Standing Against the Giants, Brimleydower's Giantslayer (Inactive)

Game Master Kagehiro

Giantslayer Roll20

Burning Corpse Stats:

AC 16; CMD 14
Fort +1; Ref +2; Will +2
DR: 5/bludgeoning


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"Officially?" Kurst asks, shoulders still sagging and face downcast. He shakes his head even as he offers the answer: "Suicide. They found him. . ." he begins to choke up a bit, but you each get the impression that he is already cried out enough that tears can't gather again so soon, ". . .they found him with his wrists opened, and his hopeknife in his hand." Kurst's hands quiver atop the table as his fingertips look as if they are attempting to bore through the surface.

"I don't—I wont' believe that. He had too much to live for. He had made so many plans for the future. I won't believe he ended his own life. It doesn't make sense." Kurst steadies himself, closing his eyes and allowing a few attempts at steadying his ragged breathing. "Father was devastated. But he wouldn't hear it—wouldn't consider that Rodrik didn't. . . didn't take his own life. I think he blames himself." Kurst looks at the staircase leading up to the inn's upper rooms, presumably where Rodrik's room was located. "I pressed him about a week ago. He stopped staying at The Longhouse and rented a permanent room here at the Ramble. And there was so much tension between he and father for so long. Eventually I had to ask. He didn't want to answer my questions at first, but I kept pressing until he caved. Rodrik was. . . in a relationship with one of the half-orc women in town—Brinya Kelver. After he had left the Longhouse, I guess father got suspicious and started investigating, and he was furious when he discovered what was happening. He disapproved because of her orcish blood."

Kurst sighs aloud, but notably avoids meeting Grafelda or Tharok's gaze. His face begins to blush in embarrassment even as he relates the tale. Eventually, he shakes himself out of his own anxiety and slams a fist on the table. "But he's wrong. To the Hells with what father thinks! Rodrik and Brinya were going to be married, and soon. He told me as much himself! And why would he wait so long after being confronted by father about it if he intended to. . . to. . ." His jaw clenches tight as he attempts to fend off the horrible thoughts storming within his head. "Our militia is stretched thin. Patrols have been doubled recently, and with father content to let suicide stand as the culprit I doubt he would give me the manpower to investigate this. And I'm not my brother. I couldn't figure this out if I spent the rest of my life trying. I am going to have my hands full tending to family affairs, and likely leading the patrols. Father took this harder than any one I think. I need to make sure he doesn't do something foolish, and make sure my little brothers are looked after." Kurst finally manages to achieve lasting eye contact with those gathered around the table. "Maybe it's too much to ask, but I can't just accept his death. He deserves far better. I want all of you to find out what is happening here. If not for Rodrik, then I ask you consider doing it for Trunau."

______________________________

Been wrestling with how to approach this, as hammering out questions would probably take a good chunk of time via PbP (as opposed to a quick Q&A session in a tabletop discussion). I've elected to go ahead and spoiler question responses to some of the more relevant questions outlined in the book. Since Kurst is absolutely forthcoming, it's not going to involve any dice rolls. If any one has a question outside of the scope of the spoilered answers below, feel free to voice them.

Three Leads:

Kurst is able to suggest 3 leads that should help to, at the very least, kickstart an investigation in earnest. The first is the crime scene itself, upstairs at The Ramblehouse. Cham Larringfass, the halfling owner and proprietor of The Ramblehouse, might be able to provide some information as well. The second lead is Brinya Kelver, the half-orc weaver that Rodrik had been engaging in a clandestine romance with. The third and final lead (barely) is Omast Frum, a patrol sergeant of the militia who is a longtime friend of Rodrik's. Kurst hopes that maybe Rodrik confided something in Omast in the time leading up to his death.

Shouldn't your father or the militia take charge of the investigation?:
As he confided previously, Kurst is about as far from a sleuth as one can get. Jagrin Grath, his father, is in shambles at the moment after losing his most promising son. Worst still, Jagrin thinks it's his fault, that his prejudice against Brinya drove Rodrik to the act. And while there might be some among the militia who are willing, they're mostly adept at repelling invaders. Investigating elaborate murder plots is beyond their pay grade, so to speak. Given that Rodrik more or less hand-picked each of you to be his inner circle for plans that no longer matter, Kurst thought it wise to rely on you all to get to the bottom of this incident.

Why are you sure Rodrik's death was a suicide?:

Kurst knows his brother better than any one. There were no warning signs leading up to last night either. Why would he call all of you together to discuss Trunau's future if he had intended to wander home and take his life several hours afterwards? And his recent decision to marry Brinya Kelver. . . too much doesn't add up.

Can we examine the body?:

Though hesitant initially, Kurst will agree to allow you to view the body if you think it important. They will be keeping it at the Sanctuary until his funeral (the temple of Iomedae in Trunau).

What can you tell us about Cham Laringfass and the Ramblehouse?:
The Ramblehouse is the only proper inn in Trunau, and the best boardinghouse to boot. Though the militia did a quick search of Rodrik's room, they weren't investigating it as a murder. Cham is the one who found Rodrik's body. She is a halfling who came to Trunau from Molthune, but she has been living in Trunau since before Kurst was born. She's widely known to have a soft spot for other halflings.

