DM Brainiac's Ruins of Azlant: Pretty Women and Green Men (COMPLETE!) (Inactive)

Game Master Brainiac

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Medrinnah scratches her head. "Yeah, cheating on somebody you're going to get married to is generally frowned on. And I see the way Luetin looks at you when you walk by. I think he's got it bad for you now instead of Anya!"


Female Human Arcanist (occultist) 17 | hp 95/113 (0 thp) (0 n/l)| AC 20, tac 14, ff 18 | CMB 6; CMD 17 | F +10, R +10, W +11 | Init +2 | Per +15 | Arcane Reservoir (11/23); Consume Spells 7/8 | 1-Lvl 7/7, 2-Lvl 5/6, 3-Lvl-6/6, 4-Lvl 6/6, 5th 4/6, 6th 3/5, 7th 3/5, 8th 1/4; Active: false life; Prot v Evil

Ema rolled her eyes and said, "I swear, sometimes this world shocks me. Maybe my own views are colored by the past that I've forgotten but it seems to me that relations, as you put it, don't need to be linked to such things as marriage or commitment." With a sigh of annoyance Ema continued, "Love and 'relations' are so tied up no one seems to understand that there can be love without relations and relations without love and nothing says that you can only share these things, either of them, with one person!" Ema's frustration was obvious and she placed on of her hands on her head like she had a headache.


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix nods. "Hmm."

"These animals--they've all been found in the wild, yes? How often do you need to feed in the course of a day?"


Medrinnah shrugs. ”Hey, this ain’t exactly Andoran, is it? Maybe you can convince people to see things your way.”

***

”I can survive on a pint of blood a day,” the stalker says.


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

So, what would that translate to in game mechanics?


4 Con Damage.


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Kinda makes me wish I had one of these right now.

Victrix nods. "Alright, that might make things a bit awkward..."

"...but I think it can be done, if you're willing to stick with animal blood, for times when I'm not around."

She looks at Antona. "D'you have any ideas?"


"If the thing promises to only drink animal blood, and it can resist its baser urges..." Antona sighs. "You'd have to get Ramona's permission, of course. But I guess we can give it a chance."


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix shrugs. "When I'm away from the colony, yeah."

She tilts her head at the ugothol. "By the way, have you had anything to drink today?"


Female Human Arcanist (occultist) 17 | hp 95/113 (0 thp) (0 n/l)| AC 20, tac 14, ff 18 | CMB 6; CMD 17 | F +10, R +10, W +11 | Init +2 | Per +15 | Arcane Reservoir (11/23); Consume Spells 7/8 | 1-Lvl 7/7, 2-Lvl 5/6, 3-Lvl-6/6, 4-Lvl 6/6, 5th 4/6, 6th 3/5, 7th 3/5, 8th 1/4; Active: false life; Prot v Evil

Laughing lightly Ema said, "Who knows, maybe I can. If nothing else I do plan to lead by example." She gave her apprentice a wink and said, "And if they complain too much I'll tell them about this Lust Mage I once met in Magnimar...Saersha was her name." Laughing naughtily Ema finished, "The things that woman could do...they would blow your mind."

Settling back against the wall once more Ema said, "Alright, do you have any questions for me Apprentice? If not we'll get back to making those runes for the tower structure and then here in a bit I need to go work on getting the rest of the resources we need to complete it."

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

As the final colonist arrives in Talmandor's Bounty, Simon breathes a sigh of relief and begins to allow himself to relax a bit. The strain and worry of the fate of the captured colonists has been weighing on him heavily, but now he can release that worry.

With the release of that worry, he examines his actions over the past week and realizes that he has put his research far on the back burner, but sees no other way they could have proceeded and the future does not appear much clearer. Even father had a team to help him, and it appears I have more need than he.

He sticks around long enough to make sure Ramona and the others have the welcome and recovery in hand, then leaves with a final word to Ramona. "I may have need of some of these colonists to staff my library. We can talk tomorrow."

