GM SpiderBeard's Curse of the Crimson Throne (Inactive)

Game Master Barvo Delancy

Chapter 4: A History of Ashes

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Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

Raven Six winces at the spikes, but does not falter.

"Please get behind us, Ms. Sabor," she calls out while she chugs an extract and moves up to stand beside Sevenspawn -- and behind Thod.

Drinking extract of Shield. Moving forward; that manticore needs to get in bombing range!


NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

Current effects:
Bless (+1 morale to Atk)
Inspire Courage (+2 Competence to atk and dmg)
Bull's Strength (+4 enhancement to Strength)
Rage (+4 morale to Str, +6 to Con, -2 AC)

Thod approached slowly with his polearm in front of him in proper guard fashion, marching in a formation of one.

And then a spike hit him

"OH, THAT'S IT!"

His allies are barely able to catch up enough to  magically enhance him before he takes off, charging at the beast.

"YOU WANNA PLAY LIKE THAT, YOU MANGY, UGLY, FESTERING BOIL!? I'M GONNA..."

Thod enters a rage and charges at the beast, dropping his lucerne hammer but drawing his halberd. With a 30 ft. double move, I should be able to just reach him at the end of my charge. This probably provokes an attack of opportunity, since it's a large creature, but I doubt it'll do enough to drop me, especially when raging.

Charging adds another +2 Atk, and -2 AC. Also, Thod is power-attacking.

Total bonuses to hit: +4 (BAB) +3 (Str) +2 (Rage Str) +2 (Bull's Strength) +2 (Inspire Courage) +1 (Bless) +2 (Charge) +1 (MW) -2 (Power Attack) = +15
Total bonuses to damage:
{+3 Str +2 Bull's Str. +2 Rage Str. = +7} *1.5 (2-handing) = +10 Assorted Strength
+10 (Assorted Str.) +6 (Power Attack 2-Handing) +2 (Inspire Courage) = +18 Dmg.

To hit: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (2) + 15 = 17
Damage: 1d10 + 18 ⇒ (9) + 18 = 27

... I rolled a 2? Seriously?

Either way, could someone move my icon, please? I'm on my phone and can't.


.

Round Two:

Attack: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (8) + 12 = 20 Damage: 1d6 + 4 + 1d6 ⇒ (3) + 4 + (5) = 12
Will Save: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4

CCRRAACKK!!

Thod's years of intense military training fade as he gets spiked, and roaring with the fury of a really, really mad dwarf, he brutally stabs the manticore. Its deep roar turns into a grating, high-pitched shriek as it flails wildly.

Donnell calmly loads and fires a crossbow bolt which slams into the manticore's shoulder, further wounding the danger-kitty. Trinia yanks a wand from her belt, points it at the manticore, There's a little sparkle of light, and the manticore's eyes cross and it stare off into space a moment.

The manticore is dazed. Everyone is up!


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NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

I hit on a 2? Wow!

"... RIP YER SPIKES RIGHT OFF AN' SHOVE 'EM INTO YER EYES, YEH BLOATED BAG OF GOBLIN GUTS! YOU AIN'T GOT..."

Only barely acknowledging the spell's effect on the Manticore, Thod continues his assault, swinging his halberd with limited finesse, but incredible strength.

Another attack with the halberd. Not charging, so Attack bonus is now at +13, but AC is back up to 16. Still Power Attacking.

Attack: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (2) + 13 = 15
Damage: 1d10 + 18 ⇒ (9) + 18 = 27

ANOTHER 2? And another 9 for damage? It's supposed to be a RANDOM number generator, dangit!


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

Raven Six grimaces as Thod moves into melee range, but shrugs, reloads and fires her crossbow instead of tossing a bomb.

Ranged 1d20 + 4 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 4 + 2 + 1 = 21 for 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3 damage.


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Sevenspawn moves south off the road to seek partial cover from the trees, waving for the others behind to close the distance to him for healing. Hefting his crossbow, he aims and fires a masterwork bolt as he peers out from behind a tree trunk.

Attack: 1d20 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 4 + 1 = 13
Damage: 1d8 ⇒ 2

I moved Thod and I on the map. Feel free to edit, Thod; I took my best guess.


.

@Sevenspawn - reminder you get a -4 penalty for firing into melee combat without the precise shot feat.

