Will get us moving tonight
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Ok was going to see if you guys were going formulate a plan
Lavinia smiles at your decision This is very good. I am prepared to offer you each a sum of 100 gold coin if you can successfully retrieve my property. She offers a toast to the success of the group May you find victory in the name of House Vanderboren Once the Toast is complete, You will find my Ship the "Blue Nixie" at Pier five in the Merchant District located near the Gondola station and the Merchant's Guildhouse
Thanaton glances around the table. "If you will permit, Lady Vanderboren, one final question? What do we know of the crew of this Vark's ship? Many use the undead for menial tasks, whether sailor or stevedore, and these laborers may be an unexpected asset to Mistress Slade and myself." Lavinia stops to try and recall what she remebers seeing in her previous dealings, All them were orcs, Vark bore the markings of Orcus. Knowledge local DC 12:
You recall hearing of some orcs marked by orcus, they have midnight black skin that is as tough as leather, they are much stronger than most other orcs and more intelligent. they are known as the Black Orcs or Orcus. They are a full head taller than other orcs and have been known to make common orcs cringe in fear, they also move about in daylight just as easily as in the darkness of the Darklands.
Knowledge local DC 17: According to rumors, these orcs are taken at a young ageby Orcus, the Demon Lord of Undeath, and bred with demonic blood in a matter that would accommodate his diabolical needs. They are known to be in the Employ of the Blood Raiders their ferocity lets them remain in battle long when others would think them dead. its as though they are too angry to die
Lavinia turns to Pettinax, I do not think you will have much luck dealing with your grandmother. Shevhas not been of very sound mind as of late. But you could try. She pauses a moment I believe that Vark is operating independently, taking advantage of the Islaran name.
Lavinia looks among the group You are quite right Mr Sirov, Shikki was specifically requested by Kora, her skills would have been quite valuable she will be missed. As for Ms Minue, There were extenuating circumstances regarding her that I would rather not get into out of respect for her. Lavinia takes a few more bites of dinner as Kora circles around ensuring everyone's goblets are full of wine. Lavinia eventually addresses the "elephant in the room", Why are you here... As you already know, I have inherited my parent’s estate along with this manor, which, unfortunately, came with a fine amount of debt owed to the Dark Council, as well as the harbormaster, and quite a few guildhalls. It seems, my parents, for all of their success in “adventuring”, were not as skilled in finance as one might expect. Now, if I am to settle these debts, I need access to the family vaults under Castle Teraknian. And that wherein lies the problem, you see. The vaults are magically locked; keyed to the family signet ring. As you well know, only the Matriarch of a house may possess such a ring. My mother’s ring was lost in the explosion that killed my parents. But, despite this setback, I have found some letters from my father that indicates that he may have also had a ring, secreted away in case of emergencies. The ring is hidden on board our family’s last remaining ship, the Blue Nixie. Unfortunately, the harbormaster has seized the ship to settle debts owed. I personally made payment to the man placed in charge of the ship to settle the debt, a man by the name of Soller Vark. But, when I returned to claim my property, Vark’s men would not let me board, claiming that the debt still was unpaid. I spoke to Vark again, and he denied ever receiving such payment. My complaints to the harbormaster have fallen on deaf ears. She is a doddering old fool and trusts this man and refuses to relent. Vark and his men are up to something and using my ship, which could possibly lead to issues. What I need is to find out what exactly is going on. Unfortunately, Vark is not the type to respond to diplomacy. I need someone who speaks his language… This is where you come in. I want you to find out what he is using my ship for, and if possible, recover the money I already paid him. Once the ship is secure and back in my hands, we can locate the signet ring and I can access the family vault. Lavinia allows this information sink in apparently opening up to answer any questions you may have.
