Dungeon Master S's "Curse of the Crimson Throne" (Inactive)

Game Master Chris Marsh

After the quick, violent, martially artistic ending of the short bout, and the King's bitter dictum, Morkeleb stands with an incredulous look on his face.

He is about to make a comment or ask a question, but thinks better of it, closing his mouth before uttering a sylable. Instead, he gives the King a bit of a frown and a minute head-shake--clearly an expression of contempt, if anyone bothers to notice it.

He addresses Gaius. I take it we're done here?

Odric looks imploringly at some of the more diplomatic of his companions to see if they might be interestd in smoothing this over...

He is careful to remain neutral in his facial expression and refrains from a righteous fist pump.

Gaius flashes a bitter smile and helps Odric down off the table. He doesn't vocalize it but the look in his eyes is pride and praise. When he has Odric close enough for a whisper:

Don't celebrate here. Pick up your winnings and let's just be polite. We'll talk about this over drinks later.

Gaius thinks really hard:Where is the key, Majenko?

To Morkeleb: We're done. We'll collect the info we need and depart.

Gaius doesn't appear interested in placating the self-styled, "King of Spiders", and just keeps his cool.

DM: Chris, I make careful note of the details in this room including entrances, exits and windows. "Casing the joint", as it were.

Gaius, make a Perception check.

Perception:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19

Morkeleb assists in "cleaning up" after the quick brutality of the man-show, keeping an eye out for ambush, retribution, or whatever.

He then holds his staff easily, but at the ready, waiting on Gaiu's cue for when to leave.

Grym claps Odric on the back as he climbs down off the table. The ranger is very wary for a double cross from the angy Devargo, and is on the lookout for any nasty spider surprises.

If the subject is ever brought up to Grym he tells Gaius and/or Morkeleb that he is all for freeing the little dragon. That is a mission Grym would happily do. He doesn't like mistreated animals/pets.

Sandor is enjoying the contest as only a dwarf can do by being loud and boisterous.

He is proud of his new friend Odric's win, and envious that he was the only one to play.

In a loud voice that only makes the grating gravelness sound worse Odric that was a mighty fine show up 'ere boyo! I couldn't belive you dropped the dagger, but yer plan was awesome when ya tossed him like a rag doll off the table as he finishes his statement, he notices the look that Devargo is giving and the venom with which he said about our winnings.

Sandor is appauled over the temper tantrum being displayed by the self-titled King of Spiders

Odric in this contest 'ere will always be a winner and a looser. The biggest victory is if you can win or loose like a man and not a child. cuts his eyes to Devargo Now lets mainain our dignity A ROUND OF ALE ON ME GOOD GAME EVERYONE!! I figure one drink while he gets the information gathered and passed over

Beisdes Odric, I need to spill some good ale on my moustache to keep your impressive flatulence from my nostrils

Chris let me know how much money to spend.

OOC: I'm starting to picture John Candy as Odric. Anyone else?

Think Danny McBride from Your Highness.

With our huge muscles we will protect you.

Gaius Lirsiiv wrote:

OOC: I'm starting to picture John Candy as Odric. Anyone else?

Think Danny McBride from Your Highness.

With our huge muscles we will protect you.

Don't pretend that movie was good. :P

You spend the rest of the evening carousing and learning the better secrets of Sandor's other craft. The following morning (the 13th of Calistral) you turn over the evidence at the Citadel.

When you return to Citadel Volshyenek and hand over the scandalous letters to Field Marshal Cressida Kroft, she blushes as she reads them and quickly passes them to a clerk for safe keeping, stating that they should work perfectly should the need for some leverage against the ambassador ever come up. She thanks the you again, rewarding you with a further 500 sails over and above the bribe money she given earlier to pay Devargo. Cressida informs you that she has no more work at this time—things are starting to return to normal in Korvosa at last, but unrest remains in the air. She asks only, "That you stay close by, if our city needs you, I'd rest better knowing that you're just a short messenger away. I'm sure you'd like to get some rest and spend the reward. On behalf of the entire city, we thank you."

...Take a 2 week in game break. In 14 days it will be the 27th of Calistral. The party will reconvene then. You've got 2 weeks to craft, train, etc.

Everyone sum up their vacation in a post. Anything that needs follow up from me can be done either offline or via messaging!

For gallantly helping out the Field Marshal through these tough times, each character receives and additional 416 XP

Thorgrym goes back to his humble home behind the Cracked Cup. He checks in with the owner, (Mr. Vern), to see if he needs help with any projects over the next week or so. A few days later Grym spends an afternoon doing some basic carpentry work. A few tables needed some repairs.

