GM Peachbottom's War for the Crown

Game Master Peachbottom

"Yes. I have heard wonderful things about those hats!" Trevor nods enthusiastically.

"And what of these identities you have crafted for us? What manner of cover stories have you made up to mask our true purpose? Or are we to make them ourselves?"

"And what of these identities you have crafted for us? What manner of cover stories have you made up to mask our true purpose? Or are we to make them ourselves?"

”When we arrive in Panemona, which is a tiny farming hamlet which lies 15 miles northeast of Zimar, you will meet with a smuggler named Cyricus. Cyricus has been moving goods and people through Zimar illegally since the Grand Campaign, when he worked as a file clerk in the city’s trade office, and he’s familiar with the ins and outs of the city’s bureaucracy. He isn’t affiliated with the Lion Blades, however, only working as a free agent from time to time with me. He will provide you identification papers for the identities that you will assume.”

”Before you leave, I have more information that you need to know.”

“Zimar is a fortified military city, more paranoid than most after centuries on the front line between Taldor and Qadira. Almost every citizen drills with the militia until becoming a parent, and almost everyone is fanatically patriotic. However, Zimar is also the heart of Taldor’s spice trade, and its people are happy to put their xenophobia on hold to make money. There are lots of suspicious eyes watching, but also lots of people coming and going.”

“You should expect trouble both in and around the city. In southern Taldor, Maxillar Pythareus’s soldiers patrol all major roads, so it’s absolutely necessary to avoid them. I have a route planned that uses farm roads and old hunters’ trails. Once inside the city walls, you’ll be surrounded by soldiers, spies, and paranoid citizens who will report you if you give them a reason to. Pythareus’s personal support includes a powerful diviner named Avenna who studied at the Magaambyan, his spymaster Milon Jeroth, and his majordomo Baron Astor Roderus. Zimar is also home to a sect of Abadar worshipers called the Vault and Chain—law‑and‑order types who are almost certainly loyal to him.”

“You are already familiar with High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus. Maxillar is the high strategos—the supreme commander of Taldor’s military—and according to him and a few select witnesses, he was formally adopted by Stavian III hours before the grand prince’s death. He comes from a long line of commanders and war heroes who’ve always made Zimar proud, and he’s all but a god to the locals.”

”But the other person you need to worry about the most is Milon Jeroth. Sir Jeroth has never formally been a member of the Lion Blades, but he and his family have worked with us on and off for decades, infiltrating Qadira throughout the Grand Campaign. He’s a master of disguise, an adept sorcerer, and an expert barehanded combatant who studied with the monks at the Monastery of Seven Forms, not to mention a stone-cold killer. He’s difficult to find or track, so if you have even the slightest chance, hit him fast and hard.”

”Zimar is about 210 miles southeast of Oppara. The journey will take 10 days on foot or 6 days on horseback. I will accompany you as far as Panemona, then you will be on your own.”

”For now, I’d like to award each of you a boon to help you in your mission for completing your training.” Kathann hands out the boons then says, ”Dismissed. I will meet you at the city gate at the end of the week.”

For your gift, each PC can select one from the following: a belt of giant strength +4, a belt of incredible dexterity +4, a belt of mighty constitution +4, a headband of alluring charisma +4, a headband of inspired wisdom +4, a headband of vast intelligence +4, or a headband of mental prowess +2.

Since Trevor wants to get his wedding in, we’ll do one more Persona Phase. Then we’ll hit the road.

As part of preparing for this adventure, would it be all right if Henrika exchanges one of her mesmerist tricks, Shadow Splinter for Fearsome Guise? That would allow her to keep herself and two others in the party constantly disguised (as disguise self), in exchange for not being able to use any of her other tricks while it is active. That seems like a pretty fair trade though, if we are worried about being recognized.

Yes, Henrika can retrain that trick during her downtime in Oppara.

Since Trevor and Malphene, along with the entire Kastner family, has been planning this wedding for months, could Trevor have that as a Persona Phase: Organise a Party (Charm). And since so much prep work and expense went into it, can Trevor take a 20 on the roll?

I told Trevor he can succeed on his roll for his wedding, assuming he is boosting his Charm Rank. The rest of you are one your own to succeed.

Zimar is also home to a sect of Abadar worshipers called the Vault and Chain—law‑and‑order types who are almost certainly loyal to him.”[/b]

Tychus visibly winces at the thought of conflict with fellow Abadarans.

For your gift, each PC can select one from the following: a belt of giant strength +4, a belt of incredible dexterity +4, a belt of mighty constitution +4, a headband of alluring charisma +4, a headband of inspired wisdom +4, a headband of vast intelligence +4, or a headband of mental prowess +2.

Tychus gratefully accepts the headband of inspired wisdom +4.

For your gift, each PC can select one from the following: a belt of giant strength +4, a belt of incredible dexterity +4, a belt of mighty constitution +4, a headband of alluring charisma +4, a headband of inspired wisdom +4, a headband of vast intelligence +4, or a headband of mental prowess +2.

Trevor also gratefully accepts the headband of inspired wisdom +4.

Icabhod takes the belt of incredible dexterity+4

Xallis graciously accepts the Belt of Dexterity. He considers whether to give it to himself or to Navia.

"Before we head out, I'd like to make a few vital purchases. But I'm sure we all need to take care of business before we go. It's a long trip, after all."

The Wedding

It was a sunny morning in Oppara at The Cathedral of Coin. Preparations for the Wedding of Dame Malphene Trant to Sir Trevor Kastner had the temple buzzing with activity for most of the week.

At around 9 o'clock, guests started to arrive, ushered by acolytes. Oppara's elite, as well as family and friends of the bride and groom were in attendance. The latest fashions were on display, and thankfully no one was wearing white other than the bride. The temples was decorated with long satin sheets of gold and silver, many of them wrapped around each other to signify the upcoming union. Several members of the Cult of Olheon were noticibly in attendance.

First a small sermon by the high priest of Abadar, then the procession of the groom, led by Falchion Jack and several male members of the Kastner Family. Trevor looked dashing in his groom, his holy symbol noticeably tucked into this outfit.

Then the organ music swelled as the procession of the bridal party. Henrika Karthis looked radiant as a Maid of Honor. The dedicated makeup team Malphene hired outdid themselves all the bridemaids turned heads.

