Treasurefox's Rise of the Runelords (Inactive)

Game Master TreasureFox

Bacon eyes the brains

Andreste, seeing that the tiefling boy is a bit of a scrapper, plays things calmly and does her best to endure his attention so the others don't have to. She is grateful for Wabbit's attention-getting butterflies giving her a break.

She makes sure Skrate stays far away from the boy, as both of them are equally likely to bite the other.

"Quite the handful." she smiles as the weefling tugs at her hair. She considers the predicament with care. Looking the boy in the eyes she asks "Do you know you're hurting me, I wonder? Are you in pain?"

She examines the boy carefully to determine his infernal or abyssal heritage.

Kn Planes 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (7) + 17 = 24

Janis not paying attention to Bacon removes his haversack and pushes the scraps into one of the empty pockets. When he's certain he's done he turns around and realizes he never actually told anybody the plan. Um. Time to go.

BWEEE!

I think Bacon wants the brains.

You are disturbingly calm about me desecrating a corpse. But the pig will need to wait until we're gone.

Janis walks out of the room with Bacon following his future treat

Furnok strolls along.

Andreste understands the more common traits that differentiate Devils from Demons. (In my games) Devils tend to remain fairly humanoid in appearance, and invest in armour, weapons, and other useful items to aid them in their schemes. Demons, however, evolve new forms and abilities to aid them in combat. Given that this child has legs reminiscent of a grasshopper, a toothy maw, and an extra pair of arms growing from his shoulder blades, Andreste can easily confirm that this child is very strongly tied to the Abyss. There is no guarantee that this child will survive the society he's been born into.

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Janis decides not to steal all the goodies on the table, figuring that it would put him in more trouble than it'd be worth. He exits the portcullis and iron door, trying to act as if he didn't carry a bunch of raw brains on him.
I'd like Janis and Furnok to make Bluff checks to act inconspicuously. Furnok, all these guys are human, so you'll get your favoured enemy bonus.

Cleo has now learned more than she ever cares to know about hags, their physiology, their spellcasting, their reproduction rituals, and more. One useful bit of information she did glean is that the baby they rescued with mismatched eyes, a girl, is probably a Changeling birthed from one of the Hags.
Cleo gains the following trait: Hag Rant. Cleo automatically succeeds on knowledge checks to identify hags. If the knowledge check reveals additional information for every +5 that the check beats the DC, she only gains the Lore spoiler. She can roll normally to gain information from other spoilers.

"Thank you, doctor." Cleo says with a tired, mildly flustered smile. The exceptional detail the man went into about the mating habits she felt was a little unnecessary, but the rest might prove useful. She bids him goodbye and rushes to the others as they are leaving.

"I am Very sorry for not being any help. I couldn't figure out how to get out of that without offending him. He loves talking about hags..." she shakes her head, red ponytail bouncing in the awe of it. "I didn't think it was a good idea to offend the doctor if we still needed access to the body. Did you get any answers from him?" she asks since she assumes they were using the scroll Janis mentioned.

Bluff: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22

No. He refused us as well. I start to doubt his soul is free to answer.

The doctor is forced to relent, as it's evident that the group is leaving. "Yes, that was a lovely chat. Perhaps we can continue this conversation over some tea?"

Janis has plenty of experience keeping his composure after committing a crime. Despite being surrounded by guards, he is calm and collected.

bluff: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11

Furnok's understanding of human behaviour reveals the more common 'tells' of suspicious behaviour. Using this knowledge, he manages to keep himself calm and act normal.

The group leave the Cenotaph with no one the wiser of what just transpired, including Cleo. Bacon continues to follow Janis at the heel, ready for his snack.

Check in with Wabbit/Andreste and then head back to the Commander? Or is there anything else anyone would like to do?

I need to be reminded, why did you take those brains?

Cleo freezes, looking up "what brains?"

Umm..Chains! Sorry, Janis took some chains that Ironbriar used as his badge so we can magic track his movements. I had forgotten since my brain is messed from having bad sleep.

"Oh, that sounds like a good idea." she looks relieved then Furnok a look of sympathy. "If we have time before we need to head to the commander, I'll brew a tea that will help you with the muddlement. I am awfully sorry for dragging you out for nothing."

