DM Mitch Wednesday September 15th, 2021 7:29:21 AM Kezzem casts greater magic weapon on his daggers. Succotash argues for the evening and does his best to be civil and entertain the dwarf and drow women in the meantime. Murphy and some of his family prepare for bar-hopping while others of his company keep company with their guests and Succotash showing Sesha and Ketia to their quarters. Bliss tells his vision to his friends and tries to go over the blank spots for more clues. His best guess is that they were dwarf size or smaller, as he didn’t note any indications they had difficulty navigating the dwarf sized home. Tali meets up with Raya and mediates then takes her customary 2 am watch before casting her normal spells. Pressi surmises that letting the killer in means that the victims knew their killer and whoever it was probably moved through the community all along. Pressi avoids Ketia and Sesha and the next morning prepares the usual ritual. Murphy takes care of more errands around town. The mayor did agree to the expansion and will be happy to work with the adventurers on talking to the land owners when they have the time. He spends some time with his family as well.
The party is ready to go and about to leave, but Bliss has to stay behind for reasons.
With all the information gotten that they can get from afar the party heads out. With magic it’s pretty easy to get to Glimmer and soon they’re outside the town. The town is underground inside the mountain and has a large population of gnomes and dwarves. This time of day most people are home from work and getting ready for bed. There are a few town guards about and one is happy to give the visitors directions to wherever they decide to go first.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells d6+26=28 ; Wednesday September 15th, 2021 11:31:56 AM
Succotash gets directions to the town constablary, than when he arrives he says, "Good day, my name is Succotash Slenderstick, and I am a member of the adventuring party known as Humble's Sword. It has come to my attention that a certain coople has recently been brutally murdered here, and my friends and I are most curious about the crime, and would like to help you bring the killer or killers to justice. You see, we had history with the victims, not 100% good history, but history none the less, also we have reason to believe that the one or ones responsible is also guilty of attacking our home. Luckily no one was killed, and only minor damage was done to property, but we would still like to get to the bottom of the matter. Do you happen to have any evidence , have you heard any rumors, or have anything at all that may help in our investigation? We of course have no desire to side step you and your fellow constables, but as adventurers, we have skills, that the average constable doesn't have, and would like to offer them to you to aid your investigation. " (diplomacy 28)
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Wednesday September 15th, 2021 4:35:17 PM
"Also, let's just pretend that we pretended to be mushroom farmers," says Kezzem. "That way you'll now that we're really us and instead of somebody else who is definitely not us."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Wednesday September 15th, 2021 4:50:37 PM
Pressi wishes Bliss the best of luck, knowing the toll that such visions can take on a witch.
Beyond that, Pressi is willing for Succotash and others to take the lead for now. Her investigations are about to begin.
(Jewish holiday begins soon. Just getting something out, will post longer tomorrow night.)
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 Wednesday September 15th, 2021 6:49:06 PM Farewell to Bliss and Mookie "Oh, my good friend," Murphy says when Bliss announces his decision to take a break from being active with the group. "I've watched you grow up in maturity as you excelled as an adventurer. My concern has risen lately, when you seemed to forget aspects of adventures in which you played such a huge role. Yes, rest, Bliss, that you may return when ready, refinding the meaning of your name. Maybe you'll find an additional name along the way. And, thanks for the breakfasts."
He opens his arms, embracing his shorter friend. Then he steps back for a moment, hands on his shoulders, looking into his eyes. "Take good care of Mookie. Mooks, you'll know what to do." He takes another step back, reaches into a bag, and pulls out a canvas bucket. "It's full of worms I picked up near the oaks on the pathway into the Scab. Planned to give it to you later, Mookie." He sets down the container, and loose, rich soil rests as high as 3" below the top. A fair-sized earthworm protrudes a couple of inches above the dirt and probes the air above.
Caverns of Glimstone - Glimmer town When last they were here, the adventurers had gone into the mining portions of Glimstone, but had not, to the best of Murphy's recollection, seen the town of Glimmer. [Where does the town lie in relation to the cavern entrance? Am I right it is the same as the entrance to the mining area - or is there a separate entrance to the town?]
Murphy notes that people go to bed a few hours after sunrise down here - where the sun does not rise.
The druid makes a note when the appropriate time arrives to not spill the whole story to someone until we can get a feel for who they are, but, well, we'll see how it goes. He offers his name, and asks who they might be talking with. "Looks like a nice town, from the little we've seen of it. Might seem an abrupt question, but we are halflings. Might there be a place we could find lodging for the night? All right, that's not too abrupt. Here you go - Are you aware of any murders that have occurred of late in the area?"
[Melvin - G’mar chatima tova.]
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Thursday September 16th, 2021 12:10:39 AM
Glimmer
Tali goes along for the journey with Rayya not wanting to be too far from her. Tali remains quiet while being observing as she takes it all in.
DM Mitch Thursday September 16th, 2021 8:50:20 AM Bliss is really warn out from his vision so Mookie decides its best if the youngster reside in the care of granny for now. Murphy also wishes Bliss well and says he should return when he is ready and thanks him for breakfast. He then sees to it that they return to Glimstone only this time they are going to the town area instead of the mine area which is kind of in the same general vicinity just in a different part of the cave. He asks a question about murders recently and the dwarf he asks says, “Yeah, talk of the town. An elderly couple supposedly was murdered most foul in their homes”
Succotash introduces himself and the team to the town constabulary giving their bona fides and reasons for why they wish to help. Kezzem throws in that the constabulary should pretend that the party pretended to be Mushroom farmers because that way they would know it is them. Pressi wishes Bliss the best and defers to Succotash for the time being. Tali remains quite and observes everything.
The desk sergeant looks at Succotash and then looks at Kezzem and says, “You’ll be wanting to talk to detective IceHammer. She’s the one that was assigned lead on this case so she can read you in. I think she’ll be happy to have your help.”
He checks some kind of time tracking device. ”This time of day she’s probably at the dinner getting some food before going home. You might be able to catch her and introduce yourself or just come back in the morning.”
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Thursday September 16th, 2021 11:04:40 AM
"We already had one dinner," says Kezzem, "but I could always go for second dinner. Hey guys, maybe we could form a club...a second Second Dinner Club, if you will."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 Thursday September 16th, 2021 3:22:46 PM
Murphy speaks. "Thank you, Sergeant. Mind if I ask your name?"
"I think some members of our group occasionally called the Second Breakfast
He says, "Let's go," and heads in the direction the sergeant indicated to find IceHammer. When they get to or near the place indicated, he makes a few inquiries to see if someone nearby might know of her whereabouts.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 Thursday September 16th, 2021 5:28:04 PM
[finishing the uncompleted 2nd paragraph above]
"I think some members of our group occasionally called the Second Breakfast Club the 'Second Dinner Club.' So they may have a prior claim on the phrase, as a derivative trademark, Kezzem. But if you want to use it, I won't tell on you," Murphy says.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Thursday September 16th, 2021 8:48:13 PM
"I'm hearing a disappointing amount of chatter about second dinner, and almost nothing regarding cocktail hours."
Pressi agrees to talk to the detective before doing anything else.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Friday September 17th, 2021 4:13:08 AM
As they Swords find Detective Icehammer, he introduces himself and the rest if the party, than basically says the same thing he said to the desk Sargent.
DM Mitch Friday September 17th, 2021 8:13:38 AM Kezzem replies that they already had one dinner but he could always go for a second and thinks they should form the second dinner club. Murphy asks the sergeant his name, shares some info about another group calling themselves the second dinner club but promises not to tell if Kezzem won’t and then asks around the diner after the detective. Pressi asks about cocktail hours and agrees to talk to the detective first. Succotash introduces himself and gives the same speil as before.
Before you depart the constabulary the Sergeant gives Murphy his name as Gloin Copperbottom.
At the restaurant you find a dwarf woman with flaxen hair and penetrating blue eyes seated at a table drinking a cup of coffee. She studies you carefully before saying “Yes I’m Detective Arrin Icehammer. How may I help you?”
After Succotash’s spiel she considers. ”I have respect for the skills of adventurers, but too many of them are the fight first find answers later kind. Tell me about your history with the victims and what you know of the murder. If you tell me everything I’ll share what I know and maybe we can figure this out together.”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Friday September 17th, 2021 1:09:56 PM
[b]"I understand your trepidation, Detective. However we, members of Humble's Sword, Have a long history of attempting diplomacy first, and blood letting only as a last resort. Even if things turn to violence, we still prefer to give our opponents a chance to surrender, and if at all possible, we strive to reform our captured foes, setting them on the good and honorable path. Sadly too many choose death over surrender, and we have no choice but to fight to the death.
To answer your question, the victims were once in ownership of a ginormous iron giant. They intended to use the ancient and powerful device to free their immortal power Scald. To test out the power of the device, they sought a target that they could destroy, and of course that target was Humble's Ford. In order to defend our town, we infiltrated the automaton, and defeated the unfortunate couple. As is our M.O., we gave them the chance to surrender, along with their followers, one of whom now dwells at our compound, as a trusted friend. The unfortunate couple promised never to return to the Crescent Valley, and we set them free. The last we saw of them was them walking away towards the Scab. Just yesterday, individuals, who desire to remain nameless, visited our humble abode, and informed us of the evil deed. They asked for our help, and of course we can't turn a blind eye to cold blooded murder. One of ours cast a divination spell, and witnessed the murder, in all it's gruesome detail, minus one, and that being the murderer's identity. The vision was such an ordeal, it shook our friend to the marrow, and he felt the need to stay home, as the effect was so taxing on his soul. As I said, when I introduced us, we believe this evil-doer is the same as the one who attempted to destroy our home, and us. We have no idea as to why this person or persons would wish us harm, or for that matter, the death of another, but we do know, via our friends divination, that the culprit was known to the victims. We also know via our informers, that this isn't the only murder, and that the culprit seems to be targeting followers of Scald."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells d20+26=30 ; Friday September 17th, 2021 1:13:18 PM
Forgot to roll diplomacy. Rolled a 30.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Friday September 17th, 2021 3:47:53 PM
"Don't worry, we're more the talk first, talk second, talk so more, and then fight after all the talking goes belly up type of adventurers," says Kezzem. "Actually, maybe you should worry. I think maybe the fights just start because we talk so much they can't get us to otherwise shut up."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 Friday September 17th, 2021 9:43:33 PM
Murphy nods a couple of times as Succotash gives a good rundown. He squints as Kezzem has his typical off-the-wall, but perhaps not too far off summary of what types of adventurers we are.
Then he says, simply, "Anur Daron and Shan Shalutch."
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 d20+26=29 ; Friday September 17th, 2021 11:12:21 PM And then there were...none!
Tali curtseys towards the Detective & starts with her short tale, very diplomatically, "Detective Arrin Icehammer, I would second my colleagues accounting of our story as I do not recall much of the big Iron Giant fight as I was temporarily out of it towards the end of the scuffle...dead in fact"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 Saturday September 18th, 2021 5:18:42 PM
"That was a later fight, Tali," Murphy says. "You didn't die when we faced Shan, nor Agur. It was later you perished. A thousand giants tried to attack and overrun our town, and as we were about to draw near to victory, the bad people tried to take the Iron Giant from us that you died. That was a few weeks, maybe a month, after we first took over the Iron Giant.
"You might recall our first time on the Iron Giant, when, after dealing with Pilot Anur, you swept up Ix's ashes into, what, a little box? - as we bid farewell to the couple upon whom we showed mercy, when they accepted our terms of surrender."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Sunday September 19th, 2021 8:37:38 PM
Pressi finally speaks up. "I believe the amount of talking should be sufficient that we can begin? Oh, we should mention that our approach to the Iron Giant proves we aren't the fight first type, and that we actually do continue on until someone says stop.
"We should also mention two things. First, we actually did leave on fairly good terms with the victims, for someone planning to steamroll our town. It was... a rather emotional day for most of us. Second, there is another connection. We believe that the perpetrator may also have a connection to a number of thefts and alchemical activities, and protection against most forms of divination magic, so... something to keep an eye on.
"I was hoping that we could start at the beginning. Get a good idea of what Scald followers believe and some idea of regional history. From there, we could talk about whether our victims had any enemies. Besides us, I mean."