GM Rolls:

Donnel Attack: 1d20 + 8 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 8 + 2 + 1 = 22 Damage: 2d6 + 4 ⇒ (5, 5) + 4 = 14

Donnell moves in a bit, aiming carefully and firing a bolt. Both his bolt and Raven Six's fly in unerringly and slam into the neck of the manticore. Although Thod's initial attack missed, he spins the polearm to reverse the momentum and slams it into the spine of the creature. It ceaseless roaring ends as it dies and joins the corpses of the horses and wagoneer.


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Preparing to gather with the rest for some communal healing, Sevenspawn takes a thorough look around the area to ensure that there are no further threats.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21

'Spawn will check out the remains of the dead to see if any could be saved, and otherwise make a Channeling roll to heal. Pushing the scene as instructed, but I don't want to take too many actions before everyone gathers.


NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

Thod exhales and walks back to the group.

"Well, that was a fun workout."


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"Yes. Most bracing," Raven Six agrees.
The Alchemist eyes the corpse and puts one hand on the hilt of her dagger.
"I do not suppose we have the time for me to perform a dissection, perhaps extract a few interesting bits for more thorough study....?"
The Alchemist strokes her dagger's pommel in an almost loving manner while she stares longingly at the dead manticore.


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Gathering with the group, Sevenspawn channels healing power from his deity.

Channel Energy: 2d6 ⇒ (4, 4) = 8

"Everbloom be praised," he mutters lowly before raising both his head and voice. "The are a most interesting creature," he agrees with Raven Six. "If you like, we can keep an eye out a moment while you get... whatever you may need. I would like to care for these people, too." He gestures to the slain humans. "Leaving them on the road like this... well. If Donnell, Thod and Trinia could keep watch, we can each do what we need do with the dead."


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Trinia whimpers a little as she extracts a spike but her pain is quickly abated by Sevenspawns healing. She favours him with a huge smile. "I've never met a creature quite like it. All I know are the tales."

She bites her bottom lip, thinking for a moment before speaking in verse.

"The deepest bowels of the land
In ancient times had given birt
To strange creatures passed into lore.
None more fearsome than the manticore!

With terrifying bugle blare,
The beast leaps from his forest'd lair
Trailing the pungent smell of decay
His piercing blue eyes hold his prey.

Tail whipping, flinging toxic darts
That poison blood and stop men's hearts.
He sees mankind's mulitidude
As a plentiful source of food.

As they stand their in soiled pants
The brute may give them one last chance.
A riddle answered from the beast
Saves them from the manticore's feast"

After finishing, she looks thoughtful. "Good thing the the spikes weren't poison I suppose."

You examine the wagon. The rider is half-eaten and beyond recognition and his horses have been savaged. The direction of the wagon indicates it was headed for, rather than away from Korvosa. Donnell starts ferreting through the goods on the wagon, and then stops, backing away rapidly.

"Those bags are full of shiver."

Indeed, the sacks of grain that were apparently being carried are a front. Hundreds of tiny glass vials, full of the notoriously addictive poison of the dream spider. There is probably a couple of thousand gold worth of shiver. Donnell keeps well away from the substance. Patting down the driver, who carried nothing of particular value, you find a small note.

Note wrote:
"P.W. - Glory to the Emperor of Old Korvosa"


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

The brooding cleric places a hand on Donnell's shoulder gently and speaks quietly. "Steady, my friend."

Glancing over the note, he searches his memory for an underworld name matching those initials.

Lore: Streetwise: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"Ah. Narcotics," Raven Six says after a casual glance at the shiver. "Bad business; good money. Thod? Would you please assist me? I would like to ask you to lop off the manticore's head."


.

Sevenspawn frowns, P.W. does not mean anything to him - but it could also mean password. "Emperor of Old Korvosa" also is not particularly meaningful - and that part of the city is Sevenspawn's part of the city.

Donnell's Knowledge Local: 1d20 + 9 + 1d6 ⇒ (18) + 9 + (4) = 31

Donnell, still looking a little shaken and upset by the large amount of drugs, pipes up. "There's a fellow in Old Korvosa I heard had been calling himself Emperor of Old Korvosa. He runs a ghastly theatre with bloody spectacles. Goes by Pilts."


