Jayma Thornfiddle's page

Jayma blinks in surprise. "Oriole is your descendant? How interesting. I see now where they get their good looks from." She then smiles a little sheepishly. "And, to be perfectly truthful, though we do consider Oriole a friend... they have no idea we have come calling, so I suppose my claim was not entirely accurate. As the good doctor intimated, we are here in the hopes of convincing them to return to the stage for a new opera based upon our adventures."

Jayma accepts the gifts with a bow. "You have our sincere thanks, Grandmama. Your generosity may well save lives." She opens the small notebook she habitually carries and neatly records the items in it before putting it away once more. She passes both potions to Thurston when he shows an interest in them. "Doctor, I suspect these will be of more use in your hands than mine."

Loot sheet updated.

She takes a closer look at the tiny clockwork spy. "A clever little device... I wonder just how useful it might prove to us." She also wonders what a collector might pay for such craftsmanship. She carefully tucks the spy into a pocket and stores the remaining gifts in her sleeve for later examination.

A Clockwork Spy appears to be a creature, not something that has a price associated with it. I expect we will end up returning it to Grandmama once we've cleared the manor of enemy combatants.

Offering Grandmama a graceful curtsy, Jayma smiles. "We shall now see to the intruders. Once the danger has passed, I shall return personally to inform you."

Jayma's cheeks flush a little as she realizes what they have interrupted. Stepping into the room momentarily, she offers an elegant curtsy, and raises a hand apologetically. "Oh my goodness... I am ever so sorry, madam. Please forgive our unforgivable lack of manners. I am Jayma and we are, in fact, friends of Oriole's who have come all this way in the hope of visiting with them."

Not wanting to unduly distress the creature, Jayma decides to downplay the current state of seige under which the manor finds itself. The last thing they needed was for a panicky friend of Oriole's to be running around and getting underfoot while they tried to eradicate the current infestation of fey. "If you would be so kind as to return to your bath, I believe that would be for the best. There appear to be other visitors wandering through the estate at present whose motives are somewhat less friendly than ours, so I would strongly recommend locking the door behind us to avoid any further... unfortunate interruptions." Twyl chitters in agreement from her shoulder.

Activity: Make an Impression with Group Impression, Messenger's Ring, Ambassador and Musical Accompaniment vs Serpentine Creature

Diplomacy (Make an Impression): 1d20 + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 49 vs Will DC

Having hopefully placated the snake lady, Jayma turns to her companions. "Well then, I think we have disturbed the poor lady quite enough. Let us leave her to her ablutions and continue our search for Oriole."

Jayma pauses in the hallway and raises a hand for silence. Twyl freezes on her shoulder, his little ears twitching toward the closed door as the sound of singing is clearly heard coming from beyond. "Well... that is somewhat unexpected. The current situation would not seem to be one that lends itself to merriment." She glances toward the others, lowering her voice. "It could be Oriole... or someone else altogether. Either way, we should find out who it is."

She positions herself on the far side of the door and waits for Thurston to do the honors.

When Thurston practically begs Jayma to help in the interrogation, she sighs. "This all seems like a great waste of valuable time. We should just kill this creature forthwith and continue with our search for Oriole." She says this loudly enough for Tekaraal to hear.

Turning to the now conscious creature, she adds, "You better tell them what they want to hear. It might just save you your life."

Activity: Coerce with Group Coercion, Guise of the Smirking Devil and Musical Accompaniment vs Tekaraal

Intimidation (Coerce): 1d20 + 25 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 25 + 2 + 1 = 31 vs Tekaraal Will DC

It is clear from her half-hearted effort that she's not feeling it today.

With the last of the raiders finally subdued, Jayma steps carefully into the ransacked kitchen as Twyl peers nervously from her shoulder. Her gaze drifts over the unconscious Tekaraal before moving on to Marine and Thurston. "I wish you both the very best of luck. I suspect our blue-skinned friend here will prove to be somewhat less than fully cooperative."

She looks down at their prisoner for a few moments with clear skepticism before turning her attention to the room itself. While the others handle the questioning, Jayma begins a careful search of the room, keeping one eye on the interrogation in case it takes an unexpected turn.

Activity: Search (Perception +21) - SECRET

Once the search is completed and the Tekaraal interrogation is wrapped up, Jayma becomes restless. "I believe we've exhausted the charms of this kitchen. I suggest we see where the other door in the dining room leads."

Jayma is fine with killing off Tekaraal once the interrogation is over. She'd rather not have to worry about being attacked from behind while the group continues to search the house.

Seeing several of their opponents go down like dominoes, leaving just a solitary chanter and its invisible boss standing in the room, Jayma realizes that the fight is winding up. It was just a matter of time before the remaining two opponents went down. She saw no reason to use any of her big magic in this situation, and after a recalling one of her maternal grandmother's little sayings about the targeting of spells, she flicks her wrist and sends one of the kitchen knives flying at the last chanter.

Action 1 (◆): Cast a Spell: Ancestral Memories [L7]
You gain a +2 status bonus to the next spell attack roll you attempt before the end of your turn
Triggers: Blood Magic

Blood Magic-Imperious Defense
Until the start of Jayma's next turn, she gains a +1 status bonus to saving throws].

