When Alton and Laithe returns, Pharris starts awake. Her hood comes down and the green eyes flash about for an instant.
She slowly subsides back to sleep as the praying and spell tactics discussion begins.
An hour or two later she wakes.
"Don't forget the poison. Remember some of us have antidotes and salves that may come in handy if used correctly."
Kajetan consults his journals and racks his brain for anything he can recall about their opponents.
4 Knowledge Planes checks. (1d20+8=20, 1d20+8=22, 1d20+8=25, 1d20+8=18)
"I need some rest, I am bushed." She looks about and sidles over to Keildrithe.
"Can I have a shoulder for a pillow please? The service and beds in these particular hostelry leave a little to be desired," asks the woman gently, and her almond shaped eyes looked a little tired.
"Of course, my dear," responds Keildrithe with warmth and concern, trying to conceal his surprise. "Hard day? Thanks for gathering those nets, and for keeping an eye and ear out... Now rest..."
He takes a keen interest in Pharris' news of the city, and thanks her with a smile for the offered food. "I must spend a little time in communion with The Lady. I will be ready to go by sunset. One thing I realised we haven't considered though is the use of sewers or anything to come and go from the building? If so, perhaps we could use them to enter the building unseen?"
"Yes, the sewers would be a logical thing to consider... and who better suited for a scouting mission down there than a poor urchin and his mangy hound?" responds Keildrithe with a smile, speaking softly so as to not disturb Pharris... but then she wakes as the druid and halfling engage the group in conversation.
"Feel better?" he asks Pharris, looking into her eyes.
Her eyes are a deep green, like staring down into the sea's depths. Pharris smiles at the bard and shakes herself awake.
"I'll be ready for battle just as soon as everyone else is." The lithe warrior stands and bends, stretching out her back and leg muscles to their limits.
Finding a suitable spot, the girl continues her callisthenics. Warming her body until all stiffness is gone.
At one point during the day, the topic of conversation between the two magicians and the bard turns to the nature, strengths and weaknesses of the fiendish opponents they may face.
Nicolai’s study of religion serves the trio well, and combined with Kajetan’s more esoteric studies and Keildrithe’s knowledge of old folk tales and stories, they are able to come up with a decent idea of what it is they face.
The small, invisible flying creatures, they all agree, are indeed Imps – a type of minor devil, amongst the weakest of their kind, but still formidable opponents against mortals. The group already know that the small creatures can turn invisible for extended periods of time, and that they can take alternate forms. Kajetan remembers reading that Imps are limited to two such alternate forms and favour the form of small creatures (such as cats, rats, spiders or birds), but sometimes take on larger and more dangerous forms, such as boars or wolves.
They know also that the creatures bear a poisonous sting in their tails, a poison that causes severe cramps and stiffening of the limbs. The tome that Kajetan read also suggested that the creatures were partially resistant to the cut of ordinary weapons, and healed damage far more quickly than a mortal could.
The creature that appears (from the kobolds’ and Stonty’s description) as a ‘small man wrapped in silver chains’ is most likely a Chain Devil; a most dangerous opponent indeed. These mid-tier taskmasters of Hell are described in ancient tomes and grim tales as being man sized and shaped, and wrapped head to toe in cruelly spiked chains that serve them as both armour and weapons. The group can only presume that the creature’s apparent small size is a result of its recent imprisonment in the Devil Box … and hope that the reduction may severely impact on its combat effectiveness.
One of the best known Chain Devils that ever terrorized the mortal world was a creature called Kyton. It was said that Kyton could best ten men in combat with its dreadful chains, and was highly resistant to magic. Another known Chain Devil, active in this region several decades ago was Zorith. It is said that Zorith could quickly regenerate damage and could magically control nearby lengths of chain, causing them to strangle men at a distance.
The other creature ‘like an imp’ that freed the others from the Devil Box is more of a mystery at first … could it be another type of Imp, or some other least devil such as a Spinnagon? … until Keildrithe traces back their story and theorises that the thing that set the others free was the same creature that he, Laithe and Alton fought in the Valley of Snails. Exploring this further, the group decides that the creature is most likely a Quasit, a creature that some scholars class as a type of Imp, whilst others categorise it as a type of minor demon, not a devil at all (as an aside, whilst some scholars claim that devils and demons are too different in outlook to ever work together – some going so far as to say that the two types of fiend are locked in an eternal war – most dismiss this as nonsense. Their different philosophies may prevent long term alliances, but working together for short term gain or the corruption or death of mortals is common enough).
