Henrika stumbles for a moment, but with a burst of heroic fortitude, she manages to barely resist the spell by the skin of her teeth.
As Merkondus moves away, Jack whirls on the bodyguard between him and Ichabod, and expertly slices at him with his falchion.
Round 2
The lore warden was going to bark a challenge to surrender to the unarmed bodyguard, but Malphene was shocked to suddenly find a hound archon clawing into the unarmed protector.
I was going to offer surrender! Not cut her down in cold blood! Malphene cried internally.
The towering Trant could only think of one option: knock the poor woman out, she will no longer be a threat.
Malphene raises her magical longsword high and brings the hilt down on the (yellow) bodyguard's head.
Round 2
Trevor notices another (blue) bodyguard closing with Malphene. The cleric steps over, out of melee and casts hold person on the defender.
Round 2
Malphene hits the bodyguard over the head but she only succeeds in angering her. The bodyguard does not understand Celestial to know what Malphene is saying. But she turns her head and says, ”Why you little b%!*#! I’m going to punch the teeth right out of your face!”
The other bodyguard feels her body paralyzing but she flexes her muscles and rejects the mental intrusion. ”Did you just try to paralyze me?” she questions, looking directly at Trevor. ”You’re going to get a hammer to the head for that.”
Jack takes advantage of Icabhod’s aid and slashes the flanked bodyguard three times and finally brings her down.
The unarmed guard grabs onto Malphene and punches her in the mouth.
True to her word, the bodyguard that resisted the hold person takes a step towards Trevor and clobbers him in the head with her hammer. The silver lining is that the blow knocks Trevor out of reach of her backswing, sparing him from a second painful strike.
Round 2
Initiative
13 – Icabhod (61/61 hp) (Flat-Footed)
11 – Henrika (84/75 hp)
02 – Xallis (67/67 hp)
02 – Hound Archon (51/51 hp)
Round 3
Initiative
32 – Tychus (65/65 hp)
20 – Earl Merkondus (7 damage)
20 – Malphene (50/50 hp/6 non-lethal) (Flat-Footed, Grappled)
19 – Trevor (34/63 hp)
19 – Falchion Jack (51/58 hp)
18 – Brawny Bodyguard (Yellow) (36 damage/6 nonlethal) (Grappling)
18 – Brawny Bodyguard (Blue)
13 – Icabhod (61/61 hp) (Flat-Footed)
11 – Henrika (84/75 hp)
02 – Xallis (67/67 hp)
02 – Hound Archon (51/51 hp)
Active Spells/Effects
Henrika: ▲Falise Life (9 hp, 6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Displacement (7 rd), ▲Haste (7 rd)
Icabhod: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (7 rd), ▼Glorious Epic (Flat-Footed)
Trevor: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Tychus: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Divine Favor (+2, 8 rd), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Xallis: ▲Mage Armor (6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (7 rd)
Navia: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (8 rd), ▼Glorious Epic (Flat-Footed)
Jack: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Mesmeric Mirror (1 image, 8 min), ▲Bull’s Strength (3 min), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Malphene: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Glorious Epic (Flat-Footed)
Yander Merkondus: ▲Mirror Image (1 image) ▲Glorious Epic, ▼Hypnotic Stare (-3 Will)
Brawny Bodyguard (Yellow): ▼Aura of Menace (-2 attack and AC)
Icabhod, Henrika, Xallis, and Tychus go.
Henrika narrows her eyes at the disgraced earl. Since she sees very well that he is protected by mirror images, she decides not to pull her swings for now. She steps behind him and swipes once, twice, thrice in quick succession with her sword, attempting to bring him to his knees.
Round 2
Xallis nods towards Malphine. "Fair enough, we'll take them alive then!" He nods to his summoned archon to confirm the Dame's orders before casting a spell in an attempt to disarm another bodyguard.
Round 2
The hound archon barks an affirmative before continuing the assault, this time with the flat of his blade. His teeth chomp towards the thick parts of his target's armor, hoping to bruise and exhaust instead of drawing blood.
Round 2
Henrika destroys the Earl’s last mirror image, then with no more illusions to protect him, she finally lands a solid hit. He screams in pain. ”I am backed by the true emperor, Maxillar Pythareus! If you kill me, you will all hang when he ascends to the throne.”
Xallis greases the bodyguard’s weapon in an attempt to get her to drop it but she refuses to let go.
The hound archon smacks the grappling bodyguard in the back and bites into her shoulder but the woman does not let go of Malphene. She turns her head slightly. ”Back off beast! I’ll get to you.”
