We're really going to do this are we... Co-DM SteveK Monday November 28th, 2022 10:39:27 AM
The heroes scrape gems and scrolls into Handy Haversacks. Danko grab the four magical weapons for his Efficient Quiver, but is only picks up 10 pounds of gems before he would become unduly burdened. (Ooc: when at Medium encumbrance, Dexterity bonus is limited to 3.). (59 minutes remaining)
Then they go through the ‘Rip’. It takes them to a dark room very much like the Titzimitl’s, with only one way out. No choice, the heroes go through. At the end of the corridor, Nira senses the opening is covered by an illusion: a secret door! The new corridor goes left-and-right; it is easy to perceive (DC10) that the right corridor is lighter and has street noises. The heroes go right, and quickly emerge into a large city market! (54 minutes remaining)
Looking about, they see several pyramids in the city scape. The market is full of many different races, even monstrous races, and all kinds of items for sale and barter. Again, the heroes are skilled (Know Geography DC15) and realize this is Plateau City in the Foreign Quarter. Before them is the Foreign Market and behind them: they just emerged from the Abandoned Temple!
(Know Local DC 15). So too, the next conundrum is clear. Without magical assistance, it will take 20 minutes to get to the Library from the Abandoned Pyramid. It will take 45 minutes to get to the Catacombs and another 15 minutes to get from the Catacombs to the Library. And that doesn’t include any time needed inside the Catacombs or the Library.
……
What are the heroes going to do?
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Monday November 28th, 2022 5:24:46 PM
(OOC: I'm confused about the Catacombs. Is there a reason from the scroll why we need to go there first? If so, I'm missing it. Or is it about re-stocking on supplies before the fight? Real-world timeline could interfere if so.)
"I think once we get to the Library we should ask for one of the guides to help us navigate. If there's not a line, that should hopefully shave a few minutes from our deadline."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Monday November 28th, 2022 7:09:56 PM "I've still got a teleport spell prepared. I can teleport myself and up to 4 others to the Catacombs doorstep, do 5mins of shopping, and we would all arrive at the library at the same time with about 34mins remaining"
Nira really wants to pick up some scrolls or something of that nature. If they're going to some sort of extra-dimensional room in the library there's no telling how big it might be and how many raks are waiting for them.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+10=15 ; Monday November 28th, 2022 8:25:42 PM
[Know Local 15] Hmerrin nods at Nira.
"I'm really hoping we're going to surprise her. I doubt these gates are just supposed to work for us. OK. Anyone who needs and/or wants to go with Nira, go. Everybody else walks with me. In theory, both groups end up at the Library in 20 minutes."
To Dez - "Yeah, they want to pick up some spells at the Catacombs."
Hmerrin waits for the Catacombs group to poof away, and then starts briskly walking to the library.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 181/181 AC: 35(T:17/FF:32) CMD:40) Monday November 28th, 2022 8:56:28 PM
Gaffer pats his pockets, remembers he doesn't have any, and drops his wild shape. His head stays down, counting his gold and half hearing what is said, he goes to stand beside Nira. "Hmm. Yep, ready. Oh, yes, meet you at the library"
----- Barkskin: +5 AC, 5 hours
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Monday November 28th, 2022 9:09:32 PM I'm not sure if there is enough time for shopping, but I guess with a teleport spell you could at least see how long the line is. I will meet directly at the Library. If I get there before you, I can look around a bit.
Active Effects: inspire courage - currently inactive
We're really going to do this are we... Co-DM SteveK Tuesday November 29th, 2022 12:55:32 PM
(OOC: to clarify, Nira stated the plan to 1. Get to Plateau City, 2. Go to Catacombs and get some scrolls, 3. Get to Library, 4. Get Guide to right room, 5. Kick some kitty buns)
Desdichado calls for getting a guide to shave a few minutes off the deadline.
Nira plans to teleport with some of the team to the Catacombs, do 5 min of shopping and then dash to the Library with 34 minutes of time remaining.
Hmerrin nods at Nira. The fighter leads to walking team and relegates the shopping team to Nira. He waits for the ‘poof’ and then stars a brisk walk.
Gaffer drops his wild shape, and goes to stand beside Nira. "Hmm. Yep, ready. Oh, yes, meet you at the library"
Ramirez walks with Hmerrin.
……………….
Shopping team teleports to Magic Square right in front of the Catacombs. They startle a flock of pigeons and several passers-by, but this is a city who are familiar with adventurers! People’s business resumes faster than it would even in a place like Dirt City. Rushing into the large building, Nira, Gaffer, find inside the building is that the walls have a bunch of counters, each of a different type of magic. Signs for ‘Armor’, ‘Weapons’, ‘Potions’, ‘Scrolls’, ‘Rings’, ‘Wands, Staffs, and Rods’, and ‘Wondrous’.