Then the bridal march music began to play. Trevor looked down the aisle to see his towering bride, dressed in a long flowing white wedding dress, well-designed to showcase her femininity. Lord Remilliard walked Dame Malphene down the aisle holding a portrait of Malphene's late father. Lord Remilliard gently placed Malphene's hands in Trevor, then walked the portrait to a special table near the altar with several candles. The high priest explained to the congregation that Lord Remilliard was lighting the candles to honor the memory of Lord Trant and all the victims of the Exaltation Massacre.

Then both Trevor and Malphene both recited their vows to each other as they ceremoniously signed the marriage certificate, witnessed by Abadar and all notaries in attendance.

With all vows spoken and all legal formed filled out to abadaran specifications, the high priest proclaimed Trevor and Malphene were married, leading to a powerful kiss from the lore warden, tipping the cleric off his feet, held by his wife. The congragation laughed and applauded as the happy couple walked arm and arm out of the cathedral, Lady Balvantia Kastner weeping for joy.

Persona Phase
Tychus instructs his men to head to Zimar early to do some reconnaissance. With any luck, they will be able to report back once the party arrives with some useful bits of news.

Filter Rumors Basic Operation

Persona Phase

Icabhod sends some agents out to learn about Baron Astor Roderus. Looking into such things if he keeps a residence or has a family.

Operation: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15

While Trevor and Malphene are busy getting married, Henrika takes advantage of her role as Malphene's second to work the guests and staff, spreading fervor for Eutropia's cause and recruiting agents to assist their efforts on her behalf. This involves lots of schmoozing and speaking circumspectly about politics through hidden messages complimenting different aspects of the ceremony.

Bluff to develop Charm persona (DC 35): 1d20 + 30 ⇒ (18) + 30 = 48

Henrika just bought a headband of alluring charisma +4 back in Meratt, so she will gratefully accept a headband of inspired wisdom +4 from the Lion Blades that she can give to Jack.

Persona Phase

Trevor

The Kastner wedding is an outrageous affair. You’d think the princess herself was getting married from the guest list in attendance. Several senators make an appearance. Lord Remilliard Kastner, of course. But also the senators and Pathfinders, Lady Gloriana Morilla in bright pink and Marquess Charlotte Deschamps in all black. The gnomish representative Marquess Tanasha Starborne makes a surprise appearance, bringing a frock of color to the crowd. And then there are the representatives from Meratt. Baron Nicolaus Okerra and Dame Parthena Crabbe and Sepsinia Crabbe made the journey to Oparra to attend. The Baron’s daughter Selli goes and sits with her father but then returns to Henrika with whom she thinks will be more fun to be with during the reception. Lastly Kathann Zalar and Liraela attend, representing new and old friends amongst the Lion Blades.

Trevor’s Charm Rank increases to 10. He becomes Master of Operations for Charm.

Trevor can follow up with how he wants his reception to go.

Tychus

Sagacity (7 Agents): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11

Tychus’ agents come back empty-handed. They are unable to provide any useful news.

The Operations check failed.

Icabhod

Icabhod’s agents return with information on Baron Astor Roderus. Baron Astor is castellan of the fortress, Abadar’s Pillar, which is Maxillar Pythareus’s stronghold. He is a respected military commander and warrior. As the second son of the Roderus family, he had tutored in arcane studies before his elder brother’s death saw his family’s military legacy fall to him. Now an eldritch knight, he uses his spellcasting ability—particularly, abjurations—to shot down enemy defenses before charging into battle.

Icabhod’s Operation is a success.

Henrika

Henrika finds that most in attendance already either support Eutropia or have leanings towards her. Henrika ferrets out those holdouts and gives them a further nudge.

Henrika’s Charm Rank increases to 10. She becomes Master of Operations for Charm.

Xallis arrives to the wedding with Navia at his side. The summoner is dressed in crimson over gray with his hair slicked back and gemstones sewn into the trim. Navia is absolutely bedecked in gold, with piercings and bracelets and thin chains between them. Even some of her teeth seem to be coated in the stuff. Most notably, Xallis is down to two arms and Navia is human sized; it would seem that their bodies were just as tailored for the occasion as their clothing.

Prior to the event, Sir Livara made the extend of his merchant's connections available to the engaged lovebirds. He was determined to help provide whatever they would need.

Regardless of the answers, the summoner made sure to show off a little when presenting the couple with their wedding gift: a masterfully crafted blade of black ore with a mirror sheen, made of genuine adamantine. "I present to you a blade who's metal came from the stars, to commemorate a love that shines just as bright as they do. May your bond remain as unbreakable."

Persona Phase: Develop Persona

Having taken a fondness to discussing the art, Xallis hosts another demonstration of his applications of conjuration. The discussion is far more personal, borderline spiritual, but no less bombastic with examples. He even invites Bartelby to come along under the guise of teambuilding, but mostly as an excuse to spend time discussing theory with him.

Sagacity: Knowledge (Planes): 1d20 + 15 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 15 + 2 = 28

Short Post:

Xallis' Sagacity Rank increases to 2. He can perform basic Operations with Sagacity.

While the group is busy in Oppara, Henrika dispatches a group of her followers to spread rumors about herself, targeted to reach Zimar. This includes arrogant, vapid observations among the local nobility with ties to Pythareus's base about Oppara's charms and how she intends to remain there for the foreseeable future.

I realized that since Henrika is a Master of Operations for Heroism, she can perform two actions during a persona phase as long as one of them is associated with Heroism. So, here's her second action.

Rumormonger operation, 10 agents (DC 17): 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16

Icabhod looks at a message. Hmmm.. looks like our new holdings is having trouble with a large herd of feral hogs. About thirty to fifty of them.

Trevor's and Malphene's Wedding Reception!

In the early afternoon, a minority of patrons were asked to leave Grandbridge's Cayden's Mug Tavern. The staff at Cayden's Mug quickly clean ed and set up long tables for for the long-awaited wedding reception of Oppara's Own Sir Trevor and Dame Malphene Kastner. The local caydenite generally treated huge celebrations like this as unofficial holy days. Every true caydenite within 50 miles, as well as all the wedding guests were invited.