Round 2
Initiative
13 – Icabhod (61/61 hp) (Flat-Footed)
11 – Henrika (84/75 hp)
02 – Xallis (67/67 hp)
02 – Hound Archon (51/51 hp)
Round 3
Initiative
32 – Tychus (65/65 hp)
20 – Earl Merkondus (39 damage)
20 – Malphene (50/50 hp/6 non-lethal) (Flat-Footed, Grappled)
19 – Trevor (34/63 hp)
19 – Falchion Jack (51/58 hp)
18 – Brawny Bodyguard (Yellow) (36 damage/31 nonlethal) (Grappling)
18 – Brawny Bodyguard (Blue)
13 – Icabhod (61/61 hp) (Flat-Footed)
11 – Henrika (84/75 hp)
02 – Xallis (67/67 hp)
02 – Hound Archon (51/51 hp)
Active Spells/Effects
Henrika: ▲Falise Life (9 hp, 6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Displacement (6 rd), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Icabhod: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (7 rd), ▼Glorious Epic (Flat-Footed)
Trevor: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Tychus: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Divine Favor (+2, 8 rd), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Xallis: ▲Mage Armor (6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Navia: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (8 rd), ▼Glorious Epic (Flat-Footed)
Jack: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Mesmeric Mirror (1 image, 8 min), ▲Bull’s Strength (3 min), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Malphene: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Glorious Epic (Flat-Footed)
Yander Merkondus: ▲Glorious Epic, ▼Hypnotic Stare (-3 Will)
Brawny Bodyguard (Yellow): ▼Aura of Menace (-2 attack and AC)
Icabhod and Tychus still go.
Icabhod rushes up and flanks one of the bodyguards that is flanking Malphene
Round 3
With Merkondus sufficiently sandwiched between Jack and Henrika, Tychus shifts his attention to the bodyguard, where his lethal damage would be less of a liability.
Round 2
Icabhod rushes over to the bodyguard and jabs her in the side with the hilt of his rapier. The woman grunts and takes the hit.
[ooc[Icabhod hits Brawny Bodyguard (Blue) for 20 non-lethal damage.[/ooc]
Round 3
Tychus wraps around the room and shoots the same bodyguard.
Earl Merkondus switches tunes and begins mocking you all viciously. ”You got in some lucky hits, but you are all talentless hacks. Unskilled fools, tripping over your own weapons. I’ll get the last laugh yet.”
Then Earl Merkondus casts a spell that dominates Jack’s will. ”Join me. I need a new bodyguard.” Jack’s eyes glaze over and he looks at Henrika as if she is now an enemy. The Earl then takes a step by Jack’s side.
Round 3
Initiative
32 – Tychus (65/65 hp)
20 – Earl Merkondus (39 damage)
20 – Malphene (50/50 hp/6 non-lethal) (Grappled)
19 – Trevor (34/63 hp)
19 – Falchion Jack (51/58 hp) (Dominated)
18 – Brawny Bodyguard (Yellow) (36 damage/31 nonlethal) (Grappling)
18 – Brawny Bodyguard (Blue) (20 damage/20 nonlethal)
13 – Icabhod (61/61 hp)
11 – Henrika (84/75 hp)
02 – Xallis (67/67 hp)
02 – Hound Archon (51/51 hp)
Active Spells/Effects
Henrika: ▲Falise Life (9 hp, 6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Displacement (6 rd), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Satire
Icabhod: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Satire
Trevor: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Satire
Tychus: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Divine Favor (+2, 7 rd), ▲Haste (5 rd), ▼Satire
Xallis: ▲Mage Armor (6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Satire
Jack: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Mesmeric Mirror (1 image, 8 min), ▲Bull’s Strength (3 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Dominate Person (9 days), ▼Satire
Malphene: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Satire
Yander Merkondus: ▲Satire, ▼Hypnotic Stare (-3 Will)
Brawny Bodyguard (Yellow): ▼Aura of Menace (-2 attack and AC)
Since Jack is dominated, just Trevor and Malphene go.
Round 3
"Unhand my fiance! You..!" Trevor barked, unable to swear in front of a lady; even one trying to straggle his beloved.
Round 3
Malphene roars as she's being accosted by two of the bodyguard.
"Knock..It..OFF!" The lore ward still tries to knock the (yellow) bodyguard out so she won't die by the archon's claws.
Round 3
Malphene beats at the woman holding her but barely harms her.
Trevor stabs his attacker once. But his head must still be reeling because his other attacks are way off.
The bodyguard (yellow) grappling Malphene releases her and shoves her away. ”Pathetic!” She draws a small handaxe from her hip and swings it at the hound archon.
Although protected by its natural resistances, the bodyguard still hits the hound archon hard enough to leave a mark.
”You may be pulling your punches, but I won’t!” The other bodyguard closes the gap between her and Xallis and pulverizes him with two power attacks of her hammer.
