Frantino searches his memory but can't recall what this name means.
"Perhaps we can do some research back in town?"
Seeing that there is no danger in the room when everyone enters, Nasir sheathes his sword.
"At least there is one room not filled with horrors. Let us completely search this room and then get out of this house.
Once we are somewhere safe, we can recuperate, take stock of all that we have found, and decide our next course of action."
When the searching is done and everyone is ready to go, Nasir will take out his sword again and lead the way out of the building expecting that this cursed house will have at least one more surprise for them.
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"Let us completely search this room and then get out of this house. Once we are somewhere safe, we can recuperate, take stock of all that we have found, and decide our next course of action."
"Let's go to Creekside for some food. Afterward, we can check the map at the town hall, check in with Audrahni, pawn the items we found her to fund our efforts, and maybe do some research or asking around."
"Perhaps we can do some research back in town?"
"We definitely should. However, let's keep the name of the sword to ourselves and even the fact that we are looking for a sword, at least for today. Whoever took it might not appreciate us asking around about it. I am exhausted and would rather not get into a fight with the new wielder today if we can avoid it."
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"Wait," Walf says, stopping with a startled expression on his face.
"Baraket? Didn't Sir Roderick mention Baraket when he appeared last time? Something along the lines of 'Baraket' controlling 'them,' but it was not clear who 'them' referred to. Then he said it would control 'you,' possibly meaning us. And then he said something about gauntlets he should have used."
"This rapier is something important and dangerous. It could be an intelligent weapon. In my training as a weaponsmith we were told stories about such swords and their tendency to control the weak-willed. We need to be very careful looking for it and especially careful if we find it."
Walf shudders at the idea of a weapon taking over his mind and controlling his actions.
"Intelligent weapon? Why would I want my weapon to have a mind of its own? It is a tool with a specific purpose that I wield as I deem necessary. I don't want to have to fight to control my own weapon. That is too much trouble.
If you say that this box we found is lined with lead to protect from scrying, perhaps it also prevented the weapon from controlling it's owner? We should consider not pawning the box until we learn more about this weapon.
Maybe this elf friend you have might have more information?"
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"So--no one else has any insight on Ayita being an 'honored lady?' Does that mean anything to anyone?" he wonders.
Walf frowns. "It does not sound like any honorific the Shoanti used during the time I lived among them. Unfortunately, my knowledge of Golarion is limited. I am still learning."
Walf considers whether the title "honored lady" might have some religious connection and, on the off chance, whether it might have anything to do with the planes.
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"Have we found the gauntlets yet, by the way? It sounds like those might be important if we do find that rapier, from what Sir Roderick's ghost said."
"No, we haven't. Perhaps that is what is at the 'x' at the Stone House in the Churlwood. I agree, they seem very important. We could come back here tomorrow when I can detect magic and scan for them quickly."
Walf examines the silver locket the group found on the porch. If one of the others has it, he asks politely if he can examine it for a few moments. If it seems it can be opened, he opens it. After examining it, he hands it back.
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Roscoe nods as Ayita explains. "I wasn't quite sure if he was pointing to you, or just past you at the wall. Or, like you said, replaying some event. He definitely knew I wasn't the honored lady. Bizarre."
A puzzled expression crosses Walf's face. "Who did you see? What did they say beyond referring to an honored lady? It might help us figure out why Sir Roderic is unquiet or what happened to the rapier, though I suppose they could be one and the same thing."
As he speaks, Walf crouches down and examines the floor, attempting to see if he can ascertain how long ago the hole was made and whether it is large enough for the case to have been in the hole.
He clearly has no idea. Turning to the party he asks, "Can any of you tell how recently the hole was made and whether the case was in it? Perhaps the removal of the rapier is what has disturbed Sir Roderic's rest. Certainly his statements to us were about it."
"I think we are done here after someone looks at that hole to answer Walfrenden's question.
Let's look quickly and get out of this gods forsaken house."
After someone takes the final look at the hole, Nasir leads the way down the stairs and out of the nearest exit with his sword and shield ready. Once outside and a safe distance away from the house, he continues the conversation.
"Let us go to that Creekside place you mentioned. I could use a strong drink after going through this house of horrors. Perhaps I will try this 'Possum Punch' while we discuss what we have found."
Roscoe nods as Ayita explains. "I wasn't quite sure if he was pointing to you, or just past you at the wall. Or, like you said, replaying some event. He definitely knew I wasn't the honored lady. Bizarre."A puzzled expression crosses Walf's face. "Who did you see? What did they say beyond referring to an honored lady? It might help us figure out why Sir Roderic is unquiet or what happened to the rapier, though I suppose they could be one and the same thing."
As he speaks, Walf crouches down and examines the floor, attempting to see if he can ascertain how long ago the hole was made and whether it is large enough for the case to have been in the hole.
