Of Kings and Commoners - Kingmaker AP

Game Master RPGGGM

If he can indeed create castles so easily, I would wonder why he needs us. Perhaps I am overly cautious due to the politics back home that I had to deal with for a short time. However the thought that either we acquiesce to his... requests. Or become his enemies seems... worrisome at best. I would doubt such dilemmas as this would end after this one. That is to say, he would continue to use that threat against us. Fergus will take the time they are away from the group to cast detect magic and glance back around the room. His eyes turn clear and crystalline for but a split moment before returning to normal as the magic takes affect.

Naturally awaiting feedback from all as they are able, you will not be missed out

Zokon listens then answers the immediate responses

"No I did not enter into any marriage contract, except with Alia. I like the idea of giving Stroon the opportunity of Magister, you have the right of it Durgan. Fergus I would not attempt magic, he is a political animal and would be familiar with such magics. Also not my permission, the groups generally, unless we are time constrained."

Zokon considers for a second

"I think I will offer him a role as Magister of Avalon, with the requisite resources that the post would require for him to perform the role."

Zokon is awaiting Alia and Balzeros feedback, maybe Serena has more to say?

"It's a beautiful thing." Illthir remarks and leans in a little closer to inspect the instrument. While she'd love to hold it and play with it and poke it and prod it - she could never do so without permission. And now probably wasn't the time.

And Zokon passed by ...

With a smile she excused herself from the musician and hurried along.

---

"Hmm. I worry like Fergus about future demands. Perhaps not from Stroon - but other might try. What if word got out that one would simply need a deal with your father to secure a position at our court?" the skald shares her worries. "On the other hand - we hardly need more enemies."

"I wish we knew how much was bark and how much was bite. Feel ... Ambushed." she shudders a little.

"You did not seriously just suggest marrying both of us?", Alia asks of Zokon with a glare that is at least as deadly as that of the Stroon Mage.

As the others talk, she calms down just enough to respond to other open topics: "I agree with most of you - where possibly, we want to have Officials of our own choosing, people we can trust, people who share our vision. We know nothing of him. The only reason for him to get such a coveted position would be appeasement. If we do this, it will only be a short while before we have people lining up to bully their way into leadership positions."
Thinking a moment, she adds:"Plus as Magister he would run governmental bureaucracy except finance, and be in charge of education and promotion of knowledge. That is a powerful position that would allow him significant impact on the values and political structures in Avalon. I would rather see Eldiocesan, or Fergus in such a position. Anybody we know and trust."
As she listens to more arguments, she responds:"It is true that we may need to compromise in some way. I think there are three things we need to know: First - when was this marriage truly arranged and were you informed of it? Second, what does Stroon truly desire - if all he wants is some land and a noble title, he may settle for much less if it means his sister is free to marry someone else. Thirdly, what are the Brevoyan laws regarding Anulment of Marriages? Is "ratum sed non consummatum" an option? Are there callings for a ban and how are they handled? If I spoke up and claim that Zokon is betrothed to me as reason to disallow the marriage, what would happen next? Durgan, you are well versed in Brevoyan Law, what are our options here?"

"I trust Eldiocesan even less than I do Stroon. But Fergus would be a very good choice as Magister.
I do agree Alia, that if we can buy Stroon's support - or at least indifference - for a lower price then we should do so. Perhaps just a patch of land and noble title as you say.
I do not relish having to make a deal when not in a position of strength. I agree there is a risk in doing so. It would be better if we knew more about Stroon's abilities.
But if we don't make a deal... whereas before we could just walk away without Zokon's father's support, now we risk offending a powerful wizard. That is never good. Fortunately, such are few and far between, and I would not expect another to come knocking to try to shake us down. We are not wealthy marks."
And hopefully by the time we are, we'll be better able to counter such foes.

"Annulment happens after a marriage. To marry Pavetta and then immediately annul it would be even more of an insult. Or to interrupt the wedding with a reason why these two should not be wed. While technically legal, it would be an insult. As to the betrothal, I believe your contract should take precedence. Even though not in writing -" Durgan looks like he wants to say "I told you so" to Zokon " - a verbal contract is still a contract, and many of us witnessed it. Even if Zokon's father made the agreement earlier in time, I don't think it is legally binding on Zokon - perhaps in part because he is illegitimate. Zokon lacks the privileges of a lord, but also enjoys more freedom in his affairs."