Grym also checks in on young Kip, to see how he doing and make sure he is taking good care of Gramps. It delights Grym to see the boy with his new dog. Kip has been through some dark times and caring for the old dog will be good for him. The ranger gives the young lad a few pointers on being a good dog handler.

Thorgrym waits a few days but finally builds up the nerve to head down to Orsini Academy. He seeks the great fencing master Orsini himself. The young ranger is looking for advice on developing a two-weapon style of fighting, sword in his right and a trusty knife in his off hand.

Grym also seeks to spend some time with the other warriors from his recent adventures. The ranger attempts to set up some fighter training with both Odric and Sandor. Thorgrym witnessed the awesome power of the warrior's pick and falchion. Having little experience with dwarf folk, Grym is interested to see Sandor's fighting style. Grym is also happy to give any pointers he can on unarmed fighting to either warrior. A few mornings of wrestling and sparring will be good for all them. A warrior needs to stay ever sharp.

Yet, Grym's biggest project is continuing Bucho's training. The ranger hires out street urchins to lay tracks for Bucho to follow. A few more desparate men are hired out to teach the dog to attack. Grym has great hope for Bucho and looks forward to him playing a role in future adventures.

OOC: As of concluding the encounter with Devargo, I'm showing the current XP total as 1,563. Is that correct?

Also, it seems we get to keep nearly all the bribe money and then there was initial reward. So the split per person in this six person party is: 234 gold sails and 5 silver crowns. I spent 93 sails bribing our way into the meeting with Devargo.

We are glad to help with the keeping of peace and order on Korvosa, Field Marshall.

As they leave the citadel, Morkeleb hefts his now bulging purse. Gentlemen, I will be staying in my room in the Acadamae, but perhaps I may see some of you out and about in the evenings? I'd like to offer my serivces to you. I am skilled in alchemy, and am well prepared to ply that craft. If any of you feel the need for alchemical devices such as acid, antitoxin, or the like, I'll craf them for you for the price of materials. that is 1/3 the normal cost I kindlyk ask that if you intend to *sell* these items, you split the profit equally with me! But I'd prefer to craft items for our actual use.

The wizard then heads immediately to the apothecary associated with the Acadamae, and purchases an Alchemical Lab (assuming, DM, that I can keep such a thing either in my room, or secure lab space at the Acadamae?), grimly satisfied that he can finally afford to purchase such standard, yet expensive, equipment on his own!

Anyone need alchemical items? Keep in mind that the 25 DC for the best stuff, like antitoxin, is pretty hard for a 1st level guy to hit, so no guarantee I can actually do it.

OOC: As of concluding the encounter with Devargo, I'm showing the current XP total as 1,563. Is that correct?

1533XP is my count. Adam should have 140(or 160?) more for his knivsies duel. But I'll be the first to admit I'm prone to simple math mistakes.

The party got that XP, not just Odric.

Some things to do with your 14 days:

1. Make a daily Profession or Performance check.
2. Make a daily Diplomacy (Gather Information) check for new rumors etc.
3. Spend Fame points. In general keep it to a single expenditure per day.
4. Craft items following the craft rules (remember you can hire assistants).
5. Spend time training, picking up a language, etc. This isn't mechanical, but it is a way to spend time.

Gaius spends the fortnight in Old Korvosa. The morning after Knivesies with Devargo, Gaius shows up bright and early at Orsini Academy for lessons, citing his invitation from Master Orsini himself. He spends as much time at the academy as he can, but when there's a break (perhaps lunch daily?) he touches base with Gweniffer Perri, the courtesan he befriended at The House of Clouds, establishing her as an informant, learning as much from her about The King of Spiders as he can. He trades what he knows of Morkeleb, as Gwen is rather taken with him. She's a Calistrian like Gaius so she's not mooning over him. But she's rather intrigued with the man who turned her down, and doesn't like to lose.

Something comes up on day 10. It's the 23rd of Calistral. Everyone give me 10 days worth of stuff (Phil's training answer is fine as it has no mechanical benefit beyond "level up.") If you're looking to make money, give me the rolls:

I'd post it like this:

Day 1: Profession (Brewer): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 = 2
Day 2: Profession (Brewer): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 1 = 11

etc.

I emailed you 13 rolls. Can you take the first 9? One day to set up the contact and 9 rolls.

Some things to do with your 14 days:

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1. Make a daily Profession or Performance check.

DM: the pathfinder rulebook says you can make a craft check for 1 week's income in gold (your result = gp/week). That on the table as well?

Absolutely!

