TOZ's Darkest Abduction [OutPost I] (Inactive)

Game Master TriOmegaZero

Sahess points at her blade. "I have cut down a ghost or seven with that. I can also purify them in glorious ice, provided they aren't immune to my element." She appears somewhat bothered by the events which lead her to mention that caveat.

"Abducted from this theatre, did you say? Whereabouts was she exactly when she was last seen? No-one saw anything or anyone suspicious on the night she went missing?" Thoriel thinks of one more important question before she gives Basia a chance to answer her first batch of queries. "Oh, and before I forget, you must tell me who does her hair?"

"Sadly, I am not so acquainted with her to know who her private coiffeur is. Based on the efficiency of the adbuction, it is safe to say the perpetrators are specialized in infiltration. The watch has found nothing, at least nothing they will share with me. I recommend you begin your investigation here for anything they have missed."

What can you tell us of the Sharnau family, of whom this missing Olivina is an heiress? By Aroden's we-uhl, we shall find her!

"A family of old money, with substantial holdings around the city. Like many noble families, they are patrons of the arts, hence their heiress' career in the theater."

Who might benefit from a missing Olivina Sharnau? I recall that a series of murders shook this theater decades ago, and the building is rumored to be haunted. What can you tell us about those murders? Was the murderer ever caught? I worry that the murderer's spirit might be active here.

"I believe it was a makeup artist, quite mad with envy. She murdered an entire chorus, walking on stage drenched in blood. I hardly expect an old ghost story to be responsible, but stranger things have happened. I expect you to find whoever might have the motive to conduct this crime."

Knowing little about history, or even about the nobility of which she is a part which she should really rectify next level, Sahess absorbs the speech and considers. "Who would most obviously benefit from this abduction?"

"Perhaps a rival star, perhaps nefarious ransomers. However, we have yet to hear any such demands."

After her outburst, Seldiliel spends the afternoon alone, brooding and irritable. As the time approaches to go to the opera, she begins getting ready, transforming her dress into a red gown with black accents. She puts her hair up into an elaborate beehive and by the time everyone is ready to go she is cheerful and laughing.
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Seldiliel listens carefully to the Venture-Captain, trying to recall anything she may have read about Livgrace or Olivina.

Nobility: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (3) + 10 = 13
History: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (13) + 10 = 23

Frustrated that she can't remember much about the nobility is this region, Seldiliel looks down at her rat, Nibbles. "Can you remember the name of that one Countess? We were just reading about her a few weeks ago, but I just can't recall the name."

Aid:Knowledge History: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (17) + 0 = 17

If you'll allow her to accept an aid from her familiar in this case.

To Basia: "You say she was captured in the theater? Was she taken from her dressing room?"

Nodding at Seldiliel question "Can we see the scene of the abduction? That seems like the best place to start the investigation?"

Aid Another is perfectly valid on Knowledge checks. In this case it makes only a little difference, as your party members have met the DC25 as well. Just remember to call it before the roll.

"You say she was captured in the theater? Was she taken from her dressing room?"

“So I have been told. The countess has deputized you to make inquiries, though this does not equate to a universal search warrant. You also have provisional permission to make an arrest and use lethal force, but keep in mind that you may have to defend such actions later—especially regarding any nobility or other influential figures in the city.”

Nodding at Seldiliel question "Can we see the scene of the abduction? That seems like the best place to start the investigation?"

The venture captain pauses as the doors to the theater swing open, disgorging the patrons of the arts. Scores of the Ustalavic elite bedecked in embroidered silks, bejeweled collars, gold broaches, and colorful sashes emerge, most engaging in lively discussions about the performance. "Did you hear the trumpets during the third movement? Divine!" Many frown, turn up their noses, or flick open lacy fans to conceal looks of distaste as they pass by Basia Kalistoff.

One woman stops the man on her arm and looks your venture-captain over once head-to-toe, then over each of you in turn. Her eyes linger on Tak in disdain. "Evening, Kalistoff."

The venture-captain begins to politely acknowledge the terse greeting, "Good evening, Maria. Whose after-party are you gracing with your presence this evening...?" but trails off as the woman immediately turns away and engages two other finely-dressed women in an enthusiastic exchange of whispers and laughter as they exit the theater.

