Oykiv´s Frozen Fingers of Midnight subtier 4-5 (Inactive)

Game Master Oykiv

Rika grunts noncommittally, grabbing the two dead men by their collars and dragging them into the foyer of the manor house. As the Ulfen pathfinder speaks, she combs through the possessions of the group's victims. Once satisfied, she turns around to gauge the Pathfinder and his manservant.

Perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16

"Maybe is not cure we find inside, but inside we go to put back what missing. Where is Ulfen Bengeirr? He know something. Or have something. Rika show him what death by woman really like" she comments acerbically, prompting Pratts to discreetly shift away in fear.

Ghaenk beams with a smile as he listens to Rika address Skelg. Damn! I'm really starting to like her accent...

"Well, you won't have to worry about Bengeirr's guards... any ideas where we might find him or the theives? Did they say anything about their plan?"

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20

"It sounds like we will be traveling into this tapestry at some point. I have heard the society has a similar tapestry called the Hao Jin Tapestry, which hangings in vaults of Absalom."

Nightfiend glances over to his demonic looking escort, then gestures for the beast to assist Rika with the bodies.

"If we are intending to travel into this dimensional space, I suggest we prepare for a cold climate as well as icey footing."

Nightfiend turns his attention to Skelg. "Do you have any idea on how we can gain entrance into the tapestry? I'm thinking the missing lantern that would otherwise be hanging on the ships empty lantern hook would be one way. That's assuming we had access to the lantern and can figure out how the device works."

(When given the opportunity, Nightfiend will pick up a wand of endure elements (750 GP) and a wand of infernal healing (-2PP). I am assuming, being in a larger city, availability shouldn't be a problem.)

Vortex latches onto one of the Ulfen bodies and begins dragging the dead man into the manor. After completing the task, the beast begins starring at the raptor while drooling on the manor's floor.

The cold again. (sigh) Why can't it ever be somplace civilised?

When Malaika starts casting a spell Tiros tell him, Do you think some magic will help him? Lord Skelg hadn´t sent a letter to Aldir if an easy magic trik will help him.

Despite Tyros unbelieving, Malaika finds there´s an overwhelming conjuration aura inside Skelg. You have never found an aura more potent than this.

Oh yes, the tapestry, says Tyros, it was a meadow scene with shepherd and flock before the lantern shown on it. Lord Skelg asked a servants to bring it here to see if there´s anyway to open the portal again. But nothing had happened yet.

I can give you a description of him, if it helps you to lacate him, but I don`t know where he is.

Having finished your bussiness in Skelg's manor, you traipse through Absalom streets asking about Ulfen visitors.

diplomacy to gather info: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24

I found out from the Harbor Master that some northlanders have rented a warehouse from Tullo Baltias. We should check it out unless any one else has better info.

"Who is Haldyr? You explain" states Rika, unperturbed by the planar creature's disposition towards her raptor.

Once in the streets, the hunter attempts to aid whoever else tries to gather some information on their prime suspects.

Diplomacy Aid: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (17) - 1 = 16

know. local: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18

Diplomacy (Aid): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Nightfiend takes care to have Vortex stay in the shadows during times when the group interacts with the locals.

I'm assumming the diplomacy aids gave us the last spoiler and that info was shared with the group.

"Let's find that warehouse, but I'd suggest checking out The Rosy Fingers tavern first. Perhaps we can get some information from the proprietor about any new Ulfens frequenting his establishment. That may prove useful before we enterthe warehouse... or perhaps we may even find them there."

Diplomacy(Gather Info from The Rosy Finger): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10

Nightfiend nods in agreement with Ghaenk and then begins following the sorcerer to the Rosy Fingers.

Diplomacy (Gather Info): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17

Map updated

The street is busy, with several taverns among the warehouses. Most of the warehouses have sentries in front of them, and the ships at the docks are similarly guarded.

As you head to The Rosy Fingers Tavern you see a northlander warrior with an axe resting in his lap sits on a small pile of crates across from a warehouse, obviously keeping watch on the main door.

