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The Investigation


Lavinia (Carissa) HP:45/45 AC:20/16/15 CMB:5 CMD:20 Spell: Speak with Animals Sasha HP:21/21 AC:19  
Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 10:05:08 PM

"You have something for me girl?" says Lavinia, casting Speak With Animals on herself as she follows the panther round the room. "Is this guys" she gestures to Lord Arlen "scent not on that rope? And what are you looking for?"

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Tuesday October 3rd, 2017 11:31:07 PM

"Agreed Stohp and Micah, I saw we meet up with this Wobler and see what caused him to announce that the death was a murder." Bartomus said after giving a wry look at Lukas. "Let's go talk to him."

Bartomus turned towards the door and then looked back at Lucas. "Sergeant, we can go interview him right?"



Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 11:47:07 AM

Dorbin continues his minute-long investigation of the window.

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 3:01:27 PM

"Let's go meet everyone and get introduced and then we'll bring them one by one up to one of the offices near the body. Then I can get a read on if being near the scene of the crime makes them nervous. If anyone wants to aid in the interviews more heads are always better." Zander goes down with Lucas or one of the guards to meet the persons of interest. After being introduced Zander explains his intentions, "Hello everyone, I don't know if you've heard of the Silver Shields but we're an adventuring party that's been called in to help with the investigation of the death of Lord Arlen. Since you all were present in the building at the time of death we're going to need to ask you all some questions. So Sir Stephan if you wouldn't mind stepping up to one of the offices we'll get the questions started." Zander will then proceed with his list of questions.

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 5:52:27 PM

Sid is careful and methodical as he looks at the locks, slowly looking for any traps that might spring, destroying evidence. "Ernesto Norman," he mutters to himself as a part of him searches his mental catalog.

=========================================



Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+10=16 ; d20+14=17 ; d20+12=31 ;
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 5:53:50 PM

Sid is careful and methodical as he looks at the locks, slowly looking for any traps that might spring, destroying evidence. "Ernesto Norman," he mutters to himself as a part of him searches his mental catalog.

=========================================

Perception: 16
Disable Device: 17
Knowledge(local)(Ernesto Norman): 31


Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 8:50:06 PM

Before Zanderallen departs, Micah proposes a plan, "I think all of us should be present, including Sasha. Each of us brings a different perspective--and senses. Additionally, after we have interviewed each suspect individually, we can compare notes before interviewing the entire lot at once to see what shakes out. To make things more interesting, I can pray for the Zone of Truth spell that will give us a few minutes of falsehood free conversation when we have them all together."

He continues to halt Zanderallen's departure, by lightly grabbing his arm, "But first. Twill? Do you perhaps have Detect Poison prepared for the day? If not, would it be possible to fetch another from your temple who might be able to do so?" Micah thinks that it might not be unusual for a workplace healer to have that capability.

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 9:00:16 PM

"Fitting all 8 of us in a room with a single person would be hard and rather intimidating. I suggest we split into a couple pairs, each interviewing someone. After an interview we compare notes and see what else we need to ask of whom."

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+8=18 ;
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 9:58:10 PM

Ooc what is in that space between C8 and C9? Assuming it is a closet or bathroom... Stock continues looking around the west wall of the office. He peaks his head in the small room and gives it a thorough investigation...

OOC sorry for the short posts this week...been traveling. Back home tonight.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 10:11:30 PM

"Gotta agree with Stohp," Bartomus said to the group. "Just two Taurs in the room is going to be seen as a bit crowding for a person. So, if we can break up the folks to be interviewed that might be both quicker and easier."

Lavinia (Carissa) HP:45/45 AC:20/16/15 CMB:5 CMD:20 Spell: Speak with Animals Sasha HP:21/21 AC:19  
Wednesday October 4th, 2017 10:42:31 PM

"So you mean the dead guys scent isn't on that bit of rope? You're always so cryptic honey. And hmm you're right I think this room needs a more thorough searching" Lavinia turns to the others.

"I don't think Sasha and I would be much cop at interviewing folks, so we're gonna investigate this room summore, see what we can sniff out. Give a shout if you need us though"

Lavinia and Sasha are going to search the room top to bottom to see what they can find, and maybe see if theres a trail to be followed.

===================================
Could I take 20 in this situation? I'm not 100% on how that works.
Lavinia Perception (Taking 20)=32
Sasha Perception (Taking 20)=25
Lavinia Survival (Taking 20)=32



Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Thursday October 5th, 2017 11:58:31 AM

Dorbin, as he examines the window, takes notes in a small book. Then he stares out the window, apparently lost in thought.

DM Robert - "Can you remember another case of a noble suicide?"  d100=43 ; d20+2=22 ;
Thursday October 5th, 2017 12:07:50 PM

Stock checks out the door in the west wall to find a lavish bathroom. Leaving Arlen's office he goes into C8, the door is locked but he remembers the keys found on Arlen's body and goes back to grab them. A few tries reveals one that seems to be a master lock key for the door. C8 = This is a rather nice office. There is a bookcase on the west wall. There are several painted pictures on the shelves instead of books. There are also some books here as well. The window allows a good deal of light in, there are no drapes. It is the same style of window as Arlen's office, but there is no fire escape outside of it. The desk appears to be of a rich mahogany, the chairs are all wood and leather. There is a cigar box on the desk and it contains several cigars.
Needed = appraise checks, perception checks, linguistics checks...

Dorbin finishes his examination of the window. It appears to have been magiked with a permanent form of mending and possibly something else. In essence the glass is not unbreakable (well it could be broken by sufficient massive damage).

Sid mumbles to himself Ernesto Norman, he seems to remember 1 that is one of the detainees downstairs, 2 that Elly was reading a book by him, she claimed it was an amusing tale of a romantic knight, (think medieval romance novel). Alas his distractions with remembering Ernesto have prevented him from being able to open the locked desk. He looks up to see Stock grabbing some keys from Arlen's pocket and heading out the door.

Micah asks brother Twill the important question. Twill brightens, "Why yes, would you like me to cast it?" He casts Detect poison, "Well that's surprising. The body, that cup" points to the cup on the ottoman in front of the couch, "and that teapot" points to the teapot at the desk, "all seem to be poisoned." He pauses thinking Wisely, [b]"I believe the poison is Oil of Tanget."

Bartomus, Zanderallen, Micah, and Stoph head downstairs to see the detainees...
The Second Floor
You enter through large double doors. The second floor seems large and spacious as you enter an area that is frankly open and looks unused. To the left is a door - over the top it reads “The Weekly Bugle”, to the north you see a single door and a double door, to the east you note to single doors near each other (you can’t see the privy door from here). You are immediately greeted by a guard and a female, human, 22. A spunky red headed reporter that is hanging around. The woman turns to you "Pepper Plate, Ooohh I know you guys I'm working on a story about you. You're the silver shields, What are you doing here?" She seems persistent in trying to get you to talk and to follow you.

The guard leads you to the double doors in the north. He opens them and manages to detain Pepper Plate as you enter. There is another guard standing in the middle of the room. Seated at various chairs, all spaced out, you note 1 woman, mid to late 20's, 1 halfling male, 3 men of various sizes. B6 - the Library; Library - Large room 40x70, richly appointed and spacious, the walls beneath a 15 foot ceiling are lined with well-filled wooden bookcases 9 feet high. Above the bookcases, the wall are decorated with swords, battleaxes, maces, shields of various designs. Several helms sit upright on the top of the bookcases. Flanking the door are two suits of plate armor, each holding in one gauntlet a 14 foot pike. The window draperies are heavy dark green velvet.
Needed = perception checks (quick or taking 20, or pooling resources since there are several of you here) is detect magic up?, Appraise checks...

Lavinia decides to stay in Arlen's office and give it a thorough shake down. She looks up at the rafters and wonders how she can get up there. Bartomus gives her a boost to the rope which she climbs. She stays there several minutes to see what she can see. (Taking 20 to search the room is going to take awhile) Perception 20, a portion of the beam near where the rope hangs is free of dust but only on one side of the rope, that portion is several feet in length.
Perception 25 There are no loose rope fibers on the beam, fraying of the rope, or signs that the rope was run over the beam as though he was strangled and then pulled up into a hanging position.


Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Thursday October 5th, 2017 2:09:16 PM

"Hey Stock! Are those the keys to the desk? Can you bring them here for a moment?" If Stock comes closer he says, "Oh, and one of the detainees wrote a manuscript that his Lordship here was proofreading, seems more like a red herring, but I do hear that writers are a maudlin lot who can be tetchy about their manuscripts."

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm  d20+12=17 ; d20+8=26 ;
Thursday October 5th, 2017 8:09:43 PM

Stohp takes charge, running her eyes around the room as she talks (perception 17). "Greetings all. My name is Stohp, I am a member of the Silver Shields. We have been called here to assist in the investigation of the unfortunate death that has occurred. I'm sorry for the necessity of detaining you here, but to know what happened we need to talk to everyone who was here when the body was discovered. Co-operate and we can hopefully get through this quickly and learn the truth behind this tragic event." (Diplomacy 26)

Lavinia (Carissa) HP:45/45 AC:20/16/15 CMB:5 CMD:20 Spell: Speak with Animals Sasha HP:21/21 AC:19  
Thursday October 5th, 2017 10:38:49 PM

Lavinia is going to continue her search of the room with Sasha.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8  d20+7=23 ; d20+2=5 ;
Friday October 6th, 2017 12:36:50 AM

"Yes, we are the Shields, Pepper," Bartomus smiled at the perky author asking more questions than the Shields had been able to ask anyone. "We can fill you in once we get done in here ok,"

He winked at the guard who held Pepper back from where the Shields was going and glanced about. Weapons were not his expertise, so he could't figure out whether the ones on display were cheap bric-brac or actual fighting tools. But, he did see the folks sitting in the room they were entering...he looked closer at those present.

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19  d20+5=13 ; d20+11=14 ;
Friday October 6th, 2017 9:20:16 AM

Letting Stoph lead with her excellent introduction Zander takes the time to scan the room, first with his eyes and then with detect evil. He tries to be subtle about it but doesn't hide the fact he is observing them. If he detect a source of evil he will spend the time to concentrate and determine who it is and then quietly pass that info to Micah and then the others. He also whispers to one of the guardsman, "Bring Brother Twill in here, tell him we wish him to scan everyone here with detect poison, just to be safe."
---------------------
Perception 13
Sense Motive 14

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+8=13 ;
Friday October 6th, 2017 11:04:23 AM

"One sec Sid!"
Stock takes a long look through the other office, especially focusing on the desk to look for anything of interest in its construction.

He heads back into the main office and tosses Sid the keys.

=======
Makeup post for Thursday

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21 
Friday October 6th, 2017 11:30:15 AM

"Maudlin? You mean like one of those stringed guitars...no that's a mandolin. Well anyway, I'm not much for reading...don't know how much that I can help there."

He stands behind Sid as he opens the desk drawers.

"Did somebody mention poison before?"

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17  d20+14=27 ; d20+9=19 ;
Friday October 6th, 2017 11:38:30 AM

[OOC: did Lavinia cast speak with animals or not?]

"Oil of taggit. That definitely points to murder, Micah says as he turns to Lukas. He then explains, " Oil of taggit causes unconsciousness. He was drugged before the murderer staged the suicide."

He muses aloud, "And the spell speak with dead will not tell us anything about the events immediately preceding his death because he was not aware of them. Still, it may reveal something, but first the interrogations."

