Stirrings in the Deep

Game Master Zesdead

Paizo's The Emerald Spire'.

...in which our adventurers explore the Pleasure Gardens.

Party Health
Ea Zalinzel 92/92HP, 3 Hero Points, 1 Blessing of Pharasma
Yasmin al Akbar 74/74HP plus 2THP, 3 Hero Points, 1 Blessing of Nethys
Rallos Therinor 77/83HP, 3 Hero Points, 1 Blessing of Asmodeus
Titania Thrune 94/94HP, 2 Hero Points
Murassa Sonvar 66/66HP, 3 Hero Points

Maps
The Emerald Spire - Level 13
Cross Section of the Emerald Spire
Map of Fort Inevitable

Party Treasure


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Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

Don't challenge Fate, Rallos.

Answers Ea, with a faint smile.


The first thing that the friends notice as they pass through the Mosswater Gate is that the town is considerably more active than it has been for the last few weeks, the opening of the gates and the final departure of winter has increased the amount of traders stopping at the Fort Inevitable. The Fountain Square is awash with market stalls, all vying to sell the latest trends and foods from the lands beyond the River Kingdoms yet... despite this positive change in the fortunes of the settlement, there is a somewhat oppressive atmosphere within the town walls.

Quickly making their way to Royst's home, to the south east of the town, the friends avoid interactions with any of the Hellknights now patrolling the streets... and, finally arriving at the wizard's house, knock loudly at his door. There is silence for about thirty seconds, and the friends get the sensation that they are being watched, before the door opens and Royst - looking more tired than normal - ushers them inside.

"Friends, a pleasure to see you... As always, but in these troubling times, even more so... Humour an old man, tell me of your latest adventures".


Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
Crag:
HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

Yasmin enters and makes sure everyone has entered and the door is shut before she begins talking. "As you probably remember, we rescued the body of Signifier DiViri from level with all the lava. It turns out there was a dragon down there made of magma! It was quite fearsome, and it took a brave stand by Murassa and a marshaling of all our resources to endure it. Remember that scroll you gave us? That saved more than one of us from being roasted by the dragon!"

The talk of scrolls reminds Yasmin of another thing they had discovered in the depths, a scrollcase with the initials A.R. "So, I've got to ask something. Is it true that you've been down the Emerald Spire before?" Yasmin prefers to hide the evidence for now, thinking that he could wiggle out of the question easier if he saw it right away.


Royst, sighing as he relaxes into a leather chair beside his fireplace, nods at Yasmin, "I have ventured to the Spire, that is true enough... but it was many years ago. I'm afraid, my dear, that my adventuring days are long past. My experiences were far different from yours - the ruins that surround the spire where it pierces the Spire Glen? They were abandoned back then, I did not have to contend with the goblins that you had to... and, from there, I experimented with the crystal of the Spire itself. Either through luck or the intervention of something within the depths, I found myself in a garden of sorts built around the glowing structure of the spire... by my calculations, I had been transported over a mile underground!!!"

Royst continues his reminiscences, "There were sounds... and auras of undeath. Powerful auras that told me I shouldn't tarry, I explored as best I could... making my way around the cavern until I approached what seemed to be a marble building built within the gardens. I had hoped to explore further but it was obvious that something kew I was there, the auras of undeath were growing closer - I'm afraid, and have lived with the regret ever since, that I fled using the most powerful teleportation magic I had. Many times over the following years, I returned to the Spire... better prepared, better armed... but not once could I unlock the teleportation that I did on that day". Royst seem rather wistful as he gazes into the flames, "That is why I have such interest in your explorations... I'm rather embarrassed to admit that I am somewhat vicariously enjoying your endeavours".


M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • "Do you know any good taxidermists?"

    Gray followed the innocent question by reaching into their bag of holding and pulling the dragon's head out to show it off to their mage friend. In contrast to the sharp scales and dagger-like maw of teeth was the dragon's tongue which hung out to the side in a comical fashion. Grayface quickly stuffed the errant tongue back inside its mouth to maintain the classic draconic fierceness.

    "Once the flesh and hide have properly been preserved we were thinking about donating it to the Julliver, to be hung on the wall and enjoyed by the inn's clientele. That is, unless you know anyone willing to purchase a beautiful rare dragon's head?"


    "Now that... that is a foe well vanquished. Do you mind?" Squinting as he does so, Royst examines the dragon's severed head... running his hands across the toughened hide and opening the maw a little to examine the teeth, "Very impressive... the creature, I'm guessing it was around ten to fifteen feet in length? It was near adult maturity and must have made for a fearsome foe... and a Magma dragon? I suppose that we shouldn't be surprised that such beasts dwell down there"

    ...and then, smiling, "There are a number of proficient taxidermists at Thornkeep... you propose to display this somewhere?"


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • "Fifteen feet at the least! You should've seen it, rising out of the lava like the monster it is, breathing its hot death all over the place. It nearly slaughtered Murassa in a flurry of slashes and bites but he's tougher than he looks."

