It still squelches, resulting in a small growl from the half-elf. "But with that in mind, it would be best to arrive in our finest - or what passes for it. Certainly, the sooner, the better."


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

"Yeah, let's head upside. Maybe we can even ask for some blankets and hot drinks...?" I mean it is an inn! Miranda agrees when there is talk of leaving and throws a sympathetic look at Lily. On the bright side she didn't have to tangle with the undead at least! But looking down at the water the tiefling couldn't help but wonder if she hadn't gotten the longer stick. I mean bruises can be healed quickly but brr that's going to stain! She made a mental note of not jumping down from Boros until they were safe on dry land. Or maybe not even then? Weeh! I wonder if he would carry me all the way up? "Anyhow, all those plans sounds wonderful and so but let's really get somewhere nicer and then think about that!"

As in I'm not sure if our host will give us a new quest or something after this one :P

And acquiring some blankets and then presdigitationing ourselves dry, clean and warm again would mean plenty of time IC to talk about things : )


Hells Rebels Tactical Map

Nah, you guys got the right idea, mostly only wrap-up to be done here.

Rexus nods when Miranda and Nissim check the Canvas:"If you manage to repair it, thats great. But it seems...fragile, I think it will be a challenge to get it back to the dry parts of this locale, packing it up and taking it across the city may damage it even more - you sure you want to risk transporting it?"

When Lily mentions looking awful, Rexus smiles:"Far from it, mylady. I am rather surprised you would think so, but in my opinion, you look splendid. And I like to think I have high standards in that regard." It is meant honest, "And you are right...most of the girls are not from around here. There's some from the city living in the dorms regardless, but it's an exception, rather than the rule."

When the probing of the water area is done, with talk of poles and light and more swimming, he concurs:"We may check in closer detail at a later time. For now, we can assume that the path is blocked, or not easily accessible. We secured the inmediate area, including taking into your custody a beast that I hope can be tamed, and found out about someone else using the place for their apostate purposes."

For a moment, he rubs his chin:"I dare say we earned some dinner. We should not leave all at once, anyway, so do take a moment to join me for a meal. I'll pay, of course. Plus, I can tell you what I managed to learn since last week about the documents we found, and hand out your shares of the valuables I managed to fence - I had not forgotten.", he adds the last part with a smile.

On the way back up, looking at the bones and the greenish covering of the walls, Rexus speaks up one last time:"We do need a base of operations. A place to meet, to hide people, to plan, and to keep written knowledge secure. This seems the best chance we have. If any of you have time next week to help me clean the place up a bit, get things done around here, that would me much appreciated. That invitation is not optional for you, Boros. You wanted to keep that...croco-something, and I'm not getting near it!"


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

"Well, yeah maybe, but we don't have to think about that now. If it has been her for years a few weeks won't do anything new!" Miranda chirped on the topic of the canvas. She wasn't really looking forward to working down here - so maybe just cut it down into smaller pieces and work in the inns basement? Could work. Anyhow! Later.

"Dinner sounds nice!" the tiefling moves onto more pressing concerns. She adjusts her seating and puts both hands back on Boros head. "I can come by and help a bit. Maybe even get some rugs! This place could really use some..."


Once aboveground, Aldous renews his great appreciation for a warm bath and clean clothes, and walks the city, his mind preoccupied with thoughts of the hidden prison, and with worries about his unrequited affection, Kaylee. The sun dips below the roofline, and Aldous realizes he's probably late for dinner. Thankfully, his wandering have taken him not far away, and he rushes a few blocks to find the others seated, with Rexus at the head of the table.

"Sorry, sorry. Time got the best of me. Don't let me interrupt, though I do have a question: Rexus, what of those documents?"

Aldous' week:
Ensconced in his office, Aldous sets about pulling various tools from his desk; vellum, wax, a wood block, sharp knife, pen and fine ink. Looking at the assorted items laid out in front of him, Aldous sighs. What he planned to do was simply beyond unethical and well into illegal. There was, quite simply no turning back. Sighing again, Aldous sat, and got to work.

First item up for the week, is Aldous is going to forge documentation turning the lease of the apartment over to him in payment for services rendered. Since it is a forgery, I won't be rolling, since I probably shouldn't know success. Aldous' modifier is +13, though if he can procure MW tools for 50gp before he starts, he'll do so, bringing the modifier to +15.

If successful, Aldous' forgery will offer the following:

1) Transfer of lease, and in case of his untimely demise, to Nissim, who Aldous sees as having the most level-head of the PCs.