Stiffly, she stands and announces, “An excellent observation, Tak, but it must wait. We have another appointment—one better held in private.” With that she gestures for the group to follow, ascends one of the grand staircases, and enters one of the private boxes.

Basia Kalistoff motions toward a regal woman strategically seated where she can watch both her theater box’s entrance and the stage as assistants clean up after the performance. “Allow me to introduce Countess Sasandra Livgrace, ruler of Karcau,” the venture-captain announces softly.

The countess rises and offers her hand in friendship. “I appreciate your and your associates’ willingness to assist in this matter, Basia. Karcau is no stranger to crime, but what has occurred of late goes beyond what the guards can handle. With the recent disappearance of Olivina Sharnau, the citizens have become especially fearful, and if the perpetrators feel they can get away with one high-profile abduction, they will no doubt attempt more. I doubt there is much time before they strike again.” her voice catches and her hand strays to the brooch at her neck.

“Olivina disappeared from this theater only a few nights ago. I have requested that the dressing room she used remain undisturbed until you inspect it, and I have also arranged for you to have access to the theater this evening to conduct your investigation.” Countess Livgrace turns to the venture-captain and offers a gentle smile. “We have other matters to discuss in the meantime, Basia, so perhaps you would be so kind as to introduce me to those to whom I am entrusting my city’s safety.” Basia Kalistoff inclines her head and responds, “They have accomplished so much that I could not do their credentials justice.” She then looks to the assembled agents and adds, “Please be so kind as to introduce yourselves and your qualifications to the Countess Livgrace.”

An excellent opportunity for Pathfinders, especially Sovereign Court members. Please make a Bluff, Diplomacy, or relevant Perform check as you explain what your character has done to earn the respect of the Society or proven themselves a skilled investigator.

It is the pleasure of a lifetime to meet you, your grace. the small dark and angular man says in a Garundi accent. He bows low and genuinely seems in awe. I am Greyveil Darksands, master alchemist of the Pathfinder society. He is not much to look upon and his race is not immediately obvious (Wayang). But judging purely on the plethora of alchemical apperati that hangs from his small person he may indeed be a master alchemist. Perhaps you have heard of some of my greater exploits? I was part of the group that explored the half dead city of Tempu, liberating the house of Pentheru from both demons and haunts. While there I explored the ancient tomb of Akhemtepi where my expertise in ancient Orsanari was quite valuable. In fact I am a true archaeological expert as I have proven in my work with the Lost Colony of Taldor. I have explored the Gloomspire and am one of the few experts on that place. i was instrumental in receiving a stolen Sun Orchid elixir. I have even earned respect on the high seas and have my own saying ship. Perhaps you have heard of the Fearsome Tide? And of course there is my time on the Plane of Shadow. Few I have met in this world have walked there.

Instead of a normal perform check Greyveil tries to impress the Countess with a feat of alchemy.

Alchemy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (9) + 15 = 24

Thoriel speaks up next. "Well it seems like I've spent most of my time in the Society, trudging through dungeons or sewers underground in the dark, but I guess that's what we get paid for, isn't it? I was part of the group that cleared out that horrible Thornkeep and then later I helped defeat the Runelord of Sloth...disgusting man!" she grimaces as the mere thought. "Oh, but I did work closely with Lady Gloriana Morilla of Taldor during that nasty business with the Worldwound, to hatch a plan to help with the Crusades...got to go to a nice party that time. That one was fun, although demons ended up crashing the dinner and rather spoiling the mood. That's why it's such a joy to come to such a lovely city as yours...I wish it was under more pleasant circumstances of course, but I'll be sure to come visit again, for pleasure rather than business next time."

As she speaks, it seems that for a moment there are two Thoriels, echoing each others words. Hopefully two beautiful faces and charming sets of words are better than one in this instance.

Going to use Echoing Paradox boon from a CS (crossing it off) to add +2 as if there was an aid another.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 3 + 2 = 11

Don't know whether it's worth using my GM reroll on that?

Seldiliel can see that impresses Lady Gloriana is important to her and decides to give her some psychic aid.

She may be a queen but she is also a woman, flesh and bone, feelings and desires. Find those feelings, see how they are like your own.

Selidiliel will use this grant Thoriel a +5 insight bonus to her Diplomacy check.