I assume I will be behind everyone in xp since I missed the opening few encounters. So if I am correct I am sitting at 936 xp. Ty for taking care of the rewards Gaius, I would have totally forgotten about them :D

Sandor lets everyone know that he will be spending time at the forge, if anyone needs so armour I can start or repair a set if needed. I will also spend some time with the weaponsmiths learning their trade.

While at the forge in his home element Sandor reflects back upon the events of the last few days. To say they have been exciting is an understatement. The famous city persona alone was worth a few mugs of ale alone. I mean heck Field Marshal Croft, and the founder of the Orisini Acadamy himself directed us to deal with another well infamous persona Devargo Barvassi. More on that turd later.

Helping his new adopted home of Korvosa has been fulfilling, but more importantly they were also eye opening. Sandor now understands that there is so much more in this big world going on. How a few people making power plays that can change the lives of an entire city or 2. As he ponders this revelation the repetitive striking of the metal smooths out his rising fury. He sees now how precarious a situation Korvosa is in, and that it will need protection to help it move back into the peacefull mutually beneficial city that King Eodred was trying to have.

The big question is will his new found friends want to help the city maintain as it was, or move to something else. Also which faction of the important people will be the most like King Eodred. Will it be the Young Queen, The Seneschal Neolandus, the hated Garrick Tann, the loved Syl Gar, or will one of the military leaders make a play for the throne. Who will ally with who? So many questions, not any answers. At least to this simple dwarf. So as the questions mull in his head the glow of the forge behind him the ringing of the hammer and the hiss of the steam all lead him to a decision. The decision is to make sure he and his friend stick together and try to come out alive and on the Right side, not just the side that is paying them unless that is the right side.

Sandor tries to get everyone together for a sitdown meal at his house on the first Sunday of our rest. Sometime during the meal he brings up the conversation.
Hey lads it is great ta be breakin bread wit ya, and may we break bread many many times in the future. Now ya be knowin I'm a simple dwarf who don't talk so well,'n I won't be lyin when I say that the last few days has been eye openin. But what has occured to me is that Korvosa is at a major fork. With King Eodred dead I am sure there will be a few more power plays to get the crimson throne. I mean if one Ambassador can get so close to changing the entire city, what will an alliance between major players do. Now I am not saying King Eodred was the best ever, but he was very fair and I would love to have our next ruler follow in his example. The questions that I have no answer to is who will that be, and how do I or if I might presume WE support that individual?

What I'm sayin is that there might come a time where we have to make a choice to keep working for who is paying us, or to stop and do what is right for Korvosa. I for one will stop and do what is right. Is anyone else in the same midset? No don't answer me now take some time to think about it. Now is the time for a bit of fellowship over some ale or wine

Ohh and on a side note I dont know about you all, but I am feelin that Devargo is needin to be findin a new home. The Lolth loving poor sport is tollerated by the Law, but so far we aren't the law. We could take a cue from this Blackjack fella and remove Devargo if anyone is up to the task

For the second week he works with the weaponsmiths learning a new trade. He also makes sure to listen alot more to the idle chatter, and track the goings of the famous people.

Well played everyone! Sandor, you make some good money, but......Your rumormongering leaves something to be desired.

Gaius, however, was born to it.

Ferox returns to his rooms and later the Bank. He makes sure to check in with his Banker, apprising the Bank of what's been happening.

Ferox spends the time he has to himself canvasing the city, looking to root out what new evil may be festering since the riots.

Since no one took up the offer of alchemical items, Morkeleb plies his hand trying to pay for the kit he just purchased.

Week 1, Craft (Alchemy): 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11 gp
Week 2, Craft (Alchemy): 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28 gp

At Sandor's soire:

After the dwarf's declaration, Morkeleb takes up his wine glass, and swirls it while staring at its legs.

Well spoken, Sandor, and a noble sentiment. But keep in mind, even a villain such as Devargo does "what is right." Most men will say "I'll do what is right--for me." It's all a matter of perspective, is it not?
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But I don't mean to be a wet blanket for your party. I assure you that I bear no ill will for any of the goodly folk in this city, or for the law and order that keep the city functioning normally.
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As far as "removing" Devargo, I'd think long and hard before doing that. Having him gone will create a power vacuum that *will* be filled. Whomever steps into his spidery shoes could be far worse than he. Might the devil we know be better than the devil we don't?

Odric takes a bath.

After the bath, he begins preparing himself for his next adventure by setting a routine for himself. Each morning he arises from bed, conducts a thorough and energetic warm-up routine and sets off on a brisk walk around the neighborhood. He practices running, with wind sprints and some distance running as well.