Just making stuff up here - what does Durgan actually know? I think it would be cool if Zokon's bastard status provided him a loophole where his father cannot agree to binding contracts in his name. He will Take 10 for a 16 in Profession (Lawyer). Or an 18 if Knowledge (Religion) applies.

"Fundamentally, there is what the law allows, and there is what will avoid offending Stroon. Most of the nobility in Brevoy are not sticklers for the letter of the law. Their self-interest comes first. A binding contract carries some weight if only because breaking one's word hurts one's reputation and future deals."

could I take 10 for a 21 on know Nobility, specifically on Imeckus?

I believe friends we have reached an impasse of sorts, without more information we cannot plan accordingly. We can postulate all evening, however I would suggest deciding on a few plans of attack. First, we figure out when and how this marriage was arranged. If there is no way to annul the arrangement without angering Stroon. Then, we, or, you, Zokon, make an offer to him. First of a minor title or the like his reaction will tell you much. If he angers, we know he desires something more than a title. You could risk rousing his anger further by offering him the court position. A risk you should take in my opinion.

Honestly, I feel this is a risk you would have to take. Information is powerful, you will need to be able to push people, lest you be pushed.

If, once again he seems angered then we know he seeks something much greater than that. Something that would likely pose a danger to us. It is a risk yes, depending on how powerful he truly is and how easily angered he is. yet, I think it is the best option. Start low, and give ground slowly, just like haggling among merchants. We will know what we can get away with when he is not angered by a suggestion. We...you cannot show fear merely because he threatens his wrath. If you are not the greatest at reading people, perhaps take along one among us who is. Certainly not I, I am well spoken, but without magic I could not tell you what someone was thinking even if it was written on their face. We must look at this as haggling between merchants. At the moment we are on the back foot. But perhaps if we glean more information we can use that to our advantage.

"Getting this all straight, you support me using my political power to reject the marriage, as it is arranged by my father who has no power over the ruler of a nation. But we should see if we can assuage Stroon by offering him a role, where he will be productive."

He gathers his thoughts.

"I think I shall be straight up with Stroon and advise him that the marriage will not happen, but we can make an accomodation. This all could be for nothing if Lord Gurev steps in. I could defy him I suppose as it is Restov that is supporting the founding of our nation, but they'll hopefully bow to the carrot that is good relations with the neww nation." What do you think?

"Lord Gurev seems a rational man who, I think, would not want one of the powerful wizards of his realm angry at one of his vassal lords.
I hope he can broker a peace. Maybe talk to him first and outline this plan you have just spoken of? I would suggest bringing Illthir with you.
You could defy Gurev as well if he proves obstinate, but as you say he may see the profit to be gained by helping you."

"As long as none tries to marry me away!" the skald jokes, while her desire to see the cart wreck up close battled her wish to not be in said wreck. Be brave! she told herself. Surely a wrathful mage would wait a little with trying to turn them all into newts.

"I think this is a family matter, I will try and handle it, thankyou all for your input."

Zokon walks back to his father

"So we can offer Stroon a role in our new kingdom and Alia is Consort not co-ruler or wife, she will not be ruler after me. Marrying Pavetta is out, we have a biding arrangement in place and as a new ruler I must have my people backing me. The Stroons are welcome to join us."

"How interesting! Making music has never suited me, I've always had to settle for the birds," Balzeros admits. "So, what is it you do here?" he asks Naughleck

"You make birds?" says Lyre looking quizzically at Balzeros. "I am Lord Medvyed's Weapon's Master."

would a know. nobility possible shed some further insight on Stroon and his current predicaments? specifically to recall anything Fergus has heard about a Stroon, either within the "magical community" or the political one.

Knowledge (nobility) would give a person knowledge of the family as a whole and some insight into their position within Brevic society. Knowledge (local or arcana) would give you some knowledge about the man himself. Some folks may have already made these rolls previously in the encounter (local lads Zokon and Durgan get a +2). Fergus knows what Zokon knows about Imeckus (see link above). As for magic in the room there is the usual smattering of low-level magic auras found in noble circles most are probably attached to weapons, light armor, charms, potions, and minor wondrous items that magical laymen can use.

"I think this is a family matter, I will try and handle it, thankyou all for your input."