Round 3
Initiative
32 – Tychus (65/65 hp)
20 – Earl Merkondus (39 damage)
20 – Malphene (50/50 hp/6 non-lethal)
19 – Trevor (34/63 hp)
19 – Falchion Jack (51/58 hp)
18 – Brawny Bodyguard (Yellow) (36 damage/34 non-lethal)
18 – Brawny Bodyguard (Blue) (20 damage/30 non-lethal)
13 – Icabhod (61/61 hp)
11 – Henrika (84/75 hp)
02 – Xallis (16/67 hp)
02 – Hound Archon (38/51 hp)
Round 4
Initiative
32 – Tychus (65/65 hp)
Active Spells/Effects
Henrika: ▲False Life (9 hp, 6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Displacement (6 rd), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Crushing Despair (9 min), ▼Satire
Icabhod: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Satire
Trevor: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (5 rd), ▼Satire
Tychus: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Divine Favor (+2, 7 rd), ▲Haste (5 rd), ▼Satire
Xallis: ▲Mage Armor (6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Satire
Jack: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Mesmeric Mirror (1 image, 8 min), ▲Bull’s Strength (3 min), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Crushing Despair (9 min), ▼Satire
Malphene: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (5 rd), ▼Satire
Yander Merkondus: ▲Satire, ▼Hypnotic Stare (-3 Will)
Jack, Icabhod, Henrika, Xallis and Tychus can go.
Jack frowns as he experiences a demoralizing wave. He looks briefly at Henrika to confirm that she, too, is affected. When she nods encouragingly at him, he shrugs and moves quickly around the couch in the center of the room to get behind Merkondus. Once there, he attempts to cover the disgraced earl's face with his hands, pulling his headband down over his eyes. "Guess who!" he chuckles, though his joke rings hollowly through his magically-dampened spirits.
Henrika cooly examines Merkondus, shaking off the effects of his enchantment. She makes a quick decision not to try to knock him out, reasoning that they have enough evidence against him and that he will never repent of his actions, and it is barely possible that they will be able to convince the bodyguards to stop fighting if their employer is incapacitated. Pythareus is a concern, she thinks, but she doubts that sparing the disgraced earl will affect his opposition to Eutropia's ascension. Instead, she swings her sword implacably at their enemy.
Icabhod bonk bonks the barbarian in between him and Xallis
Confirming
Round 3
Xallis' form shudders and trembles under the thunderous assault of his opponent. With a bruised face and bloody nose, he shakes his head. "You'll have to fight smarter than that..."
Shaking hands barely weave the spell as Xallis vanishes from sight. Under the cover of invisibility, he moves out of the melee.
Round 3
Without further orders, the hound simply continues the assault.
Round 3
Jack covers Merkondus’ eyes. ”Hey! Get off of me!” he protests.
With Jack’s hands over his eyes, he can’t see Henrika’s attacks. Henrika tears the man open with three cross-slashes. At the end of her assault, the man is no longer alive.
The hound archon hits the bodyguard facing it with the flat of its sword.
At the end of the round, the remaining bodyguards are both badly bruised and see that their employer has fallen. They throw down their weapons and raise their hands in surrender. ”We surrender. It was just a paid gig. No hard feelings. We failed at our job. There’s no point in continuing.”
Combat Over
Current Status
Henrika (84/75 hp)
Icabhod (61/61 hp)
Trevor (34/63 hp)
Tychus (65/65 hp)
Xallis (16/67 hp)
Falchion Jack (51/58 hp)
Malphene (50/50 hp/6 non-lethal)
Hound Archon (38/51 hp)
Brawny Bodyguard (Yellow) (36 damage/47 non-lethal)
Brawny Bodyguard (Blue) (20 damage/37 non-lethal)
Active Spells/Effects
Henrika: ▲False Life (9 hp, 6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Displacement (6 rd), ▲Haste (6 rd), ▼Crushing Despair (9 min)
Icabhod: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (5 rd)
Trevor: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (5 rd)
Tychus: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Divine Favor (+2, 7 rd), ▲Haste (5 rd)
Xallis: ▲Mage Armor (6 hr), ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Invisibility (8 min), ▲Haste (6 rd)
Jack: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Mesmeric Mirror (1 image, 8 min), ▲Bull’s Strength (3 min), ▲Haste (5 rd), ▼Crushing Despair (9 min)
Malphene: ▲Bless (8 min), ▲Haste (5 rd)
You collect the equipment from the Earl and the bodyguards. The bodyguards have been working with Earl Merkondus for a long time and are familiar with his magical items and will tell you what everything is without needed to identify them.
Yander Merkondus had:
Potions of Barkskin (x2)
Scroll of Cure Serious Wounds
Wand of Bear’s Endurance (10 Charges)
Wand of Shield (30 charges)
Mithral Shirt
Masterwork Light Crossbow
Masterwork Rapier
Cloak of the Mountbank
Ring of Mind Shielding
Noble’s Outfit
50 gp
The three bodyguards had a total of:
Potion of Bull’s Strength (x3)
Potion of Cure Moderate Wounds (x3)
Powerhouse Pelt (x3)
+1 Earthbreaker (x3)
Masterwork Handaxe (x3)
Amulet of Natural Armor +1 (x3)
Cloak of Resistance +1 (x3)
Entertainer’s Outfit (x3)
The letters that Yander Merkondus was trying to pack away are several letters between himself and Maxillar Pythareus. Although these letters aren’t enough to formally accuse Maxillar Pythareus of backing Yander’s villainy in Yanmass, they make it clear that Pythareus was at least aware of, and perhaps even complicit in, the earl’s schemes.