Returning to the library, he checks it over to see how it has been maintained. If Perrell is out with the welcome, he will head to the office to start writing down notes. Once she returns, he will stop what he is doing and engage her in conversation.

"Ah, Perrell, it is good to be back home. How have things been since we left?"


Perrell smiles at Simon and pushes an errant lock of red hair back behind her ear. "Quiet, thankfully. There's been a lot of bookkeeping, paperwork to be sent back to the Bountiful Venture Company to explain our losses at the hands of those faceless stalkers. But I think I've just put the finishing touches on all of that. I trust you had the more difficult task rescuing all of the other colonists! I am grateful you were able to bring them all back alive."


The ugothol shakes its head, and its triple tongue slips out of a whorl in its blank visage. Antona shudders involuntarily and squeezes Victrix's hand again. "You're sure about this?"

***

Medrinnah blushes when Ema speaks of the lust mage. She quickly shakes her head, eager to change the subject. "Er, no, nothing right now. Let's get to the runes."


Female Human Arcanist (occultist) 17 | hp 95/113 (0 thp) (0 n/l)| AC 20, tac 14, ff 18 | CMB 6; CMD 17 | F +10, R +10, W +11 | Init +2 | Per +15 | Arcane Reservoir (11/23); Consume Spells 7/8 | 1-Lvl 7/7, 2-Lvl 5/6, 3-Lvl-6/6, 4-Lvl 6/6, 5th 4/6, 6th 3/5, 7th 3/5, 8th 1/4; Active: false life; Prot v Evil

Ema smiled and Medrinnah's blush and said, "Alright Medrinnah, to the runes it is." The pair worked for a while carving the runes into the stones and wood and when she felt things were going well Ema said, "Keep working until I get back, I need to work on getting more materials so I can get the construction finished. When I get back we can eat and you'll be done for the day."

With that Ema went out and began wheedling, cajoling, sweet talking, and lending her magical expertise. She quickly established what would be a pattern to her days for the next couple weeks. It kept her mind occupied and off of her troubles and it kept her failry busy so she could continue avoiding Carver and her problems.

So yeah, at the moment Ema is in avoidance mode, she is trying to not deal with the Carver situation as it is rather painful and she's afraid of what she will find out. He's going to have to corner and confront her about it all to clear the air, at least currently anyway.


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix looks between Antona and the ugothol's tongues. "...I'm sure. I've got a couple oils that'll give me my strength back."

She pulls Antona close and kisses her on the forehead.

Diplomacy?: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (14) + 17 = 31

The aasimar then reaches over and digs through her backpack, producing the two vials of oil she took from the aboleth's lair.

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Simon smiles as his shoulders relax. "Quiet. Good. It seems strange that I might long for some quiet, but then it is so hard to do any actual research when you are running around trying to save people's lives."

He looks around at the library and nods at the condition, then smiles at Perrell again, giving her a nod of respect. "We were able to save Carver, and the other colonists we knew were missing as well as some from the original settlement. I imagine we will soon need to find jobs for some of those people.

Speaking of which, I am looking to expand the library. As word gets out about everything we have found here, outside researchers will start coming in. We will need people to coordinate and oversee their efforts, more librarians to assist with research, someone to oversee construction of new book rooms and maintenance, as well as an administrator to oversee all of those efforts and handle personnel efforts.

You've done well for me, and I'd like to see your role expand, if you have enjoyed working with me and we can convince Ramona to give you some freedom from your current roles."

Continuing to smile, Simon attempts to gauge her reaaction. "I could see you filling two possible roles. If staying inside of the town suits you, I think you would make an excellent administrator. However, it appears I also have need of someone to lead a research team.

We aren't done keeping the town safe yet, and I likely won't have much time in the near future to actually catalog and complete the investigations of the sites we have already uncovered. If you are interested in getting into the field, I could use a co-author."


