Shifting Sands

Game Master Stiehle

Sorry, forgot this one:
Fort Save: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (20) + 9 = 29 SC#9

Fort: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (12) + 10 = 22

Perception Aid: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12

Amenhep, too, manages to power past the barrage of camel spit before barely managing to help Elliander plot a course through the crowded marketplace.

I am not sure if the wand happened, so the checks below are based on being down 4 Con. Add +1 to both rolls if Francis could use the wand charge.

Check 9

Fortitude Save + Ally: 1d20 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 8 + 1 = 21

Check 10

Second Fortitude Save + Ally: 1d20 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 8 + 1 = 20

Perception Check: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (1) + 18 = 19 Booo... At least it doesn't auto-fail.

Francis will attempt to assist Nevitash. He's glad he isn't driving....
Driving assist: 1d20 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 4 + 2 = 24

Already passed my Fort Save.... barely.

Nevitash can take the Perception check for the start of 10. Francis will try to Intimidate the crowd....
Intimidate: 1d20 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 3 + 2 = 22

Oathday, the 17th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and pleasantly warm (about 80 degrees) with a refreshing, mild breeze.
Hour of sunrise

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Skill Check Event 9 - Camel Souk
Nevitash grits his teeth as the poison courses through his body and Francis takes over the reins, guiding the camel with surprising success to avoid the fat merchant and his harem of camels crossing the race track (Profession [Driver] Check 24 vs DC 20 = +1 point) and they both manage to avoid any ill effects of the hail of camel spit they are forced to endure as their chariot wins clear of the mess.

Elliander takes over on the reins as well, doing his level best to drive their chariot past the mess of camels milling around in the middle of the course (Handle Animal Check 17 (-2 for injured camel) 15 vs DC 20 = -1 point) and though he manages to win free, they are badly delayed - though at least they aren't blinded by the camel spit that is raining down all around them.

Skill Check Event 10 - Crowded Market
Nevitash takes back the reins as Francis digs in his belt and comes up with a wand that relieves the half-orc of his weakness, and the inquisitor is able to overcome the poison that passes through his blood without further harm. Wiping at his eyes, Nevitash does his best to guide the chariot through the smoke and confusion, doing an admirable job (Perception Check 18 vs DC 15 = +1 point) despite the distractions he's faced with.

With Amenhep's help, Elliander steers through the smoky streets with ease (Perception Check 20 vs DC 15 = +2 points), gaining some much needed ground.

Three more chariots drop out of the competetion as one gets hopelessly tangled up with the camel drover amidst enraged screeches from the animals, the merchant and the chariot driver while another crashes into the side of the bath house and a third smashes into a knot of spectators, becoming overturned in the process! Now there are only six remaining, in addition to the two driven by the adventurers as they round the corner and are met with the blinding sun now cresting over the low buildings. A moment later, more bolts fly from the crowd of spectators, and this time it is obvious that the adventurers are the targets - specifically Elliander and Francis! If they can get through this final gauntlet, the way ahead is entirely clear, though one of the chariots has a seemingly unsurmountable lead while another trio are well ahead of the rest of the main group that includes the adventurers.

Soumral and Devin are calculating their own plans when they suddenly see two figures with dark masks raise crossbows and fire at their friends as those near the assassins scream in alarm! Then the pair drop the weapons, raise hooded cowls over their faces and move away from the scene at a deliberately calm pace, obviously trying to quickly mingle into the mob of onlookers...

Francis, I didn't see a Drive roll made by Nevitash so I used your assist instead as the primary roll. Likewise, Elliander appeared to take the reins in Event #9 - which again is just fine as you can flip back and forth as you'd like. For SCE #11, all riders must make EITHER a Perception check OR a Reflex save, whichever you're feeling better about - just remember that a roll of '1' on a save is an automatic failure!

Soumral and Devin, you can take actions to interfere during SCE #11 with no problem - as the lead chariots that round the corner are going to be within range of medium and even short range spells for sure, but during SCE #12 you can either take action against the chariots immediately surrounding your friends once more or you can try and follow one or the other (or both) of those snipers. They are headed in opposite directions, so you'll have to choose one or the other or each take one if you both elect not to interfere in the race and at the very least give me Perception checks if you choose to do this. I've got a VERY rough map up to give you idea of positions, it's not to scale at all though. Just let me know your actions!