[Dice=Perception ???]1d20+4
He clearly has no idea. Turning to the party he asks, "Can any of you tell how recently the hole was made and whether the case was in it? Perhaps the removal of the rapier is what has disturbed Sir Roderic's rest. Certainly his statements to us were about it."
The hole in the floorboards looks like a secret hidey hole that’s been discovered and recklessly opened. It is the perfect size for the sword case.
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"I think we are done here after someone looks at that hole to answer Walfrenden's question.
Let's look quickly and get out of this gods forsaken house."
After someone takes the final look at the hole, Nasir leads the way down the stairs and out of the nearest exit with his sword and shield ready. Once outside and a safe distance away from the house, he continues the conversation.
"Let us go to that Creekside place you mentioned. I could use a strong drink after going through this house of horrors. Perhaps I will try this 'Possum Punch' while we discuss what we have found."
Possum Punch and a rest sound perfect! It's going to be hard to sleep with all that's happened, but we need it. Our healer is out of regular heals.
Ter's head pops up...
Blackberry muffins? Blackberry muffins???
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The hole in the floorboards looks like a secret hidey hole that’s been discovered and recklessly opened. It is the perfect size for the sword case.
Are there any indications how recently it was broken open? The rest of the house seems to be long undisturbed and is covered in mold. Does this look like it happened more recently (e.g., there is less grime buildup on the case since it hasn't been out very long)? Does it seem possible that the removal of the case from the hidey hole happened in the last month?
"It seems like whoever opened this knew just where to go to find it, but then needlessly damaged the floor and forced the case where a little patience and care would have sufficed. Whoever did this is ver quick to use force and will not be someone to be reasoned with."
The hole in the floorboards looks like a secret hidey hole that’s been discovered and recklessly opened. It is the perfect size for the sword case.Are there any indications how recently it was broken open? The rest of the house seems to be long undisturbed and is covered in mold. Does this look like it happened more recently (e.g., there is less grime buildup on the case since it hasn't been out very long)? Does it seem possible that the removal of the case from the hidey hole happened in the last month?
"It seems like whoever opened this knew just where to go to find it, but then needlessly damaged the floor and forced the case where a little patience and care would have sufficed. Whoever did this is ver quick to use force and will not be someone to be reasoned with."
Yes! Recent. Weeks? Month? Definitely not years.
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The locket is a small piece of golden jewelry, not the most delicate of things, nor the greatest work of craftsmanship EVER, but still lovely and precious, nonetheless. It opens to show a portrait of a young woman. Raven-haired, kind features, with a smile unusual in portraiture of the olden days. You imagine it is, therefore, of newer make. Within the last 20 years.
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Roscoe considers their options. "Well, I've done a little tomb raiding in the past--this haul is better than anything I've seen, even missing the rapier. Given that this place has been here for so long, it's a wonder this stuff is still here. Well, at least until you consider all the ghosts here."
He runs a hand through his long blonde hair. "So--what now? Rest and refit in town, then try to find the 'X' marks the spot?"
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"So--what now? Rest and refit in town, then try to find the 'X' marks the spot?"
"Yes, that sounds good. But as Nasir fears and as the Poleiheira teaches, it is times like this when one gets ambushed. If anyone is watching the house or has gotten wind of our activity, now would be the optimum time to jump us and take what we have found. As Nasir advises, we should be on our guard as we return and refrain from discussing it where we can be overheard until we have had a chance to rest."
Assuming we've searched and re-searched all the rooms in the house...
"A drink sounds good! And no flashing all these gold bars around."
"I wouldn't mind picking up a nicer weapon or armor before we go running off to the Churlwood. Speaking of which, what about these Roadkeepers that recently showed up in town and almost attacked the Horned Fangs? What do we really know about that fight weeks ago that killed six Fangs? We may very well run into these Roadkeepers when we head to the Churlwood so we might want to ask around and gather some information about this whole situation. We should also head to the town hall tomorrow and look at the map, to see if this piece fits and what it means. After a warm meal and a good rest, of course."
Nasir peers over Walfrenden's shoulder to look at the portrait in the locket.
"That face looks familiar. Looks a lot like the guard captain of the town, but the features are gentler than hers.
I believe that she introduced herself as Julit Freson. She was keen to make sure I was not here to cause trouble. I would probably do the same in her position with the recent violence.
Maybe this is a relative of hers?"
Nasir continues to make his way toward the center of town.
"Agreed Frantino. Keeping such wealth quiet in a small town such as this is a good idea. Perhaps there are some traders that would be willing to take some of these items off of our hands. For the right price, of course.
Now where is this Creekside tavern?"
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"Perhaps there are some traders that would be willing to take some of these items off of our hands. For the right price, of course."
