[PFS] GM Derek W's The Cyphermage Dilemma #4-15 (Inactive)

Game Master Derek Weil

The light from the rising sun performs a splendid dance upon the windows of Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch’s Magnimarian manor house as she pours the coffee. Her young servant brings in a platter of pastries and fruits before the Venture-Captain begins to speak about the mission at hand in her distinctively low, breathy voice.

"As I’m sure you’re well aware, much of the reason Riddleport was founded where it was is because of its easily defensible position as well as the enigmatic Cyphergate, which has baffled scholars since its discovery. The Pathfinder Society has a keen interest in the Thassilonian monument as well, since solving its mysteries would undoubtedly unlock a number of other secrets regarding that lost empire. The Order of the Cyphers has been amassing support from outside sources for some years now, and scholars from all over the Inner Sea have come to aid Elias Tammerhawk and the cyphermages."

Heidmarch takes a bite out of a chocolate-filled biscuit before continuing. "Just recently, however, we received word from Elias himself that several of the visiting scholars haven’t arrived in Riddleport Bay as expected. It seems as though a band of raiders, led by the Vudran pirate Alejia Netrav, has been intercepting the ships at sea, killing the crews, and destroying the ships. While Riddleport is hardly a stranger to the likes of pirates, Overlord Cromarcky has declared it illegal for any ships that wish to return to Riddleport Harbor to attack ships bearing the Riddleport flag. Alejia’s ship is clearly coming from Riddleport — the attacks all took place just outside Riddleport Harbor — but attempts to identify her ship have been
unsuccessful so far."

"I needn’t explain to you that the Pathfinder Society is also very much interested in the secrets of the Cyphergate, and that the deaths of these knowledgeable scholars have severely hindered progress in unraveling the artifact’s mysteries. The unexplained attacks are beginning to wear on the other sailors of Riddleport as well, and if something isn’t done about the matter soon, there will be no shortage of civil unrest, if not anarchy."

"In a few days, a ship called the Topaz Titan is scheduled to arrive in Riddleport Harbor from Minkai, bearing the acclaimed Tian scholar Hirako Gurukaza — who is also a former member of our Society. We fear that he may be Alejia’s next target, and your task is to prevent her assault at all costs, both ensuring Hirako’s safety and shoring up our relationship with Tammerhawk. I have heard rumors that some of Alejia’s cronies have been storing their stolen goods somewhere in the Wharf District, so that might be a good place to start your investigation. While in Riddleport, keep a low profile and try to avoid pulling any of the crimelords into the situation. Tammerhawk would appreciate discretion and subtlety if possible. Regardless, there is little time to waste, as there is no knowing exactly when the pirates will choose to strike the Topaz Titan."

You may ask Venture-Captian Heidmarch questions if you like. Also, once you've started you can take some time to gather information, either via Diplomacy or Knowledge Local checks.

A skinny man with slick brown hair and deeply tanned skin shuffles from his position leaning against the wall as the venture captain spoke.

Subtle? Low Profile? This might be right up my alley...

What is known about Alejia? I haven't heard of this pirate before, and it if comes to a confrontation I don't want to be caught unprepared. Also, do you know of any rumors regarding Alejia's ship? If they haven't identified it yet, there are likely rumors about its capabilities. Sailors aren't known for their discretion, He says with a wink.

Turning to his new companions he introduces himself, By the way, my name is Cyrus. My friends back home took to calling me the flea, something about leaping tall buildings in a single bound...

I recognize Ibid, we recently went through our confirmation into the society together. What are your names?

The old man furrowed his brow, scrunching his face momentarily as the brash, young Cyrus spoke. These young adventurers, always in such a rush, thought the old man recalling their confirmation into the pathfinder society together, his hand briefly moving inside his jacket to touch the unseen Wayfinder held in his breast pocket. Pulling himself upright from the slouched position he had taken, leaning against the wall. Bouncing all over the place, like fleas. Heh, I suppose that is fitting... Never able to stop and take a breath, or relax for a moment.

I'm getting too old for this, he thought with an inaudible sigh.

Ibid adjusted the longbow slung over his shoulder, and then rifled through his satchel, finding a weathered journal. The old man quickly jotted notes as Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch spoke.

