Dieb Geist's page

Dieb had stood long in ulfish thought, long time the manxome foe he sought, until at least he spoke up, replying at least to Polo's dizzying but plausible line of accusation.

"If I may, good Polo, Jakti seems an unlikely target of our suspicion. Jakti's eyes widened in alarm and he rushed to the temple's doorway, seeming as surprised as us. Why would he seek us out and tell us that there was a danger? True, he might be using a double-blind to allay suspicion, but 'twould seem that illogical that he would appraise us of danger and ensure our readiness, rather than stay silent and count on the element of surprise.
Still, let us keep our meeting with Pellius and see if aught else makes itself clear. Baring any further attempt at assassination or undead traps involving jabberwocks, we should shed be able to glean more clues."

Dieb is incredulous that he might meet his end against so base a trap.

1d20 - 5 ⇒ (12) - 5 = 7 = fail. 1 pt damage -6hp

1d20 - 6 ⇒ (15) - 6 = 9 = fail (Oh Confound!) 1 pt damage -7 hp

"Oh confound!" shouts Dieb as he withdraws into a corner of the room, frustrated to no end to -again- be facing the kind of undead that are immune to Sleep spells (very rude of them). Especially the kind that pop up right next to him. No manners at all!

"I would just like to say that this is another reason why the ring is the better choice. It makes it that much harder to be beaten to death by your own gift."

Withdraw action.

"That is...incredibly intelligent," says Dieb with a hint of admiration. "To know that your mourning rights would necessitate placing items before a thane, and then rigging one of said items to activate the contents therein. Impressive. Whoever did this had some knowledge of both your House and of the ritual observed. As well as, it goes without saying, was no complete fool.
Of course, good Meredith, we must making investigations of the item that originated this tumult. Lead on!"

Sorry for the lateness. Wednesdays can be bad for me.

Seeing the assassin fall, Dieb calls upon his simple spell and hurls it at the undead attackers.

Disrupt Undead ranged touchy: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11
Damage: 1d6 ⇒ 4

Dieb follows Torsk as they bob and weave through the undead onslaught

Acrobatics: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21

Deib conjures ephemeral ichor and launches a fusillade of Disrupt Undead at the wall of flesh in the hall.

Ranged Touchy: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10

Dieb leaps deftly over the trap with an agility the belies his frame.

Reflex Save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 2 = 15

Dieb keenly discerns the door, and using his vast array of knowledge from many different disciplines keenly discerns that it is, indeed, a door!

Knowledge Engineering: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5

Dieb follows Meredith and Petrus to save Temel.

Ya, I had assumed that any SC check on an item needs Detect Magic with it. And, just to be clear, it's still in dust form, not pellet, ya?

"I have no answers, good Meredith. We can but wait to see where this piece of the puzzle fits in."

Dieb concurs and follows the others to see Jakti first.

Once Dieb steps foot into his room, he withdraws the odd pouch of dust and scrtutinizes it and its purpose.

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (17) + 10 = 27

After developing a working theory, he takes his find to his sister-wizard Meredith and advises her of the discovery.

Dieb rouses slowly, recovering his breath. "Gratitude," he rumbles out.

Seeing that no one is doing what must be done, he approaches the once and forever corpse. "Despite the august gathering, it is primitive to give the body reverence once the soul has departed. What you see before is but a broken vessel, it's duty since completed. As such, there is no disrespect in seeing that...security...is followed. If there was an artifact of malignant intent at root, we must needs begin...at the beginning. And start with the greatest clue we have."

That done he searches the corpse with the air of a scholar checking over a building, looking for the cause of a fire.

Dieb struggles in the face of the monstrous heat,

fort save: 1d20 ⇒ 1Oh confound!
damage: 1d4 ⇒ 3

But alas the infernal heat robs him of all strength and he slumps, drained beyond endurance.

fort save: 1d20 ⇒ 8
damage: 1d4 ⇒ 4

Dieb is shocked and stunned and sickened at what he sees. The words "I admit, I did -not- see that coming," seem to dribble from his mouth.

