Power and Progress: Dragoncat's Homebrew Alkenstar Campaign (Inactive)

Game Master Dragoncat

A campaign of exploration, cold wars and political intrigue, with Alkenstar caught in the middle.

Current Date: Fireday, 11th of Arodus, 4710 AR

Automatic Bonus Progression info

Map of Alkenstar City

Maps!

PRIMAL MAGIC RULES!


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female fetchling oracle of bones 2 | HP 21/27; THP 0/0; N/L 0/0 | AC 13 (17) FF 10 (14) TAC 13 | F +4, R +3, W +2 | CMB +5, CMD 18 | Init +3 | Per +2 (+2 surp/inv/inc) | Defenses: Resis C/E 5; +2 saves vs swarms/mind effect; Shadow Blending 50% conceal in dim light | Curse: only aklo in combat | Revelations: Armor of Bones 1/2hr per day | Spells: Lvl 1 6/6

As the others went through all of the various bits of evidence Faithe found herself at loose ends. She wasn't good at this investigation stuff, it wasn't her thing. She was far better at dealing and staving off death but even then she couldn't do as much without her magic. Instead she stayed out of the way and let the group with the appropriate skills deal with things for now.


Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

Joie turns to the dwarf—probably lowest on her list of suspects, of the group. If nothing else, the autopsy would likely have indicated if the stab wounds all came from a low angle.

”We found this one—“ she begins, indicating Alorea, ”—a private investigator, digging around the crime scene without permission, after impersonating an officer. I believe we’ll deal with that later. As for the crime scene, the victim was stabbed many times. That’s inconsistent with previous victims, so circumstances in this case must have differed. Currently, we’re looking at a journal of interest, which was provided by the private investigator and therefore may possibly have been tampered with prior to our arrival at the scene.”


Human Swashbuckler (Musketeer) 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 19 T 14 FF 15| F +2 R +6 W +1 | Init +5 | Perception +6 | CMB +5 CMD 18

Jase listened to Joie break things down for the dwarf while he scoped out the point of exit and possible entrance. He shook his head at some of it, then said after the Nexian’s summary, ”Multiple wounds isn’t inconsistent. It’s the fact that the others were stabbed from the front, most likely, while this one was stabbed from behind.” His eyes flicked to the private investigator afterwards, wondering where she fit in, before going back to what he had been doing.


Female Halfling (Gutsy) Cleric 1 | HP 15/15| AC: 15 | Fort: +4; Ref: +6; Will: +9 | Per +7 | Spd 25 ft. | Keen Eyes |Hero Points: 1 | ◆ ↺ ◇ | Searching | Healing Font 4/4 | Class DC 17

Alorea clucks her tongue. "Actually, I did have permission. The marshal on scene let me in. And I never impersonated an officer! I told her exactly who I was. I resent any insinuation about deception on my part."

Noticing Jase eyeing her, the sylph gives him a sly wink.


Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

Joie doesn't favor Alorea with a reply, unless you count a raised eyebrow and a stern look that makes it clear she doesn't believe her version of events.

She decides to turn her attention back to Jase. "...One moment." Retrieving the autopsy papers once more, she gives them a read over. "Ah-- I had my thumbs in exactly the wrong places. My apologies; Mister Everluck is correct."


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

Tuco gives Jase a nod, "You ain't wrong. Could this one 'ave been wise to the other murders?" He follows Jase to the broken glass, "May be that what this Bloodstone is. Trying to give a hint. I ain't doing much more speculating, gonna cause nothing but more fusses until we have something concrete."

The Tailor idly plays with his shirt trying to avoid the tension between the frozen Nexian and the happy-go-lucky investigator, "Daerokh, you said you had good ones on you, think we can follow this here trail out the window?"


Male Dwarf LG Ranger 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 32/32 hp | Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +5;| Init +2 | Percep +9 | CMD 17
Joie Patronne wrote:

Joie turns to the dwarf—probably lowest on her list of suspects, of the group. If nothing else, the autopsy would likely have indicated if the stab wounds all came from a low angle.

”We found this one—“ she begins, indicating Alorea, ”—a private investigator, digging around the crime scene without permission, after impersonating an officer. I believe we’ll deal with that later. As for the crime scene, the victim was stabbed many times. That’s inconsistent with previous victims, so circumstances in this case must have differed. Currently, we’re looking at a journal of interest, which was provided by the private investigator and therefore may possibly have been tampered with prior to our arrival at the scene.”

Daerokh listens and nods.

"Great, thank you, Joie. I get it now," Daerokh says, breathing a sigh of relief.