DM Mitch Monday September 20th, 2021 8:08:21 AM Succotash diplomatically gives a rundown of their style of adventuring followed by the connection the party had to the victims and then lastly wraps things up by mentioning what they know of the murder. Kezzem adds his own color commentary to interpreting what kind of adventurers that the party is. Tali curtseys to the detective and gives her own recollection of events with the Iron Giant. Murphy adds the names of the victims to Succotash’s rundown. He then reminds Tali that she died in the second Iron Giant fight not the first. Pressi argues that their approach to the Iron Giant proves they aren’t the fight first type. She mentions that they left on good terms with the victims and that they believe the perpetrator may have a connection to a number of thefts, alchemical activities and protections against divination. She asks what the detective knows of Skald followers and what the detective knows about regional history. She also wants to know if the Skald had any enemies.
Story told the detective again leans back and considers. You get the feeling she always considers before doing anything. ”Given your own history I’m surprised you haven’t already learned all about how Scald, the giants, and the cult are all tied up. I’m no religious scholar, but this case is probably tied up in this stuff so I did my research. The giants, especially the fire giants, serve an immortal power called Fhorge. Fhorge is a mountain, but also hold some power over the entire scab. He’s a jailer, supposedly put in place by the gods themselves to contain ancient things that defied the gods but were to powerful to kill outright in the creation of the world.
Now there’s nothing wrong with that in and of itself, plenty of dwarves worship Fhorge to, but the fire giants believe they are Fhorge’s chosen race, creating cities on the volcano itself and raiding other places to drive people away from the prisons or secure sacrifices to make to their god. Nasty stuff usually. Scald is one of the prisoners who’s managed to gain a little power in the world again by fusing himself with the land that is his prison much as Fhorge has. Scald now inhabits a large hot spring, more of a lake really, and his minions seek to expand his influence to other waters or destroy Fhorge and free their master.
Scald’s folk tend to be pretty nasty. They tend to preach freedom and personal power at the expense of everyone else. Lots of murders and crime tend to crop up around them so the cult is generally not allowed in dwarven lands. Makes those that do worship him hide their loyalties.
As for the murder itself, I’ve formed some theories, but I don’t want to taint your own investigation. If I tell you what I think you’ll go in looking for evidence to support my conclusions instead of forming your own and that might make you miss a line of thought I didn’t think of. So I’ll make you a deal. I’ll let the constuables know to let you have access to the murder scene and any other information you want. You do your own investigation, see what you can figure out. Then we can meet and compare notes and we’ll see if we’ve all come to the same conclusion or if you’ve seen something I missed or vice versa. That gives us the best odds of hitting on the right answer to solve this.”
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Monday September 20th, 2021 12:49:21 PM
"Well then, I guess we shall *forge* ahead with our investigation," says Kezzzem. "What? Making bad puns isn't against the paladin code. At least, I think it's not."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Monday September 20th, 2021 2:08:42 PM
Succotash pats Kezzem on the shoulder and says, "We shall "hotly" pursue the villain, with a "fiery" vengeance, and "steel" ourselves to the investigation. Let us not "Melt" under the stress, and let us bring the "hammer" of justice.
To the detective he says, "Your plan is wise when can we begin, and how do we find the murder scene."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 Monday September 20th, 2021 6:46:50 PM
"Thank you, Detective Arrin Icehammer. We look forward to seeing what we might uncover, then comparing notes with you," replies Murphy. "Would we be able to get started right away? I know that folks here are preparing for bedtime, but from our perspective, it's still morning time."
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 d20+26=40 ; Monday September 20th, 2021 8:21:18 PM Fhorge, Scald, & the other Prisons
Tali own again curtseys speaking diplomatically as she does; "Thank you, Detective Arrin Icehammer. You kindness is much appreciated."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Monday September 20th, 2021 9:09:15 PM
Pressi nods attentively, trying to pretend that any of this stuff makes sense. It does partially explain why giants kept knocking on Humble's door for a while.
As soon as they get to the crime scene, she begins looking around (Perception 25) and detecting magic.
DM Mitch Tuesday September 21st, 2021 7:11:27 AM Kezzem says they should forge ahead with the investigation. Succotash not to be outdone by their paladin makes even more puns about their plans Murphy thanks the detective and asks if they can get started right away. Tali thanks the detective Pressi pretends that the detective’s explanation makes sense but at least gets an idea of why the giants kept attacking Humble’s Ford for a while. Detective Icehammer gives the party the directions to the scene of the crime as well as a handwritten note to give to the constable on duty guarding it. It isn’t to far of a walk and upon arrival the deputy reads the note, salutes, and opens the door for you.
When you get there Pressi starts taking a look around. The home opens up with the room Bliss described in his vision. A thick carpet covers the floor, now stained with blood. A hearth with the stale ashes of many old fires in inset in one wall and a tall bookshelf full of books sits nearby. A table and four chairs is on the other end of the room, the table not quite lined up with the carpet and one chair knocked over.
Two curtains hang on the walls and you can see spaces beyond them, probably other rooms in the small home.
Pressi does not detect any signs of magic in this first room. Any signs of spellcasting would have faded in the days since the murder.
Hobie (Nick T) HP 208/198 AC 38 Touch 24 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 6 Prepared Spells Tuesday September 21st, 2021 9:43:03 AM
Hobie enters the room and looks around, he notices the table and carpet not lined up, and thinks maybe there could be something important under the carpet. He will wait to lift the carpet until after his colleagues have had a chance to look around.
He also notices the bookshelf, and takes a look at what books are there.
OOC: Guys I'm sorry for disappearing for a week, I should have asked for a sub, but my wife is pregnant, and she has been really sick (everything is okay, it's normal first trimester pregnancy sickness) and she's taken all my focus, I just straight forgot about the Wold in all of it. Sorry.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells d20+50=69 ; Tuesday September 21st, 2021 10:11:46 AM OOC... Hey Nick, I hope your wife is feeling better soon!!!
Succotash also is curious as to what maybe found under the rug, and waits for Hobie to lift it up for investigation. He gives the room a once over, taking his time, being thorough in his search for clues. (taking 20) (perception 74{I normally add 35 taking 20 makes that 55, but the die roller bonus adder only goes to 50, so I added another 5})
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 d20+28=31 ; Tuesday September 21st, 2021 3:43:32 PM
"There murder scene is right here," says Kezzem."Succotash just murdered that joke."
Kezzem detects evil to see if his divine senses can detect anything as he looks around.
Perception: 1d20 + 28 = 31.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 d20+18=33 ; d20+18=21 ; d20+18=29 ; d20+18=19 ; d20+18=20 ; d20+18=32 ; d20+18=37 ; d20+18=32 ; d20+18=26 ; d3=2 ; d20+18=31 ; d20+18=22 ; d20+18=24 ; d20+18=26 ; d20+18=31 ; d20+18=35 ; d20+18=27 ; Tuesday September 21st, 2021 5:55:52 PM [My wife had one rough 1st trimester years ago, so, I feel for you two. I hope things even out for her, Nick.
Murphy gets out his inks paper and a paper-sized backing board. "Let me make some sketches before we move things about, if that's all right with you all." He begins sketching the view into the room from the entry, then goes to the other side, and sketches back towards the door. Then from the two sides. And on to the next rooms, doing as he did in the main room. If a particular piece of evidence warrants more detail, he makes the detailed sketches.
Then he puts in a new roll of film. -j/k
Once done with the sketches, he looks to note whether it looks as though there are any spots on the bookshelf where books were missing - evidence of them having been there, but now removed. Then pays attention to titles. As he wants to learn the ancient language Anur used, he sees if there are any tomes or scrolls that seem to include reference to that tongue. Then, book by book, he fans through, seeing if anything was left inside the pages, other than the bound pages.
All of this will likely take a while.
========== Profession, Artist rolls: 33, 21, 29, 19, 20, 32, 37, 32, 26, (skip the d3=2 accidental roll), 31, 22, 24. And rolls for details: 26, 31, 35, 27.
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 d20+14=20 ; Tuesday September 21st, 2021 6:59:39 PM The Investigation...
As Tali gets a chance to enter the area to add to the investigation, she sends Rayya aloft to see what she can in the shadows and to provide a bonus to her own perception skills in the shadows.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) d20+25=45 ; Tuesday September 21st, 2021 9:01:33 PM
With the perimeter well covered, Pressi considers the murder scene itself.
Kneeling at the bloodstain, "Ok, according to Bliss. Our killer comes in, immobilizes both, ties them to chairs, and kills them slowly... without asking questions or looking for anything first. Remind me we need a better idea of how they died, not a lot of spells that cause you to bleed, but I'm not getting great melee from this guy either..."
Pressi stood up. "Need some strength to get them to the chairs, wish I had a better way to judge height...."
From there, she moves on to poke around the hearth and ashes absentmindedly. (Perception 45).
DM Mitch Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 1:01:35 PM Hobie enters the room and notices the table and carpet not lined up and surmises that there could be something important under the carpet. He wants to give his colleagues a chance to look around before doing anything about the carpet. He also goes to investigate the bookshelf. Succotash thoroughly investigates the room, waiting for Hobie to lift the rug to give the room a once over. Kezzem being Kezzem cracks a joke and then casts detect evil as he searches the room. Murphy being Murphy breaks out the art supplies and starts making sketches of the rooms. When he is finally finished with that task he joins Hobie in scoping out the bookshelf, noting the language used, the content if possible and if anything is hidden in any of the tomes. Tali uses Rayya to boost her perceptiveness as she takes in the crime scene. Pressi considers the murder scene itself, rehashing the details of Bliss’s vision. She says they need to get a better idea of how the couple died as not a lot of spells cause folks to bleed but she doesn’t see this mage person being a skilled melee combatant. She suggests whoever does it needs strength to get the couple to the chairs though and then wishes she has a better way to judge height before absentmindedly poking around the fireplace ashes.
Murphy and Hobie are looking at the bookshelf. This bookshelf seems to be for entertainment. The books are a mix of how to guides on various hobbies, fictional tales of multiple genres, and a few religious texts. He is unable to dertermine if anything is obviously missing - the books are only loosely sorted and there’s still space on the shelves. He finds nothing between the pages.
Succotash and Hobie scope out the area under the carpet. They find that, most likely, the table was merely jarred in the murder. There are deep imprints in the carpet where the table legs must have previously rested, and the spots under where the legs ended up are far less bloodstained. Two the the chairs, those farthest from the table facing away from it, are about as stained as the carpet, with small sections less stained as if something like a rope reduced the blood flow over that spot.
Moving table and carpet and thoroughly searching the floor reveals no hidden compartments. Neither are any found in the walls, at least not in this room.
Kezzem turns his evil detecting cone on but alas if anything in the room was evil at some point in time recently there is nothing to indicate this not even a lingering aura.
Pressi pokes around in the ashes of the hearth. Whilst there she notices that there is an alcove next to the hearth that contains a variety of cooking utensils. The hearth is well tended, with the signs of many a previous meal prepared there. Small, charred bits of old food that fell off into the fire along with the ashes of old wood. It looks well maintained, but not particularly clean, no doubt due to the murder interrupting a meal in progress.
Murphy looks at the other rooms after finishing his first drawing. One room seems to be a lavatory - a chamber pot, partially full, sits inside along with a mirror over a small basin built into the wall and some hygiene supplies sitting on it’s edge. The basin is currently dry and has no obvious water source to fill it with.
The other room seems to be a bedroom. A large bed takes up most of the room, which is slightly smaller then the main one. It looks comfortable and possibly expensive. Against the right wall is a small desk with a large candle on it and various writing implements. A shelf sits over the desk holding more books, this one about 75% full of tomes.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) d20+25=40 ; Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 8:21:21 PM
Pressi looked around at the bedroom, checking the desk and books over (Perception 40) and casting detect magic through the room.
On a whim, she also pulls on the candlestick, half expecting the wall to spin her into the next room (but not really believing that will happen).