Each of the counters are attended by a being. For those heroes who have been to the Catacombs in the past; it doesn’t look like the Catacombs that they have accessed through the various portals around the Wold. Upon meeting the clerk, the hero finds out that five minutes means they only have enough time for each hero to ask for, pay for, wait for retrieval, and receive ONE standard magic item.
(OOC: we are going to do this outside of the Catacombs to accommodate the story. PCs please use a post to describe what the PC wants and the cost per Pathfinder Handbook.)
…………………
Walking team hastens away. The Foreign Market is crowded, and the heroes are forced to dodge, push, and ‘excuse me’ to keep on their itinerary. The jostling continues on the arching bridge over the Endless River. “Hey, watch where you are going!” “Don’t they look like those adventurers from … oh, I forget…” “Pardon me, excuse me, whoops! Sorry there!” A set of city watchmen eye the team as they kink up one side and down the other, but otherwise do not interfere with Hmerrin ploughing a path for the others to follow. They leave behind them folks who are angry, or bemused, or pushing back and ignoring: it all depends on their personality and their own agenda.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) d20+20=37 ; Tuesday November 29th, 2022 2:05:49 PM
"Sorry...s'cuse us...pardon...kinda in a hurry..."
Hmerrin will keep this up as long as he feels they are still on time.
However, should a bottleneck arise, he's a wee bit short on patience. "OUTTA THE WAY!!!! [Intimidate 37]
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Tuesday November 29th, 2022 3:02:07 PM
"Make way, heroes coming through," says Desdichado as he follows Hmerrin towards the Library.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Tuesday November 29th, 2022 7:22:53 PM
Ramirez chuckles as they proceed to the Library. This crowd is probably not used to being strong armed by a dwarf. Ramirez walks briskly alongside, trying to keep up. If the crowd gets too thick, he falls into step behind Hmerrin and follows as a path is cleared. I hope the shopping doesn't take too long, we're on a tight schedule.
Active Effects: inspire courage - currently inactive
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Tuesday November 29th, 2022 8:13:29 PM
Danko is confused, to say the least.... he pulls a bag of coins (2250gp) and hands it to Nira.
" Could you get me an earth elemental gem please. "
Then goes with Ramirez and the others to the library.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday November 30th, 2022 5:01:33 AM
Nira understands the rush. Time is really against them right now. If it's only one item it needs to be a good one. "Quick! Stamp me with one of those tattoos!" Nira rolls up her sleeve and thrusts her arm towards the clerk. "Silence! I mean, a Silence spell. Please". She uses her other hand to grab some coins from her pocket and dumps them on the counter. It's really tough for her to stand still knowing what's going on without her. While she's getting magically stamped she calls out "And an earth elemental gem if you've got one!"
As soon as the inscription is made she gives a "Thanks" and rushes for the door. She'd have liked to have a little longer but time is against them. She waits for Gaffer "Grab hold. We're off again!"
------------- Highlight to display spoiler: {8,640gp for a 2nd level Brahmah Tattoo (Silence) deducted from Nira's WBL. Once Gaffer is ready she'll use a Hero Point to recast Teleport. The plan is that instead of having to run for the library they can teleport to it. Between teleport to CC, 5-10mins shopping, then teleport to the library, they might even get there first! Well, that's the plan anyway}
Header:Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Wednesday November 30th, 2022 6:48:49 AM
Gaffer hurries in behind Nira, still counting his gold which quickly spills out onto the counter. "A scroll for Finger of Death please" Gaffer asks after of the attendant, shuffling on his feat while he waits.
As soon as his trade is complete, he moves over to Nira and braces for the teleport.
----- Scroll: Finger of Death; Level 8 spell scroll, 3000gp
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Wednesday November 30th, 2022 4:46:06 PM
"How far away do you think we are?"
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Wednesday November 30th, 2022 5:56:56 PM
Danko looks around like a tourist
Header:Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Wednesday November 30th, 2022 6:41:19 PM
Gaffer does his best to look patient and friendly while waiting at the shop. They don't know about the Rakshasa waiting for us. It's not their fault this has been the longest minute that's ever been. No, don't clear your throught right now.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Wednesday November 30th, 2022 8:40:52 PM
Ramirez continues with Danko and Hmerrin to the Library.
Active Effects: inspire courage - currently inactive
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Thursday December 1st, 2022 1:40:04 AM
Nira waits outside the catacombs entrance. She finds it hard to stand still and is pacing by the door, waiting for Gaffer to receive his order.