Zokon walks back to his father

"So we can offer Stroon a role in our new kingdom and Alia is Consort not co-ruler or wife, she will not be ruler after me. Marrying Pavetta is out, we have a biding arrangement in place and as a new ruler I must have my people backing me. The Stroons are welcome to join us."

Tengar is back inside the sitting room with Medvyed and Stroon, currently the door is shut. If there are any last minute actions now is everyone's chance.

Zokon will await any inspiration from his companions and then knocks on the doors and makes his statement to his father.

Zokon walks back to his father

"So we can offer Stroon a role in our new kingdom and Alia is Consort not co-ruler or wife, she will not be ruler after me. Marrying Pavetta is out, we have a biding arrangement in place and as a new ruler I must have my people backing me. The Stroons are welcome to join us."

Hearing Zokon's declaration that it is a family matter and he will handle it, Durgan nods and steps aside.

He offers a silent prayer to Abadar for fruitful and mutually beneficial negotiations.

"Oh, no I don't make birds, just in the woods they're really the only source of music. And the plants too, but it is awfully boring and what passes for rhythm to an Oak tree is jus- your face says you don't care, ok then, Weapon's Master! That explains the little tussle you had with Zokon! Ever the teacher, right?" Balzeros clumsily delivers. I'm an embarrassment. I'll speak to Durgan for pointers, not at all like speaking to farmers.
________
No advice here, Balzeros sees himself as part of the group, but not yet someone who gets to have a say in such important things. Especially when past agreements are involved!

Zokon will await any inspiration from his companions and then knocks on the doors and makes his statement to his father.

Zokon's father opens the door. Near the back of sitting room the other two lords stop speaking and look grimly at Zokon. Tengar takes Zokon's gently urges outside, pulling the door all but closed behind him.

"Well?"

"So we can offer Stroon a role in our new kingdom and Alia is Consort not co-ruler or wife, she will not be ruler after me. Marrying Pavetta is out, we have a biding arrangement in place and as a new ruler I must have my people backing me. The Stroons are welcome to join us."

Upon hearing this Zokon's father looks at his son wild with undisguised panic. "You said you were going to come up with something!"

"Santyev?" calls the House Lord coming to the partially closed door. Tengar, his hand still on the handle looks ready to slam it and run.

Zokon stoicly replies

"It is a solution, Stroon can have a role where he will be able to gain power and fortune, if he performs his role well and helps out our new nation."

Defeated Tengar looks at the stone floor. "Alright. Let's give it a go."

He forces a smile to his lips, turns, and opens the door for Zokon. The wizard, and Lord Medvyed await looking stern.

Imeckus and Lord Medvyed listen to Zokon's proposal, the house lord looking nervous but hopeful, whereas the wizard looks stony.

When Zokon finishes Imeckus says: "And such is the apology of a base bastard." His eyes move over to Tengar. "This is not over, Santyev."

Then in flash of violet light that causes Medved to hop away, Imeckus Stroon vanishes from the room. He reappears through a similar flash in the great hall to the surprise of everyone.

"Come Pavetta. We are leaving." he says grimly.

Confused, Lady Stroon nonetheless gathers Jewel, and complies, taking her brother's hand. With a word and a gesture from Imeckus they vanish in clap of thunder that echoes through the hall, and puff of charcoal smoke. It as if they had been smote by unseen lightning.

{Glowers at Tengar.}

{Looks horrified.}

{Looks on amazed!}

{Ditto!}

Ditzy glares daggers at the dog before it disappears, along with its master. She gives a small, quick nod of her head before scurrying back over to Fergus.

They have fled! Victory! She thinks before snuggling down in Fergus's cloak for a nap.

Take 10 on spellcraft as I'm not in immediate danger? yields a 23

Fergus's eyebrows raise slightly when Imeckus teleports away.

Interesting... very interesting. Truly, someone to make precautions for. I wonder...

he leans to the others. Teleportation magic, indeed, it is true he is an accomplished mage. I've never gotten close to such magic as yet. And I would wager an intimidation attempt.

One that likely is mildly successful, But also, one that gives information.

As the Wizard leaves with his sister, Alia suddenly worries.
She rushes to the door Zokon entered a short while ago and opens it.
Ignoring Zokons Father, she closes the door behind her and moves to Zokon and Lord Medyed, more to make sure nothing happened to Zokon than for any other reason: "The Stroons have departed via Teleportation Magic. I am glad to find you well - I worried for your safety, for a moment."
She curtsies to Lord Medyed: "Pardon my intrusion, milord. Lord Imeckus made it clear your meeting had adjourned - and I had hoped you might also have questions for me, considering the situation we find ourselves in."