What can you tell us about Brinya Kelver?:

She's a half-orc weaver in town who stays at one of the few boardinghouses Trunau offers. Kurst is one of the only people in town aware that she and Rodrik were planning to marry in secret. When Jagrin found out Rodrik was seeing a half-orc, they had a terrible argument. The two had been on shaky ground ever since. Kurst has been forbidden from seeing Brinya, and he would like if all of you would go check up on her. Kurst does not bear the same prejudices of his father, and he knows Rodrik's death likely hit her harder than any one else.

What can you tell us about Omast Frum?:

Omast has been a long-time friend of the Grath family, and was always viewed as an uncle by Rodrik and Kurst. He's well known in Trunau, mostly as a bit of a lush, but he's a well-meaning and well-liked person by most. He accompanied Rodrik on several patrols, even recently, so he might have some more insight into something Rodrik may have stumbled upon.

Any other possible suspects?:

Kurst cannot think of any specific persons, but he admits that Rodrik was a bit of a celebrity in Trunau. He touched a lot of lives in the town, so it's possible that any one could be a suspect. Anything out of the ordinary should likely receive the most scrutiny.

Are there any other clues?:

Kurst has Rodrik's hopeknife. It's the only noteworthy clue he can think to provide. He will leave it in your care if you request, but he needs it back at some point before the funeral.

How can we get in touch with you?:

Kurst will be at the Longhouse should you have any need of him. He will be tending to his brother's affairs and taking care of his family mostly, while trying to make sure the patrol routes aren't too neglected owing to Jagrin's state.

And as a request from your humble GM, please don't scattershot and split the party. While it is sensible and completely understandable, splitting up the Gameplay into two or three ongoing scenes is an unwieldy nightmare.

Also, 100 posts. Yeehaw.


Male Dwarf Barbarian 2 HP: 9/27 [7/25] (-2 con) | Rage: 4/9
Stats:
(AC 18, T 12, FF 16) | CMD 17 (21 vs bull rush/trip, 23 vs awesome blow) | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +1 (+3 vs poison, spells, and spell-like abilities) | Init +2 | Percept +5

"Suicide my ass. I'd bet my good eye it wasn't that." Morgder grumbles unhappily. Something foul was afoot here. He grumbles even more at the man's racist father. And here I thought this town as the exception. Especially considering the chief's own half-orc children. Damned ignorant.

He shakes his had at the politics involved. "I won't stand for this either. He had too many plans for the future to kill himself. You don't speak of the future like that and then end it all. I'll help, sure as the bones of my ancestors." He nods as he listens to the questions.

"We should definitely start by checking out where it happened. One thing at a time. We should check out his room to. We don't mean to be disrespectful, but it's important to see the body. Honor the dead, but fight for the living. After that we go talk to people."


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

"If the orcs come, this is where you cut—here, here, and here" Qytheerah repeats in a hollow, mechanical tone the words Halgra told her as she took the Standing Vow. Not even a day has passed, yet the happiness and rejoicing of the day before seem nothing short of immeasurably distant now.

"But there are no orcs here" she continues her droning monologue, as if unaware she's voicing her thoughts out loud. "No orcs. And the vow is clear: defend Trunau, only use your hopeknife for its intended purpose".

"Rodrik's no oath-breaker" she says, before huddling up and falling silent, Tharok's hand still on her shoulder.

Eyes wide open, she hears her companions asking questions and making suggestions but nothing seems to stir her from her catatonia. Only the mention of Rodrik having an half-orc lover draws a reaction from the Shoanti smith.

I knew nothing of this. Twice a fool I've been, if I thought I had any chances with him. But at least he got to spend his last months with someone who loved him – a little slice of happiness I'm glad he enjoyed, even if I had no part in it.


11/11 HP, Active Conditions: none
Stats:
AC 17; touch 14; flat-footed 13 | F: +4; R: +7; W: +4 | CMD 17 | Init: +4 | Perception: +2

There's a murderer loose within the walls of Trunau, thinks Tharok with a shiver. He gives Qytheerah's shoulder a squeeze, then guides her to a chair and gently presses her down to sit. Standing by her side, he crosses his arms and steels his emotions, forcing himself to focus on the particulars of the issue at hand.

This is a hunt. We have to find the tracks. Control yourself and your emotions.

Tharok asks questions, listens as others do the same, and slowly pieces together the beginnings of a plan. When Morgder asks to see the body, he reluctantly nods, and then nods again at the dwarf's suggestion that they see the room.

"Do we have a list of all strangers currently within the town?" Tharok's voice is quiet. "I think this was done by one of our own, but we should be sure. We should also ask the guards at the gate who has left Trunau since last night. Finally, we need to know who was spending the night here last night, and ask them all if they noticed anything."

Tharok sighs. "I don't think the perpetrator is a stranger, nor do I think they have left the town. But we should be thorough. My guess is that this was politically motivated. Someone feared the changes that Rodrik might bring about when he took power. Kurst, do you know of anybody who opposed Rodrik's views with animosity?"