Odric cuts all alcohol from his diet, with the exception of an ale once a week. This ale is savored and he takes the opportunity of drinking an ale in a tavern to regale his friends and acquaintances with exciting tales both real and second- or third- (or even fourth-) hand.

Odric changes his diet drastically as well. He eats fish, meat and fresh fruits and vegetables.

His new lifestyle begins to show as weight begins falling off the man. He cinches his kilt and leather armor tighter each day as he suits up for intensive weapon practice in the afternoons.

Evenings he spends time with his parents and an occasional visit to Kip and Master Bartleby. His visits to his former master come with lessons and sessions brewing side by side with the man. Odric enjoys brewing and intends to craft his own beer one day. Perhaps after he retires from adventuring, he can have a small tavern in a corner of his castle where kegs of his own brew might be available to quench the thirst of a new batch of young adventurers.

Odric feels better than he ever has before. He has more endurance and feels stronger. With regular bathing and personal hygeine, those around him are pleased and impressed.

Odric keeps himself quite busy for the next two weeks. He is under the distinct impression that at any moment the Feild Marshal or the Quenn herself will summon him for some critical need, and he intends to be ready.

He begins asking about the Pathfinder Society, trying to learn more about them. He had never paid much attention to them, but now that he feels like he is an accomplished veteran... maybe they might be interested in meeting him.

At Sandor's "dinner party", the talk of right and wrong and what to do w/ Devargo comes up.
Grym sits and listens to the others speak. The ranger thinks a bit before responding. I used to speak of such things with my mentor, Aliah. She was, or is a very wise cleric of Sarenrae. Grym takes a long pause trying to carefully gather his words. I believe that I must do what is right. Good dwarf, I will not work for someone whom I believe is sending us out to do evil, whether they are in charge or not. The ranger takes another long pause and drink of his ale.
And yes Morkeleb, one's own point of view can alter how a situation is seen and deciding what is right and wrong. It is not always black and white, there are many shades of gray. It is often easier to pick out evil actions. But does that mean the person who does them is evil? Men make mistakes. Sarenrae teaches that those who do evil should be given the chance to come back to the light and do evil no more.
Thorgyrm looks at everyone at the table. I think we shouldn't make any hasty decisions about Devargo. As individuals we must decide what is right and wrong and make the best decision.

Odric is level 2. HPs are leaking out of his ears. 1d10 ⇒ 10

Gaius does his best to not appear bored at the discussion of, "Good", and, "Evil".

That being said, he's a scintillating conversationalist and a great dinner guest. When the topic of Devargo comes up, he adds the following to the conversationi:

For now, there's no profit in going after Devargo. We got what we wanted, paid very little for it, and embarassed him a little. Unless our paths cross again, we should let the spider hold up in his little web. He's a brute and sore loser and we're done with him. But... The future may change things. Though, if we had a workable plan to cause him some minor embarassment or mischief, I'd be willing to listen.

Gaius sips his port.

Oh, and I've got some news. Maybe Ferox can fill in some of the blanks. Seems a disgraced and fallen Paladin of Abadar is planning to rob The Bank. Have you heard of such a man, Ferox? disgraced Paladins can't be common.

After the dinner party, at which Odric betrays only a few of the crude manners developed over a long career in barrooms, Odric sallies forth on the town with questions regarding elements of evil and chaos that might be rampaging in or out of the city.

Each day, Odric would ask about in the streets for any inkling of trouble. Whether goblins marauding in the wilderness outside the city's walls or some nasty creatures in the sewers troubling some local merchants, Odric is hunting for some action, some way to bring his martial skills to bear on the fight against evil in the city.

Gather information each day:
1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23 <-Damn, first 20 and it wasn't a crit :(
1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20
1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9
1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18
1d20 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 3 = 16

After the dinner party though, Odric is prepared to proceed against the fallen Paladin with The Eagle, determined to save the bank and its depositors.

Gaius looks around the table at the others.

I take it from your stunned silence that you'd not heard of this and you can't confirm or deny. It's an interesting rumor. What shall we do about it? More importantly, will The Church of Abadar reward us for interposing?

Gaius, I haven't heard anything of the sort. I'm glad you brought it to my attention. It certainly warrants further investigation. Though, I can't say the Bank isn't always worried about theft, being the institution that it is. Still, my superiors would be interested in such news. They may compensate us for any assistance we provide. Or, maybe not. I cannot say for certain, but it is possible.

Gaius, do you have any other information regarding this paladin? Or his propsed Bank heist?

I'll start an inquiry amongst the Tellers and see what info I can dig up.

