Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
"Really, Elen, I've no idea what you're talking about. I suppose it's possible that Shelyn's words, through me, loosened the man's tongue. She does tend to inspire love and friendship in others, but you speak as if I cast a spell."
Anselm seems completely convinced of his words, as though the assassin's sudden change of heart were as natural as the goddess' eternal love.
As the party gets ready to part ways, he waxes theological.
"Certainly, the Eternal Rose does empower her clergy to inspire friendship through prayer, even in enemies. But she would not sanction depriving others of free will, except perhaps in some cases where an attacker's hand must be stayed. I personally see no problem with magic used to inspire friendship and avoid violence, though of course how one treats such friends is worthy of ethical consideration."
He smiles with a mix of rue and conspiracy. "I did use such magic earlier, while I was chatting with Grammell. The ring we found can have that effect. I rather think it was a better option than calling Shelyn's servants to attack the lot of them. That said, what I convinced him to do likely has put him in at some risk that he did not understand. I... Well, I hope the outcome for the man is more merciful than what he arranged for Caradinna Farkin."
The way I think of this supernatural ability roleplaying wise, Anselm doesn't particular know he's doing something equivalent to Charm Person. It's more like he's preaching Shelyn's love, and the target is inspired by it. As opposed to the ability of his Envoy Ring, which definitely requires intent to activate.
I also don't think he was being all that coercive in this case — the man was already going to share the information. Anselm's 'sermon' maybe just encouraged him to be more fully forthcoming.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
The noble Shelynite nods along as the Chief Enumerator speaks, conveying without words the sentiment, We are thinking alike as a peers of different faiths rather than, Of course sir. As you wish, sir. He's long been accustomed to priests of the First Vault acting as though their god is the patriarchal successor to Aroden in the family of gods.
Let the light of love turn any wrath within me into compassion. The bankers' desire for authority is as human as yours for art.
As the gentry of Stachys discuss their next steps, Anselm offers, "We do have some leads I'd like to pursue this evening. I'd like to know more about this Ebla Hightune. And there's the figure who's been following us. Perhaps we can discover a bit more."
For him, this means assuming a new guise and hitting the cobblestones. He spends a few hours asking around about the woman, as well as about the recent bandit raids. He visits lively taverns and the odd social gathering in the town's more traveled public squares.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm provides some healing to both ruffians. 1 x CMW, 1 x CLW
”Yes, Father, we have paid the cult a visit. The situation appears… Delicate. Our plans are in motion, however. Rest assured, we feel a sense of urgency. It may take a day or two for the seeds we’ve planted to take root. Meanwhile, there is the matter of the recent raids on caravans.”
The young diplomat considers the Abadaran’s mien. He isn’t playing some intricate scheme, is he? He seems all too willing to let his attackers loose, for a man of the law.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm looks quizzically at the High Enumerator. "I'm sure I don't know what you mean, father. I've cast no spell. And Enzo here shall be free as a songbird once we've finished our transaction."
Clarified with GMEuan that the effect is a supernatural ability.
He nods at the would-be assassin. "Thank you for that. I hope you will consider a less... violent... line of work. Do you have a family?"
Moving on, he notes, "That certainly sounds like Vaddrigan Pol. Interesting..."
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm raises an eyebrow at the Major. ”Just because we can speak with the dead doesn’t mean I’m interested in creating more of them.”
He gazes at the mook. ”Well, Arrow, I suppose a man needs to make a living in this world. I wouldn’t want to impose some soulless drudgery or toil on you. Fancy folk like us are always ordering people how to live. Me, I just wish for you to have a life you can be proud of. But how should I know what that’ll be for you?”
There’s something unusual in his tone. Almost a revolutionary fervor. The world’s not fair, but we can make it better.
Charm Person DC 20
”Anyhoo, I’m fine with your offer. What’s your name, anyway?”
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm approaches the man. "You have just attempted to murder a member of the Mercantile Council. I think you know that counts for more than 'a little battery charge'. That said, I for one believe in sincere atonement. Tell us everything you know about your employer and the reason for this assault, and I'll do what I can to help you find an honest vocation. If that is satisfactory to the Chief Enumerator."
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
The faux Meir shares what he's learned. "There isn't much gossip about Ebla Hightune, but perhaps we can find out more about her using other means... I doubt it's urgent, but if these folk are connected to Miss Farkin's death, that may make our rival the ultimate culprit."