Skill Check Event 11 - I Can't See!
Sun in the Eyes: Driver and passenger BOTH must make a Perception check (Tough DC)
OR
Avert your Gaze: Driver and passenger BOTH must make a Reflex Save vs DC 20

Skill Check Event 12 - Snipers in the Crowd!
Dodge a Crossbow Bolt: ONLY Elliander and Francis must make a Reflex Save vs DC 15 (DC 20 if blinded)
IF FAILED
Poisoned Bolt: Those struck by a bolt must make a Fort Save vs DC 20

Map/Guide of Tephu

Detail Street Map (Not to Scale!

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@GM West, how close together are the chariots? Judging from the points totals, we might be able to hit #1,7 and 12 (+12, +11 and +14 points) with a single area of effect (confusion has a 15' radius burst for example... Similarly, Grease has a 10' square. Obviously, #14 (18 points) has a pretty wide lead at this point.

@Sourmal, plan strategy after GM West's replies to the above in discussion?

#11 - I Can't See! Trying for the reflex save?: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14

#12 - Snipers in the crowd Another Reflex Save?: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23

Francis pulls the bolt and channels energy to provide a little healing for himself, Nevitash and the camel.... Channel Healing: 4d6 ⇒ (5, 5, 5, 3) = 18

Skill Check Event 11

Devin whispers to Sourmal in sylvan "I'll take the lead chariot, you hit the next cluster, that should give our friends a chance..."

He waits, and just at the lead chariot is at the hard corner, he drops a grease spell just where the camel will have to turn hard...

Casts Grease, reflex DC 14 to avoid falling and acrobatics check to move through. Target is the blue dashed box on the map, intended crash location is the plant (green dashed circle)

Having started the mayhem he whispers through his message spell to the party's charioteers: "Take the corner wide, there's an obstacle on the course!"

Skill Check Event 11
This is somewhat dependent on what happens in 11. General intent will be to drop an Ear Piercing scream where it will do some good (on an opposing chariot's camel, the question is which targets are still up) as a standard action and chase one of the crossbowmen as a move action. Next round I cast Vanish (gives me 5 rounds of invisibility), during which I will ditch my disguise and try to get into a good tailing position for the crossbowman...

Soumral follows Devin's plan and targets the chariots behind the leader.

"If need be, I can make us both invisible."

Casting confusion. 15' radius, all within must save vs. DC 19 Will. Rather than marking up the map, it looks like the spot around the base of the yellow arrow point by the cart is right.

Elliander lets Amenhep control the chariot again and focuses on the spectators. What was first a suspicion has now grown to certainty; they are specifically being targeted by crossbow shooters. The competitors around him do not seem to get the same treatment, but Amenhep and he are clearly singled out. Elliander has a growing feeling that this has nothing to do with them entering this race, but most likely the cultists are out to get them! He feels a bit naked without his shield.

Perception: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (3) + 13 = 16 SC#11, I Can't See! (hoping we are better with Perception than Reflex
Reflex Save: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11 SC#12, Snipers in the Crowd!
Fort Save: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15 if Failed

Check 11

"Blinded by the light..."

Reflex Save+Ally: 1d20 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 7 + 1 = 24

Check 12

"Watch out Francis!" Nevitash cries out.

Oathday, the 17th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and pleasantly warm (about 80 degrees) with a refreshing, mild breeze.
Hour of sunrise

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Skill Check Event 11 - I Can't See!
Francis is blinded by the sudden glare of the sun as he guides the camel around the corner of the sprawling bath house, struggling to maintain control as the camel balks suddenly when the reins go slack, though fortunately Nevitash is able to see and so the half-orc guides the chariot along with enough skill so as not to crash or fall behind, (Reflex Save 24 vs DC 20 = +1 point) even managing to gain a bit of ground.

Amenhep squints his eyes against the sun's piercing rays and urges the camel onward, (Perception Check 26 vs DC 20 = +2 points) and they too surge forward along the track.

Devin and Soumral both use their magic to give their friends a much-needed advantage against the leaders of the race. The half-orc summons a grease slick to slow up the chariot in front while the elf seeks to confuse and befuddle the two behind. Unfortunately the camel is quite sure-footed and doesn't slip entirely, though the grease does slow it down a bit (-1 point)!

Oddly enough, the camels are seemingly unaffected by the confusion, though the passengers react rather spectacularly! One of the drivers lets go the reins and begins to assault the passenger, who begins to babble incoherently while both the driver and passenger of the other chariot also begin spouting nonsensical words, their eyes glazed and staring.

The bard also whispers a warning to his friends so that they can maneuver to avoid the slick, as the other racers are doing seeing the leader a short distance ahead having a difficult go of it. But in the next moment, Francis and Elliancer have much more to worry about than avoiding a pool of grease on the track...

Skill Check Event 12 - Snipers in the Crowd!

