DrK Way of Wicked Take 2 IC

[DarkOne-Rob]

"How long will you need to gather sufficient numbers to send southward towards the other towns and 'spread the word?' As I recall, we also considered sending both Eddarly and his mistress, least they come to justice for the murder of Mott. Perhaps you should re-engage the topic with the two love-birds, least they get comfortable in staying."

As Ahkmathi speaks Sharon/Oghash seems to make a deliberate effort to concentrate and try to follow his words. It's clearly a struggle for the half-orc, as she's neither as learned nor as intelligent, but she seems to get the overall picture. Her three companions can clearly see her counting on her hands as she makes the mental effort to remember the questions she's going to answer...

"Speaking of which, have we searched the departed Capt's abode for anything of value? There may be codes, information or tools we can bend to our purpose contained within."

At this question Sharon/Oghash shakes her head and silently curses. "Should have thought of that already...tonight, after I check on Eddarly...no, not enough time...tomorrow, then..."

"In the meantime, what if we sent word to the keep that Alicia was overstepping her bounds, and planning on cutting her husband out of the business permanently? We could ensure Barthold found her in a compromised situation, perhaps with the blood of her husband on her hands? That might eliminate a problem without our overt involvement, as well as provide us an opportunity to learn more about the last Captain."

However, when Ahkmathi makes this recommendation Oghash fiercely shakes her head and stops him. "No! New...acolytes...must join us in worship with acts of violence. Murdering the matron was Rosemary's idea! She's ripe for the harvest and must eat too. That way she and the others girls will be so ashamed they can't escape...They will rely on us as to feel like they were forced when it was really their own, unholy choices!" she says, with a passion bordering on religious fervor. The fierce evangelist is careful to control her volume, but doesn't hesitate to show her enthusiasm for her accursed efforts to spread the worship of Asmodeus.

After a deep breath she continues, "But you're right, we don't have long...a week with the girls is all the time we will get. From their our little ones will have to be given to the Dark Prince so that his blessings multiply them in the South...

I will check on Eddarly and Kaitlyn tonight. Tomorrow, after our time with the priest, we can check on their homes and see what can be used for the cause. Will that be soon enough, you think?"

[Farmerbink]

At this question Sharon/Oghash shakes her head and silently curses. "Should have thought of that already...tonight, after I check on Eddarly...no, not enough time...tomorrow, then..."

Stvari interrupts. "Sharon won't need us around to talk with him. We can scour his home while you see to our friend's needs."

He remains quiet throughout Oghash's outburst, his face unreadable. "As strange as it feels, I agree. Oghash and- what did you say her name was? Rosemary?-" he nods in acknowledgement. "Oghash and Rosemary have the brothel well in hand. With access to this tunnel, it may well be days before the innkeeper and his wife are recognized as missing. Tell a few of the girls to step in 'because they've fallen ill' and nobody will be the wiser."

"As for Mott, I'm keen to break in tonight. If one of you can come with to make sure I don't fall for any traps the eye can't see, I'd be glad of the company. Perhaps Ahkmathi can join me, and Anton can accompany Sharon?"

Spoiler: OOC

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I don't think either of these things stand to be "encounters" that we'll suffer for splitting the party. So I vote Stvari and Ahkmathi check out Mott's place, while Anton and "Sharon" see to Eddarly.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Sharon/Oghash nods. "I'll get Kaitlyn first - When she gets home and finds her servants dead she'll stay with Eddarly...or even here!" she says with some pleasure at the thought of bringing the young woman where they can better keep an eye on her.

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

Ahkmathi arched an eyebrow, surprised at Oghash's outburst. Raising his hands placatingly, he commented calmly, "Feel free to deal with the actual murder of the madam and her husband any way you choose - I was simply offering another option that could bring the final Captain into our sphere of influence. However, be sure that slaying the two of them does not bring unwanted attention early than is necessary. Our efforts are proceeding nicely, but I would prefer to avoid rousing the keep to full alert before we are ready.

If we wish to search the house of Mott, then let us do so. Anton can escort Sharon back to Capt Eddarly's and we will deal with anyone left at the manor, and look for any items of value. "

---

OOC - Sounds like a plan ... and do we have any idea how many soldiers / servants are in the keep? Seems like we should have a ballpark number already ...

Effects/Conditions: mage armor (1 hr); low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

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Str 8 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 22 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 19 HP 26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

Show

0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, grease, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

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(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: 0/1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 4/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+6 / Splash 8 dam
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[Gyrfalcon]

In the privacy of their rooms, Anton and Dahaki sit comfortably in their dragon form with their tail wrapped around their legs. The blue dragon inclines their head at Ahkmathi’s use of their full name, the draconic accents spoken perfectly for a tongue that wasn’t forked.