Emalliandra wrote:
So yeah, at the moment Ema is in avoidance mode, she is trying to not deal with the Carver situation as it is rather painful and she's afraid of what she will find out. He's going to have to corner and confront her about it all to clear the air, at least currently anyway.

Well, I think that's what has to happen then...

A few days after the return to Talmandor's Bounty, Carver Hastings approaches Ema while she's out on her daily errands. "Ema? May I have a word?"

Once the pair have some modicum of privacy, the Pathfinder looks at the arcanist with concern. "I couldn't help but notice that you've been avoiding me since we made it back to the colony. I've talked to the others. I know that the leader of the faceless stalkers took my form after they captured me. Is that why you can't look me in the eye? Did he--did it do something to you? Did it hurt you?"

***

Antona relaxes a bit at Victrix's reassurance, but she doesn't let go of the aasimar's hand as the ugothol approaches. It places its hands on Victrix's shoulders gently, almost reverently. Its tongue twitch before it plunges them into her neck, sighing with pleasure as it begins to feast on her blood...

***

Perrell blushes at Simon's praise. "Oh, you are far too kind, Simon. I'm simply a bookkeeper and mapmaker. I have no stomach for adventure or danger. I appreciate both of your offers, but if it's all the same to you, I'd be happy to stay here and see to the administration. Perhaps Carver or Lyra would be a good fit for field studies."


Female Human Arcanist (occultist) 17 | hp 95/113 (0 thp) (0 n/l)| AC 20, tac 14, ff 18 | CMB 6; CMD 17 | F +10, R +10, W +11 | Init +2 | Per +15 | Arcane Reservoir (11/23); Consume Spells 7/8 | 1-Lvl 7/7, 2-Lvl 5/6, 3-Lvl-6/6, 4-Lvl 6/6, 5th 4/6, 6th 3/5, 7th 3/5, 8th 1/4; Active: false life; Prot v Evil

Ema almost panicked when Carver finally cornered her after a few days of avoiding him. She came very close to simply tearing open reality to get away from him but stopped herself. She owed this to him, it wasn't fair not to explain the details to him, and so she said, "Come with me, let's talk."

Ema lead Carver somewhere they could have some privacy for this discussion, a hill that overlooked the town, and took a seat on the ground. She gestured for Carver to sit by her and was silent for a few minutes before she began to speak. "It is because I'm scared Carver, I don't know when you were replaced, how much of what I remember was you, and how much was...it." She shuddered slightly as she remembered the bit of her past she recalled during the fighting and said, "During the fight with the stalkers here, when we discovered you were replaced, I remembered something of my past, I think it was a part of what made me forget everything." She related the memory fragment that came to her, so like what had happened again, to Carver as way of explanation.

What she recalled:
Emie couldn't believe what was happening. She was held down in a kneeling position, her arms pulled back at an extreme angle just shy of breaking, while she was held down by the faceless stalkers. She felt those vile tongues licking blood from her neck as she shuddered in revulsion in their grip and stared ahead in disbelief.

Emalliandra stared on as her lover, the woman she'd fallen for this time and who should have been fleeing with her freedom and life intact, was approaching her in a seductive gate. Emmie just couldn't understand was had happening as Anna reached her and leaned down as she began to gloat, "Oh so gullible my love." She leaned forward to put her face next to Ema's ear as she whispered, "Didn't it ever strike you as odd that I never ate anything Emmie?"

The figure that was Anna moved her head once more as she pressed her lips firmly against Emmie's and began to kiss her passionately while squeezing one of Emmie's breasts firmly. Normally this would have led to other things but the creatures holding her down and the surrealness of it all kept Emmie from feeling any arousal. Even worse was that Anna began to change as they kissed, her face changing to the faceless orb of a stalker and it's tongue continued to press into her mouth in a monstrous imitation of a kiss as it cut her and began drinking the blood from inside of her mouth.