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)

Hearing the questions, and understanding that some were assuming this was done by a newcomer or outsider, Skrioth maintains her silence, so as to not call attention to herself.


"Who would do such a thing? Rodrik hadn't been very outspoken about his intentions. Other than me and maybe Brinya, I think you were the first people he tried to bring into the fold." Kurst seems worried at the prospect of it being a local; another stress added to an already overburdened plate. "Every citizen tends to keep a wary eye on strangers here, as you know. . . but I don't think any one keeps a running list, at least not formally. I think Cham keeps a log around here somewhere, but I wouldn't count on the boardinghouses doing the same. It's usually just locals in those flops at any rate. If I get a free moment, I can ask around at the Longhouse, see if any of the militia saw someone unusual coming or going."


HP: 20/20
Stats:
(AC 15, T 11, FF 14) | CMD 14 | Fort +4, Ref +1, Will +3 | Init +1 | Percept +2

Grafelda accepts the news in course, after getting over her initial surprise. She's used to bad things happening, and expects it as a course of normal existence. Emotions were best kept crammed in a little box where they can't interfere with anything. After processing all the information they currently have, she speaks.

"I agree that we should examine the crime scene and the body first. Then we can talk to his girl, and his friend. That's likely going to get us further than any more amount of discussion about the matter now will."


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)

Skrioth thinks, "huh? I was certain Grafelda would accuse me. They keep talking about strangers and people who stayed here last night. How are they not looking at me?"

Finally she determines to tackle the shark in the room. "Look, I know at least some of you are thinking it, I'm an outsider, and I stayed at the Ramblehouse last night, but it wasn't me, I promise."


Sounds like there's mostly a consensus, but I'm waiting on a definitive post to get the ball rolling on where you guys head off to next. Feel free to continue the current scene as long as you'd like. Not trying to rush anything. Just tag a post with an OOC post that you're ready to move on, and where you want to go.


HP: 58/58 | Rage: 16/16
Stats:
Current AC: 21 (AC 17, T 10, FF 16) | CMD 23 | Fort +7, Ref +3, Will +4 | Init +5 | Percept +11

Arctorus is too dumb to wrap his head around this. He will just seethe in rage until he finds the person responsible. So he will just go with the consensus.


Male Dwarf Barbarian 2 HP: 9/27 [7/25] (-2 con) | Rage: 4/9
Stats:
(AC 18, T 12, FF 16) | CMD 17 (21 vs bull rush/trip, 23 vs awesome blow) | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +1 (+3 vs poison, spells, and spell-like abilities) | Init +2 | Percept +5

Ready, Morgder wants to go check out the crime scene first.


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)

Skrioth will follow Morgder, and apply her inconsiderable investigative abilities as best she can!


HP: 20/20
Stats:
(AC 15, T 11, FF 14) | CMD 14 | Fort +4, Ref +1, Will +3 | Init +1 | Percept +2
Skrioth wrote:

Skrioth thinks, "huh? I was certain Grafelda would accuse me. They keep talking about strangers and people who stayed here last night. How are they not looking at me?"

Finally she determines to tackle the shark in the room. "Look, I know at least some of you are thinking it, I'm an outsider, and I stayed at the Ramblehouse last night, but it wasn't me, I promise."

"No crap," Grafelda says. "You're too small to overpower Rodrik, and he was kind to you last night. Where's your motive to kill him? I guess you're a suspect, but I believe you."


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)

That's a relief."


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

"Yes" Qytheerah whispers, barely audible at first.

"Yes! Grafelda's right – on both counts." Having seemingly snapped out of her torpor, the tall Shoanti stands up and takes a few steps towards the stairs.

"You might have had the opportunity, but you lack both the means and the motive. No, you didn't kill Rodrik, Skrioth. Someone else did." Her voice is cold, emotionless yet full of purpose. Tilting her head down, looking up and slightly backwards, her following words sound nothing short of ominous.

"And we're going to find him. And then, we'll make him pay".

Also agree with Morgder and Grafelda about checking the crime scene first.


11/11 HP, Active Conditions: none
Stats:
AC 17; touch 14; flat-footed 13 | F: +4; R: +7; W: +4 | CMD 17 | Init: +4 | Perception: +2

Tharok remains quiet and pensive. "Let's head upstairs then. Perhaps we'll notice something. I'd still like to talk to Cham and ask the other guests if they noticed anything last night - any sounds of struggle, or the like."

Tharok looks grimly determined to see this through.


"I'll go and let the others know you're allowed in." Kurst rises from his seat at the table and makes his way upstairs. There is a brief exchange of muffled words from the second story before the Patrol Captain returns, several militiamen filing into the room behind him. A few of them eye those gathered at the table with a hint of suspicion, but otherwise seem willing to follow Kurst's lead on the matter. Gesturing up the stairs, Kurst says, "Rodrik's is the first room on the left once you get to the top of the stairs. It's the only door open at the moment as well—you can't miss it."