"I do odd jobs for Lyndwyn Suvasa at the Cove Armory. She trades with a dwarf merchant from Riddleport that comes through once a month. Perhaps she would take these items from us, give us a credit to purchase items, and pass them on to the trader.
I could ask her to keep their origin quiet, to avoid attracting any attention to our investigation.
She will certainly buy any used arms or armor off of us, though for a fraction of what we paid for them. She drives a hard bargain.
I feel we should not hesitate before proceeding to the Churlwood, otherwise I would offer to make something for you. Perick lets me use his smithy and work on his commissions. Perhaps once we return."
If Possum has his cart out in the Circle Market, Walf will steer the group toward it before reaching Creekside.
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Walf considers whether the title "honored lady" might have some religious connection and, on the off chance, whether it might have anything to do with the planes.
[Dice=Knowledge(Planes)]1d20+9
[Dice=Knowledge (Religion)]1d20+9
Walf cannot think of any situation where "Honored Lady" would have some special religious connection, or even a planar connection.
The group slowly finds its way back into town. By the time they pass Meir's Sawmill the sun is touching the water. By the time they reach Cove Circle and the Creekside Tavern, Sarenrae's light is nearly gone and darkness is settling upon the town.
The Circle is quiet, market day having already passed this week. Bimmer Coots, always a staple of the Circle, market day or not, is closing up his wooden cart and putting away his jugs of "Possum Punch."
Garleena Knodston and her brother, Thevin, are lighting lanterns outside the doors of the Creekside.
"And where have you all been, Doc? Roscoe looks like he's seen a ghost," calls Garleena. "Table inside for your 'study group', if'n ya want a drink and dinner."
Thevin watches the group, noting the addition of the Kelishite warrior that he noticed leaving town earlier. He says something to Garleena as he walks past her and she looks at Nasir, as well.
She smiles, nonetheless, and waves the heroes inside. The tavern smells good, the aroma of food wafting from the kitchen. Small, scented candles, one of Garleena's personal touches to the tavern ambiance, lighten the smell of dirt and dust and sea air that, to Covers, means "home."
"Your regular spot?" Garleena asks, pointing to a table in the back. It isn't particularly private, but then, the friends have never needed privacy before. When Garleena sees you up close, she sniffs and looks at your clothing. "Perhaps a place to wash up in private? I wouldn't like all of that on my benches," she says, holding her nose and waving her hand slightly at the blood and other... dirt... on the group's clothing.
Ayita asks Ter to take a quick look for Possum's cart, and the Blackberry Muffin cart of course!
Assuming the group is heading in that direction, Ter will happily do so.
[dice=Ter Perceive Possum and Perceive Blackberry Cart]1d20+14
Ter (and perhaps Ayita) is sad not to see Blackberry's muffin cart in the circle. But then, it isn't market day, so... Blackberry is likely at her home, baking more tarts and muffins.
Perhaps Garleena has a muffin or two for sale at the Creekside.
Once all of you have cleaned yourselves up, Garleena comes out and asks, "What can I get you, friends? And where have you been that you were so bloody and dusty?"
After cleaning himself up from the day's of battles, Nasir approaches Garleena. He gives her a flourishing bow.
"The light of dawn to you, proprietress. My apologies for my disheveled appearance earlier. I thank you for the use of your facilities to tidy up. It has been a much longer day than I anticipated.
I am Captain Nasir al-Rafik Kamal formerly of the Imperial Forces of Qadira. They did not tell me that this establishment was owned by such a lovely creature as yourself. Perhaps we can find time to talk sometime soon, no? But before that, I have a few of favors to ask of you.
My new companions here have been extolling the virtues of the fine food and drink to be had in your establishment, and I am famished from the taxing day that we've had. Perhaps you can provide us all a hot meal and a round of this Possum Punch? Apparently, this is the specialty of the house.
Next as I am new in town, I am in need of somewhere to stay. Do you have rooms available for the night?
Finally, do you happen to have a private room where I may talk to my new companions? Such is the custom where I come from when discussing business."
After Garleena helps Nasir with his requests (or not) and the group sits down for their meal, Nasir will make small talk with the group to learn more about them and the town. Once the forms have been observed, Nasir focuses in on what he believes are the next steps.
"After we have a good rest and recovery this evening, we should meet up again in the morning and tackle a number of things.
1. We should take the map fragment to the town hall and see how it fits with the map that they have there. Perhaps there are some clues to be found. We should also compare the compass rose's points to Roscoe's medallion as he says that they look the same.
2. We should divide up our found spoils in even shares. We will need to identify those items that Frantino Kaddren suspects are magical and figure out how to value them for fair division of what we have recovered.
3. We should talk to this Audrahni to see what she knows about what we have seen and found. She is an elf, no? She may have been around long enough to have been here when Sir Rodrick was alive. She may be able to help us make sense of things.