2) Use of the apartment as needed by his 'business partners' as their travel needs dictate: The PCs that can pass as humanoid.

3) A regular cleaning schedule as normal for the facility (Aldous hopes to ascertain this information for the PCs)

I'm going to post the trip to the girls' school separately when Lily is ready to go. I'll post Aldous' trip to the prison at a separate time, as time allows.


Female Aasimar Oracle 3 HP 26/26 GS 1/1
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 18/13/15/14 | Fort/Ref/Will +03/+04/+03(+04n) | Init +03
Trained Skills:
+13: Diplomacy, P(Sing); +10: C(Culinary); +09: Stealth; +08: K(His, Rel), Spellcraft; +07: K(Pla); +06: K(Nat), Perception; +05 Handle Animal

"Well, you certainly have high standards for a brothel." Lily responds with a small grin. Though, to be fair, Hannah had that very same set of standards. So he was in good company. "Are you trying to tell me that all of the makeup is unnecessary, then?" she says with a small shrug. She felt rough, but she was willing to play along, regardless.

"I doubt that the girls were locals. There would have been significantly more fuss, one would think. Or... perhaps we're just in the wrong circles. Perhaps there's something more to it, still." She pauses as Rexus mentions dinner and examines the area just below the surface, then shrugs and sneaks to her own bath (whether water-fueled or Miranda-powered).

Afterwards, she doesn't disappear, and instead does her best to help with making dinner for the others. "If we're going to be staying and working here... what are your thoughts on me having a day job here? I'm not nearly so good with sweets as you are, but I've spent a lot of time learning all the best spices. It's more of a hobby than a job, but why not make a job into a hobby?"


HP 40/42 | AC 17/14/13 | CMD 19 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +4 | Per +12 | Init +3;
Class and Skills:
Gunslinger (Pistolero) 4/VMC Cavalier (Dragon) | Acro +9 Climb +8 Heal +9 (+11 stabilize dying), Sense +9;
Combat:
Grit 4/4 | 30 ft. | Melee +6 (rapier/gladius) Melee +6 (mwk morningstar) Ranged +7 (+9 mwk pistol, +8 up to 30 ft., +10 mwk pistol up to 30 ft.) CMB +6;

Boros cheerfully sloshes back to the drier portions of the lair, then helps his passenger dismount from his shoulder, careful to avoid getting her clothing wet by contact with his soaked gear. However, he can't resist giving her one last poke on the subject of mounts and riders before turning his attention to other matters. "Let me know if ya still want that ridin' crop, lass. I'll make sure to get ya a nice one that'll stand up to lots o' hard use," he says, trying--and failing utterly--to hold back the broad grin that accompanies his words. However, Rexus' words serve quite well to quash his amusement, his expression going flat in mere heartbeats as he listens to them.

Hearing himself get so casually volunteered to help Rexus set the hidden base to rights, Boros sighs heavily but offers no objection. The man is quite right, after all, and the work needs to be done. As the party leaves, the soldier gives the lizard another careful examination, making sure the bonds are still secure. "Well, we're goin' to need some proper harness to keep this beast under control, especially while it's bein' taught not to eat us," he says to the others after, with much grunting, sweating, and cursing, he gets the lizard relocated to the area with the picked over bones. "Also need to look into gettin' a trainer, o' course. I can probably manage the harness and other kit, but I've not the least idea of how to go about gettin' someone we can trust to teach the beast."


hp 39/39 (7 temp HP) | AC 17/13/14 | CMD 20 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +5 | Per +9 (+14 dark/dim); Darkvision; low-light | Init +3 | Mage Armor, False Life

"Alright, we finished up our work -- now, it's time to eat!" Upon heading back upstairs, Varuzhan happily eats some of the pie that had been offered to them earlier. "If we're using this place as our base, we need to make sure we keep a low profile. Figure out some way to get in and out easily without making it obvious. Anyone have some ideas for that?"


Hells Rebels Tactical Map

On the way up

Rexus nods on Miranda's suggestions:"There's certainly no hurry. We won't be going out that way unless we get that cave-in cleared, anyway.". Passing the carcasses of small animals, he adds:"And rugs would certainly be more welcome than the current decor of the place."

To Boros, he nods:"You wanted the beast to life, you look to it's training. I don't care if you think you have hand for that or not, I sure as hell won't get near it, so until we find someone better, it's your job. In fact, we should probably lock it up somehow. Or chain it up. Or something." Presenting his hands in a defensive manner, he continues:"Not my responsibility, though, YOU handle that."