He nods at Edelmira and Muri and rises when others are ready. "We have some time to investigate this further, though perhaps doing so sooner than later would help us get ahead of the conspiracy."
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
"Oh, sorry. Good afternoon to you all." Anselm tries to look embarrassed and backs away. His ring gets a rest for now.
Registering the location of his compatriots, he nonetheless departs the inn. Finding a private spot nearby, he attempts to assume the appearance of Sir Dratavis before re-entering and joining them. He tries to avoid notice by the two charmed fellows, who might be confused by their friendly feeling toward this new gentleman.
Disguise:1d20 + 17 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 17 + 10 = 46
"Friends, I've made a new friend this morning. Well, two for a few hours. Sewed a bit of mischief among them."
Once he's made sure his back is turned to Grammell and his associates, Anselm gives an account of his time at the inn. Feel free to read spoilers if you haven't already.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm gives a relieved, almost surprised look. "Oh, that's grand. Twenty percent sounds seems fair. I'll leave you alone. Ah, but I'd love to make the acquaintance of your companions here. If you lot are helping, I'd love to know the name of those I should thank."
Without pause, he turns to his other new friend, pressing his luck. "You're Cardello, eh. Well met. Who're your friends here?"
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
As the others arrive, they see the disguised Anselm chatting with the man Elen had earlier identified. A number of others seem to be gathered nearby.
"Well, Grammell, sir, it has to do with a nobleman named Earl Yander Merkondus. Me and mine did good work for him, and haven't received payment. In fact, he refused to pay, even though you'd be hard pressed to find any flaw with our work. A lord like him... Well, I don't know how we could get him to pay. I thought you might be able to help. It's not right for fine folk to leave honest artisans unpaid."
Bluff to make this come across as a simple coincidence:1d20 + 17 ⇒ (15) + 17 = 32
Using Awaken Discontent power to attempt a Charm Person on one of the heavily armed fellows. Will DC 20.
Awaken Discontent (Su):
At 8th level, you can deliver a stirring speech condemning the mistakes of those in power and calling for reform, causing the target of your rhetoric to be affected by charm person with a caster level equal to your inquisitor level and a save DC of 10 + 1/2 your inquisitor level + your Wisdom modifier. You may use this ability a number of times per day equal to your Wisdom modifier.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Marksman:
Anselm shrugs. "Grammell, then. Cheers. Can't say as we've met, though you know what they say. Yanmass. Big city, small town. What ya drinking, there?"
Knowledge Local - who is this guy?:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14
He gestures at an empty chair, silently asking permission to sit. "You look like a man with things going on. I'll be honest. I've a problem with one of my... customers. Heard you're a man who can do things for the right price. I don't have much in the way of gold, but maybe I can repay a favor elsewise."
He gives a friendly, humble look to the other men while he begins assessing whether they generally mean ill in life. Detect Evil
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Marksman:
"Cheers, mister. Buy you and yours a pint? Just got paid and have a hole in my pocket. Name's Clem. What you call yourself?"
Anselm keeps up the charade for now, not wanting to set off the man's companions. Still, he tries to wheedle out of the man who he works for and how a humble artisan like himself might be of service.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Sorry for the delay, as well...
Anselm nods at the plan, adding an additional tidbit. "You said they'd gone back to the Marksman's Inn, didn't you? Perhaps I should go there in disguise. See if the waifs return to give the man a report. I shan't do much. Just observe quietly. What do you say?"
Assuming no serious disagreement, Anselm assumes the appearance of a young, scruffy man in decent but rather drab artisan's attire. As usual, he blends actual physical costume pieces with the magic of his wig.
Disguise:1d20 + 17 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 17 + 10 = 33
A prayer gives him skill at reading lips. Another gives him the air of man with no particular scruples.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm considers sharing Elen’s insights about the youth following the party and the man they reported to, but thinks better of it. We haven’t investigated that lead. If the man is under Yander’s employ, we’d be tipping him off.
Instead, he nods at Edelmira’s report. ”The dig could have spies on us as goats or cats or through any gullible souls whose worship they curried. Dreadful creatures.”
Bluff to put Yander off guard:1d20 + 17 ⇒ (17) + 17 = 34
As Dratavais finishes, he steps forward to begin a report.