4. We can track down the guard captain of the town and see if she can tell us about the picture of the woman in the locket. We may be able to do this when we go to the town hall to check out the map.
5. We should use some of our newfound wealth to purchase any necessary equipment for our journey into the Churlwood to find this Stone House that the ghost has pointed us to. Maybe someone in town knows about this Stone House?
There are many more things to do than this, but I think it is a good start to fill all of tomorrow with tasks. What say you?"
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After getting cleaned up and changing his clothes, Walf joins the others at the table. He brings the ship painting with him and spreads it on the table before him. As everyone speaks, he listens and nods. However, he also repairs the painting, casting mending upon it. Once it is repaired, he rolls it back up and makes a mental note to buy some scroll cases during the shopping the next day.
"There are many more things to do than this, but I think it is a good start to fill all of tomorrow with tasks. What say you?"
Walf finds Nasir's suggestion sound. "I will prepare detect magic in the morning and can identify the items, if they are indeed magic, before breakfast."
"If either of the objects are magical, I suggest we just collectively retain them. We can assign them to whomever can best make use of them for now, but we can wait to travel to Riddleport or Magnimar before we sell them. Such items are so valuable that is difficult to sell them for a good price in a community as small as this, and we may have use for them in the Churlwood."
"Also, The Poleiheira teaches that it is often a good idea to hold onto valuable items and divide them once there are several, making the decisions about them more equitable. The only way to divide a single gem among many is to sell it. But when there are many gems, there are as many ways to divide them."
Walf thinks about the valuables recovered from Sir Roderic's house.
"We will not run into any...legal trouble selling what we found, will we? Perhaps we should speak to the Port Captain before we sell them. They may belong to someone. That will also allow us to investigate the locket before selling it, if we decide to do so."
The next morning, when Walf rises and prepares spells, he switches out acid splash, replacing it with detect magic. Once that spell is prepared, he uses it to examine the slippers and the rod.
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Roscoe, not accustomed to making such elaborate plans as Nasir and Walfrenden have set forth, nods as they speak. "Well--I'm used to flying by the seat of my pants. But those--sound like good plans. But let's leave room for some flexibility, no? For now, a bath and dinner sound fantastic, as does divvying up the loot and counting it plenty of times."
He smirks. "Then--the rest of the plan sounds great."
Nasir listens to Walfrenden's comments.
"These points on dividing our possibly magical spoils are good advice. I agree we should assign them to those who can use them.
I'm really not sure how long it may take to complete the tasks I have laid out. As you are all locals, you will know how to accomplish these things better than I."
Nasir grins a knowing smile at Roscoe's comments.
"No plan survives contact with your enemy. A reed that does not bend in the wind will surely break. The advantage of having a plan is that it allows you greater flexibility as you will clearly see your options to take action on."
Nasir looks at the Frantino and Ayita.
"I am not used to having my plans questioned, but this is a different life I lead now. We must collaborate as equals, so what are your opinions of the plans laid out?
As there is much to be done, I would like us to agree to a course of action so we can get some rest before Sarenrae blesses us with her light in the morning.
If this is too much to decide for you right now after our taxing day, then let us just agree to seek out the guard captain tomorrow and work from there."
After dinner is eaten, ale drunk, and plans made for the following morning, the heroes decide it is time to rest. Tomorrow will be a big day, no doubt.
Garleena waves goodnight to the friends and tells Nasir his room is ready whenever he wishes it.
Outside the Creekside and on the roads of Roderic's Cove, it is a relatively warm night. Not tropical by any means, but a pleasant night, with a soft breeze flowing down the center road out to sea, the last remnants of the evening land breeze.
1=Ayita
2=Doc
3=Frantino
4=Nasir
5=Roscoe
6=Walfrenden
Frantino!
As they walk down the road, a sudden blast of cold water splashes over Frantino! He sinks into the cold, frigid waters of the Varisian Gulf, his wife and children next to him, struggling upwards towards their burning boat...
Frantino gasps and looks at his... completely dry clothes. He looks around at... the moonlit road in town and Blackberry's Bakery, closed for the evening and windows dark.
The haunting feeling of icy waters is gone. Frantino cannot help but shiver, perhaps from the memory of cold waters, perhaps from the eerie feeling of a memory not his.
Shaking off the haunting feeling of Sir Roderic and his family's plunge into the Gulf, Frantino and his fellows continue on. Just before Walf turns off to head to the smithy, where he boards,
Nasir accompanies his new found companions to their domiciles so that he has a good idea where to look for them should something happen. With a belly full of food and a nice buzz from the drinks, he doesn't notice much as he concentrates on remembering where everyone goes for the evening.
Ayita is enjoying the evening, not looking for problems. Ter is almost asleep but her eyes are open.
[dice=perception]1d20+4+2
"There's something... hideous... in the bushes ahead, waiting to ambush us!"