Day of Mourning IC

[RFLS]

Stuff will go here about posting rules when I get to it. Until then, the six of you have been assembled for a vague purpose from various branches of the Cyran military. You've been gathered into a small, windowless room in a building in the center of the city of Making, waiting together to be given your assignment from a Major Hersk. None of you know the specifics of what's going on, although if you wish to make a Gather Information check below, I'll tell you what your character might have heard.


OoC Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=287711)

Talk away.

[cameronpants]

Gather Information: [roll0]

Julien mutters something, pulling his metal and silk gloves from his hands. He glances at his peers and superiors sitting around him. A few look like they're sizing him up, too, and one looks like he's straight out of a noble fashion show.
They'll let anyone in spec ops now, thought Julien, fixing his hauberk, this is probably some slag-sitting nonsense.

Loosening his boots as he reclines, Julien has a flashback to the last time he'd been in the City of Making. Years ago when he found out his father had died. The thought didn't make Julien cringe or balk. He didn't even blink.

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

Knowing little more than the ranks of those sharing the room with him Lo'vek watched their reactions to being in the cramped room. He turns towards Kanatash and the lights within his right eye socket flash green and yellow in quick sequence, then he looks towards Kasin. "Good day, Lieutenant." He says in required response, his voice oddly smooth and deep for a warforged. He looks around at the unfamiliar faces and glances briefly over their insignia. "I am Lo'vek, rank Gunnery Sergeant, designated for close combat operations. I possess superior observational and communication capabilities and am able to disable enemies from close distance." While it's not uncommon for warforged to be direct about their purpose when meeting with new superiors there's an undertone of smugness within Lo'vek's voice that isn't usually part of the deal.

Secret Warforged Binary Flash Message to Kanatash: I acknowledge and welcome your presence in this room.

[AngryCyc]

"Oh are we going to be this formal about it? No one here outranks me, right..? Good. So if nobody objects, in the meantime can we drop all these formalities about rank and file? I mean if this is going to be anything like the other missions they've asked me to do, we should take this brief time we have of peace and relaxation to actually enjoy it. At least until this Major gets here..." The old, battered human says from his seat. A dirty scar runs the length of his face, and fits right in with the dusty old military uniform he wears. Pip's interest in the others is more out if idle curiosity than any real concern of their's or his own well being. Might as well have some fun with them before this mission starts though... Who knows how many of these ones will even make it back...

[Autopsibiofeeder]

As Kasin meets his fellow team members, he kindly greets them. "Greetings all." He nods at Pip Bolshom in acknowledgement: "Captain." Kasin is a well-groomed man, and the jewelry and delicate shawl he wears are atypical in a military environment. His dark eyes emanate friendliness. With a smile, he tries to start up a conversation. "If the comfort of this room is any indication, we're in for a nice mission, eh?"

[Feint's End]

How interesting Kanatash thinks as the room gets fuller and fuller with strange soldiers which are definitely out of the norm. A warforged is also along them. Not one of the normal ones ... one of the heavy frontline warmachines. Kanatash can't recall seeing a warrior like this before though. As he recieves the secret message in binary code he is even more surprised though his emotionless face shows no sign of it. He nods slightly ... just a fraction of an inch ... he is sure though that Lo'vek understood it.

The others seem to be human as far as Kanatash can tell. One of them (seems to be older) just finished a few sentences after Lo'vek introduced himself as a young human enters and starts greeting everybody.

I agree with you Captain Kanatash says in his strangly soft, warm voice after the young human finished his question there is indeed no need to be too formal here
He continues, now talking to everybody As for me ... I am Kanatash ... I wasn't build for a special purpose ... I was humiliated, forgotten, rescued and met friends who left this world too early ... but I am here today because I decided to come back on my own ... with my own decision he says with a slightly rised voice, partially quoting one of his favourite Kalashtar novels "The End of Light" ...
after a short break he turns to the young mane as for your question ... I sometimes have problems to understand human behaviour ... was it sarcasm you used there? If it wasn't I don't think it will be a nice mission as they obviously didn't call the weakest member of the military. If it was, what I rather believe, I am amused ... a small laugh, if you could call it like that, comes from his mouthpiece.

"So much stories to learn here Kanatash thinks after he finished talking .... if he could smirk he would ...

I'd also like to make a gather information check
[roll0]

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin smiles. "Just making conversation, I guess. Though...I hope the mission will turn out less grim than this room, perhaps with some light on one of the ends?" He winks as he decides to drop the subject. "I am Lieutenant Kasin, pleased to meet."

[thethird]

Raven actually feels at home in the room, he is normally used to small cells and big books. In this case instead of big books filled with words there are people filled with words. Talky noisy people... well, let's introduce ourselves shall we?

-I actually like the room, add a comfy bed and it's a good deal for expending the whole mission thingy.

The man smirks slightly as he moves one of his hands to his chin caressing it before resting his head in his hand.

-I'm Raven, rank isn't important, is it?

He gives a nod to everyone in the room acknowledging their presence. Then he pushes his chair slightly backwards and rests his feet in the table before producing a small dagger from one of his several pockets which he uses to clean the dirt under his nails.

Casually, almost uninterested he adds.

-Does anyone have any idea of what we are here for?

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin nods. "I can't be sure of course, but it might have something to do with the most recent Warforged models. Word is they are behaving in an unexpected manner."

[cameronpants]

Kasin nods. "I can't be sure of course, but it might have something to do with the most recent Warforged models. Word is they are behaving in an unexpected manner."

I knew it. Slag-sitting, Julien thought, eyes boring into the warforged called Lo'vek, and he's the same rank as me. And I'm pretty sure the other one outranks me.

[AngryCyc]

"First time running spec. ops. then for some of you?Usually I'm only called in by myself or with a few other people. It's probably just one of their standard missions they don't want the public knowing they did. Smash and grab, espionage. If there are new warforged about, I wouldn't be surprised if we were here to either steal or destroy whatever is making them. With two warforged here, I'd assume it's about getting in to some place we really shouldn't be. Perfect disguises, and what not. That's the type of work ya usually do for the Higher-Up's, right?"

[Feint's End]

Agreed with you Captain. It definitely won't be an open field mission. That would imply other people involved and us just being the command structure but I never commanded any more than a few warforged. As a follow up that would imply we are either here for commanding a smaller unit or much more likely for stealth and/or non-oficial missions associated with the war.
Kantash takes a short break
On another note ... I'd like you to not call me Warforged since it is a name your race gave us without our own decision. You can call my Psyforged or Kanatash ... I don't mind a less formal way of calling me.

[cameronpants]

Julien huffs. "Hardly. Warforged is your designation. It is not your species, race, or any other living state. You were forged for war, Kanatash. It is not something that needs asking." Under his breath, audible only to those very close to him, Julien whispers "...slag."

[thethird]

-Anyways the distinction of psyforged and warforged might be useful to differentiate both of you.

He then looks at Pip and smiles dryly.

-I haven't gone in a field mission for spec ops for a long long time... I normally keep myself in my room. It is nicer, less messy.

[AngryCyc]

"Heh... hah. HAHAHAHAHA! My race? ....oh... aww. Were you not briefed on me before arriving here? Well I am sympathetic for the way your race is... treated... by these humans. Julien, was it? There's no need to be anything less than polite to everyone here. Kanatash, would you feel more comfortable with me, though.. as this?

Disguise roll [roll0]
With a word, Pip suddenly changes to a young elf, clad in simple wear.

"Has this race also caused yours any transgressions?"

[Feint's End]

I have no grudge against humans or elfes.... noding in the direction of Pip he adds "or against your kind ... pleased to have the chance to meet a changeling"
Turning his head back to Julien he says "What we were forged for has no meaning for me. I am here because it is my choice ... as it probably is for all of you. Warforged is the name our creators had for us because all they had in mind is creating machines for warfare and some people might say that's what we are best at but the name is still ours to choose ... as for me, I am no creature of war but for these times. I respect you Julien but I expect the same from you."

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

"I understand that feelings of inferiority are natural when around us. I suggest doing your best to ignore such feelings in order to perform adequately." Lo'vek says to Julien.

[cameronpants]

I have no grudge against humans or elfes.... noding in the direction of Pip he adds "or against your kind ... pleased to have the chance to meet a changeling"
Turning his head back to Julien he says "What we were forged for has no meaning for me. I am here because it is my choice ... as it probably is for all of you. Warforged is the name our creators had for us because all they had in mind is creating machines for warfare and some people might say that's what we are best at but the name is still ours to choose ... as for me, I am no creature of war but for these times. I respect you Julien but I expect the same from you."