Actions 2 & 3 (◆◆): Cast a Spell: Telekinetic Projectile [L7] with Ancestral Memories and Courageous Anthem vs Sickened 1 Green Shanty Chanter

Telekinetic Projectile Attack: 1d20 + 23 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 23 + 2 = 38 vs Sickened 1
Telekinetic Projectile Damage: 8d6 + 1 ⇒ (1, 4, 6, 5, 5, 1, 6, 5) + 1 = 34 piercing damage

If a crit, you deal double damage.

Jayma watches as the crackling lightning leaps from foe to foe, filling the cramped kitchen with the smell of scorched feathers. A delighted smile spreads across her face. "Oh, that was magnificent, I do believe I've outdone myself."

The feeling of satisfaction quickly dissipates as one of the charred chanters vaults over Marine and attacks Jayma. "Oh dear me!" Instinct and training take over as Jayma twists away in a dramatic spin worthy of a stage. The attack slices through empty air where she had been standing a moment before.

Reaction (↺): Dancing Dodge from Virtuosic Dancer
Trigger You're hit by a Strike during the first round of combat.
Add a +3 circumstance bonus to your Armor Class against the triggering Strike to determine the Strike's actual result.

The +3 circumstance bonus to her AC brings it up to 36, which means that the 35 attack roll from the Shanty Chanter missed her by that much.

Jayma takes one look into the crowded kitchen and smiles in delight. So many enemies packed shoulder to shoulder in a single room... such a wealth of opportunities presented themselves to her. "Well, well, well. What to do..."

For a brief moment she considers a fireball. It would certainly be effective. "Hmm... Perhaps too effective." They had crossed half the world to find Oriole and, assuming the temperamental diva was still alive, they would eventually need to convince them to return to the stage. Burning down half their home struck Jayma as a poor negotiating tactic.

No. This called for a more focused attack. Stepping behind Marine so she can see into the whole room, Jayma then raises her cane as blue-white arcs crackle around the obsidian rose at its tip. With a flourish she brings her cane down and unleashes a blazing bolt of electricity that slams into the nearest enemy before leaping from creature to creature in the crowded room. With every jump, Jayma watches with eager anticipation, hoping it reaches every last one of them before her magic finally fizzles out.

Action 1 (◆): Step

Action 2 & 3 (◆◆): Cast a Spell: Chain Lightning [L7] with Sorcerous Potency vs Red, Orange, Purple, Yellow, Green, Blue, Pink Nivara, Colorless Tekaraal

Chain Lightning Damage: 9d12 + 7 ⇒ (7, 10, 7, 11, 1, 1, 10, 4, 11) + 7 = 69 electricity damage vs DC 33 Basic Reflex

Jayma's Chain Lightning is unlikely to reach the Colorless Tekaraal. But just in case, here is a DC 11 Hidden flat check to target the invisible creature whose square location is known.

Hidden Flat Check vs DC 11: 1d20 ⇒ 11

Jayma pauses just inside the dining room, one hand resting lightly atop her cane as her gaze travels upward. "Oh, how lovely. Shelyn, Desna, and Sarenrae all sharing a meal together... now that's a dinner party I wouldn't mind being invited to."

Her attention then drifts toward the dusty bottles lining the bar. When Thurston mentions the possibility of enjoying Oriole's liquor, Jayma is momentarily tempted. She smiles. "Mmm... As you say, Doctor, Perhaps later. It is clear that Oriole is not a big drinker herself."

As she steps further into the room...

Perception (Visual) vs DC 35: 1d20 + 21 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 21 + 1 = 38

... her smile fades as her gaze falls to the floor. Frowning, she looks back through the door they'd just entered. There was blood in the last room as well. "How in the Hells did I miss that?" Her expression tightens with annoyance at herself before she straightens smoothly. When Lazarus suggests following the trail through the northern door, Jayma gives a brisk nod. "Yes, quite agreed. Whatever happened here, I suspect our answers are through there." Without further hesitation, she prepares to follow Thurston and Marine northward.

Jayma delicately takes the baton from Callistro's hands. Her brow furrows in concentration for a moment...

Activity: Identify Magic (Arcana) with Mage's Hat (Greater)
Arcana (Identify Magic) vs DC 28: 1d20 + 20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 20 + 2 = 34

...before she gives a small, confident nod. "Yes, Callistro dear, it is certainly a construct control baton. Quite an elegant one too. The enchantment matrix is surprisingly sophisticated..." She glances sidelong at her colleague. "But you are mistaken about the divine wardens, darling. Those statues were powered by divine power, not arcane."

Jayma lifts the rod with a faintly theatrical flourish. "This little trinket is attuned to something else entirely. Something we have yet to encounter, though I suspect it won't be long before we do." She hands the baton back to Callistro. "Until then, I suggest you keep this handy."

Updated loot sheet. Does this control baton have any value? Is it an Ivory Baton?

She turns to face the others. "If we're all quite done in here, perhaps we should continue on our quest to recover Oriole." She uses her cane to indicate the remaining door to the north, but makes no motion to go through, leaving such things to the more robust members of the party.

Jayma follows Dr. Lazarus into the parlor and gives the space a quick looking-over, her gaze lingering on the scattered music sheets and abandoned pastry. When Lazarus suggests that Oriole's breakfast was interrupted, Jayma agrees. "Yes. It seems clear that something caused her to leave her breakfast unfinished. Let's hope it happened before the intruders arrived, though I fear otherwise."

