Hollow Soul, Empty Skin [IC] [Archive] - Giant in the Playground Forums

BelGareth

2013-06-19, 12:41 PM

Zeb was rowing, as was his duty, still. Being a member of the crew, had its perks, but sometimes it sucked, like right now, as he was rowing.

And to top it all off, he had to listen to Allistar tell a joke, the crook couldn't tell a joke properly if he was facing the plank!

Zeb mouthed the words of the punchline as the 1st mate spoke.

the ghoul says 'I can't drown, I'm a sailor!

He mock cheered the man, but suddenly stopped, as he started to turn around, replacing his silent ovations with a wicked grin. His tale shot out and purred back and forth to accentuate his true innocence in anything underhanded.

Sailing on the Zephyr was fine and dandy, but it was not the life of a pirate, Zeb knew he couldn't always have that life, but oh was it fun! He could still have fun not being a pirate, and the threat of a noose around his neck was almost singularly responsible for keeping him away.

But sometimes the promise of swinging was just not enough.

He caught himself daydreaming and his oar slipping a tad, he picked up the pace, making sure to keep the boat straight so as not to incur the pointed eye o'the first mate!

He started whistling a sea shanty, a mixture of the concerto he was listening to in his head, the GodChord blowing it through the mists of the morn to his ears.

Everyone had met Zeb, or as some had come to hear, Constantine, he was a veteran sailor, and tailored himself as the morale officer, at least to hear him say it. The other sailors take it in stride, knowing to spite Zeb, would be hell, as being stuck on a boat with a well trained prankster can be....well...hell. And they actually liked the rogue, he is good for a prank and is capable of cheering up most, plus his songs are in some ways the most eerily pleasant things most of the crew had ever heard.

He was good man, to be told by most, and it was rumored he was going out to the town, that his contract had expired.

He suddenly started singing his sea shanty tune, not caring about the leer from the 1st mate.

"The Diamond is a ship, my lads, for the Davis Strait she’s bound,
And the quay it is all garnished with bonny lasses ’round;
Captain Thompson gives the order to sail the ocean wide,
Where the sun it never sets, my lads, no darkness dims the sky,

So it’s cheer up my lads, let your hearts never fail,
While the bonny ship, the Diamond, goes a-fishing for the whale.

Along the quay at Peterhead, the lasses stand aroon,
Wi’ their shawls all pulled around them and the salt tears runnin’ doon;
Don’t you weep, my bonny lass, though you be left behind,
For the rose will grow on Greenland’s ice before we change our mind.

So it’s cheer up my lads, let your hearts never fail..."

[roll0]

cameronpants

2013-06-19, 01:03 PM

The deckhand's shanty is pleasant, but its mood doesn't seem to capture the essence of the moment- for most of you, anyhow, who have deadlines and stress eating at your cores.

The rowboat continues its virtually straight trek to the Great Bay's Herring Docks, central to a large stretch of wooden platforms floating on the water.

As you approach the edge of Aelbridge along the Herring Docks, you realize the water is slowly changing color. It's gone from a dark green and blue to a dark purple. In some places it becomes a light haze of purple, spilling vapor into the air above it that creates an oil-slick rainbow where the dawn's light hits it.

The smell comes next. Not just dead fish and excrement as song city's docks smell- but of decay. Death. The water is putrid with it. You've heard stories of homeless men so desparate for a drink they take a sip of the Bay water and die before it reaches their stomachs.

The rowboat edges close to a stall and Allistar throws a rope around a beg and pulls himself towards a wooden ladder adjacent to the stall.

"Bring it about to stall Five Five Nine, Zeb. That's good. Alright! The next bit 'o my job 'ere is to make ensure you lot don't get swallowed by the masses in five minutes. Now, I ain't gonna be your tour guide, but bless my mother's killer if I ain't gonna give you the two-five. Now, listen. Aelbridge is big- bigger 'n all the other cities combined- bigger 'n some countries. Over a thousand thousand people live here. And by people I don't mean humans and elves and 'lings, but I mean goblins, trogs, sylphs, nymphs, minotaurs- hell, I once met a Centaur here! Place is a cesspool of thievery and brigandry too, so watch yerself. If you don't got a place to stay, head to the Red Festival o'er on Elm and 25th. Oh yeah, and streets got names of trees, lakes, and famous folk going east and numbers and colors going north. Anyhow, owner's a real nice guy, likes stories. Name's Stare. Big hat, dark eyes. Pleasant.

Any questions 'fore I get you offa' my boat?" He laughs again, a bigger laugh than one would expect for such a small man.

Azoth

2013-06-19, 07:41 PM

The song caught Thantos' attention. Not for its lyrics nor its tones. The singer himself is what drew him in. The mad had skill with word, and voice better than any quior, but it was the involvement that caught him. He could tell this was a man who viewed song as more than a pass time. It was a part his soul, and that brought a small smile to his pale thin lips.

Hearing the description of the town made Thantos' eyes narrow. It would seem that this place was in great need of his services, but they would have to wait until after his meeting. The sole purpose for his journey, to get his newest assignment and begin his work.

When the ship began to stop Thantos rose slowly. He let his full height stretch out to peer over the area. A hand absent mindedly reached back to make sure his scythe was secure before he began to move slowly towards Allistar.

Slow measured steps fall heavily on the wooden floor of the vessel. Thudding with the force of a heart that knows its end is near. A deep scowl drawn accross Thantos' face as if the man had gravely insulted him. Achingly slow is the hand that raises towards the man. The spikes and bone a stark comparrison to the metal they are affixed to as if he wore that claws of some grat beast instead of simple armor. A lone finger raised out as if accusing the man of some great attrocity. He stops it level with the man's chest, as his dark eyes look to the man. The piercing glare telling him to open his own hand. As he does, two heavy silver coins would fall out of Thantos' hand into his.

His dual tone voice speaking conspiratorily to the man, Remember...its only two bones to cross the river Styx.

[roll0] Intimidate

As he finishes, a cruel smile grows across his face for a moment. He holds the grim look of death on his face for a few moments before he lets out a deep bellowous laugh as if it were all some joke before moving to disembark.

cameronpants

2013-06-19, 08:18 PM

Allistar Level + Wis Check to resist Imperious Command Intimidate [roll0]

Allistar, leaning against the wooden ladder, twitches and lunges away from Thantos in a moment of near panic. His foot slips off the edge of the ladder, and it looks as if he's about to fall in the water.

cameronpants

2013-06-19, 08:25 PM

The highest reflex save will get a chance to grab him before he falls (if you choose to try, that is) with a Climb check.
Thantos Reflex [roll0]
Shallas Reflex [roll1]
Barnabas Reflex [roll2]
Omar Reflex [roll3]
Farrah Reflex [roll4]
Constantine Reflex [roll5]

BelGareth

2013-06-19, 09:04 PM

Zeb saw it before it even happened, a song of suddenness, drums beating slowly, increasing with speed as he lept forward to catch his 1st mate, he didn't like the man. But heck, he would need to stay in good standing if he was to gain a new contract!

[roll0]

Jötunn

2013-06-19, 09:56 PM

Farrah sits quietly, miserable and alone. Almost absentmindedly she wipes the tears away with chalk-stained fingers. Focalor was a useful vestige, but he could sometimes make you feel a fool.

She stares across the bay, away from the others, and hopes that they don't notice.

A tall, lithe young woman, Farrah is dressed in traveller's clothing - the full-plate in her trunk is suicide if you fall overboard, even with Focalor's gift of water breathing. There is no guarantee that she would survive the pressures of the deep, let alone the monsters and the journey back to the surface. Still, she keeps her sword and shield close by in case of trouble.

Her gaze is tentatively drawn back by the song of the young tiefling sailor. She smiles slightly at the song, although it doesn't fit the cool morning, it's still more entertaining than the first mate's jests.

Speaking of which, she is about to respond to the first mate's speech with quiet mumbled thanks when the black clad man points his finger at the sailor and he slips. Shocked out of her reverie, she moves, but far too slow, too slow as the man falls from the ladder...

Winds

2013-06-19, 10:05 PM

Shallas grins ruefully to himself on noticing the condition of the bay.

"That doesn't smell as nice. You could use a nice storm to wash some of this away..."

He returns to a half trance as he listens to the city bustle in the distance.

On hearing Allistar fall, he is of course too slow to catch him first-but since Zeb managed to catch him, Shallas takes a moment to murmur a spell, then touch Allistar's wrist.

Spend 5 points of Aracana to cast Water Breathing on him and Zeb. Each can breath water freely for the next 8 hours. (Assuming of course, that they both accept it.)

Swami Monsoon

2013-06-19, 10:34 PM

Omar is startled out of his thoughts by the near mishap...

That would have sucked... even for me.

He doesn't want to think about what the toxic soup in the harbor would do to his skin, much less his gills. He turns to look at the tall guy wearing the ridiculous skeleton armor, like something out of a bad costume drama...

I wonder if he's one of the midget's guys. It would certainly be easier for him if the First Mate had just ended up coughing up what was left of his lungs all over the dock. And the whole Dark Baron von DarkSkull outfit would be just his style for a henchman. That little prick sure does have a taste for the dramatic... Could this really be going down in port instead of on the next leg? Damnit I need to hurry tonight...

Omar is absentmindedly humming to himself as he weighs his options. He stops himself when he realizes that the tune is the Imperial March from the recent hit opera "The Emperor Strikes Back." No need to antagonize Bonehead before he has to...

cameronpants

2013-06-19, 11:19 PM

Zeb's solidly planted footing allows him to stop Allistar from falling overboard. Allistar's flailing arms were too easy of a target to grab onto.

"Zeb, thank you!" Allistar mumbles after being caught.

He, shakily, climbs the wooden ladder onto the dock, and motions for you all to follow him.

Once you are all on the deck, he, still white faced, says, "Your belongings will be sent to this dock over the next six hours. If you can leave an address with Harbor Master Jane for where we should send it that would be appreciated. Otherwise, come back here after two o'clock or so to pick it up by hand."

He shakes each of your hands- all but Thantos's, that is- and finishes with Zeb.

"If there's anything Allistar Teal and the Soaring Zephyr can do for you, name it. Be well, Zeb."

Allistar turns and carefully picks his way down to the rowboat, casting the line as he goes.

The hustling crowds have already begun at the Herring Docks. Nearby you see a ship of dwarves and humans slowly packing the last few crates below deck, and just beyond that a ship of reptilian-looking men unloading an exotic cargo ship. Across a stretch of empty docks from them stands an Ettin in gilded leather carrying dismantled ballistas and trebuchets onto a barge.

And the smell of the bay permeated everything. Wood, no matter how new, seems oily and stained after exposure to this place.

We can now head separate ways via Spoiler

@BelGareth:
You gain 200xp.

Jötunn

2013-06-19, 11:36 PM

Farrah wipes away the tears both before shaking Allistar's hand, and before she speaks once again.

"I think I may make my way towards the inn that Allistar spoke of. Are any of you to join me? It may be safer to travel as a group."

She casts around for any clue to the harbormaster's offices.

Deep inside, she hopes that the less savory members of the voyage decline her offer.

Doxkid

2013-06-20, 12:00 AM

"Interesting." Barnabas seems rooted to the spot as he takes in the majesty of the city; even when surrounded by death, poison and decay, life has still managed to carve itself a niche to take root in.

Better yet, those adaptations and tricks keeping everyone and everything here alive all feed back into the decay infused into the foundation of this city.

Robbed of his chance to observe just how those exposed to the sea of toxins surrounding the city, Barnabas spends a moment considering the best way he can locate his goal and finish his job; the sooner that is finished the sooner he can begin his real experiments.

He'll need information. More information than his employer could offer at the very least; names to match with the strange place his research located, events to help him better understand what happened, facts to wash away the fiction created from fear...First, though, he will need lodgings.

The crowd rumbles threateningly as he considers wading into it unprotected. More so than the water, it is likely he'll succumb to an early death if he enters it, trampled underfoot by a test-subject he never even got a chance to examine.

"I suppose I will join your group. Would you care for a ride, or may I ride you? I would prefer not to squander power, but my ride would be faster if you prefer that." There is no hint of jest in his voice; his question is as serious as the fluids covering him are serous.

BelGareth

2013-06-20, 12:19 AM

Zeb managed to grab Allistar's hand and pull him back up before the small 1st mate could drop any further into the sink. that would have been a close one, he would have most likely been banned from the Zephyr on any future journeys. He smiled, Tymora's luck was with him.'

He took a look at the others and winked at the tall bony armored man, sticking his tongue out, making jest of the whole situation.

He waited for the others to heave themselves up the ladder and joined them all on the pier above the filthy detritus. Turning to Allister, and the last to be waved off he listened to him as he grasped his wrist.

"If there's anything Allistar Teal and the Soaring Zephyr can do for you, name it. Be well, Zeb."

He shook his head, all smiles and pranks forgotten. this could come in handy, best to keep it for now, favors were hard to get and even harder to keep.

He watched the diminutive 1st mate saunter off, checking the lines. Shaking himself from the momentary reverie he looked to the crowd, ah yes, the sea of people, much like the deep blue, strong, deadly and prone on turning on you at the last moment.

With yet another grin on his red face, he took off, moving through the crowd as one of them, for surely he was, a sailor and a pirate, some may have even known him from his saunter and look, not many a tieflings in the trade, he had made it his business to be known by all the captains he had served with.

Which has lead me to my present situation, he thought dryly.

As he walks he tries to think of the best inn to come across the appropriate information he was looking for. If the crowds become to thick, he simply vanishes from sight using his Walk Unseen invocation.

Lore Master lets me take 10 on any knowledge check and take 20 1/day.
He had taken 20 on Arcana, local and history during the time on the ship. (if he had 3 days, if not, minus the result by -10 on the last check)
Knowledge Arcana - 31(+11 mod)
Knowledge History - 25(+5 mod)
Knowledge Local - 25(+5 mod)

cameronpants

2013-06-20, 08:20 AM

Farrah and Barnabas begin to travel towards the Red Festival. Should any others wish to head for the Red Festival, they must merely follow the duo.

@BelGareth
The message I sent you includes the information from all three knowledge checks. You can make further checks to know what detailed knowledge you have of what I gave you (specifics of individual Lords, profiles, residences, how to become an apprentice, etc).

@Swami Monsoon
Make a spot check.

@Azoth
You are not quite sure where your contact lives, but you do know it's in a district called Northtower.

@Winds
You were the last off of the rowboat and the last to have his hand shaken by Allistar. He holds it extra long and he whispers "I know what you did. Same goes for you what goes for Zeb. Anything you need."

@Jötunn, Doxkid
You begin your trek to the Red Festival. Following roads with numbers and colors seem to follow a certain pattern and you don't find it too difficult.

Winds

2013-06-20, 08:25 AM

"I'll walk with you. At least take a look at the place before it's time to rest."

Shallas then notices the two have already set off. He shakes his head slightly at that, and follows behind them.

Jötunn

2013-06-20, 08:54 AM

Farrah bows perfunctorily to the sickly halfling and answers as politely as she can manage.

"I would be most grateful for the company of a traveling companion, sir. I am certain that with someone like you around we shall arrive quite safely. However, I fear I must decline a... er... ride for the moment."

She strides off, with a glance behind her at the rest of the new arrivals to the city and is glad to see that at least one of them is hurrying to catch up.

Azoth

2013-06-20, 09:18 AM

Thantos smiles at the Tiefling. He decided he liked this one. A lighthearted man that could appreciate a joke, even of questionable nature. Thantos may have to try and find him later on to share a drink and some time.

Shifting slightly he looks atbout the throng and decides he is lost before he even begins. He may have known the name of the district he needed, but that was it. Not even where it was from his current location. This was annoying, and unlike the sect to leave him such incomplete information.

Still he sets off to try and locate his contact. His eyes scanning for any who might be of actual use to him.

Gather Information: [roll0]

Swami Monsoon

2013-06-20, 10:48 AM

Omar follows the group towards the inn, taking in the crowds and the cityscape around him... He touches his turban, making sure that it is still snugly seated on his head, and the hidden runes woven into its fabric are still doing their job. Despite the earlier talk about "exotic" races being at home in Aelbridge, he was going to be cautious for now... As one of his old captains was fond of saying, "Trust, but verify." For now he remains a short, stocky brown-skinned human with a round face and slightly over-sized eyes...

Spot
[roll0]

BelGareth

2013-06-20, 11:26 AM

DM:
Zeb recalls all the information he had gone over on the ship, it was obvious he was going to have to find this vault, and the key word to get what he needed. And it wasn't going to be easy.

He sighed, he didn't mind hard things, as long as they were fun, but going up against the Lords Magi was not an easy thing, it might be fun, but that was all up to Tymora...

Not seeing or remembering another tavern he goes to the one the other passengers headed to, he was looking for someone who would know how to locate the vault and any information about it.

Entering the Red Festival Inn he found a table (after dismissing his invisibility) and ordered some mead, a trencher of stew and some sweet rolls. It had been a while since he had a good hot meal with any watch or week old foodstuffs, and he relished the chance to fill his belly.

As he sat and ate, he listened, and after that he ordered some more drinks and moves through the crowd, talking to everyone he can, trying to discern if anyone knows of anyone who can help.

[roll0]

He will then use Charm (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/charmPerson.htm) on each person he talks to, trying to gather/create as many friends as possible. Will DC 19 to negate.
Diplomacy checks for all he talks to (using perform:sing bonus per Perfect Sonnet ability), to raise their initial attitude by one step:
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]
[roll7]
[roll8]
[roll9]
[roll10]

cameronpants

2013-06-20, 06:38 PM

The Red Festival was a five-story affair that was built and designed to look like a hugely oversized barn. The top two floors were a casino and Play Room, the second and third were rooms for guests, and the first floor was a common room, tap house, and restaurant combined. They were popular and there were more than a dozen spread around Aelbridge.

@BelGareth
You are fairly certain you've become three different people's best friend, one of them as their best man, and proposed to twice. You are also somewhat sure you accepted on all three counts.
You learned little about the Vault of the Lords Magi other than conjecture and hearsay, and even then it was rumors you'd already learned were false.
One man, a middle-aged elf out for a bachelor party, claimed to have seen the execution of the apprentice 60 years before in person. He had been one of few passers-by to witness it first hand. He was confused and said the psychic impression he received was different from what actually happened- but could no longer remember specifics.
Then you had an extravagant time playing Hide The Mini Magi* with a barmaid.

*: a dice and cup game

@Swami MonsoonYou have the dreadful feeling that you are being watched. You cannot locate the source of this feeling, and as you start moving into the crowds of the dockyard the feeling edges off to be replaced by a nervous tick- your hand flashes up now and then to ensure your turban is still in place.

Doxkid

2013-06-21, 09:49 AM

Given his sluggish pace it is rather difficult to tell, but Barnabas pauses in front of the building for a good few seconds. After a short while he shuffles in place to face both Farrah, Shallah and Omar, his dragging robes actually leaving the street the slightest bit dirtier as they sweep against it.

"...I would like to use you. All of you. At once. In return I offer what I do best." He pauses, apparently considering the phrasing of his next words carefully. "We three should share a room. If not, meet me here when you finish your business." With that he shuffles forward into the building, his eyes scanning for someone to serve him.

Winds

2013-06-21, 11:15 AM

Shallas watches Barnabas walk into the building, then turns to the other two.

"What does he do best? I don't remember him doing anything in particular on the ship..."

Jötunn

2013-06-21, 11:39 AM

"I'm not sure either. I'm not sure I want to know. But I must admit a morbid curiosity. There's one thing I do know, however, and that is that I am not sleeping in the same room."

Farrah pauses, and looks at Omar for a moment, sighing and shaking her head.

"But I could use some help."

She smiles wanly, tears still rolling down her cheeks, and follows Barnabas into the inn.

Swami Monsoon

2013-06-21, 12:10 PM

Omar takes a last glance at the crowded street outside the inn. He is pretty sure that someone has been following him from the docks... not that it should be any surprise.

And, no, he certainly did not want to share a room with the creepy little guy. And get "used"... Whatever that meant, exactly, he was pretty sure he didn't swing that way... But there was no way he could safely share a room with anybody tonight.

"Yes, I think I'm going to pass on that offer as well. After so much time shipboard... I think I'm going to splurge on a single room."

He turns to Farrah.

"If there's some project you need help with, check with me tomorrow. Right now I'm beat. I think I'm going to have myself a nice meal, a drink or two and then call it an early night..."

Omar heads inside to book a room. His next stop will be the Harbormaster's office... not just to check in, but also to get a good idea of the layout for later. Then back to the inn for a bite and a beer and an early "bedtime"...

Winds

2013-06-21, 01:52 PM

A single room might be best. No distractions. Just listen to what there is to hear...But what to do until I hear it? Hmm. It doesn't make any difference where I am. I'll listen to the sickly one's proposal.

This decided, Shallas follows the others inside.

cameronpants

2013-06-25, 08:01 AM

The Red Festival is lively for this early in the morning. Bar maids and bus boys scurry here and there delivering smoked meats, fresh bread, and cheese and fruit platters to the patrons enjoying breakfast. The place has a nice smell like salted roses and a small fire burns in the fireplace, green and blue flames dancing above glowing embers.

@Winds, Swami Monsoon, Jötunn
You each set yourselves up with a single room. It costs 4 sp a night, and if you buy a week all at once you only pay 25 silver.

@Doxkid
You wander in and find a booth on the left hand wall. A woman, slightly older and more mature looking than the rest of the service staff approaches slowly, smiling. She offers a bowl of warm water and a rough cloth.
"Grab you some breakfast?" she intones.

@Azoth
You find a small group of men who look like they have information. One is dressed in a courier's uniform with the top few buttons undone, the second looks to be a sailor, and the third is a merchant of some kind. They are standing on the street corner by the docks speaking hurriedly over a map of what appears to be the district you are in.

After a few moments you gather from them that Northtower is the district just north of the center of town and will take several hours to get there by foot. They suggest using the Travel Tunnels, finding a good deal on a horse, or paying for magical transport.

And you're pretty sure you made the courier cry. Sometimes it's just too easy.

Azoth

2013-06-25, 11:27 AM

Thantos smiles to the men as his hand reaches out and a skeletal heavy war horse appears at his side. The reigns already in his hands as he gives them a final nod. He then swings up onto the horse and takes off to find his contact. The smile never leaving his face as he begins to push the horse up to speed.

His voice carrying slightly as he sings to himself,

Oh Mama, I'm in fear for my life from the long arm of the law
Law man has put an end to my running and I'm so far from my home
Oh Mama I can hear you a cryin', you're so scared and all alone
Hangman is comin' down from the gallows and I don't have very long...

*Summoned my Skeletal Steed. He lasts for 8hrs*

BelGareth

2013-06-25, 12:00 PM

After an exhausting night in the common room, Zeb decided to turn in and get some sleep. After paying for a room he racked out and woke early, hoping to find a library or some such place to answer his questions more thoroughly.

He is looking to find a library to find out what really happened to the last man executed. Official documents, history books or what have you.

He will take 20 on his knowledge check and search for finding the appropriate place and research once inside. (or unless you want to RP some stuff)

Winds

2013-06-25, 07:23 PM

In the Red Festival:

"...Yes, for a week is good."

Lodgings, check. Something to do until nightfall...Hmm.

As the sickly one seemed absorbed in something else, Shallas decided to approach the crying woman.

"Hello. I didn't introduce myself earlier. I'm Shallas. You mentioned that you could use some help, and I have nothing to do until nightfall, most likely. Could you use help from a storm-mage?"

Jötunn

2013-06-26, 05:47 AM

In the Red Festival:After purchasing room and board for a week, and installing her armor and few other possessions upstairs, Shallas finds Farrah sitting in the common room, despondently nursing a mug of something cool and alcoholic.

"A storm-mage, hmm?" She gestures at a nearby seat - one of two spares, in fact. "It's a long story, so I hope you don't mind if I wait to tell you both together, especially if he has a request for us as well. I need all the help that I can get, and I think that you two" - she looks him up and down - "are not the types to get involved with the people who search for me. But please, I don't believe we've really introduced ourselves. I am Farrah, a kni- that is, once a knight. I suppose I am no longer one, though I still am bound by my vows." At this reminder, her face droops once again, but at the same time she seems to focus her attention on Shallas, waiting on a response.