The Ramblehouse might be the only proper inn to be found in Trunau, but its rooms barely earn the distinction. Rodrik's room is no different on this account. It is a sparse affair, the room containing a single cot with a small trunk and a writing desk. The cot is sturdy, but simple, with a straw-stuffed mattress, now stained red with blood and stripped of its linens, while the desk is a slightly nicer piece of furniture that has nonetheless been chipped and worn by time. Beyond the door into the second story hallway, a cracked window in the southern wall is the only exit from the room.

Rodrik's body has since been moved from his room, taken to The Sanctuary to await preparations for his funeral. Even absent the slain man's body, it is clear that no struggle took place in the room. Everything is tidy and as one might expect to find it.


Male Dwarf Barbarian 2 HP: 9/27 [7/25] (-2 con) | Rage: 4/9
Stats:
(AC 18, T 12, FF 16) | CMD 17 (21 vs bull rush/trip, 23 vs awesome blow) | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +1 (+3 vs poison, spells, and spell-like abilities) | Init +2 | Percept +5

Morgder consciously ignores the suspicious glances; at this point he knows nothing will come of them and they're only distracting him. His one eye swivels around for a moment before resting on Kurst. "Thanks lad." He moves into the room.

Morgder starts inspecting the room, a surly look on his face. "Somebody should take a look outside, see if somebody got in from the window or something."

Take 10 on perception for a 15.


HP: 20/20
Stats:
(AC 15, T 11, FF 14) | CMD 14 | Fort +4, Ref +1, Will +3 | Init +1 | Percept +2

Grafelda reaches up to touch the poppet around her neck, and whispers a sibilant cantrip. A moment later her eyes begin to glow with soft purple light, and she examines the room. "I'm checking to see if there are any magical auras."

Casting detect magic and looking for any lingering auras.


HP: 58/58 | Rage: 16/16
Stats:
Current AC: 21 (AC 17, T 10, FF 16) | CMD 23 | Fort +7, Ref +3, Will +4 | Init +5 | Percept +11

Arctorus scans the room briefly, but nods at the one eyed Dwarf before turning and heading outside, trying to find the window to the room and looking around out there.
__________
Perception Inside: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11
Perception Outside: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11


11/11 HP, Active Conditions: none
Stats:
AC 17; touch 14; flat-footed 13 | F: +4; R: +7; W: +4 | CMD 17 | Init: +4 | Perception: +2

Tharok stands at the threshold of the room, keeping an eye on Qytheerah even as he studies Rodrik's domicile. He takes a moment to crouch by the door, inspecting the handle, lock, and frame for any sign of forced entry, though he knows he won't find any. Then he steps inside, and allows himself to relax and his eyes to roam. Years of searching the wilderness for signs of elusive prey have taught him that often the best way to spot something is to catch it out of the corner of your eye; focusing too intently will just as often hide what you're searching for.

So he allows his gaze to roam, and when he's satisfied, he inspects the furniture, looks under the cot, and then crouches and stares at the floorboards, a frown marring his face.

Search to find tracks: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22 +1 to the result if the target is an orc.
Perception to find any general clues: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)

Skrioth scans the room quickly, but knows she is not the best for this sort of investigation.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12

"If my meager help is required, I can offer up the blessings of Angradd to any who would desire it during this effort?"

Skrioth will continually be prepared to cast guidance and touch the others to provide Angradd's "gift" of a +1 on any of their skill rolls.

GM:
As I stayed at the Ramblehouse last night, can I ask what I saw, heard, or remember? Where was my room relative to the deceased's?


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

Qytheerah speaks nary a word as she limps her way upstairs, as if her focus on the newfound duty of catching Rodrik's murderer – for nothing in Golarion would ever convince me it's not the vilest of murders – has made her barely aware of her surroundings. Her silence is only broken by a muttering in Celestial accompanying a rapid gesture of her hand.

"Falayna, benedic me et adiuva." casting Guidance – thank you Skrioth for the reminder!

Upon reaching the room, she silently nods at Grafelda's words and mimics her incantation (casting Detect Magic). Her eyes now glowing the same color as the half-orc witch's, she meticulously scans the room, mentally inspecting every detail Kurst's men might have overlooked. Losing herself in the task of avenging Rodrik's death is her way of coping with her sense of loss, and she's currently pouring every ounce of her determination into it.

Skrioth wrote:
"If my meager help is required, I can offer up the blessings of Angradd to any who would desire it during this effort?"

Recognizing the familiar spell, Qytheerah briefly interrupts her search to address Skrioth.

"So it wasn't just hollow talk yesterday. The gods have blessed you after all. Too bad that for all your 'prophetic visions', you could not foresee this coming" she bitterly states.

Yeah, she's in a bit of a b$@*~ mode, as of now... Sorry Skrioth!

________________________________________________________________________

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23 including +1 bonus due to Guidance

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19 to identify Skrioth's spell as it is cast


As all of you set to searching the room for any clues, a hint of frustration begins to set in. No noteworthy tracks or any other signs of coming and going beyond that of Rodrik is forthcoming. The room appears to be tidy and altogether in order. Inside the trunk at the foot of the cot are a small collection of Rodrik's personal effects—extra articles of clothing, mostly—and nothing out of the ordinary. Tharok's heart skips a beat for a moment as he turns his attention to the desk within the dead Patrol Captain's room, as he manages to find a hidden recess in a desk drawer. His heart sinks just as quickly as he discovers the hidden compartment is empty. Judging from the thin layer of dust within, it has remained empty for some time.

