Gallery of Evil (Inactive)

Game Master Deaths Adorable Apprentice

Reflex: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19

The elf glides through the stumbling crowd without losing his poise, keeping up a dignified yet rapid pace.

If you don't mind, I'd very much like to bank my previous Diplomacy roll until I've actually gotten to speaking distance.

Also, sorry, thought I'd posted this days ago

Quick question. Does the Sanctuary effect automatically mean that they avoid me or do I still need to roll the reflex save?

I'll do a d100 primarily for the ones not even looking at Valtyra. Its not an attack from any of them but the Charming Presence is entirely to fun to not at least kinda work. Will need a roll from someone falling backwards towards you if its under 25.

1d100 ⇒ 2

Reflex: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15

Valtyra just manages to avoid a giggling pair that stumble backward to fall at her feet, carefully stepping over them as she moves forward.

Reflec: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27

"But the closet has leverage... you look like you'd need it." Sithe rebuts while effortlessly dodging all the flailing and grabbing and cheer of the drunks without a second thought. Practice most likely.

Gabrille's reflex: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (18) + 15 = 33

Moving past the swaying group of partygoers while avoiding flailing arms. There is a group of four that has ended up on the ground in a tangle of limbs. Telias you you have can tell there are magical auras but you know that it will take a bit of focus to narrow into which painting is your target.

Belfore moves another painting and quickly pull the green cover off to reveal a riot of colors. A watercolor of a road flanked by trees in autumn. All the trees are different colors and leaves drift around. Dalgus Wolkus created this, they are still very young by dwarven standards and this is their debut piece."[/b] The smile on Belfor's face radiates pride. And he starts to move towards the other two paintings.

"Speaking as someone whose been everywhere from dusty tombs to just behind thick curtains at a courtly ball I assure you there are better ways to get where you need to be without getting tangled in cleaning supplies. Not to mention I prefer to take my time in such matters and cramps have a habit of ruining that. Now stop distracting me. I'm working." Inwardly he cursed as Belfore pressed on. A fifty fifty shot was better than a guarantee that he'd have the mans blood on his hands. So he decided to go with the duergars hunch.

He pushed further forward now with even more urgency and much more loudly proclaiming his need to reach the host immediately a tinge of genuine panic marking each apology, each hurried half said excuse saying everything short of causing panic.

1d20 + 19 ⇒ (11) + 19 = 30

Turning around he moved closer to ensure he was heard by sithe, "This is where I'm afraid we must part ways. I can't really rely on the others to do this quietly but whatever happens that man can't be allowed to release whatever damned horror is wrapped in that paper. Get in unseen and do what's necessary to slow him down and not cause too much of a fuss, tie the knot on the string, sabotage the display to make it fall off the stage without opening, whatever your no doubt delightfully wicked mind can come up with. I'll try to talk him down and try to save this party, oh and his life of course. If we get out of this without any innocent bloodshed you can have however much time you like in whatever place you want, and I'll throw breakfast in as well. No strings attached of course."

Letting her go to do her work Telias turned to the matter at hand.

Am I close enough to be heard if I'm loud enough?

Sorry, thought I made a small post. Gabrielle is "loud" and isn't good at acting subtlety. It was made clear they don't want to cause any panic despite the danger. So he is simply helping as he can.

Gabrielle, seeing the potential danger acts quickly and shouts above the din of the crowd. If he can even buy just seconds, it is worth it.

Please! Tell us more about the first painting! Allow it a few moments more in the spotlight!

diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (18) + 15 = 33

A preform, probably oratory seem fitting, for hoping to be heard. It is fairly loud and it takes a bit of skill to speak over a crowd without screaming

Also it ate half my damn post... didn't accept my edit.

The closer you all get to Belfore the more focused on him the revelers are. A mass of people stand around talking mostly about the paintings.

"He would snatch up someone new and skilled like that, the bastard.
That flower is practically leaping oof the canvase.
Has he actually found three new artists?
But that surprise one.
It would be hilarious if it was bad.
Why?
We would get to see Belfore try to save face for showing horrid art for one. And two we would get a full on rant in person.
But what if its good?
Then Belfore gets credit again."

No one is acknowledging you all and nor are they making room to let anyone past them. How do you all want to try to proceed?

At first growing a sour expression as Telias brushes her off using far too many words than were necessary it instead turns into a greedy grin when he begins proffering as his mouth continued to ramble nonstop.

Damn, I'm a better negotiator than I thought... I didn't even realize I was negotiating! "Deal." is all she says before taking better stock of the room and... well everything else in it. Shrugging she steadies her mind as she begins making her way towards the stage.

