DM Feral's Hellknight's Feast (Inactive)

Game Master Feral

Gameplay here.

Verily!

checking in

will be out with family most of today

Checking in. It looks like we're quite melee-heavy at the moment, I could switch to my warpriest archer if need be.

Inside a meeting room at the Pathfinder Society headquarters Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin stands at the end of a long table. To either side of him stand Lady Gloriana Morilla and Major Colson Maldris.

“Thank you for coming, Pathfinders,” Valsin says, gesturing for everyone to sit, though he remains standing. “As you may have heard, we recently discovered the location of a lost dwarven Sky Citadel. I won’t demean your intelligence by stating the significance of this discovery, but suffice it to say the potential rewards for exploring the site are staggering.”

He turns to face a map of the Inner Sea on the wall and pokes a location with a loud thump. “Unfortunately, the Sky Citadel is located within what was once Sarkoris — the demon-infested region now known as the Worldwound. After a long debate and careful planning, we began to recruit military aid to push into the demon-haunted land so we could reach the site; however, before we could make any significant gains, Mendev’s wardstones — a collection of minor artifacts designed to keep the demons from pouring out of the Worldwound — began to inexplicably fail. In short, there’s a hole in the dam and demons are trickling into Mendev in greater numbers. With Mendev under this new assault, we realize that in order to reach the Sky Citadel, we must aid the Fifth Crusade and help turn back the demons."

“Since the nations of the Inner Sea are not reacting expediently to the danger presented by the newly invigorated Worldwound, a small cadre of concerned Pathfinders — including Trade Prince Aakir al’Hakam, Paracountess Zarta Dralneen, the Sapphire Sage Amenopheus, Lady Gloriana Morilla, and Major Colson Maldris — have united to leverage their influence. With my support, they plan to petition the Grand Council of Absalom and persuade them to issue an executive order to send soldiers to Mendev immediately."

“To increase our chances for success, we called in a favor from the Blakros family, who remain grateful to the Society for recently saving the marriage of Michellia Blakros and the Hellknight Damien Kastner. The newlyweds have organized a dinner party with an impressive guest list to be held at Fiddlemourn Manor. Lady Morilla and Major Maldris will attend, and they plan to use the feast as an opportunity to convince some of Absalom’s elite to support the upcoming motion. We need you to mingle with several important guests and befriend them so that they are more disposed to throw their support behind the Fifth Crusade. These special guests include Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran, Lady Vaelia Wintermark of Taldor, Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar, Scion Lord Kerkis of House Damaq, Lord Rothos of House Vastille, Lady Darchana of House Madinani, and Dremdhet Salhar, the Grand Ambassador of Osirion."

“The feast is tomorrow evening. Though the Blakroses are handling security, we want you to attend in your full adventuring regalia to help solidify your role as representatives of the Pathfinder Society and lend credibility to any claims you make regarding your knowledge of the Worldwound and the worldwide threat it signifies. We also expect you to provide additional security if it’s needed.”

Valsin levels his solemn gaze on everyone at the table.

“Remember, this is a social gathering. It’s crucial that we make a good impression on the guests, win their support, and improve the Society’s standing with them. Without their support, our motion to the Grand Council is doomed to failure.”

"So we are to attend in full battle armament? I had heard you mortals frown upon that sort of thing in celebration. Much so that someone died once because he was not allowed his armor and weapons at that wedding you speak of." Titus is a 6 foot tall angelic humanoid with long blond hair and green eyes. His armor is an unusually shiny breastplate and on his back is a large curved sword engraved in eldritch runes.

"About that..." Valsin says a bit embarrassed. "We were able to work things out with the Blakros family so that won't just be there as ambassadors of the Society, you're also part of the event's security detail. As such, you are expected to wear your armor and weapons. Just make sure they’re clean and presentable. And try not to scare the guests”, he adds with a pointed glance at the lizard-beast that just entered the briefing.

A stunningly beautiful, if quite short, human girl with long raven hair and pale skin wearing a polished mithral breastplate comes into the gathering, a lizard like creature with black scales at her side. Both are sharing matching symbols, a silvery triangle, on their foreheads.

Cryxial waves his head, purple ribbon swaying with the motion. "Hey now! I got the bow, just as venture-captain Gallard suggested. That should be sufficient right?"

