Iniga smiles at Margherita's jest. "Ah of course, its always important for me to look my best as I punch someone" she smiles. Her expression darkens though at Margherita's news.
"You do realize that we knew he was serving the Tango before correct? I asked him to sell me out to the Tango so that they would continue to think him loyal, and so they would remain focused on me. The idea was that I would hold their attention, and that he would continue to pass information on them back to me. We had already identified two or three Tango, and a few more sympathizes. Thats why I asked you to return to the city yes? To keep an eye on him. I believe I paid one hundred shields as part of this deal?" she remarks, folding her arms and looking sternly at Margherita.
Synthetic Venom Extracts:
Level 1
Arsenic (DC 16)
Giant Wasp Poison (DC 16)
Medium Spider Venom (DC 16)
Familiar Spells:
Cantrips
Arcane Mark
Bleed (DC 15)
Dancing Lights
Daze (DC 15)
Detect Magic
Detect Poison
Grasp
Guidance
Light
Mending
Message
Read Magic
Resistance
Stabilize
Touch of Fatigue (DC 15)
Level 1
Beguiling Gift (DC 16)
Blood Money
Burning Hands (DC 16)
Charm Person (DC 16)
Ear-Piercing Scream (DC 16)
Fabricate Disguise
Hex Vulnerability (DC 16)
Ill Omen
Mage Armor
Mount
Fate Patron Spells
Doom (DC 16)
Don't Need A Ride!
Ivy's Plan:
Ivy is an Investigator / Witch and probably plans to stay in both these classes for the foreseeable future. As a primary Intelligence based class, Knowledge skills are going to be here thing, especially as she can spend Inspiration on them to give herself a little bit further of a boost. She cannot exactly 'Face' as well as everyone with just an 11 in Charisma (or at least until her template bonuses kick in) but she can still forge documents with a high Linguistics check.
As an Investigator, Ivy has access to several combat and out of combat 'buff' spells (or in her case extracts). She will probably use them to improve her skills, defenses, combat options, polymorph spells and poisoning (but more on that below).
Ivy is primarily a poisoner character, and will be attempting to make use of this as she levels. Toxin Codexer lets her synthesize certain poisons for free with a DC equal to to the extract level slot it replaces. As a Veneficus Witch, Ivy can then deliver any poison alongside a Witch Hex, letting her pull double duty when debuffing enemies. Against foes normally immune to poison, Ivy can use the Anathema Investigator Talent to affect them regardless and debuff them further. Lastly, in attention to her synthesized poison, Ivy can (hopefully), craft additional types, and / or polymorph herself into creatures with a poison and milk it herself for a little variety. If people wish, Ivy could also poison any weapons they are carrying.
In combat, Ivy probably hangs around on the fringes. She wants to be close to inflict her Hexes, but she doesn't want to be too close to the action as she isn't very sturdy. She can still mix it up in melee if required though, wading into battle with a poisoned weapon. Left to her own devices, she is quite happy to unleash a variety of hexes, debuffing foes before launching a spell to take them out of the fight completely.
Like Sophia, Ivy has access to Cure / Heal spells as well but nothing else outside of that.
Iniga shrugs at the sylph ele."Feel free to tell Captain Dove that if he feels jealous at the lack of attention then he is welcome to approach me directly about a beneficial arrangement - but up until now all I have heard are warnings or threats. He should know how the game is played and now he can choose to act offended at the slight or offer a better opportunity. Sending a messenger to make his threats for him doesn't raise my esteem of him though."
Apologies, had a move and a job interview come up.
With Karoff
Iniga glares at the dragon. "You aren't fully grown yet though are you? Until then, take heed of your arrogance. It is our experiences that make us strong, not just size." she mutters before relenting the pressure on the dragons atm.
"Seeing as you dont yet understand that, I'll give you some advice. You need allies in this city and on this council. I'm sure some elens are furious that they were passed over in favor of someone not from here and I'm equally sure that the Blessed have made enemies. While they are gone, I'm sure someone will attempt to make the most of the opportunity. From what I see, I think you are still coming to terms with your new role which makes you vulnerable. I don't mean you any harm or ill will, but I would recommend that you surround yourselves with people the Blessed trusted closely - at least you can be sure those friends are reliable."
[ooc]At the Inn
Iniga glances at the sylph asleep on the table with narrowed eyes. The fake drunk routine had put her a little more on edge than usual. "Sure, what is the message that the Council has for me exactly?" she enquiries.
Female Human Psychic (Esoteric Starseeker) 1 | HP 8/8| AC11 T11 FF10 | CMD 9 | F+1 R+1 W+1 | Init +1 | Perc +3 | Sense Motive +3
The Apiary / Cassandra / Kunala:
Cassandra doubles her speed, trying to intercept the servant from getting closer to the apiary. She doesn't want to shout a warning or cause panic as she hears the Princess continue with her speech - clearly disruption was the goal and she didn't want the situation to turn out equally worse.
Spotting Kunala at her side, Cassandra fights to keep her face even and relaxed even as she moves with urgency. "The bar is a fumigation bar. Its probably alchemical in nature and would serve to agitate the bees in the apiary. We should stop the servant before he gets too close. For now, I'd prefer to bar his path, I don't think we need weapons just yet." she finishes, spotting Kunala glance at his peacebound weapons.
Female Human Psychic (Esoteric Starseeker) 1 | HP 8/8| AC11 T11 FF10 | CMD 9 | F+1 R+1 W+1 | Init +1 | Perc +3 | Sense Motive +3
Cassandra grants Lady Lotheed a radiant smile at the small compliment. She feels a warm glow of satisfaction at successfully persuading Lady Lotheed to temporarily part with one of her contraptions - or at least provide a compelling argument. It remained to be seen if the clockwork contraption would prove useful but Cassandra felt it best to be prepared more often than not.
Later
Cassandra leaves the shop, mind awhirl with plans and preparations. Like with most things in life, Cassandra believed that first impressions counted. She knew that often people formed initial opinions of someone before they had even heard that person speak and resolved to put significant effort into her apperance and attire for an important event.
First up, was calling an acquaintance Cassandra had become friendly with during her time in Oppara. Katherine was an exceptionally talented beauty therapist and Cassandra considered herself fortunate to be her friend. Scheduling an urgent appointment, Cassandra began with a relaxing massage submitting to the delicious sensations as she let her mind and body relax, soothing away any anxiety she might have over the task ahead. While peaceful, she let her mind roll through possible situations or scenarios that might come up, planning her response or how she might portray herself. Cassandra didn't consider herself particularly skillful at manipulation or deceit, and hoped she could persuade anyone she might need to.
Once her massage had been completed, Cassandra asked Katherine to turn her ministrations to skincare, particularly her face, before finally finishing with beauty treatments on her eyebrows and eyelashes. With multiple compliments on her eyes that morning, Cassandra wanted to dial up her intoxicating gaze up to eleven.
It was late afternoon by the time Cassandra finished, and after paying Katherine her fee (with an added bonus due to the urgent timeframe) she returns home.
After carefully washing her hair, and drying it with careful use of a Prestidigitation spell, Cassandra accessorized with the help of her most expensive perfume - Blossom.
Finally ready, Cassandra slips into her dress. by far the most expensive thing she owns, its a long, flowing black dress, scattered with small diamonds to mimic a night sky constellation, her slim legs occasionally visible through a side slit as she gracefully navigates the Oppara streets in her black heels. Her long chocolate brown hair ripples down her back, like a waterfall - reflecting Cassandra's stubborn dislike of more exotic hairstyles. With her senate pin fastened just above her bust, and a small prismatic crystal affixed to a chain around her neck, Cassandra is the picture of beauty and elegance.