Stealth: 1d20 + 22 ⇒ (10) + 22 = 32
Face in the Crowd, can use Stealth while observed.

Well here goes nothing!

Realizing that they are only moments from some other unspeakable horror tearing the crowd apart, Valtyra is forced to act, waving her glaive to draw Belfore's eyes to her, standing out amongst the crowd, she locks eyes with him as she utters the command of a spell, her flowing dancelike casting adding power to her words.

"HALT!! Surely Shelyn's grace demands you give the proper time to each work and artist."

Cast Command.Halt:Target Belfore. "The subject stands in place for 1 round. It may not take any actions but is not considered helpless."

And the best part about Charming presence: "This effect functions as sanctuary, except if the ally(or self) attacks an opponent, the effect ends with respect to only that opponent" so the guards would still have to make a will save to attack me if they realize I just cast a spell on their boss.

Belfore will save: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17 I do believe that passes your DC

Pausing to look around and staring at Valtyra. Taking in the armor with its dancing fire and the glaive in the air. Smiling widely, "My dear this is just the unveiling. These pieces will be on display and I will be here to talk about the various pieces at length."

Moving to the next green cloth, "Showmanship is an art unto its self you know and Shelyn loves all art my dear."

Sighing heavily, Welp... here goes nothin', rather get thrown out then let folk get torn to pieces. Gabrielle will pull out his pistol and fire it harmlessly into the air. The retort reverberating off the enclosed walls to quite the effect. Before the sound even fully fades away, Gabrielle starts speaking in a raised voice.

Now that I have your attention, a threat has been made against this place, and everyone here is in potential danger. Now, ifn' it would please you folks, I'd ask that you all make your way into one of the nearby rooms, or better, yet, outside this here premises. That would mighty kind of yall.

He looks around, hoping that one of the others can at least take advantage of the scene he is quickly causing if nothing else.

diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (12) + 15 = 27 If you would prefer intimidate, it would be 5 lower. A perform roll, is 7 lower.

The music comes a screeching halt. There is the sound of shattering glass as people drop their drinks. Belfore lets go of the green cloth and raises both of his hands. In the immediate area people stumble over each other while backing away from Gabrielle.

But there are two identically dressed humans who move towards him. Glancing at each other. Nether of them move to attack but each of them place a hand on either shoulder. The one to Gabrielle's left says, "As I see it you are the threat."

The other one holds up some cuffs, "So how.."

Belfore's voice rings out loudly, "One of you, cause I keep getting interrupted better get with the explanation." Pointing at the guards, "By all means lock the gun nut up."

And the guards will move to place the cuffs but they are clearly trying to do all of this a nonviolent way. Unless Gabrielle wants to make it violent.

So you all can try to get with the explaining as you have everyone's attention.

Gemariah walks into the cleared-up space with his hands raised in a gesture of peace.

"Mister Vittanis!" he calls out. "I am Gemariah Morgethai of Atelier Vertu. Forgive this intrusion, but there is real danger here, both to you and your guests. I have it on good authority that one of those paintings is not what it appears to be! Please, call for a recess and allow me to inspect them..."

Of course, I'd like to use the previous roll, but here's another if it's needed...

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20

Seizing the silence with the same speed and ferocity as a pouncing crocodile Telias grabbed the moment by the throat. Firstly as things began Telias simply snatched up a gresh glass from hitting the floor unceremoniously before dpwning its contents in time that would make a connoisseur enraged. Smacking his lips appreciatively he stepped forward and addressed the man directly.

"Sincerest apologies for providing a further dramatic pause to the proceedings I'm afraid he's something of the theatrical type and you know how they get when the alcohol and danger flows. I'm sure simply being exited from the ceremonies with proper recompense for thw damage to your ceiling will be more than enough to teach him the value of respecting a hosts wishes."

Telias than grinned widely with all the cunning and grace of a ringmaster. Telias already knew that it would be near impossible to take Belfore off track once he had everything in front of guests and ready to go. But, you can change the track if you appeal to his ego and offer a more exciting presentation.

"However! I am most glad for it because I have important news about the piece our mutual friend brought you this evening that you must absolutely know before unveiling it in this frankly unsuitable environment. The piece in question is not merely a painting of some exceptional skill but a performance piece! Tantalizing I know but when we arrived at Asheron's place he was quite torn up that he was not informed! Terrible, ruined his entire gallery. If I may but speak to you for a moment before you make the same mistake against art as he did I can provide more details and save the surprise for your guests and provide further credit to your eye for finding new and exciting artists!"