Doxkid

2013-06-26, 07:44 AM

In the Red Festival:
Barnabas stares blankly at the waitress/server, allowing the silence between them to stagnate beyond what most people would consider 'uncomfortable'. He reads her as best he can, waiting until just moments before she attempts to excuse herself before finally grumbling out "Beer. Flesh. Broth." with his typical grating voice.

Entirely satisfied with how he handled the situation, Barnabas rents a room for the next week before he sits down to enjoy his meal.

Assuming he is not interrupted, he proceeds to his room and establishes himself there. The basic outlines of a calling circle is chalked onto the floor, closely followed by Barnabas sniffing, touching, gnawing at or closely examining every inch of his room, from ceiling corners to the sheets on his bed.

He takes a moment to study and catalog every individual bump, growth, zip, pimple, wart, lump and growth on his body before returning to the common area. Only two of the three people he wishes to use are there waiting for him, but they will be sufficient for his needs.

"As I expected, you are here. I will begin." Barnabas takes an unoccupied seat and settles down, gawking at both of them. Over time his mouth slips open an his eyes lose focus as he just stares and stares and stares, only shifting when he turns his head to give the other participant of the conversation an equal dose of the excessive attention.

He eventually breaks his silence to reach a hand out toward each of them. "Your arms. Naked. I need to know your life to keep it. That is what I do." The flesh around his wrists bulges obscenely, with something mysterious wriggling about under the surface of his skin.

@ DM
I'd like to use the heal Skill to establish a standard for the physical condition of both Shallas and Farrah. My preference would taking a 20 on this by devoting an obscene amount of time to observing them. If that is not possible:
Shallas heal check:[roll0]
Farrah heal check: [roll1]

Barnabas starts by watching for movements that seem uncomfortable to them, hinting at old injuries or unresolved physical issues.

This close scrutiny eventually breaks down to him watching them to determine their resting respiration rates. While this information does not provide as much about their current physical condition as the first visual exam, it will be useful in the future when determining how the are faring during combat, how a drug/poison/toxin is affecting them, whether they are experiencing stress for an unknown reason, and so on.

If they accept his request and give him their arms, Barnabas will finish up by a rudimentary, non-invasive physical restricted to their arms and wrists.

While taking their pulses, mostly to compare their heart rates against former patients and animals he has practiced on so he can better determine how healthy they are, he looks for some of the subtler things such a minor check could find: Friction blisters (caused by armor or a gauntlet), callouses (from heavy work or wielding weapons), scars (from accidental injury or battle), tiny discolorations (which one would attribute to a number of different things including sunburn, windburn, rash, illness, exposure to chemicals over a long period of time) and so on.

Winds

2013-06-26, 08:45 AM

In the Red Festival:
"Knight or behave like a knight, it makes no difference to me. To be honest, I offered my help because I simply enjoy using my power. Helping you with something would cause less trouble than just walking around."

That said, Shallas waits until the other arrives. Though slightly nonplussed at his frank appraisal, he sits quiet until Barnabas requests his hand.

"...All right."

Shallas shrugs one arm out of his cloak and offers it, watching the process closely.

Swami Monsoon

2013-06-26, 11:08 AM

Omar

After reserving a room for a week, Omar heads over to the Harbormaster building to arrange delivery of his luggage. He takes careful note of the location of the Harbormaster's personal office... He then returns to the Red Festival and makes his final preparations for the night, rechecking the two letters in their waxed envelopes... He had written these letters during the last days of the voyage, explaining the threat to the Zephyr, the presence and known abilities of the pirate Kinter Redmouth (and his current cover name and duties on the crew), the likely presence of hidden accomplices...

After darkness falls, Omar makes sure the door to his room is securely locked, and as an extra precaution slides a heavy chest in front of it. He then takes in a deep breath and lets it out... as he exhales, his body seems to fade into the surroundings. Now he walks over to the window and looks outside. He concentrates for a moment on a spot on the roof of a building across the street... and another moment later he is there. He sets off across the rooftops in the direction of the Harbormaster, blinking his way across any alley or street that was too wide to jump... When he arrives at the building he crawls across its walls like a gecko, until he is looking into the window of the Harbormaster's private office. Making sure the room in unoccupied, he concentrates again and appears next to the desk. In the center of the blotter he places one copy of the letter, its envelope reading ATTENTION HARBORMASTER: URGENT. He pins it to the felt with a letter opener for extra emphasis.

Omar leaves the office, headed for the docks. Now for the Zephyr...

Using Walk Unseen, Flee the Scene, Spiderwalk
Move Silently 1d20+20

Swami Monsoon

2013-06-26, 11:11 AM

Replacing broken roll:
Move Silently [roll0]

cameronpants

2013-06-26, 07:31 PM

@Swami
As Omar approaches the docks, the sheer number of residents of Aelbridge hits him without warning; the docks are as busy, or busier, than during the day when he arrived. There were dozens of ships loading and unloading, hundreds of sailors rubbing shoulders and shoving each other down the lined alleyes and sunken mooring streets.

He returns to the dock where the rowboat he arrived in to find it filled with a small schooner instead.

To get to the Zephyr, he'd either have to swim for an hour or steal a boat.

And that feeling... Omar was being watched again, he was sure of it.

@Winds, Doxkid, Jötunn
@Doxkid
Approved. I will let them tell you of any and all telltale signs you find. Spells that confer knowledge of their state, like Status, are Extended for the next week.

@Winds, Shallas
Tell Doxkid of any and all signs as per asked for here. Be as vague or specific as you want- the pigmentation and healing process of everyone is different, so it could entirely be possible to tell him the entire story of how a scar on your knuckles was formed and then say 'yep, it's an old burn on his wrist' with little other explanation.

@BelGareth
You have a decent idea of where the Guilds are, but you must be a member (or invited by three sign-holders) to use their facilities. There is a massive public library, too, but you don't know where it is. Taking 10 on a Gather Information gives you general directions and takes about an hour to get there.

@Azoth
You start off at a trot. You figure the directions they gave you were supplemented by shortcuts because it took you off main roads every so often. Sure enough, within the hour, you started to pass signs claiming you were in Kings' Row, and then Hightower. The name was not erroneous- there were dozens of cloud-scraping towers. They were made from stone, wood, and glass. You travel to the intersection and find a tall black obsidian tower. The sign on the front door has a list of seven names, your contact bolded and underlined. The name of the building was 'B.T. Tower, II'.

Winds

2013-06-26, 08:41 PM

In the Red Festival:

Medical information:
From the examination, it is clear something is slightly odd about Shallas' condition. His skin shows no sign of the marks of wind, sun and rain that normally be present on someone who had just spent several weeks at sea. However, there are signs of atrophy consistent with some forms of addiction, though there is no physical sign of any substance that may cause it.

In addition, there are several small scars on his hands. Several are what look like the remnant of a small burns, most of them more like marks from darts or other small blades, all looking to be relatively minor wounds that received only cursory medical attention.

Azoth

2013-06-26, 11:31 PM

Thantos dismounts his horse and leaves it outside as he enters the building. He is not too concerned for the creature or the practically nonexistant supplies on its back.

He eyes the building for a moment before entering. His steps measured as he walks through the halls and stairways in search of his contact's office. Making sure to note possible ways out along the way. Never too careful in these situations.

Thantos isn't worried about drawing attention. Anyone who saw him would probably fascilitate finding his contact in one means or another. After all, it isn't too often one such as he wanders the halls of office buildings. A man appearing as Death should raise some commotion, and word would spread.

His only hope was that none would be too apt to try and bar his path or attack him. Causing a minor disturbance didn't bother him, but the idea of causing a true commotion when it was not necessary was rather...off putting at the least.

Doxkid

2013-06-27, 01:29 AM

In the Red Festival:
Barnabas eventually stops poking and prodding and nudging at Shallas' arm and eventually settles into just holding the mans hand.

"Strange, but healthy enough." Avicious liquid drips from the halflings sleeves and each gritty droplet stick to the mans clean skin.

Barnabas continues holding the mans hand for a good while after the examination, his eyes locked with Shallas. "You have pretty eyes. Very good stock. Breed." Much more slowly than most would like, Barnabas releases his current patient and reaches for the next to repeat the process.

Swami Monsoon

2013-06-27, 11:57 AM

Omar looks out at the Zephyr in the distance. The thought of swimming in... much less breathing... the reeking slime that passed as water in the this harbor (what in the hell are the people in this city doing to foul the water like that?) makes his skin crawl. Fortunately that will not be necessary...
He concentrates for a moment and then hops down from the pier onto the water's surface... which now supports his weight. He trots across the harbor towards the ship...

Despite all of his precautions, Omar still has the feeling that he is being watched. How could that be happening? Are they scrying him somehow? He wonders if the letter in the Harbormaster's office is still there... On the ship he may have to take a more direct... and much riskier... approach to warning the Captain...

Using Witchwood Step (water walk)

cameronpants

2013-06-27, 06:04 PM

@Azoth:

You find his dwelling on the sixth floor. You received direction from a passing porter who seemed completely unfazed to see a man dressed such as you in his place of work.

Venegrut's office was immaculate. Everything was in its proper position, from pens on the desk to the desk between the walls, to the spacing of windows. Standing, leaning on the front of the desk, is a man with short cut hair and bland business wear. He has a goatee and a moustache, also short, and is holding two fingers to his left temple. He holds his index finger towards you, nodding once, and goes back to leaning on his desk, still but poised. His eyes scrunch once, twice, and he smiles. He straightens, hands running over his shirt and slacks, and he offers you his hand.

"Thantos. I am glad you made the journey in a timely manner. Your arrival is serendipitous- there has been a recent development in the case I have been assigned to. Please, sit, have a drink."

Venegrut motions at a comfortable oak chair in front of his desk before seating himself behind it. He pours you each a drink in a glass from a decanter.

Azoth

2013-06-27, 09:20 PM

Thantos eyes the man carefully for a moment before he relaxes. His frame doesn't shift as his eyes follow him. When offered a chair and drink Thantos remains standing.

I will stand, and I never drink on the job. I am here at you disposal upon orders from my sect. I am certain that they have filled you in on what services I will and will not provide.

If at all possible Mr. Venegrut, I would simply like to hear the details of my assignment and all readily available relevant information. It would seem my brothers were a bit rushed by your request for my services and failed to acquire a room for me here in your city. I would like to find one before nightfall and in an area where I will not be distracted from your assignment.

Thantos allows his posture to relax only slightly as he spoke. His tone was flat, and while not condescending had a tone of annoyance and finality. His body arranged very much like a soldier's "at ease". Cold black eyes surveying the man before him.

cameronpants

2013-06-28, 09:30 AM

@Azoth

"Very well. You may sleep here- the top floors are temporary dormitories for trainees. We can make room for you."
He shifts, stands, and grabs a piece of paper from a shelf on the wall behind him.
"I'll make this brief then. A member of our order recently broke some very important rules. During her trial, she was being held in a prison designed to contain the powers of the vestiges we bind. Somehow she escaped anyway. She killed her former teacher and wreaked havoc on her escape. Rumors persist of her powers being gained through the torture of souls. The recent development was that she has arrived in town, possibly in the last few days, aboard a ship. Her name is Farrah d'Auvray. We need her brought to justice for her treason, for murder, and for using the teachings of the Binders Templar for personal, and sinister, use. Here," Venegrut slides a picture across the desk to you, "is a picture of her. Please, find her soon. We have no idea who she will attempt to destroy next."

The picture of of the girl he shared the rowboat with- the one who was crying silently the entire journey from the Zephyr to the docks.

And he knew where she was.

Jötunn

2013-06-28, 09:43 AM

In the Red Festival:
After Shallas' examination doesn't end distressingly, Farrah bares her left arm to the diminutive sage.

Medical info:Her left arm shows signs of near constant wear-and-tear; bruising on the upper forearm, and a number of stress fractures, consistent with shield practice and usage from an early age. She otherwise seems perfectly healthy, except that to the touch her skin is cold and clammy. Whatever affects her, it does not seem an affliction of the physical kind.

Doxkid

2013-06-28, 10:52 AM

In the Red Festival:
Barnabas delivers a series of pokes, prods, gropes and sniffs to her arm, just as he did with Shallas. "Not as good. No." Each motion leaves him more distressed, more frustrated and, eventually, more disappointed. "No. No, no, no, no, no..." He releases Shallas and backs away into his seat, cowering. "Oh no-no-no-no-no-no...I was late...too late."

Barnabas collects himself for a moment, crawls forward and does his best get get eye-level with Farrah. "Sorry...but you will never be a father."

He wheezes violently, then proceeds to hack and gurgle as he moves away from you to take his seat again. Those with a good eye, and the constitution needed to watch this spectacle for more than a few seconds without gagging, will eventually realize he's not dying some terrible death...He's actually laughing, bless his little halfling heart.

Unfortunately by the time most do figure this out he has already stopped, instantly transitioning between showing amusement and his maintaining his normal off-putting stare. "Good. We are now emotionally attached. I am searching for an item. Unique. Rare. I need assistance. I will use you. You may use me."

BelGareth

2013-06-28, 02:34 PM

Finding out that the main library was about an hour away he trooped off towards it, buying a meat pie on the way and eating as he want, smiling jovially to people as he went and whistling a tune in between bites.

After finding the library he asks the clerk for any information about the Lords Magi and the most recent execution, he doesn't try to keep it quiet, hoping that maybe someone will hear and word will spread, it would be easier to pick information from an actual magi than it would to sort through hearsay.

Either way he finds what he needs and sorts through all the eye witness reports, tomes, and compilations of anything that is regarding the Magi.

He can take 20 on anything he can to get the best results.
Constantine Zebediah (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=592365)
M CN Tiefling TreüthSyngër // LA 1/PF Bard, Level 8, Init +5, HP 60/60, DR -, Speed 30
AC 23, Touch 17, Flat-footed 18, Fort +11, Ref +14, Will +15, Base Attack Bonus 6/1
Sword of Sound +12/+7 (5d4, x2)
Godchord Blast (Cadence Fort DC 19) Ranged touch +11 (5d4 + cadence, x2)
+1 shortsword +12/+7 (1d6+2, 19-20/x2)
+2 Mithral chain shirt (+6 Armor, +5 Dex, +2 Deflect)
Abilities Str 12, Dex 20, Con 12, Int 12, Wis 10, Cha 20
Condition Darkvision [60 ft]
Resistance to cold 5, electricity 5, and fire 5.
Can jump up from prone as a swift action without provoking a aoo

Azoth

2013-06-28, 04:26 PM

Thantos looks to the picture for a moment. His hand reaching out to take it. That girl didn't seem the type to commit those crimes, but he knew better than to trust appearances.

He stares at the picture while muttering to himself. Concentration on his face as he bring up his other hand before it making simple gestures. His shadow twitching and shifting around himself, seeming to grow out to touch Venegrut as Thantos works his magic.

After a few seconds he sets the picture inside of his cloak and looks to the man before him.

I assure you on the name of my brothers and our honor that this situation will be resolved swiftly and completely. If you would, I have a few questions regarding my target. A bit of a formality, but a necessary one. After all, no one likes unnecessary surprises in these matters.

I assume that it would not be hard for you to acquire me copies of the trial log, the escape report, and the investigation notes of the murder she commited. After all, it would do me well to understand her nature and the nature of her prefered powers. The last thing I want is a surprise on this hunt, and the last thing you want is to explain to my brothers the loss of one of their own.

Cast Detect Thoughts DC 18 will save to resist at a -2 from my dark companion.

Dreadful Wrath kicks in DC 18 will save to not be shaken for 1 minute at -2 from my dark companion.

Winds

2013-06-28, 05:19 PM

In the Red Festival:

...Breed? Is that a command?

"...Yeeeeees. Very amusing. Mutual allegiance is fine. I haven't been told why I'm here, yet. Soon. I'm sure it will be soon."

Shallas glances about distractedly.

"In any case. I'm listening, um...Farrah."

cameronpants

2013-06-29, 11:15 AM

@BelGareth

You learn a lot from your visit at the library. There are few testimonials regarding the execution and zero mention of them in any media article you can find, but there is a significant amount of judicial jargon alluding to them- or in a few cases, penned by them- concerning infractions of their laws or their infractions of Aelbridge's laws. You see there is zero precedent for them ever being held accountable for their actions outside of the walls of the mage guilds, even when it was acting for a selfish reason and not furthering the cause of the Magi at all.

You find two biographies and one autobiography. The two biographies are written by the same man, about one hundred years ago. They are about Kelgore and Drawmij, the two youngest members of the Magi. The autobiography is written by Nystul and has as much fiction as fact within.

Your intense focus on detail and awareness of patterns allows you to notice something: while you couldn't find them in media focus or other documents, it seems almost too tidy. You believe that there used to be, at some point, a wealth of information here about them but now it is all missing.

NOTE: This requires you to have taken 20.

@Azoth

Will Save vs Detect Thoughts [roll0]
Will Save vs Dreadful Wrath [roll1]
Roll the following round to resist Detect Thoughts in OOC thread.

"Naturally." Venegrut grabs a folder of papers from a desk drawer. You notice that it requires a key. He hands it to you. "d'Auvrey escaped during the night of her capture. Her trial was in the process of being assigned and planned and was never seen to. She murdered her mentor in his sleep, never giving him the chance to defend himself. The problem with her powers is that... well, we don't know what she can do. She's able to... bind her own soul. To her physical form, we think. Her manacles were shattered as if she grew to an incredible size in moments. We've never seen anything like it. But make no mistake, Thantos, murder of an old man is not why you were assigned to this case. It was her choice to practice soul binding on a living being- and not only that, but her own soul. That's a sacrilege that goes beyond everything we have a code for. And it's made her kill. There is no excusing that to the Templar."
Venegrut pulls out another sheet of paper.
"This is a binding contract to perform the duties as outlined as we have discussed, and is repeated in ink therein. Should you not sign it will be considered a failure on your part and we will communicate this to your superiors in the order and a replacement will be sent. But know this- we believe she is only in town for a short time. Please, you may only have a short time to find her and bring her to the justice of the Binders Templar."

BelGareth

2013-06-29, 11:36 AM

Getting slightly frustrated with the general lack of information Zeb sighs as he puts the last book down, it had taken him several hours to gather the information, and while intriguing to the last, it had served as naught, except to tell him the Magi were not fools, they had obviously covered things up.

Which didn't help him at all.

He would have to either gain their attention, which could prove fatal, or worse. Or find someway to infiltrate a guild.

The second option was far more appeasing to him, and he started to think on how he would acquire such information as to go about it when he was looking at the librarian......

Smiling he walked up to the man and introduced himself: "Well met good sir, we talked not a few hours ago, I must say, you helped me out tremendously and I appreciate the hard work you do here, " he puts his arm around the mans shoulders if he seems affable to the action " I think I might need some more info, would you perhaps be able to help me out?" he asks, smiling and winking at the man.

He lines his words with a Charm (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/charmPerson.htm) spell, DC 19 Will negates. It's an spell like ability to he can cast it while talking with out verbal or somatic requirements.
[roll0] to get the man to be friendly from the start.

If successful:
"Would you be able to direct me to a guild member, I am looking to write a tome on all things magical in this very city and am in need of a good guide and some testimonies, a guild member would fit the bill perfectly!"

[roll1]

If not:
He waves his hand nonchalantly and casts glibeness (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/glibness.htm).

"Oh, well I apologize" he takes his arm off him and straitens his jerkin "There was of course going to be a sizable compensation once I finished my work," he looks off to the door "and of course your name would be credited....but..." he takes one step "Well, I think I've wasted enough of your time already." and he walks off.

[roll2]

Azoth

2013-06-29, 01:46 PM

Thantos listens to the man. It does sound rather a deplorable thing to do. One's soul isn't their tool, but the device used to measure their fate in the end. The gods have use for it, and men are to carry it.

He looks to the contract on the table and shakes his head slightly as he leans forward to examine it. These sorts of things are not uncommon in his work, but he knows better than to sign them blindly.

I make no garauntee on her life or condition when I am finished. These matters can end up rather messy, and often times my target will fight to the last of their strength. Should she die before you recieve her, that will simply be the unfortunate end to this contract.

As to her time in this city, she arrived today and has taken lodging for atleast this one night. So there is no need to rush and panic. We have all day to discuss this matter, and allow me proper time to handle her. So if you relax, this will all go much more smoothly. After all, you did hire me and not one of your own. This means she is too dangerous for you, and worth my time...she will not exscape.

cameronpants

2013-06-29, 04:37 PM

@BelGareth:

(No need to make the second bluff check or cast Glibness. He's in your pocket from the charm and first bluff)

A few formalities aside, he leans in and says with a hushed voice, "Lemme' tell you what, friend. I've been dying to learn more about their entire setup. I'm something of a collector of old talismans and artifacts, and a little insight into their wizarding ways would prove invaluable. I have a contact in the Eastern Chapter. Fellow's name is Heccis Oldburn, dwarven rune etcher, lives in Northtower. Here's his address."
The librarian, whose name you learn to be Myles, is a very curious fellow. Every time you allude to something he seeks deeper meaning and clarification. He could prove useful in the days to come.

Myles has provided you with a name, address, and general occupation of a Guild Member- Heccis Oldburn, dwarven rune etcher and enchanter, lives on the fifth floor of a Mage Associated Tower Establishment (or MATE). Myles confides he is excited to do some investigation- it will be his first adventure.

@Azoth

"While we do wish her returned alive, should the need arise please choose to end it swiftly. The chance of her escape and further rending of her soul could leave her mad and incredibly powerful. And I realize she may be running to something- she is also running from us. And I do not think she realizes we have a chapter here in Aelbridge. Should she discover our presence I can almost guarantee you she will disappear. This doubles as the reason we brought in an outsider- it retains the element of surprise should the first... encounter with her prove difficult."

Venegrut crosses the room to a bookshelf by the door. He grabs a volume of an ancient-looking encyclopedia and opens it to a page marked with a strand of silk.

"As for the contract- it is magical in nature. It will place you under a geas. If you do not complete this mission within five days... well, the exact nature of the curse was up to Templar Rurgark."

Venegrut smiles, crosses back to the desk, and offers you a fountain pen.

@Swami

It takes you about twenty minutes to jog to the Soaring Zephyr. Its lanterns are mostly doused, just a few around the bow, stern, and crow's nest to ensure it not being hit by another vessel in the dark. You approach in silence, waves muffling all your movement. You are soaking wet, head to toe, from the surf blasting up into your face. You reach the side of the ship- do you choose to ascend to the deck and work your way down on the inside, or climb up to the Captain's window and attempt to enter there?

Azoth

2013-06-29, 04:53 PM

Thantos looks bored at the explanation. He has heard it all before on several occassions. Keep them out of it, and then just deliver the goods. Standard issue for this sort of work. The only part that caught him off guard was the mention that one of his superiors chose the punishment for failure.

When the pen is offered, he looks at it before raising his thumb and impaling it on one of his armor spikes. Once enough blood has pooled over his thumb, he presses it to the paper leaving a bloody thumb print where a signature should be.

I have five days to return the girl or her corpse. It is a deal in blood on my honor and that of my brothers'. By sun set on the fifth day, you will have your prize or my punishment shall be carried out without complaint or protest. My word is my bond, stong as iron and enduring as stone...of this I Thantos 'The Reaper' swear.

With that, Thantos gathers the paperwork on his target and turns to leave. A serious smile on his face. He now only had lie in wait for her to return to her room at the inn and she would be good as caught.

I hope to be finished with this by sunrise. Expect your prize or a report on the first encounter by then.

Swami Monsoon

2013-06-29, 05:55 PM

Omar approaches the stern of the ship and begins to clamber up the hull, towards the windows looking into the Captain's cabin. If he's in there and not currently on watch, that will make things much easier...

Jötunn

2013-07-02, 12:59 AM

At the Red Festival: A frown darkens Farrah's already gloomy face as Barnabas exclaims his distress during her examination, only to be banished by a smile when she finally realises that he is making a joke at her expense. For a moment it seems as though she is weeping for joy, rather than out of sadness.
"I... yes, I think I can try to help you with that. I would greatly prefer to know what we are looking for first, but I could at least accompany you on your search for as long as I am able."

At Shallas' request, she considers for a moment before replying; "I guess... I guess I should start by asking what you two know about the art of binding the existences known as vestiges.

Based on the Tome of Magic section on Binder Lore, there's some existing knowledge checks you can make but I'm not 100% on what our illustrious DM considers appropriate for this particular setting, so I might wait for him to weigh in on what knowledge checks you can make about binder knowledge.

cameronpants

2013-07-02, 02:29 PM

@Azoth

"Excellent. I look forward to it." Venegrut chirps, and busily starts pulling out paperwork and quills as you leave the room.

You have the intersection where the Red Festival is located that Allistar mentioned.

@Swami

You reach the window fairly easily. Looking in, you find yourself staring at the back of a broad leather chair. Further into the room, as you look around the chair, you see a man standing at a writing desk illuminated by a candle thereupon. He seems to be writing something, progressing slowly as if choosing his words carefully. Also in the room is a woman who was not on board for the voyage to Aelbridge. She wears a red cloak with the hood pulled up. From the angle of your perspective you can see she has long, sharp canines and a very pale complexion. Her hair is curly and shoulder-length, dark as a raven at midnight. Her eyes are soft, amber colored, and are slowly scanning the room as if she just arrived.

The captain straightens, turns to the woman, and speaks. Over the sound of ocean and muffled by the glass, you can only make out faint whispers.
Listen check for more information/

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-02, 04:59 PM

Listen [roll0]

Azoth

2013-07-02, 06:55 PM

Thantos heads back to his horse and climbs aboard. His best bet was to ride back towards the docks before trying to locate the inn. If he got lost at least those closer tonit would stand a better chance of helping him find it.

Once there his plan was rather simple. He would simply wait in the mains of the establishment until he saw his target. From there it got tricky depending on her company and the likely hood that she would run or beat him.

For now though, he just wanted this over with. He never liked being 'on loan' to those outside of his brotherhood. Just didn't feel right, even if the cause was just.

Doxkid

2013-07-03, 10:13 AM

In the Red Festival:

"Yes." He considers his words carefully, mulling over each of them until he feels he can speak his mind satisfactorily. "I know." With that resolved, Barnabas draws the basic diagram for a magic circle upon the table with his drippings, muttering "And I know." as he does so

With a grin that displays perfectly sculpted and surprisingly white teeth, Barnabas stares at both of you a little longer blurting out "A simple start. We will go." and crarling out of his seat to begin his search.

Because of his tiny legs and abnormal gait, he does not get very far very quickly, but he progresses slowly toward the first server he see to 'chat them up'.

A Diplomacy check [roll0] on a waitress/waiter or two, asking about a few things:

The first of these points is the most important: he first gauges how this person feels about magic to determine how well magic is accepted in this area. if the reception is positive he proceeds on to asking if there is a mage guild in the city and and where it is located.

Wether that goes well or poorly he ends the conversation demanding to know where beggars can be found. He eventually works onward to where those beggars sleep and how they sustain themselves in this city.

I'm ready to write out all of these interactions if you'd like to RP all of that.

cameronpants

2013-07-03, 10:38 AM

@Swami

You are able to make out a few words and the tone of the conversation, though not the exact subject matter. The captain is impressed she is there- his body language speaks of wariness, caution, but his tone of voice is firm and clipped. She doesn't move. Even with the motion of the ship, she remains a fixed point. You suddenly have a memory from years before when you were serving on The Treant's Husk, a cargo ship, of a siren's song. How you could hear the motion of the seas, the wind in the air, but all remained still in your mind.

Only she was still and the entire world kept swirling together in chaotic surges of motion and sound. She was apart.

When she spoke, you could hear her voice- smokey, sultry, deeper than you expected. She spoke evenly and without hand motions or expression. The captain seemed to listen, and turned towards his desk. He strode to it in three steps, paused, and reached into a desk drawer mere feet from where you clung to a window sill. He removed a lock box, about thirty inches long, and placed it on the desk. A key that somehow swiveled out of a signet ring opened it and he withdrew a dagger. He looked up at the woman and spoke. He was close enough to the window that you could hear him clearly.

"Dierdre, I owe you. Don't make me regret this."

Then the room was plunged into darkness, fueled by magic. The captain screamed.

@Winds, Doxkid, Jötunn
Inside the Red Festival

You sit about a table, discussing matters, and Farrah touches on the subject of the Binder Templar. Both of you know little of the subject. As you speak, and Farrah begins to explain, you notice a significant hush come over the front of the restaurant. Looking over, you see a man has stumbled in the front doors of the establishment. He is bloodied, eyes just beginning to swell, blood seeping from a head wound and broken nose. His left arm is twisted, bulging around his exposed forearm, purple swelling making flesh seem distended. He walks with an obvious limp, and a wimper escapes his lips with every pained step. He shudders, takes a step, and shudders again. The man is sobbing around broken teeth and shattered jaw. He makes it a dozen steps into the restaurant. Patrons start to approach, one runs out the back door, potentially seeking a guardsman.

A moment later, as you rise from your seats and sensing trouble, two more men enter the bar. The first is a dwarf, tall and dark skinned. He seems almost as tall as a human but just as wide as a hill dwarf. He holds a warhammer in his metal-clad fist. It is lowered at his side. He stops after a single step into the bar. The second is an armored man, shining silver plate mail covering him head to toe. His long blond hair is up in a braid and he is removing a helmet from his head. Handsome, strong jaw, half-elven. Both half-elf and dwarf are covered in soot and scorch marks, the smell of burnt hair filling the room. The half-elf lowers his helmet to this hip and holds up a rolled piece of paper in his fist. His voice booms, rich and confident, throughout the Festival.

"I am King's Regent Marilus d'Ryer. I have official employ by the King and nation of Aelbrecht, neighbor and ally to Aelbridge, to track, capture, and return with the Mad Prince known as Orivan Qal'Dravia. I have additional license, should I be unable to capture him by Summer's Solstice, to execute him on grounds of mutiny, attempted murder, and rape. I regret we have entered your establishment, but I must order, by decree of King Casroth and the nation of Aelbrecht, that you all leave. The chance of collateral damage is extremely high, and this man is dangerous. Please, exit by the main doors. All damages to the structure and its contents will be covered by Aelbrecht." He turns to the maimed man in the center of the common room, who has been given a wide berth from the patrons. "Come now, Qal'Dravia, come quietly and no more bystanders need to be killed."

The man turns to the guests of the Red Festival closest to him, who had been sitting, moments before, at a small round table.

"Help... me..." he grunts through a broken jaw at Shallas, Barnabas, and Farrah, "oh God, please help..."

EDIT
Sorry doxkid, took a long time to edit. You can continue that line of questioning after this event, okay?

Jötunn

2013-07-03, 11:13 AM

Inside the Red Festival:
"Uh, you know... what? I haven't even begun. That's certainly the basics of a vestige's seal but-"
Farrah is, however, interrupted by the commotion at the door. Her gaze is captured by the bedwraggled man's injuries and her first instinct is to step forward and assist him. Then the two following enter, and she listens to the half-elf's declaration with growing concern but doesn't yet move forward to help. She grimaces at his grunted plea and whispers quietly to the two near her.
"Do either of you know of this... Qual'Dravia?"
She then takes another step towards the injured man, eyeing him carefully and ensuring that her shield and sword are at her side - especially since she doesn't quite trust Orivan yet, since she doesn't know who he is. Then she speaks:
"The two of you, against one injured man? That is hardly an honorable fight. Someone needs to tend to his wounds, and immediately."

Sense motive: [roll0]
and in case it's relevant,
Diplomacy: [roll1]

BelGareth

2013-07-03, 11:26 AM

Smiling like the devilish rogue his eyes flash at the mention of adventure, he had not wanted to bring the man along, but...he could prove to be useful.

"Can you leave this moment, do you have another who can take over you duties, time is of the essence you see..." he smiles swanly at the man a strange mixture of looks crossing his face.

Whether or not he can come, Zeb takes off immediately for the MATE. When he gets there he asks Myles to inquire about his contact, letting him say he has a friend who is very interested in meeting him at a local bar, drinks on him. All the while Zeb is invisible standing next to Myles whispering in his ear if he says something off.

If Myles does not come, then he inquires himself, but uses his hat of disguise to make himself look like Myles.

He'll use 1 round of Inspire competence on his disguise
[roll0]

Doxkid

2013-07-03, 12:09 PM

In the Red Festival:

Barnabas glances at the wounded man, taking stock of the many visible injuries and the innumerable signs of hidden ailments, and then looks up at the two men who barged into the building.

"Not yet. He is mine until I finish. His body needs to use me." Barnabas stares the man in his eyes and mutters this to him and him alone. "I will keep your life."

Assured that his patient has been reassured, Barnabas strokes and fiddles at the air with his fingers. His every movement paints a pod of plant flesh into existence, entrapping the wounded man.

Once the patient is secure Barnabas returns to staring at his companions.

Casting Rejuvenation Cocoon on the injured man. A will save can negate this, but Barnabas took a moment to calm the subject before casting a spell on him so that shouldn't be a problem.

Bluff or Diplomacy (if necessary) to convince the severely injured man that Barnabas means him no harm: [roll0]

The pod has 70 HP and a hardness of 10. This spell does nothing on its first round.

Winds

2013-07-03, 12:48 PM

In the Red Festival:

"Nothing. I know nothing about that."

After the intrusion, Shallas watches as Barnabas and Farrah step in.

"Oh...are we going to be part of this, too? Interesting. In any case...I don't know who this person is, but he certainly doesn't seem dangerous right now...Maybe you could explain why you're acting like he is?"

Shallas picks up his staff from where it fell, leaning on it.

"After all...he's right here where you want him."

Diplomacy: [roll0]
Sense Motive: [roll1]

cameronpants

2013-07-03, 12:50 PM

@Red Festival:

The men stand by the door and watch as the cocoon of plants wrap around Qal'Dravia. The injured man does not resist the spell, instead recognizing it and letting the magic do the work.

"This man would have been tended to once he was in custody. Do not let his state fool you- he's killed four of my men already. It was never two men on one injured man- it started as seven on one." The man takes a few slow steps forward. "Citizens, please. This is the law. Should you interfere, you will be aiding the escape of a felon. For his crimes, that's ten years labor and possible slavery rights for each of you. Tending his wounds is your choice, but should he escape, I will be holding you," Marilus points at Barnabas, "personally accountable."

The dwarf pulls out a thick book of thin-cut stone pages. He begins to trace designs onto the page with some chalk. The sketches begin to glow a brilliant green and blue, scintillating with magic. "Ready." he grates out after a few moments. He places the book by the door and walks forward, moving to flank the cocooned man.

@Sense Motives: Though he hasn't said anything, the injured man looks weak, defeated, and scared. Just before the cocoon wraps about him, you see a sickly smile spread across his broken face. The other men, Marilus and the dwarf, seem like professionals.

You can each make Knowledge (Local) checks. If you succeed at a DC 20, you may also make a linked Knowledge (Geography) or Knowledge (History) check.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-03, 12:59 PM

Omar sits on his perch, nonplussed... What in the hell are these people doing? Just how many conspiracies are there on this damned boat? Or is this lady working for the pirates... and is it already showtime?

He strains his eyes to see exactly what is going on in the cloud of darkness...

Spot [roll0]
Does darkvision help me see into the darkened area?

cameronpants

2013-07-03, 01:04 PM

@BelGareth

"I can leave any time! My shift ended hours ago... I tend to stay to read and reorganize." Myles joins you on the road to the MATE.

It takes about forty minutes by foot, and he makes a single stop on the way there. He picks up a satchel with a few books in it and some simple supplies, such as paper and a pen.

The MATE is a tall, sandstone building in the a long line of towers. Northtower, aptly named, is the location with the densest population of towers in all of Aelbridge.

Myles leads you in and into the west side of the tower. There, he speaks with a man sitting at a desk. Moments later you are allowed inside a large oaken door, where you ascend a few staircases. Myles, filled in on your plan, knocks on the door of Heccis's room.

A dwarf, short and obese, answers the door. He is wearing pants and an undershirt, obviously having a relaxed day at home. His shirt is stained from something dark.

"Myles! Pleasant surprise. Do come in."

Heccis invites Myles, and by extension you, into his home.

Myles and Heccis share a five minute conversation- small talk, catching up. Myles finishes with the invitation for drinks and meet with you.

"Hum. Know why he wanted to meet, other than some book? I don't chat with strangers about business. Sorry." Heccis responds.

Doxkid

2013-07-03, 03:11 PM

In the Red Festival:
"Death. Curse. Injury. They are nothing. Buy my use. I will correct this. Your two will be seven. That is my purpose." Barnabass hands twitch and flutter under his robes as he turns slowly (very, very slowly) to face the pod and the guards on either side of it.

His eyes shimmer with dark magic for a moment, but that moment passes quickly. "Three-thousand, five-hundred fifty-nine. Three-thousand five-hundred fifty-eight..."

From under his robes he produces a fleshy bulb of something covered in white, blue and green fuzz. It sags and compresses considerably when he places it on the table beside him, but does not collapse entirely.

Barnabas removes a Healing node and places it on the table beside him. A new one will leech enough magic and nutrients form his body to act as a new Healing nodule in an hour.
----
He'll also cast Deathwatch to better monitor the condition of everyone in his general area. This spell will last for 80 minutes.

It is my hope that using a combination of Deathwatch, visual ques and his knowledge of combat healing, Barnabas will be able to roughly estimate how much health people within the spells effect have. I'd like to aim for benchmarks of 75%, 50% and 25% and I would readily produce Heal checks for each person to keep up with that.

cameronpants

2013-07-03, 04:08 PM

@Red Festival

Marilus looks you over, possibly gauging you as a potential threat.
"You have the skills of a healer, then? I will pay you handsomely for the recovery of my men. I owe them that much."
He raises his eyebrow at your cautious movements, and when you place the colorfully fuzzy glob on the table he snaps his fingers, a bastard sword appearing in his grasp.
"What is that?" he snaps.
[End of the first round of Rejuvination Cocoon]

@Doxkid

I will allow that. Heal DC 20 for anyone in the room- take 10 and you get it. Marilus is at full health, the dwarf is hovering around 75%. Farrah and Shallas are both at full health. Orivan, inside the cocoon, has just healed 80 HP, I believe, that puts him around 75% as well.

@Swami

Your eyes cannot pierce the darkness. It's as if the room was swallowed by a physical being made of shadows. You can, however, hear scuffling followed by another muffled scream. Moments later, the shade disappears, and the captain is seen leaning on his desk. He straightens, looks at his hands, and smiles. He crouches and picks something up- the dagger he pulled out earlier. He tucks it in his belt and leaves the cabin. There's no trace of the woman you saw.

Doxkid

2013-07-03, 04:44 PM

In the Red Festival:
"With supplies, they will live. Old soul. New body. Old mind. New form. Five reborn today. Five remade today."

Barnabas thinks long and hard about the best method of answering the now irate soldiers question. The answer is eventually obvious. Barnabas lifts his robes revealing full-frontal halfling glory.

He wears no undergarment. He has nothing to be ashamed of. Things dangle and glisten and gush with odd liquids...and that's only counting what can be seen on his upper torso. What one could only assume to be small vines straddle his visible veins, tiny mushrooms sprout from his unmentionables and general fuzziness make his 'mentionables' quite difficult to speak of.

Those unfamiliar with humanoid anatomy might find his corpulence disturbing. Those who are familiar with human anatomy will almost certainly never forget the horrors they witnessed today. Every part of his body is flabby and fleshy and oozing. Every inch of his body is infested with life, even (and especially) not his own.

"Part of me. It grows. It gives life. Soon more grow. We are nature. Three-thousand five-hundred, fifty-three..."

Going to go ahead and roll a diplomacy check to improve the attitude of everyone who got to watch Barnabas' show.

Diplomacy: [roll0]

cameronpants

2013-07-03, 05:07 PM

@Red Festival

The dwarf grimaces but remains focused on the cocoon. Marilus lowers his sword.
"Acceptable. I will see you are paid for your services- that is, if I don't arrest you for aiding a felon."
He eyes your body, taking it all in.
"Are you fey?" he asks, raising an eyebrow. He seems totally unfazed by your form.

Winds

2013-07-03, 07:22 PM

Red Festival:

With the conflict apparently averted, Shallas retrieves his chair and watches Barnabas' show.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-03, 09:11 PM

Weirder and weirder... I don't think this guy is up to any good, but whatever he's mixed up in can't be worse than what the other team is planning... such as the murder of his entire crew. I need to go through with this...

As the captain leaves the cabin Omar blinks inside and then blinks again to the other side of the door. He turns to follow the captain, trying to get within whispering range...

cameronpants

2013-07-04, 12:03 AM

@Red Festival

As the seconds pass, the plants surrounding Orivan Qal'Dravia quickly brown and slide to the ground, withered and dead. However, Orivan is nowhere to be seen. The dwarf, quick as lightning, swings at the empty space where Orivan once stood. At the same time, Marilus releases a battlecry and thrusts his hand forward, creating a burst of light centered on the empty cocoon husk.

Dwarf's Attack Roll: [roll0], Miss Chance [roll1]
Dwarf's Damage Roll: [roll2] + [roll3] Fire damage
Potential Crit Confirmation: [roll4], Crit Damage [roll5]
Orivan's Fort Save vs Flash effect [roll6]

The dwarf slams his warhammer into thin air, a burst of fire releasing when it hits the ground. The same moment, the flash occurs, but everything remains still.
{If any of you can see invisible creatures or things, let me know}

@Swami

Immediately outside of the captain's quarters, you come face to face with Captain Kenshin. He is standing some six feet away down the hallway. He stares directly into your eyes.
"Omar, is it? Passenger who left this morn. What are you doing here?" His words are flat, monotonous. His body is tensed, his hand resting on the hilt of the dagger.

Jötunn

2013-07-04, 12:11 AM

Red Festival:"Hmmm. It seems that we have interrupted your hunt, and for that I must apologise. While I am averse to attacking an unarmed man, let me aid you."

With that, Farrah steps froward again, whispering words to herself and making a sign with her right hand before drawing her sword.

Ok, I'm casting Divine Favor on myself for the moment. So that's a simple +2 to attack/damage for a minute.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-04, 12:56 AM

Omar startles... Is this guy some kind of wizard? Clouds of darkness, a vanishing woman and now he's seeing right through Omar's invisibility...

"I have urgent news about a plot against your ship."

Omar carefully eases his vest open to show the top of an envelope peeking from an inner pocket. Slowly, using only his thumb and index finger, he draws the envelope out and offers it to the captain.

"Everything I know about the pirates and their plan is in here."

cameronpants

2013-07-04, 01:24 AM

@Swami

The captain makes no motion to the envelope, but he tightens his hand on his dagger as he hears you move. In a flash of insight, you realize he can't actually see you- he just knows you are there. You've heard of supernatural connections some sailors have with specific ships, mystical stories of how some captains eventually cannot leave their vessel for any reason and will never die- until, that is, they go down with the ship.
"Plans? Drop the papers onto the floor, kick them over here."

Doxkid

2013-07-04, 04:31 AM

In the Red festival:
"I am alive. I give life. Little else matters." With his current job finished, Barnabas watches everyone around himself take up arms and prepare for battle with great interest.

"Battle? Never serves me." From a swirling portal of magic that was not there a moment before A spider, easily large enough to threaten a small troll, scurries to Barnabas' side. Its abdomen hangs heavy with un-slung webs and its many eyes consider each of the prey surrounding it in turn.

The moment his arachnid companion appears, Barnabas' body bristles with legions of tiny hairs and his skin tone darkens considerably. He hasn't quite sprouted an exoskeleton, but the resemblance between spider and master is uncanny.

Barnabas calls upon one of Planar Companions. Never, the augmented Spider, takes a place at his side.

Nevers StatsFiendish Monstrous Spider, Large Aberration(); CR 3; HD 4d8+12; hp 32 (half my true -4);

Init +4; Spd 30 ft., climb 20 ft., fly 40 ft.; Space/Reach 10 ft./5 ft.;

AC 19 (-1 size, +3 Dex, +6 natural, +1 moral), touch 13, flat-footed 16; Base Atk +4(familiar uses mine if higher); Grp 13;

Atk Bite +8 melee (1d8+6 plus poison); Full Atk Bite +8 melee (1d8+6 plus poison);

SA Poison, web, smite good; SQ Darkvision 60 ft., tremorsense 60 ft., vermin traits, Darkvision 60 ft, resistance to cold 5 and fire 5, Dr 5/magic, SR 13; AL CE; SV Fort +9, Ref +8, Will +7;

Str 19, Dex 17, Con 16, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 2

Skills: Climb +12, Hide +8*, Jump +5*, Spot +5*, Bluff +8, Concentration +15, Diplomacy +8, Heal +12, Spellcraft +12, UMD +8, Knowledge Planes +7, Knowledge Religion +7, Ride +10 (Familiars use masters rank in skills)

Poison(Ex): A monstrous spider has a poisonous bite. The details vary by the spider's size, as shown on the table below. The save DCs are Constitution-based. Fort DC 15, 1d6 Str initial and secondary.

Skills(): Monstrous spiders have a +4 racial bonus on Hide and Spot checks and a +8 racial bonus on Climb checks. A monstrous spider can always choose to take 10 on Climb checks, even if rushed or threatened. Monstrous spiders use either their Strength or Dexterity modifier for Climb checks, whichever is higher. *Hunting spiders have a +10 racial bonus on Jump checks and a +8 racial bonus on Spot checks. Web-spinning spiders have a +8 racial bonus on Hide and Move Silently checks when using their webs.

Spirited Summons (Ex): Planar companions, along with any creatures you summon or call with your summoner spells, receives a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls, damage rolls, Armor Class, saving throws, skill checks and ability checks.

Potent Summons (Ex): Gains a +4 enhancement bonus to Strength and

Tremorsense(Ex): A monstrous spider can detect and pinpoint any creature or object within 60 feet in contact with the ground, or within any range in contact with the spider's webs.

Aberrant Familiar (Su): The familiar's type changes to aberration, it gains darkvision out to 60 feet, and its form becomes warped.

-----Wings: The familiar can fly at a speed of 40 feet with good maneuverability. (If the familiar already has a fly speed, use whichever speed is higher and whichever maneuverability is better.) The familiar gains a +2 bonus on Reflex saves.

Int
The familiar’s Intelligence score.

Alertness (Ex)
While a familiar is within arm’s reach, the master gains the Alertness feat.

Improved Evasion (Ex)
When subjected to an attack that normally allows a Reflex saving throw for half damage, a familiar takes no damage if it makes a successful saving throw and half damage even if the saving throw fails.

Share Spells
At the master’s option, he may have any spell (but not any spell-like ability) he casts on himself also affect his familiar. The familiar must be within 5 feet at the time of casting to receive the benefit.

If the spell or effect has a duration other than instantaneous, it stops affecting the familiar if it moves farther than 5 feet away and will not affect the familiar again even if it returns to the master before the duration expires. Additionally, the master may cast a spell with a target of "You" on his familiar (as a touch range spell) instead of on himself.

A master and his familiar can share spells even if the spells normally do not affect creatures of the familiar’s type (magical beast).

Empathic Link (Su)
The master has an empathic link with his familiar out to a distance of up to 1 mile. The master cannot see through the familiar’s eyes, but they can communicate empathically. Because of the limited nature of the link, only general emotional content can be communicated.

Because of this empathic link, the master has the same connection to an item or place that his familiar does.

Deliver Touch Spells (Su)
If the master is 3rd level or higher, a familiar can deliver touch spells for him. If the master and the familiar are in contact at the time the master casts a touch spell, he can designate his familiar as the "toucher." The familiar can then deliver the touch spell just as the master could. As usual, if the master casts another spell before the touch is delivered, the touch spell dissipates.

Speak with Master (Ex)
If the master is 5th level or higher, a familiar and the master can communicate verbally as if they were using a common language. Other creatures do not understand the communication without magical help.

Speak with Animals of Its Kind (Ex)
If the master is 7th level or higher, a familiar can communicate with animals of approximately the same kind as itself (including dire varieties): bats with bats, rats with rodents, cats with felines, hawks and owls and ravens with birds, lizards and snakes with reptiles, toads with amphibians, weasels with similar creatures (weasels, minks, polecats, ermines, skunks, wolverines, and badgers). Such communication is limited by the intelligence of the conversing creatures.

Spell Resistance (Ex)
If the master is 11th level or higher, a familiar gains spell resistance equal to the master’s level + 5.