Despite his temporary blindness, Francis manages to at least duck under the bolt fired by the hidden sniper when he hears Nevitash's shouted warning, and the cleric comes away unscathed.

The same, however, cannot be said of Elliander, who is thoroughly blinded and disoriented enough that he fails to see the danger and gasps as he suddenly finds a large crossbow bolt (9 damage) lodged in his shoulder - pain shooting through his chest and arm as the poison (-5 CON, -21 HP) that coated the head of the projectile courses through his bloodstream!

The confused chariots start to lose ground, though perhaps not as swiftly as Soumral might have hoped as the camels are simply charging foward along the final straightaway with no regard for the behavior of their riders. The chariot in front, despite the grease spell, manages to increase his lead a bit!

As if I'm not rolling enough dice for the field, now I've got Confusion to deal with!! :) I'm actually laughing as I was typing out the description, picturing the craziness ensuing! Since the camels are currently unaffected, but the riders are next to useless, I'm rolling a single 1d20 to see how the camel does on it's own for this bit. I'll roll probably 4 times (over the course of four rounds) for the Confusion spell in the next bit, and unless they get REALLY lucky, #1 and #7 will continue to fall farther behind or wind up in a catastrophic accident.

Elliander and Amenhep, you've got about 4 rounds to finish the race, so Elliander's second save will come AFTER you pass the finish line - but know that unless you take action either during this skill check or right after you finish the race, Elliander needs to give me that second save at that point.

Soumral and Devin, you can each take another action if you'd like, either chasing after one of the snipers OR casting another spell - your choice. After that, the racers will be past you and the snipers will be out of sight as Event #13 gets underway. Let me know your intentions.

Skill Check Event 13 - Finish Line!
Charge Ahead: Driver must make a Handle Animal or Profession [Driver] check (Very Tough DC)
AND/OR
Fake Out the Competition: Driver or passenger must make a Bluff check (Very Tough DC)

Again, note that the driver can do the first AND the passenger can do the second to get bonus points for trying to succeed at both skill checks - but these are tough DCs, so be aware that pulling off two successes like that will be a difficult proposition. Otherwise EITHER the driver can try the first option OR either the driver or passenger can do the second option instead.

Map/Guide of Tephu

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Francis has no ranks in any of the skill checks listed. Unless Nevitash does, I think we should just try for the Fake out the competition. Since I also have no ranks in Bluff I hope his Bluff is higher than mine. Can I Aid?

Aid another Bluff?: 1d20 + 3 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 2 = 10

For the race, Handle Animal (CHA) and Profession [Driver] (WIS) can be made untrained. Your 'Aid Another' is just fine as well, though it's up to Nevitash to decide which skill check he wants to make. Based on your roll and modifier for CHA and WIS, he'll get the +2 to his roll no matter which one he chooses.

@Sourmal, ok, we have 2 non-friendly chariots, #12 and #14 that have both a large lead and are not impaired... They are widely separated though, so I can't see us getting both in a area effect. I had not anticipated camels having that strong of a reflex save (+6). I am assuming their fort save is strong (it's con based after all, and a camel should have a strong con, right...) Best I can do for a will save is Glitterdust... which might be able to get the charioteers as well as the camel, and blindness should be disabling. With 170 ft of range, hopefully I can still hit them... @ GM West, what is the range to chariots #12 and #14 respectively?

Bluff+Aid: 1d20 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 9 + 2 = 24

"Runaway bull!" Nevitash screams and points towards an ally.

Decent roll with the Aid added in.

Elliander had not been expected to be shot at or poisoned. He had left his shield behind to shed weight, but as he also needs to hold on to the chariot quite often, it would have been held high anyway. Likewise, his backpack is with his friends, and he is regretting to not have put the antitoxin in his pocket or pouch as the tell-tale sign of the bolt being poisonous is felt. He instantly feels a bit weaker and almost dizzy by shock. Luckily Amenhep can steer well, as the duskblade feels a bit useless.
Bluff: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (2) - 1 = 1 SC#13 - Finish Line!
Fort Save: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (8) + 9 = 17
My CHA -1 made me pretty useless in all of these skill tests :(
Ward Crystal sucked up 1 hp from that bolt, if it matters.

@Devin, you are within range for that spell. Figure you cast Grease as the lead chariot was coming toward your position, and now you're casting Glitterdust at their backs after they charged past you in Event #12, heading into the straightaway. And Elliander, I did get that -1 to the damage for you.

@Devin: We could double up on Glitterdust, Soumral casting slightly behind your spell just after you? Maybe get any that pass the save the first time? Otherwise I'm getting mostly into spells that aren't feasible within confined spaces or that are actually pretty hazardous on the receiving end, like Create Pit. I have Grease a couple of times, but it doesn't seem to be working well, and the AoE can't be shaped.