From the group’s earlier battle with the creature, they know that the Quasit has very similar abilities as those attributed to Imps (though its poison is in its claws, not in a stinging tail). However, Keildrithe’s description of the battle with the Quasit causes Kajetan to frown; apparently this particular creature shows aptitude with a wider range of magical abilities or spells than its more common fellows.
Kajetan suggests that we plan our attack at first light when the creatures will be settling in to rest after a long nights activities.
Pharris shakes her head, "we don't have much time to wait. The devil box is like a clock ticking down before soemthing bad happens in a day or two (if I remember right)."
She shrugs, "I suppose if we do it right first time then that is fine. If not then we may not get another chance."
The girl picks up a net and begins laying it out and re-folding it into a suitable package for throwing. "this isn't going to be easy. I come from the wilds not the rivers or a sea."
"Maybe we could block up a pair of doorways and hope an imp flies into it...I don't know."
The warrior goes back to her greatsword and spends some time taking one or two nicks out of the blade's edge, mouthing words under her breath to herself.
The distant sounds of revelry from a Shackling party reach your ears, but this part of town appears fairly quiet as twilight deepens into night.
Pharris shakes her head, "we don't have much time to wait. The devil box is like a clock ticking down before soemthing bad happens in a day or two (if I remember right)."
She shrugs, "I suppose if we do it right first time then that is fine. If not then we may not get another chance."
Raising himself from his quiet reverie in the corner, Laithe pipes in. "I agree with Pharris; though we could use the extra time to prepare and rest, I fear that we run the risk of allowing this chain devil to regain it's full strength. I would also worry about the havoc they may wreak tonight, that perhaps can be prevented with an attack now. We must also consider that we are being hunted by the authorities and most likely the inquisition - the longer we spend in town, the bigger the chance we will be found by either group."
"We should move out now. I suggest we proceed with the plan to plug up the holes behind the building; it may help prevent any from escaping should they try. We then head in through the front door and take the fight to them".
"Unfortunately I am of two minds. I agree that if we wait and catch them resting during the day after a nights mayhem, or even better sneak in while they are gone and be waiting for them when they return to rest,... as I mentioned earlier, we would have the upper hand."
"HOW-ever, I also agree with the sentiment that we do not have any time to waste. As Pharris said, IF we get it right the first time we have no problems. IF we wait and miss, we don't get another chance, unless you want to add a full-strength and probably pi$$ed off 'chain devil' into the mix of the NEXT battle we have to fight!" He says this last with a twisted, pursed-lips grimace that leaves no doubt as to what he thinks of THAT scenario!
"OK, so we need to move quickly, before they start coming out! Have we determined the best way to block the escape holes well? And quickly? At least well enough to prevent them from escaping that way until we can get back outside to meet them? Should we go ahead and light a fire at the escape holes? And then charge in the front as they are probably trying to escape the smoke?"
"With only one regular entrance, the rest seems easy enough. WE charge in, warriors first, with the rest of us providing ranged and mystical support. The second rank protects the Kobolds and the Box as well, and when we see one of the devils, demons, whatever, we tackle it with net and spell, holding it for Lumbie to work his magic on! And if for some reason the Box doesn't work,... then I suggest that we all pile on top of it until it no longer moves!" He says vehemently.
Nicholai closes his eyes and takes a breath. Then he releases it slowly. "I apologize. As I believe I mentioned earlier, it is,... particularly important to me that I help you against these foul creatures. Sort of a Family responsibility." He tries to explain. Then shrugs his shoulders.
"I'm ready when you are! How do we do this?" He asks, re-tying his cravat and pulling his blue gloves on more snugly.
;)
Laithe finishes his meditation soon after sunset, casting a healing spell on himself when he is done. The group makes their final preparations for the assault, taking a few moments to discuss (perhaps in some cases argue over) last minute strategy.
Raspit and Chupo emerge from the cellar, masked and cloaked, carrying the Devil-Box between them. Lumbie, in his make-shift disguise, follows along behind them. “Where do we go?” hisses Raspit.
Outside, the streets are quiet but not deserted; two masked men glance in your direction as you emerge from the ruined house before hurrying upon their way. Distant sounds of celebration reach your ears, but the immediate area is fairly quiet. The air is growing chill and stars are coming out; the moon has not yet risen, but the stars and the ambient glow from the town’s night-lights provide enough illumination to see where you are going.
The rear of the building looms before you; all seems still within and around. A very faint, flickering light can be seen beyond the small, grimy windows placed high up in the wall.
In the dark, it is difficult to make out the holes in the bank amongst the weeds and rubbish.
Pharris goes around the front keeping her bow and greatsword hidden under her cloak.
As they prepare to move out, Nicholai mutters a brief phrase, then uses his now active prestidigitation spell to clean the dust from his clothes, and take the wrinkles out of his coat.