    "We pulled back and jeered and taunted it until it would draw near enough to attack, then we unleashed our own brand of hell on it. I won't forget that battle for the rest of my days."

    "I won't presume but I hope the Reedbanks will accept it once I've had it stuffed and mounted; I would love to see it hanging over their hearth next to my favorite table! What a sight it'll be!"


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Having gotten Abenard's story out of him, Yasmin pulls out the scrollcase embedded with the initials A.R. "Recognize this? We found it in the dragon's treasure. The treasure was tucked behind some thick glass, like a display case. Is it possible that the garden you visited is somehow connected to the magma level? Rallos can also show you our maps so you can see if there's any connection."

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    Shivering as his near death from the dragon was brought up, Murassa muttered, "Stupid overgrown lizards..."


    Royst peers at the scroll tube, "Oh my... oh yes, that's definitely mine. I'm not too ashamed to admit that I panicked down in the Spire - I was alone you see and had little skill with the arcane back then... I guess I must have dropped that in my hurry to get back to the surface. How it ended up in a dragon's hoard, I couldn't tell you other than to draw the conclusion that the dragon's influence must have been greater than just the caves where you encountered it".

    I am assuming that you folks are going to show Royst your nearly completed map of the Magma level

    Poring over Rallos' map of the Magma caves, Royst asks about the temperature in the caverns, "Surely, with that quantity of molten rock, it would have been unbearable?" and then, smiling at the friends, reaches into his robes and passes a small pouch of coins to them...

    Royst pays the friends 1,000gp for mapping this level.

    Royst nods in agreement at Grayface's suggestion that hanging the dragon's head in the Julliver Arms would be a fine thing, "Old Man Reedbank will be as pleased as punch to have such a trophy... a fine memento of your exploits!!! So, are you going to be paying the Lady Commander a visit? I'm afraid the balance of power has changed somewhat since you were last here... the arrival of Lictor DiViri's Hellknights has destabilised the status quo and Druvost likely has less authority than she once did. I couldn't tell you whether that is a good or a bad thing... other than to say that change, especially in a small place such as this, doesn't come without its tensions".


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • Grayface will either go with any suggestions from Royst or ask around for someone to preserve and mount the head. I'll leave those matters off screen unless you prefer otherwise.

    ------------

    GM Zed wrote:
    Poring over Rallos' map of the Magma caves, Royst asks about the temperature in the caverns, "Surely, with that quantity of molten rock, it would have been unbearable?"

    Grayface briefly thought about how to answer then realized he had no sufficient explanation. He seemed to remember Ea or Yasmin mentioning that the temperature was subdued but he also knew that his own resilience had been a factor.

    He reached over to a candle sitting near Royst and placed his free hand directly over the open flame, watching with just as much curiosity as those nearby as the flame licked over his fingers and palm, leaving not even the smallest of burns, eliciting zero pain. A further demonstration was done with a dagger, poking his skin repeatedly and not opening the slightest of cuts.

    "As I have honed my skill with induced battle rages I have noticed a lingering effect on my skin; it takes tremendous force and extreme heat to penetrate it."

    He then shrugged as if unsure if in the long run this was a good or bad thing.

    When the coin was offered he grabbed the huge pouch and removed his one-fifth portion. It was a staggering amount of money to most people, indeed nearly as much money as Grayface had earned in his entire life before his path led him to Fort Inevitable. At this point the money seemed hardly more than a pittance considering the value of his enchanted tools of war, yet he had the good sense to see that hindsight was valuable in this scenario; one should not grow complacent or thankless for the bounties given.

    He handed the pouch around the room for each to claim their share, then addressed Royst once again,

    "I suppose we better find Druvost now. Thank you for the heads-up about her authority. I have a feeling we will know the truth of it soon enough."

    Grayface is ready to depart and find Druvost, if for other reason than to remind her that the devil is expecting a visit very soon.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    "The level wasn't as hot as one would expect. Makes me think there's strange magics involved, but we never did figure it out. As for the Lictor, we'll have to see if he's a permanent presence. But it's good that the gates are open, anyway."

    Yasmin too is ready to bid Royst farewell for now.

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    Going over everything that happened in Lava World, Murassa suddenly remembered one of the items they picked up. Asking Grayface for the party bag, he dug around and pulled out the strange lock box. "While we're here, Royst, have you ever seen something like this before?" he asked the wizard.


    When Yasmin mentions the Lictor, Royst quickly corrects her, "Oh no... Lictor Severs DiViri didn't make the journey out here to the River Kingdoms. It would take a lot more than the possible resurrection of his grand-daughter to drag him over from Castle Vraid... folks like him aren't the same as me and you. No, it's Maralictor Dandru Wolfhelm of the Order of the Nail who has taken the opportunity to sit himself at the table of power... he's chafed beneath the Lady Commander's regime for years now and this huge influx of Hellknights from his own order has emboldened him somewhat. That, and the letter of authority from Severs himself..."