His powerful mental facilities recovering quickly, he takes Aaqir's signal to mean that weapons are free.

Glowing sigils of Pain and War are drawn in the air before him, and they glow brightly as he infuses his personal store of Powerful Magic into the spell. "STURMGEWEHR!" he shouts, loosing twin bolts of blue fire at the newly animated undead.

MM, Powerful magic: 2d4 + 2 ⇒ (1, 2) + 2 = 5

Looking about him, he mutters, almost sheepishly. "I cast in Orc. Gives the spells extra kick."

Ah.

Dieb Geist
# 162383-1
Dark Archive
no day job
Init. +5
Perception +3

Dieb is slightly surprised that no one else was surprised by the Inquisition. Apparently their two weapons of fear, surprise, and ruthless efficiency have worked again.

Know. Religion: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 4 = 14
Sense Motive: 1d20 ⇒ 9

Deib remains largely ignorant of whatever subtle undercurrent is flowing along.

I think Petrus has you outbid, because he's part of the Inquisition. Huh, didn't expect that.

Apologies. Meant Know: Local. Same modifiers.

"As you wish. Conceding an advantage when so openly offered is, of course, your prerogative. Do excuse me."

Dieb steps away, and wanders until he enters the orbit of Pellius.

"Friend Polo, I don't think you've introduced me to your companion. My name is Dieb Geist, Master Melkior. Has this small one been boring you with tales of the latest fads in Taldor? I'm sure a man of your repute has better things to do than speak of hearsay.
Why, I mean, just take the latest fad among the nobility: Metal furniture. Can't get enough of the stuff. Metal chairs, ornate and robust; metal beds with high, lilting ceilings. Even some houses. Apparently forsaking the traditional building materials is all the next wave of 'ostentatious'.
But they are an odd lot, not a one among them has the vaguest idea of how to truly deal in durable goods. Did a merchant of any skill gain an audience with the Trade Prince to get a foot in the door, why the profit margin would be...incalculable.
But I'm sure one don't need to hear about such trifles. Apologies for bothering you."

Appraisal: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

Dieb chuckles at the suggestion. "Yes...that would be a most humorous occurrence. Alas, we are but scholars and bodyguards, so not a one of us would be able to conjure such roguish skill as to pick a pocket or wrench a door. And would you not say that it is for the better? Have you ever known a rich burglar? Surly so successful a man as yourself would rather vanquish a rival that was at their full powers, and not play at parlor tricks? What joy is there to be had at titillating at some fumbled speech compared to the unparalleled rapture at seeing a rival's business close their doors as they beg you to take their un-sold stock from them at a fraction the price they paid?
If that is your goal, and why would it not be, what say you to engaging in talks with the Trade Prince? Surely a mutually profitable arrangement between you two men of intellect and means would be a noble goal?"
Dieb smiles, and then, sadly sighs.
"Of course, if you would rather not, I suppose I shall be forced to invite the dwarf to audience. Such is not my preference, but the Trade Prince will have a partner, one way, or another."

"I am that which is called Dieb Geist, and I am a student of many philosophies. For instance, it has been said, by some, that he that was called Smith had an interesting take on the making of profits. To wit, I believe it went 'As each man does what is best for himself, he does what is best for the group'.
How would you say your theories might react to such a statement? You can tell me, for this is the proper stage for men if breeding and intellect to celebrate the life that goes on. Even if the event lacks a certain degree of--" he pauses to send a sneer across the room to the orating Metella, in the way that only an elf can sneer at a dwarf, "--standards."

He sips his drink delicately and listens intently to Temel's answer."

Appraisal: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14

Dieb gives Polo a gentle squeeze on his arm and says, softly, "I'll open with Temel, but if we wanted to join forces at Pellius later, I'd be amenable to that."

Dieb drifts over to Temel, taking in the scene. From somewhere he picks up a cup of some light refreshment and sips it minutely.