Avril smiles. "Sadly I'm not sure that is true. Some people just don't get your awesomeness. Though looking at the way you are tearing up our enemies, I can understand why some are frightened. Either way, it looks like I have to walk beside you instead of riding, though I'll be on your back in a moment if a fight breaks out."

"Just so we're clear, you're there as security. You should do everything in your power to make sure a fight does not break out."

In the meeting room, Mohok listens attentively as the venture-captain lays out the mission before them. Mohok is a fiercely ugly, broad-shouldered half-orc, wearing a beautifully made breastplate, and the hilts of three swords extending up over his left shoulder. His mottled green skin stands in stark contrast to the jagged blue tattoos that cover his face and neck, and he studies the world through dark, beady eyes.

Over the course of the briefing, the expression on Mohok's tattooed face goes through several ups and downs, looking confident when it sounds like a demon-slaying mission, then a bit dismayed when he hears they're being sent to a party. When Valsin says they're at the party at least in part as a security detail, Mohok's shoulder drop into a relaxed pose, and he's about to speak when the venture-captain makes his final comment. Make a good impression? Uh-oh.

After Titus and Valsin speak for a moment, Mohok weighs in, introducing himself at the same time. "I'm Mohok. I've fought demons in the Worldwound plenty before, and I'm suited to the work. Going to parties ain't my strength, but I can work security no problem - and I'm glad I get to keep my gear because of it."

He considers a moment, then asks Valsin, "Can ya tell us anything about these folks we're supposed to make nice with? 'Side from the fact that they all got 'Lord of someplace' or 'Lady of elsewhere' for names?"

Lizard-beast? Is that a term of endearment for Mohok, or did I miss something?

See the summoner above. ^^^

"I will be filling you in as the guests arrive", Lady Gloriana Morilla explains. "It's not clear exactly who will be attending and who they might bring as their 'plus one'."

Weird, Avril's post wasn't there when I read your words about the lizard-beast. Oh tricksy, tricksy boards!

"Okay, so we'll have someone at the party with us, telling us what kind of cheese someone likes, or if they have a collection of diamond-studded rain hats, so we can chat them up," Mohok says, attempting to give Lady Gloriana a gracious nod, but looking more like he's acknowledging a command to go kill something particularly nasty.

"Do we dress up? Or can I just shine my armor and kick the mud off my boots?"

"About that..." Valsin says a bit embarrassed. "We were able to work things out with the Blakros family so that won't just be there as ambassadors of the Society, you're also part of the event's security detail. As such, you are expected to wear your armor and weapons. Just make sure they’re clean and presentable. And try not to scare the guests”, he adds with a pointed glance at the lizard-beast that just entered the briefing.

Titus already asked that. =P

That one I did see, I was just trying to get a read on whether we needed a courtier 's outfit or anything else elaborate, but it sounds like not.

It probably wouldn't hurt but it's not necessary.

Sitting and listening to the conversation, a blonde haired green eyed woman sits. her aura could almost be mistaken for an Aasimar.

clad in fine field plate armor adorned with symbols of Iomedae. a crusader's cross displayed prominently signifying her as an experienced crusader.

see image links in the profile

As an experienced demon hunter and crusader, I will do what I can to secure the necessary support.

I am sure my first hand experiences regarding the fifth crusade will be most beneficial

one question, we have been secured as additional security. do you expect trouble?

"While we don’t expect any major problems, the Blakros family has made many enemies over the centuries. We suspect the Onyx Alliance might still pose a threat, since its attack on the Grand Convocation was only 2 years ago. Though the Worldwound is far away, if word of the feast and the Pathfinder Society’s plans has reached the creatures that control that blighted land, we might have to deal with their minions. The Blakroses assure us that they have security under control, though, and that the Pathfinder Society attendees probably won’t be required to engage in any combat.”

"Let them come. We will make them regret it. I believe the Blakroses had security under control last time as well. We will be ready."

It sounds like there's no more question so moving on!

With the briefing complete the party is given leave to clean themselves up for the evening's festivities. Near sundown the group reconvenes within the Grand Lodge and then makes their way to Fiddlemourn Manor within Absalom's Petals District.

Fiddlemourn Manor’s exterior walls are of mortared gray bricks, and the interior walls are covered with the same smooth, white lime plaster common to the Petals with a 4-foot-high light maple wainscoting. The doors providing entrance to the property are of heavy oak and carved with images of galloping horses.