Perception (Visual) vs DC 35: 1d20 + 21 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 21 + 1 = 24

Her attention drifts toward the broad windows and the elegant statue in the corner, entirely missing any clues that might suggest that their quarry had left through the other door.

Jayma is eager to continue their search of the manor, but the Doctor takes his time with his detailed examination of the room. She taps the jeweled head of her cane to indicate her impatience, but the investigator does not seem to notice. When his search finally uncovers the outline of a hidden panel behind the statue, Jayma's mood brightens immediately. "Oh, now that is promising. A hidden escape tunnel... or a place to hide in case of intruders? Either way, we must open it and see what lies beyond." She happily leaves that task to Marine or the Doctor.

Jayma glances toward the western door. "Yes, I believe the Doctor is quite right. We should follow after the larger group of intruders who fled the guardians in that direction." She indicates the door in question with a jab of her cane.

Her eyes settle on Marine. "Which means we should proceed under the assumption that something unpleasant may well be waiting for us in the next room. Marine dear, would you terribly mind taking the lead?"

Jayma steps into the manor behind Marine and Thurston. Her eyes sweep across the octagonal foyer, lingering on the paintings only briefly before dropping to the thick red carpet beneath her boots.

Perception vs DC 25: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (13) + 21 = 34

She agrees with Marine. "Good eye, my dear. Yes... someone's absolutely come through here in a rush. Whoever forced their way inside clearly split up." Straightening, Jayma adjusts the holy symbol hanging at her throat before turning her attention toward the statues between the doors.

Religion vs DC 20: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9

Her confident expression falters for the briefest moment as she notices their marble eyes subtly following Marine's movements. "...Uh. I have the distinct impression that this situation is about to become unpleasant." When Marine confidently identifies them as depictions of Arshea, Jayma gives her an openly skeptical look. She turns back to the statues for a closer look. "Are you sure..." "Is that really what Arshea looks like? I was expecting something... else" She exhales and relaxes, trying to cover her embarrassment. "Oh, right. These must be Oriole's guardian statues of Arshea. Of course they are. What else could they possibly be?"

With a small shrug she lifts the holy symbol from around her neck, holding it prominently out toward the statues as if presenting credentials. "Well then... here we are. Faithful admirers and entirely harmless, thank you very much."

Jayma brightens visibly as the abalone key is discovered. "Oh, splendid... I do so adore it when things go according to plan."

I've added the key to the loot list with value to be determined.

She gestures toward the front door with a flick of her wrist. "Let us not dawdle. Marine, Doctor, you shall go first... do mind the barrier and pass the key along once you are through. Callistro and I will follow." After a slight pause, she adds, "And do keep your holy symbols of Arshea at the ready. If Oriole truly has guardian statues about, I would much prefer they greet us as friends rather than intruders." Twyl chitters in agreement, darting from shoulder to sleeve, eager to proceed.

Jayma pulls out her own holy symbol of Arshea and hangs it around her neck.

As the startled chanter lurches into the air, Jayma's jeweled cane rises at once and emerald sparks gather at the tip. She prepares a spell to finish the creature off, but then... pauses. With a faint sniff, the sparks wink out. "No. You may leave." Turning back to the others, she adds, "It has told us all it knows and I do not have the heart to attack a fleeing creature."

Jayma turns her gaze to the shimmering barrier over the manor door. "The true peril is inside; we need to gain entrance as soon as possible. Let's see if we can find the hidden key Oriole almost certainly left for themselves." She returns to her searching, taking particular care when examining the gazebo.

Jayma's default exploration mode is Detect Magic, which she will use in an effort to find such a key as the group move around the grounds.

Jayma watches excitedly as the Shanty Chanters are quickly dispatched in turn by the practiced violence of the group. When only one remains, she smiles in anticipation and prepares to use more magic to send it off to the First World after its companions. "Now then, my little birdy... time to take your final bow."

As she prepares her spell, Callistro's plea rings across the field of battle. Jayma pauses her casting and purses her lips in mild annoyance before her expression smooths into playful charm. "Oh, very well. Spoilsport."

She moves gracefully forward, giving the Spinosaur a wide berth before coming to a stop next to Thurston, well within easy range of the battered chanter. She fixes her eyes intently on their remaining enemy. Her voice turns to honey as enchantment slips into her words. "Listen carefully, sweetheart. You should give up any thought of fighting and stand down at once, so we may have a nice chat together. I give you my word that no harm shall come to you while we talk."

Action 1 (◆): Stride (55 feet)

Action 2 & 3 (◆◆): Cast a Spell: Suggestion from Socialite Staff [L5] (charges: 2, slot: 3) DC 33 vs Blue Shanty Chanter

Jayma looks over the battlefield with a practiced eye. The Shanty Chanters have clustered too closely in their rush to attack Marine and the Doctor, a mistake she finds almost insulting. "Really, darlings, if one means to ambush professionals, one ought to know how to go about it."

Before the raiders can react, she uses her cane to trace a pattern in the air and murmurs an incantation. A pale figure of an older gnomish woman in fine clothing shimmers into being behind her and appears to whisper something into Jayma's ear before dissipating as quickly as she'd appeared. Jayma then points her cane at one of the Shanty Chanters (namely, Red) causing it to shiver lightly as if a cold breeze had passed it by.

