[PFS] Forged in Flame by VentureT PbP (Inactive)

Game Master Curaigh

Oddly I assumed we were not staying together, at least based off the actual posts and the map. I prefer to stay together but the posts told a different story.

Ka Kaw looks at the trinkets too.

perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (9) + 11 = 20

No one else? *winkwinknudgenudgeknowhatimeansaynomoresaynomore*

I'm back!

I also would have preferred to stay together. One doesn't make it to 8th level within the Society and not understand that splitting the party can have dire consequences.

Milton would gladly help with sorting through any of the sections of documents, with a preference towards contracts. They are in Ignan? Tongues won't help me to read them, although I could aid in adjudicating them possibly as legal, or incriminating with...

Profession(barrister): 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (12) + 15 = 27

Fendel succeeds in finding quite a bit in the contracts section, including an Operation Report, a contract between the Cinderfurys and a group referred to as the Bralkashik. "handout" added to map.

Fendel also uncovers a contract which Milton recognizes as an extremely rare one. Contracts like this are almost never duplicated, often because the dominant party holds the only copy that lays claim to the subservient party’s goods or services. It is in Ignan unfortunately, so the barrister is unable to get any farther on it.

Nivik & KaKaw peruse the section marked "magic" discovering several things of note. The wizard studies them for a while and determines they have found find a greater book of extended summoning (lawful) and a spell lattice (2nd level) in addition to the page of spell knowledge.

Knowledge (planes): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16

Knowledge (planes): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20

Listening to Fendel's translation, Milton observes, "Sairazul's Tears? Those were stolen from the shaitan's Peerless Empire centuries ago. They are a set of priceless diamonds."

"As an aside, Fendel, that sounds like an extremely rare contract. Contracts like that are almost never duplicated, often because the dominant party holds the only copy that lays claim to the subservient party’s goods or services."

I can 'Take 10' to to succeed on those checks.

"It also appears that The Bralkashik is a well-known efreeti criminal empire specializing in smuggling, theft, fencing stolen goods, and other low-violence crime. Though most are aware of their existence, working with them reflects poorly on one's public reputation."

Taking a closer look at the rare contract, "Let's see what we can decipher about this document."

Knowledge ???: 1d20 + 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (13) + (2) + 2 = 17 That will be enough to put any knowledge check I have at 35 - 37.

Linguistics, take 10: 10 + 14 + 1d6 ⇒ 10 + 14 + (1) = 25 To authenticate the contract.

"... working with them reflects poorly on one's public reputation."

As Fendel tells what he knows about the Bralkashik, Milton reaches the logical conclusion and queries,"what sorts of dealings have you had with them in the past Fendel? I will consider this as privileged barrister-client information if you wish it to be so."

Ka Kaw tries to remember information on the area.

knowledge local: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22

I apologize for my spotty posting this week and weekend. I have been spending much needed time with my son and my wife, facilitated by several unexpected days off work. Kids.. they are only young once, and you have to make the best of it when you can!

[ooc]Just a quick check in to let you know I am still alive. I will follow up tonight after work.[ooc]

Fendel takes a closer look at the rare contract and determines that this identifies a large population of azers who are bound to serve the Cinderfury family, having begun their service several centuries ago as recompense for services to the sultan. The contract formally cuts the azers’ ties to a different noble family and mandates their servitude in all things in perpetuity and with no recourse for eventual freedom. He also recognizes similar signatures and language on another document in this section. This additional text identifies the Mishalq family as an obstacle to the Azerite Pact’ fulfillment, detailing a range of possible approaches the Cinderfurys might take to ensure their rival would not be capable of interfering—the subtext being the Cinderfurys willfully sabotaged the Mishalqs’ finances and reputation.

Fendel turns to the second section just ten minutes after entering the library. The Cinderfurys extensively documented not only their own family tree but also those of many other families. Looking over the texts and charts provides considerable insights into the convoluted efreeti lineages and how those have shaped the contemporary political landscape. If any of you have another character who is an ifrit... might even uncover some reference to a mortal dalliance with an efreeti that might describe their own fireblooded ancestor. Please share the story :)

That backstory is it for the library, unless you have other questions (as Liberty's Edge and Exchange members might). Where to now?

"Lawfully enslaved Azers are not our concern, let's speed this up."

After the groups have all searched their various areas and discovered their respective documents and valuables(and in the case of Fendel, placed some evidence), the group gathers back in the foyer to ascend the stairway to the next level.

Whispering to the group, "Despite the quickness of our recent battle, assume anyone else in the building is aware of our presence. The fact that no one has confronted us may mostly be due to our activities prior to arrival, but even then something feels... off."

