Patenemheb Sitayet's page

Just a note. My rate of posting has gotten more erratic lately. It may remain that way for some weeks yet.

I'll be travelling this weekend and I won't be posting again until Monday at least.

I may not be able to post again until Saturday. Just a heads up.

@Tairin: I'm sorry to see you go. But fair enough and understood.

I'm open to putting out feelers to veteran players but not opposed to the recruitment thread either.

Take time as needed.

Well, we can try to avoid those with clear communication etc.

Hail, Dain!

I'm glad to hear that you're doing better and of a return to this campaign.

I'm not opposed to arranging a voice chat but I'm often occupied in the evenings and for large chunks of the weekend. It's doable though with enough notice.

I am still about and would enjoy resuming playing.

That said, I am patient so take all the time you need Dain.

Xoth adventure books such as "The Spider God's Bride" have gotten a version in the Legend system. They all seem to be on sale at the moment at drivethrurpg.

I'm doing fine here. Both of us still working from home.

All the best to everyone.

Thanks Tairin.

I currently have an earache so my response time might be affected.

Happy birthday, Tairin!

I can't drink at the moment but if I did imbibe a spirit, it would most likely be whiskey. Jameson is a solid standard imho.

I wasn't familiar with Band Maid but they sound quite fun.

Hello there!

I'm playing more rpgs via discord and this forum.

Conan: Adventures in an Age Undreamed Of core book is down to $6.25.

I'll wait on Dain's reply to my query when he has time again!

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@Dain: Thanks for informing us and take care.

I look forward to seeing these various plans pan out!

That is a fair response. Regardless, we shall visit the priest together. :)

"I will also be taking my leave. Good luck in your own efforts, all.", Patenemheb addresses the room.

With Tairin, Bjoern, and Farrokh, he prepares to leave to visit Darius Turan. He also keeps eyes and ears open for any shadowers.

Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (16) + 14 = 30

@Dain: I left a message for you about alchemy.

@Talar: Understood. :)

@Mal/Talar/Yasala: Looks good!

@Tairin, I think you may have missed that Patenemheb will definitely be meeting Darius this day.

Patenemheb listens to Talar, thinking.

Hmmm. While I have acted to smooth along Mal's service and minimise risk, it is possible that I have been insensitive to Talar's disposition and the stress of having lost a loved one. It has been some time after all since I have had that occur.

He turns to Talar:

"Talar, you have my support as I just stated, and I as I stated some time ago, I am willing to contribute financially to that end. Unfortunately, these other matters in the city could prove deadly to all of us, thus I do not promise my full attention to any one matter here."

Patenemheb takes several long, slow sips as the others speak.

He makes no obvious response when Yasala speaks words in Zadjite.

Finally, he breaks his pause, turning to Mal with a slight smile:

"Mal Steelcutter, you have your answer on my thoughts on the nature and acquisition of knowledge, for now. The matter of Talar's sister and your involvement with this company is more pressing. We have a few more kinks in the sheets to work out though. As much potential as you offer, you gamble with your words in the manse of people unknown to you. My companions have raised concerns and points that should not be batted aside but instead addressed. I for one would support your involvement in rescuing Talar's sister, for reasons I shall elaborate upon."

He turns to Talar:

"Talar, I have no doubt in your skills having witnessed them exercised repeatedly. If what you have witnessed of Mal Steelcutter shows you a road to your sister's rescue, I would support it."

He turns to Samir:

"Samir, you voice concerns and not unfounded. Mal Steelcutter is known somewhat to Talar, and less so to us. That said, there is risk in all endeavours and there is much risk in ignoring opportunities. If this second Northman proves worthy, he would be a valuable addition to our company. If not, it would not be the first time that a member has departed, in more or less pleasant situations."

He turns to Farrokh:

"Farrokh, I arranged to meet Darius this late morning. It would be most amiss of me to not follow through, even with the finest of reasons. That said, the places where elixirs and potions are crafted and sold may well prove a fruitful avenue for us to wander through after that meeting, and it is a suggestion with which I concur."

He turns more, looking around the room:

"What say ye?"

Welcome back, Dain!

Patenemheb gazes at Mal as the newcomer speaks, seemingly not displeased with the man's responses as he continues to sip his water at intervals.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (16) + 12 = 28

"That is a fine little tale, Mal. I am even inclined to believe your stated motivations and that Talar's plan has found its executor, should fee and arrangement be found suitable to both parties. Talar, I quite approve of your idea there. Another consideration on deciding a fee: I have volunteered my surgical skills for this cause, among my other skills, though I hope they prove utterly unnecessary."

He sips again.