It’s not long before the city watch catches up to you and arrives on the scene. They arrest the two bodyguards and send a runner back down to fetch others to recover the bodies. They thank you for your assistance with this matter and curse the Earl’s name for all the troubles he caused the city. They do not disapprove of his death. They also tell you that they will take care of the report to the Mercantile Council. You can go about your business. Unless you’d rather return to the Council personally. They won’t object.
For dealing with Earl Merkondus, you achieve a new triumph and each of your relics gets stronger.
Henrika
Another randomly chosen gem repairs itself. The red gem repairs itself. This gem protects against fire effects. In addition, the wielder of the sword gains a +1 insight bonus on all saving throws against effects of any type corresponding to one of the sword’s functioning gems. So a +1 insight bonus on saves against mind-affecting affects, negative energy, and fire.
Icabhod
The subtle mask’s enhancement bonus to Charisma increases to +4. (From +2.)
Trevor
The envoy ring’s competence bonus on Diplomacy, Linguistics, and Perform checks increases to +5. (From +3.)
Tychus
Dignity’s Barb increases from a +2 seeking darkwood repeating crossbow to a +3 seeking darkwood repeating crossbow. In addition, you can now use its ability to roll twice to confirm a critical hit at will! (Instead of twice per day).
Xallis
For the Standard of Conquest, once per day, the standard bearer can activate the banner to teleport himself and up to five allies who are within 10 feet of him. This functions as dimension door, and each transported creature must arrive within 10 feet of the Standard of Conquest.
From here, I’m going to give you some downtime for another Persona Phase. And then after, you can plan how you want to deal with the Cult of the Twilight Child.
I'm also giving everyone one hero point for the achievement.
At the end of the round, the remaining bodyguards are both badly bruised and see that their employer has fallen. They throw down their weapons and raise their hands in surrender. ”We surrender. It was just a paid gig. No hard feelings. We failed at our job. There’s no point in continuing.”
Malphene takes charge of the bodyguards and directs them to sit down against a wall unarmed. "Hands where I can see them. Alright ladies, as many of have already guessed; we decidedly went easy on you!"
The lore warden dramatically points at the (yellow) bodyguard she fought with the archon. "You! I was trying to knock you out so the celestial wouldn't tear you to shreds! Despite your clear intention on killing my fiance's coterie..I liked what I saw. You ladies handled yourself well in battle. And I understand how hard it is in Opparan society on those who don't fit a certain gender standard."
The lore warden tone softened.
"I am Dame Malphene Trant. The caydenite with the sexy eyes is my fiance, Sir Trevor Kastner. May I please know your names?"
Trevor looks on puzzled by Malphene's actions.
Malphene can have this interaction at the barracks.
While Malphene visits the bodyguards in the holding cell, Trevor has Jack lay down and rest while the cleric tends to his affliction.
"Do you to hear something bizarre? Malphene told me she's trying to recruit those brawny ladies..as bridemaids!" Trevor sighs in amazement. "The wedding is all Malphene wants to talk about lately."
Henrika cleans off her blade and examines the papers that Merkondus was trying to collect. "Interesting," she says. "While it is obvious that Maxillar Pythareus would be opposed to our cause, based on these letters it seems likely that he is willing to engage in dishonorable tactics to do it, such as working with Merkondus to sabotage our efforts. This is valuable intelligence, though I am not sure what may be done with it." She shrugs. "Perhaps our noble benefactor will have some insights."
That evening, Henrika calls a gathering of all of her agents in Yanmass, where she proceeds to explain what they have learned about the forces opposing Eutropia, and to celebrate their victories so far. "Those in the city who had been working with Earl Merkondus will be at loose ends, now that their employer has been disgraced and executed. We might try to woo them to our side. Let us spread the word that we are recruiting patriotic Taldanes to the cause, and see who we find amenable?"
Jack winces as Trevor tends to the affliction beneath his skin. "Uh, well, if the only thing she cares about is having more ladies like her at the event, maybe she could do worse in her choices. Ha! Ow." He shakes his head. "Who knows, maybe she can make friends with them? I've seen stranger brawls. As long as you have lots of wine at your wedding, I bet they won't be hard to convince."
Trevor let Jack see a truly mischevious grin. "Well, maybe not so much at the wedding ceremony. Malphene wanted an Abadaran weddings. Which makes sense. Two noble houses merging, and all that. But I got to choose the venue for the wedding reception. The Kostners and I have booked Cayden's Mug in Grandbridge! Open bar! Buffet! Several bards to entertain! And after a certain point in the night, we'll open the doors to the public if the so choose!" The cleric let out a muffled chuckled. "Outside of Queen Eutropia's cornation, my wedding is looking to be the Event of the Year!"
Henrika cleans off her blade and examines the papers that Merkondus was trying to collect. "Interesting," she says. "While it is obvious that Maxillar Pythareus would be opposed to our cause, based on these letters it seems likely that he is willing to engage in dishonorable tactics to do it, such as working with Merkondus to sabotage our efforts. This is valuable intelligence, though I am not sure what may be done with it." She shrugs. "Perhaps our noble benefactor will have some insights."