    ...and then, taking the steel lockbox from Murassa, Royst runs his fingers across the skulls embossed on the lid and visibly shivers, "This... this is something powerful... and something very far from holy". Setting it to one side, Royst looks at the friends, "I'm not sure that I could recommend opening this... what is within, I couldn't tell you other than to say it is evil... pure distilled evil".


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    So let's keep it closed for now, and keep it a secret too. Something so powerful and evil will surely attract the attention of the Hellknights, unfortunately.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin is quite surprised at Royst's response regarding the box. And worried. "The Hellknights were after some sort of great power within the spire. Do you think this could be it? I shudder to think what they might try to do with it, if so. Do you think you could study it to learn more? Discretely, of course." The sorceress looked to the others to see if they agreed with her proposal to relinquish control of the box for a time.

    She also considered the announcement about the current ruler. "So Maralictor Dandru Wolfhelm? What do you know about him? How do you think he compares to Durvost as a potential leader?" Yasmin was worried they might have to choose sides, and wanted to make an informed choice.


    "Lictor Wolfhelm? Let's just say that he and his cadre of knights has been stationed here under the rule of the Lady Commander's Order of the Pike for long enough that they're holding some pretty serious grudges. The Seven Foxes? The resistance against the Hellknight's occupation... if Lictor Wolfhelm takes power proper there's likely to be a bloody purge... that man is neither patient nor understanding".

    The white-haired wizard sighs, "I'm afraid to say that the Lady Commander is very much the lesser of two evils right now..."

    Royst considers the lockbox, "I suppose it could be what they were looking for... it'll take me a while to set up the appropriate wards and protections such that I can examine this without danger. And, for now, I won't open the box itself although..." Royst runs his fingers across the lock "...whoever built this box meant for it to be secure. I'm not even completely confident that I could break through this lock".


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin shudders at the thought of someone who is very much worse than the Lady Commander. "Thank you, Abenard. I don't think my companions object so we will entrust the box to your care. We're on our way to the Citadel, so it's far safer in your hands."

    And with that, Yasmin is once again ready to bid farewell to Royst.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    I don't think I can crack that lock....not that I really want to, knowing what might be in there. I'll leave that to you, Abernard. Whatever is in there is likely immune to a rapier in the side.... Rallos says with a smile, although it seemed as the thought of great evil unsettled him a bit.

    Shall we set off to the citadel and see if the Hellknights are going to keep their appointment with the She-devil? This might not go well...


    Abernard Royst was entirely accurate when he surmised that the balance of power had shifted away from the Lady Commander... ushered into the Lady Commanders office, the familiar desk now has two steel-backed chairs and sat next to an austere looking Druvost is a barrel-chested man wearing the familiar armour of the Hellknights. Turning to Druvost, he speaks in a gravelly voice, "So... these are your people? It is these who you sent into the Spire rather than entrusting the task to your order? ...or the Order of the Nail? No matter, what is passed is passed... these mistakes wont be repeated".

    The Lady Commander, from the storm building across her visage, is clearly desperate to retort but she keeps her counsel. Standing, with a clanking of armour, the man offers a hand to the friends, "We have not met before... Let us rectify this oversight - I am Maralictor Wolfhelm, leader of the Order of the Nail troop here at the Fort... and now, by order of Lictor DiViri, responsible for the defence of Fort Inevitable"

    "...and you are?"

    Sense Motive DC15:
    It is pretty obvious that Maralictor Wolfhelm knows exactly who you are...


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Sense Motive: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20. And that's exactly what I thought I'd see under that spoiler.

    Yasmin was confident that the new guy in charge fully knew their names. But she would play along, of course. She bowed deeply, and took on the formalities of her past life as a noblewoman, before introducing her friends.

    "Maralictor Wolfhelm, it is an honor to meet you. I am Yasmin al Akbar, formerly of Qadira." It had been a long time since she had given her full and true name, but with her powers growing she no longer felt afraid of the influence of her mother nation. "With me are my able companions, Rallos Therinor, Murassa Sonvar, Ea Zalinsel of the Church of Pharasma, and Grayface. We have been exploring the Spire on our own volition, searching its depths, and have been honored to be of service to Fort Inevitable during our explorations."

    She was less honored to be of service to Hellknights through all of this, but leaves the thought unsaid.

    Diplomacy: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (11) + 18 = 29

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    Sense Motive: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6

    After the conversation with Royst, Murassa was less than pleased to be meeting with a second Hellknight leader. What, did they breed like cockroaches or something? Every time he turned around there was another one! With a look of annoyance on his face, he gave a non-commital grunt as he was introduced.


    The flicker of a smile appears on Maralictor Wolfhelm's lips as the Lady Commander sits strernly watching, "Well met Yasmin al Akbar... formerly of Qadira. And, to the rest of you, I extend my greetings. You are wondering, I imagine, about the Order of the Nail's increased presence here? Lictor DiViri expresses his gratitude for retrieving his granddaughter from the Spire - and, once the signifers of the Order of the Gate have brought Chaid back from the boneyard, he shall ensure that you are rewarded... but that is for the future".