The warehouse is built right on the docks, part of it extending over the water. The building is thirty feet tall with no visible windows. On the landward side is a pair of large cargo doors with a smaller door built into the right one. Piers run along either side of the building and on the seaward side is a massive set of doors able to accommodate a small ship.

It's not hard to realize an ulfen guard in the area you're searching for ulfen visitors must be one of Beingirr men, fortunately for you the warrior still thinks you're going to the tavern. So you have a few moments to discuss what to do now.

Options here would be to (1) back off and attempt to sneak in. (2) Ambush the guard, preferably using none lethal damage just in case we are incorrect on his intent. (3) Attempt to bribe the guard. (4) Head to the tavern and watch for our intended target and confront him and his guards as they attempt to leave the warehouse. Personally, I would prefer to attempt to knock out the guard. We could also head into the tavern and talk with the keep. That would allow us to evaluate who else is close buy.

i think 4 is the best option

I'll go along with that.

My pref would be 3, with someone ready to instantly go with 2 in case the bribe doesn't work.

Ghaenk would wantto try to talk to the barkeep first for any information. If nothing presents itself, then he'd try to bluff or bribe the guard... forcing their way in if necessary.

Most of the votes go to a 4, so...

Th group enters in the inn and start talking with the local patrons, maids and barman. Most of them know almost nothing about Beingirr, but one of the maids remember the name:

Beingirr you say? I think I heard a similar name two days ago, when some foreigners came to buy food and beer.

How many are them? I never care of it. They bought food and beer for several men, but hey, they're ulfen, so maybe there are only three and they eat a lot

Hmm... I'm tempted to buy some poison or drugs to put in their food or drink.

That would save a lot of trouble Malaika, but it wouldn't surprise me if their Ulfen constitution held up to such methods. As fare as bribing the guard is concerned, it is certainly plausible, but I'm going to venture to guess that it will offend him. We should be ready to subdue the man in the event the bribe doesn't work. I would also take into consideration that it is possible that Skelg's curse may only be reversed by the man we are after. I have little doubt that the lantern plays a large role, but it may require this Ulfen to fix the problem.

True, the one with a high DC are too expensive for our level.

Rika grunts in thanks to the barmaid and turns to her companions. "What we do now?"

There is also the possibility that the Ulfen's anger with Skelg is justified. That's assuming Skelg truly raid the his father's funeral ship. I am hesitant on killing this man until we know more about what is going on.

Nightfiend rubs his chin for a moment in contemplation. "Well I think we need to deal with the guard before he alerts the others of our presence. We could toss down a bag with some gold in it as a bribe. That backed by a strong show of force might work. I wouldn't recommend any tactic that makes us look soft. If he reacts poorly to the bribe, I recommend subduing the man. Knocking out a Ulfen will be challenging. I am assuming they are a stout people."

Rallas slips the maid a few silver coins fof her help. Thank you for the help.

Once it is just the group and no one around.
Well, we can try to sneak in and catch them off guard....

The Oni-spawn grunts again. "Rika not subdue very well. Still want me doing?"

Nightfiend gathers 25 gold together and prepares to head out to the guard.

Once everyone is ready, Nightfiend walks out the front door and over to the Ulfen guard.

"Well met friend. Me and my colleagues here have business with Beingirr. We would like to offer you a fair compensation, (pointing at the pouch of gold), to disregard our untimely entrance to the warehouse across the street. Assuming you wouldn't mind being distracted for a moment, I offer you this pouch containing 25 gold. What do you say? 25 gold richer?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17

(If the guard doesn't accept the pathetic offer and leave quietly, Nightfiend will step back and order his minion to attack the man.)

It really is a pretty good offer all things considered.

diplomacy aid: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26

Diplomacy Aid: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11

"I should think it a wise thing to line your pockets and shut your eyes!"

"Is money to live like king for some time" adds Rika, ill at ease with this role.

Diplomacy Aid: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (20) - 1 = 19

Rallas just watches intently, not known for being diplomatic. He stands ready for violence at a moment's notice.