Before Dinner

When Lily chats with Rexus, he blushes when she brings up the brothel:"Make-up can ever only enhance the beauty that is already there. Put Make-up on a pig, it's still a pig, you know. Same with ugly girls, or beautiful ones, such as you."
Regarding the girls, he nods thoughtfully:"I believe I remember that they were boarding school residents with no relatives in the city...I guess thats why the eloping story seemed reasonable enough to endure until now."
As Lily suggests working here, Rexus explains that it's Larias choice, and they call her in to explain.
Addressing her, Laria checks her out, then replies:"Girl, you seem to be reasonably skilled. Tell you what, come here and help out for a week, we'll see what kind of work suits you best. I'm sure we'll fine something agreeable for you to do."

At Dinner

When Varuzhan mentions needing to come and go, Rexus coughs to get attention, hastily finishing the bite in his mouth, before drawing breath again, coughing some more(for real this time) and finally getting to talk:"Well, for one, it's a popular restaurant. So coming and going through the Coffee House is a valid possibility for people visiting. Of course, if one of you gets tailed and vanishes here, thats not great...but then, any kind of disappearance when being tailed would be. Anyway, IF Aldous manages to arrange for access via the rented apartment, thats one person provided with permanent access. Maybe two, if we account for visitors. Lily may start working here, thats another one...maybe we could also use magic to mask our approach. Disguise ourselves as someone else...either way, I think we should be fine for the time being - Lily as resident worker, 2 people from the flat, and a few regulars in the bar here...as long as we don't cause too much trouble, we should be fine."

Turning to the Barrister, he continues: "And Aldous, I am glad you bring up those documents...now, see here..." (and thats part 2 of the update I will do tomorrow if possible - way too late again, but I promised to post today :)


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

On the way up!

Miranda climbs down slowly once Boros brings her back to drier ground. While it was certainly nice to be carried around walking by herself was certainly less, eh, complicated. Even if it was very convenient! She blushed lightly at her steeds parting remarks, but since he had already used that line once (and she was no longer actually sitting his shoulders!) it was a bit easier to keep a straight face this time. "Oh!" She looked up and grinned, even briefly sticking out her tongue, quipping. "Maybe a bridle too?"

She giggles a bit behind Boros back as he is instructed by Rexus (and thus unable to reply - for the moment) but for the most of the trip back up stays quiet. Once they have moved on to the details of their new friend she joins the conversation. "Maybe we should actually get a bridle - or whatever the lizard equivalent is. And I think the first step in taming is establishing that we are friends! Let's just start by giving it some food - I mean that's a pretty universal sign of friendliness right? Though I'd rather not do that myself. Still feeling sorta snack-sized ..."

Dinner!

The halfling greatly enjoys eating instead of being dinner and chows down the food with an healthy appetite. Though hopefully it wasn't anything too sticky or chewy that would get stuck in her teeth. "Hmm." she pondered what excuse she would give for frequenting this place. Maybe say the food is delicious? Sometimes the best "lies" were simply the truth! But later - now she was really interested to hear about those papers. She inched her chair a bit further towards Rexus and Aldous just so she wouldn't miss a thing.