    Wolfhelm pauses, almost for dramatic effect, before continuing, "The Order of the Nail has elected to make themselves responsible for the town's defence up here in the wilds... the Order of the Pike", the Maralictor looks - with obvious derision - at the Lady Commander, "shall remain responsible for the rule of law within the walls of Fort Inevitable. Further, Lictor DiViri wishes to see success for your expedition to the Spire - to see an end to the undeath plague and to understand the presence of lawfully aligned magics that the Lictor's granddaughter was investigating".

    "To this end, the Lictor has personally identified one of our order to accompany you", the Maralictor calls out in a stentorian voice, "Armiger Thrune... you may join us now!!!", and a door to the friend's right opens...

    Titania, that's your cue...


    Female Tiefling Fighter 1 | HP: 15/15, NL: 0 | AC: 15/12/13| Resist: Cold 5, Electricity 5, Fire 5 | F+3 R +2 W+1 | Per: +6 (Darkvision 60 ft., +1 vs. Giants) | Init: +3 | Arrows: 20

    A short, young woman enters the room and braces at attention. Her strawberry-blonde hair is pulled back in an ornate bun and her blue eyes look at a point about a foot over Maralictor Wolfhelm's head. Her armor is dark, like the other hellknights, but lacks the ornately and grotesquely sculpted breastplate. Instead, her armor seems to be made for ease of movement. Strapped to her back is a sword that just a little longer than she is tall.

    "Armiger Thrune reporting, my lord," she says in a dispassionate, but pleasant soprano.

    Would have been nice to let me know about this instead of just dumping it on me all of the sudden. Oh well, I wonder who these people are.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin lets out an audible gasp as the name "Thrune" is uttered. House Thrune, the rulers of Cheliax, were not to be trifled with. She shuddered at who might approach . . .

    only to find herself needing to hold back a chuckle. This was not the diabolical Hellknight she was expecting. She looked cute, and quite small--in fact, her sword was bigger than she was. Yasmin wondered whether the girl could even use it. She did seem to move well in her armor, though.

    Yasmin shook off her distractions. Whatever this girl was, she was a Hellknight spy, and therefore the last thing that Yasmin wanted. She chose her words careflly. "Maralictor, I appreciate the generous offer that you -- and the Lictor -- have provided by having Armiger Thrune accompany us. I have no doubt that she's a very capable warrior." Bluff: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (6) + 18 = 24. "However, we have worked with each other for quite a while now, and have developed common understandings, strategies and tactics. We're more than happy to give you reports of our activities. You'll find that we are more than capable, as we have shown by rescuing Signifier DiViri."

    This probably isn't going to work, she thinks to herself.


    Maralictor Wolfhelm, with no warmth in his eyes, fixes Yasmin with a stare, ”Capable you say? I suppose you could come to that assessment… it is true that you stopped the Splinters growing to become a true menace to the area, you’ve returned the remains of Lictor DiViri’s dear granddaughter to him and you’ve also brought a serpentfolk back to the Fort for the Lady Commander to pointlessly torture”, the Lady Commander looks for a moment ready to respond… but lets the Maralictor continue, ”…yet the plague of undeath still threatens the prosperity of this town. I would suggest that the thing you have proved yourselves to be most capable of is avoiding payment of the levy that accompanies the sale of Spire treasures within this town”.

    The Maralictor’s words hang in the air for a moment before he continues, almost with mock indignation, ”Oh… don’t look at me like that with your ‘what did I do?’ eyes… I’ve had my people assess the revenue records for the last few months, you can’t honestly expect me to believe that the paltry taxes that you have paid in that period truly reflects the treasures of that place? Still, as I said earlier, what is passed is passed and I have suggested to the Lady Commander that there is no need to investigate this discrepancy… on the condition that your continued permission to investigate the Spire, and to take salvage from it, is now under the auspices of the Order of the Nail. She has agreed to these terms… and I apply my own condition to your permission, that Armiger Thrune travels with you”.

    ”Further, I understand that you have had dealings with a Fiend in the Spire? The Mistress of Thorns? And that you have proposed a meeting between this Fiend and the Lady Commander… the Lady Commander no longer has responsibility for such interactions – and Armiger Thrune shall act on my behalf for your meeting”

    ”There is one more thing… something that I believe will bring your viewpoint into alignment with mine regarding Armiger Thrune’s companionship. Lady Commander, if you would?” Hardly acknowledging the Maralictor whilst she reaches into the drawers of the desk, the Lady Commander brings out an envelope… it has been opened already, indeed there has been no attempt to disguise the breaking of the wax seal. Standing and passing the envelope to Grayface, the Lady Commander has an almost apologetic look in her eyes…


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • GM Zed wrote:
    ... "I would suggest that the thing you have proved yourselves to be most capable of is avoiding payment of the levy that accompanies the sale of Spire treasures within this town”.

    The levels of scorn and malice that Grayface conveyed in the following moments were silent but nearly palpable. His eyes narrowed at such a cowardly declaration. A hundred phrases went through his mind, though none of them resembled anything that wouldn't get he and his friends arrested or worse. Wise enough to bite his tongue in spite of his anger-clouded mind, he decided instead on picturing his sword arcing downward, cleaving through Wolfhelm's skull, shearing through his chest and sundering his breastplate to boot.