As the quill and ink fluttered across the fresh page of the journal, the notes took form...
Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch
Benefactor, Elias Tammerhawk
Suspect, Alejia Netrav
Protect, Hirako Gurukaza (arriving in Riddleport soon)
Stolen goods in the Wharf District?
Keep a low profile (not likely with Cyrus around)

Once the quill stopped moving, the aged man introduces himself to those around him with a nod. "The names Ibid," he says, leaning himself back against the wall. As he moved, more than hint of old age and sore bones became briefly visible.

"Is there any additional information about who this Alejia Netrav associates with, or who her cronies might be?" started the old man, pulling off his hat and wiping the jacket sleeve across his brow. "And who are these crimelords we should be weary of attracting the attention of?"

"Name's Clair," a young and pale woman says. He long black hair, several strands of red aside, reaches halfway her back. She carries a scythe, and has the unholy symbol of Urgathoa hanging from her neck in a way everyone can see it.

This old man... He's definitely getting too old for this... Perhaps we can do some business?

"Ibid, I'll let you know my father sells coffins. What's your size, I could get you a discount?"

Ibid smiles at the quip and chuckles to himself.

I like this woman, the old man thinks to himself, adjusting the longbow over his shoulder once more.

"Nice to meet you Clair," Ibid begins, still smiling. "Unfortunately, if I'm going to be the one in the box, I don't really see the point in paying for it. When I'm laid to rest in a box, I can assure you that I won't be it's rightful owner, I'll be squatting."

After noticing the symbol of Urgathoa hanging about Clair's neck, Ibid continues, "I'm sorry to say, your Lady of Graves has been trying to usher me to her Boneyard for over fifty years, but somehow I always manage to lose my way before joining the River of Souls. I guess the Lady of Graves will have to wait just a bit longer for these old bones."

Ibid nods and tips his hat toward Clair with a grin.

Sitting off to the side, a second older man stands up to greet everybody. A small crackle of lightning coming from somewhere matches the soft crack of his knees as he stands.

Well met everybody, I am Sun Desin. I guess I would be labeled as a man of nature, though I really only enjoy her storms. Looks like there will be two wise enough through age to keep these young ones in check. It will be nice to have some company for a change before they come running back for help." Sun says with a nod towards Ibid.

Hahahah.... Cyrus bursts out in laughter at the lithe woman's comment, then abruptly cuts it off.

That might have been rude... I hope that doesn't make things awkward later...

Cyrus straightens himself up, and upon noticing Ibid taking notes, he non-chalantly slips his notepad from his backpack and begins jotting a few things down.

Sleight of Hand: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24

The words on the page take form:
Venture captain: not to bad on the eyes
Sun: two old men in this group?
Ibid: same as with Janira, think he forgot his cane
Clair: cleric of death, REALLY easy on the eyes, can probably overlook weird death fetish, probably interested in Ibid.
He's a lot closer to death than me

Cyrus' heart jumps in his chest as soon as he realizes that last bit was out loud and not in his notes..

Off to a fantastic start again.. he thinks as his face flushes a deep red.

Ale*jia Cyrus' voice cracks as he says the name of the pirate uncomfortably loud. He clears his throat. Alejia, probably not going to live much longer. Just the way you like 'em right Clair?

What is wrong with me? Why would I even add that last part?

Just to be clear, Pharasma is "Our Lady of Graves." Her symbol is a swirling comet, and she considers undead to be an abomination. Urgathoa, on the other hand, is the goddess of gluttony, disease, and undeath. She likes undead. He symbol is a skull-decorated fly. Both of them are part of the "Core" 20 gods, so you'd likely recognize their symbols without even a knowledge religion check. Now, I'm not telling you how to play your characters. They may know this and still choose to act another way. But I wanted to be clear in case anyone is new to PFS or Pathfinder.

V-C Heidmarch begins to answer your questions:

"While she is a lowly pirate, Alejia possesses more enemies than friends in Riddleport, having backstabbed many business partners to get to where she is now. Her sudden disappearance and recent activities have only spurred public resentment of her, and many would like to see her dead. In any case, don’t be surprised if your investigation gets you entangled with some of her less savory ex-associates."

