The Red Arm of Absalom - Ongoing Campaign (Inactive)

Game Master GM Red

Mr Peppers is dragged along by the insistent little Miss Cup "Yes I'm coming, slow down you're making me dizzy!" The poor Elf's face is glazed over and sweat starts to form on his brow. All this time bored, and NOW I'm getting sick?

The room swirls and when he awakens he's in... Magnimar? "What.. did... you... do..." He says as he lifts his head up from the street with a blank look of confusion.

***OVERSEER POST***

VC Sheila Heidmarch

Even before the venture-captain arrives, the theater in Heidmarch Manor is crammed with Pathfinders. Heidmarch enters quietly, then slips through the crowd, takes the stage, and speaks. “Tonight, the Council of Ushers is sponsoring a pre-auction gala, to be hosted at the Cathedral of Abadar. During the party, the auctioneers intend to display the Runecarved Key in order to entice potential bidders. Anyone serious about entering the auction will be required to place a deposit of ten thousand gold coins in an escrow account at the cathedral.

“We need you to attend this event, both to submit our deposit as well as to determine who else might be interested in the key. While most of those attending received invitations, the event is semi-private and open to anyone with enough money to place serious bids. While the city provided me with an invitation, my appearance would give our many enemies cause for suspicion. For this reason, I ask that all of you go in my stead, and enter as my proxies. Still, we do not want out enemies to speculate on our own intentions. For this reason you must keep a low profile and avoid seeming too eager about the key. Each of you will be given a portion of the full deposit to take to the temple to present to Proctor Imikar”

Following your briefing, Sheila makes her way through each group of Pathfinders until she gets to yours. She hands you a strong box containing a portion of the deposit, nodding firmly, before turning into the rest of the crowd.

With the deposit in tow, you then make your way to the Cathedral of Abadar. Upon your arrival, you witness a steady stream of guests ascending the stairs and entering the cathedral's main sanctuary, where the viewing is being held. Rows of temple warriors wearing white tabards stitched with the golden key of Abadar flank the main entrance. Their hands are clenched tightly around their gleaming swords as they stand almost motionless, ever-vigilant stares upon their faces.

As you enter, various low-level priests invite you to partake in food and beverages while you mingle about, but it would make most sense to deposit the funds first, wouldn't it? One of the acolytes directs you to Proctor Jyronn Imikar, a pleasant Osirian priest who runs the temple, and Imikar accepts your deposit, writing something in his ledger.

You wouldn’t be proper pathfinders if you didn't use the opportunity to attempt to see some of the writing. After a moment, Proctor Imikar closes the book, beaming a smile at you. "Thank you for entering the auction. Please, thank madame Heidmarch on my behalf, will you?”

As he mingles with others, you realize it may be possible to get a peek at the ledger without attracting too much attention...

“RAWWWWWWK!” Not wanting to be left out, Longjing flies over the ledger, trying to spot something!

Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15

What he spots are the food tables! “Noble Steed, they have at least eight different kinds of fruit here!”

He launches off Uesugi’s head and flies off to harrass one of the servers. “Mangoes, ho!”

More seriously, if he spots anything else, let me know. He is a calligraphy wyrm, and most definitely can read!

Cup sighs, watching her dragon fly off into the crowd yet again. Then she turns to the others. “Hey, I spotted the following names on that ledger!”

She counts them off on her fingers.

“There’s Kresch Vaor, representing Underbridge Exports. I also saw Doctor Ernst Landis, representing the Museum of Ages. Dymal Rinks, Falrig Sneve and the Duchesses are independent bidders.” She holds up five fingers, and then adds one on her second hand. “There’s also Maiveer Sloan, representing the Aspis Consortium.” She wrinkles her nose. “We have got to figure out what to do to make him drop out!”

She turns to the others. “Did you spot anyone interesting?”

Mr Peppers begins to regain his magical composure after a quick rest. It is still too early for him to engage in too much back and forth conversation, but he accompanies the group to the deposit meeting at the temple. "I would love to hear what has kept everyone busy, but in due time, lets see what can be seen here first." His eyes glow blue as the ledger is revealed, hoping to see if there are any magically hidden signatures. After a quick glance he turns away with the others to discuss things.