And now we have a powerful wizard angry at us... was likely to happen, but I hoped it could be avoided with some tact and charm.

Durgan doesn't try to follow Alia.

He does look over at Illthir.
"I don't think negotiations went so well. Zokon can be... ah... direct."

Zokon waits for Alia to finish and stands beside her

"This is Alia, who is to be my consort when I step up to take control of New Avalon as it's ruling Duke, I hope to have your backing in what shall be a mutually profitable venture."

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14

Illthir looks a bit confused as the mage pops in and out of reality. She half expected the stench of brimstone to accompany him. But no. Would've been a great story though ... The skald made a mental note to try and slip that rumor into the general population if she could.

"Oh. Yeah." She nodded and replied to Durgan with a pained smile. "Doesn't make him wrong though.." We'll have to try and stop people from springing these things on him!

Durgan thinks. "Not wrong in his position, no.
But he may have erred in trying to handle this on his own. You'd have been an asset."

The dwarf sighs and sips his ale. "I know Zokon was never expecting to have to handle negotiations and affairs of state, and he has now been thrust into that role. He's learning, but that takes time. I feel badly for him."

"Still, I don't think his error was overconfidence. I think Zokon wanted to go alone to protect us from Imeckus's wrath. Imeckus was already angry at him, and any of us trying to sell a deal to the wizard might have also incurred his anger if we had failed.
Well, what's done is done. Perhaps Lord Medvyed has some ideas."

The rest of the evening passes in fashion of an overcast afternoon. There are attempts at frivolity and laughter, but they seem forced. Even the traveling players struggle to cope.

Warm, hearty mountain food is piled high on platters before the assembly but it seems to go down tepidly, now that word has spread of Stroon's displeasure.

What are folks doing?

Didn't they have a great wedding feast arranged? There's still a groom and a bride. Seems like a waste to let it all go to waste...just because one of the fairies got pissed and made a bad wish.

"This really isn't my thing, but would it be better if we stayed or left?" Balzeros asks, sticking by Illthir's side. "It feels like we're overstaying our welcome though... Now doesn't really seem like the time to push our own agenda either."

Gather Information: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

Illthir will try and poke around a bit for rumours of the wicked wizard that so rudely ruined the party. Without trying to make it too obvious that she was part of the other party he surely would want to ruin!

---

"I'm not sure that many cares about *us*. But yeah, no need to linger after the dinner I think." Illthir frowns.

What has happened to Zokons father? He presented Alia to Lord Gurev and his Father.

Aye, their reaction does seem kinda important. I mean, Stroon is out of the picture for now, but are they willing to back Zokon regardless? Do they accept his decision/me? Or basically unwilling to consider and just funneling us back to the main hall and wishing not to talk about it?

"I think that we should take our leave. There is little more that we can do here that will not worsen the situation." Serena observes sagely.

"I fear you are right Serena ..." Illthir mumbles as she longingly eyes the party. A muted somber party, but still a party!

Illthir will try and poke around a bit for rumours of the wicked wizard that so rudely ruined the party. Without trying to make it too obvious that she was part of the other party he surely would want to ruin!

---

"I'm not sure that many cares about *us*. But yeah, no need to linger after the dinner I think." Illthir frowns.

I'll give Illthir a moment to take in the spoiler, then we will move to the exits.

Illthir will share her findings with the party - maybe they could try and spin it?

Sorry, no headspace for real post. Just putting it up there in case someone was hesitant about peeking at the spoiler :)

"Stroon was playing the game the way it is most commonly played in Brevoy.
He did not try to enchant the minds of Lord Medvyed or Tengar Santyev. Or have them replaced with magical copies.
He arranged a marriage for his sister to advance his power and status. That is hardly unusual in Brevoy.
He played the game the way it is played, and he will not be the last to do so that we encounter.
But that way did not get him what he wanted. I do not know what he will do next. He may resort to more arcane options."

"I think we may as well just move on. I don't have any ideas about what else to do here."

"Forget him for now and keep him in the pocket as a potential problem, getting some sort of revenge on us at the moment will do him little good and potentially make an enemy of Restov for him."

