GM Euan's Rise of the Runelords (Inactive)

Game Master Euan

Con men...now this is more Val’s bailiwick. The note in particular is interesting. First, she looks it over to confirm if there are any indicators it was written by the same person as the note to Kizzy.

It’s hard to say for sure, for this note is written in ink, rather than blood and is written with less apparent haste. But Valena can’t rule it out - it could have been written by the same individual.

While Val focused on the note, Seamus went to the bodies. Pausing, telling himself it was just a puzzle now, looking for details here was still easier than it had been in the mill. Looking over the bodies, as the sheriff explained the situation, Seamus tried to determine if the wounds were caused in the same was as at the mill. Looking for signs of both claws and weapons.

Kast joins Seamus in the close-body examinations. Though gentle repose has been used, there’s a lingering stench in the wounds - similar to what you found on the dead in the mill. The wounds are caused by claw marks as well - just like at the mill.

Seamus knows what the Sheriff mentioned about the men - they’re minor con men, local scallywags and drifters. It’s not surprising they’re dead, as many people as they’ve hurt, it’s just that the manner of their deaths fits in so well with the new murder.

While he was looking over the corpses he asks the sheriff, ”Sir, did Grayst have any wounds on him?”

”Ayep. He did. Claw marks, though it could have been a blade as well according to one observer. I suspect though the they were mistaken considering these wounds.” he gestures to the dead.

"Anyway, to me the most interesting trait is the Thassilonian rune inscribed in the corpses. This is the single thing that ties together all the five assassinations... well, except Katrina did not have it, which makes me think she was more of an unintentional victim" the boy passes his hand over the inscribed runes trying to recognize the pattern.

"So... we have a serial killer who is apparently an undead, maybe a ghast... and there is this Grayst... what you describe... could he be a ghoul himself? Although if he has been trapped, he could not kill Harker tonight" Izomandakus thinks aloud for everyone to know his train of thought "Perhaps someone should visit that Grayst and make sure he has not been escaped for the last day"

The symbols match, more or less, on the four victims. However, there’s no particular evidence that Grayst is a ghoul, or any undead really. He was somewhat insane, but physically OK aside from his few wounds which were healed. Sheriff Hemlock believes him to be well ensconced at Habe’s Sanatorium, but he agrees Grayst should be questioned, ”Who knows, perhaps Dr. Habe has managed to calm him further since I spoke to him.”

"Yeah, these are claw marks. I don't think any human-like thing did any of this. It's a monster of some sort...or sorts. Something with claws," Kast is now pretty certain looking at the evidence.

"We can probably rule out most normal people, but also know that whatever has these claws either can pen a missive or is working with someone who can," Kast plainly states what he thinks. "I guess we should go visit Dr. Habe when you all are ready."

Kast has seen enough here.

Val stays at a distance from investigating the bodies while the others finish up. She needs to not push herself too much after that outburst earlier, and she does not have much to contribute to anatomical forensics anyways.

”I am ready to move on as well. You do bring up a good point to consider, Kast, regarding the possibility of collaboration. Considering the earlier evidence pointed towards a ghoul, I wonder if a ghoul is the type of undead to maintain its faculties after death? In which case, it could be working alone. That does complicate my belief that the con men were acquainted with the killer, though.” She stretches her arms across her chest one after the other, having gotten more in the habit with all this fighting. ”I would like to speak with the sheriff about known marks the con men tricked, as well as where they have been seen recently.”

"Ok. We will visit Dr. Habe and check with him. Mmmm... you did promise us a presentation letter before. You do think he will pose problems to visit Grayst?" Izomandakus offers a bit concerned to leave the town with an assassin around "Please, make sure to redouble the watch"

"I must make sure mom and Aneka are ok before we leave" the boy also reviews the ingredients in his pouch and notes a few things he must replenish before leaving Sandpoint "Otherwise, I am ready to go"

Listening as the sheriff answers their questions. Seamus pauses while Izomandakus speculates about the killer and Grayst, nodding. "Yes, we should eventually talk to Grayst, but I doubt if he's escaped."

Nodding as Kast observed about the writing and Val considers Kast's observations. Pausing he speculates aloud. "I wonder if there is some curse or condition where one could appear to be undead." He pauses again, thinking aloud. "Or where an undead can appear as a living person."

Shaking his head in response to Vals comment about the 'con men' "They were petty con men, usually taking advantage of out of towners and big city merchants. Just copper and silver stuff. Enough to keep in ale down at the Fatman's Feedbag." When the others look at him, he asks. "What? I mean I know a few people right?"