Action 1 (◆): Cast a Spell: Ancestral Memories [L7] vs Red
An enemy within 60 feet takes a –2 status penalty to the next saving throw they attempt against a spell you cast before the end of your turn.
Triggers: Blood Magic
Blood Magic-Imperious Defense
Until the start of Jayma's next turn, she gains a +1 status bonus to AC. Now at AC 34.

With that, Jayma raises her cane high, its obsidian rose blazing with white light. A deafening lance of lightning crashes from the storm above and lances through the nearly dead Shanty Chanter attacking Marine (Green), then cuts north to the next enemy (Red) before leaping to and fro through the remaining Shanty Chanters (Purple, Orange, Blue). Bodies convulse and feathers burst into the air as thunder rolls over the manor grounds.

Action 2 & 3 (◆◆): Cast a Spell: Chain Lightning [L7] with Sorcerous Potency vs (in order) Green, Red, Purple, Orange, Blue

Chain Lightning Damage: 9d12 + 7 ⇒ (9, 5, 5, 7, 2, 9, 4, 12, 4) + 7 = 64 electricity damage vs DC 33 Basic Reflex

Due to her Ancestral Memories and associated Blood Magic, Red has a -2 status penalty to its Reflex saving throw, and Jayma has a +1 status bonus to her AC, which puts her at 34.

Jayma leaves Marine and Callistro to deal with the small group of humanoid avians, as she and Dr. Lazarus deal with the more immediate threat of the gargantuan wounded creature before them.

When the spinosaurus growls at the approaching investigator, Jayma's voice gains an edge of urgency. "Doctor, do hold a moment... I quite believe our prehistoric friend is contemplating turning you into its next meal."

Her dark green eyes narrow as she studies the creature’s tense posture. "Best to let me try something a touch more... diplomatic." Tucking Twyl into her sleeves, she advances carefully to a cautious distance from the dinosaur. Arcane energy gathers around the fingers of her raised hand. Her words turn to honey and her visage seems bathed in a dreamy haze. "Now then, darling... no need for all this unpleasantness."

Jayma will slowly approach until she is no closer than 30' away from the spinosaurus. She will abort her approach if the creature appears to be on the verge of attacking her.

Action: Cast a Spell: Charm DC 33 vs Spinosaurus

Jayma surveys the shimmering barrier, wondering who or what might have attempted to breach it. "Someone up to no good I expect. I hope Oriole is well".

When Thurston suggests using his occult powers to disable the barrier, Jayma sucks in her breath in mild alarm. "Really, Doctor, there is no need to endanger yourself attempting to dismantle the entire ward. I can quite manage to dispel the magic from a single entrance without any undue risk." She pauses, and narrowing her eyes, glances about the grounds. "Though, before we resort to such measures, it would be positively prudent to search for a key. A barrier of this sort would almost certainly have a magical bypass, and such a thing should be rather conspicuous to one of my talents."

Jayma's default exploration mode is Detect Magic, which she will use in an effort to find such a key as the group move around the grounds.

When they come upon the wounded dinosaur and Lazarus insists on trying to heal it, she lifts a hand in concern. "Doctor, do be careful... it is injured, which makes it unpredictable." She herself remains firmly where she stands, keeping a safe distance from the creature as Twyl peeks nervously from her sleeve.

Jayma picks her way up the mountain path with considerably less enthusiasm than the rest of the group. She huffs softly. "I still maintain that a well-placed teleport would have spared us all this dreary exertion... but noooo, apparently we must 'stretch a leg' after a month at sea..." Her tone makes it abundantly clear what she thinks of that reasoning.

As they crest the rise and the estate comes into view, her expression shifts from irritation to mild dismay. "Oh dear... this will not do at all."

The faint shimmer over the windows and door catches her eye at once. She lifts her cane to gesture toward the front door. "Doctor, do look... that is no mere decorative enchantment." She peers at it more intently, trying to determine the source of the magic.

Activity: Identify Magic (Arcana +22, Occultism +22) - SECRET

She shares what she discovers with the group before adding, "I think it would be wise to scout the grounds before we make any grand entrances. If someone has gone to the trouble of warding the place, I should very much like to know why."

Jayma accepts the small vials with a gracious smile. "My dear Marine, how thoughtful of you... truly."

She tucks the elixirs carefully into a hidden fold of her coat. "One never knows when sharper sight might mean the difference between glorious triumph and ignominious embarrassment... and I do so hate the latter."

For the record, Jayma's distance estimate was as-the-crow-flies (for the purpose of Teleportation) and not as-the-ship-sails. But, yeah, she's not happy about how long it took to get there.

The voyage south was everything Jayma dreaded become reality. She keeps mostly to her quarters, reclining upon her berth while Twyl darts restlessly from post to post. "Do try to enjoy yourself, darling. One of us should take some pleasure from this ordeal."

On calmer days, when the sea quietens and the blue sky shows little sign of clouds, Jayma ventures above. She takes her place at the bow of the forecastle, one gloved hand resting lightly on her jeweled cane. From there, she gazes at the endless horizon, almost urging the ship to greater speed as the wind pulls at her hair.

The journey is not without incident, though none prove worthy of true concern. A pirate vessel dares approach one gray morning, only to be met with a swift and decisive display of Jayma's magic. It's burning sails and listing deck barely managing to get out of range before she could finish the job. "Honestly... if one insists on piracy, one should at least show some degree of competence in the matter." The few sea creatures that show an unwelcome interest in their vessel fare little better and are sent on their way with similar efficiency.

