GM RePete's ~ The Hellknight's Feast

Game Master RePete

Shortly after you find yourself in the Grand Hall, the first announcement is made...

"Lady Vaelia of House Wintermark with Tamuel!"

Looking towards the front door, you see a venerable and frail woman walking with the aid of an ebony cane. She wears a stylish green and blue gown, a fortunes worth of jewels, and a battle-notched falcata of fine craftsmanship.

Walking alongside her is an elderly male with finely woven...plainer clothes. His attire seems to resemble those of the local servants, but made of much finer materials.

Immediately following...

"Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar with Faelyn!"

This stunningly beautiful, slender half-elf wears a constant look of satisfied amusement. her emerald-green gown and matching lace shawl are conservative, but very elegant. No weapons can be seen.

A young half-elf man wearing matching garments enters with the noble. Her companion seems attentive, but quiet.

No weapons are noted on either subject.

"Lord Rothos of House Vastille; Captain of the First Guard, Commander Militant of Absalom!"

This tall, handsome man in his late forties, wears formal attire and a black military-styled long coat bearing his family crest and numerous military emblems. A longsword hangs from his belt and the silver-chased hilt of a dagger peeks out of his right boot.

"Scion Lord Kerkis of House Damaq; Lord Exchequer of the Absalom Mint with Chesele!"

He is a thin, wiry Keleshite in his early fifties with a neatly trimmed beard and bushy eyebrows. He wears an expensive, Keleshite-styled, loose-fitting silk robe, a jewel-covered silk vest, and a gold-bladed ceremonial scimitar at his belt.

A beautiful young Keleshite woman hangs on his arm dressed in fine silk.

"Lady Darchana of House Madinani; Second Spell Lord of Absalom; Archdean of the Arcanamirium and Absalom Grand Council Member!"

A cold, pale beauty with piercing gray eyes and long blue-black hair stands in the doorway alone. She wears solid midnight-blue wizard's robes and a dazzling mithral tiara studded with rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. She appears unarmed.

"Grand Ambassador Dremdhet Salhar with Lady Anilah!"

Dremdhet Salhar is a heavset man with well-oiled hair and beard. He and his wife both wear matching gold-embroidered silk robes in the Osirion fashion, as well as a fortune in gold rings, necklaces, and other jewelry. Salhar wears a jeweled mithral short sword at his belt.

For those keeping track on your list, someone is missing
@Trajan: None detect as evil

"Welcome everyone!" announces one of the servers. "Please, follow me for some pre-dining refreshments. All this way please." Quickly, all are escorted into the Dining Hall. (Room 6 - Slide 4) "The feast will properly start in about half a candle." he announces, retreating from the room.

It is 7pm. You have 30 minutes to mingle with the guests before the dinner/feast officially begins.

In this scenario, you will have multiple opportunities to try and sway or influence the guests to benefit you. You can opt to attempt a discovery check instead of an influence check when the opportunity arises to learn a little more about each guest.

Your main options for the influence checks are Bluff (to pretend to be friendly) and Diplomacy (to be genuine). Something else you can make thematically appropriate...could potentially work as well. Discoveries may give you other options.

At this current point in time, you may each give me one attempt to attempt to influence someone, aid someone else in influencing, or do a discovery check. RP can potentially gain you bonuses to rolls - I will handle those aspects

Edit: Don't forget to specify whom you are speaking to among the guests

Hamish shares anything he knows (all may read his spoiler) and nudges his allies as the last guest is announced, "We are missing Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran and his wife. That's... odd."

He heads out to grab a glass of wine and make some friends!

He quickly gravitates to his own kind, a definite rarity among those in power.

"Greetings Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar. I am Hamish, Explorer of the Pathfinder Society and Champion of Pharasma." He nods to her companion, "Faelyn."

He smiles, "It is a wonderful to meet you two, hopefully we'll get a chance to talk at length this evening and share stories from our lives."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (18) + 14 = 32 (+10 more bonus because half-elves gotta stick together? :P)

Yaiho stumbles over to Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar and her companion since they look to be weaponless. Curious about them, coming to such a party without weapons he poorly looks them over. Possibly making them uncomfortable.

Perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6

Beidsa was hoping to talk with Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran. Her most recent mission had taken her to a manor - Dralkard Manor - in Andoran. She would have loved to speak more with him. But she eyes Lady Vaelia of House Wintermark with Tamuel.

"Greetings Lady Vaelia. My name is Bedisa Zharvazhidse, a Pathfinder from Kaer Maga." Bedisa bowing, ignoring the presumed servant. "That gown is exquisite. Lovely made. And precious rings too. May I take a closer look? I am an amateur jeweler myself."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (1) + 21 = 22

Beidsa is a bit stiff with her introductions, maybe due to ignoring the servant, but tries to keep a smile on her face the whole time.

Is it significant that Genedair of Iomedae, the guest speaker, also has not arrived yet?

Trajan will share with everyone that no one detected as evil but that could be the result of using magic to block his efforts.

Trajan will introduce himself to Lord Rothos.
"Greetings Lord Rothos, I am Trajan, Paladin of Iomedae and Hellknight of the Order of the Godclaw. I was hoping to discuss the dire situation along the Worldwound and the desperate need for the assistance Absalom could provide to the Crusade. The military history of Absalom, never having been conquered, is inspiring and it's that kind of tenacity and leadership that is sorely needed along the Worldwound. The abyssal threat is unique; they don't value life as we do and have no sense of honor or morality. It is truly a blight upon the world that must be removed."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13

Edit on the Diplomacy roll above; it should be 1 higher as I did not add in his additional +1 to Diplomacy from his Cha increase.

Vrothum follows Trajan to approach Lord Rothos.Diplomacy Aid: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18 My lord, I apologize for bothering you before you had a chance for even a drink, but I thought it urgent I speak to you as well. My name is Vrothum, I wanted to ask you for your aid but it seems my companion here beat me to it. Your leadership and military prowess precedes you and I hope you will strongly consider aiding us in destroying the world wound and saving countless lives. I hope to speak to you more when we’ve had chance to relax. Vrothum smiles and offers his hand as a greeting, and after his conversation, puts his fist to his chest and gives a head nod as a good bye.

For future reference, what check is a discovery check?

--Lady Dyrianna--

"Hamish was it?" she inquires, placing a hand on his shoulder. "Such a handsome name. I'd surely enjoy a longer, more private chat with you another time."

Pausing as the Half-orc saunters over, she frowns. "It does seem later would be more appropriate. You must tell me of your upbringing."

Kissing the half-elf on the cheek, she moves to speak with another attendee.
*Success Hamish - You actually did well enough to count as 2 successes there.

--Lord Rothos--

Listening intently to Trajan's words, he nods slowly. Before he has a chance to speak, Vrothrum joins in and shares his insights as well. Letting the words sit in the are a long moment as he assesses the duo, he finally speaks.

"You speak truth. It is heinous that such vile beasts are allowed to roam free. They have no honor! No sense of duty. They are simple horrendous beasts slaughtering for the sake of it."

"This actually is a plight that sits close to my heart...I lost a close friend a long while back."

"We must keep Absalom strong. I look forward to speaking on this with you both further."

With an awkward bow, he steps away.

Success with the aid and unseen bonus. He only required 1 success and is influenced.

--Lady Vaelia--

"Pathfinder?" she snorts. "You lot tend to be thieves. Going to snatch my pearls, huh? I don't think so."

"You just run along and peddle your nonsense elsewhere."

In 1e, you don't autofail on a fumble for a skill check. However, she is not influenced by your attempt.

Suddenly, the door to the dining hall bursts open. An annoyed servant stands in the entryway. "Excuse me...Pardon me...HEY!" The room suddenly quiets down and looks towards the door. Taking an official looking pose, the servant announces "I present Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran with the Lady Dalessa."

Behind the servant stands an obese man in his late sixties. Though the room seems comfortable, the man is obviously sweating. Both the stunning wife and the senator wear expensive formal attire. He wears a stylish gray-black suit and she wears an elegant royal blue gown studded with silver beads and glittering jewels. The sentator also wears a gold-pommeled silver rapier at his belt...though it appears too pretty to have ever been used in a fight.

The Senator has arrived. The guest speaker being later is not an issue as he's not technically one of the guests.