"I'm not sure exactly who those might be, but once you reach Riddleport, keep your eyes and ears open. Ask around. She's got something of a reputation, and the locals will undoubtedly be able to tell you more."

"As to the crime lords, you must know that Riddleport is controlled by gangs and organized crime groups. The local leader is Overlord Cromarcky, but there are many and varied criminal interests there. Again, take some time to ask around discreetly and you're bound to learn more."

"Now, I have arranged passage for you on a Taldan cargo ship called the Opparan Opal that will be leaving within the hour. You'll need to hurry, but do you have any other questions before you set sail?"

You can also make some purchases here in Magnimar before you leave. Riddleport is large enough to allow additional purchases there too.

Thank you for the clarifaction, GM Derek W. That is my fault completely, I mixed up Ugathoa and Pharasma, which is completely my fault. When I read Clair Vavassour's post about my toon being close to dying and "doing some business", I immediately jumped to a totally wrong conclusion, and didn't even realize I was talking about the wrong deity. Of course Pharasma and Urgathoa are different and separate. I'm dumb. My fault everyone, sorry!

It's OK, and I was certainly not trying to imply you are any less intelligent for it! There are a crapload of deities in Pathfinder. These are two important ones, story-wise. I enjoy sharing Golarion lore, and I didn't know how much exposure everyone in our group has. But I'm not mad and I certainly didn't wish to imply anyone was "stupid" or any such thing.

Clair pouts her lips when the Lady of Graves is mentioned by Ibid. "I once worshiped the Lady of Graves. I no longer do. Let me know if you ever change your mind on the offer, Ibid. You'll no longer be the oldest."

She notices Cyrus is looking at her and smiles at him while she replies. "Burying the dead has always given me a thrill, but to watch them rise during a full moon is what excites me most." Clair then gives Cyrus a wink.

"This Wharf District, is it known for anything specific we should be aware of?" Clair asks the Venture-Captain. "Gangs, weird animals, et cetera?"

Hearing the talk of deities, a young(ish) man perks up to listen. He has short brown hair and wears spectacles. He looks strong and makes you think that he is more of a brute than an intellectual. He is leaning against the wall, looking like he is nervous.
"I don't really follow any deities, but I think they are all cool." As an afterthought, he adds "Oh yeah, my name is Jacob Rahlquist." He doesn't seem like he is comfortable when people are paying attention to him when he is speaking.

Ibid cringes after realizing he mistakingly talked of the wrong goddess, his weathered face fushing scarlet a moment later.

"I tell you something, Clair," Ibid begins with a smile. "You can bring me back as one of your full-moon-monstrosities, if I fall during this mission. But you have to at least try to save me first, before you write me off as being only good for becoming undead."

"Nice to meet you Jacob," Ibid nods toward the young man. "And you as well, Sun. It's nice to know I won't be the only one showing these youngsters how to get the job done."

"And thank you for the information, Sheila," Ibid tips his hat toward the Venture-Captain, then lifts his journal toward the woman. "I don't have any additional questions, I think you've given me quite enough to go on. If I can't figure the rest out myself from here, then I probably am too old to be a pathfinder. Now, I hope this isn't too rude, but if you'll excuse me, I've got something to purchase before heading for our ship. It does take me a bit longer to get around these days, so a head start wouldn't be unwelcome."

Ibid takes his leave of the group and uses his connections within the Pathfinder society to procure a wand of cure light wounds before finding the Opparan Opal.

Ibid will spend 2 prestige points to obtain a wand of cure light wounds.

"Thank-you also Venture-Captain for the information, but I do have one further question. It may or may not be important, but sometimes the details matter. You mentioned that the one we are to protect, Hirako Gurukaza, is a ...former member of the Pathfinder Society. Former member implies she either retired from, left willingly, or was discharged honorably or dishonorably. Which was it? Would we be able to expect help from this one should the need arise or should we keep an eye on them at all time? Sun asks, trying to make sure he understands the whole situation. "Nothing worse that expecting a quiet day and having a birthday surprise party instead.

Cyrus shudders at the thought of becoming an undead servant.

It might improve his flexibility in his back though... No way would becoming an undead be worth it, even for Claire... Or would it? Naaa...