The wedding party entered first, the beaming Bride and Groom smiling and meeting all the staff as they came forward. In a very short time, Trevor went from a local celebrity to a nationally-recognized man of faith. So the wedding party sat together at the main table, while relatives of the groom sat nearest to the main table. Instead of gold and silver, the tavern was decorated with Cayden's colors: silver and tan. The remaining guests had open seating, something the older guard noticeably did not like. But this was standard for most caydenite taverns, so those who didn't like it could leave. Those that stayed got a small wooden red hound at their place settings: a tribute to Cayden's famous hound: Thunder.

One end of the tavern was a solid wall of tables dedicated to the massive buffet of food. Roasted pig, baked potatoes with sour cream and butter, warm biscuits, broccoli, asparagus, green beans, and all manner of mince pies and pasties were available to all. Meeting the new Bride and Groom was wonderful, but the main draw for the Faithful was the open bar, a rare sight in any caydenite tavern, again made possible by the Kastner Family.

After everyone got some food and drink in front of them, Trevor stood on his chair to address the entire tavern.

"My Good Ladies and Gentlemen! Welcome to Malphene's and my Wedding Reception!" The entire tavern erupted in thunderous shouting and clapping. "It is an unbelievable honor to have you all here today in his most holy building to celebrate our holy union!" More thunderous applause and shouting. "Those who have not been inside a caydenite tavern before: shame on you! But is it accepted and expected to raise your glasses to each other and to our most illustrious sponsor and guiding force, Oppara's Own, Cayden Cailean! And as one of his humble clerics, I ask you all to raise your glasses with me, as I toast and pray."

"Cayden Cailean! Boss! Thank you for being a guiding force in my life. A life that had lead me to a truly unique and remarkable woman, who has seen fit, despite her better judgement, to join her life with mine, join my family and walk this life together. Oh Merry Insurgent, I kindly ask that you bless our union. May our triumphs be many, our quarrels be short, our makeups be memorable, and our lives together happy within each other's arms. Please bless all in attendance, both now and later. May this day be memorable and any discomfort tomorrow morning be brief!" A wave of chuckles ripples across the tavern. "I raise my glass to you, Drunken Hero, now and always! TO CAYDEN CAILEAN!" The tavern answers in unison and drinks their raised glasses.

Every few minutes, someone would call a toast. Mostly to the happy coupe, some to Cayden Cailean, and many to those in attendance. Malphene held court at the main table, talking with everyone who came up to congratulate her and Trevor. The couple were tasked to kiss with the banging of silverware on empty mugs and tankards. After everyone got some food and drink in them, Trevor left the main table and walked the tavern, shaking hands, meeting other faithful and family members.

Rumormonger operation, 10 agents (DC 17): 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16

Henrika’s operation fails. I’ll go with Icabhod. The agents return with rumors wild hogs. Nothing of use to you.

Trevor's and Malphene's Wedding Reception!

When Trevor toasts to Cayden Cailean, everyone in attendance is overcome with a feeling of warmth and elation. Trevor is sure the Drunken God has given his blessing.

I’m going to grant everyone the benefit of a modified heroes’ feast as Cayden’s blessing.

Blessing of Cayden Cailean: Each character gains 18 temporary hit points and a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and Will saves and a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against poison and fear effects for 1 month or until the temporary hit points are lost, whichever comes first.

In addition, blessedly, the next morning, everyone wakes without any hangover or stomach aches and feel fully rested regardless of the amount of sleep they received that night.

I’m going to assume the party starts crafting when you first arrive in Oppara. Since you were planning on spending 2 weeks (or 14 days) in Oppara, as long as you aren’t crafting anything else, you can complete the 10 days of crafting and leave without spending any additional time in the city.

At the end of the week, you meet back up with Kathann Zalar and begin your journey to Zimar.

Zimar lies about 210 miles southeast of Oppara. The fastest way to get there is to travel 90 miles up the River Porthmos to the newly revitalized city of Elsekulp, then follow old trade roads across a vast expanse of grassland and scrubland to the isolated artisan town of Ortalaca, and finally press south 50 miles on the main highway or 75 miles on the winding back roads to reach Zimar. Overall, you expect the trip to take 10 days of travel.

During the reconstruction era that followed the war with Qadira, a paved road called the Zimar Highway was built between Ortalaca and Zimar, but Kathann suggests that you use an older trade route once employed by local woodcutters, farmers, and artisans, which you agree to. The old trade route sees little use nowadays—not only has it fallen into disrepair due to centuries of disuse, but the many abandoned villages along the road have a reputation of being haunted. Thanks to the lack of patrols along the old trade route, more dangerous residents have claimed stretches of road.

Since I don't want to bog the trip down with random encounters, I'm just going to do the first one that you come across, which happens to happen on the fifth night of your journey, and the first night on the old trade route.

Kuthona 8, 4718 (Starday) (Road to Zimar, Taldor)

I don’t see Bartelby’s revised character sheet, so I’m going to base the rolls on what Xallis currently has there, but please update, when you can.

Surprise Round
Initiative
21 – Henrika (111/93 hp)
18 – Icabhod (93/75 hp)
07 – Navia (94/76 hp)

Round 1
Initiative
25 – Tychus (97/79 hp)
21 – Henrika (111/93 hp)
18 – Icabhod (93/75 hp)
18 – Hyaleth (Red)
18 – Hyaleth (Blue)
07 – Xallis (101/83 hp)
07 – Navia (94/76 hp)
07 – Jack (94/76 hp)
04 – Trevor (97/79 hp)
04 – Malphene (84/66 hp)
03 – Bartelby (74/56 hp)

Active Spells/Effects
Henrika: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Icabhod: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Trevor: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Tychus: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Xallis: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Navia: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Bartelby: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Jack: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Malphene: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)

You set up your camp on the first night on the trade route. You’ve finished your evening meal and are preparing to sleep when Henrika, Icabhod, and Navia spot an enemies’ approach, spoiling their attempt to sneak up on you and get to act in a surprise round.

You see two giant translucent leeches that have three squirming tentacles around an orifice on one end and a stinger on the other. The leeches were slithering through the trees towards the camp.

Monster Lore

Henrika, Icabhod, and Navia can take a single standard or move action in the surprise round. Then Tychus, Henrika, and Icabhod act first, in round 1.

Since it is the end of the day, only long-term spells that would have still been active before camping for the night are still active.

Kathann is also here and is capable of fighting, but we have enough combatants, so she’ll hang back.