While nowhere near as stealthy as Awen, Fendel or KaKaw, Sai does her best to remain quiet when the group finally decides to make their way up the stairs.

stealth: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

Stealth: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25

Now that's not bad for Platemail!

I KNEW THAT WAS GOING TO HAPPEN! I swear I said that out loud before I rolled my stealth, lol. Awesome Milton!

unless you have other questions (as Liberty's Edge and Exchange members might).

So, if this contract were destroyed and/or given to say the azers in question, would that effectively end their servitude?

Sai'Dothwyn is correct, in this labor, time is indeed our greatest adversary. We must make haste.

Stealth: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (7) + 17 = 24

Fendel joins the others at the top of the stairs, taking care to look for traps and tripwires. He again takes out his wayfinder to seek out magic auras on his way to what he believes to be an office.

Perception (Take 10): 10 + 28 + 1d6 ⇒ 10 + 28 + (1) = 39 +2 for traps

Disable Device (trap or lock on the door): 1d20 + 26 + 1d6 ⇒ (2) + 26 + (4) = 32

Disable Device (just in case): 1d20 + 26 + 1d6 ⇒ (7) + 26 + (3) = 36

I will never let Fendel forget that Milton beat him on a stealth roll, while wearing plate, even if it is just once. My heart is happy.

Looking at the map and my previous posts, I had positioned myself at the room marked storage and peered within. That somehow got moved to the meeting room, but all is well. Awen will check the storage room before moving onwards.. if nothing else, to make sure there are no closed doors behind him.

Awen stays quiet and keeps to himself as the rest of the team searches the library. He nods at Sai's observations, and agrees wholeheartedly with her request for caution. Awen smiles at her briefly before following the group upstairs as silently as he can.

Stealth: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (8) + 21 = 29

We don't ascend the stairs until Awen has finished his stealthy perusal of the storage. We ALL ascend the stairs together, at the same time, and not before. The group will be in the main foyer on the first floor when he is checking the storage room. I moved Fendel with me,
but I notice no one else has been moving their minis. Anyone having issues and need help moving?

Sai, yes, can you move me please?

Ka Kaw asks some questions in the library before we head out.

He whispers "You see any documents like.. " very low whisper

Nivik will quietly go with the rest of the group in case his arcane services will be needed once more.

Stealth: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11

He does so while mumbling to himself about everything he has seen in the library, however.

Perhaps I should take the lead, what with my superior stealth skills and all?

Capital idea, Milton. ;)

-Posted with Wayfinder

Yes, well, I'm sure someone else has better spotty skills!

Awen steps aside, allowing Milton to take the lead before following the barrister, his eyes peeled.
Perception: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (4) + 16 = 20

After looking at the documents in the library and asking the party, Ka Kaw moves next to Awen and looks around.

Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16

Nivik will refresh his Mage Armor as he suspects danger could be in the party's near future.

Sai triggers her wand of mage armor once more, then puts it back in her pack. She then quietly refreshes resist fire upon herself, since she may soon be in close combat with fiery creatures. Once that is done, she hardens her skin through the use of her inner Ki.

Satisfied she is ready for further exploration, she scans the way forward, looking for any signs of trouble.

perception: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (16) + 21 = 37

Just because I put this originally in the discussion tab, and I don't want it missed.

Sai will use another charge of mage armor, another ki for barkskin, and cast resist fire again.

Just because I put this originally in the discussion tab, and I don't want it missed.

Likewise:

My see invisibility should still have some life on it.

I'll reset it when it runs out. "Short" missions get handled differently than long ones.

Arrgh! I didn't hit 'submit'?!? Bad GM. Bad! No cookie for you.

It will take me a while to remember all that I had to add to said post though. Thank you for your patience.

This balcony overlooks the ground level. Two large windows overlook both the front and the back of the estate, and a small bookshelf and chairs provide a cozy space for reading.

Perception: 1d20 ⇒ 11, Perception: 1d20 ⇒ 14

in the 'office'
The walls of this chamber bear a patina that continuously shimmers and swirls, and every inch of the floor bears fantastic mosaics of metallic tiles. A desk of polished marble stands to the southeast between two bay windows. The desk’s surface is covered in an abundance of brass sheets.

To the right of the desk a large humanoid being of fire stands. Two black bat-wings sprout from its back and its multi-faceted eyes are the icy-hues of an insect.
"Vagabonds! What are you doing here?" a thin but deep voice says. It sounds like a log with too much sap burning--a long, ancient hissing. "Explain your business in my home, mortals who think themselves important enough not to schedule an appointment?"

