[PFS] GM Lithrac's Destiny of the Sands Trilogy (#5-12, #5-15 and #5-16) (Inactive)

Game Master Cyril Corbaz

Chasik moves to get right next to the fanged enemy.

double move in front of Amen to be right next to baddie

Ignatius steps forward and swings his longsword with all his might at the snake-like thing.

Power Attack: 1d8 + 6 - 1 ⇒ (6) + 6 - 1 = 11
Damage: 1d8 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 3 + 2 = 6

Buri closes in and attacks.
Attk: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10
Dmg: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7

Quarr's bomb turns the creature to ashes!

End combat.

With the strange two-headed serpents' demise, there is no other significant threat in this shrine, and you are able to explore at your leisure.

Chasik will take a 20 and search the room after the last enemy drops.please read spoiler for info

Even though he has no idea what the items do or could be used for, What were we supposed to grab again, was it the serpent staff thing?

Ardisen shrugs.

"A cache of artifacts. I suggest we play it safe and take the lot. Perhaps we should make our way to the next assignment on the list?"

The enchanter collects the arcane items, passing them to his porter to carry before preparing to head to the next task.

Buri casts detect magic on the burial mask. Yes lets take them and move to our next objective. That mace is... very powerfull.

Is everyone okay, posting seems to have slowed this week?

The young Chelaxian nods along with Buri.

"Indeed. We're off to meet Madam Zelekhati at the Dancing Dunes. She seems to share Torch's mondness for gathering information and we're to learn how she does it and get her to share what she knows so far with Torch."

Ardisen prepares to leave to make his was to their next task.

Posting was slowed by GenCon I guess. Anyway, we should move on!

Deciding to move on to the next task, you easily reach the fine establishment known as the Dancing Dunes. A spectacularly groomed garden of colorful sand occupies most of this two-story cabaret’s ground floor. A narrow wooden bridge winds about a trio of decorative obelisks dotting the miniature desert. A lavish sitting area filled with divans occupies the second-floor balcony granting a magnificent view of the garden below. Private curtained chambers encircle the garden, where lush rugs, soft mattresses, or piles of throw pillows serve to cushion the repose of clientele in each chamber. A door off the northern balcony opens to a staircase leading down to the street, while another set of stairs to the east leads down to the garden.

Dancing Dunes map

As soon as you enter, a charming young woman in very light clothes welcomes you. You instantly forget about the dreadful heat outside and feel peaceful in her company. "Welcome to the Dancing Dunes, travelers! What can I do for you? Do you seek company? Refreshments? Entertainment? Pray tell, for I am here to attend to your every need." she says with a delightful voice with a hint of elvish accent.

Ardisen flashed the hostess a smile, grateful to be free of the oppressive heat.

"Thankyou. My associates and I are looking to meet with Madam Zelekhati, if she is free?"

The enchanter pauses to allow the woman to reply, taking stock of their surroundings.

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8

Chasik walks in and takes a deep breathed sigh as he feels the coolness ease his body. The hit sun has baked him in his armor, but he refuses to take it off because he knows danger can come from anywhere. He doesn't reply to the hostess, but he does look around as she speaks.

percept: 1d20 ⇒ 3

You can attempt a Diplomacy check, Ardisen.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (1) + 15 = 16

It's a good job my Diplomacy is so high, because the amount of 1's I roll for it on this character are ridiculous.

Quarr steps into the cool building as he gazes up at the young woman. While Ardisen introduces himself the little gnome peers around the establishment.

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18

"This is a very nice place in the middle of all of the oppressive heat."

Iggy looks around at the decor, mouth agape. "By Iomedae's holy sword, this place is nice!" As the hostess welcomes the party, Iggy snaps out of his wonderment. He pipes up after Ardisen's request. [b]"Yes, just Madam Zelkhati. We have no need of other... company." His face flushes a bit as he looks around.

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20

Perc: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13

What a charming little thing you are lass. Unfortunatly we have bussiness with your boss but maybe we can catch up later. The dwarf says with a nod and a smile.
Aid Another Diplom: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18

"She's currently busy with a client, good sir, but I'll pass word for you and make sure she comes as soon as she can."

A few minutes later as you are strolling around the sand garden a magnificent half-elf dressed in white transluscent robes comes to you, a welcoming smile on her lips. "Welcome to the Dancing Dunes, good sirs. I am Madame Zelekhati, the proud owner of this humble establishment. What can we do for you?"

Ardisen bows before the half-elf, exuding all the courtly etiquette he can.