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"I wonder whether there is a link to the Spider King. He owns dream spiders, and their venom is a key ingredient of shiver."


NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

Thod raises an eyebrow as Raven gets to work on cutting up the beast.

"You know, it's already dead, you don't need to make sure it's dead."

Quote:
"Thod? Would you please assist me? I would like to ask you to lop off the manticore's head."

"Thorough, aintcha'? Uh, sure, if you want..."

Thod alternates between his halberd and dagger, neither particularly suited for large scale dissection purposes.

Thod listens to Trinia's song, somewhat uncomprehendingly.

"No poison, no riddles, and this thing had dark green eyes. What kind of song is that?"

Thod lets the rest of the group debate on the Shiver. Sounds like more political hooey.


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"Oh, I am not ensuring its death; I am performing .... I am going to learn more about how a manticore works by disassembling and studying its component parts. The brain should be especially enlightening. I can't wait to get it back to the lab! Now please sever the head from the neck as cleanly as possible."


NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

*CHOP* *CHOP* *HACK* *STAB* *STAB*

"I don't think clean's gonna be possible here," Thod replies, sawing at a particularly tough tendon.


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

"It was a fine monologue," Sevenspawn says a little absently, his focus drifting between saying a prayer for the dead, the grim butchery taking place, and Donnell's well-being. "Even in death, the manticore is a strange and terrifying creature.

"We must burn it, of course," he says a moment later as he finishes and straightens up. "The cart, I mean. Its contents. Surely there is no discussion on this. Drugs plague our city as much as any beast."

The people clearly aside now, the cleric searches for and produces a torch and some fuel. "For now, we kill part of the body. Someday, we will take its head."

Preparing to light it, he pauses and turns to Donnell. "The act should be yours, friend Fox."

Sevenspawn offers his friend the torch.


.

Here, but no updates from me. If someone else agrees to burn we'll push on from here..


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Let's just say that either way it gets burned - either he did it or I did - and move on. J can decide when he comes back. Sound good?


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"A request," Raven Six says, looking up from the butchery of the manticore. "Let me secure, say, five vials. I might use them to devise an antidote, which might help victims recover."


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Ach, Phaedran, Sevenspawn thinks, ye st'pid. st'pid man, ye. He kicks himself mentally.

Seeing his companion's consternation, Sevenspawn nods with an understanding devoid of judgment. Hearing Raven Six's request, he turns to her, troubled.

"Hrrrrmm." He pauses, thinking. "Yes. Good. Be quick, if you please."

He moves off, seemingly watching the area for trouble.


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"Certainly," Raven Six says. She picks five vials - and oddly, she looks visibly repulsed by the shiver in a way she was not by steaming manticore innards.
"A good friend of mine got hooked on this filth. He died. Devising a solution that saves people from shiver would be a worthy thing to create," she says. "Now. Send the rest of this garbage to Hell."


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Sevenspawn waits until Raven Six gets what she needs from the manticore, and, when everyone is starting to travel again, doses the douses the wagon in oil and lights it with the torch. He does not look back as the party pushes onwards.


.

The group makes a merry, strangely-scented bonfire out of the dream spider poison that has tormented so many Korvosans. Trinia remains quiet as she watches the drugs go up, but seems pretty happy with the group's decision.

The remainder of your trip is remarkable and you make Trots in good time. It is a relatively unremarkable roadside inn with bland fare and mostly vermin-free accommodations. The moment Trinia walks in, a huge, barrel-chested man leaps from a table. "Little sister!" Trinia squeals with delight as she runs fro the man, and they both crush each other in a hug. He waves you over to a table in a corner, where you join Trinia and the man she quietly introduces as Jasan. The inn is almost completely empty.

"I assumed sister here would have an escort," he says congenially, being careful not to use her name. "M'names Jasan. Reckon we have a mutual friend. What's the word from Korvosa? Recognizing there's probably a few things you may not want to say. Don't get much news out in Harse. Last I heard the King was dead."


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"Pleased to make your acquaintance. I am Raven Six. Yes, he is still dead," the Alchemist replies.

And, after a brief pause: "He is succeeded by his wife, who appears to be ethically and morally compromised."


NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

"Also she's a damn self-centered b#*@* more concerned with making sure she looks good than running the city."