Emmie tried to scream in horror at the violation but it only egged the creatures on. Finally it withdrew it's tongue from her mouth and said, "Time to have some fun with this one, as much as I loathe human copulation she's a tiger in the bed." It's voice took on sadistic glee as it said, "We should all experience her before we return her to the Master, just remember, she leaves here alive or you don't!" Emmie could only scream as the things converged on her and the memory mercifully ended.

When she finished her recounting Ema shuddered again and said, "Do you understand now? I know we had to have been together at least some before you were taken, and yet I don't know how much. A part of me can't help but feel it was never you at all and always it and I've been too scared to confront you about it so I threw myself into other tasks to avoid the problem."

Couldn't figure out how to set the link to that specific post or I would have.

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Simon nods with pleasure at Perrell's acceptance of the Administrator position. "Very good. You've been doing an excellent job so far, and I know that you will do well with an expanded role."

His smile slips a bit and takes on a more pensive expression.

DM Brainiac wrote:
" Perhaps Carver or Lyra would be a good fit for field studies."

"Hmmm... Lyra would be good to have on the team, certainly. Her skills at orienteering and mapmaking would be very beneficial, as well as her experience as a guide. Does she have the academic background to lead the research effort, though?

Carver certainly does have the academic background, and I believe that he would take the research seriously. I like him. But, can I trust him not to hold back information?"

Simon considers both suggestions seriously. "You're getting off to a great start. I can see that you have the skills that will be needed to help interview and staff the library with the correct personnel."


Carver's expression is grim as he listens to Ema's story. When she finishes, he starts to reach out to take her hand, but seems to think better of it and puts it back in his lap. "Ema... I'm so sorry that you had to suffer through such a horrible experience. I can understand why your psyche tried to suppress the trauma. When I first briefed you about the locations Durvin Gest visited on this island, that was still me. The stalkers captured and replaced me shortly after you left the colony. So everything before that... All the times we shared together, that was the real me. I treasured those moments together... When I was being held captive and tortured, it was thoughts of you that kept me going. But I know that with everything that happened, things are going to be different between us... But I still want there to be an us."

***

Perrell blows a raspberry when Simon asks about Lyra's academic skills. "She's a cocky blowhard who charges into situations without care or thought. But... I suppose she does have a decent head on her shoulders, whenever she slows down enough to use it. As for Carver, I would think he might be more forthcoming now after surviving captivity. An experience like that tends to put into perspective what is truly important in life."

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Agreeing with Perrell's assessment, Simon feels much better having someone to discuss ideas. "OK, I'll make a point to talk to Carver tomorrow, but I'll need to discuss things with Ramona first to see if there are any issues with the contracts each of you signed.

I'm going to finish updating my notes. If you feel up to it, perhaps you should go get to know some of the rescued colonists. See if you think any of them might have an academic background that would make them a good librarian or research assistant."

Spending the rest of the day on his notes, Simon will approach Ramona in the morning.

"Good morning, Ramona. I wonder if you might have a few moments to discuss some personnel matters?"


Ramona nods and moves the reports she is reading through to the side of her desk. "Of course. I always have time for the heroes of Talmandor's Bounty." She gestures for the half-orc to have a seat.


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix keeps a firm grasp on Antona's hand as the ugothol takes her by the shoulders.

She can feel the strength in their hands as they hold her in a gentle, but firm grip. Their palms are surprisingly smooth against her naked flesh, feeling almost human.

Antona's the only one who's ever held me like this before...

Then, with but a pinprick, its tongues break the skin of her neck. The aasimar lets out a little "mmph" and closes her eyes, letting her guest feed until the light-headedness strikes.

Donating 4 points of CON damage.

"Lovely vintage, eh?" She jokes, trying to lighten the mood some.

Perform (Comedy?): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 3 = 16

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Feeling uncomfortable at being described as a hero, Simon never-the-less attempts to accept the praise, knowing that it can only help to boost patronage at the library and eventual museum.