You each have time to try one more influence, discovery, aid check with someone attending the party before the food arrives

The half elf flushes a bit at the attention and even more at the kiss. He slams back his drink after she leaves and mutters to his allies, "Well uh... I expect I know what my plans are for the night."

*cough*

"But I better refocus on the mission. Oh look, the last nobles are here."

He slips through the crowd and sidles up next to the Andoran Senator, "Hello there sir, I am Hamish from the Pathfinder Society. It looks like you could use a cool drink and a moment to relax. Why don't you step over here with me and we'll get you taken care of."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (14) + 14 = 28

"Ah, yes. You're not dressed as a servant, but I'll gladly accept your drink offer." replies the sweaty man, stepping to the side with Hamish.

"Mendev, you say?" he echoes with a snort as Hamish begins his plea. "I dare say, that seems like quite the gamble. Thanks for the drink, lad...but I don't think the host would appreciate his servants speaking in such a fashion to the guests."

Scanning the room, he spies Lady Vaelia. "Oh, seems an old friend has arrived."

Handing the empty glass back to Hamish, he walks away.

Not influenced

Trajan is going to Detect Evil on the new arrivals.

Edit: Removed another question that was previously answered.

The GM snuck a response to that in at the bottom of that wall o' text.

The guest speaker being later is not an issue as he's not technically one of the guests.

The GM snuck a response to that in at the bottom of that wall o' text.

The guest speaker being later is not an issue as he's not technically one of the guests.

Thanks, I skipped right over that part to the last sentence about checks being left. I think I'm still in shock my character positively influenced anyone.

I BELIEVE IN YOU! :D

Trajan approaches Grand Ambassador Dremdhet Salhar and Lady Anilah.
"Grand Ambassador, my Lady, I am Decimus Gallonica Trajan, Paladin of Iomedae and a Hellknight of the Order of the Godclaw. I wish to speak to you about the dangers the Worldwound poses to all of us and ask for your assistance in fighting the Abyssal horde that's threatening to overwhelm the defenders in Mendev. I have personally served on a Wardstone Patrol and earned a commendation for my actions. I can tell you that if Mendev falls nowhere will be safe from the foul demons and their servants - not even Osirion. These demons have no honor, no mercy, no compassion; they are destruction incarnate. This is not an enemy that will invade your lands and raise their flag. No, this is an enemy that would see your nation, your people, and your family slain - or worse. I beseech you, Grand Ambassador and you, Lady Anilah to persuade those whom you can of the value and necessity of assisting Mendev and those who stand with her to hold and turn the tide of war against the Abyss."

If it helps or matters Trajan has earned 'recognition' (on a Chronicle Sheet) from the Chelish Embassy of Absalom and the Andoren Embassy of Absalom in addition to his Mendevian Commendation.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

If anyone wants to assist Trajan that would be great.

Bedisa stares at Lady Vaelia of House Wintermark as she walks away. 'I didn't want to talk to you anyway.'

She spots another woman across the room, "Perhaps I should talk with her?" she asks her familiar, Swaine.

Bedisa approaches Lady Darchana of House Madinani with a toothy smile and her familiar thrush on her shoulder. "Greetings Lady Darchana. My name is Bedisa. What a lovely tiara you have there.". Bedisa waits for a reaction, then continues. "You are the Second Spell Lord of Absalom, correct? I am unfamiliar with this title, being a humble warrior. But I have heard of the Arcanamirium; you are Archdean, correct? Impressive title! Would love to chat more about those titles."

Swaine the thrush repeats, "Impressive indeed!"

Diplomacy, guidance: 1d20 + 21 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 21 + 1 = 29

@Trajan

The Grandmaster seems a little preoccupied scowling across the room at Major Colson Maldris, though he half-heartedly glances towards you as you begin your speech.

The words flowing more and more from your lips and you seem to have garnered his full attention. Chewing his lip for a moment, he considers the words.

"Well, I can't deny nations that don't banned together against a common enemy do fall. However, I do know who you represent. Though power in numbers is a thing, one cannot through a handful of ants at a wall and expect it to crumble."