The grounds are surrounded by a 12-foot-high fieldstone wall. Within the wall, the grounds consist of a neatly trimmed lawn of green grass punctuated by broad-leafed, shady trees, numerous tropical plants, and immaculately tended flower beds divided by 10-foot-tall flowering tapestry hedges. A winding cobblestone path connects the manor to the stables and the garden.

Being the first guests to arrive, something that visibly annoys Lady Morilla, the Pathfinder dignitaries and the party are quickly invited inside by Blakros servants.

A few minutes later, the other guests begin to trickle in.

The first is an obese, constantly sweating man in his late sixties. He and the stunning young woman he arrives with are both dressed in very expensive formal attire: he wears a stylish gray-and-black suit and she wears an elegant royal blue gown studded with silver beads and glittering jewels. The man wears a gold-pommeled rapier at his belt that one would suspect has never seen a real fight.

"Senator Augustyn Naran of Androan and that's his fifth wife, Dalessa", Lady Morilla says as the couple are greeted by servants. "He's a prominent member of the powerful banking family House Naran, visiting Absalom on his honeymoon with his beautiful and much younger new wife. Due to his philanthropy, the senator is enormously popular with the Andoren people and has ties to many government officials and military leaders who could prove instrumental in securing troops for the Mendevian Crusade."

Next enters a venerable and frail and walks woman moving only by the aid of an ebony cane and an elderly servant of her own. She's dressed in a stylish green and blue gown, a fortune in jewelry, and wears a battle-notched falcata at her hip (though she looks much too feeble to wield it).

"That's Lady Vaelia. She's a very influential Taldan nobleman’s widow who controls a castle and several plantations and vineyards on the Jalrune River at the western edge of the Border Wood. Though 96 years old and quite frail, she still has a keen wit and an even sharper tongue. That's her favorite servant, Tamuel. He sees to her every need."

The moment Lady Vaelia clears the entryway, a stunningly beautiful, slender half-elf with a look of satisfied amusement follows. Her gold and black gown and matching lace shawl are surprisingly revealing, but still very elegant. She appears unarmed. On her heels is a handsome young half-elf dressed in well-oiled leathers with a elven longsword at his hip.

"Lady Dyrianna. She has business connections with powerful people in Cheliax and Qadira, and she is also on friendly terms with many of Absalom’s elven families. She employs numerous courtesans and prostitutes that have the ear of countless wealthy and influential citizens. In fact, that young man is named Faelyn. He's one of her courtesans who also doubles as her bodyguard."

The half-elves are followed by a tall, handsome man in his late forties, wearing formal attire and a black military-styled longcoat bearing a family crest and many military decorations. A longsword hangs from his belt and the silver-chased hilt of a dagger peeks out of his right boot.

"Lord Rothos is the Captain of the First Guard, Commander Militant of Absalom, and patriarch of the prominent Vastille noble family. He doesn’t attend many social gatherings so let's try to make the most of this."

Next is a thin, wiry Keleshite in his early fifties, with a neatly trimmed beard and bushy eyebrows. He wears an expensive, Keleshite-styled, loose-fitting silk robe, a jewel-covered silk vest, and a gold-hilted scimitar at his belt. A beautiful young Keleshite woman hangs from his arm as he enters.

"Scion Lord Kerkis is the patriarch of the very wealthy and influential House Damaq. He is also Lord Exchequer of the Absalom Mint, so he practically controls the economy of Absalom. He also has ties to many wealthy and influential families in Qadira. We need gold to fund this war effort, and a word of support from Lord Kerkis would open the pocketbooks of many wealthy patrons. The woman at his side is Chesele. She's one of Dyrianna’s finest courtesans."

After the Keleshites a heavyset man with a well-oiled hair and beard. He and the thin Chelish woman with him both wear matching gold-embroidered silk robes in the Osirion fashion, as well as a fortune in gold rings, necklaces, and other jewelry. Salhar wears a jeweled short sword at his belt.

"That's Dremdhet Salhar and his wife Lady Anilah. He's the Grand Ambassador of Osirion and has ties to the nation’s royal family as well as to many influential folk in Osirion, Absalom, and Thuvia. He only showed up today because Venture-Captain Alissa Moldreserva is a close friend and she insisted."

Last is a cold, pale beauty with piercing gray eyes and long blue-black hair. She wears solid midnight-blue wizard’s robes and a dazzling mithral tiara studded with rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. She appears unarmed and without an escort.