@Sourmal, you take the runaway leaders #14 (19 points), and I take #12 (13 points), as you have the better DC.

Skill Check Event 12

Devin runs down the edge of the course, trying to keep at least one of the crossbow snipers in sight. As he does, he hurls another spell at the chariot in second place...

Move 30' standard, follow the race course to keep an eye on one of the crossbowmen
standard cast glitterdust, DC 15 on the chariot in second place #12 (13 points); a 10 ft radius should let me hit both camel and charioteers...

Bluff: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

Amenhep does his best to fake out the competition as he steers the chariot over the finish line.

Soumral goes with Devin to hit the leading chariot #14 with Glitterdust in a last attempt to foul them up before the race is over.

OK, it's been a week... Who's got next post?

Sorry, busy week for me, but I'll be posting on the weekend.

Oathday, the 17th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and pleasantly warm (about 80 degrees) with a refreshing, mild breeze.
Hour of sunrise

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Soumral and Devin both decide to help their friends win their race and let the would-be assassins go, and the pair fade into the crowd and are gone as they focus on their spellcasting. Glittering bursts explode in front of the two leaders!

Camel's Will Save vs Devin's Glitterdust: 1d20 ⇒ 14 vs DC 15 = Failed!
Driver's Will Save vs Devin's Glitterdust: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (9) + 4 = 13 vs DC 15 = Failed!
Passenger's Will Save vs Devin's Glitterdust: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12 vs DC 15 = Failed!

Camel's Will Save vs Soumral's Glitterdust: 1d20 ⇒ 10 vs DC 18 = Failed!
Driver's Will Save vs Soumral's Glitterdust: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22 vs DC 18 = Succeded!
Passenger's Will Save vs Soumral's Glitterdust: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9 vs DC 18 = Failed!

The pair watch as their magic takes hold and grin at each other before they too melt away into the crowd, the half-orc looking around for the assassins but having no luck. They hear the brays, screams and cries as the blinded charioteers and the camels try to deal with their sudden blindness in the final stretch! (imposing a -15 penalty (-5 for blind driver and another -5 for blind camel with a -5 kicker on top if they're both blinded) to their rolls in the final Event!)

Skill Check Event 13 - Finish Line!
Nevitash bellows a warning in a last ditch effort to throw off the competition (Bluff Check 24 vs DC 25 = -1 point), but it's not quite enough to help their situation and they fail to make any headway.

Elliander feels the poison coursing through his blade - and it feels like a bright, burning fire! The duskblade only slumps against the rail, barely able to croak out some kind of attempt to bluff the other riders, and the paladin reaches out to hold his friend steady, barely focusing at all (Bluff Check 18 vs DC 25 = -2 points) on trying to win the race now in his worry and concern.

The magic creates absolute bedlam at the end of the race, with passengers and drivers attacking each other or standing around babbling inanely, or even at times getting hold of their senses and futilely trying to get their camels moving again! In any case, they are unable to make any forward progress - and one of the camels viciously attacks those the other chariots that are either stalled out next to it or try to race past! But four charioteers - including the adventurers - manage to race through the chaos even as one crashes painfully into a stalled out camel that stands in the middle of the race course, a vapid look in its eyes as the driver curses and shrieks before he too loosens his hold on the reins and begins to babble crazily.

One set of charioteers afflicted by blindness drives his chariot right into the crowd, causing injuries from the looks of it, and maybe even a fatality or ten. But the driver in front, after yelling and snapping the reins of the camel that had slowed down, does a good enought job of guiding the blinded animal onward enough to win the race - mostly thanks to his tremendous lead. The other chariot in front of the heroes finishes a distant second, while Nevitash and Amenhep tie for the third and final spot - for strewn behind them all along the course is nothing but destruction and mayhem.

Elliander gasps as the pain nearly overwhelms him (See OOC below!), the poison bringing the duskblade nearly to his knees as hears the concern in the voices of Frances and Amenhep both. But then, the big black paladin is engulfed in a massive hug by what he first thinks is a bear that had jumped on him from behind. He quickly realizes it is only Muminofrah, who is kissing Amenhep across the back of his neck, his right ear and cheek, and then finally his mouth as she turns him firmly around! "Oh my champion! My dear, dear champion! You were nearly killed in that dreadful crash! What forces of evil would seek to murder those who only sought to win a chariot race and receive my gift? And your friend! He is surely mortally wounded!! Did foul assassins lay in wait along the route?! The fiends!! I will have my men search for them, but I fear they are long gone by now! Oh my champion! My dear, dear man!! Come, come with Muminofrah and I will make sure you are not hurt! We must get those clothes removed so that I can make certain of it!" Despite the tone of her voice, there is a twinkle in her eye as she pulls on his arm, her lips curved sensually.