At last, after weeks that to Jayma felt more like years, a faint shape appears on the horizon. She is already at her usual place when it comes into view, standing very still as the distant island slowly grows. As Petrel's Perch rises from the sea, Jayma's steely composure nearly cracks with the joy that suddenly fills her little body. "Thanks be to the Everbloom, we are finally arrived." And when at last she steps onto firm ground, she lets out a soft, delighted laugh and only barely manages to stop herself from falling to her knees and kissing the ground in relief.

Jayma pauses a moment before gently pressing Marine's hand back toward her with a warm smile. "My dear Marine, you are kindness itself... truly. But I assure you, I shall endure. I have survived worse than a few weeks at sea."

Twyl chitters in agreement from her shoulder as Jayma gives a small, reassuring nod. "Keep your gold. I would far rather you spend it on something more practical, especially if we are to run into some of Callistro's sea monsters."

Jayma presses her lips into a thin line as Callistro finishes. "Storms, pirates, and ravenous sea beasts... how positively reassuring, Callistro." Her countenance darkens in clear displeasure before she slumps slightly in resignation.

The moment passes quickly and she straightens with practiced nobility. "Very well. We shall endure the indignity of a ship. I will see to it personally... if we must suffer the sea, we shall at least do so aboard something respectable." She tucks Twyl into her sleeve and turns on her heel. "If anyone asks where I am, I'll be down at the docks securing an acceptable vessel."

Jayma sighs lightly. "My dear Callistro, I do so admire your optimism... but alas, my teleportation is not quite so grand as all that. Petrel's Perch is dreadfully isolated, and my magic will only carry us a hundred miles at best. As you say, any proper port within that range will be infested with pirates and worse."

She tilts her head thoughtfully. "However... if we were to secure a ship to bring us within range... I could place us quite neatly upon the island. At worst, we might arrive a mile off target, but if I aim for the center... we won't end up in the sea. And I do so hate getting my hair wet unless absolutely necessary."

By my measurements, Petrel's Perch is about 9.5 x 5.5 miles in size. If you want to see where it is, HERE is a link to its location.

Jayma visibly brightens at the offer of the scroll. "Fallenta, you are an absolute treasure... truly. A teleportation scroll, and for the return no less... how wonderfully efficient. It will save us weeks at sea."

She gives a small shudder at the thought of all that time on a ship with limited amenities. Any reduction in that torture was welcome. "In that case, we ought to properly prepare before departure. It appears that Arshea's symbols will be essential. We should definitely obtain some before we set foot on Petrel's Perch. I'd hate to trigger the diva's security system unnecessarily."

Next chance she gets, Jayma will visit the local religious paraphernalia dealer and get the group four holy symbols of Arshea.

Loot sheet updated accordingly.

Jayma exhales softly at Marine’s enthusiastic reaction. "My dear Marine... I fear that your faith in my teleportation abilities rather exceeds the limits of reality. Fourteen hundred miles is rather beyond me at present... If Callistro cannot fly us there in draconic splendor, it appears we shall have to endure a ship voyage." Her nose wrinkles ever so slightly in displeasure at the thought.

At the mention of Arshea, her eyes sharpen with interest. "Arshea, yes... a most intriguing patron of beauty and freedom. If these statues respond to Their symbol, then it would make sense for us to procure such tokens before we arrive."

Jayma’s eyes flash with excitement as the sapphire and ruby necklace is placed into her hands. Twyl darts down her sleeve to inspect the offering with curiosity. "My dear, this is... exquisitely generous." She clasps the necklace delicately. "You have my word. Oriole will be found... and persuaded to return. After all, what is an opera without a star?"

Later, gathered with her companions at the Feathered Fox, Jayma listens intently as all the tidbits of rumor and gossip are pieced together into the full picture of what happened to Oriole. When the mention of Petrel's Perch arises, she gives a decisive nod. "Then it is settled. We have dallied long enough... we go to Petrel's Perch to retrieve our missing songbird."

Loot sheet updated.

Jayma slips into the buzzing interior of the Three-Legged Devil at Dr. Lazarus's side just as the final applause for Callistro’s performance fades into cheerful chatter. She surveys the room with a knowing smile and leans in to whisper something to Thurston. "It appears that our colleague has quite outdone himself... best not steal his thunder, hmm?"

Taking advantage of the goodwill generated by Callistro's performance, Jayma moves toward a cluster of laughing patrons. A faint happy-sounding music can be heard in the background as she offers a polite curtsey. "Such a delightful performance this evening... simply divine. It reminds me a little of Oriole's performances. Tell me, have any of you had the pleasure of hearing Oriole sing here in years past? I should so love to know where such a voice might be found so I can experience such pleasure once more."

Activity: Research (Songbird Hall)
Gather Information with Messenger's Ring, Clue In and Musical Accompaniment

Diplomacy (Gather Information for Research): 1d20 + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 38

Probably unneeded with the Doctor and Marine's rolls, but just in case...

Jayma glides through the perfumed halls of Songbird Hall with practiced poise. Thurston and Marine peel off to talk to a cluster of devotees. She gives them an approving nod before setting her sights on more elevated company. She stops a passing acolyte. "Do be a dear and inform High Priest Vhast that Jayma Thornfiddle requests a moment of his time to discuss a matter of artistic significance." After a momentary wait, in which she hears what sounds like Marine bellowing somewhere in the building, she is shown into the high priest's office.