Well used to waiting, Cassandra doesn't pass comment at the size of the line, content to wait patiently. She didn't particularly mind any lingering eyes considering the daring style of her dress as it was exactly the sort of thing she was going for. At the sudden inspection, Cassandra raises a slim eyebrow in curiosity. She didn't feel particularly anxious, having absolutely nothing to hide, but she shares a small amount of concern for those of her allies who might be carrying harder to conceal items. It didn't appear to be random, but she nods at the woman's request and follows her off to the side.
Iniga's eyebrows meet as she frowns in irritation. Her tattoos glowing again, she shoves the table forward like a battering ram, aiming to piledrive the dragon off his chair and into the dirt.
Basically attempting another strength check by shoving the table to knock him down since we are not in a circle anymore
Iniga stands over the dragon before kneeling and putting a knee on his chest. "Thats twice you underestimated me and that twice that you ended up flat on your back. I didn't wrestle you for information, I wrestled you before you issued a formal challenge as a condition of speaking to me - which you still are. Besides, don't play coy with me. No doubt you converse with the Blessed and others all the time and I doubt anyone needs to prove themselves each and every time by putting you on your ass. So show me, a little respect please instead of asking me to prove myself each time. People are watching don't forget - it doesn't do to see you bested over and over again.
Iniga observes Crossio carefully, keeping her arms folded slightly "I have all the normal questions someone in my position might have. Who is involved with the Efreeti Tango? How many members or affiliates does it have? Who is currently leading it? Where are the members meeting or conrigating for these rituals? What is the goal behind the organization? What is it trying to achieve? What is the purpose behind binding efreeti to its members? How has that process been carried out? Do any of the Council members know about Efreeti Tango? Do any of the Blessed?"
Iniga pauses for a moment before smiling "As I said, the usual questions. Answer what you can."
I ran a Winter Oracle once and it was fine. Waiting until Level 4 for Frost Fall is a little bit painful, but I took Shooting Star to be passable in melee until that point (I got proficiency with the Half Elf Ancestral Arms trait, but I think Humans have a racial trait of their own).
I also opted for the Spirit Guide archetype, to get the Waves Shaman Spirit. I could still use Rime Metamagic to Entangle enemies, and Benthic Metamagic to knock enemies prone with Crashing Waves. it was a pretty good battlefield control caster. Might not be your think, but its worth considering and Benthic can change your cold spells damage type if required.
You could try the Elemental Imbalance Oracle Curse if you want to pick up extra spells (like Chain Lightning or Freezing Sphere).
I wouldn't really recommend dipping Sorcerer though. A sorcerer dip is ok for extra blast damage, but in all honesty I'd play to the Mystery's strengths and stick to battlefield control with Rime / Benthic / Dazing Metamagic options over pure damage.
Lena was born to two loving parents, her father, a banker, her mother, a business woman that owned several high end fashion stores. An energetic child, Lena loved to roam the streets and forest nearby, frequently getting into trouble by poking her nose into other people’s business. As she grew older, these habits didn’t exactly fade, although Lena kept her rebellious attitude hidden from any of her teachers in the classroom. Despite having a sharp mind, with a knack for research, Lena didn’t feel a strong drive to excel in her studies, feeling that her career and life was set in eventually following her mother and gradually taking ownership of her businesses.
Unfortunately for Lena, life suddenly throws hurdles, some of the larger than others. Lena returned home one night after a school dance to find her living room in a state of devastation, the bodies of her parents on the floor, ripped apart.
The next few months were a blur of investigations, counselling sessions, legal meetings and funerals. Lena felt isolated – friendships she had maintained effortlessly became difficult to maintain, conversations became awkward. Struggling to come to terms with everything, Lena left Fever to stay with extended family and complete the rest of her schooling.
Time passed before Lena abruptly returned to Fever. Those familiar with Lena before she had left were surprised by the changes in just a few short years. Lena now seemed to be driven by some weird intensity, she had a new direction, a purpose. Despite maintaining ownership over her mother’s fashion business, Lena had no interest in actively managing it at this stage, preferring to instead apply for a job at the local sheriff department. Despite nothing really being available, she was given a desk job, primarily to handle paperwork and maintain any lost items that were occasionally handed in.
To the department’s surprise, Lena was surprisingly apt at returning lost items to their owners – once or twice even helping break open a case by tracing a murder weapon back to its previous owner. Quite how she was able to do this, no-one could quite figure out, but it led her fellow staff to start nicknaming her “Twig” a reference to the old dowsing rods of age. None of them realised the real reason Lena joined the department – she had wanted access to the file on her parents. The case had so far remained unsolved with little real progress. When Lena eventually gained access, she discovered that the police had been unable to explain the unnatural ferocity seen in the house. Despite suspecting something vaguely supernatural, there had been nothing further to go on. Disappointed, but not surprised, Lena persisted in her job, trying to build connections with the local law enforcement, while trying to figure out who the people of significance were in the town.
After a few years of working for the sheriff’s department, Lena announced that she would go private, and try setting up her own private detective business. Privately, no-one gave it much chance of success but Lena proved herself surprisingly capable at managing small cases on her own. It had gone unnoticed that while she had been working in the police force Lena had been building connections after connections, even with the more exotic residents of Fever. Although still small scale, Lena was able to earn grudging respect from many residents while she privately (and secretly) worked towards attempting to solve her parents murder on her own.
Appearance & Personality:
Lena is an attractive female brunette with brown eyes and fair skin. With her upbringing, and fashion and business background as part of her mothers occupation, Lena usually prefers to dress professionally in corporate attire by day - deciding that apperance always helps smooth first impressions with any prospective clients. By night, Lena usually dresses according to how she plans to spend her evening - something casual if staying at home, or perhaps something suitable for the nightclubs if she expects to go out. One constant is Lena's habit of wearing heels - while usually extremely impractical, Lena favors heels due to her ability to use them as improvised weapons should she feel threatened. Lena can afford some expensive tastes due to her mothers business granting her sustainable income as well as fashionable clothing.
Headstrong, and inquisitive, Lena is desperate to uncover as many secrets in the town as she can. To this end, she tries to remain on good terms with as many people as possible. She isn't often the life of the party, but she is capable of preserving friendships or close relationships with a few select individuals.
Lena is resourceful, and her research methods meticulous, however she prefers to be underestimated if at all possible and attempts to carry and present herself accordingly. Anyone who can see through this façade Lena considers 'worth her time' anyone else Lena has little time for. This philosophy has its advantages, but also its disadvantages on occasion. More than once a drunk patron - thinking Lena to be little more than a soft touch - has found himself clocked in the head with a pool cue or anything else within reach. Lena isn't naturally violent but doesn't like to indulge fools or mince words - she might warn a foe once, but not twice.
Crunch:
Lena Eteria
Female air--infused human occultist (extemporaneous channeler) 7 (Pathfinder Campaign Setting: Planes of Power 56, Pathfinder Player Companion: Martial Arts Handbook 8, Pathfinder RPG Occult Adventures 46)
CG Medium outsider (humanoid, air, human, native)
Init +1; Senses aura sight, darkvision 60 ft.; Perception +9
--------------------
Defense
--------------------
AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 18 (+7 armor, +1 deflection, +1 Dex)
hp 59 (7d8+21)
Fort +9, Ref +4, Will +5
Defensive Abilities evasion
--------------------
Offense
--------------------
Speed 30 ft., fly 30 ft. (average)
Melee +1 improvised melee weapon +12 (3d6+7)
Ranged energy ray +6 touch (4d6)
Special Attacks gusting strike
Implement Schools (19 generic focus)
Divination (Small Black Notebook, 0 points) Resonant—third eye; Focus—danger sight, mind eye, sudden insight
Evocation (Designer gloves, 0 points) Resonant—intense focus; Focus—energy blast, energy ray
Illusion (Ring, 0 points) Resonant—distortion; Focus—minor figment, unseen
Transmutation (Heels, 0 points) Resonant—physical enhancement (constitution); Focus—legacy weapon, size alteration
Occultist (Extemporaneous Channeler) Spells Known (CL 7th; concentration +13)
3rd (2/day)—arcane sight, displacement, fireball (DC 19), haste
2nd (5/day)—frost fall[UC] (DC 18), mirror image, perceive cues[APG], see invisibility
1st (6/day)—burning hands (DC 17), grappling scarf, heightened awareness[ACG], silent image (DC 17)
0 (at will)—dancing lights, ghost sound (DC 16), guidance, mage hand
--------------------
Statistics
--------------------
Str 22, Dex 12, Con 16, Int 23, Wis 8, Cha 12
Base Atk +5; CMB +11; CMD 23
Feats Implement Focus[OA], Implement Focus[OA], Shikigami Manipulation, Shikigami Mimicry, Shikigami Style
Traits - custom trait -, surprise weapon
Skills Diplomacy +11, Disable Device +12, Knowledge (arcana) +17, Knowledge (Computers) +16, Knowledge (local) +16, Knowledge (nature) +16, Knowledge (planes) +17, Knowledge (religion) +17, Perception +9, Sense Motive +9, Sleight of Hand +10, Use Magic Device +14; Racial Modifiers +1 Knowledge (arcana), +1 Knowledge (planes), +1 Knowledge (religion)
Languages Auran, Common, French, Infernal, Italian, Spanish, Sylvan, Undercommon
SQ comprehensive education, element-infused abilities (evasion, flight, gusting strike, indistinct form), fleeting focus, implements 4, indistinct form, magic item skill, mental focus (19/day), object reading, shift focus, transformative resonance, withdraw focus
Other Gear mwk glamered mithral agile breastplate[APG], improvised melee weapon, sleeves of many garments[UE], traveler's any-tool[UE], masterwork thieves' tools, occultist's implement[OA], occultist's implement[OA], occultist's implement[OA], occultist's implement[OA], sledge, stiletto boots, 4,299 gp
--------------------
Special Abilities
--------------------
Aura Sight (Su) Read the aura of creatures around you, as aura sight.
Comprehensive Education All knowledge skills are class skills, +1 racial bonus for knowledge skils from classes.
Danger Sight +3 (Sp) 1 focus, imm act: Insight bonus to AC or save.
Darkvision (60 feet) You can see in the dark (black and white only).
Distortion (max 20%) (Su) As standard action, gain miss chance until your next attack.
Divination (Small Black Notebook) Implements of the divination school grant powers related to foresight and remote viewing.
Implements: Book, crystal ball, goggles, harrow deck, headband, lenses, planchette.
Element-Infused Abilities An element-infused creature can select a number of movement abilities (see the Speed section), defensive abilities, and offensive abilities (see the Special Attacks section) based on its Hit Dice, as shown in the chart below. In addition, an element-
Energy Blast (6d6, 100 feet, DC 19) (Sp) 2 focus: Blast does energy damage of type you choose to all creatures in 20 ft. radius (Ref half).
Energy Ray 4d6 (Sp) 1 focus to unelash ray of pure energy as a ranged touch attack.
Evasion (Ex) If succeed on Reflex save for half dam, take none instead.
Evocation (Designer gloves) Implements focused on evocation grant the ability to create and direct energy to protect and to destroy.
Implements: Gloves, rod, staff, wand.
Fleeting Focus (Su) 1 rnd & touch implement to shift any amt of focus. Invested implements lose 1 focus per 10 min.
Fly (30 feet, Average) You can fly!
Gusting Strike (1/round) (Ex) When hit with melee attack, you may attempt a bull rush that does not provoke AoO.
Illusion (Ring) Illusion implements allow the occultist to distort the senses and cloak creatures from sight.
Implements: Crystal, hat, mask, prism, ring.
Implement Focus (Evocation [Designer gloves]) When spend generic foc to act foc pow of sel school imp, the foc pow cost listed amt.
Implement Focus (Transmutation [Heels]) When spend generic foc to act foc pow of sel school imp, the foc pow cost listed amt.
Implements (Su) Gain a series of items which grant access to schools and powers.
Indistinct Form (Ex) You gain a 20% miss chance as if you had concealment.
Intense Focus +4 (Su) Use implement as focus to add damage to instantaneous evocation spells & effects.
Legacy Weapon +2 (Su) 1 focus: weapon touched gains enhancement bonus plus a special ability.
Magic Item Skill Add half level as bonus to Use Magical Device.
Mental Focus (19/day) (Su) You have a pool of points that activate your focus powers.
Mind Eye (7 minutes) (Sp) 1 focus: Create magical eye that scouts for you.
Minor Figment (7 minutes) (Su) 1 focus: create minor figment, as ghost sound or minor image.
Object Reading (Su) Examine an object for 1 minute to learn properties, history, and about last user.
Physical Enhancement (Constitution) (Su) Implement grants bearer enhancement to one physical attribute.
Shift Focus (Evocation [Designer gloves], 12 focus) (Su) Shift focus from one implement to another, but lose 1 point.
Shikigami Manipulation Magical item used as imp wpn grants enh bon equal to the item’s CL/4 (min +1, max +5).
Shikigami Mimicry (- custom / magic weapon -, Disarm) -2 atk to imp wpn gain blocking, brace, disarm, distracting, nonlethal, performance, or trip until next turn.
Shikigami Style Deal dmg with imp wpn as if 1 sz cat larger. Other feats with this style as prereq +1 sz cat (max 3).
Size Alteration (Sp) 1 focus: increase or decrease a creature's size by one step.
Sudden Insight +3 (Sp) Swift action & 1 focus: Gain insight bonus to one abil. or skill check, or attack before end of turn.
Third Eye (Su) Gain enhanced senses while implement stores focus.
Transformative Resonance (- custom / magic weapon -) (Su) As swift act give imp wpn +2 enh bon, plus special ability at cost of bon val.
Transmutation (Heels) Transmutation implements can alter the properties of both objects and creatures.
Implements: Belt, boots, sandals, vest, weapon.
Unseen (7 minutes) (Sp) 1 focus: become invisible, as invisibility, 2 focus for willing creature.
Withdraw Focus (Su) As std act shift any amount of focus from any number of implements back into generic focus.
Who needs to threaten him when I can tell him the truth :P
Iniga eyeballs the man. The trick was to not look intimidated despite his hand close to the hilt of his sword and instead look confident. In her experience, it sometimes caused hesitation, or at least a little bit of uncertainty.
"What does it look like? I'm restraining this priest. Moments ago he was the source of a disturbance when a clawed arm reached through his chest and burned my friend here. Wamblee, you can show this man your wound if you like."
Iniga folds her arms and continues "So, I restrained the man to hopefully prevent whatever it was inside him from getting out and rampaging through the area. Quite frankly, you lot should be thanking me, I could have probably chosen to cut him down in self defense if I felt that way."
Smiling brightly, Iniga looks at the man. "You might not believe me, and thats perfectly fine. I'm happy to cast truth detection magic right here in front of everyone and loudly retell the story. I would have thought though, that you would prefer the words 'corrupted priest' to be kept off the record. We all know how the Blessed and their allies tend to react to those sort of things don't we?" she finishes in a pleasant tone.
I'm proceeding that Ifrits have some sort of clothing that is naturally heat resistant. Something that Iniga is probably wearing so that she doesn't have to change clothing each time she triggers Rage Song and her fiery aura.
Iniga glances at the claws and establishes whether they could still bind the priest with rope. If they could restrict him, perhaps forcing the claws down so that it couldn't snap any bindings they might be able to ensure that the priest couldn't escape. The heat might be a problem, but Iniga figured she could rip part of her outfit and wrap some of the material around the rope to prevent it burning.
"Stand down Efreeti, there is no threat to you here. Likewise Crosso cease your struggling least it get worse" she commands in a firm voice.
If the theorycrafted strategy above doesn't work, Plan B is just to punch this guy repeatably in the face until we knock him unconscious. Sometimes the low tech response still works.
"Thank you Archpriest, but if the other elected ifrits of this Council could also sign it, that would be much appreciated. We couldn't have the people thinking that the people they elect are denied their opinion could we?" she replies smoothly, before interrupting the Archpriest's question to the rest of the Council.
"Does the Council have a preferred solution in place to deal with the threat posed by Moon/Smiler?"
Unfortunately, despite my 'v' surname giving me some influence in Hearth, I don't have the ability to influence the Council's decision making like the Blessed apparently can. So I'm unable to recommend a course of action for them in dealing with Moon...but I can at least ask them what they plan to do :)
Also once we are 'dismissed' I'll give my address to Sporco so he can deliver the scroll.
We can cross meeting the Temple off the list of things to do, but I still want to chat with Crosso and also investigate the Quiet Elder thing growing in the city. Probably want either Samen or Wamblee (or both) involved in that one though since I don't think Iniga should show up without an oread presence. I'd prefer doing that after we get the scroll back though (which is apparently one candle away).
Im aware GM, but it’s the Baron that I have been talking to for the past two social combat rounds not the High Strategos. Did he cut in somehow? I am very confused.
There's no point giving it to the dragon IMO. He is not an ifrit - the treaty has nothing to do with him. So I'll give it to the Archpriest, but I'm not technically trying to reach a peace - its just the only option.
Iniga folds her arms. "My apologies all, I should have been more clear. The issue of Moon is an issue that I brought to the entire council, the alliance with the oreads is what I'm bringing to the ifrits of the council as elected representatives of the race. None of you would allow ifrits to make decisions on behalf of another race, and I see no reason for anyone who isn't an ifrit to decide on whether an alliance between oreads and ifrits should happen."
Iniga stands next to the Archpriest, hand wrapped around the scroll. "Before you make a decision Archpriest, remember that the oread tribes are skeptical of the Temple. It was, after all, elements within the Temple that attempted to start a war between oreads and ifrits. It took my efforts, and a great deal of persuasion, to convince them that it was a rogue element within the Temple, and not the opinions of the majority of the clergy. So, as part of this alliance, they have requested your signature, to confirm the position of the Temple, and where it truely stands on the matter."
I don't think that he needs pushing, but I'm attempting to set things up where it looks really bad if he declines the alliance - like he was supporting the rogue element of the Temple if he rejects the offer. Effectively I'm trying to leverage him to take a stand and distance the Temple from the efforts of the Inquisition by signing the alliance.
Also clarifying (because Iniga sounds very nationalist / racist right now) that I really don't mind other races joining the Tribe of Peace - I just dont want other races voting on behalf of the ifrits as to whether they should join the alliance or not. This is why its not the place of the dragon to take the scroll even though he is well intentioned and would ensure that it is discussed...which is basically why I'm trying to pressure / leverage the Archpriest/
Iniga narrows her eyes slightly at Crosso's walking posture. It had definitely been awhile but she didnt think Crosso normally walked like that. "We might catch up sometime" she says in an offhand tone, before walking onto the dispelling hall.
The Temple squelches any sort of heretical experimentation? What about the Efreeti Tango / Darkspawn creation they got busted for :P
Yes, there is still a reason to meet with the Council providing that the Council can still make decisions with the Blessed away. I'll still precast my buffs before we enter.
I like that stylistic approach. Iniga definitely doesn't dabble in other elements so it makes sense she can only tap into her own bloodline. I don't really see her trying to use the spell like Samen does. Technically, Iniga probably believes that any el tapping into their own bloodline can unlock a more purer strain of magic but thats probably just a personal belief rather than a common viewpoint.
Skaldic Vigor, Strength, Dirty Tricks are kinda all Iniga's thing. Speaking of that though GM, would it be possible for the DC of the Hand abilities to scale off Strength rather than CHA? Iniga is never really going to improve her Charisma (shes martial) which means they are going to be stuck at DC 13 with a save for half damage, further reduced by fire resistance. I think its about 9 damage on an average roll (before elemental resistance) if they save?. Having the ability scale off strength means there might be more opportunities to use the Hand, and flavor with Inspired Rage (Rage = Strength = More Power)
Anyway, sometime later I'll sit down and chuck all the bloodline / backstory details and stuff we hashed over PM and put it in her profile since even I'm struggling to remember all of it (like the Fret thing). Might not be this week (I'm a bit stressed af about some deadlines atm) but might be able to find sometime in the weekend or maybe nxt week.
Also before I forget, Wamblee and Samen, we should probably buy some nice bling (magic items) when we find an opportunity. I have absolutely no idea what gold we have, but Iniga hasn't really bought anything since game started and I think everyone else is probably in a similar boat. IDK what I'd buy atm but its worth thinking about so we can get to it at some point
Just minor spell preparations then for the Council Meeting. I'll cast Heightened Awareness and Heroism before hand. I'll also cast Assumed Likeness (because I *think* it works like Disguise Self in that they require physical interaction to break the illusion so I don't need to worry about its low DC) if possible. I'll also trigger Spell Kenning to cast either Raiment of Command (If Assumed Likeness doesn't work like I think it does), or Glibness (if Assumed Likeness does work like I think it does).
Bluff / Intimidate (add +3 if trying to conceal motives or improving attitude):1d20 + 13 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 13 + 2 = 23
Aha, that makes sense. So its not a complete purge, just that removal of the High Inquisitors. I'm sure that's brassed some people off
'At least she is asking first' Iniga thinks to herself, grinding her teeth at Abby's remark. "Abby, if you attack, kill them, or slip into one of them they are going to see us as enemies, and undoubtedly take hostile action against us - and that includes Samen. So I would request that you not interfere least you make things worst for your one true love. There is no need to antagonize them until we know who they are and what they stand for."
Iniga shrugs slightly. "Its three sylphs, an oread, a dragon, and two ifrits. Council of Seven, with the Blessed holding permanent majority. Token ifrit representation maybe, but no real political voice - heck, there are more Sylphs on the Council than the native population. No matter what, its bad optics, and sooner or later its going to cause problems"
Iniga crinkles her brow for a moment before frowning "Wait, Abacus is still part of the Council? That means that the Blessed didn't purge the Inquisition due to Efreeti Tango but for some other reason...or maybe they are working with Efreeti Tango. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt - killing darkspawn always gets into my good books - but I do find it interesting that Efreeti Tango escaped the purge. I agree Samen, this chaos could be another step in their plan for the city."
Brooding for a moment, Iniga lets various calculations run through her mind. "I'll need to speak to Sagezza at some point. If nothing else, he could tell me some haunts of the Efreeti Tango - hopefully anyway. For our next move though, I think we should meet the Council. I want to get a read on them. I'll be honest, the purpose of the Tribe of Peace was an alliance between oreads and ifrits (initially but not exclusive). With the limited ifrit representation on the current Council at present, it doesn't matter if the Blessed agree or not - the alliance wouldn't give ifrits a fair voice on the matter which could lead to problems down the road. Lets go have a chat and see for ourselves who these Blessed are."
Worth noting that with no Inquisition, there is no need for Red Tongues, ergo Iniga has basically lost her current job as well as a lot of her personal drive / goals / character conflict. I guess she can pursue her political interests a little earlier than expected but thats about it.
"Great, two of them blessed by the gods - maybe they can finally tell me why I'm having weird prophetic dreams occasionally" Iniga remarks, folding her arms slightly, thinking on what she has heard.
"Alright, so at the same time as the Inquisition is homegrowing darkspawn, Inquisitor Locatelli is sending off Saggezza Grico to intimidate the oread tribes into falling in line with the Hand, while setting up an ambush to potentially trigger an all our conflict between the Ifrits and the Oreads. Meanwhile the oreads are being corrupted via Gem Magic from the Fey, while being influenced by someone or something with a creepy laugh. Then the Sylph's get corrupted and a gigantic face in the sky appears with an evil laugh and then a self proclaimed oread king appears in the city as a big ass tree starts growing."
Iniga huffs slightly for a moment trying to sort all the mess out. "I think we can join the corrupted oread thing and the corrupted sylph thing together. That seems to be a common connection. You can argue the Efreeti Tango thing is an attempt to corrupt ifrits but thats a little bit of a stretch. I don't know how the oread king thing fits in though, and the darkspawn inside the Temple makes no sense."
"Margherita, are Inquisitor Locatelli and Mr. Abacus still in the city? What about Saggezza Grico? He seemed to think he was in danger from Inquisitor Locatelli although I think hes more likely to retaliate against me. Are there any ifrits actually left on the Council at the moment? I don't imagine many ifrits are happy being ruled by 2 Sylphs, an Oread, and a Dragon anymore than the oread tribes would like being ruled by a couple of ifrits. I'm sure that the Blessed are doing an ok job - at least the city seems stable considering everything has happened - but it doesn't sound like there is much ifrit representation there...What is the position or situation with the Army right now? Any renewed tensions in light of the Temple / Inquisition thing or as a result of the changes the city has seen?"
Lets hope Moons corruption thing toward Sylph's doesn't extend to the Blessed now or in the near future or we are potentially kinda boned.
Iniga warmly embraces Margherita "Its good to see you too as well, its been a little while. A drink sounds very welcome, why don't we sit down somewhere and you can update me on what happened in the city while I was away."
Iniga gives an ambivalent shrug "You can blame the gods if you like - I'm not saying that isn't a fair argument. Might I remind you though that its elanity's own quest for power that ends up corrupting elanity - and individuals will always crusade for power. You cannot tell me that Ky La wasn't chasing strength when he turned to Moon, or that Efreeti Tango isn't doing the same thing. Take away the gods and you probably still have similar problems that elanity faces now - just slightly different."
Probably worth highlighting that as a brightsoul Iniga's bloodline traces back to the Efreeti Kings which means she isn't really opposed to elemental fusion - just that it has to be done carefully. She probably wouldn't combine with something like Spes or Abby who have skewed opinions on morality but if there was an efreet or elemental that had similar motivations / values I don't see any issues..
Iniga isn't pleased to see Samen looking like Abby. She still views Abby as nothing more than a murdering crazy thing and therefore isn't thrilled to see Samen taking her general shape. She doesn't pass comment though.
"I'd rather briefly talk to Margherita first. If nothing else, she can give me a little background on what has been happening within the city. Despite what people seem to think, I don't believe the Blessed have fully removed the Inquisition from the city - someone set up the priest / Hand strategy and that had to come from the Temple. After that though, (or if we cannot find Margherita) I think we do need to visit the Blessed as soon as possible."
Iniga is annoyed that the steam is gone. She liked the hot pools of Hearth as a relaxation tool and was more than a little ticked off by the changes to it.
She makes a mental note to check out the courtyard again with all the efreeti faces. If anything, it looked like a place that paid situational homage to Efreeti and Iniga knew that somewhere, the Efreeti Tango organisation would continue to lurk.
Winding her way through the Military district, she warmly embraces the older ifrit. "Its good to see you too - its been quite awhile since I have last been within the city - I can see that there has certainly been significant changes in my absence. There are five of us, so at a minimum we need two rooms I think, but if you have room for more, I'll be happy to take them."
As Iniga takes care of the transaction, she leans against a wall casually, making conversation. "I was actually looking to see if I could catch up with some old army buddies. I think one of them runs a mercenary company now. You wouldn't happen to know where Margherita hangs out by any chance would you?" she inquiries
Iniga glance at Samen with a confused look. "I am calm. I understand that she was acting according to her nature. I'm pointing out to her that if we solve problems like she, an elemental does, then she wouldn't be here. Its our compassion, that she doesn't understand, that still lets her stand before us. I'm just saying if she wants to impress us, she can solve problems like an el, or, if she doesn't know, to ask us. Which is basically what Wamblee just articulated."
Clarifying, I'm not actually trying to kill her IC or anything - I'm just pointing out to Abby that if she expects us to view or react to things like an elemental would - she wouldn't be here. If she expects us to view or react to things differently than that, then she should be asking / checking with us first.
"As for his death being a mercy, I doubt it. Dude was rich and influential, he was probably having a ton of fun. Sure, he hated Samoon and the rest of us, but its unlikely his final thoughts were "yay, I died". People generally want more time before they check out, not less."
Iniga broods for a moment before shrugging. "At any rate, we need to be careful within the city. I kicked over a hornets nest by sending that priest back to Hearth which means Locatelli, Mr. Abacus, and probably the entirety of Efreeti Tango know I have the Hand. Fortunately, we have that mercenary company I befriended, I should probably pay them a visit at some point."
"As for other things, we should probably notify the Grand Temple that a giant smile in the sky appeared. I don't know about Mirror or anything, but when we defeated the magician bros, and lifted the corruption - they mentioned laughter which was exactly what the face in the sky did. Safe to assume whatever corrupted the oreads was behind the cwmwl plan. Also, I think we heard about some unrest here, something about some revolutionary oreads? We should meet with them, ensure they know about the Tribe of Peace we are trying to generate, maybe try and include Ifrits into the alliance. Lastly, I wouldn't mind eliminating Efreeti Tango, and also climbing the Volcano for personal reasons"
Good grief thats a list. I have a letter to deliver (to the Temple?) if memory serves from the oread tribes.
Also GM, feels like months ago now, but since I leveled up, I'll take you up on that offer and shift some skill points around to pick up UMD naturally. I can flavor it in character as her just getting really good at using the Hand :)
Level highlights :)
-Rage Song is now a move action, so now I can buff with a standard action AND now trigger Raging Song in the same around instead of picking between one or the other
-I get 3rd level spells! I have Haste and Good Hope now for all of us
-I get Rogue Talents (Dirty Trick). I can give it out as part of my Rage Song so that everyone can get the feat (if they want Improved DT)
-I get Savage Dirty Trick. Its only usable by me since I got it via Extra Rage Power but its cool. I can now Dirty Trick people :)
Crunch:
Iniga v'Breda
Female sunsoul (solar ifrit) skald (fated champion, red tongue) 7 (Pathfinder Player Companion: Plane-Hopper's Handbook 20, Pathfinder Player Companion: Blood of the Beast 26, Pathfinder RPG Advanced Class Guide 49, 114, Pathfinder RPG Bestiary 2 160)
CG Medium outsider (native)
Init +7; Senses darkvision 60 ft.; Perception +9
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Defense
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AC 14, touch 9, flat-footed 14 (+5 armor, -1 rage)
hp 59 (7d8+21); fast healing 2
Fort +9, Ref +3, Will +7
Defensive Abilities uncanny dodge
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Offense
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Speed 30 ft.