Hey guys, in case you didn't notice... I am moving slowly with this game to avoid GM burnout. I have lots of things going on and I don't want to burn myself out quickly
Info regarding the Vanderboren house that you may know:
Knowledge Local DC 20:
You heard rumors that Lavininia was supposed to be on the trip with her parents but was unable to get away from her training. Vanderboren Manor is in the eastern section of the Merchant District; the seven-foot-high stone wall that surrounds the estate is impossible to miss, as the towering gothic, three story house that dominates the grounds within. Leering gargoyles and twisting vipers festoon the eaves of the manor’s roof. Large decorative luminesce fungi give the manor grounds a nice buffer from the bustle of the city, as well as giving the grounds an eerie green-yellow glow. The front gates have been left open for you, but no one greets you until you reach the front door and knock. After a few moments, Kora answers the door. As Kora escorts the party to the study (room #4 on the map) a group of four adventuring types will leave from the inner courtyard (area #7) and head to the exit, passing you as they exit the manor. All of you recognize them as the adventuring group that was at the wake three days earlier Knowledge local DC 15:
you recognize the group as a band of mercenaries known as the Jade Ravens Knowledge local or nobility DC 20:
The Jade Ravens have been in the employ of the Vanderboren house for several years now. Knowledge local DC 25:
rumors are that one of the Jade Ravens has a “thing” for Lavinia Vanderboren They appear to have little time for you right now although Tolin will pause to “size-up” the PC’s The enormous great hall’s marble stonework is smooth and grey. Two oak stairwells with burnished brass railings ascend to an open first-floor landing. Tapestries depicting a beautiful and savage frontier of sprawling jungle landscapes and an eerie shoreline hang from the upper landing. A glass chandelier hangs from the atrium’s ceiling. The chandelier is lit by ioun torches gibing off a low eerie reddish glow. Kora then leads you to the Study, (area 4 on the map). In the study there is a large oak wood desk and high-backed padded chair, also there is a small table with a carafe with Drow blood wine, (and 6 goblets engraved with motifs of entwined vipers) there are several other comfortable chairs for everyone to have a seat. Once Kora has shown you to the study, Please wait here, I will come and fetch you when dinner is ready. If you will excuse me, I have other duties to attend to Kora turns to exit the study.
perception DC 15:
You notice that much of this room is Spartan it seems several of the room’s furnishings are gone but there are some traces that this room was much more lavishly furnished
After about a half hour, maybe a little less, Kora come to gather you all and escort you to dinner. She takes you through the inner courtyard (Area 7 on the map) The inner courtyard is a plethora of exotic flowers and plants populate this lush courtyard. A small pond dotted with water lilies sits at the center of the courtyard, a gentle stream draining away to the north. Benches and a stone table with an intricate marble and iron dragon chess set built into its surface complete the idyllic scene. Several lamp posts lit the same as the Atrium are scattered about the courtyard. Craft Alchemy or Knowledge Nature DC 15:
Almost every plant within the courtyard can be crafted into some sort of poison Perception DC 15:
You notice several venomous vipers slither freely about the courtyard but avoid the walking paths The private dining hall (room #12 on the map) is comfortable and cozy, softly lit by wall mounted lanterns that glow from ioun torches. (The room is still considered “Dim Light”). A window overlooks the manor’s inner courtyard. And the carpet is thick and soft. A portrait hangs on the wall depicting a handsome Drow male and standing before the portrait is an attractive and pretty young looking Drow woman wearing a long flowing dark blue dress. She smiles as the PC’s enter. As you enter, she introduces herself, once again, as Lavinia Vanderboren. As dinner is served, Kora doubles as server,
perception DC 15:
You notice the lack of other servants in the manor Perception DC 20:
You also notice the complete lack of House slaves – Koro does not bear any marks as a slave to the Vanderboren House Knowledge (Nobility) DC 15:
It is evident that the meal served is not up to the standard as would probably be expected for a minor Drow noble house Kora does not speak to the PC’s during dinner even if asked a direct question. She simply carries out her duties in silence.
Will get the story officially started tomorrow I am going with theatre of the mind for most combat. Also there are parts of pathfinder 2e that I am incorporating into this game. Poisons, diseases, and conditions will be using pathfinder 2e rules
I will be editing that tonight and get the rest of the info together How do you guys want to do maps?