"You think 'humans' chose the name given to them? No, it was their creator, too. And you are right, it was your choice to be here- at war. You chose war. Whether or not you think of yourself as a combatant, you are a soldier." Julien sits back and contemplates his situation. "I'll admit to one thing: I will never respect you as my peer or equal. But as a capable soldier and Cyran official: sure. You've earned that much."

At Lo'vek's words, Julien rises, walks across the room, and selects a seat further from the Warforged. He says to Raven out of the side of his mouth, "wonder if they'll make my sword a lieutenant. Weapons getting ranks, pheh."

[thethird]

Raven smiles.

-My dagger is a knight, Sir Pouncealot its called.

He then looks back at Pip, raising one of his eyebrows.

-You're not my Alex- he looks at the changeling more intently- are you? Sometimes is hard to tell with changies when not in natural form.

Securing once again the weapon in the hidden pocket in his tunic the officer of intelligence looks at those sitting around.

-Well, we have two forgeds, War or Psy, whatever, a changie and the rest of us are poor pinky softy humies aren't we? Anyone going to change into a dragon? Having a dragon in our side... man that would be unfair.

[AngryCyc]

"I... Uh. No. No."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin listens to the conversation and decides to step in. "In this organization it does not really matter what you are, who you are or what your parents or creators did." He eyes around the room. "What you accomplished matters. Apparantly someone higher thought us a good team, a good match." He smiles. "Let's act as if that person was right." He winks and gestures. "Other, more personal matters we can have a brawl about off-duty somewhere in a bar." He turns more serious: "Trust and cooperation is what is going to have our back and save our lives out there, not the racial qualities of our ancestors." He ponders a moment and then glanc es at the Warforged with a smile and adds: "If any, that is."

He smiles again and walks to the other side of the room. "Anyway, for all we know we were called here for something else entirely, eh?"

[AngryCyc]

"That's a good outlook. And I'm not just saying that because my ancestors probably ate your ancestors. Although to be fair, I am growing curious myself as to what purpose bringing a group like this together could serve. Does anyone know when this Major fellow's supposed to arrive?"

Pip begins idly popping off Detect Good, Evil, Law, and Chaos, focusing quietly on the individuals assembled before him for.... Whatever amount of time that would take to read everyone's alignment.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin gives Pip a look void of understanding. "Well, I am happy they held their appetite long enough to allow me to be born."

[Feint's End]

Lieutnant Kasin is right ... We can spare our discussion for another place and another time. Kanatash turns his head to Pip ... "Is this usual behaviour for mission types like this? In the missions I participated we got our orders pretty fast ... though I have to admit I never participated in one of this kind and this size of members. Maybe the major fell asleep on the way."

[RFLS]

As the words finish spilling out of Kasin's mouth, a thin man in uniform barges into the rum. Everything about him is...sharp. His face, his mannerisms, his dress, and, most of all, his voice.

"Not asleep, lads, sorry to keep you waiting. I'll tell those damn rebels to kindly schedule their attacks in a more convenient manner in the future."

Pausing for a moment to shuffle some papers around, he continues speaking without apparently paying attention to anyone in the room.

"Right. I've been sent here to brief you. You lot may have noticed that you are, so to speak, and odd bunch of ducks. No two alike in background, training, or abilities. However, you all have, in some way, distinguished yourselves with extraordinary talent or out of the box thinking. Apparently."

At this he flicks his eyes up and around the room, frowns, and continues speaking while staring at his notes.

"Some of you may have, at this point, heard certain rumours about the Warforged coming out of House Cannith recently. Most of them are outright untrue. However, there has been a disturbing increase in the number of Warforged that refuse to fight, especially among specialized models. Apparently, higher ups want you to get inside their main production facility, and, in the words of one of my superiors, "Figure out what those cleverdick bastards over in Cannith are doing to screw with my goddamn soldiers.""

Once again, the man pauses. This time, he clears his throat, adjusts the collar of his shirt, and continues.

"The production facility is here in Making. The House, which pays lip service to Cyre, maintains sovereignty, and, as much as it hurts to admit, we need them too much to risk any sort of incident on their grounds. In summation: Your job is to find a way into and out of the facility, examine the forges, and report back to us, all of which must be done without raising the slightest suspicion. Resources are available on request. Are there any questions?"

[AngryCyc]

"Just one... What do I need them for..? This sounds like a standard day for me. Is there something I'm missing here..?"

[RFLS]

"Well, apart from our general policy of not relying solely on overwhelming arrogance, there is the following. They have some form of identification that only select members of the House Cannith possess. Those select few are the only ones capable of accessing the labs. Of those, only a few of them can access the creation forges."

More shuffling of papers, a throat clear, and on he goes.

"There's also the matter of their security. The outside of the facility is regularly patrolled by Warforged and at least one arcanist at all times. Inside, they have a combination of traps keyed off of identification papers and personal security systems in every lab. We, of course, do not know which of the labs contain the creation forges.

Further questions?"

[Feint's End]

A few actually Major. How much freedom do we have in this operation and do we maintain the ranks we have in the regular military? And on a related note how often do we have to report to you or get orders by you?

What time of the day is it right now? Because if we go into this mission it would be good for me to bind naberius as of right now I've bound Malphas (invis isn't bad neither though) so I'd change if we go in the next day

[Autopsibiofeeder]

"Are we supposed to avoid casualties at all cost, or is there permission to dispose of units that get in our way? Doing this completely unnoticed might prove to be impossible with such a large group."

[thethird]

Raven nods as the major enters, showing him some sort of respect, he might not like everyone in the military but he likes that man. Profiting the distraction caused by his entrance he takes some of his notes and skims over them while checking the info in them with the faces around the room. Gunnery Sergeant Lo'vek, check; Sergeant Gunner Julien d'Orien, check; Captain Pip Bolshom; check, Captain Kanatash; Lieutenant Kasin, check. One of the tin heads is a captain? That is interesting, and we have a d'Orien, nice to know. When Pip interrupts he looks at him, and then at the major.

-So... I assume that this two warforged are the key. Metaphorically speaking. They don't look like a physical key. Perhaps our changie could be a key, but I don't think they can do that...

He looks at the changeling.

-Can you turn yourself into a key? I always wondered.

Back at the major before continuing.

-Wouldn't you have some sort of Idea of how those ids are? M... House Cannith normally uses standardized formats and I might be able to produce some, at least some good enough to bypass a first inspection.

[RFLS]

A few actually Major. How much freedom do we have in this operation and do we maintain the ranks we have in the regular military? And on a related note how often do we have to report to you or get orders by you?

What time of the day is it right now? Because if we go into this mission it would be good for me to bind naberius as of right now I've bound Malphas (invis isn't bad neither though) so I'd change if we go in the next day

"These are....all of the orders you'll be given. You'll have near autonomy in the matter, and while I expect you to maintain unit cohesion, everyone here is a specialist, and their opinions should be weighed accordingly."
It's mid morning.

"Further questions? Yes?" he gestures at Kasin.


"Are we supposed to avoid casualties at all cost, or is there permission to dispose of units that get in our way? Doing this completely unnoticed might prove to be impossible with such a large group."

"We would....prefer it if you avoided casualties, yes. These are, after all, our own people. We just want to know what they're up to. And don't worry about the size of the group. You only need to get one person in."

"You." he says, gesturing at Raven.


-[B][COLOR="RoyalBlue"]Wouldn't you have some sort of Idea of how those ids are? M... House Cannith normally uses standardized formats and I might be able to produce some, at least some good enough to bypass a first inspection.

For the first time, the major appears almost...embarrassed. "We ah...actually have no idea what, exactly, the format for their ids is."

Sense Motive DC 15 to realize his discomfort is due to a personal connection with this failing.

[AngryCyc]

Sense motive Take 10 +10... So. Yeah.
"Major..? Was there some sort of problem that accounted for the lack of this information?"

[Feint's End]

"Am I right that Captain Pip and my are the only persons here with the ability to change our appearances? If so I propose Captain Pip and myself for the infiltration team. He is more experienced with such missions and my knowledge of warforged psychology could be of help."

He turns his head to raven. "You seem like you have some experience with those IDs ... if we get you a generally accepted one how long would it take you to fake one for us?"

[cameronpants]

Julien watches the major deliver his speech, absorbing key points. He listens to the questions of his team, also taking mental notes.
Get in, figure out the forges, get out.
Traps. Guards. Identification Papers.
No intel. No way in. Can't be caught.
Autonomy.
Julien's mind whirls with the possibilities. Distractions. Julien glances at the 'forged in the room with him. Keys. His eyes flicker over to Captain Pip. Mask.