Before they leave, Micah says to the ranger, "Let's hold Sasha in reserve then. Perhaps she might match the scent in the office with one of the suspects." He then joins the others going to the main room.

Micah understands what Zanderallen is doing as they enter the room. He, too, makes a survey of the assembly, but he puts most of his attention on Sir Stephan.

=======
Heal 19 to recognize oil of taggit
Sense Motive on Sir Stephan 27


Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Friday October 6th, 2017 12:55:01 PM

Dorbin stays with Lavinia and continues the search.

DM Robert - "Did somebody mention poison before?" 
Friday October 6th, 2017 1:38:50 PM

map

Stock Assuming your 13 was a perception check for the office you were in see's nothing of note in the office he's in when he hears Sid calling from the office where Arlen lays. He ambles over and gives Sid the keys he found. Sid tries them out and finds one that unlocks the desk.
Just a reminder that the other office C8 has not been successfully or thoroughly searched. Please go back to the post on that room for what skill checks are needed

inside the locked desk: there are a bunch of files and papers. You need to make a Linguistics check. You find a very fine gold tipped quill, more inks, an impressive diamond ring in a jewelry box appraise check some wire clips, string, etc.

Lavinia continues her search of the room working her way around. She notes the couch's cushions have indentations, as if from long and repeated use, they would match Arlen's body laid out, perhaps he napped here often. She works her way around to the desk. examining Arlen’s desk chair, there are still 4 heavy intentions in the cushion of the chair. With practiced patience (taking 20) she notes these indention match the footstool’s legs and that the indentations are relatively fresh.
You are not 1/2 through the room

Since Dorbin has not posted I'm assuming he has stayed in Arlen's office.

Micah tells Lukas about the poison and Zanderallen request father Twill to accompany them downstairs to the library. Lukas keeps writing in his notebook. You get the impression he's not only taking notes on what you find but how you found it.

Pepper Plates jumps at Bartomus's pronouncement and points a finger to him. "I'm going to hold you to your word. Oh boy an exclusive!"

Stohp's announcement is met with polite nods. Unfortunately she does not note anything more about the room. Introductions are made...

Zanderallen likewise does not succeed on a quick examination of the room. He does not detect any evil...as in no one is evil alignment.

Micah does not even bother to examine the room instead studying the people. It's rather glaring as Detect Magic is still up and he takes a minute. Once again the back window glows with magic (only for Micah)...

Sir Stephan Imbry - business partner, 47 years old, salt and pepper hair-medium length (like Aragorn in LOTR), clean shaven, six foot four, above average in build, human, he has a ring and circlet that glow magically. He seems unruffled - could just be lordly manners trying to remain above it all.

Barbara Daneel - brown haired, dark eyed, secretary to Arlen, human - she is 29 years old. She shows signs of having been crying, her eyes are red, she clutches a hanky.

Nathan Wober - round faced, balding, Hafling, 50 years old. Being a halfling rather on the plump side. He wears a ring that glows with magic. He seems pensive.

Franklin Andray - lanky, grey hair long and stringy, near sighted (wears little glasses perched on the end of his nose), human, 45 or so. He has a circlet that glows magically. He seems pensive.

Ernesto Norman - author, a bull-like brute with a hard, handsome face, he seems put out, he has an amulet that glows magically.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8  d20+7=10 ;
Saturday October 7th, 2017 12:14:23 AM

"So, Wober, I think Stohp and I need to talk to you," Bartomus said as he looked over the balding halfling. He caught the man's eyes and continued to stare at the man as he leaned forward. "So, maybe you could come with us."

====
Perception of 10...sigh

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+9=20 ;
Saturday October 7th, 2017 2:14:49 AM

Sid carefully examines the papers, and says to Stock, "I don't know anything about poison, maybe one of the clerics do." Sid scrunches his face, "Wait, I think we have more Paladins then clerics right? Oh well, holymen then. Always loved to read, a good book is finishing a good bow, it might take some work to get there, but when you do, it all comes together beautifully. Say, do you know how much anything of these things would be worth. I can haggle a bit, but Elly does all the trades, oh, and be careful of the inks until we know they aren't poisoned. Good idea actually Stock."

===================================================

Linguistics: 20

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+8=19 ; d20=6 ;
Saturday October 7th, 2017 3:07:26 PM

"Never liked or had much use for poison. It's always been easier for me to just hit somebody in the face...I'm going to go check the other office out. I feel like I missed something. I'm guessing that's Sir Stephan's office although he may not want me poking around too much."

As he is inspecting the office, he opens the cigar box and (assuming it opens), picks one up and smells it.
======
Perception in C8 19
Appraise in C8 6 - It wasn't clear from your description what exactly needs appraisal or linguistics in C8 - Not that Stock has linguistics trained.

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Saturday October 7th, 2017 4:34:44 PM

Detect Magic active

"I realize this is a very upsetting situation for us all. Please bear with us as we help to find answers to what happened. If you would be so kind, we would like to hear each of your accounts individually," opens Micah. He then turns to the nobleman with a bow, "Sir Imbry, would you be so kind to go first? Please, this way." He gestures toward the door and nods to his companions to join him.

======
[OOC: I am a bit confused. I am not sure who of the Silver Shields is in the room with the suspects, what room that is, where Lukas, Rogrigo, and other guards are, nor what room is available for private interviews. Please help.]



Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Sunday October 8th, 2017 10:19:44 PM

Stohp follow's Barts and the chosen victim... interview subject to a more private setting.

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21 
Monday October 9th, 2017 10:29:02 AM

OOC - I'll make a real post later but one of the challenges I have had with this module is keeping up to date with all of the leads and what we have learned so far so I made a shared google doc that we can all add to as we learn more. I think it will work out if we each just update it with anything we learn along the way.

Leads

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14]  d20+14=19 ; d20+11=15 ;
Monday October 9th, 2017 1:15:23 PM

Dorbin, still in the room with the body, Sid, and Lavinia (I think), sees Sid open up the desk and he heads over to see what Sid is looking at (Aid another, Linguistics: 19; Appraise: 15).

OOC:
I've tried to make it clear throughout to other characters (and players), but in case it was not, Dorbin is a bookworm. He's a trained librarian (Profession, Librarian: 13) and has silly Linguistics skills (14). He has some knowledge skills: Arcana: 12, Planes: 8, and History: 9. He has minor skills in jewelry (craft: 8, appraise: 11). If anyone sees anything related to those, please do feel free to call him over. At the same time, he has only 6 in perception and zilch for diplomacy or intimidate.

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Monday October 9th, 2017 5:55:01 PM

Moving with the first interviewee and Shields into one a larger room away from the other people Zanderallen leads the interview. "Sir Imbry, could you please give us an account of what happened from your perspective? Maybe starting from lunch or the last time you saw Lord Arlen." Zander will followup his account with the any of the following questions that weren't answered.

1. When and where was the last time you saw Lord Arlen?
2. Who was the last person you saw enter Lord Arlen's office and when?
3. Had you noticed an change in Lord Arlen's recent behaviour?
4. What was Lord Arlen working on?
5. Is there any reason you can think of why somebody would want to stop that publication?
6. With Lord Arlen's death who inherits his share of Rosebud Publishing?
7. Do you know how Lord Arlen's office was set up? If so could you tell me if anything is out of place or missing or new?
-------------------
(OOC: Can I use the roles for the first time I tried to interview him? From the 3rd?)
Diplomacy 30
Sense Motive 26

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+8=13 ; d20+8=17 ;
Monday October 9th, 2017 7:44:29 PM

Stock puts the cigar down and then goes over to the bookcase. He looks at the pictures, purses his lips and sighs. ”Hmmph”
Walking over to the other door in the room, he tries to open it. Once in the small room, he gives it a thorough look.


Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Monday October 9th, 2017 9:10:14 PM

"So Wober, is it, how long have you worked here? How long have you worked with Lord Arlen?" Bartomus asked as he and Stohp walked the halfling towards one of the offices.

DM Robert - "Did somebody mention poison before?" 
Monday October 9th, 2017 9:11:07 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
private Tiffany Pluto
Stock
Dorbin
Sid
Lavinia

Second Floor
Zanderallen
Micah
Stohp
Bartomus
Sergent Lukas
Rodrigo
Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel (second floor main)
Pepper Plates (second floor main)

Stock goes back to C8 which is Lord Stephan's office. He notes the cigars are very fine, top of the line. and I'm granting a bonus for creating the clue list The books on the shelves deal with warfare and battles from around the Wold, mostly they are historical. Stock also notes that the paintings on the walls are actually fake. They are copies of originals, not bad copies but copies.

Sid and Dorbin look at the ring they found. Dorbin is able to identify it as an engagement ring, but he cannot set a price on it. Sorting through the papers takes several minutes. Various legal papers,
(Linguistics 20) most notably one dated today, it appears Arlen is trying to dissolve the partnership with his chief editor Stephan, there is a clause about fiscal impropriety underlined. And a will giving 1/2 ownership of the publishing house to his secretary Barbara.

Lavinia finishes searching the room (with take 20) she notes there is something funny about the lock, but having no experience with locks she's not sure what. (Needs someone with Disable Device skills).

Bartomous and Stohp their huge imposing taurness manage to intimidate poor Wobler. They manage to squeeze into B7 - Accounting office this door is locked But Lukas unlocks it "Got these keys from Stephan when we bottled them up in the library." This room has two wooden desks and two chairs. The east wall is lined with wooden filing cabinets. There are a lot of papers on the desk, but they appear to be neatly stacked and organized.
Wobler nervously takes out a piece of paper. "I I I've had to write things down to organize my thoughts. Arlen returned from lunch he was angry and seemed hurried. He snapped at Andray asking where Stephan was he was not back from lunch yet. Andray informed him that Ernesto was waiting for him, but he says let him wait. He went into office. After awhile Lord Arlen calls Barbara into office and and then Barbara told Andray to bring in Ernesto, who had been waiting in the library. Ernesto slammed the door into office when he entered. Ernesto and Lord Arlen argued, but we really couldn't hear what was being said because even though they were shouting the doors are very thick. Ernesto stormed out of the room.
Then about 2:45 I started brewing Lord Arlen's tea in the break room. Sir Stephan returned from lunch and was informed by Barbara that Stephan wanted to see him. So Sir Stephan went into the office, then a few minutes later I carried in the tea. Sir Stephan left after about 15 minutes because Lord Arlen always naps from 3-4. About 4:15 Ernesto returned to see Arlen, but because Arlen is still napping and known to have temper we is told to wait in the library. Then before he leaves the floor Sir Stephan comes running in claiming he heard a thump from the library and comes up to the room. Sir Stephan put his head to the door and claims to hear sounds like Arlen is violently ill. I went with Stephan up the fire-escape and saw Arlen hanging there. I did pound on the window to no effect, Stephan reminded me that the windows were unbreakable and to fetch help. So I went back downstairs and started hollering murder because that generally brings the guards the fastest."


Micah and Zanderallen take Sir Stephan into B5 - the locked door reads Barny Smythe - Manager. Lukas rushes over and unlocks the room. This room is set up as an office. There are two chairs in front of a 3x8 desk. Both chairs are cushioned, one on the right is large enough for a taur. There are windows looking out onto the printing floor. The desk has drawers down both sides are locked. Lucas stays in the room to hear the interview.
Sir Stephan speaks. “Yes I was doing research in the Library, heard a noise of some kind from upstairs (the library is directly below Arlen’s office). I think it was the chair following. I rushed up here. I went to the locked door and could hear sounds like Lord Arlen being sick. The door was locked from the inside. I ran outside and up the fire-escape but could not open the windows they were stuck. By then I could see Lord Arlen hanging and he looked quite dead.”