"We are only doing what we can to help advance the settlement and ensure the safety of the colonists, even when that means that our personal interests need to be placed on hold."

Simon smiles deprecatingly, as he attempts a smooth segue. "I don't mean to take up too much of your time. I'm sure there is a lot of organization required with the insurgence of so many colonists and seeing to their health and mental well being, so I will be brief."

Bridging his fingers, he leans forward. "I imagine that word of our findings is beginning to get out. Researchers and academics will want to start visiting to explore and we need to get in front of the movement both to control their activities and to gain some finances for Talmandor's Bounty.

We certainly don't want treasure hunters coming in and destroying the historical sites that could serve to generate tourist income for generations."

Simon chuckles as he leans back, but his voice is getting tight and sweat is running down his forehead as he attempts to assume the leadership role that he knows is required.

"To that end, I propose that we should expand the library and begin planning construction of a museum to showcase the Azlanti artifacts that we recover.

I would like to begin increasing the staff of librarians. I would also like to put together a team to begin cataloging the sites we have recovered and cleared of danger.

Perrell has been a great help so far, and I have asked her to take on more responsibility as an overall Administrator of the library. I would also like to talk to Carver about heading up the field research team, as long as you can spare them from their current responsibilities.

The rest of the positions might be staffed by any of the new colonists who have an academic background and an interest in research. However, we may need to send some advertising back to the mainland to find the right people.

What are your thoughts? Do you think you can spare the people?"


The ugothol lets out soft noises of pleasure but doesn't react to Victrix's joke. Antona only squeezes her lover's hand tighter, watching with a mixture of anxiety and morbid fascination as the stalker feeds. At length, the creature withdraws its tongues from Victrix's neck, lapping up the last bits of blood. "Exquisite. Thank you," it says.

***

Ramona taps her chin for a few moments before nodding at Simon. "Yes. I think your endeavor is a worthwhile one, Simon. Once the next wave of colonists arrives on the incoming supply ship, I believe we'll have enough skilled professionals in town to accommodate your requests. Perrell will still have some responsibilities as an employee of the Bountiful Venture Company, but the majority of her time will be spent at the library. Carver had signed on as a colony guard before we knew he was a Pathfinder, but I am certain his skills will be far better suited as a field researcher. Consider it done."

The governor leans back and smiles again. "Was there anything else you wanted to speak to me about?"

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Just barely managing to stifle a sigh of relief, Simon nods. "Thank you, Ramona. No, I don't have anything further to discuss at the moment.

I am sure that you are very busy, and I also now have a lot to do, as well as some research to get started on before we take on the new threat of the veiled masters."

As long as Ramona doesn't have anything else to discuss, Simon will stand and bow his head briefly before leaving her office. Outside, he slumps against the wall of the building, breathing deeply and attempting to still his racing heart.

Next up would be talking to Carver. I'll obviously wait until Ema's thread is complete. Not sure we are even on the same day...


Female Human Arcanist (occultist) 17 | hp 95/113 (0 thp) (0 n/l)| AC 20, tac 14, ff 18 | CMB 6; CMD 17 | F +10, R +10, W +11 | Init +2 | Per +15 | Arcane Reservoir (11/23); Consume Spells 7/8 | 1-Lvl 7/7, 2-Lvl 5/6, 3-Lvl-6/6, 4-Lvl 6/6, 5th 4/6, 6th 3/5, 7th 3/5, 8th 1/4; Active: false life; Prot v Evil

Ema listened as Carver explained the details to her of just when he was taken and she felt at least a little relief. It meant that she'd only been with the thing once, maybe twice, before it all came to a head. While it didn't make her feel much better to know she hadn't been tricked for long at least some, most even, of her and Carver's time together was real. Ema reached out, hesitantly at first, to touch Carver's hand and said, "Thank you Carver, I don't want to give up our fun either."

Ema turned her gaze to meet his and said, "But I do want you to remember that you aren't the only one I am with. I enjoy our time together but I am not one for committing to one person alone. If that is alright with you then I am willing to continue our trysts if you are."