Knowledge (planes): 1d20 + 20 + 1d6 ⇒ (20) + 20 + (4) = 44
Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 18 + 1d6 ⇒ (9) + 18 + (3) = 30

Knowledge (planes): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10

"We have come to speak with your master. The years of deception from this house are done, and judgment day rapidly approaches. We await the master of this house to discuss these matters. How shall we proceed?"

It is my intent simply to delay and pass the following secret message to my compatriots...

"The master of the house is invisible and in this room. How shall we proceed?"

Bluff: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (16) + 17 = 33

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (6) + 17 = 23 +3 vs Hellknights

"This home is quite striking." comes Sai's emotionless voice from behind her black and white mask. She scans the room looking for any signs of the invisible presence Milton noted. She waits quietly for the others to move into position behind her.

perception: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (9) + 21 = 30

Even though it has only been moments ago this was said in game, it has easily been forgotten with the passage of real time...so I am posting it here again below.

"We cannot afford any witnesses."

Now place yourselves on the map people. Milton, I have you and I just in the doorway. If you would rather move further in, just let me know and I can place you wherever you want. It is possible the others have not been seen yet.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 18 + 1d6 ⇒ (13) + 18 + (5) = 36

Catching the tiefling's warning, the detective looks for any clues as to the location of the invisible 'master of the house' in the room.

Perception: 1d20 + 28 + 1d6 ⇒ (20) + 28 + (6) = 54 +2 for traps.

And I literally cannot roll any higher.

An unmoving invisible individual gets a +40 on their stealth check!

"Once your master arrives, we will be sure to reveal our purpose here."

Secret message "let me know when you want me to reveal the master."

Bluff: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (17) + 17 = 34

Once the others finish posting actions...

"Now would be the perfect time Milton." Sai says as she wills the protection of Nethys into her being, touching her hip with one hand.

Supernatural ability, standard action, blessing of protection. Sense motive might work to detect it, but no idea what the DC would be as it's an iffy topic, not being a spell like ability, but other than that it is purely mental, with the touch being the only active part.

GM, however you want this interchange to take place. I'm fine initiating conflict by moving towards the middle of the room and casting my invisibility purge spell, as well as kicking off dual judgements with a Swift action. You know, lead with your best stuff!

Ka Kaw chimes in

"Yeah we're pretty important. Check your apointment book. I'm sure it's there"

bluff: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25

Fendel taps a toe on the living brass, then scrapes a heal across the floor. Comparing the difference in the faint air currents and echoes this creates he decides he knows where the master of the house is. Nice roll :)

"Well you have found him, and he demands to know what you are doing in his house." after a second. He speaks again. "I know you are not on my calendar and that is without you interlopers even introducing yourselves. Really, you mortals have gotten so rude. I should kill you just for the insult."

Sense Motive: 1d20 ⇒ 14
Stealth: 1d20 ⇒ 9
Sense Motive: 1d20 ⇒ 12
Sense Motive: 1d20 ⇒ 11

I would like to move to the square with the two F's in office please.

Once there, I will cast invisibility purge and kick off my judgments as planned!

Well then... add yourselves.
Xojjectt Ini: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Craterflame Ini: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16
& if you beat an 18, please post an action.

Initiative: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23

Knowledge, Planes: 1d20 + 20 + 1d6 ⇒ (9) + 20 + (6) = 35

Move action to study target

Merciful Longbow: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29 for Damage: 1d8 + 9 + 1d6 ⇒ (1) + 9 + (4) = 14

Miss chance? Miss 50 or less: 1d100 ⇒ 83 If going before Invisibility Purge

Initiative: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24

Did my spell go off, or is that my action this round?

Initiative: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15

Not this time!

If my spell and judgments went off in the surprise round, then in this round, I'll walk around his desk to the right, bane my weapon, and attempt to thump him...

Bane, Power attack, Destruction Judgment.

+1 Cold Iron Heavy Mace Hit: 1d20 + 13 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 13 - 2 + 2 = 18
+1 Cold Iron Heavy Mace Damage: 1d8 + 10 + 6 + 3 + 2 + 2d6 ⇒ (7) + 10 + 6 + 3 + 2 + (6, 2) = 36

If that hits, I'll take a free action to intimidate him...

Intimidate: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (7) + 17 = 24

My AC is currently 31 due to my Protection Judgment.

Initiative: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15 After Nivik

[dice=Initiative]1d20+5

Did my spell go off, or is that my action this round?

invisibilty purge is what instigates initiative

Initiative: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6
Awen moves up behind the group clustered in the doorway, and stands stunned at the creature that rises before them in all of its glorious anger..