Camp Map

While they are traveling, Henrika keeps Gift of Will implanted in Jack's and Malphene's minds. (I think all the other long-term buffs she casts, like enchantment foil, would have expired by now, but she can cast message every ten minutes, so I assume she can have it active.)

When she spots the aberrant leeches approaching, she calls out to the others through her magical whispering that they are under attack. She casts battlemind link on herself and Jack. "Here we go again, you old codger," she whispers to him. "Think you can keep up?"

Jack whispers back in a tone of feigned offense, "I thought we'd agreed you would call me 'The Artful Codger'?"

She casts displacement on Jack and moves away from the others to a defensive position within the surrounding trees. Once she is closer, she glares at one of the creatures (red) with her hypnotic stare.

Navia takes the initiative by carefully staking towards the worms. Her talons tread lightly over the grass, her body blending in with the natural environment. The light seems to bend around her like rainwater falling off of a treated cloak.

Stealth (hellcat stealth): 1d20 + 29 - 10 ⇒ (10) + 29 - 10 = 29

I'd say mage armor and overland flight should be safe bets with their 10 hour duration.

Icabhod drinks his extract of Heroism (+2 attack/saves/skill) and moves up.

Round 1

With a sad sigh, Tychus puts down the half eaten piece of apple pie he had happily been devouring and picks up Dignity's Barb.

Dungeoneering: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (19) + 11 = 30

After spotting the creatures pointed out by Henrika, Icabhod, and Navia, Tychus's face scrunches in disgust.

"By Abadar's coinpurse, Hyaleths... They have a potent sting, and enjoy engulfing their prey. They are very vulnerable to slashing weapons. Oh, and they can talk..."

Tychus also relays the other bits he knows to the party.

He activates Bane (Aberrations) and takes a shot at the one nearest to him.

Attack: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (3) + 19 = 22
Damage: 1d10 + 19 ⇒ (9) + 19 = 28

I decided to add light and dim light around the campfire on the map.

Round 1

Tychus hits the nearest hyaleth and it lets out a psychic squeal of pain that rings loudly in all of your minds.

Tychus hits Hyaleth (Blue) for 18 damage after DR. He hits thanks to it still having not acted yet.

Then you all hear telepathically in your minds (in Common), ”Tasty humans. Intelligent Humans. Let us feast.”

Hyaleth (Red) – Sting vs. Henrika’s AC 24: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (1) + 16 = 17
Damage: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10

Hyaleth (Blue) – Sting vs. Navia’s AC 31: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (6) + 16 = 22
Damage: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Hyaleth (Blue) – Tentacle vs. Navia’s AC 31: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (15) + 14 = 29
Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

Hyaleth (Blue) – Tentacle vs. Navia’s AC 31: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (6) + 14 = 20
Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

Hyaleth (Blue) – Tentacle vs. Navia’s AC 31: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (4) + 14 = 18
Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8

The first leech-creature crawls towards Henrika and shoots its barbed tail in her direction. The stinger lodges itself into a nearby branch, missing Henrika completely.

Then the second creature moves towards Navia. It attacks Navia with both its tail and three slimy tentacles. All the attacks slap against Navia’s mage armor, leaving her unharmed.

Round 1
Initiative
07 – Xallis (101/83 hp)
07 – Navia (78/60 hp)
07 – Jack (94/76 hp)
04 – Trevor (97/79 hp)
04 – Malphene (84/66 hp)

Round 2
Initiative
25 – Tychus (97/79 hp)
21 – Henrika (111/93 hp)
18 – Icabhod (93/75 hp)
18 – Hyaleth (Red)
18 – Hyaleth (Blue) (18 damage)

Active Spells/Effects[
Henrika: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Message (10 min)
Icabhod: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Heroism (100 min)
Trevor: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Tychus: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Aberration Bane (9 rd), ▲Dignity’s Barb (Crit 12, 19, 20)
Xallis: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Overland Flight (1 hr)
Navia: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Mage Armor (1 hr)
Jack: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Displacement (10 rd)
Malphene: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days)
Hyaleth (Red): ▼Hypnotic Stare (-3 Will)

Dignity’s Barb Crit Range: 1d20 ⇒ 12

Everyone can go.

Jack focuses his mind on battle and rushes into the fray behind Henrika, drawing his magic sword as he goes.

Swift action to enter Kitsune Style, move action to move 35'. It looks like the hyaleth has reach, so it will get an attack of opportunity on him. He's got displacement active.

When the creature speaks in their minds, Jack flinches. "That's greatly unsettling," he complains to Henrika through her magical whispers. "Giant psychic leeches, just crawling around out here, thinking." He shudders. "I'll go left, you go right? Let's see just how smart these ugly things are."

Jack slices at the hyaleth with his sword. (I'll roll twice for his attack, anticipating that Henrika will also attack, so that he gets the effect of battlemind link.)

Attack red hyaleth (Breadknife), Power Attack: 1d20 + 15 - 3 ⇒ (8) + 15 - 3 = 20
Reroll attack (battlemind link) red hyaleth (Breadknife), Power Attack: 1d20 + 15 - 3 ⇒ (6) + 15 - 3 = 18
Damage (magic, slashing), Power Attack: 2d4 + 8 + 9 ⇒ (3, 3) + 8 + 9 = 23

If Jack hits, Henrika will add 7 damage from her painful stare.

"Leeching can be therapeutic," Henrika teases Jack. "Look at this foe like a physician balancing your humors. All that strong drink has made you too sanguine. Losing some blood will bring back your melancholia."

Henrika steps closer to the hyaleth and unleashes a flurry of cutting strikes.

Full attack #1 vs red hyaleth (Koriana's blade), Power Attack: 1d20 + 17 - 2 => (8) + 17 - 2 = 23
Damage (+4 weapon, slashing), Power Attack: 1d8 + 11 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 11 + 6 = 24
Painful stare: 3d6 + 7 ⇒ (5, 2, 4) + 7 = 18

Full attack #2 vs red hyaleth (Koriana's blade), Power Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 12 - 2 = 12
Reroll full attack #2 (battlemind link) vs red hyaleth (Koriana's blade), Power Attack: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (6) + 12 - 2 = 16
Damage (+4 weapon, slashing), Power Attack: 1d8 + 11 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 11 + 6 = 21
Painful stare: 3d6 + 7 ⇒ (3, 5, 6) + 7 = 21

It's possible that Xallis will cast haste. If he does, she gets another attack.