Even has the noblewoman is trying to drag the paladin away from the scene to her private quarters, the 'winner' of the race (and his blinded passenger) ask excitedly about their reward from the bodyguards surrounding Muminofrah. The other driver and passenger that took second place look dazed as chaos and bedlam still reigns supreme among the crowd surrounding the finish line all the way back about a hundred yards to the site of the multiple crashes, with bodies strewn about, along with camels and men attacking each other under the compulsion of a magical spell. In the next moment, Devin and Soumral join their companions at the finish line.

Based on where that #1 chariot was in terms of position, I figured first camel attack would go at either #6 or #7 (since the rest where either ahead or behind), and the second attack would go at either #7 (which had stalled out) OR one of the player's camels, since they'd caught up by that point. That's why the d2 and d3 rolls!

That was a very nasty poison, and Elliander is down to a CON of 4 (could have been worse, even fatal...) with an effective 12 HP currently!

In all, it was certainly an... interesting race!! It was set up pretty much as a series of skill checks that anyone and everyone could have joined in on - and I did mention several times that you didn't have to be trained in driving a chariot to join in, and I even told you all that there would be a great variety of skills that would be tested. As it turned out, I had to come up with some off-the cuff ideas as to how to incorporate magic meant to sabotage the other riders (the idea wasn't mentioned in the adventure), and when I prepped this out I admit I hadn't really thought of that possible outcome - though perhaps I should have. Keep in mind there were definitely injuries and very likely a few fatalities among the townsfolk at the end there, which may or may not have an effect on the landscape both within the party and without - especially should Muminofrah find out about the involvement of Soumral and Devin. Let me know what actions you're taking immediately upon finishing the race. Elliander is definitely in bad shape...

Map/Guide of Tephu

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Seeing Elliander badly hurt Francis moves to him to assess his wounds. Seeing the wounds from the poisoned bolts/arrows Francis pulls his wand of lesser restoration and tries to help. If allowed?

If this is temporary Con damage the spell should restore 1d4 points. If so:
Restore Con?: 1d4 ⇒ 1
Restore Con?: 1d4 ⇒ 1
Restore Con?: 1d4 ⇒ 3
That's some crappy rolls! Can Francis continue and restore him fully?

Elliander feels weaker and weaker as the poison works its way into his body. He almost falls off the chariot when it finally stops, but thankfully Amenhep tries to steady him. Then the paladin is ‘attacked’ by that dreadful Muminofrah. Elliander has no good feelings about her at all right now, and the duskblade lands on his knees on the ground and then down on his side. His arms and legs are limp, and his intestines feel like on fire. Luckily, Francis comes to help him before Elliander loses consciousness.
”Stop the poison.” is all he can croak out, lying in a fetal position in the dust.

"That was a...crazy event." Nevitash says as he holds his own wounds.

Devin takes care to minimize any risk of him being connected to the chaotic end of the race, casting Vanish and taking advantage of an alley to discard his disguise while still invisible, before rejoining the crowd.
Then he bustles up to the finish line "What a mad end to the race! Snipers, wizards and chaos!" he exclaims as he rejoins the group, and then continues more quietly "I tried to follow one of the snipers but I lost them in the crowds..."

@ Sourmal, I would recommend a similar strategy when changing out of your disguise.

@GM West, is the poison still affecting Elliander? (Does he have to make more saves?)

This was the moment Amenhep had dreaded the most.

Having to face all the demons of the Abyss and all the undead hordes of Geb alone, with naught but his spear and his faith at his side would have been preferable to this.

Rather than give in to Muminofrah's temptation, he to see to Elliander, "Gracious lady, all else must wait. My steadfast companion looms on the brink of death, and I will not allow his passage to the Lady of Graves on my watch. If you have healers, I implore that you send one to assist Francis in tending to Elliander."

Oathday, the 17th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and pleasantly warm (about 80 degrees) with a refreshing, mild breeze.
Hour of sunrise

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Francis moves toward the stricken Elliander and uses one of his wands to good effect! With each charge expended, the pallor of the duskblade improves, until he is breathing normally and rises to his feet, albeit unsteadily. He feels quite good as new, save for the wound inflicted by the poisoned bolt!

Lesser Restoration: 1d4 ⇒ 4 CON damage restored
Lesser Restoration: 1d4 ⇒ 1 CON damage restored
Lesser Restoration: 1d4 ⇒ 3 CON damage restored

Muminofrah eyes Amenhep narrowly for a moment, then puts on an expression of gracious concern and understanding. "Of course, my dear champion. What sort of friend would you be if you left your devoted companion's side for a woman? Even for one has generous and beautiful as I? You shall be given what aid you require, but I expect to see you this evening at my private abode here in the palace. I will send word to the guards to expect you. I look forward to our... private meeting. Leave your friends behind when you come." She smiles coquettishly and gives a lascivious wink with one of her heavily kohl-painted eyes and walks away, flanked by her personal bodyguard. "See that my champion is given whatever aid he requires. And bequeath the winners of the race with their reward." She adds negligently to the seneschal that stands nearby, and he bows in acknowledgement in a simpering manner before rushing off to make the needed arrangements.

Moments later, a middle-aged, balding cleric of Pharasma arrives, using his magic to heal the minor wounds sustained, now that the poison has already been seen to before Francis used the wand to keep his friend from dying. With a nod at his fellow priest, the tall priest leaves without a further word and heads in the direction of the fracas - which appears to be dying down by now as the magic has run its course. Other clerics can be seen tending to the wounded as well, while the party shares what they saw during the race (or keeps private what they don't wish to share) even as they make their plans for the day. The eyes of Amenhep look particularly haunted, and though it is still early morning the evening looms large in his mind.

Alright then, what's the plan for today? Everyone is healed up - at least physically, spiritually there may be some ugly wounds still festering... :)

Map/Guide of Tephu

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With a quiet moment, Amenhep takes the team aside.

He is quieter than normal, the fire of faith or the warmth of kindness gone. Instead, he shows a side of himself that many of the party might not have seen before. He is anxious, and full of trepidation for what is to come, "Friends, I do not wish to do this. The hour of this trial looms large at hand, and I am not up to the task. If I spurn her this time though, we risk losing her patronage. With my spear and burning faith I can face the undead without fear but this? I am terrified. If she can sink her hooks into me I may never escape her reach. I do not know how to avoid this fate."

Francis steps up beside Amenhep, putting a consoling hand on his shoulder. "Brother, We may not worship the same God, but I think I understand enough of Ra to answer you. Isn't one of Ra's concerns in the mortal realm the rulership of the people, and the nobility? Muminofrah may have an interesting view on things, but she is the ruling nobility that is helping our quest. Perhaps you should spend the time with her teaching her about yourself, your faith and your God. That's what I would do if she had chosen me."

"You never know where the challenges in your life came from or what can come from them when you face them."

"Is she aware of the danger we are working to prevent? If so, I think she would respect your decision based on the needs of her city. If she is more concerned in distracting you, then that may indicate something sinister." Nevitash says as he considers the implications.

Go, go Inquisition!"

"Another good point Brother Nevitash. Perhaps she is distracted from the proper work that she should be doing. In that case Brother Amenhep absolutely has to attend her. Don't spurn those that need the divine guidance. She needs to know how critical our mission is here, stopping an army of undead from rising and sweeping across the desert sands of Osirion, killing everything in its path!"

"She's probably not sinister, but likely unguided. Brother Amenhep, you have to accept this quest! Meet with her and get her full sponsorship!"

Soumral blanches at the chariot running through the crowd, but take comfort in the knowledge that she wasn't the one who set up this whole ridiculous situation; that's on Muminofrah.

As soon as her spells can have no further effect on the race, Soumral ducks out of the crowd and cast Invisibility on herself. She also dismisses any of her spells that are still active on the racers.

Circling around, Soumral arrives at the finish line from the direction of the race's start. She is appalled and furious that some highly positioned factotum, probably in her position due to her advanced degree of inbreeding, would treat critical access to research resources needed to protect the place she lords over as a bauble to be won or lost in a barbaric spectacle. Humans really are the worst, cheering for their leaders' nonchalant incompetence.

She keeps her mouth shut while Muminofrah and her minions are around.

What does amuse her is Amenhep's personal crisis when he takes them aside. She can only grin at him as he explains the problem.

"You've already let her treat you like a puppet. Why quit being her plaything now? We've already surrendered our dignity. If it's about Ra and what he might think because your chastity is worth allowing cities to be destroyed, you seriously need to take your devotion elsewhere."

"If it's about getting stuck with her, trust me, she's the type who will bored with you by the time we're finished here. Someone new will catch her fancy and you'll be yesterday's news in no time. If somehow that doesn't happen, we'll just disguise you as a sack of wheat and smuggle you out of the city in a wheelbarrow."

Soumral laughs at the thought.