Melee +1 greatsword +12 (2d6+10/19-20) or
2 claws +6 (1d6+3)
Special Attacks rage powers (lesser beast totem[APG], savage dirty trick, strength surge +7), raging song 17 rounds/day (move action; inspired rage, song of marching, song of strength), spell kenning 1/day
Spell-Like Abilities (CL 7th; concentration +9)
1/day—sun metal[UC] (DC 13)
Skald (Fated Champion, Red Tongue) Spells Known (CL 7th; concentration +9)
3rd (1/day)—charm monster (DC 15), good hope, haste
2nd (4/day)—castigate[APG] (DC 14), glitterdust (DC 14), heroism, invisibility, mirror image
1st (5/day)—disguise self, doom (DC 13), grease, heightened awareness[ACG], saving finale[APG] (DC 13), vanish[APG] (DC 13)
0 (at will)—dancing lights, ghost sound (DC 12), mage hand, prestidigitation, read magic, summon instrument
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Statistics
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Str 22, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 14, Wis 8, Cha 14
Base Atk +5; CMB +11 (+13 dirty trick); CMD 20 (22 vs. dirty trick)
Feats Combat Reflexes, Dirty Fighting, Extra Rage Power[APG], Improved Dirty Trick[APG], Scribe Scroll, Skald's Vigor[ACG]
Traits fiery glare, highlander (hills or mountains)
Skills Bluff +12 (+15 to decieve or conceal own motives), Intimidate +12 (+15 to improve a creature's attitude), Knowledge (geography) +12, Knowledge (local) +12, Knowledge (nobility) +12, Knowledge (religion) +12, Linguistics +6, Perception +9, Perform (oratory) +12, Stealth +0 (+2 in hilly or rocky areas), Use Magic Device +11; Racial Modifiers highlander (hills or mountains)
Languages Auran, Common, High Ifrit , Ignan, Terran
SQ duplicitous rhetoric, far seer, fire in the blood[ARG], great orator, lore master 1/day, rile, rogue talents, seed of discord, versatile performance (oratory), wildfire heart[ARG]
Other Gear +1 chain shirt, +1 greatsword, belt of giant strength +2, cloak of resistance +1, 1,900 gp
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Special Abilities
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Beast Totem, Lesser (Su) Gain 2 d6 claw attacks while raging
Combat Reflexes (1 AoO/round) Can make extra attacks of opportunity/rd, and even when flat-footed.
Darkvision (60 feet) You can see in the dark (black and white only).
Dirty Fighting Forgo flanking bonus to make combat maneuver not provoke attack of op.
Duplicitous Rhetoric (Su) At start raging song, grant a known rogue talent to allies. If limited use, only 1 use/24 hrs.
Far Seer (Su) Treat spells which predict the future as 1 level lower for spell kenning, damaging spells as 1 higher.
Fast Healing 2 (Ex) Heal damage every round unless you are killed.
Fire in the Blood Gain fast healing 2 for one round whenever you take fire damage.
Great Orator Raging songs can only be activated in conjunction with Perform (oratory) checks.
Improved Dirty Trick You don't provoke attacks of opportunity when performing a dirty trick.
Lore Master (1/day) (Ex) Can take 10 on any trained knowledge checks. Activate to take 20 as a standard action.
Raging Song (move action, 17 rounds/day) (Su) Song can inspire allies in a variety of ways.
Rile +3 (Ex) Gain bonus to Bluff to decieve/conceal own motives, and Intimidate to improve attitude.
Rogue Talents (Ex) Gain Rogue Talents in place of Versatile Performances.
Savage Dirty Trick (1/round, DC 19) (Ex) Fort save vs. additional dirty trick effect.
Seed of Discord (Su) Gain a variety of spells as you level up.
Skald's Vigor (Fast healing 2) While maintain raging song, gain Fast Healing 2.
Spell Kenning (1/day) (Su) Spend a skald spell to duplicate a bard, cleric, or sorcerer/wizard spell.
Strength Surge +7 (1/rage) (Ex) As an imm action, gain a bonus to one STR check, CMB or CMD.
Uncanny Dodge (Ex) Retain DEX bonus to AC when flat-footed.
Underhanded Trick Dirty Trick blinding can't be removed for 1 rd. Can ignore pre-reqs of Greater Dirty Trick.
Versatile Performance (Oratory) +12 (Ex) You may substitute the final value of your Perform: Oratory skill for Diplomacy or Sense Motive checks
Wildfire Heart +4 racial bonus on initiative
”If it was so important to a high priest they wouldn’t have shown up late to the party” Iniga fires back, keeping her arms folded firmly and blocking Ky La’s way. ”As for stopping the becoming, I have confidence in our abilities. Apparently the gods don’t have faith in yours - not if you are only showing up now”
Im just greying to get under his skin, but realistically I’m not trusting him due to his connections to Efreeti Tango.
So what you are saying is if I kill a whole lot of sylphs I can cloak and decloak at will right GM ;)
Am I familiar with this inquisitor GM? I successfully rolled knowledge local on him and know he is mixed up with Efreeti Tango in some way but does he know Iniga / does Iniga know him personally?
That sounds perfect actually. Raven probably attends debating clubs (or probably more accurately, taverns / establishments where debating on politics might be encouraged) so its likely we could run into each other there.
Iniga sits and listens for a moment within the space. "You know, the problem with disguises is that when someone wants to be earnest, you cannot trust who the person says they are"
Just as a general point GM, theres no way for this person to prove that she is actually Krissa and not someone disguised. Usually, you can check if someone is within a disguise via Detect Magic, Perception checks vs mundane disguises, or a will save against a magical one (after interacting). There was no prompt previously for any of that, which implies that Rentwyrth has access to undetectable disguises. Which makes conversations like this tricky.
"I'm here, because everyone has to be somewhere.Why are you here though Krissa? You talk as if you are worried about Joey, but you pushed him to play his silly games with Samoon."
Iniga looks sternly at Kirssa before folding her arms. "I don't give a s*+% about Joey, because I wasn't there or part of what your family did to my extended family or whatever started this feud. Which makes me the impartial one in all of this. Samoon? I'm sure he feels differently, I'm sure he wants to get even after what you and your brother decided to do. So, if I was in the mood for some helpful advice, I'd encourage you and your brother to put your heads together, and use those clever minds to smooth things over with him. None of this explains why you want to chat with me though."
Iniga appraises the sylph ele carefully, before giving a non-committal shrug. "I don't think Samen would call me a friend - probably more of a casual acquaintance. I have been on my own for years - I only bumped into him recently and he asked for help - something about this weird cwmwl thing. Your brother put me onto it actually." the skald replies, keeping her tone casual and relaxed. Nothing of what she said had been a lie, but she was downplaying her relationship to Samen slightly. It was always better to reduce the amount of leverage anyone felt they would have over here and sometimes that meant minimizing things.
"I'm happy to have a quick chat - its not like I have anything pressing to deal with anyway. How is your brother? As I recall I left him fairly frustrated when I left him last so hopefully he has calmed down since then." she remarks with a quick smile.