Hells Rebels Tactical Map

"...I only managed to partially translate them so far, it's work that will probably take a couple of weeks, unless some of you are able to help, but what I found out so far is intriguing. It seems to be an elaborate recording of what the Silver Ravens did and accomplished when they were active. Including details lost to common knowledge. For example...", Rexus searches through some documents and papers, several notes with his handwriting, before finally finding the one he looked for:"...here, it speaks about Jackdaw. If I am not mistaken in my translation, Jackdaw - who founded the Ravens - was an elven Woman! We may learn of her fate if we follow those documents, after all, her kinds life span would mean she could still be alive today! But there's more!", Rexus quickly brings some other documents on top, some of which showing maps of Kintargo, with markings on it: "The Silver Ravens defended Kintargo multiple times during the Chelish Civil War...from Chelish nobles, from Agents of Thrune, they also fought off a naval invasion of Skum, drove of a Blue Dragon, eliminated a cabal of vampires and even managed to stop an extraplanar incursion by closing a gate opened by a group of Zealots. This whole bunch of papers here include a detailed report on numbers, tactics, plans and contingencies. If we manage to completely decrypt it and study what they did, there is so much we can learn. And there's tons more of information in there I did not even get to start with."
Clearly, Rexus is very excited about the prospect of learning more.
Eventually, though, his mood sobers up a bit, when he presents two other books from your recent visit to the now-collapsed Fair Fortune Livery - those of the Gnome: "I also looked into these. It was hard to grasp the meaning, as his mind was far gone, but it seems that what he was doing had a larger pattern. You see, Elias, Juliette's Ancestor, seemingly contracted a Devil. I don't know the details, as the Contract has gone missing, but it seems the Devil was contractually bound to serve until the death of the being he was bound to. And here's where thing get fancy...Elias had used contracted magics to give a bunch of rats temporary intelligence, and link them up into a self-aware swarm. He then bound the devil to this swarm being. The spells faded, but the demonic possession allowed the hive to maintain it's existence as a singular creature. Whats more, wandering rats would become part of the swarm, and those within would procreate...needless to say, the Devil was not very happy with this, as it meant the swarm could, unless it was utterly destroyed, go on forever, meaning no end to his contract. And due to some standard rules regarding it's host body, it was unable to do something about it. Yet what was worse than that was that it had to follow the orders of the contract holder, and the last order was to keep hidden, and watch over as well as defend the livery - before Elias disappeared. The Swarm, and the Devil, had been trapped in that building for countless years. When the gnome came along, it influenced him - subtle at first. To my understanding, they got creative as well. The devil was here, and happy to stay, but was bound to obey until his host died. As such, they created a form of...safe, a temporary place for the demon to be in, the rat skull shrine. Since the Gnome vowed to defend the Livery, they could use a loophole that allowed the Gnome to slowly kill of the rats that made up the swarm, channeling fragments of the Devil into the shrine. Their idea seemed to be to fully transfer the demons conscious to the shrine, diminishing the swarm until it could not maintain a...hive mind, for lack of a better word...then the "creature" the devil had been bound to would have died, and it would no longer be bound by contract, and could either try to take over a new swarm, or another host. In return, once free, the devil would have helped the Gnome out in finding his family - wife and 2 kids, and he didn't know where - he had been adventuring and an enemy of his used magic to make him forget his home - drove him mad in the first place. They were also nearly done when we arrived, with most of the devils essence bound into the shrine in a semi-dormant state. Sad story, really."
Thirsty after the lenghty explanation, Rexus emptied his mug, which was promptly refilled by Laria...while she generally trusted her staff, and would have wanted to stay and listen, she preferred to wait this table herself, this evening, not knowing how sensible any information shared would be.
Drinking a bit more, Rexus then got up and retrieved a heavy backpack he had left upstairs during the expedition downstairs, and placed it on the table, retrieving 6 pouches from it:"On a more positive note, I managed to sell those items you said we would not have use for. I managed to get 210 platinum total for them. Thats 30 platinum for each of us!"
Retrieving some more parcels from the backpack and placing them on the table, he continues:"Not only that, but I called in what little favors I had left with people, visited an old stash of mine, and talked with...a friend. And think I managed to get all of us outfitted a bit better in the process! Now, I COULD have given you these thing before we headed down there. I suppose I have to apologize for doing things this way, but I wanted to make absolutely certain the lot of you would see this through to the end. Not call it quits like Juliette, right after you got your share of the loot. My fears seem unfounded, and being too careful seems dumb now, but then, I had not expected to run into that kind of trouble down there, and definitely not twice, so please do forgive an old fool his paranoia."
There would have been some loot I omitted, mostly due to being plain money or not useful for your characters(or did someone want the +1 whip?) Instead, each of you gets to pick out up to 2 items with a summed up total value of a maximum of the allowance listed below - the remainder is paid out in extra cash. In the future, you will have to go shopping yourself, so you may also opt to aquire something that could be harder to come by...also, you MAY supplement "payment" for that gift by dipping into the 30 platinum from above, but not personal funds available
That said, I would usually hand-pick stuff in such a situation and give it out, rather than let you choose yourself, but thats mostly because I'm used to life games bogging down if one lets players make that choice. Call it an experiment.