"Lady Darchana, matriarch of House Madinani. She's the Second Spell Lord of Absalom and the Archdean of the Arcanamirium, the most prestigious magical university in Absalom. She also holds a seat on Absalom’s Grand Council and I've heard she has the ear of the Grand Council, including Lord Gyr himself. Her support could provide an incredible amount of arcane power for the Crusade."

I added a link with head shots that I'll be putting relevant info on as it's discovered.

How This Works:

During each 'round' each PC can take one of two actions A) Influence or B) Discovery.

Influence checks can be done with diplomacy or bluff but additional skill options can be unlocked with a discovery check. A successful influence check earns the party an influence point with that character. If you fail an influence check by a certain amount influence can be lost and if you succeed by a large amount multiple influence points can be earned with a single check.

Discovery checks unlock additional skill options for future influence checks and generally make influencing that character easier. The skill for discovery checks are different for each character and listed in the document linked above.

If multiple PCs try to influence/discovery the same character it's automatically assumed that the lower roll is assisting the higher roll.

As the last guests are helped out of their coats, servants come around with drinks and light appetizers.

"Go mingle! We have a limited time to make an impact here tonight" Lady Morilla says while giving Mohok a shove. "I need to speak with our hosts before dinner is served."

So begins round one.

I'll go with a discovery check for Lady Dyrianna

Diplo: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3 Nope.

Sabrina makes her way toward Lord Rothos, She immediately greets hm with proper military respect. Sabrina De'Foe Crusader of Mendev. Glad to see a fellow soldier here. I for one am not to fond of these things. but at times, there are battles to be fought without sword and shield.

diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

and of course the dice bit will ensure complete failure through out this adventure for me.

Edit: I forgot to add that my Ioun stone +2 bonus so that adjust to a 12 not much better but better than nothing

After consultation with Feral, I'll be swapping Mohok for a more suitable (though perhaps more annoying) character.

As the Pathfinders set out for the party, a slender figure approaches and casts a quick eye over them all. He singles out the half-orc and says, in a tone dripping with disdain, "You must be Mohok. You're wanted elsewhere, I imagine something needs smashing. You're to report to Venture-Captain Heidmarch in Magnimar - though she'll probably turn right around and dispatch you on a mission to Osirion, as these things go."

He turns away from Mohok as if he no longer exists and introduces himself, his accent strong with the tongue of Galt, "I am Vahnt Aygu. I understand zere is a party we are to attend? And a good impression must be made? I am certain zat ze lords and ladies in attendance will find me most interesting indeed."

Once at the feast, he observes the arrival of the more eminent guests, his eye clinically appraising each of them and their attendants. His attention is caught by the last arrival, Lady Darchana, and he considers what he knows about her.

Knowledge (planes), Inspiration: 1d20 + 10 + 1d6 ⇒ (4) + 10 + (6) = 20

Not sure if I can take 10 and add Inspiration. If I can, my result will be a 26. If not, I'll go with the 20 I rolled.

"While we got limited time to mingle, rushing things might even lose us more than we'll gain. We should work together. I don't know about you, but I don't figure my chances of convincing any of them all by my lonesome is all that great." Avril says as they are ushered into the crowd. "Here, have my guidance, it'll make it easier to learn about or convince them." She says and touch each of the other pathfinders.

Cast guidance on everyone.

Avril and Cryxial follow Sabrina over to Lord Rothos. We probably won't be able to convince anyone on our own, but maybe we can help out someone else. Surprisingly Cryxial speaks up before Avril, he speaks in a deep rumbling voice. "Just like you make sure the city is safe, so does we with everyone at the party." Avril blushes slightly and curtsies before the lord. "My companion is Cryxial and I'm Avril. A pleasure to meet you. We are pathfinders."

Diplomacy with guidance Cryxial: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 1 = 10
Diplomacy with guidance Avril: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11

If you accept retroactive guidance that would bring Sabrina's total up to 17 I believe.

That brings me to a point I forgot to mention. Each of these 'rounds' is around 20 minutes so any sort of spellcasting won't help unless it lasts at least that long.

Titus makes his round with the servants and the other guests but nobody is willing to tell him much about Lady Dyrianna except some of the basics that Lady Glorianna already shared with him.

No discovery.

***

Lord Rothos greets Sabrina, Avril, and her companion with the measured respectful tone of a man that stopped chasing young women years ago. "Indeed and your presence is appreciated. I've heard too many rumors about the bloodbaths these Blakros parties often turn into", he admits. "But there's a difference between an adventurer that can wield a sword and a proper soldier that stands against monsters in the night. Pathfinders are no soldiers."