    GM Zed wrote:
    ”There is one more thing… something that I believe will bring your viewpoint into alignment with mine regarding Armiger Thrune’s companionship. Lady Commander, if you would?” Hardly acknowledging the Maralictor whilst she reaches into the drawers of the desk, the Lady Commander brings out an envelope… it has been opened already, indeed there has been no attempt to disguise the breaking of the wax seal. Standing and passing the envelope to Grayface, the Lady Commander has an almost apologetic look in her eyes…

    For the first time having a shred of forced camaraderie with the Lady, both being on the receiving end of this new insufferable reign, he took the letter from her gently and unfolded it forthwith. He read it through swiftly, causing his eyes to widen with anxiety and fury. Grayface's eyes darted left and right, reading and rereading the note, ensuring that every last nugget of information was consumed.

    The letter crumbled in his fist as it quivered in rage. Anyone looking at him could feel the primal anger stirring beneath his visage... and yet, another layer was there...was it happiness?? Vindication?? One thing was clear: the letter had given the one-eyed warrior a tremendous thrill with angry overtones.

    His chest heaved as he breathed, slowly and deeply, trying to remain calm while in the presence of strangers and friends alike.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin was puzzled about what could possibly be in this note that was causing the warrior to shake with barely-repressed fury. "Gray, what is it?" She turned and looked back at the Hellknights, her composure faltering. "Lady Commander, Maralictor, what's going on?"


    Grayface:
    The letter is certainly addressed to the great warrior of the spire but it isn't at all clear as to where it comes from - the hand writing is not familiar and the letter is not signed.

    'Old Friend,
    I trust that this letter finds you well... your exploits are the stuff of legend along the Sellen where I now ply my trade; I am but a simple fisherman but how far we have come since those dark days in the Slave Camps... I write you now to tell you that our mutual acquaintance, Slave Lord Rabhazh has established a new venture - a venture that brings him close to your blade. He has started running slaves to Scrapwall in Numeria - his vessel, the 'Black Rose', travels as a simple food trader but I have been watching him... Avenge us Grayface, those who died and those who still live - buy a boat and travel the Sellen River, find the 'Black Rose' and end Rabhazh's pitiful existence.
    Until I hear word of Rabhazh's death, I shall continue to offer my prayers to the River Gods... and to Ragathiel of Vengeance

    The Lady Commander speaks quietly, "The letter arrived yesterday... it is better that Grayface tells you what it means".


    Female Tiefling Fighter 1 | HP: 15/15, NL: 0 | AC: 15/12/13| Resist: Cold 5, Electricity 5, Fire 5 | F+3 R +2 W+1 | Per: +6 (Darkvision 60 ft., +1 vs. Giants) | Init: +3 | Arrows: 20

    Sense Motive: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 = 23 So close!

    Titania keeps her expression professional and impassive throughout the whole... spectacle.

    That was the only word she feels fits what's happening. Order must be maintained and chaos must be quenched wherever it appears, but but she felt herself siding with the group she'd just been assigned to. She'd been told nothing about any of this, and then the blatant invasion of the big strong man's privacy was enough to cause her to mentally stick her tongue out at the Maralictor.

    Still, she had no choice. She was a hellknight, even it the idiot insisted on keeping at the rank of Armiger despite all she'd done. She would follow her orders no matter how dumb they were.

    And she feels that negotiating with the "Mistress of Thorns" was a really dumb idea.

    None of that shows on her face, though. She merely nods in acknowledgement and says, "yes, my lord."

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    This was almost more than he could take. Seriously, all the insults and verbal beat downs were starting to wear down on them. But this, invading something that was more than likely a highly personal letter to Grayface. Biting down on his tongue hard enough to draw blood, he spared a glance to the Hellknight with the impassive, though slightly cute, face, Murassa turned his attention to the big guy. "Gray, you alright, man? Something we can help with?"


    Female Human Cleric (10)-Init+1-HP 93/93-AC 22, T13,FF 21-Fort +12,Ref+7,Will+14-Per+10; Channel 6/6 CLWd 6/50 CMWd 25/50 REnWd 50/50

    Hellknights politics didn't interest Sister Zalinsel.

    Ea was looking at Grayface. Did Fate just parted their ways?

    She had discovered what "friendship" was, and it was a force strong enough to push her to take the man into her arms, to help him in whatever task he was facing, to care for him.

    But her faith asked her to accept whatever Pharasma wanted to happen.

    For the first time, she was torn between being an human, a woman, and her religious duty.

    Bluff?: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

    She tried to keep an impassive face, but it was quite obvious something in her heart was breaking...

    Her grey eyes struggling to keep the tears from flowing, she simply pressed the big man's hand in hers

    May I help you, my friend?