Nodding as the others talk about visiting Grayst and the good Doctor. Seamus adds. "I'd like to, well, not that I'd like to, I guess I mean we should see the barn where they were killed. Maybe we can do that once were done at the sanitarium."

When Izomandakus mentions he wants to check on his mother and sister, he asks, looking at the others. "Would that give us enough time to speak with Katrine?"

”I would like to speak with the sheriff about known marks the con men tricked, as well as where they have been seen recently.”

The Sheriff suggests you talk to one of his guards, a man named Asloth. He’s compiled a list, but, ”I’ve talked to most of the folks on that list, and they’re dead ends. You may certainly follow up if you wish, but I suspect it’ll be a waste of time.” Still, he agrees it’s your investigation and you should follow what leads you may.

Sheriff Hemlock does indeed produce a letter of introduction for you, and wishes you luck on your journey.

Some of the group takes a quick moment to visit Ven’s wife, Solsta Vinder, and their remaining daughter Shayliss while Izomandakus looks in on his family.

Hoping to ask a few quiet questions however is quickly shown to be out of the question. For the whole town seems to already know that Ven is in prison and Katrine is dead. They may not know the details, but the women of Sandpoint have rallied around Solsta to comfort her, and her daughter, and provide a bristling defense against intrusion.

An older matriarch, surrounded by several others, confronts you before you even reach the door, making it very clear now is not the time, at least as far as she’s concerned. ”Now you look here young Kast. I don’t care what the Sheriff says, this family needs a moment of peace to say goodbye to lost loved ones. Ain’t no time to be poking and prodding and asking all your why’s and why-for’s. That’ll keep, surely enough.”

”So you go back and tell your Sheriff he’ll not get his questions answered today. You hearing me?”

”Now you look here young Kast."

Kast nods, understanding.

"Alright, that's fine. If they say or remember anything, please let me know. We're not here to increase the trauma, but we are looking for answers," Kast replies, not willing to push too hard.

He moves to go visit the insanitarium.

Izomandakus will approve the plan and move to Sandpoint Savories.

earlier
Nodding as the Sheriff answers Val's question about the con men, Seamus accepts the letter from the Sheriff, tucking it in his bandolier.

Now
As they head to the Vinder's home, he let's Kast take point, especially when he sees the large grey haired busybody headed their way. Sighing as Kast takes the brunt of the old biddy's abuse, Seamus shakes his head. They could come back later, once the old ladies went home. to watch golden girls. To do whatever it was lonely old busybodies do.

As Kast moves away from the house Seamus asks, "Well lets swing by "Sandpoint Savories" and pick up Izomandakus. And if we can go to the old barn before we lose daylight that would be great, I'd just as soon get done with the gore today."

*limp, drag limp*
*limp, drag limp*

”Alight then,” Kast says agreeably, despite the stress of the investigation. ”Would be good to get done with the gore.”

*limp, drag limp*
*limp, drag limp*

The barn is south, along Cougar Creek, not far from the Lost Coast Road, and more or less along the same path that takes you to the Sanatorium. It’s about a half hours ride.

The barn is old, and little used - save perhaps during particularly large harvests. The creek ambles alongside, splashing away as you stop near the building, dismount, and begin your investigation.

At first glance, there’s not much to see other than the usual detritus you’d expect in a little used barn. There are some remaining bloodstains, largely uncleaned, but a few days old now, and so little more than stains. From what you can tell, the four men were on the ground floor when they were attacked and three of them ritually killed, as opposed to the loft accessible from a couple rickety ladders bolted to the walls on either side.

How do you investigate?

Pleased that the barn was on the way to the sanitarium, Seamus stops several feet in front of the barn doors. Dismounting from the piebald mare, he Looks for any footprints in mud. Trying to decipher if all of the recent prints were made by boots or shoes or not. Asking aloud, "So would an undead be wearing shoes?"

Shaking his head, not sure if it would really matter or not, he led the team into the barn. First Looking to see if any prints carried over into the barn. Carefully looking for clues on the first floor of the barn, he then climbed into the hay loft and inspects it as well.

Wondering aloud, "Who do you think owns this old barn?" Pausing, but not speaking. 'and how close is Aldon's house, he's the only person I know who has hit on Kizzy."