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

"Mmm." Sevenspawn agrees from the back of his throat at the dwarf's comment, nodding as he does so. He has been quieter than usual during the final leg to the inn, his mind on Donnell's recent state, the coming departure of their recent charge, and the affairs they are speaking of now. He has loosened up some now, resigned to all three.

"There were riots upon the king's death. They lasted longer than I expected, and were not pretty. I am glad to be away from there, if only for a short time. "


Male CG Halfling Investigator 10 | HP: 57/57 | AC: 22 (18 FF, 16 Tch) | CMB: 6, CMD: 21, FF: 17 | F: +8, R: +14, W: +11 | Init: +8 (+10 urban)| Perc: +15 | Locate Traps +20 | Disarm Traps +21 | Speed 20ft | Inspiration 9/9 | Harrow Points: 2 | +6 vs Poison, +2 vs Fear, +3 vs Traps | Active effects: Heightened Awareness (+2 Perc & Know); Resist Fire (20); Heroism (+2 attacks, saves, skills); Darkvision; Comp Lang; See Invis

In a desperate attempt to steady his nerves (and hands), Donnell invests in some of the hardest liquor available. After a few slugs, Donnell's natural bent to talkativeness and sarcasm are curbed, leaving a sullen, gloomy, waste of a man, prone to dire predictions and catastrophizing: "Hardly seems worth trying to fix anything in the city at all any more. Might as well just burn the whole thing to the ground and start over."


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Although one of his duties as a priest, Sevenspawn has never been very good at offering a caring ear or comforting words to those who gripe. Given what Donnell has experienced today and knowing his happier self will emerge soon enough, though, he wades through it well, deciding silence and nods of understanding are the best approach. At this comment, however, he speaks up quietly.

"I have heard before that what is necessary for evil to succeed is for the good to do nothing." He takes a drink and wipes his mouth with his sleeve without thinking, still a member of the lowest of classes despite having taught himself to speak above his station most of the time. His eyes look back into the tankard and he seems to speak more matter-of-factly about Fox's character than out of an attempt to flatter.

"Korvosa has brewed together the great fellow you are, my friend. It will not allow for you do nothing."


.

Back in business, and welcome b ack Donnell!

Jasan quirks an eyebrow at Donnell but knows better than to disturb a man deep in his cups, and lets the priest do his work. He looks to the others. "I heard tell about this Ileosa. That city's been a pot with the lid too tight and the fire too hot - something bad was gonna happen eventually. The Varisians and Shoanti who can afford to leave have been leaving - treatment has been getting rough. But most folk who aren't Chelish don't have much money, and so stay in their homes."

He takes a long draught of his ale. "Shame. So look, can't stay too long but you make sure to visit sister at some point." Trinia winks as Jasan carries on. "She'll be safe and out of harms way. And keep an eye for the small folk."

Trinia pipes up. "Trust me, these are the right people to do that." She turns to you. "You were put in an awkward position but did what.. nobody else would I think. You're good people and I'm scared what's going to happen to Korvosa. Keep doing what you do. Here - a present from me, I won't need them in Harst."

Trinia passes over a mithral dagger and her wand.

"Keep or sell, no mind to me. Whatever helps."

You are given a chance to say your goodbyes, and Trinia and Jasan are gone after just enough time for Donnell to get sullenly drunk.

Say your goodbyes and we'll push to the next day and your return unless you have other business.


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Sevenspawn wishes them safe travels and will look to find any sick or injured in need of his healing that night before bedding down. If there is any kind of market, he'll purchase some basic supplies and components to replenish the next day before setting off for Korvosa.


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Male CG Halfling Investigator 10 | HP: 57/57 | AC: 22 (18 FF, 16 Tch) | CMB: 6, CMD: 21, FF: 17 | F: +8, R: +14, W: +11 | Init: +8 (+10 urban)| Perc: +15 | Locate Traps +20 | Disarm Traps +21 | Speed 20ft | Inspiration 9/9 | Harrow Points: 2 | +6 vs Poison, +2 vs Fear, +3 vs Traps | Active effects: Heightened Awareness (+2 Perc & Know); Resist Fire (20); Heroism (+2 attacks, saves, skills); Darkvision; Comp Lang; See Invis

With visible effort, Donnell looks up to nod his head to Trinia:
"You're a good kid - try to stay out of trouble."