Tuco 'The Tailor' Rizer wrote:

Tuco gives Jase a nod, "You ain't wrong. Could this one 'ave been wise to the other murders?" He follows Jase to the broken glass, "May be that what this Bloodstone is. Trying to give a hint. I ain't doing much more speculating, gonna cause nothing but more fusses until we have something concrete."

The Tailor idly plays with his shirt trying to avoid the tension between the frozen Nexian and the happy-go-lucky investigator, "Daerokh, you said you had good ones on you, think we can follow this here trail out the window?"

When Tuco addresses him, Daerokh perks up.

"I'm on it."

He crouches to the ground and begins examining the scene, and then, once he's taken it in, he begins looking about the surrounding city to see if a trail can be formed.

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13
Survival: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18


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Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

”I have personally seen Daerokh follow one extremely drunk man’s trail among six other extremely drunk men’s trails heading in separate directions,” says Joie, following a few steps behind him. ”Thank you again, by the way, Daerokh.”


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

Tuco lets out a hearty laugh that really doesn't match the dead man's grave, "So what yous saying is that even a proper military type goes out for drink? You twos best take me out then next time, must be one hell of a show if Daerokh can convince you." He wipes what might be blood or a tear from his eye after a moment then coughs and composes himself. "...Soz for 'dat. Had a funny vision in me head there."

The Tailor walks up toward Faithe, "You been mighty quiet, somethin' the matter in this here scene?"


Male Dwarf LG Ranger 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 32/32 hp | Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +5;| Init +2 | Percep +9 | CMD 17
Joie Patronne wrote:
”I have personally seen Daerokh follow one extremely drunk man’s trail among six other extremely drunk men’s trails heading in separate directions,” says Joie, following a few steps behind him. ”Thank you again, by the way, Daerokh.”

Daerokh chuckles.

"Oh, come on! That was easy. He was the only one who tried the wyrm's breath bitter, so we just had to follow the smell and the belches."


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

Time to get caught up!

Regarding the window: most of the broken glass is on the outside.

Tuco's Perception Rolls:
You find a pair of envelopes that appear to have fallen behind Caleb's desk. The wax seals on them appear to have been recently broken.

The notebook Alorea hands you has the unmistakeable odour of rot about it.

Joie's Linguistics Roll:
The handwriting in the notebook definitely matches the handwriting you find on Caleb's previous work. In fact, you deduce that the scant writing left in the torn notebook is likely only a few hours old.

Daerokh's Survival Roll:
The trail of blood leads to the broken window in the room, and spills out the broken window into the alley next to the shop. You see the trail continues for about fifteen feet before ending at a rain barrel underneath a gutter.

As the investigators go over the crime scene, Shieldmarshal Greystone takes his leave to give them room to work. He returns to the street and the carriage.


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

The Tailor stands in the room, the breeze from the broken window causing his patched clothes to flutter behind him, "I found something. Gather 'round." He pulls out the two envelopes, the wax broken recently, "Needed yous all 'ere for this. I don't know much 'bout them seals and nobility but can anyone recognize them?"

He opens the envelope and lays the contents if any flat.


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

The first envelope Tuco opens contains what appears to be a letter to Caleb, penned in a delicate cursive hand...

First Envelope wrote:

Dear Mr. Melkoste,

I understand if this request I am about to make of you is outside of your usual field of expertise, but I've been consulted about something called a 'Bloodstone'.

To tell you the truth, I have no knowledge of this particular item--the best guess I can make is that it is a newly-discovered type of gem. Would you kindly look into this for me? I am prepared to offer you a payment of 10 gold pieces to uncover as much information about this as you can.

Sincerely,

M. Verne

The second envelope contains what appears to be Caleb's response. It was never sent.

Second Envelope wrote:

Dear Mr. Verne,

I have looked into the matter of this 'Bloodstone' and I can conclusively tell you that it is not a type of gem. Unfortunately, I cannot tell you much more than that at this time--none of the records I have delved into offered much more information than that it's supposedly an item of significant magical power.

I will see if Blythir College has more information in its archives. Hopefully, they will have forgiven me for the accident that occurred the last time I was there. You can expect a reply from me within a week's time.

Regards,
Caleb Melkoste


Male Dwarf LG Ranger 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 32/32 hp | Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +5;| Init +2 | Percep +9 | CMD 17

Daerokh indicates the trail leading out the window and towards the rain barrel.

"Looks like our killer knew to wash off as they made their escape, otherwise there'd be more trail to follow."

He takes a look at the building the gutter is attached to, trying to see whether it's a business or residence, and more importantly, if it's the kind of place someone might have been the night of the murder who overheard things that might give them a clue.


Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

”As far as I can see, this notebook matches Caleb’s hand,” Joie informs the party. She leans over to look at the letters. She’s not the sort to involve herself in upper politics, so if the seals are anything but plain wax, she’s unlikely to identify them; the letters, though...

”Between the blood, the bloodstone, and Mister M. Verne, we’ve got a few leads we can follow up on already. Tuco, I don’t suppose it’s possible you have treated our Slasher, is it?”

She ponders a moment, then:
”Actually, have the neighbors been questioned? If our assailant was wounded themselves, I wonder how so? Did anyone find a weapon on the victim, or have the neighbors been questioned to see if they heard a gunshot?”


Female Halfling (Gutsy) Cleric 1 | HP 15/15| AC: 15 | Fort: +4; Ref: +6; Will: +9 | Per +7 | Spd 25 ft. | Keen Eyes |Hero Points: 1 | ◆ ↺ ◇ | Searching | Healing Font 4/4 | Class DC 17

"Sure, I'll ask around," Alorea says as if Joie had asked her to do so. She breezes past the others and begins to canvass the neighborhood to see if anybody saw or heard anything suspicious.

Diplomacy (Gather Information): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Um, or not, apparently.


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

Daerokh

The building the gutter is attached to appears to be a residence--a one-story home, to be specific. A closer look will be necessary to determine whether anyone's home.

Alorea

You step outside to question the crowd around the crime scene, but as you begin to ask your questions, it becomes clear that the crowd isn't inclined to answer any of your questions. Most of them are just there to gawk, and haven't seen anything.

Shieldmarshal Greystone watches your efforts and gives you a nod of sympathy.

Anyone else want to take a shot?


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

"Bloodstone? Don't sound like nothing good." He looked at the names and made a mental note, "Verne, does anyone have an idea who this here is? It sounds like a lead."

Hearing Daerokh's assessment, Tuco speaks up, "So was it planned or was it one of the local folks round these parts?" When Joie asks him about patching up the Slasher he looks aghast, "Maybe, maybe not. Hard to tell really, there are lots of folks coming to see me. I wouldn't say it ain't possible but can't help you with that one love." The Tailor looks her in the eye and continues, "I ain't no accomplice if that what you mean. I don't hurt no one."

Looking a bit upset about something, he starts going outside, "Gonna get me some air and talk to the neighbours."

Diplomacy (Gather Information): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

Though the comments make him second guess himself and some of the nearby folks are put off by his current mood.


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

Tuco

Your walk around the neighbourhood draws more than a few worried stares, but you eventually find someone willing to speak to you. The young Garundi man you manage to flag down is dressed in plain grey clothes, and there's a persistent smell of machine grease about him. He must have been on his way home from work.

"Last night? Yeah, I thought I saw something outside that shop as I was leaving for work. Someone in a brown robe and hood opened his door and went inside. I didn't stick around 'cause I had to get to work."


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

Also: A Knowledge (local) check or a Diplomacy check to gather information can perhaps turn up information about M. Verne.


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

"Thanks there chum, you doin' this place a great help."

So through the front and out the window... Did Caleb know the fella?

Tuco takes a walk back and looks at the shop hoping to find a semblance of hours written anywhere. Knowing that could determine if it was a client or a personal matter, and with a brown robe being the only description, he figured any information could help.

Diplomacy (Gather Information): Verne: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24 Not sure if I can attempt another if its a different topic. Here it is in case I can.

Something didn't sit quite right about this Verne though, it was a name he swear he heard somewhere. He untangled a mess of threads from his shirt and began playing with it on the way back to the team.


Male Dwarf LG Ranger 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 32/32 hp | Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +5;| Init +2 | Percep +9 | CMD 17

Daerokh waves the group over to the residence.

"One of you folks may need to do the talking. I'm not good at that part."

When they're ready, he knocks on the residency's door.


Human Swashbuckler (Musketeer) 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 19 T 14 FF 15| F +2 R +6 W +1 | Init +5 | Perception +6 | CMB +5 CMD 18

Jase smirked as Alorea winked at him following her rather clever retort to the accusations against her. He was almost sure there were lies of omission in there, but it was well done, regardless.

Following Daerokh to the water barrel, Jase made as if he had an inkling of what to look for, though he didn't even really know what the dwarf was following. A humorous thought occurred to him, that they both might just be faking and leading each other along, the blind leading the blind. He hid his grin behind his hand until he regained some semblance of control, then nodded sagely at Daerokh as the ranger stated the trail ran cold.

After returning, the young man listened as Joie stated the handwriting in the rot journal matched the scribe's other works. As Tuco laid out the letters, he read over the material quickly, having to scan it a couple of times to take everything in. Interesting...certainly seemed like Mr. (or Miss) Verne might know more about what was going on. And possibly the university might hold some of the information about this bloodstone.