Web(Ex): Both types of monstrous spiders often wait in their webs or in trees, then lower themselves silently on silk strands and leap onto prey passing beneath. A single strand is strong enough to support the spider and one creature of the same size. Web-spinners can throw a web eight times per day. This is similar to an attack with a net but has a maximum range of 50 feet, with a range increment of 10 feet, and is effective against targets up to one size category larger than the spider. An entangled creature can escape with a successful Escape Artist check or burst it with a Strength check. Both are standard actions whose DCs are given in the table below. The check DCs are Constitution-based, and the Strength check DC includes a +4 racial bonus.

Web-spinners often create sheets of sticky webbing from 5 to 60 feet square, depending on the size of the spider. They usually position these sheets to snare flying creatures but can also try to trap prey on the ground. Approaching creatures must succeed on a DC 20 Spot check to notice a web; otherwise they stumble into it and become trapped as though by a successful web attack. Attempts to escape or burst the webbing gain a +5 bonus if the trapped creature has something to walk on or grab while pulling free. Each 5-foot section has the hit points given on the table, and sheet webs have damage reduction 5/-. A monstrous spider can move across its own web at its climb speed and can pinpoint the location of any creature touching its web. Escape DC 15; Break DC 19; HP 12

Smite Good(Su): Once per day a fiendish creature can make a normal melee attack to deal +4 extra damage against a good foe.

Barnabas gains:
+2 listen and Spot from Alertness
Tremorsense
+4 climb, +4 hide, +4 move Silently
+2 saves vs mind affecting things

Winds

2013-07-04, 08:03 AM

Red Festival:

"Ah. Interesting."

Shallas focuses his magic, and watches the area.

Readying action to cast Frost Fall (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/f/frost-fall) when Orivan's location is revealed, keeping others from being included in the spell radius if possible.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-04, 10:13 AM

Omar follows the captain's instructions. He lets the envelope fall to the floor and then slides it toward the other man with his foot...

Jötunn

2013-07-04, 11:49 AM

In the Red Festival: Realising that there isn't much that she can do until Orivan's location is revealed, Farrah takes the opportunity to cast another spell. The muscles in her torso ripple and grow noticeably bigger, and her left foot begins to paw at the ground, as though she was a bull about to charge.
Farrah casts Bull's Strength on herself now, and then as soon as possible readies a charge (and a smite) against Orivan.

Just a note on actions, casting Divine Favor was a swift action due to the Battle Blessing feat, this time she is using the standard action from the same turn to buff, and then the next turn she is readying her charge action.

cameronpants

2013-07-06, 12:24 AM

@Red Festival:

Barnabas and Never are able to sense that Orivan, the invisible mad prince, has crossed the room, towards the back door. Neither dwarf nor human is looking in that direction and are frantically backing toward the front door.
"NOW HE'S INVISIBLE?! FLAMING SCAT!" the dwarf yells, swinging his warhammer in front of him defensively. "AS IF SPLITTING HIMSELF WEREN'T ENOUGH!"

"Regroup outside!" Marilus quips, and exits the Red Festival, dwarf following closely behind.

@Swami

The captain crouches slowly, grabs the envelope, and reaches inside. He pulls out the note you wrote and scans it, eyes flicking in your direction, as if searching, every few seconds. He finishes, sliding the note back in the envelope.

"So... you came to warn me, too? How thoughtful. Though I've got ears and eyes everywhere. You just missed my last guest- she warned me as well." He takes a step toward you, offering the envelope. At the same time, his hand falls away from the hilt of the strange knife. "Thank you. Really."

@Azoth
Sorry it's slow, I just need a liiiittle but more time to pass before you get back.

@BelGareth
Just waiting for you to prompt your new buddy.

Doxkid

2013-07-06, 03:39 AM

In the Red Festival:
Barnabas climbs up onto Nevers back, but does not take any further action until both the Dwarf and the human have departed through the front door.

The moment they are gone Barnabas, astride his mount, snaps his fingers. Supposedly. While the movement is quite visible and extremely exaggerated due to his long and thin fingers, it does not produce a sound; perhaps because the oil heavy liquids coating his body prevent the fingers from finding the friction they need.

The muted fingers then tap out a little pattern against his palm. *One* *Two* *Three* *Four*.

In an instant the meaning becomes clear. Little sparks of magic arc off Barnabas striking Never, him, Shallas and Farras in turn, energizing each of them.

"Farrah. Shallas. Never. We go." The spider frantically skitters at the back door, its legs moving furiously sending it hurling at its target much faster than any arachnophobic people would be able to tolerate without falling ill losing all hope in life.

"Never sees you," Barnabas drones to the man. "I expect payment. I gave health. I gave freedom."
Barnabas uses his move action to climb onto Never and then casts Haste, targeting himself, Never, Farrah and Shallas.

He then directs Never to run to the back door and intercept the escaping man.

With a movement speed of 60 ft Never should have little trouble getting there before the man can escape, especially if he double moves (which is quite possible since he has no other use for his standard action) or runs.

Winds

2013-07-06, 09:01 AM

Red festival:

Shallas uses his newfound speed to leap out of his chair, throwing himself toward the area indicated by Barnabas and Never.

Move action: up to 60 feet closer to the door.
Swift action: Negate arcane spell failure.
Ready action: Should Orivan remain hostile and his position is revealed to Shallas, hit him with Frost Fall.

BelGareth

2013-07-06, 10:43 AM

Watching the whole conversation next to Myles, Zeb took a minute to look around the mages living quarters, he had heard the old saying, never meddle with a mage in his own tower, but he was unsure of whether or not that would hold true here.

The mage didn't look like much, but he was an enchanter, they were usually of the typical sort, not caring for others freedoms or how their controlling magiks could affect them. And while Zeb dabbled in the mind enchantments himself, he never abused it overmuch, not like the enchanters of fable, evil things with power gone straight to the mind, power hungry fools that do not understand the balance of things.

Lost in thought Zeb barely managed to hear the question and shrugged his shoulders and smiled to the fickle Lady above, he dismissed his invisibility and smiled at the enchanter, hands raised as to not alarm him.

"My apologies," he said, his smile growing larger "the deception was a needed guise I assure you, I wanted to ensure no traps or foibles would follow and ensnare us."

He pauses and places his up raised hands behind the small of his back, "I'll be honest with you, I am looking for information about the guild, and well, Myles here said the best place would be the source, and he had just the source, per say" he finished, looking at the dwarf. His eyes twinkled, hiding something "I am sure we can come to some form of agreement, would you be able to help me in this time of troubles? Something is threatening us all, and I need information, and frankly I am tired of the cat and mouse game..." he left the last sentence unfinished, leaving the obvious threat hanging in the air.

His hair suddenly caught a gust of wind, and his clothes seemed to move about as if a personal breeze affected him, the small tingling of a beautiful wind chime erupted in a tiny cacophony that was barely audible, but very pleasing to the ear, and Zeb marveled at the GodChord, and starting humming softly like a crazed man who was very sure of himself, that or just plain crazy.

He is not lying about anything, he's not going to try and bluff an enchanter....:)

He is readying an action in case it goes wrong, in which case, he'll act upon the unsaid threat:

[roll0]
He will attack him with a GodChord blast [roll1] (4th level spell)
[roll2] + Fort DC 19 or be Dazed (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/conditionSummary.htm#dazed) for 1 round.
If he hits and dazes him, he will then cast Deep Slumber (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/deepSlumber.htm) on him, Will DC 18, up to 10 HD of creatures asleep, centered on the mage.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-06, 11:04 AM

"The letter is yours to keep... I have spares. I didn't know what I'd find here, so I left another copy at the harbormaster's office. That might lead to some awkward questions, but I thought it was best to have a backup in place. Speaking of backup, I'm pretty sure the bad guys already have eyes in town. I was followed in the harbor district earlier today... so be careful if you have any business ashore.

I'd best be moving on now. Good luck, sir."

Omar retreats down the passage and prepares to retrace his steps off the ship and back to shore...

cameronpants

2013-07-06, 03:03 PM

@Red Festival

Never hisses at the back door which has just started to open on its own. After a moment, it stops, still too narrow for someone to fit through. From the shadowed recess where the door stands, you all hear a voice.
"I thank you, citizens of Aelbridge, for the aid. And you, sir, riding on the... spider... I thank you most of all. Were I to possess any of my belongings, or riches from my caste, then I would graciously offer payment. Sadly, I have nothing but the clothes on my back and my wits about me. Those men hunting me... They are dangerous. Not to be trusted. If you let me escape they may not harm you- none of you had knowledge of the powers I wield, or the sacred knowledge I keep. Though, you saved my life, so I owe you blood fealty."
A shimmer in the air and the glammer is gone- before you stands a man with dark skin and dirty clothes- though you notice that the holes and tears in his ragged clothing are now sealed, as if the cocoon of plants also mended his organic-based clothing. He smiles, broad and sincere, and his two missing teeth seem almost charming. He still has bruising around his eyes and neck, but his leg looks completely healed.
"I am Orivan Qal'Dravia, Heir Prince to Asunda, Nation of the Sun and Moon. I owe you a life debt and I will ensure it is paid. But for now, I need to flee. These men are tenacious and won't give up so easily. They are mercenaries of the highest order, and Aelbrecht has deep pockets. Please, either help me flee or let me go alone." He bows deeply, and reaches for the door handle once again.

@BelGareth

The dwarf doesn't react, face serene and posture unchanging. He looks you up and down, toe to crown, and nods.
"You seem sincere. I have no qualms with using my knowledge to help you with your matters, as any friend of Myles is a friend of mine. However, Guild politics and subjects remain outside my area of help. I took an oath. And I take oaths seriously."
He walks further into his house and starts prepping a pot of tea.
"What troubles you, good sir? Please, feel free to speak candidly. My walls are enchanted with wards enough to make any eavesdroppers regret it."
As the dwarf is speaking, Myles whispers to you "he's a lot more chatty when he's been drinking..."

@Swami

The captain nods in your direction, and begins to walk down the hallway towards the steps to deck. You return to his cabin, and out the window, and back to the ocean to begin your jog back to land.

It's just after midnight.

@Azoth

About half an hour before midnight, you return to the Red Festival. A semi circle of citizens stand around the entrance to the tavern and inn, four or five men deep, about twenty feet from the entrance. There are hushed wordss passing through the crowd; "did you see that dwarf's hammer?", "I think they're bounty hunters!", "I hope everyone got out okay...".

Between the crowd and the Red Festival stands a man and a dwarf. The dwarf is tall, as tall as a human, but still as broad as a dwarf. The man, a half-elf by the looks of him, is wearing dirty, scorched silver plate mail. He has long blond hair done in a tight braid. They are speaking with a group of city guards- a half dozen of them. He is pointing at the Red Festival as he yells "Create a perimeter! Call your Orbsman! He's invisible and we need to catch him NOW!"
The guards, responding quickly, move to flank the building, two per side, while each of the other two start jogging up side streets a block away. The blond man turns back to the building, and says to the dwarf, "he's got hostages for all we know. And there's that woman in there, too. Some kind of cleric by the way she cast those spells."

Azoth

2013-07-06, 05:01 PM

Thantos lets out a low breath of annoyance as he dismounts his horse. Crowds and a disturbance, just what he needs. They might frighten his quary away with this many men.

Her pushes his way through the throng towards the dwarf and half elf. His face impassive as he does so. Making it seem as if he belonged here was the easiest way to get the bystanders to move. As he drew near the ones in charge he reached into his cloak.

Once before them he drew out the picture he was given earlier. I am Thantos "The Reaper", is this woman the one that blocked your path? If so, I propose we work together. I help you to catch your rat, and you have your men assist is containing her for my capture. Simple and short lived alliance with mutual cost to us both. Afterwards, we part ways and consider our respectable jobs done.

If you refuse, we will come into conflict and allow both too great a chance to escape. Your men will die, and we will both look like fools.

If she is not present...please finish quickly. You are creating too large a disturbance for my liking, and disrupting my hunt. I have a schedule to keep and you are obstructing it.

Doxkid

2013-07-07, 06:38 AM

In the Red Festival:
" My gifts are twofold; life and movement. You have already taken life. You may now take movement. But first..."

Barnabas rummages through his robes and produces his Surgical Knife and a glass vial the size of a sunflower seed.

"Your blood. It will hold your oath. Then I will open the next door to your freedom; we will step through dimensions to a distant rooftop. If you refuse then I cannot trust your word. You will thus be considered a foe." Never chitters excitedly at the prospect of the man refusing. Already the spider is tensing, ready to attack and claim a large, juicy meal.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-07, 05:53 PM

After reaching shore Omar hurries back to the Red Festival, returning by the same route he took on the way out. Maybe he can still get some sleep tonight...

cameronpants

2013-07-08, 01:11 AM

@Azoth

The man looks you up and down, and seems reluctant to respond. His speech is slow, manicured.
"While it is noble of you to offer assistance, Thantos "The Reaper", I must officially decline. I am on contract with a royal house, and outside involvement of additional parties was exclusively banned. There is far too much at stake here to allow you or your hunting of a charge to interfere with my business."
He pauses, and takes a breath.
"However, unofficially, I have heard of you. I hail from a region known as Durasek, not far from the Ivory Village. I know what you do and for what cause. And, while I may not totally agree with your methods, I do fully support your goals. Unofficially, I think we can come to an agreement. To answer your question- yes, that woman was in there. And she did not block our path. A small, strange fey with them did so. She was merely company to him. She was casting spells and looked to be ready to aid us, actually. They are still inside, and the building is surrounded. Any sight of them and they will light up a magefire signal."
He pauses again, turning to the building.
"The man the fey helped is... dangerous. And insane. He may well be using them to escape. And if he does, you may not have a charge to track anymore."

@Red Festival

Orivan frowns, and tenses as well.
"How I wish I could accommodate your request. You may hold my oath in any capacity except for this. Within my blood lies dormant the power of my people, my ancestors. It is both my sacred boon and terrible bane, but it is my charge to hold it. I cannot fulfill your request." He takes a deep breath, and says his next words completely level, monotonous. "And if that makes me a foe... then my fealty of blood is ended."

@Swami

You retrace your path and arrive at the Red Festival. In front of the building is a large crowd of people forming a semicircle, five people deep. Hushed whispers are being passed through the throng of bodies, gossip and rumors of recently transpired events abounding. "...the dwarf's hammer? Huge!..."; I hope everyone is okay, there was a fight..."; "They're bounty hunters, and look, Thantos "The Reaper!""

You look beyond the crowd to the clear street in front of the Red Festival. Standing there is a dwarf, nearly as tall as a human man, a half-elf wearing scorched silver plate mail, and one of the men you shared passage with on the Soaring Zephyr- Thantos. The three men are speaking, motioning towards the building.

Azoth

2013-07-08, 02:27 AM

Thantos nods slowly to the man's words. This was annoying him more than he would care to let on. He was not going to reveal the nature of his mission to this man, but at the least they served a use. She couldn't leave the building without him knowing, and he would even know the direction of her initial escape.

The man is not my concern, he is yours. The fey is collateral damage at best to me. My only objective is that woman, and since she is inside that is where I am going. You can either follow and claim your prize, or stay back and hope he does not end up damaged.

I warn you though, should you follow, that the woman is unstable and a murderer. Killed her mentor and care taker in his sleep...brutally. She should not be taken lightly by any of your men.

With that Thantos mutters a prayer to himself before approaching the door. He doubted anyone there would stop him.

Casting Shield of Faith +3 deflection to AC for 8 minutes
Dreadful Wrath activates. Anyone within 20 ft of me must make a DC 18 Will save or be shaken for 1 minute.
Moving to the door, or inside if unobstructed.

Doxkid

2013-07-08, 07:59 AM

In the Red Festival: "Interesting." Barnabas swells up, ballooning as his magic works upon his body. Imitating a beast much larger and, more impressive, than himself Barnabas thrusts his head forward and spews a blast of miasma at his new foe, the sheer force of his attack launching him off of his mounts back.

As if this was a common occurrence he hisses midair, without the slightest hint of worry about his upcoming landing"Never. Go."

The spider certainly doesn't need to be told twice; in a flurry of legs it flings itself at Orivan, tiny packets of dust exploding from its carapace while it tries to pin the man down.

||-B-Standard action||
Defensive casting check: vs Concentration DC: 18 (as it is a 3rd level spell)

Barnabas casts Nauseating Breath, centering the attack upon Orivan. (I am assuming that can be done without blasting Shallas and Farrah. If it cannot be done without hitting one or both of them would it be possible to just hold the spell instead?

Targets within its area must make a Fort save DC 16 or become nauseated for 1d6 rounds

||-B-Move action||
Barnabas dismounts Never after casting his spell.
----
||-N- Swift action||
Never uses his Fatigue Spores. All adjacent beings must make a Fort save DC: 15 or become fatigued.

||-N- Attack Action||
Never tries to initiate a grapple against Orivan.

This provokes an attack of opportunity. Never's touch AC is 1 point higher than listed because of the dodge bonus Haste provides.

[Attack roll]1d20+9 vs Orivans touch AC. (The attack roll is 1 higher than normal because of haste)

Opposed grapple if that lands: [roll1]

Automatic Grapple damage if the above wins: [roll2] nonlethal.

Winds

2013-07-08, 08:23 AM

Red festival:

Shallas gestures sharply at the floor with his staff, causing the air in the room to suddenly feel colder. It is Orivan that takes the worst of it, however, as ice suddenly forms at his feet.

Release held action: Casting Frost fall

Covers a five foot radius burst, placed so that allies will not be harmed.

Orivan takes [roll0] Frost damage. Also, he must a make DC 16 Fortitude save or become staggered for one round. (If he is staggered, he can take only a single move or standard action, and cannot take full round actions. Swift, immediate, and free actions are unaffected.)

cameronpants

2013-07-08, 09:06 AM

@Inside Red Festival
Orivan's Fort vs Nauseating Breath [roll0]
Orivan's Fort vs Frost Fall: [roll1]
Orivan's Fort vs Fatigue Spores: [roll2]
Orivan makes no attack of opportunity, instead using the opening to move 5 feet away out the door (opening the door as part of the motion of movement).

Orivan slinks through the door, moving with purpose. Beyond the door is a short storage room, another, larger door at the far side that looks like it leads outside.

Orivan's arms lash out, moving with an alien flow of balance and strangely serene halts. He chants words from the desert, and motes of energy begin to collect around his hands and arms.

Spellcraft to identify spell

@Azoth

As you enter the Red Festival, you hear gasps from the guards behind you. Your spell seemed to make an impression.

You open the front door and see, at the far, far side of the long room, Barnabas jumping off a nightmare-spawned spider, Shallas using some kind of ice magic, and Farrah preparing to react to a dark skinned man who is currently slowly retreating out the back door. As you take a step forward, he begins casting a spell, and his eyes land on you. Make a will save and a spellcraft check.

Azoth

2013-07-08, 12:25 PM

Will Save: [roll0]

Spell craft: [roll1]

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-08, 08:53 PM

Omar waits on the rooftop across the street to see how this odd scene will play out...

Doxkid

2013-07-09, 09:43 AM

In the Red Festival:
Never fires off a blast of web material from well outside the room, unable or unwilling to maneuver itself through this new door.

Barnabas, seeing Orivan's attempt at casting a spell, flicks a long finger his the mans's direction. The magic of life eats at the spell, trying to snuff Orivan's magic out before it can come into effect.

Master and minion alike watch every movement of the an carefully, trying to determine what spell he's planning to use should their own efforts be in vain.

||-N-Standard action||
Never shoots a web at Orivan.

Attack roll: [roll0] vs Touch AC.
||-N-Free||
Using Barnabas' ranks in spellcraft (and his own modifiers) Never attempts to identify the spell Orivan is casting.
[roll1]

Should he identify it he'll hiss what he knows to Barnabas using the Familiar-Mater ability of communicating despite langauge barriers
--
||-Barnabas-Standard||
Barnabas attempts to dispel whatever spell Orivan is working to cast.
[roll2] vs DC 11+CL

||-Barnabas-Free||
Barnabas attempts to identify the spell Orivan is casting.
[roll3]

cameronpants

2013-07-09, 11:41 AM

@Azoth

The tanned man attempted to cast Baleful Transposition on you, but you resisted handily. He grimaces and retreats into what appears to be a store room, out of sight. In front of the doorway stands a massive spider, Shallas, Barnabas, and Farrah. At that moment, the front door glides shut, making an audible click. The four inside the room all glance back at you.

@Doxkid

Orivan attempted to cast Baleful Transposition, but his target resisted the spell. Grimacing, he retreats into the store room so his back is to the door that leads into the rear alley.

You don't need to dispel, so you still have your action. I need a ranged touch attack for the Web ability from Never.

@Doxkid, Jötunn, Winds

You hear the front door close, and, glancing behind you, you see Thantos, one of the men who was on the Soaring Zephyr with you.

Doxkid

2013-07-09, 12:56 PM

@DM:
Ranged Touch Attack roll for Never: [roll0]
----
Instead of casting Dispel, Barnabas casts Summon Monster IV, employing the option of summoning multiple lower tier summons instead of a single creature.

He'll be summoning [roll1] Fiendish Constrictor Snakes from the lower level Summon Monster III list.

Because of his Rapid Summoning class ability, the spell is completed the same round it is started.

Each Fiendish Constrictor snake has improved statistics due to Potent Summons (+4 Str and Con) and Spirited Summons (+1 att, dmg, saves, skills, ability and AC)
Fiendish Constrictor Snake Medium Magical Beast (); CR 2; HD 3d8+12; hp 25;

Init +4; Spd 20 ft., climb 20 ft., swim 20 ft.; AC 16 (+3 Dex, +2 natural, +1 moral), touch 14, flat-footed 13;

Base Atk +2; Grp +8; Atk Bite +8 melee (1d3+8); Full Atk Bite +8 melee (1d3+8);

SA Constrict 1d3+8, improved grab, smite good; SQ Scent, Darkvision 60 ft, resistance to cold 5 and fire 5,SR 8; AL LE; SV Fort +7, Ref +7, Will +3;

Str 21, Dex 17, Con 17, Int 3, Wis 12, Cha 2

Skills: Balance +14, Climb +17, Hide +11, Listen +8, Spot +8, Swim +14
Feats: Alertness, Toughness

Constrict(Ex): On a successful grapple check, a constrictor snake deals the indicated damage.

Improved Grab(Ex): To use this ability, a constrictor snake must hit with its bite attack. It can then attempt to start a grapple as a free action without provoking an attack of opportunity. If it wins the grapple check, it establishes a hold and can constrict.

Smite Good(Su): Once per day a fiendish creature can make a normal melee attack to deal +3 extra damage against a good foe

The Snakes are summoned in a line before Orivan, with the first (and if there is only one, the only) being summoned directly in front of him, the next being summoned to his right and the last being summoned to his left.

They are summoned as close to him as possible to their target; if the path can only fit one they are summoned onto crates and shelves. If they would not fit there they are instead summoned in a line advancing from the door Orivan entered from to the door Orivan is at now (still as close to their target as possible). maximum range is 55 ft so they should be in range of him.

||-Constrictor 1-||
Launches itself at Orivan, attempting to bite and then coil around him.

Attack: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

If the attack lands it automatically starts a grapple as a free action, without provoking AoOs.
Grapple: [roll4]

If that beats his roll the snake does constrict damage.
Constrict dmg: [roll5]

||-Constrictor 2(if summoned)-||
Launches itself at Orivan, attempting to bite and then coil around him.

Attack: [roll6]
Damage: [roll7]

If the attack lands it automatically starts a grapple as a free action, without provoking AoOs.
Grapple: [roll8]

If that beats his roll the snake does constrict damage.
Constrict dmg: [roll9]

||-Constrictor 3(if summoned)-||
Launches itself at Orivan, attempting to bite and then coil around him.

Attack: [roll10]
Damage: [roll11]

If the attack lands it automatically starts a grapple as a free action, without provoking AoOs.
Grapple: [roll12]

If that beats his roll the snake does constrict damage.
Constrict dmg: [roll13]

Winds

2013-07-09, 03:22 PM

In the Red Festival:

Shallas grins widely at Orivan.

"You seem tired. Fighting off those regents cost you, didn't it? And now the sickly one, his beasts...and me, of course."

Shallas points one finger, allowing sparks to crackle fitfully at the end.

"Shouldn't you just stop? Baranbas just wants proof of your word, Farrah doesn't want to fight an unarmed man, and I really have no reason to hunt you. So..why not talk? Unless...you'd really just rather fight..."