I too have a few things to pick up before we leave, I will see you all on the docks shortly! Thank you Venture-Captain, we won't let you down. Cyrus winks as he makes that last statement.

Just a quick wink then turn away... Ok at least smile now that you have made eye contact, then look away... Look away you dork, oh boy, it's getting awkward... What is wrong with me?

Cyrus' face flushes in the cheeks again, and he quickly gathers his things and makes his way out to the shops.

Cyrus will also spend 2 prestige points to purchase a wand of cure light wounds, as well as spending some of the gold from his previous adventure to purchase a masterwork Sickle, his weapon of choice. [Christopher Walkin Dance Move]

Clair claps her hands when Ibid says she may turn him into an undead if he happens to die. She looks a bit too exited. "I'll bury you with flowers!"

When he rises he'll be holding them, heehee!

As Ibid leaves the Venture-Captain's manor house, he hears the call of Clair, and allows himself to drift though the daydream of fleeting, far-flung hope.

If only I were thirty years younger. Clair is quite attractive, in an intriguing, and yet, scary way, the old man muses to himself as he leaves the manor, not allowing himself to look back at the cleric of Urgathoa. Cyrus is a better fit for her age, if he can manage to not be so damn awkward.... The folly of youth, I suppose.

The smile that spreads across the bard's face cannot be seen by anyone, as he steps through the threshold and disappears into the city.

Cyrus leaves the elaborate house and heads towards the field office for the Osirian faction, to cash in on his recent success.

To bad I'm not as old as Ibid, or Sun, I bet I would have a better chance with Clair, even though I am hopelessly awkward... I would wonder why all the pretty girls my age seem to go for older men, but I guess it makes sense with Clair... The closer to death they are, the closer to unlife... I bet I'd make a ruggedly handsome vampire... I bet that would turn her head...

He can't help but constantly glance around and behind him with the subconscious hope that the pretty cleric might be nearby.

He arrives at the docks a little too early after completing his purchases, admiring the craftsmanship of his new weapon and is treated to the uncomfortable stares of the sailors and dock workers as he paces back and forth, waiting for the others to arrive.

Clair follows the others, taking in her surroundings while walking. During the journey she notices a half-withered red flower on the edge of the road. She stops to pluck it, and tucks it in her hair.

It won't rise like the undead, but I gave it a new purpose. In a way it's living a second life.

Keeping to the rear of the group, Jacob keeps to himself. His eyes wander while he seems to be lost in his own little world

Sheila answers Clair and Sun's questions:

"The Wharf used to be rather prosperous, but I'm afraid the criminal element has made it much less safe in recent years. Still, you ought to be able to handle the common low-life thugs that frequent the district. As for Hirako, he left the Society on good terms to conduct personal research. He's reliable, and I'm sure he will help you if he's able."

The team take their leave of the Venture Captain, conclude their shopping trips. They assemble near the appointed vessel and embark for Riddelport. The voyage is swift and the weather is fair. You arrive two days before the Topaz Titan is due in port.

Go ahead and roll some Diplomacy or Knowledge Local checks to learn some more information.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (9) + 7 = 16

Clair strolls the streets, gathering info from the locals: "If you tell me what I want to know, I can make arrangements for you with the Pallid Princess."

Ibid strolls along the wharf, not too far from where the Opparan Opal has put into harbor. When coming up on some wharf-dwelling fisherman, the old man tries to spark up a conversation.

"We just sailed into port today," Ibid begins. "We didn't have any issues with the sea, weather, or pirates. Maybe we just got lucky that our ship made it here unscathed. Or is all the pirate talk I've heard in the outside world simply rumors?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11

Cyrus disappears into the seedy areas of the wharf, at home with the atmosphere, if not the setting.

Its no desert bazaar, but street rats are street rats, no matter the window dressing. I wonder if that shop owner knows the beggar out front is a spy for a rival gang. And I am sure that spy has no idea that the innocent looking child who just gave him a copper is actually a halfling woman with more hidden knives than curly locks of hair...

Cyrus looks around, amused, and somewhat at home in the seedy setting that reminds him of his youth. He stops in a few random shops, speaks with a beggar or two, trying to glean the general feeling of the area, particularly their target.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8

After some looking, he locates a small group of actual children, and stops to ask them a few questions.