Zokon move up to Alia and puts a hand on her shoulder

"I am thinking we should hold the marriage soon, I would hate to see this scene repeated at Restov."

Alia is somewhat shaken at the situation, the hostility and open rejection. It was a stark contrast to how things had been at their previous stop. Moving closer to Zokon, she turns his extended hand into an embrace and rests her head against his shoulder.
"Yes...", she swallows, taking a deep breath and trying not to cry at the absurdity of it all, then adds with a low voice: "Maybe in your mother's village? We seemed welcome there."
Thinking of her own relatives, she adds with the same thin tone:"I doubt we'll find someplace where people are more friendly and accepting of us than there."

Fergus chuckles despite himself.
The problem with being a noble, as ever, is expectations, and "duty".

Well, hopefully the kingdom we build will be rather accepting of us all. Or did you mean at this exact moment. He gives a small wink.

he leans in closer to the group as many stare, and whispers.
Well, if the lords are to afeared of our teleporting friend, there is little we can do. To ally with us would likely be seen as an insult by Stroon, and cement them picking a side that is not his. You would need a way to guarantee their safety, the success of our endeavor, and that we would be more profitable allies than a powerful wizard. All at once. Which is quite the feat in my opinion. I plan to do some reading up on this Stroon and his family once I have access to better records. Knowledge is power after all. Zokon, does your family have access to accurate records? Perhaps we could purchase the use of them? Their may yet be an amiable way to end all of this, but that would certainly require profuse apologies.

I wonder if Restov has records on him. At this time, we know little of this man, and I'm sure he will know much of us, at least, of them, soon.

While the others plan their next course of action, Balzeros works up his courage and tries to mend some of the public's opinion.

Fortifying his courage by downing a glass of wine and walking around with another, he finds people nearby and tries to explain some of the context.

"Zokon was already promised to another before all this!"

"Wizards come and go, I'm sure something else will catch his eye soon and he'll find another region to call home!"

"Surely there is more to be gained through an ally in a budding country than whatever is happening here, no?"
________
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29
Balzeros will keep trying to sway opinions until someone's relieved him of his liquid courage and shows him the door :P

Zokon appreciates the groups efforts he will try and find his father to have a last chat

he leans in closer to the group as many stare, and whispers.

Well, if the lords are to afeared of our teleporting friend, there is little we can do. To ally with us would likely be seen as an insult by Stroon, and cement them picking a side that is not his. You would need a way to guarantee their safety, the success of our endeavor, and that we would be more profitable allies than a powerful wizard. All at once. Which is quite the feat in my opinion. I plan to do some reading up on this Stroon and his family once I have access to better records. Knowledge is power after all. Zokon, does your family have access to accurate records? Perhaps we could purchase the use of them? Their may yet be an amiable way to end all of this, but that would certainly require profuse apologies.

I wonder if Restov has records on him. At this time, we know little of this man, and I'm sure he will know much of us, at least, of them, soon.

I'm not sure Zokon would really know much about Stoneclimb's archives.

While the others plan their next course of action, Balzeros works up his courage and tries to mend some of the public's opinion.

Fortifying his courage by downing a glass of wine and walking around with another, he finds people nearby and tries to explain some of the context.

"Zokon was already promised to another before all this!"

"Wizards come and go, I'm sure something else will catch his eye soon and he'll find another region to call home!"

"Surely there is more to be gained through an ally in a budding country than whatever is happening here, no?"

"You don't say...."

Durgan can move up to Alia and start healing, but I don't want to stop tracking rounds - if negotiations break down and we go back to fighting, there's a timer on Durgan's defensive spells.

I'm willing to take Hotspur's offer. Not because I believe him, but because we can get Alia healed and not fight the Company.

Something else that Scarlet might also consider, negotiations with the Company might hinge in part upon the condition of the fallen dwarves. While they are mercenaries, and therefore pragmatic, they are also dwarves, and if there is one thing dwarves do well besides being short, it's holding on to grudges.

Scarlet doesn't know that yet. And they swung first, anyway. AFTER we took care of the big elemental.

... Also, Durgan can gather them and channel.

Scarlet hasn't thought of any of this, she's much too impulsive.

Serena can use Stabilize on the ones we dropped by the stairs. It hasn't been that long and we didn't send them that far negative.