"I'm afraid my eyes weren't as quick as yours Miss Cup, the only three I was able to focus on was our own Miss Heidmarch, as well as Rinks and Landis, as Miss Cup noted." He looks up just in time to see the dragon race off towards a table of fruit and shakes his head with a smile. Then quickly grimaces as he puts his finger to his temple, leaning on Gallix for balance.

After depositing the funds, you enjoy the fine wine, liquor, ale, milk and tea offered while nibbling on crumpets and spanakopitas. A squat man in white robes soon steps upon the cathedral dais to address the room. Introducing himself as the sexton of Magnimar’s High Cathedral of Abadar, he greets his guests with a broad, welcoming smile. “Good evening, friends! I’m pleased to see so many of our distinguished and honored guests could attend. For those of you not fortunate enough to have participated in our pre-auction festivities, please feel free to take part in all the luxuries and wonders within these halls. And with my welcome, I have the pleasure unveiling the auction’s feature lot. Enjoy!”

With the utterance of the final word, he pulls aside the veil, displaying an enormous, glowing key. It stands roughly three feet tall and is made of stone etched with arcane symbols. The crowd applauds and people turn back to their companions to discuss the artifact. The crowd is an eclectic mix of landholders, merchants, and other notable figures from all over Varisia, wide-eyed and curious to glimpse the mysterious Runecarved Key. Hired servants weave through the crowd bearing luxurious platters of fruits, sweetbreads, and oysters or trays topped with crystal goblets of heady red wine. Guests mingle slowly, socializing amicably but cautiously with longtime acquaintances, as they feel out potential competitors.

At this time, you can attempt to scope the crowd to try to deduce who are the society’s most serious competitors. You can attempt a Diplomacy or Knowledge (Local or Nobility) check to find a specific individual or attempt a Diplomacy, Knowledge (Local or Nobility), Perception or Sense Motive check to give a more generic description of the type of person you seek. Pay attention to those names you identified to attempt to seek someone out in particular!

Also, we have a flavor map!

Uesugi watches as Little Dragon flies off to feast on the assortment of fruit and then turns to the others as they indicate the names they were able to make out.

"The only two were the ones you mentioned Madame Poshkettle. Dymal Rinks and Doctor Ernst Landis." he looks around looking at the amount of people gathered. "It would do us well to identify which of these bidders might be in league with the Aspis as well. If they cannot secure the item lawfully they will do so unlawfully."

"Heh. Well, it wouldn't be a party with the Pathfinders in attendance if the Aspis weren't here to be a thorn in our side as well, eh? Hey, you okay Peppers? You seems paler than usual." Gallix supports his elven friend as he strolls around, grabbing himself some tea, and some water for Peppers. After scoping out the guest book, he reports to the others, "Yeah, I saw the Duchesses too, Cup. As well as someone called Zimandri Kaddren. I guess Kaddren is an independent as well. Probably some rich local noble of some sort. I wonder what their interest in the Key is."

Gallix cranes his neck to look around the room and spots some benches off to one side. "Hey, Peppers. You wanna come with me to take a seat on those benches for a bit. We can post up over there and mingle from there. Figure out who's who and what the scoop is on them." Without waiting for Mr. Peppers to affirm the plan, Gallix leads the elf toward the southern side of the Cathedral and seats Peppers on the bench. From beside his ailing friend, he asks around about this Zimandri Kaddren.

Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13

"Thanks Gallix. I've been cooped up in that library so long I think my lungs aren't used to this fresh air again yet. Or maybe its just Magnimar in general. Either way, would you grab me up some of that mixed fruit there? Maybe its because need to eat."

Tall, dark and dizzy sips on his water and munches on some simple sugars to try to get his head right. As he does he lets his eyes wander (literally side to side) across the different royal crests and insignias around the room, trying to find that which would be the Doctor Landis from the Museum of the Ages.

K Nobility or Local: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28

D. observes the sithly type woman.

Pale & hooded on the map. Duchess probably?

Before the party splits and goes everywhere in the Cathedral, Cup hits them all with Lucky Number!

Cup’s Lucky Number: 1d20 ⇒ 12

Everyone roll a d20 and then put the result in your header!

“Hello, can you point me to Maiveer Sloan? Look, I’m green and cute. You want to help me!”