No reason not to take 20(34) on perception. Knowledge check for who owns the barn, second one for how close is Aldon Foxgloves property?
knowledge (local) owner: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19
knowledge (local) proximity of Aldon's house: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28

"Hum. That is an interesting question. I do guess some actually do. Vampires?" offers Izomandakus while handing a couple of acorns to Pachemu who eats them excitedly. Meanwhile, he opens his leather pouch and produces a portion of cheese he cuts into slices with a dagger, offering a slice to each of the detectives as they do search up and down the barn "Maybe others do too, I mean if skeletons wear the armor they die on, why would not they wear the shoes they die on?"

He turns then to Kast "Was that not one of the knights' tenets? To die with your boots in?"

While her friend disserts Pachemu actually does help Seamus sniffing around the barn in look for left hints or proofs.
Perception (scent): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Kast follows after Seamus, mindful of his own footprints drag marks and steps. In fact, he avoids the area and instead does a slow walk around the barn to look for outside clues.

1d20 + 0 ⇒ (17) + 0 = 17 Perception

”I think the undead can wear shoes, but not sure they need to.”

She takes Izo’s offered cheese. She considers some wine, but nothing she has on her would pair properly with the flavor, so she abstains. She does not care one bit about appearing gauche or unrefined by not knowing proper pairings; she simply wants to get the maximum pleasure from anything she partakes in. Dedicated hedonism can be so troublesome sometimes. ”Why would they not wear shoes? I imagine that even when one is a slave to the power of death, it is probably more convenient to have some protection against sharp rocks and uneven cobblestones.”

She looks up to the loft above. ”If I was an undead abomination possessed of unnatural strength and durability planning to ambush someone here, I would hide up there and jump down.” She starts climbing up to take a closer look.

Climb: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16

"Was that not one of the knights' tenets? To die with your boots in?"

Kast pauses. He considers.

”You know, I’m not sure about boots on or off. Not sure it matters what you’re wearing when you die, as long as you die fighting for protection of others. I think that matters most.” Kast can say this confidently, as he armor speaks to this truth.

Seamus looks at the tracks around the barn, but not knowing much about tracking, and especially due to the heavy traffic since, he doesn’t see anything of particular note. Too many people have been through here, the initial guard patrol, then the Sheriff and his people, then some folks to cart off the bodies, etc.

As to ownership of the barn, that’s hard to know really. As derelict as it is, and the fact that it’s not connected to any farmhouse nearby, you guess it’s just a community barn of convenience. A useful spot to store part of the harvest from the surrounding farmland. You could gather information (the usual hours spent, but you’d be riding around asking the local farmers for information instead of pubs).

If you check the hinterlands map (link), you’ll see that Cougar Creek, where the barn is located, is quite far from Lord Aldern Foxglove’s place (located near the SW corner of the map).

Pachemu doesn’t smell anything particularly interesting, but it has been a few days so perhaps whatever stench may have been there has gone now - blown away on the winds of time.

Valena climbs up into the hay loft and looks about. It’s hard to say for sure if anyone lay in wait up here. There are a few spots where you could hide, at least a little while, from any who came in below, but nothing indicates that someone actually did. (I’m assuming you take 20 on the perception checks in those places.)

All in all, the barn seems to yield few clues. Do you want to canvass the nearby farms for part of the afternoon and head to the Sanatorium around supper? It’ll take 1d4 hours (and a gather information check) to talk to the locals about the barn. It’s around 2pm now, after your examination of the barn, give or take.

Izomandakus nods to Kast, not clear if in agreement or just recognition of the highly ideals "That's sweet Kast. As long as the others to protect are my others, of course" he emits a light but over acute laugh.

When Seamus and Pachemu come back negating with the head, the boy soothes the pig's head "It seems there is nothing left on here that will give us further hints. Shall we move to the Sanatorium?"

"If we press on we might be able to get a taste of Habe's supper"

I guess I should have asked this earlier, GM Euan, did the muddy prints at the mill indicate shoes or not or were we not able to tell?

After looking through the mud and the muck outside the barn, and then the blood splatters in the barn, Seamus shook his head 'no' when Izomandakus offered him food. He resisted the urge to ask Val if he could have more of the wine. That would not be a good habit to start. Chuckling that he had started a discussion about the undead's need for shoes. At least it was keeping everyone's minds off of the events that actually happened in the barn.

Finding nothing worth discussing, he agrees with izomandakus. "Yes, let's head to the Sanatorium." He pauses, looking at the sun like he could tell time by it or something. "It's around two in the afternoon, if we go straight to the hospital we'll get there way before supper." He turns to Izomandakus. "Or are you thinking about talking to some of the locals on the way?"