"Why should I risk my status and my people to aid your cause? You state you've fought at the front? Then you can attest to the enemy being held at bay, at least for the time being. Thusly, I've no need to risk anything to gain the rewards of you risking it all."

Nice RP. You did gain a bonus but it's not quite a success...yet. --Will wait and see what the others do before we determine success vs failure

@Bedisa

"What? This old thing? It's a bit flashy for my tastes. The title demands it though." she mumbles in response.

"Yes, I have acquire a few titles in my time. The first has to do with the protection of Absalom. The second...well it needs no explanation. Yes I am the Archdean and helping to shape the minds of those in training has been enjoyable. There really isn't much to say beyond that. If you are good at your trade and survive long enough, eventually such titles will be thrust upon you as well."

2 Successes with that roll - She is influenced

Vrothum and Yaiho still have chances to influence, aid, or try a discovery check
Mathos can also attempt a check

Overhearing Shadowdragon's speach to Grand Ambassador Dremdhet Salhar and Lady Anilah, he approaches them to give what little aid he might give.

"Yaiho's companion is right. If you hide behind others against great enemies. Then if defense crack, and enemy swarm you. Only blame to go is you for hiding instead of fighting in front."

Diplomacy (Aid Other): 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (8) - 2 = 6
Darn, close though.

Hehe, Yaiho look at that fat old man there’s no way he’s ever used that sword...huh? Yaiho? Vrothum notices his new friend has wondered off towards Trajan, and goes to reel him in.
Excuse me Sir, and Madam, I believe my friend Yaiho wasn’t directly implying you would be fighting, but meant any aid we’d recieve on the battle field. He’s not the best with words but if you saw him on the battlefield, you’d really be impressed!
Diplomacy Aid: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 1 = 15
Vrothum pats Yaiho on the shoulder and gives him a snark grin and looks to Trajan for approval.

Trajan shakes hands with both Yaiho and Vrothum.

"Thank you both for your support and assistance."

Suddenly becoming popular among the pathfinders, the grandmaster keeps his composure as he listens to the discussion further.

"Valid points all. Though I'm uncertain it's in the best interest of my people."

Rubbing his chin, he nods. "We shall have to discuss this further."

1 Success - Not influenced yet

Damine Blakros suddenly appears, tapping a glass. "Quite please."

A hush quickly ushers over the room. "I would like to take this moment to thank you all for coming to my simple home." announces the Hellknight. "The staff have informed me they are almost ready to begin the first course. In the interim, allow me but a moment of your time."

"We've all heard of the Worldwound threat. Though for those not privy to the frontlines, it is more than hearsay. The vile beasts exploding into our world MUST be stopped. They are nothing but a mass of disorderly villains eroding this glorious world. A plague upon the plane!"

"Certainly the Hellknights have done well to hold them back, alas our power is NOT absolute. The aid of others is paramount to supporting our cause against these foes!"

"The Order of the Godclaw has issued you a call. How do you answer?"

"We supplied you order in the Crusades of 4623 AR and again we came to your aid...at the cost of our Cathedral in Mendev. Yet, we asked for nothing. Now, more than ever, you must answer the call. Not all can fight, not all can create, not all can grow crops...but ALL CAN do something to further the cause."

He continues to expand on the specifics feats of the Hellknights of the order of the Godclaw and their efforts in keeping the hordes at bay. However, his initially rousing speech seems to lose focus as he continues...

Some of the guests begin to murmur to themselves and roll their eyes...

Michellia Blakros interjects, saving the day. "Yes dead, they see your point. Alas, the staff is ready to begin serving."

"Oh, yes. Of course." replies Damien with a smile.

"If everyone would grab a seat, we'll get the first course delivered to you momentarily." adds the Lady Blakros.

--It is 730pm--

You will have the opportunity to attempt up to 2 more influence checks during the feast. However, you will only be able to talk with the two people sitting next to you during the meal.

Everyone select two people you wish to sit next to and you are then welcome to attempt up to two checks.

The feast is 7 courses of crisp greens, poached fish, seasoned game, and a selection of fine desserts.

Hamish consults with his allies, quickly whispering to Bedisa, "Listen, the Andoran Senator uh.. was immune to my charms. Maybe he prefers a lady's company? Either way, I'm not sitting by him at dinner, he's a bit sweaty. Maybe leave him for last once we have wrapped up everyone else?"