”Among friends and companions, feel free to call me Dahaki.” the dragon says with a pleased flick of his tail. ”As for the dwarves, with the circlet that we were provided, we can disguise ourselves as a dwarf and investigate what they are doing with the bridge. If they are attempting to rig it to collapse, we will need to convince them not to, or undermine their efforts.”

The dragon listens to the more established members of the Knot debate the best usage of their time, inclining his head in agreement when asked to accompany Oghash. ”I know spells that can be used to dispose of corpses efficiently, leaving naught but clean bones that can be collected and disposed of in the woods or into the river if weighted with stones. I have a scroll of the spell scribed, but I’ll need a day to memorize the spell as I don’t have it readied at the moment.”

The dragon thinks for a moment. ”If I have the timelines clear, then today during the day the dwarves can be investigated. Tonight, we deal with the innkeeper and his wife, and this mansion can be searched. Tomorrow we need to be prepared for the priest. After he has been dealt with, we’ll need to review our efforts and decide on next steps?”

[DrK]

Anton, their new friend, and Oghash leave the inn after the introductions are made and quickly stride around the ring of houses towards Captain Eddarly’s, Oghash’s steps sure having been there before. Quickly reaching the house she opens the door and slips inside to be greeted by the sharp tang of vomit and a faint moaning where Eddarly lies facedown surrounded by empty glass bottles groaning slightly. A wail of horror as he sees Oghash/Sharon

“what have I done. How could it come to this, I have ruined everything.”

—————————-

For Stavri and Ahkmathi it’s easier at the neat and tidy large well to do house where the Mott family lived. A convenient window on the 1st floor left ajar allows the monk to scale the wall and gain access where his lethal skills brutally end the life of the house boy and maid canoodling whilst their masters sleep. Soon enough the servants door is opened and the wizard walks calmly in.

In the house the sleeping servants. 2 guards, a butler, 2 cooks and 3 maids are swiftly and easily killed in the silence of the dark house leaving just the ladies bedchamber to explore, a hint of candlelight flickering from the cracks around the door hinting the room is occupied but not whether is awake or not

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

Ahkmathi stared at the door for a moment before glancing at his companion. Leaning close, he whispered, "I thought Eddarly and his woman were together. What has happened, I wonder?" He nodded for Stvari to move forward, knowing the dwarf was better at sneaking around than he was. He would be ready to assist, should there be trouble.

---

OOC - Ahkmathi can use mage hand to open the door if that would help Stvari, but in general he has color spray and bombs ready for attack.

Effects/Conditions: mage armor (1 hr); low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

Show

Str 8 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 22 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 19 HP 26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

Show

0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, grease, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

Show

(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: 0/1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 4/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+6 / Splash 8 dam
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[Gyrfalcon]

Anton slips in through the door after Sharon and closes the door behind him with a soft click. He takes a breath and grimaces faintly at the sour reek of vomit. The gaunt half-elf steps past Sharon to take in the room and its miserable occupant. He slowly circles the captain, steps quiet except for the clink of glass bottles as he slides them out of his path.

”Mm. So, this is the dashing Captain Eddarly. Hm hm. My companions have told me so much about you. But where is your lady love? Did she perhaps have more feelings for the late Mott then she thought?”

[DarkOne-Rob]

Oghash/Sharon rolls her eyes as Eddarly weeps into his hands (so that he doesn't see her do it) and then looks to her companion. With a shrug she indicates that he's pretty much been like this before and this doesn't surprise her. With a sigh she begins looking around the little house, going and closing doors and windows, preparing to murder the fallen captain in secret if he answers poorly...

Spoiler: OoC

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I suspect this isn't too hard to arrange - if it's obvious there are places where his cries of pain will leak into the outside she will do what she can to prevent it. Once done she will walk up behind him and prepare to strike him suddenly (with surprise) and try to end his life quickly...not out of mercy, but because she's not interested in taking too long.

[Farmerbink]

Stvari pauses at the final door for a time, listening intently for sounds from beyond the closed door.

Spoiler: OOC

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perception is at +10, +12 if this qualifies for his dim dweller trait.

Spoiler: If he hears something that indicates wakefulness

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The squat Dwarf frowns deeply, considering the situation. "Can you take the guise of a solider? Perhaps draw her to the door before we incapacitate her in tandem?"

Spoiler: If he does *not* hear anything to indicate wakefulness

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With an ugly grin, Stvari nods to his companion. Deftly, he reaches out to unlatch the door as quietly as he can, peeking inside cautiously.