Kast nods in disappointment at not finding anything to help, yet again.

"I don't think we're making much progress," Kast says with some concern. "Maybe we're doing this wrong or the Sheriff hired the wrong group. I hope the sanatorium offers us something to go on."

Kast is ready to move.

"Let's just have some faith Kast. Empires were not built on a day, and mysteries are no mysterious if they can be resolved in a day or two" Izomandakus nods though and starts to walk in the Sanatorium direction "Hmmm... locals on the way Seamus? Well, I guess we could make a stop by the Smith's farm, or the Villanueva's farm to have a break milk and eat a few cookies. They have good milk, and their daughter Maria is pretty friendly. We buy from them the eggs for our cakes"

Val shakes her head at Kast’s disappointment and nods along with Izo. ”We have already discovered that there is an undead—probably a ghoul—doing the actual murdering, we have closed up a fair number of dead ends, and we have not yet run out of leads. I am hardly an expert in this line of work, but that sounds like good progress to me. Work is often tedious, involving more putting in the hours than dramatic turns. Precisely why I have endeavored to spend as little of my life working as possible.” She always finds it significantly easier to keep herself in good spirits when she has to cheer up someone else, so Kast’s gloom is providing a vital service to her.

If we are pausing to gather info
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14
Hours Spent: 1d4 ⇒ 2

Listening to Kast's and Izomandakus' conversation, Seamus is surprised. He never really thought of Kast as skeptical, but saying they hadn't made much progress, seemed a like Kast was a little disappointed. When Izomandakus jumps on the idea of talking to the locals and then starts talking about how 'friendly' Maria was, Seamus raises an eyebrow, but again says nothing. While Seamus was surprised the barn didn't give much information he was glad that Val pointed out what they had accomplished to Kast. Hopefully it would bring his spirits up.

Chuckling at Val's comment about spending as little time as possible working, he chimed in as he mounted the piebald mare. "On that note Val, let's head to the Villanueva's farm, it sounds like Izomandakus has a more than passing interest in Maria." When they arrive at the different farms, Seamus aids Val in gathering information.

aid another: Diplomacy: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7 no help there

”Oh yeah, Izo, Meg, uh, Val, I’m not giving up yet. Let’s give this our best shot.”

Kast does his own and separate gathering of information, not to repeat the actions of Val, but to cast a wider net and hopefully find different leads.

1d20 + 12 ⇒ (8) + 12 = 20 Diplomacy/Gather Info
1d4 ⇒ 2 hours

Kast will also aid another, per discussion, as there’s no good way to do two rolls without splitting the party.

The rotten-smelling feet were bare at the mill, but without a really really good survival check, you’re not sure if there are any bare foot tracks here at the barn. There might have been, but you don’t see any concrete evidence.

You spend a part of the afternoon riding around to the nearby farmhouses. The country folk are willing enough to answer the questions of duly appointed officers of Sandpoint. Even here, some of your exploits have been heard, and more than a few thank you with offers of food and drink while you chat - not just at Villanueva’s, though their sweets are exceptional. All in all, you’re not going to need much supper, and it’ll be a fight to remain lucid if you’re not careful.

More importantly to your purpose, you learn a few things from the friendly folk. The barn is, as you guessed, unowned by anyone in particular. It was built by three families a generation ago as a communal storage spot, convenient to the creek, deep enough some seasons for a simple barge to transport goods by water to Sandpoint.

None of the three original families still lay claim to it. Lots of folks around use it from time to time for various needs - including just shelter from the elements if caught out that far from home in a storm! It’s a well known landmark around here.

So the neighbors aren’t surprised it was used as a convenient meeting spot, though they are surprised three men were killed there, and a fourth rendered insane. As you may imagine, it’s the talk of the farmers for miles around. That said, you don’t learn anything particularly new about the killings even if everyone has a theory (most seem to be centered around goblins or the like coming down off the Devil’s Platter to do the deed).

Feel free to ask specific questions as you wish, but I’ll moves us on as well shortly.

You ride on to the Saintly Haven of Respite, better known locally as Habe’s Sanatorium. It is run by Doctor Erin Habe, an expert on disease and mental derangement. Independently wealthy from his years as a doctor in Magnimar, he chose to build this sanatorium in a remote dale south of Sandpoint, in part because of its seclusion. He hoped that here, his wards would find the peace of mind they needed to heal.

You arrive around 4:30pm and the place seems quiet enough - some lazy smoke over the chimneys is the only real outwards sign of life.