A plan starts to form in his mind. Slowly at first, pieces falling together like snowflakes on a window sill.

"Major. Sergeant Gunner d'Orien. I have critical information that could help us in the infiltration of the site. I have a potential ally who may help us with the matter of identification papers. It would be risky, but with the right motivation I am sure he will help."

[thethird]

The Major knows how to make on feel important.

-On IDs... It will probably depend on how the IDs are. I have some experience with the d'Cannith papers and if they are normal papers I can probably make a good enough copy. But are they signed by someone in particular? Are they written by someone explicitly? That would take time. Also inks and papers are important, I have some savings and I can probably find most of what I need in the market. Still, once I get to it, it probably won't take more than 5 minutes, I doubt those papers are really long.

He looks then at the warforged who volunteered for the infiltration.

-I haven't done field work in a time, I prefer to fight from my desk or bed or bathtub preferably, but I think I will be needed in that infiltration party if I am to enter the building. And well, if worst come to worst we will want to have the heavy duties close.

[RFLS]

Sense motive Take 10 +10... So. Yeah.
"Major..? Was there some sort of problem that accounted for the lack of this information?"

"I...you could say that. Yes. There was a severe misunderstanding with an inside man, and we had to extricate ourselves quickly. We're still cleaning that particular mess up. Moving on..."


"Major. Sergeant Gunner d'Orien. I have critical information that could help us in the infiltration of the site. I have a potential ally who may help us with the matter of identification papers. It would be risky, but with the right motivation I am sure he will help."

The Major gives you a long look, as though trying to figure something out that just occurred to him. "Lad, if you're thinking what I think you're thinking, I would suggest reconsidering. However, this group is being given near-total autonomy, and therefore...." the Major pauses and grimaces "I'm not allowed to forbid courses of action."

[cameronpants]

"The Major gives you a long look, as though trying to figure something out that just occurred to him. "[B]Lad, if you're thinking what I think you're thinking, I would suggest reconsidering. However, this group is being given near-total autonomy, and therefore...." the Major pauses and grimaces "I'm not allowed to forbid courses of action."

"Duly noted, major. I understand."

So the Major had been briefed on who he was. Julien wondered who else here knew anything.
Nodding, Julien adds "If it comes to infiltration I can help, but I'm the heavy hitter you all keep mentioning."

[Feint's End]

"Okay so far we have Captain Pip who can change his shape. As for me I'm gonna change into a normal warforged." Short pause "It shouldn't be to hard for me to play an disobeying Warforged." he adds with some sort oft humour in his voice.
"Also I suggest taking my Forged brother here with us since he is one of said special models and it shouldn't be too hard to pass by as one of the newer ones. As for Julien here." Turning his head to the young man. I am not familiar enough with Houses and Familys. Could you give us an advantage in attaining the necessary information to get in the house an keep your cover while you are in there? Otherwise my Brother has to be enough hitting power.

Anyways ... before we are talking about who we should send in we should talk about how to get in. The ID's are good but is there another way? Probably passing by as already existing personal? I think with two people able to change shape it shouldn't be to much of an effort.

[Feint's End]

Turning to Raven he adds "From what I hear so far you are not inexpirienced with our creation and creation in general. You could be a valuable asset. Would it be possible for you to pass as a Worker or Magewright at the creation forge?"

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

"Feigning as one of the newly forged is a start, though Cannith will certainly read our minds during the investigation process. Wards to protect against or transmit false signals would be required." Lo'vek says and turns towards Raven. "The key to defeating their identification paper defense is not to falsify their unique papers. They will most likely have detailed knowledge of the papers and their unique properties. The weak link in their defense is that they trust in papers at all. Falsify a different set of papers, ones that grant you the authority as a visitor or newcomer to inspect the facility."

He glances towards Julien, still speaking to Raven. "When attempting to deceive people you must capitalize on what is and isn't true. It is not true that you are a member of that facility. They know that and by presenting yourself as an outsider, but one with proper authorization, you fit into their model of what to expect. Base the lie on the truth they expect to see."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin listens and assesses his team mates in the meanwhile. Then he decides to speak up. He adresses Raven first: "I know a workman's song the weavers used to use when copying a pattern. A well-copied pattern is better than a horrible original design, they used to say. I can help you perfect any copies you attempt to make." Then he turns to Kanatesh: "I can also go out and see what I can learn. There's a wealth of information out there if one has the right bottle of wine and proper context intelligence."

[AngryCyc]

"Heh... Mind-reading won't be even remotely a problem for me... A changeling can assume a different form so thoroughly that even mentally and magically, we are that new form. I also believe I might be the best suited for passing through unnoticed, and for getting out without a problem should things go awry. The steps leading up to how exactly we get there.... Well. Sounds like some others have that handled. But yes, I believe the actual infiltration of the deepest-guarded secrets should be left to me. Even I'm caught red handed, I should be able to talk my way out of trouble without having to resort to a fight. That's what we want, right? As little bloodshed or attention as possible? Now. What else needs to be done in preparation for this? If there's an issue of gathering as much intel as possible, I have considerable talents in that area... What kind of things would we all like to know more about Though?"

[thethird]

Raven nods at Kanatash, his expression is serious and somber.

-Passing myself as a d'Cannith? Yes, I think I could do that, passing myself as a magewright might be a bit more complicated, those guys are boring and without inventive. And I am to attractive to be a worker.

He looks at Lo'vek and smiles again, nodding gravely and then clapping his palm against his face in a sudden realization. He approaches the forged and pats his shoulder.

-Of course, I should do that! This forged, this one, it certainly is a great officer of intelligence. Major, promote him, stop wasting his talent in the battlefield.

He then grins.

-I'm sorry, I'm not used to deal with field operations I prefer to keep to my quarters, but... that wouldn't work. It is a good and fine start, and we can probably make something out of it. But the Cannith probably also have standardized invitations and forms, and I was actually thinking of getting those too, but it is still hard.

Raven nods at Kasin, appreciating and acknowledging the offer of help, some assistance might be nice, perhaps something would evade him. After all, he doesn't want to recognize how easy or familiar would be for him to fake a Cannith document. Explaining his expertise over the matter... wouldn't be nice.

-Pip, you certainly should need to be our spear head. Keeping the operation in place, and distracting as much as you can, we need something that catches the eye, shows skin and jewel. Our two forged here would be your dull companions, and I will be the merry magewright who plots in the back. Like in the Silver Room by Jalril d'Sivis, the killer is always a magewright. The rest can probably work as plain muscle, no one questions some mercenaries, and they can listen a great deal.

He scribbles some notes on a paper, mostly a list of inks, pens, papers and seals, then folds it and passes it to the major.

-Could you get this items for me? Alex has access to my pouch and will know where to buy this things. If not, any of the Conspiracy will probably have access to them. They are pretty necessary. Who ever gets them should not be reminded about being quiet and discrete.

Looking back at the room.

-Do we have any intel on the forge though? The Cannith family is normally divided in four large groups, Eath, North, West and South, who is in charge of this place? Who among the Cannith is more likely to make a surprise visit and not be heavily questioned? Can anyone here deal with locks? There are a lot of things that we don't know, and intel is power. Kasin, you look like a resourceful person, anything you've heard? Is there any book, notes or registry on the matter Major? I would like to read those.

Items requested by Raven:
10 Forger's papers: Complete Scoundrel pg. 110; total cost 100 gp
1 Forgery kit: Complete Adventurer pg. 122; cost 40 gp
10 House Sivis Notarized Documents: Sharn City of Towers pg. 158; total cost 20 gp.
Grand total 160 gp (Raven has enough gold for this, adding a focusing candle might be a good idea)

[cameronpants]

Julien nods at Raven.
"My experience is somewhat limited to field operations. Vanguard strikes, caravan disruption, key personel removal... if this is all hush hush operative guile and forked tongues I won't be much help. Though if things go wrong or you need a hasty retreat, I'm your guy."

[RFLS]

The Major grabs the list, looks it over briefly, nods, and says "We'll have this to you within the hour. As for intel notes...yes. We have a few. I'll bring them by."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin nods at Raven and replies: "The facility is run by the North House, I am pretty sure. And ehh..." He ponders a moment and then continues: "Starrin. Starrin d'Cannith is the man who might go there unannounced."

[AngryCyc]

"An hour you say? Excellent that gives me a bit of time to go figure some stuff out myself. I will be back before that hour has passed. Feel free to keep plannin', gents... Hopefully I'll come back with something more to add..."