Round 1

"Not all of us are strictly 'human', Monster!" Trevor barks into the night defiantly. Drawing his magical rapier, Trevor advances toward the otherworldly foes.

Round 1
The newlyweds were nuzzling each other when the call of the attack rang out. Proud of Trevor's resolve, Dame Maphene Kastner called out to the cleric. "Right behind you, Husband!" She loved calling Trevor that.

Malphene drew one of her most prized wedding gift, the exquisite Scion's Longsword, of which she was excited to try out in real combat. The lore walker got her wish as she advanced toward the tentacled horrors.

Icabhod drinks his extract of Displacement and then moves next to Navia.

Forgot to add the 2d6 damage from Bane. Welp, I'll add it moving forward. Does the effective +5 enhancement bonus of Dignity's Barb ignore the DR?

"Let's spread out a bit. We don't want to give them their meals all at once."

I figured spacing ourselves out would lessen the odds of engulfing multiple party members.

Attack Blue (Studied Target): 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (14) + 21 = 35
Damage Blue: 1d10 + 21 + 2d6 ⇒ (3) + 21 + (1, 2) = 27

Round 1

Forgot to add the 2d6 damage from Bane. Welp, I'll add it moving forward. Does the effective +5 enhancement bonus of Dignity's Barb ignore the DR?

Bane: 2d6 ⇒ (6, 1) = 7

I’ll add the bane damage on for you for the first round. The hyaleth’s have DR 10/slashing. The enhancement bonuses only bypass material types, so the DR still applies to Tychus’ bolts.

I’ll bot Xallis. He’ll cast haste but everyone is spread out so he’ll hold until after Malphene goes. He still won’t be able to get everyone but he’ll be able to get more people.

Hyaleth (Red) AoO Stinger vs. Jack’s AC 23: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (7) + 16 = 23
Damage: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8
Jack Fort save, blessing: 1d20 + 7 + 4 ⇒ (14) + 7 + 4 = 25

The hyaleth strikes at Jack with the stinger on its tail. Despite his displacement, it pierces his skin unerringly, as if it can somehow sense his correct location. Jack feels the area around the wound tingle with numbness. He senses the stinger contains a paralytic agent, but he shakes it out. The he slashes at the aberration only for his sword to bounce off of its rubbery flesh.

Hyaleth (Red) hits Jack with an attack of opportunity for 8 damage. The attack includes poison but Jack saves against the effect and is unaffected. Jack’s attack against the hyaleth is a miss. The hyaleth possesses Thoughtsense. Thoughtsense: You automatically detect and locate conscious creatures within 60 feet, as if you possessed the blindsight ability.

Trevor and Malphene move closer. Then Xallis will act and cast haste. He can get Henrika, Xallis, Trevor, Navia, Icabhod, and Malphene. Jack and Tychus are slightly out of reach.

Navia steps up and attacks with all her claws.

Navia – Claw, haste, blessing: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 12 + 1 + 1 = 33
Damage: 1d4 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8
Navia – Claw, haste, blessing: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 12 + 1 + 1 = 27
Damage: 1d4 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10
Navia – Claw, haste, blessing: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 12 + 1 + 1 = 33
Damage: 1d4 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8
Navia – Claw, haste, blessing: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 12 + 1 + 1 = 31
Damage: 1d4 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7
Navia – Claw, haste, blessing: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 12 + 1 + 1 = 30
Damage: 1d4 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9

Navia’s claws easily slice through the hyaleth’s body, tears long gashes in multiple locations.

Navia hits Hyaleth (Blue) five times for a total of 42 damage.

Round 2

Tychus shoots again. The creature’s body resists somewhat, but the aberration bane makes up the difference.

Tychus hits Hyaleth (Blue) for 17 damage after DR.

Henrika shows Jack how it’s done and hits the creature twice with her sword. This one also shrieks in pain.

Henrika hits Hyaleth (Red) twice for a total of 81 damage.

I figured spacing ourselves out would lessen the odds of engulfing multiple party members.

Almost as if reading Tychus’ mind, the two Hyaleths surge forward to engulf the foes in front of them. Their bodies become almost gelatinous, threatening to absorb their targets directly through their skin.

Hyaleth (Red) moves over Jack and Henrika and Hyaleth (Blue) moves over Navia and Icabhod.

Engulf: The creature can engulf creatures in its path as part of a standard action. It cannot make other attacks during a round in which it engulfs. The creature merely has to move over its opponents, affecting as many as it can cover. Targeted creatures can make attacks of opportunity against the creature, but if they do so, they are not entitled to a saving throw against the engulf attack. Those who do not attempt attacks of opportunity can attempt a Reflex save to avoid being engulfed—on a success, they are pushed back or aside (target’s choice) as the creature moves forward. Engulfed opponents gain the pinned condition, are in danger of suffocating, are trapped within the creature’s body until they are no longer pinned, and may be subject to other special attacks from the creature.

Henrika, Jack, Icabhod, and Navia each have to choose to either make an attack of opportunity before getting engulfed or make a Reflex save to avoid being engulfed. I’ll let each of you decide and roll for yourselves. I’ll tell you the Reflex DC is 22 so you can know if you succeeded or not for your next turn. If you do get engulfed, you are pinned, and can escape the same way you would escape a grapple.

Round 2
Initiative
07 – Jack (94/76 hp)
04 – Trevor (97/79 hp)
04 – Malphene (84/66 hp)
04 – Xallis (101/83 hp)
04 – Navia (78/60 hp)

Round 3
Initiative
25 – Tychus (97/79 hp)
21 – Henrika (111/93 hp)
18 – Icabhod (93/75 hp)
18 – Hyaleth (Red) (81 damage)
18 – Hyaleth (Blue) (84 damage)

Active Spells/Effects[
Henrika: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Message (10 min), ▲Haste (9 rd)
Icabhod: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Heroism (100 min), ▲Haste (9 rd), ▲Displacement (9 rd)
Trevor: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Haste (9 rd)
Tychus: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Aberration Bane (8 rd), ▲Dignity’s Barb (Crit 12, 19, 20)
Xallis: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Overland Flight (1 hr), ▲Haste (9 rd)
Navia: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Mage Armor (1 hr), ▲Haste (9 rd)
Jack: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Displacement (9 rd), ▲Kitsune Style
Malphene: ▲Blessing of Cayden Cailean (18 hp, 25 days), ▲Haste (9 rd)
Hyaleth (Red): ▼Hypnotic Stare (-3 Will)

Everyone can go.