The squat, stone building that serves as the sanatorium has three floors under a stout, stone-flagged roof, and is built in the lee of a limestone escarpment known as Ashen Rise. All doors (including the internal ones when you get there) are stout wooden affairs fitted with surprisingly good locks.

There are two doors leading into the building from a relaxing looking veranda which runs nearly the length of the building. One seems more like the main entrance, while the other, past a number of rocking chairs, might be a servants entry. There’s a small window by the main entrance which enables you to see an equally small reception area with a few chairs, a desk, and two doors leading out. You can also see a bell pull in the that area though the window.

I am so jealous of these farmers and their common land. I get very angry about historical enclosure and the loss of the commons if I let myself

Earlier

”How well known is the barn outside of the local community?” If only someone familiar with the ins-and-outs of life here would recognize the barn’s value as a meeting spot, then that helps narrow down the killer.

As the party moves on, Val starts musing to herself out loud. ”You know, both murder sites have been adjacent to the water. Perhaps they are using the water as a convenient quick and quiet method of transportation?”

Now

Val looks to the others for any objections before going up to the apparent main entrance and peeking in the window at the reception area. If it appears occupied, she will go on ahead and pull the bell

earlier
Between stops at farm houses and milk and cookies, Seamus asks the others. "With the creek that near, I wonder if it's possible for the undead to travel by water." He scratches his chin. "But that still doesn't connect the two murders. Maybe the undead is servant to someone who had a grudge." He looks over his shoulder at Izomandakus and Kast. "Is their such a type of undead? Amphibious and servantly?"

At the Sanitarium
Chuckling, Seamus watches Val peak in the window. He shrugs, "We may as well pull the bell, hopefully someone's at home."

"Is their such a type of undead? Amphibious and servantly?"

*limp, drag, limp*

"Amphibious and servant undead?" Kast pauses in mid walk as he tries to access such a thing. He pauses to really put the pieces together before answering.

1d6d20 + 10 + 20 ⇒ (17) + 10 + 20 = 47 Know (religion)

He will offer to Seamus any thoughts he has about the question.

* * *

Kast waits patiently for someone to respond to the bell, taking a look around the waiting area. He's patient and nice, but his usual calm, boyish demeanor looks more serious than usual.

"Oh, yes, I am sure there are even zombie giant octopuses" says Izomandakus with a smile, while Pachemu nods.

The boy advances to the counter and rings the bell again after Valena while Pachemu sniffs around.
Perception (scent): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12

Val looks to the others for any objections before going up to the apparent main entrance and peeking in the window at the reception area. If it appears occupied, she will go on ahead and pull the bell

Valena opens the door to the reception area, strides in, and pulls the sash-rope. You all hear a bell ringing somewhere deeper in the structure as she does so. Then again when Izomandakus gives an insistent tug of his own.

In a few minutes you hear noise coming from the southern door out of this room. You hear a key turning in the lock, and before long you see a man who must almost certainly be Doctor Erin Habe (image).

The strong smell of incense wafts into the room as Dr. Habe steps into the small reception area, already quite filled with the party and war-pig Pachemu (who smells nothing but antiseptic and incense), and frowns. ”I really don’t have time for visitors. ...unless one of you is here as a patient?” he glances over you all, unsure at a glance which of you may be sane…

In your response, please give me a Diplomacy or Intimidate check. You can aid another.

With a cold look Izomandakus just replies "We are in fact here to inquiry about a patient of yours... Dr. Habe, I suppose..."

"The patient is called Grayst and he arrived by the hand of Sandpoint's Sheriff a few days ago" the boy exposes sharply while Pachemu sniffs the doctor from as close as possible.
Diplomacy aid: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

If things descend to that before I wake up, Izomandakus will sure help convince him in other ways...
Intimidate: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

Val immediately judges the Doctor as one of those academic types that spends endless hours in dark rooms taking notes. The quicker she can get past him, the better. She throws on the charming smile with the ease of flipping hair out of her face. ”Dr. Habe, I presume. I am Meg, and these are my fellow companions appointed to assist the sheriff in his investigation. There is a murderer on the loose and we have strong evidence that one of your patients has witnessed the culprit, likely even the crime itself. Your kind assistance in this matter will most certainly be appreciated by the powers-that-be, particularly if evidence we find here allows us to close this case. Particularly if we can avoid another murder.” She paces in front of him with steps that clack a steady rhythm. ”If the patient has in fact seen everything and the killer knows this, he may be in grave danger, too. Along with everyone else here.” She means it not as a threat, but as part of her strategy to appeal to as many angles as possible. Altruism, influence, and self-preservation covers a wide a nice wide range of motivations, so certainly one of them will grab him.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (16) + 12 = 28

Following behind Val, Seamus gives Izomandakus the 'stink eye' when he rings the bell again. No one liked pushy guests. Casually walking to the southern door, Seamus checks the knob, resisting the urge to attempt to pick it. He tucked his hands in his pockets and roamed around the room until he heard a key in the door.