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 d20+14=18 ; Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 8:34:58 PM The Investigation...continues
Tali will look upon the book shelf above the desk using her perception for any sign of a well used book or marks left in the dust by a book.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Wednesday September 22nd, 2021 8:51:52 PM
"Okay, I'm going to have to talk to Gargul about my powers," says Kezzem as he pinches his nose. "I specifically searched the room for evil or lingering evil. Someone not emptying their chamber pot when their done is totally evil in my book, and it is certainly lingering."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 d20+43=60 ; Thursday September 23rd, 2021 5:14:52 AM
The druid jots down the titles of each of the books. "I'd like to see their bodies. Let's check with the local constable on that once we've finished up here." He is not rushing anyone. He will continue to collect information. ============ Perception: 60
DM Mitch d20+8=21 ; d20+8=17 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=28 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+8=27 ; d20+8=20 ; d20+8=13 ; d8=2 ; d8=4 ; d8=7 ; d8=6 ; Thursday September 23rd, 2021 6:45:34 AM Pressi looks around the bedroom and checks the desk and books over while casting detect magic. She also experiments with one of the candlesticks. Tali joins Pressi at the book shelf. She studies the dust. Kezzem proves the old adage about Paladins being trained to detect evil but not sarcasm wrong; well actually I don’t know about detecting but at least he can certainly employ it. How dare the murdered pair get murdered before being able to empty the chamber pot.
Pressi pulls a candle stick and…. Nothing happens
Tali and Pressi take a look at the bookshelf. Upon inspection of the books they appear to be written in Common and are memoirs or diaries of sorts with date references. The books appear to be in chronological order and nothing appears to be hidden in any of their pages. Taking the time the 2 halflings are able to tell that a book appears to be missing. One book ends with Anur talking about returning from his defeat at the Iron Giant, the loss of his son, and his promise to Humbles to reform. It goes on to say the constables are after him for previous murders and he’ll have to do something to lessen his sentence. The next book chronologically speaking picks up 2 years after he got out of jail and the first page has a footnote referencing a previous volume that seems to be missing.
Murphy documents the titles of the books in the main room. The ones in the bedroom do not have titles on the spine or cover, just a note on the first page saying “volume X”
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Thursday September 23rd, 2021 8:40:07 PM
Pressi rolls her eyes at Kezzem but does take the reminder to look over the basin, seeing how it works. (She suspects, though, that they just used create water and prestidigitation like she does.)
Thinking over the missing volume, she takes a step back and forth to look through some of the other volumes. At the other murders he committed. At the activities he did after getting out of prison.
"Still, looks like our one lead is to whoever can tell us what happened while he was in prison and how he got out."
Something about the son's death needled Pressi's mind, but she ignored that for the moment.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 Friday September 24th, 2021 3:28:32 AM
Murphy reads over Anur's description of what happened on the bridge of the Iron Giant. The confrontation by the party. One or two of the group relating to Anur the betrayal by his adoptive gnome son, Ix. The agreement he made with the group, his casting of an ancient spell to bring his wife back to life due in part to the ambiance of the Iron Giant. And the disintegration of Ix in severe paternal judgment. His forsaking of his holy symbol representing his faith in Skald, and surrender of his weapons and armor, and the walk home with his wife.
"I wonder whether, by whatever means, Ix may be the one who has returned to work vengeance against those he believed wronged him," Murphy asks aloud. "He certainly had a broad skill set."
After a pause he adds, "I'm not stating that as fact. Just speculating."
He reads from earlier texts, trying to learn how to came to know of the Iron Giant, and what moved Anur to come against the halflings.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Friday September 24th, 2021 1:36:23 PM
Kezzem, not much for reading, juggles his daggers. Occasionally he drops one, but thanks to the returning enchantment they return to his hand, and he hopes nobody notices.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Friday September 24th, 2021 8:47:21 PM
"Yeah," Pressi muttered back to Murphy as she finished washing her hands. "Though it would be difficult for him to find his way to revenge, what with him being dead and then reincarnated in the middle of a forest because I felt sorry for him but not so much."
Pressi thought for a bit. "Oh, right, THAT's the part I forgot that kept nagging me. Whew, good thing I can concentrate on other things now, huh."
Pressi frowned. "It might not be a bad idea to start scrying or messaging Ix. But, for now, we need to make our way to the prison, start asking some questions."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 d20+43=50 ; Saturday September 25th, 2021 3:46:20 AM
"Yeah. I could try scrying for him," her husband responds to Pressi. He nods his head at the suggestion to visit the prison. "I wouldn't mind ready more of Anur's journals before we go, but we may be looking at the law of diminishing returns. Or, maybe, find a startling revelation that leads us more quickly to resolving some issues."
He looks under the bed. Then starts searching the place for secret compartments, trap doors under carpets, and, if there is an attic, exploring what might be there.
As he tries to move toward wrapping up a thorough investigation of the place, and having heard from Pressi & Kezz'm (well, at least he's juggling), Murphy asks, "Tali. Hobie. Succotash. Anything new? Insights? Suppositions? Anyone have any ideas?"
======== Perception: 50
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+15 Saturday September 25th, 2021 3:49:07 AM
Sorry - also, Murphy determines which numerical volume is missing. Presuming he started with I, then II, III... VII, VIII, IX, X. Is it volume 'IX' that is missing from the series?
DM Mitch d10=4 ; d10=10 ; Saturday September 25th, 2021 6:55:41 AM Pressi rolls her eyes at Kezzem but she does check out the basin anyway. It’s non-magical and just a basin with a drain on the bottom so you can put water in it and drain it out later. Thinking as to the missing volume she thinks their lead involves whatever happened while Anur was in prison and how he got out. Anur’s son’s death needles Pressi’s mind but she ignores it to focus on the case.
Murphy speculates maybe Ix came back somehow. He searches the last two rooms for secret compartments but finds nothing under the bed. Volume 7 is the missing one. He manages to find the volume where Anur became aware of the giant and learns that it was actually blind luck. An expedition he joined just to make some extra cash stumbled across the artifact. As soon as he realized what it was he murdered everyone else to keep the existence of the thing a secret - over a dozen murders of people he knew and worked with for weeks.
Kezzem juggles in a corner.
Pressi comments that he’s probably dead but it might be worth scrying Ix
Anything else anyone wants to do at the crime scene?
Hobie (Nick T) HP 208/198 AC 38 Touch 24 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 6 Prepared Spells Saturday September 25th, 2021 10:26:09 AM
"I truly don't know what to do next, could it be helpful for us to inquire at the prison he escaped from?"
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 d20+25=37 ; Saturday September 25th, 2021 7:02:17 PM
"Well, I have learned a little bit about religious stuff since I've become a paladin. Let me check. Gargul, grant me knowledge beyond knowledge!"
Kezzem wracks his brain to see if it knows something relevant.
Knowledge (religion): 1d20 + 25 = 37.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Sunday September 26th, 2021 8:37:49 PM
Pressi shook her head at Anur's murder spree at finding the iron giant. "Such a waste. Not even a little bit of showmanship, or a nice speech. If you're going to murder everyone, at least milk it a little."
Pressi reiterates that the prison is probably the next stop.
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 d20+14=29 ; Sunday September 26th, 2021 8:54:37 PM The next step...
Learning that the missing volume is "Volume 7", Tali will quickly review all the volumes, Journals, books, and tomes, looking for a sequence. "Does anyone know what Prison "Anur" was actually in?" asks Tali to her assembled friends?
DM Mitch Monday September 27th, 2021 7:58:34 AM Hobie suggests they inquire at the prison he escaped from. Kezzem wracks his brain for anything relevant. He knows that in settlements with a lot of industry like the Caverns of Glimstone, Ffloy and Pantheon are typically held in high esteem. Ffloy because He oversees deals and Pantheon because He helps bring to justice those that break the law. Kezzem finds it strange that if Anur did escape from prison in a jailbreak that he would be living out in the open in a place like the Caverns of Glmstone. Perhaps Anur came to some other type of arrangement with the authorities to get out so soon? Pressi agrees that the prison is probably the next step. Tali asks if anyone knows what prison that Anur was in.
Tali notes that Anur seems to have been writing his memoirs. Volumes 1-6 start with his early life and up through to his defeat at the iron giant and ends with him worrying about capture for past crimes. Volume 8 picks up some time after he was no longer in prison and seems to not quite catch up to present day.
Everyone agrees Anur’s time in prison is the next step and this late at night there’s no way to follow up on that so a halt is called. They find lodging in the town (or teleport home and back in the morning) and have a good night’s rest before meeting with the detective in the morning.
She’s in the same cafe she was in the previous day staring her day with a warm cup of coffee. She nods respectfully to the group as they enter, finishing her drink and ordering another before asking, ”I hope you had a good nights rest. What have you concluded so far?”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells d8+9=15 ; d8+9=13 ; Monday September 27th, 2021 9:34:06 AM
Succotash does his normal morning routine, of pray, meditation, and spell prep. With Bliss absent, he prepares and casts Hero's Feast with his friends before heading out to meet the detective. (Everone roll 1d8+9 to determine your temp HP.)
At the Cafe, Succotash doesn't have much to say, as he feels that their time at the murder scene was a bit of a bust. He does mention the missing volume, as well as the adopted son Ix, but beyond that he allows his friends to do most of the talking.
Active spells: Hero's Feast (Valerie's temp HP 15, Succotash's temp HP, 13)
Hobie (Nick T) HP 208/198 AC 38 Touch 24 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 6 Prepared Spells Monday September 27th, 2021 1:44:34 PM
“Who do we think took that volume? Was it him? Or was it someone else? Also maybe let’s go visit the prison next”
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Monday September 27th, 2021 2:11:28 PM
"Hold on, my brain is doing something," announces Kezzem.
"It's strange that if Anur did escape from prison in a jailbreak that he would be living out in the open in a place like the Caverns of Glmstone. Perhaps Anur came to some other type of arrangement with the authorities to get out so soon?"
"Okay, I think I need to lie down now. One hour of a thinking a day and I'm done."
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Monday September 27th, 2021 2:12:33 PM
"Press, I'm so glad you're not a supervillain," adds Kezzem. "You'd be a really good one...er, bad one...er, you know what I mean."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Monday September 27th, 2021 8:58:53 PM
Pressi nodded. "Without a doubt, I could absolutely take over the world. Wouldn't really know what to do with it.
"But more seriously, we still don't really know what HE thought he would do with it, or what he was thinking once he failed. That, I think, is why we keep getting into more and more strange paradoxes, like the one you considered."
Turning back to the detective, she filled in the gaps on what little they picked up. "We were hoping we could get some blanks filled in, like on what happened when he made his way back here, and as to whether he might have some information another person could find useful."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+12 d20+9=12 ; Monday September 27th, 2021 10:51:38 PM
"Thank you for the excellent breakfast, Succotash," Murphy says, followed by a discrete eructation.
"Thanks for taking the time to think, Kezzem. Did your thoughts reveal any other insights, friend?" he asks.
Murphy lays out the sketches he made before Detective Arrin Icehammer, and fills in any things his friends did not cover. "The missing volume, should we find it, may hold more clues - but if we find that, it may be in the possession of the murderer. If possible, I should like to examine their bodies, though as I understand it several days have passed. If not, then it might be well to find someone who was able to do so closer to the time of death."
He concurs with Pressi's thoughts, and considers Hobie's notion as to visiting the prison. "Detective Icehammer, I'm curious about your recommendations as to the next steps we might take. Does anything we have brought before you add anything to your understandings, or is it simply a rehash of what you already know?"
DM Mitch Tuesday September 28th, 2021 6:44:16 AM Succotash does his normal morning routine. Then when at the cafe he mentions the missing volume and adopted son Ix. Hobie asks who do we think took the volume, the murderer or another robber and asks if they can visit the prison next. Kezzem brings up that if Anur escaped prison he probably wouldn’t be living out in the open like he had been. He also thanks Pressi for not being a super villain. Pressi suggests she could take over the Wold but she wouldn’t know what to do with it and then points out they don’t know what Anur would have done if his plan had succeeded which is why so many things seem paradoxical now. She tells Icehammer she was hoping that they could get some blanks filled in with respect to what happened when he made his way back to the caverns and if he might possess knowledge someone might want to kill over. Murphy gives thanks to Succotash and Kezzem and then shares his sketches with the detective. He asks about being able to examine the bodies or failing that talk to the coroner and he asks the detective to share anything she’s been sitting on.