Seeing everyone dissipate as Greystone excused himself, noting Tuco seemed a bit off and possibly needed a moment, Jase took to the streets himself, being nearby to where he lived and all. He didn't know many of the houses, actually, but any of the residents nearby who had a fondness for the drink would likely know him in passing, at least.

Diplomacy (gather information about the scene): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15 In case a higher success could possibly get more info

Once he had finished his own reconnaissance, Jase started to return to find Tuco walking in the streets, absently playing with the threads on his shirt. He fell into step beside the half-orc. "Heard of this Verne fellow, by chance? I don't really consort with those academic folks usually, but maybe he's more of a collector?"

Diplomacy Assist (Gather Info about Verne): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

Tuco notices Jase walking beside him and makes a little space for the man, "Can't say I have. I know that something ain't right here with this here stone. Might not be just a simple collector, could be a guise for something else." He eyes up Jase's clothes, "Not a bad look friend. Where you from anyway? You don't look like no Smokeside native but who am I to say I don't know everyone in this place; lets go find some bloke who might though, this lead is our only lead it seems."

As they walk the the half-orc turns and keeps his voice down, "Also what you think about this case? These people we working with. I can't place 'em. This saboteur has me thinkin' what if its any of us? This 'detective' showin' up at the scene might very well be our suspect or someone helpin' them." He wriggles his nose and looks a little perturbed at the thought, "Not sayin' she is or isn't but its all too convenient."


Human Swashbuckler (Musketeer) 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 19 T 14 FF 15| F +2 R +6 W +1 | Init +5 | Perception +6 | CMB +5 CMD 18

Jase noticed the look from the half-orc and smiled ruefully, thinking a moment before responding to his first question. "Son of a couple guards in Cloudreaver Keep with aspirations of greatness but no wherewithal to achieve them. Hence, Smokeside native." The young man chuckled good-naturedly, though he was indeed pondering Tuco's thoughts on the case. "I wonder if our other scribes have clients who were looking for research on bloodstone? Something to ask when we visit the shieldmarshal administration later, perhaps?"

His brow furrowed as he thought over things, then he added, "And if this fellow just walked in the place last night, why would he bust the window out when he was leaving? Why draw attention to it and not just go out the front door? Maybe he was interrupted? There was blood leading to the window...I wonder if it was all Melkoste's? Perhaps there are multiple parties involved?" The thought was pretty troubling.

Jase turned his head and met the half-orc's eyes as they walked and spoke, thinking over his new-found companions and their actions, particularly the newest arrival. "She certainly has a sly manner about her...but she could just be someone trying to snipe the bounty before we showed up. If she was trying to cover things up, she was doing a rather lousy job. And she did turn the journal over, not that we couldn't smell the damnable thing."

Thinking harder than he likely had in months, the youth continued, "Maybe the Nexian? Nex would benefit greatly from throwing Alkenstar into chaos, and perhaps use it as a pretext for trying to exert more control. She seemed pretty straight-laced, though, I have to admit. I've drank with Daerokh before, and you as well, and while that's not exactly a vouch, I'd like to think I'm a decent judge of character and all. The pale woman is pretty scary, actually, but she seems pretty straight-forward with her brand, if you get my meaning. I guess what I'm saying is, I don't think it's any of us. Think being the key word." Jase rubbed at his temples, his head starting to throb again as they walked.


Female Halfling (Gutsy) Cleric 1 | HP 15/15| AC: 15 | Fort: +4; Ref: +6; Will: +9 | Per +7 | Spd 25 ft. | Keen Eyes |Hero Points: 1 | ◆ ↺ ◇ | Searching | Healing Font 4/4 | Class DC 17

Alorea taps her chin as she tries to remember what she knows about Verne.

Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13


Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

Joie falls in beside Daerokh at the neighbor's house, taking a moment to fix up her posture while they wait for the resident to answer the door. "Happy to lend my aid where I can, Daerokh," she says with a slight smile down at the squat and broad man beside her.

Meanwhile, the wheels turn in her head. The possibility of the killer being injured means that he'll either have to lie low for a while or get stitched up. Finding a doctor in the Alkenstar slums that didn't ask questions was likely about as easy as finding a beggar who'd dance for a gold piece... so canvassing the various healers in town for anyone who had treated a questionable wound lately would likely generate false leads by the score. It would help, at least, if they could narrow down the cause... but unless someone saw the event happen, the only identifying information they might find is if someone heard the weapon, in which case... well, she's not going to get that far ahead of herself. Evidence first, then conclusions.