Spoiler: Stealth

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(1d20+8)[23] (same conditional +2 either applies or doesn't)

[DrK]

Oghash/Anton

Eddarly stirs slightly as he spies Oghash and then just moans and mumbles drunkenly. Oghash can easily potter around the small house and close the sashes and seal up the windows and doors. The captain not even noticing. He looks up at her as she approaches and mumbles incoherently "I saw it in her eyes. She hates me now... I have poisoned what was pure.. I have destroyed the precious thing that was our love... I ha...." he chokes off as Oghash brings up the dagger into his neck under the jaw straight into his brain. There is a moment of confusion before his limp body slides off the tip of the knife. The pathetic drunken man very much ead.


Stavri/Ahkmathi

The dwarf and wizard pause and wait for a few minutes and then slyly pushing open the door Stavri spies the lady curled up around pillow. Even though she is asleep her face is relaxed, in her sleep its mottled with tears and still red and puffy where she has clearly fallen asleep mid tears and weeping. The light from a load candle burns near the window also illuminates a still war cup of tea and what appears to be a heavy dose of brownish opiates. A single sniff of the tea suggests to the seasoned alchemist that it would be unwise for one's health to drink the tea

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

Frowning, Ahkmathi moved slowly to the tea, lifting the cup up to sniff at it. He looked around an picked up a nearby quill, then stirred the liquid as he tried to ascertain what it was. "Are issues may already be handled ... hold one moment."

---

OOC - Perception - (1d20+8)[26], Alchemy - (1d20+10)[23] (or take 10 if possible)

Effects/Conditions: mage armor (1 hr); low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

Show

Str 8 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 22 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 19 HP 26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

Show

0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, grease, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

Show

(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: 0/1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 4/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+6 / Splash 8 dam
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[DarkOne-Rob]

Oghash/Sharon drops the corpse to the ground and looks to Anton. "Time to clean house. You can look for magic, right? You get everything worth it - coin, writing, whatever. I will check on the others. I know where Kaitlyn lives. We can either burn his house down or hers, let the flames carry the sacrifice to Asmodeus. I'll be back," she says as she skulks out and heads up the street.

Finding the entrance the others used and the dead along their trail, Oghash/Sharon announces herself (so as not to surprise her dangerous allies). "Captain Eddarly is dead - how about the girl? Are we burning her house or his? Is there anything worth looting here?"

[Gyrfalcon]

Anton barely reacts to Oghash's sudden murder of the pathetic Captain, only stepping back from the spreading pool of blood to avoid leaving obvious tracks. "Mm. A pity, I had hoped we could have made use of him. But the good captain was very much a broken man, and we don't have the time it would take to reshape him into something useful - if such was even possible."

He nods at Oghash's orders, for while the Knot were all equals, there are shades of equality and he had yet to pay his dues. "Yes, I can see magic auras. I'll look to see if Eddarly had anything magical or valuable." he says as she moves to leave the residence.

Alone, he looks at the corpse dispassionately for a moment. "A quicker end then you deserved." was his only remark before he began a thorough search of the residence.

Spoiler: Mechanics and Status

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Perception - (1d20+8)[16]
Appraise - (1d20+10)[13]

Anton casts Detect Magic (Summoner List) and searches the corpse, any containers and every room for anything hidden and/or valuable. He also goes through any documents for anything important (let me know if I need to roll something extra).

HP 27/27 | AC 12
Active Effects: Detect Magic

[DrK]

Eddarly's House

In the house Anton is left to his own devices. He finds Eaddarly pride and Joy, a glorious silver and gold cutlery set with matched crystal goblets. Sadly despites its worth (~400gp) its also readily identifiable being covered in his house crest. Of arms and armour there is relatively little, a well worn chain shirt hangs on an armour stand but his formal armour you'd surmise must be in the castle. His blade, a fine well made one though lies under the sofa, with a fine leather wrapped bone handle and an even well made steel blade the weapon glows with faint magic (Longsword +1).

Kaitlyn's House

THe alchemist has a sniff of the tea and recognises it as some sort of poppy residue. A good "feel good" opiate although he would suspect somewhat addictive and not the cheapest. The quality of the opiates is high seeming very pure and he's left wondering where she gets such a thing here in the hinterlands.... As Oghash arrives you can choose if she lives or dies.

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

Nodding to himself, Ahkmathi looking up as Oghash entered the room behind them. Raising a finger to his lips, he motioned for the three to gather outside the room before talking. He listened to the rager's report on Eddarly, frowning slightly. "That is too bad - he could have been useful. But you were right to ensure he was not a liability for the days to come. Interestingly enough, his lady fair lies in the next room, enjoying the effects of a highly addictive, and likely highly illegal, substance. Based on the quality, I wonder how she came by it.