As so many people approach him, the ulfen guards unseathes his axe. Move on! There's nothing here for you! Then he listen the offer and appears to relax. Just look to another side for a moment? For 25 gold? That's something I can do, sure.

He picks the pouch and turns to walk away. But his hand is still firmly grasping the axe, and his body is more prepared to turn back again than to go for a walk.

You all realize you have a moment to turn his obvious trap against him. So he rolled awfull in his bluff and you all have a surprise round to act as you wish.

Surprise round
All can make an standard or move action

Rika Fumeyo-no-Oni
Vortex
Ghaenk
Nightfiend
Rallas
Malaika de'Morcaine

Rallas draws his blade and swings.

1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 271d10 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 153d6 ⇒ (6, 2, 3) = 11

crit: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 271d10 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13

After moving slightly back, Nightfiend begins casting a spell. Upon completion of the spell a slight shimmer appears around Vortex.

(Free 5' adjustment) Back away from the Ulfen, (Standard action) Cast mage armor on Vortex.

"Vortex subdue the man!"

(I wont be able to update the map until a little later tonight.)

Mage Armor (3) Hours.

Anticipating the man's aggressive nature, Vortex moves in front of his master and attempts to trip the unprepared Ulfen.

(Free 5') In front of Nightfiend, (Standard action) Attempt to trip the flat footed Ulfen.

(CMB-Attack) Trip: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16 (I am unable to access the map at this point, so if flank applies add another +2 to the attack.)

Fervently wishing her companion was in a flanking position, Rika moves in with a vicious blow.

No-Dashi vs Ulfen Guard, Flanking, Power Attack: 1d20 + 8 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (9) + 8 + 2 - 1 = 18
Damage: 1d10 + 7 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 7 + 3 = 11

"Oni! Move for the Pratts!"

Why does it always have to be the violent path? He should have been able to see he had no chance.

Malaika steps back ready to heal an ally if necessary. 5 ft step away then hold action.

Ghaenk circles the group and steps up to the Ulfen opposite Nightfiend.

The ulfen is ripped by Rika, then tripped by Vortex and finally had his throat thrusted by Rallas blade before he's able to even unseath his axe.

What now? Hide the body, enter the warehouse, go to the inn?

"So much for subduing..."

Ghaenk quickly opens up a nearby crate and shoves the body inside.

"To the warehouse then."

"He was try kill. We do faster. We go in now" comments Rika dryly, quickly cleaning her blade off and moving into the warehouse.

Let's check it before we enter.

Is there light coming through the cracks around the door? Can we hear any voices or anything else through the door?
perception: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (8) + 0 = 8
Detect Magic on door.
Detect Poison on door.

Rallas sneaks towards the door, his keen senses reaching out to detect any traps or alarms.

perc: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (10) + 11 = 21+1more for traps

Nightfiend and Vortex keep their distance, allowing the more stealthy members to investigate the warehouse before entering.

There's no poison on the door on the door. Neither magic in the spell range.

Rallas doesn`t see any trap or alarm, but he can hear steps moving slowly toward the warehouse door.

Rallas motions to the party that he hears feet. He grips his blade in one hand as he wrenches the door open to hopefully surprise whoever is on the other side

Nightfiend loads his crossbow and then turns to his demonic companion. "Vortex move up and support the rest of the group, in case they engage in combat."

With out hesitation Nightfiend's beast companion moves closer to the double door and prepares for combat.

Warned by Rallas, the group opens the door before an ambush can be laid. Inside the warehouse is mostly empty, as it is not being used for storage. A stairway leads up 20 feet to a loft and under the stairs are several bedrolls. A section of the warehouse floor is open to the harbor, and a small ship is docked there.

Thre ulfen are here, two of them moving to the sides of the doors, and his leader up in the loft. Come here and I'l let you feel the wrath of the north

Combat tab
Bold can act

Rallas
Rika Fumeyo-no-Oni
Malaika de'Morcaine
Vortex
Beingirr
Ghaenk
Ulfens
Nightfiend

I can't move icons from my phone. Someone please move me a 5ft step north west.

You shouldn't resist your betters! Take them down my friends.
Cast Communal Protection From Evil