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix takes a few shaky breaths once the ugothol withdraws its tongues. She uncorks one of the oil vials with shaking hands and dumps the softly-glowing orange oil onto where the tongues once fed...

Lesser Restoration: 1d4 ⇒ 2

2 CON points back.

...but while some colour does return to her face and her shaking subsides, the aasimar still feels a little weak. "You're welcome."

"Now, Antona..." She turns to her (understandably) anxious girlfriend. "...I do believe I owe you a house, yes?"

"I mean, I DID promise to build you one when I got back."


Carver smiles at Ema and nods. "I understand. And I'd much prefer to have you some of the time than not at all." He squeezes the arcanist's hand as his eyes drink in her beauty. "May I... May I kiss you?"

***

Antona helps Victrix to her feet. "We should probably get some rest first. It's late, after all." She seems a little more comfortable now that she has witnessed the ugothol's restraint in feeding on her lover, but it's clear it will take a while before she is fully on board.

The ugothol steps back to give the women space. "I will return to the woods for now. I will meet you back here tomorrow night once you have spoken with your leader."


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix gives the ugothol a smile. "Right. I'll see you then."

She then turns back to Antona, her thoughts coming to the forefront.

We've been naked together for... what, a few hours now? We didn't have sex. (Well, that's because of our guest...) And I feel just as happy with her as before...

...no. Happier.

The aasimar steps over to her girlfriend and pulls her into a hug.

Bloody hell, I knew it.

"...thank you for trusting me, Antona. I know this couldn't have been comfortable for you." Her voice shakes a bit and tears start to collect in the corners of her eyes.


Antona holds Victrix, gently stroking her red hair. ”Of course. I love you, Victrix. I will stay by your side, no matter what.”


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix nods and releases her. "C'mon. Let's... let's get dressed and head home."


Antona gets dressed and follows Victrix back home.


Female Human Arcanist (occultist) 17 | hp 95/113 (0 thp) (0 n/l)| AC 20, tac 14, ff 18 | CMB 6; CMD 17 | F +10, R +10, W +11 | Init +2 | Per +15 | Arcane Reservoir (11/23); Consume Spells 7/8 | 1-Lvl 7/7, 2-Lvl 5/6, 3-Lvl-6/6, 4-Lvl 6/6, 5th 4/6, 6th 3/5, 7th 3/5, 8th 1/4; Active: false life; Prot v Evil

Ema gave Carver a thoughtful look as she pretended to consider the question. She was just teasing him a bit by leaving him hanging but in the end she gave him a smile and a nod as she said, "Yes you may." From there things went as they always did and the rift between them was repaired.

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Later, on the afternoon following his discussion with Ramona, Simon finally tracks down Carver.

Having taken the time to give his armor and weapons a good cleaning, he has left them back at the house to air out and is wearing some more comfortable clothing.

Calling out to Carver from across the street, he hurries across. "Carver! Hello. Are you feeling any better after a chance to get some good food and a night's rest?"

Listening patiently to any response Carver makes, Simon attempts his best to keep the conversation light. "Do you have time for a drink over at the Roost? I'd love to get a chance to catch up. My treat."


Carver smiles warmly at Simon, his spirits raised now that his relationship with Ema has been repaired. ”I am feeling worlds better, thank you! A drink sounds great, especially if you are paying.” He laughs and accompanies the half-orc to the tavern.

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Simon does his best to keep up the small talk as they head over to the bar and wait for their drinks.

Ale in hand, Simon makes a toast to the safety of the community, takes a big swig, then attempts to turn the discussion to more serious matters.

Doing his best to appear confident, he looks Carver in the eyes.

" I want to apologize to you, Carver. I reacted poorly when I found out that you were a Pathfinder, taking prejudices that I hold about the organization and applying them to you.

It took a demon attempting to use those prejudices to split the group up before I realized how hypocritical I was being.