“Our meeting was a short business conference. I was given instructions to the format of three books we will be publishing. Entirely routine stuff, but if you want the details… I then left and went to the art department to check on some book illustrations, then came in here to the library to do some research, checking some of the points for a book of magic we’re publishing in the spring. I heard a noise from the north window near where I was sitting.”

"As I understand that Ernesto chap was in the office before me, he's got quite the temper. He apparently is not too happy with the edits Arlen is making to his newest manuscript."


Sir Stephan seems slightly put out, he really didn't answer your questions directly but more gave up the facts/details as he seemed to think they should be told. You get the impression he thinks very little of your status.




Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17  d20+14=26 ;
Monday October 9th, 2017 9:55:45 PM


Detect Magic active

Micah's inclination is to look for the good in everyone, but he finds it difficult to think of Sir Stephan as anything other than a supercilious twit. However, his studied calm manner does nothing to reveal this low opinion to the supercilious twit.

He listens to what appears to be a prepared story and calmly asks,"Who killed him?" hoping to unsettle him.

If Sir Stephan sticks to the suicide story, he then responds with, "Then how do you explain the poison," intentionally avoiding any mention of where it was found or what type it was.

======
sense motive 26

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 10:50:58 AM

Stohp listens closely to everything Wobler says, writing down notes. "So the last person to see Arlen alive was Sir Stephen. Does Arlen lock the door during his 3-4 nap? Who, if anyone, would have a key to unlock and enter the room?"

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm  d20+7=17 ;
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 10:51:58 AM

(Sense motive 17)

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 2:20:36 PM

Dorbin shows what he has found to Sid. He says, "An engagement ring? Love is often a motivation for evil deeds. But look at this paper, Arlen was kicking this fellow Stephan, out of the company. Certainly that can provide motivation for murder as well. And since he was giving Stephan's share to this Barbara, I wonder if she was the intended recipient of this engagement ring."

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19  d20+11=14 ;
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 5:28:08 PM

Zanderallen sits with Micah, watching Sir Stephan carefully as Micah tries to make him squirm.

---------------

Sense Motive 14

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+1=2 ; d20+1=2 ;
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 6:27:46 PM

Stock leaves the other office and wanders over to find Rodrigo. He sidles up next to him and says, "You know, I heard you mutter something about 'a fine man, in over his head' before. Would you mind telling me what that is all about? Why are you sticking around anyway? Are you in the guard now? I thought you were some kind of...mercenary or something..."
---------
Sense Motive 2
Diplomacy 2
Two ones...What are the chances of that? (My brain tells me 1 in 400)



Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+9=23 ;
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 7:37:24 PM

Sid examines the document and will closely. "Hmm"

=======================================

Linguistics: 23

DM Robert - "Who killed him?"  d20+5=18 ; d20+4=13 ; d20+2=14 ;
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 9:37:08 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Dorbin C9 Arlen's office
Sid C9 - Arlen's office
Lavinia C9 - Arlen's office

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Micah - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Stohp - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
Bartomus - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
Stock - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.
Rodrigo - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

Sid examines the documents but it is only up to interpretation as to what "fiscal impropriety" means to wit...all cases of actual or suspected theft, fraud, defalcation, or other irregularity involving organization assets. And to do that you may have to examine the 'books' which could mean finding the accounting department. Sid fingers Arlen's keys that he still has...

Dorbin muses that love is often a motive in murder, although so is financial gain, and revenge. But definitely some leads here that may need to be shared with the others.

Lavinia seems to be staring at the door lock still, pondering what to do next perhaps? Sasha gives Lavinia a big wet lick across the face.

Micah leans in and lets Sir Stephan have the tough question.
Sir Stephan sputters, "Killed, how do you know he was killed he committed suicide, why he hung himself with a rope." He sits up in his chair. "What poison?" Micah only Highlight to display spoiler: {You get the sense that the his calm is practiced, though that could just be his noble airs}

Zanderallen thinks that Sir Stephan certainly doesn't act like a conspirator or hoodlum, what have you.

Stohp continues to question Wobler.
Wobler replies, "Well I guess so, though I do remember that when Ernesto left the first time, he stopped in the break room and I did hear the water running briefly. And I guess, well yes it would have to have been Sir Stephan that left Lord Arlen's last, then he also stopped in the break room briefly for a glass or water I presume, because the faucet was running again. See my desk is across from the break room, everyone figures a hobbit should be in charge of tea and coffe, and maybe an afternoon snack, or maybe a mid morning pick me up, so that's part of my duties you see." Wobler seems nervous and perhaps is rambling.

Stohp does not let up on the little feller and continues to question him.
Wobler bobs his head. "Oh my, yes, he always keeps the door locked when he naps, when he's not in the office, sometimes when he is in the office if he's working on a new edit or book deal, he's always afraid some other publishing firm will steal a book out from under us. Nobody has a key to his office not even Barbara."

Stock sidles up to Rodrigo and attempts to chat him up.
Rodrigo turns to him. "You're not from the Float I take it? The Guard on the Float are under staffed and ill trained. If they try to enforce laws against those with power, like nobles or the wealthy, well things don't go well. As the saying goes Money talks. Let's say I've had some experiences in the past and leave it at that."

Rodrigo stops talking as Pepper Plates comes up. "Hey, I don't know you two. Are you part of the Silver Shields or just off duty guards trying to score some trickets from our shelves?" She eyes the two of them.

Rodrigo smiles and thumbs over to Stock, "He's a Silver Shield little lady. Me I'm just an innocent bystander caught up in the mess and the guard won't let me go."

Corporal Bardel barely suppresses a snicker at Rodrigo's comment.



Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+9=21 ; d20+10=25 ;
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 9:50:26 PM

Sid walks over to the other office, and pockets the documents and the key. He begins looking around, listening if anyone has any insights, but doing his own check of the office.

=====================

Perception: 25
Linquistics: 21

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8  d20+5=10 ;
Tuesday October 10th, 2017 11:51:26 PM

"Wait, wait," Bartomus injected into the conversation. "If you couldn't hear the argument with Ernesto, how could Sir Stephen hear a thump? Where on the floor was Sir Stephen in relationship to the door and your office when hesupposedly heard this thump? Oh, and while we are at it, who did Ernesto talk with before and after he left Arlen's office?"

Bartomus tried to lower his voice and look tough, but his uncertainty undercut any effort to intimidate the nervous hobbit.

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm  d20+8=26 ;
Wednesday October 11th, 2017 9:17:19 AM

Stohp nods at Bart's point and smiles encouragingly to the Halfling, playing good cop to Bartomus's bad bad cop attempt. "I know we look scary, but we're hear to help. Just answer as honestly and fully as you can and we can hopefully get to the bottom of this." (Diplomacy 26)

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14]  d20+6=7 ;
Wednesday October 11th, 2017 11:36:17 AM

Dorbin goes with Sid to help look for financial accounting documents (perception: 7).

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+1=17 ;
Wednesday October 11th, 2017 2:11:22 PM

Stock holds out his hand and introduces himself. After they exchange pleasantries, he takes the opportunity to ask Ms. Plates a few questions:
-What have you heard about what happened?
-Whether she calls it a murder or a suicide, Stock will follow up with asking if it makes sense to her that it happened like that
-Does it surprise you that there was an incident involving Lord Arlen?
-How well did you know him?
-Do you know anybody who had problems with Lord Arlen?
-Other than just owning the place, what else does Lord Arlen involve himself with?
-Did you see anybody enter or leave his office right before the incident?
-Why were you in the building? It seems like most of the staff was gone...
==========
Sense Motive 17

Lavinia (Carissa) HP:45/45 AC:20/16/15 CMB:5 CMD:20 Spell: Speak with Animals Sasha HP:21/21 AC:19  
Wednesday October 11th, 2017 7:50:53 PM

"Phew Sasha this is taking a while. Still I can't help feeling we're missing something here. Keep sniffing girl I'm sure something will turn up"

Sasha and Lavinia continue to comb the room.
==================================================
OOC: Sorry for the radio silence home life has been kind hectic and I lost track o'time

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Wednesday October 11th, 2017 7:58:30 PM

Deciding to let him stew Zander dismisses Sir Stephan, hoping to throw him off any game he could be playing. "That will be all for now. We'll call you back if we have further questions. Thank you." He signals for Lucas to bring in the secretary.

DM Robert - "We'll call you back if we have further questions." 
Wednesday October 11th, 2017 8:40:28 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Dorbin C8 - Stephan's office
Sid C8 - Stephan's office
Lavinia C9 - Arlen's office

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Micah - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Stohp - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
Bartomus - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
Stock - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.
Rodrigo - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

Lavinia stares at the lock, there is a tiny switch on the plate, the side that would be in Arlen's office. Sort of like a toggle. Sasha sits on her haunches and watches. Lavinia thinks she needs to seek out a companion that may have some form of experience with locks. (ie you need someone with Disable Device skill to look it over.0

Dorbin and Sid walk out of the room you need to declare what room you intend to visit and search/investigate without that I'm assuming you are staying on the third floor. They go into Stephan's office C8 There is a bookcase on the west wall. There are several painted pictures on the shelves instead of books. (Appraise required). There are also some books here as well. (Perception 20 or linguistics 15 these books deal with history and warfare of the wold.) The window allows a good deal of light in, there are no drapes. The desk appears to be of a rich mahogany, the chairs are all wood and leather. There is a cigar box on the desk and it contains several cigars (Appraise required). The desk is actually empty of any papers, there is a bottle of fine brandy and glass in one of the drawers.

Zanderallen dismisses Sir Stephan.
"Ah good, I can go then?" says Sir Stephan.
Sergent Lukas clarifies, "You may return to the Library Sir Stephan." Lukas escorts him out of the office.
Zanderallen looks over at the quiet Micah.

This seems like scene from the Hobbit, but instead of 3 trolls going to roast some dwarves, there's two Minotaurs grilling a halfling.

Bartomus and Stohp continue to question the clerk.
Wobler smiles and nods at Stohp, and continues, "Sir Stephan said he was in the Library. The back part of the Library is directly under Lord Arlen's office. I guess he may have heard Lord Arlen's chair fall over, when he jumped off the chair I guess. And Ernesto talked with Franklin Andray as his desk is closest to the door and certainly to Barbara, he always tries to talk to her. If you know what I mean. But as far as I know Barbara has always been all business with him."

Stock takes the opportunity to question Pepper Potts.
-What have you heard about what happened? "Seems Lord Stephan died, it's up in the air if its murder or suicide. What do you know, hey I'm supposed to get an exclusive from that big Minotaur."
-Does it surprise you that there was an incident involving Lord Arlen? "What incident? Or are we talking about the death? You guys think it was murder!!?"
-How well did you know him?"He's the bosses boss. Don't see him much. I guess we could try to look up some details in the Morgue...that's what us reporter types call back issues of the paper."
-Do you know anybody who had problems with Lord Arlen?"Geez, he can be a stickler to work for, perfectionist, driven, one of those type A personalities you know, all work no play. He was making a name for himself in the publishing industry. But he was generally respected I guess."
-Other than just owning the place, what else does Lord Arlen involve himself with?"All work no, play...unless you're saying something was going on! Ohh gossip, but we need to verify to print, what do you know?
-Did you see anybody enter or leave his office right before the incident?"I was in the Weekly Bugle office, so can't rightly say."
-Why were you in the building? It seems like most of the staff was gone..."When you're a cub, that's new, reporter working for Henry Higgins Holbert, Editor of the Weekly Bugle, you get stuck on the weekend shifts and nights when no body wants to work. Plus you have to work extra hard to get a byline and make a name for yourself."