No influence.

***

@ Vahnt: Yes, you can take 10.

After speaking to one of the servants that happens to be attending night classes at the Arcanamirium, Vahnt has a revelation: With the wardstones having fallen, there is almost nothing preventing the Worldwound’s demons from teleporting freely about Golarion. Given its central importance to the Inner Sea region, Absalom would be a prime target for invasion. With Lady Darchana being known for being receptive to logical arguments, such a point would go far with her.

Discovery! This also unlocks arcana as an influence option with Darchana.

Round 1 Summary

Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran: 0 influence
Lady Vaelia of House Wintermark: 0 influence
Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar: 0 influence
Lord Rothos of House Vastille: 0 influence
Scion Lord Kerkis of House Damaq: 0 influence
Grand Ambassador Dremdhet Salhar: 0 influence
Lady Darchana of House Madinani (DISCOVERY +4 to influence checks): 0 influence

Round 2 Begin!

Vahnt deigns to speak to one of the servants, and the man unwittingly causes the Galtan scholar to think of an important point! He approaches Lady Darchana to make his case. "Good evening. I hope you are finding zis event tolerable, Lady Darchana. I am Vahnt, of the Pathfinder Society. It haz occurred to me zat, with ze wardstones fallen, zere is nothing zat stands in the way of ze Worldwound’s demons teleporting as zey wish about Golarion. It seems zat Absalom would be an obvious target for a demonic invasion, given ze city's great importance to ze Inner Sea region. You may be in a position to prevent such a, how you say, catastroaph."

Knowledge (arcana), Take 10, Inspiration, bonus: 10 + 10 + 1d6 + 4 ⇒ 10 + 10 + (4) + 4 = 28

Sabrina continues to breach Lord Rothos' defenses by looking for some common ground. She has often considered herself both a soldier and adventurer, but perhaps her time exploring the depths of the Emerald Spire has had more of affect than she had expected.

I do see you point sir, My family has fought under Queen Galfrey's banner since the first crusade. Actually I personally took charge of group of crusaders that were nearly defeated and lead them to victory during the Siege of Nerosyan.

making reference to events in the Siege of the Diamond city (Sabrina completed this chronicle)

diplomacy again: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 7 + 2 = 10

fer crying out loud, I swear this will fail cause of this crappy dice-bot, tempted to cast eagle's splendor for the Charisma boost so I can fail only 85% of the time instead of 90%

can we take ten on the diplomacy? if so then it would be a 19

Titus will keep trying to find out more about Dyrianna.

Diplo for Disco: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5 Sigh.

"We might not be soldiers, but we got other qualities that are just as worthy." Avril says and tries to aid Sabrina in convincing the Commander.

Diplomacy Avil: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4
Diplomacy Cryxial: 1d20 ⇒ 5

Can we even do it several times? I have no idea how many rounds there are, but it sounds like it might be worth it to discover first. Not like it matters with these rolls though.

Yes, discovery first is the way to go with this particular rule system, as it gives us a wider range of skills to use to influence NPC's and often gives a bonus.

Sabrina you're triggering me. I hate repeating myself - it's even in the rules! Yes, you can take 10. In the future, you need to take 10 before you roll the dice.

***

The imposing Titus continues to struggle to get the servants and other guests to open up to him.

No discovery.

***

Lord Rothos seems at least mildly impressed by Sabrina's claim. "Hrm. Perhaps the Society's ranks aren't just filled with tomb robbers and sellswords. Yes, I look forward to hearing next how you led the vanguard into the Worldwound."

Influence +1.

***

"I'm embarassed to admit it but I hadn't considered that", Lady Darchana says. "The city has defenses and contingencies for such an attack but could it endure the whole of the open Worldwound pouring down on it? I don't know... and that worries me. You've given me something to think on. Thank you Pathfinder."

Influence +2.

Round 2 Summary

Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran: 0 influence
Lady Vaelia of House Wintermark: 0 influence
Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar: 0 influence
Lord Rothos of House Vastille: 1 influence
Scion Lord Kerkis of House Damaq: 0 influence
Grand Ambassador Dremdhet Salhar: 0 influence
Lady Darchana of House Madinani (DISCOVERY +4 to influence checks): 2 influence

As the meet-and-greet concludes, Damien Blakros finally appears. He thanks the guests for attending, briefly speaks about the threat of the Worldwound, and then expounds on several lengthy tangents detailing the contributions of the Hellknight Order of the Godclaw during the First and Second Mendevian Crusades. As the Hellknight’s initially thrilling speech begins to dull the guests, Michellia Blakros enters the room and interjects to announce that dinner will soon be served and requests that the guests be seated.