And with that, Pip whisks out of the room so deftly, it's like he was never even there.

He makes his way around the town, paying attention to the conversations people were having during their morning business. His shifting form ever-changing to match whatever crowd he found himself in, he was quickly accepted.

[thethird]

-Good we might need a speedy escape, Julien. Plans don't normally go smoothly.

Raven nods an affirmative thanks to the Major. He then gets slightly shocked over the news of Kasin. The North house, it was to be expected, power hungry fools, but Starrin d'Cannith... that is bad news. Messing with the Gorgon isn't something that Raven wants to do.

-So Starrin d'Cannith? That might be problematic, I don't think it would be wise to go as the Patriarch and House leader, even if no one dares to check it, it would be problematic if our cover blows up. But we should make sure that there are quite a lot of Gorgon's in Pip's clothes. Is there anyone who might act as Starrin's proxy? We might do better impersonating that one.

The man checks Pip, but by then it has already disappeared.

-So... anyone wants to think of a escape plan? Or a extraction route, in case we need to be out of there quickly?

[RFLS]

Captain Pip

You wander through the city of Making, heading idly towards some of the Warforged magewrights that do business in the seedier parts of town. At first, you only get offers for various "warforged upgardes" from the vendors, but after a bit, you have some luck. One of the vendors tells you in passing that he's heard that some of the most recent models have gone rogue and started forming their own cult. The entire time he tells you this, though, he's trying to sell you a device he claims will make you sound exactly like a warforged.


Make a spot and a sense motive check.


Everyone Else

Captain Pip and Major Hersk head out on their tasks, leaving you in the room to discuss what needs to be done. Some of you have heard of this Starrin before; he's no small fry on the political battlefield, and controls House Cannith absolutely.

[AngryCyc]

Spot [roll0] and taking 10 for Sense Motive, +10 for a 20. Gypsyyyyy dice!!

[RFLS]

Spot [roll0] and taking 10 for Sense Motive, +10 for a 20. Gypsyyyyy dice!!

You're about 90% sure he's BSing you about the cults; he seems to be making it up on the fly. As you stand there, though, you get the feeling you're being watched, although you can't pinpoint a watcher.

[AngryCyc]

"A device you say? How does it work? But more importantly... how much for it?"

Pip continues acting as normally as possible, though he can feel someone watching him. He begins systematically observing everyone around him, paying special attention to places to hide or areas he could be observed unnoticed.

Does the sense that he was bluffing extend to the talk of the device? Do I feel that he was BS'ing about that? Oh, also. Gut Reaction Sense Motive check as a move action, because I want to use all my ACF's as much as possible, to get a feeling about whoever is observing me. Take 10, so 20 again.

[Feint's End]

I will be back in 5 minutes ... gonna get myself an overview of the creation forge. with this words Kanatash leaves the room making his way to the outside.

As he reaches one of the smaller gates of the building he calls on his Power granted by the ancient vestige Malphas and a Raven appears on his shoulders which after a short delay makes his way up over the city while Kanatash makes his way back to the small room ...

Create a Raven as per Malphas Su. Question: do I know where the creation forge is? Otherwise I'll go back down (what I'm doing anyways) and will ask Raven for it.
If I know where it is I'll order the Raven to fly over the forge in a safe distance and observe everything unusual as well as the basic structure of the building. If there are balconys I'll try to land there and take a look inside.

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

"While we wait for their return I can augment our communication effectiveness." Lo'vek says as he pulls a slender forked dagger from a sheath embedded in his left forearm. The blade looks ridiculously small held in his oversized battlefist, like a giant holding a halflings sword, and he proceeds to flick it with one finger. The dagger resonates like a tuning fork as he searches for the right tone, the notes getting softer until they're barely above a whisper.

He looks up at everyone in the room - all humans, now - and the lights in his socket flash yellow then red, something akin to amusement. "This will cause a miniscule amount of pain." He says and a spark of electricity runs up the length of the blade. "Once everyone is attuned we may whisper and the reverbrations will carry your words to another." He holds the dagger up and lightly holds it against the side of his head where the spark leaps and barely singes his plating. "Who will be next?"

Using the Fell Conspiracy [Ceremony] feat. The dagger doesn't actually deal any damage and each participant can use the spell Message (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/message.htm) at-will at CL 4 for the next 24 hours.

[AngryCyc]

Pip suddenly feels an inexplicable surge of anger and pain, and fear that some how, somewhere, his dearest pet's life has been put to a senseless end. An instant later, all thoughts are gone.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin frowns a bit at the Warforged. "That's a rather unconventional way of performing magic. I'd like to hear more about it....who taught you that?"

[cameronpants]

Julien is skeptical at first, but decides to partake in the ritual. His experience with the supernal was broad and this was something new.
"I'm with Kasin. I'd like to know where you learned that."

Julien is just waiting for more info on the setup of the Forge. Layout, potentially floor plan, security measures (walls, fences, etc), and discussion on Starrin. Any specifics Julien knows about Cannith's head honcho? Knowledge: Local [roll0]

[RFLS]

Pip:

The vendor continues talking rapidly at you, and, while you're sure his story was basically lies to keep you interested, he seems to be genuine about the device, which is a small metallic pad placed against the throat. The entire time you stand there, you continue to feel watched, and the watching presence feels...malevolent. As your attention wanders, trying to find the watcher, the vendor finally makes you an offer.

"For you, this is 500 gold pieces. Sound just like a warforged! Some people find it...intriguing."

The device will grant a +5 circumstance bonus to impersonate a warforged. You still can't pinpoint who's watching you, but they're making the hairs on the back of your neck rise.

Kanatash:

The facility containing the Forges is at the northern end of the city. As your Raven flies over it, you see a large, solid building that's walled off from the rest of the city. Guards patrol both the walls and the grounds, and there are no visible balconies or entrances other than the main doors. Even the windows have bars over them. The place almost looks like a prison.....

Julien:

You haven't heard much at all about this Starrin, beyond what everyone knows. He's the head of House Cannith, a canny businessman, and an astounding artificer. He's responsible for the creation of the warforged, as well.

[AngryCyc]

Pip starts haggling with merchant, listing all the reasons this device is not worth the cost, pointing out how he's probably just jacking up the price because he knows nobody would want such an object anyway and his only hope for making a profit off these goods is to get a sucker to pay an exuberant amount.

He is not interested in the item though. This act is just a distraction while he casts Detect Evil and begins slowly scanning in a 360 degree arch, searching for this malevolence.

If you need a roll, I'll be taking 10 on diplomacy, bluff, whatever social skill. I'm driving to work though so it's quite difficult to have this page AND my character sheet up.

[thethird]

Raven tends his hand to the forged.

-It's probably some sort of ritual, isn't it?

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

"It is a variation on a draconic ritual." Lo'vek says as he touches the forked dagger to each participants temple. "The small discomfort you feel is a tiny amount of your life force being used to establish the link. There are no side effects."

The lights in his socket dim. "I learned of it in what you would call a vision. That is where you experience a dream without being asleep, correct?"

On my phone, I'll fix the speech color later.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin moves towards Lo'vek and accepts the ritual. "Yes, that is a vision or a tankard of wine or two too many." He winks as he speaks but then his face turns grave. "I have heard about this type of thing once*, and you must know that these kinds of rituals are also sometimes used in a very discomforting context." He thinks a bit before he continues. "Bad people sometimes use it. Just be careful who you show this knowledge to, or share it with."

*
I figured since I rolled rather high on the checks I knew at least something about this type of ceremony. If that's a problem, I will rephrase the post.

[Feint's End]

As Kanatash returns to the room he just sees how Kasin hands a knife back to Lo'vek "Are we playing knife games now?" a slight laugh comes from his mouthpiece.
"I have some eyes scouting the creation forge now who will keep watching for anything unusual. Bad news so far ... it looks more like a prison than a creation forge. One massive building with guards along the main doors which are also the only gates I could see and the few windows are all blocked. Coming in and especially out seems getting harder." he says as he sits down again.

I'll keep the bird flying in big circles in about 500 ft height for around 10 min and let him sit on nearby houses afterwards to avoid too much suspicion by the guards. Also gonna check back every 5 to 10 minutes (looking through the eyes).

[thethird]

Raven looks quite sad at the news of Kanatash. That is going to be problematic.

-Julien, do you have any idea of how to get out of there in a hurry? We would need something to teleport out, but it can be a bit risky. Perhaps we can get some scrolls or wands from the military. I know I could craft some myself to evacuate.

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

"Is the ceremony that which causes you discomfort or the person that is performing it?" Lo'vek asks Kasin. "The same sword may be used by different people for different ends; I understand that this does not make the sword bad. While some weapons do call upon life harming energies and are thus understood to be evil, this ceremony does not. It is knowledge without purpose, given form only by the participants."

Lo'vek listens to Kanatashs report. "We only need Raven to enter though. One man disguised is easier to plan for entrance and escape."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

"Yes, Lo'vek, I understand. Otherwise I would not have accepted. It is not about the sword, nor about the man wielding it. It is about the perception of those that witness the swordplay." He then turns to Raven: "Can you use the scrolls and wands?"

[thethird]

Raven looks at Kasin pondering his answer.

-Well... I can try, I would succeed most of the time, although sometimes mishaps happen and I am unable to activate the item. Magic is not something in which I have been properly trained. It would probably be safer if we go together.

[cameronpants]

Julien rubs his temple where the knife touched. He look up, and answers Raven.

"I possess various skills centered around demolitions. Given the chance there's little I can't get through or around. I can also use some wands and scrolls, and have had three field-training courses on blind-activation and identification of said arcane implements."

[RFLS]

Major Hersk walks back into the room, carrying a stack of papers and the other supplies he was asked for.

"Here's the stuff. Go nuts."

Pausing to wipe his brow, he continues "I have other duties to attend to. You'll be given rooms to stay in here, and access to as many supplies as possible. I've been told to tell you that you're on a two-week time for this mission."

As he turns to go, he pauses one last time "Oh - Corporal Frell will be in shortly to show you to your quarters and strategy room."

[thethird]

Raven takes the parchment in his hand concentrating on it for a second. As he does his eyes close for a second. Once the information is absorbed he moves to the next one, and the one after that. Scholar's touch such a handy spell.

-Well with this I have a basic idea of the information, I'll read over the important tidbits this night, and memorize anything that might be necessary. Anyone who is willing to help me craft the documents, will be invited to do so.

[RFLS]

Raven:
The stack of intel is a large amount of varied information. There's a lot of background, but the important bits are fairly well highlighted:

Production costs for the facility.
Production rate of the facility.
Analysis of the above indicating that the rate is less than expected.
A detailed report of the previous group tasked with finding out what's happening with the facility. It was headed by Major Hersk, as well. The group made contact with a higher-up in the facility by the name of Lysander. Negotiations (blackmail and bribery) went awry, and the situation is now being...cleaned up. The original group has been retasked.
Write-ups of major facility personnel. These include:

Starrin.
Querst, head of security. A no-nonsense warforged specialized in Divination magics.
Lysander d'Cannith, head of the facility's finances and distribution. Also the first group's contact.
Mayla Zann, facility head. A dedicated scientist and engineer, she maintains and improves the Creation Forges.




Captain Pip:

"Fine, fine, for you, three hundred, but I can't go lower than tha- are you listening? Hello?"

As you slowly pivot and the merchant gets more annoyed, you get a few pings with Detect Evil. However, whoever was watching you is apparently gone, as you see no one that stands out.

[AngryCyc]

Pip loses focus for a few seconds as he tries to find the malevolent force he felt eyeing him seconds ago. As he snaps back to his full attention on the merchant, he tells him "Fine, fine... 300 may be a decent deal for this. If you hold this for me, I will send someone with the money for it shortly. I do not have that much on my person right now. If that is not acceptable, then I'm sorry... no deal. Good day sir."

And if the merchant tries to say anything after that, Pip replies curtly with "I SAID GOOD DAY!"

Pip then makes his way back to the meeting spot, finding himself 10 minutes later than he anticipated... He finds the Major already returned with supplies.

"Ah, Major... I expected to return before you. I found a merchant selling something we might be able to use..."

Pip describes the device, and location of the merchant and urges the Major to send someone to acquire this item. He then briefly describes the little information he gathered.

"...So it seems like the average people don't really know much what's going on in there either. My guess is that anyone who hasn't actually been inside and knows for sure, is just speculating or spreading rumors."

[thethird]

Raven nods at Pip, it is nice having him back. Then he digs through the papers piling the intel on the people related with the forge, passing it around to the people in the room.

-Familiarize yourself with these people here, we will have to deal with them. Any information we can get of those will be fairly useful. Kasin you are good with people, some ideas?

After that he checks the papers on the facility costs and production, those costs don't add up. It is like they are piling resources. He focuses on those numbers, being able to remember a cost here, or a material there might prove vital to make sure that their cover doesn't blow up. After memorizing some of it, he passes the papers around, perhaps someone can make something out of them.

-Kanatash, any intel on where the raw materials enters and where they leave the facility might help to point out a breach on security, and a better escape route.

Raven is using Autohypnosis to memorize stuff, if he is going to pose as a Magewright of someone important having a good knowledge of the costs and rates of production of the facility will probably be handy.

[RFLS]

Captain Pip:

The Major listens, shrugs, and responds "What the hell, it can't hurt. I'll have it delivered later tonight."

Raven:

Roughly speaking, the facility is currently receiving enough resources to be producing 300 Warforged every month when compared to other facility production rates. For the last 8 months, they've been turning out about 250 every month; in other words, they're operating at about 5/6 efficiency, and are 400 Warforged behind where they should nominally be at.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

"Let me know when you start crafting, I will give you a hand, ehm, a vocal chord." Kasin grins. "As for intelligence on those specific people, that might be hard. Perhaps there is a bar or inn close to the facility where the workers hang out? That might be a good place to go and find something out about them?"

[cameronpants]

Though his face is still neutral, a quiet energy has crept into Julien's voice.

"Raven- is there anything in there about the incident that occurred with their inside man? About the event that led them failing to attain the I.D. style?"

[thethird]

Raven looks at Julien.

-Not that I can infer, it seems that they pressed to much a man against its family, bribery and blackmail will only get a man to a point. Pressing him against his family... not good.

He then nods at Kasin, a bar might be a good source of information as any other, but of course people would need to be disguised.

-As long as you are not recognized when hunting for information go for it.

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

"I would like to inspect this device. Major, if you will give me the required money I will acquire it for Pip." Lo'vek says. "Where did you find the merchant? What is the merchants name?" He asks Pip.

[cameronpants]

Julien looks through the documentation, scanning it without reading it thoroughly. When it gets to the section of personnel of note he takes to reading carefully.

"Zann... could be an affiliate family to Cannith. A Warforged specialized in divination magic? That could be problematic, what with 'forged not needing sleep. Could have an entire web of sensors around the facility... that makes things more tricky if we need a break-out."

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin nods. "Disguised, sure. Looks like a job for the captain?"

[AngryCyc]

Pip explains the location of the merchant and his details.

"Alrighty. I shall spend the rest of the day bar hopping and cavorting. I accept this most grievous task with honor... If I should fall, know this my friends: I was probably drunk at the time. "

And with that, a portly fellow of around 50 or 60 whips out of the room, a smile playing about his plump face.

He stops just outside the doorway, pops back in and says: "I guess I should know where to meet back up with the team, huh? I might be away for the rest of the day. I'll come back here this evening probably, tomorrow morning if things take longer than expected. If you have left here for different accommodations, just leave a note or something. I MUST AWAY NOW!"

[Feint's End]

Nodding Kanatash says Very well ... as soon as I get my room I'll probably spend the rest of my day there looking for informations I can gather by listening to people. If anybody of you wants to know about a place in the city I'll be your eyes

after saying those words Kanatash leans back and starts playing with a small crystal he pulls out of his belt.

I agree on meeting in the evening
I'll play the dove through the eyes of the city and watch people coming and leaving the building trying to recognize any of them by what I've heard so far and looking out for special new comers etc etc ... Also I'll try to play a normal dove and come close to guards if there are any.

[RFLS]

Kanatash:

As your dove swoops over the facility, you see only a very few workers coming or going, and none of the guards. You do spot Zann leaving towards the end of the day, wrapped in a coat and headed south in the city. Once, you're just lucky enough to overhear to workers talking about meeting some quota, although it sounds like normal manufacturing worries.

Captain Pip:

You find out pretty much what you already knew. Starrin's a hardass, no one has heard of Querst, Lysander is a womanizing drunk, and Zann, when anyone's heard of her, is an accomplished artificer with little in the way of social graces. You have little luck in asking for specifics, but you find out that Lysander is entirely in charge of the financial decisions of the facility. You also learn, from a drunk magewright, that Zann's duties seem to be working her wrights into the ground, maintaining the forge, and researching new warforged tech. In that order, according to the (now passed out) wright.