Janis moves closer to Furnok and whispers. Keep him dead so he can't use political favors to get off.

Furnok nods.

Janis reaches down and scratches Bacon's head.

The group gathers themselves at the Kaijitsu's, where Bacon gets an excellent snack outside. Ameiko has let everyone know that she's almost done with the courts here in Magnimar, and once the window is fixed (which will probably be boarded up, since the fancy glassworks is out of business), then they're going to sell the place and return back to Sandpoint. It will take them a week or so to do. Amaya feels a little nervous about leaving the house she grew up in, but she's bravely accepting her new fate with her long-lost older sister.

The Cobbled Shield sets off to speak with Commander Ismeir Odinburge. As expected, he is a military man through and through. Tall and powerfully built, scars clearly showing previous battles, regal and proud. Odinburge wears short blond hair, is clean shaven, and wears a magical gambeson. At his hip is a longsword that glows yellow. The Commander greets everyone with a firm handshake and brings them into his office. The office is highly decorated with objects such as the Magnimarian flag, a ship in a clear glass bottle (which actually functions like a feather token, creating the actual ship), an a painting of a gory battle, in which the soldiers move an fight in slow-motion. Behind the large oak desk is a small library of scrolls and books, and to the side is a set of fullplate armour, complete with a large codpiece.

"Let's skip pleasantries and get straight to business." The Commander says as he takes a seat at his desk. Five chairs line the other side of the desk. "For raiding the mill, killing off the vast majority of the cult's forces, and killing Ironbriar, while maintaining the law and providing proof of Ironbriar's dealings, I am willing to pay you twenty-thousand gold pieces, to be divided among yourselves however you see fit. For locating Xanesha and killing her off, I am willing to pay you an additional ten-thousand. You can either take this in gold, or trade it for some of the items found during the raid, of which I have compiled a list for you." He pushes forward a piece of parchment.

Cleo greets the man politely and then pulls herself up into one of the chairs. Her eyes widen at the amount of money the man is offering. She opens her mouth to tell him that is Way too much and they were just doing what they needed to make their city safer.

But she shuts it, remembering that she is not supposed to do that. "What... um... battle is that picture from, Commander?" she asks to cover her opened mouthed ness.

The Commander looks back to gaze upon the battlefield. A moment of silence lingers.
"The battle of Yondabakari River." He answers. The Commander stands up, and motions with his hand as he describes the battle.
"Our forces were situated on the North side of the river, while we fought hobgoblins and their ilk on the other. Both sides had cover for archers, but it soon reached a stalemate. Those who entered the river were swiftly dispatched and swept off. I was leading a separate force of mounted knights, where we forded the river further East. Though not as heavily guarded as the main front, our troops were still ambushed while fording the river. Sling bullets and arrows fell upon us, and with our horses up to their chests in water, we were sitting ducks. We pressed through despite this, such that the goblins were forced the flee as the first horses reached the far riverbed. Though we lost a third of our company, we thundered into the forest to hack apart any goblinoids who remained. Most had fled further into the Mushfens. We made the grim decision to leave our fallen brothers to their watery grave, and instead made haste to the front. It is here that the painting describes, when our cavalry comes in from the East on the same side of the river as the goblinoids. The archers tried to pull back to a smaller army of spearmen, but we cut through them once to buy time for our soldiers to ford the river. The second pass proved more difficult, as the spearmen were pressing towards us. We tried to avoid them, but we were unprepared for the traps they had lain. They dug very small, but deep holes, just large enough for a horse's hoof to fall in. Some of our horses broke their ankles, mine included. I was thrown from my steed, and quickly jumped upon by goblins, who weighed me down in my armour and left me helpless. Their blades couldn't get through the plate, but they brought a hobgoblin spearman to me. They raised my arm to reveal the pit, then slowly drove the spike into my chest. But then, our footsoldiers had successfully forded the river, and they charged with falcions, spears, and axes. The goblinoids withdrew, though they took heavy casualties in the process.
My body was returned to Magnimar, and through the grace of Abadar I was granted a second chance. My resurrection was paid for personally by our previous Lord-Mayor."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (9) + 11 = 20 Surely you can spare more than that. The Cobbled shield did more than any group in this city to stop them and in only a couple of days.And through that action provided critical information to multiple groups that will make this city safer

Now Cleo understood why Saila had suggested Aggah not come today. As noble as the story was, she could see that he would only see an enemy instead of an individual. "Thank you commander, for telling us of the battle. I'm not a soldier, but I understand the need to push forward to make things better even at the cost of your life."