"Thank you for asking, Lord Autun. Yes, the slaughterhouse. We found there a collection of Pairaka Divs. Evil, extraplanar creatures with the ability to flood mortal dreams with all manner of depravity. I believe Lord Major Kort can speak in greater detail about their attributes, but it seems certain they were the source of Yanmass' nightmares."
His tone and expression become kindly. "I pray that the Baron and your loved ones slept easier last night. If not, I suspect they will now begin to recover."
He continues. "We were able to rescue two goodly workers who has disappeared from the Temple of Abadar. I was also able to sketch the features of those poor souls who were turned to stone by the medusa. Surely, their families will want to know. It certainly explains the disappearance of the Taldan Horse, though we were not able to compare the victims against a full list of their missing members."
Oratory:1d20 + 28 ⇒ (5) + 28 = 33Or +22 if Diplomacy is more appropriate Shelyn 2nd roll:1d20 + 28 ⇒ (20) + 28 = 48
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm eats lightly, then eats more when he sees the look of wounded pride on Virgil's face after the Major refuses the bacon.
"On the contrary, Major, we've eliminated a danger to Yanmass and saved our beloved colleague. Aside from being good in and of itself, I imagine the Council will be grateful to have yet another threat eliminated. I'm anxious to give our report to them."
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm rolls his eyes at the medusa's attempts at evasion, even in death. He considers for a moment and asks a final question.
"That is all well and good. But who assisted you by directing here the people in your tableau?"
After her response, the villain's body becomes still again. "Her spirit departed upon death, but her body still remembers. That is all it will tell us for some days to come." he says to Muri.
He checks his sketches of the petrified victims, hoping they're accurate enough for loved ones to identify them.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Anselm listens intently to Sir Meir. He arches his eyebrow somewhat at the man's characterization of Yander.
"Of course outward respect is important between those of us in the trade. However, I'm beginning to suspect his actions hereabouts go well beyond diplomacy. We shall see."
Before making for camp, he sketches likenesses of the different petrified souls. Then he turns his attention to the medusa. Crouching next to the corpse, he says a prayer that conjures the spirit back.
"Sculptress, I would speak with you."
Speak with Dead, DC 19 Will
Initial questions if she responds:
"Did you have an accomplice in your work here? What do you know of Earl Yander Merkondus?"
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
"Sir Dratavis, of course we know you. The Queen sent us to search for you. How came you here?" Anselm stands next to the medusa, making no move to save the mass murderer.
Later, Anselm gestures toward the rod and says, "May I?"
Only faith and destiny keep the aesthete from joining the stony scene around him.
I believe that's 5/8 hero points left.
The archon steps forward, offering Kamari his help. "If you with, milady, I can ensure it is securely wrapped before I return home."
Anselm inclines his head and gives a short bow. "Thank you for your kind help... What are you called, my new friend?"
"Clement, Lord Basri. The host sends greetings."
Anselm gazes around further once the head is wrapped. "I suggest we use one of the scrolls to release Sir Dratavis from his unfortunate state. And... Well, if you wish, I can interrogate our fallen foe."
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Round 2
What does it feel like to speak several languages, and hear someone speak in all of them at once? This is the sound of the archon's voice as it says, "A young woman with snakes for hair. I feel no fear. Do you, lady monster?"
DC 16 Will save for Good Folks v. Aura of Menace. Link in spoiler below.
Shelyn's otherworldly servant moves behind the medusa and strikes with his great sword, putting perhaps too much grease into his elbow.
Anselm whispers, "Major, as you are our expert with scrolls, I suggest averting your eyes as much as possible. Friend archon, would you be so kind as to scout ahead?"
The elkhound-headed hottie proceeds into the room, sniffing out trouble.
Anselm keeps his gaze on the ground ahead of him, taking in all he can from the periphery. "Eternal Rose, help us free these actors up to play other roles."Cast Bless
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Auto-succeed on Nobility.
Before exiting the carriage, Anselm prays to the Eternal Rose. "May Shelyn protect all of us, and not just those who hear her song."
Alas, her actual protection only settles upon the goddess' faithful, artful though each of the assembled lords and ladies may be.
He prays further, seeking inspiration and greater aesthetic discernment.