Durgan will move to channel to heal Alia, if Beetle will let him pass.

I am pretty certain this is a trick by Hotspur to buy time until Durgan's defensive spells end. Not sure what to do about it.

Well, you also pointed an estoc in his face after trying to jump on his Superhorse.

Now, where's that medic?

You make both of that sound negative.

Then again, I am out cold and down, so maybe my calculations were off. Thanks for fetching the medic in a non starship-troopers-way.

You make both of that sound negative.

In my book, both are factors that should have helped convince him :)
Gunboat Diplomacy is a thing, is it not?

Yes, but in Pathfinder we call it Intimidate. :)

I certainly would have given you a circumstance bonus there were I the GM. But you never bothered to roll, which may be why he never even responded. Of course, had he agreed, would the dwarves have actually honored a transfer of their contract at the point of a blade? Since they had an obligation to protect Lord Hotspur from such a thing? I probably wouldn't in their shoes.

That was a pretty good Diplomacy check I made... not amazing, but good. And I offered reasonable ideas as to why it was in his own interest to give up the contract, including offering to pay him for the money he already had spent. So he saves face and keeps his money.

I do think something is up because not long ago he was desperate to get away. I don't know what has changed, but something must have.

I suspect the elemental was summoned via an elemental gem. Pretty expensive way of calling for help. Maybe there was more to it than just calling for the Lord-Mayor?

*If* I were a wee bit paranoid - are we sure that's Hotspur?

Someone in here lit the beacon.

That someone has magic.

We couldn't see Hotspur anytime during the elemental battle.

Now, purely hypothetically of course, if I wanted someone out of the picture and had access to fancy magic I wouldn't light a signal fire on the off chance that it attracted some nearby soldiers that probably wouldn't get here in time anyhow.

I would use my fancy magic to take that person out of the picture. Preferably while all his friends/guards were distracted by something bright and shiny.

Now I'm not sure if these last actions fit that narrative or not (why didn't he just slip away?).

But if not there's still an unknown mage capable of summoning a pile of elementals running around somewhere!

(Unless of course this is all part of "Miles" introduction [a scroll maybe?] and I missed that by not having read the last 6 or so gameplay posts :P)

So yeah; basically agree with the last two paragraphs of Numalar : )

It was meant sarcastic :)
That, and I feel not everything must be settled in rolls. If your enemy is bleeding, disarmed, and prone in front of you, one strike away from death, he is unlikely to refuse an offer to yield/surrender on the basis that you never trained to be socially intimidating. That, and most 'social rolls' including said intimidate take a minute...time not available at that moment with reinforcements coming to relieve him - all I could have done would have been to shaken him up a bit(demoralize), forfeiting my attack attempt to do so.

But more specifically: I meant to point out that something is up. As in, even if he would agree, it would probably come attached with something fishy. Hence why not to get your hopes up - the roll was decent enough, but I don't trust him based on previous interactions.

As for wether the Dwarfs would honor it? Maybe, maybe not. Same thing as now. Even if he formally transfers the deed to you(or would have done so for me), he's footing the bill. Which is what most mercenaries care for. So if, say, he changed his mind at some point, pointing out that payment depends on him, I'm not sure if they would be utterly loyal to their new 'contractor'.

And all THAT said, I would tend towards ending hostilities for Scarlets sake...those are her friends and family. Thats as a player, of course. In-character, depending on what happened to my estoc, I might well attempt to murder someone.

*If* I were a wee bit paranoid - are we sure that's Hotspur?

Someone in here lit the beacon.

That someone has magic.

We couldn't see Hotspur anytime during the elemental battle.

Now, purely hypothetically of course, if I wanted someone out of the picture and had access to fancy magic I wouldn't light a signal fire on the off chance that it attracted some nearby soldiers that probably wouldn't get here in time anyhow.

I would use my fancy magic to take that person out of the picture. Preferably while all his friends/guards were distracted by something bright and shiny.

Now I'm not sure if these last actions fit that narrative or not (why didn't he just slip away?).

But if not there's still an unknown mage capable of summoning a pile of elementals running around somewhere!

(Unless of course this is all part of "Miles" introduction [a scroll maybe?] and I missed that by not having read the last 6 or so gameplay posts :P)

I don't know, I think Illthir is all wet. ;)

Well, it sounds like we agree, but we don't have a simple way of figuring out who he is, if he is not what he seems. All I have is detect magic and some skill checks. +2 Sense Motive, +9 Perception. +6 Will if I can "interact" with an illusion.