As the doctor appeared from the locked door, Seamus notices the smell of the incense. It reminded him of the cheep perfume some of the ladies would spray around their rooms to cover the odor of smelly customers. Seamus never really cared for strong scents and still didn't. It just made him wonder what smells the good doctor was trying to cover.

His eyes watering, he shakes his head no as the doctor asks if one of them was a new patient. Tucking his hands back in his pockets as Izomandakus explained about Grayst. Smiling as Val took over the conversation, she always new what to say. She really was quite good with people. As she was finishing Seamus thought of the doctors original question and added, using Val's catch all phrase. "Once we capture them we could put in a good word for you. Maybe 'the powers-that-be' would let you examine the murderer. Obviously anyone that would do what we've seen must be insane."

aid another (Val) : diplomacy: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 1 = 14

Kast offers a simple head nod at Dr. Habe.

"You may know me, or not, but I can involve the Mayor and Sheriff as needed," Kast says, trying to be diplomatic in support of Meg's efforts.

"I am Kast of the Sandpoint watch. And we come here to get information and it would be nice to have some help."

1d20 + 12 ⇒ (20) + 12 = 32 Diplomacy to aid

Meg is right. They should help us.

I presume someone shows the letter of introduction? Hehehe. Also, great rolls!

Dr. Habe examines your bona fides and listens to your demands and pleas. He is quiet as he listens and reads, frowning. ”There are always mad dark killers on the loose. My patient however is at a most delicate point, and has not recovered at all. We are only just beginning his treatment - and are still identifying the event that brought him to this low point. Any questioning by the untrained could set him back, possibly forever. He is on the brink.”

He tries to brush you off, but you persist in your entreaty and, clearly against his better judgement, the Doctor waffles. ”I can tell you he has spoken little, often just ramblings about a razor, some sort of creature with too many teeth, and references to a ‘Skinsaw Man’.”

But fear also seems to be driving poor Erin as he licks dry lips and tries to find a way to get rid of you quickly. Or perhaps it’s Pachemu growl-oinking at his feet, pressing against his legs - almost pushing him into the next room.

”Fine, I’ll allow you a few questions, but I shall supervise, and if anything seems to be amiss, I’ll call an end to the meeting immediately. Agreed?”

After handing the good doctor the 'letter of introduction' Seamus waits for him to return it. Nodding and making a mental note about the razor, the creature and the 'skinsaw man.' Turning to Kast then Izomandakus, he raises an eyebrow. as if to say 'ever heard of that?" But not wanting to spook the doctor he decides to talk to the others about it later. Seamus responds, "Supervise a few questions, that's all we ask." Before they reach the patient he asks, "Can you tell us what kind of wounds the patient has. If they were made by the razor or teeth the patient spoke of?"

"I think we are find you posing the questions we give you" Izomandakus proposes, also taking note of the Skinsaw Man "Is there any possibility the patient was gone last night?"
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 1 = 12

The mention of a razor cuts off her line of thought. Corioles had used one when he tried to kill her. The children and Meg also were...she read a razor was found at the scene in the paper. It had just seemed a weapon of opportunity to her at the time, so there is no way it could be related, could there? The name “Skinsaw Man” draws no recognition, seeming about as significant to her as the name of some children’s fable monster or the creation of a teen with a fondness for the edgy and tasteless. She is more concerned with how the doctor seems to feel about all of this. No reason he could not be a suspect.

Sense Motive to get a hunch on the Doctor: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13

Val inclines her head in a slight nod of regard. Probably just another brainy-type enjoying the opportunity to be lord of the castle. She has dealt with plenty of those, though, and she does not skip a beat. ”Your expertise would be most welcome. Speaking of which, do you have any notes on the patient that we may refer to? Even tiny tidbits of information can make a great difference. We would have an easier time not getting in the way of your treatment protocol, too.”

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30

Kast asks no questions as of yet, letting the party's questions take precedent.