The Detective says, “Well the books were the major thing I hit on too. We’ve looked for the missing one and it doesn’t seem to be in town. He didn’t just leave it at a friend's house by accident or anything. I’ve spent the past few days doing what you were thinking about doing, talking to the prison and legal system about his capture and sentence.
He did not escape from jail. He swore he’d turned over a new leaf and gave up everything he knew on the cult. It turned into a big operation and multiple cells were taken in, a lot of unsolved crimes were solved with his testimony. Even with that some wanted to throw him in jail to rot for what he’d done, but between the favors he earned testifying and the fact magical tests indicated he was genuinely a changed man meant he got out after a couple of years. He moved here afterwards and has been a model citizen since.
You can see the bodies. They’re still being held as there’s no living family to release them to. Just a warning, they’re nasty. Whoever did it took their time to make it really hurt. Of course your vision told you that, but it’s different seeing the end result.”
Her fresh cup of coffee arrives and she stops talking to add a few things to it and take a long sip.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Tuesday September 28th, 2021 1:07:24 PM "That explains why they were released, I'm a big fan of giving people a chance at redemption, and rewarding the changing of ones ways. I wonder if our encounter, with them, played any role in the changing of the ways."
"As far as nasty is concerned, We've all seen some seriously messed up stuff in our travels, though that doesn't make it much easier to witness. I prepared "Speak With Dead" this morning, in preparation for the viewing, maybe our unfortunate individuals can shed some light on our investigation. We should be able to ask up to 9 questions. Besides the obvious, that being the identity of the killer, anyone have any other questions they would like asked, and does anyone have a preference as to whom I cast the spell on?"
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Tuesday September 28th, 2021 6:02:06 PM
"Bah, anyone can speak with dead," says Kezzem. "You don't even need a spell for that. It's getting them to talk back that's the problem."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Tuesday September 28th, 2021 8:50:37 PM
Pressi listened to the explanation. "Well, that gives us a couple of potential motives but still no suspects. And it still doesn't answer why anyone would steal the book. What could they have included in such a volume?" Still thinking, "It could still turn out that this wasn't just parole and turning stuff over. Maybe he gave the prison something else. Or maybe he DIDN'T give back everything and that's what's in the book."
Pressi points out that she can also speak with dead, but doesn't have much hope for a direct ask. "It seems strange that our friend would overlook such an easy track to cover. That's why I'm hoping an autopsy might be a better route. Obviously, the book might be a good direction, as is if they had done any alchemical or other research.
DM Mitch Wednesday September 29th, 2021 7:13:46 AM Succotash remarks that they got their explanation as to why they were released and he wonders if the encounter with their group played a role in that. He mentions he prepared speaks with dead and they can ask 9 questions so he asks for suggestions besides the identity of the killer. He also asks for a preference on who he casts on. Kezzem points out that anyone can speak with dead but its getting them to talk back that is the problem. Pressi points out they have a couple potential motives but still no suspects and it doesn’t explain why the book was stolen. She theorizes that Anur didn’t give everything back to the prison or maybe there was some other knowledge hidden away in the pages. She suggests an autopsy might be the better route.
Icehammer finishes drinking and considers the party's statements. ”I’m not too familiar with magic so I wouldn’t know how helpful that spell would be. You’re welcome to try. My next move had to be following up on those he betrayed. I of course asked about them and a lot of them were executed for their crimes. Not all of them though, and I was eager to either interview them or get local law enforcement where they lived to do it.”
She shakes her head. ”They’ve all vanished or been murdered. Law enforcement’s kept a close eye on them all, even had some of them turn state’s evidence and go back into the cult to learn more, but someone either got them out without anyone seeing or got close enough to leave a corpse behind that couldn't answer questions.
To me, that says inside job. Couldn’t be from inside law enforcement, the information was too scattered for any one person to know all the names without making inquiries that would be known about, like myself. Had to be someone with intimate knowledge of the cult. And that’s where I’m stuck. The only possible sources of inside information have been taken out and I’m staring at a brick wall. Maybe your group with your bigger resources can find out more”
Hobie (Nick T) HP 208/198 AC 38 Touch 24 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 6 Prepared Spells Wednesday September 29th, 2021 8:07:28 AM
"Would it be possible for us to infiltrate the cult?" "You said they've all vanished or been murdered, can we get that list of names, in particular the list of the ones who fit the vanished category. Perhaps we could track some of them down."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Wednesday September 29th, 2021 10:54:33 AM "So if I'm hearing you right, both active members, and those who have left the Cult are being hunted down by someone they know. I must confess this is leaving me even more confused."
"Press, while it's true,the dead are normally not very forthcoming coming, in this case, it may be different. This time we have bodies of people who have redeemed themselves, and who may want their killer brought to justice. In other words, it's worth a shot, we don't seem to have anything else to go on."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Wednesday September 29th, 2021 9:05:47 PM
Pressi gives it some thought. "There is one other possibility. The list of names may have been in the missing book. Either way, it sounds like someone is covering their tracks, and it may or may not be a cult member."
She agrees with Hobie that they do have some ability to track down vanished people or infiltrate cults. "Might not be a bad idea to follow up with the law enforcement or prison staff that initially interrogated Anur as well."
As for the bodies, "Asking doesn't cost anything, but I don't expect it to be that easy. We may, however, still get some information that's useful. And I really do want to run some tests on the bodies themselves."
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Thursday September 30th, 2021 4:10:30 AM Keeping Pace...
Tali keeps silent on the topic while she plays with Rayya.
DM Mitch Thursday September 30th, 2021 8:24:30 AM Hobie asks if it would be possible to infiltrate the cult and that maybe they could get a list of names or people that vanished and try to track some of them down. Succotash says that he is hearing that active members and people who have left the cult are being hunted down. He raises the possibility that the speak with dead might be a useful spell here considering the diseased redeemed themselves and may want their killer brought to justice. Pressi surmises that the list of names might be in the missing book and agrees it sounds like someone is covering their tracks. She agrees it makes sense to talk to the law enforcement or prison staff who process anur as well as the corpses. Tali keeps silent.
With nothing further to ask and the party having nothing to add it seems the detective lets them go. Those interested in inspecting the bodies are allowed to do os. As stated, the bodies are a mess, especially on the extremities that lack vitals that might lead to accidental death before the torture was over. A close inspection shows that the face and mouth are mostly intact though, so speak of dead may work.
The morgue is a fairly small building and even with the party being halflings only 3 or 4 at most can fit inside the room to inspect the bodies. As the rest wait outside someone signals them over. It’s Ketia, wearing a simple disguise that is easy to see through if you no her but makes it harder for anyone working off a wanted poster to recognize her. ”So, how are things going?” she asks as she lounges in the alleyway trying to look casual to any passersby. Not that there are many of those near the Morgue.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Thursday September 30th, 2021 3:58:42 PM
"Great," says Kezzem. "We're building a list of suspects. Too many suspects one might say. Narrowing it down might be a problem."
"Maybe I should start accusing everyone we meet and see who runs away," suggest Kezzem. "And I don't know anyone more random me, except maybe Bliss. Quick, someone accuse me and see if I try and run away!"
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday September 30th, 2021 4:00:25 PM
Succotash answers his former enemy, "We haven't gained much of anything, but I'm about to cast "Speak With Dead", and hopefully we can gain some answers then."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday September 30th, 2021 4:00:25 PM
Succotash answers his former enemy, "We haven't gained much of anything, but I'm about to cast "Speak With Dead", and hopefully we can gain some answers then."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday September 30th, 2021 4:07:38 PM
Before casting the spell, Succotash asks, [b]"Well we get 9 questions when I cast the spell, and so we need to make sure we are on the same page here. Besides the identity of the killer, what else do we want to ask, and who should I cast the spell on?"[/ b]
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) d20+25=44 ; d20+30=42 ; Thursday September 30th, 2021 8:33:44 PM
"Hey, has anyone seen Murphy? The last time he was silent for this long, he was dead."
Pressi decides it's up to her to quickly fill in Ketia about the missing book and the conversation, figuring others can keep Ketia company.
To Succotash, "Let's focus on Anur. Ask him what was in the book, did the killer steal it, did you know the killer. If he can't answer, lets at least get some evidence like why did he kill you or were you in the cult? Oh, and you should ask what he thinks the killer will do next."
When they do enter the morgue, Pressi hesitates at first, a wave of pity and regret awash over her. "I really need to keep in touch with the people we come across better. I hope you two found at least a brief moment of peace."
Pressi looks over the body as best as she can for any clues (Perception 44) or signs of how he died (spellcraft 42). She casts detect magic, followed by detect poison.
While Succotash is busy casting speak with dead, she casts Vision again. This time, she chooses to look into the day that he left prison.
And with that, she says goodbye. A fleeting moment given to the day she sat down with Shan to discuss motherhood, the time she faced off with Ix, the time that Anur so grieved before them....
... The time that Anur literally brought Shan from the dead....
Pressi marched back to Ketia. "This is going to sound like a really stupid question, but did anyone at all try to raise them? Or at least find the Raise Dead scrolls they keep on themselves at all times for just this contingency?"
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Thursday September 30th, 2021 11:29:11 PM Keeping Pace with the dead
Tali laughs when she hears what Lady Pressi says about Mister Murphy!
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+12 d6=5 ; Friday October 1st, 2021 1:04:50 AM [Motherboard died Tuesday. New one tomorrow. Thus, Murphy's (Kim's) absence.]
Murphy smiles at his wife's remark about his silence, and Tali's tittering. "Sometimes, I am just listening, and thinking, if I cannot find anything of value to add to the conversation. Besides, everyone is always saying I talk too much. I thought some might find my silence refreshing."
He finally does have some things to add to the conversation, though. "Guys, I studied, through the Woldian League of Adventurers, the ancient language spoken in the Scab - it is a precursor to the language of today's dwarfs. It's what Anur was reading from the scroll that, I suppose we can say, 'repaired' Shan, his wife. Should we find a scroll or text written in that tongue, I could at least read what was written, though I have not the power of a cleric to bring a divine scroll to its intended effect. At least, I do not think I have such power. Oh, and it seems that scroll could be effective specifically within the Iron Giant, but I do not know of its effect outside of that ancient artifact.
"And, since Anur's clerical power seemed to have left him shortly after bringing Shan back to life, who knows whether he kept such a scroll on him? If he did - does the coroner have whatever personal effects were on them at the time the couple were remanded to his care?" He takes a moment to ask the coroner that very question.
He wishes to be among those who go in to look over the Woldly remains of the two slain dwarfs. "Succotash, if I may ask, do you suppose you can ask perhaps 3 or 4 questions to begin? Based upon the responses, that may help key us into what additional queries we may make. If something occurs to me, I will give you my thoughts. Like as not, with your wisdom, your own thoughts will also lead you toward the sum of the nine questions."
He nods as Ketia shows herself, but does not say her name, as it is apparent she has taken a guise.
Then he thinks to suggest to Succotash that he ask Anur, "'Have you hidden anything within your dwelling which might aid us in finding the one who slew you and Shan?' If so," he wonders aloud to the cleric, "how can we delve into what it might be?"
As well as, "Would you want us to appeal to have you raised from the dead?"
He turns to Kezzem. "Did you do this?" as he points toward the morgue. ======== d6=5 - My mouse did this without me formally requesting it.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Friday October 1st, 2021 2:01:03 AM
"Ask him if he's the killer, Succo," suggests Kezzem. "Better yet, ask him if he knows who the killer is. Wait, he could just say yes and then we wasted the question. Ask who the killer is--yes, that check's out."
"No, it's wasn't me," says Kezzem to Murphey. "Whew, that's a relief. I was worried I did it for a moment."
DM Mitch Friday October 1st, 2021 8:23:48 AM Kezzem points out they are building perhaps too big a list of suspects and that maybe they should accuse everyone they meet and see who runs away. Succotash says they haven’t gained much of anything but he’s going to cast speaks with dead and see if they get some answers. He asks the others what kind of things they want to ask the corpse beside the identity of the killer and who he should cast on. Pressi questions if Murphy is dead and knows that it is up to her to fill in Ketia about their progress. She suggests they focus on Anur asking if he knows the killer, why did the killer kill him or were you in the cult together. She also suggests they ask Anur what the killer would do next. Pressi looks over the bodies casting detect magic and detect poison She casts a vision spell focusing on the day Anur left prison and she sees Anur being escorted to a counter and given a sack that the person on the other side of the glass reads the contents of. Anur then moves to a locker room of sorts where he slowly changes out of his prison uniform putting the clothes that were in the sack on in their place. The clothes look slightly big for him as if he had lost a little weight during his stent in prison. After he is dressed the person who escorted him to get his stuff enters the door and says, “Are you ready to return to society?” Anur replies, “Yes, though I do not know if I’ll have to pay a price sometime down the road for some of the names I gave you to get out early myself.”
She then marches back to Ketia and asks if anyone tried to raise them or use the scrolls they used to keep on them for just such an eventuality Tali laughs at the things Pressi has to say about Murphy. Murphy says that sometimes he stays quiet to just listen. He mentions the old language Anur knew and comments that if Anur lost his clerical powers he might not keep scrolls on him anymore. He asks about personal effects and greets Ketia non-verbally before suggesting a few questions and fulfilling Kezzem’s request. Kezzem discovers he did not do the murder. Everyone is greatly relieved.
Ketia says to Pressi, “Like I had previously said, typically our kind aren’t usually welcome around here. Therefore I haven’t been exactly able to pop in see if Anur and Shah’s old scrolls were still in good working order or not and as far as I know no one else in the cult has tried to resurrect them either.”
At Pressi’s summary she considers. ”I knew a few of our number had been murdered, but not about the disappearances. If you can give me the list of names I can make some contacts and find out if there’s anyone Anur sold out that hasn’t been vanished or murdered yet.”
There were a few personal effects, but not much. They were at home eating dinner so they only had some evening clothes and a small money pouch on them. The clothing is torn up and bloodsoaked scraps now, cut up in several places by the murderer.
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Sunday October 3rd, 2021 11:20:45 PM XXX...
Tali looking at the group, says, "So, how did they die in the end?"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+12 Monday October 4th, 2021 12:24:31 AM
"So, how do we get a list of the names?" Murphy inquires. "And for those murdered along the way, can we either read the coroner's reports or see the bodies?
"And, Succotash, how soon until you start asking questions?"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+12 Monday October 4th, 2021 1:03:40 AM
And Murphy gives Tali as good a description as he can after talking with the Coroner, and looking over the remains of the husband and wife.
DM Mitch Monday October 4th, 2021 6:08:27 AM Tali wonders what finally did them in. Murphy wonders how to get a list of name and points out they can just ask or look at the bodies themselves.
A quick question to the morgue employee gets him to tell you that the doctor reported blood loss was the cause of death. A heal check will let you try to determine it yourself.
Ketia clarifies "I mean a list from the detective of those she knows have vanished or died, as well as a list of who Anur sold out. She should have that information and be willing to share with you, just not with me."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Monday October 4th, 2021 9:25:33 AM "Well Murph, the spell has a 10 min casting time, so let's begin. I think you are right Murphy starting with one, two, or at the most 3 questions and going from there is probably best as receiving answers often lead to more questions.
Succotash begins casting the spell, and 10 min later, he asks Anur, "Sorry to disturb your slumber, but we are trying to bring your murderer to justice. Could you tell me who it was that is responsible, what their motive is and do you have any idea where we can find them?
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Monday October 4th, 2021 3:43:31 PM
"Ask him to tell Gargul I said hi," offers Kezzem.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Monday October 4th, 2021 8:36:47 PM
Pressi stops in her tracks for a little bit, considering Ketia's request and her statements about the bodies.
"I have to be honest, I'm still struggling to figure out anything regarding our killer except that there seems to be both magic and melee involved. And as I struggle to unravel who's what tribe and who betrayed whom and who happens to be non grata and yet strangely involved, I begin to wonder what exactly your relationship to Anur and Shan were, except for the moment when you were less than excited they stole something from you.
"So lets start at the beginning before we give you any more sensitive information. Where, exactly, were you two at the time of the murder? You know I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't ask."
After Ketia's answer, "So where exactly do your allegiances fit in all this?"
Assuming we have the list of names, Pressi would prefer to use her own divinations to track down the missing ones.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 211/196+12 Monday October 4th, 2021 8:47:32 PM
"Yes, Tali. Dwarfs. He was Anur Daron, who was once described to you as a shale-muncher, and the pilot of the Iron Giant. She was Shan Shalutch, his wife, who shared tea with Pressi as you and the rest of us stood outside her quarters in the upper parts of the metal monstrosity. We met them both on the Iron Giant. And we just spent several hours going through their house, reading their books." He says, with a wide grin, "You have the astonishing beauty of a butterfly, and sometimes the memory of that colorful critter, too, good Talia." He hopes she does not mind his jest.
He otherwise attends to what Succotash reports on how Anur chooses to answer from the far side.
DM Mitch Tuesday October 5th, 2021 6:31:59 AM Succotash starts casting the 10 minute spell. He agrees with Murphy that starting with one 2 or 3 questions and then going from there is probably the best idea since sometimes receiving answers leads to more questions. He says to Anur’s corpse, “Sorry to disturb your slumber, but we are trying to bring your murderer to justice. Could you tell me who it was that is responsible, what their motive is and do you have any idea where we can find them?” Kezzem tells Succotash to tell Anur to tell Gargul he said hi Tali examines the bodies in the morgue from what she can tell exsanguination seems as likely a cause as anything else. She asks what their names were Pressi asks Ketia and Sashe where they were at the time of Anur and Shan’s murder. Murphy reminds Tali who the victims were.
The spell works, which is nice because there was still a chance it would have been blocked. The corpse takes several seconds to answer the rapid fire questions. ”Flamescorn.” it whispers, barely able to get the word out of it’s damaged form. ”Revenge… Home…”
Ketia says to Pressi, “Were that I was the killer, then I wouldn’t be looking over my shoulder constantly. I bore Anur and Shan no ill will after they got out. Losing their son seemed a cost enough for me and I knew they wouldn’t betray my secrets. If you must know, Sashe and I were in Plateau City seeing to some business with some members of the Plateau City cell. Yes teleportation spells are a thing but we were in the city for days. It was only later when I was on my way back home that I became aware of the passing of Anur and Shan and the possibility that it was a targeted hit and my name might be next on the list. I wouldn’t have come to you if I didn’t believe that my life was in legitimate danger. As to where my allegiances fit in well I am still loyal to Skald and to my cell mates including my former cell mates like Anur and Shan. I am temporarily in a truce with your Humble’s Sword and I will not betray that for now, nor would I have come to you had I killed Anur and Shan as based on your track record that would seem like an exceedingly stupid thing to do.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Tuesday October 5th, 2021 8:47:25 AM
"Succotash- you might ask the location of Flamescorn's home," Murphy suggests.
(More later, gotta run)
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Tuesday October 5th, 2021 10:27:29 AM "Mr Anur, could you be a little more specific as to the location of this Flamescorn's home. If justice is to be had, we need to be able to locate the fiend. The location of his home would make that a lot easier.
Succotash asks either Murphy or Tali if they would be so kind as to step out of the room and run the name Flamescorn by Ketia. In hopes that she may be able to shed some light on the subject.
Questions asked 4 out of 9
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 d20+26=27 ; Tuesday October 5th, 2021 8:48:06 PM Flamescorn
Tali strolls outside to find Lady Ketia. When she sees her, Tali hovers closer to ask diplomatically about the name "Flamescorn". "Ms. Ketia, does the name "Flamescorn" mean anything to you?" asks Tali. "Is it a humanoid, fiend, or power" wonders Tali.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Tuesday October 5th, 2021 8:49:10 PM
Murphy relays the question via their telepathic bond to wife Pressi, letting her know the answers that Anur gave - 'Who killed you?' -Flamescorn. 'For what reason?' -Revenge. 'Where is your killer?' -Home. 'DD,' [short for Diamond Dust, one of Pressi's monikers, and an occasional term of endearment he uses for her] '- see if 'Flamescorn' rings a bell for Ketia, would you? Succo is next asking if Anur can identify which 'Home' he is referring to - Anur's own, or Flamescorn's.'
To Tali, he says, "If you want to do so, you can ask Ketia directly? I just let Pressi know of the report also, but depending upon where they are in their conversation, Pressi may or may not pass it on quickly."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Tuesday October 5th, 2021 8:50:16 PM
[AH! JP and I posted close to simultaneously. Way to go, Tali!]
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Tuesday October 5th, 2021 8:58:59 PM
Pressi listens carefully at Ketia's explanation. Aside from the brief mention of the track record, she remains impassive but she does not that the answer is satisfactory.
Pressi begins to look through the names of those missing, but I'm assuming someone interrupts them before she can give any information out.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Tuesday October 5th, 2021 9:00:42 PM
(OOC: As expected, I posted around the time of both Tali and Murphy.)
Pressi looks up as she gets the message and as Tali asks the question.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Tuesday October 5th, 2021 11:24:33 PM
"Flamescorn. Well, that's not an ominous name at all. Does that mean he's attacks us with flames or that he doesn't like flames," wonders Kezzem aloud. "Flamescorn...sounds like a dragon. Ask him if Flamescorn is a dragon...or, better yet, ask what type of creature Flamescorn is."
DM Mitch Wednesday October 6th, 2021 7:52:42 AM Murphy suggests Succotash ask the location of Flamescorn’s home. He relays the answers they got to Pressi over the telepathic link also asking her to ask Ketia about Flamescorn Succotash asks Anur to be more specific as to the location of Flamescorn’s home. He asks either Murphy or Tali to run the name by Ketia Tali asks Ketia what the name Flamescorn means to her Pressi listens carefully to Ketia’s explanation remaining impassive. She then looks at the names of the missing to see if any ring any bell. She looks up from her reading as Tali asks her question. Kezzem suggests that Succotash should ask Anur what type of creature Flamescorn is.
Succotashes follow up question gets another pause, then, ”Don’t.. know…” Intelligence check 20 Highlight to display spoiler: {corpses being spoken with only know what they knew at the time of death and tend to be cryptic and confusing. It’s possible the corpse is just reporting the last place he saw the murderer, IE his own home.}
Pressi doesn’t recognize any of the names on the list. Ketia frowns and things for a minute before shaking her head. ”I’ve never met or heard of anyone named Flamescorn.”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells d20+2=11 ; Wednesday October 6th, 2021 12:03:30 PM
Int check 11 (fail)
Succotash frowns a bit after receiving the answer to his most recent question, than asks ,"Does Flamescorn go by any other aliases, why does he want revenge, and how do you know him?"
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Wednesday October 6th, 2021 12:04:05 PM
8 out of 9 questions asked
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Wednesday October 6th, 2021 2:08:27 PM
"What did he say?" Murphy asks Succotash. Assuming he replies...
"Huh. It's been several days since he was killed by Flamescorn. So, he does not know whether his and Shan's murderer is at Anur's home, or his murderer's home. Or elsewhere. He likely has not been able to track him since he got killed."
He passes on to Pressi Anur's latest answer, and Succotash's latest queries.
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Wednesday October 6th, 2021 8:24:05 PM FlameScorn
While outside with the rest, Tali ponders for a few while hovering above the ground some 7 feet. After a considerable amount of time has past and as Tali ponders, Tali continues out loud her synopsis, "It appears to me, that after the fall of the Iron Giant at the Battle of Humble's Sword at the boarder of the Scaab, that someone, something, or even an Immortal power(s), decided that Vengeance was in order for those that have failed to bring about the release of Skald. Perhaps, there are even closer minions of Skald that are carrying out it's desires or perhaps it's Skald's Angel of Death?!"
"Is there anything we can use to help us in this line of thought?" asks Tali to the Humble Sword and to Ketia and her friend
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Wednesday October 6th, 2021 8:35:45 PM
Pressi files away the idea that some more divinations might be needed, as well as a return trip to the house. (Though she can't imagine anything they could have overlooked. She does in part want to clean it up, though. One last nicety for the dead.)