If he turns out that the guy is not Hotspur that might invalidate the contract in the eyes of the dwarves.

Either way, for sure we don't want to fight them if we don't have to.

So those of you that do magic and have had thoughts along the lines of the Horspur maybe a magical impersonator should say something.

So plan? No plan? Any random actions? Moving on tomorrow-ish.

Excellent - I'll have the peace of mind to do more then paranoid speculation this evening I think : )

@Paranoid Speculation - I'm mostly mentioning this here because it's something I as a player worry about, Illthir not so much. But maybe I'll find a good way to sneak it in somehow.

I voted to take the offer. Everyone else seems to be in the "take the offer but get ready for a backstab."

I mean, it's possible as Numalar suggests that one of the Lord-Mayor's agents has subdued Hotspur, tied him up as the large bundle on the back of the horse, and is now impersonating him.

Durgan would probably have no way of ascertaining this other than a Perception or Sense Motive; he doesn't have Spellcraft or Knowledge (Arcana) and so doesn't keep Detect Magic prepared.

Illthir is currently enjoying her bath, otherwise she might be able to help out with Sense Motive at least.

On the topic though I looked over what we do know about this whole mess. Maybe this is another piece?

Illthir is currently enjoying her bath, otherwise she might be able to help out with Sense Motive at least.

The alligators look hungry.

No worries. Fates of nations.

Yes Hotspur did not have his guards with him

On the topic though I looked over what we do know about this whole mess. Maybe this is another piece?

In a similar vein, there's also a spoiler for Alia here. No idea what that is about.

Illthir Winlowe wrote:

On the topic though I looked over what we do know about this whole mess. Maybe this is another piece?

In a similar vein, there's also a spoiler for Alia here. No idea what that is about.

Oh, that one is a class feature from Level 3 knocking and saying it's ready soon! Indeed an Alia-spoiler, not directly related to other aspects.

Now if people could make sure those Dwarves don't take off with my precious blade, that would be awesome.

@Covering up Casting: There's this and then this if you want to commit to the ability.

It has been a very busy week, much of which was spent with my parents whom I was visiting. I have a con this weekend, and I have some family business to take care of next week. I may be a few more days between posts, but don't worry. When I get everything straightened out, I'll be back on the action bandwagon. In the meantime, sit tight, or if I am in your game, please bot me as necessary.

Also, just to point that out...they have a WELL that goes into the catacombs. As in, they store their dead in the place they draw their water from.
That's the opposite of healthy.

If we get any food or drink in the place, we should make sure to purify it all :P

Don't worry, the catacombs is downstream from the river - it washes the yucky stuff away!

Getting a night's rest before we climb down there may be a good idea. The spellcasters are probably spent.

Aye. It may be. But you know I'd not sleep anyway and spend every waking moment plotting your brothers demise, and that could kind of negatively impact our relationship - regardless of the outcome.

And Vega is back at Olegs, so I can't even tie him to a Stick and swing him at Enemies. So how about I go down there, pick up my Estoc, cuddle with it, avoid opening any doors, and wait for the cavalry tomorrow? :/

At least there's a minor chance that the area that provides drinking water is physically cut off from any roaming undead or other monstrosities that could try and climb up the well at night.

Durgan's Barkskin spell will still last quite a while. And he's capable enough without his spells. But I can wait until tomorrow if you all think it best.

Guys: I've been having internet connectivity issues the last few days. My connection has been going out for long periods. I'm hoping that the problem is over but I can't say for sure.

I'm going to try and get caught up but since my window for posting may be limited I will handle threads that require short posts first.

I think we have some juice left; might be worth it to throw down a rope and check it out before someone scurries away with it too far. And if things look like they might not be that easy we might at least get a hint at what we should prepare for!

Update: My wife's elderly aunt has been moved into a care facility. My wife and I are tasked with clearing out her room of all her belongings and finding a place to store them. We have about 10 days to do this, and we have our own affairs to worry about as well. To complicate things, she has lost several savings bonds and other important papers (like her will) in her room, so we can't just go in and bulldoze the place. We have to look for the papers as we pack. It's slow going and very tedious, so until we get the room vacated, my posting will be limited, but I will try to keep pace as much as possible.