He will limp along, using the Iron Quill as a walking stick as he moves through the Sanatorium.

1d20 + 12 ⇒ (15) + 12 = 27 Diplomacy to aid Val

"Can you tell us what kind of wounds the patient has. If they were made by the razor or teeth the patient spoke of?"

The Doctor replies quickly, ”Oh, no razor marks were found on his body, so we’re not sure about that. It may be a figment of his imagination, quite fascinating really.”

"I think we are find you posing the questions we give you" Izomandakus proposes, also taking note of the Skinsaw Man "Is there any possibility the patient was gone last night?"

”Quite impossible.” he says simply.

”Your expertise would be most welcome. Speaking of which, do you have any notes on the patient that we may refer to? Even tiny tidbits of information can make a great difference. We would have an easier time not getting in the way of your treatment protocol, too.”

Though the request is delivered with panache, the answer is abrupt, ”No, you shall not look at my notes. Those are private. I don’t care who the sheriff thinks he is, he can’t just trample a man’s business.” he says with some heat - clearly astonished at the request. He turns red, and you’ve clearly lost ground with his assistance.

He seems to be considering not letting you in at all… but he shrugs and turns south walking through the door.

A brisk sense of cleanliness fills the place - floors are scrubbed and walls are freshly painted white. Of course the place is also relatively new - having only been built a few years ago now.

Narrow windows, no more than 4 inches wide, allow for air circulation but are too small to allow access into, or more likely, out of the building. The somewhat sour smell of burning incense abounds - a scent that Habe has found soothes most deviant minds.

You enter a large relatively disused area that seems to serve as a combination kitchen and sewing room. Dr. Habe explains that he had allowed his less violent patients a few hours each day to stitch clothing and undertake other tailoring busywork, but his current lack of patients capable of such work has seen this room fall into disuse. Several doors lead off this chamber, and Dr. Habe raps his knuckles on one of them, ”Gurnak, come out here please.” he requests abruptly.

Shortly thereafter, a lanky tiefling steps out the door, rubbing his eyes, clearly arising from a nap. Dr. Habe asks, ”Please head upstairs and bring me patient Grayst Sevilla. These, ah, gentlemen and ladies wish to ask him a few questions.” He glances in your direction, ”Very few…”

The one called Gurnak heads around a corner at the far end of the room and you hear keys dangling and a door being unlocked. Gurnak goes through it, and you hear him lock it on the other side before he proceeds up some stairs from the sound of it.

”Gurnak will just be a moment.” says the good Doctor quietly before lapsing into silence. Apparently he’s willing to sit in silence until his patient returns and has no interest in speaking further.

Following behind Have, Seamus continues his conversation with the doctor. Hoping a little information on their part would soften the doctor's demeaner. "I don't know if it will help with his treatment or not. But the other fellows with him were wounded as he was, but also cut up with a razor. So that may be part of the cause for his rambling."

Observes the rooms and hallway with the thoroughness of one who considers himself a burglar, Seamus forces himself to resists the urge to cover his nose from the stench of the incense. How could That soothe anyone. Entering the room they were to wait in, he is slightly disturbed that they would use the kitchen of the facility as a craft room, especially sewing.

Watching the doctor order about his lackey and settle smugly into the chair. He couldn't help imagining Dr. Have and his tiefling assistant cutting up bodies and sewing different parts together. Turning from the doctor, he put his hands in his pockets and wished they had never taken the investigation. He may never be able to sleep well again.

Moving slow taking 10 (24) on perception in the hallway and kitchen

Izomandakus follows the Dr., observing the walls and objects around with interest "A well cared place you have build here Dr. Habe. This is incredibly new, I was not even aware we had an asylum in Sandpoint" then turning to the man he asks "Why not to place it closer to Magnimar where more people live? Well, quite a few of Sandpoint people are known to become crazy like the Chopper but still few people... is the business profitable?"

Pachemu sniffs around the different walls and corners of the chamber, very carefully.
Perception (scent): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7

Kast thumps along, keeping up as he can and keeping his eyes open. He unused to places like this and doesn't quite know what to do or expect.

He may or may not drum up some questions after they see Grayst. He will certainly not smell the air too much as he's not sure there are scents worth scenting.

However much the doctor may have had his pride hurt, Val’s was pricked just as much. Val dislikes being on the defensive with anyone, much less some backwater intellectual holed-up in a sanitarium. He is being far less cooperative than she would like, and that he would get so upset over the mere suggestion of transparency raises even more questions. Her suspicion of him continues to rise, especially as she refuses to acknowledge how much of that is pure dislike of him.