Ward of the Faithful on Anselm, Elen, and any recent converts; Heroism and Perceive Cues on Anselm.
Stealth:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15
He tries to match the Major's surprisingly quiet gait as the group approaches the manor. As he draws near, a figure appears next to him. Anselm looks a bit surprised by its appearance — a well built man with the head of an elkhound. He can't help but think about his recent bedtime reading.
Anselm murmurs quietly, "Well hello, sir archon. We're in search of some menace that turns people and elephants to stone. Your assistance is most appreciated."
Anselm Status:
Active effects perceive cues, heroism, ward of the faithful
Variable teamwork feat: improved outflank
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Out of earshot of the gnome, Anselm opines, "I suggest we visit the manor ruins, given the lieutenant's intelligence. Though perhaps we should bring something to, er, alleviate calcification..."
That is, buy at least 1 scroll of stone to flesh, if it's possible for someone in the part to cast...
Spells
+1 2nd level / day
+1 3rd level / day
See invisibility
Speak with dead
Awaken Discontent (Su)
At 8th level, you can deliver a stirring speech condemning the mistakes of those in power and calling for reform, causing the target of your rhetoric to be affected by charm person with a caster level equal to your inquisitor level and a save DC of 10 + 1/2 your inquisitor level + your Wisdom modifier. You may use this ability a number of times per day equal to your Wisdom modifier.
Summon Tactics (Su)
Summoned creatures get two teamwork feats (usually Outflank, Improved Outflank)
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Enjoying a bit of mirth after witnessing such horror, Anselm adds dryly, "It wouldn't hurt for us to keep some of Calistria's profanities in our home. Love can find expression through such scripts. Self-love especially. The prose may be banal, but I feel certain there is something in them that reminds us to cherish life."
Perhaps to emphasize his words, he takes one of the books with him to bed.
In the morning, inspired by the previous evening's disturbing reading, he paints in watercolor a scene of two women that transfigures the smut into something sacred.
Painting:1d20 + 18 ⇒ (20) + 18 = 38
Pleased with the results, though they do little to excite him, he discretely offers the image to Edelmira.
Over breakfast, he suggests, "We'll need to spend some time reporting to the council and sharing testimony with the guard. The gnome seems a worthy quarry afterward. I believe he is a priest of Cayden Cailean. Any tavern could be his temple."
He pens a note to the council and the captain of the guard.
Where the Sanguine Brothers once conducted their business, we found a grisly scene of murder. A band of foul otherworldly creatures, pairaka divs, captured, tortured, and killed several poor souls. We rescued two of them in the employ of the Church of Abadar.
The div are known to corrupt the dreams of mortals. The people of Yanmass should sleep more easily going forward.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Protected from disease? No doubt to prolong his suffering.
The Shelynite grimaces invisibly. The cold fury is palpable in his usually kindly voice as he says, "We must make sure Navin the Elder is safe, and then rid Golarion of these hateful creatures. Let us leave the rest until after we've finished."
The much-abused man's right arm and shoulder rise from the ground. "Help me, will you?" Anselm says to no one in particular.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Round 3
Anselm moves over to the stairs and calls upon the Eternal Rose. An invisible, light touch channels healing into Kamari. "May Shelyn's inspiration flow into you, milady."
CMW:2d8 + 7 ⇒ (5, 4) + 7 = 16
Meanwhile, the whirlwind continues to whip around the wasps.
Damage if it fails DC 16 Reflex:1d6 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8
Anselm Status:
Active effects perceive cues, heroism, ward of the faithful, bless, invisible
Variable teamwork feat: precise strike
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
Religion:1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11
"Alas, such prodigious evil is beyond my meager theology."
Anselm climbs carefully, not being much of an athlete (take 10 for a 9). Once on the balcony, he makes for the eastern tower, stopping short of the sharded steps.
Male (He/Him) | Link | Human |HP 54/54 | AC 21 T 13 FF 18 | CMB 5, CMD 18 | F: +8, R: +7, W: +14 | Init: +9 | Perc: +17, SM: +21
"I am so sorry for what you've experienced. May I heal you a bit more? I won't leave you here as weakened as you are."
If the man agrees, Anselm takes a few moments to alleviate the man's symptoms, drawing on the magic of the wand. "What are you and your father called?"
Let me know how many lesser restoration charges it takes to get him back to reasonable health.