Minue has messaged me and will not be joining
Sorry to see you go Shikki, I had great plans for your character. also I need to explain my absence. We went to the beach for labor day weekend and when we got home, we had a flea infestation in our house and have been spending all week fumigating and cleaning and spraying to get rid of them. its been taking all of my time.
Hey all, sorry, I should be more clear. I had thought maybe an initial reaction to the note then a brief synopsis of the three days. I was going to have a separate thread but since I am taking everyone. There is no need to start a separate thread. I will pick up as you end up meeting again at the gate to the Vanderboren manor.
The evening get together has been, for the most part, uneventful. the group of armed adventuring types seem to be doing a rather good job at keeping the peace. Zebula tried to make some moves on some of the other Drow women at the event but a couple of stern glances from the guard, and he backs down. The Kellani's have stopped arguing, as the young Rowyn Kellani takes her slave prizes and starts to head out of the party. On her way out, Zebula steps in front of her. Lady Kellani, such a pleasure to meet you once again. I would like... but before he can continue, Rowyn interrupts, I would like nothing from you, there never was and there never will be, any...Us...Now step aside Noble wannabe Zebula steps aside as Rowyn requests, My offer still stands, lady Kellani he adds. Zebula turns to get back to the party but kora stands in his way now. Zebula looks at the small gnome. and is about to say something, but a glare for Kora, Zebula turns and leaves. After a short time following Zebula and Rowyn's departure, Kora step up onto a rock, flacked by the adventuring group. Can i have your attention, please she says trying to sound as loud as she can, but despite her small stature, she is not fully heard. After several attempts, eventually the crowd pays attentions. Lady Lavinia Vanderboren would like to thank you all for your condolences. and thanks you for coming this evening. I present, Lady Lavinia Vanderboren, Matriarch of House vanderboren When the introduction is over, Kora step aside as Lavinia steps up. As she goes past Kora, she hands her a small stack of envelopes. Kora nods and disappears into the crowd Lady's and Gentlemen, Thanks you for attending. I never realized the influence my parents had here in Telderest. I do hope to live up to their name as I settle their affairs and pick up where they left off. I will be receiving guests through out the night to discuss any unresolved business my parents had with each of your families. Kora will be handing each of you a letter of gratitude. I am afriad that my brother Vanthus is unable to attend due to...Personal business.. Lavinia seems to struggle for the proper words regading her brother. Trevor Culexis:
At a time when you are not engaged in conversation, Kora passes by and slip you a note. before you can say anything, Kora again vanishes in the shadows of the crowd. When you take a moment to read the note: Thank you for your attendance, My parents have spent considerable resources to assist in your education. I ask you now to return the favor. I wish to offer you an opportunity. Meet me for dinner at the Vanderboren manor in three days time from tonight. if you refuse, there will be no repercussions.
Aranda Slade:
At a time when you are not engaged in conversation, Kora passes by and slip you a note. before you can say anything, Kora again vanishes in the shadows of the crowd. When you take a moment to read the note: Thank you for your attendance, You have been in the employ of my parents off and on for some time. I wish to extend that employment further. If you are willing. I have an opportunity for you. Meet me for dinner at the Vanderboren Manor in three days time from tonight. if you refuse, there will be no repercussions.