The party is allowed to pick their own seats but for this scene you can only attempt influence checks with NPCs you're seated adjacent to - so choose carefully! Discovery checks can still be made freely.

The feast begins with courses of crisp greens and poached fish in a rich cream sauce with capers.

Round 3 Begin!

Vahnt nods smugly at Lady Darchana's reply, saying, "Pleasure to be of service. I do hope you'll remember who pointed zis out to you, should the Society need aid."

He turns away and moves through the crowd, scanning it for the notables they're supposed to make a good impression on. When dinner is served, he makes a point of finding a seat next to Lady Darchana, hoping to win further favor from her. He nearly forgets what he's about when he realizes what the little green bits are in the fish sauce. Capers?! How foul. Why would you eat an unripened flower bud?

He picks at his meal a while, then sighs and pushes his plate aside before engaging the Archdean of the Arcanamirium in further conversation.

Attempting to influence Lady Darchana again.

Knowledge (planes), Inspiration, Bonus: 1d20 + 10 + 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 10 + (3) + 4 = 33

I am sorry, I knew you could take 10 with the knowledge checks but was unsure on diplomacy. in any event I do apologize and will do better in the future.

I'll forgive you when I manage to stop fuming. You're up now. Don't forget to orient yourself someplace at the dinner table.

Sabrina takes a seat beside Lord Kerkis. she make a pleasant introduction to both Lord Kerkis and Lady Vaelia.

taking note of what she can of them by their dress, demeanor, and general attitude.

assuming only one discovery per round

Sense motive Lord Kerkis: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16

Titus will sit next to Lord Rothos will keep his futile quest of discovery on Lady Dyrianna.

Diplo: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8

Can we sit next to one, or two?

Avril sits down next to the senator. He obviously has a thing for pretty little things. We can hopefully take advantage of that. "How nice to see you here Senator." She says with a best smile. "It's hard to keep everything in order with all the fighting we pathfinders have to do." A flick of her wrist tosses her long raven hair over her shoulders. "But life would be much worse, for all, if the forces from the worldwound aren't stopped."

Cryxial suddenly open his mouth from behind Avril, revealing sharp teeth. "We want the only beasts that patrol the streets to be those on our side."

Diplomacy influence Avril: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21
Diplomacy influence Cryxial: 1d20 ⇒ 16

Check out the map. Pick a chair.

The food may not be to his liking but Vahnt and Lady Darchana still enjoy a lengthy chat on the matter of the sudden surge of plane-touched peoples on Golarion as of late and what it might mean for birthrites and lines of inheritance. The Archdean seems to genuinely enjoy the conversation

+3 influence. She seems fully on board with supporting the Pathfinder Society now.

***

By forgoing chatter beyond the polite conversation that's expected of her Sabrina is able to mostly focus on her neighbor, Lord Kerkis. She determines that the Scion Lord is a socially cautious man who does not suffer loud boors, but he also has an obvious distaste for the passive anti-Kelishite racist comments spoken by Lady Vaelia.

Discovery! This also unlocks knowledge (local) as an influence option with Lord Kerkis.

***

Despite his best efforts, Lady Dyrianna isn't willing to dish on Lord Rothos. She seems entirely occupied by her fish and capers.

No discovery.

***

The corpulent senator grins like a fool and licks the grease from his lips when Avril takes the seat next to him. "Oh I agree! The demons of the Worldwound are a danger to all soft pretty things but that's a world away and that's what paladins and crusaders are for. We should fully focus on enjoying ourselves today. After all, there's no telling what tomorrow might bring. Wouldn't you agree? Tell me you agree."

No influence.

***

Round 3 Summary

Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran: 0 influence
Lady Vaelia of House Wintermark: 0 influence
Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar: 0 influence
Lord Rothos of House Vastille: 1 influence
Scion Lord Kerkis of House Damaq (DISCOVERY +4 to influence checks): 0 influence
Grand Ambassador Dremdhet Salhar: 0 influence
Lady Darchana of House Madinani (DISCOVERY +4 to influence checks): 5 influence

The next courses are brought out, large dishes of fat hares stuffed with sprigs of rosemary and thyme accompanied by platters of olives brined in strong liquors and stuffed with pungent cheese.