Hamish moves over and offers a strong arm to assist Lady Vaelia to her chair, "Ma'am, I appreciate you coming to this little meeting. I'm Hamish, cleric of Pharasma and Pathfinder adventurer. But nothing in my accomplishments prevents me from enjoying a good evening. But I know so very little about good wine and I've heard you are quite accomplished in that field. Could you maybe help me out?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (17) + 14 = 31
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (15) + 14 = 29

Sitting next to Lady Vaelia and Scion Lord Kerkis. If the first roll succeeds at influencing Lady Velia, he will shift his attention to the Scion Lord. Just generally trying to be a good listener as he probably raves on about all his accomplishments like most nobles.

Yaiho looks at the food and his mouth begins to water, with a little bit of drool beginning to form on one of his tusk. He remembers he has to mind his manners and wipes the drool away.

He sighs and then squeezes in between Senator Augustyn and the Scion Lord Kerkis. Looking down on the food and almost grabs them with his bear hands to engulf but stops himself short. He then daintily picks up some utensils and tries to eat fashionably.

Smiling at the two men sitting beside him while he chews some of the food. "Food good. Make Yaiho stronger, stronger Yaiho good for fight against demons from Worldwound. Like long-winded one that talked before, fight together even if you weak, good idea."

Diplomacy (Aid Other) Senator: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (12) - 2 = 10
Diplomacy (Aid Other) Scion: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (6) - 2 = 4

During the consultation period Trajan offers the following:
"Hamish, you might also ask her about the good Senator since his reaction was rather...sudden...when he saw her."

"When dealing with the Scion Lord perhaps stress that the Crusade needs not only people to fight but also money and supplies."

Trajan will suggest Bedisa sit next to the Andoran Senator. Hopefully she will agree to have Grand Ambassador Salhar on her other side.

"The Grand Ambassador seems moved by our efforts but I think an experienced speaker such as yourself might provide the push we need to influence him to our side."

Trajan will try to sit near Lady Vaelia with Lord Rothos on his other side. He will try to assist Hamish with his efforts to sway Lady Vaelia to their side.

We've already influenced the other NPCs so I'm focused on the ones we have not influenced yet.

The Influence attempt with Lady Vaelia will be based, in part, to her answer to his question about the sword at her side.

"Lady Vaelia, I am Decimus Gallonica Trajan, a Paladin of Iomedae and a Hellknight of the Order of the Godclaw. I couldn't help but notice the fine craftsmanship of the falcata you wear and that it's been used in battle. Were you the one who used the sword?"

Bedisa nods at Hammish's and Trajan's suggestions.

"How do you do, Senator Augustyn Naran. I recently returned from Andoran myself. Have you heard of the Dralkard Manor? I weary place in the south of your beautiful country. We inspected it and cleared it of any dangers!" She laughs a hearty laugh. Her familiar hovers over her shoulder, casting Guidance as she speaks. "We plan on doing the same up in the Worldwound. Cleaning out any dangers. And we implore you to help us in anyway you can."

Diplomacy vs Senator Augustyn, guidance: 1d20 + 21 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 21 + 1 = 23

Wow, Bedisa is not being cooperative today!

Bedisa grunts before turning Grand Ambassador Dremdhet Salhar.

"Greeting Grand Ambassador. What lovely rings you have there? I have a fond connection with rings." Bedisa shows off a ring on her pinky made of solid iron. "Not as beautiful as your rings, but my mother made it for me."

Diplomacy vs Dremdhet Salhar: 1d20 + 21 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 21 + 1 = 29

"To be blunt, we need your help Grand Ambassador. The Worldwound is a dangerous place. If we don't clear them out... there may be no more golden rings or mithral armor or delicious food to eat. Any help you can offer will help us achieve our goals."