It is Qytheerah who spots the only thing worthwhile to be found in the room. Tucked beneath the cot and a considerable layer of straw is a small slip of paper. Fears of it being a sort of suicide note are soon laid to rest as she unfolds the slip and reads it over. It is a receipt from Morninghawk's Fine Steel—or as it is more commonly known, Clamor—the only worthwhile smithy in Trunau. More confusingly, it appears to be a purchase receipt for a hopeknife.

Qytheerah and Grafelda are familiar with the name Urnsul. She is a half-orc that showed up a couple of weeks ago, a refugee who barely spoke a lick of Common. Sara ended up taking her in at the forge and putting her to work. In the small time the two of you have spent at Clamor with Urnsul, she has been extremely reserved, but focused on her duties within the forge. Her worksmanship was never exemplary, but it was competent.

Hopeknife Receipt

Skrioth:
The only thing that jarred you awake or stands out is the moment that the detachment of militiamen arrived at the Ramblehouse to investigate Rodrik's room. The room has been quarantined off from then until now.


Male Dwarf Barbarian 2 HP: 9/27 [7/25] (-2 con) | Rage: 4/9
Stats:
(AC 18, T 12, FF 16) | CMD 17 (21 vs bull rush/trip, 23 vs awesome blow) | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +1 (+3 vs poison, spells, and spell-like abilities) | Init +2 | Percept +5

Morgder growls in frustration as nothing is discovered, but the note piques his hopes again. "Who's this Urnsul person? We should pay her a visit."


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

"A half-orc apprentice Sara recently took in at the Clamor" Qytheerah says in response to Morgder's question. "She came to Trunau only recently, and speaks only the slimmest smattering of Common as a result. But she knows her way around the forge well enough, and Sara has never been one to turn down helping someone in need. I, of all people, should know that" she adds, her hand subconsciously reaching for her chest as if to grasp Qyth's Resolve, tucked in under her armor and clothes.

Not quite the most perceptive person around, it takes her some time to realize both Morgder and Skrioth must be rather unfamiliar with Trunau's landmarks. "The Clamor, or Morninghawk's Fine Steel, as Sara would rather have it called, is Trunau's only smithery – or rather, the only one worthy of that name" she hastens to elaborate. "I work there, it's not even a hundred feet to our left as we exit the Ramblehouse. I knew nothing of that particular purchase, though" she adds in a pensive tone. "As you've all witnessed yesterday, hopeknives are usually awarded, not bought, and crafting a proper one requires talent and mastery of the art. It's something that far exceeds a mere apprentice's skill – it surely exceeds mine, for instance".

Mostly, she's referring to the fact that hopeknives, being mwk daggers, require a DC 20 check to craft, which means it takes a hefty +10 modifier to be able to make consistent progress in its forging by using the take-10 rule.

"It's mere speculation on my part, of course, but for Rodrik to place an order with such an engraving... It might be he's lost the hopeknife Brinya gifted him, and now he wanted to replace it. And what better way to keep the whole matter discreet than to turn to the services of someone who practically only speaks Orc?"

There is no satisfaction in her voice, though, only a dry, matter-of-fact tone. For Rodrick, my love... I would have made you a hundred of those hopeknives if you'd only asked. No, it's not you. It's me who never asked.

"Before we leave, we might want to have a few words with Ms. Larringfass as Tharok suggested. I don't expect her to know too much, but it can't hurt, either..."


HP: 58/58 | Rage: 16/16
Stats:
Current AC: 21 (AC 17, T 10, FF 16) | CMD 23 | Fort +7, Ref +3, Will +4 | Init +5 | Percept +11

Is there anything/anyone in the area outside around where Rodrik's window is?


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)

"I am admittedly ignorant of your ways," Skrioth looks at Grafelda apologetically, "and while your explanation of this as a replacement knife might seem reasonable, I would ask this. If keeping your hopeknives safe and close at all times is so important, how could such an esteemed man have lost his? But otherwise, why would he possibly have been purchising what appears as a "gift" knife for himself? Is there, by any chance a second Rodrik within Trunau, that possibly Rodrik Grath was in love with that other Rodrik, and thus this was a gift from Rodrik to Rodrik? Did I explain that well enough?"


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

"You... did, in a way" Qytheerah says looking at Skrioth with a raised eyebrow. "And though the point you raise is valid – a hopeknife is perhaps every Trunauan's most prized possession, after all – Kurst told us Rodrik is... was in a relationship with this half-orc woman. Brinya. Him losing his hopeknife is hard to believe, but I find it even harder picturing him in a sort of love triangle. Indeed, earlier I misspoke. Hopeknives aren't really gifted; they're exchanged. It is a very strong symbolic gesture, one meant to show how you're willing to put your own life in the hands of your loved one. In case of loss, or theft, there is no-one in Trunau who wouldn't take great pains to conceal the fact."

