Shisumo's Jade Regent Prologue - Burnt Offerings

Game Master Shisumo

Tybus will hang back, watching half-interestedly. He seems distracted.

His brow does furrow a bit when he hears Tristan speak. He'll step a bit closer to the tall ranger, ending about an arm's length from him.

Heal

1d20 + 3

eesh. Um, can you retry a heal check?

You can indeed retry this check. You can even take 20 on it. Though I should point out, you will have to enter the cell and touch him to make the check (or, for that matter, to heal him if need be).

whoever is "most adept with rope-tying", aka has the highest CMB, should make sure he's tied up nice and tight. After that is done, I'll take 20 on my heal check for a 23 total, and assuming my check shows him to be pretty badly hurt, I'll throw him a CLW.

1d8 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 = 3

And then another

1d8 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 1 = 8

if he still looks hurt bad after that, I'll have to start throwing out some burst heals

After the prisoner is secured, and Halgor has examined his wounds, he walks up to him, and kneels down, whispering softly in his ear before chanting his healing spells:

Sorry, couldn't get on sooner, but certainly before Tsuto is restrained and healed, Gan would have said...

Gan notices the looks on his companions' faces and sees that Tsuto is already "convicted" in their eyes.

The main reason for our interrogation is to determine the threat against Sandpoint, but let's not forget that there are demons involved here. It is our duty to determine if there is some sort of demonic possession or magical compulsion at work here before we condemn Tsuto to die...

An influence like that should be easily detectable by anyone capable of recognizing magic auras. Has this man not been checked in this manner?

Lamsfel shrugs his shoulders. "Didn't know a person could do that." He returns to quietly watching the proceedings.

I believe Tristan would have the highest CMB - +5, right?.

probably so. for level 1 thats a pretty good CMB. mine is only +2

assuming no one responds, halgor will cast detect magic on tsuto to see if there is anything affecting him. i dont have ranks in spellcraft, but i still can just detect the presense of something, right? :)

probably so. for level 1 thats a pretty good CMB. mine is only +2

assuming no one responds, halgor will cast detect magic on tsuto to see if there is anything affecting him. i dont have ranks in spellcraft, but i still can just detect the presense of something, right? :)

You can, and there is not. It should be noted, however, that demonic possession would register as an alignment aura, but not necessarily a magical effect.

Suddenly aware of the others' looks Tristan shrugs. "Yeah, I'm pretty handy with ropes. You need to be when you grow up on a farm."

He ties up Tsuto to the best of his ability, not particularly bothering with making him comfortable.

Halgor Greybeard wrote:

probably so. for level 1 thats a pretty good CMB. mine is only +2

assuming no one responds, halgor will cast detect magic on tsuto to see if there is anything affecting him. i dont have ranks in spellcraft, but i still can just detect the presense of something, right? :)

You can, and there is not. It should be noted, however, that demonic possession would register as an alignment aura, but not necessarily a magical effect.

Yup. And detect evil is another spell that Halgor would assume has already been cast on Tsuto. Upon hearing that it hadn't been, he probably wouldn't have been so "bad cop" in his whisper speech. :)

This man is not currently under the influence of any charms or compulsions. I can't rule out demonic possession unless I have a chance to request a detection spell from my deity. I apologize, but where I come from, if someone were to have commited this heinous of a crime, he would have been immediately tested for any kind of influence, and he would have also been checked for inherent evil.

I assumed it would be the same in this case, and that was foolish of me. Given you have evidence of demonic involvement, it might not be wise to torture him until his nature has been checked. If he is a wicked man, his evil would flicker like a candle. If he were possessed by a demon, the evil would be more like a bonfire.

I suggest we move this conversation out of Tsuto's earshot -- way out of earshot, given his half-elven nature.

I wasn't thinking we was going to be torturing this man, just rattling him, as it were. Tybus has never heard of this spell Gan's plannig on using :) And ye're right; we didn't check for possession. Not something we can do, else it would've been done.

However, I don't think that be the case. Did ye read his log? That's a brewing hatred that's been buiding up for a long time. Nualia sounds crazy, and evil. Tsuto may have been influenced by her, but he's not possessed. He's in love, and trying to impress her by matching her evil.

I suggest we move this conversation out of Tsuto's earshot -- way out of earshot, given his half-elven nature.

I wasn't thinking we was going to be torturing this man, just rattling him, as it were. Tybus has never heard of this spell Gan's plannig on using :) And ye're right; we didn't check for possession. Not something we can do, else it would've been done.