Diplomacy, Take Ten: 10 + 20 = 30
Sense Motive, Take Ten: 10 + 20 = 30

What sort of person does he appear to be? Also, can we roll for more than one person?

Lucky Number: 1d20 ⇒ 13

"
Doctor Ernst Landis, representing the Museum of Ages
Dymal Rinks
Falrig Sneve
Kresch Vaor, representing Underbridge Exports
The Duchesses
and Sheila Heidmarch.
"

"These are the names I located on the ledger. While you search for Aspis, I will look for this Duchess."

The headband gives her a hidden insight to help her locate this woman.
K Nobility: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (3) + 13 = 16

Lucky Number: 1d20 ⇒ 18

”Thanks, Cup! I was just thinking about how glad I was to have our teams lucky charm back with us again.”

"I will inquire to find out about this independent bidder, Dymal Rinks."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

Lucky #: 1d20 ⇒ 8

Somehow, the bidders all look similar to Gallix and Uesugi, and they aren't able to tell Dymal Rinks nor Zimandri Kaddren from the rest of the group. Mr. Peppers easily spots Doctor Landis, standing next to a pillar and vying for a look at the key. The balding, weathered old man wears heavy robes stitched with runes. Despite his age, his face beams with a boyish grin as he gazes at the curious artifact.

"Ah, yes, best of luck with your bids," a gaunt, fashionably dressed Chelaxian man smiles as he handshakes his way through the room. He looks to be accompanied by a half-dozen followers who appear to be equal parts attendant and bodyguard. "Master Sloan, this way, please," one of his followers says, and Cup hears this, identifying the Aspis agent.

Both have been marked on the map. DC to identify here is 10 + APL, so we're looking for 17. Cup and Mr. Peppers succeeded in their checks here, but everyone can roll for every NPC at least once, which should make it pretty easy to spot them. If you're then going to interact with them, let's do it one NPC at a time given it's PbP and a party split could get confusing.

If the DC is 17, then Sirettis can just take 10 and make DC 23 on her K. Nobility checks.

Sirettis keeps on the lookout for the Duchess, but can't find her immediately.
Instead, she looks for Dymal Rinks next.

Sirettis is a font of knowledge when it comes to nobility, and easily identifies everyone in the room.

Dymal Rinks is a squat halfling, dressed in plain clothes who suspiciously skates about the edge of the crowd, his eyes flitting back and forth between the key and the exit.

Falrig Sneve stands toward the back of the room. A gray-haired man in his early fifties, dressed in fine silken robes, he looks to be flanked by two muscular guards. The man nervously fingers a small silver coin, flipping it about in his fingers.

Zimandi Kaddren, a strikingly handsome Chelaxian woman with deep, dark eyes and black hair steps forward to admire the key. She is richly dressed in a flowing gown cut to the very latest in Magnimarian fashion.

Moving slowly through the crowd is an uncomely woman with large teeth and a shrewlike nose, dressed unbecomingly in the drab clothing of a stevedore. Slight in stature with a slightly stooped posture, she behaves in a mostly standoffish manner. Slipping to the edge of the crowd, she nervously waits for the key. Spotting the artifact, she make a few quick notes, then slips off. "Yeah, that's Kresch Vaor," someone tells Sirettis. "Quite the, er, personality."

The Duchess are actually two women, who stand to the side of the cathedral, conversing softly between themselves. Both are dressed in Varisian travelers’ clothes draped with thick cloaks.

Everyone is identified, now it's just a matter of choosing who you'd like to engage to learn a little more about their motives for wanting the key, or background. I think D wanted to engage the "Sith" lady, which would be Kresch?

Yes.

D. sees 'Kresch' scurry nearby.

Interesting. A quiet and calculating type, i shall have to talk to her personally.

While she is occupied, D. checks to see if there is an inconspicuous unattended nearby object, which he could have her trip over, with plausibility of it being her own doing.

If so, he uses his power to shove it between her legs as she moves away, so she'd trip over.

Casually walking over, he stands near her, and holds out his hand to pick her up.
"Need help?"

Perception, did the booklet/note fall out of her pocket?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17

If it dropped and she hasn't picked it up yet, provided her attention is shifted at D. first, D. makes it slide away somewhere obscured.