Allowance(in alphabetical order):

Aldous: 3d7 ⇒ (6, 1, 7) = 14 for 2000+14*50= Aldous: 2700 GC
Boros: 3d7 ⇒ (1, 7, 3) = 11 for 2000+11*50= Boros: 2550 GC
Lily: 3d7 ⇒ (2, 5, 2) = 9 for 2000+9*50= Lily: 2450 GC
Miranda: 3d7 ⇒ (1, 3, 5) = 9 for 2000+9*50= Miranda: 2450 GC
Nissim: 3d7 ⇒ (7, 3, 4) = 14 for 2000+14*50= Nissim: 2700 GC
Varuzhan: 3d7 ⇒ (4, 6, 3) = 13 for 2000+13*50= Varuzhan: 2650 GC


HP 40/42 | AC 17/14/13 | CMD 19 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +4 | Per +12 | Init +3;
Class and Skills:
Gunslinger (Pistolero) 4/VMC Cavalier (Dragon) | Acro +9 Climb +8 Heal +9 (+11 stabilize dying), Sense +9;
Combat:
Grit 4/4 | 30 ft. | Melee +6 (rapier/gladius) Melee +6 (mwk morningstar) Ranged +7 (+9 mwk pistol, +8 up to 30 ft., +10 mwk pistol up to 30 ft.) CMB +6;

I've decided on a couple of gunslinger-specific minor magic items that Boros should get good service from for a long time; the beneficial bandolier and the endless bandolier. Now he can be one of those FPS maniacs who totes a seemingly-endless quanity of guns and ammo in nothing more than coin purse :D. I'll take the 50gp left over in the form alchemy ingredients for more shots.

Boros listens to Rexus' revelations regarding the papers and decoded journals with an attentive expression. Knowledge is power, after all, and no good soldier passes up life-saving intelligence when it's available either. He's visibly interested in the short history of the Silver Ravens, and the possibility that one of their number may still be around. When Rexus finishes that report, Boros looks at his fellows with a slight smile. "I'll allow as to how that was pretty interestin', and surely divin' into the history o' those who came before us should be helpful. But I'll be leavin' that work to those that actually know what they're lookin' for. What I know about Kintargo is about equal to what you lot know o' Alkenstar, I'll wager. So diggin' into its past and whatnot is not somethin' I can help with."

Hearing the truth behind the mad gnome and the rats leaves the gunslinger with a sour mood. "Well, that would have been a right mess, and no mistake about it. A devil roamin' free and unbound in the city, and not one soul knownin' save a gnome with most o' his sanity gone. Explains why the rats went for that slime fiend so eagerly though, that contract Elias worked drove the rat-devil to defend what was left of that old ruin against the devil set there by those other bastards way back." Shaking his head with a disgusted grimace, Boros leans back in his seat. "Gods, what a mess! First that livery, and then that room down below. I can't help but feel like this summonin' is goin' to be somethin' we'll have to deal with a lot more than we'll ever want."

Boros' mood lasts right up until the moment Rexus' starts handing out the party's payment for services rendered. Shaking out the contents of the package passed his way, the soldier frowns in confusion. Though well-made, he'll admit, a pair of bandoliers isn't quite what he was expecting--though he does appreciate their obvious utility for his particular skills. It isn't until he begins tranferring his supplies and kit to the appropriate places on each bandolier that he realizes what they can actually do for him, at which point his expression lights up. Now this is the sort of magic he can appreciate, and no doubt about it!

So happy is he with his new harness that he nearly overlooks the smaller package that remains on the table where it landed after being free from its bandolier cocoon. A quick check of the contents leaves Boros positively ecstatic, and he wastes no time adding his precious raw materials to what he claimed down below. This should hopefully allow him to supply--and use, of course--his pistol properly now.


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hp 39/39 (7 temp HP) | AC 17/13/14 | CMD 20 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +5 | Per +9 (+14 dark/dim); Darkvision; low-light | Init +3 | Mage Armor, False Life

Rexus hands two things to Varuzhan, a hat and a large walking stick. Varuzhan takes the stick first, looking it over. The wood is knotty and gnarled, dark and very strong. "This is nice, very sturdy. I should be able to make good use of this in combat, and these different knots will give me extra grip to strike in unexpected ways. Thank you."

Varuzhan then begins inspecting the hat. It is large and ostentatious, with a feather sticking out of it. "Is this your idea of a joke? It looks ridiculous. Not to mention I do NOT appreciate human-made clothing using feathers."

"My apologies," responds Rexus, "I didn't have a choice in the style of the hat, but once you put it on, you can make the hat look like whatever you want. Try it."