Jack sees the giant leech coming for him, and rather than trying to leap out of the way, he desperately slices at it with his falchion.

Attack of opportunity (Breadknife), Power Attack: 1d20 + 15 - 3 ⇒ (12) + 15 - 3 = 24
Reroll (battlemind link) attack of opportunity (Breadknife), Power Attack: 1d20 + 15 - 3 ⇒ (1) + 15 - 3 = 13
Damage (magic, slashing), Power Attack: 2d4 + 8 + 9 ⇒ (4, 2) + 8 + 9 = 23

The light from his falchion dims as he is engulfed by the creature's translucent body. He struggles to keep his feet, and though he tries to say something to Henrika, his voice is muffled. Still, he does his best to make things unpleasant for the hyaleth, and though he cannot swing his falchion, he can still cut at the creature with it. He tries to stab through the creature's skin into the ground, hindering its movements while causing it pain.

Combat maneuver (dirty trick: entangle/sicken), dirty trick bonuses, falchion bonus, flanking, grappled: 1d20 + 13 + 8 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (1) + 13 + 8 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 26
Reroll (battlemind link) combat maneuver (dirty trick: entangle/sicken), dirty trick bonuses, falchion bonus, flanking, grappled: 1d20 + 13 + 8 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 13 + 8 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 28
Reroll (hero point) combat maneuver (dirty trick: entangle/sicken), dirty trick bonuses, falchion bonus, flanking, grappled: 1d20 + 13 + 8 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (6) + 13 + 8 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 31

Goodness, the dice really hate me! ;)

Henrika also takes the opportunity to slash at the hyaleth.

(Copying over Jack's awful rolls from battlemind link...)

Attack of opportunity (Koriana's blade), haste, Power Attack: (12) + 17 + 1 - 2 = 28
Damage (+4 weapon, slashing), Power Attack: 1d8 + 11 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 11 + 6 = 21

Henrika is also engulfed by the creature. She instinctively squirms and pushes against its body, trying to free herself, then forces herself to calm down and focus her mind to cast a spell.

Henrika's a psychic caster, which means she doesn't need verbal or somatic components, so I think grappled has no effect on her. She casts freedom of movement on herself and steps out of the creature's grasp.

Once free of the hyaleth, Henrika tries to disorient it by feinting an attack at it with her longsword, which she can tell it hates.

Bluff to feint, trait: 1d20 + 26 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 26 + 3 = 33

Round 2

Malphene advances to the side as the haste spell washes over the group, then attacks.

Scion's Longsword: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (11) + 18 = 29
Dmg.: 1d8 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14

Scion's Longsword: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (20) + 18 = 38
Scion's Longsword: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (1) + 18 = 19
Dmg.: 1d8 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9
If Confirmed, Dmg.: 1d8 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12

Round 2

Trevor circles the tent and nearly flanks with the lore warden.

The Godspike: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25
Dmg.: 1d6 + 1 + 2d6 ⇒ (1) + 1 + (1, 2) = 5

The Godspike: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11
Dmg.: 1d6 + 1 + 2d6 ⇒ (5) + 1 + (6, 6) = 18

Icabhod attempts to dart to the side.

Reflex,Heroism: 1d20 + 13 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 13 + 2 = 17

Icabhod trips on a root.

Round 2

Jack and Henrika both slash at the oncoming hyaleth. Although they both injure the creature, it isn’t enough to stop it and it rolls over them, engulfing them completely in its body.

Henrika Will save: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (15) + 15 = 30
Jack Will save, gift of will: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (3) + 15 = 18 Int Damage: 1d2 ⇒ 2

Once inside the creature, it begins to digest them, not their bodies, but their thoughts. Henrika resists, but Jack cannot. He feels the creature rummaging around in his mind, searching for memories and then feasting on them. The process puts Jack asleep. His sword slips from his hand as he floats unconscious in the creature’s body, unable to resist any further. The secretions used to digest thoughts are foamy and oxygenated, allowing Henrika and Jack to breathe normally even though engulfed.

Henrika and Jack hits the Hyaleth (Red) for a total of 44 damage. Then the are both engulfed and pinned. Henrika saves against digestion and is unaffected this round. Jack fails. He takes 2 points of Intelligence damage and falls asleep for 1 hour.

Navia Reflex, standard, haste: 1d20 + 4 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 4 + 2 + 1 = 19

Icabhod Will save: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12 Int Damage: 1d2 ⇒ 2
Navia Will save: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14 Int Damage: 1d2 ⇒ 2

Icabhod and Navia both choose to try to dodge away from the hyaleth. Unfortunately, they both stumble over undergrowth and the creature catches them. Like with Jack, the hyaleth begins to digest their thoughts, putting them asleep in the process.

Icabhod and Navia failed their Reflex saves to avoid being engulfed. They failed their Will saves against digestion and each take 2 Int damage and fall asleep for 1 hour.

Round 3

Jack is asleep so he can’t attack. He also would not be able to attack while pinned. Henrika can keep her Hero Point.

Trevor stabs the hyaleth engulfing Icabhod and Navia. The point of his rapier pushes against its flesh only to be expulsed back out.

Trevor hits Hyaleth (Blue) but deals 0 damage after DR. Also, the creature is just Neutral, so the holy damage doesn’t apply.

Malphene’s longsword, however, has no trouble cutting the aberration. She hits it two more times.

Malphene hits Hyaleth (Blue) twice for a total of 33 damage.

Botting Xallis

Xallis sees his allies all being digested by these leeches and takes out his wand of magic missiles and fires them at the hyaleth holding Henrika and Jack.

Use Magic Device DC 20: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (10) + 18 = 28
Force Damage: 3d4 + 3 ⇒ (3, 1, 2) + 3 = 9

The force bolts hit the hyaleth and it bursts like a balloon. Its entire form turns into a foul liquid and begins seeping into the loose soil. Henrika and Jack are deposited on the ground, covered in slime; Jack still sleeps soundly.

Xallis hits Hyaleth (Red) for 9 force damage and kills it. Jack and Henrika are no longer engulfed, but Jack is still asleep.

Botting Tychus

Tychus unloads the rest of his clip into the remaining hyaleth hoping to kill it.