She pauses, massaging her temples. Then, a sudden realization. "Wait. If he exchanged hopeknives with this Brinya, she must still have his original one. So either my guesswork is completely off the mark, or whatever hopeknife Kurst claimed to have found in his hands must have been planted there."

"Well, we won't know until we speak to at least Brinya and Urnsul" she pragmatically concludes.

Absolutely and positively grasping at straws for its own sake here, guys. Have to admit, I'm enjoying this CSI:Trunau part.

________________________________________________________________________

Knowledge (local) (untrained, common knowledge): 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 = 13 untrained check only applicable against DC<=10 to see if Qyth knows of anyone else called Rodrik in town...


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)
Qytheerah Reflects-the-Stars wrote:
Absolutely and positively grasping at straws for its own sake here, guys. Have to admit, I'm enjoying this CSI:Trunau "

Yeah, because my ideas are awesome! I'm really not a CSI character, but darnit we are going to solve this!


HP: 58/58 | Rage: 16/16
Stats:
Current AC: 21 (AC 17, T 10, FF 16) | CMD 23 | Fort +7, Ref +3, Will +4 | Init +5 | Percept +11

Soon as I learn what I see outside, you guys will get a glimpse of how Arctorus solves crime...with a 6 Int and 9 Wis...


11/11 HP, Active Conditions: none
Stats:
AC 17; touch 14; flat-footed 13 | F: +4; R: +7; W: +4 | CMD 17 | Init: +4 | Perception: +2

Tharok frowns as Qytheerah walks Skrioth through the cultural implications of exchanging hopeknives and what losing one might entail. He crosses his arms and stares at the ground, his own thoughts tumbling over each other like the pebbles that presage the fall of a greater landslide.

"Perhaps we should go speak to Brinya first. We don't have much time, and going to the best source of potential information might be the wisest move."

He frowns. "Didn't Kurst say a hopeknife was found in his hand? If so, that one should have this engraving. If not, then perhaps an argument can be made for it not being his hopeknife. And therefore that Rodrik was murdered."


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

Brimley, working at Clamor perhaps Qytheerah would know: are those kind of receipts handed out once a purchase has been finalized (i.e. on delivering a hopeknife), or are they cashed in to redeem an order which has already been paid for in advance? If it's the first, as I'm now inclined to believe after reading Tharok's post, please disregard the last part of Qytheerah's speech. 1-hour edit window be damned and all that...

So to summarize our leads now are:

  • Cham Larringfass, the innkeeper. Perhaps she's heard something, or at the very worst she has a list of the people staying at the Ramblehouse last night. Might get us a plethora of red herrings, though since we're already there, having a word with her on the way out can't really hurt.
  • Brinya Kelver, Rodrik's lover. Agreed she's probably the one who was most privy to whatever Rodrik was up to. She might also be able to shed some light on this hopeknife mystery-within-a-mystery.
  • Omast Frum, Rodrik's friend and colleague. This might be the weakest lead as of now, as I don't see him knowing much more than Brinya or Kurst do, but until we actually talk to him, we might still be in for a surprise.
  • Urnsul is the one Rodrik's bought his replacement hopeknife from. She probably doesn't know anything more than we already do (well, she might know if Rodrik had already picked up his order or not, though once Brimley answers my introductory question, that particular point becomes moot).
  • Kurst has Rodrik's hopeknife, whose inspection might be relevant in the light of Tharok's observation.
  • Finally, Rodrik's body is being kept at the Sanctuary, which is literally right next door to the Ramblehouse. Given our... less than outstanding Heal modifier, I don't see us playing coroner.


@ Arctorus: there's nothing noteworthy out the window. Rodrik's room overlooks the southern side of the Ramblehouse, so it's mostly just a view of the hill leading up to the higher parts of the town.

@ Qytheerah: The smithy takes payments up front, at which time a bill of sale/receipt of purchase is written up. Having the receipt points towards the commissioned item not being picked up yet.


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)

Ahhh, so his was stolen. He went to buy a replacement. And then the original turned up as the murder weapon.


HP: 20/20
Stats:
(AC 15, T 11, FF 14) | CMD 14 | Fort +4, Ref +1, Will +3 | Init +1 | Percept +2

Maybe he was seeing multiple girls, and gave his knife to someone else first. Then Brinya came along, and the original girl got jealous?


11/11 HP, Active Conditions: none
Stats:
AC 17; touch 14; flat-footed 13 | F: +4; R: +7; W: +4 | CMD 17 | Init: +4 | Perception: +2

Still key to see if there's an inscription on the hopeknife that killed him. Since we know he was currently without one, if the knife has the inscription on it then we know it was either a) his old lost one or b) his new one which the half orc was supposed to make. If it's the new one, then maybe the half orc smith is now a suspect?

Actually, maybe he never lost his hopeknife. The one he was gifted at his ceremony wouldn't have had the inscription on it. Maybe he intended to replace his own with the new one, and then exchange it?