Cleo notices the Commander's icy blue eyes soften, just slightly. Though two very different people, they have something in common. They have both sailed upon that afterlife river, and been dragged back to experience this material purgatory once more.

He nods, and pauses for a moment to think to himself.

The Commander sits back down and addresses Janis.
"Very well, state your counteroffer and make your case. I am open to negotiation." He replies.

Assuming Ameiko has gotten used to the idea of having the kids there and the group wants Wabbit and her with them when meetin gthe Commander.

Andreste's mouth pulls slightly into a friendly smile. She listens as the Commander tells of his trials. "To have the respect of not one but two Lord Mayors is almost as impressive a victory as the one depicted there. I'm sure the painting fills you with both pride and humility at the same time. It is a good thing to remember the lessons of the past. Ironbriar's journal-- I'm sure different factions will have very different reactions to the scandalous information contained therein about the various Lords and Ladies of Magnimar, once they've fully translated them-- as the watch was able to with my aid. Fortunately, we managed to solve that particular riddle pretty quickly. I'm sure the Lord Mayor was appreciative of the watch's forethought of copying the text and speedy gathering of this information, before something like the Hellknight Order could act on the information in -- shall we say -- a less pragmatic and discrete manner than his Lordship would wish."

"Most of our group has no experience with matters of military or political subjects. While we were deputized, we should admit to being what we are- a loosely affiliated band of adventuring mercenaries who, while intending the best for Magnimar, have no experience with working for an auspicious organization such as the Watch of Magnimar. That we were able to follow the rules, allow things to proceed in a lawful and dutiful manner, despite this, is certainly worthy of further recognition. The last adventuring group I worked with was findamentally incapable of following such strictures, as a man in your position is certainly aware is an issue for most such 'heroes'."

"Now, I would wager you are also not a political creature at heart, Commander. Yet you find yourself in a position beset by politics. It is by acting in the manner we have that we have made your political position and burden the best you could hope for in these circumstances. I believe that is worth recognizing and remembering."

Wabbit was about to speak but then Andreste begins talking and Wabbit realizes he has nothing more to add and wisely (for once) keeps his mouth shut so her words can be absorbed by the commander

Andreste diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

"Flattery will go a long ways as you associate with more politicians, Miss Velletti. You make fair points. Your help in decoding the ledger was instrumental. I spoke with the Lord-Mayor this morning, and after revealing the plot against him, he was most appreciative of your efforts."

"It is most excruciatingly rare for a group of mercenaries or adventurers to follow due process. Though I believe the coin presented for a job well done is enough, as those who are less capable of following law would not be paid such as this. Your reputation shall precede you throughout Magnimar."

"You are correct. Politics is one of my least favourite activities, though I have accepted my place. My position in politics is not my concern, but the effectiveness of the Honour Guard is. This case has brought respect back to our Order, and I believe we will get more funding such that we can survey the entire city, rather than relying on religious organizations with their own agendas."

"Therefore, for all that has been stated, including Xanesha, I am willing to pay you a total of thirty-three-thousand gold pieces."

Mighty generous.

sense motive: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (15) + 12 = 27

"Is the Lord-Mayor okay, sir?" Cleo catches his tone but doesn't wish to push hard against something that is causing this man embarrassment.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11

Well, I think another 4'500 would be fair since we did the city such a service and one of ours died for it.

Donated to your favorite charity! Furnok trolls Janis.

One of them anyways. Though this is a charity that insisted on paying me back.

"The thought is and always will be appreciated, sir." Cleo responds with firm gratefulness.

diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17
Wabbit is uncomfortable with extended haggling over something he would have done for free. And wants to move on from this.
I think I can speak for all...um most of us when I say Thanks for your generosity sir. Know that this reward will go toward better equipping us, which could make the difference if you choose to send us to investigate Turtleback and combat the plots of Xanesha's sister if she is entrenched there as the letter suggests

"He's fine now. He had... a reaction after learning of the scheme against his life."