Iniga had been observing the situation quietly. All the science stuff was outside of her comfort zone and not really something she could contribute to. Still, she decides that she couldn't really stay quiet much longer.
"Isn't this the second attempt at corruption of a race we have seen in recent weeks? We have Gem Magic being targeted at the oreads, cwmwl targeted towards Sylphs, and there is probably something on the radar planned for ifrits and undines. I'm less concerned with what the chemical does, and more interested in how it works, and who sourced it. If it can be made safe, it might still retain its effectiveness against darkspawn."
On a practical level, Iniga probably wants to see if the material could still be used as a weapon against servants of the Dark (which lets face it, would definitely be useful). On a personal level, she also believes that the chemical would be useful for her, since she uses Dirty Tricks (when she levels up and stuff) and a chemical powder / rage combination that messes up the mind of an opponent could be pretty useful for her fighting style.
As for what I'll do, Iniga probably heads out in the streets. Shes probably not far away from the party, but she doesn't want to be standing next to them, sicne we don't really want Iniga associated with Samoon until we get the staff. She's probably keeping an eye out though in case Rentwyrth wants revenge or something.
Female Aasimar Shaman 10 | HP 80/80| AC15 T11 FF14 | CMD 16 | F+7 R+6 W+14 | Init +5 | Perc +22 | Sense Motive +27
Yeah lets hold off on splitting the party during a scouting mission. With any luck Jaxira will fill in any blanks and we can shotgun it from there.
So GM, I think we meet with Jaxira just briefly, then rest for the night and then make our plan to eliminate Goldshackle tomorrow.
Achutla, most divination spells are off the table (except for my vision spell which targets the Record and not anyone on the Island). As a rough rule of thumb, if it targets or includes anyone or anything on the island, its rendered null. We still don't know why this is but it means the scrying is off the table for now. Spells like Commune and Contact Other Plane are fair game tho since they don't 'target' or affect the island or anything within it.
Iniga smiles plesently, (this time) not trying to be condescending but trying to be philosophical. "Rentwryth darling don't be upset. Its normal to lose from time to time. It is, after all, the only way we learn, and improve. I know you don't want to admit it, but eventually it gets boring being the smartest person in the room. Deep down, you want to be challenged. You need to be challenged and today it happened to be a pretty little ele like me the teaching. I'm sure you know how to find me if you get bored and want to resume sparring during a conversation once again."
Iniga nods politely and half turns, ready to go, before swiveling around again on her heel and her own eyes turn just as hard. "That was the pleasant, friendly advice, now here is the warning. I can see that look in your eyes and how much it burns that you lost tonight. Let it go. If you want to start retaliating for tonight, then be aware I'll finish it."
Iniga holds the line for a moment before softening her eyes. "Despite the somewhat boring start to the night, I did end up enjoying myself, thank you for the satisfying evening." she nods before turning away.
Yeah, hes probably not going to leave it alone since he must hate that Iniga beat him tonight, but I feel better escalating things (if we need to) now that Iniga has given him a verbal warning / disclaimer. I'll head back and regroup with everyone else, but I'll check that I'm not followed.
Are we playing in his house, or outside, or in our minds?
Iniga gives Rentwyrth a smug smile of her own. "If you recall, I did warn you that you couldn't handle me. As for whats in my mind, to be perfectly honest I just enjoyed the satisfaction of winning, I didn't have a particular question in mind. I was going to ask you what your weakness would be but now I know that it seems to be me" she answers with a wink.
Iniga thinks for a moment before lighting up slightly "You know what? Why don't you tell me about cwmwl. I know the popular version, that its apparently the greatest thing against the Dark, but call me skeptical darling there's always an untold story behind the scenes that the public doesn't know, and its hardly the only thing hailed as the next big thing to win the war. Why don't you tell me all about it. Impress an ele."
Iniga raises her eyebrows slightly before giving Rentwyrth an approving nod at his disguise trick.
"Now see, thats clever. I'll admit, I'm a little bit impressed by that sort of trickery. Someone running around pretending to be you though? Thats a little idiotic. That tells me you are a little scared of something. You are clearly a little scared of me if you think I'm here to rob you"
"If I wanted to rob you, I would have robbed your friend at the intellectually named 'fun place' back when he was so drunk he could barely stand. Perfect crime. Besides, do you see many places to store valuable objects?" she asks, planting her feet slightly and letting him look at her figure hugging clothing before putting her hands on her hips Well, do you?"
"As for putting a stud on old Renty, oh darling, thats so adorable. Its so cute you think that you could handle me. Lets not forget your friend, pretending to you, had performance anxiety just being alone in a room with me" Iniga responds, with a giggle, using her best condescending tone as if humoring a small child.
"So no, my purpose tonight, was to have a little fun. I was minding my own business, in a bar, when this guy comes in throwing money around, trying to impress me, claiming to rock my world, and so on. I'm joking about the last one by the way. That same guy invites me here which is why I'm...here. If you feel a little intimidated by that thats fine, I'm used to it. Perhaps avoid doing stupid things like having someone pretend to be you though otherwise people might think you have a reputation for failing to deliver." she finishes in an acidic tone, before flashing a superior smirk [b]"Fiery enough for you bird brain?"
I'm sure bird brain offends him as much as being called strawberry offended Iniga. Fits better than calling him birdy :)
I'm adding this point into my previous post. I would have added it in earlier but I typed the post before this in a bit of a hurry from work :)
It got a little long:
As Rentwyrth watches Iniga, Iniga likewise observes in turn. Unlike the fake version of Rentwyrth, there was no seducing this guy unless he really did have a thing for redheads.
Iniga reminded herself that Rentwyrth's biggest weakness was still going to be his ego - he had to be the smartest, richest, most influential guy in the room. If Rentwyrth's ego was fragile enough, he might feel irritated enough to try and prove Iniga's theories wrong, provided she attacked that ego. The tricky part was doing it subtly and without deteriorating things into a war of insults that Rentwyrth would withdraw from. Pondering things for a moment, Iniga continues her line of inquiry
"I have responded to your questions, would you mind responding to one of mine? Whose idea was it for someone else to pretend to be you via an illusion or disguise of some description? I thought that even someone as clever as you wouldn't be that stupid but now I realise that you let it happen anyway. Which means that even if it wasn't your idea it was still your call, your decision, which still makes the whole thing stupid. Do you know why its stupid? Do you need me to explain it to you?"
Iniga paused for breath, keeping a close watch on Rentwyrth. She wanted him angry, but she also wanted him indignant, to try and prove her wrong. She predicted he would hate, hate someone pointing out a flaw in any diabolical scheme he had, especially by someone he perceived as intellectually inferior.
"Actually, I'll just tell you, I can see its simply eating at you. Its stupid because that person will never be you, but that person is still a reflection of you. Your buddy was flashing so much coin around everyone was looking at him, and looking at me because I was next to him. Everyone saw him leave, and everyone saw me leave with him. Which means tomorrow, everyone will be asking me how my night with the rich, influential Rentwyrth turned out. I could tell them that the rich, influential Rentwyrth I met was drunk under the table by a pretty young ele like me, before taking me to a secret rendezvous where he was overcome with performance anxiety and then drove me to his actual house, where he failed to perform again and I left in disgust. You could claim otherwise, but people saw us travelling back and forth and the best part? I won't even be lying because its all true. What are you going to say? Its not me, just someone that looked exactly like me?"