Regardless, it presents us with another opportunity ... perhaps your new madam can endeavor to send Kaitlyn south with the other ladies, under the pre-text of saving her, but drawing her into their business. Given her probably addiction, it shouldn't take much to keep her under our thrall. Unless you are hungry, of course ... " The wizard glanced at Oghash before continuing. Either way, let us search the house for items of value and then we shall set fire to them. Let's have our newcomer put on another face and tell the crowds that gather to Eddarly's residence that he saw the Captain running this direction. Perhaps half burned remains of those letters you recovered will complete the story."

---

OOC - Search the house, using detect magic to look for goodies. Also, guard K's door if we don't decide to kill her. But we're probably at the point where keeping her alive is more risky ...

Effects/Conditions: mage armor (1 hr); low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

Show

Str 8 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 22 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 19 HP 26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

Show

0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, grease, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

Show

(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: 0/1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 4/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+6 / Splash 8 dam
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[DarkOne-Rob]

"I'm always hungry," mutters Sharon/Oghash, but takes a moment to consider their options. She looks to Stavri with a questioning expression on her face. "Your god, he likes torture, right? How about her?" she asks. "If we can get her to the tunnels, or the dead-man's hut," (the alchemist's hut,) "Then you could take your time and do it right. Once she's broken, we can make her whore herself out for her fix..."

Regardless of Stavri's answer, she seems convinced that it is time to clean up the house. "All these other corpses have to go, and the Dark Lord is a god of fire. Let's burn them to honor Asmodeus. I'll get Eddarly's body..."

[Farmerbink]

Stvari grins wickedly. He nods, and begins considering the situation....

Spoiler: OOC

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First, heal to assess her state: (1d20+9)[20]
Then, he's out of heal spells for the day, so if she *can* be stabilized, or he's content she won't wake up, he'll wrap her up in some bedsheets and haul her to the alchemists shop (waiting for true nightfall, if it's not that late yet). The rest can largely take place off screen, I figure....

[Gyrfalcon]

Anton packs away the gold and silver service set. While they won't be able to sell it to human customers, they may be able to move it among their non-human allies of convenience. And otherwise, it can mark a start for Dahaki's hoard. The sword likewise goes into the pack - if one of the others can't make good use of it, the otherwise nondescript weapon should prove more resalable elsewhere. Here, it might be well known enough as Eddarly's weapon to provoke questions.

Looting complete, the thief cleans up any traces of his presence and finds a hidden spot to await the return of Oghash or one of the others.

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

Ahkmathi nodded to Oghash. "Bring Eddarly, wrapped in a blanket. Perhaps disguised as the good Captain. We'll leave the body here, making it look like our young lover couldn't live with his actions. Stvari, if you can forge a note, that would help. Otherwise, leave all his love letter strewn about as evidence. No need to burn ... we WANT them to find the bodies.
Besides, the whole city will be burning soon enough.

Oh, and in the meantime, do with the young miss what you will, Stvari. Oghash, if you eat, make it one of the servants. The lovers are the centerpiece to our deception. Then we should get some rest for the morrow. We have guest coming."

With a humorless smile, Ahkmathi searched for any magical or mundane items of value while the others indulged in more physical activities. Once they were done gathering anything of interest or value, he would gather the others and recommend returning to their rooms to sleep. In his own room, he would spend a couple of hours scribing a scroll before going to bed.

---

The next day, the wizard arose, preparing his spells for the day. He had recommended to Stvari to prepare a spell to silence the priest, so he focused on things that would help deal with any attendants or guards the priest brought with him. After they dealt with the arriving priest, they still had tasks that needed attending. First, they lacked any insight regarding the interior of the keep. A wizard was only as good as his preparation, and preparation demanding awareness and information. Perhaps their newest member could slip in and see what surprises might await the Knot within. It would also help focus their efforts when the time came to bring the defenses of the wall down.

Time was also ticking as someone would eventually seek out the missing patrol. They needed to deal with the responding search and rescue team, which should leave the keep weakened for their inevitable assault. Of course, as Stvari had mentioned the even before, their mission was to facilitate the bugbears invasion - not defeat the city and citadel themselves. But Ahkmathi liked to be as thorough as possible and leave as little up to chance as necessary.

Gathering in a secluded place with his sworn allies, Ahkmathi greeted them with a nod. He spoke quietly, addressing the tasks at hand as he saw them. "Today we greet our visitor and ensure his visit is fruitful for our continued efforts within the woods. Afterwards, we should probably see if a visit to the keep isn't in order. Someone adept at social graces required for such a visit would be a perfect fit." He glanced at the newcomer before continuing.