1d20 + 17 ⇒ (11) + 17 = 28 diplomacy
1d20 + 17 ⇒ (1) + 17 = 18 Perform Oratory

Throwing in Fascinate as well. DC19 will. Range is 90ft.

As the guards approach gabrielle with present one of the the butt of his gun, clearly showing compliance offering up his weapon. He gives them both friendly nods.

begging your pardon for the commotion, but uh, folk weren't really giving me the time of day and I'm genuinely worried about the potential threat to this here establishment and the fine folk in it. I do hate to put a damper on the events, but I would rather be the villian of the evening than allow any harm to come to people when there was potentially something I could do to stop it. I will of course offer to pay for any potential damage the bullet may have caused. As for the issue in question, as said, it involves the paintings. If, our fears are proved to be unfounded I'd honestly be relieved.

He stands hands in front of him as he talks to allow the men to cuff him if they wish.

He does give a glance towards Tellias, as he tries to decide if what he said counts as a lie or not. Certainly the part about himself was, the latter an eloquent play of words to hide the truth, and yet tell it.

The crowd continues to move away from the middle of the room, some faster than others and there are some that linger out of curiosity. One guard does take the offered gun and the other cuffs Gabrielle's hands behind his back. And both remain flanking him. The other two guards move towards Belfore.

Recognition and then confusion crosses Belfore Vittanis's face when Gemariah speaks up. Unconsciously taking a step away from both paintings. His gaze flickers over to the paper wrapped canvases when Telias mentions it.

Looking around the room and his smile is gone, "Everyone if you will excuse me for just a moment. It seems there is some kind of mischief afoot. I will return in a few minuets, please continue to enjoy the drinks and food."

From there Before grabs both of the still covered paintings and descends from the platform. He whispers something to the two guards before moving past them. Looking back at the crowd but it is clear he is focusing on all of you, "Come with me."

And he moves across the large room with the clear assumption that you will follow him. Stopping for a moment with the other guards. Not looking at them but at Gabrielle, "You three as well." Though it doesn't take much effort to notice one of the guards is bringing up the rear, to insure you all go with.

Then he swiftly moves out of the room, though the entry way and into another room. Both paintings are laid side by side, still covered, on the table. The two guards move with Gabrielle between them and into the room as well. Belfore has his arms crossed and once you all are in here is quick to say, "Close the door and please explain."

Gemariah nods to the others and follows after Belfor(e?), satisfied with the fact that a potential massacre has been avoided.

"As my... colleague... already hinted," he says, motioning to Telias, "we are on the trail of what appears to be criminal conspiracy, which led to the destruction of Mister Coyl's collection and indeed, his untimely death. He was delivered an enchanted—or possibly cursed—painting by an individual known as 'Darius Finch.' When revealed, the painting came to life with murderous intent. The same man delivered one of these paintings to you."

With that said, the elf turns his attention to the paintings. "Telias, please assist me..."

Casting detect magic, and also looking for familiar markings in the back of the frame and/or stretcher. All without uncovering the canvas itself, of course.

Craft (painting): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (5) + 12 = 17
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16

Telias, keeping his promise to not let all the best wine be drunk before him materializes into the office with a fresh glass already. His grin never once wavering. He wasn't wanted here after all.

"You're more than skilled enough to figure out which is which without my fumbling hands Gemariah. Besides, I think a certain associate had it figured out before us. I'm assuming this is the one Mr. Finch brought to you?"

Telias tapped the wrapper of the paper covered portrait.

"Oh yes, I hint at much but it's all in the name of letting people have their fun and not cause panic. Having famous art historian Telias Markan, celebrated Shelynite Valtyra Harakore, respected artisan Gemariah Morgethal, and a mysterious one armed stranger being dragged into the back to discuss mystery and danger behind closed doors simply adds to the mystique." Telias than pulls out a bloody handkerchief pulled from Asherons body and lays it on the wrapped canvas. "Though I admit my companions panic is not misplaced. Mr. Boyle really was torn to pieces over it." To emphasize the point Telias took a large swig of the wine taking a second to savor the taste and smell.

Looking between the two men with narrowed eyes that rather quickly widen before filling with tears. Grabbing the back of a chair and moving to sit quickly, [smaller]"Asheron's dead.."

Rubbing at his eyes, "Why? Why go after him? Or me?"

Gemariah the painting is wrapped so that it opens in the front so to get to look at the back you have to open it.

Telias if you maintain the detect magic you were able to pinpoint the paper wrapped painting as having a moderate aura of conjuration and enchantment magic on the it has like the previous. Gemariah you pick up the same if you focus on it for long enough. Since it takes three round to pinpoint.