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • "I...I must go from this place. There were times when I shared some of my past with you, but I never told the whole story. I was raised as a slave and escaped from the camp as a teen when I drove a knife into the throat of one of the slave masters. During my exodus I slew several more and made my escape. I found out sometime later that my actions has sent rebellious ripples through the camp and the slaves rose up and freed themselves."

    "What I didn't know is that some of the masters survived."

    He holds up the crumpled letter and gestures it toward the friends.

    "This is news of their whereabouts...and more importantly, their new operations"

    That final word was positively dripping with venom.

    "We will discuss the matter later."

    Gray carried with him a grim aura for the remainder of the meeting, clearly wanting to be elsewhere.


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    I assume you mean to pay them a....visit? I can help with that...you take them from the front and they won't notice the blade in their back...say the word. Rallos says as he recognizes the hatred in Gray's eye.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin pushes the issue no further with Grayface. There was no point in lingering here. For now, the other hellknight wasn't openly obnoxious, which was better than most. "Armiger Thrune, is it? Good to make your acquaintance. Since we are to be traveling companions, we should get to know each other. Care for a round at the Juliver Arms?" Yasmin then spares a glance at Wolfhelm. "Assuming our business here is concluded?"


    Female Tiefling Fighter 1 | HP: 15/15, NL: 0 | AC: 15/12/13| Resist: Cold 5, Electricity 5, Fire 5 | F+3 R +2 W+1 | Per: +6 (Darkvision 60 ft., +1 vs. Giants) | Init: +3 | Arrows: 20

    Titania nods in acknowledgement and turns to Maralictor Wolfhelm.

    "Sir, if you have no other need for me, I'd like to get started on this assignment as soon as possible."


    Maralictor Wolfhelm nods, as - a moment or two later - does the Lady Commander, "Indeed Armiger Thrune, you and your new compatriots are dismissed. I expect a report on your progress on my desk within the week", the Lady Commander bristles as the Maralictor brazenly points towards her desk as being 'his'.

    Okay folks, I think these are Grayface's last scenes... I am assuming you are heading to the Julliver Arms and, for the most part, will leave it to you... Grayface, in terms of heading towards the Sellen River, it is a couple of hours hike to the west and, from there, you can pick up passage from a passing boat.


    M Human - F5/B4 | CMB 14/16 CMD 28/30 | AC 25/24, T 14/12, FF 22 | DR 2/-, HP 80 + 27 Temp | F+12/14, R+6, W+9/11, +10/12 vs Fear | Init +2 | Perc +14
    Combat:
  • Gorloth's Fury +19/+14 (+9 BA, +7 Str, +2/+4 Enh/Raging, +1 WF, +1 WT, -3 PA) 2d4+24, 15-20, x2
  • Defense +18/+13 (-4, no PA) 2d4+15, Dodge +3
  • No Rage +15/+10, 2d4+19
  • Leaving the details in his mind where they can upturn and mature, Gray shared only a little more about his plans as they walked to the Julliver.

    "I was really looking forward to a few drinks at my table by the hearth, though now my mind won't settle until this business is done with. The ale will be like ash on my tongue."

    "I must depart at dawn's first light and I don't know how long I will be gone. I'm heading to Numeria to some place called Scrapwall. Its time I paid a visit to my 'lord' and I'm certain he will be happy to see me, all grown up and filled with...nostalgia."

    He unslung the embossed leather strap from across his chest, reached inside the attached magic bag of holding to retrieve a few personal effects, then handed it over to Rallos.

    "We bought this together and I'm sure you guys will need it more than I will. Don't forget about the wyrm's head in there. Get it stuffed and make old Reedbank hang it over the hearth; there's no better palce for it. After you empty the bag make sure to fill it to the damn brim with treasure, won't ya?"

    His one-eyed gaze lingered over everyone in the party, one by one, offering a troubled but warm 'goodbye' with each person silently, sharing his emotions in a way that words never could. He then turned his stern visage to the newest member of the Spire expedition - the petite hellknight.

    "We don't know you yet, but I'm certain you've heard of us. Treat them with respect and they'll never let you down. I expect you to do your part and keep them alive until I return, understood?"

    He let the patriarchal veiled threat hang in the air rhetorically, not really expecting an answer as he turned back toward the inn where he would likely get barely a wink of sleep.

    ------------

    He made sure to rise early the next day; he wanted to have his horse packed and his back to the Fort before the sun had crested the horizon. There was work to be done and he was the one to do it.

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    Reluctantly resigned to having one of the Hellknights in their party, for the moment, Murassa gave a firm handshake to Grayface before he left. "Ride swift and fight strong, my friend. Hopefully we shall see each other on a distant morrow."

    As the large man took his leave, Murassa went with the others to the Julliver Arms and bought them all a round. "To absent friends!" he toasted.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Yasmin would not let Grayface depart without a hug, a warm embrace founded on the trust they had built in all their harrowing adventures. "We will tell the tale of your great deeds, capped by the mighty blow you delivered to slay a dragon. I'll miss you, but I know you are honor-bound to go. May your vengeance be swift and complete."

    At the table, Yasmin too raises her glass in toast. "To absent friends."