"I do not wish to be surprised when we make our final visit. We also have lost boys that will soon require saving, and I think we should ensure they are met with our assistance. We may be able to slow the response if it were widely know the previous group departed with more than a few bottles of the local mead ... but it will come sooner or later.

Have we considered renewing our relationship with the engineers, and how we might go about that?"

---

OOC - Just adding some stuff to keep us moving along, as discussed on discord.
Actions

1. Scribe scroll(s) ... two if possible. First one - Glitterdust, second - mage armor
2. We took Eddarly's body to Motts house and killed them all. Left it to look like a murder spree-suicide, using Eddarly's sword to chop up some of the bodies.
3. Ahkmathi searched the Mott residence for items of value (magical or otherwise).

To-Do List

1. Kill the priest and use the energy to infuse the golem
2. Scout the keep - how? Invisibility? Disguised as town reeve or one of the Captains? Disguised as a guard?
3. Infiltrate the dwarves

Some outstanding questions:
When will the search and rescue party go out, and how alert will they be?
- have the rangers ever been late before? Is this totally abnormal?
How many troops do we assess are stationed here?
- Not sure we have a good feel for how many more troops are up in the tower.

Effects/Conditions: low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

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Str 10 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 18 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 13 HP 26/26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

Show

0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, magic missile, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

Show

(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: /1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 7/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+4 / Splash 6 dam
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[DrK]

The night of dark and evil passes. The 4 servants of the Dark Gods soon enough mange to gather up the valuable and transport them back to their room in the Inn, the various "ladies of dubious morals" happy to help transport the clinking sacks up to their rooms when passed through a window in shadows to not be seen. It takes a while to set up the scene with Mott, Eddarly and the young Lady all strewn around the bedchamber with dramatic sprays of fresh blood and other things to mimic a murder suicide gone horribly wrong. Something that Ahkmathi, Stavri and Anton do more stage managing for as Oghash nibbles on the dead servants. Soon enough they leave with a forged note and a house full of the dead to mark their passing....

In the morning screams and an alarm bell mark the start of the day as the (anti) heroes rise blearily, tired from their late night antics and for the wizard a late night scribing scrolls. (In general I'm happy for multiple scribes to be scrolled with a 250gp "slot" taking 2 hours). As you descend down for breakfast there is much rumours and milling around in the Inn. Barthol shouting and trying to get his staff to do their jobs. "Murder, Mott and Eddarly duelled and killed each other"..."All the servants were killed in their beds. Why would Eddarly do that.." "Well I guess those rumours of the Lady Caitlyn and Eddarly were true..."..."The Lord Commander won't be happy. The guards will be done. A fire and murder of his wizard and now his captains.."

Its a great buzz of activity! All seeming to suggest the Lord Commander will be sending guards to investigate! An even a more astute person gazes out the front window of the inn towards the lakes to the West and wonders loudly where the patrol are? His suggestion that they are now a day late in the context of the horrible murders and the fiery death of the mage casting things in a darker light that see's many of the local farmers looking at empty belts as if wondering whether they need weapons.

--

Later that morning the party of 4 find themselves back in the shack in the woods. The poor alchemist, weakened to the verge of death but aware enough to feel the terror as he is strapped hanging over his golem creation and can feel a nasty end looming in his near future. Its Oghash, ranging out in the woods who can see the first glimpses of steel in the woodland paths as a full squad of 10 footmen garbed in chain mail with long halberds march surrounding an elderly looking man who with a chubby frame and a round face looks out of place in a steel breastplate that seems to bulge at the seams.



As they advance Oghash, watching from the shadows in the trees, can see the Father leaning in close to the leading two men who start trotting towards their "golem hut" whilst the remaining 8 wait back Father Donnigan.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Oghash seems disappointed at several of the decisions made, but chokes down any arguments she has after it's clear the others have heard and acknowledged her. She consoles herself after retrieving the dead man's body by eating a bit more meat than is perhaps entirely wise, though she does make sure her meal is spread out amongst the corpses and not too easily found. In her role as "Sharon" she makes sure each of the ladies who help them are both properly compensated and aware that she will hold them to silence. "Secret profits need to stay secret - have to keep away poachers," she explains to them in terms she hopes are clear.

Spoiler: OoC

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Oghash isn't good with gentle and kind leadership, but she does understand ambition. She's trying to make clear that there is profit for the ladies in keeping their mouths shut, not only by way of subtle threat, but also by reward. Think something along the lines of a mafia boss - the underlings get paid, and often well, but there is a threat behind the authority they demonstrate.

Do we need to keep tabs on how much treasure we share with the ladies to buy their silence?