Telias, keeping his promise to not let all the best wine be drunk before him materializes into the office with a fresh glass already. His grin never once wavering. He wasn't wanted here after all.

"You're more than skilled enough to figure out which is which without my fumbling hands Gemariah."

The elf goes about his inspection with a furrowed brow, glancing sharply at Telias and his wine-glass.

"Laziness is unbecoming of the young," he muses, "and age does not guarantee wisdom. Frankly, I do not know what to make of this beyond the fact that it is magical—there is something to affect the mind, and something to call a thing into being... that is all I can say for certain. Come now, take a look."

Looking between the two men with narrowed eyes that rather quickly widen before filling with tears. Grabbing the back of a chair and moving to sit quickly, "Asheron's dead.."

Rubbing at his eyes, "Why? Why go after him? Or me?"

Gemariah strokes his chin thoughtfully. His expression is not entirely without sympathy for the grieving man—however, for better or worse, he has trained himself to not allow the deaths of humans to affect him overmuch. "I was hoping you might shed light on the issue. Did you and Mister Coyl have any enemies in common? Are there any other associates that you believe could be targeted? We must be away soon, to keep up with that scoundrel, but he is likely a mere errand boy. Your aid might help us save more lives this night, so I beg you to think on it."

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27 ~ Just in case he's faking it or hiding something.

Drumming his fingers on his cheeks and pulling himself together enough to stop crying. Waving a hand around, "we are art critics. Some of the best. Us and Gerty..that fiend was in my house."

Looking over at the two guards in the room, "Let him go. Stop whoever did this and I won't press charges, you had good intents."

Placing his had on the covered painting, "I'll find someone to destroy this. Asheron, Eleazonna Gertwright, and I are all patrons of the arts and critics. We have many artists who hate us. If they went after Coyl and me then my best guess is they might go after Gerty. She lives at 14 Burgundy Wine Terrace."

Pulling the lethal painting towards him, "I'm going to get this to the Vault of Abadar, they should be able to destroy it. And I need to deal with the crowd."

Wiping his face then standing, looking fully composed, "You all should get going. The doorman might have seen where Finch went. Or is there something else?"

His grief is sincere and genuinely thinks this is the most likely connection.

Sithe decided to make the most of no one seeing her when it all went to s!$$ and simply remained hidden amongst the crowd. As the host and group depart she takes him up on his offer and makes her way to the wine and food.

Telias says nothing and simply exits the door. Further words would just lead to more and he had a tendency to ramble on. Of course this was not before he found another glass of wine and a nice egg sandwhich on the way out. He was forced to skip dinner after all.

Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9

With his request left ignored, the elf shakes his head at Telias' receding back. "What use is all that learning, if you refuse to use it?"

"Thank you," he says to Belfor, just before following after the others. "Rest assured, we shall hasten to Miss Gertwright's residence at once."

know. local: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19

You do have my condolences for the method, I jus' did not want to take a chance with lives on the line.

After a small pause he continues.

We'll catch him, and he, along with anyone he is workin' with or for. Will suffer just punishment. I just hope you haven't made any other enemies, knowingly or unknowingly.

Nodding as you all start to leave. Looking Gabrielle up and down, "Take care of this and we will have no bad blood."

Gabrielle leaves, and in one swift motion mounts up on Gear before looking to the others.

I'll make my way to Eleazonna's quickly. Time may be of the essence. If there don't seem to be trouble brewin' I'll wait for ya'll.

He then urges gear into a trot down the street.

To the rest pf you on foot.

Telias does exactly that and motions others to follow unapologetically and undramatically.

And he starts by jumping a fence.

referencing the knowledge check

"Shimmy faster handsome, it's a fence, not your date." Sithe calls out as she slithers over the fences and other architecture with ease.

Valtyra breaks into a run, dashing through yards and climbing over fences to cover ground as quickly as possible.

I'm back!

Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18

Gemariah follows suit, trying to guide the others along a route that does not include dog-owners' residences or otherwise hazardous premises.

Gabrielle you ride down the road. Your first right turn is just retracing how you got here but then its another right instead of left. Its late but the Flower Street Market even at this late hour has people wondering around, the night owls of Ivy District. But those in your way quickly move at the clopping sounds.

Moving around the side of Belfor;s home. A massive building, The Valut of Abadar, and barracks are right behind Belfor's. Polished obsidian rises up into staggered levels, giving the religious bank precarious appearance. If you all go past the barracks number 14 Burgundy Wine Terrace is just on the other side of the road behind the Vault of Abadar.