When asking about Starrin, you have very, very little luck for a long time. Eventually, you find an upper-class merchant, and he happens to let slip that Starrin really only leaves for two reasons. First, he visits Zorlan d'Cannith about twice a year. Secondly, at random intervals, he'll go racing off to the province of Zil when some gnome inventor down there has a new toy for him. The merchant then mutters for about twenty minutes about "evil midgets and their devilish contraptions."

Lo'vek:

Hersk leaves the room, and, shortly after, a Corporal enters, and hands you a bag of coins he tells you is for the device.

Everyone in the room:

Hersk leaves about his business, and a few minutes later, a corporal enters the room, speaks briefly with Lo'vek and hands him a small bag. The corporal then addresses the room.

"Sirs, if I could have your attention: I'm Corporal Frell, and I'll be leading you to your quarters. If you'll follow me..."

The corporal leaves the room and leads you down a few hallways. You enter a large room with a central table. Ingrained into the top of the table is a fairly detailed map of the city. There are eight doors placed about the room; the corporal explains that these are a storage closet, a washroom, and separate quarters for each of you.

[thethird]

Raven follows corporal Frell and installs himself in his new quarters, after taking a shower and making sure that he is comfortable he starts to read over the text, in a more detailed manner. Making sure that he will remember everything on it, he doubts that it would be necessary, but better be prepared. Then he tries some of the powers of the ritual that Lo'vek applied to him to contact with the others.

"Any news? I am studying the documents at the moment. As soon as we gather again we can initiate the work in the new papers."

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

Lo'vek took the money pouch and tied it to the inside of his shield, then reslung his shield on his back. After following the corporeal to their strategy room Lo'vek stood next to the map of the city for a minute, silently taking in the view. "I will return shortly. Be warned that the dweomer will only reach a short distance." He says, meaning the ritual. With a slight nod to Kanatash he leaves.

The streets of cities were always interesting to him. Not the construction itself of the buildings or roads but the interactions the people had with them and with each other in navigating them. Here was a microcosm of something else, something bigger yet related to it...but what that was eluded him. This merchant should not be hard to find.

[Feint's End]

As Corporal Frell arrives Kanatash makes a quick movement and the Crystal vanishes again. "Finally some time to focus" he thinks as he follows the Corporal to their quaters.
Arriving there he has to admit they do seem pretty good for military as far as he knows. After picking a room Kanatash goes to the washroom just to find out it's occupied now by someone else. Waiting outside he sees Lo'vek standing over the city map. As the Warforged leaves he nods in his direction.
Ten minutes later Raven comes out of the washroom and Kanatash finally can clean his body. "You see Kanat? Always keep your body clean."

After finishing the cleaning he looks for Raven and asks him "Raven ... could I take a look at the documents so I can remember them?"

After finishing cleaning and memorizing the pages he finally returns to his room and sits down on the long soft thing humans call bed returning his mind back into the dove which is still near the creation foge.

Rolls:
Autohypnosis take 10 for every page -> 18 (dc 15) to remember all the documents word by word (edit was to add this .... forgot about it but hope that's ok)

Spot1: [roll0]
Spot2: [roll1]
Spot3: [roll2]
Listen1: [roll3]
Listen2: [roll4]
Listen3: [roll5]

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin follows the corporal to his room and thanks him kindly. Not quite sure how to add right at this moment, he decides to hang around and be available.

[RFLS]

Lo'vek:

The merchant is exactly where the captain described, and was more than willing (if a little confused) to sell the device in question to you.

[AngryCyc]

The next morning, Pip tells everyone all that he learned. He also spends his time deep in thought formulating a plan for how to best achieve their goal.

[thethird]

Before going to sleep Raven gathers the party round and starts to work on the forgeries it will take him some time, but better do it before the morrow, since some of his focus fades after each copy. At first he starts tinkering with his monocle making sure that it is lens is adjusted properly, then he checks the inks, once that is done he takes the notarized documents and with care applies the forger papers to it. Once everything is ready he starts.

Raven infuses his monocle with Skill enhancement gaining a +4 circumstance to Forgery checks.
Uses the forgery kit for another +2 circumstance to forgery.
Uses the forger papers for a +2 alchemical to forgery.
He has a 5 mod.
He writes the documents giving new identities to everyone in the party (he is familiar with those he gains a +8 (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/skills/forgery.htm))
He blows his cunning knowledge on Pip's document, for an extra +4
He takes 10

---

Total 31 and total 35 for Pip's; assuming help from Pip and from Kanatash it goes up to 39.

Forging a document to lure Starrin out would require some more research and knowledge, and since Raven already had the materials for these he chose to write them down.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin joins Captain Pip next morning, curious about his plans. "So, captain, you intend to go in....alone or with the Warforged units. What is the plan from there on?"

[AngryCyc]

"That part sort of depends on what we find in there. Well be playing it by ear mainly. My guess is that the ideal situation would be nobody questions our presence and we can all just get in and get out. Should there be too many questions asked though, we may have to concoct some story about why I would need to bring two 'forged there in the first place. It's need to be something that would let us pass without there being a lot of questions. That's where I'm stuck. If it was just me getting in, I can bluff that easily. Since I don't know what we'll find in there though, it's hard to predict what sort of story will need to be established until we get there. My hunch is that the 'forged may have to wait right outside the final area, or perhaps get taken to another area for "repairs" or whatever while I investigate the last little bit...

[cameronpants]

"That part sort of depends on what we find in there. Well be playing it by ear mainly. My guess is that the ideal situation would be nobody questions our presence and we can all just get in and get out. Should there be too many questions asked though, we may have to concoct some story about why I would need to bring two 'forged there in the first place. It's need to be something that would let us pass without there being a lot of questions. That's where I'm stuck. If it was just me getting in, I can bluff that easily. Since I don't know what we'll find in there though, it's hard to predict what sort of story will need to be established until we get there. My hunch is that the 'forged may have to wait right outside the final area, or perhaps get taken to another area for "repairs" or whatever while I investigate the last little bit...

"Head doctors. In the field, when a soldier's seen a bit too much, they go kinda strange. The Cyran head honchos send out these specialized personality doctors who talk to them and figure out what's wrong. Maybe these two forged are experts at identifying erratic Warforged personalities." Julien shrugs and looks in the direction Lo'vek left.

[thethird]

Raven sleeps till late, last night he worked on the forged papers and he has never been a morning person. When he gets out of his bed he produces himself something for breakfast before approaching the party and handing them their new identities.

-Here are your papers. Nice to meet you all I guess. Familiarize yourselves with the names in the papers in case it comes up, this is the contract of the mercenaries, and well, here is Starrin's ID. We need to procure ourselves with some mean of escape yet, don't we?

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin nods and looks at Julien. "So you plan on being open about the purpose of the visit?" He shrugs. "Not necessarily saying that is a bad idea, but there's also the option of inspecting for some other purpose. That way, should the mission be compromised in a way we haven't shown the full intent of it."

[Feint's End]

"The humans are awake now Kanatash" whispers Kanats voice in his mind. Kanatash pulls himself back into his body ... would he be capable of mourning he would. Spending all the night watching the creation forge isn't a task to have fun with. "Well at least I have more amusing company now" he thinks as he starts correcting his clothes and making himself ready to step out of the room.

As he steps out he sees the other standing around the tacticstable in the middle of the gathering room.
"Good morning everybody ... hope you had a pleasant sleep" ... Kanatash speaks to the group. "How are the plans going so far? I've been watching the creation forge all night but except for Zann leaving in the evening I couldn't find anything odd or special. He left cloaked and headed south into the city. The workers were talking about some sort of quota too but that might just be a basic production procedure."
he pauses shortly as he waits for answers
nodding to Raven he adds "marvellous work Raven. I can't tell if those are true or not but I'm not really experience with documents like that so that doesn't say anything"

[AngryCyc]

"Sounds like the planning Is almost complete. Time for action is near. We need to send the forgeries that will lure Starrin away, and then we should make our move as soon as we can."

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

Such a crude device. Lo'vek spent the evening tinkering with the voice modification artifice, critiquing its poor resemblance to the real thing. While the others slept and Kanatash divined with his creation Lo'vek entered a trance, the lights within his eye socket rapidly changing color and intensity.

Sone wer kornari. Sone wer ibafarshan. Lleisgar, lleisgar svern. At night in his room, the candlelight reflected off something hard and shiny woven beneath his metal sinews. His eyelight slowed its pulse to match the rhythm of the flame.

Sone wer kornari. Sone wer ibafarshan. Lleisgar, lleisgar svern.

In the morning he waited before others were awake before emerging from his room. "If there are no other preparations to make we should begin." He says with nothing in the way of greeting.