Dignity’s Barb, studied target, bane, blessing, haste, point-blank: 1d20 + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 44
Crit Confirmation: 1d20 + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 31
Damage, studied, bane, point-blank: 2d10 + 32 + 6 + 4 + 2 + 4d6 ⇒ (9, 4) + 32 + 6 + 4 + 2 + (5, 4, 2, 3) = 71

Dignity’s Barb, studied target, bane, blessing, haste, point-blank: 1d20 + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 27
Damage, studied, bane, point-blank: 1d10 + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 2d6 ⇒ (6) + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + (4, 3) = 35

Dignity’s Barb, studied target, bane, blessing, haste, point-blank: 1d20 + 11 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 11 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 31
Damage, studied, bane, point-blank: 1d10 + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + 2d6 ⇒ (2) + 16 + 3 + 2 + 1 + (2, 3) = 29

Tychus absolutely destroys the last hyaleth, causing it to explode like the other.

Tychus hits hyaleth (blue) three times for a total of 105 damage after DR, killing it.

Combat over.

Once the immediate threat is over, you can slap those who are asleep back awake. Their heads are a little fuzzy and feel like they are forgetting a memory but can’t recall what it was.

Henrika's a psychic caster, which means she doesn't need verbal or somatic components, so I think grappled has no effect on her. She casts freedom of movement on herself and steps out of the creature's grasp.

She doesn’t need to because she was freed, but if she was still engulfed, yes, she could attempt to cast freedom of movement but she would still need to make the Concentration check. “A pinned character who attempts to cast a spell or use a spell-like ability must make a concentration check (DC 10 + grappler’s CMB + spell level) or lose the spell.”

Nobody took any actually damage that fight and the Int damage will heal on its own over the rest of the journey, which is 5 more days. I’ll do a follow up post to continue in a little bit.

Kuthona 13, 4718 (Oathday) (Panemona, Taldor)

The rest of the journey to Panemona is thankfully uneventful. On the tenth day, you arrive at Panemona, a tiny farming hamlet that lies 15 miles northeast of Zimar. The hamlet produces a great deal of the grain and herbs that Zimar uses. It’s important enough to have a large inn but otherwise far enough out of the way to be easily forgotten, making it a favorite watering hole for spies and criminals.

Windmill Inn stands at the crossroads of four roads, easily spotted thanks to its red tile roof and small windmill, which operates a pump to supply water to the guests and stables. In addition to two dozen cozy rooms, it offers stables and a large tavern for locals and visitors alike. A sign over the entrance reads, “Windmill Inn,” and the four signs on a nearby signpost read, “Zimar 15 miles,” “Landarr 9 miles,” “Zimar Highway,” and “Old Trade Road.”

Kathann says, “This is the place. Cyricus will be here in a few hours. I need to push on to rendezvous with a contact east of town, but I should be back here in a few days. You should move on first thing in the morning. Remember, this isn’t about any political agenda; it’s about the security of Taldor. We need evidence of Maxillar Pythareus’s wrongdoing. Gannaius at Sunrise Spice should be able to get you started.”

”Before I go, take this wand. Do not hesitate in contacting me should you need advice or discover anything important.”

Kathann gives you a fully charges wand of sending. Then she departs.

Ninety minutes after your arrival, Cyricus arrives and takes a seat in a worn old booth in the back of the tavern. The stubbly, nervous half‑elf has been moving goods and people through Zimar illegally since the Grand Campaign, when he worked as a file clerk in the city’s trade office, and he’s familiar with the ins and outs of the city’s bureaucracy. Once you join him, Cyricus begins.

“You’re the ones? All right. I’m Cyricus. I just got here from Zimar, and it’s a bad scene. Guards checking your papers at the gates, more carefully than before. And there are lots of patrols in the city—sometimes they stop you for no reason and ask questions. Lots of people I know have been arrested for having a fake set of documents, which means I had dig up some genuine identification papers for you. These are the closest I could find to the descriptions Zalar sent. Have a look and see if there are any that are close enough. You’ll just have to be creative with your disguises.”

The smuggler has identification papers for the identities below. You each can pick any one identity that you want but each identity has to be different. I added a few extra identities to the list, so there should be more than enough to cover everyone and their cohorts.

To use the documents, you need to disguise yourselves to look like the people described therein, taking penalties for being disguised as a person of different gender, race, age category, or size category, as appropriate. The people are relatively unknown in Zimar, so no modifiers based on familiarity apply to opposed Perception checks. Magical means like hats of disguise or disguise self spells are obviously effective ways to disguise yourselves as well.

The list of identities are:
Argentea (Female half-elf): Traveling singer from Oppara
Basilia Aconian (Female middle-aged human [Taldan]): Baroness from Oppara
Cadonia (Female human [Taldan]): Merchant from Demgazi
Karl Langbaen (Male old human (Garundi): Farmer from Landarr
Marozia (Female human [Vudrani]): Healer from Elbistan
Zadim al-Hadir (Male human [Keleshite]): Blacksmith from Zimar
Zenobius Baccar (Male human [Taldan]): Knight from Lionsguard
Zifer Arpador (Male halfling): Baker from Ortalaca
Toni Blindini (Male aasimar): Circus performer from Galt
Thane Boxer (Male half-orc): Porter from Ridonport
Damara Vlaie (Female human [Varisian]): Perfumer from Cassomir
Kerrel (Male elf): Shepherd from Belhaim
Otho Poplicola (Male human [Taldan]): Haverdasher from Kozan
Procleto Porcinus (Male middle-aged human [Chelaxian]): Traveling mercenary from Kintargo
Snabjorn Vangsen (Male human [Ulfen]): Innersea ship captain

Cyricus is also able to answer a few questions for you, so you can ask him anything you might want to ask now too.

Tychus flips through the available identities, stopping on both Otho Poplicola and Zenobius Baccar.

"These seem to be the closest identities. The Knight might be the best cover to explain away my crossbow."

He nods towards Icabhod.

"Any thoughts on who you want to pick?"

Cyricus is also able to answer a few questions for you, so you can ask him anything you might want to ask now too.

"Do your services end here, or are you able to join us in getting into the city?"