Round 4 Begin!

Finally a course worthy of Titus' appetite appeared. Hopefully this bounty will help the Aasimar with his attempts to learn about Dyrianna.

Diplo: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 2 = 15

Didn't realize a map had gone up. I assume I can talk to the person across the table from me, as well as next to me.

Vahnt listens to the Andoren senator's thoughts on life, and can't help but agree - his own experiences in Galt have taught him that life is uncertain. At the same time, the man does come across as a bit of a fool, as do so many. Vahnt ponders what he knows of Augustyn Naran, and chats with his seatmates a bit to learn more.

Discovery on Naran

Knowledge (local), Inspiration: 1d20 + 10 + 1d6 ⇒ (15) + 10 + (1) = 26

Wow, rolling 19 with successful aid to boot and still no result. I guess Avril can't hope to successfully influence anyone here eh? Not sure when I'll be able to move the token. On phone atm

Avril will sit across from Lady Dyrianna then and engage in banter to learn more about the elf. Meanwhile Cryxial will do his best to sense what's needed to influence the Senator. "I'm not sure if I agree that teleporting demons are not a threat to us all. What do you think about the issue Lady Dyrianna?"

Diplomacy discover Dyrianna Avril: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 2 = 16
Sensw Motive Discover Augustyn Naran Crucial: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22 Just saw that Vahnt also did the Senator... Can I change Cryxial to ambassador Salhar?

As the meal progresses, Sabrina decides to make some pleasant conversation with Lord Kerkis. My latest trip in Mendev has brought some news. The crusades are proving to be more costly than expected. Any additional reinforcement would need additional finances. unfortunately, to burden an entire nation with such costs would most like but undue burden on the poor. perhaps with the right influence various noble houses could assist with this.

Sabrina lets that sink in a moment I am sure that such an endeavor would have significant rewards returned on such an investment. not to mention proving the generosity of the Kelishite

take 10 diplomacy to influence = 10+7+2+4 = 23

@Avril - Well-spoken or not, the guests are rather frightened by Cryxial. He's welcome to aid Avril or someone else but he can't do anything on his own.

Titus flags down a servant for more wine (and maybe some gossip) but the young woman doesn't seem to know anything of use.

No discovery.

***

The name wasn't immediately familiar to Vahnt but after chatting with his other neighbors for a bit he puts the name/face to some rumors he'd heard weeks ago. The Senator Naran is deep in the pocket of the notoriously corrupt Lumber Consortium, and he has made a career of shifting political blame and avoiding making important political decision — like sending troops to Mendev. He is likely here just to show off his beautiful wife and enjoy rich food and drink.

Discovery! Vahnt has learned that Senator Naran is impossible to influence.

***

She doesn't seem to think much of the threat the Worldwound presents but Avril does manage to get Lady Dyrianna to talk about herself.

Avril learns that Lady Dyrianna is a member of the most powerful elven noble house in Absalom, and both the Head Hetaera of Calistria and the Consul of the Courtesan’s Guild. In addition to her other duties, it is a somewhat open secret that she operates one of Absalom’s most powerful spy networks. She appreciates those who have achieved success despite beginning with nothing, especially if they are of elven blood.

Discovery! This unlocks local as an influence option with Dyrianna. In addition, Avril learns that Lady Dyrianna is partial to the plight of elves, and elves receive a +2 bonus on checks to gain Influence Points when dealing with her. She is also cautious about her espionage services and is affronted by any mention of her network; broaching the subject applies a –4 penalty on checks to gain Influence Points when dealing with Lady Dyrianna.

***

Lord Kerkis seems lukewarm about the notion of charity but raises an eyebrow when Sabrina mentions returns on investments. "Wartime has been known to open profitable opportunities for the canny investor."

+1 influence.

***

Round 4 Summary

Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran: Impossible to influence
Lady Vaelia of House Wintermark: 0 influence
Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar (DISCOVERY +4 to influence checks): 0 influence
Lord Rothos of House Vastille: 1 influence
Scion Lord Kerkis of House Damaq (DISCOVERY +4 to influence checks): 1 influence
Grand Ambassador Dremdhet Salhar: 0 influence
Lady Darchana of House Madinani (DISCOVERY +4 to influence checks): 5 influence

The last dishes are brought out in quick succession: suckling pig in cherry glaze, a spiced pumpkin soup, and chilled bowls piled high with fluffy cocoa mousse.