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

I agree with Tharok's point. Both a plain and an engraved hopeknife being found would be equally suspicious at this point for different reasons; we should definitely check this out. The way I originally pictured it was:

  • Rodrik and Brinya fall in love;
  • They exchange hopeknives, Brinya has the inscription "For Rodrik, my love" engraved on hers before giving it to Rodrik;
  • Rodrik either loses his or it gets stolen;
  • Rodrik commissions an identical one from Clamor, is currently without a hopeknife;
  • Rodrik is killed, but the killer plants a hopeknife in his hand to make it look like suicide.

Which would make the hopeknife situation as such: Brinya has Rodrik's original hopeknife, possibly with a similar inscription engraved; Rodrik's (formerly Brinya's) hopeknife is missing, with a new one being crafted by Urnsul; whatever hopeknife was found on the body was planted by the murderer.

The weakness of this reconstruction is that it assumes that Rodrik had lost his hopeknife (or at the very least allowed it to be stolen), something quite uncharacteristic of him especially considering its status as a love token. On the other hand, it does not require other people to step into the picture other than the ones we already know of, nor it has Rodrik taking part in some sort of love triangle (something equally uncharacteristic, at least from the little we know of him). Though for the time being, they're mere conjectures. I say we go talk to some people and see what we can learn. Since we're already at the Ramblehouse, what do you say we start with Cham Larringfass, the halfling innkeeper?

Now, let me just voice some of this IC so that Brimley can move things on after the weekend...

Tharok Cragsoul wrote:

Tharok frowns as Qytheerah walks Skrioth through the cultural implications of exchanging hopeknives and what losing one might entail. He crosses his arms and stares at the ground, his own thoughts tumbling over each other like the pebbles that presage the fall of a greater landslide.

"Perhaps we should go speak to Brinya first. We don't have much time, and going to the best source of potential information might be the wisest move."

He frowns. "Didn't Kurst say a hopeknife was found in his hand? If so, that one should have this engraving. If not, then perhaps an argument can be made for it not being his hopeknife. And therefore that Rodrik was murdered."

Qytheerah nods in agreement to her friend's words, whose wisdom and no-nonsense approach she has learned to value during her stay in Trunau. "Precisely. One little thing, and I'm sorry for not having explicitly pointed it out before: at Clamor we usually hand out receipts such as this to customers who have already paid for their commissions up front; they use them as proof of payment once it's time to pick up their items, and are then destroyed to prevent frauds. The fact that we found it among his possessions means that he hadn't picked up his hopeknife yet. If the hopeknife Kurst found bears such an engraving, it is either the one he lost, meaning the murderer somehow came into its possession, or the replacement one Urnsul's working on, which puts her in a rather uncomfortable position. At the very least, she'd have some tough questions to answer."

She sighs. "Speculations, speculations. Alas, the only ones who can shed some light on the matter are Brinya and Urnsul. And we should absolutely ask Kurst to let us examine the hopeknife he found".


HP: 58/58 | Rage: 16/16
Stats:
Current AC: 21 (AC 17, T 10, FF 16) | CMD 23 | Fort +7, Ref +3, Will +4 | Init +5 | Percept +11

Arctorus can be heard returning well before he reappears in the threshold. "Nothing out there."


HP: 20/20
Stats:
(AC 15, T 11, FF 14) | CMD 14 | Fort +4, Ref +1, Will +3 | Init +1 | Percept +2

Never knew Qytheerah was such a logical thinker. She'd make a good guard captain. Grafelda keeps quiet, as is her way. She allows those who seem to know what they are doing to take the lead. "I'm with you, Qyth."


Female Merfolk Oracle of Flame / 2 (AC: 19 [T: 13 FF: 16] | HP: 4/17 (0NL) | F+2, R+3, W+1) | Init: +3 |Perc: +3, Darkvision 30’)

"As am I, although I know not where we are headed."


11/11 HP, Active Conditions: none
Stats:
AC 17; touch 14; flat-footed 13 | F: +4; R: +7; W: +4 | CMD 17 | Init: +4 | Perception: +2

Tharok nods, responding to Skioth. "First to see the hopeknife. Then depending on what we find, either Urnsul or Brinya. Those are the key leads at this point."


HP: 58/58 | Rage: 16/16
Stats:
Current AC: 21 (AC 17, T 10, FF 16) | CMD 23 | Fort +7, Ref +3, Will +4 | Init +5 | Percept +11

"Then let's go and get to the heart of it, then!" Arctorus says, almost growling the words out rather than speak them.


As Kurst volunteered it willingly, obtaining the hopeknife that was used the night prior proves no obstacle. Qytheerah can deduce immediately that it is an unfinished weapon. Sara Morninghawk is pretty infamous for her attention to detail and consistency. Barring sentimental influence—like the hopeknife that Qytheerah holds—the blades are honed to a fine edge and given intimate detail-work. While this hopeknife certainly has a keen edge, it is absent of any of the details consistent with Sara's usual work. More telling, there is no inscription along the blade despite a very clear intent for the blade to hold one. The tang has been poorly set into a crudely smoothed bit of ram's horn—also unusual for Sara's work—and fastened by a strip of leather. It is likely that the knife is unfinished, the final stages rushed by an amateur. The odds of someone specifically requesting a hopeknife with these specifications is too unlikely to consider a possibility.