Seldliel stands up straight and introduces herself to the queen of Karcau. "I am Seldiliel Sharondaerl, scholar, explorer, mystic, and chronicler of the Pathfinder Society. I have journeyed far and wide across Golarion and beyond. I have seen molten cities of brass in the Plane of Fire and have swam in the depths of the Plane of Water. I have faced down dragons, demons and the walking dead. I command powerful magics beyond mortal comprehension. I can assure you that we will find who ever is responsible for this kidnapping and that we will bring the perpetrators back to you for you to do justice onto them as you desire. Or if you'd prefer, we could just kill them ourselves and save your city the cost of a public execution."

Castingtelempathic projection beforehand for a +5 insight bonus.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 13 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 13 + 5 = 31

”Good day. My name is Tak. Thank you for calling on us. I do not like speaking of accomplishment, but I see it will put your mind as ease, so I will be brief for both our sake."

"I have run clandestine missions to aid suffering dissidents, fought and defeated dragons, recoved a sky key, dispatched cults and solved my fair share of murders and missing persons problems. My life has not been as awe inspiring as some but what I have is earned."

Tak looks around the group looking forward to more of their stories and glad his part is done.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (18) + 17 = 35

Don't know whether it's worth using my GM reroll on that?

You are more than welcome to if you feel it worthwhile, just let me know one way or another, and keep in mind the extra +5 Seldiliel has given you.

Sahess smiles graciously. "I am the Lady Sahess, beloved of Taldor and Nagajor. I have exposed the traitorous Shadow Lodge, I have braved the depths beneath Absalom to ensure the society's entry into the Ruby Phoenix Tournament, I am of the Ungrounded, I have defended the city of Absalom in its darkest hour of onslaught, braving shadows and dangers untold single handedly, and passed the Test of Tar Kuata Monastery. I run the Lyruhe trading company, and am of the blood of the white dragon. As to my investigative prowess, I admit perhaps a lapse in that area, but I am sure my compatriots more than make up for my lack of experience there. I am keen of eye and sharp of wit, and even sharper of blade, claw, and tooth. Should you somehow doubt me, I stand, try me." Aside from the one portion, there is no false bravado, she is simply stating events as they happened.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (10) + 14 = 24

Tak carefully puts a hand on Sahess shoulder, not wanting to have it chopped off.

"We will prove our mettle on the mission. No one doubts your abilities. Your accomplishments speak for themselves."

Thoriel feels that she didn't completely impress the Countess. "Oh...and, er I really love your dress by the way!"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 + 2 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 3 + 2 + 5 + 2 = 24

Hoping that was enough to sway Countess Livgrace and feeling the mental support from her fellow elf, Thories whispers back to Seldiliel. "Thanks, girlfriend! You're a gem!"

Seldiliel whispers back, "It was always you. That's just a trick I have for helping people unlock their true potential."

My lady, Chusynd says with a sweeping bow. I am Chusynd Karkota, Cleric of ARODEN! — dwarven emissary liberator, Blakros confidant, purveyor of forgotten tomes, Sky Key scion, and most recently vanquisher of the linnorm vestige of Frostbreach. He waves to his companions. We hearty souls are here of our own volition and are at your service.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (18) + 17 = 35

The countess listens intently to each story in turn. To Greyveil, she inclines her head. "An impressive resume, master alchemist. If the kidnappers are beyond the mundane, I have every confidence your expertise shall prevail."

Thoriel's effusive praise for Karcau brings a smile to her lips. "Ah, you are acquainted with the Lady Morilla? I have heard tales of her efforts in the Worldwound, such that I have no fear of fiends succeeding in subverting the people of Karcau."

Seldiliel's talk of execution returns a serious mein to the countess' gaze. "I trust in your good judgement to apprehend these villians in the most seemly manner, and failing that to mete out justice for their crimes."

Tak's to the point speech elicits an approving nod from the venture captain as the countess seems to view the half-orc in a new light. "I see that your society has a wide range of talent at its disposal. May your experience ensure the safe return of Olivina in haste."

Sahess' plain speech brings a considering gaze upon her, as the countess rejoins "If there remains anything to doubt, your performance in this task will prove such. I hope that your efforts are not in vain."

Chusynd is graced with a smile as he finishes the accountings. "Thank you kindly for rising to this challenge, as it must surely take you away from many other such pursuits."

At last she clasps her hands together. ”I have little idea of what you all are capable of, hearing mostly what tasks you have done. Still, that is enough to earn my trust for now.” She turns to Basia. ”If you will accompany me out?”