Varuzhan looks at Rexus skeptically, then tries on the hat. He pictures himself as a human with a simple cap on his head. Suddenly, his dark skin turns pale and he takes on a human form. He looks down on his hands and marvels. He takes off the hat again, and the effect vanishes. "Remarkable! This is a great solution, now I can come and go from this restaurant without drawing undue attention. Anyone want to try this? I'm sure one of you might find use for this from time to time also." Varuzhan invites anyone to try the Hat of Disguise if they want, and makes it clear that they can borrow it whenever they please.


Aldous nods as Rexus speaks, the barrister's attention fully on his old friend. Somewhat surprised by the soldier's astute observations, Aldous finds himself grudgingly admitting to himself that not only is Boros a fine soldier, but the man possesses an astute mind to boot.

geography: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

"Oh, I know a bit about Alkenstar. Alkenstar began as a refuge for residents of Nex and Geb, fleeing the centuries-long war that devastated both nations. In the relative safety of the Shattered Range, they developed, primarily out of necessity, incredibly advanced technology. The usefulness of which, you've ably demonstrated to me. Though I doubt Alkenstar has schools of the quality and quantity that we Chels possess, their people, if you are a good example, obviously have keen deductive qualities. I suspect that you're correct; in this Empire of Devils we'll see many more summons before this little rebellion is over."

Aldous let loose a sharp laugh as Varuzhan changes, high and somewhat off-putting. "You make a passable Chel, Varuzhan. That hat will pay for itself in spades, I suspect!"

The pouch Rexus hands to Aldous is more of a satchel, really. And a fine satchel, befitting a successful barrister, at that. The satchel is of supple leather, from what beast Aldous isn't sure, but it is a soft, deep reddish-brown, with two shining brass clasps on the front. Opening the satchel, a large smile spreads across Aldous' face. "You know me well, old friend!" Spreading the contents of the satchel out on the table, it is soon apparent that there's more there than the little back should hold: a substantial pile of books soon sits in front of the barrister. "Murstall's Complete and Extensive Works of Chelish Law, Extrapolated, volumes one through sixty-eight. Nicely, done! A finer work of our society's intricate legal system doesn't exist!"

Pulling a smaller case from within the bigger bag, Aldous sets it down with a clink, opening it to find a few select vials filled with differently colored liquids.

"To help in the coming days," Rexus says, with a grin.

OK, items for Aldous: handy haversack (refluffed to a satchel, 2000 gold) containing a masterwork tool (Murstall's work on law, offering a +2 to profession barrister. I'd like this to be a nice set, so it should probably cost more than the 50 gp standard for a masterwork tool - 200gp? The remaining 500 gp of items will be various potions that I haven't decided exactly what they will entail, yet.


Hells Rebels Tactical Map

Nissim, Lily and Miranda missing...all had been posting in discussion since the last post. If you can't get a full post together, no worries, but lets keep going shall we :)

Rexus smiles at Boros reaction to the bandoliers:"I thought you'd like those. Wasn't easy to aquire them without drawing undue suspicion, so make them worth the risk! And you are right, it's a mess in this city, has been for a long time, which is why we can learn so much from the past. But Aldous is right, if you don't like summoned outsiders, you're in the wrong country, friend."

Meanwhile, Laria watches as Varuzhan turns into a Chellish man. Even if the nose reminded her of a hawk, the result was rather believeable:"Aye, coming and going like that would not cause any suspicions in on-lookers. Not meant as an insult, but most of your kind tend to stay near the...poorer parts of the city, not many Strix have visited my place in the past...- but one suggestion: If you make yourself look older, you may be able to pass that staff off as a walking stick....mind giving it a try?"

As Aldous unpacks his satchel, Rexus smile had turned into a grin:"I knew your mentor had one of those book sets, and you wouldn't shut up about them back when you were still learning. It was high time you got your own set. Luckily, in a country were devil worship is the state religion, it's easy enough to get one's hand on books about law and contracts.", he finished with a side-glance at Boros, and a small laugh, before proceeding to hand out more packages to the others still waiting.


Female Aasimar Oracle 3 HP 26/26 GS 1/1
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 18/13/15/14 | Fort/Ref/Will +03/+04/+03(+04n) | Init +03
Trained Skills:
+13: Diplomacy, P(Sing); +10: C(Culinary); +09: Stealth; +08: K(His, Rel), Spellcraft; +07: K(Pla); +06: K(Nat), Perception; +05 Handle Animal

Lily's package is considerably smaller than most - which wasn't particularly surprising. Big things came in small packages, though.