Midway through dessert Major Colson Maldris excuses himself and stands. He gestures for the party to follow and then steps out into the adjacent waiting room.

The soft susurrus of servants clearing dessert dishes and esteemed guests shuffling about to hobnob with their peers echoes from the nearby dining room as Colson furtively glances about before speaking in a stage whisper. “Have you noticed,” he inquires, “that several of the serving staff seem to be behaving strangely? I have watched a handful of them, and I can tell you with some authority that a few appear to be under the effects of enchantment magic. They have not expressed any hostility, but this strikes me as the precursor of something far more dangerous."

“In a moment, Damien Blakros will introduce the esteemed Genedair, an honored veteran of the Mendevian Crusades and a guest of honor at tonight’s festivities. I trust that his speech will be suitably engaging to give you an opportunity to slip away and check the rest of the manor. If there is anything amiss, deal with any immediate concerns and then report back to me.” He spares a moment to glance back at the dining room before adding, “Under no circumstances are you to upset the guests. I will keep Lady Morilla apprised of the situation, and together we will decide what to do in the event of trouble. The feast must go on without any disruption, and I will stay with the guest to ensure that happens.”

As he says this, Damien Blakros begins introducing Genedair in the other room. With a last look, Major Maldris salutes and says, “You have perhaps half an hour,” then slips back through the door to rejoin the party.

Well, that was a waste of my considerable talents, Vahnt thinks to himself, frustrated to have learned nothing of value - that, in fact, there is nothing of value - about the Andoren senator.

He consoles himself with the more than passable chocolate mousse, and is a bit peeved when Major Maldris summons him away from it. Perhaps something interesting is afoot, though it's unlikely he'd know an interesting thing if it sat on him.

He joins the major and his fellow Pathfinders in the waiting room, replying to Maldris' assertion, "I 'ave not noticed anyzing of the sort, Majeur, but it is worth investigating. We will take care of eet." With a quick glance at the others, he says, "Zis way," and moves off in a random direction.

Not sure what our options are, as far as which directions we can go, but Vahnt will try to go quietly and keep his eyes open, taking 10 on Stealth for a 21 and on Perception for a 23. If we can head toward the kitchen or servants' hall, that would be good.

This scene is supposed to be a bit sandboxy but ain't nobody got time for that so we're going to do some guided exploration.

4d20 ⇒ (19, 12, 13, 18) = 62

The party starts their search by stepping outside. They pass through the garden but find nothing out of the ordinary until they pass by the kennel. Something bright white catches the moonlight within the bucket containing the hound's feed for the night - mostly scraps and leftovers from the night's festivities. Fishing it out, Vahnt discovers two human jawbones. The bodies those jawbones came from are nowhere to be seen.

"There is more treachery here than first thought. And I thought it would be boring. But who would gain from this? And who were they?"

Unfortunately there's few clues to be gleaned from the jawbones and no sign of tracks so the party resumes their search.

Moving back inside, the party skirts past the salon where Genedair is telling a harrowing tale of the horrors he saw within the Worldwound and into the kitchen where most of the servants are feverishly cleaning while a few prepare snifters for the after-dinner brandy. Amid the bustle of the busy kitchen there's no clues to be found but inside the adjacent pantry Titus notices that the lid on a barrel of dried beans is ajar. Inside the barrel, just beneath a layer of beans, he finds a stashed small velvet pouch containing two vials of viscous yellow fluid and an empty vial that looks to have held the same substance.

Giving the contents of the vials a waft and quick taste, Vahnt determines the vials contain oil of taggit poison.

Although he finds the bones slightly intriguing, the slop they're covered in disgusts Vahnt and he hands them off to Sabrina, wiping his hands on her sleeve afterwards. "Sacre bleu! That ees foul indeed. Let us seek zee culprits of zis heinous act. Can anyone track zem?"

Without waiting for an answer, he moves off, looking for further indications of trouble.

"Coward's weapon, poison is." Titus says before casting a spell into his weapon and then sheathing it. Shocking Grasp into my spell storing weapon and then using Runestone of Power to get it back.

"That Mohok was a tracker was he not? We could use him right now."
The Mighty Aasimar resumes looking for clues.