Arriving at Temel, he addresses him in his deep voice, but neither offers a hand nor expects one to be offered. "Greetings, Wise One. Our host, Trade Prince Aaqir al'Hakam, wishes to express gratitude for your presence at this august occasion. And I wish to convey my own admiration for meeting one of such rich mental fortitude as yourself.
Is it true that you have a business plan that is of divine inspiration?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 2 = 19

FYI, in the last campaign I was in the DM actually found a way to punish good RP, so I may have a bit cold-starting this morning.

Dieb inclines his head at Polo's statement, acknowledging it's accuracy.

At the Trade Prince's mention of the mission, his keen mind becomes awake. Discussing the intricacy of trade and profit margins are a welcome diversion after his last excursion involving things...eating...other things. He can not wait to match wits with those of sublime mentalities.

Of course, he's never been the one to be soft with his tongue, but hopefully that won't be a factor.

And the timing bothers him not a whit. The various habits of different cultures are never statis. When in mourning, he's heard that some people juggle baby geese....

lolz. When in doubt, -always- take...the ring. When has that ever gone poorly? =)

A tell elf enters the room. His bearing gives him the look of an aristocrat, but none of the nobility would let themselves get so emaciated.

Without a word he sits down and pours himself a large coffee, taking a long drink as if he's not seen the favorite beverage in some time.

Still silent, he picks up the Venture-Captain's letter and scans it. Putting the paper down, his eyes crawl slowly over the proffered gifts.

Appriase: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20

"The Trade Prince," begins the elf with a voice deep and rich like a repressed memory, "will most likely prefer the ring. Doubtful to be a man of arms and warfare, his mercantile mind will cleave to the value and portability of jewelry. I am the Deib of the Geist, my good fellows."

He reaches over and pets the two wolves. "Lovely animals," he admires, as if it's not an opinion but a mere statement of fact.

He glances forward and salutes Meredith with his coffee cup. "Lovely hair," he says in the same tone.

Spellcraft for Orb: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11
Spellcraft for Bugle: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12

Blaaaaargh. Even remembering that I'm an Elf doesn't help. Will you allow a quick re-try since I can attempt one per day?

Well done, GM Harker! Nothing odd for me. (And no day job.)

Good job team! Good job all around!

Dieb approaches the horde with a scholar's eye. He lets his Detect Magic-infused hands roam free. Upon discovering the bugle, he takes pause and studies it with a rapt fascination. He lets its image play upon his mind, searching his knowledge of such things.

Take 10 on Spellcraft + 8 = 18. Similar study on the Orb.

"My good, Zathran, certainly were it so malignant as to offer harm by mere contact we would have been informed of that? No lore that I know of tells of such puissance that simply picking it up would endanger one's person.

As far as the polyp goes, it does not seem to offer us any further harm, and such factors are here that we can not with certitude say that it is malignant. Indeed, it gave us beneficial effect at the time. Let us lop off a hunk and bring it back for further study. If it is a monstrosity, later, more well-equipped excursions could destroy it, for I do not know that we could even had we purpose. Perhaps study into it might even provide a means to create a similar ever-refilling food source safe for the populace at large to eat safely. Think on the wonders of that!"

Dieb's exhausted mind looks at the cramped room and the bottleneck by the door and comes up with no plans.

Delay until an angle opens up.

"So, no to sleeping then? Are...are you sure?"

Dieb pauses and wipes the sweat from his brow. Taking a sip from his canteen he says "What say after we clear this obstacle we get some sleep? We have three days to do this, no sense in killing ourselves to do it in one."

He'll listen to the others' opinions as he returns to work.

Dieb takes notes on the inscription on the chest, and examines the dead un-dead lord for any identifying marks. Whoever they were this probably solves some mystery.

He tries to draw the scowling face, for the historians.

That done, he bends to and helps clear rubble.

whoops!

more ranged touchy: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5
more disrupt undead: 1d6 ⇒ 6

Well, that was hardly worth the wait.

Dieb castles queen-side along the wall and, figuring that Black will be consumed in whatever it was that Tamisiel warned about, let's fly at the leader.

ranged touch: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18

Disrupt Undead: 1d6 ⇒ 4

Dieb targets yellow if it's still standing after Darius. Otherwise, he's puttin' it all on Black.