Happy 'merica Thanksgiving everyone! Or as we sometimes call it in the States Black Friday Eve. It's the day we bulk up on calories so that we have mass enough to body slam rivals on their way to a door-buster item! It has something to do with 'merican football I think....

Happy pre Christmas to you too!

Ah, right. I almost forgot, tomorrow is that "Purge" thing in US, right?
Or is that just how TV makes it look?
Oh well, be careful tackling around, we have great need of you!

Busy holidays! I should be back to manic posting in 24 hours.

Numalar's wi-fi is still out as far as I can tell.

Oh, I love my blade, but seriously, do come back, Posh.

You are nowhere at a Level high enough to solo Dark Yojimbo - plus Zanmatou is a Death Effect and your Fortitude is pretty crap.

Maybe you can just pay him enough to leave Posh alone.

It sounds like there's another dungeon for us to go through before we find the Stag Lord.

Oh, I love my blade, but seriously, do come back, Posh.

You are nowhere at a Level high enough to solo Dark Yojimbo - plus Zanmatou is a Death Effect and your Fortitude is pretty crap.

I have no idea what you just said.

However, I am totally down with doing another dungeon. Would like to be level 5 before we go fight the Stag Lord - especially now that I used up my scroll of Invisibility Purge.

Aye.
It would seem we don't really have a different choice. Direct retrieval seems too risky.

Scarlet, no offense, but I will violently murder your brother if I ever get the chance. I'll chip in for the Raise Dead afterwards but...instead of getting my L3 class feature, half of my stuff will be offline for this Dungeon - no Spellcombat, no Spellstrike, no spontaneous casting (plus, of course, the drawback penalty).
So, I'm sorry, but I'll be baggage. With Durgan and Serena able to Frontline, I'll probably stick to my composite bow or spells.

So, I'm sorry, but I'll be baggage. With Durgan and Serena able to Frontline, I'll probably stick to my composite bow or spells.

Not with you and Durgan the size you both still are.

*Ffffooomp!* ~ the sound of a cork settling into a vacuum seal.

Durgan's potion only lasts 1 minute. It will wear off soon if it hasn't already.

Scarlet, no offense, but I will violently murder your brother if I ever get the chance.

instead of getting my L3 class feature, half of my stuff will be offline for this Dungeon - no Spellcombat, no Spellstrike, no spontaneous casting (plus, of course, the drawback penalty).
So, I'm sorry, but I'll be baggage. With Durgan and Serena able to Frontline, I'll probably stick to my composite bow or spells.

Bah you Blackblade Magi are too attached to your precious blades!

Actually, thats more because I have Soulforger - and my bonded Object is my black blade. Now, drawbacks are there to have an effect, otherwise they are pointless...but I think after that dungeon, I paid my dues for a long while :)

I thought we had learned our lesson about stuff stuffing our soul and/or power into magical trinkets by now :P

But a dungeon sounds nice. Somewhere we can hit people on the head without causing a political and/or family crisis! Well hopefully none we care about at least ...

Quick! Loot all of the family tomes!

Your family doesn't have any tomes, just siege engines.

Still things could be worse, You could sinking in an out of control dead whale in the middle of a hostile Chelish naval blockade while necromantic aberrations and mercenaries are trying to kill you. I mean it could happen, right?

Actually, thats more because I have Soulforger - and my bonded Object is my black blade. Now, drawbacks are there to have an effect, otherwise they are pointless...but I think after that dungeon, I paid my dues for a long while :)

Posh is just the interest payment. ;)

Still things could be worse, You could sinking in an out of control dead whale in the middle of a hostile Chelish naval blockade while necromantic aberrations and mercenaries are trying to kill you. I mean it could happen, right?

It could happen. You never know!

*Nervous collar tug*

Alia of the Blade wrote:

Actually, thats more because I have Soulforger - and my bonded Object is my black blade. Now, drawbacks are there to have an effect, otherwise they are pointless...but I think after that dungeon, I paid my dues for a long while :)

Posh is just the interest payment. ;)

Though he did decide to go down for good intentions he does hope for a reward of somekind or at least some brownie points. ;)

So while Posh is being eaten like a brownie, what do folks think of Pathfinder 2.0 thusfar bearing in mind of course that what we have seen so far is still just the Playtest version? Anyone actually playing along with the test?