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+4=8 ; d20+10=28 ;
Wednesday October 11th, 2017 10:11:28 PM

Sid looks at the painting and scrunches his head. "Wardd's undies, I was never good at these things. Better at books, locks, and bows." Sid goes over to the books and picks up one ((My linguistics was over 20, do I know the author or the subject matter?)). He sits down in the desk chair to read and when he is done he looks up at the window and down at the floor. He looks to see how the chair normally sits with the desk, if there is just wood there will be marks or grooves, stone will have some scuffing after years, and carpet or a rug with have normalized indentions. After looking them over he goes over to the drapeless window to see what he can of the outside.

===============================================

Appraisal: 8
Perception: 28

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Wednesday October 11th, 2017 11:49:12 PM

"So, if the door was locked, how did folks get in to the room to cut him down?" Bartomus asked, his confusion as to the story was evident on his face. "Tell us a bit more about this Ernesto guy, what's his role in all of this and why would he be upset with Arlen?"

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Thursday October 12th, 2017 7:30:17 AM

Micah nods agreement as Zanderallen dismisses the nobleman.

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14]  d20+11=28 ; d20+11=26 ; d20+6=23 ;
Thursday October 12th, 2017 12:12:19 PM

Dorbin carefully looks over the pictures, then heads to the desk. Once there he looks at the cigars and then says out loud, "No papers at all? This doesn't seem right." He then carefully looks around the desk and the area around the desk for hidden areas, trap doors, false bottoms, or anywhere else papers and books might be hidden.

OOC:
Appraise for pictures: 28; appraise for the cigars: 26; searching perception: 23

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+1=2 ;
Thursday October 12th, 2017 12:16:06 PM

When Ms. Potts starts asking about the possibility of a murder, Stock just blows right past the comment, totally ignoring it. "Thank you, that is very helpful. I can understand needing to hustle when you are new. When I was a new journeyman carpenter, I had to do the same."

He continues questioning her:
-You know what's strange? Some of the more magically inclined Shields found that the windows are somehow magically reinforced to make them unbreakable. Have you heard anything about that?
-What can you tell me about Mr. Holbert?
-Is he a very demanding manager?
-Does he work directly for Sir Arlen and Sir Stephan?

-----------------
OOC The entire time, Stock is doing his best to avoid giving anything away. I've included a bluff check in case she starts pushing (ANOTHER NAT 1! Makes me question the randomness of the roller!)

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Thursday October 12th, 2017 3:27:56 PM

((Sorry Stock, you've apparently caught my luck.))

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19  d4=3 ; d4=3 ; d20+13=26 ; d20+11=12 ;
Thursday October 12th, 2017 5:45:42 PM

When Lucas brings Barbara in as he asked Zanderallen notices she seems very distraught. Acting, and actually being, sympathetic he tries to go easy on her. "I'm very sorry for your loss but I'm afraid there's some questions we need you to answer to help us solve this case. Could you please give us an account of the day, giving special attention to the times you saw Lord Arlen throughout the day?"
------------
d4s are misclicks
Diplomacy 26
Sense Motive 12



Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17  d20+5=9 ;
Thursday October 12th, 2017 6:17:15 PM

Detect Magic[i] active

Micah shrugs his shoulders at Zanderallen, then nods to Lukas, "Might as well proceed with the next interview." While waiting he renews [i]Detect Magic
and makes a cursory examination of the office they are in.

===========
Perception 9 to search the office

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Thursday October 12th, 2017 8:31:50 PM

Stohp thinks she remembers the guards saying they had to break in, but she doesn't interrupt Bart; best not to let the suspects see them at odds with each other. Thinking over everything said, she can't think of anything else to ask the Halfling for now.

DM Robert - "We'll call you back if we have further questions." 
Thursday October 12th, 2017 9:04:34 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Dorbin C8 - Stephan's office
Sid C8 - Stephan's office
Lavinia C9 - Arlen's office

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Micah - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Stohp - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
Bartomus - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
Stock - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.
Rodrigo - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

Sid examines the books. They are ( linguistics 15) books deal with history and warfare and tactics of the Wold. Clearly a military man would have loved reading these. They all appear to be read. Some have little marginal notes in them like, "not likely", "only if they fall for it", and the like.

He finds nothing of interest in the desk. It really is empty of paperwork, as if Sir Stephan did not do any or had just packed up everything....though the cigars and alcohol is still here. Maybe he was more the mouth piece of the business.

Dorbin looks at the painting carefully. (Appraise 20 - while good, these paintings are actually fakes of some well known works of art and why would you make fakes of well known works.) This certainly doesn't fit with the fine desk, cigars, and alcohol in the room.

Lavinia stares off into space.

Stohp and Bartomus continue to question Wobler.
"Well when the guard came they put some shoulders to it and broke the door down. Ernesto is a bit of a bully. I think he envisions himself as the character he writes about, you know, great warrior, instant ladies man, etc. When things don't always work out that way he sort of has a temper."

Stock continues to question the reporter.
-You know what's strange? Some of the more magically inclined Shields found that the windows are somehow magically reinforced to make them unbreakable. Have you heard anything about that? "Oh the whole building's like that. Lord Arlen is a stickler for security. Thinks someone is going to rob us of a new find or a first edition. There are a lot of rare books and such in the library."

-What can you tell me about Mr. Holbert? Henry Higgins Holbert - Editor of The Weekly Bugle. Henry human, 43 years old, is of average build, with salt and pepper hair. He has a gruff demeanor and is always demanding rewrites of his reporters because it needs to be done better.

-Is he a very demanding manager?"Very. But he's perfectionist like Lord Alren."

-Does he work directly for Sir Arlen and Sir Stephan?"Lord Arlen, Stephan is just a knighted fellow so he's sir." Misinterpreting his failed bluff. "Say are you trying to get fresh with me? You wouldn't have to try to hard you know." She bats her long eyelashes at him.

Micah looks at the rear exterior window it does glow magically. The other two windows are normal and look down into a printing area. The desk drawers are still locked.

Micah and Zanderallen ask Barbara to tell her story when Lucas brings her in.
" I know that Arlen was at lunch with his lawyer. He returned from lunch angry and seemed hurried. He snapped at Andray asking where Stephan was he was not back from lunch yet. Andray informed him that Ernesto was waiting for him, but he told let him wait. He went into office. After awhile Lord Arlen called me into office and and then I told Andray to bring in Ernesto, who had been waiting in the library. Ernesto slammed the door into office when he entered. Ernesto and Lord Arlen argued, but we really couldn't hear what was being said because even though they were shouting the doors are very thick. Ernesto stormed out of the room and went into the breakroom. I peaked in to see Arlen and he waved me away saying everything was fine but to make sure and bring up Ernesto's contract from account. That he wanted to look over it again after his nap. I saw Sir Stephan returning from lunch and told him Arlen wanted to see him. So Sir Stephan went into the office, then a few minutes later Wobler carried in the tea. Sir Stephan left after about 15 minutes because Lord Arlen always naps from 3-4. I went down to accounting and got Ernesto's contract and put it in my desk drawer. About 4:15 Ernesto returned to see Arlen, but because Arlen is still napping and known to have temper I told him to wait in the library. Then before he leaves the floor Sir Stephan comes running in claiming he heard a thump from the library and comes up to the room. Sir Stephan put his head to the door and claimed to hear sounds like Arlen is violently ill. Wobler and Sir Stephan left the room. I pounded on the door and kept calling Arlen's name."

She pauses to catch her breath. "I know it was not suicide. I know I have no material evidence, I just knows him. I mean, well, we were talking about getting married last night. I was reluctant because he’s a noble although minor, but I'm a nobody, just a secretary. Also Arlen has had death threats from authors in the past and seemingly put them aside and went on with business as usual. Why then should he commit suicide when there was no current death threats."


Lavinia (Carissa) HP:45/45 AC:20/16/15 CMB:5 CMD:20 Spell: Speak with Animals Sasha HP:21/21 AC:19  
Thursday October 12th, 2017 9:26:17 PM

Lavinia stares deeply at the lock, and then into space.

"Hmmmm don't think I have anything in my arsenal that could help me with this" she says, thinking hard.

"Guard the crime scene honey I need to go get someone else. Someone with a very particular set of skills. I'll be right back"

Lavinia runs off to go find Sid, who she recalls was still on this floor somewhere. Sasha curls up and goes to sleep.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Thursday October 12th, 2017 9:55:16 PM

"So, any reason you can think of that Arlen would want to kill himself? Why would he be arguing with Ernesto?" Bartomus asked, he shot a side glance at Stohp trying to hide his frustration.

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Thursday October 12th, 2017 11:44:16 PM

Sid continues to stare out the window letting his mind chew abit on the facts before him.

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+8=23 ;
Friday October 13th, 2017 11:00:22 AM

When he realizes Ms. Plates' misunderstanding, Stock blushes. "That will be all Ms. Plates. Please join the rest of the witnesses."

Stock lends a sideways glance at Rodrigo, hoping he wasn't listening and hurries back up the stairs to the third level. Upstairs he turns left, attempting to avoid the rest of the shields so that they do not pick up on his discomfort, and walks into the Art Department. He sits down in one of the chairs and looks around.

Silly girl...well, might as well take a look around while I'm here

=========
Perception 23 in room C1

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14]  d20+6=13 ;
Friday October 13th, 2017 11:55:53 AM

Dorbin continues searching the desk and surrounding area for any hidden compartments. Then he moves on to the bookcase, looking for hidden books, a book with a hidden compartment, or anything else hidden there.

OOC:
searching perception @ desk: 23 (from last post), searching bookcase: 13

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Friday October 13th, 2017 1:02:55 PM

"I feel like I'm missing somethings Dorbin. How are you doing and what can I do to help?"

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Friday October 13th, 2017 6:12:06 PM

"Barbara, you were standing there right next to Sir Stephan. Did you ever hear any sounds from inside his office? Think very hard it could be important."

Lavinia (Carissa) HP:45/45 AC:20/16/15 CMB:5 CMD:20 Spell: Speak with Animals Sasha HP:21/21 AC:19  
Friday October 13th, 2017 9:18:28 PM

Lavinia heads to Stephan's Office, hearing the voices of Dorbin and Sid coming from it. She pokes her head in.

"Hey lads is this a good time? I need someone with those little metal things you use to jiggle locks with and I don't know who to ask. Do either of you have any?"

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17  d20+13=17 ; d20+14=26 ;
Saturday October 14th, 2017 12:27:06 AM

Detect Magic active

Micah sympathetically listens to Barbara's story. When she finishes, he quietly asks her, "Who knew his marriage proposal to you and who would resent such a proposal?

===========
Diplomacy 17
Sense Motive 26

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Saturday October 14th, 2017 10:29:58 AM

"Or, for that matter, why someone might want to kill him?" Stohp adds.

DM Robert - "We'll call you back if we have further questions." 
Saturday October 14th, 2017 11:26:43 AM

map

clues list

Third Floor
Dorbin C8 - Stephan's office
Sid C8 - Stephan's office
Lavinia C9 - Stephan's office
Stock - C1 - Art department.
--
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Rodrigo - somewhere on the third floor.

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Micah - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Stohp - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
Bartomus - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
--
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.

Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

==
Dorbin and Sid continue to search Sir Stephan's office but have determined, there's nothing further of interest to find here.

Lavinia comes into the office and asks if either Dorbin or Sid, have any lockpicking skills to come and look at Lord Arlen's door lock. Something doesn't look normal.

Stock comes up to the third floor and turns into the ART department. C1 - the art department. Each of these cubicles contains a large table with a chair that is on rollers so that it can be moved around the table as needed. The tables contain vices and other devices set into the table to hold a plank of wood. Examination of these tables reveal that they hold wood working planks - used to create pictures that can be put into a book with a printing press. There are wood carving tools at each of the tables. Hint, nothing of note here.

Rodrigo ambles up to the third floor and walks to the back offices. "How are things going? You know I've read some mystery books. Aren't you guys supposed to meet up and share clues now and then?"

Meanwhile down on the second floor.
Micah and Zanderallen continue questioning Barbara.
She pauses and seems to think. "I can't say that I did. Actually Sir Stephan was at the door before I could get up from my desk. And by the time I did he was already making his proclamation." She turns to Micah. "I don't know. I told him it was not really proper with our social station. But he said he didn't care and had no heirs so what does it matter." She beings to cry but you can tell they are the tears of someone that has mostly run out of tears, and thus it has more of the soft little hiccups of someone upset but clearly without the energy to go on.

Bartomus and Stohp continue on Wobler.
"I don't know sir. He seemed his usual self. In fact you could say that the last few month's he's been more chipper....at least when he comes in, in the morning. But seems more his usual cranky self after working several hours, and especially after meeting with Gorkin Rasmulov the head accountant. I hope we're not in any financial troubles. I have no idea why Ernesto and he were arguing, though honestly there are a lot of authors that argue with him, but they keep coming back to publish with us. I don't know of anyone that would want to kill him. Really I hope the publishing industry is not so cut-throat as that." He pauses. "My that was an unfortunate choice of words wasn't it?

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+10=25 ; d20+14=26 ;
Saturday October 14th, 2017 11:44:43 AM

Sid looks at Lavinia and says, "Oh, I can use the little jiggly things for locks. Lead the way!" Sid goes back into C9 and looks at the lock that he is shown and tries to do his thing.

================================================================

Perception: 25
Disable Device: 26

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Saturday October 14th, 2017 2:15:02 PM

"Alright Wobler, I think we might want to let you head back to the group and maybe we can get a chance to talk to the other Shields, compare notes and such. They might have a few questions for you though." Bartomus looked at Stohp and shrugged with a "your witness" look.

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17  d20+13=30 ; d20+14=27 ;
Sunday October 15th, 2017 12:47:49 PM

Detect magic active

Micah puts a comforting arm on Barbara when she begins to cry. She feels for her grief and knows no words can provide any comfort, so he offers the best he has, a caring human touch for support. After a moment he nods to Lukas and aids her to the door.

Once she is gone while awaiting the appearance of the next witness he says to Zanderallen, "I doubly hate this. I hate that we are adding to her pain and I hate that even though I think she is telling the truth I have to entertain the notion that she may not be."

===========
For next witness
Diplomacy 30
Sense Motive 27


Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Monday October 16th, 2017 8:36:27 AM

Stohp stretches as best she can in the small room. "We should probably compare notes with the others before interviewing anyone else. They may have learned something important we should ask about."

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Monday October 16th, 2017 1:23:54 PM

Dorbin, not knowing anything about locks, but knowing there is nothing more in the room, tags along with Sid and Lavinia.

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21 
Monday October 16th, 2017 4:31:40 PM

Stock wanders back to Arlen's office to look for some of the others. As he walks in he stops at Private Pluto, "I don't know...what a mess. What do you think? Seen anything or heard anything since you've been posted here?"

He sees Vinnie and Sid walk toward Sir Stephan's office and tags along. "You guys seen anything suspicious?"



DM Robert - "You guys seen anything suspicious?" 
Monday October 16th, 2017 8:59:00 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
Dorbin C8 - Arlen's office
Sid C8 - Arlen's office
Lavinia C9 - Arlen's office
Stock - C1 - Arlen's office.
--
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Rodrigo - somewhere on the third floor.

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Micah - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Stohp - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
Bartomus - B7 some sort of accounting office, questioning Wobler
--
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.

Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

==
Sid looks over the lock. He discovers that the lock is one of a new type, it does not need a key to lock. It locks all the time. It would require a key to unlock, or if on the inside could be unlocked by pulling on the the switch and holding it while opening the door. So in essence if you pulled the door closed behind you it will lock.

Dorbin notices Rodrigo standing out in the main floor area of the third floor. Rodrigo appears to be looking around.

Stock asks the guard if she's seen anything suspicious. Private Pluto shrugs, "The whole thing seems off kilter now. Just with the few things I've witnessed you lot finding out. We really need some kind of academy in the guards. Something more than just teaching you how to swing a sword or club and how to intimidate people."

Lavinia looks on as Sid examines the lock. Sasha starts yawns and moves out into the lobby area, looking around.

==

Bartomus dismissed Wobler. The little halfing scampers out. You can hear the guard out in the 'lobby' area direct him back to the Library. You can also hear Pepper Plates asking him what was asked of him.

Stohp stretches and looks around the room realizing this room was not searched, they just appropriated it for questioning.

Micah dismisses Barbara. He is truly torn about her. He awaits the next witness and realizes he had not told his brother who to bring.

Zanderallen appears to be speechless, or perhaps lost in thought after Barbara's testimony.


Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Monday October 16th, 2017 9:25:11 PM

((So are we on the "Open Side" of the lock or the "Locked" side))

Lavinia (Carissa) HP:45/45 AC:20/16/15 CMB:5 CMD:20 Spell: Speak with Animals Sasha HP:21/21 AC:19  
Monday October 16th, 2017 9:27:01 PM

Whilst Sid fiddles with the locks Lavinia continues her thorough search of the room.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8  d20+7=8 ;
Monday October 16th, 2017 9:46:15 PM

"I don't think we have much to go on from him...Think that it's odd that the guy heard that chair downstairs, we might want to check that out. Also think we need to ask those folks he mentioned why they were arguing with boss." Bartomus looked about the room as he talked and it all looked like paper and files. Nothing that could kill anyone.

He waited in the doorway to let Stohp weigh in on what would be the best next step. "We are going to want to get Micah and Zander in on what we should do next too."

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21 
Tuesday October 17th, 2017 1:44:21 PM

Stock fills in Sid and Lavinia on the little information he has found out and bends down to pet Sasha. He then heads out to find the 'taurs and the holy men. Finding Micah and Z first, he says, "What's new? Learn anything from any of these guys?"

He fills in the two of them on what else is happening in the building with the Shields and then says, "Seems like we need to talk with this Norman character...you guys know anything about him?"

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Tuesday October 17th, 2017 2:55:41 PM

Dorbin wanders over to Rodrigo and says, "See anything useful? Any ideas?"

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Tuesday October 17th, 2017 4:18:42 PM

"I agree Micah. You know all these people but one are innocent and most of them liked or atleast respected Arlen. And we have to make them go over every detail surrounding his death. Let's take a quick pause to gather up in Arlen's office and go over what we've all found. Then come back and finish the interviews." Telling Lucas of the plan and inviting him to join them, Zander gathers everyone together in Lord Arlen's office to share their findings.

"Anybody have any theories? Sir Stephan is looking highly suspicious. He also seems to have the greatest motive and the only opportunity. He was about to get dismissed, could have poisoned the tea and positioned the body before Arlen's "nap" time, and then later claimed to have heard a commotion in Arlen's office clearing himself. Nothing concrete but a lot of circumstantial evidence." Zander looks round at his fellow Shields and at Lucas to see what they have to say.

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+14=23 ;
Tuesday October 17th, 2017 5:36:24 PM

Sid looks at the lock and door and tries to open it if he is on the outside, or opens it if he is on the inside.

===============================================

Disable Device: 23

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Tuesday October 17th, 2017 6:00:00 PM

Detect Magic active

Micah nods agreement with Zanderallen. "Good idea. A comparison of notes and a break from these interviews," he adds as he departs with him.

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm  d20+12=19 ;
Tuesday October 17th, 2017 7:59:23 PM

"The chair thing should be easy enough to check." As she speaks, Stohp looks around the room to see if they're anything interesting (19 perception). "Lets let the others know about the arguments so they can follow up then we can do a little experiment. Just put one of us in each room, knock over the chair a few times, see if we can hear it."

DM Robert - "See anything useful? Any ideas?" 
Tuesday October 17th, 2017 9:28:26 PM

map

clues list

Not going to put people in different places since you are all gathering together. So I'll explain, wait there's no time for that, I sum up.

Sid, Arlen's double office doors would open into his office. Thus anyone in his office could always leave. But to get in you'd need a key. Also the doors have been busted open, interesting the wooden jam broke, the lock is still good to go.

Rodrigo looks around on the third floor and points out C5 "This looks like a breakroom, but it's pretty fancy with running water and a stove, this must be where the tea was made."
Hint = What rooms have failed to be searched or searched but those searching failed?

Stoph looks around the room they were using and discovers that this is the accounting office of Stevens and Tate. They seem to be processing receipts for pre-purchase and distribution for a title called Engleton’s Folly. (Knowledge History). This is NOT the office of Gorkin Rasmulov the head accountant that Wobler mentioned Arlen had been having frequent meetings with.
hint = Why would Arlen be meeting with the head accountant....what was underlined in the business contract with Sir Stephan.

Lukas peaks in on the meeting. "How are things going? This seems like murder, but I know that to prove murder you need, Motive, Opportunity, and Means. Do you think you're on to something yet?"



Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 12:02:16 AM

"Well, Stohp, should we go tell Zander and Micah that we struck out and could get the Wobler to sing a coherent tune?" Bartomus asked with a wink. He started towards the hall and stopped when he realized that Stohp was not behind him. He turned back and looked into the room. "What's keeping you? Find something here?'

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14]  d20+6=19 ;
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 9:56:15 AM

When Rodrigo describes the break room, Dorbin heads in and starts checking out the tea making area. (Perception: 19).

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+10=26 ; d20+9=19 ; d20+2=21 ; d20+14=27 ;
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 6:05:41 PM

Sid follows Dorbin into the breakroom and has a look around himself.

===========================================

Perception: 26
Linguistics: 19
Appraise: 21
Disable Device: 27

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+8=14 ; d20+5=19 ;
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 7:01:23 PM

After hearing what some of the others had to say about their investigations, Stock heads down to the library. As he walks up to the room, he remembers that this is where all of the suspects are hanging out. He stops in the doorway and looks around.

So this is where that Stephan fellow was hanging out...

Stock looks up at the ceiling, trying to judge how soundproof it might be...

=============
Perception 14 on the library...looking to see if any books are obviously out in addition to the usual search of a room
Profession Carpenter(?) 19 on judging the soundproofing of the ceiling - judging if Stephan could have heard anything from upstairs


Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 7:54:51 PM

"I guess let's go finish the interviews. Let's go interview the writer Ernesto." Heading back down the office they'd been using Zander calls licas to bring in Ernesto. "So could you please give us an account of you day here?"

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 8:14:14 PM

Micah looks at his brother in dismay, then looks pointedly at Zanderallen.



Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm  d20+12=21 ;
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 8:27:41 PM

Stohp hrms to herself. "Just noticing the room for the first time. It's some sort of accounting office. Did the guards search the whole building thoroughly? We should probably do that, see if we turn up anything interesting."

She leads the way back to the library and, after sharing what they learned about the arguments, does a quick search of the room (perception 21).

DM Robert - "See anything useful? Any ideas?"  d20+2=22 ;
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 8:54:50 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
Dorbin C5 - Break room
Sid C5 - Break room
Lavinia C9 - Arlen's office

--
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Rodrigo - somewhere on the third floor.

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Micah - B5 an office questioning Sir Stephan
Stohp - B6 Library
Stock - B6 Library
Bartomus - open area on second floor
--
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.

Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

==

The party meets briefly and exchanges information.

Stock and Stohp go into the Library and nonchalantly look around, Corporal Walker notices what you're doing though and tries to help out. (I'm going to use aid another so between you Good Job.)
B6 - the Library; Library - Large room 40x70, richly appointed and spacious, the walls beneath a 15 foot ceiling are lined with well-filled wooden bookcases 9 feet high. Above the bookcases, the wall are decorated with swords, battleaxes, maces, shields of various designs. Several helms sit upright on the top of the bookcases. Flanking the door are two suits of plate armor, each holding in one gauntlet a 14 foot pike. The window drapes are heavy dark green velvet.
(perception 20) Also, you note there are some empty spots on the book shelves and upon closer examination, these spots don’t have a lot of dust and the wood looks fresher (as though preserved from dusting/dusting/age by something having covered it up)
(perception 25) Upon inspection, all the weapons are filed blunt, what once may have been good weapons have been rendered useless. one of the foot pike’s has been recently disturbed, the gauntlet and pike do not show the same amount of dust as the rest of the armors.

Dorbin and Sid look around in the break room.
C5 - the breakroom. Mostly this is for the art department. But is also where Wober’s makes Arlen’s tea everyday. The cabinets are filled with glasses and cups some have names on them. There different bags of tea, sugar, honey, spoons, and the like. There is a sink with a hand pump on the cabinets to the south. There is a pot bellied stove nearby (the circle). Cabinets hold various tea jars, honey, some sugar, spoons, and the like. There are two tables for eating.
(Perception 20 - you find a small glass vial in the trash can here, there is a cork as well.)
Alchemy required.

Bartomus notes that the door they came out of says "Subscriptions and Shipping". There is a another office nearby B8. It simply has the word "Rasmulov" on the outside of the door. Pepper Plates comes over to Bartomus. "Remember you promised an exclusive. Now to save time I can go ahead and start taking down some information from you." She smiles and bats her eyelashes.

Lukas looks back at Micah, "What?" Then heads out and brings in Ernesto.

Zanderallen prompts Ernesto for his 'story'. Ernesto stomps in and throws himself into one of the chair. He's a bull-like brute with a hard, handsome face (not happy, surly speaking when spoken too). You realize that while he's human, there's some orc in the family tree. He's about 28 years old. He has an amulet that radiates magic.
"My story. I'll tell you I wanted to strangle the little jerk, or slap him silly. Whichever was handiest. I’d just read the galley proofs of my latest novel, “A Knight of the Armies”. The beak-faced little name-of-a-dog had butchered it. I told him I wouldn’t have it published that way. He told me that he’d bought the rights and I had nothing to say about it. We exchanged words. But since I didn't have a copy of the contract on me I went out. I was boiling mad and went into the break room to splash some water in my face. But I left him alive. I wanted out of the place. I went to see a lawyer but he said he wanted to look over the contract so I had to come back here to get it. I seem to have misplaced mine copy." He crosses his arms and stares at you through squinty eyes.



Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+12=20 ;
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 9:56:09 PM

Sid pulls out his bedroll and cuts a wide square of fabric out of it. Holding it to cover his hands he picks up the vial and the cork and shows it to Dorbin. "I found this in the trash, do you think this was what the poison was in? Do you know anything about poisons? I don't."

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 9:56:53 PM

======================================

Acrobatics(To handle gently and keep any fluids left in the vial): 20

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Wednesday October 18th, 2017 10:11:51 PM

Noting the empty spaces Stohp starts paying sharp attention to the bookshelves. In particular she pays attention to the organization of them and what kind of books are around the empty spaces; with luck and perhaps a few questions she can determine exactly what is missing (This shouldn't take a perception check, it's just reading titles & stuff). The pike is also interesting; blunted weapons make perfect sense, no one wants a foolish accident happening, but what on earth could the pike have been used for?

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8  d20+7=22 ;
Thursday October 19th, 2017 12:17:56 AM

"Sure thing," Bartomus smiled at Pepper. "This is a really busy place, lots people coming and going and it seems that there are some pretty passionate writers that love their work. Now, need to get a sense of who some of these folks are, so I will catch up with you in a bit."

He recognized the name on the neighboring door and walked over to it and opened the door. He looked about the office.
====
Perception 22

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14]  d20+12=27 ;
Thursday October 19th, 2017 8:25:40 AM

Dorbin looks at the vial and pulls out his notebook, flipping through a few pages. He says, "I don't know about poison much, but I've read about a few magical ones..."

OOC:
No Alchemy, but knowledge, arcana, 27 is the closest I he can get.

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Thursday October 19th, 2017 11:13:12 AM

"Who do you think would know?"

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Thursday October 19th, 2017 7:37:24 PM

"Thank you for your statement.", Zanderallen motions to the guard, "Please bring in Franklin."

"Franklin could you please give as an account of your day here?"

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21 
Thursday October 19th, 2017 8:26:10 PM

"These guys seem to be really into weapons, armor, and war...I can't say I don't understand it; it's probably the only kind of book I'd read. I wonder what was on the shelves that was taken away?"

DM Robert - "Who do you think would know?" 
Thursday October 19th, 2017 8:59:11 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
Dorbin C5 - Break room
Sid C5 - Break room
Lavinia C9 - Arlen's office

--
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Rodrigo - somewhere on the third floor.

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 an office questioning Franklin
Micah - B5 an office questioning Franklin
Stohp - B6 Library
Stock - B6 Library
Bartomus - an office B8
--
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.

Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

==

Dorbin and Sid look at the vial. They contemplate what to do next. Perhaps that cleric is still around. (he is but not on this floor)

Sasha shays into the room and sniffs at the vial. "Meowr rowl mewe merowl." The cat seems to be trying to say something. Unfortunately Lavinia seems lost in thought....and her speak with animals spell has by now worn off.

Zanderallen dismisses Ernesto and brings in Franklin Andray, a lanky, near sighted human about 45 or so. He wears little spectacles and a magic circlet is upon his head. His desk is at C3.
"Well I was going through some correspondence with our distributors in Plateau City. Lord Arlen returned from lunch he was angry and seemed hurried. He snapped at me asking where Stephan was. Really it's not like I'm Sir Stephan's secretary. In fact Sir Stephan really needs to get around to hiring a replacement, I have several resumes at my desk." He realizes he went off on a tagent. "I informed him that Ernesto was waiting for him, but he told me to let him wait. He went into his office. After awhile Lord Arlen called Barbara into office and and then Barbara came over and told me to bring in Ernesto. Really just because I'm closest to the door. Anyway I went down to the library and told Ernesto to come up. Ernesto went into the office. Not sure what went on, I'm the furthest away from their and I was trying to get work done so I could enjoy the weekend. Then Ernesto came out of the office and went into the break room for a minute. About that time Sir Stephan returned from lunch. Really I mean just because you're a partner you can take 3 hour lunches." He quickly puts his hands over his mouth. He then continues. I'm not sure what went on after that, was busy with the correspondence, we have a new book coming out soon and details need to be arranged. Late in the afternoon I saw Ernesto come back. He walked through to speak to Barbara. Then Sir Stephan comes running in claiming he heard a thump from the library and comes up to the room. Sir Stephan put his head to the door and claims to hear sounds like Arlen is violently ill. Wobler and Sir Stephan went out of the room. I tried opening the door but it was locked of course. Barbara was pounding on it and shouting frantically. Then the guards come in and break down the door. We all saw Lord Arlen just slowly swinging there."

Stock and Stohp continue to survey the Library. They note the carpet and recall that Lord Arlen's office was carpeted as well. Stohp looks around at the shelves. Unfortunately the books do not appear to be in any sort of order. You estimate that about 1/4 are publications of Rosebud. The rest look older, quite older. But they are all variety of books, fiction, non-fiction, all sorts of genres.

Bartomus gets away from Pepper Plates and closes the door behind him. He examines B8 - Head accountant - Gorkin Rasmulov. This room has a single wooden desk. There are wooden filing cabinets lining the east wall. The south wall has a small cabinet. Inside the cabinet is a large accounting type book. (Linguistics or Perception 20 Success!) - it is an accounting book of the volumes in the library. There appears to be several notes in the margin denoting volume now missing from the Library. There are 32 books missing, which according to the entries comes to about 21,000 gold pieces as some of them appear to be rare. You also find a note from Lord Arlen asking Gorkin to find a reliable appraiser or art to examine several paintings around the office.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Friday October 20th, 2017 12:24:52 AM

Bartomus looked through the large book. It was leather bound with a set of golden embossed lines. He flipped through the book. He realized that he had found something and kept reading. Why was this one book here, in this room?" He asked himself. He finished reading the book and then closed it. He needed to show it to Zander and Micah.

He tucked the book under his arm and exited the office. He left the office, being sure to close the door behind him. "Micah, Zander, Hey guys," Bartomus yelled down the hall. "Where are you folks?"

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Friday October 20th, 2017 9:03:01 AM

Dorbin holds out his hands and tells Sid, "You stay here, don't move that thing. I'll go see if I can find that guy who identified the poison earlier." Dorbin then runs off to attempt to find the person who did identify the poison before and get them to come back to Sid to see if this is the same stuff.

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+15=33 ;
Friday October 20th, 2017 2:27:59 PM

"Thanks Dorbin! Well, that makes it easier for me I guess." Sid starts thinking about bow construction.

===================================

Craft(Bows): 33

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Friday October 20th, 2017 6:22:16 PM

"Thank you for your statement."

Hearing his companions calling him Zander dismisses Franklin and goes to find them. "What did you find?"

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Friday October 20th, 2017 7:42:51 PM

Stohp goes over what everyone has found in her mind. "So far the most likely suspects are Sir Stephen, because he saw the victim last and was going to be dropped as a partner, and possibly Ernesto, due to the loud argument from before. I think we should do a thorough search of any office or rooms those two have on the premises."

She double checks the legality of searching people's rooms with the guards, then recruits Wobler to help her find her way around and does a thorough search of Sir Stephen's stuff (take 20 for 32 total).

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Saturday October 21st, 2017 2:45:59 AM

"Got something here to show you Zander," Bartomus replied as he saw Zander in the hallway. He hefted the accounting book and waved it at Zander. "need to show this to a few others, but it seems that some of the very rare volumes in the collection here have gone missing. Need to get some sense as to who discovered that."

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Saturday October 21st, 2017 11:00:37 AM

Micah continues to let Zanderallen take the lead.

DM Robert - "Who do you think would know?"  d20+3=13 ;
Saturday October 21st, 2017 11:23:15 AM

map

clues list

Third Floor
Dorbin C5 - break room
Sid C5 - break room
Lavinia C9 - Stephan's office
Stohp - second floor

--
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Rodrigo - somewhere on the third floor.
Second Floor
Zanderallen - second floor meeting
Micah - second floor meeting

Bartomus - second floor meeting with others
Stock - B6 Library
--
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.

Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

==
Dorbin runs downstairs and finds the priest in the library. He grabs him and rushes back upstairs. Once it's explained what's happening he again casts detect poison.
"Oh my yes that indeed has some traces of poison in it." He examines it and thinks for a moment. "However I don't think there's enough there for me to really know what poison it was."

Sasha walks around the third floor and takes a swat at Lavinia.

Sid wonders briefly...did he see a book about arms and armor in Stephan's office?

Stock wants to search some rooms. However, Wobler tells her that Ernesto does not have an office in the building. Most visitors wait in the outer office upstairs near the secretaries desk. Ernesto was sent to the Library because Barbara did not feel comfortable with him sitting for long periods in the outer office near her. He takes her upstairs to Sir Stephan's office where she encounters Dorbin and Sid in the break room. They tell her what they've found and that Sir Stephan's office has already been thoroughly searched.

Bartomus shows the accounting ledger to Zanderallen and Micah. Going over it everyone can see that it is more of an inventory book and that indeed there are several books being marked as 'missing'.

I want to re-emphasis the note about the paintings and having them re-appraised. This goes partially to flavor text. But in a city where there are few windows because of building being built butted up next to each other, the need for bright cheery or thought provoking paintings to be hung on walls is important to many houses and business. It is perhaps commonplace so that your characters don't always look at or for paintings in passing. But when you look around again you note that almost everyone room has some painting hung on it.

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Sunday October 22nd, 2017 10:12:03 PM

After comparing notes, Micah asks, "Did anyone do a thorough search of Arlen's office? Is it possible there is a secret entrance into the room that we are not yet aware of? "

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8  d20+7=26 ;
Sunday October 22nd, 2017 11:55:31 PM

Bartomus shrugged at Micah's question, "We've been with Wobler and then I walked into the office next to where we interviewed him."

Bartomus looked about the meeting room to get a sense of its furnishings.
=============
Perception roll - 26

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16) 
Sunday October 22nd, 2017 11:57:14 PM

Sid places the deadly package on a table in the breakroom and thinks hard. He makes sure that the other shields now about the book and the notes of Sir Stephen in case that is relevant.

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21 
Monday October 23rd, 2017 10:55:58 AM

Sorry I missed on Friday. Not sure what happened.
--------
Stock wanders back up to the main offices, hearing about the finding of the poison in the breakroom.
"Anybody have any idea what this Oil of Tagget does anyway? I'm guessing it doesn't straight up kill unless in huge doses right? So if it was used to just knock out Lord Arlen, somebody...or multiple people...strong enough to string up the stiff would have been needed...Didn't that Wobler guy say he made the tea?"

Stock heads back down to find him in the library.

"Wobler? Which of you is Wobler?" When he steps forward, Stock sizes up the clerk. "Would you please come with me and walk me through the steps you followed brewing tea this afternoon?"

==========
I already failed the appraise check on the paintings I think, so I'm out for that one.

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19 
Monday October 23rd, 2017 3:07:37 PM

Hearing Sid's discovery of the poison in the break room Zander thinks aloud. "We know from witness accounts that Wobler brought in the tea to Lord Arlen. It appears to have been poisoned while it was in the break room. Ernesto was in the break room right before that as well. So either of them had the best opportunity to poison the tea. But that still leaves Sir Stephan as the only one who could have hung Arlen after he was knocked out from the poison. Is it possible any of them are working together?"

"And if the tea was brought in while Stephan was still there why didn't he have any? Or if he did why wasn't he affected? I think we need to put a little pressure on Stephan to get some more answers. Care to help ruffle his feathers Lucas?"

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Monday October 23rd, 2017 7:50:37 PM

Dorbin stands with Sid a bit confused. He says, "Any other ideas, Sid?"

DM Robert - "Any other ideas, Sid?" 
Monday October 23rd, 2017 8:57:35 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
Dorbin C5 - break room
Sid C5 - break room
Lavinia C9 - Stephan's office

--
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Rodrigo - somewhere on the third floor.

Second Floor
Zanderallen - second floor meeting
Micah - second floor meeting
Stohp - second floor
Bartomus - second floor meeting with others
Stock - B6 Library
--
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.

Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.

==
Micah asks about secret passages. Yes the offices were searched thoroughly. There is not a secret passage.

Bartomus looks around B5. Looks like some sort of manager's office. This room is set up as an office. There are two chairs in front of a 3x8 desk. Both chairs are cushioned, one on the right is large enough for a taur. There are windows looking out onto the printing floor. The desk has locked drawers down both sides. He finds a name plate that says Barny Smythe - Manager.

Stock asks Wobler to go upstairs and take him through the steps of making tea. Unfortunately to do that he will need to get the tea pot and cup. Would this disturb evidence? Or does Stock just want to know how he makes the tea? Not sure what you are shooting for here.

Zanderallen thinks the tea was poisoned in the break room. But if you recall Erenesto was in the break room while the pot was probably going, and Sir Stephan went into the break room momentarily after exiting from Lord Arlen's office.

Sid remembers that Micah said Oil of Tanget was used as a knockout poison.

Rodrigo speaks wanders down and manages to get in on the conversation's with everyone at some point in time. "So we're not sure who poisoned him, either Ernesto or Sir Stephan. But we do know the following.
1-Someone at some point recently stacked Arlen's footstool on top of Arlen's overhigh chair. This gave the person 3 feet off the ground.
2-the beam is 10 feet off the ground. So a person 6 foot or taller could then easily reach the beam.
3-Arlen was short barely over 5 foot tall.
4-one side of Arlen's clothes were very dusty/dirty.
5-Part of the beam near the rope, for about 5 feet was clear of any dust.
6-Sasha the cat has been sniffing around upstairs, got a hit off the rope and maybe something off the poison container, but she has not sniffed anywhere or anyone else.
7-Arlen was having some sort of inventory of the companies rare books and paintings done.
8-He went to see a lawyer and had Barbara being made new 1/2 owner or whatever in the company.
9-He had underlined a section in the current partnership agreement about fiscal ....fiscal something or other, that amounts to stealing as a justification to end the partnership or something right?
10-um, are there other clues to think about perhaps?"


Lukas nods his head. [b]"I think Stohp and Stock made some other discoveries in the library."



Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Monday October 23rd, 2017 9:45:26 PM

"Could we ask Barbara who's handwriting is noting what is missing in the ledger there?" Bartomus asked the group. As he waited for an answer, he began trying to open the desk drawers more of out curiosity than anything else.

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Tuesday October 24th, 2017 9:10:13 AM

Dorbin asks Lavinia, "Have you had your cat check out smells on the suspects yet? Maybe it can find a match to what it smelled on the rope and the body earlier."

OOC:
If Sesha/Lavinia is not available, perhaps Emily can stand in for the larger cat...

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21 
Tuesday October 24th, 2017 11:19:28 AM

"Don't worry about grabbing the tea pot and cup, Mr. Wobler. All I want you to do is run me through the steps you followed in making the tea. We are trying to determine when there was time, and how much time there was for somebody to tamper with it."

As he leads Wobler upstairs, Stock is lost in thought. The one thing I don't get is why one side of Arlen's body would be dirty...seems like an important clue that I just can't place.

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 25 T: 13 FF: 24 CMD: 19  d20+11=17 ;
Tuesday October 24th, 2017 3:50:44 PM

"You raise some good points Rodrigo. I think we can put together the scenario of how he was killed. After taking the poisoned tea Arlen would have been knocked out. His killer then used the chair and stool to throw a rope over and haul Arlen's body onto the rafter, thus the dust wiped off the rafter and unto his clothes. All they would have had to do then was push his body off, the longer fall would account for the severe injuries to his neck." Waving Micah and Lucas to follow him Zanderallen moves back to the library to bring Stephan in for another interview. "Sir Stephan, we have some additional questions for you. When you were talking to Lord Arlen his tea was brought in. Do you normally take it with him?" Zander watches carefully for any change in Stephan's demeanor.
-----------------------
Sense Motive 17

Micah (Zachary subbing for John H) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17  d20+14=34 ;
Tuesday October 24th, 2017 3:54:42 PM

Wondering how much evidence his brother would need to be able to make a conviction stick against a noble, even a lower one such as Sir Stephan Micah has his worries. But knowing they would have to pursue this case to the end, wherever it ended up leading he prepares himself for the interview. Letting Zanderallen lead the opening statements he silently observes, his eyes looking deep into Stephan's soul.
-------------------------
Sense Motive 34 (nat 20)

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+6=26 ; d20+10=15 ;
Tuesday October 24th, 2017 8:08:48 PM

"Ok, so we know that the Oil was used as a sedative, so either he was moving and fell onto something dirty, or something dirty got him, grabbed or covered, on one side as he was moved to the location of his hanging... say, could the dirt be printing power or ink or something of that nature?" Sid looks around thinking about the weight and force it would take for someone to drag a from any position and hang it and starts looking for those signs of disturbances.

=================================================

Knowledge(Engineering): Nat. 20(total 26)
Perception: 15

DM Robert - "Any other ideas, Sid?" 
Tuesday October 24th, 2017 8:48:14 PM

map

clues list

Sid considers the dirt. It was not printing powder or ink. It was straight up dirt/dust. (In fact if Lavinia were still 'conscious') she would be able to confirm it's the same type of dust from the other parts of the rafter. With the engineering check Sid considers that a drop of three feet or so may have done the damage to Arlen's throat. Now if the chair is 18 inches high ... how much would he have had to jump? A mending spell would certainly help, because then the rope could be joined together again and you could see how far off the ground he was.

Stock has Wobler walk him through the tea making process. From what he understands, Wobler would start the pot going and go back to his desk to work, he could hear the pot from there easily. Then he would take the tea and put it into the water to steam for 5 minutes. Again he would go back to his desk and glance over paperwork. Then he would load the tray and take it into Arlen's office. Normally Arlen will leave his door slightly open and he would just walk in. Today he had to knock because the door was closed and Sir Stephan was in there.

Dorbin tries to talk to Lavinia....to no avail. Sasha walks around his legs. (Most domestic felines hunt by sight, larger cats can hunt by sight and smell. I will allow someone to attempt handle animal to take Sasha around for more scenting.)

Bartomus tries to open the drawers to the desk. He finds they are locked. Not sure who has the keys he goes into the library and talks to Barbara privately. He shows her the ledger and note. As he does Zanderallen comes in and summons Sir Stephan. Barbara looks over the book and says the notes in there are in Gorkin Rasmulov's the accountants. The note asking to find a painting appraiser is in Lord Arlen's writing.

In the Library, Zanderallen summons Sir Stephan. He notes Stephan eyeing Bartomus and Barbara. Zanderallen gets the feeling something is upsetting Sit Stephan. Once they get back to the office Zanderallen tears into him. Micah notes that Sir Stephan seems somewhat distracted until Zander lets him have it. Micah notes that his eyes snap back into focus and then he looks up to the right (eyes only). He then answers, "Of course not, Lord Arlen drank his tea by himself. It was his habit before taking a nap."
Micah and Zanderallen need to make a perception and heal check.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Wednesday October 25th, 2017 12:05:48 AM

"Barbara, help me understand something," Bartomus leaned forward as he asked the secretary his question. "Why would Lord Arlen being looking at getting the paintings appraised? Which paintings?"