Tychus takes a few strides to peer over Henrika's shoulder at the documents.
"I have no doubts these documents will come in handy when it comes time for Eutropia to make a push on her claims. We need to de-legitimize Pythareus in any way we can."
Trevor let Jack see a truly mischevious grin. "Well, maybe not so much at the wedding ceremony. Malphene wanted an Abadaran weddings. Which makes sense. Two noble houses merging, and all that. But I got to choose the venue for the wedding reception. The Kostners and I have booked Cayden's Mug in Grandbridge! Open bar! Buffet! Several bards to entertain! And after a certain point in the night, we'll open the doors to the public if the so choose!" The cleric let out a muffled chuckled. "Outside of Queen Eutropia's cornation, my wedding is looking to be the Event of the Year!"
Tychus does his best not to appear too excited.
"In all honesty, after all we've been through these past months, a rowdy wedding sounds like a treat. Which is odd coming from me. That's usually the last place I'd want to be...!"
Henrika cleans off her blade and examines the papers that Merkondus was trying to collect. "Interesting," she says. "While it is obvious that Maxillar Pythareus would be opposed to our cause, based on these letters it seems likely that he is willing to engage in dishonorable tactics to do it, such as working with Merkondus to sabotage our efforts. This is valuable intelligence, though I am not sure what may be done with it." She shrugs. "Perhaps our noble benefactor will have some insights."
"I certainly hope so..." Xallis says as he becomes visible, looking worse for wear. "Feels like we really earned this one."
Later that evening, after significant healing and relaxation, Xallis pens a letter.
To my dear brother Faribus Livara.
I write to ask about how our Project is going. Some time has passed, and I know you are dedicated to practicing your craft, so I presume there has been little difficulty. I also presume you've taken to the task with a gentler hand than usual? This is no stray devil to be brutalized and branded, after all. I'm looking far into the future, and I know you sometimes mistake harshness for stoicism.
Speaking of harshness, how is your eidolon doing? Is the Prisoner learning his lessons in obedience? I presume he's become much more talented with that comically oversized blade you had forged for him. Perhaps he's grown into it? Perhaps we should pit our eidolons against one another, like when we were younger. Navia misses our silly old rivalry, and fondly regards her old sparring partner whenever I mention you.
Keep me updated. I'm currently relaxing in between saving the city and winning over the local nobles, so I have a small amount of free time.
May our fortunes rise and our legacy shine,
~Sir Xallis Livara
Tychus does his best not to appear too excited.
"In all honesty, after all we've been through these past months, a rowdy wedding sounds like a treat. Which is odd coming from me. That's usually the last place I'd want to be...!"
The cleric smirks as he glances at the crossbow expert over his shoulder.
"Why, Brother Tychus! I do believe I am having a positive influence on you! Jack and I will have to take you drinking one of these nights!Praise Be to Cayden!!"
"I am Dame Malphene Trant. The caydenite with the sexy eyes is my fiance, Sir Trevor Kastner. May I please know your names?"
The two women look at each other questioningly and the nod in unison. ”I’m Hildr Ottordottr and this is Sarana Ottordottr. Fortunately for you, the other woman you killed, was not related, otherwise, this conversation would be different. I’m not sure why you’d want to extend this offer to us after we just tried to kill you, but if it keeps us out of prison, we’ll play nice.”
And I understand how hard it is in Opparan society on those who don't fit a certain gender standard."
”We are of Ulfen ancestry. In Avistan, our physique is prized. Yet Ulfens have a history in Taldor. Although not native to these lands, this country’s emperors have long employed us into a position of prestige, the Ulfen Guard, the emperor’s personal protectors. But you speak truly, outside of the Palace, our strength goes unappreciated except by a small few.”
”We are neutral in this country’s politics. Earl Merkondus paid us well and we enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle, receiving the same upscale treatment that he did. His business was his own. We were only hired bodyguards. Working for agents of Pythareus or Eutropia makes no difference.”
The watch captain looks to Trevor. ”If you are willing to vouch for them, you’ve done enough for this city that we’ll trust your judgement. We’ll leave them in your care.”
Later that evening, after significant healing and relaxation, Xallis pens a letter.
To my dear brother Xallis Livara
The Project is going well. As you surmised, I do prefer a heavier hand, but I have behaved and so has the subject. His sister insists that he is well cared for despite their enmity and although the bonds between the two have not improved, it has made him more receptive to working with me. I sense that Martella yearns for a resolution beyond imprisonment. When you return, we can negotiate terms for his release.
As for my eidolon. It grows ever stronger as does its temperament. I enjoy pitting my will against its own even though the outcome is inevitable. It is amusing that it thinks it may one day best me. I would gladly accept a friendly challenge upon our reunion. I wonder what form Navia will be in when next we meet. You always did have a fondness for rearranging her.
I look forward to seeing you soon,
Faribus
Persona Phase
So at level 9, you can go up to 18 total Ranks (and 36 agents).