    Female Tiefling Fighter 1 | HP: 15/15, NL: 0 | AC: 15/12/13| Resist: Cold 5, Electricity 5, Fire 5 | F+3 R +2 W+1 | Per: +6 (Darkvision 60 ft., +1 vs. Giants) | Init: +3 | Arrows: 20

    Titania isn't able to say anything before Grayface leaves, though she does decide to do her best to keep them from getting dead. Once seated at the table with a drink in her hand, she begins tracing circles on the wood with her finger as the others toast the man that she had replaced. After the toasts, she looks up at the others, her drink untouched.

    "So, I think I'd better introduce myself. I'm Titania Olivia Thrune, though my friends tend to call me Tot, except Tisha who calls me Tawny," the young woman shakes her head, as if visibly getting her thoughts back together. "Anyway, I hope that we'll work well together and can work through some of the strain that the Maralictor has put on our working relationship. Maybe we'll even be friends," she finishes with a big grin and a cheery voice. She holds the grin for a few moments before seeming to shrink down as she hunches her shoulders and mutters, "or not, that's fine, too."


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    If you must go, go. If you ever need anything, just let me know. I mean it, Gray. Stay well...keep that edge sharp. Farewell...brother. Rallos says as he grabs his hand and shakes it heartily. We will make sure people know who lopped off the head of the magma dragon in the Spire.

    After the groups reassembles, Rallos raises his mug to honour his brother in arms. To absent friends....


    The next morning brings with a cold sun... rising ponderously over the echo woods and smearing the fort with a soft light... and a strange atmosphere at the breakfast table next to the fireplace in the Julliver Arms. The halfling serving lad confirms what those gathered already knew, "Your friend... he was gone before sunrise. He paid up your rooms for the next couple of months... and he put an extra coin against your breakfast", he places a tumbler of whiskey in front of each of the friends, "He asked that you offer a prayer to his god - to ease his way and to find his quarry".

    So folks, what are you up to next? Any further business at Fort Inevitable? And, if you are heading out to the Spire... where are you headed? To meet up with the Mistress of Thorns or further beyond? Exploring beyond the Magma Vault?

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    "Are Hellknights allowed to have friends? Never met one with friendship in mind before," Murassa said flatly to the woman. Finishing his drink, he slammed it down onto the table before standing up. "If your highness will excuse me, I think I'll retire to my bed." With that, he turned around and all but stalked towards the sleeping quarters.

    As Murassa downed the shot of whiskey in one go the next morning, he prayed to all the good gods he knew of to help the man on his quest. "So, what ya think is past lava land?" he asked the others, keeping his eyes away from the interloper. "I'm hoping for a nice beach or something, where the worst we'll face is to have one sandwich or two."


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    Evening

    Despite being troubled by Grayface's sudden departure and the Hellknight's sudden arrival, Yasmin returns Titania's smile admirably. Bluff: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (18) + 18 = 36. "Good to meet you, Tot. You'll have to forgive Murassa. He's had enough run-ins with the local Hellknights to have an unfavorable impression of them. But he's incredibly brave - stood his ground against a magma dragon today, wounding it and buying the rest of us time to regroup. That kind of loyalty has to be earned . . . ." Yasmin lets the statement rest for a moment.

    "So how does a member of House Thrune end up in a waypost like this? I imagine you've traveled a long ways from your home."

    Morning

    Yasmin thanks the serving boy. "Tell Dolliver that we appreciate his hospitality, and that we'll get him his dragon head as soon as it gets stuffed! In honor of Grayface, the Baneslayer, that he may put an end to the slavers." Yasmin knew he was now pursuing his true bane, and prayed that he would be successful. (If the dragon's head hasn't already been dropped off with Royst or a taxidermist yet, Yasmin makes sure that's done.)

    "A pretty garden would be nice - we haven't seen one of those." responds Yasmin to Murassa. "Unfortunately, I think our first order of business is to re-visit the Mistress of Thorns. Definitely not a vacation." The sorceress looks to their new presence. "Tot, have you been briefed on the situation? What do you plan to say to her? We've left our options open open for the sake of Fort Inevitable, but I've become worried about trying to make a deal with this devil."

    *Edit* - In the morning, Yasmin also touches Rallos to imprint him with a magic tattoo of Mirror Image. "With this magic, you can call forth illusionary duplicates of yourself. You can use this once each day."


    Female Tiefling Fighter 1 | HP: 15/15, NL: 0 | AC: 15/12/13| Resist: Cold 5, Electricity 5, Fire 5 | F+3 R +2 W+1 | Per: +6 (Darkvision 60 ft., +1 vs. Giants) | Init: +3 | Arrows: 20

    ==Evening==
    "But I–" Tot begins to say before a sad expression clouds her face. She listens to what Yasmin says and takes a long pull of her drink.

    "Loyalty is just a word the weak use to justify disobedience," the young warrior whispers under her breath before taking another pull, only to nearly choke when asked about why a member of House Thrune would be out in the sticks.