In the morning Sharon/Oghash finds Rosemary briefly and explains that she will be out most of the day. "Tonight you become matron...if the old lady is gone by morning. Get the girls in line, ready to run the inn on their own. Then get the Bartholds underground, where it's quiet. We will be back after dark," she explains, content to let the power-hungry whore do the risky work until the PCs return and a grisly feast can be prepared. "Oh, and invite that man," she points to the "astute person" looking out the window towards the lake, "to your room tonight. Offer him two girls, if he can handle them. Then we will handle him together. Obey me, as the elder, and we will reap great rewards for you."

Spoiler: OoC

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No need to go into lots of details on this until the end of the day, unless you want the distraction, DrK. I'm just giving RP and guidance on how Oghash wants it all done. Rosemary will either step up to the plate (literally) or join some people on it. It's her call.

Mechanically we can keep this as "down time" activity or whatever. I'm not really familiar with the mechanics, though. What do you need from me as a player to make this keep going as we've discussed?

As the fat priest approaches Oghash lips her lips in unholy hunger. With a loud voice she hails them from the trees but does not approach. "Ho there! Father and faithful soldiers, wait a moment! The alchemist is busy - don't surprise him! We all might regret it!" she calls, having thought through how to warn her companions of the approach of the enemy while not giving away anything. She remains in the woods where she's a bit hidden and moves slowly towards the path, being deliberately loud, sounding clumsy, and taking her time to ensure the rest of the Knot are ready to pounce - either literally or figuratively - on the unsuspecting company.

[Gyrfalcon]

Inside the hut, a blue dragon grins wolfishly, a mouthful of serrated teeth on display. At Oghash's voice booms out, the dragon begins casting spells as the Knot prepares to ambush the priest and his soldiers. The first strike will belong to those able to blast the group of soldiers with magic, but the dragon prepares himself to catch the largest cluster in a Grease spell and keep them from spreading out.

Spoiler: Mechanics and Status

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Anton is in dragon form and precasts Mage Armor, Enlarge Person and Shield before the battle.

If we ambush, he'll throw Grease on the cluster of 10 guard and the high priest to attempt to crowd control them.

HP 33/33 (27/27) | AC 20 (Touch 12)
Active Effects: Mage Armor (+4 AC, 3h)

[Farmerbink]

Stvari looks up with a wicked grin. Standing before the strung-up alchemist, the squat Kuthonite stands bleeding from a vast array of superficial cuts to his upper arms and chest- each one mirrored on the shivering alchemist's naked body. "Good news for you, friend: It looks like our time together is at its end." He sighs, genuinely pleased with the hideous display of cruelty and pain for its own sake. "And cheer up! If your goddess cares half as much for you as this cleric, you may see him again soon." Laughing quietly, but wickedly, the monk begins to punch the alchemist- this time intending harm rather than pain. Within just a few moments, the man is dying, and Stvari is only barely breathing hard.

"Dark Lords, accept this sacrifice, and cloud the vision of these fools we send to the depths for their own judgement." With euphoric glee, Stvari places his hand almost lovingly on the dying alchemist's forehead, drawing his flagging life force away.

Spoiler: OOC

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I presume the casting of death knell isn't interrupted, as it's a standard action. Will save DC is 16. Assuming it works, what's the duration of the effect? (it keys on target HD)

In the next few moments, he calls upon Zon Kuthon's connection to destruction incarnate to bolster his own strength before taking up his chain and marching resolutely to the door. There, he uses the amulet to take on the guise of a Dwarven laborer, and strides out to meet Oghash and the cleric.

Spoiler: OOC

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Stvari plans to use obscuring mists (and his blind fight feat) once Oghash (and Anton?) toss their fire into the mix.

[DrK]

At the Inn

The collection of woman, Rosemary in the lead and agree to do as “Sharon” bids. A mixture of avarice and fear ensuring that their loyalty is well purchased and solid. They hide what she asks to hide and swear to keep silent, something that Oghash believes. Rosemary glances towards the bar where Barthold and his wife are serving, “Yes mistress, I’ll be glad but to do that fat oaf’s bidding. It shall be done as you command.”

A nominal 100gp between them is a massive sum of cash to help buy loyalty

In the Woods

The (anti-) heroes make preparations as the troops of men can be seen advancing down the the windy muddy forest pathway to the alchemists forest hide. As Oghash calls out the men stop, the priest speaks loudly, “I don’t recognise that voice. Advance and be recognised daughter.”

As that is happening Stavri and Anton make preparations with some protective spells and the horrific change to Anton as his form is subsumed by the horrific lookimg draconic humanoid form. Stavri looks over poor Caldwin as he delivers the last blows, savouring the power as he absorbs a fraction of the man’s soul, a flicker of satisfaction of a job down well as the alchemist seems to welcome the relief of death from the pain that had been inflicted upon him.

