Iorghil Ionescue's page

The cold weather down here is really hammering my arthritis. It doesn't matter how warm I keep it inside my home. The temperature drops and my joints ache.

I'm just now starting to recognize this effect on my leg. The break location was aching the other day big-time, and sure enough, a thunderstorm rolled in that night. It took me until the next day to put two-and-two together, but I'm confident now that that was it. In my case it was barometric pressure, and yours temperature, but it's all the same; the weather definitely stresses these weaknesses in our bodies!

Best wishes; this sounds like quite a struggle. I hope it levels out into something more manageable for you soon!

@iorghil. Those on the ground were unable to see what is taking place on the rooftops, until Trinia ran across the tightrope. Now you know which building she's atop. Plus you got to see Vedika try to fly.

As far as I know, Ghil has not yet even reached the street. He was trying to find a window in the apartment hall from which to launch Leemor into airborne pursuit of Trinia. You never addressed whether this worked or not.

I guess I'll assume that didn't work, since I've gotten no actual feedback about it, and pushing more for that seems like it will just drag things at this point.

This... is not my specialty... Ghil thinks as he finally reaches the street. He's so far behind everyone now, that he's not even sure which way to go. "Meet me back at her apartment if you catch her!!!" he calls, hoping someone hears him. He posts up by the apartment building's entrance, waiting for everyone else to come back, hopefully with Trinia in tow.

Ghil glances both ways down the hallway, looking for a window he might be able to force open. He knew he'd have to go down to the streets--leaping from roof to roof was not trick he could do!--but Leemor was no stranger to the air. If he could get a glance at Trina, he bet he could convince this strange petromin to follow her.

[dice=Perception]1d20+7

If he finds a window in the hall, he'll rush to it and try to open it; if not, he heads down to the street.

I still haven't received any feedback or narration regarding what Ghil and Leemor were trying to do; I feel like we're possibly a couple of rounds behind the others now. I don't know how to take any further actions at this point, because I don't know my (or my familiar's) current status. Where am I now and is Leemor in pursuit in any way?

Ghil glances both ways down the hallway, looking for a window he might be able to force open. He knew he'd have to go down to the streets--leaping from roof to roof was not trick he could do!--but Leemor was no stranger to the air. If he could get a glance at Trina, he bet he could convince this strange petromin to follow her.

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (9) + 7 = 16

If he finds a window in the hall, he'll rush to it and try to open it; if not, he heads down to the street.

Ghil reacts with frustration when challenged about why they're in the apartments. He noses into the conversation is if to add context to what Nethen said. "Haven't heard from me gram in days. With all that's going on, mum wanted me to check on her, and I brought some friends just in case there's trouble. That alright with you?" This last question is clearly not a question; Ghil speaks with an attitude that he really doesn't care what this person thinks is okay or not.

Not sure if we can all roll four Bluffs or if Nethen's rolls are it. Use these as primary rolls or aid another checks as you see fit:

Disguise, assumed form (disguise self): 1d20 + 8 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 8 + 10 = 20

Ghil blends in reasonably well; it's good that he wasn't trying to appear as anything distinct, though, as he was missing some of the details. The pampered academic clearly only had a passing familiarity with what a day-laborer in the Shingles actually would wear.

He throws out a few grunts and off-color retorts as Nethen tries to suss out Trinia's location.

Diplomacy (aid another) DC 10, charming, perfect: 1d20 + 11 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 11 + 1 + 1 = 16

"I bet we won't need disguises ourselves. We've been pretty low-key so far; we can't be known yet. Especially the way my own appearance keeps changing." On cue, Ghil's appearance momentarily shivers in a cascade from head-to-toe, and a completely different person--a very non-descript day-laborer or minor craftsman in old, worn, working clothes--stands in front of you.

"I can't do Trinia quite this well, but if we pick up a simple disguise kit on the way, I can probably make her look practically invisible too."

Hey, sorry I disappeared! I've been away at a music festival and I'm not back in my PbP flow yet; I forgot to announce the vacation. Oops; sorry!

While--as a frequent customer of his--that might not be terrible for you....

That should read "as a frequent customer of yours..."

Ghil looks at the six thugs that seem to still be in the room. "Are we to get that private audience we requested? We wouldn't want what we speak of getting around."

Assuming the thugs get dismissed....

"You know the Ambassador from Cheliax--Darvayne Gios Amprei--no? We hear he's a frequent visitor here. It seems he has some nefarious plans regarding Korvosa--plans that would set him up as the sole authority, which would be very bad for Korvosa. While--as a frequent customer of his--that might not be terrible for you, I'm guessing you also like things how they are; you do very, very well out here on the docks. We'd like to make sure nothing upsets that order. Everyone has dirt, and we're looking for Amprei's dirt. Got any?"