Nathrae Khalazza:
At a time when you are not engaged in conversation, Kora passes by and slip you a note. before you can say anything, Kora again vanishes in the shadows of the crowd. When you take a moment to read the note: Thank you for your attendance, The exact circustances of your debt t my parents are unknown to me. I simply know that you are indebted to them. I would like to offer you that opportunity. Please join me for dinner at the Vanderboren manor in three days time from tonight. Shikki the Sailor:
At a time when you are not engaged in conversation, Kora passes by and slip you a note. before you can say anything, Kora again vanishes in the shadows of the crowd. When you take a moment to read the note: Thank you for your attendance, I was unsure about what I am about to offer, but Kora has spoken on your behalf and I trust her without question. I want to extend that trust to you as well. I have an offer for you that could prove rather prosperous for you. It may lead you to captain your own ship. Please join me for dinner at the Vanderboren manor in three days for tonight. Minuè Myrett:
At a time when you are not engaged in conversation, Kora passes by and slip you a note. before you can say anything, Kora again vanishes in the shadows of the crowd. When you take a moment to read the note: Thank you for your attendance, I know your secret, but have no fear, it is safe with me. I am impressed with your work at the orphanage and I would like to employ your talents in another endeavor. please join e for dinner at the vanderboren manor in three days time from tonight. Thanaton Sirov:
At a time when you are not engaged in conversation, Kora passes by and slip you a note. before you can say anything, Kora again vanishes in the shadows of the crowd. When you take a moment to read the note: Thank you for your attendance, You have spent time in my parents employ. I would like to extend that offer to continue working for house vanderboren. I have need for one of your talents. If you are interested, Join me for dinner at the Vnderboren Manor in three days time from tonight Pertinax Islaran: At a time when you are not engaged in conversation, Kora passes by and slip you a note. before you can say anything, Kora again vanishes in the shadows of the crowd. When you take a moment to read the note: Thank you for your attendance, House Islaran has seen much turmoil as of late, It house matriarch is not doing well, and her eldest daughter has been lost at sea for several years now, presumed dead. Your time serving the Vanderboren House has not gone unnoticed. I wish to continue your employ on the handling of matters I will discuss later. Join me for dinner at the Vnderboren Manor in three days time from tonight
I am running this same game at my face to face group. we have 5 players and 1 GMPC there are some hiccups but overall it is going well. the deadly combo in that group are the two Duergar. one is a barbarian and the other a dual kukri wielding warpriest. they slaughter nearly everything they come across. the hobgoblin gunslinger/alchemist is the range guy and ship's engineer/master gunner rounding out the party is a dhampir rogue/sorcerer/shadowdancer and a Drow Wizard. The GMPC is a Drow Cleric
Hey guys I am trying to decide if I can handle everyone instead of just choosing a few. I need to look over some things to see if I can handle everything
As far as night and day what I ended up doing for the play test group was the entire cavern above the city had a phosphorus lichen covering it that gives a faint illumination but only for a set period of time. This later became the periods if day and night so daytime was considered dim light and night was darkness, except for some areas that required additional light.
Urol smiles and grabs a pair of drinks, he hands one to Shikki, I was asked by Lady Larrisa to join them on an expedition to the surface as they were investigating some creatures they claim to have discovered here in the Darklands that most likely originated on the surface. Some sort of bipedal meat eating lizard. don't know much about such creatures, however the flora and fauna is much more my specialty. Anyway they never did discover what they were looking for but I did discover that there are old ruins here in the Darklands that wonce belonged on the surface probably eons ago. I find them most facinating. I was researching them and wnated to report to the Vanderboren's my findings when I heard of their demise. So sad, well I am sure Lady lavinia will be most interested. Urol takes a sip of the wine and makes a face, wine is definitely not his thing, but it is obvious that he drinks it to be polite. Well I am sorry to think that you would know my friend, I am sure she will turn up soon enough. later as the evening progresses a new person arrives, he is a rather flamboyant well dressed Damphir. He has a conversation with Kora that make Kora a bit uncomfortable but eventually she reluctantly nods in agreement. Kora then turns to the rest of the party. Presenting the Lord Zebula Meravanchi, Lover extraordinaire this last part it is obvious that Kora is repulsed at even speaking those words. Zubula step past Kora The Meravnchi's are here, ladies beware. Kora definately has a look of disgust on her face as he walk past her. The Kellani's stop their argument as ubula enters, they appear to have history with the Meravanchi's Knowledge local DC 15: Zubula has had a thing for the younger Rowyn Kellani and was rather public about it, however Rowyn has ignored his attempted advances for several years.