I didn’t enforce this previously, but technically you weren’t supposed to be able to get Ranks higher than your current level, but I have decided that I am going to enforce it for Rank 10. So please wait until you are level 10 before attempting to increase a Rank 9 to Rank 10. Pick something else for this phase.
Henrika
Henrika finds that Earl Merkondus’ remaining agents are open to new employment and sways two of them to join her side.
Henrika’s Charm Facet increases from Rank 6 to Rank 7. She gains two additional agents. And her skill bonus on Bluff and Diplomacy increases to +4.
"I am Dame Malphene Trant. The caydenite with the sexy eyes is my fiance, Sir Trevor Kastner. May I please know your names?"The two women look at each other questioningly and the nod in unison. ”I’m Hildr Ottordottr and this is Sarana Ottordottr. Fortunately for you, the other woman you killed, was not related, otherwise, this conversation would be different. I’m not sure why you’d want to extend this offer to us after we just tried to kill you, but if it keeps us out of prison, we’ll play nice.”
"Hildr. Sarana." Malphene nods at each of them. "Sisters?"
And I understand how hard it is in Opparan society on those who don't fit a certain gender standard."”We are of Ulfen ancestry. In Avistan, our physique is prized. Yet Ulfens have a history in Taldor. Although not native to these lands, this country’s emperors have long employed us into a position of prestige, the Ulfen Guard, the emperor’s personal protectors. But you speak truly, outside of the Palace, our strength goes unappreciated except by a small few.”
”We are neutral in this country’s politics. Earl Merkondus paid us well and we enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle, receiving the same upscale treatment that he did. His business was his own. We were only hired bodyguards. Working for agents of Pythareus or Eutropia makes no difference.”
The watch captain looks to Trevor. ”If you are willing to vouch for them, you’ve done enough for this city that we’ll trust your judgement. We’ll leave them in your care.”
Trevor nods. "We will take responsibility, good sir."
The watch captain takes his keys, and unlocks the cell door. "Splendid!" Malphene beams. Turning to her fiance, the lore warden asks. "Darling, can we go to a tavern and get some drinks for these ladies. Then, we'll go and get my new bridesmaids fitted for dresses!!"
Tychus sets aside some time to confer with Chief Enumerator Palliettor. He brings up the fact that confronting the Cult would be the most dangerous part of their journey here. He lists out some of the benefits of having some extra protection, hoping that the Chief Enumerator would be willing to help fund some extra protection for the party.
Persona Phase
Tychus
Tychus arranges for some Abadarran guards to accompany the party when they infiltrate the Encircling Bower.
Since everyone was leveling up and it was the weekend, I’ll give the rest of the party another day to get their Persona actions in. Then, I’ll continue.
"Jack..", the cleric tells the half-orc, seemingly stumbling over his words. "We seem to be of similar minds. In particular, our shared spirit of drink and comradery. I do love my coterie family very much..but we don't seem to..", Trevor paused. "Mesh well. Likely due to my religious stand on things. Fellow nobles, of course. But also very lawful in mindset. To my knowledge none of them have expressed an interest in becoming my Best Man. I like you, Jack. You have a good caydenite soul about you. And I would like to ask you to be my Best man at my wedding."
A few nights later...
Xallis sits back in his chair, a bead of sweat coming from his brow. The soft glow of a magically lit trinket illuminates his workspace. A soft sigh of relief escapes him and he reviews his work.
"Is it finished?" Navia asked as she approaches from behind. Her form had been recently modified, with sharpened teeth and thickened skin for combat, and bioluminescent frills for decor. All the better for the upcoming wedding.
Xallis smiles and holds up his completed work. A pair of open-toed black slippers with stockings that go halfway up the ankles. "It's funny, really. I've spent so much time weaving your form that the process of creating little trinkets almost feels second nature.
The giddy eidolon accepts her gift and puts them on, taking a few practice steps. [b]"Huh. My lefts feel... lighter than they were before. I bet it's working. I'm gonna go test these out, maybe play a prank on the staff!" Her frills twinkle in the light for a moment before she vanishes from Xallis' sight. A soft giggle is the only sign he has of her leaving the room.
Persona Phase
In light of the recent plague of nightmares, Xallis sees fit to give a lecture on divs. Combat techniques, signs that one's dreams may be infiltrated, and other such ways to detect fiendish infiltration.
Developing Persona: Give Lecture (DC 29)
Jack chortles. "Aye, paint me a sign that reads 'Here is Jack, the Best Man in the Room!' an' I'll stand wherever you like!" He coughs as he tries to catch his breath, and sits up a little more. "Listen, sir knight, you got me at a disadvantage here, because I'm in your debt. Of course I'll stand for you, but I'd be buggered if I didn't treat it as deadly serious, an' that means being forthright with you."
He pauses and looks Trevor in the eye. "I'm an avowed bachelor, sirrah-- though I love the wenches and they love me, I will not be buried with horns upon my head, and so I must needs go to my grave unaffiliated. You ask if I will support your alliance with Dame Trant: a fierce, lovely woman, and a merry. So, do you invite me to be your second in this duel of love as an honest man should do, for my simple true judgment? Or would you have me speak after my custom, as being a professed tyrant to their sex? Is it you or the lady who wants this marriage? Are you sure you want to constrain your freedom in this way?"