Knowledge (Local): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (5) + 6 = 11

Sun, coming off the boat near the end of the crowd, puts his hand up to shade his eyes as he walks off the gangplank.

Boats...never did like those contraptions much. Oh well. Now, what was I supposed to do? Oh yes, find out about some boat that is due to arrive. While walking and thinking, Sun see Ibid not too far off talking to a group of fishermen.

There is Ibid, he has a good head on his shoulders and doesn't walk too fast. I'll stick with him for now. Sun walks to the group and stands next to Ibid, including himself into the conversation as he can.

diplomacy: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (17) + 0 = 17

Noticing that Cyrus seems to be about as awkward as he is, Jacob hangs around with him.
Diplomacy: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (20) - 2 = 18
Maybe Jacob isn't as awkward as I thought he was. :P

Cyrus welcomes the company of Jacob and makes light conversation as they meander along, looking for more information from the street life in the Wharf district.

Knowledge (Local): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22. I don't know if I am allowed to make a second roll for that, I just wasn't sure what else to post... If not, just ignore :)

Usually you don't get a second chance at a knowledge check. Now, you could aid another in Diplomacy, but I forgot to offer that option. I'll assume that enough of you worked together to get the DC 20 info, since you had Jacob roll an 18. Just one aid gets that to 20.

Your investigation and inquiries bear fruit:

Before they took to their latest unlawful deeds,
Alejia and her crew were well known among the pirate
gangs of Riddleport.

Alejia’s crew is known for its ruthless tactics
and efficiency in commandeering and sinking targets,
often switching or altering ships to conceal her true
whereabouts.

While she appears human from a distance, Alejia
is actually a vishkanya from distant Vudra, making her
blood and spit deadly poison against foes.

"Does anyone have a plan on how to approach this?" Clair asks when everyone's gathered again.

"Seems like it'll be hard to figure out which ship is hers..."

maybe one of us could try to get on as a crew member, to figure out where too go? The other ship is still a couple of days out, she might still be in port. Perhaps a tavern is the best place to get some more answers...

I'll admit, I have no idea what to do next...

Sorry, my fault! In my hurried cut-and-pastery, I missed the second set of clues. This should help out...

Though the dockside Wharf District was once one of the most prosperous parts of Riddleport, in recent years the district has declined into a state of shabbiness, and crime is rampant throughout many of the run-down
shops and warehouses.

Shady folk have been paying locals in the Wharf District to keep quiet about anything they might see or hear, and some mercenary dockhands have found work hauling oddly-shaped cargo to what was thought to be a derelict building.

You can easily obtain directions to this derelict.

"Alejia, or at the very least, the cargo she has stolen, will be in the seemingly derelict building our investigations have led us to," the bard says, consulting the group. "How does everyone want to go about investigating this site? Any suggestion will be useful, and we can see which plan we like best once we have a few ideas to toss around."

Ibid throws his hat into the ring, by suggesting the first thought that has come to mind, "My thought we recon the place first, stealthily, if possible. I'm sure Cyrus is up to the challenge."

"Once we understand better what we are dealing with, then we can decide if we want to surreptitiously infiltrate, or flat-out assault this building... Or both at the same time."

"I prefer flat-out assault from the start," Clair replies to Ibid, "but I'm fine with some snooping around first."

"We could also try to find some of these people who've been paid to stay quiet, and force the information out of them. If we inflict enough pain they'll surely talk."

A wry grin spreads over Cyrus' face at the mention of snooping around. Did you know the part of a building people pay the least attention to is the roof? Unless it leaks of course... I bet I could find out all sorts of things by spending a little bit of time above the streets. why don't you let me see what's going on, and if it looks clear, I'll wave you all in, or jump down and let you in from the inside. I think if there isn't anyone around, we could likely get the most information the fastest just by visiting this place, and seeing what is hidden behind closed doors...

GM, would any of those options be viable? Or do we just need to break into the building? Let me know, I can rattle off whatever rolls you need. I like the idea of a recon, and signalling to ibid or someone to move in.

"I think snooping then assault sounds good. That way we might know what we are going to get ourselves into."

Sun nods his head at the recon.

[b]"I agree with your thoughts Jacob. Not looking before you leap does not tend to go over well for us older folks. That being said, I doubt I can keep in the shadows like I used to back in the day. I'll leave that to someone else."