"But you asked a question of your own and I will oblige you with an answer. I am Patenemheb Sitayet, noble scion of the Kingdom - ancient Yar-Ammon. I was inducted into a great House of Life and over time expanded my studies to include aeons-old langauges and the rise and fall of civilisations. These topics fascinate me. Unfortunately, others in the Kingdom thought less highly of me, for unrelated reasons. Thus, I withdrew to ever more remote areas and then outside of the Kingdom altogether."

A sip.

"I seek knowledge, because it may answer complex questions that burn slowly and whose importance may only become visible in centuries to come. It also provides influence and power in the here and now. Not least, having reliable healing is a lifesaver in dangerous climes."

@Mal:

As you may have noticed, Patenemheb likes asking a lot of questions!

Patenemheb continues to fathom the newcomer's motives.

"I will not speak for the good lady Tairin and what she makes of your answers to her queries but I will comment upon the rest."

The scholar motions to Kara Ben for a beverage.

"Tharagian is not so commonly understood. But we have jointly found it advantageous to understand less common languages. Being able to speak between ourselves without being understood has its uses as you well know, though I would caution against excluding potential allies from basic conversation unnecessarily."

Patenemheb takes a proferred goblet of chilled water from Kara Ben and sips it.

"You certainly sound like quite the resourceful man, Mal Steelcutter. It is certainly no harm in itself to make coin. I do wonder if your word could be bought twice, say by an interloper in our affairs. Between ourselves, we have taken to sharing in the fruits of joint endeavours and do not wish to see such threatened. I would prefer a stalwart ally however."

All the best, Dain.

@Mal:

To echo the others, it really is nothing personal. This campaign world is quite cutthroat and trust can be harder to come by, even for new PCs. It would break versimiltude a great deal if we suddenly just trusted every newcomer.

For one, I'm enjoying Mal's take on matters. It makes for very engaging posts!

Edit: In case you hadn't heard, the problem with changing avatars has been fixed. :)

Patenemheb enters, then watches and listens to the back and forth discussion.

A most talkative Tharagian. Almost the polar opposite of Bjeorn in that regard.

Sense Motive on Mal's description of his friendship with Talar: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (9) + 12 = 21

Interesting. Is this a test of his own or a defense?

The scholar then smiles a little and adds his own words, ending in a handful of harsh syllables of Tharag Thulan delivered surprisingly warmly.

"Mal Steelcutter, you stand in the midst of a group possessing uncommon skills and talents, and who are most capable of noting the same in others. You could be a fine asset. I hope for the sake of Talar's sister, that you are willing to cooperate with him, and us. If you are ready to be an ally then we could offer each other much. Willkommen."

Sense Motive to get a read on Mal's reaction to the words of himself, Tairin, and Talar: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (19) + 12 = 31

Patenemheb looks at Kara Ben.

"Kara Ben, that all seems in order. That said, do you know whom these guests are and whom if anyone invited them?"

It seems a strange coincidence that we receive more guests while away.

He turns to his companions:

"We should resolve the matter of these guests, then gather our entire company to discuss what we have gleaned."

Patenemheb seems almost lost in thought for some moments.

Then he gives a soft smile to Thoth-Apep.

"I have much to ponder here, Thoth-Apep. Should you have another such vision, please do inform us. May the sun look favourably upon you this day."

Diplomacy to help end on a positive note, aiding Tairin: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (4) + 12 = 16

Sense Motive to see how Thoth-Apep is feeling as we prepare to depart: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30

@Talar and Mal:

AFAIK, this is the first description of the mansion exterior and this is an extensive post on the interior.

Edit: A post describing some of our servants.

Patenemheb keeps an approving glance from his face as Yasala parries Thoth-Apep's manipulations.

I doubt that she will be overly concerned by his implied threat that followed.

Patenemheb does however pay close attention to Thoth-Apep as Tairin pries word of his vision from him, and thinks before he responds openly.

Sense Motive to see which parts of the tale if any are eliciting more of a response from Thoth-Apep as he speaks them: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (9) + 12 = 21

Knowledge Arcana on what forces might be involved in a literal - or metaphorical black sun and moon: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (8) + 12 = 20

Knowledge Geography on whether this describes a particular land: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (16) + 10 = 26

Knowledge History on whether this has happened before - or been prophesised before: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25

Knowledge Local on whether this is based on local superstition: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15

Knowledge Nobility on whether this imagery corresponds to the heraldry of noble houses: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14

Knowledge Nature on whether this is a natural if ususual and rare phenomenon: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12

Knowledge Planes on whether this speaks of the influence of other worlds: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17

Knowledge Religion on whether this corresponds to teachings or myth cycles of religions in the region: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (19) + 13 = 32

Linguistics on whether there is hidden symbolism and meaning in the words themselves and not in what they describe: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29

I'll be posting shortly.