I'm sorry."


Carver drinks deeply of his own beverage before responding. ”That was a long time ago. We are both in a different place now than we were then. I accept your apology, and move that we no longer dwell on the past but rather look to the future.”


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Once the next morning arrives, Victrix wanders through town looking for Ramona.

"Hey, uh... Ramona? Have ya got a minute? I'd like to speak to you about something. Can we head back to your place?"


"Of course, Victrix. I'll put on some tea."

Once Ramona gets the kettle boiling, she turns to the barbarian. "So, what can I do for you?"

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Smiling warmly, Simon takes another drink before continuing.

"I'm glad you feel that way, Carver. I agree. Clearing of the air is important, though, before entering into a business relationship."

Taking a moment to judge Carver's reaction, he becomes serious once again. "Events have been outpacing me, and opportunity is passing by. By necessity, I have focused more on a combat role than on research and that doesn't appear to be changing anytime soon.

Soon, treasure hunters and other researchers will begin arriving. Perhaps even my father... I still mean to put out the authorative reference to the sites found here but I can't do that and eliminate the threats to the colony at the same time.

I am looking to put together a research team to do a more thorough deep inspection of the sites that have already been cleared.

If you are willing, I would like you to lead that team."

Pausing uncertainly, Simon looks at Carver and waits for a response.


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix takes a seat and brushes off her pants.

"Well, Antona and I were out swimming last night, catching up, having a good time. We were sitting in the surf afterwards, enjoyin' the sunset..."

"...when the oddest thing happened."

"You remember the ugothol I interrogated to learn who their master was? Well..." Victrix shrugs. "...they approached us. Said they wanted to find someplace to belong, now that Onthooth's dead."

"Apparently, I made quite an impression on 'em."

Diplomacy?: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (8) + 17 = 25


Carver quirks an eyebrow at the mention of a business partnership. He listens quietly to Simon's pitch, and once he's done, the Pathfinder smiles broadly. "This is exactly the reason why I came to Ancorato! You don't have to ask me twice, Simon. I'd be happy to lead the research team."

***

Ramona's eyes widen when Victrix tells her about the ugothol. She grips the back of a nearby chair, knuckles turning white. "A faceless stalker...wants to become a citizen of Talmandor's Bounty?" Seeing the aasimar's placid expression, she takes a deep breath and forces herself to relax. "I don't know if that is the best idea, Victrix. But I can see that you are not afraid of this creature. Do you trust it? Will inviting it into our home threaten the colony?"

Scarab Sages

Male Half-Orc Investigator 17 | HP 146/190 | AC 23(35)(+2 vs Evil) T 14(17) FF 20(31) | Fort +15(20) Ref +18(19)(+5 vs. Traps) Will +16(Immune vs. Illusion) | CMB +18(25) CMD 31(41)| Init +3 Perc +25 (+2 Hidden, +10 Traps) | Effects: Mutagen, Barkskin, Heroism, Resinous Skin, Resist Energy (Electricity), PvE, Delay Poison, Transformation | Insp 13/13 |

Simon relaxes a bit, and raises his mug. "Excellent. I will consider you a co-author. I imagine that we will collaborate quite a bit before the work is ready for release." Setting the drink down, his eye become a bit more intense. "There is, of course, the outstanding nature of your mission for the Society."

Simon pauses to make sure he has Carver's attention. "I have no issue with you sharing whatever details we find with your superiors, save my first hand accounts of the initial explorations. In my mind, those accounts are what will set this work apart.

I will teach you the cypher I have been using to record those notes, as I don't want them to be lost if something should happen to me. In that eventuality, do what you will. While I am alive, though, the cypher and the notes should be held within our partnership.

Will that be a problem for you? Will any aspect of your mission interfere with the work we are setting out to accomplish?"

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 + 1d6 ⇒ (17) + 8 + (6) = 31


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix nods. "I trust they remember what happened the first two times we had to deal with them. With that in mind, I don't believe they'll be a danger to the colony."