He had 5HD

The priest and the men approach slowly as Oghash waits near the hut and Stavri comes out looking a dwarf labourer in a neat homespun brown leather jerkin and trousers. The priest nods and two of the men trot forward faster than the others approach. The two guards calling out, ”Miss, Master Dwarf. We’ll just check in and around the hut. Lord Captain’s orders, given some of the recent events he wants to keep the good Father safe.”

The father, huffing and puffing slightly and the other 8 men are still some 100ft back crammed on the narrow (10ft wide) path as the two guards get to ~10ft from Oghash and Stavri, the nearest one asking “Is Caldwin inside?”

[DarkOne-Rob]

At the Inn

Oghash nods in satisfaction as she hands out coins to the ladies. She doesn't hide that Rosemary receives an extra half-portion when compared to the others, explaining, "With greater responsibility comes greater rewards. Be ambitious, but obey her as you would me. Be loyal and you too may lead a small flock someday."

In the Woods (prior to hailing the Priest)

Remaining careful to avoid being seen, Oghash invokes the power of Asmodeus to grow to her favorite combat-size - that of an ogre - as she readies herself to accept the Dark Lord's Divine Favor shortly...

Spoiler: Mechanics

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Enlarge Person lasts three minutes. Divine Favor only lasts one.

In the Woods (after hailing the Priest)

Moving through the woods in a crouch as she tries to hide her enlarged size, Oghash tries to get close enough to use her wand of Fireball and then charge before she's fully seen.

Spoiler: Mechanics

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Stealth: (1d20-4)[14]

If she can tell that combat is about to begin Oghash casts Divine Favor before activating her wand (a bit nervously). If she surprises the group of soldiers she will use the wand a second time (more confidently) before moving to get close enough to charge in the following round.

Spoiler: Mechanics

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Cast Divine Favor before initiative (if allowed).

Initiative: (1d20+3)[16] or (1d20+3)[12], whichever is higher due to the War-Sight revelation.

Fireball in surprise round (tossed at center mass of the group, but absolutely including the Priest in the AoE): (5d6)[21] damage, DC 14 Reflex for half damage.
Fireball in round 1 (tossed at center mass of the group, but absolutely including the Priest in the AoE): (5d6)[22] damage, DC 14 Reflex for half damage.

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

With Anton transformed and Stvari ‘ministering’ to Caldwin, Ahkmathi considered his options. Once the guards came in, he could make the hut look unassuming … enough to convince them to bring the priest within reach. When he heard someone call to Sharon, he tensed up. If Oghash had to face the priest alone, the ruse might quickly fall apart. Ahkmathi nodded to himself, taking on the alchemist’s visage, smiling as Stvari changes and walked out. He murmured to himself, "Excellent idea, my dark colleague. Allow me a moment to ‘tidy up.’”

Whispering aloud to Anton, he pointed to the wall. "Try to stand there and don’t move - I shall place a veil over the room to assuage their concerns. Once we have their confidence, the priest will fall into our trap." It took only a moment to cast the glamour, cloaking the entire room with the look of a laboratory, filled with gadgets and tubes and bottles. Some of them churned, some bubbled silently, others simply shifted colors, but the one in the center was a brilliant blue, like the sky above.

Satisfied the tableau was set, Ahkmathi stepped out, waving to the soldiers with his awkward smile. ”I'm here. Please come in. I have such wonderful news ... is the father coming? Oh is that him? Hurry, the timing is crucial and I don't want his Eminence to miss the surprise! You need to check the room? Yes, yes, come in. But close the door behind you ... I do not want any contaminants to get inside and ruin the experiment. Quickly ... I will bring the holy father in.”

Once the soldiers entered, Ahkmathi left them to whatever spell Stvari cast to keep things quiet, and Dahaki's ministrations.

'Caldwin' then moved towards the approaching entourage, before stopping after a few paces and waiting respectfully. He called into the woods, "Go away, girl! How many times have I told you nobody wants anything you're selling!". Towards the guards and priest, he shakes his head and says normally, "Don't mind her ... she works at the inn ..." letting the emphasis speak volumes for his inference.

---

'Prep' round - Cast silent image inside the hut to make it look like a alchemist's lab. Notably, he is hiding the dead alchemist, the golem, and Dahaki.
Surprise round (?) - If Ahkmathi gets roped into accompanying the guards into the hut, he'll cast color spray on them from inside where folks outside cannot see it. Will save vs DC 15 or suffer spell effects.