The little bundle opened to reveal another bundle of malachite green chain - exceedingly tiny rings, each with perfect craftsmanship all their own. A note rested atop the copper-pigmented mithral - Come First with a Rose. She slowly unfolded the shirt, which revealed red leather straps inset with blossoming gold roses amidst vines with only the occasional thorn burned directly and carefully into the leather. The whole of which was an over-the-top thing of beauty. And it was just the right size. There was a mix of smile and tears as she looked over the shirt, so she didn't see the small brass cufflinks in the shape of whippoorwills at first until they'd already tumbled to the table.

"I'd noticed you didn't really have a penchant for putting holes in things... so I figured I'd make sure things couldn't put holes in you. I made sure it'd be able to go under your clothes so you can wear it all the time - as long as you aren't expecting to be patted down. You also seem to take a great deal of effort towards keeping yourself looking pristine. The cuff links - though I think they may have been meant for a businessman at some point - will let you change your outfit - and keep it clean, in the process."


hp 39/39 (7 temp HP) | AC 17/13/14 | CMD 20 | Fort +5 Ref +7 Will +5 | Per +9 (+14 dark/dim); Darkvision; low-light | Init +3 | Mage Armor, False Life
GM Mordred wrote:
Meanwhile, Laria watches as Varuzhan turns into a Chellish man. Even if the nose reminded her of a hawk, the result was rather believeable:"Aye, coming and going like that would not cause any suspicions in on-lookers. Not meant as an insult, but most of your kind tend to stay near the...poorer parts of the city, not many Strix have visited my place in the past...- but one suggestion: If you make yourself look older, you may be able to pass that staff off as a walking stick....mind giving it a try?"

"Hm . . . I don't feel that old. But I guess if I focus enough I could make it work?" Varuzhan concentrates once more, picturing himself as one of the older, sicklier patients who came for his services often enough. His hair thins and greys and his body becomes lankier. He starts walking around, using the staff for support, and tries out a somewhat comical accent. "Young people these days, When I was your age, I had ta walk 10 miles to get to school. Uphill, both ways!"


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

Miranda listened attentively to what Rexus had learned. Excitedly at first at the exploits of their predecessors and the chance some of them were still around - and significantly less happily when he switched to the topic of the gnome. Woah! That's horrible. She wasn't sure if she pitied the gnome or the devil more. The outsider was certainly much less sympatric but at least the gnome was too far gone to notice. Hopefully! Brr. And imagine decades imprisoned in *multiple* rats! With a barely suppressed shiver and a shrug she pushed the emerging thoughts away and focused instead on the care packages.

The parcel addressed at her was wrapped in soft cloth, nice fabric she noted, and it contained a small pouch that produced a satisfyingly metallic rattle when shaken as well as a pair of really nice boots. Amazingly they seemed to be in her size too! "Woah! Sweet! I didn't think the nicer shoemakers dealt in halfling sizes..." Miranda beamed as she examined her new possessions.

"Yeah, well, they do make em child sized ..." Rexus started and the tiefling suddenly realized why the shoelaces were so bright and fancy. "Coincidentally -" he continued, assuming one of those 'I'm innocent I swear' faces; "- they should help you avoid trouble when running around adu- *ahem* us taller folks. Now, if you would stop shaking that purse for a moment, I managed to find another of those replenishing pearls. I think I speak for us all when I hope a bit more magic will mean much less resorting to biting." The merchant chuckled and turned to the last person to open his parcel ...


Active Effects: Resonance (+2 Dex, +1 Perception) | hp 27/27 | AC 15+1/14+1/12 | CMD 15+1 | Fort +5 Ref +6+1 Will +3 (+1 vs illusions) | Evasion | Resist Cold, Electricity & Fire 5 | Per +7+1 (+1 vs traps); Darkvision, Alarm Sense | Init +3+1

Varuzhan transformation sequence!

"Hah." Miranda laughed at their new, old, version of Varuzhan. With a grin she gathered her own things, slipping them into her pockets or onto her feats as appropriate. Stowing away her old boots an errant thought once more crossed her mind. I wonder if the illusion works for touches? Mine don't ... She carefully considered reaching out and poking the 'old man'. Also ... I have to make sure to hide any hats with feathers I own if Varuzhan ever comes visiting! Since she didn't actually own any it was an admittedly small problem but she did secretly wonder about his stance on downy pillows.


Male Human | HP: 31/31 | AC: 12 (12 Tch, 10 Fl) | CMB: +2, CMD: 14 | F: +8, R: +6, W: +6 | Init: +8 | Perc: +8 (Low Light Vision), SM: +8

On the way back upstairs Nissim avoids anything to do with the great lizard in the basement. He doesn't hold out high hopes for anything constructive to come out of keeping it, and he certainly doesn't want to expend his efforts in that direction.