.

Arion, having finally recovered from his seasickness, speaks up. I also prefer a reconnaissance, and am capable of aiding in one.

-Posted with Wayfinder

"Seems like we agree on a plan. Let's get moving?" Clair suggests.

With the plan agreed upon, Cyrus deftly climbs the wall of an old building a few blocks down. As quietly as possible, he runs along the rooftops until he gets near his target building.

Take 10 on Climb to get up the building for a 14

Stealth for general sneaky-ness on top of the buildings: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20

Taking 10 on any acrobatics checks to carefully, stealthily, jump/slide/tumble from building to building for an 18.

Perception to make sure there are no hidden lookouts or other surprises on the building in question: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19

Assuming there are no threats, or things that need to be dealt with, Cyrus will move to the rooftop of the building in question, and look for a way in.

I should probably wait to take any more actions until I get feedback from the GM... Its possible I might have jumped the gun anyways, hope that doesn't come back to haunt us. /cringe at GM cackle

You're OK Cyrus. I was going to allow the recon. But since no climb DC is given, I'll have to set it at DC 15. Wooden walls, no windows. So I'll need to you to roll that one. Assuming you eventually succeed, any bad guys get a Perception roll v. your stealth...

Sounds good!

Climb: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19

Edit: Whew... that would have been awkward if the plan never got off the ground... (see what I did there)

Awkward in character is easy when you are weird in real life... :)

Ibid watches the rogue, Cyrus, as he stands at the foot of the building examining for a way up the sheer wall-face. Ibid watches as the rogue nimbly scales the building with practiced ease.

I'm pleasantly surprised the kid didn't make some kind of awkward pun, the old bard thinks to himself. That would have been just like Cyrus...

Sun stands down at the base of the building with Ibid, looking and keeping watch for activity down below or a shout for help above.
perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27

I wonder how I am going to get up there if I have to. Let's hope I don't need to

Clair shifts uncomfortably as she takes a good look at her companions.

Good thing I'm not the one climbing up there. Not going to do that wearing this skirt, nah-ah.

Noticing the concern which seems to have spread across his companions' faces, Ibid riffles through his pack and pulls out a fifty-foot coil of silk rope.

Holding it aloft for Sun and Clair to see, the old bard says, "I think I know what you're thinking. If we indeed must scale the building, I can go first and secure this rope somewhere on the roof. That should make your climb up significantly easier."

"Plus, in that case, Clair," Ibid continues with a laugh, smiling at the cleric of Urgathoa. "I might just fall and break my neck, and then you'll have yourself an old skeleton with knee problems and arthritis."

Glad that Cyrus was able to climb the building, Jacob waits anxiously for him to open the door.

Clair smiles at Ibid. "Lucky for you there'd be no more pain. That should be a relief for you."

I shouldn't definitely get him to climb that building...

"I really think Cyrus needs some help, Ibid," Clair says to the old man.

Bluff: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23 She really sounds like she thinks so! xD

The old bard hears the honeyed words of the cleric of Urgathoa, and her suggestion that he should also scale the building. Ibid's eyes scan from the street to the roof-top as he swallows the lump in his throat. A slight look of fear spreads across his face.

Would she really suggest you climb this building, hoping that you will fall? the question races through his mind. He turns to Clair and examines her countenance.

sense motive: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (5) + 0 = 5

Of course not! Ibid thinks to himself, again wishing he were thirty years younger, and closer to Clair's age. The old bard turns to the building, approaching it cautiously while adjusting the longbow and satchel slung over his shoulder. He blushes as he thinks of impressing the young Cleric, reaching out his arm and finding scant purchase on the sheer wall of the building.

"I'll go check on, Cyrus," says Ibid, beginning to climb the building.

acrobatics(climb): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15

My apologies for an extended absence. Had a busy start to the weekend followed by sick kiddos. Should be getting back to daily posting.

Cyrus and Ibid climb up on the roof. As they creep along, they can hear the sound of muffled voices from inside. After a few moments, a voice hushes the others. The pair hear some hurried footsteps, then silence. While the number is not clear, there were probably 3-5 different voices from below.

-Posted with Wayfinder