The cleric turns around to see if Malphene or Henrika is nearby.
In a very low voice, Trevor whispers, "As a caydenite, I feel the same. If it were up to me, I'd stay a bachelor all by days: being one of those old, sad unmarried men, chasing tail old enough to be my daughter.
But I am a Kastner. I know my responsibilities to The Family. Malphene adores me, and I her. Besides, after a few years, my wife and I could discreetly open the marriage." Trevor ended with a shrug.
"Thank you for taking on the role, dear Jack", Trevor answered again in a pronounced tone. "I would leave the events of the Bachelor Party to you, though I would recommend a visit to a Calistrian temple", Trevor smirked, tapping the side of his nose.
Persona phase
Seeing how beings like the Div and Medusa have taken to lairing in abandoned buildings, Icabhod drafts several letters and speeches to present to the government so these places can be properly cleared out and perhaps even demolished so to reduce the threat to the people
Hero point
Persona Phase
Xallis
Xallis books a lecture hall at the Yanmass library to give a presentation on divs. Xallis is disappointed by the small crowd that shows up; maybe a dozen interested scholars. At the end of his speech, Xallis looks out at the audience and sees that most of the crowd has already left. Of those that remain, two men are sleeping and a single old man in the front row claps slowly.
Icabhod
Icabhod gets in touch with the Mercantile Council and they agree with Icabhod’s assessment that the abandoned buildings in and around Yanmass need to be cleared out and then monitored more frequently. Icabhod proves to be very knowledgeable in this field and provides invaluable information that the Council uses to draft new orders for the Taldan Horse regiment.
Icabhod's agents working the market hand over 17 gold that they've earned.
Trevor
Trevor spends most of his time making wedding plans.
Lamashan 19, 4718 (Fireday) (Yanmass, Taldor)
Finally, you are ready to infiltrate the Encircling Bower. Your goal is to determine the authenticity of the man claiming to be Prince Carrius and if real, rescue him and reunite him with his older sister, Princess Eutropia.
Since the Cult of the Twilight Child holds sermons every night, you determine it would be safer to perform this infiltration during the day when there is no crowd.
Once an imposing circular edifice, the brick arches and stone ornaments of this large theater are now scarcely visible beneath climbing rose, grapevines, and ivy—and this jumbled mass of foliage may be the only thing preventing the venerable theater from simply collapsing. The stone marquee set between the two entrances bears the nearly illegible text: “The Encircling Bower Welcomes You into Its Embrace.”
You know the general layout of the public areas from Julania’s previous attendance of a ceremony.
The building has an east and a west entrance that are nearly identical.
A stout brick archway leads to a short passage into the theater ten feet wide. Stone ornaments on the brick are carved to look like leaves and branches, but an overgrown snarl of ivy makes the passage into a genuine leafy arbor.
It also looks like there was once a backstage door, but that door has been walled up with stone, leaving only the two front entrances functional. At this time of the day, both entrances are locked. No members of the cult stand guard outside.
Navia picks the lock and you quietly step inside.
Inside you can see the main auditorium.
The ceiling of this round auditorium soars forty feet above the floor, but the theater’s glory days are several decades in the past. Several rows of benches arc around a raised central stage, with four aisles providing easy access. The central aisles have runners of fresh, new carpet—just the barest beginning of necessary renovations.
Twenty feet above these seats are three large balconies, but they are in such disrepair that the flooring has fallen through in places. A thick rope and a placard reading “For Your Safety, No Access Permitted” block two staircases at the back of the auditorium leading up to the balconies.
The round stage juts into the center of this auditorium, flanked by two short staircases that appear to lead backstage. A green curtain obscures the backstage area completely.
At first, the auditorium appears empty, but then you see the mysterious man in the red plague doctor’s mask stepping down the stairs from the second floor, approaching you. He holds his hands up, visible and empty. And he speaks in hushed tones. ”Be not alarmed. I am not your enemy. You need to get backstage and quickly. There is an abomination at the core of the cult that must be dealt with. There is a trap door in the center of the stage that leads to the basement but I believe it to be both trapped and heavily guarded. Finding the stairway access backstage is your best option. A trio of dwarven guards patrols just beyond the green curtain. Beyond that, you are on your own. I will not join forces. I cannot enter where you are going.”
Henrika raises an eyebrow at the mysterious man, looks to the others, and shrugs. She murmurs into her magical winds of communication: "It seems we will have to go backstage; let us do so as quickly and quietly as we can. As they say in all the best shows: 'Exeunt, stage right!'" She attempts to cross swiftly down the aisle to the western edge of the green curtain and step through.
Jack hangs back slightly, his plate armor making him less able to sneak effectively, allowing the other more nimble party members to follow first. He drinks a potion of barkskin.