The Royal Library. Co-DM SteveK Thursday December 1st, 2022 9:47:35 AM
Shopping team (Nira and Gaffer) are in a rush. Nira picks out a Tattoo, and Gaffer a scroll. The Tattoo takes a little longer than anticipated to draw and imbue the magic. Nira then also collects an elemental gem (earth) for Danko, but now Gaffer and Nira are behind time! Heroically recalling her previous Teleportation spell, Nira casts and the two appear in front of the Royal Library.
…………………
Walking team (Hmerrin, Desdichado, Ranirez, and Danko) are nice to a point. Hmerrin has to clear the road a couple of times "OUTTA THE WAY!!!!”, and no one can stand up to his intimidating presense!
Desdichado follows, Ramirez chuckles, and Danko a little confused, but they all hope the shopping doesn't take too long, they're on a tight schedule!
………………..
It takes about 5 very intense minutes before Nira and Gaffer spot Hmerrin, Desdichado, Ranirez, and Danko emerging from Arrow’s Shot Road and into Merchants Square. Hmerrin is looking stormy and Danko is looking around like a tourist, but the team is gathered at the bottom step of the Royal Library. A handoff of Elemental Gem goes from Nira to Danko. Then there is nothing to do than go up the steps and enter the Library. (25 minutes remaining)
On walking through the very large doors, The Tide is met by a huge marble space that appears bigger on the inside than the outside. From their location, they can see at least twenty staircases going from one to three stories up and down. There are an equal number of archways that give hints of the knowledge beyond. In a sunken area in the middle of the library’s foyer, there are comfortable chairs and loungers, with carts full of books and scrolls, tomes and manuals, treatises and grimoires. It smells clean, slightly cool, and with the unmistakable smell of …. Books.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Thursday December 1st, 2022 1:01:11 PM
"Right, everyone here? Let's ask a guide to take us to the room owned by the Guild Limited Company," says Desdichado."And maybe we give them a little extra if it will help get us there faster."
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) Thursday December 1st, 2022 6:54:45 PM
Hmerrin hands Danko his water elemental gem. "In case another would be helpful," he says.
It's only after linking up with Nira and Gaffer and entering the Library does Hmerrin realize they have no idea where this room is.
Nodding in agreement with Dez, he strides up to whatever looks like an information desk. "We need to get to the room owned by the Guild Limited Company," he says without preamble. "It's really important."
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Thursday December 1st, 2022 7:05:34 PM
Gaffer trails towards the back of the group, regaining his footing after the teleportation. He pulls a small cloth full of dust from his backpack and casts a spell while the other's are asking for directions.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Thursday December 1st, 2022 8:20:39 PM
Ramirez breathes a sigh of relief. Looks like they made it in time? Hopefully the guide will get them to right place quickly.
Active Effects: inspire courage - currently inactive
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Thursday December 1st, 2022 10:39:18 PM
Nira feels a momentary high as she takes in the smell of all the books. Now THIS is a library. She looks forward to coming back here to do some reading later, provided it still stands after they deal with the Rak infestation.
She casts a spell on herself - Spell Turning. It's a domain spell so it's either cast it now or later. The Spell Immunities she cast earlier against the orgres last for three hours each, so at least with all this rush they should also still be in effect.
Nira prepares to hand over the necessary 50gp to the tour guide.
----------------- Cast Spell Turning. Duration 160mins. From seven to ten (1d4+6) spell levels are affected by the turning. The exact number is rolled secretly.
Spells in effect: Arcane Sight ... Darkvision ... Mage Armor ... Magic Vestment ... Overland Flight ... Roses Temperature Control ... See Invisibility ... Resist Fire (5) ... Contingency ... Barkskin ... Telepathic Bond ... Spell Immunity (Magic Missile, Scorching Ray, Touch of Idiocy, Enervation) ... Bless (from Gimp) ... Spell ... Spell Turning
Walking the Royal Library. Co-DM SteveK Friday December 2nd, 2022 4:01:06 AM
Ooc: I apologize to Yves for posting faster than 24 hours. …..
The heroes can see a small reception/circulation counter, and it has people in similar styled short robes going and coming from the place. That looks like a good place to start. Hmerrin’s abrupt pronouncement makes a half-dozen librarians stare and blink. Thankfully for nerves, it is less than a second until a half-elf gets her mental balance. “Of course. 50 gold please”, and she indicates a strong box. As the money is deposited, the box sings out in a gnomish voice the count until the equivalent of the full amount is deposited. "Thank you, a Guide will be with you shortly”, says the box.
The half-elf smiles. ”And the Guide is here. Please follow me.” The woman steps off in a brisk walk that doesn’t look like hurrying but rapidly eats up distance. (Perception DC auto pass. It is obvious there is a use for shorter robes: so Guides can move faster.) She walks up a set of stairs, turns down a corridor, turns again, and it keeps going like that.
During the walk, the half-elf keeps up a low-voiced banter. ”Here is the Foyer, where the most common volumes are kept. