Sister Soliel Levant's page

Re-checking the stoppers for the 3rd time, Soliel packed away the last of her alchemical supplies. One advantage of wearing, thanks to extradimensional spaces for pockets, most of one’s possessions was that packing took relatively little time. Her small altar to Abadar, the alchemical supplies and a bedroll were essentially all that went into the backpack the tiefling slung over her shoulder. She left the small basement room in the Tower without a look back.

Packing had, however, served as a momentary respite to take her mind off of her next mission. Not the mission itself: Master Veray had honored her by saying she was needed to handle emerging threats in Isstus Hold. Diguri’s journal, the code now cracked, had led to a concerning steam of plots and threats out of the Hold. The criminals there needed a sharp check. No, the mission itself was well-suited to her skill set. Even most of the team she was assigned to was fine. Aurelion was naïve but pliable, Tunny pragmatic and Leo Spellworthy adaptive. But of all people, why Roland would be joining them was beyond her. Master Veray had simply smiled when she began to protest, and to her embarrassment reminded her of the great faith the Mageocracy places in the Friends of the Tower to handle all contingencies well. All contingencies. Not for the first time she thanked Abadar for the foresight to make some additional doses of soothe syrup before packing up completely.

Before leaving the Tower for the forseeable future, she said her brief, formal goodbyes to Edmond, as well as the Masters she could find on short order. Friends of the Tower never made a show of coming and going, and if farewells could not be shared then perhaps if fortune shone they could later. Master Veray and Master Isul were their usual friendly, if somehow wary, selves. Master Hast and Master Bellafini offered more seemingly heartfelt farewells, if tinged with concern over now not having a “sensible” sort as herself immediately available. Ian would have received a goodbye as well, she always prioritized those she shared the trenches with for such things, but the man had left a few days earlier after a brief, somewhat awkward farewell in which he mentioned something about securing a piece of land by a stream.

Dawn was near breaking as she stepped to the front door of the Tower, and Soliel knew the merchant boat she had chartered to the Hold, or rather “Methil Perkina” the alchemical supplies hawker had chartered, would not wait long. Morphing her guise to look like a frumpy middle-aged female human merchant, she hoisted her pack and made her way out into the gloom.

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Some time later……….

The sun about to rise, Ian emerged from his worn tent, thinking of the last bits of work the roof would need. Today could see it finished, but first he would indulge himself with a moment to watch the morning light arise over the river bank.

Looks like you have a bit of work to do here, Ian. Aye, best be at it rather than laying around.

The voice came from the low branch of a nearby tree, as a familiar halfling hopped down and into plain view. Dressed in the loose black clothing the ex-guardsman had grown accustomed to seeing Friends of the Tower wear, Tomlin looked much the same as Ian remembered. Perhaps a bit more battle-hardened. The halfling’s countenance was just as grim, but a spark in his eyes spoke both of an increased personal prowess as well as Tomlin’s genuine pleasure at seeing an old friend.

Offering a hand in greeting to the much, much large man, Tomlin continued to survey the site. So this is to be your retirement home? Tomlin frowned as he looked around. Not very defensible, could be easily surrounded here and never hear them coming what with the babbling brook there. A short chuckle followed. Aye, but I suppose you picked the spot more for the feel than for practical matters. As the two talked, Tomlin seemed to know all about the groups’ victory over Diguri, Anthony and the rest, but thanked Ian for the letter nonetheless. The conversation then devolved into general catching-up, generously sprinkled with admonitions from the taciturn halfling for Ian to stay away from pesh, combined with begrudging gladness that Ian had seemed to have done just that.

After the two spoke for bit, Tomlin added, Jori Banest is retiring as well. Master Veray has seen fit to assign me as lead trainer for the Friends. Tomlin’s comment gave away little, but Ian could almost detect a whiff of simultaneous disappointment and pride in the assignment. So I’ll be out of the field and back in Coran, at least for the time being. And if you start thinking twice about this silly retirement business, the halfling had made it clear at several points that the Tower’s foes never “retire”, so why should its allies, I could find a good instructor role for you. Not for stealth and alchemy of course, but you do know how to swing a blade.

Dusting off his hands, Tomlin looked westward as the sun’s rays illuminated more of the surroundings. Must be leaving now. I have one last piece of…business to take care of in Gumlat before I settle into my new job. The halfling’s tone made it clear that “business” would certainly involve at least one person opposing the Mages stepping off the mortal coil.

Rising to leave he added, even if I can’t talk ya back into the fight, let me talk ya into a beer if you wind up in town. He offered a last nod to Ian, then took several steps away before vanishing completely.

@GM: are we able to get all the bodies back to the Tower?

Not wasting a moment to celebrate the hard-won victory, Soliel made sure no one besides Edmond and Ian was looking before morphing her disguise and dropping her natural camouflage. It's me, she started with, to ensure her companions knew it was her despite looking nothing like her true self, we need to move quickly. Ian, drag this body over to Anthony's and search them. We need to make sure none of the bodies are taken. Edmond, get the nearest town guard to assist in securing the scene and send Snake-Man to guard the bodies near the entrance to the Inn. I will secure the bodies inside the Inn. Go!

Soliel then darted off towards the Inn entrance, looking a bit like Serelina without trying to actually impersonate the mage. Guards, come quickly! she shouted, as she raced back into the Inn. Inside she moved quickly to where the fallen bodies were to search them and ensure none were moved.

Overall idea is to get the city guard here, search all the bodies for valuables, and then transport all the bodies back to the Tower.

@Ian: he actually couldn't see Soliel right now because she's still in Stealth (DC37). False Attacker is weird in that as long as the person hit doesn't detect her, she stays in Stealth for everyone. That said, Soliel's strikes are pretty distinctive (read: horrific) in that she basically flays opponents alive, ripping open arteries and veins in the process. By now, Ian would know her work.

Pretty sure you can hit opponents around corners, but they get cover. With the medusa's natural armor stripped away I'm guessing a 25 hits. I'll still go ahead with Soliel's action if I'm wrong on either point.

Soliel grinned evilly as her weakened foe stood next to her, distracted by other advancing threats. Propelled by Dareon's mental magic, she turned into a whirlwind of death. Full Attack action, averting eyes

Need to make a save? High means no 1d100 ⇒ 71

Miss Chances for each attack, 9-10=Miss

Attack #1 1d10 ⇒ 10

Attack #2 1d10 ⇒ 2

Attack #3 1d10 ⇒ 4

Attack #4 1d10 ⇒ 1

Attack #1 (Miss)

Attack #21d20 + 16 ⇒ (10) + 16 = 26vs Flat-Footed AC. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (5, 4, 6, 2, 2) + 3 = 22+5/rnd Bleed+Flensing Strike (5 off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition+Debilitating Injury: Disoriented (-4 to AC vs Soliel, -2 for others for 1 rnd)+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d20 + 22 ⇒ (8) + 22 = 30vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills.

Attack #31d20 + 16 ⇒ (13) + 16 = 29vs Flat-Footed AC. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (2, 1, 1, 3, 2) + 3 = 12+5/rnd Bleed+Flensing Strike (5 off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition+Debilitating Injury: Hampered (1/2 Mv rate, no 5 ft step allowed for 1 rnd)+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d20 + 22 ⇒ (3) + 22 = 25vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills.

Attack #41d20 + 16 ⇒ (16) + 16 = 32vs Flat-Footed AC. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (4, 2, 3, 5, 1) + 3 = 18+5/rnd Bleed+Flensing Strike (5 off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition+Debilitating Injury: Hampered (-4 to hit Soliel, -2 for others for 1 rnd)+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d20 + 22 ⇒ (7) + 22 = 29vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills.

Perception Check 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (15) + 17 = 32

Hearing her prey moving south, Soliel shouts she dropped off the roof to the south! Dareon, guard the scene! Make sure none of bodies are moved!. She then flew off after the drow-medusa, allowing herself to track the creature visually while avoiding locking eyes with it. She attempts an attack as she closes.

Free Action talk, then move action to Fly to where she heard the creature move, remaining in Stealth (DC37). Her current flying move rate is 90', which I am guessing will be enough to catch up to it. She is switching to "avert gaze", which gives the drow-medusa concealment (20% miss chance) and a 50% chance of having to roll a save. I'll add those rolls below with her attack.

Need to roll save? High means no 1d100 ⇒ 76

Concealment Miss Chance, 1-2=Miss 1d10 ⇒ 5

Sneak Attack 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (10) + 16 = 26vs Flat-Footed AC. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (3, 5, 4, 5, 4) + 3 = 24+Flensing Strike (5 more off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition+Debilitating Injury: Hampered (1/2 Mv rate, no 5 ft step allowed for 1 rnd)+Woundweal Poison: DC 18 Fort Save or DC25 Caster Check to Heal+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d30 + 22 ⇒ (16) + 22 = 38vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills, if succeeds Soliel stays in Stealth and foe thinks someone else was the attacker

Noting the drow's location, Soliel closed her eyes and flew to a spot just above the creature. She focused on applying a dose of Woundweal to one of her swords en route.

Staying in Stealth (DC37), Move action to fly to the square just on top of the drow. Standard action before that to apply poison to a weapon. She is shutting her eyes to avoid the gaze attack.

I was really, really hoping you were going to do that

Just re-reading the whole last GM post. To clarify: Sic is dead, Anthony is unconscious and the drow both activated an ability and did a full attack action with her bow?

If all that is correct, for Anthony, is his Eidolon dismissed? For the drow, remember she has 5/round bleed going and the sickened condition, which would drop her attack rolls by 2.

@GM: Would she be able to target Soliel with that ability since Soliel is in Stealth? She used False Attacker when she hit Sic. I'll roll a save in any event but just wanted to clarify.

Fort Save vs Petrification1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

Wouldn't Ian and Snake-Man both get another attack due to Dareon's Haste spell?

By my count that should be 110hp of damage to Sic, minus whatever (presumable) healing potion he drank. Hopefully that's enough to drop him.

Hellava fight.....

Soliel shut away the moment of shock at being detected while camouflaged, resisting the temptation to think when that had last happened. The injury sustained, combined with Dareon's odd mental-magicks served to re-center the tiefling. Heal Ian! But Sic is next to you invisible! Soliel shouted to Edmond while darting away from the drow and re-entering Stealth. She then flew down to just above Sic, while slashing down with a sword to open the half-orc's veins.

Move action to fly down to square just above Sic, she'll take the AoO from the drow (current AC 32 w./ Haste). Then standard action to sneak attack Sic.

The drow still has 5/rnd Bleed, the Sickened condition and 5 off any natural armor she has. These last as long as Bleed condition does.

Sneak Attack on Sic1d20 + 18 ⇒ (7) + 18 = 25vs Flat-Footed AC. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (5, 2, 5, 4, 4) + 3 = 23+5/rnd Bleed+Flensing Strike (5 off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition+Debilitating Injury: Disoriented (-2 to Sic's attacks, -4 vs. Soliel)+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d10 + 22 ⇒ (3) + 22 = 25vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills, if succeeds Soliel stays in Stealth and foe thinks someone else was the attacker

5ft Step to O13

Does Soliel recognize the drow archer?

Taking in the scene, Soliel launched herself in the air and alighted on the roof behind the archer. There she lashed out with one of curved blades while attempting to stay hidden. Move action to fly to Archer, then Standard Action for single attack

Sneak Attack1d20 + 18 ⇒ (9) + 18 = 27vs Flat-Footed AC. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (3, 6, 4, 6, 1) + 3 = 23+5/rnd Bleed+Flensing Strike (5 off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition)+Debilitating Injury: Hampered (1/2 Mv rate, no 5 ft step allowed for 1 rnd)+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d20 + 22 ⇒ (11) + 22 = 33vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills, if succeeds Soliel stays in Stealth and foe thinks someone else was the attacker

Soliel has See Invisible active, if that matters

Seeing her foe partially flayed and bleeding at her feet, quite dead, brought forth a vicious smile no one saw. But her thoughts quickly turned to the battle outside. Remaining hidden, she raced back downstairs and out the front door of the building. She quickly surveys the scene and drinks a potion.

Soliel's move rate is currently 70', so I'm assuming that if Dareon at a 30' move rate could get out the front door with a move action then Soliel could get into sight line of the action with a move action as well. With her standard action she'll drink a potion of flying.

@GM: Did Soliel's attacks kill the chainmail guy upstairs?

@GM: with current buffs Soliel's AC is 31 (in parenthesis next to normal AC in the stat block line), so I think the chain mail guy's attack missed. Let me know if I'm wrong though.

Her foe now right next to her, Soliel slashed out with both of her curved blades. She led with her one still-poisoned sword, and sought to open the man's veins with both. Full attack action, followed by a 5 ft step to throw off location

Attack #11d20 + 16 ⇒ (18) + 16 = 34vs Flat-Footed AC. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (5, 3, 1, 5, 6) + 3 = 23+5/rnd Bleed+Flensing Strike (5 off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition+Debilitating Injury: Hampered (1/2 Mv rate, no 5 ft step allowed for 1 rnd)+Drow Poison: DC 13 Fort Save or Unconscious+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d20 + 22 ⇒ (20) + 22 = 42vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills, if succeeds Soliel stays in Stealth and foe thinks someone else was the attacker

I'll assume False Attacker is successful for the following attacks. If it is not, then only the base damage (1d4+8) would count for subsequent attacks

Attack #21d20 + 16 ⇒ (5) + 16 = 21vs Flat-Footed AC, with -5 off Natural Armor, and Sickened. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (6, 2, 1, 6, 4) + 3 = 22+5/rnd Bleed+Flensing Strike (5 off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition+Debilitating Injury: Bewildered (-4 AC Penalty vs Soliel's attacks for 1 round)+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d20 + 22 ⇒ (4) + 22 = 26vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills, if succeeds Soliel stays in Stealth and foe thinks someone else was the attacker

Attack #31d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22vs Flat-Footed AC, with -5 off Natural Armor, -4 AC Bewildered Penalty and Sickened. If hits:1d4 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10+Sneak Attack5d6 + 3 ⇒ (6, 6, 5, 6, 5) + 3 = 31+5/rnd Bleed+Flensing Strike (5 off any natural armor and has Sickened Condition+Debilitating Injury: Bewildered (-4 AC Penalty vs Soliel's attacks for 1 round)+False Attacker: Bluff Check1d10 + 22 ⇒ (3) + 22 = 25vs higher of foe's Perception or Sense Motive skills, if succeeds Soliel stays in Stealth and foe thinks someone else was the attacker

Outside the front door are at least a couple. Dareon should be able to see them, or at least realize there is something outside that Edmond is fighting, when he gets down there.

Soliel would recommend to Dareon, before opening the door, to head downstairs

@GM: Does Soliel hear the blast outside? If so, does she suspect everyone upstairs likely did?

Stepping across the hallway to the door she saw the man in chain mail at, Soliel stayed hidden but whispered to Dareon. Afterward, she opened the door to the room and peered inside.

If Soliel heard the blast, she whispers to Dareon: Go downstairs and assist! I have only one target left up here.

If Soliel did NOT hear the blast, she whispers to Dareon: If you see a man in chainmail with a short sword and bow, eliminate him.

I'm pretty sure Ian's 2nd hit (which was awesome in itself...1 in 7 chance...he could have been there a while dealing with images) killed Rocosmia outright. When Roland knocked her out in the last fight she had around 45 hit points. She took 60 total from Ian...ifrit bards aren't known for their constitution...

On the other hand, it wouldn't surprise me if the scarred witch doctor and maybe the guy with the breastplate and tonfa are still up. Both are likely high-CON types.

Soliel slowly drew her curved blade back out of the man's rib cage. Unconscious, effectively cutting his heart in half while it still beat in his chest had been relatively easy for someone with her level of, some would say morbid, fascination with anatomy. The man's eye flickered with the last vestiges of life as she whispered to him, still unseen: this was for Master Torenest….may your soul rot in the Hells.

Soilel remained hidden, unconcerned by the patron whom she assumed was unwittingly caught up in this affair. In any event he seemed hardly the main threat. Instead she ghosted to the door of the room and opened it, eyeing the hallway for any other open doors or other occupants.

Move to the door of the room and move action to open the door

@GM: Couple questions. 1st, how big is the room? 2nd, isn't that a few too many actions for the horned creature? You said it was in a "far corner", which I'm assuming means it would have to use a move action (or at least a 5ft step) to get to the window. Then opening the window would be, presumably, another move action. By that logic the horned creature's turn would end with it right next to the open window, but without enough actions to actually move up to the shabbily-dressed man or, especially, to begin dragging him anywhere. Does that all make sense, or am I missing something?

EDIT: Actually, it may not matter for Soliel's next action. I don't think there is any way the horned creature could drag the unconscious man more than 5ft away from Soliel in any event. Her next action (full round) will be to Coup de Grace the unconscious shabbily-dressed man. This is an auto-hit and auto-crit, with sneak attack damage added in. So....2d4 + 18 ⇒ (4, 3) + 18 = 25+5d6 ⇒ (5, 5, 4, 4, 3) = 21 in damage. If he survives that damage, along with the bleed and prior damage he already took, then he needs to make a Fortitude save of DC=Damage Dealt or die. He'd likely need to roll a 20 on the save.

One other thing...shot in the dark:

@GM: One clarification for Soliel's action. When she 1st does more movement than a 5 ft step she will put herself on the opposite side of her target from the door.

Alrighty then, I'll post a few actions in sequence below to move things along.

@GM: Soliel had actually dashed ahead of Ian and Edmond to be able to get to the 2nd floor and maybe get a round or two of actions underway before they came in the front door. Her current move rate is 70' versus Ian/Edmond's 20', so maybe say she is able to open the door, move in and get a surprise action off before initiatives kick off?

@Dareon: Would Dareon know what is going on upstairs? Soliel never really said what was up there nor exactly what she was doing. Your call.

Pretty sure Soliel goes first in the initiative, will post that after GM rules if I can get Soliel's initial surprise actions in first.

Initiative 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (20) + 10 = 30

Using her enhanced speed, Soliel darted headed of Ian and Edmond and upstairs. She knew the commotion in the main room would start soon enough, but wanted a chance to get involved upstairs first. Seeing the doors closed, she went to the one the shabbily dressed man was in and opened it, while staying in stealth. Current Stealth=DC37 and she can see invisible things.

Soliel is working on the assumption that Ian, Edmond and Snake-Man will enter the establishment when they arrive at the front door, essentially kicking off the fight with Rocosmia since they've seen each other (at least Ian and her have). That will be Dareon's sign that it's time to act.

If for some reason no one is in the room when Soliel opens the upstairs door, or just a dazed looking patron is, she when then open the other door where the guy in chain mail was.

Soliel stopped at the top of the stairs or as far in as needed to see the two humans who opened the doors and proceeded back down the stairs while drinking an elixir. She then soundlessly exited out the front door, and headed directly for Ian and Edmond's location, drinking more elixirs along the way and poisoning her swords. When she reached them she remained hidden and spoke in a quiet, clipped pace.

The plan has changed. No sign of Anthony or his lot, but Rocosmia and likely collaborators from the Rebels are inside ensorcelling patrons right now and must be stopped. The ifrit b*tch is inside the main door, Dareon is there too, acting as if he is under her spell. He will assist you in neutralizing the main room threat. Upstairs the rebels have two rooms across from each other, she said while noting which rooms specifically, and I saw a shabbily dressed human as well as a human with chain armor, short bow and short sword. I will head there immediately and begin eliminating the enemy. She then darted away, and headed back inside the establishment and upstairs.

If heading out the front door would alert Rocosmia, Soliel will climb down from a second floor window inside the gambling room and return the same way. Climb is currently +15 for her, so presumably would not be an issue.

Short Swords will be poisoned with Drow Poison, elixirs drunk include: Negate Aroma, Reduce Person, Expeditious Retreat, Urban Grace, See Invisible, Shield, Barkskin and Focused Scrutiny.

@GM: Soliel would want to act as soon as the first person was being told to go upstairs. I'm assuming this is OK, but if not I'll need to retcon at least some of my post below.

Soliel said nothing as Dareon spoke but her mind raced. An unexpected foe, in the midst of an act requiring near-immediate action, with unknown accomplices upstairs. And Anthony and his miscreants may still be here somewhere, part or no of the present event. Not for the first time she also wished she had a clear idea on exactly what the group's newest member could do. A problem for another day. For now, she simply whispered back to the psychic. Wait here, and assist Ian and Edmond when they arrive. Wordlessly activating her innate cloaking while Rocosmia interacted with the directed patron, Soliel vanished from sight.

DC31 Stealth to detect, has Fast Stealth for Full Move rate.

The tiefling then followed the compulsed patron upstairs, mentally soaking in all details seen. She soundless drew one of her curved short swords as she moved.

Will Save 1d30 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25

Kind of wish I had Roland back for this one..."Hi Honey, I'm home!" Soliel's eyes narrowed as she caught site of the room and took in the mesmerizing display the ifrit was putting on. So this is Rocosmia...that aasimar idiot's little fascination...let's see what she has to say. Whispering to Dareon as they walked into the bar she said, Let's see what the little b!tch has to say for a moment, yes? Look, shall we say, enthralled. Soliel then proceeded slowly towards the back of the room appearing as if transfixed by the performance while taking in all the details of the room.

What is the size of the crowd? Any members of either the rebels or criminals present?

Before heading out for the Minotaur's Head, Soliel disguised herself to again to look like a non-descript female human merchant Disguise +26, no penalty for gender/race recently arrived in town. She took a moment to subtly check where Ian and Edmond placed themselves before approaching the establishment with Dareon. However, as she heard the speech coming from inside she stopped and frowned. She pulled the psychic off to one side and whispered quickly in a low tone. This night may involve another of the Tower's enemies. For some time a growing rebellion emerged against the Masters. They grew so bold as to assassinate one of the previous Masters, Torenest. Master Bellafini took his position. Prior to my arrival an earlier manifestation of our team succeeded in dealing a sharp check to this group, but an audacious raid on the Tower by Diguri's criminals succeeded in freeing a number of those captured. What we are hearing from inside may be a sign of members of this rebel group's presence. If the speaker we hear is an ifrit, you will have certain confirmation. Either way, let us watch and listen first. Intelligence will only sharpen the sword of our later actions.

After clarifying anything, Soliel then headed into the bar with Dareon and kept listening and subtly observing the room while approaching the bar to order a beer. She then took a seat where she could, taking in details about both those present as well as the dimensions, entrances and exits of the establishment itself.

@GM: Is this a two-story building? How about windows on the second floor if one exists? Is the roof flat? Any chimneys?

Soliel briefly glances over at Edmond, saying nothing, before turning back to Ian. The half-orc witch doctor....yes, he may be our biggest concern. Mages seem to have ways of stopping, and starting, most things so perhaps there is some remedy they could offer. But what, I do not know. We can ask and see, but in the meantime I would advise that eliminating this particular individual be the top priority should we encounter him. Vaek, the large man with the breastplate and tonfa....they are lesser theats. Anthony and the half-orc priest are certainly notable foes, but the witch doctor needs to be neutralized first. Looking over to Dareon she added, if your powers could addle the witch doctor, preventing him from using his teleportation magic, that would put us at a significant advantage.

Think we are ready to move ahead, unless there are objections. As Ian indicated we'll stop by to consult with the masters regarding a way to block teleportation/dim door.

Soliel nodded as the others indicated their desire to press on tonight to the Minotaur's Head. Beginning to pace the room and think, her eyes flushed from fully black to fully white, and all points in between as various ideas washed through. She didn't look up at Dareon as she answered his query. Yes, once, some time ago when the Masters were concerned that a merchant from the Hold was actually a spy. More pacing, then, it is a rather unremarkable bar aside from being abutted to the city wall and the stuffed minotaur gimmick the ex-adventurer owner utilizes to lure in clientele. We never thought it much of a factor regarding the major crime syndicates in the city, but that appears now to have been a mistake. Stopping for a moment, she pulled out the battered black journal she inherited from Brother Tomlin and Roland. Here, too, it mentions a hole in the wall that allows access through the wall, possibly for smuggling. May be worthwhile to find that as well.

Soliel paced the room a bit more before stopping and facing the others. It is distinctly possible that Vaek, Sic, Anthony as well as the half-orc witchdoctor are at the Minotaur's Head tonight. Any of those would recognize Ian; while the half-orcs would be able to identify Edmond and Snake-Man as well. Therefore, I suggest that Dareon and I enter the establishment in disguise and assess the situation. The rest of you will be waiting nearby. If are targets are present, we will retrieve you and execute a strike. Does this sound acceptable?

Yeah I guess that's more of a difference in read OOC. I saw "all information" as latitude to ensure Anthony et al are killed off before we necessarily need to off Firyin. IC, Soliel feels that the mages are more interested in both Firyin and Anthony's crew being killed rather than particular concerns about the order in which it would be done. She's quite Lawful, but understands intent. If we off'd Firyin before we got rid of Anthony, we'd give up our only useful lead to date to find him. For example, Firyin could have told us about the Minotaur's Head last time but just mentioned where we could find the gnome. He could have more clues if this one comes up dry.

Know: Local for Minotaur's Head 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (16) + 17 = 33

Speaking with Ian prior to re-joining Firyin and the rest of the group Soliel's eyes flushed black a moment, an effect she let seep through the disguise briefly as she sharply turned to the ex-guardsman. I AM the type to follow the Masters' orders to the letter. In this case the orders are to eliminate Firyin, but our discretion as to when was allowed. Otherwise the man would be dead already. Not waiting for a response, she smoothed her appearance and approached the drow.

Soliel had nothing further to say to Firyin or d'Alkanov other than what I already wrote. So back at the Tower.....

Soliel sought out the Masters after reverting from her disguise and briefed them on what took place. After answering any questions they had she attempted to get the group together to speak privately. Assuming everyone's game.... It would appear our next lead is the Minotaur's Head. It is now late, she glanced briefly at Edmond and Dareon, uncertain if either was drained of whatever spell power they used, but we can proceed tonight if that is the consensus. Otherwise we proceed in the morning. Tonight would bring crowds, for better or worse, and possibly our quarry. The morning could catch them unawares, or not find them at all. So what say each of you, tonight, tomorrow morning, or some other idea altogether.

Soliel followed Ian off into the distance, continuing a bit farther with him to ensure they are truly out of earshot. She listened with a distant stare as the ex-guardsman spoke. After a pause, she respond. I had considered following through with the elimination order now, but I agree Firyin has been the one source of pertinent information regarding the criminal scum. We can delay that action. She then turned and fixed the much larger man with an intense stare. But I am glad to hear you will follow the Tower's orders: Firyin will be executed. Not now, but later, he will be eliminated. She paused another moment in case Ian had other words in edge-wise, then walked back with him to the group.

We are most pleased regarding the help you have provided, Soliel said to Firyin. We were uncertain if you would maintain this level of cooperation, but it is clear on this matter our goals align. I see no need to further impinge upon your comfortable residence here at the d'Alkenov's. However, we may need to meet with you again as our leads on Anthony develop. I am sure you would see the wisdom of the next meeting occurring in the cellar of the mansion, yes? As for now I will reassure Mr. d'Alkenov that we have been able to clear up any misunderstandings and that you have concurred to assist us again at a future time. Are we agreed?

I'll continue posting Soliel's next action now, on the assumption that the rest of the group is satisfied and Firyin agrees to the presented terms: stay put in the d'Alkenov mansion and meet with us again when we asked. If either assumption is wrong, retcon the next bit.

Soliel strode confidently to the main entrance of the mansion, copying Serelina at her most self-assured. As she approached the open door she called back to the guards. Guardsmen! Prepare to move out, we are done here. She then walked into the manor with Firyin to address the master of the house. Mr. d'Alkenov, the Tower thanks you most deeply for your time and patience at this late hour. It seems there has been a misunderstanding regarding the one whom we are looking for at present. I do hope you will not hold it against Seldar for our actions. As a fortuitous turn of events however, he was able to assist us regarding an important distinct matter that we intend to follow up on. As a loyal subject of the Tower, I am certain you would not mind if we needed to meet with him again on these grounds. I solemnly promise to be much more discreet upon our arrival, and much less numerous, in exchange for use of your cellar for such a meeting where we would be away from prying eyes and ears. After a pause to address any concerns d'Alkenov raised she added, very well, we have an accord. Again the Tower humbly expresses its thanks for your forbearance and wishes you a most tranquil remainder of your evening. A formal curtsy followed, and Soliel left the manor with the rest of group, leaving Firyin and d'Alkenov behind. They then walked back to the Tower with the guards to discuss the situation and next steps, with Soliel remaining in disguise until deep within the Tower grounds.

@Dareon: Pretty sure everyone's still here. Posting rates vary among the various players.

Soliel held her gaze on Firyin for a moment, as if trying to see more than is there. Without looking at Dareon she answered the psychic. Consider Diguri being a very large bonus were she to be found as well, given that Anthony and his affiliates work for her. As for the next steps, let us work that out for a moment.

@GM: Is Firyin armed/armored?

@GM: Sense Motive (+16) detect anything from Firyin when talking about Ky?

Soliel nodded listening to Firyin. Some part of her had hoped that Firyin would be as suspicious of Ky's nature as she is. Where do you suppose she receives her information from? A bodyguard is all well and good, but offering up information about dangerous and powerful people requires a higher level of protection. Who do you suppose provides such for Ky?

After Firyin's answer, Soliel waived off the conversation. Ah, no matter, just a passing interest on an unrelated subject. Regarding Anthony's group, who precisely does that all consist of at this point? We will need to ensure we are properly prepared for the confrontation. Additionally, what of Diguri? I'm sure you brook no love for the head of the snake either. Where would she be, if you would hazard a guess? Where had you met with her before the....split?

Soliel stared impassively at Firyin as he mentioned the details regarding where to find Anthony and his minions. Meager threads, she thought. The Minotaur's Head was admittedly a new lead, but a tangential one devoid of the certainty she had hoped for. As for Ky.....that went in other interesting directions...…

Have you met this "Ky" before? Soliel did a passing impersonation of Serelina in tone, without truly trying the mimic the woman. I would be curious what you know of her, of her background, how she has an available store of information. Likewise, as I understand it she has a friend named Sela she is co-located with there. What of her? Do both live at the Iron Gullet?

Waiting by one of the secret exits, Soliel was able to hear the front door open and the sound of voices spilling forth from that vicinity. She was always mulling over possibilities in order to develop appropriate contingency plans, but she admitted to herself that Firyin simply strolling out of the front door was lower on her probability list.

Taking advantage of her near-invisible state, Soliel morphed her disguise to look like a human female of her own approximate weight and height, wearing wizard's garb. Before re-appearing she whispered to Ian, this is Soliel, I've disguised myself to look like a mage. Walk with me to the front door. She then became visible, seemingly out of thin air, looking the part of a ranking (though not Master-level) member of the Mageocracy.

Assuming Ian comes with.... As Soliel and Ian walked towards the front door Dareon came around the corner with the male drow in tow. Having never met Firyin before herself, and with only Roland's shoddy notes to go on, she looked at Ian with an expectant stare to verify if the drow was in fact Firyin. Ian has met Firyin before, he saw through Firyin's disguise when he came to us for assistance to avenge Volundeil.

@GM:Disguise check is d20+26, pretty sure you roll those yourself. Soliel has the "Pass for Human" tiefling trait, so her disguise attempt should have no minuses. Not attempting to impersonate a particular individual, just to look like a reasonably important Tower representative.

@Dareon: To clear up the sub-references in my post, Roland was a prior PC of mine in this game with a radically different personality than Soliel's. Volundeil was Firyin's lover who Diguri (his rival in the criminal underworld) had killed.

@GM: Would the rest of us get Perception checks to hear the front door open?

@Dareon: Firyin was an established crime boss, and a drow to boot which is next to illegal in-and-of itself. I don't think we've ever had a list of Firyin's specific crimes, but pretty much anything you can think of (murder, robbery, drug-running, etc.) is likely true.

None of the party members outside the house are supposed to proactively go inside. That was the plan we agreed to. The idea is to have the show of force prompt Anton d'Alkenov to give up Firyin voluntarily. The other PC's are guarding the potential exits should Firyin try to flee on his own. Additionally, Dareon had indicated he has the ability to pry Firyin's location out of Anton's mind. Feel free to do that if it feels like Anton isn't going to give up Firyin.

Soliel ghosted around the cellar door, using her odd innate cloaking ability to stay hidden from all but the sharpest eyes. She kept one sword drawn and the other free to imbibe elixirs as needed. Likewise, she listened intently for noises or voices heard around the vicinity.

DC 31 Stealth DC to perceive her, making active perception checks to see if she hears anything coming from the house or up from the cellar.

We said we were going that evening, so say 8pm?

Going to assume Edmond's good with the plan too. Soliel glanced to each group member as they nodded in concurrence. She stopped briefly at Ian's response, and looked for a moment to be on the verge of saying something before stopping and rolling up the map. Very well, we have a consensus. We should seek out the Masters again to secure the needed contingent of guards.

Both Dareon and Ian have decent Sense Motive skills, and would likely notice a couple of things in Soliel's demeanor during the planning meeting. First, while she supported the majority conclusion on the plan she likely would have preferred a more stealth-oriented approach, even if it meant going in alone. Second (and related), she seems a bit uncomfortable with being placed in the "leader" role. She appears to be acting in that role at times out of necessity, as Dareon just arrived and both Ian and Edmond don't seem the type.

@GM: think we areready to move ahead, unless there is anything of note when we explain the plan to the Masters and request the guards

Soliel tapped the map for a moment looking off to the side in thought. Very well, it seems the majority would prefer a more direct approach. Such would be in line with what Aurelion also suggested.

The Masters may be willing to allocate us a contingent of guards, one sizable enough to make our point. I concur with Ian that we need to guard the two known secondary exits as well to ensure Firyin does not slip out while we are in conversation with the d'Alkenov's at the front door.

Edmond, I would suggest you and Snake Man cover the Fireplace exit. On the somewhat unlikely possibility Firyin does emerge at that location, remember that we need him alive. Execution is for after we have the information we need. Ian, you and I can guard the cellar exit. Most likely Firyin will come to ground there where we will first try to speak with him and if necessary subdue and capture. Dareon, that would leave you to come to the front door with the majority of the guard. Recommend being polite and straightforward, saying that you understand that Firyin has arrived at the d'Alkenov residence and that since the esteemed house would certainly not willingly harbor a drow, that the Tower is here to resolve the matter.

@Dareon: if you'd rather be with Ian and Soliel takes the front door we can do it that way too. Also, really just putting forward a plan reflecting the majority consensus. If anyone has other/better ideas I'm good with that too.

@GM: couple of clarifications regarding the floor plan:

1) The cellar secret door would only be reachable via a secret door in the grand room main chamber. In other words, anyone effectively using the way out/in of the house would have to transit through the grand room that has the main doors to the outside. Correct?

2) How far away from the house (and where precisely) is the exit out into town from the cellar?

3) Would the Fireplace chute be too small for a large man in armor? Would it require any skill checks to navigate it up or down?

4) Seeing the map now, Soliel would have asked about where guards are typically posted, especially in the grand hall and by the fireplace.

5) When you say Aurelion gave descriptions of his family members, did you mean you actually wrote those out somewhere, or just to assume he provided them? I don't see anything about the d'Alkenov family member descriptions in the IC thread.

@Dareon: That's pretty much what we know so far. I actually thought the most interesting part about Weldon Hast is that he really isn't one of the Masters, at least not anymore, but still operates as if he is. You also may know more than what is listed if your backstory involved Hast, a good question for the GM.

Soliel nodded as Dareon summed up the mission, and tilted her head thoughtfully as the man suggested an ability to pry data out of Firyin's head. Master Hast certainly knew what he was doing assigning him to us, she thought. As Ian indicated, Scrying has been attempted and they would likely be ready for such an approach. If Firyin fails to have worthwhile leads a return to scrying may be our best hope, but for now the drow appears to be the optimal path.

The tiefling stayed silent while Ian spoke up about Anthony, but her eyes flushed black for a moment. In a decidedly measured tone, devoid of emotion, she softly added, and they took advantage of the absence of many Masters dealing with the prior Fran matter to raid the Tower itself, killing many loyal Tower servants and releasing a number of high-value prisoners. For that reason, we have determined that all those brought to the Tower for interrogation will be executed immediately afterward. Prior to the arrival of Edmond and I this group tended to be much...softer...on such matters. Soliel's response made it clear that Ian was not the source of this prior leniency.

Clearing her throat as way of re-orienting back to the mission at hand, the woman went on. In the spirit of full disclosure, Aurelion himself suggested that if we only sought Firyin we should surround the d'Alkenov manor with guards and demand that they hand the drow over. I had rejected this idea because we have the means to make Firyin believe we are truly allies, something Aurelion was not aware of. I suspect the drow would be more forthcoming under such circumstances than under the Question. Nevertheless, if the group consensus is to follow Aurelion's recommendation we shall do so.