Returning his gaze to the table, he mutters darkly: "We might not be around to save you next time."

Donnell drinks slowly, but with purpose, until the numbness and fog has crept through every cove and inlet of his mind. Before bedding down, he ensures that water and Alchemist's Kindness are within reach - he'll need them in the morning.


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NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

Thod looks over as Donnell drinks himself into a stupor with a worried look.

"May wanna ease off there, Donnell. Drink to enjoy the good times more. Trying to drink away the bad times is just trouble. It's like my grandfather said. He said, uhh... 'Thod, if you're gonna drink, do it outside.' No, no, that was him yelling at me to stop throwing stones inside. What did he say again? Uh... 'Thod, a drunk dwarf is a...' something something..."

Thod struggles to remember the wisdom of the ages, forgetting his original attempt to give comfort to Donnell, as he enjoys his own sampling of the local brew.


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"Maybe, 'A drunken Dwarf can not be trusted'?" Raven suggests. "Let him sleep it off, whatever it is."


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==========
The following morning
==========

You settle in for your evening and Donnell goes to bed far drunker than he probably should, waking up with a terrific hangover. Some very basic provisions are available at Trots - mostly just hard tack as there's nothing close to a market at the wayside inn.

With your good deed done, you make your way back towards Korvosa, arriving there by late afternoon after a healthy walk. You are checked over by the Gray Maidens at the gate but don't receive any unusual attention, although as you go through, a story is on the lips of the entire city. As you pass through a particularly busy stress in midtown you overhear the following conversation:

"Did you hear about the pirate raiders the city turned away? Woke up just to see the ship sink!"

"Twas no priate raiders - that there was a ghost ship, turned away by Abadar's stern light! We've been blessed and saved I say."

"Why'd pirate raiders come for Korvosa ye daft fool? Ship sank, that's all we know. No word from the Queen though."


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Once privately unhappy at the thought of having to return to Korvosa, Sevenspawn now finds himself content at the sight of her familiar form: for all her corrupt leaders, criminals, rioters and monsters, she is home. Gossip like this among her masses is a sweet tune to his ears, however dour the news.

"Raiders or ghosts are turned away or sunk, and the only agreement is that the Queen is silent." He chews his lip as they walk. "In that I would read that whatever happened, she was probably behind it."


NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

"Think that's a bit paranoid, Seven. More likely she was more concerned with making sure her new dress looks good than dealing with threats to the city."

"Still, should probably try to figure out what happened. Unless Donnell wanted to build his backup lair back in the cemetary some more."


Male CG Halfling Investigator 10 | HP: 57/57 | AC: 22 (18 FF, 16 Tch) | CMB: 6, CMD: 21, FF: 17 | F: +8, R: +14, W: +11 | Init: +8 (+10 urban)| Perc: +15 | Locate Traps +20 | Disarm Traps +21 | Speed 20ft | Inspiration 9/9 | Harrow Points: 2 | +6 vs Poison, +2 vs Fear, +3 vs Traps | Active effects: Heightened Awareness (+2 Perc & Know); Resist Fire (20); Heroism (+2 attacks, saves, skills); Darkvision; Comp Lang; See Invis

Most of Donnell's sullenness appears to have burned off with the alcohol, and (thanks to the alchemist's kindness), he is surprisingly chipper on the walk back to Korvosa.

Thjodrorir "Thod" Six-Picks wrote:


"Unless Donnell wanted to build his backup lair back in the cemetary some more."

"I do want to secure that lair as best we can - in part, because I think the amount of time we'll be able to stay hidden at Zellara's is limited - but mostly because prime real estate like that won't stay empty for long, and some fool is likely to start burning those books to stay warm. Then again, if you all would prefer, I can see to it that the important items are boxed and moved to the house, and we can just forget about the cave."

"In either case, I propose we split up (at least into two groups) and try to find out what's going on. Sevenspawn and myself have our usual hangouts; Thod or Raven6 are welcome to come with me, or to explore on your own. I suggest we meet back at Zellara's in a few hours and consolidate our findings."

Now that Thod has put the thought in his head, Donnell will swing by the necromancer's hideout to see if it has remained empty (presumably this will require either a Perception or a Survival roll?) before heading dockside to find out what he can about pirate or ghost ships.