On Bronze Age roleplaying, a blog: The Sundaland RPG Setting.

RPG setting content based on the real sunken subcontinent of Sundaland. Imagine a land where the progenitors of the ancient Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Indus Valley and American cultures came from. The overall tone is Bronze Age to Classical Age type civilisations with a touch of Sword & Sorcery.

Patenemheb takes a genteel sip from his drink.

He does note Thoth-Apep's seeking of a chink in the group's armour in the form of trying to sink claws into their Azimban member. At least, that is the wise assumption.

Another reason to mistrust this would-be priest-lord.

Sense Motive on Thoth-Apep's mood when dealing with Yasala: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15

Patenemheb also notes Thoth-Apep's clear feelings towards Tairin - and watches for his reaction to her question about what prompted the urgent meeting.

Diplomacy to aid Tairin's query with a questioning look of his own, not having to speak out: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29

Sense Motive to seek Thoth-Apep's motivations: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (9) + 12 = 21

Welcome, Mal!

I second Tairin's suggestion about using spoilers.

Such irritating games for status. Real worth comes from achievement, thinks Patenemheb, though he tries to keep his disdain for Thoth-Apep's prodding off his face.

Bluff to keep his irritation hidden from face and tone - for now: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (20) + 14 = 34

"Your hospitality is everything I could expect from a man such as yourself.", replies Patenmheb in a cordial tone.

Diplomacy to convince Thoth-Apep of cordiality: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (1) + 12 = 13

"My kinswoman has a great talent for detail. It is as she has said: we sought our people and could not be certain of all events out in the dark desert. Such an unfortunate waste of life, from your telling of it. My condolences for those innocents lost."

Bluff to aid Tairin: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (15) + 14 = 29

Diplomacy to aid Tairin with his assessment: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (19) + 12 = 31

Sense Motive to gauge reactions: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (13) + 12 = 25

When (if) refreshment enters his hand, Patenemheb will first glance at it and allow any aroma to reach his nostrils before deciding whether to drink it.

In any case, it would not do to guzzle a beverage like a famished pauper.

Perception to note anything suspicious about the container or liquid: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (6) + 14 = 20

Heal to note anything amiss about the liquid or material: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (15) + 17 = 32

Craft (alchemy) to spot telltale traces of poison or soporific: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (2) + 17 = 19

Patenemheb maintains his usual stoic expression and steady gaze, though he carefully and slowly casts it about as the litter is moved through the streets, seeking shadows indicating threats that would remain unseen.

Perception to note any trackers: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (13) + 14 = 27

********************

Upon exiting the litter, Patenemheb steps forward embellished with his polished jewellery and noble finery.

Whatever image of a hermit scholar he may give off usually, here there is no mistaking the very image of a man born to the highest ranks of Kingdom society.

As he enters, he gives Thoth-Apep a glance, denoting his understanding of status: that Thoth-Apep may have power and influence but the scions of the Kingdom before that priest stand before and above him.

Patenemheb does however take some small enjoyment from once again seeing proper architecture and aesthetics.

He takes more enjoyment from Tairin's demonstration of courtly etiquette, and the reassuring presence of Yasala and Bjoern.

I will have to outdo this priest's building efforts, on principle.

"Greetings once again, Thoth-Apep. I am curious to hear what words that you have for us, that are of such import."

Diplomacy to position Patenemheb's status appropiately in Thoth-Apep's perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (20) + 12 = 32

Perception to note any hidden threats or interesting changes: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (7) + 14 = 21

Sense Motive to peer behind Thoth-Apep's facade: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (15) + 12 = 27

Yes, they are one and the same. Hence Paten's admittedly oblique reference to "A corrupt fool, and we know what end *he* came to."

As the group make their preparations to depart, Patenemheb motions that he wishes to speak..

"Tairin, I will relate our prior dealings with Darius Turan so that you are armed with all that we know of him."

"The Khazistani temples are newer than those of the Kingdom and situated close to the palace of the Bey. The two primary gods in the area are Yadar and Nhakhramat. The crowd of Jairanian guards led by the local noble Hassan Sadi clustered around the Yadar shrine drew our attention. I say shrine, as it seemed more a place for worshippers to congregate rather than a particularly holy site in itself. "

"In any case, Darius Turan emerged after Sadi, flanked by youthful acolytes armed with daggers. Darius was quite irate. He believed us to be mercenaries in service to Yar-Ammonites, sent by Thoth-Apep to further harass the Yadarites. He was quite insistent that his people had nothing to do with the defacement of a temple, erecting of a Yadar statue, or killing of Yar-Ammonites. Talar, Yasala, and myself managed to calm Darius down enough that he invited us in. The compound was a modest place, as was the equipment of Darius and his acolytes. No wealthy temple, perhaps due to the rising popularity of Belit-lil."