Vrothum sits in the last remaining seat, and attempts to support Bedisa, who seemed to fumble her words. My Lords and Ladies, I can’t stress enough how grateful I am to have this opportunity to speak with you. The threat of the world wound is real, we’ve all spoke of this in your company, including Lord Blakros himself. My companion Bedisa here is better at talking than I am, better with words, and is just more comfortable with people of your stature. I know my place though, my role so to speak, and that’s on the frontlines, with the soldiers. We all have roles we can play, whatever you can offer in this fight will be welcome. If you have gold to spare, troops to spare, equipment to spare, knowledge to spare, whatever it is we beg of you to consider aiding us.Vrothum stands up bloodrages, and shows his claws and fangs for 6 seconds then drops it. Creatures that look like me are pouring in through this worldwound, we are keeping it at bay but our numbers are dwindling, and our resources are depleting. If you love the luxuries you have now, and the bonds you all share please, for the sake of us all please help us stop this before it’s too late. Diplomacy Aid: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13
Vrothum bows his head in shame, and turns to Bedisa and whispers.Sorry, I hope I helped.

Oops looks like my second aid roll didn’t go through.
Diplomacy Aid: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4

~Hamish & Trajan~Lady Vaelia~

Sniffing the air as Hamish talks, Lady Vaelia rolls her eyes. "You don't say? An adventurer unfamiliar with good wine?"

"Though I must say it's not surprising someone so skilled in dealing with death worships it."

"Me use this? Hardly. I'm a lady, though another death bringer wouldn't know that." she replies to Trajan. "My late husband was quite the protector of our lands...before he passed."

Turning back to her food, she seems to ignore the bard and hellknight entirely.

If you'd like, Hamish can switch your second attempt to the scion. This response was to your first attempt

~Bedisa & Yaiho~Senator Augustyn~

"Oh? You cleared out the old building, eh? I suspect the Worldwound has many old buildings for you to scrape cobwebs off the walls in." he replies with a sly grin. "I dare say, I believe my young wife had done the same in a few corners of our abode."

~Grand Ambassador~

Listening intently, he nods slowly. "I must say, I am no fan of the Society you represent. Those two specifically" gesturing to Major Colson and Lady Morilla. "have caused me to lose faith in the Pathfinders."

Pausing a moment, he takes a bite and another drink of wine. "I'll tell you what. You are right in the threat we face. I'll risk the trouble and join your cause."

Grand Ambassador influenced
Trajan, Hamish (if he choses), and Mathos can still attempt an influence, discovery, or aid check

Switch Please

Trajan hasn't used either of his actions yet (no roll made) since I wanted to start with an 'ice breaker' with the Lady Vaelia. Since she responded, and the fact that Trajan has an 8 Wisdom, he's going to plow along as if she isn't ignoring him. :)

Trajan smiles at Lady Vaelia, "I've known many ladies who were equally effective warriors and I've learned never to underestimate the strength of a determined woman. My deepest condolences on the loss of your husband; being a staunch defender of his lands and family tells me he was a man of honor, strength, and devotion. It's those characteristics the Crusaders of Mendev need from everyone to clear the threat of the demonic hordes from escaping the Worldwound and rampaging across the Inner Sea and beyond. Would your husband and his well-used falcata have stood by and allowed such a menace to go unchecked? Or would he have resolved to not allow such violence to be unleashed on the rest of the world and lead the charge to protect all those he held dear?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

Hot damn a natural 20! Hamish's belief in Trajan must be working! :) Here is his 2nd attempt to influence; much of this speech is taken from a scene from Babylon 5 so the writing credit goes to the show's writer.

Trajan turns to the Senator, "Senator Augustyn Naran, in case you have not heard me introduce myself I am Decimus Gallonica Trajan, Paladin of Iomedae and a Hellknight of the Order of the Godclaw. I must confess I am very puzzled by your reactions to our requests for aid to combat the Worldwound. I thought Andoran was considered the birthplace of freedom? Where every citizen has a voice to be heard? How could Andoran let the pleas of those seeking assistance to maintain the freedom of everyone fall on deaf ears? What is there left for Andoran if all of Creation falls around it? There is nothing! No hope, no dream, no future, no life. Unless we turn from this cycle of indifference to something greater, to see the battle for what it is: We are fighting to save one another. We must realize we are not alone, we rise and fall together. Because if we fail in this then none of us will be saved and Andoran, its principles, your family, and yourself will be only a memory."