Val is glad the place is at least clean. Sapphira had taken her to a sanitarium before for some of her charity work, and this building shines in comparison. This all seems more structured and scheduled, and she is not a fan of either concept as a rule, though she does admit it feels a touch safer. She suspects the incense is likely actually there to cover up some of the worse smells.

She watches the doctor very closely as he gives instructions to his orderly, looking for any suggestion that he is hiding something or even just why he might be so reticent to help.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

Following behind Have, Seamus continues his conversation with the doctor. Hoping a little information on their part would soften the doctor's demeaner. "I don't know if it will help with his treatment or not. But the other fellows with him were wounded as he was, but also cut up with a razor. So that may be part of the cause for his rambling."

The doctor grunts, ”Yes, the sheriff mentioned a razor.” He looks frustrated, but tries to explain himself, ”I meant merely that the patient may believe that he is being cut on by a razor also. It’s symbioticism.”

Seamus examines the large room as best he can without looking too obvious about it. All seems as it appears on the surface to his keen eye.

Izomandakus follows the Dr., observing the walls and objects around with interest "A well cared place you have build here Dr. Habe. This is incredibly new, I was not even aware we had an asylum in Sandpoint" then turning to the man he asks "Why not to place it closer to Magnimar where more people live? Well, quite a few of Sandpoint people are known to become crazy like the Chopper but still few people... is the business profitable?"

”People need the peace and quiet of the country, not the hustle and bustle of the city, when they are healing.” he says shortly as if that explains all.

After a few more minutes, you hear some shuffling down the stairs. A jangle of keys later, the door opens, and Grayst Sevilla is, somewhat roughly, pushed out with Gurnak following behind. He leaves the staircase door open for now as he helps Grayst move toward the group.

Grayst’s skin is pale and looks gangrenous, his hair wild and eyes milky white. He’s clearly suffering, but is otherwise non responsive, wrapped in a straitjacket. He stares at the floor, and shudders.

The doctor walks over to him and tries to get his attention by snapping his fingers a few times, ”Now, Mr. Sevilla, these nice people have come to ask you a few questions. I know you want to rest, but just one or two questions.” Dr. Habe turns to you, ”Ask away.”

During the few minutes of waiting, Val glances over to Seamus. ”Make sure you think of some good questions. He is still a suspect.”

Heal (untrained): 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (12) - 1 = 11

She looks over the patient and notices nothing off she can put her finger on. While ideas begin to form of how to get away and investigate on her own, she goes on ahead and begins with the questioning.

”Who or what is the Skinsaw Man?”

heal: 1d20 ⇒ 14

Raising an eyebrow at the word Symbioticism, Seamus had no idea what it meant. Heck, he wasn't even sure if he could spell it. Not really listening as he glances around the kitchen he catches Val looking at him, giving that subtle looks she does. 'Make sure I think of good questions...the doctor, blast, she doesn't trust the doctor.

Pondering the idea that the doctor may somehow be involved, Seamus notices Grayst walk in. His pale sickly skin, the shuddering. 'This is a dead man. Maybe not today or tomorrow, but whatever he has is killing him.' His eyes wide Seamus looks at Kast then Izomandakus, was there anything either of them could do? Pausing when Val directly asks, 'who or what is the skinsaw man.' Seamus looked up, listening to see what the sick man would say. While in the back of his head he tried to sort out what to ask the doctor.

Does perception include odor? I know their is the 'extraordinary ability scent' but would a very perceptive person (like Seamus) smell an odor around Grayst?

Kast moves in to take a look at things.

1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11 Heal

He doesn’t notice anything out of the usual. Worried about the number of questions that will actually get asked, Kast waits for a response to Val’s question.

’What happened?’ Seems like a question to ask too.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 = 3
Heal: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 1 = 11
Izomandakus smiles satisfied by the Dr. answer and comments with him in good mood trying to get mutual benefits and give good advice to a comrade countryman "That has sense, here is much calmer. Reason why I want to start my own business. It is nice to see other entrepreneurs find the way to make their business profitable in the countryside. Have you considered renting a golem for protection? It is quite dangerous here, we have proof there is an undead serial killer around, perhaps even a necromancer"

When Seamus comments Grayst is looking bad, Izomandakus tries to understand this is the type of 'bad' a ghast would cause or if he is the ghast in fact.
K. religion: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20

Then, still looking at the patient, he adds "Oink, oink, oink"