"If it turns out I'm wrong, then I'll deal with it."

Diplomacy?: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (11) + 17 = 28

"What I'm concerned about, for the moment, is the logistics of feeding them. They need a pint of blood a day to survive, and prior to contacting me they fed off of wildlife and monkey goblins."


Female Human Arcanist (occultist) 17 | hp 95/113 (0 thp) (0 n/l)| AC 20, tac 14, ff 18 | CMB 6; CMD 17 | F +10, R +10, W +11 | Init +2 | Per +15 | Arcane Reservoir (11/23); Consume Spells 7/8 | 1-Lvl 7/7, 2-Lvl 5/6, 3-Lvl-6/6, 4-Lvl 6/6, 5th 4/6, 6th 3/5, 7th 3/5, 8th 1/4; Active: false life; Prot v Evil

At some point after their return from rescuing the colonists Ema found herself meeting up with Perrell when the librarian was off of work. She approached the woman's home and knocked politely as she called out, "It's Ema, can I come in?"


"I understand your terms. I do not have a problem with them," Carver tells Simon. The half-orc feels like the Pathfinder is being sincere.

***

Ramona taps her chin. "Hmm. Well, we have plenty of livestock here. So long as he monitor their feeding habits to ensure that they don't go overboard, we can rotate out the animals so that none are fed on twice in succession. Anya Sandstrider has proven herself adept at animal husbandry. She should be able to keep them calm during the feedings.

"Very well, Victrix. If you are willing to stake your reputation on this being, then I am willing to allow it to live here on a provisional basis."

***

Perrell opens the door and a wide grin spreads across her features. "Ema!" she squeaks, throwing her arms around the arcanist. She hesitates a moment before giving the other woman a tentative peck on the lips. "It is good to have you back home."


Female Human Arcanist (occultist) 17 | hp 95/113 (0 thp) (0 n/l)| AC 20, tac 14, ff 18 | CMB 6; CMD 17 | F +10, R +10, W +11 | Init +2 | Per +15 | Arcane Reservoir (11/23); Consume Spells 7/8 | 1-Lvl 7/7, 2-Lvl 5/6, 3-Lvl-6/6, 4-Lvl 6/6, 5th 4/6, 6th 3/5, 7th 3/5, 8th 1/4; Active: false life; Prot v Evil

Ema was quite pleased to see Perrell's reaction and hugged the woman back and accepted the kiss happily. She wasn't going to let Perrell get away with only a peck on the lips but she decided to wait until they were inside before pushing it. That Perrell could show this sign of affection to her in semi-public was a definite step forward for the young woman. Ema replied "It's good to be back Perrell."

As soon as they stepped inside and closed the door Ema put her arms around Perrell again and turned them both so she could push the other woman back against the wall and said with a naughty grin, "If you think a little peck on the lips is all I'll accept you are quite mistaken." She pressed her lips fiercely against Perrell's and kissed the woman thoroughly, her tongue teasing the librarians as she pressed Perrell against the wall. After a few moments she broke the kiss off and asked with a smile, "So how have things been while we were gone?"


Perrell lets out muffled sounds of protest to Ema's sudden assault before finally surrendering to the passion. After a few moments to catch her breath, Perrell smiles. "The mood following the ugothols' attack was understandably subdued, but the mourning period is over and now that you have brought the other colonists home, we have reason to celebrate once again. I must admit, when you aren't round, things are much less...exciting. I understand that it won't be too long before you set out again, though. Never a dull moment for an adventurer, is there?"


Retired - Adventure Path Complete!

Victrix blinks. Huh. That... that actually went better than I expected it would.

"Alright, glad to hear it." She nods. "There may also be the issue of the colonists' memories bein' very fresh... I mean, I don't expect them to accept our new guest immediately."

...and I'm going to have to let Simon and Ema know about this, aren't I?

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