"After all," He says with a half-grin as he re-ties his ascot, "If your KNOW your going to dance with a devil, you should at least look your best!"
"And you never know when a little trick will go a long way, this way I'm ready."
As the two groups head out the broken doorway, HE mutters again, pointing his finger at Laithe, Alton, and after a moment of hesitation, Keildrithe. "Now," he whispers into the ears of those three people, "Our two groups can stay in touch. Be safe you two, be quick, we'll see you soon."
After Laithe and Alton slip away, he turns to the kobolds. "You three stay with Kajetan and me, we'll keep you as safe as we keep ourselves!" He says with a grin.
"And don't forget, It's a celebration night! Just act like your on your way to a party, otherwise we'll look out of place!" He says as he slips his Nicholai mask on and settles it firmly into place.
"Ladies first!" He says to Pharris, bowing. Though you can't see it, you can hear his grin behind the mask. After Pharris and Keildrithe exit he puts his hand lightly on the shoulders of two of the kobolds. "Alright lads, it's showtime!"
As they stride slowly into the street, Nicholai takes his first really good look at the front of the building. He walks slowly, humming a little ditty to himself, hoping he looks like he is headed somewhere, but in no hurry to get there.
Spot check as requested. (1d20+1=12)
Kajetan follows in silence his mind lost to the upcoming conflict.
Laithe, Alton and Keildrithe all have a dose of the same anti-toxin that Pharris just took (+5 alchemical bonus to Fort saves vs poison for an hour).
Kajetan and Nicolai both have an alchemical restorative which gives them a +1 bonus to Fort saves for 2 hours.
On his way out of the hovel that had served as their shelter for the better part of the day, Keildrithe briefly squeezes Pharris' hand, and hums two simple tunes to himself in section. Like Nicolai, he has prepared a prestidigitation spell; the second, a songbird spell . "Friends, once Alton and Laithe return" -- he concentrates to ensure that his words are also transmitted mentally to the latter two -- "I think it would be wise if like all good festival revelers, I bolstered us for the festivities by reciting one of my grandfather's odes of courage . That done, once Laithe weakens the front door with the powers granted him by Ehlonna, I should be the first one to enter -- alone. The gods willing, I may also be able to hypnotize some of them with ancient words ... if succesful, it could buy us a few moments to get the upper hand, allowing the rest of you to rush in behind me, nets and sacks at the ready. What think ye? And Kajetan, will you carry the second net in?" He quaffs his vial of anti-toxin, then pulls two sacks and his ancestral berdach from his pack. He tucks the sacks loosely into his belt, then takes his hand drum and mallet in hand.
Looking up at the second story shutters, he notes: "someone is definitely in there... at least, there is a light on."
Looking up at the front of the building, Nicolai for a moment thinks that he sees something move behind the shutters of the centre upper floor window – a shadow that momentarily blocks the faint light. Someone moving past the window, or even peering out perhaps? It’s hard to tell.
Pharris passes round a wineskin for everyone to take a drink from.
"Its rough as rats but we need to look festival like." She also puts a hand on Kajetan's shoulder, "call me if you need help in there bookworm."
Kajetan breaks out of his trance as Pharris puts her hand on his shoulder looking momentarily startled, but then he sets his jaw looks straight at her eyes, "Oh don't worry about me, I don't expect to be a victim."
He reminds everyone, "Don't forget that two of my spells will target you as well as our enemy if you get in the area."
He takes the offered net.
Pharris shrugs in frustration at Kajetan. She turns away murmuring again, sotte voce, "..and when the spells run out?"
As the girl approaches the door she nods in agreement to Keidrithe going first and readies her greatsword under the cloak.
Nicholai tilts his head slightly at Pharris' muttered response to Kajetan, as if puzzled.
"Somebody's home, They just walked in front of that window." He whispers to both groups as he takes Pharris' proffered wineskin. He raises his mask long enough to take a sip, then passes it on with a wink before slipping his mask back into place.
"If we presume this is their usual 'morning', they'll be on the move soon. How are you two doing back there?" He whispers as he shakes his shoulders as if laughing at some jest Kajetan just told.
Before they go to work on the holes, Alton drinks the anti-toxin, murmuring "Fortune be with us.".
"I hope this mixes well with the anti-toxin," says Keildrithe as he takes a swig from the wine flask. "Whoo!"
Laithe takes out his anti-toxin and swigs it down before leaving their hide-out. He then wishes the other's luck, and has a quick chat to Alton. "I think it best we try and plug up the hole with a rock or rubble around the right size, stuffing it up as far as we can. We'll then attempt to collapse the dirt and mud on top." He then transforms into hound form once more, heading towards the back of the building with Alton.