However, I don't think that be the case. Did ye read his log? That's a brewing hatred that's been buiding up for a long time. Nualia sounds crazy, and evil. Tsuto may have been influenced by her, but he's not possessed. He's in love, and trying to impress her by matching her evil.

I've been thinking the same thing about moving, but figured it was too late.

Lamsfel listens to Tybus' explanation and nods in agreement.

Do you want to wait another day to allow Halgor to prep detect evil?

No sense in waiting when there might be a wave of goblins crashing on our beach. We need to know what he knows now.

Seeing if the man be possessed, well, that's important for how we hold him responsible for the festival attack and the Glassworks nightmare. As much as I hate the thought o' sweating an innocent man for information, I think the chances are low on his account.

Knowledge (local, untrained): 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 2 = 12 Did Pathfinder keep the rule that you can make untrained Knowledge checks up to DC 10?

If so:

Yes it did.

"I can't believe you're so squeamish. Love, possession, whatever... what difference does that make to those poor people in the glassworks? Let's just find out what he knows."

Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6

Knowledge (local):1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6

Knowledge (Local) 1d20 ⇒ 10 Untrained

"I think I know just the folks you mean. Come, Tristan - much as your mind is made up, we have to do this. To prove we are better than those we face. Let us see if Gaven has time to provide his guidance."

Knowledge (Local) 1d20 Untrained

"I think I know just the folks you mean. Come, Tristan - much as your mind is made up, we have to do this. To prove we are better than those we face. Let us see if Gaven has time to provide his guidance."

Yes, it would be good to know if any magic is at work before we begin. I am quite prepared, but I will wait until you arrive with Gaven, provided he is willing and able to help us. Make haste, for the attack on Sandpoint could be imminent.

If Gaven is gifted with this ability at all times, then he is a paladin. As he would be oathbound to uphold the laws of the town and protect the welfare of the innocent, his willingness to help us in this matter should be all but guaranteed.

While you go to find him, may I have a look at the log that Tybus was talking about? I might as well try to bring myself up to speed while we wait.

Been a rough couple days. Will get things moving again tomorrow. Sorry for the delay.

Gsven is a tall, lanky man with a perennially morose expression who, every day except Oathday and Sunday, can be found sunup to sundown at the Two Knight Brewery. He manages a staff of five, but does all the recipe work himself, and it is near one of the large hops vats that you find him when you enter the Brewery. He looks tired - he has looked tired for nearly five years now, since his brother died - but he brightens somewhat as the Heroes of Sandpoint enter the building and approach him. "What can I do for you?" he asks genially, offering his hand to Tristan and Lamsfel (the only two of you he knows.

I'm glad to let Halgor look over the journal. While Tristan and Lamsfel go get the brewer/paladin, I'll answer any questions Halgor might have about the goblin attacks.

"Sir Deverin, it's been too many years. We've come to ask a favor on behalf of Sandpoint herself. We've captured someone that we feel is involved in a conspiracy to do harm to the town and her citizens. It appears that the goblin attack may be only the first and we seek to learn all we can from the captive. Without bothering you with further details, would you be willing and able to assist our investigation? We have the prisoner at the garrison as we speak and feel that time is of the essence. If you are unable to aid us at this time, we understand and we will trouble you no further."

If Gaven is able to accompany us, we will return to the garrison, explaining without graphic detail as we go. We'll save any disturbing descriptions until we are in the relative privacy of the garrison, I think.

Gaven hesitates for a moment, looking around at his brewery as though reluctant to leave it, but the his expression firms and he nods. "I'll need a retainer," he says, holding out a hand. "Five eagles. Then let's go see what we can do about this villain."

Assuming someone pays him the 5 gp....

Gaven listens intently to the lurid description Lamsfel offers en route to the garrison, his expression darkening with every word. "It's Chopper all over again," he says angrily, and his hand seems to reach for a weapon he is not carrying. "There was a demon involved there as well, but Stoot was a cultist, not possessed - his evil was his alone. It sounds like Tsuto and Nualia are the same. In case I'm wrong, though, let me say this: I don't know a lot about fiends and their powers, but unless there's some magic protecting him, I should be able to tell whether a supernatural evil is within his soul."

Gaven hesitates for a moment, looking around at his brewery as though reluctant to leave it, but the his expression firms and he nods. "I'll need a retainer," he says, holding out a hand. "Five eagles. Then let's go see what we can do about this villain."

** spoiler omitted **

Assuming someone pays him the 5 gp....