Pressi finally hands Ketia the list of names.
DM Mitch Thursday October 7th, 2021 1:36:23 AM Succotash frowns after receiving the most recent answers to his questions then asks, “Does Flamescorn go by any other aliases? Why does he want revenge? How do you know him?” Murphy asks Succotash for a recap of what the corpse said. Murphy surmises that since it has been several days since Anur was killed by Flamescorn and the corpse does not know if Flamescorn is at Anur’s home, his murderer’s home or elsewhere. Tali ponders for a few while hovering for a bit. She observes that after the fall of the Iron Giant at the battle of Humble’s Ford at the boarder of the Scaab, that someone, something or even an immortal power, decided that Vengeance was in order for those that have failed to bring about the release of Skald. She asks could it be Skald’s Angel of Death that is behind the attacks? She also asks if there is anything to this line of thought. Pressi files away the idea that more divinations might be needed as well as a return trip to the house, although she can’t imagine anything they might have overlooked considering how thorough a job they did. She does in part want to clean it up as a final nicety for the departed and finally hands the list over to Ketia.
The corpse replies ”don’t...know…. Betrayed… him… cultist…”
Ketia looks over the list. ”I know some of these, them and Anur are what led me to contact you. Some of these others not so much, but I should be able to find out.”
Hobie (Nick T) HP 208/198 AC 38 Touch 24 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 6 Prepared Spells Thursday October 7th, 2021 2:58:22 AM
Hobie kindly waits while his wiser companions question the corpse. He waits for Ketia to get them the info about the people on the list.
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday October 7th, 2021 11:33:13 AM
Succotash asks Murphy if he can think of any other question, reminding him that they only have one left. He asks that the Druid relay the question to Pressi, to see if either she or someone outside, including Ketia may have a good question to ask.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Thursday October 7th, 2021 3:45:39 PM
"When this all turns out to be backwards dream logic and the killer is actually named Nirocs Emalf, I'll try very hard not to look disappointed."
Pressi thinks for a second, knowing that any answer they get will be a cryptic message. "I'd personally go with 'What does he look like?' or maybe 'Does he know alchemy?' Maybe 'What color is is soul?' if we're feeling whimsical.... Wait, I got it. If it is our shapeshifting friend, we should ask what he looked like at the time he came in."
To Ketia, "Well, lets start with the people you do know. Can you help us contact them, or maybe help with some scrying? Last known addresses might be a start."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Thursday October 7th, 2021 5:30:39 PM
"Pressi's question is good," Murphy says. "'What does Flamescorn look like?' Or, we could ask, 'Would you like to be raised from the dead?' If he says yes to the latter, and if means can be obtained to effect that change in status, then he may be able to provide a good deal more information, and perhaps help us find the murderer."
[OOC: Weird - thought I'd posted already from my phone.]
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Thursday October 7th, 2021 6:21:14 PM
"Ask him what's his favorite color?"
DM Mitch Friday October 8th, 2021 6:49:12 AM Hobie waits while his companions question the corpse and for Ketia to get them info on the list. Succotash asks Murphy if he can think of any other questions reminding the druid they only have one left and that he should also relay this to Pressi and those outside as they may have a good question to ask. Pressi suggests they go with what does he look like or Does he know alchemy or if they are feeling whimsical what color is his soul. She then hits upon, “What did he look like when he came in to your house.” To Ketia she asks if they can start with the people on the list the Dwarf woman knows, can she help them scry or put them in contact with any of them. Murphy suggests Pressi’s question is good until he thinks maybe they should ask Anur if he wants to be raised from the dead as a revived Anur may prove more cooperative in answering questions. Kezzem suggests they ask Anur what his favorite color is
Ketia nods. ”Give me a couple hours, I”m going to go contact some people and go through the list. I’ll also ask if anyone knows who Flamescorn is. With what you’ve found I’m sure I’ll be able to turn up someone who knows something, maybe even the next target of our mysterious assailant.”
One question remains, though you do still have a second corpse to cast the spell on possibly.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Sunday October 10th, 2021 11:58:57 AM
Murphy wonders what question Succotash will ask.
DM Mitch Monday October 11th, 2021 5:34:00 AM Murphy wonders what questions Succotash will ask.
Ketia makes herself scarce, presumably to ask the questions and do the research mentioned. Just in time too, Detective Icehammer shows up with a half-elf and a human, male and female. ”Hello again. While I was asking my questions of the other deaths I learned another place hired some ex-Fist agents to investigate. They seemed competent and combining forces seemed optimal so I brought them over.”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Monday October 11th, 2021 9:11:37 AM
Succotash takes Pressi's suggestions and asks for a description of the killer, not sure if it will help, but hopeful none the less.
Prudence Komonov (Kathy) Monday October 11th, 2021 1:23:36 PM
The human woman is dressed in a simple white robe. Her hair is fiery red, worn in a thick braid and kept in place by a shining headband. An orange pearl orbits her head. The force of her presence is almost like a fiery blast from a furnace. [OOC: 24 Charisma]
By contrast, the smile she offers is warm and friendly. "Not hired," she explains. With a little laugh, she adds, "I'm not sure anybody can afford us these days. But the deaths are concerning, and we'd like to help get to the bottom of this. I'm Prudence, by the way. Prudence Komonov. And this is my husband, Nikolai."
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Monday October 11th, 2021 4:13:45 PM
"Funny," says Kezzem. "I feel like I know you from somewhere."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Monday October 11th, 2021 5:00:37 PM
Being inside the morgue with cleric, coroner, and corpses, Murphy is not yet aware of the new arrivals, so that greeting will have to wait. He awaits Anur's response and descriptive capabilities.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Monday October 11th, 2021 9:00:12 PM
Pressi keeps an eye carefully on the newcomers but overall remains polite. Her outfit is a remarkable contrast to Prudence's: ornate black armor in chains and weapon holsters, ghostly face paint, a witch's cowl covering her own headband.
"Charmed, though hardly in any need of assistance or volunteers, I assure you." She gives a small bow. "Pressi Silverglove. Humble's Sword liasion. Exactly how much have you been briefed so far, about us or the murders?"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 36 Tch 33 Ffted 31 HP 144/144 CMD 46/48(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Monday October 11th, 2021 9:37:35 PM
OOC: test post.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Monday October 11th, 2021 11:28:46 PM
"If you've been briefed on us, then I feel like I should add that I'm the one you were warned about," says Kezzem.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Tuesday October 12th, 2021 1:17:49 AM
As he awaits Anur's response to Succotash's question, he thinks to mention... no, he waits until Anur answers. THEN he mentions, "Y'know, Succotash, I'm glad you joined up with us a while back. You are a real asset to Humble's Sword."
DM Mitch Tuesday October 12th, 2021 7:21:49 AM Succotash uses his last question to ask for a description of the killer. Prudence Komonov introduces herself and Nikolai explaining that her and her husband have heard about the deaths and they want to help Kezzem feels like he knows Prudence from somewhere. He also lets the newcomers know that he’s the one they were warned about. Murphy being inside the morgue is unaware of the new arrivals. He awaits Anur’s response. He also compliments Succotash. Pressi greets Pru explaining she’s a Humble’s Sword liaison and asks how much the two humans have been briefed on Humble’s Sword and the Murders.
Anur’s body speaks it’s last works. ”Disguise… giant…”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Tuesday October 12th, 2021 10:45:58 AM
With Anur's final words, Succotash sighs and says under his breath, "Great a disguised giant, how in the name of the gods did he make it past the giant towers? He must have taken the long way around avoiding them all together. Would have been nice if he just tried walking past them, then this whole mess would have never happened,"
As he and Murphy are leaving the morgue, Succotash thanks Murphy for his complement, "Thanks Murph, that means a lot. Though you probably don't have a ready answer, nor do I expect one, but I wonder which version has been the most helpful, Succotash the Paladin or Succotash the Cleric, Personally, I think the gods were on to something when they changed me, after I went to visit Lord Gargul. I now have a whole lot more versatile skill set than I did then, though I must confess I sometimes miss charging into battle, wielding Twinklesting with Miss Piggy by my side. I have to say though, Valerie has been an amazing friend, even if she doesn't share Piggy's intelligence, and the ability to drop fire and such on our enemies is a lot of fun.".
When they exit the room, and see the new comers, Prudence and Nikolai see a very handsome halfling who's charisma, though not as in your face as Prudence's, defiantly forces one to take notice. (Chr 20) Succotash is dressed in green clerical robes, with the holy symbols of all the gods embroidered in gold thread evenly scattered about. around his neck he is wearing a platinum holy symbol that appears to be a conglomerate of all the god's holy symbols combined. by his side is an armored velocaraptor with a pink bow on top of her head. "Hello who might you be? My named is Succotash Slenderstick, Pantheon Devotee, and this is my friend Valerie" He rests his hand on Valerie as he mentions his friend, and than adds, "Just in case you didn't know, a Pantheon Devotee is a cleric that serves all the Woldian gods at the same time. How can we help you?"
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Tuesday October 12th, 2021 7:23:11 PM New Comers
Feeling as useful as ever, Tali casts Invisibility onto herself as she continues to hover about the ground above everyone's head so as to keep out of sight and out of mind, and as a sort of watchful eye over her group.
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Tuesday October 12th, 2021 8:53:33 PM
Ok, couple of non-halflings joining the team. Guess it was inevitable but I was beginning to think it wouldn't happen.
After shaking hands (and scanning) the newcomers, Pressi turned her attention back to Succotash. "Not really sure he meant 'disguised giant' there. But I think I'm going to hit Anur's home again until our friend comes back. Take another look at the rest of those tomes of his, maybe get things cleaned up."
She turned to Detective Icehammer (or a guard if the detective left). "Unless Flamescorn rings a bell? Or maybe there's a library around here I can hit?"
Whispering to Murphy, "Or unless you want me to follow Ketia and make sure she's trustworthy."
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Tuesday October 12th, 2021 9:17:17 PM
"So Flamescorn was a disguised giant I guess?" says Kezzem. "How does that work? Did he have a fake beard and just say he was a really tall dwarf?"
"I wonder if he was fire giant or a frost giant. Flamescorn sounds like a fire giant, but if he has scorn for flames, maybe he's a frost giant insead? Ack, my brain hurts!"
Prudence Komonov (Kathy) Tuesday October 12th, 2021 10:10:39 PM
"Flamescorn," Pru repeats to herself. "Flamescorn. Does that sound like a dragon's name to anybody else?" She shrugs and glances at her husband. "Maybe I just have dragons on the brain; I don't know. We fought one not long ago. But a dragon could disguise itself as a giant, couldn't it?"
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Wednesday October 13th, 2021 12:06:44 AM
"Succotash, your move to cleric has been stellar. Bless Lord Gargul," Murphy says. "And Valerie is a very tough puppy."
"Nikolai, and Prudence, right?" towhead Murphy says as he comes out into the fresher air of the alley. "Saw you at the Giggling Ghost some years back. Carpenter Aunts - I had just missed those, but we worked on hanging wreaths. Ma'am, your hair was quite a bit more brown from what I recall. Red hair is lovely, too.
"That's when I met Bliss, who brought Mookie, and Alleah - Dirtfist was the family name she gave then, back when they were with the Fist, a good while before they joined up with us. I got the sense they were from two different branches of the Fist - but I don't know a lot about that. Adomorn and Shel from Humble's Sword were there. And as I recall it, Prudence, ma'am, you favored mince pie. And won a little music box."
Suddenly his face flushes, and he says, "Oh, forgot to say - I'm Murphy. Murphy Bumblebee Leafwin Pipewood, of Humble's Ford, with Humble's Sword, a druid, and at your service. Oh, and Nikolai, I think you won a skin of Taurian Fortified Purple Wine from Centaur Isle, for doing so well on the wreath-hanging. I did see you folks there a few other times at other Yuletides, and read a tiny bit about some of your adventuring exploits while going through the WLA stacks.
"Looks you've met my brilliant wife, Pressi, here, and my friends. I'm the only one left from the original group. I used to be the leader of the group, but some of the newcomers grew disgruntled with the notion of anyone leading. So now, leadership in the group is very vaguely defined. But we're halflings, and all in our little group are competent and trusted, so, that suits us fine."