Icabhod muses to himself that when he was first starting on his misadventures, seventeen gold coins would be a reasonable sum, but now they are dealing with sacks of the stuff and magic weapons seem to be dropping out of closets. He generously allows his agents to enjoy any entertainment they wish with the money they earn.
If this is not the actual Carrius, I assume we will be rougher in his treatment?
Xallis raises an eye at the masked stranger. "Noted. We shall move accordingly... and I would have words with you about your goals, when the find the time."
Of course, Xallis does not trust this figure entirely. But he is fully armed and surrounded by his most trusted allies, so he has little to fear from a simple sleight of hand.
"If you would, Navia?"
"Thought you'd never ask, Pupa..."
The eidolon steps forward as light shimmers along her frills. Her entire form fades from view despite having no cover or shadows to hide behind, and she begins creeping towards the curtain.
Trevor
[dice=Organize Party – Diplomacy - Charm DC 31]1d20+25+4
Trevor spends most of his time making wedding plans.
Once the masked man leaves, Trevor casts bless on the party. "Cayden Be With Us."
Navia stealthy approaches the stage.
This large, round wooden stage is twenty feet in diameter and juts into the theater seating, allowing a good view of the stage from multiple sides. A heavy green curtain provides the backdrop, nearly obscuring two openings that lead backstage. The floor at the rear of the stage contains an obvious trap door ten feet wide by ten feet long.
Not visible from the audience, Navia can see that several intricate patterns of circles and diagrams have been painted on stage with curiously dark pigment. She beckons Xallis and Icabhod over to take a closer look.
Icabhod identifies that this is a silver-based ink often used to draw magic circles for spells and rituals but the design is unique. Xallis tries to make sense of the modified design but it is too complex for him to understand right now.
Navia confirms what the mysterious man stated. The trap door in the stage is indeed trapped. However, it does not look like the trap will trigger unless someone tries to open the trap door.
From there, Navia peeks behind the curtain.
This backstage hall is ten feet wide and seventy feet long. Faded background screens and tattered curtains hang from rusted hooks and pulleys anchored into the brick walls. The hall is dizzyingly high, with catwalks and support beams twenty feet above the floor and another set fifteen feet higher, all barely visible in the darkness above. Several wooden doors lead off to the north and east, each with a small plaque so tarnished that any writing once there is entirely illegible. Four gaps in the south wall are shrouded with a curtain of tattered green velvet that extends from the support beams to brush the floor. To the west, a set of stone stairs winds downward, turning at a brick wall. Near the top of the stairs, a wide doorway has been completely sealed over with blank stone.
Navia hears the footsteps of a patrol approaching. There are no ropes or ladders leading up to the catwalk, but that is no problem for Navia. She scales the wall and observes from the darkness above. Three dwarven sentries come up the stairs and wordlessly walk from one end of the hallway to the other. They glance around but notably don’t look upwards.
Up in the catwalks, Navia also spots recent boot prints in the dust, although the prints stop and start suddenly with no evidence of how the person who left them reaches these heights.
When the patrol comes around in front of the curtain, Icabhod and Xallis duck behind the row of chairs, Xallis quickly casts invisibility on himself as well, since he isn’t nearly as sneaky as Icabhod.
And as an extra-extra note, let me know if someone would like barkskin as a buff or invisibility to help scout.
The patrol doesn’t notice anything amiss. They stand near the stage for a moment, dangerously close to Icabhod and Xallis, and look like they are about to go back behind the curtain to continue patrolling. If you want to strike, now would be a good time.
Initiative
Surprise Round
26 – Tychus (72/72 hp)
19 – Icabhod (68/68 hp)
15 – Jack (67/67 hp)
13 – Henrika (94/84 hp)
07 – Trevor (71/71 hp)
05 – Xallis (75/75 hp)
05 – Navia (45/45 hp) (20 ft. up)
01 – Malphene (58/58 hp)
Initiative
Round 1
26 – Tychus (72/72 hp)
20 – Cult Sentry (Blue)
20 – Cult Sentry (Cyan)
20 – Cult Sentry (Purple)
19 – Icabhod (68/68 hp)
15 – Jack (67/67 hp)
13 – Henrika (94/84 hp)
07 – Trevor (71/71 hp)
05 – Xallis (75/75 hp)
05 – Navia (45/45 hp) (20 ft. up)
01 – Malphene (58/58 hp)
Active Spells/Effects
Henrika: ▲False Life (10 hp, 9 hr), ▲Mirror Image (4 image, 9 min), ▲Bless (9 min)
Icabhod: ▲Bless (9 min)
Trevor: ▲Bless (9 min)
Tychus: ▲Bless (9 min)
Xallis: ▲Mage Armor (9 hr), ▲Invisibility (9 min)
Navia: ▲Mage Armor (9 hr)
Jack: ▲Bless (9 min)
Malphene: ▲Bless (9 min)
Everyone can act in a surprise round against the sentries. Then Tychus acts first in the first round.
Jack activates his Kitsune Style feat and moves toward the enemy.
Henrika also moves toward the enemy. When she is in range, she activates her hypnotic stare against the closest enemy .