Diplomacy (Gather Info): 1d20 + 9 + 1d6 ⇒ (13) + 9 + (6) = 28


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"I would be content to help you secure the B-site for now," Raven Six says. "Any books we have not already transported should be secured. They may well be irreplaceable."


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

Sevenspawn announces he may need a few hours, as he intends to seek information from The Broken Crown - both about this ship and about what happened with Trinia while she was in the care of the Dead Kings, the latter of which troubles him more. He offers Thod accompany him should he not wish to travel with Donnell and Raven Six.


.

You can effectively choose to be in whatever locatino you want to respond to events or go your own way as we're in a bit of downtime.

==========
The Dead Warrens
==========

Obscurity is the best security as they say, and the Dead Warrens remain empty. Raven Six and Donnell get to the hard, basic work of clearing the place out and hauling books and the pieces of the alchemist's lab.

Let me know in specific what your plans are with the place.

==========
Questions Around the Docks
==========

Donnell heads to Old Korvosa and gets to the hard work of asking questions. It's easy enough to start picking through the gossip and figuring out exactly what happened. Although a few people insist it was pirates on the ship, he can dismiss that out of hand. What apparently happened is before midnight last night, a sinister-looking ship refused inspection as it sailed into the river. When it neared North Bridge and still failed to announce intentions, the watch fired upon it and destroyed it.

The 'ghost' rumours come about from how the guard who signaled and shouted at the ship received no response at all. Notably, the ship was lit by a single yellow light.

==========
The Dead Kings
==========

You return to the Dead Kings' headquarters to find repairs finishing up after the raid. According to the Right Hand Ysania, the gang had dispersed for a short while before returning back to establish the headquarters and get back to work. Things are starting - sort of - to return to normal. The Broken Crown is in his office, and you're brought in to meet with him.

Vallon, the Broken Crown is a mustachioed man of middling height with a direct, acerbic manner and a deep sense of integrity. He greets you as you enter.

"Left Hand. Devargo sure gave us a kick up t'rottens. Queen ain't after the Dead Kings though so we're back up on street. What news?"


NG Male Dwarven Barbarian 10 | HP 88/115 {118/145} | AC 21 (19 Rage, 12 Touch, 20 Flat-Footed) | CMB +14/+16, CMD 25/27 | Fort. +13/16, Ref. +6, Will +10/12 | Init. +2 | Perc. +15 | Speed 30ft | Rage: 19/25 | DR 2/- | Active conditions: N/A

Thod is content to help move books, as following Sevenspawn around as he talks with people is not something he'd particularly enjoy doing, nor be good at. At least lugging books is acceptable.

"I say we get what we can out of here, and then go to work trying to secure this place. Maybe brick up some of the side tunnels? Be a good hiding place if things really go to hell in Korvosa."


Female Android Alchemist 8/Rogue 2; Init +2; Darkvision 60 ft, Low-light vision, Perception +18; AC 21 (+2 Dex., +5 armour, +2 natural, +4 Shield); hp 26/70; Fort +8; Ref +11; Will +4

"We should map the place out before we brick up too many passages," Raven Six suggests while she ties a shawl around her hair, to keep the dust and cobwebs out of it while she works. "The time may come when we need to beat a hasty retreat."


Male CG Halfling Investigator 10 | HP: 57/57 | AC: 22 (18 FF, 16 Tch) | CMB: 6, CMD: 21, FF: 17 | F: +8, R: +14, W: +11 | Init: +8 (+10 urban)| Perc: +15 | Locate Traps +20 | Disarm Traps +21 | Speed 20ft | Inspiration 9/9 | Harrow Points: 2 | +6 vs Poison, +2 vs Fear, +3 vs Traps | Active effects: Heightened Awareness (+2 Perc & Know); Resist Fire (20); Heroism (+2 attacks, saves, skills); Darkvision; Comp Lang; See Invis

==========
The Dead Warrens
==========

Happy to have people around who appear to be as paranoid as he is, Donnell suggests that the best course might be to hire a discreet artisan (mason/carpenter? Unless this sort of thing falls within Thod's skills) to add a secure door to the main entrance. Then, as time permits, the group can clean up, explore, and further secure the place for future use. He'll also start to accumulate a small cache of small weapons, alchemical supplies, coin, and clothes in one or more of the secret passages.