Gaven listens intently to the lurid description Lamsfel offers en route to the garrison, his expression darkening with every word. "It's Chopper all over again," he says angrily, and his hand seems to reach for a weapon he is not carrying. "There was a demon involved there as well, but Stoot was a cultist, not possessed - his evil was his alone. It sounds like Tsuto and Nualia are the same. In case I'm wrong, though, let me say this: I don't know a lot about fiends and their powers, but unless there's some magic protecting him, I should be able to tell whether a supernatural evil is within his soul."

Just wanted to let you all know that I'm following the thread, but Gan would have stayed behind with Tsuto so that's why I'm not interacting with Gaven yet.

I kind of figured it would be just Tristan and Lamsfel fetching the paladin. I've scratched 5 gold from Lamsfel's character sheet.

As Tristan belatedly realizes that he's talking to a real paladin, he views the man with newfound respect. He nods gravely.

Back at the garrison, Gaven follows Tristan and Lamsfel down to Tsuto's cell, where the half-elf has been sitting, silent and brooding. The two men's eyes meet, and there is a long pause while they seem to take each other's measure; finally, though, Gaven turns away and looks toward the group. "I sense nothing," he says, shaking his head. "There is no demon, unless it is protected by some kind of magical shroud."

"Thank you, Sir Deverin. My apologies for taking you from your tasks today, but services are greatly appreciated. Gentlemen, was there anything else we needed from our friend or can we let him return to his labors?"

I don't think we have anything else for the paladin. If no one speaks up to the contrary, Lamsfel will walk with him to the door of the garrison and thank him once again before returning back to where the rest of the party are.

It is truly sad when demons are involved in something and it is a man that commits the worst evil. Thank you for your help.

After Gaven leaves:

Halgor, please fix his wounds. He will need to be alive and conscious during my questioning...

my two CLW got him for a total of 11. Then I took 20 for a 23 on my heal check. Depending on how hurt my heal check says he is, I may need to heal him with channeling also. If he isn't hurt that bad after the 11, I'll probably stand there during Gans spell to channel heal him if/when he takes dmg from the spell.

my two CLW got him for a total of 11. Then I took 20 for a 23 on my heal check. Depending on how hurt my heal check says he is, I may need to heal him with channeling also. If he isn't hurt that bad after the 11, I'll probably stand there during Gans spell to channel heal him if/when he takes dmg from the spell.

My bad, I didn't realize you already healed him.

Gan looks at Tsuto with pity for a moment, then steels himself, calling upon his patron for guidance (by casting the spell, hehe).

Let's begin this grim business.

Gan's face turns to a dreadful, crazed visage as he stares at Tsuto (Evil Eye on Tsuto's skills, and if he succeeds I will also cackle).

The old man's icy stare and otherworldly laughter fill the room, interrupting his questioning.

(Not using interrogation spell yet)--When is the attack on Sandpoint, and where is Thistletop?

Tsuto listens to Gan's words with a narrow expression, but his face doesn't change at the threats. "Go to hell," he says flatly in response, his tone level.

Tsuto listens to Gan's words with a narrow expression, but his face doesn't change at the threats. "Go to hell," he says flatly in response, his tone level.

To Hell, or the Abyss?

Gan produces Tsuto's journal and finds a picture of Nualia, ripping it out of the journal. He slowly rips the drawing into multiple pieces.

What about her? You might want to start talking. If Shalelu gets back before you talk, we WILL find Thistletop and I'll be sure to bring back her head for you. Or maybe her tail, or claw, or some other body part. Where is Thistletop?

Intimidate 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18

Tsuto listens to Gan's words with a narrow expression, but his face doesn't change at the threats. "Go to hell," he says flatly in response, his tone level.

It doesn't really matter because I can keep cackling if need be, but Tsuto needs a WS for the Evil Eye.

DM Shisumo wrote:

Tsuto listens to Gan's words with a narrow expression, but his face doesn't change at the threats. "Go to hell," he says flatly in response, his tone level.

To Hell, or the Abyss?

Gan produces Tsuto's journal and finds a picture of Nualia, ripping it out of the journal. He slowly rips the drawing into multiple pieces.

What about her? You might want to start talking. If Shalelu gets back before you talk, we WILL find Thistletop and I'll be sure to bring back her head for you. Or maybe her tail, or claw, or some other body part. Where is Thistletop?

Intimidate 1d20 + 7

Tsuto snorts with something that almost sounds like amusement. "Did you just ask me to tell you where Thistletop is and then tell me you'll kill her when you find Thistletop? Have you done this before? Maybe you should bring the paladin back."

Will save against evil eye: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24

The Paladin won't go to the same lengths I will, so I could see why you'd want him here. And pay attention--if you cooperate, you may get to see Nualia again. If you don't, then I have no use for you and you will die before you get the chance. Oh, and I don't like your tone...