[AngryCyc]

Pip really really looks like Starrin.

[RFLS]

The sun rises, bringing light into each of your rooms. The letter had been sent off to Starrin the night before, after it had been stamped and dog-eared and rubbed with dirt a little. You stayed awake long enough to hear reports of him packing his things in a hurry, and now you rise, ready to set about your plan. Starrin has just left the city, headed for Zilargo, with no plans to return for the next two weeks. Zann and Querst are both within the facility, manning their stations. Some of you, the ones going inside, stand across the street from the facility, readying the last portions of your disguises and going over the plans you'd made the night before.

[AngryCyc]

"Alright worse case scenario guys, we meet back up when convenient and safe at the HQ."

Pip is calm. He is more than calm... He is happy, relaxed, and blissful. This is his fun. This is his vacation. Right now, about to infiltrate a top secret facility, surrounded by furiously pounding hearts, Pip merely smirks and whistles a tune. The whistling changes rapidly, producing many different sounds and then changing to entirely different rhythms. Some might recognize the style as being a song of thanksgiving for the Traveler...

[RFLS]

Pip strolls up to the gate of the facility, stopping at the guardhouse as the guard salutes him.

"Sir! I...we thought you'd left for...good to see you, sir!"


And, the first in a large number of Spot checks.

[roll0]

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

A black eyepatch covers Lo'veks right eye. This disguise will fool no one. A bright red cloak hangs over his back partially obscuring his shield strapped there. On the cloak is the insignia of an unit that does not and never did exist, three dragons flying around a laurel wreath. A rapier is sheathed at his waist. Lo'vek glances at the guard and then ignores him.

Lo'veks 'malfunction' is that he believes himself to be a part of a military unit that does not exist. The emblem and dress are supposedly part of this units uniform. Feel free to spin whatever story you want about why he has this condition.

[Feint's End]

"So it's showtime" Kanatash thinks by himself as he follow Pip to the guardian. He changed his appearance into that of a regular warforged using the powers granted by the Vestige Naberius and so far they worked really well. Aside from his cloak, which looked now like a dirty all sack he also carryed his sword and his shield ... both looking like regular army equipment. His Psicrystal Kanat was in a small pocket in his coat.

As Pip starts talking to the guard Kanatash doesn't pay attention to him and just stares straight at Pip as if he was expecting orders playing his role.

Bound Naberius [roll0] (dc 15 for good bind)
disguise as normal warforged and disguised gear [roll1]

[AngryCyc]

"Yes, you 'thought I left for...' is exactly what you should and will continue to think. You are to keep this as quiet as possible. The last thing I need is the bad publicity this could bring down on all of us... then turning to the warforged in tow, "Come, you lot. Inside. That's an order!"

Starrin mutters some well-chosen curses under his breath, as he ushers the 'forged past the guard...

"If anyone asks, you have no recollection of me or these two being here, ya follow? Malfunctioning warforged could mean the end of our livelihoods..." and as he continues to press the 'forged onward, he turns back and yells "And see that I am not disturbed by anything less than the very gods themselves! And even then, only if they're here to assist..."

so um. Technically, nothing he said was actually a lie.....so diplomacy? Of course, it doesn't really matter to me. Take 10 on either bluff or diplomacy both yield 23

[RFLS]

As the three of you march into the grounds of the facility, you're met with stares from the couple of guards who recognize Starrin and know who he is. Looking behind you for the briefest of seconds, you see the gate guard speaking to a small mechanical creature, which, after a second, goes racing past you into the facility, rapidly disappearing from sight.

Think I forgot to answer this, but yes, the ritual is still up or up again, so you have the ability it grants.

DC 18 Knowledge (Arcana) check to identify the creature as a messenger homunculus. They're pretty much exactly what the sound like. They're fast, have perfect memory, and can recite what they've heard in the speaker's voice.

DC 23 Knowledge (Arcana) to realize that that one's a fair bit bigger than the average messenger homunculus. It takes a fairly dedicated crafter to make one of that size.

[RFLS]

You reach the door to the facility, and enter; Pip leading with the two Warforged trailing. Inside is a small lobby with a secretary seated behind a desk, and two guards standing at the entrance to the facility proper. At your entrance, the secretary looks up.

"Glad to see you, Mr. Starrin. What can I do for you? Should I contact Ms. Zann? The guard said there were....that you mentioned production problems. Sir."

[AngryCyc]

"Yes that would be... ideal. I think I'll observe the examination of these two also. Thank you."

Pip then begins observing the warforged while waiting for Zann to arrive. He looks troubled, but also curious, and slightly afraid.

[RFLS]

After a few minutes of waiting, a thin stick of a woman comes trailing into the room, lab coat flapping out behind her like a tail. She barely registers the secretary, instead looking at Pip and frowning.

"Starrin. You're back early. I see you brought guests. What's the occasion?"

Without even waiting for an answer, she starts walking around Lo'vek and Kanatash, hemming and hawing.

"Where did you find these, Starrin? They're...not ours, I don't think. This one, especially, is strange." She indicates Lo'vek for the last sentence.

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

Lo'vek stands up straight as the woman inspects him. He lifts his chin and looks at her with his one good eye. "Stranger still to live life without questioning, madam." He says and swirls his cloak about as he bows. The movements are clunky, as if mere imitation of what one has seen before but has not practiced.

[RFLS]

Zann stops and stares for a second, then lets out a peal of laughter.

"How delightful! A sense of humor! Thank you so very much, Starrin. Come, come, let's get to the lab and we can see just exactly what is going on here."

As she ushers the warforged further into the facility, she looks back at Starrin. "Aren't you coming? I have questions I need answered. Where did you find them, for a start?"

[AngryCyc]

"Find them? The blasted things found ME, and I am hoping YOU can be the one to help fill me on all the questions I have... So please, after you. Do that thing you are so good at and lets get to the bottom of this...

Pip follows, semisomnambulantly.

[RFLS]

The two warforged, Pip/Starrin, and Zann all head deeper into the facility. You pass several labs with hunched-over workers, a few storage rooms, and what looks like a small factory. As you walk along, Zann starts firing off questions at you.

"So what exactly is the problem here, Starrin? They're not malfunctioning like the others are, but they're very clearly...unusual. They almost remind me of a few experiments we did two or three years ago, but I was under the impression that those had been terminated...?"

[AngryCyc]

"You are not the only one who was under that assumption... I just don't know. Clearly there is something a bit off about them both. Regardless, a little tinkering should answer some questions at least. Right now I have too many possibilities bouncing around in my head, and I do not wish to speculate just yet. Tel me, do you think this might be either an earlier stage of the malfunctions we've been seeing? Or perhaps this is what happens when malfunctions build up over time. I want you to figure out any relation between every type of malfunction you've ever heard of."

[RFLS]

"Well....maybe. I'm not sure."

Addressing the warforged, she asks them "What do you two do, exactly? We have a place you can demonstrate, if you prefer."

[thethird]

An inconspicuous magewright has been following Starrin closely, he keeps to himself, and mostly carries tinkering tools and minor devices to help the Gorgon in case of need. The magewright cannot help himself but to smirk mentally admiring himself in how his garment cloaks his expression, and consider that if all the other hooded magewrights share most of his thoughts he should treat them in a much nicer way in the future. Still he makes sure to not make a noise, powerful artificers abound around, whoever made that homunculus was strong, and calling attention to himself was a bad idea.

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

If a warforged could blush...well, they can't. Instead Lo'vek shifts his boot clad feet and smiles at her. "This is too public a room to demonstrate all that I am capable of, dear lady." Lo'vek says and then winks at her but holds it too long. He taps the hilt of his rapier. "I am a fighter, a dueler of men, a slayer of cowards and hold the honor of being the scribe of the Three Dragons Knights."

Lo'vek is playing it as if he believes he is human, something they could have discussed beforehand (might be part of the papers/morning briefing before entering), so Pip may want to play off that.

[Feint's End]

"Right now I am standing here and waiting for orders Master" Kanatash says with a monoton voice.

[RFLS]

Zann leads you to a relatively large room across the hallway. The room is made entirely out of iron, with strange runes etched into the walls everywhere you look. A magical light shines from the ceiling.

In the center of the room is a sparring dummy, although it, too, is covered in runes. Zann gestures at it "Now show me what you can do, please. First you indicating Lo'vek, "and then you" indicating Kanatash.