With a graceful curtsey and a faint, though persuasive suggestion of music in the background, Jayma gets straight to the point. "High Priest, how delightful to see you again. I shan't steal too much of your time. I was wondering if your temple's extensive web of admirers has mentioned anything of a certain Oriole. A voice like theirs does not simply vanish... someone must know something of her whereabouts."

She lowers her voice slightly and adds, "We are hoping to recruit her for our opera. I am sure you would agree that she would turn a good production into a great one." Twyl peeks out from her cuff, smiling at Zachrin Vhast with a polite and somewhat disarming curiosity.

Activity: Research (Songbird Hall)
Gather Information with Messenger's Ring, Snoop and Musical Accompaniment

Diplomacy (Gather Information for Research): 1d20 + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 40

Jayma makes her usual morning circuit through Kintargo’s fashionable coffee and tea houses. Twyl darts between her shoulders and sleeves trying to take in all the smells and sights along the way. At each location, she moves easily from table to table of well-heeled acquaintances, accepting air kisses and porcelain cups of steaming tea with effortless grace.

At the Sweet Tooth, she lowers herself into a velvet chair beside a cluster of her better-informed aristocratic friends. "My dears, I wonder if any of you have heard any whispers of our elusive Oriole. One does not simply vanish from the stage without leaving the faintest trail, hmm? Now do be honest... surely someone has heard where the darling creature flew off to roost?" A faint, though persuasive suggestion of music can be heard in the air as Jayma stirs her tea. Twyl peeks out from her cuff, smiling at the ladies with a polite and somewhat disarming curiosity.

Activity: Research (Street Gossip)
Gather Information with Messenger's Ring, Snoop and Musical Accompaniment

Diplomacy (Gather Information for Research): 1d20 + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 41

Jayma leans back in her chair, her hand idly stroking the snoozing Twyl in her lap. Her eyes narrow thoughtfully. "Oh, Oriole… yes, yes, of course... Simply divine on the stage. I saw them perform twice in Absalom; once as Lord Kryton Belvane, the tragic baritone father in The rise and fall of House Belvane, and again the following season as Serafina Valevsky, the soprano anti-heroine of The Wonderful Widow of Whitethrone. Such talent... it's quite unfair, really."

She pauses. Her gaze drifts upward as she rakes through the layers of theater gossip, rehearsals, and late-night cast parties that fill her memories. "There was always something curious about them though..." Her eyes widen with sudden delight. "Oh, wait! Yes, I remember now..."

Activity: Research (Personal Recollections) with Entertainer's Cincture
Performance (Research): 1d20 + 25 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 25 + 2 = 45

She glances toward Callistro and gives an approving nod. "Quite right, Callistro. The Three-Legged Devil is an obvious starting point, and I expect the opera house staff to have kept up to date on all the theater gossip that drifts through Kintargo."

She tilts her head slightly as Twyl scampers up to her shoulder. "And we would be terribly remiss not to speak with Zachrin Vhast at Songbird Hall again. A temple of Shelyn hears far more about art and artists than one might realize. Oh... and Elleste Gudgeon was positively brimming with theater chatter at the fete. Perhaps I should have a word with her as well"

Jayma's smile widens with conspiratorial delight. "Yes... a few polite questions in the proper company, and I daresay we shall be on Oriole's trail before the evening is out." Twyl chitters approvingly, seconding the plan.

To make it official, here are Jayma's Recall Knowledge rolls.

Action: Recall Knowledge - SECRET

She has the following relevant skills to choose from:
Lore (Theater) +22
Society +26

as well as Gossip Lore.

Action: Recall Knowledge (Gossip Lore +20) - SECRET

Jayma listens with interest as Twyl darts from one shoulder to the other. The name Oriole brings a pleased smile to her lips. "Oh, Oriole is an inspired choice. If anyone can capture that preposterous blend of menace and absurdity that was our dear Swirly, it is they." She casts a sidelong glance toward Dr. Lazarus, lips curving faintly. "With our fine Doctor's meticulous talents, and my own modest web of acquaintances between Absalom and Kintargo, I cannot imagine Oriole will remain hidden for long." She pauses a moment and frowns a little before continuing. "Convincing the legendary diva to tread the boards once more... well, I suspect, that shall require rather more finesse. Fortunately, I do so adore a challenge."

Jayma quickly scans Fallenta's notes and nods in agreement. "Yes. It is as I remember it. I see no reason to make any changes."

Jayma inclines her head and taps a gloved finger lightly against the jeweled head of her cane. "Oh, unquestionably Prepostera. I can't see how being nearly drowned by a porcelain tyrant called Swirly can be anything but a comedy."

Between her private acting lessons for the well heeled daughters of Kintargo's finest families, Jayma retreats to her borrowed chambers at the Feathered Fox. There, she rehearses her famous monologue from "The Foxwife's Dowry," in which she played Lady Hallow, a noblewoman cursed to speak only in riddles.

At last, she stands upon the small stage erected in Aria Park for Fallenta's fete, clad in her usual riot of fashionable color. A magical music swells behind her as if from a distant invisible orchestra. Twyl scampers dramatically across her shoulders as she delivers the opening line, her eyes glittering in the lantern light.