If he can stay outside, he'll approach the approaching group (advance 30') and wait for all hell to break lose. If they are close, he'll throw a bomb. If not, he'll cast euphoric cloud (Fort vs DC 17, or fascinated)

Effects/Conditions: silent image (low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

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Str 10 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 18 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 13 HP 26/26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

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0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, magic missile, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

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(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: /1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 7/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+4 / Splash 6 dam
Scrolls: mage armor, sleep, glitterdust, obscuring mist, resist energy
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[Gyrfalcon]

Dahaki casts his last spells in preparation and drops to all fours, prowling to against the wall next to the door so that when Ahkmathi casts his spell, he is hidden as a table full of bubbling, noxious alchemical supplies and experiments. And then the dragon goes completely still, waiting for the opportunity to present itself.

---

Preparation: Dahaki casts Shield and Enlarge Person on himself, then waits against the wall near the entrance to the hut.

Surprise Round - Soldiers enter the hut - Dahaki will delay until after Ahkmathi casts Color Spray, then 5' step or charge (using pounce) to full attack the nearest enemy. If Ahkmathi isn't present, same tactics but no delay needed.

Surprise Round - All soldiers outside - Once the first Fireball goes off, Dahaki will emerge from the hut and attack the nearest soldier alongside Stvari to take him out quickly. If possible he'll charge(pounce) to get the strongest possible attack off.

Spoiler: Status & Conditions

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HP 33/33 (27/27) | AC 22 (Touch 10)
Active Effects: Mage Armor (+4 AC, 3h), Shield (+4 SAC, 30 rounds), Enlarge Person (Large, +2 Str, -2 Dex, 30 rounds)

[Farmerbink]

“Is Caldwin inside?”

Stvari nods enthusiastically. "Aye, he's just this way. In-" he steps out of the way suddenly as Ahkmathi steps through the doorway, wearing the face of the recently-deceased.

”I'm here. Please come in. I have such wonderful news ... ”

Stvari stands off to the side, doing his best (which is fairly good with the aid of the magical circlet) to look the part of a tired laborer/assistant.

Spoiler: contingencies

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If the priest moves to join the guard, he'll simply stay put until the entourage gets close, and open with obscuring mists (ideally at or near melee).

If the priest waits for his guards to check it out, he'll meander in behind them, and jump them with Anton.

[DrK]

THe priest and the bulk of the guards hang back maybe ~100ft from the hut as the two guards approach. Glancing at Stavri and Ahkmathi they ignore the menial servant and instead look to the older "sage" looking man and not to pop inside. As the door opens they can see the desks with bubbling and fizzing (illusionary) vials and tomes and papers scattered around. The tow guards move to head inside, not seeing the savage Dahaki in the corner. Before they can ask "where's Caldwin?" Ahkmathi opens his hands and a blast of lights washes over them and they both grab at the eyes staggering around blindly, blinded and stunned by the wave of colour!

OOC: blinded and stunned for (1d4)[2] rounds

In the woods nearby there is a pulse of red and a fireball streaks through the trees where from the shadows the men barely have time to shout a warning as they spy the fireball wand wielding ogre before it erupts in their midst in a wave of fire and pain. Men scream and burn, some falling, others just rolling around the floor screaming. The second fireball that lances into their midst sends body parts flying in a savage wave of fire and gore even as its cloaked from view by a cloying mist of strange hallucinogenic vapours that Ahkmathi calls forth.


So fireball 1 +2
Father Donnigan fails 1, pass 1
of the 9 men, 1,2,3, 9 = 2 fails = dead; 4,5,6 = 2 passes = wounded; 7,8 = 1 pass, 1 fail = unconscious
The Cloud: Donnigan = pass, 4+6 pass, 5, fail


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Round 1 (Enemies)

Inside the hut the men scream and grunt as their eyes flicker wit the lights, soon there after they scream as Dahaki and Stavri launch into them with claws and fists....
OOC: These guys are stunned on round 1. On your Round 2 please post your round 1 attacks as well

Outside in the gory bloodstained ruins there is a shout form Father Donnigan, "Brave Men of Talingrade. Hold fast, we are attacked. Let the light of Mitra sustain you." The a pulse of light from within the cloud as he channels holy energy before staggering forwards down the road, 2 men limping beside him, halberds at the ready, in the mist, a third guard can be seen staring dumbly at the swirling vapours and two more sit up from the ground in shock, fumbling and reaching for weapons.

OOC
Father Donnigan: Channel energy (3d6)[6], advance 20ft out of the cloud
Guards 4+6: Advance 20ft with the Father and ready
Guard 5: Facsinated in the mist
Guards 7+8 (if channel >5): Stand up, pick up halberds