Ghil grabs a handful of coins, his joyous enthusiasm enlarging his grip. The coins make a clatter on the table, almost matching the other side's offering in itself!

Throwing 25 gp on the table; Ghil has 167 on his sheet at the moment.

Looking at the rules for Knivesies, it looks like a mage hand spell (or something similar) could knock a coin off the table to force an end the challenge when we think Nethen has more coins. It would have to be done carefully to avoid notice, of course.

Ghil doesn't have anything like that, unfortunately. Anybody else?

When he sees the dagger stuck in the table, Ghil gets excited; he almost looks like he might volunteer himself for the challenge! The Lady's weapon; is it a sign?!?

He visibly pauses, though, seemingly giving it more thought. You fool, it's the most common weapon pretty much anywhere... not every dagger is sent by Pharasma for you, silly.

He nods at Nethen, and grabs his purse for the betting. "If Nethen's up for it, we'll accept this challenge."

Perception DC 20: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8

Ghil tries to convert his immediate horror at the presence of so many literal spiders in the room into a look of high regard. He immediately lets his mouth start selling the tale that his face may not have sold very well.

"When they said King of Spiders I assumed it was in reference to your considerable skills; I didn't think it was meant quite so literally. I'm impressed, to be sure! What an incredible feat to have command of such creatures!"

He looks at the table full of toughs and frowns; he doesn't try to hide that. "I have to apologize. I know you weren't expecting us, and it's easy to see that we're interrupting! We have some business for you, and--as with all who don't know any better--thought it important enough to interrupt whatever else you might be doing. Don't worry; it has upside for you, too, but it is confidential. Is there any way we could get a private audience?" He shrugs in apology, letting it be quite clear that he knows how ridiculous a request this is to someone so important, but with an innocent naivete that he hopes comes off as more charming than bumbling.

Diplomacy, charming, perfect: 1d20 + 11 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 11 + 1 + 1 = 26

"If we put it in words to just anyone who asked, it would lose its value pretty quickly. Our business is with the King of Spiders alone; I can assure you, he'll be interested."

Ghil turns to Ariadne and--in a tone and volume that implies secrecy but is just slightly too loud--asks "Is there enough coin to buy these two off as well?"

He pays attention to the guards' reactions at hearing his "slip." Does it seem like they might be open to a bribe?

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14

There's no penalty for failure on an aid another check with any skill. You literally can't hurt things; you can only fail to help things.

"Even when it means a sizeable purse?" Ghil asks this simply and naturally, with just a slight lift to one brow.

Diplomacy, charming, perfect: 1d20 + 11 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 11 + 1 + 1 = 21

Ghil approaches with the others, keeping a casual eye on the guards. So long as they are only observed and not stopped, he steps onto the gangplank and continues onto the Eel's End.

Ghil nods and bids Vencarlo goodbye without saying anything meaningful. Interesting man. Pretty sure he just said that he's not necessarily on the side of the Queen. Can't say I blame him--Korvosa's recent troubles seem related to some poor decisions on her part. Good to know we may have an ally if things go that way....

To Nethen, Ghil replies in the affirmative. "I think you have the right of it. Businesses like these have always had a sideline in information brokering; we just need to let him know that's what we're in the market for. I'll do my best to make sure that we all remain friendly--and keep the negotiation in our favor, as best I can--but there's no way a 'King of Spiders' will be shocked at what we're trying to learn."

Ghil nods in agreement with Kayleigh. "Yes, words have always been my strength. I'm sure I can find a way to get the information we need!"

Sorry for the small post; I need to find Ghil's voice and get in a posting rhythm again. It'll come back.

Cool, I'll work on getting that done over the weekend. This is a holiday weekend in the US. It looks like Gameplay is the wind-down for stuff I didn't participate in, so I'll pass on making any posts related to that, and resume driving Ghil after the holiday on Tuesday with a leveled up PC. Sound good?

Other than the 1000 gp we all just got, is there any other loot payouts that Ghil missed?

Thanks much. It looks like everyone is at level 4; does that mean I need to level Ghil up?

Hi friends!

It's been a while--a long while--but I think I could likely resume some gaming! I just read through the discussion and see I haven't been replaced yet, so maybe my timing is right. There are over 200 posts in Gameplay, so it will be quite a bit to catch up there, but I was hoping there might still be a spot for me here.

Once everyone is situated, Ghil approaches the front door. Depending on which looks appropriate for the business, he either knocks or enters.

"Okay!" Ghil says. "Would Ariadne or Vedika like to be my paramour, then? It's a good plan! I'm looking to purchase that extra-special gift for my new Queen, and I'm bringing her along with a variety of experts to make sure we get just the thing to please her!"