After a few moments and a bit of food, Mr Peppers eyes up the Doctor and his oh so interesting rune filled attire. "I'll be over here speaking with the Doctor, Gallix, please keep an eye out ok?" Tall, dark, and feeling better gets up, checks his balance, and heads over to speak with the weathered old man.

"Doctor Landis? I couldn't help but notice a man with a true interest in the Key instead of all these schemers. I am Mr Peppers, Master of the Arcane." He says with a slight bow.

"Have you gotten a closer look at the Key yet? I'd love to get it back to the library to ponder over, but looking over the other bidders here I can't imagine this thing will make it out of here with a reasonable price tag." Mr Peppers takes a look at the man's robes to see if he recognizes any of the runes or can use to help break the ice a bit more.

Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (13) + 14 = 27

Then continues chatting up the fella, genuinely interested in what he does and his opinions on the Key itself. Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18

Cup makes certain that her wayfinder is not showing as she approaches the Aspis Agent and all of his body guards. She pulls out a notebook and marches up to Maiveer Sloan. “Maiveer Sloan? Hello, I’m Lady Calpurnia of House Al-Hadir. I’ve been volunteering with the local Magnimaran historical society, and we’re hoping to collect some insights from Thassilonian experts for our latest newsletter.”

She glances at her notes, where she already wrote the name of ‘Doctor Landis’ and ‘Sheila Heidmarch’ on there under the header, ‘Some Experts to Consult’. “I have heard so much about your organization and its research! We’d love a personal viewpoint article on your thoughts on our city’s newest archaeological find! Could you spare a few minutes? It would so thrill our readers!”

Bluff: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (19) + 20 = 39

Kresch Vaor, Reflex save to not fall?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24 I'd think this would pass
Kresch stumbles over the object D puts in her way, but manages to collect herself before falling. Regardless, her blunder is noticed and she quickly turns and ducks away towards the entrance of the cathedral and exits with haste, thoroughly embarrassed.

Doctor Landis is pleasant and chatty, and bows back at Mr. Peppers. "Master of the arcane, eh? You must love relics too, then! I love historic artifacts, and this Key here, it must be an item of great historical significance!" He runs his hand through his beard. "It's marvelous. My theory is that it was created by Emperor Xin to unlock a temple of seven paradises. Luckily, given a very generous," he hesitates for a moment, "Anonymous donor, I stand a pretty good chance of winning it, too."

Cup obscures her wayfinder and easily finds a gnome-height path through Sloan's bodyguards. Sloan barely even turns to her when he responds. "The city's newest archaeological find? Bah," he scoffs. "Don't you know I've only arrived to see what kind of fools are bidding on a stupid key to a lock long lost to time?" His squad of volunteers and bodyguards all laugh in unison. "How's that for a personal viewpoint?" They laugh even harder now.

____
Why do I think D is going to chase Kresch? :)

Turning to look down the length of the bench, Gallix spots Falrig Sneve fingering his coin and moves over toward the man, trying to imitate the motion.

Dexterity: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

He keeps his distance from the man, so as not to alarm his bodyguards, before he strikes up a conversation with the man. "Can't say I'm too excited to be here either, eh, sir? Lot of noise, lot of people, and all for this," he sweeps an arm toward the key. "I wonder who will win it, and what the price tag will be?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Still in persona, Cup glares up at the Aspis Agent, somehow managing to look down her nose at him, even though she had to crank her neck up to peer at him. “Well,” she says frostily, “I guess you won’t be receiving invitations to our next gala event, Mr. Sloan. Thank you for your insights. With such charm as yours, you have no worries about being overbooked this social season.” With a flounce of her skirts, she turns on her heels of her fancy emerald green gem-encrusted boots.

★ --- ★ --- ★ --- ★

Then Cup decides to seek out the only gentleman here as short as she is. Speaking in halfling, she smiles at him. “Hello! Are you Dymal Rinks, perchance? I am Lady Calpurnia of House Al-Hadir. I was noticing you studying the key, earlier. What do you think of it?”

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (14) + 20 = 34

“I have been trying to decide if my adoptive family should put in a bid, but the Al-Hadirs have always been more into horses and land then historical relics. Still... I love researching history. I haven’t always been a noble. I started out as a scholar. The old Thassilonians? So decadent and corrupt, and full of drama!” She grins at Mr. Rinks, and offers her hand for him to kiss.