"A pleasure to meet you Madame. My name is Ardisen Greymore, and these are my associates. We have heard stories of your fine establishment and had to visit during our time here. We are individuals of some importance in our home of Absalom and were hoping for a tour and some time spent in your company. I understand you are also a woman in the know, I am curious, how does a refined woman such a you come to know so much of current affairs?"

The enchanter lays the charm on thick, reaching out to kiss their hosts hand.

As he does, Ardisen uses his beguiling touch ability on the woman.

(Beguiling Touch: (7/day, DC 17 Will save) You can charm a living creature by touching it. Creatures with more Hit Dice than your wizard level are unaffected, as are creatures in combat and those with an attitude of hostile toward you. Creatures that fail their save are affected by charm monster for 1 round. This is a mind-affecting effect)

If she fails the check, Ardisen will attempt an opposed Charisma check to get her to answer his question as it only lasts a round.

Charisma Check: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 2 = 16

Sadly she's unaffected because she has more HD than you.

Visibly charmed by Ardisen's manners, she batters her eyelashes at him in a seductive look. "My, a man with manners in the middle of the desert! I'm delighted to make your acquaintance, Mr.Greymore. I'll be very glad to provide you with what you need, of course - in fact I'll personally see to your needs. Maybe you'll be willing to share news of the world and thus contribute to how well-informed we are!"

Everyone can attempt one Perception and one Sense Motive check at this point. Keep in mind that you won't be able to communicate the results to your companions.

I thought she might, but worth a try.

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 2 = 19

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6

Ardisen notices the gardens pattern shifting, unsure exactly what he is looking at. He manages to hide his surprise that Zelekhati is unaffected by his touch.

Hoping to see how this plays out, the enchanter continues to talk.

"Well, there is much I could tell. I'm sure you're aware of everything that has been happening to the north, in Mendev of late. Terrible business, but the reaction of several countries and agencies has been facinating."

I'll try to use Diplomacy to improve her attitude if possible.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (15) + 15 = 30

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15
sense motive: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (8) + 0 = 8

Quarr is captivated by the woman and does not notice much of his surroundings. She seems like such a nice woman. This is a welcome change from everyone trying to kill us

Perc: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
SM: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

There us something in the sand over there. Buri whispers to his comrades. And I dont think its from this realm.

per, sm: 2d20 ⇒ (10, 7) = 17

Chasik is taking in the sights and sounds of the luxurious location he is in. Oblivious to his surroundings. I wonder how long pretty boy is gonna sweet-talk the lady, he thinks to himself.

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 = 13

Buri, your character doesn't know "it" is from another plane unless you make the check and succeed. That's metagaming, and I won't have that at my table. Please refrain from doing that.

Hearing Buri, Madame Zelekhati gets on the defensive immesiately. "I'll ask you to leave immediately." she simply says before stepping away.

Sense Motive, Take 10: 10 + 12 = 22
Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Ignatius tries to follow Madame Zelakhati's gaze, but doesn't notice anything unusual in the garden. After she steps away, Iggy asks the rest of the group in a low voice, "Wonder what had her so nervous. Did you see her twisting her ring around whenever she glanced out into the garden? Maybe she was starin' at whatever it was you noticed, Buri."

He adjusts his belt and smothes out his trousers. "Ardisen, do you think you can try and smooth things over? While I don't like running errands for Torch, I like the idea of being at his mercy even less."

He tries to get another look in the garden at what the Madame was looking at, if it is still there.

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

The wizard faces wrinkles at the comments of his allies behind him, alerting Zelekhati to their concerns.

"I'll try Ignatius, give me a minute."

The enchanter steps towards the host, raising his hands as a gesture of peace. His eyes glance round for the creauture Buri mentioned.

"You'll have to excuse my associates m'lady. We've been out in the heat for some time and they have taken leave of their senses and manners. I assure you'll there will be no further outbursts."

If you'll allow it I'll attempt a Bluff to cover the comment?

Bluff: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (8) + 16 = 24

Madame Zelekhati sighs, then turns to the Chelaxian. "If you give me your word your lackeys will behave I'll accept it, Ardisen. However pleasant your company is, you still haven't told me what you wanted."

Ardisen continues to smile, trying to hide his satisfaction in recovering the situation.

"My apologises, I was lost in the beauty of this place and of course, your presence. We have travelled quite some distance and were hoping for some company and entertainment. Perhaps a chance to relax, gossip and to put the oppressive heat and the worries of the world behind us?"

Ignatius stands stone-still as Ardisen works his charms on the Madame. Did she overhear me? Dang, I gotta learn to keep my voice down better... he thinks to himself.

Buri, your character doesn't know "it" is from another plane unless you make the check and succeed. That's metagaming, and I won't have that at my table. Please refrain from doing that.