==========
Questions Around the Docks
==========
"Has anyone made any attempt to inspect or salvage the ship since its sinking? How deep is the water near the North Bridge?" The subtext of course is can/should we look into this?

"Does a single lamp signify anything?" (Plague ship?)

Is this ship filled with undead that are going to creep along to the shore?!


Male CG Human Cleric 10 HP: 82/56 I AC: 22 (11 Tch, 21Fl) | CMB: 10, CMD: 20 | F: +8, R: +5, W: +11 | Init: +4 | Perc: +5 Speed 20ft | Channel 4/4 | Spells 6/6 6/6 5/5 4/4 4/4 3/3 |

"Beggin' y'kin tell me some, boss." Sevenspawn lowers his hood and enters, kissing the ring on the Crown's finger respectfully before clutching his old friend's shoulders warmly. He soon finds himself in a chair, leaning back opposite Vallon. "Bin out puttin' us in a light favourable to the Guard, reckon. Runnin' some... hard errands for 'em, like; good fer us, good fer the city folk." He digs in his pack and produces a small bag of gold, putting on the table absently. "Tribute, boss.

"One of the errands is 'round the bard. That's what I come parley fer, Crown." He shifts uncomfortably. "Spider King come 'round t'snatch 'er up, it means someone broke th' silence, like. The code, like. Got a talker. Need t' ken who." He looks at the bag, and pushes it across the table.

"Need t' ken why."

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16

Ha! "Vallon". Funny!


.

=============
Docks
=============

Donnell asks around on the docks but most people are just confused about the ship. Nobody knows much about it and the yellow light is as confusing to the people he speaks to as it is to him. Although people are curious, nobody has gone as far as to dive into the harbour to find the wreckage.

===========
Dead Warrens
===========

Using Thod's strong back you move what you can of the library out of the Warrens to Zellara's home for future perusal. It is only two bookshelves, but books are rare and valuable enough as is. Roughly two-thirds of the books are about the art of crafting different kinds of golems. Of interest there is a Numerian theoretical text on sentience in golemkind. Remaining books are almost exclusively about plagues and diseases. While leafing through the books, Donnell learns a question he did not have answered on the docks. A single yellow light is a warning - contagion.

============
The Dead Kings
============

The Broken Crown raises his eyebrows. "Been heard tale of tasks for the guard. That Cressida lady ain't done too bad by us. Guards aren't always guards. And yeh - don't know what Devargo's game is. We got no quarrel with him. But I get the impression that 'e sent the raid as a way to get even. My tell is that e's sore at you - something about bad information."

As you lean in and make clear your intention, the Broken Crown eyes you evenly. "I hear ya Sevenspawn. You know s'well as I that we don't choose our number lightly. Our safe house is safe and that break hurts our name around these parts. I'm talking to each our number, but if you've got idears to ferret someone out, I'm willing to hear them."


Male CG Halfling Investigator 10 | HP: 57/57 | AC: 22 (18 FF, 16 Tch) | CMB: 6, CMD: 21, FF: 17 | F: +8, R: +14, W: +11 | Init: +8 (+10 urban)| Perc: +15 | Locate Traps +20 | Disarm Traps +21 | Speed 20ft | Inspiration 9/9 | Harrow Points: 2 | +6 vs Poison, +2 vs Fear, +3 vs Traps | Active effects: Heightened Awareness (+2 Perc & Know); Resist Fire (20); Heroism (+2 attacks, saves, skills); Darkvision; Comp Lang; See Invis

"Ah hell!"

Coming downstairs with the book he's been reading, Donnell looks around Zellara's for the rest of the group to share the information he's learned at the docks and from his research.

"Isn't that bloody priest back yet? Listen, when he get here, let him ... ah, there you are, Sevenspawn. Right, in the morning, I'm going to see if I can get in touch with a friend at the Academae and ascertain if there's a way to divine what happened on that ship, at the very least where it came from. Depending on the disease, that ship might be better off just sitting at the bottom of the harbour, but it might also be creeping its way ashore (maybe literally, if there were undead or the like on board)."

"Hmm... SS, you might want to do the same with the church. Someone or all of us should be checking to see what, if any, flotsam has made it's way to shore."

Flipping the book over to read the spine, Donnell sighs deeply: "I'm not likely to get much sleep tonight, but I wish I knew what I should read first..."

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