    "*Cough**Sputter* S-sorry," she gasps, "you caught me off guard. I may have the name, but I'm not one of those Thrunes. I was a liaison to the Order of the Gate from the Order of the Nail and was told to come here when the whole business with finding Signifier DiViri came up. It wasn't until I met you just now that I was even aware that I was going ot be staying, much less venturing into that creepy spire with you."

    Sense Motive DC 8:

    The somewhat flat refusal of friendship from Murassa has hurt her rather badly.

    ==That Night==

    If anyone wants to read this.:

    Ten years as a hellknight brought Titania to full awareness just seconds after the quiet knock at her door. She wondered who could be waking her at this hour for just a moment before thinking better of it and pushing that out of her mind. She would rather not think about why some of the people who sprang to mind would want to see her in the middle of the night.

    "Yes," she answered as she cracked the door enough to see past. A gauntleted hand shoved the door wider and a bright lantern was shone in her eyes. She felt the heat rising in her cheeks as she was exposed in little more than a loose shirt that fell short of her knees.

    "Armiger Thrune," the holder of the lantern said, and Titania tried not to groan. Signifier Dulce had joined the order barely two years ago and already outranked Tot by a fair margin, "I was told to give you this message, and to make sure that you understand what is being asked of you."

    Titania's eyes had finally adjusted to the bright light, and, after a moment to pull the nightshirt back onto the shoulder it had slipped off of, she breaks the seal. She managed not to scowl, but she was beginning to wonder if Maralictor Wolfhelm wanted her dead.

    "I understand what my orders are and where my obedience lies. Go tell that to the Maralictor and let me get back to sleep," she growls before slamming the door in the signifier's face.

    ==Morning==
    Tot was the first one down and after her initial, abortive attempt at a cheerful greeting, she just focuses on her breakfast and doesn't touch the whiskey. She does look up at Yasmin's questions, and something too much like a grimace passes over her face before she manages to school it into an unemotional mask.

    "I have, and she will not like what I have to say. I'd be ready for a fight," Tot says in an emotionless voice.


    Roll20 |Female Halfling Hunter / Swashbuckler (Mouser) 3 | HP 33/33 | AC:21 T:16 FF:16 CMD:16 | F+4 R+9 W+3 (-2 penalty vs fear) | Init+5 | Perc+12
    Crag:
    HP 24/24 | AC:27 T:17 FF:20 CMD:20 | F+2 R+10 W+2 | Perc+8

    @Titania - I read your spoiler and enjoyed it!

    Sense Motive: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17. Yasmin had no reason to doubt that Tot was just on normal assignment when she was thrust into this role. Especially since she was just an Armiger. It made Yasmin wonder if Wolfheim was trying to get rid of her.

    "The spire is a fascinating place. I mean, if you put aside the fact that strange creatures are trying to kill you at every turn. There are portals connecting to other elemental realms, which leads to some strange places. and the spire itself pulsates with power - it seems like everyone and their mother is trying to figure out how to tap into that power."

    * * * Morning * * *

    "Hellknights versus Devils, then? Should make for good theater."

    Sovereign Court

    Male Half-Elf Magus (Mindblade) 10 | HP [66/66] | AC 21, FF 19, T 14 | Fort 12 | Ref 8 | Will 11 | Init +2 | Perc +15 | Psychic Pool [11] | Hero Point 3

    "A Hellknight not wanting to work with a devil?" Murassa asked with a raised eyebrow. "I think I misheard. Aren't you all supposed to be bosom buddies or whatever?"


    male Teifling Rogue 9/slayer 1, AC 26 T 22 FF 18, F +11, R +16, W +8, HP 83, Perception +19(+23 traps), Init +11

    Murassa, don't forget, she's a soldier...not an unthinking automaton like some of the others we have dealt with. I am sure she has her reasons for not wanting to deal with the Mistress. She doesn't really have to share them, but if it means we might have to fight her, then perhaps a bit of insight is due? I would like to avoid a conflict with her if at all possible, but that's just me... Rallos offers, playing devil's advocate. The thought bemuses him and he cracks a small smile, the likes of which Yasmin and Ea recognize instantly.


    Female Tiefling Fighter 1 | HP: 15/15, NL: 0 | AC: 15/12/13| Resist: Cold 5, Electricity 5, Fire 5 | F+3 R +2 W+1 | Per: +6 (Darkvision 60 ft., +1 vs. Giants) | Init: +3 | Arrows: 20

    ==Evening==
    "Great, just sounds like a recipe for a big mess," Titania says as she sips her ale. After a moment she shakes her head and sighs.

    "I just like things staying nice and orderly. Between coming her and being ordered to delve that place with you, my life has become anything but. I should just go get some sleep now," she says before standing up and moving to leave.

    ==Morning==
    "Some devils seek to undermine Cheliax and the Hellknight orders to advance their own ends. She's one of them from what I've been told," the warrior says matter-of-factly. "As for being bosom buddies, well. We try to emulate Hell's perfect order with us at the top. Most devils take offense to that. I don't want to have to talk or fight with this Mistress of THorns, but I have my orders. I will carry them out even if it kills me."

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