"I think I could sell 'new-money-needs-fancy-pet' pretty well, no?" Ghil suggests, using his assumed form ability to show off a few different extravagant and gaudy outfits as ideas. "If we're just looking for an excuse to come inside, I think I could sell that until we jump them; it's been working well so far!"

"Doing a little research is always a good idea," Ghil notes; he reaches out to his own network in town to see what he can learn about the place.

Diplomacy (gather info): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24

After sharing what he learns, Ghil joins Kayleigh's hesitation towards a rooftop assault. "Yeah, I'm not much of a climber myself," he can't hide a nervous glance at the finery he's dressed in. "But finding a back door and any secret exits could be key. It's definitely helped our last two operations. Let's say that I don't go in charms a-blazing this time, though...." he adds, sheepishly.

That definitely covers the ring and silver dagger for Ghil; he'll just claim those directly rather than sell them off.

500 gp ring
22 gp silver dagger

That leaves 292g, 200s left over for Ghil's share if I'm reading that right?

"Don't worry if you're not great with your words, Kayleigh; we're all here for different reasons, and I've often been told that I talk people into submission. If you can keep me standing when it goes wrong and I get a fist to the face, I'd be truly grateful," Ghil laughs.

=============

"As for the rest of that treasure... I do like a good dagger. I'm not certain, but I suspect that Pharasma is somehow behind all this weird shit that happens around me." He catches eyes with the lightly glowing petromin scampering around his shoulders. "Yes; I'm talking about you! Very much you! You are one of the weirdest things to happen to me yet!" He giggles with his new pet and continues.

"Anyway, Pharasma's really into daggers; I kinda want to collect all of them that we find." He takes out the intricate one with the key-shaped handle they found earlier. "Like this! This one's a beaut! But that silver one could actually prove handy; if we ever find a door or chest this thing will open, I'll be as surprised as anybody."

Hey, the curse is covetous, wanting all the things is 100% in character, lol

Also, hope he's not too light of a character for this grim storyline. I can adjust if he's breaking the mood.

Anybody mind if I... ahhh... keep this?" Iorghil asks, flipping the mithril ring over in his hand. He tries it on, and finds it fits well. "It's such a good fit!" he exclaims, holding his hand out to show it off.

Ghil's curse requires him to wear 100gp/level of fancy jewelry, this will do him for this level up along with the next four. Obviously this would be his whole share; happy to offset it against future loot if it's too much for a share right now. Otherwise, he's going to have to go shopping or he'll be sickened.

hit points: 1d8 ⇒ 3 taking the average

Level 4
Oracle (Spirit Guide)
Favored Class Bonus: +1 skill point
hp 5 (d8)
+1 Charisma
+0 Fortitude save, +0 Reflex Save, +1 Will save
+1 BAB
Oracle 0-level Orison (+1): stabilize
Oracle 2nd-level Spell (+1): surmount affliction
Intrigue Mystery Spell: false belief
Skill points (6): Bluff, Diplomacy, Disguise, Know (local), Know planes), Use Magic Device
Background Skills (2): Know (engineering), Sleight of Hand

Ghil studies the ring, wondering if it's just expensive, or perhaps representative of a specific Korvosan family?

Knowledge (nobility): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (18) + 5 = 23

"Somebody's going to pay, Vancaskerkin, and you were in charge...." Ghil cautions the former guard as they begin hauling him away.

Given the man's reaction, Ghil is--for the first time--starting to believe that Vancaskerkin really didn't know what was happening. "Not knowing is no excuse, Vancaskerkin; that's actually kind of worse. If you were running this operation responsibly, there's no way you couldn't know. Your butchers downstairs certainly knew!"

I'm heading out today for a weekend trip; I likely won't be able to post again until Monday. Feel free to bot me as you need!

Haha, that was awesome. Perfect spell!

"You just got arrested, $#%^&@er." Ghil doesn't try to hide his violent dislike for Vancaskerkin. "We're here on behalf of the Queen, and you're f#@$ed. Anything to say for yourself?" He leans in really close and continues very calmly. "You fed people... to people." He states, then gives his head a single shake, as if something creepy were crawling in his hair and he had to shake it off. He looks Vancaskerkin dead in the eye. "If you have some kind of reason why you thought that was okay to do, now's the time to say so."

Intimidate: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16
Somebody more scary may want to step in, haha. No matter how intimidating he might want to be, he's just a dandy.

@Iorghil. Yes, new day and you haven't cast any spells yet.

In that case, before we open the door, Ghil will cast hedging weapons on himself.