Weaponcraft (Qyth): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17


Male Dwarf Barbarian 2 HP: 9/27 [7/25] (-2 con) | Rage: 4/9
Stats:
(AC 18, T 12, FF 16) | CMD 17 (21 vs bull rush/trip, 23 vs awesome blow) | Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +1 (+3 vs poison, spells, and spell-like abilities) | Init +2 | Percept +5

Morgder listens to all of the theories, a lot of it going over his head. All that he's sure of is that it was murder and they need to start asking questions. At mention of the poor quality hope knife he grunts. "Let's visit Sara, see who else uses her smithy and what she knows about other metalworkers in town."


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

"This... is no hopeknife" Qytheerah dryly states upon examining the weapon.

"At least, it's not a finished one. Though it was probably meant to become one eventually – look here for instance, there's some space left for an inscription – Sara would never allow such a weapon to come out of Clamor in its current state. Rushed. Unpolished" – disapproval is eminently patent in her voice. "The edge is quite keen though. This might very well be the weapon which killed Rodrik – but by no means it is his hopeknife. If it is indeed the one he commissioned, as it being predisposed to be engraved would lead me to believe, whoever put it into his hands had no time, or expertise, to see it properly finalized".

That said, Qytheerah proceeds to share with Kurst the little they had learned so far, as well as showing him the receipt found in his room. "There are still a lot of things that make little sense, but let me tell you this, Kurst. It was no suicide. But someone wanted to make it look like one." Still holding the dagger in her hand, she makes one final request. "We might want to keep it for a little while longer, if that's fine with you. There's someone I want to show it."

Morgder Kragmantle wrote:
Morgder listens to all of the theories, a lot of it going over his head. All that he's sure of is that it was murder and they need to start asking questions. At mention of the poor quality hope knife he grunts. "Let's visit Sara, see who else uses her smithy and what she knows about other metalworkers in town."

"Yes. Let's. Follow me, it's not even a hundred feet from here."

Assuming Kurst hadn't departed the Ramblehouse yet when we came back to ask him to let us further examine the hopeknife, meaning we're still there too...

My theory:
Urnsul did it, with the excuse of delivering him his newly crafted hopeknife. Freshly arrived into Trunau => infiltrator. It's all oh so very hypothetical and I have no proof at all, so I don't want to rush it or point fingers, which is why I'm keeping it strictly OOC for the time being. Also, Brinya probably has plenty of information we haven't taken into account yet, so this conjecture is still very likely to be partially or completely wrong...


HP: 20/20
Stats:
(AC 15, T 11, FF 14) | CMD 14 | Fort +4, Ref +1, Will +3 | Init +1 | Percept +2

Grafelda follows the others to the Clamor, watching the mystery unfold in front of her.


11/11 HP, Active Conditions: none
Stats:
AC 17; touch 14; flat-footed 13 | F: +4; R: +7; W: +4 | CMD 17 | Init: +4 | Perception: +2

Tharok's expression darkens as Qytheerah turns the hopeknife over in her fingers, and explains her suspicions. With little left to add before they learn more, he simply follows Qytheerah's lead, face dour and grave.


HP: 58/58 | Rage: 16/16
Stats:
Current AC: 21 (AC 17, T 10, FF 16) | CMD 23 | Fort +7, Ref +3, Will +4 | Init +5 | Percept +11

As they walk, Arctorus asks, "Is there another door to the smithy? A way for one to flee should the killer be present?" His claws stretch in anticipation as he adds, "I would not give them the chance..."


Female Aasimar (Angel-Blooded) Oracle 2 (Battle) | HP 20/20 {effects: 1 pt. of DEX dmg} | AC 15 (Tch 11 FF 14) | CMD 15 | F +1, R +1, W +1 | Init +2 | Perc +3, darkvision

Good question. Working there, Qytheerah would surely know. It would stand to reason the shop and forge have separate entrances, but that's up to Brimley to decide. Once he's chimed in, do assume that Qytheerah told you, Arctorus.

"Smart thinking" she curtly says as she covers the few yards separating the Ramblehouse from the Clamor, dragging her lame leg behind her.

"You know, as much as my blood is boiling for vengeance, and as much as I want to take it with my bare hands" she grins, cracking her knuckles, "we need solid evidence before we start pointing fingers. Racial tensions are high already, making blind accusations might be the spark that brings down everything Rodrik has been working for. He's dead – there's nothing we can do about it. But we should strive to make sure his legacy for a united Trunau lives on. So... let's thread very carefully for the time being."

Upon reaching the Clamor, Qytheerah would preferably speak directly with Sara, showing her the unfinished hopeknife and the receipt. She would also discretely voice some of her suspicions about Urnsul to probe her mentor's feelings on the matter.

On an unrelated note: convincing Tyari Varvatos, the Iomedaean priestess, to cast Speak with Dead on Rodrik's body might save us plenty of time. Of course, I guess the AP has gone to great lengths to block any sort of Divination options that might circumvent any murder plot completely.

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