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Wednesday October 25th, 2017 8:47:51 AM

Dorbin notices that Lavinia has fallen asleep in a chair. He nudges her to try and wake her. Then he goes over to the large cat and orders it to search for smells. He points to the hallway. He notices he is completely ignored by both Lavinia and the large cat. He sighs.

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21 
Wednesday October 25th, 2017 3:48:34 PM

Stock thinks over what he sees Wobler do...

"Would anybody have had enough time to tamper with the tea while you stepped away?"

Then...

"Do you remember seeing anybody hanging around in the breakroom while the tea was steeping?"

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm 
Wednesday October 25th, 2017 6:42:19 PM

Stohp listens in on the clue list Rodrigo sums up. It's very helpful, and something he says catches her notice. "Wait, Arlen is covered in dust, and the area around the noose is dust free? Sounds like either he was up there himself or someone knocked off all the dust down onto his unconscious corpse before tying the rope. Perhaps to keep themselves from getting dusty."

Micah (Zachary subbing for John H) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17  d20+9=12 ; d20+4=16 ;
Wednesday October 25th, 2017 6:54:20 PM

Tag teaming Sir Stephan Micah takes the lead on the next question. "Could you tell us what your conversation with Lord Arlen was about this afternoon?"
----------------------
Heal 12
Perception 16

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 19  d20+5=21 ; d20+4=9 ;
Wednesday October 25th, 2017 6:58:01 PM

Sitting back Zander watches Stephan's reaction to the probe.
------------------
Heal 21
Perception 9

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+1=5 ; d20+12=18 ;
Wednesday October 25th, 2017 7:26:06 PM

"This does not make sense," Sid says as he looks up at the rafters. He looks at Sasha, "Are you a good kitty?" She ignores him and he exhales, "Well you are a cat." He looks around to see if he can climb up something to see the top of the rafters.

==========================================

Animal Handling: 5
Acrobatics: 18

((Stupid low rolls))

DM Robert - "Any other ideas, Sid?" 
Wednesday October 25th, 2017 9:38:05 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
Dorbin C9 - Arlen's office
Sid C5 - break room
Lavinia C9 - Arlen's office
Stock - C5 breakroom
Stohp - third floor outside Arlen's office?
--
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Rodrigo - somewhere on the third floor.

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 questioning stephan
Micah - B5 questioning stephan
Stohp - second floor
Bartomus - B6 Library

--
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.
Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
==

Micah and Zanderallen continue to question Sir Stephan. Micah notes Sir Stephan is certainly tall, over 6 foot easily. Zanderallen surmises that for an older person (say mid 40's) he certainly seems to still be in robust health. Sir Stephan replies “Our meeting was a short business conference. I was given instructions to the format of three books we will be publishing. Entirely routine stuff, but if you want the details… I then left and went to the art department to check on some book illustrations, then came in here to the library to do some research, checking some of the points for a book of magic we’re publishing in the spring. I heard a noise from the north window near where I was sitting.”

Zanderallen scratches his head briefly, and wonders, didn't he say he heard a thump on the floor like from a chair following over.

Bartomus questions Barbara about the paintings. She replies, "Why I'm not sure, except for the Library and prints shop almost all the rooms have at least one painting. I know that Lord Arlen is...was, a sort of patron of the arts. He thought that employees should be able to look at something other than a bare wall."

Dorbin ponders what to do next.

Stock questions Wobler. "Well really? Poison? I don't know. Wow, maybe well I guess Ernesto was in here alone for a minute maybe while the tea was brewing. Other than that only myself and then Sir Stephan went in here briefly after coming out of Lord Arlen's office."

Stohp wonders about the dust on Lord Arlen's clothes. Perhaps she needs to take a closer look at it to determine how it may have gotten there.

Sid wonders how to get up to look at the rafter. Rodrigo and Private Pluto offer to boost him up if he wants to try and stand on their shoulders.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Thursday October 26th, 2017 1:18:35 AM

"Barbara, would there be an inventory of the paintings?" Bartomus looked about the room they were in and then back at her. "How about you and I go on an art walk, let's see what we can find regarding the paintings."

Bartomus looked about and asked, "Which way to the library?"

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14] 
Thursday October 26th, 2017 9:19:32 AM

Dorbin stays with Sid and tries to help him examine the rafters more as well.

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+8=16 ;
Thursday October 26th, 2017 1:18:37 PM

Stock takes Wobler back to the library and finds Zanderallen and Micah speaking with a well dressed man he takes for Sir Stephan. He walks up to the group and gives the noble a long look (Perception, see below). During a lull in the conversation (without introducing himself) he say,

"What's the deal with the fake paintings in your office? Seems like you should have the real stuff..."

---------
Perception 16, looking for signs of dirt on Sir Stephan's clothing and hands.

Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 19 
Thursday October 26th, 2017 5:59:45 PM

Zanderallen pauses as Stock barges in. He thanks the break in, hoping it might help shake Stephan. Especially an accusation like that. "Fake paintings? Could that have been why Arlen was looking into company finances? Know anything about that?" While Stephan is looking at Stock, Zander exchanges glances with Micah with subtle gestures to Stephan's build.

Micah (Zachary subbing for John H) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Thursday October 26th, 2017 6:06:20 PM

Micah sits back, letting Zander and Stock have their turn at Stephan. So much seemed to be pointing at Stephan, could it be too much? Were they overlooking something? He muses as he watches Stephan's reaction to the next questions.

Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8 
Thursday October 26th, 2017 8:20:42 PM

As Bartomus found his way down the hall, he saw Stock go into one of the rooms and Bartomus followed after only to hear him ask about fake paintings. "Wait, what, the paintings are fake? Arlen had been working to get them appraised to see their values.

Bartomus looked to see if Barbara was still following behind him.

DM Robert - "Wait, what, the paintings are fake?" 
Thursday October 26th, 2017 8:59:21 PM

map

clues list

Third Floor
Dorbin C9 - Arlen's office
Sid C5 - break room
Lavinia C9 - Arlen's office

Stohp - third floor outside Arlen's office?
--
private Tiffany Pluto - C9 Arlen's office
Rodrigo - somewhere on the third floor.

Second Floor
Zanderallen - B5 questioning stephan
Micah - B5 questioning stephan
Stock - B5 questioning Stephan
Stohp - second floor
Bartomus - B6 Library

--
Sergent Lukas - B5 and office watching his brother work.
Corporal Walker (in the library)
Corporal Bardel - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
Pepper Plates - the 'lobby' area of the second floor.
==

Bartomus is actually in the Library with Barbara. Barbara leads Bartomus out of the Library and starts taking him to various rooms and hallways. Bartomus needs to make an Appraise check and a knowledge Local check.

Stohp....appears to be going into some sort of trance with Sid, and Lavinia.... perhaps there is something in the air of Lord Arlen's office.

Rodrigo and Private Pluto manage to stand on some of the office chairs and get Dorbin to climb. Rodrigo actually stacks the footstool from under Arlen's desk onto Arlen's raised chair. He is less than a foot below the rafter at that point. That's a HINT.
Dorbin needs to make an acrobatics and then a perception check.

and if Sid wakes up he has to make the same checks.

Stock, Zanderallen, and Micah need to make Sense Motive checks....and Stock needs to make a straight Intelligence check.
Sir Stephan looks at Stock in what could be interpreted as surprise at the unexpected intrusion. "Fakes? Whatever do you mean. Why those paintings were purchased by Lord Arlen, are you saying he's been duped?"

Bartomus barges in at the doorway. His comments add to the tensness of the scene. Barbara speaks up over Bartomus's shoulder. "Arlen never bought fakes or duplicates or anything that was numbered, he only bought one of a kind originals, no matter if it was a great painter or a starving artist."
Bartomus can make a sense motive check.


Bartomus(Rod) HP: 34/34 AC: 13 (11+2); Perc+7;Heal+8  d20+2=15 ; d20+4=8 ;
Thursday October 26th, 2017 11:20:28 PM

Bartomus walked about with Barbara and took a closer look at the paintings. He could get a sense of the skill and craft associated with what he was seeing. He couldn't place the people though, and that was frustrating. "Miss Barbara, you may have to help me understand who these are?"

====
Appraise 15;Knowledge local 8

Sid (Andrew) HP: 34/34; AC: 17/15/13; CMB: 2; CMD: 16)  d20+9=10 ; d20+12=23 ;
Thursday October 26th, 2017 11:43:21 PM

Sid is lost in thought on the mechanics of everything and leaps upon onto the chair. He ponders what all that he has seen.

=================================================

Perception: Nat. 1!
Acrobatics: 23

HERO POINT: I have three and an Int of 18. Sid is smarter than I am and I'm just not putting it together. Oh great GM, I petition thee for the boon of Inspiration, that I may cross the challenge that this frail player character now faces.

Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14]  d20+2=15 ; d20+6=19 ;
Friday October 27th, 2017 9:26:31 AM

Dorbin watches Sid jump up on the chair and tries to help Sid out. He points out a few places on the rafters, trying to get Sid to see where he is pointing and looking (acrobatics: 15, perception: 19).

Micah (John) HP: 46/46 AC: 23/12/23 CMD:17 
Friday October 27th, 2017 1:28:58 PM

Micah thinks they are close to solving this, but it is all speculation.
Sasha's keen nose might be able to finalize it, but he has lost track of she and Lavinia.

He blinks his eyes as a solution suddenly occurs to him. Thank you Domi he thinks as he goes in search of Dorbin.

Finding him in the office, he approaches and asks, "Dorbin, the murderer probably did not count on his scent being traceable. I was so focused on our jungle hunter, that I totally missed we have another hunter among us. Would Emily be willing to help us track down the murderer?



Dorbin (JeffO) [AC:13/13/10 HP:35/35 CMD:14]  d20+4=16 ;
Friday October 27th, 2017 1:51:07 PM

Dorbin replies, "I have tried that, but she isn't really getting anything so far, sadly."

OOC:
Yeah, I tried to use Emily before, but it didn't work as Lavinia's cat is more reliant on scent.

Random int check: 16

Stock (JonM) HP: 56/56 AC: 20/14/17; CMB: 8; CMD: 21  d20+1=10 ; d20=6 ;
Friday October 27th, 2017 2:38:23 PM

"I guess maybe calling them fakes is going to far...maybe he mentioned to you that they are replicas though right?"

So many holes to fill in...like how somebody got into Arlen's office to hang him and then got out again...This guy Stephan doesn't feel right to me but I can't find any reason behind any of it.

=========
Sense Motive 10
Intelligence 6
I feel so dense...The clues are all there but are not quite adding up for me.


Zanderallen (Zachary H) HP: 48/48 AC: 23 T: 11 FF: 22 CMD: 19  d20+11=22 ;
Friday October 27th, 2017 5:40:24 PM

Zander sits pondering and stumped. He thought they could put the whole case together, but there was no evidence to back any of it up. Unless Stephan convicted himself. He briefly weighs the options and then decides to tighten the screws. "Did you know Lord Arlen was investigating someone here for fraud? That could have been why he was killed" Zander leans in towards Stephan as he discloses the information.
--------------------
Sense Motive 22

Stohp (Mitch) HP: 38/38hp AC: 19/13/15 CMB: +8 CMD: 18 +2 vs grapple, disarm  d20+12=30 ;
Friday October 27th, 2017 6:09:44 PM

Stohp looks up from what she was doing. "I think I'm just going to start searching every room. We have missing books and a container of poison to find. Finding either might help pinpoint the guilty party."

Since Stephon's office has been searched, she moves on to Arlen's office (take 20 for 32 or 30 if take 20 is unavailable).

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