Trajan extends his hand to the Senator, "Let us stand together."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25

Good news! Scion Lord Comes around

"I see you've had the pleasure of the Lady." snarls the Scion Lord in response to Hamish. "I see your point and will lend my aid."

2 successes - Influenced

~Trajan: Lady Vaelia~

Turning to the hellknight, she snaps "If he had been one to stand by he and my son would still live!"

Turning back to her food, she grumbles about pathfinders. Refusing to say anything more on the subject.

~Trajan: Senator~

"Valid points young man...Tell you want. I'll see to it a committee is formed to evaluate the request." he announces, glancing around to see if anyone important is looking his way.

~Loved the RP you put into that...sadly this guy is just...well...not helping you at this time. --> 0 Success: Not Influenced

Several servants appear and begin clearing the table as some of the guests stand and stretch. Lady Vaelia and Senator Augustyn take the opportunity to quickly move away from any perceived pathfinders.

Across the room, you notice Major Colson jerks his head towards the door. (Leading to the Great Hall) After a moment, he stands and stretches nonchalant.

Weaving through the crowd to offer a word here and there, he slips out the doors.

If you follow him...the following

The soft susurrus of servants clearing dessert dishes and esteemed guests shuffling about to hobnob with their peers echoes from the nearby dining room as Major Colson Maldris furtively glances about before speaking in a stage whisper. “Have you noticed,” he inquires, “that several of the serving staff seem to be behaving strangely? I have watched a handful of them, and I can tell you with some authority that a few appear to be under the effects of enchantment magic. They have not expressed any hostility, but this strikes me as the precursor of something far more dangerous."

“In a moment, Damien Blakros will introduce the esteemed Genedair, an esteemed veteran of the Mendevian Crusades and a guest of honor at tonight’s festivities. I trust that his speech will be suitably engaging to give you an opportunity to slip away and check the rest of the manor. If there is anything amiss, deal with any immediate concerns and then report back to me.” He spares a moment to glance back at the dining room before adding, “Under no circumstances are you to upset the guests. I will keep Lady Morilla apprised of the situation, and together we will decide what to do in the event of trouble. The feast must go on without any disruption, and I will stay with the guest to ensure that happens.” As he says this, Damien Blakros begins introducing Genedair in the other room. With a last look, Major Maldris salutes and says, “You have perhaps half an hour,” then slips back through the door to rejoin the party.

What do you do? Where do you go? Pieces are on the map

Thanks! I didn't think it would work but it's what the character would do.

"Can anyone discern the nature of this enchantment magic? 30 minutes is not enough to search the entire grounds. Either we split up, which is dangerous, or we decide which areas would be the most likely to be used as a hiding spot- somewhere out of the way or rarely used. Unfortunately the wine cellar, storage closet, and the upstairs are large enough areas to cover without dealing with the exterior. Any ideas?"

Bedisa wont follow Major Colson out of the dining room and instead will spend time talking with the guests - as they were told to do. 'I'll let Trajan deal with whatever the Major wants. If it's important, he'll come get me.'

"That dinner was exquisite. What did you think of the soup? There was a spice in there I can't quite tell what it was. Saffron perhaps?". She lets out a laugh as she talks. "Another glass of wine?". Bedisa turns to a servant and asks for a glass of white wine.

At the opportunity to do something other than be ignored, Vrothum springs in to action.
My words are falling on deaf ears, how can I help sir? Vrothum listens intently as the Major relays his suspicions. Vrothum then turns to Trajan. Hmm...30mins isn’t a long time, I normally am not one for splitting up but I think we could make an exception in this circumstance. I think our priorities should be the kitchen staff or the upstairs. I’d personally like to think wine cellar would be too obvious of a place...but I’m with you Trajan and I’ll follow your lead. DM did we see Lady Blakros with Damien, or mingling with the guests when the Major was informing us?

Trajan will enter the dining room long enough to gesture for Bedisa to join the rest of the group.

"The problem with splitting up is we won't be able to hear each other and have no means of communicating our situations. Meaning if one group is in trouble, there's no way the other half of the group will know. I think we should take a vote on whether to split up or stick together and where to search. If we do split up then one group should search outside the house in an attempt to cover more ground. With only 5 of us I cannot vote to split the group as one 'half' would only have 2 people - increasing the risk to their safety."