Were we doing this as a group, or splitting the party? Sounds like we're splitting.

Sirettis approaches the Duchess...Duchesses and curtsies. "Greetings. You are both called the Duchesses, correct? I bid you greetings. Good luck on your purchase of the key- I anticipate fierce competition."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (20) + 9 = 29
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

Isa's Sense Motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18
Sirettis and Isa watch the women, gauging their movements. Perhaps they will slip a secret.

Doctor Landis is pleasant and chatty, and bows back at Mr. Peppers. "Master of the arcane, eh? You must love relics too, then! I love historic artifacts, and this Key here, it must be an item of great historical significance!" He runs his hand through his beard. "It's marvelous. My theory is that it was created by Emperor Xin to unlock a temple of seven paradises. Luckily, given a very generous," he hesitates for a moment, "Anonymous donor, I stand a pretty good chance of winning it, too."

Mr Peppers raises his eyebrow in gossipy interest "Anonymous to everyone? Or anonymous to those other schemers and whisperable to a certain Elf like myself... " He intimates the crowd of looky loos in the room.

"So when you do win the key, what do you plan to do with it? Visit this temple of seven pleasures? You may need an extra sets of eyes and ears.. one with unmatched arcane skills behind them... Do keep me in mind my friend, I'll look you up at the Museum soon enough for an invitation."

Sense Motive: 1d20 ⇒ 15

Uesugi sits backs and watches as the others move about looking for each of the bidders. Keeping his eye on each member of his clan he remains content to act as never wavering eye and then sees the fidgety woman who D. was speaking to run off quickly.

Why do I think D is going to chase Kresch? :)

Is that a request? Let me think.....sure. ^^

D. walks towards Uesugi and pauses briefly.
"I'm going to see what that hooded one is up to, i won't be far."

After making sure nobody is watching, D. activates his invisibility.
Perception, where'd she go?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19

Yeah, I'd originally said let's keep it to one at a time but that just doesn't flow as well as splitting us up... So, let me resolve everyone's interactions one post at a time (thanks Hmm for this idea).

He keeps his distance from the man, so as not to alarm his bodyguards, before he strikes up a conversation with the man. "Can't say I'm too excited to be here either, eh, sir? Lot of noise, lot of people, and all for this," he sweeps an arm toward the key. "I wonder who will win it, and what the price tag will be?"

Falrig Sneve chuckles as Gallix nearly drops the coin he'd been attempting to flip between his fingers. "It's all in the rhythm, see?" He flips it again along his fingers without taking his gaze off the Runecarved Key. "Excited? Well, actually, I love this piece. Truly, I do, and as one of Magnimar's most respected artifact collectors, I've got to have it. I think. However, I do hope this auction goes better than the last one. The last time I bought a similar piece, it was cursed!" Jittery and nervous, he suddenly turns to another corner of the room to see someone waving him down. "Oh, do excuse me. It seems my acquaintance has arrived. Pleasure speaking to you."

Then Cup decides to seek out the only gentleman here as short as she is. Speaking in halfling, she smiles at him. “Hello! Are you Dymal Rinks, perchance? I am Lady Calpurnia of House Al-Hadir. I was noticing you studying the key, earlier. What do you think of it?” “I have been trying to decide if my adoptive family should put in a bid, but the Al-Hadirs have always been more into horses and land then historical relics. Still... I love researching history. I haven’t always been a noble. I started out as a scholar. The old Thassilonians? So decadent and corrupt, and full of drama!” She grins at Mr. Rinks, and offers her hand for him to kiss.

Rinks cautiously eyes Cup, but she has a way with words and charm, and he takes her hand and pecks it, blushing. "Dymal Rinks, indeed, miss. The key? Well, I've only come to appraise it for one of my wealthier clients who expressed eager interest in it. As a merchant's arbitator, I've brokered many deals between all manner of clientele. It's just what I do!" He points his finger at himself. "What about history is it that you love so much, Miss Calpurnia?"

Sirettis approaches the Duchess...Duchesses and curtsies. "Greetings. You are both called the Duchesses, correct? I bid you greetings. Good luck on your purchase of the key- I anticipate fierce competition."