Full round Action: Rushed Diplomacy check
Diplomacy: [roll0] (Accounts for -10 penalty imposed by rushing the check)

Azoth

2013-07-09, 05:42 PM

In the Red Festival

Thantos feels the pull of the magic and resists it, a look of annoyance obvious on his face. His form continues a few steps into the room before stopping. His voice ringing out with a tone of authority.

I, Thantos "The Reaper", am here to apprehend Farrah d'Auvery on the charges of first degree murder, prison escape, and evasion of trial. Any who would help her will be charged with Accessary to Murder in the first degree, aiding and abbeding a known fugitive, and obstruction of justice.

If you surrender, you will be taken into custody unharmed and await trial without further consequence. Should you resist, I have been authorized to use lethal force to apprehend you. The terms of your capture prefer you to be alive, but I have been given authority to kill you and return your corpse in stead.

Now, if you want to resist me, feel free. Just know that this only involves you and myself Farrah. No sense in getting these other people killed on your behalf. So, will you come peaceably and accept your fate?

BelGareth

2013-07-09, 08:36 PM

Zeb sighs inwardly, not wanting to lead the Dwarf Enchanter, who was seemingly a little more adept at manipulating the conversation than he thought, or he was just delaying. Either way, he would find out soon.

For some reason he thought honesty would work here, he wasn't going to get this stalwart dwarf to reveal any secrets, maybe a tug on the ole heart strings would get things to move along, he only needed the basics right now, the more intricate detail could come later....

He shrugged "I need to get into the Vault of the Lords Magi." he simply said.

Hoping the surprise of the statement, coupled with the request to be honest would somehow garner him untoward help.

He knew it was a long shot, but he had to start somewhere, and if had to, he would go another route...he didn't want to, but...well, more than just the dwarves life was at risk.

[roll0] to increase the dwarves attitude etc..

cameronpants

2013-07-10, 12:43 AM

@Red Festival

Barnabas's snakes attack Orivan, two of them joining in a grapple and squeezing him until he drops to his knees. He wheezes, and begins to struggle with the snakes. He manages to choke out "I... cannot... blood... is power...".

Thantos makes his statement, and Orivan's eyes glance at Farrah. "How... How's it feel?"

@BelGareth

The dwarf is dumbstruck. His eyes glance from your left, to your right, to your left again. You get the feeling he's gauging you, weighing your words. Then he bursts into peals of laughter, loud enough to make the floor vibrate. The laugh continues into a guffaw, and winds into a chortle. He slaps his knee and stands straight again. He wipes a tear from his eye, which are wet with laughter.
"You... You had me going. You were dead serious. And I know when people are lying, and hoooo-boy, you've got quite the danti* face."
The dwarf sits down heavily on his massive chair and shoves his fingers at his eyes, dabbing away the remaining moisture.
* Danti is the equivalent of Poker- a bluff-based tile game.

Doxkid

2013-07-10, 06:10 AM

“Down.” Barnabas whispers as he approaches the restrained man with his surgical knife and sample vial both resting in one hand while the other twiddles and twists, to channel his magic. Both snakes grasping Orivan squeeze the man tighter, trying to drag the man from his knees to the floor.

The the last snake, unable to get a solid hold on the man, prepares to strike only to fall away from its prey, chastised by a wag of Barnabas’ magic-imbued finger. “For you it would was power. Truth. Freedom.”

He drags that long, slimy finger up Orivan’s cheek, the otherwise vibrant energy of life that radiates Barnabas suddenly muted for a moment as he completes a spell. “For others…Life. Death. Knowledge. I will learn so much...”
||--Summons--||
Opposed Grapple roll to prevent Orivan from escaping (Grapple Snake 1): [roll0]
Opposed Grapple roll to prevent Orivan from escaping (Grapple Snake 2): [roll1]
The three Summoned snakes have been around for 2 rounds out of the spells out of 10 round duration at the end of this turn.

||--Grappling Constrictor Snake 1--||
Assuming Orivan does not escape the grapple, Constrictor Snake 1 attempts to pin Orivan to the ground. It continues dealing constrict damage.

Constrict damage: [roll2]
Opposed grapple roll to pin Orivan: [roll3]

||--Grappling Constrictor Snake 2--||
Assuming Orivan does not escape the grapple, Constrictor Snake 2 attempts to pin Orivan to the ground, just as the first does. There is no added benefit to both pinning him to my knowledge, but this increases the odds of success significantly. It also continues to deal constrict damage.

Constrict damage: [roll4]
Opposed grapple roll to pin Orivan: [roll5]

||--Free Constrictor snake--||
This snake slithers to Barnabas’ feet and trails after its summoner, waiting for a command

||--Never--||
Never waits outside the small closet, observing everything. It will keep a close watch on the newcomer to see if the man directs any hostility toward its master.

||--Barnabas-||
Barnabas walks up to Orivan and casts Necrotic Cyst, choosing for the blighted flesh to hide deep within the man’s body.

Touch attack to deliver the spell: [roll6] vs final touch ac after debuffs and grapple/pin modifiers.

To avoid coming under the spell’s effect Orivan must make a fortitude save DC: 15. This spell has been cast using a healer spell slot.
----
Barnabas then makes a heal check to try to determine whether the spell took or not.
[roll7]

Jötunn

2013-07-10, 09:47 AM

Red Festival:Farrah stands paralyzed by indecision and her Knight's Code. First there is Orivan, who has both acted honorably and yet apparently murdered multiple people, yet has now been attacked nearly unprovoked by her strange new friend, Barnabas.

On the other hand, there is Thantos, and his declaration to all therein of her crimes, without any chance of explaining the situation to the people she just met tonight.

Summoning her courage, and all the time she had aboard ship that she had to consider her predicament, she turns from Orivan to face this new foe, the dread knight in a cuirass of bone.

"Sir Knight, as you must know I am the Farrah that you seek. But I cannot return with you, because I seek that proof which will exonerate. If I swear an oath upon my honor that I would not flee, would you instead accompany me?" She considers for a moment. "Although, I suppose you have no high opinion of one who would flee their murder trial..."

Azoth

2013-07-10, 11:55 AM

At the red festival

Thantos shakes his head to her request. His gauntleted hand flexing as he looks to her.

I am not granted luxury of time, nor faith in criminals. Running is not much of an option either. The men outside know of your crimes as well. This entire building is surrounded on all sides by men after the one in the back. They currently believe you all to be allies of the mad one, so I do not think they would let you leave without much blood shed.

Your safest choice, the one that garauntees your life and theirs, is to surrender to me here and now. Relinquish all weapons and become my prisoner. That way you walk out unharmed. None of them will attack me, and there is no telling how long until they enter the building and kill all of you as his allies.

Again, my contract is only to return you to a certain person. Once you two meet, your actions are not my concern. My contract would be fulfilled, and I do not take a contract without concent from my sect. If they wish my pursuit of you again...it would take much time.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-10, 12:38 PM

Omar blinks across the street to a position on the wall of the inn. He crawls down to one of the windows looking into the common room, trying to see just what the hell is going on in there...

cameronpants

2013-07-10, 03:48 PM

@Swami

Note:
This is basically what I am posting for the people in the Red Festival, only without the speech as it's just a mumbled jargon for you.
From where you perch, you can see directly into the long main room of the Red Festival. Standing halfway into the room is Thantos, speaking to the group of people at the far side. In front of a door that leads to a store room, you see Farrah, Barnabas, and Shallas. With them are a massive spider and a huge snake. Barnabas and the snake walk into the store room where you can see two more giant snakes wrapped around the torso of a tanned man, constricting him. The snake-smothered man drops to his knees, then onto his face, unable to overcome the strength of the serpents. Meanwhile, Thantos and Farrah are speaking to one another, and you see the tension rising between them. Shallas is looking into the store room, speaking toward the man wrapped in snakes, sparks flying from the end of his finger.

@Red Festival

Rolls

Orivan's Fort Save: [roll]1d20+9
Orivan's Grapple Checks to resist pins: [roll0], [roll1], and one to escape from grapple: [roll2]
Thantos and Farrah are coming to the climax of speech and Orivan's beseeching eyes find Shallas. In that moment, just before the snakes squeeze the consciousness from the Mad Prince's eyes, you hear It.

@Shallas

The Wind whispers from under the door... save a prince...
In the distance, further than anyone can hear, a massive storm bank approaches Aelbridge. From its deep, frantic maw, you hear the thunder's whisper... kill a hero...

@Doxkid

You see the faint roots of the necrotic cyst take hold deep within his body.

Can you reference that for me? I'm not sure entirely what it does.

Winds

2013-07-10, 05:08 PM

In the Red Festival:

Shallas suddenly freezes in place, the gathered magic dying from his hand. Heedless of this, he begins muttering rapidly to himself.

Auran:
"You...did it speak for you? Who are you really, then? And if that's the case...then I'm...Here for you? I suppose I must be..."

He shakes himself, seeming to come into better focus.

"I heard it speak...Save a prince. I'm here...to save him, I think. So we need to get him out. Barnabas, how many people can you move with that spell you mentioned?"

BelGareth

2013-07-10, 08:32 PM

Zeb sighs, apparently his request was to ludicrous to be even believed at face value. This was going south quickly.

Last try, might as well, who knew what would work here?

"I kid!" he said smiling suddenly jutting forward his hands, claiming it was a joke the whole time.

"I just wanted to break the tension, do you perchance have anything to drink? I have a mighty thirst!"

Hes going to try and Charm him, DC 19. You give me no choice.

If failed, he will attack, using the afore mentioned rolls:

Initiative - (1d20+5)[18]
He will attack him with a GodChord blast Ranged Touch - (1d20+11)[15] (4th level spell)
Sonic Damage - (5d4)[18] + Fort DC 19 or be Dazed for 1 round.
If he hits and dazes him, he will then cast Deep Slumber on him, Will DC 18, up to 10 HD of creatures asleep, centered on the mage.

Doxkid

2013-07-10, 09:17 PM

In the Red Festival:

Barnabas listens intently before answering, not caring that the words might not have been ment for him.

Auran
"You must serve him? He is your purpose? You wish to know..."

Seemlessly (or as seemlessly as Barnabas is capable) he swaps from Auran to common. "The power of my spell? Never. Myself. Two more. But...it doesn't matter. He does not have my favor. Not anymore. He refused me. He chose conflict." Never scurries back to where he was first summoned and delicately picks up the bulb of flesh Barnabas left behind.

Barnabas stares at the man without the slightest hint of empathy; the snakes preparing to finish the man off and the man reduced to a near death state are merely curiosities he is to observe with magic enhanced sight. Seconds before they can finish him off he raises a hand in protest; each constricting snake loosens itself but does not free the man completely.

They all seem ready to finish him off at a moment's notice and the one who was not coiled around him seems ready to strike the moment Orivan makes a single false move. "...would you trade service for his life? My strength is others; the lives I keep. Will you stand beside us? Fight beside us? Aid the search? If so...my mercy. My aid. Yours. You...may share it if you must."

Ball-parking Orivan's health again with a Heal check: [roll0]

If he is at risk of dying on his own from the injuries he sustained, Barnabas will hit him with a Cure Minor Wounds. Otherwise he waits for Shallas to respond.

cameronpants

2013-07-10, 10:55 PM

@BelGareth

Will Save for Heccis: [roll0]

cameronpants

2013-07-10, 10:57 PM

@BelGareth

Touch attack hits.
Fortitude: [roll0]
If dazed, will save: [roll1]

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-10, 11:39 PM

So there's been some kind of fight. Omar doesn't really know any of these people, and he has no idea who (if anybody) was in the right. Things appear to be winding down, but he watches for a little while longer, not wanting to go back to his room until he's sure nobody's going to burn the place down while he sleeps...

Winds

2013-07-11, 02:23 PM

In the Red Festival:

Shallas considers this for a moment, then nods curtly.

"Working for mutual benefit, as discussed. Done. The only question, then, is how this is done. And that means working out this knot."

He approaches Thantos and Farrah.

"I am, as agreed, at your disposal. Tell me what you would have me do."

cameronpants

2013-07-11, 05:08 PM

@BelGareth
"WHAT IN THE NINE HELLS?!" Bellows the dwarf, staggering to the side, clutching his head. His hand sweeps out, and he pulls a veil over himself, disappearing from sight. Moments later, a bang sounds from near his kitchen, across the room from you.

BelGareth

2013-07-11, 05:18 PM

Cursing in a few different dialects, a few Myles may not know, he runs to the kitchen intent on stopping the dwarf from getting away, this was a mages tower after all..."Lets go Myles, times a wasting!" he says waving on the book keeper.

As he gets to the kitchen he waves his hand and golden dust fills the room, covering everything in a fine glittery dust.

He casts Glitterdust (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/g/glitterdust)
Will DC 17 negates blinding for 7 rounds, reveals invisible creatures regardless if caught within the 10-ft.-radius spread

Doxkid

2013-07-11, 08:27 PM

Red Festival:

"...So be it. Your purpose. Your burden. But...I do not forget my foes." For a second Barnabas seems uncannily lucid, his words flowing with poise and his hunched body dripping with the presence of a predator instead of mere pus and slime. Then he's back to his normal self, licking his lips repeatedly and adjusting himself a little too long and little too often below the waist.

With his declaration heard, Barnabas extends a finger out at the three summoned snakes and then curls in back toward himself. All three abandon their posts around and on Orivan and take up positions around their summoner instead.

Having reached a conclusion in that matter, Barnabas turns his attention to Farrah and Thanatos. "Her body is mine. I will use her soon. If she calls, I will answer...if she answers in turn."

The little man climbs atop his beloved spider and gently scratches along the rapidly replenishing fungal growths infesting it's carapace, all three of his snakes resting in the shadow cast by the spider's bulk..

cameronpants

2013-07-14, 01:35 AM

@Swami
The street in front of the Red Festival is littered with people. A wide semicircle, now a full eight people deep, stands gawking at the building. Another troupe of two dozen soldiers has arrived, these ones in rank-and-file, armed with spears and shields. They are standing in front of the building, facing it, listening to the man in the silver armor speak. As he points at the building, and you can make out the words 'burn it', an orb of light lances from the sky to the ground between the soldiers and the silver-armored man.

As the sphere of brilliant light hits the ground, it rebounds straight back up- and suddenly a man, tall and thin, stands there, holding the orb in an outstretched hand as if he just caught it. His long mustache and beard are wispy, and his garments are dated but casual.

The wizened, bearded man holding the orb of light turns to the blond silver-armored one and says three words, slowly.

"Leave. My. District."

And then turns to the building, hurling his orb towards it. As the ball of light leaves his hand, he disappears. The ball slams through a window not ten feet from you and into the common room of the tavern.

You may make a Knowledge (Local) or (History) check to figure out who the old man is

@Red Festival

Suddenly, noise. Shattering glass, a defiant yell, a swell and burst of energy, and the backdraft from a great flame.

A ball of light smashes through a window near the front of the building, and slams into the ground equidistant between Thantos and Farrah. As it impacts the wooden floor, a man appears above it, crouched, as if he just slammed it into the ground himself. The man, tall and thin, straightens, holding the glowing, brilliant orb of light in his hand. He has a long mustache and wispy beard, a face wrinkled and wizened.

Orivan grunts and explodes into fire. The heat is so intense Never takes an involuntary step back. The pressure in the room shifts noticeably, air sucking toward the ignited Mad Prince, now a living conflagration.

The back door is ripped off its hinges from the outside. Standing in the alley just outside the door is the human-sized-dwarf: only now he was over ten feet tall and clad in plates of adamantine.

Everyone gets their turn now. All three of the old man, the giant dwarf, and the Mad Prince seem intent on combat; the former moving with clipped, precise movements, the latter two starting to rage. You can't tell where any of their loyalties lie without a Sense Motive check.

You may all make a Knowledge (Local) or (History) check to figure out who the old man is.

@BelGareth

A gasp fills the air, and you can see the outline of Heccis only paces ahead of you. He spins as he runs, obviously blind, and runs headfirst into the wall next to his back door. Myles, who remained in the living room, turns and runs out the front door, yelling for aid at the top of his lungs.

Just so hard to find good help these days.

Winds

2013-07-14, 03:50 PM

In the Red Festival

"Never forget your foes? Interesting. I forgot all of mine. Either way, the prince with me for now."

As the orb and soldiers crash their way in, Shallas cradles his head in his hands for a moment.

"And we were so close to doing this quietly..."

His actual actions, of course, wait until after Barnabas and Sir Orb.

Doxkid

2013-07-14, 06:02 PM

In Red festival:
Barnabas presses down against his mount, the two of them hissing low and deep in unison. "One has made a mistake. One has challenged life and power. One...has lost to us. Will you fail as well? Who stands against us?"

From the folds of his robe Barnabas produces a pair of shining rings. One he dons himself, the other he slips into a hole in Never's hide, and for a moment their hearts pound as one.

Timers:
*Haste expires in next round by my count.
*Never regains his Spores in 5 rounds
*Summons have 4 rounds left
*Shield other (on Never) has 6 hours, fifty nine minutes and fifty four seconds remaining (599 rounds).
*Barnabas grows a new Healing Node in 59 minutes, give or take a round.

Barnabas casts Shield Other (from his Healer spell slots since he has it on both lists) with Never as his target, using his Move action to retrieve the rings and slip them into place.
---
Never gains +1 deflection AC and +1 resistance to saves.

He's sitting at 60 land, 50 climb, 70 fly for Movement

21 AC(-1 size, +3 Dex, +6 natural, +1 moral, +1 dodge, +1 deflection), touch 15, flat-footed 18

+9 attack

Saves: fort 10, ref 10, will 8

And half of the hit point damage Never takes is transferred to Barnabas.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-14, 06:09 PM

Oh, damn, it looks like they might burn this place down after all...

Omar continues to watch and wait, ready to make a quick getaway at a moment's notice. He has no idea which side he should be taking in this conflict, if any...

Azoth

2013-07-14, 09:43 PM

Thantos watches the display with impassive eyes. It was impressive, but nothing beyond what he has experienced before. Those who panic are the ones who die first. An edict he learned long ago.

You have your quarry...take him and leave. Currently, you stand between myself and the one I seek. If you do not remove yourself from the line of fire, I will make no guarantee of your safety or survival. That is the only warning you shall recieve.

With that Thantos prepares himself for the ensuing chaos. He brings forth the measure's for the spell that will aid him most should any move to strike him. His shadow companion moving out from his own shadow as if it were stretching forward toward Farah and the one between them.

Free Action: have Dark Companion move to affect as many in the room as possible and keep Orb adjacent to it. dark companion gives all adjacent -2 to saves and AC.

Readied action: Defensively Cast a sculpted Ice Slick as 4 10'x10' squares 1 under Farah, 1 under Orb, 1 under our moldy plant fried+his spider, and 1 under the giant Dwarf. DC 16 BALANCE CHECK or fall prone.

Concentraion Check to cast defensively (DC17) [roll0]

He will cast if anyone attacks, starts casting, or moves towards him.

BelGareth

2013-07-16, 01:09 PM

Zeb sighs as Myles bolts out of the door, he knew he had forgotten something.

Oh well, it would have to do, he had gotten himself out of sticker situations, and this was only beginning.

Moving over to the dwarven mage he finishes his grisly business, or attempts to do so.

[roll0] Ranged touch
[roll1] + Fort DC 19 or be Shaken

Intent is to either kill, or knock subconcious (preferably) and then take on his form with his hat of disguise, then search his apartment for anything with info and then find a local MAGE library and go to it, in the middle of the night, only Necromancers visit them at that time, and they are easy (lol)

Jötunn

2013-07-16, 06:01 PM

In the Red Festival:
The arrival of this orb-wielding maniac and the dwarf seem to decide Farrah. She wants out of this place, and to live yet at the same time Thantos stands there and refuses to let her do either of those. She turns to Shallas and Barnabas, keeping an eye on everyone in the room

"My friends, this is my fight, and it seems that you have yours. But your willingness does you credit."

Turning and wiping the tears from her eyes once more (to no avail), Farrah faces Thantos, looking past the old man.

"Reaper, if you wish me to come with you, I ask first that you give me two things. Firstly, the name of the one to whom you are going to bring me, and secondly, if I do not like what I hear, an honourable duel, away from other people, so that no one or their property might be damaged by our clash."
Quick question, how long has it been since I cast divine favour? Off the top of my head it only lasts a minute.

cameronpants

2013-07-17, 10:18 AM

Red Festival

The dwarf charges the Mad Prince, massive axe slamming into thr flaming man. The blaze leaps up his arms, but the dwarf seems to ignore the burns. The Mad Prince spins, a flurry of flame-coated limbs harrying the raging bounty hunter.

The Orbsman spins, moving past Farrah, Barnabas, and Shallas with supernatural speed, coming to rest adjacent to Orivan and the dwarf.

@Jotunn, Azoth

In your minds, you hear the old man's voice. Thank you for your discretion. Please leave the Festival at your earliest convenience. No duels in this district.

BelGareth

The enchanter's body falls like a sack of stones, hitting the ground sharply. A spray of blood appears from the invisible dwarf as his eardrum explodes.

Doxkid

2013-07-17, 11:44 AM

Red Festival:
Barnabas and his pets all seem to relax as the Orbsman and dwarf pass them, instead attacking the criminal mage.

"He stole protection. Abused life. Trust. Leave him alive...but do what you must. Unless..." Barnabas looks at Shallas expectantly. If Shallas wishes for something to be done about these men attacking his charge he had best speak up soon.

Azoth

2013-07-17, 01:21 PM

Thantos flexes a guantlet as he looks to Farah. It is obvious he is annoyed, but he is restraining himself. His black eyes stare into Farah's own as he speaks.

You are to be delivered to a Mr. Vanegrut. If this is unsatisfactory, then your request for a duel is accepted. Understand however, that even if I am defeated you will not be granted your freedom. Should I be killed, another of my brothers will appear before you. Your contract will be pursued until you are brought before him alive or dead by my sect. In other words Farah, there is no escaping this judgement no matter how far you run or how many you kill...

Winds

2013-07-17, 06:33 PM

Red Festival:

Shallas glances at Barnabas. "You have a point."

Striding toward Orivan, the dwarf, and the Orbman, he starts shouting.

"Orivan! You are under my safekeeping! Now stand down and let me talk. I intend on getting you out intact-I have questions to ask of you. That goes for you as well, dwarf. Stand down."

Diplomacy roll to convince combatants to stop (again): [roll0]

Doxkid

2013-07-17, 07:02 PM

Red Festival:

"Criminal...You have seen my power. Our power. Stop. We may speak and find peace." Barnabas offers.

Never, inspired by his master's words, raises a leg and sets to giving its own speech. The spider chitters and hisses and vibrates (in ways Barnabas seems to enjoy quite a bit more than what would be healthy) and secretes the slightest bits of pheromones.

It's legs move in a strange waltz only another arachnid would understand, but it tries it's damnedest to communicate its ideas anyway. Several times it pauses to reach up it's abdomen to offer a sincere tap near its heart.

"Never...well put." While the message is almost entirely lost upon all other parties involved in this situation, Barnabas appreciates the effort and emotion his spider put into it's 'words'.

Diplomacy from Barnabas: [roll0]

Never can't speak common, or any other languages for that matter, so it cannot communicate its ideas of peace, prosperity and not eating your own young. Which is unfortunate since eating your young is a very important issue that is having an a strong polarizing effect among many humanoids.

cameronpants

2013-07-22, 01:35 PM

In the Red Festival
The exchange between the Orbsman, the flaming Mad prince, and the large-sized Dwarf is vicious. Blows rain down on one another; the Mad Prince attempting to burn the dwarf alive; the dwarf slamming his weight and strength into every blow from his massive hammer; and the Orbsman calmly deflecting blows away from their targets. Soon, the dwarf begins to pant, fatigue setting into his muscles, and Orivan's flames begin to flicker. In a mad dash, he tumbles past the dwarf and into the alley before bounding up into the sky. As this happens, the Orbsman slams his glowing globe into the dwarf's chest, and he is surrounded in a sphere of tangible, glowing energy. The Orbsman dashes out the back door and disappears as he throws his orb into the sky.

Spellcraft DC 26 to identify the effect the Orbsman used as a spell-like ability very similar to Freezing Sphere (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/freezingSphere.htm).