Soliel's eyes flushed white while a slight smile crossed her face when Dareon inquired if anyone was at all adept at disguise, but the expression was quickly gone. Yes, I am....rather capable at disguise. Likewise I could simply vanish at this moment, and if I chose to slay anyone in this room they would very likely die never seeing me while thinking another in the room was their assailant. Soliel tone was matter-of-fact, without a hint of braggadocio. I convey this so that you have a full sense of our capabilities while considering our collective actions. Because of these specialties I have handled some of our group's tasks individually, and could quite possibly enter the manor on my own, find Firyin, attempt to gather the needed information from him and leave without anyone other than the wretched drow knowing I was there. There she paused, having offered one of several potential courses of action. Nodding towards the halfling, she added, Edmond's ability with Fire is likewise substantial. I rather think he could simply immolate the d'Alkenov manor would we decided to. Again, simply a matter-of-fact tone, as if commenting on the weather. Though I strongly suspect such a method is far from keeping with the Masters' intent.

@GM: In addition to the map of the d'Alkenov residence, Soliel had asked for and presumably received descriptions of the d'Alkenov family members.

@Dareon: it is likely about 5pm or thereabouts. Also, recommend referencing the Campaign Info tab (right next to the Gameplay tab) when names or places you don't know come up. Hast and the other Masters are described there.

Soliel continued her impassioned expression in the face of praise from Master Hast, but the whole of her eyes flushed white for a moment before disappearing as quickly. Very well sir, we will move to planning the operation. Is there anything else sir? Soliel wait for any additional instruction, which was followed by her customary salute.

After Master Hast departed, Soliel turned back to the assembled group, just as the clarification (or lack thereof) concerning Snake-Man had been completed. We have a decision to make regarding our plan of action this evening. Noting that the group was next to one of the Tower's dining chambers, Soliel suggested the group sit down to dinner while discussing the d'Alkenov raid.

Assuming no disagreements....Sitting down to a bland but nutritious meal supplemented with water to drink, Soliel turned to Dareon. As I mentioned previously, the Masters have seen fit to entrust us with a wide variety of missions that overlap no more than the welfare of Coran and its enlightened leadership. She spoke in very articulate Common, but spoke as if it was a well-known second language. I will not burden you at the moment with the details of them all, but later this , here she brought out a battered black journal pulled out of an improbably small pocket, will be of benefit to your knowledge base.

After a few bites of food and a drink, Soliel continued. Firyin, the drow in question, caused some issues amongst the underworld vermin that invest this city some time ago. He was apparently the confidant and close associate of "The Mistress", a drow named Diguri who runs the underworld of this city. The drow of course are effectively illegal in the city, and no wonder why given the volume of their presence amongst the criminals.

Another bite of food, the observant noticing the woman ate with impeccable table manners. This Firyin then, sought to overthrow Diguri and failed, but caused considerable tumult. As a wanted criminal he of course must be eliminated, but the situation is more complex. He was at odds after the coup attempt with a band of Diguri loyalist run by a summoner named Anthony. Soliel's eyes slide noticeably toward Ian as she spoke that last name. Anthony and his band are, by some margin, Diguri's most effective operational arm. Eliminating them would be a substantial achievement, both for practical and....sentimental reasons. Again a glance at Ian as she finished the sentence.

Therefore, our first objective is to speak with Firyin to ascertain the location of Anthony's contingent. He should be more than happy to convey what he knows in this regard, given his loathing of them. Firyin in fact has surreptitiously sought out the Tower's help before to avenge his slain hussy Vondereil. Likewise, our group has come into information that will display in no uncertain terms that past alliances Firyin thought he had with others outside the Tower were violated. So while he cares about nothing but himself, our interest in the matter of Diguri's thugs do rather nicely align. It may be he knows nothing useful of Anthony's location. But on the quite possible chance he does, securing that potential information has primacy.

Letting that information sink in, she took in a few more bites of food. We have strong intelligence to suggest that Firyin is currently housed within the d'Alkenov residence. The d'Alkenov's, as I am sure you are aware, are a major merchant family in Coran. And the Merchant class of course play a rather large role in shaping Coran and the kingdom. In discussion with select Masters, it was made clear that while the d'Alkenov's have clearly made some inappropriate choices, for the time being it is best not to create unneeded complications with them directly. Operationally, this means we will actively avoid injury to d'Alkenov family members but guards and other associates can be dealt with as required. Incriminating evidence regarding the d'Alkenov's activities can be collected as primary mission parameters allow. After we have secured all information Firyin has regarding Anthony's location, he is to be eliminated.

Soliel finished her meal while answering any questions Dareon had before moving onto planning. Now then, we need to determine the best way to accomplish our objectives. Unrolling the map provided by Aurelion, she continued. Fortunately one Aurelion d'Alkenov, a scion of the same family, has seen past the criminal ways of his family and has become an upright soldier for the Mageocracy. He has provided us with this map of the residence, along with descriptions of d'Alkenov family members. Importantly, Aurelion's associate Tunny Murdoch also provided the location of two secret entrances; one here, she pointed to the cellar and here, pointing to the chimney. Of these the chimney entrance seems unknown to many even in the family and its associates. The Murdochs appear to comprise the more competent of the d'Alkenov mercenaries.

Soliel paused to answer questions, then posed her own, her gaze taking in the whole group. So, how should we approach this task?