"What bird sings sweetest when the door is locked, my lord, and flies no farther than the length of its chain? She continues, savoring each riddle as though it were a delicious dessert. The crowd leans in, amused and attentive. She concludes with a graceful sweep of her cane. "For I am the riddle you cannot answer, and the dowry you dare not claim."

Action: Perform with Entertainer's Cincture, Accompanist and Musical Accompaniment

Performance (Perform): 1d20 + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 25 + 2 + 2 + 1 = 36

That could have gone over better.

There is warm applause and appreciative laughter. A generous response, though Jayma notes with an ambitious spark that she next time she'll leave them thunderstruck.

With the addition of the Entertainer's Cincture, I've had to rethink Jayma's magical item investments.

To make room for it on her investment list, I've decided to get rid of her Eye of the Unseen. I've replaced the See Invisible part with a Level 5 Magic Wand of See the Unseen, but she still loses her +1 Perception for Visual checks. I've updated the stat sheet accordingly.

I also bought a few Dimensional Knots to allow her to Translocate with Twyl.

So with the new loot distribution, here is her leveling-up finances:

+1,027.55 Chapter 1.3.B Cash on Hand
+7,811.25 Chapter 1.3.C Loot
+200.00 Chapter 1.3.C Earn Income
+600.00 Sell Crafter's Eyepiece (Greater)
+225.00 Sell Eye of the Unseen
+25.00 Sell Musical Instrument (Virtuoso Handheld)
-3,100.00 Upgrade to Resilient (Greater) Rune
-3,910.00 Upgrade to Boots of Bounding (Greater)
-180.00 Buy Catalyst: Dimensional Knot (3)
-500.00 Buy (loot) Entertainer's Cincture
-600.00 Buy (loot) Spacious Pouch (Type III)
-1,500.00 Buy Magic Wand (L5) - See the Unseen
+98.80 Chapter 1.3.C Cash on Hand

When Thurston indicates that he'd prefer to give Lady Wormwood's notes to the proper authorities, Jayma shrugs nonchalantly. "As you wish, dear Doctor. It is all the same to me." When the authorities in question hand over a pouch of rubies as a reward, she seems quite pleased. "Apparently doing the right thing can be quite lucrative sometimes. Who knew?"

Once back in Kintargo, Jayma breathes out in relief. "It is so pleasant to be back in civilization."

Having returned the papers to Fallenta, Jayma smiles with sincere and literal warmth as she watches their patron burn the papers in question, finally releasing her from the yoke of the Dragonfly Society. "My dear, I am truly delighted for you... no one should have to live shackled to a life they did not choose." Then, with a decisive nod, she adds, "And of course we shall help arrange the gala. Kintargo deserves something magnificent to celebrate your rebirth."

Later, upon returning to the Feathered Fox, Jayma pauses when she sees the package, and after opening it, lets out a surprised laugh as the remaining pieces of the Crescendo Collection lay before her. With a big smile, she says, "Well... this is unexpected," then breaking out her pen and notes, she adds the the remaining pieces of the Crescendo Collection right below where she noted the amount of the reward, .

With the final loot values in, the bottom line is that each PC receives 7,811.25gp as part of the loot distribution. PCs can buy back items from the loot for the cost listed in the "Sold for" column H of the loot sheet.

Upgrading Jayma to Level 14 as follows:

Class Feat: Reflect Harm
Free Archetype: Fit for the Role
Skill Feat: Glad-Hand

Spell additions:
L7: Spell Riposte ↺

Updated the Stat Sheet with her new stats.

The following accounting assumes that we get 10 days of downtime (like last time) and that we sell the Vyre files for 700gp (thus netting 6,561.25gp each in loot cash out). Final cash on hand may change if these assumptions prove incorrect, but she will still be able to purchase the listed equipment.

Jayma will earn a little income on the side holding private acting classes for some of her well-heeled socialite friends.

Downtime: Earn Income (Master in Performance) with Accompanist and Musical Instrument (Virtuoso Handheld) at Task Level 13

Performance (Earn Income) vs Task Level 13: DC 31: 1d20 + 25 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 25 + 2 + 1 = 42

The crit success result for 10 days is 10 * 20gp = 200gp

Jayma's purchases are as follows:

+1027.55 Starting Cash on Hand
+6561.25 Chapter 1.3C Loot
+200.00 Chapter 1.3C Earn Income
-3100.00 Upgrade to Resilient (Greater) Rune
-3910.00 Upgrade to Boots of Bounding (Greater)
------
+778.80 Chapter 1.3.C Cash on Hand

With the upgrade to her boots, her speed is now 55 feet.

At Gideon's agitated questioning, Jayma lifts her chin slightly. "We finally found her after cutting our way through a truly dreadful assortment of guardians... undead, aberrations, and worse. Lady Wormwood was waiting for us in her private chamber, quite irritated at the interruption." She pauses a moment to purse her lips and wave her hand dismissively. "She refused to surrender, naturally, and fought with considerable skill. In the end, it was insufficient, and she fell."

Letting that sink in for a moment, Jayma concludes. "You need not concern yourself with her returning to trouble you... at least not from the land of the living."

At Gideon's surprising generosity, Jayma inclines her head gracefully. "How very magnanimous of you, Master Shanklett... truly, you do the Society proud." She does another quick mental review of the items but once again concludes that there is no item available that she would prefer over the cash they could obtain for it on the open market.