Player Knowledge: He squealed like a pig and promptly fainted.

The Commander keeps a stone face as Janis and Wabbit show a bit of conflict over the coin. For obvious reasons, he sides with Wabbit. "Of course, Mister Wabbit. I believe we have an accord. We shall discuss Turtleback in a brief moment, as I prefer to finish one piece of business before moving to the next. Are there any items I have provided on this list that would be of interest to you? Please take your time considering shares. After that is finished, we will discuss Turtleback, then go to the treasury for your agreed payment."

Note: I made an error on that list. The lesser metamagic rod is not of Reach (that doesn't exist). It's of extend.

I apologize Janis. I did not mean to speak for the group(w/o agreeing to this in the discussion thread)..but I realize it came out that way. If you want to keep negotiating please interrupt the commander (politely, please) and say this needs to go to a group vote or something like that. Wabbit will of course choose to accept the offer. But the others may differ.

@Fox Reach Rods DO exist. In fact, a Greater Reach Rod is one of the most desired items for a high level Cleric....the ability to cast Heal and Breath of Life spells at range instead of touch is invaluable. The only metamagic feat that is not available as a rod is Heighten. All others are available and follow a standard cost structure solely dependent only the level of adjustment to the spell ie +1 lvl to +4 and whether its a lesser, standard or greater rod

If the group approves the split of 33k....33/5=6.6k each

Wabbit will save his money as it is going to cost him 6k to have Agile added to his +1blade

Cleo shakes her head about the items.

Oh cool. That makes sense.

I'm going to move onwards tomorrow.

Unfortunately you did and we gotta just deal with it. That's how it should work, actions and consequences. That's what makes for good storytelling.

Janis gives Wabbit an exasperated look. Very well.

"Excellent. Gold it is then. Now we shall discuss Turtleback Ferry. The Black Arrows have never faltered since their Order was created, but nevertheless, it is important to check in with them in case this letter of Xanesha's sister holds truth. Since it seems as though your group will travel there regardless, and you have proven yourselves competent and trustworthy, I would like to hire you for this mission."

With this, he presents a contract.
"I would like you to travel to Turtleback Ferry and check in with the Order of the Black Arrows. If hostiles threaten the immediate safety of the Order or Turtleback itself, you are to fend them off as you are able, and send word back here as hastily as you can. You are not required to fight a war or to the death on our behalf, but help as you can. This could include leading refugees should the worst come to pass. I am highly doubtful of such a thing to occur, but I have long learned to be prepared for anything.
"As such, I would pay two-thousand gold total for this venture, double if you are injured in the line of duty, triple if you must evacuate the town."

diplo: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (15) + 11 = 26
Just because you know we'd do this for free and for the sake of the greater good does not mean any extra coin on top of this initial offer spent to better prepare us would be a poor investment, especially seeing as is this is Xanesha's older sister she may be more powerful and dangerous

But I'm not familiar with the city and what would be fair wages for such a task. But I have a feeling Janis might have a better idea.

Wabbit feels a bit oily bartering over this (it just feels WRONG) but resolves to let Janis and whoever else wants to squeeze more out of O'big'bulge take over and he's stepping out (truly out) of negotiations because he also realizes that bartering, even over such important things is the way of the world whether he likes it or not.

The Commander nods respectfully, then gives Janis his attention.

Janis might remember Saila saying that 500gp each, plus travel expenses paid for, was a reasonable payment. That didn't include combat or anything.

@Wabbit, did you like the armour description? It was in style during these times.

Andreste admires the painting while the negotiations continue. Casually she mentions "I should have prepared magical sight today to get a better look at this enchantment. It really is fascinating."

I believe an option for greater payment should be on the table if things are worse than they appear but other than that I have no argument.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24

@Wabbit, did you like the armour description? It was in style during these times.

yes i did notice that lol....nice touch

The Commander looks a bit confused. "I have already laid out further compensation should the worst happen. Is this not enough, or are you suggesting that something even worse still may need to be looked at?"

Something worse. I mean look what Xanesha had going on here. Gods forbid what her sister might be up to. There are some things that you just can't afford to ignore after all.