@BelGareth

It takes a few minutes until the invisibility wears off from the dwarf enchanter's corpse, and another minute for you to replicate his tiny little birth marks and mole placements.

You get a +4 circumstance bonus to your disguise check for having him present during your preparation.
The entire time you're in Heccis's home, nobody comes to investigate any screams or yells that occured. Even Myles hasn't come back with guards or an Orbsman- God forbid.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-22, 02:40 PM

Omar watches the fight with growing concern. His joke about somebody burning the place down does not seem so funny anymore. He wonders if it's time to start a fire drill and rouse the other guests...

Winds

2013-07-23, 09:09 AM

In the Red Festival

"...He ignored us. Well, fine. I've done all the saving I can do right now, what with not being able to fly. There's a storm coming, anyway."

Shallas finds a chair and sits in it, glancing at Farrah and Azoth again.

"Do you want me to come with you?"

Doxkid

2013-07-23, 12:39 PM

Red Festival:

"..." Barnabas stares at where the battle just ended looking ...well, he doesn't actually look any more (or any less) dazed and salacious than usual, but he probably should. Never taps the ground forcing the summoned snakes below him to squirm away from his massive legs.

"Am I needed? Or will more stand against me? We...would not like that." The question has no real target, but all of those in this room would do well to mind his words.

Remembering the threat he received from the lawman earlier, Barnabas turns his vacant gaze toward the enlarged dwarf...eventually.

"Well?"

Timers:
*Haste has expired.
*Never regains his Spores in 3 rounds
*Summons have 2 rounds left
*Shield other (on Never) has 597 rounds.
*Barnabas grows a new Healing Node in 59 minutes, give or take a round.

Doxkid

2013-07-24, 04:12 PM

In the Red Festival:

Barnabas shivers, smiling a little too widely up on his spider's back. A bit of energy fizzes over the pair as Barnabas considers the situation.

"None stand against me. Good. Less violence to mend. Less blood to replace." Never whimpers and Barnabas scratches at her back, more rubbing his drippings onto her fungus-pores than anything else. After a few moments Barnabas' eyes bore into the dwarf's and he addresses the other man with the full force his his personality called to bear against him.

"We almost had your prey, dwarf. We expected more battle. We expected an attack upon me. Mistakes...will you punish us for protecting life? Take me." Barnabas' words have power, despite how vaguely he speaks them. "Ask me to serve life, dwarf. Ask and I will aid you. Preserve my will and I shall preserve those who stand with you. We must speak. Bring me to the elf...or your leader."

Barnabas's eyes do not leave the Dwarf's as he speak to the other inhabitants of the room next. "I will still serve storms when you call. I will still serve the warrior when you call. I do not forget allies. I do not forget who stood beside me...even if I must walk alone. Even when I must walk alone."

Barnabas Casts Voice of the Dragon upon himself (and shares it with Never, but I doubt that will be relevant any time soon), gaining a +10 enhancement bonus to Diplomacy, Bluff and Intimidate for the next 80 minutes. At my option I may end the spell early and cast Suggestion.

He then uses the following Diplomacy to[roll0] urge the dwarf not to punish those who interacted with Orivan for Barnabas' mistake. Whether punishment will be meted out or other actions must be taken, Barnabas offers his service to the dwarf and those the dwarf works for.

BelGareth

2013-07-24, 04:41 PM

Zebs mouth turns into a grimace as the man appears, his spell fizzing out from its duration, he hadn't wanted to, but things needed to happen, and...well, he was the first mage he had found. It's your own fault for not wanting to talk...damn you....

He takes the time to look the dwarf over, making sure to copy every little fine detail of he small enchanter.

+4 circumstance
+10 hat of disguise
+5 cha (no rankes, eeek!)
+3 Inspire competence (1 round burned)
[roll0]

After doing that, he searches the room a best he can, looking for any scrolls, or other magical items of value or use. He'll do a quick scan of the dwarf for items, taking any and using them if he can. Then he will see if he can find out where the local Mage Library is (does he know where it is from before?)

Jötunn

2013-07-25, 02:36 AM

Red Festival:Farrah speaks, calmly yet certain.

"I will come with you, sir. This Vanegrut I think I may be able to trust more than those I thought had sent you. Perhaps this can be resolved peacefully.".

Her face is resolute, yet you can see behind the stony facade and the tears that worry is gnawing at her soul.

"My friends, your company would be welcomed but you each have your own path to follow and my troubles are not yours. Go with my blessing if you needs must."

She then waves her hand at the door and speaks once more to Thantos; "After you?"

Azoth

2013-07-25, 05:03 AM

Thantos holds out a gauntleted hand towards Farah, Nothing personal, but your weapons if you don't mind. Proper protocal for one under my transport is to be unarmed. I will not bind you since you are cooperative, but your weapons are non negotiable.

Winds

2013-07-25, 09:36 AM

In the Red Festival:

"I agreed to help you. I will come...and I have questions you may be able to answer."

Toward Barnabas and the dwarf:

"I will return. Orivan is now my concern as well."

Should Thantos ask Shallas to disarm, he will hand over his staff.

cameronpants

2013-07-25, 10:56 AM

@Belgareth

Rummaging around the apartment, you find a diary, three scrolls, two potions, and a wand. You also find the dwarf wearing a ring, nice boots, and a vest bearing arcane runes.

Swami Monsoon

2013-07-26, 08:04 AM

Now that the confrontation downstairs appears to be winding down Omar climbs back up to his room hoping to catch at least a few hours of sleep in what's left of tonight...

BelGareth

2013-07-26, 01:25 PM

Zeb takes the time and reads the diary, trying to get a glimpse in the life of a dwarf mage.

He'll then see if he can activate the wand and ID a scroll and the potions:
He will cast Improvisation (http://dndtools.eu/spells/spell-compendium--86/improvisation--3531/), gaining 16 luck points for 8 rounds.
Spending 4 points on each check along with a round of inspire competence (+3)
Wand: [roll0] vs DC 20
Scroll 1: [roll1] vs 20 + spell level
Potion [roll2] vs 20
Potion [roll3] vs 20
(are we using PF cantrips? as in, are detect magics at will? and what about Identify, is that PF or 3.5? PF using Detect magics and spellcraft)
I can only attempt one Scroll per day with out read magic, and I don't have it, also the potions take 1 minute per.

After satisfying himself, he'll try and find a bag to put the boots, vest, and any other item he cannot ID into, the rest he'll pocket except the ring, which he will place on his finger.

He'll than make sure the dwarf is hidden in the back before he goes out (invisible) to find the mages library.

Jötunn

2013-07-28, 08:25 AM

Red Festival: Farrah hesitates, and then sheathes her sword, unclipping it from her belt.

"I expect you to keep it safe - it has sentimental value. And my friends, thank you for your aid."

At Shallas' offer, she smiles gratefully. "You do me great honor, and honor yourself as well. It is not many that would come to the aid of a stranger."

She strides to Thantos, presenting him her blade, and then walks out the door of the Red Festival.

cameronpants

2013-07-29, 12:37 AM

Red Festival

Thantos and Farrah leave through the front door, heading towards the northeast. A few moments later, a half dozen guards walk in and begin to roll the dwarf away out the back door.

@BelGareth
You find the Mage Guild's Southern Library without too much trouble. From your vantage point across the street, you identify three security checkpoints. Getting in invisibly may be impossible, as you suspect there are plenty of magic sensors around.

Azoth

2013-07-29, 04:43 PM

Thantos tucks the blade into his belt. As they walk he keeps an eye out for those on the streets. It is late at night, and with the commotion that had occured it would be surprising if they ran into unsavory individuals on their long walk back to the guild halls.

You needn't be concerned. No harm shall befall one in my custody until they have reached their final destination. We have a long walk ahead of us, and no rest until it is finished. Take this time to reflect and prepare yourself so that you may face the end with a calm and resolute mind. The gods frown upon their charges meeting them ill prepared and distraught.

Winds

2013-07-29, 07:57 PM

The Streets of Aelbridge:

Shallas follows Farrah and Thantos.

"Farrah, is there anything you particularly need me to know or do? Or shall I simply keep watch?"

BelGareth

2013-07-30, 04:12 PM

Finding the library he finds a good vantage point and watches the entrance, seeing how each mage enters and leaves the place.

Once he thinks he's seen enough (or none are fast coming) he'll attempt to enter, releasing his invisibility before the 1st check

Not sure if they are guards, wards, portals or what have you....

Doxkid

2013-07-31, 10:07 AM

In the Red Festival:

Barnabas stares at the guards maneuvering the dwarf for a while before tapping on Never's back. The giant spider dashes after the two two allies and one tentative enemy.

cameronpants

2013-07-31, 01:06 PM

@BelGareth
You are aware of magical sensors, living Mage Guildmembers acting as security, and at least one animated statue that seems to be watching everything.

You approach the library, drop your invisibility, and pace your breaths. You've kept calm in worse situations, and this should be easy for you. You reach the first security station moments before they let another man go- they search him, pat him down, then wave him through. As you approach, the Mage Security smiles broadly.
"Heccis! Welcome back. Thought you said you weren't back until tomorrow!"
Spot Checks to oppose your Disguise: [roll0], [roll1], [roll2]

@Azoth, Winds, Doxkid, Jötunn
You wander through the streets, winding your way towards the MAGE tower. It is late at night, but the streets are far from bare. The streetlamps, lit by magic every few days, keep all but the darkest alleys illuminated well. As you pass some of the side roads, you see unscrupulous-looking individuals involved in a number of less-than-savory activities.

The trip to the Tower takes longer than Thantos would have liked- without his mount, and having to wait for the odd passing cart or rider, stretched the time to an unseemly long time. Nearly three hours later, you reach the tower.

Gathered around the front door of the Tower are four robed men and one wearing a breastplate, tinted green. The armored man is holding a sphere of dark blue metal, studded with points of brilliant red light, as if the rivets holding it together were made of liquid heat.

As your group gets closer, the five men watch you carefully, hushing their words as you pass. You meet no resistance with the men, and you climb the stairs to Mr. Venegrut's office. You stop outside a moment.
You can have a quick conversation if you like before entering.

Doxkid

2013-07-31, 09:45 PM

Group in the Tower:

"...if we were fewer I would have offered a ride. I'm sure you would have enjoyed it. Never enjoys it..."

The spider and halfling seem more focus on examining the office than anything else though they each do so in their own way. Never's many eyes dart to and fro, it's whole body turning to take in everything it can, while Barnabas simply rides out his mount's rotations, droolingat whatever/whoever is placed in front of him.

Jötunn

2013-08-01, 05:40 PM

Mage Tower: "I'm not sure I would have wanted to get here any faster, friend."

Farrah smiles.

"Before we enter, you should know: I stand accused of the murder of one of the higher members of my order. I fled in order to prove my innocence, but for the sake of my honor I should have stayed and trusted that justice would be done. It was... not my finest moment."

She straightens her back, standing tall before the arched doorway, and you realise that on the way here she has been hunched over, as if dreading her fate and cringing from it.

"If today would merit my end, I pray that the gods would have mercy upon my soul. My body is yours once it is done with, if you may find a use for it"- here she points to Barnabas -"and my effects are yours to divide up as you will. You have earned that much for comforting a stranger so. All I ask is that you return my sword to my family home and tell them how I died.

Her face is grim as she turns to Thantos.

"If you would be so kind as to announce our presence."

Azoth

2013-08-01, 09:09 PM

Thantos nods to Farah, "I have their residence in the file on you. Your weapon, will be returned along with a letter explaining your charges and sentance. May you find your peace, and resolve this time around."

With that little bit said, Thantos raps his hand against the door harshly. His gravely voice loud and clear.

Mr. Venegrut, I have returned with Farah and company in my custody. If you would open up, we can conclude our business and be free of one another.

cameronpants

2013-08-02, 10:35 AM

@Tower

The door swings open silently after a moment. Thantos walks in, Farrah, Shallas, and Barnabas following after. The room is an office, a third of it taken up by a large desk, worn and used. Standing behind the desk next to its chair is a man with hands folded across his chest. His smile is fake, pasted to an emotionless face, held rigid between goatee and mustache. His robes are casual business wear, nothing expensive or fancy. His eyes core into Farrah as you come to a halt on the other side of his desk.
"Well. That was quick. I guess your words are as capable as your blade?" Mr. Venegrut says, eyes fixed on the Binder woman.

Azoth

2013-08-02, 04:49 PM

Thantos' face is its usual emotionless slate as he looks over his employer. This was tedious and annoying to say the least.

She came willingly to face her charges and clear her name. There were no casualties or collateral damage caused by myself for her apprehension, so there is no need to compensate any local businesses or persons for this target.

Now, if you will bestow my compensation unto me, I will take my leave. After all, the contract was solely for her apprehension and transport to yourself. My services are fulfilled, and my duty done. Now the girl and her companions are your issues and responsibility.

cameronpants

2013-08-03, 12:00 AM

@Tower

"And... companions?" He finally moves his eyes away from Farrah, and looks upon the other two. "I have no need for... wait. Are you... Barnabas?" Venegrut asks, saying the name slowly, as if he is remembering it from some previous life. "You are... yes, indeed, I believe... My, my, what are the chances?"
Venegrut moves around behind the desk and opens a drawer. From it, he takes a neat stack of papers held together by a small, metal clip. He walks over to you and hands the small notes to Thantos.
"Your payment. Money-notes accepted at any establishment or vendor in Aelbridge. The banks here will cash them if you would prefer." He takes a step, centering himself on Farrah. His eyes lock onto hers, and he speaks to Thantos without looking at him. "Her effects, please? Weapon, enchanted items?", and then to Farrah, "if you would please, could you take a seat there, by the window? I will send for your escort immediately."
He takes Farrah's sword from Thantos, and puts two fingers to his temple as he rounds his desk and sits in his chair.
"Thank you, Thantos. You and the... twitching one may leave. Barnabas, a word?"

@BelGarath

((I realize you're on vacation for a while longer, but I'm gonna have this ready for when you return.))
The guards seem to buy into your disguise- it was rushed, and Heccis had no mirror in his apartment, so it was a struggle to both hold the steel mirror from your pack and apply the delicate magic to your features.

The guard speaking to you waves you through, bypassing the pat-down, but as you begin up the stairs to the main entrance, the winged stone statue leaps down from its perch and lands squarely in front of you, talons at the ready.
"SPEAK THE NAME OF YOUR GRANDFATHER, THEN PERFORM THE SIGNAL." The creature grates out, the sound of stone vocal chords ripping on a stone larynx. It obviously is demanding proof of you being Heccis by a password system decided upon by each guild member. Now, if only you knew Heccis' password...

Doxkid

2013-08-03, 01:28 AM

Tower:
"Chance? Perhaps... We may speak."

Barnabas croaks, allowing a a pause while the others situate themselves before speaking again.

Behind closed doors:
"...there is much to learn. Much to be done." He sounds absolute elated at both of these prospects, curiosity and joy dominating his words. "Is there more to know? Or...have I already found it. We have tagged a possibility. It may be found later."

Winds

2013-08-03, 09:44 AM

In the Tower:

"...Twitching one? Hmp. I'll be waiting outside, then."

Shallas steps out of the door and leans against the wall outside.

Azoth

2013-08-03, 03:01 PM

Thantos puts the notes away in his bag and looks to his former employer with the Farah's sword.

She has requested that sword be sent to her parents along with a transcript of the trial and her sentence. Do honor that wish Venegrut.

With that Thantos turns and leaves the room. As he passes the dejected tag along in the hall he pauses.

She will not be allowed to leave. Unless you are waiting for Barnabas, then you are waisting your time.

Without waiting for a reply Thantos continues on his way out of the building. He decides to try and find an inn that hasn't been ransacked and is still open for business at this hour.

Jötunn

2013-08-04, 09:45 PM

@Tower:"I must confess, I am... surprised by your question. Was it directed at me, or at the Reaper?"

Farrah looks around, drinking in the room as if it is the last room she will see - taking in the desk, the hangings on the walls, the bric-a-brac or lack-thereof spread around the room.

"I also find it interesting that you are fine with being alone in the same room as an accused murderer and well," - here she gestures at Barnabas vaguely - "him. But that's not important. May I ask where or to whom I am to be escorted?"

cameronpants

2013-08-06, 11:24 AM

@Venegrut's Room (Jotunn, Doxkid)

Venegrut's eyes, locked on Farrah, seem like deep pools of power and loathing.
"I meant you, dear Farrah. Please sit by the window until I can get your escort here. You will be taken to a nearby holding cell- and don't worry, it's fully furnished- until the details of your hearing can be decided. Shouldn't take more than a few hours at most. Then you will be escorted to the Temple where your case shall be heard. You will have the chance to speak in your own defense." He moves around his desk, and stands next to the diminutive Barnabas.
"Barnabas. We've never met, but we have overlaps in our acquaintances. I am a member of the... society... that has given you purpose here in Aelbridge. Once Farrah is escorted, we can speak more on the subject. For now, make yourself, and your spider companion, more comfortable."

He moves around the desk again and starts organizing papers, signing some and marking others.

"Farrah. To what address would you like the transcripts and effects sent?"

After answering, two men enter the room. They are wearing the colors of the Knights Templar, and each have the insignia of Rubicant, the Vestige of Justice, emblazoned on their scale mail armor. One pushes his hands through his burgandy cloak, and invites you with him.

"We shall be your escort, my lady. Right this way."

@Azoth

Thantos moves through the streets like a ghost. He eventually finds a late-night inn and brothel; the latter is now closed, but the former is still open for business.

@Winds

As you wait outside the room, Thantos strides past, saying curt words and not waiting for a reply. A few moments later, two men approach the room, nodding to you politely. They are wearing burgandy robes over stylized scale mail. An insignia, some kind of circle with swoops and lines in it, catches your attention. They enter Venegrut's office and emerge moments later with Farrah walking between them. They nod respectfully again, and walk down the hall and descending a staircase.

BelGareth

2013-08-06, 12:46 PM

Z sighs slightly, inwardly only, so as not to arise suspicion, he was quiet surprised when he managed to bypass the guards, regular guards were one thing, but magical ones, well, he had one to many incidents with them and he disliked them generally.

His intrigue raised, he moved forward only to be challenged by what looked to be a gargoyle of some kind.

quickly thinking he attempts to lie to the creature...

"Grandfather Heccis!" he says grumpily and waves for the creature to get out his way.

oh my, if this works...
[roll0]

Azoth

2013-08-07, 05:21 AM

Thantos openly seems rather dejected at his only prospects for the evening being a place of ill repute. At least he can take solice in the fact that he will not spend his time here being bothered by whores and drunkards looking to play a game of hide the sausage.

He looks to the inn keeper and sighs slightly. A part of him happy that the job was done rather quietly, but another bothered by it. After a moment he decides it best to just let it from his mind.

If there is food left to eat in your kitchen I will have a plate of it...I care not what it is as long as it is not rotten or dieased. A glass of a dry red wine as well to drink. Prefferably something you haven't watered down or let turn to vinegar...Hell just bring a fresh bottle and I will open it myself.

Doxkid

2013-08-07, 12:14 PM

Behind closed doors:

"Not the same? I should have examined you. Examined him. Faces tell so little...bodies so much. Better than faces... Better than names..."

Barnabas licks his lips loudly, just in time with Never scratching it's mouth with a massive pedipalp. Of the two, the spider large enough to consume a grown man is definitely less horrific.

"This woman..." Never indicates Farrah on his behalf, "Her life will be kept, yes? I am using her body. Less to use if it is not alive. Less entertaining. More work to be done."

cameronpants

2013-08-07, 05:21 PM

@Behind Closed Doors (Doxkid)

"While her life will be kept, you will be unlikely to see her ever again. The normal punishment for her crimes is disintegration. Death by conflagration. Arcane fire is the only force powerful enough to purge the taint that has rooted itself in her soul."

Venegrut walks around the desk and, approaching calmly but slowly, becomes intimately close to Never and Barnabas. Their breath mingles as Venegrut begins to speak to Barnabas again, only this time scant inches from his face.

"I've grown up hearing stories of you, Barnabas. Your sacred fruits. Your existence a miracle of beauty and growth and nature."
He shifts slightly, leaning back onto his desk.
"I know what you're here for. You'll find it in the district of Underhall, part of the old city. A district collapsed after a massive earthquake a few centuries back. Residents just built over the old stuff- but it's all down there. Vagabonds and interlopers stay there. Musicians, too. Terrible music, really. It also happens to be the currently appointed 'Dwarven District'. I hear there's trouble brewing there. That's where you need to go next."

@Azoth

The barkeep seems oblivious to your distaste. He does notice your armor and strange gear, but refrains from commenting. For the bottle of wine, a room for the night, and a dinner and breakfast the next day he charges you six gold and five silver. The wine is house-made and maybe a week old. It is extremely dry, but fails to impress you as anything other than a batch of so-so bathtub wine. The meal, smoked salmon, bread, and steamed greenleaf, satisfies you more than you expected. Whoever cooks this brothel's food is worthy of a greater establishment.

@BelGareth

The massive statue stands, perfectly still, and slowly tilts its head to the side. It repeats the movement the other way, as if weighing possibilities. Eventually, it grates out "CONFIRM NEW ENTRY?"

Azoth

2013-08-07, 06:29 PM

Thantos was surprised by the quality of the food, and while the wine did not particularly please him it did help to soften his frustrations. He stayed at his seat long after his food was finished. His mind replaying the events of the day as he continued to drink his bottle of wine. He made certain to drink slowly and attempt to find some pleasure in the home made liquor.

While his contract was over, it felt slightly off to him. It was against his rules and those of his sect to try and break a contract or aid a criminal, but this Farah... Something about her actions made him question the extent of her guilt.

Oh well, when the sun rose in the sky he would have other issues to deal with. The orbman, the guards, and finding new work would be his concerns then. Until sich a time, he would only have thought and speculation in his mind.

To help keep himself distracted Thantos orders another bottle of wine. Daring risk more than just his senses, he asks for the houses specialty wine. Perhaps they are no good at his prefered tastes, but they may have skill in another area that would surprise him.

Tell me sir, what do you know of those charged with protecting your city? In particular I am curious to the knowledge of a Half Elf who is of high station, a dwarf capable of growing as tall as I, and the men who wield power drawn from orbs in their possession. If your tongue be weighted by fear, fear not for I am one who knows how best to keep his still. If it does not move except by payment, I am one who can pay.

cameronpants

2013-08-07, 10:14 PM

@Azoth

The innkeeper looks you up and down, and grunts.
"Fear don't weigh my tongue. City's policed by the Orbs, Order of Midnight or some ****. Keeping part of their souls in a ball they make. Then they move it like, to and hither. I think we got couple 'em halfies in the mix of Orbs, but ain't no dwarves. Underfolk barely got rights here in 'Bridge. ****ing miners have their own homea now, o'er 'n Underhall. Sunken district, after 'em shakes dozen-score back." The barkeeper speaks quickly, words slurring into one another with practiced speed. His lips barely move around the toothpick he chews on.
"Come think on it, saw a nearly seven foot miner earlier tonight, fuming and stomping around down the street, by the Redcourier Office. You know 'im?"

Swami Monsoon

2013-08-08, 12:50 AM

Omar sleeps the sleep of the righteous...

(Just a note that I am still following the thread, even though I've steered my character into a cul de sac for the moment.)

Azoth

2013-08-08, 04:32 AM

Thantos listens to the man patiently. His mind used to picking out words even when jumbled or unintelligable. He takes a slow sip from his glass before speaking.

I might have had a run in with him. Did he seem burned at all? If it is the same, he was with a half blood last I saw him they seemed like guards of sort. They were trying to capture someone when an old man weilding an orb appeared and snatched the man up.

As I am not from here, I am trying to make heads or tails of what I saw. Truth be told, I am still immensely confused. If you could explain it to me, then I would be most...appreciative.

As he spoke the last word, Thantos began to thumb through his notes of payment in open view of the man.

BelGareth

2013-08-08, 12:06 PM

The disguised-as-Heccis-Z does his best to perform as an angry Dwarf, waving his hand impatiently at the thing before him.

"Yes, yes, yes, just hurry, I'm in no mood for this!"

Doxkid

2013-08-08, 02:10 PM

Behind Closed Doors:
“Miracle?” Barnabas plays with the word, stretching it out as he ponders aloud.

“Chance?” He considers the ideas in various languages, toying with the concept behind them and watching how they play with other words like a schoolmarm watches children known to misbehave.