Ferox, your inquiry leads nowhere in the bank...mostly. They are aware of a fallen paladin by the name of Kerning. He fell a few months ago when he stole a morningstar that he was supposed to deliver. The weapon was left to the Church of Abadar when its owner passed away with no heirs. The church is unaware of any specific plots against it, however, yours is the first intel on the subject.

Odric may have another piece of the puzzle however. There has been talk of a small band of hobgoblins lurking near the city. It's extremely uncommon for them to get so close, and one of the bar patrons swears that he's seen them digging something off the East wall at night....

East wall? Tunneling. Is that near the bank? We should check that out.

Odric is anaccountably excited to learn about this threat. He is about ready to trot to the eastern wall himself to investigate.

I think at the very least we should venture to the east wall and observe. Perhabs if there is hobgoblin activity and we can handle direct combat we might destoy the scum on hte spot. If the odds look less inviting we might lurk unseen for a while to learn more. Subterfuge and trickery might even the odds a bit, much a they did at "All the World's Meat".

Ordic's stomach grumbles audibly. He hasn't been eating nearly as much as was his custom just a fortnight ago. His facce looks a bit less fleshy and his armor fits much better.

He feels twice as healthy as he did just a week ago. On a scale of 0-24, with 0 being dead and 24 being super healthy, he would say he is a 24.

Anyone reminded of Chip playing Red the Barbarian here? When he had an even 100 hp, he'd say "I'm 27% injured!" heh

Odric is anaccountably excited to learn about this threat. He is about ready to trot to the eastern wall himself to investigate.

I think at the very least we should venture to the east wall and observe. Perhabs if there is hobgoblin activity and we can handle direct combat we might destoy the scum on hte spot. If the odds look less inviting we might lurk unseen for a while to learn more. Subterfuge and trickery might even the odds a bit, much a they did at "All the World's Meat".

Ordic's stomach grumbles audibly. He hasn't been eating nearly as much as was his custom just a fortnight ago. His facce looks a bit less fleshy and his armor fits much better.

He feels twice as healthy as he did just a week ago. On a scale of 0-24, with 0 being dead and 24 being super healthy, he would say he is a 24.

Gym is very interested about doing some checking around outside the walls. It would be good training for Bucho. Fighting hobgoblins or anti paladins is all the same to the ranger.

Odric and Thorgrym, along with any of the companions who want to join them, will take a surreptitious look at what is going on with the hobgoblins. They will first wander around the inside of the east wall, looking for anything that might give clue as to the hobgoblins intentions.

On this walk through the neighborhood inside the wall, Odric looks for sewer grates, telltale signs of disturbance, such as fresh piles of dirt, scrape marks or hobgoblin lookouts. Grym will assist with the support of Bucho.

After the sweep of the inside area, the investigators will leave the city and make a circuitous loop to bring them towards the outside of the east wall where the digging sounds were reported.

While we check this out, would anyone like to try gathering more intelligence on the anti-paladin who has designs on the bank? Odric asks.

Sorry guys. I meant to give a beefy update, but it'll have to wait until after IKS.

Odric fer some reason people don't open up ta me much, so I thinks it'll be better fer me ta accompany ya against the Hobgoblins, besides I would like to learn a bit about how Grym does his thing.

Also if it is stonework, I have a good chance of detecting any disturbances. Chris feel free to roll for me

Odric hums.

And while humming, he does a little dance

Grym taps his foot to help the warrior keep time. The dog tilts his head as he watches the strange behavior.

No one uncovers any additional leads. To find the area with the hobgoblins ill take a survival check from anyone who can track. +2 circumstance bonus for the lead.

Survival: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 7 + 2 = 28

Ferox sets his senses to discovering the whereabouts of these hobgoblins and anti-paladin. He understands how greed and avarice can turn a man to evil deeds. Hopefully, he and his compatriots can stop this plot to rob the Bank before it gets too far.

Ferox, you find your way to an area rather well hidden, especially for hobgoblins. In the area just outside the city. Its a tunnel hidden by a well built cover. The tunnel drops down nearly 30' but a series of wooden ledges makes it an easy drop.

[OOC]I'm away from maps until tomorrow night. In the meantime I will need things like marching order, light sources, and any relevent

If I understand right. Odric, Sandor, and Grym are together. Is Ferox with us?
If so, Grym gives the inquisitor a quiet pat on the shoulder for a good job tracking.

If not then Grym starts his own search, bringing the dog along and using this as a learning training example.
1d20 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 9 + 2 = 12

If Grym is leading the track, then he and Bucho have no problem leading the way into the tunnel. If needed Grym will light a torch, and have sword in other hand.
Perception roll if needed
1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19