After that flurry of recollections from a situation which most of the present company would not even recall, the druid asks, "So, what brings you two here to Glimmer? And, yes, 'Flamescorn' sounds like a plausible dragon name. Many dragons can take on various guises. I understand some even get involved in politics here and there in their other forms."
He mentally says to Pressi, 'Following Ketia may be an astute move, and sounds good. Have you seen Sashe anywhere about? If you go, let's stay in touch about anything significant.'
DM Mitch Wednesday October 13th, 2021 8:41:09 AM Succotash asks how a disguised giant made it past the giant towers. He thanks Murphy for his complement as the 2 halflings leave the morgue. He wonders if how he changed after his visit to Lord Gargul if Succotash the Paladin or Succotash the Cleric would be more useful in the long run. When he gets outside he introduces himself to Prudence and Nikolai. Tali turns invisible and watches the proceedings with the newcomers. Pressi accepts the fact that non halflings are joining their little group. I mean are humans and halflings really that different besides the size thing and the hairy feet? She then wonders if Anur really meant disguised giant and thinks about going back to Anur’s house to tidy up unless to the nearest of the Constabulary the name Flamescorn rings a bell or there is a library she could visit. She asks Murphy in a whisper if he wants her to follow Ketia to ensure the Dwarf’s trustworthiness. Kezzem gets to wondering how disguising a giant works, like did he put on a fake beard and say he was a really tall dwarf. He also wonders what type of giant Flamescorn is as frost or fire seem the most likely. Pru brings up another possibility suggesting that Flamescorn might be a dragon and they might be chasing a dragon disguised as a disguised giant instead. She admits the Fist fought a dragon not long ago as she looks at her husband. Murphy reassures Succotash that his move to Cleric has been stellar and that Valerie is a tough puppy. He greats Pru and Nikolai giving them a bit of his backstory and the backstory of Humble’s Sword. He mentions that he saw Pru and Nikolai at yuletide in the giggling ghost before. He also explains that he is the only one left from the original group and agrees that Flamescorn could be a dragon. He mentally tells Pressi that following Ketia might be astute and asks if she’s seen Sashe as well.
Following Ketia may be a good idea but it’s a little late for that because she left 5 minutes and two posts ago. Done with the bodies, the group has some time to burn and probably some food to eat as it’s getting towards lunch time. Nothing further is found at Anur’s home though his book collection is pretty interesting.
After a couple hours Ketia returns. ”I couldn’t find anything on the name Flamescorn, but I think I found a lead. One of the names Anur gave to the authorities was a man called Ironbane. He fought his way out of town and was never captured though, and another cultist took supplies to his camp just a few days ago so he hasn’t been murdered or vanished yet either. He was close with Anur once and might have the information we need.”
She hesitates before adding. ”Getting it out of him may prove difficult though. He’s gotten more and more unstable over time. Flies into a rage at the smallest things nad will murder you as soon as look at you. Don’t get me wrong I’m a cultist and I’ve done a few murders here and there when it was necessary but this guy’s just unhinged. You’ll have to beat him into submission and probably get him to boast the information to you, otherwise he’ll refuse to talk just to spite you.”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Wednesday October 13th, 2021 10:05:48 AM "Ironbane, hopefully we can get something to go on from him. I'm beginning to think we may never get a break in this case. Just so you know Ketia, if your in a religion that requires murder, you may want to reconsider your faith, If you can't see how wrong such a religion is, you may have seared your conscience. Fighting for ones faith can be justified, I suppose, but murder... Murder is never justified!"
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Wednesday October 13th, 2021 5:15:10 PM
Kezzem tries to detect evil on Ketia again. Assuming she still does not ping, he looks up and goes, "Really?"
"Flamescorn, Ironbane....why don't we ever get to go see someome named Puppyfriend instead?"
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Wednesday October 13th, 2021 8:00:24 PM Happy Pirate Nicknames
Tali, being both invisible and in flight, giggles when Kezzem discusses the happy Pirate Nicknames of the Cultists...Flamescorn, Ironbane...
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Wednesday October 13th, 2021 8:41:24 PM
"You know, you could always try my religion," Pressi suggested to Ketia. "Get away from the whole religion requires you to murder bit and then you can murder for fun. Much less stress and paperwork."
At Succotash's inevitable side-eye. "It was that or an inevitable argument of whether a religion that doesn't require murder exists. I thought this way would be better."
Pressi took a moment, having forgotten what they were talking about.
"Getting back on track, I don't have too much worry that I can get him to talk, with or without fighting him. It's kind of my thing, so I just need to know (knuckle crack) how messy we're allowed to get. My serious suspicion, however, is that we might avoid confrontation with some decent operational intelligence and a plan. Good cop, bad halfling, maybe? Ketia, is there anything that he currently wants?"
Prudence Komonov (Kathy) Wednesday October 13th, 2021 9:19:39 PM
Pru looks a little alarmed when Pressi starts talking about "messy" conversations. "You know," she says, "I've had pretty good success with just asking nicely. Maybe we could start there."
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Wednesday October 13th, 2021 11:55:06 PM
"Press, just give him that look you give me whenever I do something stupid," says Kezzem. "Yes, that one right there!"
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 36 Tch 33 Ffted 31 HP 144/144 CMD 46/48(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Thursday October 14th, 2021 1:09:53 AM
The half-elf that receives the 'this is my husband' introduction is a big contrast to Prudence. He wears monk robes and carries a nunchaku and kama strapped to his body. A couple of ioun stones circle his head and a thick necklace that goes under the robes. Something odd and bulging at the end of it but since it is under his robes, it is a mystery.
On his robes there is an emblem, Knowledge (History) DC10.
Nikolai smiles, "In our experience... well, it doesn't work with me, but Pru does have a way with words."
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 Thursday October 14th, 2021 1:09:58 AM
"Nikolai. Have you a voice? Prudence - could you hear my voice?" Murphy is unaccustomed to being entirely ignored after making an attempt to make a connection. He is fine with working with folks in pursuing the bad guys, and will give these newcomers a chance to see what they can do. "Gee, where I come from - which is Humble's Ford - we were taught to interact when meeting new people. I know you come from a great group with a huge reputation. Do I just need to ask nicely?"
DM Mitch Thursday October 14th, 2021 6:51:07 AM Succotash hopes they can get something to go on from Ironbane. He wonders if they’ll never get a break in the case before asking Ketia if she wants to reconsider her religion if it requires murder. Kezzem tries to detect evil on Ketia again but she does not ping as evil. The paladin then asks why they can’t ever deal with someone named puppy friend instead of names like Ironbane and Flamescorn. Tali being invisible and flying laughs at Kezzem’s comment. Pressi suggests that Ketia try her religion instead of the one she has now. She says if Ketia gets away from the religious murder she could murder for fun. She tells Kezzem she doesn’t want to get into the argument over whether a religion that doesn’t require murder exists. She isn’t affraid to get messy with Ironbane but wonders if they can have some operational intelligence and a plan if maybe they can get what they want without fighting. She asks if there is anything Ironbane wants. Pru gets a little perturbed by Pressi’s discussion of getting messy and suggests they Kezzem suggests Pressi just gives Ironbane the look she gives Kezzem whenever he does something stupid. Nikolai speaks! He comments that asking nicely doesn’t work as well for him as his wife. Murhpy is confused that no one responded to him and wonders if people have lost their voice.
Ketia seems happy to debate religion with the group. ”One man’s murder is another man’s justified homicide. My religion doesn’t require anything of anyone strictly speaking. It teaches freedom from everything that restricts our freedom to do what we want. That includes freedom from the morale codes of society. Society would deem me a murderer because I’ve killed in cold blood to protect secrets that the reveal of would cause me great harm or threaten those of my faith. I consider it self defense and justified as I’d be dead now if I hadn’t.
Ironbane though takes things a bit farther than I would. I draw the line and murder for no reason and try not to hurt people if it’s not required. Ironbane feels he should be able to kill anyone he doesn’t like. Or angers him. Or looks at him slightly funny. I won’t restrict his freedom or argue he’s interpreting our god’s teaching wrong, but that doesn’t mean that me or a lot of other cultists don’t think he’s a madman and refuse to associate with him. Most of those who do associate with him are afraid of him and would take of if they could do it without him tracking them down and killing them.
That being said, I’m not sure if I should come with you. Ironbane and I do not get along and the last time we saw each other he promised to kill me next time we saw each other. I’m not afraid of him but getting answers out of him might be harder if I’m there. Up to you. I can’t really suggest anything you can offer him either, all he wants is the ability to keep doing what he’s doing already”
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Thursday October 14th, 2021 11:00:54 AM
"So, hypothetically speaking, let's say our town was under attack by, I don't know, let's say an army of giants," says Kezzem. "And let's say we had this weapon that was critical to our town defense. Then if we knew somebody was going to try and steal said weapon and compromise our defenses, it would be perfectly morale, according to your religion, for us to sneak up and murder them in their sleep beforehand. You know, hypothetically speaking. Also, I'm asking for a friend."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday October 14th, 2021 11:15:20 AM "Well great, we get to deal with a homicidal maniac, Yeah! Not that I would ever take a person's life in cold blood, but this guy sounds like the kind who be doing the Wold a favor by dying.'
"Don't worry Prudence, we always try to avoid bloodshed whenever possible, preferring diplomacy over violence. However we won't shy away from a fight, if there is no other option, but even then we like to offer the surrender option. Due to our preference for peaceful outcomes, and applications, we have been blessed to witness the reformation of some, though sadly not nearly enough of our adversaries."
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Thursday October 14th, 2021 11:28:10 AM "Kezzem, as a former paladin, I can safely say that for you to murder someone would be in violation of your paladin code, even if said murder was "justified". I use the term justified loosely, as I don't personally believe such a thing is possible. Some would argue that assassinations, which is what you are describing, aren't necessarily murder, assuming it is done for the right reason, but the thought of it leaves a bad taste in my mouth, and I would never partake in such an activity, nor would I approve of it. I accept the fact that sometimes, for the greater good, an assassination may be the best course of action, but acceptance does not equate approval."
Prudence Komonov (Kathy) Thursday October 14th, 2021 5:31:46 PM
"Of course I heard you," Pru tells Murphy. "Though I have to confess, I don't remember most of those details. I do have a vague memory of a Yule celebration, but...it's all muddled. Like a dream."
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Thursday October 14th, 2021 7:47:14 PM
"Succo, I'm not asking if it is okay to assassinate someone," says Kezzem. "I'm asking if she thinks it's okay to assassinate someone, who's resemblance to any characters real or fictitious is completely coincidental."
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Thursday October 14th, 2021 9:05:41 PM I'll be a Happy Phantom
Tali, being both invisible and in flight, points her finger towards Mister Murphy using her Message Spell and asks him, "what do you think the next few moves should be towards finding the next logical play in this investigation? Do we pursue this IronBane character?"
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Thursday October 14th, 2021 9:21:34 PM
Pressi's eyes widened at Ketia's description of her religion. "Oh, my god. I finally know how Kezzem feels when I start talking. And the rest of you... I can't even do my line about how a gal could do a lot with such freedom and how I'd never stoop to murder or other unimaginative... Nope, no longer fun. Moment ruined. Thanks, team. Good job, all. This close to Halloween, too."
Pressi closed her eyes and calmed herself. "Of course there are a few ways I could personally play it, even without a team. Niceties, trickery, charm spells, torture, mind reading... I don't necessarily use all the tools in my tool box. I just like to know I have the option. Hey, look at that. Joking about being evil got fun again."
Harper let out a soft growl.
"I haven't forgotten you, don't worry. Having giant cats sit on his chest... I just need to know the right tool. And while I'd normally start out with diplomacy and a reminder that we're trying to save his life, I'm not getting a lot of feedback that this is a good call.
"So this Ironbane guy, I'm thinking group con, unless we just want to punch this guy until he complies. Which in turn means I'm thinking some divinations to know how he fights, what forces he has, what protections, what weaknesses. Unless Ketia happens to know any of this stuff already and can save us some time. Also, could you answer Kezzem's questions? Freedom from morality people are usually such wimps and equivocators but I'm actually hoping you're a game respects game type of gal."