The two women cursty back at Sirettis. "Ah yes, she is pretty, isn't she, Duchess?" One says to the other. The other looks at Sirettis arm. "She appears to be lacking proper nourishment, Duchess."

"We are the Duchesses, from Ordellia," one of them says with an affected Varisian accent. "We work as caravan guards. The key is pretty, isn't it, Duchess?"

"Yes. Pretty." They link arms and wander around the edge of the gala, sizing up their competition while keeping an eye on the key all the same.

Mr. Peppers raises his eyebrow in gossipy interest "Anonymous to everyone? Or anonymous to those other schemers and whisperable to a certain Elf like myself... " He intimates the crowd of looky loos in the room. "So when you do win the key, what do you plan to do with it? Visit this temple of seven pleasures? You may need an extra sets of eyes and ears.. one with unmatched arcane skills behind them... Do keep me in mind my friend, I'll look you up at the Museum soon enough for an invitation."

Landis smiles knowingly and whispers back to Mr. Peppers. "Well, you see, the museum's funding comes from the city. I can't bid on the Key using our budget, otherwise I'm basically taking out what's been put in. So what I did was I looked for any potential private donors and managed to find one. Honestly, I fear this auction sets a dangerous precedent for generating future municipal funds.. Should it succeed, the Lord Mayor's office might start auctioning off some of the museum's prize pieces for civic projects! Ludicrous!" He scoffs. "But if I win, they'd get the sense I'll just keep buying the relics back for myself. Get it?"

After making sure nobody is watching, D. activates his invisibility.

Sir D steps outside the cathedral and past the line of paladin guards. He spots Kresch Vaor hurriedly ducking into a side alley.

He follows her into the alley and a few blocks into town. She looks back to see if anyone's watching, and then...

D. strokes his 'stache at the revelation.

He dons his combat mask and tries to look for an alternate way in.
Looking: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21

"What about history is it that you love so much, Miss Calpurnia?"

** spoiler omitted **

Cup smiles, and grabs some tea for both of them.

Take Ten Sense Motive: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (15) + 20 = 35

“What I love about history is that it tells us stories of people — how they lived, how they thought, what they cared about. The Thassilonians created awesome works that still stand today, but boy... Were they ever messed up!” She looks at the key thoughtfully. “Actually, I am probably better off NOT bidding on that disastrous thing. Given how dangerous Thassilonian magic is, I am not sure my family would want it, however illustrious its history.”

She looks at him, gently, and says, “I can tell you were here to appraise the key... but you also looked a bit jumpy. I don’t know what is going on with you, but if you need a friend, contact me. I’d be glad to help you, even if it is just to listen if you need to vent, okay?”

She hands him a card on which she has written, Calpurnia Al-Hadir aka “Cup”. “I’ll be collecting my mail at the Mad Hatter, a tea shop that I noticed that is near here. If you need me, drop word there. Okay?”

It would be so much easier to tell him about our rooms at Barakhan House at Heidmarch Manor, but I don’t know how he’d react to me being a Pathfinder... Sigh. If only he weren’t so spooked.

★ --- ★ --- ★ --- ★

Cup looks around the room, and decides to approach Zimandi Khaddren. “Hello, are you Zimandi Khaddren? I am Lady Calpurnia of House Al-Hadir. I’ve been so fascinated by the key. I’m a bit of a scholar of the arcane, and history, and everything I suppose. I notced you studying the key earlier. What do you think of it?”

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (12) + 20 = 32

Sirettis looks around as the Duchesses leave her and recalls her list, only to see the Red Arm conversing with everyone she knew about. She takes the opportunity to make small talk with everyone she can.

"Well, I'm honored to speak with one of the city's most notable collectors. Here's hoping that your next acquisition brings you better fortune."

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17

Cursed, huh? Guess it makes sense you're so on edge then, even stepping over the cracks like in the children's rhyme.

Gallix turns to another of the guests and asks about the unusual Mr. Sneve.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7

***OVERSEER POST***

The cathedral’s sexton calls everyone’s attention “The pre-auction gala has ended; all must leave the cathedral immediately. Thank you for attending and we’ll see many of you back here for the auction.”

You return to the Heidmarch Mansion. The theater is filled with your fellow Pathfinders, all buzzing with excitement. Sheila Heidmarch, raises her hands and quiets the room before speaking. “Well my colleagues, I trust you were successful this evening? Anyone have information to share? Let’s see some hands.”

A dwarf clad in full plate with a great hammer on his back calls out ”Aye, we met Rinks, a halfling who said he was acting on behalf of one of his clients. We found out that he has spent the last few months here in Magnimar betting on the bullfights at the Matador’s Lodge. He was not as lucky as most of his kind and has run up a sizable debt with the lodge’s owner, Master Basaale Minvandu. The halfling is staying in the Old Fang Inn”

A couple of humans push a grippli forward ”Quon here also has to report something” they say. The grippli turns a brighter shade of green and then softly starts speaking ”I am afraid we made a bit of a mess at the gala. That Chelaxian woman, Zimandi Kaddren, found out that we are with the Pathfinder Society and she immediately stormed off in anger, saying that she would take every effort to outbid the Society at the auction.” The grippli seems to have found his voice as he continues ”We asked around and we discovered that her parents vanished during an expedition to a mysterious fortress known as Viperwall in central Varisia. I think that she blames the disappearance of her parents upon the Pathfinder Society.”

A famous halfling jumps on a table ”I am Lem and I can report that the curator of the Museum of Ages is also interested in the artifact! Doctor Landis has secured a donation for the key. He thinks it is an item of great historical significance, and that it was created by Emperor Xin to unlock a temple of seven paradises. I would have expected that Nigel Aldain of the Blakros museum would also be present, but I did not see him. That is all for me!”

A human woman calls out, the symbol of Iomedae obvious on the buckler that she has strapped to her left arm. On the same hip she has an Aldori duelling sword. ”I talked to two women dressed in travellers’ outfits. Both had with thick Varisian accents. They introduced themselves as ‘the Duchesses’ and said they live in Ordellia where they work as caravan guards. Beyond that, they had little to say.”

A servant rushes in and hands Sheila Heidmarch a note ”Give me a moment, this is probably important, otherwise Jacob here would not have disturbed us”. She reads the note and briefly ponders it for a moment.

“Well, my friends, it seems Desna smiles upon us. My sources have just informed me that the Aspis Consortium has fewer funds than we first imagined. Thus, they have sent word to an ally in Korvosa to ship them more gold. Fortunately, I still have a few spies in Korvosa. A few days ago, the Consortium hired a Varisian caravan to carry a sizable shipment of gold to Magnimar, presumably to help them secure the Runecarved Key’s purchase.”

“The caravan was traveling along the Yondabakari River and should be nearing the outskirts of the city in a few hours. I need you to ride out to the caravan before it gets within sight of the city walls and ensure that gold never reaches the Aspis Consortium at Bronze House. Take whatever gold you can, but try not to draw attention to yourselves as Pathfinders. It’s bandit territory out there anyway, so caravan raids aren’t uncommon. That said, rest assured the caravan will be armed. As soon as you’re finished, hurry back here. We don’t want Maiveer Sloan to catch on to our plot. I’ll send a white raven to signal you to return before the situation becomes too risky.”

Table GMs, you should start encounter 2.

Stymied by the overseer. Madness!
Sir D, I'd have to railroad you either way, as following that one NPC is beyond the scope of this part of the adventure. You know her secret now, at least!

Earlier
Zimandi moves with the deliberate grace of a noble. "A scholar of the arcane, you say?" She sips on a fine cup of tea, her pinky raised. "What of the arcane do you know? This key here is the very definition what it means for an artifact to be arcane, though I suppose you already knew that. It's why I'm here. I have a theory the Key holds the... key," she smirks, "to all arcane knowledge. What of you? What is your analysis?"

_______

Now

Following Heidmarch's marching orders, you immediately head out into the darkness of the night by foot to intercept the caravan. You follow the Yondabakari River, which eventually leads into the Varisian Forest, a place filled with lush greenery, especially pine and redwood trees, for miles to come. Several miles into your hike outside of the city walls, a side trail branches off and away from the Yondabakari and winds south into a forest of ancient evergreens. A faint glowing light in the distance attracts your attention. Off to the side of the path, nestled into a deep pocket of spruces, sleeps a small Varisian caravan, only two wagons strong.