The PCs are fairly close together in Perception so if we do go for 2 groups then Hamish and Bedisa, the PCs with the most skills, should be in different groups. Since Mathos is no longer here then we'd have one group of 3 and the other with 2 which is why splitting up in this case is dicey.

Yaiho looks down at his companions while in the kitchen, not really wanting to go back to the party, he speaks up.

"Yaiho say split group up. Search more. Yaiho be in smaller group, Yaiho easily protect other member of group."

Bedisa whispers, "I have not noticed anything wrong with the servants. Do we know if we can trust the Major? He might be trying to get rid of us momentarily so he can do some nefarious. Should someone stay with him, just in case?".

Hamish follows the Major's obvious cue for an aside. He listens quietly and then simply replies, "We'll take care of it."

When Bedisa joins and throws aspersions on the Major he puts his foot down, "Do you know something we don't about the major? Is there any good and provable reason why you would believe anything you just said?"

When the discussion drifts to splitting he suggests, "We should stay together, though if we all go in the same direction, we could easily split up to cover twice as much ground searching for problems."

We could easily check out 7/8/9/10 at once, splitting into two small groups that were near each other. I second or third the vote to check the kitchens first.

Bedisa whispers, "I have not noticed anything wrong with the servants. Do we know if we can trust the Major? He might be trying to get rid of us momentarily so he can do some nefarious. Should someone stay with him, just in case?".

"It's possible but, if we go down that road, we could start questioning each other as well. Hopefully Damon Blackros and Lady Gloriana can handle the Major in case he is a problem. So we have two votes for sticking together, one for splitting up, one for doing both, and Vrothum to vote. The kitchen is a sensible place to start as that's where the servants all go at some point."

Ack! Let’s just stay together, we can branch out once we get to the location. We shouldn’t waste anymore time though...

Bedisa remains skeptical but joins in the group. "Just find it a bit strange. None of us saw anything wrong with the servants, correct? Let's hope we find nothing."

Looks like overall majority is to stick together and checkout the kitchen first. Hamish suggested Pantry (8) and Storage Closet (9) as well. With the three being close together....

(7)
The kitchen, a bustle of activity, seems to be mostly unchanged since your last inspection. Leaning against the western wall, you note the master chef, Domeros Prinitar, eating from a plate. Spotting you peaking through the door, he lobs a dinner roll your way. "OUT! Guests not ter be in here."

(8)
Ignoring him, (I assume) you shuffle into the kitchen and glance in the pantry. While some items seem to be missing, presumably used in the creation of the feast, it still remains well stocked. "If you're still hungry, tell a servant and we'll bring you something else!" shrieks the chef.

A dull leather satchel shoved in among the jars of spices catches Yaiho's eyes though...

(9)

The storage pantry seems mostly untouched. Simple odds and ends including linens and barrels of water.

Edit: Missed the question about Lady Blakros - yes, she was mingling as Damien began his speech.

Hamish raises an eyebrow at Bedisa, "I was too busy trying to influence all the actual guests to even look at the servants. I'm actually glad the Captain took the time to keep an eye on them. But of course, if you would like to stay here on your own on a hunch, we can't force you to cooperate with our mission requested investigation."

As they move into the kitchen, Hamish steps over to the chef to distract him, "Oh my dear chef, I just couldn't get enough of the [insert appetizer] you served! It was AMAZING!!! I simply MUST have the recipe, or hire you to do the next event I host!"

Bluff: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (5) + 14 = 19

The things I have to do... and the pastry was a bit dry even!

Blinking a few times, the chef seems to forget about the other pathfinders. Quickly leaping into a complicated explanation on how one prepares Hormigas Culonas, he signals to one of the kitchen staff to bring him some paper.

Scribbling away, he adds "Now, I won't tell you my secret ingredient. Can't have ya stealing my ways after all. But this shud getcha the basics."

:-P

Note to GM: Trajan's Perception modifier is +7; I fixed it on the slide.

"See, everything is normal!" Bedisa sighs. She wants to go back to schmooze with the guests. "Just the chefs cooking. Now, let's go check somewhere else. We only have ... 25 minutes left?"