Powerful magic +2 lvl. Magic missile.

2d4 + 2 ⇒ (3, 3) + 2 = 8

Dieb hears the exchange as he walks in, talking on the air of a scribe, or adviser.

"Be careful, Master," Dieb snivels out to Zathran. "This is the one we have heard about. He is cunning and powerful. We must be cautious."

Aid Another, Diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6

I guess Dieb don't snivel so well.

As the others are investigating, Dieb takes out his journal and writes copious notes about the polyp. Everything about it is simply...fascinating. Spells that affect undead seems to affect it, but it regenerates--something he didn't know undead could do. And it regenerates, but does not grow--simply astonishing.
He tries to include a crude drawing, but his hand was never talented at such, so it does what he can, then prepares to follow Tamisiel to the next room.

If at first you don't succeed...shoot him again.

ranged touch attack: 1d20 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 + 2 = 22

damage Disrupt Undead: 1d6 ⇒ 6

Dieb moves up, and lobs a harmful glob at the ghoul that just paralyzed Darius.

ranged attack Disrupt Undead: 1d20 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 + 2 = 10
damage: 1d6 ⇒ 2

Dieb bows in the face of overwhelming evidence. "Or not."

Move step back. Magic Missile at Red. 1 point for Powerful magic, +2 lvl

2d4 + 2 ⇒ (3, 1) + 2 = 6

putting all the burning on black: 1d6 ⇒ 1

Dieb calls out, "Peace, friends, peace. Do not slay all of them. Perhaps there is some greater mystery and, as these pathetic, low, creatures seem to pose no threat to us, let us observe them to continue as they are, and perhaps learn some vital clue. If not, at worse we might slay them later, at our leisure. For now, let us focus our attention on that great growth."

Dieb ignores the eaters and focuses on the Polyp, throwing a disrupting ball at it, to see how it reacts.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (7) + 3 = 10

Ranged Touch: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10

damage: 1d6 ⇒ 5

Following the party in, Dieb tries to solidify the flank and launches his missile to the right of Onix.

Ranged Touch: 1d20 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 - 2 = 12
Against Black. Also, @Tamisiel, I moved you in.

Flaming damage: 1d6 ⇒ 5

Once one of the weak-eyed humans would've complained about poor light, Dieb would've lit his lantern. It can be used to set on fire whatever your pyromaniac heart wants. =)

Dieb grimaces at the stench and the odds. Of course they need to kill them all, but so many at once is stiff odds. Seeing Tamisiel take out a grenade, he catches the idea and gets out a flask of Alchemist Fire.

With the leech well and truly engaged, Dieb weaves his way to the flank and start throwing things. Things...made of magically created acid.

ranged touch: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6
acid splash: 1d3 ⇒ 1

But he doesn't throw them well.

Also delaying. Yeah, Zathran, I was waking everyone up as they entered, so go ahead and act.

Dieb catches Mark as he feints, and him gives a light pat on the cheek to rouse him, before taking his place in the pre-door conga line.

Dieb walkes in to the hall, covering his nose with his sleeve. "Oh my that -is- disgusting. Oh, now, Onix, I'm not one to judge, but is now really a good time for a snack?"

Will save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17

Dieb yawns mightily as he give Darius a little shake. "Wakey-wakey, little guy. Time to get up for school."

His playful manner evaporates as he spies the wandering eyes of the relief. "Oh, by the Powers, I do so hate avant-garde artwork."

His hands conjure a film of ectoplasm and fling it at the art.

Ranged touch Acid Splash: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

damage: 1d3 ⇒ 3

The way having been made ready and clear, Dieb will make his way down along the rope.

Take 10 in climb check = 9. DC 5 for rope use.

"Should we push the idols over now? So that they do not become an issue on our way back?"

There you discover a crack in the earth splits the ground, most of it covered by thick weeds and the roots of a huge strangler fig tree.

I'm hoping the large fig tree will be a fine spot tie the rope.

If I use a rope, does that lower the DC to 5?

Anywhere that Onix goes, Dieb will feel safe to tread.