Each of the items is listed at 3000gp, so we will clear 1500gp each when we sell them. That 1500gp is what it will cost you to buy the item from the loot (actually it is a net cost of 1125gp once you include your 1/4 share of the 1500gp in question). Having gone through the item descriptions several times now, I cannot find one that I'd be willing to pay anywhere near 1500gp to keep. If any of you see an item that interests you, then speak up, otherwise we'll just ask for the first three (Crooner’s Cravat, Herald’s Ring, Mocker’s Swazzle) and move on.

Jayma wanders around surveying the library. She carefully lifts items one by one while jotting notes in her small notebook. With the curios catalogued, she turns her attention to the shelves and tut-tuts to herself when she realizes what they are. "Keeping copies of secrets rather defeats the purpose of keeping secrets in the first place, does it not?"

Loot sheet updated.

Once the books are packed into Wormwood's spacious pouch, Jayma straightens up and adjusts her cane. "Well then. That appears to be everything. Unless anyone has developed a sudden fondness for this rotten catacomb, I believe it is time we left this place and arranged a meeting with Gideon."

Jayma frowns at Marine's question. "No, darling... they chose violence the moment that door opened. Had they shown the same level of restraint as the earlier Graverobbers, they might very well still be standing here with us now."

Once all the questions are answered, Jayma clears her throat loudly and shoos the last two Graverobbers toward the exit with an imperious flick of her wrist. "Yes, yes, off you go now... Do try not to bleed on the books as you leave." She gestures at the fallen bodies. "You may take your unfortunate friends and all of your personal equipment, but everything else in this room remains. Don't even think of touching anything that is not yours... are we quite clear?"

Once they've hurriedly gathered their dead and fled, Jayma exhales and turns her attention to Lady Wormwood's library. "Now then... let's see what secrets our dear Lady kept here." She then spends time looking over Lady Wormwood's library for anything of value or interest, while occasionally prestidigitating away any dust and grime that dares attach itself to her gloves.

Activity: Search with Eye of the Unseen (Visual Perception +21) - SECRET

Jayma allows herself a satisfied smile at having struck down one of the Graverobbers. She then begins to gather more electrical energy in her hand for another spell, but pauses the incantation when the remaining Graverobbers drop their weapons and plead for mercy.

She sighs and allows the half-formed magic to dissipate as she steps forward. "I commend your decision to stop fighting and talk... though it is a shame you did not do so before two of your number were so decisively dispatched." She gestures lightly toward the fallen without looking at them.

Her voice hardens. "You should understand that we have no quarrel with the Graverobbers. We came here solely for Lady Wormwood, and that matter is now concluded. Therefore, I strongly suggest that you follow the example of your colleagues in the other chamber and vacate this area immediately... or you may well share the fate of your, uh... friends, here."

Activity: Coerce with Group Coercion and Guise of the Smirking Devil with Crit Aid vs Blue Graverobber and Purple Graverobber

Intimidation (Coerce): 1d20 + 24 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 24 + 2 + 2 = 30 vs Blue Graverobber and Purple Graverobber Will DCs

Ugh! Will use Halfling Luck to reroll...

Action (◇): Halfling Luck

Intimidation (Coerce): 1d20 + 24 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 24 + 2 + 2 = 47 vs Blue Graverobber and Purple Graverobber Will DCs

Better!

Once again, Jayma finds herself the last to react to changing circumstances. She watches as the others empty out of the hallway and into the room to deal with something within. She then watches as a Graverobber runs screaming into the hallway and away from her. "It doesn't appear that we'll be talking these ones out of attacking us," she says to Twyl. He chitters back in apparent agreement. "We better go see what we can do to finish this quickly so we can leave this fetid place."

She moves to the doorway and enters the room cautiously. Seeing the situation, she moves to the wall to put as much space between herself and the thick of things. Moving her hands in an intricate pattern, the air around her starts crackling. Then with a flick of her wrist, she unleashes the built up lightning energy at the two Graverobbers in the room.

Action 1 (◆): Stride (50 feet)

Action 2 & 3 (◆◆): Cast a Spell: Chain Lightning with Sorcerous Potency vs Red Graverobber, then Purple Graverobber

Chain Lightning Damage: 8d12 + 6 ⇒ (5, 1, 7, 5, 6, 6, 7, 6) + 6 = 49 electricity damage vs DC 32 basic Reflex

Jayma listens as Lazarus explains the provenance of the items, her expression turning faintly sad. She is not surprised in the least to hear that the troupe's end likely came at the hands of House Thrune. She herself only narrowly escaped a similar fate by fleeing Cheliax with the help of the Bellflower Network.

She examines the magical items with a practiced eye. Jayma admires the craftsmanship, but none of them stir any real desire in her. They are valuable curiosities, and she is quite confident that the one they obtain from Gideon in payment for their services will fetch a handsome price.

What loot doesn't fit in Jayma's sleeves or the spacious pouch they just found, is loaded onto Marine's back. She then checks the map in her notebook. "It appears that we've pretty much cleared out Lady Wormwood's underground complex. There is only one area that we haven't fully explored yet. It lies behind that door there." She lifts her cane and indicates the door on the other side of the room from the one leading to Lady Wormwood's study. "For the sake of completeness, why don't we see where it leads." She heads in that direction but waits for the frontliners to take the lead.