As for her compatriots' potential roles as saboteurs...

Daerokh:
Unlikely. Clan Arrandur has little to gain by murdering scribes and much to lose. Addition of "Bloodstone" to case information as any type of potentially-valuable rock increases likelihood, but still low.

Jase:
[dice=Sense Motive]Either an actual concerned citizen or a saboteur. Watch this one. Appears wastrel but may have hidden cunning.

Alorea:
Most likely saboteur of the lot, but perhaps too obviously and sloppily so. With 3 murders before this one, it would be strange for her to be so sloppy on the 4th. That said, may have just been unlucky in being found and quick with a silver tongue. Keeping an eye on this one... but she is doubtless aware of that and unlikely to tip her hand. Impossible to tell for now. Should be charged with tampering with a crime scene and possibly interfering with an investigation, brought in for questioning at the very least.

Faithe:
Unknown. Dresses very conspicuously and wears a weapon that would have left very obvious, telling wounds, but might be less conspicuous and use a different weapon if committing murder. Too early to tell.

Tuco:
Seems to have taken question as an accusation. Medical knowledge useful, most likely candidate for challenging Auburn Precinct's autopsy records. Will want to double-check his results, but they seem consistent with previous autopsy reports, aside from location of torso wound, which is too easy to check for him to lie about.


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

Residence Investigation

A voice comes from behind the door. "Coming!"

A few moments pass before a half-elven woman answers the door. Her dusky complexion compliments her dark brown eyes and hair well. She's dressed in a simple white dress and brown shoes.

"Yes? Is something wrong?"
-----------

Alorea's Knowledge Roll:
The name doesn't seem familiar to you.

Jase & Tuco's Gather Information Rolls:
Your inquiries among the crowd reveal that 'Verne' is one Mattis Verne, a researcher of magical phenomena. It's rather curious that he makes his home in Steamhaven, a couple of streets down from the market--his research would perhaps be better served in areas where magic actually work.

Apparently, he contracted Mr. Melkoste to assist him in conducting research on some manner of magical artifact.


Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

Joie clears her throat before responding. "Good morning, Ma'am. We're here on behalf of the Auburn District Precinct. We have a few questions for you that may help us in an ongoing investigation; may we come in?"


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

Residence Investigation

The woman blinks when she sees Joie's uniform. "...of course, ma'am. Come right in."

She tentatively steps aside and opens the door to the house. The main room is a plainly-decorated sitting room with an attached kitchen.


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

Tuco listens to Jase talk, trying to get a feel for the man. "I feels like yous on the money with this stone and people wanting it. Maybe these scribes are giving their results then getting axed to cover the mystery of it." He gives him a hand on the shoulder, "If that be the case, we'll be a target soon enough and then you can use that prowess of yours."

Upon hearing about multiple people Tuco waits a moment then slowly starts up, a train of thought clearly brewing, "... Wait. You might be onto somethin' here. Hear me out." He turns around to make sure no one is watching and inhales deeply before continuing, hoping that he doesn't give the man a headache he is so frequently having, "This grease-man I talked to said he saw a brown robed and hooded fellow come in from the front door, what if that guy scared off our Slasher and forced him out a window?" His eyes glint, "This ain't no regular murder and methinks yous right."

He notices the headache, "Don't got much to 'elp you with that, but maybe I'm bein' paranoid. Side effect growing up with murderers and thugs about."


Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

"Thank you, Ma'am," says Joie, taking the invitation and stepping inside. Her gaze slides over the room around her, seeing if there are any indications that the Slasher may have entered; the trail did grow cold in this direction, after all.

Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17

She ponders the phrasing of her question carefully, then: "Where were you from last night until sunrise this morning?"

She chooses to remain standing, just to the side of the doorway-- not close enough to clearly be blocking it, but still within grabbing range in case she tries to break for the exit.

Not that she's expecting that.

But as a soldier, she can't not expect it.


female fetchling oracle of bones 2 | HP 21/27; THP 0/0; N/L 0/0 | AC 13 (17) FF 10 (14) TAC 13 | F +4, R +3, W +2 | CMB +5, CMD 18 | Init +3 | Per +2 (+2 surp/inv/inc) | Defenses: Resis C/E 5; +2 saves vs swarms/mind effect; Shadow Blending 50% conceal in dim light | Curse: only aklo in combat | Revelations: Armor of Bones 1/2hr per day | Spells: Lvl 1 6/6

Leaving the initial crime scene Faithe found herself relieved. She had been standing around and doing very little other than keeping watch for trouble so getting out to where she might be of help was nice. She went with Daerokh and Joie to investigate the house and was somewhat relieved to be around a smaller number of people that she didn't really know.