With his petromin crawling around on his shoulders, Ghil looks around at the others. "If someone has rope, now's the time; let's bind him while he's stunned!" He makes sure to step out of the doorway so whoever has rope can dash in quickly.

Grapple vs stunned, then pin, then tie-up. It'll take 3 rounds, but we might get it done before he comes back around.

delay

"That works for me! Let's do this." Ghil looks ready to head up the stairs; he'll take the rear and have a spell ready for when the door flies open.

This is first thing in the day, right? I have four spells marked off, but I think those were from yesterday. Does that sound right?

Sense Motive DC 13: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 4 = 14

"Don't even start. Even if that were true--and I can tell that you're lying--it wouldn't help your case." Ghil spits on the bound man. "You disgust me!"

Turning to others, he's all business. "Let's go. Check these bonds and make sure they can't get free, and then let's get Vancaskerkin!"

"The free meat's what they've done to deserve this." Ghil says, stifling an involuntary gag. "I... can't say it. I didn't see it anyway. Nethen... you tell her." Ghil averts his gaze from the bound minions.

"But let's not be long about it. The target is Vancaskerkin... we need to get moving and get him; he's the brains behind it all."

When Nethen and Vedika reveal what they learned about the meat being served, the casual glee Ghil had been experiencing from his little game of pretend drops away. His face grows pale in horror and he steps back from the bound men with a look of disgust. "Did you know this was happening? And you still do this work?" His chest starts heaving and he rushes to a corner where he unloads a partially digested breakfast onto the floor.

When he turns back around, there's a newcomer in the shop. Ghil immediately and vociferously protests at the suggestion that they could be working for Lamm. "Oh, hell no!" he blurts, running the back of his sleeve across his mouth. "We're fighting him, finally. Gonna take that monster of a man down, and hard!"

"Sounds like an easy job. Who and where?" The man answers Iorghil.

Ghil puts a confused look on his face. "I could only mean the Verbitigin Estate, obviously," making up the name on the spot. He leans in a bit, and speaks with incredulity. "Don't you recognize me?" He looks at Ariadne, affronted, and gives her a shrug that screams this guy, amirite?!?

Bluff, charming, perfect: 1d20 + 6 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 6 + 1 + 1 = 23

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21

Ghil continues. "So, I don't know... I guess maybe I'm thinking retaliation? Like maybe you could wreck his gate for me, or set a fire or something? How does that sound?"

Welcome to the game, Kayleigh!

An oracle is obviously a divine caster, and gets every cure spell automatically. He will stay divine-focused; I plan to start taking Evangelist levels from 7+. But he's an odd sort of divine caster, more mashing together a bunch of other odd things. He's not really built as a healer (though he'll always be good at that, and when we start buying healing wands, he can manage all of the out-of-combat healing we need). He'll be learning paragon surge as soon as he has access. Really, Ghil is built for flexibility.

I think another divine caster would be a great fit. An inquisitor or a cleric that can fight might be good, though I'd hesitate to make our ask quite so specific.

Ghil has to think on his feet here; the story he'd prepared didn't quite line up with what services they were offering. "Well, I really kinda wanted to hire you as bodyguards. My current one isn't quite up to the current task...." he says with the obliviousness of a master casually insulting their servants in their presence.

"See, I've got this neighbor, and we've been fighting for ages. They wrecked my front gate in the riots. They say it must have been common looters, but I know that's just a tale they're spinning to get out of the responsibility. But hiring you as bodyguards... that's not going to work, is it? Not really your thing?" He waits for confirmation.

Assuming he gets that confirmation

"So, I'm going to have to think of something different. I have your attention now, and I have to admit you were right--I don't belong in that line, and I don't want to go through it again. So let's think of something now, something else that might work...."

Bluff, charming, perfect: 1d20 + 6 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 6 + 1 + 1 = 15

At this point, just trying to draw this out to give the others time.

I'm in favor

Guess not

No, that's perfect! Aid another is just DC 10; that's an unqualified success!

Iorghil joins the line of supplicants with Ariadne, and puts on a timid, nervous air. When he gets to the front, he asks for their share of the meat being offered. He then looks at Ariadne--as if for confidence--and with a crack in his voice asks "and could I get, ahhh, the night's, ahhh, special cuts?"

Bluff, charming, perfect: 1d20 + 6 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 6 + 1 + 1 = 24

Perception DC 25: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10 yeah nah

"Yeah, I could do that. I could look really ridiculous trying to hire a bunch of help, even though the trouble is over and my existing bodyguard is standing right next to me; I love it!" He chuckles to himself as he begins running lines internally.

"Of course, to what end? Am I distracting them so the others can get in the back--in other words, giving them as much time as possible? Is there a point where Ariadne and I should spring a surprise attack on them?"

"Play it by ear?"