The Venture-Captain turns to leave with the countess, saying ”You now have access to the theater. Conduct your investigations and find these missing persons.”

The two ladies take their leave, and the group descends the stairs in their wake. In the lobby, the countess and the venture-captain continue toward the exit. Standing opposite, left wide open after disgorging the upper crust of Karcau society, are the doors to the theater.

The interior of the Cloisoi Theater is voluminous, plush, and imposing. The high ceilings magnify every sound, and the balcony boxes seem to loom above the floor seating. The darkened stage still features set dressings from the evening’s performance. Several hundred seats fill the slightly sloped theater floor. The upholstery is good quality red velvet, if a bit worn, and the smell of expensive perfume lingers on the fabric.

The stage is tilted slightly toward the audience. Though they look realistic from afar, many of the set pieces seem shoddily built. Many feature protruding nails or jagged bits of unfinished woodwork. A single candle burns in a stand at the front of the the stage.

Aside from the candle's dim light, this area is dark. Please include your illumination if your character requires light to see, and any spells you cast before you begin your investigation.

Tak pulls out a thin hollow oak baton and touches each eyelid with it.
Wand of heighten awareness.

"There are cries for help from backstage. We must go now!"

Perception: 1d20 + 22 ⇒ (9) + 22 = 31

Sahess has low-light vision. She would need illumination as somehow I overlooked purchasing a wayfinder. I feel very sad about that. Swore I had one.

Sahess rushes toward the backstage area, rushing in so much as someone clad in heaviest armor can rush.

Greyveil drinks an elixir of heightened awareness himself but fails to hear the voices.

Perception: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (4) + 16 = 20

Greyveil sees in the dark just fine.

When Tak calls the group to action Greyveil downs his mutagen and dragonfly wings unfurl from his back. He flies forward at a speed of 60”.

Before investigating the theatre, Selidiliel casts another false life: 1d10 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9 on herself. She also throws a heightened awareness on herself. She pulls out a gray metal rod topped with a yellow stone (metamagic rod of intensity) and casts a light spell on the end of it.

Perception: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (11) + 17 = 28

"I heard the screams too, Tak. Screams mean opportunity! Let's go check it out!"

At the mention of the screams from backstage, Thoriel also rushes down the aisle of the theatre. Practically gliding across the ground in a graceful run, it looks as if the elf is nowhere near her full pace.

Thoriel has low-light vision and will activate her Wayfinder if it is dark.

Chusynd (darkvision) can't make the Perception check, but will follow after his companions.

The sounds of alarm fade as the party approaches the stage, leaving an uncomfortable silence. The only access visible are the steps to the left side of the stage, although climbing upon the stage itself does not present much challenge. A wide wooden door bars passage at the top of the stairs, but little else catches the eye.

Interesting...Something strange is going on here.

Seldiliel's brow furrows as she begins concentrating. A slightly bitter smelling breeze rustles the hem of her dress as her psychic powers manifest. Seldiliel uses her detect thoughts spell-like ability and begins to scan the stage and behind the door for signs of intelligence.

1d20 ⇒ 12

It my view being blocked by something, like a wall or a curtain, or was the presense out in the open, indicating it might someone invisible?

Seldiliel points in the direction of the presence she detected and whispers, "I think there's someone over there, but I can't see into their thoughts. Their will is too strong."

You can't determine where the presence is, so it could be either reason.

Sahess moves up to the edge of the stage, preparing to lift herself onto it shortly. She is not quite so hasty as before, perhaps a little confused.

Tak draws a rolled up piece of parchment from his pack.

Draws a scroll invisibility purge

"Behind the door? Thoriel's gaze follows where the other elf points. "Shall we open it then?

So, have we gone through that wide door that was described at the top of the stairs? Sorry, I'm a little confused where we are on the map or where we haven't been.

Sahess clambers onto the stage with little difficulty. As she peers around the set pieces, she spots something out of place. One of the protruding nails of the poor construction has a snarl of curly hair wrapped around it, roughly ankle height from the stage floor.

Thoriel pushes open the side door to reveal a backstage cluttered with more shoddy decorations, costume racks, and props of all kinds. Fake swords hand from pegs, rows of crude wooden busts support myriad wigs, and crates hold all sorts of odds and ends. To the right, a pair of doors lead to the main stage and further backstage.

Seldiliel climbs onto the stage carefully, continuing to concentrate on her detect thoughts. She looks around the stage, turning her head as she scans the area, trying to get a rough estimate of where the strange presence is hiding. She moves up closely behind Thoriel, continuing to scan but also looking into the room Thoriel just opened for any more clues.

Perception: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (10) + 17 = 27

"Hmmm...it looks like someone raided the costume rack for a few items. We may be looking for someone in disguise!

"I have found a hair. Curly." She similarly nods to Seldiliel's presumption. "Would that disguise make someone easier or harder to pick out?"

Is that any Perform check? Chusynd has Perform (oratory) trained.

Correct, any Perform.

Sahess brings the hair into the light and finds it to be vibrant red, tangled around the exposed nail.

Perform (oratory): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14 haha, of course. :-)

Chusynd observes the costume rack, but since his own particular performance skill set doesn't typically include costumery, he notices little out of place. Looking back out at the stage, he says aloud to no one in particular, The acoustics here are simply marvelous.

Tak searches for anything that could lead them to people in the area and continues moving backstage where the voice came from.

Perception: 1d20 + 22 ⇒ (16) + 22 = 38

Does everyone know we are on the map now?

Perform (Dance): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21

"Yes, you could be right, although I couldn't be sure. I usually wear more exotic costumes in my line of work." Thoriel muses at the mention of missing costumes, "...and even then for only part of my act", she concludes with a wink. "Any idea what sort of disguises, just so we know what we're looking out for?"

The elf then heads to open the door leading backstage. "Was this the direction you think you picked up those thoughts?"

Tak waves his hand over his eyes and they fill with magic and he systematically moving through the rooms.

Casting detect magic and starts checking each room. Top room (stage right), backstage, then down to stage left. Take 10 on perception checks for 32

Sweeping the backstage areas, Tak finds no auras of magic, lingering or otherwise. The stage behind the curtain holds more crates of theater supplies, haphazardly left about. The area of backstage beyond the far door is less cluttered than the others, but one chest left open among the boxes is overstuffed with masks and feather boas.

To the west is a door partly covered with a knee-high pile of bouquets and notes. To the south, another door is marked as an exit by a mud rug and coat pegs. The writing declares Olivina— We miss you! Come home safely! and other such well wishes.

"I found a key. I'm not much for going through doors first anyone want it."

"I'll have to check out your act sometime." Seldiliel pauses thoughtfully.

Regarding the costumes: "From what's missing, they might be dressed as a beggar, a guard, or a merchant. It also look like someone took a few of the wigs."

Regarding the location of the thoughts: "I'm having trouble pinpointing exactly where they are coming form, but it's somewhere behind the stage. Maybe in the direction Tak is heading. I think we should go in together and check it out."

Thoriel joins Tak and waits for the rest of the group to catch up, then takes the key. "Sure, going first is grossly underrated. Everyone here?"

Just for a final precaution, the magus then extracts a Wand of Shield from a sheath on her wrist, taps herself with it, places it back and then opens the door...

Perception on door before opening: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12

Tak also inspects the door and listens for noises behind it.

Perception 32

Hearing nothing, Tak waits while Thoriel opens the door. The dressing room is crammed full of vanity mirrors, makeup kits, and discarded bits of clothing. Some of the mirrors are adorned with favorable reviews, trinkets, and script pages. Admiring herself in the largest mirror, is the translucent figure of a frumpy woman in her mid-30s wearing a light, blood-spattered gown and carrying a pair of gore-covered sewing scissors.

She spots your reflection, turns and cocks her head. "I beg your pardon, ladies and gentlemen, I wasn't told the backstage would have guests."

Edit: I missed Thoriel's position on the map. For purposes of time, she opens the door to find it is a service entrance, opening to a back alley.

Tak calmly calls for the rest ofthe team. "Um...there is something everyone should see here."

Tak looks at his familair, "any thoughts?"

Knowledge Religion or Arcana: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (2) + 13 = 15

The woman is clearly a spirit, but what kind escapes your recollection.

"You look just like Mad Margaret! Or do you prefer just Margaret? Is that who you are?"

I wonder if this is really a ghost? It could be some kind of trick.

Knowledge Religion: 1d20 + 11 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 11 + 2 = 21