Sorry, it was not my intention. Since the spoiler mentioned K. Planes I though my character would know it was an outsider but could not identify it, wont happen again. I was kind of whispering only to the party.

As the lady walks away and Ardisen runs after her would it be possible to use the distraction, and maybe one party member as cover, to cast detect magic without being noticed? If it is Buri will do it and looks where he thinks there is something. Focusing there first and then at the lady's ring, discreetly.

You can certainly attempt to hide to cast it, with a Stealth check.

Ok I will give it a shot.

As the lady walks away and Ardisen runs after her Buri uses the distraction, and maybe one party member as cover, to cast detect magic without being noticed. Discreetly, first the dwarf looks where he thinks there is something focusing there and then at the lady's ring.
Stealth: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10

Madame Zelekhati doesn't seem to notice Buri casting a spell.

Her ring is definitely magical. You can make a Spellcraft check.

What schools of magic to I read on its aura?
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17

And the invisible "thing", which auras does it have? Is it moving?

Ignatius shifts his weight back and forth from his left foot to his right.

Perception Take 10: 10 + 8 = 18

He notices Buri casting a spell, but is unable to interpret what it may be.

Oh boy, what is Buri up to?

Buri will keep his detect magic spell active and just follow the others along trying not to bring attention to himself for now.

Your hostess motions some of her courteasans to come and take care of you in every way you'd enjoy. They serve you refreshments, cajole you as the discussion moves on. As for Ardisen, Madame Zelekhati brings him to her private quarters, where they can chat alone at their leisure.

"Of course, that wasn't the real reason of your visit. Would you care to speak now that we're alone?"

Ignatius sits and converses with the courtesans. "Are any of you familiar with the teachings of Iomedae? Why, if you'd like, I could have a couple of representatives come and share a brief message with you about her life and how we can honor her." After getting blank stares in reaction to his proselytizing, he quickly changes the subject.

"Do any of you play Arcana: The Convocation? I've got a couple of decks we could use if you'd like to give it a try?"

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 4 = 13
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19

Amennekht notices the woman's ring, "Master Ignatius, I would be greatly pleased to join you in such a game. "

Ardisen allows himself to relax somewhat, maintaining his winning smile throughout his interaction.

"You are very observant Madame Zelekhati, and it is for that reason that I am here. It is no secret that you are something of a information gatherer, and with a location such as this it is no wonder. My employer seeks access to that which you know, and would propose a trade of services. Is that something which would interest you?"

Despite talking business, the enchanter keeps the mood intentionally light.

Madame Zelekhati touches her ring nervously as Ardisen mentions the real reason of your coming to the Dancing Dunes.

"I think we're past denial at this stage. Very well. But tell me, your employer... would you be willing to deceive him? Let him think that I shall feed him information where in fact I may select which facts I will let him know? Who is he exactly? I'm sure we can find a common ground."

"I'm sure you're familiar with the name Grandmaster Torch, he's doubtless infamous in the circles you run in. I care not what information you share, only that I am able to feed back on your source so that my associates and I may complete our assignment for a higher authority. I would not blame you for not trusting Torch, but it would be vigilant for you to tread lightly."

Ardisen raises the womans hand to his mouth and kisses it.

"I trust we have an accord?"

Madame Zelekhati smiles in turn, playfully. "Why, of course you can count on me, dear. As long as you play along too. This might even be amusing. What a naughty boy you are, double-crossing your employer."

Ardisen chuckles.

"I just want to get the job done for my superiors. Torch would have done the same thing to us, if only he'd thought of it first. So tell me, how do you get your information?"

"I suppose there's no harm in telling you, now that we're partners in crime." she adds with a playful tone. "I have befriended and now control a sandman, a creature whose aura puts to a lull if not sleep every living soul, allowing me to gain access to what they know."

After a relaxing moment in the company of the Dancing Dunes girls, you're ready to move on to your last task.

... unless you still want to do something else at the Dancing Dunes?

Nope, I'm good to move on.

As a reminder, here's the information you found on the last task:

Most merchants recommend avoiding Beggar’s Alley, which is home to a gang of pickpockets known as the Hundredfingers.

Something has the Hundredfingers gang spooked. The normally ubiquitous thieves have been avoiding the bazaar for a few days.

We need to get in touch with the leader of those scoundrels for Torch. If they are avoiding the bazar I suppose we should track them down at their hideout at Beggar’s Alley. Something tells me it wont be a friendly meeting. Buri says angry at the grandmaster's shenanigans.

I would agree. That does seem like the most logical approach to this situation. Quarr begins to gather his gear to set off as he thanks all of the lovely courtesans for their hospitality.