Gan strides forward, draws a knife, and severs the pinky finger off Tsuto's right hand.

b]Priest, would you heal him? I don't want him bleeding out before we're finished.[/b]

Assuming Halgor heals/stabilizes him...

To Tsuto:

Now, where is Thistletop?

if a channel energy will heal his finger / stop the bleeding, halgor will do so. If he also needs to tie it off and make a heal check, he will.

channel

1d6 ⇒ 6

heal (needs a 15+ to stop bleeding)

1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13

second try

1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23

Halgor grimly steps forward, stopping the bleeding without speaking

Lamsfel returns from escorting the paladin out just in time to see Halgor healing the half-elf's hand and Gan Liang's bloody knife. Guessing he knows what's transpired, he stays in the hall. Is the interrogation occurring in a cell or in a room that can be closed off?

Even Tristan blanches at Gan's casual use of violence, but he is determined to see Tsuto get what's coming to him.

As a side note, I'm pretty solidly on the side of "torture is not a Neutral Good act, no matter the victim." Which is not to say that your alignment is wrong or has to change, but that this should register with Gan accordingly.

Tsuto hisses in pain, but his smile - rather disturbingly - does not waver.

The half-elf suddenly switches to Common as he continues, "Have you considered asking the dwarf to help you out there?"

The interrogation is taking place in Tsuto's cell, which is itself in a dungeon that contains a door separating it from the stairs leading down to it.

Sense motive 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Tybus paces up and down, clearly not okay with the proceedings. Finally, his impatience catches up to him, and he pushes past the others in the room.

Look, Tsuto, we want to know the location of Thistletop so the five of us can foolishly rush off and attack the place, likely getting ourselves killed. How's that sound? You want to make that happen? Just tell us.

Diplomacy?1d20 ⇒ 18

Tsuto laughs aloud. "That does sound fun," he chuckles, shaking his head, "but it'll happen soon enough either way. So much in this town needs to burn - I'm happy to add you to the list."

So looking back through the thread I saw that Shalelu told us that Nualia died in the fire at the church. I had forgotten about that, so just an FYI.

Tsuto laughs aloud. "That does sound fun," he chuckles, shaking his head, "but it'll happen soon enough either way. So much in this town needs to burn - I'm happy to add you to the list."

Why do you care enough about this town to want to see everyone die? You have a grudge against a few of its citizens? You already got your revenge on your father for whatever grievances you might have had against him. What have ALL of the people of Sandpoint done that they deserve to die violently? What has Ameiko done to you that she should share in their fate?

Re: Nualia - Tristan mentioned her being dead in the basement when we captures Tsuto. Lamsfel doesn't care who is wearing her name - be it the original Nualia or some crazy other woman, payment's coming due for what she's done. Just sayin'.

Lamsfel remains outside the room where the interrogation is taking place. Neither the task nor the method appeal to him.

"Ameiko betrayed me," Tsuto says flatly. "She could have joined the winning side, but she did the same thing she always did: picked this lousy town over me. That's done with." He looks up toward the ceiling, as though seeing through it to the rest of the town. "As for Sandpoint? The town's rotten to the core. Twisted fruit from a rotting tree. As deep into things as 'dear old Dad' was, nothing good could ever come from this place. Time to wipe the slate clean and start fresh. The price of Nualia's ascension is the souls of Sandpoint - frankly, that's about the best thing that could happen for all involved."

"Ameiko betrayed me," Tsuto says flatly. "She could have joined the winning side, but she did the same thing she always did: picked this lousy town over me. That's done with." He looks up toward the ceiling, as though seeing through it to the rest of the town. "As for Sandpoint? The town's rotten to the core. Twisted fruit from a rotting tree. As deep into things as 'dear old Dad' was, nothing good could ever come from this place. Time to wipe the slate clean and start fresh. The price of Nualia's ascension is the souls of Sandpoint - frankly, that's about the best thing that could happen for all involved."

"This town is rotten to the core, all of its inhabitants should burn"--I have to ask, how could this town be worse than the creatures with which you have chosen to align yourself? You act as though you are doing the world a favor by stamping out this "evil" town, yet you consort with goblins and demons. Exactly what is your definition of evil? You have betrayed your family, your country, and your race to cast your lot with murderous savages. What did your father do that deserved gruesome murder? And if that act was justified, why should the women and children of this town pay for HIS crimes?

sense motive

1d20 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12

I do not understand this man's motivations, but he doesnt seem to be sane. I doubt further questioning will reveal any information.