DM Mitch Friday October 15th, 2021 8:19:43 AM Kezzem posses Ketia with a hypothetical involving someone trying to compromise their defense against giants and if it would be perfectly moral according to Ketia’s religion to sneak up and murder the people who are going to compromise their defenses in their sleep before hand. He makes it clear hypothetically speaking and asking for a friend. Succotash suggests they’d be doing the Wold a favor if Ironbane ended up dying as a result of their confrontation. He reassures Pru that they prefer peaceful solutions to violence but can dish it out if it comes to it and that some of the people they’ve resolved things peacefully with have even reformed. He then tells Kezzem that that even a “justified” murder would likely break the paladin code and then briefly discusses the philosophical implications of assassination. Kezzem tells Succotash he isn’t asking if it is okay to assinate someone he is asking if Ketia thinks it is okay to assassinate someone whose resemblance to characters real or imaginary is entirely coincidental. Pru tells Murphy she remembers him but the events during Yule are kind of a bit muddled like in a dream. Tali who is both invisible and flying shoots Murphy with a message spell asking him what the next moves in the investigation should be and if they should pursue Ironbane.
Pressi says that Ketia makes her understand how Kezzem and the others must feel when she talks and that some of her jokes are no longer fun. She then closes her eyes and mentions all the ways she could play things even without a team and that just because a tool exists in her toolbox doesn’t mean she’d use it she just likes to have options and just like that joking about evil got fun again. Harper makes his presence known and Pressi tells the cat she hasn’t forgotten about him. She suggests either group con or beating Ironbane into submission and for that she suggests divinations to know how he fights, what protections he has, what his forces are and what his weaknesses are unless Ketia happens to know any of that. She then reflects that freedom from morality folks are usually wimps and equivocators but she hopes Ketia is a game respects game kind of girl.
Ketia flashes a smile. ”That all depends on you. That’s the point, freedom from the rules of others still means you still have to justify your actions to yourself. If it was my town and loved ones in danger when these thieves showed up I’d murder them in their sleep and not lose any sleep over it. And according to my religion that would be ok as long as I was ok with it. You, I imagine, would lose a lot more sleep over it then me, but if you felt it was justified then do it and forget what others would think of you.”
“Now again there are always consequences. Say those people I killed in their sleep had loved ones, they'd’ be in their rights to come and try to muder me in my sleep. They’d fail, but they could try. The key point is not letting other people control you or bind you with their own viewpoints and rules.”
At Pressi’s question Ketia gives a quick response. ”Barbarian type. Fleis into a rage and pounds you until you are a smear on the ground. It’s been years so I don't know what his gear is like these days, but try not to take him in melee if you can avoid it, he’ll tear you apart. He has a bit of magic to him too, just enough to complicate things. Usually uses it to make his followers as full of frothing, insane rage as he is.”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Friday October 15th, 2021 10:27:32 AM "So he likes the rage spell does he? Not a bad spell really, especially for it's level. I wonder if they have a Catacombs entrance here in Glimmer, I wouldn't mind picking up a few things before we go "chat" with Ironbane."
Hobie (Nick T) HP 208/198 AC 38 Touch 24 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 6 Prepared Spells Friday October 15th, 2021 1:01:48 PM
At the talk of fighting Ironbane, Hobie breaks his long silence
"I'm not afraid of any barbarian I've ever seen. The angrier they get the dumber they get. Let's kill this son of a gun"
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Friday October 15th, 2021 8:50:21 PM
"Well, now hold on there soldier," Pressi responded to Hobie. "By 'kill him,' you mean 'keep him alive and get him talking', right? Because he's kind of the only lead we've got."
Looking around, "Also, are you sure we want to just go in bows blazing? Not even try to see if he can handle a will save or a nice bluff? Like, I know we're treating him like crazy and paranoid but we seem to be validating his choice and we don't even know if he'll make it. At least maybe discuss a strategy?"
Prudence Komonov (Kathy) Friday October 15th, 2021 10:31:21 PM
One thing Ketia says makes Pru a little worried. "Um....followers?" she says. "He has followers? Are any of them with him? Or have you all taken care of that already?"
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Saturday October 16th, 2021 4:03:32 AM So, let me get this right...
Tali, having been listening to Ketia; her murderer; spew information since her friends began their inquisitive quest of her, chooses to become visible, moves into range that her friends can here here and begins to sum up the information gathered from her perspective:
"So, let me get this right...Ketia here explains that these Cultists of Skald, have a "freedom from the rules of others" ethos, and it is believed that someone from her group has decided to remove others within the group by murder? It could be an entity called "Ironbane" -- Barbarian type, or an entity called Flamescorn -- type unknown, or an entity entirely unknown to us doing the actual removal? In addition, it is our groups desire to bring this / these murderers to Justice?"
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Saturday October 16th, 2021 4:04:32 AM
OOC: can someone fix the markup at the end of my last post, please ? just add [/i][/b] to the back end.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Saturday October 16th, 2021 12:47:24 PM
"Hey Succo, if Ironbane likes to rage, perhaps you could prepare some type of spell to *calm* his *emotions*," suggest Kezzem. "I would, but my spell 'deecee' is kind of low, and also paladin's can't cast such spells anyway."
To Pressi, he says, "I bet you this Ironbane guy is all like, 'You think iron is your ally. But you merely adopted the metal. I was born in it. Formed by it. For the truth is...the truth is...I am...Ironbane.'"
Hobie (Nick T) HP 208/198 AC 38 Touch 24 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 6 Prepared Spells Sunday October 17th, 2021 3:19:14 PM
To Keizer “if he’s born of iron, all the better, these adamantine arrows will pierce his skull without issue”
Hobie (Nick T) HP 208/198 AC 38 Touch 24 Flat 30 CMD 44 Hero Points 6 Prepared Spells Sunday October 17th, 2021 3:20:05 PM
Ooc: don’t know why autocorrect changed Kezzem to Keizer
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Sunday October 17th, 2021 11:16:38 PM "That's a great idea, Kezzem, I'll prepare it in the morning."
DM Mitch Monday October 18th, 2021 8:14:53 AM Succotash remarks that Ironbane likes the rage spell, which isn’t a bad spell. He wonders if there is a catacombs entrance nearby as he wouldn’t mind picking a few things up before their “chat” (OOC: You may visit the catacombs if you need to) Hobie says he isn’t afraid of barbarians for the angrier they get the dumber they get and that they should kill this son of a gun. Pressi tells Hobie to hold his horses as they need to keep Ironbane alive and talking as he is the only lead they have. She also asks if they are sure they just want to go in bows blazing and if they can’t discuss a strategy. Prudence is concerned about Ironbane’s followers and asks if they are with him or have they been taken care of already. Tali becomes visible and asks if they are sure they want to do what they are planning to do as the cultists of Skald have a “freedom from the rules” ethos and someone whether it is Ironbane, Flamescorn or whoever is removing them. She asks are they sure they want to bring whoever it is to justice. Kezzem asks Succotash to prepare some calm emotions spells if Ironbane likes to rage as he can’t being a paladin. He asks Pressi if Ironbane’s catchphrase is, "I bet you this Ironbane guy is all like, 'You think iron is your ally. But you merely adopted the metal. I was born in it. Formed by it. For the truth is...the truth is...I am...Ironbane." Hobie remarks that if he’s born of iron all the better as the adamantine arrows will pierce his skull without issue. Succotash likes Kezzem’s idea.
Ketia nods. ”He usually has a crew of people he’s intimidated into following him hanging around. Some are thugs like him and just follow him because he’s bigger and stronger, others are just too scared of him to try to run away. You’ll have to deal with them as well. And yes that summery is about right, but Ironbane definitely didn't do this. He's not smart enough and it's way to subtle for him. He should know who Firescorn is though.”
With most questions seemingly answered Ketia gives a description of the area Ironbane was sighted. A remote region in the already remote scab with a large geyser field. The description is good enough for the party to teleport close, though not right on top of him so they can plan their advance after arrival. ”He’ll probably be in the geyser field somewhere.”
Succotash (Jeremy) AC 31/16/29 CMD 23 HP 129/129 Valerie AC 40/14(16)/35(34) CMD 35(33) HP 151(127)/151(127) Spells Monday October 18th, 2021 9:47:53 AM "Though I like the idea of preparing calm emotions, that will set us back another day. Are we OK with that? Either way, now that I think of it, I remember seeing a shop that I'm pretty sure has an entrance to the Catacombs, and I would like to add "Mercy" to Valerie's "Amulet of Mighty Fists" and pick up a "Rod of Quicken Spell" before we go. So do we want to wait until morning, or head out right after I get back from the Catacombs?"
Prudence Komonov (Kathy) Monday October 18th, 2021 1:44:29 PM
Pru shrugs. "I'm ready now," she says. "Well, just about."
While waiting for Succotash to return, she casts Extended Mage Armors on herself and her husband. "Does anyone else need Mage Armor?" she asks the group. "I've got plenty."
Pressi (Melvin) - AC 26 (31), HP 144, CMD 26 (28); Harper AC 31 (36), HP 102, CMD 30 (35) Monday October 18th, 2021 9:00:56 PM
"Sorry Succotash but I don't think we can wait. He may go on the move or become the next target. Besides, it's more fun to make due with what you've got."
At Ketia's mention that this murder was too "subtle" for him, Pressi's eyeroll could be heard sighing.
If Pressi has to wait, she'll take some time to think about possible strategies. She also points out to Tali that there must be some system of justice, since Anur went to jail and Ketia seems to be trying to avoid it. "Besides, I've got the justicar ethos thing. I can be all the law... wait, that came out wrong."
She waves off Mage Armor, showing off her own mithril shirt. "Also, maybe hold off on buffs. I'm not planning on letting us teleport right in the middle of camp. I'd like to scope out the place, first."
Tali (JPWard) -- Tali(JonPaul) AC:38 (T:34, FF:32), CMD:42, Saves:(F:15/R:17/W:19), HP:121/121 Monday October 18th, 2021 9:50:37 PM Two Hours?
Tali wonders if she has two hours to meditate? If Tali gets her two hours, she will meditate, then cast her normal round of spells that she does after every two hour meditative period.
Kezzem (BrianW) - AC 41/21/36 + 1; HP 222/248; Boots of Speed (8/10), DF, Protect Elec 91 Monday October 18th, 2021 11:39:12 PM
"Drat," says Kezzem. "The one time I've had a good idea."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 36 Tch 33 Ffted 31 HP 144/144 CMD 46/48(Grapple/Trip/Disarm) Tuesday October 19th, 2021 1:11:27 AM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor
Nikolai rummages through his backpack for a minute then gives the 'Thumbs Up' that he's ready to go.
Murphy (KimMc) Halfling AC 34/T19/F29 CMB 22 CMD 48 HP 208/196+12 d20+20=25 ; Tuesday October 19th, 2021 3:32:13 AM
"Sorry I did not respond earlier, Tali. Yes, yes, pursuing Ironbane may prove profitable - yet with a cost.
"Tali needs some rest to be fully prepared. I need to join Succotash at the local Catacombs outlet. I plan to pick up a wand of prayer. It's always nice to have a prayer in tough situations, no? Anything else anyone desires? In any event, shall we depart in, say, two and a half hours? You and I," he nods to Succotash, "should be done shopping by that time, thanks to their amazing stocking and efficiencies. Tali will have had time to rest.
"Does that sound good to the rest of you?" he asks the group.
"Thanks, hon - shall we wait until just before we leave for the spell casting? Mage Armor will be lovely at that time!" And to the whole group, "Perhaps hold the bulk of the prep spells until just before we leave. Grab a bite to eat, sharpen your blades, or do whatever else you need to in the interim. See you all in a bit!"
Once Murphy gets back, he spends a moment trying out the wand of prayer. "I just want to make sure I can use it." Applying the skill of use magic device, he manages to invoke a prayer spell, which lasts for 5 rounds. "All right - in case we need it, I can cast it. Succotash's prayer lasts much longer - but this one can help for a short time." =================== Use Magic Device: 25 (success, only 20 needed, so I guess it's automatic for Murphy)
LOG ON