“No... “ Suddenly there is an edge in Barnabas’ voice that does not belong. Not on this Halfling. Not of this man of pleasure and wonder and joy. “No... Our calling is not miracles. Not chance. Many things to many people. But never those.” And then he bubbles out of his funk.

“It is fecundity where all should be barren. Birth through the power of decay. But not Miracles. Not chance. It...it is much more interesting than that. Yes?” It's hard to say whether this is rhetorical or direct, as Barnabas is now as dopey as he usually seems.

“We will find what we were sent for. And we will learn so…much.” Never turns and makes her way to the door, her master giggling to himself on her back. “We will learn so much. So much. ...So much.”

In the tower (DM+Shallas):
Somehow the ungodly large spider opens the door. It would be best to not dwell on how, exactly, but she does and a moment later the Arachnid and halfling laying upon her back are outside the office beside the waiting Storm Mage.

“There is much to be done. Much to learn. So much...so much...so much...We will go. We will do our work. Shallas…will you still join us? Will you still serve? And…would you like a ride?”

Winds

2013-08-08, 09:53 PM

In the Tower

"More to be done tonight? Very well. While we walk, there's a few questions I have for you...questions that a summoner, perhaps, could answer."

Shallas climbs onto the spider beside Barnabas.

"So much to learn...interesting choice of words. I find that my concerns are not quite so clear-cut as I thought...Farrah, too, may have knowledge I have use for. She will be fine here for tonight, yes?"

cameronpants

2013-08-08, 10:29 PM

@BelGareth

You begin to hustle forward in a huff, and the towering statue slides out of your way. You stomp up the steps of the library and enter through the main doors.
The entrance hall has vaulted ceilings, covered in skylights. Even this late in the evening the light still pours into the room. Six hallways lead off this center entrance room, and arrows and signs hang everywhere.

What section do you go to? Ancient History, Arcane Experiments, Arcane Theory, Applicable Science? Or somewhere else? They've got a section for pretty much anything.

@Winds, Doxkid

Where do you two go?

@Azoth

"Nah, smelled like dirty liquor and day-old miner sweat. No burns. He ain't no guardian or militia-man. If he was with a halfie, I'd say they might be bounty hunters if'n they was involved in affairs with Orbsmen. Bounty hunting's a big thing 'ere in 'Bridge."
The man eyes the bank notes.
"And though I don't know the men in particular, I got a cousin who works as a scripter in the Hunter's Hall, the Bounty Central. I can get you in contact with him, if'n you think that be fair."

Azoth

2013-08-08, 11:33 PM

Thantos eyes the man for a moment. The dwarf and half blood he saw were more than bounty hunters with the number they commanded. Though maybe the bounty hunters could shed some more light on matters for him.

One more question before I agree. What do you know of a Mr. Venegrut?

cameronpants

2013-08-08, 11:55 PM

@Azoth

The man eyes you a moment, and opens his mouth to speak. He squints a bit, and looks down.
"I wish I could say I'm a better man, but I ain't. Normally, I'd lie to ya. But something tells me this is, well, important-like. No, ain't heard of no Venegrut. Unique name though."
He looks up again.
"Sorry, I got nothin'"

Doxkid

2013-08-09, 12:05 AM

Leaving the tower:
Barnabas allows the other man to clamber aboard, then shuffles around in the saddle until he is positioned directly behind Shallas wrapping his arms around the other man’s waist. Thick vines ooze from his wrists anchoring Shallas’ legs to the saddle on Never’s back.

Almost as soon as Barnabas positions himself and his passenger, Never has found her way outside; when she hits the open street she stands oddly still for a moment before her nervous energy returns and she once again scans in every direction for prey or threats.

“My task…my goal…a place built upon ruins. Underhall.” Barnabas mutters into Shallas’ back, occasionally ‘securing his passenger’ with groping hands that are almost certainly unnecessary given his tentacles are wrapped around the other man and the spider. “You have questions. I approve. I will answer what I can. But first…”

Barnabas indicates a guard in some strange way only Never understands and she rushes straight to the target. “We search for Underhall. Can you aid us? Never...go as he directs you.” The thought that this particular guard might suffer arachnophobia or not know the directions he is requesting doesn't seem to cross Barnabas' mind.

As she was commanded, Never waits ready to learn and follow the route the guard offers.
--
With a carrying capacity of ~350 lb (‘quadruped’ with a Str of 19) Never should have no problem carrying her master, who weighs less than 75 pounds with equipment, and a passenger who probably weighs less than 275 pounds with equipment.

cameronpants

2013-08-09, 12:43 AM

@New Best Friends (Winds, Doxkid)

The guard takes a step back involuntarily, hand flashing to his sword as the massive spider and tentacle-bound rider come running at him. Stopping on a dime, Barnabas emits his question, unseen behind Shallas' back.
"I... Northeast of 'ere, maybe three hours by foot. Less if you've... well, got a massive spider to ride 'pon. Well trained, innit?" The guard leans forward to look into Never's eyes. "Quite remarkable. Though, Underhall ain't the safest 'hood around Aelbridge. Might I suggest, at least, to travel there in daylight? Might be a bit easier to spot the rabble before they knife you for your clothes."
The guard spots Barnabas, whose arms are exposed to secure Shallas to the 'saddle'.
"But, you know, something tells me you'll be alright."
The man continues to tell you directions by street name.

Doxkid

2013-08-09, 02:18 AM

@ With a new friend(Wind):

"We thank you. Stay safe. Stay wise." Thin, delicate looking dragonfly wings erupt from Never's cephalothorax, already flapping in place at speeds that make actually seeing them impossible as three jut out between the four legs on each side of her.

Little ribbons of flesh, carapace and silk extend from her abdomen and her legs tuck inward under her body; the combination of her leg's support and the sails she has just revealed hold the section of her body aloft comfortably as she hovers in place.

Without warning the spider shoots straight into the air until she's just above most rooftops, spins in place until she is facing the correct direction and then darts off toward her goal.

"We will scan first, Never. For conflict. For those who need our power. Then, perhaps, rest. you have served well." The spider is steering herself, watching street signs, looking for (and keeping track of) landmarks and keeping at least a five eyes out for anything (or anyone) that would interest her master; it is skill and loyalty like this that gives rise to half-spider abominations fathered by deranged spell-casters.

"Steer if you must, Shallas. Now...your questions?" Barnabas asks as if this were an everyday occurrence. For him it probably is.

While travelling Never will keep an eye out for familiar faces. Communication between master and Spider is rapid and efficient; Never uses her above average intellect to process everything she takes in and then conveys anything important to Barnabas through both their Empathic Link and almost-verbal communication.

-------

What time is it? Since it was already night I'm guessing it's around Nine PM; early enough for normal people to still be out and about, but late/dark enough for the nightlife (and vagrants, vagabonds, etc) to take over.

Winds

2013-08-09, 10:25 AM

@New friends

"Well. This has certainly been an interesting day. Giant flying spider. How unusual."

Shallas glances around the city, enjoying the view for a moment.

"I already said I'm a storm mage...actually, there's more too it than that. I'm not just a spell-worker with a talent for element magic. I heard the voice of the wind, and it taught me my magic. I haven't heard of any other mage doing that...have you?"

BelGareth

2013-08-09, 11:34 AM

Z walked in and could have smiled, but knew better, he quickly looked at all the subjects, making it look as though he was standing and trying to decide if he should bother, now that he was inside.

He chose ancient history, that would likely have some dusty tomes that are neglected and possible others that shouldn't be allowed in the library.

He moves of with a quick pace, eager to find out what he needs.

He'll take his time and do a thorough search of things

His arcana, religion and planes mod is +11
all other k checks are +5
He'll take 20 in whatever works for this.

cameronpants

2013-08-09, 01:10 PM

@BelGareth

(Arcana: 31, History: 25)
It takes you an hour and a half per check.

You discover that these books had their sections on the Archmagi and all their workings removed. Everything but edicts and laws.
You use those volumes on law and court trials to create a timeline. You quickly compare it to other major events, and create a kind of schematic for how active each member was each decade for the last few centuries.
This, however, gets you no closer to the Vault. But it does show some interesting trends of the Council.

Time has crept by. It's 11:30 or so, and you're getting tired. Up with the dawn and all that.

Then you notice it. The Godchord has started a second note, far deeper and more hidden than you are used to. Had you been distracted by thought or conversation you'd have never heard it. It slowly gets louder and louder, until it is cascading, blurring the rest of the chord. Something about it seems off, broken. It gets louder, so loud it's all you can feel, see, and think. you drop to your knees. Then it stops.

You stand and return to the desk where your notes are. You start pulling them together. A few minutes later, the note comes back- slowly swelling again, finishing with you on your knees, cradling your reverberating head. It extends, this time, into a long, high pitched note, so high that when the darkness of unconsciousness grasps you, you are thankful.

@Best Friends

As you near the area of Underhall, Never starts flying in a spiral, searching for both a place to land and a good entrance to the underground district. As he does so, both your sets of eyes are on the ground, passing scant words between one another. Barnabas notices first- Never has suddenly got very, very scared. Never is, well, never scared. His body suddenly grows cold and he begins to flicker.
The next moment he is gone, and you two are falling. Barnabas can feel the connection between himself and his magic weaken, the connection to his companion gone. Shallas hears the wind cry out, thundering in his mind, NOT AGAIN!
And then darkness.

@Azoth

You are deciding whether to pay this man for his information when a cold feeling passes over your spine. It drops down to your toes, and every hair on your body stands on end.
Danger, your body screams. Danger unlike any you've ever encountered.
You stand, drawing blade, and spin, looking for the threat.
Nothing. One man sitting at a table, snoring lightly. The innkeeper, eyes wide in fear.
And the feeling consumes you again, and spots start appearing in your vision. You fight to keep your mind straight, to not succumb to the numbness you now experience slowly creeping up your body.

Then darkness, followed by images flashing by at hyperspeed.

@Swami

As you dream, you dream of a snake. A snake so large it can wrap itself around the core of the planet a hundred times. It, too, sleeps, but in its slumber it is being fed upon. Fed upon by a shadow living outside the confines of land and sky, creeping in through edges of shadow and darkness. And the more the shadow feeds, the tighter the snake squeezes, until all life on the planet is choked.
Then you wake up.

@Jotunn

What I PM'd you.

OKAY THEN.

@ EVERYONE, AFTER YOU'VE READ YOUR SECTION ABOVE

The darkness recedes before you can think. Some of you saw images, passing at hyperspeed. (DC 20 Int can recall a few, DC 30 int can recall a lot, DC 50 can recall them all).
What you see doesn't make sense at first, but as your minds sharpen they make sense of your surroundings.
You are sitting on a boat. Allistar is standing at the front of the rowboat, recounting a ludicrous tale of a ghoul and a sailor. Zebediah Constantine sits frozen in the center of the ship, mid pull on the oars.
The rest of you sit where you sat that morning.
The only difference is Farrah is screaming and clutching at her neck and back.
The scream is organic, raw. Like something you'd hear from a man having his skin peeled. Her eyes are shut, being squeezed with every facial muscle she has. Her mouth is contorted, locked into position, as the unbecoming scream rips out of her. It continues until she is out of breath, and her rigid muscles relax. She collapses to the floor of the boat. She stirs, and sits up.

@Farrah
The memory of pain is clear, but is just that- a memory. You remember what happened, very clearly, every clean, gentle stab from those acidic dagger. They were erasing you, piece by piece, using magic acid and horrible, nerve-ripping poisons.

Allistar stops, mid sentence, and turns to face the woman.

"You... a'right, lass? Sea finally caught up to your stomach, then?" He pauses, and shrugs, seeing that she is alright and not being murdered.
Allistar, the first mate of the Soaring Zephyr, turns to Shallas.
"So... How was your voyage?"

Azoth

2013-08-09, 03:26 PM

Thantos looks around himself more startled than he would like to show. His hand grabs for his scythe and one of its decorative ridges catches the cut on his hand from Venegrut's office. He pauses realizing he is the same as he was in the inn. His hand still on his scythe, he begins to look to the screaming Farah.

Seems Venegrut was not so kind to her after he left. Not that concern for her is anywhere on his priority list. Finding out what happened and who is responsible is. No one uses magic like this...especially not on him.

Thantos tightens his grip on his scythe and uses the ridge to rip his healing cut a bit wider. He hopes the pain will break this. That it is all an illusion, and the one responsible is nearby.

Winds

2013-08-09, 04:17 PM

Shallas frowns, feeling dizzy from the fall that didn't actually happen.

"Well enough..."

He looks at the city for a moment, remembering the vision.

"...It seems...I have more work to do than I thought."

BelGareth

2013-08-09, 06:41 PM

Z continues to row for a few seconds until the gut-wrenching-bowel loosening-ear splitting-scream cut through his strange reverie/day dreaming.

He pauses and opens his mouth as if to speak.

"Wh...." he stops short, looking around, he takes a look at the 1st mate with a strange look. "Bu...." he shakes his head and looks around again, he had fallen asleep, how had he...what had....wait, what where those images, the library...it was burning, but he it hadn't been burning, had it?

He shook his head as if to sort out all the clutter, perhaps it would all align for him.

No use.

Looking over to the one called Farrah, he furrow's his brow and thought for a moment, this happened in the....past...this already happened!....hadn't it? He quickly kept on rowing knowing he would arise suspicion if he were to do anything different.

Perhaps he had delved into a tome protected with magiks? perhaps this is some kind of illusion of the mind, he is still sleeping? no, this was too real...or was it?

Oh gods shut up!

Stopping he suddenly listened inside his mind for a moment.

Yes.

He could still hear it, can't fake that.

The GodChord swelled and swayed carrying a melody that calmed his nerves, slowed his thinking to a normal pace that he could keep track of. The GodChord had gone crazy...yes! that was it, it had strummed unheard notes, and made him pass out....but that was in the library! How....this has to be in the past, this had happened before....

His thoughts aligned for once, the recognition of what had happened stabbed at him like some assassin from the shadows.

The curse!

He suddenly started singing his sea shanty tune,

"The Diamond is a ship, my lads, for the Davis Strait she’s bound,
And the quay it is all garnished with bonny lasses ’round;
Captain Thompson gives the order to sail the ocean wide,
Where the sun it never sets, my lads, no darkness dims the sky,

So it’s cheer up my lads, let your hearts never fail,
While the bonny ship, the Diamond, goes a-fishing for the whale.

Along the quay at Peterhead, the lasses stand aroon,
Wi’ their shawls all pulled around them and the salt tears runnin’ doon;
Don’t you weep, my bonny lass, though you be left behind,
For the rose will grow on Greenland’s ice before we change our mind.

So it’s cheer up my lads, let your hearts never fail..."

[roll0]

Woah, dejavu

Doxkid

2013-08-09, 08:53 PM

His expression blank, Barnabas glances at Thanatos' minor injury (which the man is worsening by the second) and summons the slightest hint of his power. A spark of life frees itself from the Barnabas and vanishes, immediately spent repairing Thanatos' flesh.

"...fall..." His gaze roams to Farrah, but he does not take action as he did earlier. Her wounds are those his magic cannot reach so easily, too deep for spells meant to mend flesh and bone.

"...fall..." Shallas is the last person he considers, but he too is dismissed after a moment.

Slowly, his face breaks into a curious, perverted grin; it took a few moments but Barnabas, the happy and strange Barnabas you all are (passingly) familiar with, emerges.

"There is still work to be done. Ne things to learn. So much...so much..."
Forgot some of the mechanics for what I was doing.

Barnabas will cast Cure Minor Wounds on Thanatos. Normally this heals for 1 Hp but thanks to Healer's Blessing it instead heals for 6; enough to repair any minor injuries Thanatos has and then some.

Swami Monsoon

2013-08-10, 01:46 AM

The howl of pain snaps Omar awake... Somehow he'd been nodding off in his sleep. A snake. He'd been dreaming about an enormous snake. Omar had never liked snakes, and once he realized that he was becoming a creature of the sea he was more than happy to leave them behind. Until he realized there was such a thing as sea snakes... and they were even more venomous than the normal kind. But the snake in his dreams was the snake of snakes, the sum of all snakiness. It wanted to swallow the whole world, land and sea alike. He shudders again at the thought. As he turns to see what was wrong with the distressed passenger, he reflexively makes an inventory of all his possessions. When he taps the jacket pocket that holds the letters... they are not there? He'd just had them when he left his cabin? He glances around the boat, wondering if there was an especially talented pickpocket aboard. Somehow he didn't think so. Something suddenly feels deeply wrong...

Jötunn

2013-08-10, 09:50 AM

Farrah clutches at her stomach, still feeling the sensation of blades tearing her entrails into ribbons. The scream has faded away, but the memories have not.

Now she sits on her bench, only slightly aware of where she is. Her clutching turns into a careful exploration of her once-rent abdomen, and they touch her cheeks to confirm that tears no longer flow; she is no longer bound to Focalor's will. She is no longer screaming, but it's obvious that she's not sound of mind right now, as she continues to reassure herself that her body is intact all the way to the docks.

cameronpants

2013-08-10, 10:30 AM

Some of you notice it- in fact, it's hard to miss. The others in your rowboat, all but Allistar, are experiencing disorientation. Slack-jawed astonishment, violent reactions, and an unseemly wail have warned you of the truth: something unbelievable just happened.

The rowboat edges close to a stall and Allistar throws a rope around a beg and pulls himself towards a wooden ladder adjacent to the stall.

"Bring it about to stall Five Five Nine, Zeb. That's good. Alright! The next bit 'o my job 'ere is to make ensure you lot don't get swallowed by the masses in five minutes. Now, I ain't gonna be your tour guide, but bless my mother's killer if I ain't gonna give you the two-five. Now, listen. Aelbridge is big- bigger 'n all the other cities combined- bigger 'n some countries. Over a thousand thousand people live here. And by people I don't mean humans and elves and 'lings, but I mean goblins, trogs, sylphs, nymphs, minotaurs- hell, I once met a Centaur here! Place is a cesspool of thievery and brigandry too, so watch yerself. If you don't got a place to stay, head to the Red Festival o'er on Elm and 25th. Oh yeah, and streets got names of trees, lakes, and famous folk going east and numbers and colors going north. Anyhow, owner's a real nice guy, likes stories. Name's Stare. Big hat, dark eyes. Pleasant.

Any questions 'fore I get you offa' my boat?" He laughs again, a big laugh that you have come to expect from the small-framed man.

Doxkid

2013-08-11, 02:41 PM

Barnabas spends a moment to consider the city and its sea, a marvelous example of how desperately life will fight against its environment without regard to how unpleasant or unfortunate the consequences will be.

The temptation to check what has been nagging his mind is still there, but he refuses to give in. Not yet. Not now. Not while there are other things he must do first.

Auran:
“We can find him. Your lost prince. Now. Before his blood spills. A word and I will search for you; aid you; guard you. Another and we will go. If not…I will go to my conflict. To the halls of dwarves, built upon ruins. I hope you will serve…but-”

“-I do not forget allies.” Barnabas fluidly changes languages as he looks over at Farrah. “Warrior…will you still serve? Shall I still use you?”

Winds

2013-08-11, 03:26 PM

Auran:

"I'm not sure. Something very bad is happening...or going to happen...and I don't know if dealing with your problem or Orivan will help."

"...No matter. First things first."

Shallas turns to glare at Thantos.

"You. I know your purpose. I allowed you to take my ally once, and it went for ill. You will not take her a second time.

...However. Your skills may be of use in learning what has truly happened here. Will you assist?"

Ah, the direct approach.

That would be a skill roll, but social skills are explicitly non-functional against PCs. (Which explains a lot about their standard operating procedure, come to think of it...)

Jötunn

2013-08-11, 05:50 PM

As the rowboat rocks, Farrah gets to her feet. She still moves slowly, as if in a daze, and ignores the questions of her companions. Assisted by the probably-quite-confused Allistar, she climbs from the boat to the dock, still clutching her sheathed blade.

Without looking back, she starts limping away from the boat. With speed that belies someone who only moments before looked like she was forcing her way through air as thick as treacle, Farrah breaks into a sprint, bouncing through the crowds of the city with careless abandon.

Her armor would still be in her trunk, and she'd have left her shield behind on the boat - Allistar is probably trying to pass it up to her as she begins to run. All she has on her would be the clothes on her back (that are presumably slashed and torn from all the stabbing), her father's sword, and whatever gold she had in her pouch.

cameronpants

2013-08-11, 11:36 PM

As the rest of the rowboat climbs onto the dock, and watching as Farrah sprints out of sight, Allistar, still awkwardly holding Farrah's shield, misses his step and begins to plummet into the murky water.

Highest Reflex gets to try to grab Allistar. The DC is higher than the first time because his hands are full and not flailing.
Thantos: [roll0]
Zeb: [roll1]
Shallas: [roll2]
Barnabas: [roll3]
Omar: [roll4]

And a d20 roll for the Climb check, with the modifiers to follow:
[roll5]
Increasing the Check by 2 for half-expecting this:

Thantos: +7
Zeb: +3
Shallas: +1
Barnabas: +11
Omar: +6

Allistar bangs his head on the way down, three sets of hands seeming to push him into the disgusting, plague-infused liquid sloshing under the docks. He sinks beneath the surface- and even though he's scant inches from the boat's edge you are unable to see through the filthy water.

Azoth

2013-08-11, 11:54 PM

Thantos looks to his accuser as the wound on his hand heals. Obviously this isn't a replay of earlier, because this is far from what happened before. He slowly releases his grip on his scythe as he watches Farrah take off running through the crowd. His head turns to watch the idiot fall into the murkey water.

Without much pause beyond what is necessary to move by, he dissembarks. His eyes casting a glance towards Shallas, "I have no desire to be in the company of one who claims me to be an enemy, and then is foolish enough to ask my assistance. I have also fulfilled my contract, and as such am not required nor inclined to hunt down that woman again. Now be a good little lad and save the drowning buffon before he dies."

With that Thantos would summon his skeletal steed and head off towards the Dwarven district. He had things there to discuss that would hopefully clue him in to what in the infinite abyss was happening.

cameronpants

2013-08-12, 12:25 AM

@Jotunn

You run. You run as fast and as hard as you ever had. Your mind feels numb, the adrenaline and panic ebbing away, leaving nothing in its wake.
Nothing but the pull.
You had forgotten about it yesterday... last day? Previous day?
But now it came back, flooding your thoughts.
Every muscle in your body was screaming with use, each pounding footstep sending you hurtling through crowds and markets, alleys and streetways, all packed with pedestrians and riders.
The pull was strong- stronger than you ever remembered- and you found yourself sprinting towards the direction it pulled, every footstep making the attraction a little bit harder, a little bit harder to resist.
You ran until you were exhausted. But you kept going, pushing through the tears and sobs that now wracked your lungs. You wanted to stop, to catch your breath- but the pull. Nothing could stop you now.
Suddenly, the feeling disappears. You abruptly collapse, hands barely catching your body before your face bounces on stone and gravel. Looking up, through tear-loaded eyes, is the Coliseum.
A massive banner has been erected in front of the main doors, before which you lie.

CLOSED FOR REPAIRS. CHAMPION'S TOURNAMENT POSTPONED.

Somewhere, deep inside, you feel it again. The pull. Weak, now, but insistent.
Inside. It wanted you inside.

Swami Monsoon

2013-08-12, 02:27 AM

Omar is startled out of his thoughts by the sudden fall and splash. He tries to grab the man before he slips under... he briefly grips an arm and then loses it. The surface of the water is a slimy film that quickly covers everything...
Well, this was what he was made for... but Omar still holds his breath as he dives into the water. There's no way he's breathing that s#&t...

Going in to get him.
Take 10 on Swim (+20) for total of 30
Strength [roll0]
Not sure what other rolls may be needed.

cameronpants

2013-08-12, 09:08 AM

@Swami

It functions as a touch-activated poison. Saves 1/round, requires three successful saves to recover. Each failed save deals 1d6 Con damage.
I'm using how poison works from Pathfinder, if that's okay with everyone. I like them more.

Omar leaps into the fetid water, and successfully grabs Allistar. They need help being pulled back on to the rowboat.

Swami Monsoon

2013-08-12, 11:26 AM

Fortitude

[roll0]

[roll1]

[roll2]

Winds

2013-08-12, 03:35 PM

"...Everyone says such hurtful things."

Mumbling to himself, Shallas reaches into the water after the two men...