A small campfire has been lit to keep the travellers warm in the cold of the night. A few men, presumably those that travel with the wagon, sleep around it. From afar, you believe you notice a single person scouting the immediate vicinity of the encampment, and he moves around in no discernable pattern.

An open wagon containing snoozing person(s) rest closer to the road, inside it are small cartons of goods, likely rations and supplies, and one cage which seems to hold a creature within it. Another covered wagon rest further out from the road.

Map's up. How do you approach?

On the hike out of Magnimar, Gallix broods quietly until he can no longer contain himself. "What are we doing? Banditry?! We just got back from a mission to stop a bunch of bandits! This feels wrong, and that's coming from me! Look, I know the Aspis aren't exactly the best kind of people, but we have to be better than this. Let's try to disable their wagons, maybe delay them somehow so the gold doesn't make it. But let's try not to kill. What do you all think?"

Arriving at the campsite, Gallix peers ahead into the darkness, but his eyes fail him.

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9

Sirettis takes 10 on Perception for an 18.

"The wagon's wheels have the Aspis Consortium symbol on the wheels." Sirettis points this out and then reads a scroll of Heroism upon herself.

"The Duchesses served as Varisian caravan guards- they may be on patrol. They clearly work as a duo." She uses a hex to take the form of a haggard old woman. "I spoke to them, so they will recognize me if I approach. I can conjure a Fog Cloud over the camp to help us approach the caravans and subdue any guards nearby."

D. shared his findings about the hooded woman with the others.

At the mention of not killing the aspis, he shrugs.

"Try talking them down if you like, but if they attack, well i won't lose any sleep over it, if i kill any in self defense."

Uesugi ponders the barbarian's words and nods somewhat in agreement. "The Red Arm are not bandits agreed. But we do this for a good cause. We have all dealt with the Aspis and know their ways. They would not impart the same kindness to us. Any who work for the Aspis are also not above killing, blackmailing or any other act that would get them what they desire. Two wrong do not make a right but justice is never black and white. Much grey lies in between. Still we will do our best not to kill those who guard this vehicle. Also even if we do not kill them. They failing in their jobs will likely see them punished by the Aspis.

D. use your stealth to see what you see in the camp. See if the wagon with the gold is occupied with anyone inside of it. Maybe with [i]Spirit's fog and your ability to move things we can bring the cart somewhere else and get rid of it."

"If they perform violence on us, I will disable them to the best of my ability. Charm, Sleep, Hold, Ice. this is what I specialize in. I know you will disable them in your preferred way, as well. I will not execute them if they are helpless, that is all I can offer, Mister Gallix." Sirettis smiles, exposing several missing teeth through her haggard appearance.

<Besides, there are worse punishments than a quick death.> Sirettis suppresses its dark thoughts.

D. nods slightly, and vanishes to do some recon.

Lucky #: 1d20 ⇒ 16

As their target comes closer into view, Mr Peppers waves his long, clean fingers with skill through the air, touching his arm while saying the words with clarity. His face gains a bit of extra sparkle and shine.

He squints his eyes in the moonlight towards the caravan while turning his eyes blue, seeing what truly lies beyond. See Magic
Perception,DC17: 1d20 + 14 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 14 + 2 = 24

He nods with Sirettis about the wheels, and then Gallix, "I'll do my best to not kill anyone. If the gold is not marked, it would be good to aid in our own acquisition of the relic."

As Sirettis changes her appearance a light goes up in the Elf's brain as well "I have had this wand a long time, since one of my first missions. If any of you can use it then please do so and hide your true face." He draws out a slender, nondescript brown wand, says a word and taps himself. His appearance changes to a human man with brown hair and brown eyes. Wand of Disguise Self, 4 more charges if anyone can use it.

He then draws out his trusty Dwarven crossbow and checks that its loaded.

So if you can use the wand of disguise self with UMD or have it on your spell list, feel free.

D.Arth scouts ahead under cover of invisibility, and he notes that while a single Varisian guard patrols the camp, the remainder of the guards are sound asleep around the camp fire.

Moving towards the camp fire, D.Arth spots a large chest inside the northern wagon, and hears the sound of snoring from the wagon to the south.

No one seems to stir as D secretly investigates the camp. Mr. Peppers, standing further down the road with the rest of you, can't pinpoint any magical auras from where he currently stands.

Is the guard walking a perimeter, by chance?