Iniga folds her arms. "Sure, you are clearly an influential man Mr Rentwyrth, I'm sure you could put an alternative story out there. Everyone will want to believe my version though, because deep down, you know people aspire to be like you, and all of them will feel satisfied with anything that makes you look bad. They will all be chortling behind your back. 'Little Rentwryth', they might say 'cannot handle his liquor or his eles'"
Iniga flashes Rentwyrth her best innocent, irritating smile. "Thats why sending someone else out to act like you was a silly idea, because everyone saw you struggling with your drink. The rest sells itself. Speaking of which though, how do I know you are actually Rentwyrth? You could be his chief of security wearing the same illusion for all I know...or even, you know, the guy who scrubs his toilets."
I'm probably being a little nasty / below the belt here here but hey, I hear that the dude is a jerk. Also there's nothing really to be gained from acting meek around him I feel, better to act smug and more superior than him so he feels encouraged to take Iniga down a peg instead of like, just kicking her out of his house? Courtyard? This is probably not going to end well but I don't think we can realistically get him / the staff without launching a full scale assault on his mansion which would probably involve us fighting off mithril golems.
Iniga smiles politely. ”You can call it what you like but I didn’t ask Benny to see either house tonight - that was all him offering, while pretending to be you. You know that I’m not lying - you could confirm that with Benny if you wished. As for that magic item you mentioned it’s both rare and mine, I’m safeguarding it so it goes where I go. If it frightens you though, I can leave - I’m used to some els being easily intimidated by me” she remarks loftily slighting his ego.
Ah, now that makes some sense Iniga reflects, realizing the truth before she observes Rentwyrth firmly. This man was intelligent and pretending to be some naive little girl probably wasn't going to cut it.
"You mean the rich influential Rentwyrth doesn't know?" Iniga raises her eyebrows slightly in half amusement, knowing that the lack of knowledge would bug Rentwyrth a little. "The way Benny went on and on about his pretend version of you I thought nothing would happen in the city without your notice or oversight. As for me, I'm the attractive ele Benny picked up in a bar. I guess he was trying too hard to be you, boasting, flashing coin, trying to be impressive. He took me to the 'fun' place as it were but he is a terrible liar."
Iniga drops her voice slightly in a higher pitched version of Benny's. "My place is closed for cleaning" - Honestly, who does he take me for, a moron? I might not be as rich as you are, but I know how the rich and influential do things - I should know, I used to be one"
"Anyway, he brought me here because he wanted a good time, and he figured impressing me with this place would do it. He has a bit of a confidence problem, combined with an anxiety problem though, I thought he was going to have a heart attack when we arrived. Was that just him, or him pretending to be you? Now I cannot seem to tell the difference?" Iniga finishes. This wasn't going to be an environment for a quick and fast seduction. What was key was making herself at least appear interesting to provoke further interaction.
Iniga smiles slightly at the mans gestures while cradling her drink "Why don't you give me a quick tour of the place - impress an ele"
Iniga figures that Rentwyrth would most likely agree with this request - most likely choosing to end his tour in a bedroom the way the el's mind was going.
Iniga's real reason behind the request, was to tour through the house. She was currently in two minds, Rentwyrth either pulled a double bluff and stored his valuables in this house or (more likely) there was nothing much of interest here at all. Iniga wanted to give the place a once over before she decided whether she was staying the night.
Perception as we tour:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
Let me know if anything in the room looks interesting enough to warrant further investigation and I might play this differently, but there isn't anything (like I suspect), Iniga plays this out below
Iniga spends most of the tour trying to drive Rentwyrth crazy with desire, and when the tour ends she chews her lip for a moment before stepping away. "I'm sorry sir, I had a wonderful time but I should really go. I'd stay longer but..." Iniga shrugs her shoulders helplessly "...but we both know you were not being truthful earlier about your house being cleaned. Its fine, I'm not offended, I know that some els get self conscious about how they live and that some els like to over exaggerate. I wouldn't have judged you sir, for where or how you lived, but you didn't appear to have that self confidence...and confidence is the most attractive thing in an el."
Iniga takes another sad step backwards, looking disappointed. "I mean, for all I know this is your real house. I don't know much about you apart from what you told me, and I truly hope I'm wrong, and that you really are that famous, rich, confident, successful young el but since arriving here I...I don't see evidence of that. I'm sorry sir."
Iniga turns to leave, hoping she had needled the man well enough. She had tried to keep her tone subservient and respectful enough to avoid a physical response though. Rentwyrth would find it difficult to claim that he wasn't self conscious about where he lived without giving the real reason why his house was out of action. On the other hand, Iniga knew that it would eat away at him that an attractive ele would walk away from him with the wrong idea, thinking he was a charlatan or lacking confidence. In addition, Iniga knew that Rentwryth would hate, hate the fact that he was being turned down. He was Mr Rentwyrth, people looked up at him, people wanted to be him, but he had failed to impress Iniga.
Iniga figured that there were a number of ways this could go and was prepared for most of them. Rentwyrth could attack in a drunken lusty rage, in which case Iniga was prepared to stop him in his tracks. Alternatively, Iniga wondered if the els ego would be so bruised at the rejection based off Iniga's incorrect assumption about him, that he might invite her to his actual place - purely to rub her nose into his superiority. She stayed on alert, and waited to see whether Rentwyrth did something expected or unexpected.
Iniga looks at Marianne for a second before inspiration strikes and she brightens slightly. "Samoon is right though, starting a fight on the open streets is a bad idea. He will have bodyguards, witnesses, people that are going to get in the way. Sooner or later, you have the golem's wading in and I don't really want to handle those hindrances."
"On the other hand, if we could lure him away from his defenses or bodyguards then hes just an ordinary guy - someone any of us can probably take on. We also know everything we need to about this guy. Hes smug, superior, he looks down on others he perceives as having less brains or money than he does. He thinks that he is the smartest el in the room and he hates Samoon. Hates him enough to write him a letter saying 'volc you'. Also he has a thing for redheads" Iniga finishes, hesitating slightly before looking at Marianna again "Maybe".
"The man doesn't know that I have been travelling with you guys for long - maybe we were spotting in the city but even then it doesn't tell him much - it could have been a quick catch up after years away. I didnt know about Bree anyway until you told me, so its almost certain he doesn't believe I know the story."
"Guy like that, seeing me apparently alone in the city, hes going to see it as an opportunity to torment Samoon further, to rub his nose in it. Sort of like a 'look what I can do - theres no where my influence cannot reach' kinda thing. Even in the worst case scenario, he is probably keen to have a chat with me. I might know something after all, about you three - something he might find useful. Maybe he doesn't know me at all, or doesn't bite, but either way, its worth a try. We could always try a frontal assault later if things don't work out."
Iniga raises her eyebrows before firing off an amused smile "I think hes more intimidated by me than anything else. Which is flattering I guess but I don't need someone to tell me how great I am - I already know" she says cheekily before turning to the bartender
"I'll have a glass of your best if you please" she orders
Iniga isn't particularly pleased to be pulled over by someone to catalog the items she had access to but she hides her displeasure.
"Ah, someone who bears the mark of an aspect of Volcano, so good to see after the time I have spent away from the cities. As for powerful magic, I am rather powerful in my own right in my own right, and I'm blessed by Volcano with magical tattoos which might explain your detection."
Iniga sneaks a quick look at the el to see if he was buying it, although she wasn't too hopeful. If the el still looks unconvinced or puzzled, she continues with a further explanation.
"Also, I possess a powerful relic of Volcano. Its been entrusted to me to prevent to prevent misuse. A one of a kind relic of Volcano shouldn't need to be cataloged I think."