"One thing though, don't let yourself believe she's 'unguided'. She doesn't give a crap because she doesn't need to. Don't doubt for a second that she has an even better mansion somewhere else stocked with everything she needs to keep herself occupied just as she does here. She'll be comfortably on her barge traveling there if this city starts getting destroyed. She's just indifferent to anyone who isn't her, or isn't useful to her."

Humans and their sex hangups. Someone should write a book.

Amenhep gives a chuckle and a slight shake of his head to Soumral, "Ra has no commandments that his priests or champions be chaste. Quite the opposite in fact. His priests are urged to have large families. It is my own heart in a moment of faintness that does not wish for this. I have tried to keep my dignity, as best I could in spurning her advances."

He gives a nod to Francis, "You are astute as always, friend. Your keen wisdom steadies my passionate heart. I will try to do as you suggest, see if I can supplant her lust with a feeling of duty to our cause and to the land that has given her so much. If I can sway her heart to the teachings of the King of the Heavens, that is all the better."

Soumral thinks Amenhep is an idiot, but whatever thinking on his part it takes for him to show up is fine with her. She shrugs.

"Just know that lectures are a poor substitute for what she's expecting. Don't ruin things. She's not acquainted with the notion that she might not get her way."

Devin has no advice to give, but for the sake of party unity, he keeps a straight face rather than bursting out laughing.

Elliander gets help to get up on his feet again and to recover. He feels embarrassed for having been almost helpless, but he also feels cheated upon. It seems the team’s two chariots had been purposefully selected to be attacked. If he learns more about what Soumral and Devin did to his opponents, he doesn’t care much for the other competitors.
Likewise, with Amenhep’s doubts. While he can understand the paladin’s discomfort, they have met worse enemies in their pursuit to thwart this death cult, and they will likely have to disgrace themselves further in one way or another in the future to reach their goals. Taking part in this chariot race only had one purpose and that was to win the further approval and help from Muminofrah, so he’s not going to let Amenhep get cold feet now.
”We’re all going to have to face our fears, now and then, don’t we? You can do this, and you’ll have a good story to tell afterwards.” he encourages Amenhep.

Oathday, the 17th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and pleasantly warm (about 80 degrees) with a refreshing, mild breeze.
One hour after sunset

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After a day of enduring advice or good-nature ribbing from his friends, Amenhep is summoned by a well-oiled servant and brought to the palace grounds. He finds Muminofrah being tended to by other servants in similar attire to the messenger, but the paladin gets the impression she is depressed or perhaps wallowing in self-pity, by her expression. She is nibbling at a crocodile tongue tagine and sighing softly to herself, even after Amenhep is brought into her presence. In fact, she seems to be ignoring him for several long minutes before finally turning her attention to her chosen paramour. "Ahh... there you are. I had wondered if you would even come. I am certain my life seems to be one where all that I could possible desire is handed to me eagerly, but I assure you it is not always a bed of roses..." She trails off, then turns her gaze upon the paladin again, then pats the cushions at her side. "Come, sit with me. Amuse me, my flower. I command it."

So Amenhep, what's the plan? However you decide to proceed, give me an appropriate skill check, please. How about the rest of you? Any plans? Heading anywhere? Did you do anything this day? You could try to find the Dark Depository on your own, if you'd like - though know it would be a difficult endeavor. Just let me know how you're doing it, and give me some relevant ability checks.

Map/Guide of Tephu

--------------------------------------------

@Nevitash, while I was unable to follow the crossbow snipers who were hitting the race, I figure someone in this town might be able to shine some light on what went on (and who it was). You wanna team up to poke around ?

@Devin, I do not like getting shot at and poisoned, so finding them would be a good idea. Count me in.

Amenhep sits beside Muminofrah. He is warm but far from romantic with her, "Gracious lady, I cannot promise that the entertainment I bring you is what you are used to. I hope though, that it is a change of pace. I wish to speak to you of my god. Of Ra, the pharaoh of the dawn. I have not gone unawares that my looks and good graces have enticed you, but when I look within my heart of hearts all I find the love I have for my god and the golden embrace of my duty to him. In my dreams, all I see is fighting at his side as he ferries the spirits of the faithful from the River of Souls to the Field of Reeds on the slopes of Heaven."