New map. #2 is Belfor's home. #3 is Eleazonna Gertwright and where you all are headed. #7 is the Flower Street Market, #8 is the Vault of Abadar at temple and bank, # 9 is the barracks for the Vault. Please draw a line on the routes you all want to take.

As they approach and Sithe sees the Barracks and the Bank she simply shakes her head before she recasts her naturally imbued invisibility.

Anyone happen to have invisibility.

Just myself, sorry.

+20 to stealth is a good bonus. Figure it will be a high number. But my dear sneak you gotta roll too.

Gemariah has little affection for Abadarans, even if they do occasionally make for good patrons—their god's focus on material wealth and legalism is quite beyond his elven sensibilities. Still, he does not seek to avoid them on his way, instead walking directly towards the Gertwright estate while presenting his holy symbol to anyone who might approach him. Shelyn has little authority in legal matters, but he trusts identifying himself as a goodly priest will dissuade the Brotherhood from thinking him a ruffian.

"Excuse my trespass," he explains firmly but apologetically, "but there is an urgent spiritual emergency I must attend to."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

If the others want to use this as a distraction to sneak by, that's just fine. Valtyra's presence would probably make the whole "Shelynites of Shelynite business" spiel a bit more believable, however.

Despite how often his profession called for Telias himself wasn't particularly stealthy often relying on othera far more skilled than he. Still he would have much preffered avoiding the guards entire. Better to ask forgiveness than permission where lives were involved. Seeing as the elf took a rare initiative Telias opted the aupporting role. "deepest apologies, it truly is a matter of life or death. We're just trying to cut through to catch the danger."

1d20 + 17 ⇒ (8) + 17 = 25 diplomacy assist

Three figures move towards Gemariah. There is a young human, obviously new to the metal armor. A half orc with a massive great axe on her back and a crossbow in her arms. But its the blue haired gnome that raises a hand when the half orc grumbles, "Prolly drunk."

Folding their arms and looking up at the both of you, "Spiritual emergency? Parties like that," waving a hand towards Belfor's home, "never do anyone any good."

Turning towards Telias and frowning, "Life or death? And of course I have the newbie with me."

Glaring around, "Well where is the danger? And your coming with cause if this is jape."

Its not the quietist of whispers, "Ghosts?" The young human has gone rather pale.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21

"Eleazonna Gertwright's residence," Gemariah explains calmly, emphasising his soberness, and points in the direction of Burgundy Wine Terrace. "There has just been an attempt on Belfor Vittanis' life, and he suspects Miss Gertwright might also be at risk—all of this is art-related, and thus of concern to the Eternal Rose's faithful. I will gladly present you with all the details, but I must request that we walk as we speak..."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21

Didn't roll because wasn't moving yet :3

Stealth: 1d20 + 42 ⇒ (19) + 42 = 61

"I promise you, everything he's said is entirely true. This really is a matter of urgency."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24

Looking between the three of you with a narrowed gaze. Reaching back and tapping the half orc on the hip, "You to go figure out if Befor' and the partiers are ok."

Gesturing, "Lead the way and explain."

"Someone with a grudge has found or created magical murser paintings that come to life and murder all those nearby and destroy any other artwork in the vicinity. Don't know yet whether merely viewing the painting or proximity to there intended target is necessary and I'm not game to find out." Telias says shrugging as he turns and atarts walking towards there intended destination, "the man delivering them is likely unaware of the danger being just a hapless fool with a fondness for nice clothes and wealthy women. From what we heard there should be just enough time to catch him unless she's very persuasive about breakfast."

ride: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (12) + 13 = 25

Gabrielle does of mix of avoiding the guard, and simply out pacing them. He figures he can explain things to them once they catch up, after he has hopefully made sure things are safe.

Sithe can easily move ahead of the others who were slowed down by the three holy guards. The gnome is moving along with Valtyra, Telias, & Gemariah looking irritated, "Then why did you not report it?"Gabrielle on his mount and Sithe moving unseen are close enough to 14 Burgundy Wine Terrace

A shiny black carriage stops in front of a house marked number 14. A handsome man in a charcoal and cream outfit with a black cloak steps off of the carriage carrying a wrapped painting under one arm and a polished ivory walking stick in the other. With a few quick glances at his surroundings, he makes his way toward the front gate.

As he steps inside, something unseen strikes him from behind, sending him sprawling across the lawn. The painting flies out of his grasp. The horse spooks and races down the road with the shiny black carriage pulled behind, now driverless.