Henrika says that Cadonia and Thane Boxer might be good cover identities for herself and Jack. She can implant her Fearsome Guise trick up to three times, to help disguise the more recognizable members of their group. (That might not include Jack-- he's bad at Disguise but one male half-orc looks like another and I imagine Henrika is more widely known.)

Snabjorn. I will mix extracts to aid in changing my features.

"Hmmm... this Procleto Porcinus fellow seems a little old for me, but at least the nation of origin is correct. I could spin a tale about finding a secret to looking youthful or something.

Cyricus is also able to answer a few questions for you, so you can ask him anything you might want to ask now too.

"No tieflings, eh?" Navia asks while looking over Xallis' shoulder to read the papers. Then she shrugs. "Well, I'd stick out like a Lamashtan with her wobblers swinging free. I can try to be extra sneaky... Regular guards have no shot of seeing me when I don't want them to, but it's gonna get really weird for us if someone catches a peek. Think I can pull it off, or is it too risky?"

Navia has Hellcat Stealth, which lets her make stealth checks in normal/bright light at a -10 penalty. Think it's worth it to keep her around for utility? I'm fine without her in combat, thanks to summon monster.

Trevor rubs his chin. "The Blindini Identity seems like a good choice for me. With my knowledge in various religions, I should be able to pull off the racial queues. Though the performer aspect might be difficult."

"Cyricus. Do you have any hats of disguise available?"
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 26 ⇒ (12) + 26 = 38

"Do your services end here, or are you able to join us in getting into the city?"

”Yes, my services end here. You are on your own to get into the city after this. Best way’s to walk through the front door, I’ve found. Whole lot less suspicious than climbing in a window. They’ll check your papers and ask what you’re doing, but if you keep a cool head and don’t have any obvious weapons or contraband—and you look like your paperwork describes—you’ll be fine. Probably.”

Regular guards have no shot of seeing me when I don't want them to, but it's gonna get really weird for us if someone catches a peek. Think I can pull it off, or is it too risky?"

”Most of Zimar’s guards are just fighters. They’ll have a difficult time spotting someone invisible. It’s the Vault and Chain Templars that you need to look out for. They are powerful inquisitors who can easily route out lies and hidden foes, but only if you give them a reason to look.”

"Cyricus. Do you have any hats of disguise available?"

“Not a hat of disguise, but yeah, I can sell you some things that’ll help. I have disguise kits, some magic items, and all kinds of outfits in my saddlebags. The horse’s in the stable.”

”So, here’s what to expect when you get to the city gates. They look at your documents and check that you match the description. If you’re carrying a lot of valuables and items that look magical, you’ll seem suspicious unless you’re nobility or some kind of scholar. They also ask questions, things like what business you have in Zimar and if you’re loyal to Taldor and Grand Prince Pythareus.”

While you are talking with Cyricus, a group of soldiers enters the inn’s tavern and begins demanding traveling papers from the patrons. The half‑elf immediately panics, whispering, “They’re here for me! You have to help me hide! If they catch me, they’ll torture the truth out of me!”

One of the Zimar Sentinels says, ”We’ve received an anonymous tip of a smuggler meeting with clients. Everyone show your traveling papers. If you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to worry about.”

Two of the Sentinels spread out and start checking paperwork while the other two guard the front door.

The Sentinels haven’t reached your table yet so you have time to prepare or react. You sense that they aren’t necessarily looking for you, just Cyricus, so you could probably satisfy the guards by handing over the panicked smuggler. Otherwise, you’ll need to sneak or bluff your way out.

Here’s a map of the inn: Windmill Inn

I’m not necessarily expecting combat, but it’ll give a visual of the area you are dealing with.

Henrika casts message and whispers, "We might be able to engineer a distraction and get this window open. I can disguise you as a human for a few hours, which might enable you to get to the stable unnoticed, or hide in the surrounding area until the guards leave."

I'm thinking she will use her Fearsome Guise trick on Cyricus and herself, and then go into the common room and create a loud disturbance to cover what the rest of us are doing in this back room.

Icabhod positions himself so he is blocking the view inside of the room from the guards.

Trevor grabs Blindini's papers, and cast free spirit on himself, then staggers out in front of the fireplace.
"An-other drink TO THE REVULUTION!!"

Icabhod also drink a Disguise Self extract so he looks like the description in the papers.

As Trevor stumbles into view of the guards, Cyricus curses, ”No, don’t draw attention to yourselves.” and he ducks under the table.

One of the guards sees Trevor and says, ”You there! You’re looking suspicious. Sit down and show identification.” The guard starts walking towards the back.

Before the guard reaches Trevor, the inn’s owner, Papa Rasso, yells at the soldiers. ”Hey! Stop bothering my guests!”

One guard by the door say, ”We are acting on High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus’ orders. We’ll teach you to interfere with law enforcement.”

The second guard says, ”Nobody else move!”

Then the two Sentinels escort Rasso back into the kitchen, leaving the front door temporarily unguarded.

Of the two remaining guards, one is distracted questioning patrons at another table, and the last guard roughly forces Trevor into a chair and starts questioning him. ”What’s your name and occupation? Have you seen this man?” He holds up a wanted poster with Cyricus’ likeness on it. ”Do you swear alliance to Maxillar Pythareus?”

Trevor can attempt a Bluff or Intimidate to either feint ignorance or growl off the soldier. Or he can attempt Diplomacy at a -5 penalty to try to convince the guard to overlook your presence.

Everyone else has a +5 bonus to Stealth for the moment while the guards are preoccupied.

From the back kitchen you can clearly hear the sound of several punches.

Xallis winces at Trevor's bold statement, but them smiles and shrugs. This isn't the first time he's had to improvise.

Navia's Stealth: 1d20 + 29 + 5 ⇒ (18) + 29 + 5 = 52
Navia's Sleight of Hand: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (13) + 13 = 26

Xallis maintains his unassuming composure as Navia, making use of the ample cover, sneakily searches through his handy haversack for a potion of gaseous form that she presses into Cyricus' hand.

She whispers to him. "Hey, drink this and you'll turn into a man-cloud that can float out of here for ten minutes. I'll try and crack the window to give you an out. Also, suuuuper irresponsible not having a trick to get yourself out of this." Then she winks and hides near the window.

Did we notice any additional guards posted outside that could see the cloud? Or a larger contingent than the four that came in, possible waiting near the window? If so, Xallis would likely tell Navia to remind our friend that the potion thing is a last resort.