He pauses, turning to her, truly showing concern as he asks her, "I can tell you are discontented. Luxury is a thing of wonder when indulged in with moderation. Perhaps you have lived for too long without purpose beyond indulgence. If you will accept, I can teach you of Ra. Share with you the golden embrace of duty, help you find meaning beyond the splendor in which you live. There are things in life that you cannot be given by those whom you serve."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (11) + 13 = 24

Devin finds Nevitash in a private corner, and speaks quietly, with a grin sneaking onto his face: "Friend Amenhep is busy I think, so we are at loose ends.". He casts a glance about to ensure there is no one placed to overhear, and continues in a more serious tone "I am curious about the men firing poisoned crossbow bolts into the race. Although I expect much trouble from betting syndicates attempting to pick a winner, given the looseness of the rules, that seemed over the top. Particularly as they were aiming at drivers, not the more easily wounded unarmored camels. It is also curious that the bolts were only aimed at those racers from our company... Although I was not able to follow the shooters, I do not think such an operation could pass unnoticed in the less upright parts of this town. Let's see if anyone can tell us anything..."

To begin with, Devin will load his ring with Ears of the City from his scroll, and then will find a dimly lit place to cast the spell, gather information...

1) Where did the crossbowmen slip away to?
Perception: 1d20 + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 = 30
7 ranks +3 trained +5 eyes of the eagle +2 dimdweller
2) What does anyone know about these mysterious crossbowmen? Perception: 1d20 + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 = 25
3) Who would have the low down on the crossbowmen? Perception: 1d20 + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 = 33
4) Were the local syndicates trying to rig the betting on race? Perception: 1d20 + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 = 34
5) Are the syndicates looking to find the crossbowmen?
Perception: 1d20 + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 = 26
6) Would the syndicates be willing to share information about the crossbowmen?
Perception: 1d20 + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 = 19
7) Who should we approach about getting information from the syndicates?
Perception: 1d20 + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 7 + 3 + 5 + 2 = 23

Elliander sees Devin and Nevitash distancing themselves to likely do some hush-hush things. He guesses he has to trust them, but it still feels strange to him.
With Amenhep also otherwise occupied, he turns to Francis and Soumral: ”What now? Do we just wait to see if Muminofrah swallows Amenhep whole or eventually spits him out? Shall we go back to the inn and rest, or investigate more on our own? Is it worth it trying to get inside the Great Library again? Go looking for a temple where clerics might know about this mysterious Dark Depository? Any arcane hub around here, Soumral, where sages and wizards might hang out that we can ask? ”

Oathday, the 17th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and pleasantly warm (about 80 degrees) with a refreshing, mild breeze.
One hour after sunset

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Muminofrah's eyes bulge dangerously as Amenhep speaks, but the palading presses forward, hoping to change her mind. Alas, THIS is not the kind of amusement she was looking for. "You!! You... You dare to call me over indulged? You wish to 'enlighten' me as to the teachings of Ra and introduce me to duty?!" Her dusky skin is flushed now with outrage, and the slaves cower in the corners of the tent. "I am The Fan Bearer on the Right Side of the King, you pitiful man! Leave!! Leave now or I will have you thrown to the crocodiles that lurk in the reeds!"

Devin doesn't find out much about the crossbowmen, except that they did not seem to have anything to do with the race itself. None of the heavy weight bettors had any wagers that would have put the adventurers in jeopardy - in fact, there were a fair number of bets in their favor. But still, most of what he 'hears' is that the mysterious snipers were just that - a complete mystery. There is, however, one interesting rumor he gets wind of that indicates the assassins might be members of a notorious cabal that normally works far to the north of Osirion. A group called The Unspoken, who are said to cut out their own tongues so that they can betray no secrets pertaining to those that employ them.

Amenhep, are you leaving with alacrity? Or trying to change her mind? Anyone else doing anything with their day?

Map/Guide of Tephu

--------------------------------------------

Francis hears Elliander but it is almost like a voice in a crowd. He is thinking of the race. It had been dangerous enough without the snipers, but with them.... "I just wonder who was behind the snipers. Somebody could have been killed. Not likely us with our skills and magic, but still. Is it possible that she would have tried? I know she doesn't want us to find out more, not likely that she wants us to have access to the Dark Depository!"

"Oh, sorry. I doubt there's anything more that we could find at the library, and Deka An-Keret would block anything helpful from the temple, if she even let's any of the other clergy in on her secret! But, checking with arcane casters? That might work. I'd bet good coin that there are some that dislike the strangle hold the Deka has on information, especially with something like the 'Great Library'!"

Elliander nods. Having seen the Great Library dominating part of the Old Town, he reckons that Francis is probably right. The influence of the haty-a would probably reach outside the library to the temples too.

”So, where do we start looking? That academy behind the library? The inn is likely more for out-of-towners, but maybe we can find some local willing to talk at the large hammam?”

Devin tries to do a bit of research, to figure out if there is a local (ie in Tephu) contact for The Unspoken...

@GM West any rolls you want?