Spellcraft checks, DC 20, to note that the runes seem to be a customized abjurative magic system that prevents harm from befalling living creatures in this room. Additionally, they seem to be able to generate an antimagic effect.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin goes out and tries to find a locale close to the factory where he can hang out without looking too suspicious, and he asks Julien to join him. When the team has been inside the building for a few minutes, he tests the link: "Lieutenant Kasin here. Do you hear me?"

[Feint's End]

As Lo'vek gets ready to demonstrate his abilitys Kanatash turns to Zann and says with his fake monoton voice "What would you like me to do? Please specify your orders, master."

[cameronpants]

Julien

Julien frowns as Kasin's whispered message reaches his ear. Julien, pointing under his table as Kasin sitting a few tables over, whispers back.

Sure do. How long do we leave 'em in there before doing anything? he asks.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

"Yes, hi. I was actually testing to see whether the team inside can hear us. I see no other course of action than to wait for a signal from inside before acting." He pauses a moment, and then adds: "And even then...."

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

With a stiff bow to the lady Lo'vek draws his rapier and lunges awkwardly toward the dummy. "Have at thee scoundrel!" He says and feints then parries an invisible blade. His heavy feet clang loud against the floor and he whirls his blade around the dummy. He ducks once and then stabs at the dummy.

"He won't trouble you again, ma'am." He says as he sheathes his rapier with a flourish.

[RFLS]

"Interesting... is there anything else? Is that it?"

[AngryCyc]

"I dunno... I feel like maybe we should put them through more of a combat-like ordeal to really test their full range..."

[thethird]

Raven smiles slightly under his hood, those runes are interesting, they certainly can be stretched. He hopes though that they would protect the warforged, since depending on who is asked the creatures are not truly considered living creatures.

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

"Anything else..." Lo'vek repeats and trails off. His grin slowly fades and he looks at the lady, seeing her but looking past her. "Tivol throdenilt...?" He says and the fingers of his battlefist spasm and he slams it down onto his leg where his fingers dig deep into his metal and wooden body. "Tivol throdenilt..." He repeats as the battlefist constricts tighter and wood snaps and metal bends with a horrible screech. A dark sap drips down from his thigh and the battlefist contracts suddenly, his hand hanging there with warforged blood on it.

His eye regains focus and his body relaxes, putting his battlefist on his hip as he smiles at the lady. "Anything else? I have many talents, but always talking about oneself is a bore."

The other language is draconic (trans: anything more).

Self Inflicted Damage [roll0]

[RFLS]

Zann stares for a second, scribbles in her notebook, and then says "O...kay, then. How about you? Anything?", gesturing towards Kanatash.

[Feint's End]

Kanatash raises his arm and moves one finger to each side ... after moving it back down he asks "Is that sufficient Master?"

[AngryCyc]

"Yes that was... that was quite enough. Thank you very much!" and turning to Zann, he tells her "Might I have a word with you in private for just a second..?"

He then escorts her out of the room.

[RFLS]

Zann gets a very...peculiar look on her face, which evaporates after a second. Turning to Starring, she says "Absolutely, sir. I have...a few things that need discussion. Right now. Two, I think."

As she speaks and moves towards the doorway, she moves her hands in a strange, precise pattern.

Once outside, she turns to Starrin. "Sir, I don't think those two warforged are defective at all. At least, not the way they're acting. They're very...in control for defectives."


Spot check, DC 20, to see: The runes along the walls glow briefly when she finishes her gestures.

Sense Motive, DC 15, to notice: Yeah, she's flipped the heck out.

[AngryCyc]

Stepping to somewhere more secure, he hurriedly states, "Well these two are clearly impostors. That much is evident. What's not so clear, however, is what exactly they are doing here and what they want. Killing a few spies is easy, but what we need to is figure out where they are from and what they want... and pausing a moment, he adds "The best course of action will be to let them think their little ruse has worked. Let's give them a bit of leeway to figure out their motives. Tell everyone to let them do whatever they are doing, so long as it doesn't endanger us. Once we've determined what they are after, that will change......"

[RFLS]

"Sir, that's not... " trailing off, Zann looks distinctly uncomfortable.

"Sir, I think that, if we were to take them as prisoners right now, Querst would be more than capable of extracting any information from them we required. It would be...less of a risk..." She looks at Starrin, trying to gauge his response before he gives it.

[AngryCyc]

"Don't you think I know that? However, if someone were trying to infiltrate us, wouldn't they most likely have known what Querst was capable of, and have afforded themselves protections? Short-term, yes it is less of a risk to capture them right now. Long term, however, it is more important to stop the colony then to stop a single ant. The longer we let them believe they are succeeding, the more likely they are to slip up. Clearly we would stop them from doing something such as planting a bomb or what have you.

However, you do make a good point. I believe we shouldn't immediately capture them, let them have a bit of freedom, and observe them. Inform Querst of the situation, and be prepared for anything. But allow them to make the first mistake so that we may better understand their motives should they be protected against divination attempts.

Continue "testing" them now. I need to go secure certain... valuables."

[RFLS]

"If you say so, sir."

Returning to the room momentarily, she says to Lo'vek and Kanatash "If you two wouldn't mind staying here for a bit, I have some tests to get ready for you."

Everyone Else

Okay, I'm assuming Pip is leaving the facility. Maybe this game can actually go somewhere now; I'm going to need everyone to post what they're doing.

[cameronpants]

Julien

Julien sits at a table by a window drinking coffee and playing a game of solitaire dyn; he had already finished three games, but this last run had him blocked in three suits. He kept a wary eye on the entrance to the facility.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

A few tables away, Kasin is sitting, sketching on a piece of paper. He tries to keep an eye on the facility and on Julien.

[Chambers]

Lo'vek

When Zann and Pip leave the room Lo'vek drops the pose and glances at Kanatash. "I don't think much of our disguises." He says and takes hold of his cape and glares at it. "Hopefully this won't last much longer."

When she comes in Lo'vek nods to her and taps the hilt of his rapier. "Blade is ready, ma'am."

[Feint's End]

Waiting for Zann to leave the second time Kanatash sharpens his minds and manifests a few precautions for the worst case.
After Zann left he turns to Lo'vek "you are indeed right ... I don't think we will get out of here without a fight but lets keep it low as long as possible."
Kanatash makes the Inertial Armor surrounding him visible for one second so Lo'vek knows he is prepared and lets it vanish immediately afterwards turning to the door again and slipping back into his role.

[RFLS]

The Facility:

It's been hours. Lo'vek and Kanatash have been subjected to all kinds of tests. How fast can you run? How much can you lift? What weapons are you proficient with? Did you learn any of those skills after you were created? What do you think of this picture? It goes on and on for what feels like an eternity, even to the most patient of robotic minds.

Pip, meanwhile, has busied himself wandering around the facility, largely unhindered in his comings and goings. He sees various labs working on the animation of constructs, some working on weapon fittings for warforged and homunculi, and still others fiddling with strange devices that have no apparent purpose. The Creation Forges, 12 of them, held here are clustered in a central room. They're tall, bulky devices, with pipes and levers protruding at all angles around a central container that looks like a cross between a coffin and a submarine. As Pip watches, a Warforge exits one of the Creation Forges, and is guided out of the room.

People Who Are Currently Twiddling Their Thumbs Because I'm Incompetent:

Hours pass. There's been no word from within the facility, although that means that, most likely, nothing has gone wrong. Nonetheless, it's close to, if not past, your agreed-upon check-in time.

[AngryCyc]

Using Starrin's authority, Pip order's everyone out of the room with the Creation Forges, as he has some adjustments to make. When the room is empty, he takes a Tree Feather Token and wedges it into where he sees the most pipes and tubes and other important, sciencey things, somewhere in the middle of all 12 of them.

A few awkward seconds of dodging out of the way of a tree later, Pip looks at the tangled mess of forges and smiles.

He sneaks his way along trying to avoid any people he might come across, and makes his way back to where his two comrades are being held.

"Ahh good... looks like the testing has been going well! I do believe I'll take these two to see Querst now... Don't you think that might be the best idea..?", he says to what's-her-face suggestively.

Let's see... probably diplomacy or bluff for clearing the room, taking 10, so 23 for either of those.

If you want a reflex save to not get hurt by the tree (Nobody ever agrees on how quickly those Tokens work offensively...) [roll0].

Hide [roll1] and Move Silently [roll2] with Hide in Plain Sight

And finally another 23 for diplomacy or bluff for when I get back to the room where they're being tested. If any of these things needs adjusting, lemme know... I was just trying to hurry things along.

[Autopsibiofeeder]

Kasin

Kasin points his finger at Julien and mumbles: "It is getting late. Want to go out and hang out around the facility? Who knows what we hear, maybe we can help them extract themselves."