Once there, he takes a look around for the various holes, using his memory from the morning to try and make sure they see them all. He also looks around for rocks around the same size as the holes, hoping to stuff these as far up as he can, and then collapse the rest of the tunnels over the top.
Laithe spots an extra hole the group didn’t notice before, but apart from that he doesn’t notice anything out of the ordinary back here.
He and Alton quickly hunt down some loose rocks and stones, and block up the holes with them as best they can, before Laithe shifts to beast form and digs around, trying to collapse the tunnels atop the rocks.
The two spend several minutes at it. Soon enough, they decide they’ve done as good a job as they’re likely to, and hurry back around to the front to meet the others, where each group updates the others on what little has taken place.
Kajetan waits for the action to begin as close to the door as possible, his mouth working over as he recites the correct pronunciation of a charm spell in anticipation of action.
Pharris waits for Laithe to deal with the door. She holds her greatsword at the ready to follow the spellcasters.
"I am ready." Her belt has the folded net stuffed into it.
After ensuring that everyone is ready, Laithe voices his prayer to Ehlonna. Almost instantly the wooden front door begins to creak and twist, then suddenly springs open, revealing a small, cluttered, dark room beyond. There appears to be some light at the other end of the room, but it is partially obscured by the cluttered furnishings within the chamber.
Laithe:
Kajetan will head in as soon as someone armoured heads in.
If Pharris sees the spellcasters waiting, she will not. Greatsword in two hands, she leaps into the centre of the room as quietly as she can.
From there the girl does a three-sixty with the blade held high, murmuring to herself.
As the door twists and warps open, Laithe peers inside as intently as he can, trying to spot or hear anyone lurking within. Otherwise he awaits for Keildrithe to head in, and follows his fellow Karand a few steps behind.
Pharris leaps and whirls into a dark, cluttered room. The space is about fifteen feet wide. To the warrior’s left are several racks of hanging garments and sheets, whilst to her right is a large woven basket overflowing with laundry items. Five feet in front of her is a low, sagging timber counter, and behind that a six foot high timber partition (a three foot gap between the top of it and the room’s ceiling), hung with still more items of laundry. A five foot wide gap between the edge of the desk and the screen beyond it leads to the unseen back of the room, and the unseen source of the room’s meagre lighting. There is a strong smell of bleach in the air.
There is no sign of any enemy or opposition.
As Laithe waits outside for Keildrithe to enter, his keen ears pick up a faint creaking sound from somewhere above his head. Looking up, he notices that one of the shutters on the small windows above is partly ajar.
Nicholai Swigs his own potion of fortitude enhancer, hoping against hope that he won't need it, but figuring that in this case, (And knowing what they are likely up against!) it was better to be safe than sorry!
He is starting to get nervous when Laithe and Alton whisper to him that they are done, and are coming back around. He passes it on to the others not in the spell, loosens his own dagger in its sheath, and loads his crossbow. Knowing that the longer they can avoid the noise of his evocation-castings, the farther they will get before the inhabitants know they are there,...
As Laithe works his blessing against the wooden door, Nicholai idly notices that its working is more similar to his own, innate spellcasting than to Kajetan's methodical pronunciation, and then the door is open and his own mind becomes filled with the now.
He observes the speed and ferocity that Pharris enters with, and mentally repeats his happiness that she is on their side!
After Keildrithe and LAithe move, He waits until the magus moves to enter, and then follows close on his heels, covering him with the crossbow. He motions for the Kobolds to follow him, and hopes that the mage can cast his charm faster than the rat-men can sound the alarm,...
Prior to entering the warehouse, Keildrithe had recited the Karandic battle hymn for his companions. Though they may not all share his cultural background, the words nevertheless lift the party's spirits, and give them courage.
As Laithe works his divine magic on the door, the bard is surprised to find Pharris leaping in ahead of him. He says nothing, but follows after her, his berdach in hand, ready to beat a hympnotic rythm while chanting equally mesmerizing words to whomever they should encounter... but there is no one there. Keildrithe looks at Pharris inquiringly, then scans the scene, expecting an ambush...
Most of the rest of the group crowds into the cramped entry area, pushing those in the lead further into the room.
The area behind the counter is occupied by a wooden chair with a worn looking cushion and several haphazard stacks of yellowed paperwork. Behind the timber screen is a narrow passage (the screen on one side, a full height brick wall on the other), crowded with more baskets and piles of clothes. At the end of this passage is a doorway in the brick wall, presumably leading further into the building. The door is partly ajar (opening away from this room), and a faint light comes through from the room beyond.