He tells Rexus he will be able to help with cleaning up and preparing the area downstairs, but not until the day after tomorrow. The shop has a new employee he has sponsored. After being away for an entire day he needs to spend one at work, making sure she is settling into her role, and that things are running smoothy. Afterward he will return here. Nissim is particularly keen to see the books in the library are preserved and catalogued.

"There is far too much nefarious summoning going on in Kintargo for my comfort, and not all of it is infernal. We should gather all the knowledge we can to counter it, even if it applies to the demonic. I have not forgotten the tentacled thing in the park. Whatever it was, it did not seem to be a minion of Hell."

++++++++++

At the dinner Nissim listens to what Rexus reveals about the documents with great interest. He is not one to be comfortable to permanent unknowns, and finding out about the stables past, as well as, some of the history of the Silver Ravens soothes his mind. Although it does also raise new questions.

"Certainly do ask for my assistance with the documents if it would be helpful Rexus. Even if it is simply sorting and organizing the documents I will lend a hand."

++++++++++

Nissim is the last to open his package. As he does so Rexus comments. "In your case NIssim, the choices were easy. Things that allow you to do more of what you do."

Inside Nissim finds a pearl and a metal flask. Rexus continues: the pearl will assist you in recalling a spell already cast. The flask will hold a formulae, preserving it indefinitely until you use it."

Nissim smiles as he looks the items over. "Thank you Rexus. I must admit I tend toward indecision when casting, always wondering if the moment is the best time to employ magic, when a greater need for it could arise in the future. This will help ease those worries."


Hells Rebels Tactical Map

Rebellion Event: 1d100 ⇒ 22 => Increased Support 2d6 ⇒ (6, 2) = 8 new supporters join the cause of the Rebellion.
Usually Danger rating+Notoriety gets added. But it fits so nicely with Laria's team joining the Rebellion that I'll use the roll raw - also because you stirred up no trouble - so far.

Having handed out all the packages, Rexus finishes arranging for some help over the next few days in preparing the subfloor for use - not only among those present - if the lizard will be safely locked up, even some of Laria's most trusted workers would help out, she assures the lot of you.

That done, he spreads out a map of the docks area. It's roughly drawn, but those local will recognize the main streets and some key buildings.
Turning to Aldous, his expression becomes very serious:"I know it must be hard for you, if she's really in this building, but we do need to do things proper. 3 days of preparation, gathering intelligence, and keeping busy around here. That's all I ask for. The last operation, on the plaza? A trap, and a lot of good man died that day. I'm not keen on repeating that mistake, after having been lucky enough to have been saved by you."

Circling the location of the supposed "Warehouse" on the map, he looks at everybody in turn to make sure he has undivided attention:"We may learn a few things we can use...how many guards, and where, how often do they change - alternative entrances or exits...all that stuff would be helpful. But in the end, we will need to move swiftly. Even if that is not an official prison, if we are found out, and I doubt we can sneak out with the prisoners easily, then it's only a matter of time before the building is surrounded and we do not want to get trapped - with the livery, we were lucky. Best not hope that works twice. If we can't sneak in, we go in fast, we get those that can move, we run. Probably should prepare some diversion or arrange for some means of delaying pursuit - through a building with a door we can lock behind us, a cart to block off a alleyway, something like that - Boros and Lily, could you see if you can come up with a workable idea or two? More is better, but we don't know how many people we can liberate, or in what condition they are- keep that in mind. Their dogs are also decent trackers, we'll need to throw them off as well - maybe Nissim or Varuzhan could provide some alchemical means to do so?...Miranda and Aldous, I think you both wanted to do recon close to the enemy - you are probably best suited, in different ways, but still, thats very selfless of you - now, I think several of you had mentioned ideas earlier on how you meant to scout out the place without drawing attention...lets hear them again! We have 3 days to prepare, and I don't want people showing up repeatedly all over the place, so pick one day to gather info the way you want, then hang back. Work in your family business, ponder the problems I mentioned before, or help get this place in shape. But don't draw attention."

Basically, you get extra "tasks", recon with interaction, prevent inmediate pursuit, and prevent long-term pursuit(that could also include a means of getting the people to safety without drawing attention) - that, plus please re-state what you are going to do to learn more. It's basically a roll call since we had a longer break now.

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