Yeah, this isn't gonna work.

Climb check: [roll0]

Doxkid

2013-08-12, 04:18 PM

Barnabas reaches out, leveling a slick hand in Farrah’s direction, but he does not call upon his magic or the many beings that serve him. After a moment he allows the hand to drop, an air of disappointment about him.

“She…was not an ally, I think. I do not know her mind and I know little of her body…but her answer was clear. Allies do not abandon. But…they do not forget those who stood beside them either." Barnabas sounds oddly saddened by his own words.

He only seems mildly interested in the two people splashing in the fetid waters; enough to consider the effects it is having on their bodies, but not enough to bring the subjects in for a closer examination.
-----
[roll0]
[roll1]
---
With his grief-diminished curiosity sated, Barnabas raises an open hand. One by one his spidery fingers curl to press against his palm, magic snapping people into place around him as he does so.

“The Storm desires you. Come to my side.”

----
Casting Regroup on Allistar, Omar and Shallas (in case he falls after making that attempt to save the others); each is teleported to a square next to Barnabas.

cameronpants

2013-08-13, 11:00 AM

Allistar, Shallas, and Omar are teleported next to Barbabas up on the docks. Allistar looks a little green, and Omar looks fine.

"Wa... Wow. Thank you, Mr. Barnabas." Allistar chokes out between mouthfuls of vomit. "If there's anything I can do, you let me know. I'm in your debt." He turns his head slightly, looking at Omar and Shallas. "Both of you, as well. If there's anything Allistar Teal and the Soaring Zephyr can do for you, name it. Be well, friends."

He shakily descends the ladder and casts off, rowing towards the Zephyr once again, leaving the four of you (Zeb, Barnabas, Shallas, and Omar) standing on the docks. You can still make out the form of Thantos as he rides his skeletal horse towards the northeast.

Swami Monsoon

2013-08-13, 02:10 PM

Omar suddenly finds himself flopping on the dock like a freshly caught fish. He winces at that thought... and then winces again as the harbor slime stings his eyes. What exactly did these people do to the water here? Now he badly needs a bath. And a change of clothes. More likely, these clothes are a total loss now... He looks back at Allistar, who is already making himself scarce.

"Uh, you're welcome..."

He turns to Barnabas.

"And thanks for the, uh, hand..."

It feels as if the dock is slowly spinning under him. It feels wrong... Are the toxins from that water affecting him? But he'd felt this even before he went in... For a moment he sways on his feet, struck by a vision of him and the other passengers fighting... as gladiators? In some kind of arena? After a few seconds he regains his composure.

What the hell is wrong with me?

BelGareth

2013-08-13, 02:31 PM

Z looks around as he rows, something was amiss, something happened to all these people. perhaps they all had been drawn back in time, perhaps the GodChord affected them all?

Well of course it affected them all, but more so, perhaps in a more personal nature...where they a part of the curse? he frowned at them as they approached the dock, watching as the 1st mate almost fell, no, wait...he fell this time...

things are changing, was that even possible?

He watched as one of them dived into to save the man and was successful.

How strange. He thought to himself.

He stood and disembarked, wandering what he should do with himself, the flash of imagery disturbing him somewhat, he didn't like it.

Shuddering he moved off, disappearing before people, not caring about being covert. Not being the mood either, he suddenly summons a large cloud that encompasses the docks and then pushes it away with a scalding burst of air, he was not in the mood for shenanigans.

Uses Walk Unseen, then Breath of the Night and the scalding Gust

Doxkid

2013-08-14, 03:11 AM

“We shall go. Nev-“ Barnabas stops mid word and frowns. “No. I will not try...not yet...not now...Jenny, I call upon you. Come serve my will.”

A smear of grey discolors the docks at Barnabas’ side. From a two dimensional splotch canine features side and stretch giving rise to part of a powerful lupine beast…but something isn’t quite right. Silver and bronze metal rods glint under its fur and its legs are hidden beneath a thick stone skirt.

By the time it has fully appeared in this world the conjured wolf is as large as a horse and probably several times as heavy. Those with good ears and extensive knowledge of magical engineering might recognize the sounds of thaumato -pneumatic hissing and the grinding of spell imbued stone against magic enriched bone.

Jenny spares everyone around it a single glance before dismissing them as unimportant. The wolf does not object as Barnabas clambers up its side, mostly pulling himself up with the slick vines that extend temporarily from his wrist and agility that doesn’t seem natural for his strange form.

“I have things to search for and…” Barnabas pauses as his face elongates slightly, his nose puffs somewhat and thin grey fur erupts out of his body. “Prey to hunt. Ride with us if you wish.” His grin displays a predator’s teeth, each warped into jagged fangs.

Summoning Jenny, the Planar Companion. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=15785380&postcount=99)As Jenny’s Light carrying capacity is 1400 lb he should have no problem with any number of passengers that can fit on his back.

Passive Abilities worth noting for this trip are Jenny’s land speed of 70, fly speed of 40 (good maneuvering) and his ability to trample anyone who blocks his path (assuming they are medium or smaller).
----
Activating the Augmentations associated with Jenny. At the moment Barnabas gains:
+4 natural armor
+5 fire resist
Scent
And +4 racial bonus to Survival

Jötunn

2013-08-14, 05:04 PM

Elsewhere:Farrah climbs to her feet, wiping away the tears as she does so. None more flow.

She is aware that she has sinned once again, running away from those that would help her yet that gnawing pain is numbed by the insistence of the pull.she has time now. Rather than moving, she takes the time to dust herself off and rest momentarily - she both resists the pull and accepts without question that at the same time she will gladly scratch that itch in just a moment.

Personal maintenance complete, she steps forward, seeking an entrance to the closed Colosseum.

Winds

2013-08-14, 08:24 PM

Shallas blinks a bit at Barnabas' latest strange minion, then climbs on.

"What is it you search for?"

Doxkid

2013-08-15, 12:22 AM

“Someone that does not belong…it should be with the brotherhood I serve. It is not with them. We will correct that. Ne-“ Barnabas catches himself mid word once again. “Jenny. Go.” The ‘improved’ wolf takes off at top speed toward the Dwarven district, its movements far too smooth for the wolf to be a ground-bound creature.

cameronpants

2013-08-20, 05:13 PM

Thantos rides away, followed shortly thereafter by Barnabas and Shallas on the back of Jenny. At the same time, Zeb disappears in thin air. Omar stands at the docks, alone, watching the strange familiarity of the city around him. As he stands, he looks out at the throngs of people working in the early morning.

A feeling creeps down his spine. He's being watched. Again. Glancing around, he notices a familiar face- a man, tall and thin, every inch of skin wrapped in medical bandages. Only the tip of his nose and his eyes can be seen through the wraps, and they are locked onto Omar. He is some hundred feet away, and after a moment Omar looses sight of him in the moving bodies on the docks.

Thantos rides swiftly, reaching the area around Underhall quickly. There are several entrances, or so he's heard, into the underbelly of the city. He quickly locates one, and realizes his steed would not fit. He descends into the underbelly of the city.

Barnabas and Shallas speak of their intentions as Jenny races along streetways, alleyways, and a few times over buildings themselves. They make good time, and locate the area where they fell. They quickly find a marked entrance to the undercity. It is too narrow, too low of an entrance to ride Jenny, so they dismount and have her follow them down.

Farrah looks around a bit, and locates a backdoor to the coliseum. Moments pass as she times her entrance, ensuring nobody can see her. The door is stuck, but with a few good pulls the latch, old and rusted, breaks cleanly. She creeps inside.

Zeb wanders aimlessly, weaving through crowds and, using his powers of subterfuge and obfuscation, to progress unhindered towards the northern districts.

Azoth

2013-08-21, 03:13 AM

Thantos relents leaving his mount, and dismisses it rather than leave it behind to be tampered with.

He makes certain that his shadow companion is with him hidden at the base of his own shadow. There is little information to work with on figuring out what is happening and why, but he knows that once he finds the one responsible for it they will pay dearly.

Thantos begins to make his way to the Dwarven city will calm steps. His posture the same confident figure of authority as he uses when on jobs. Any darkness present is no hindrance to his eyes just as it is no hindrance to the people he seeks.

Thantos isn't sure what he will find here, but it is his only lead. Maybe he can find the Dwarf that was spoken of at the inn...or the one who was there for his apprehension of Farrah. Either one seems a good place to start.

Doxkid

2013-08-23, 12:56 PM

@ Playing in dirt (DM+Shallas)
Barnabas strides forward through the opening without hesitation, unworried about what may lurk out of sight; so long as he has Jenny's protection he has nothing to fear. Even if Jenny were to somehow fail him he still has powerful magic at his disposal...and if that too should be insufficient there is always Shallas at Barnabas' side.

The halfling man's breath catches in his throat as he watches a small vermin dart through his path. It might have been a beetle or roach or even a Silverfish...but in his eyes it is a small, helpless spider fleeing from danger to the safety of it's master.

"Storm...Shallas..." He begins, still waddling forward at his unbearably slow pace. Even if he stopped it would probably take Shallas and jenny a few moments to tell the difference. "What did you see when we fell? What happened? What became of Never?"

The temptation to test his connection to Never persists, but Barnabas dare not dismiss his experiment to attempt to summon a spider who might not serve when he asks; who might not come when he calls; who might not even hear it's master call for it.

There is still too much to do.

Winds

2013-08-23, 01:51 PM

Playing in the dirt

"Never...vanished. I don't know enough about summoning magic to say more for certain. I guess he's wherever you called him from. As for what I saw, after we fell? I saw the city destroyed by a huge orb of light. More importantly...the wind spoke again. Screamed, really. It said...'Not again'."

Shallas runs his hands along the pouches of his vest nervously.

"Also it seems that paying for my room was a bit of a waste. Heh."

Doxkid

2013-08-23, 06:07 PM

@Playing in the Dirt:
"We will know what happened soon. I will see if she still serves..." The sorrow in his voice is neutralized by pulses of aggression, some words coming out dripping with sadness and others as violent growls. Jenny remains aloft, alert and silent at the back of the group, overtly sniffing every now and again to acclimate itself with the path.

"Getting for a room was no waste. It kept us together. It kept your Orivan alive. Or...it will. It would have. Hmm..."

Swami Monsoon

2013-08-24, 05:10 PM

Omar tries to follow the bandaged man but quickly loses him in the crowd. Something's clearly going on. There's no reason to believe that the odd... disturbance... has done anything to stop the plot against the ship. He has enough extra paper in his bags to recreate the lost letters. For a moment he wonders just where those letters are now... He suddenly remembers... a discussion with the captain? In a dark hallway? He'd already delivered them... before? Would the captain have any lasting memory of that? But the stakes are too high to trust in that kind of good luck. He heads back to the inn, wondering if he'll get the same room this time...

Jötunn

2013-08-26, 04:50 PM

Where she is not supposed to be:Farrah takes a moment to catch her breath once more. The trespass is a niggling doubt but it is still buried by the instinct of that pull towards something unknown.

She looks around to see where she's found herself now.

Winds

2013-08-26, 04:56 PM

Playing in the Dirt:

Shallas scratches his head, trying to think.

"It also...will have? Did have? Anyway. He also ran away. Maybe this time he'll be in jail, and I can actually talk to him...Anyway, is there any way I could recognize this thing we're looking for? Some magic aura I could watch out for?"

cameronpants

2013-08-26, 07:55 PM

@Jotunn

You've entered through a subsidiary entrance used by employees, gladiators, and service crews. The room and attached corridor are dark, but with the help of the pulling feeling you manage to move through the bowels of the coliseum without too much trouble.

You are being drawn to the main stadium, a massive circle with several raised stages. The stages raise and lower, and composite walls are sometimes added to create a labyrinth. You are drawn toward the center stage, the largest of them all, raised another few dozen feet above the rest of the stages. You climb a straight staircase of marble to reach its peak.

The stage has no features other than building supplies stacked five crates high on one end. In the center of the raised platform is a hole leading down- possibly a broken elevator currently under repairs.

From inside the hole climbs a woman. At least, you think it is a woman. She has her back to you and is her movement is alien, choppy. She is climbing out of the hole backwards. Her head is shaved and familiar-looking tattoos cover her scalp and neck. Her armor is dark grey and composed of chain and plates of a glossy, thin metal. You only guess it is a woman because of the way she moves and the fact that somewhere deep inside you are sure you know her.

@Playing in the Dirt

Time passes as you wind your way through the collapsed district. You have no information other than a general description and a few sly comments from a less-than-forthcoming man. However, you did gleam one bit of information from him: it is very likely that the thing you seek is with the Dwarves. You eventually find where the Dwarves' homes are.

The Dwarven Slum is filthy. Stacks of refuse and detritus litter the side passages. In the center of Underhall the entire cavern opens up and full buildings can be found within the great caves. The largest, a five story tower, is the home of the Dwarven Council.

@Azoth

Using your size and intimidating manner, you discover word about a mountain dwarf named Thugrimm. He managed to get a name for himself across the seas as a bounty hunter, and then moved over here to expand his client base. He teamed up with a half-elf named Marilus and since they've been dominating the competition. Seems Thugrimm is generally revered here as an example of what a free dwarf can do with his life.

The general feeling in Underhall is futile anxiety. The dwarven slum is filthy, shattered. At one point, while holding a dwarf against a brick wall by this throat, you spot Barnabas and Shallas wander by. The strange, monstrous wolf following them sniffs momentarily in your direction, but ultimately ignores you.

Seems they have business in Underhall as well.

@Swami

You make it back to the Red Festival. It's about the same time as you arrived last time, and you indeed to get the same room. You quickly copy out the letter you wrote from memory once again, still reeling from the memories you couldn't possibly have.

Azoth

2013-08-26, 10:01 PM

Now he had a name, and some information. This helped him to aleviate some curiousity towards the idiots at the inn last night. So they were bounty hunters, and that raving man was their mark. Not so different from himself, even if they worked for anyone with a coin purse big enough to draw their eye.

Thatos let the dwarf dangle for a moment as he contemplated the others arrival here. What were they after down here in the slums and darkness?

After they passed him by, he turned back to the dwarf and let out a soft breath as he relaxed his grip.

Do you see those two with the wolf? What are the odds that you could persuade your kinsman to keep an eye on them, and find out what they are after? If you could manage this favor to me, I would be most obliged to compensate you for your efforts, but only if you aren't caught by them. What say you?

Doxkid

2013-08-28, 11:39 AM

Playing in the Dirt:
As Barnabas and Shallas enter the Underhall Barnabas takes a moment to revel in the place’s magnificence. He and this slum are a fine match for each other; both being disheveled, filthy, disgusting things that are not appreciated – or wanted for that matter –, but they are still necessary components of life for many beings.

Barnabas and Jenny lock onto the Dwarven Tower quite quickly and wordlessly start toward it. Barnabas proceeds on foot for quite some time, perhaps not realize that now would be an opportune time to remount Jenny; after a good ten or fifteen minutes of walking into the city he produces a platinum ring, identical to the one he planted within Never’s flesh and sets his magic to work on it.

When he is finished he offers this to Shallas, smiling as if one man presenting another with a ring bears no strange connotations to him. “For you. We are not served as we were before…”

Jenny snorts his words, either trying to clear its nose of a new experience with offensive scents or insulted enough to almost care what its master says.
--Notes--
Casting Extended Shield Other on Shallas using Versatile Spellcaster to expend two 2nd level spell slots (Healer, slots in this case, since it is on both of my spell lists) as a single 3rd level spell slot.

@ Shallas-
You gain +1 Deflection to ac and +1 Resistance to saves for the next 14 hours as long as you remain within 40 ft of Barnabas. You also take half damage from all attacks, the other half being transferred to Barnabas.

Winds

2013-08-28, 08:40 PM

Playing in the Dirt:

"Ah. What useful magic. My guarding spells don't last so long. Still, I can give waterbreath or darksight at need. Ask, if you require."

Shallas puts on the ring.

"Allies...always good to have allies...Lead on."

Jötunn

2013-08-29, 09:28 AM

Still Not Where She's Supposed To Be:
Farrah stops at the rim of the stage, seeing the movement. This woman - so familiar, yet unknown. Who is she? Why does Farrah know her, yet not know her. These are the questions that she asks herself. She hesitates to reveal herself, instead waiting and watching to see what she does next - whether there are any clues to why she finds the woman so... familiar.

Just as a precaution, Farrah places her hand on the hilt of her blade, ready to draw if the woman makes any threatening motion.

Readying an action to draw my weapon if the woman makes an aggressive action towards Farrah.

Swami Monsoon

2013-08-29, 10:58 AM

Omar settles down in his room and works on two new copies of the letter. He'll have to repeat his circuit from last night tonight... Maybe the captain also has some lingering memory of the letter and its contents, but there are too many lives at stake to gamble on that. At least he knows that he didn't won't get caught...

Once darkness has fallen he blocks the door and approaches the window, ready to start again. As best he can, he plans to match the time and timing of his movements the first time around...

cameronpants

2013-08-30, 11:45 AM

@Swami

You effectively recreate your attempt at reaching the ship. Unless you do something differently, everything works out the same way. If you want to do something different, let me know OOC and we I will run it through for you. Otherwise, you deliver the message, chat with the captain, and head back to the Festival. I will pick it up as you reach the inn depending on what the other players do.

@Jotunn

For about a minute, the woman enters and exits the hole. She seems to be carrying down small black cases that are lining the gaping tunnel's entrance. After two trips, she freezes. She slowly turns, revealing her face.
It's you.
An older version of you, to be sure. Slight wrinkles mark around her eyes and mouth, but otherwise she seems just as young as you- as if she was aged many years in a short amount of time. Her hairless head startles you for a moment, until you see her eyes- pure white. No iris or pupil, just white orbs in her sockets. She seems frozen in place, eyes wide. On her belt you see a sword, thin and long, made of some dark blue crystal. Her eyebrows furrow, and she takes a step forward. It seems clipped, strange, as if she has to concentrate on each step. She then yells at you. Her mouth moves soundlessly, and then the words find your ears a moment later, as if there was a delay between her speech and the sound they created.
"Eree-ehh eebh utuan ood! Eree-ehh eebh euht udezwapp-uss utuan ra-oay!"
The words spill out of her, and you realize each one is being said on the intake of breath, not the exhale as usual. She begins to become visibly agitated, and draws her sword. It is longer than it looked on her belt, and is visibly humming, distorting the space around it visibly.

@Playing in the Dirt

You reach the tower. Two guards stand next to the main entrance, clubs and shields at the ready. Seems the dwarves have their own militia.

Make perception checks.

@Azoth

"Yeh... I cun do tha'. Dem intropers be seen bah me, fer certin. Little bi' ta git me on the merry?" The dwarf holds out his hand, expecting a coin to get started.

Winds

2013-08-30, 01:44 PM

Perception: [roll0]

Doxkid

2013-08-31, 12:34 AM

Barnabas' Perception roll: [roll0]
Jenny's Perception roll: [roll1]

BelGareth

2013-08-31, 11:51 AM

Zeb is in an annoying mood, this whole circumstance was just...well...annoying!

He couldn't make heads or tales of it, and he was sure something was going on in the library, so he headed back to it, assuming the shape of the dwarf from his memory and entering the same way. He headed directly back to the same area and started to read....again.

Want me to reroll everything?

Swami Monsoon

2013-08-31, 05:17 PM

Mission accomplished (again), Omar returns to his room. Something is different, as the big fracas in the common room and the street apparently has not been repeated... or at least it hasn't started quite yet. Still, he decides to stay up a while longer. If it... whatever it is... happens again, this time he will be awake for it.

cameronpants

2013-09-01, 10:26 AM

@BelGareth

No need to reroll, you get in. However, things will be... different. The Library is abuzz, filled with various mages, wizards, and warlocks. There's some great commotion going on, but you can't get a straight answer out of anyone.

@Swami

I'm sorry if I insinuated it, but the commotion at the Festival will still be happening. Or have happened if some PCs get back from their side bits and instigate anything.

@Playing in the Dirt

The hair on Shallas' arms stands on its end, and Jenny glances behind her nervously. She huffs.

You're being watched.

Winds

2013-09-02, 04:48 PM

Playing in the Dirt

Shallas speaks more softly, mouth almost not moving.

"...Hm. Someone's looking at us. The thing you're after has protection beyond the obvious, I think. So...how do we get it?"

Doxkid

2013-09-03, 02:20 AM

Playing in the Dirt

Barnabas considers this, his already slow pace slowing even further as he gradually comes to a stop.

"Hmm? If only...if Never..." Barnabas trails off, considering the options available.

"There is little to be done about that. Jenny...we will see. And we will cleanse them, so The Storm can see too...

Be ready Shallas. We will someone to question soon."

--
Casting Detect Magic (from a Summoner slot) and sharing the spell with Jenny. Both will scan for magical auras that are out of place, passing over the guards and the Tower in favor of open areas and walls.

Barnabas' Spellcraft is 14, should any of the auras be in his line of sight.
Jenny's Spellcraft is 12, should any of the auras be in his line of sight.

Once a target has been located (assuming they do not move away) Barnabas will cast Dispel Magic (also form a summoner slot), using the Area version of the spell, at that target's general location.

Since this it was cast form a Summoner Spell slot the Caster level for the Dispel is 8.

Azoth

2013-09-04, 01:07 AM

Thantos looks to the Dwarf and let's out a soft breath. He produces two silver coins and speaks in his usual tone, Remember, if you cross me...its only two bones to cross the river Styx.

With that Thantos leaves the Dwarf to his task. He decides to head off in search for anyone who knows of any thing strange happening lately. Maybe some miner who found something off putting while excavating this under city.

BelGareth

2013-09-06, 05:25 PM

Zebs eyes narrow as he looks on at the crowded room.

This was different.

He was sure it wasn't this busy before....Oh yes, I had other things to take care of! Hmm, which means my disguise isn't all...well, good enough, that sheisty dwarf may very well be here....

He looks and finds a spot where he can be by himself and study those books, he was sure they were the key, or perhaps something in here....

Takes 10 to find the books and starts to study them again.
OOC: Shruggin shoulders moment, I'm not sure where to take this

cameronpants

2013-09-13, 07:55 AM

@Playing in the Dirt

No immediate auras appear for Barnabas. He scans everything within his field of vision, but either whatever is watching them is farther than the range of the spell (which would be hard due to the way the street and walls curve) or whatever is perceiving them is not hidden with magic.

The guards of the tower nearby have spotted you and one approaches your position.

"Good'un, top-dwells. What business have ye down 'ere?" the guard grates out.

@Azoth

The dwarf slinks away, expertly blending in with shadows and stones.

As Thantos paces in the sunken city, he finds a group of dwarves near a stairwell that leads to the surface. One dwarf, near the mob's center, is standing on a crate, yelling to the crowd around him. He's speaking of rights, of honor, and telling them they have a choice to make. As you watch, a few dozen soldiers emerge from the stairwell and form a defensive semicircle.

@BelGareth

You pore over the books, absorbing knowledge like a sponge. You read about different ages, different times, mages who invented spells that allow the passage through time, to freeze time, to see time.

To see time.

You read about a spell to see the passage of time, to predict and read its ebbs and flows. Seems the spell, after further study, prevented the body from aging after enough uses, as if the seeing of time allowed one to avoid it. It was kept in...

In a Vault. A Vault inside the Inner Sanctum of one of the Mage Guild Libraries.

Inside the library you stood in.

You had found a reference to a vault- maybe not the right vault, but it was the first lead you had yet.

@Swami

Do you do anything else? It's unlikely the others will return to the Festival before the scene would normally happen, but you have some time to kill before it goes down.

@Jotunn

You froze. That feeling inside your head, that tugging, that terrible tugging, had wrenched your thoughts sideways.

What was this? How was this possible? What was wrong with her voice?

She moves erratically, jerking forward and backward, speeding up fast and relenting slowly, the reverse of what you'd expect.

And then she's next to you, her face red with rage. She's frantic, screaming continually in that time-delayed reverse-sounding madness she's spouting.

And then she cuts at you, slashing violently at your body.

Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1] + [roll2] + [roll3]

The sword cuts deep, deep into your midsection. You feel the blade being both extremely hot and deep cold at the same time. Your body convulses, and you pass out.

...

A few hours pass, and you wake up.
You're in a bed inside the Red Festival.
Your wounds have been healed, and your mind seems clearer.

You get a +6 bonus to Will saves for 24 hours.