Urol seems very excited to meet Shikki, Why yes I have been to the surface, it was a part of my research for the Vanderboren's. For some reason they wanted to know about surface vegetation. I really never asked why of course. Oh, I am sorry, this here is Nari. She is a leaf Leshy. I met her during an expedition to the surface about a year ago. she took a liking to me so I let her travel with me. she is such a great companion. Nari peeks out from behind Urol and waves a shy hello. Anyway, i was interested in meeting you because I was searching for another of your kind that I lost contact with a little over a month ago. her name was Churtle, she was a wonderful cook and I really enjoyed her company. I used to help her and her children financially since her husband was killed by some thugs down by the docks.
Kora brings Shikki to the gnome that has just entered. Miss Shikki, This is Professor Urol. He has been an advisor to the Vanderborens regarding flora and fauna of the Surface world. he has been a valuable asset to the house, especially in the crafting of poisons Urol, I believe you wanted to meet one of Telderist's few Ratfolk. You have been inquiring Lady Larrisa for some time. Might I present to you Miss Shikki Once itroductions are complete, Kora bows I have an iportant task that needs attention, if you will excuse me and Kora turns to leave. Urol seems very excited to meet Shikki, This is most exciting, please you must tell me of your experiences here in Telderist, what is it like being one of your kind in such a place The plant creature ducks behind Urol seemingly very shy, or very afraid not wanting to cause a scene of perhaps even be seen
Appologies all for being a little silent.. Got jammed at work with lots of Overtime but things are getting back to normal again. will start looking things over soon
About this time, another guest arrives. A dread gnome enters and the strangest creature you have ever seen seems to tag along side. The strange little creature seems to be a walking plant. something practically unheard of here in the Darklands, Whoever this fellow is probably spent some time on the surface. Kora turns to Shikki, Come, I would like you to meet someone Kora says indicating the Gnome and his little plant companion Kora awaits Shikki's response
Aranda thought that Kora had forgotten her, but almost out of nowhere Kora seems to just appear right behind Aranda, Your singing was wonderful Kora says actually startling Aranda. I am sorry I did not approach sooner, there were some things to take care of. Kora pauses for a moment at the original request That lady is the first in line to inherit House Kellani, and she isn't to happy with the way her mother, Lady Heldrath Kellani, is getting involved with. What that is, I cannot say. Kora glances at the argument going on, though it has calmed down quite a bit. I didn't think the time was appropriate to make introductions at this time. I can tell you this, that Rowyn can be rather abrasive and self centered.
Thanaton addresses the other armed individuals that appear to he some sort of adventuring party The half drow begins to speak, but is silenced by the drow woman, apparently the leader. I am liamae, Lady of the Blood Marquis, and these, <indicating the others> are three Jade Ravens. We have been in the employ of the Vanderboren house for several years now. We... take care of things that need to be done She says with slught grin hoping you understand the implications. The duergar greets you as well, and I be Kaskus, Kaskus Kiel, and there ain't a cave, tunnel or cavern in these parts that I ain't familiar wit. he adds with a bit of bragging The half drow follows with a laugh, and quite a few you forgot you knew as well, Name's Zan, he chimes in offering a hand. Liamae indicates the silent drow male, keeping watch over everyone and really paying attention to the conversation, That's Tolin, he doesn't say much Tolin looks at you, n9ds and goes back to his duties.
Please let me know if anyone has played or gm'd savage tide before and how far have you gotten?
Kora continues to make her way among g the guest, she moves with little effort among so many taller than herself. And so silent, we're it not for her occasional greeting wod never realize she was there. The armed group of four pause thier conversation as the ratfolk approached the table. They looked as though they were to make a move but as they turn to approach, Kora intervenes. Without a word spoken, they move back among the crowd looking for others that might be present to cause trouble. Kora glances back at yhe table where several are starting to mingle,she smiles and moves on with her duties disappearing in the crowd. The drow family squabbcontinues as their voices get softer and they now co verse in the secret sign language of the drow. The younger one clearly not likeing what the older one has to say.
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