"I knew that we were growing shorter on time before the meeting with Sabiha and had potentially valuable information before us from a person likely to wish alliance once they knew the situation. Thus, once speaking, I took a fearsome gamble. I spoke to Darius of Sabiha, her potential role as an assassin or thief, and her Ikunan associate. I referred to a possible plot among the nobility against the Bey, and her potential involvement. Darius was understandably stunned that someone would be that forward with a stranger. But as I had calculated, he was receptive."

"A month ago he and his temple were approached by a servant of the sorcerer Zheng-Ya. This servant claimed to bring word from his master's ally - Thoth-Apep, previously unknown to Darius. Apparently, certain Yar-Ammonites were incensed by the discovery of a statue of Yadarite origin in one of their ruined temples. Darius replied that his temple lacked resources, time, or inclination for such activities and that he knew of none personally who did. Perhaps other Yadarites would but he knew them not. Since then, Darius and his congregation has suffered threats and harassment from the Yar-Ammonite quarter. Darius said the Bey's vizier was a contact and had warned him of the general leaving his cousin in charge of the investigation. A corrupt fool, and we know what end *he* came to."

"This guard captain had enraged Darius with talk of Yadarites assaulted in the streets, accused of having coordinate an assault upon a Ya-Ammonite temple, killing the daughter of a minor noble in the bargain."

"Darius knew not Sabiha but asked his acoyltes to aid. One, Basir, spoke of seeing her in the marketplace with a disguised man of breeding."

"Another note on Darius. He is far more amenable to exchanging favours with friends, then acquisition in a mercenary manner."

Patenemheb is almost entirely lacking in direct means of doing damage.

But his buffing, healing, and knowledges help keep you lot doing that. ;)

From what I've seen so far, Mal gets my vote of approval.

The remainder of the meeting with Hoteth
***********************

Patenemheb observes, assessing the man's reactions for future reference.

Sense Motive DC 14: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (17) + 12 = 29

Knowledge Nobility DC 12: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (17) + 10 = 27

Quite predictable responses from him, once one has a chance to ponder the matter.

Planning after
***********************

"Samir, I am glad to see you intact. Though I have little to add to the other's comments."

"On the matter of armouring, I believe finely made quilted cloth may be a worthy replacement for my now-lost silken protection. Of course, a suit that fits with my Kingdom-made cottons and jewellery would be most useful."

A minor point for Patenemheb as he does not aim to get into combat soon, but what is the finest non-restrictive (as in no penalty to dex or skills) armour available?

Edit: just saw the piece about armour.

I imagine his silken ceremonial armour was a chance purchase from an eastern merchant.

I am currently reading through the new posts. I hope to add my own tonight. If not, I will do so tomorrow evening.

Patenemheb looks to Tairin and nods, ever so slightly.

He also adds via magic:

I appreciate your clarity, Tairin. We certainly could use some preparation time if only to avoid the impression that we are Thoth-Apep's to command on whim. I trust your judgement on this matter.

As the others speak, Patenemheb watches the man, and listens.

Perception to see any oddities about his person, such as scars or concealed weapons: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (10) + 14 = 24

Sense Motive to assess the state of the man: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18

Knowledge Local to work out if he has heard of this man or someone fitting his position or role: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24

Knowledge Nobility on any customs that this man is violating or stretching the letter of, that could be useful leverage: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25

For now, Patenemheb awaits the man's response to Tairin's queries.

Through Tairin's magic, he speaks to her:

"Tairin, are you certain you wish to commit to going with this man now? Thoth-Apep may get the idea that he can order us on his whim. We should at least draw what information we can from him before making a decision."

@Dain, I think this got overlooked in the discord chat:

Not sure about skill tests.

So far thinking:

Linguistics to study the books in the manse.

Spellcraft or craft alchemy or knowledge arcana to study the laboratory

Diplomacy? To gather information about Thoth-Apep, his power base, and his weaknesses

Is this is the sort of information you're looking for?

Welcome on board, Mal!

Patenemheb inclines his head.

"The laboratory is also of interest to me and I have barely begun to examine its contents. I am most willing to meet this aide."

He pauses.

"As for this servant of Thoth-Apep, I would know their name. Regardless, I will also meet them, if only to assess their mission."

Apologies for delay. This week has been tricky for me getting to update pbp.