As the elven woman answered the door and Joie entered Faithe followed her and stood quietly to one side as the other woman began speaking. She noticed that Joie didn't bother to introduce herself beyond who they were working with but Faithe found such a thing rather rude. "Pardon my companion's manners," she said, "I am Faithe and this," she motioned to Joie, "is Joie." Despite the lack of magic in this area Faithe's voice still echoed slightly as she spoke. She looked aside at Joie, "You may continue."


Human Swashbuckler (Musketeer) 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 19 T 14 FF 15| F +2 R +6 W +1 | Init +5 | Perception +6 | CMB +5 CMD 18

Jase considered Tuco's words as they strolled along, frowning as he spoke, "Looks like Melkoste was offed before he found anything of consequence...was that reply letter dated, by chance?" When the Tailor spoke about the possibility of the group becoming targets, the young man's face brightened rather strangely. He hadn't thought about that likelihood, but a physical danger was something he was somewhat trained for. He felt he was intellectually capable, but all the unknowns swirling around had him dizzy. Or maybe something else did.

Jase looked about, then leaned in conspiratorially as Tuco spoke softly about his line of reasoning. Growing excited even as his head pounded, he whispered harshly. "Maybe the man in the robe was the killer? Makes more sense that he scared him off, though...the broken window makes no sense otherwise." Looking about again, he continued, "Look...this Verne fellow, the folks said he was a 'researcher' of magical things, right? What else does this chap do? Why live over here? Maybe he finds all the magic things that might compete with technology, then makes them disappear. Or maybe I'm just overthinking it. Still, it would be nice to know what he has his fingers dipped into."

As the pair passed a bar that Jase had some familiarity with, he looked askance at the half-orc before he started quick-walking for the entrance. "Walking and talking is thirsty work, brother. Let's take five and then go fill in the others, right?" Not waiting for a reply, he continued in, ordering a glass of water and a shot of strong spirits.


Male Dwarf LG Ranger 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 32/32 hp | Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +5;| Init +2 | Percep +9 | CMD 17
Faithe wrote:

Leaving the initial crime scene Faithe found herself relieved. She had been standing around and doing very little other than keeping watch for trouble so getting out to where she might be of help was nice. She went with Daerokh and Joie to investigate the house and was somewhat relieved to be around a smaller number of people that she didn't really know.

As the elven woman answered the door and Joie entered Faithe followed her and stood quietly to one side as the other woman began speaking. She noticed that Joie didn't bother to introduce herself beyond who they were working with but Faithe found such a thing rather rude. "Pardon my companion's manners," she said, "I am Faithe and this," she motioned to Joie, "is Joie." Despite the lack of magic in this area Faithe's voice still echoed slightly as she spoke. She looked aside at Joie, "You may continue."

"And, um, I'm Daerokh," Daerokh pipes up after Faithe sweeps into the residence ahead of him and towers before him.


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

Sorry for the delay, folks! Schoolwork got in the way.

Residence Investigation

The homeowner's eyebrows just about arch off of her face when she sees Faithe's revealing attire, but when Faithe speaks her eyes practically snap to hers and a little blush colours her cheeks.

"Er--of course. My name's Verah." She takes a breath and lets the investigators into her home.

Joie wrote:
"Where were you from last night until sunrise this morning?"

"I was home, in bed." Verah begins, her expression turning anxious as she sits down in a chair. "I heard a ruckus coming from behind my house last night--the sound of glass breaking drove me under the covers. I heard someone coming down the alley and I just hoped and prayed to Brigh they wouldn't try to break into my house next..."

------------------
At The Bar

The Crooked Sights is what someone could charitably call a 'bar' in the more polite circles of Skyside--the furniture is creaky and feels like it's on its last legs, there's a draft somewhere in the building that allows Smokeside's trademark haze into the tavern, and it's reputed to have at least two fights a night. That being said, the alcohol served here is strong and cold.

The barkeep--a weedy young redhead of a man who looks like he isn't even old enough to drink what he serves to the patrons--serves up Jase's requested water and booze. "A-and for y-you, sir?" He stammers at Tuco, looking rather skittish.


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

"Yous fine 'dere? You like mighty jumpy for a barkeep. Think I am gonna start a fight or somethin'? Please. Just a simple time out with my good buddy." He gives the barkeep's question a thought then shakes his head, he had to keep his wits about him. Though he gave an impression that everything was normal, the thoughts were brewing in his head about the scholar in Smokeside. Jase was onto something, he was sure of it, who would be studying magic in an area where magic wasn't possible? Obviously Tuco was the exception, he was dabbling and it wasn't high profile gems and magical trinkets.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 1 = 21


Male Dwarf LG Ranger 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 32/32 hp | Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +5;| Init +2 | Percep +9 | CMD 17

Daerokh frowns at Verah's testimony.

"Sadly, that glass you heard wasn't from someone breaking INTO next door, but OUT of. You read the papers this morning? Your neighbor was murdered last night, and the killer's trailer leads to your rain barrel, where we presume they washed up before fleeing the scene. You didn't peek to make sure whoever it was was gone? I imagine if you suspected someone was about to break into your house you'd at least grab a fire poker and wait by the door just to be safe."


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

At the Bar

Tuco's Sense Motive:
You get the distinct impression that you look considerably rougher than the clientele the barkeep is used to. He's quite afraid that another fight will happen so early in his workday.

"O-oh, good t-to hear it." The barkeep takes a breath and nods. "L-let's hope i-it stays that way, yes?"
----------------
Residence Investigation

Verah's face pales. "...I did. I heard a smaller splash after all the sloshing. I think something else fell in the rain barrel..."

"Anyway, I didn't need the fire poker, sir. I have this." She slowly and carefully slides a small derringer out from under her shift, keeping the small gun cupped in both hands. "A gift from my husband."


Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

Joie nods. ”A blessing you didn’t need it,” she says. ”We’ll need to check the barrel. Is your husband away?”


GM Who Must Be Feared & Obeyed (Or At Least Bribed With Cookies)

Residence Investigation

Verah nods. "He serves in the Aeromantic Fleet." She puts her derringer away.


Female Half-Elf LN Strangler 3 | AC 15, T 12, FF 13 | 28/28 hp | Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +4;| Init +4 | Percep +6 | CMD 17

Joie nods. "Thank you, ma'am. If you remember any further information that might be helpful, please take it to the Auburn District Precinct and ask to see Shieldmarshal Greystone. In the meantime, we'll want to tip out your rain barrel. Please feel free to make use of your neighbor's. Given his... current status, I do not think he will complain."

She turns to her companions-- having elected not to comment on Faithe's earlier (admittedly legitimate) admonishment for her lack of manners. "Do either of you have further questions?"


Female Halfling (Gutsy) Cleric 1 | HP 15/15| AC: 15 | Fort: +4; Ref: +6; Will: +9 | Per +7 | Spd 25 ft. | Keen Eyes |Hero Points: 1 | ◆ ↺ ◇ | Searching | Healing Font 4/4 | Class DC 17

Alorea is quiet as she follows Jase and Tuco. She lets them do the talking as she hangs back, listening to the wind and trying to pick up on things they might miss.

Won't have time to post today but will make Perception and Sense Motive checks as appropriate.


Human Swashbuckler (Musketeer) 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 19 T 14 FF 15| F +2 R +6 W +1 | Init +5 | Perception +6 | CMB +5 CMD 18

Jase noticed the cute, slippery investigator from the murdered man's house come in not far behind himself and Tuco, chuckling and nudging the half-orc. "Looks like we have company." With a grin, he waved over Alorea to come sit with them as the bartender served up his requested drinks. He only grins wider as the Tailor admonished the tender for his misconceptions about the half-orc's appearance, then Jase chugged the water, rivulets of the liquid trickling down the corners of his mouth in his haste.

The young man flushed as his body slowly rehydrated itself, the headache growing worse. Reaching for the shot glass, he tossed the potent alcohol down with a grimace, putting his hands on the bartop and bracing himself until both liquids took effect. After a couple of minutes he stood up straight, stretching his arms and shoulders, then smiled widely at Tuco and Alorea, his face full of color.

"That's better! Want to check in with the others and see what they found before we dig a little more into Verne and the school? We still have the corpse doctor to check with, as well."


Female Halfling (Gutsy) Cleric 1 | HP 15/15| AC: 15 | Fort: +4; Ref: +6; Will: +9 | Per +7 | Spd 25 ft. | Keen Eyes |Hero Points: 1 | ◆ ↺ ◇ | Searching | Healing Font 4/4 | Class DC 17

Alorea sits at the bar beside the boys. She makes a face at his sloppy show of drinking but refrains from commenting. Despite her previous bluster at the crime scene, the sylph seems a bit out of her element in the sleazy bar.

"Yes, let's find the others and compare notes." And get out of this wretched dive.


female fetchling oracle of bones 2 | HP 21/27; THP 0/0; N/L 0/0 | AC 13 (17) FF 10 (14) TAC 13 | F +4, R +3, W +2 | CMB +5, CMD 18 | Init +3 | Per +2 (+2 surp/inv/inc) | Defenses: Resis C/E 5; +2 saves vs swarms/mind effect; Shadow Blending 50% conceal in dim light | Curse: only aklo in combat | Revelations: Armor of Bones 1/2hr per day | Spells: Lvl 1 6/6

Faithe could think of no further questions for the woman and shook her headm "no, I don't.". As they went to leave she said to the woman, "Thanks you for your time." She turned then and began to walk away towards the door.


Human Swashbuckler (Musketeer) 3 | HP 25/25 | AC 19 T 14 FF 15| F +2 R +6 W +1 | Init +5 | Perception +6 | CMB +5 CMD 18

At The Crooked Sights

Jase frowned as he remembered he'd have to pay for the drink he just imbibed, turning around to the cowed bartender. He reached in his pocket and fished out a silver, then grabbed a second, slapping them on the counter with a smile. "Keep whatever change is left, Red." The amount was a significant portion of his wealth, at the moment, but it wouldn't do to seem frugal in front of company. At least in front of Alorea...Tuco seemed to live the word frugal, from his dress.

Assuming a look of fake surprise, the young man turned to the Tailor. "Rats, Tuco! Were we supposed to be taking notes? I guess that's a technique only an advance investigator would know." Jase grinned as he turned his gaze over to the sylph woman for a moment before he started strutting out of the bar (assuming the other two were ready to go, as well...they hadn't been drinking, after all). Once out in the street, he started heading back towards the crime scene, a meeting place having never been established for the group after they had completed their various tasks.


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

"Feelin' better there chum?" Tuco can already smell the alcohol on Jase and hopes that maybe the slyph detective would 'wind' it away. Never that easy.

Seeing the young man start getting up at the recommendation of Alorea, Tuco pushes the stool back and stands tall, though has trouble holding back a laugh as Jase kicks in with the snark. "Wow, tongue on that one like a damn poet. Yous twos will get along just peachy." He offers to help her out the door then faces her, "So we seem to be workin' the same side 'ere. Might as well tell me what you do in this here city and a bit about youself." He takes a deep breath near her noticing that it seems a little fresher, "A slyph ain't exactly common, and yous bound to have a good story in this web we gots going on in Alkenstar."


Female Halfling (Gutsy) Cleric 1 | HP 15/15| AC: 15 | Fort: +4; Ref: +6; Will: +9 | Per +7 | Spd 25 ft. | Keen Eyes |Hero Points: 1 | ◆ ↺ ◇ | Searching | Healing Font 4/4 | Class DC 17

Alorea's smile returns at Jase's playful jibe. "Advance investigator and advanced investigator. You're lucky to have somebody with my knowledge and skill set on your side."

She quirks an eyebrow at Tuco. "I'm surprised you know what I am. Not a lot of people have heard the word 'sylph' before. My parents were members of the Aeromantic Fleet. Guess all that time up in the clouds had an effect on them. Despite my appearance, I've always been good at blending in and observing. I like getting to the bottom of things, so I decided to go into the detective business. I do alright for myself. Plus, I get to meet all sorts of interesting folks like yourselves."

Her personal breeze blows a few errant strands of blonde hair out of her face. "I've shown you my cards, now you show me yours. What's you story?"


M Half-Orc Tatter / Mirror 3 - HP 22/22 - AC 15 - TAC 13 - FF 12 - CMD 14 - Init +3 - Fort +4 - Ref +5 - Will +5 - Perc +10 (+8 Smells) - Scent, Darkvision 60 - Omen 0/2 - ASF 5% - Communed - Kit 9/10

"I ain't as dense as I look. Study a bit of magic meself actually, though my tutor ain't always the most direct at speaking up. Can't say I know much else about slyphs outside of what I heard in passin'." He continues strolling, keeping an eye of Jase as he saunters in the lead, "Jus' your typical half-orc, you don' need to know the details of that part; but I've been fightin' on the streets of Old Ironside for a while before makin' myself a doc. Learn a lot about sewing up cuts and removing ammunition when you ain't got no one else to give you a hand." He lifts his shirt up slightly revealing a plethora of scars, "Nasty things those. Was tired of seein' all them folk down in the lurch with no one to 'elp 'em. I only made it due to luck, but if I can tilt the odds for them... I'd do it."

He gives her a wry smile, "And yes, they ain't the best fellas but they doin' what it takes to get by. How can you leave a bog without an outside hand?" The Tailor pauses for a moment clearly thinking about something, "They not all bad, just the chips are down on them all the time. Makes a man claw and shoot their way to safety." Tuco's hand goes over where the mirror is located and shakes his head, "This Slasher though, he ain't like them folks down 'dere. It feels different."

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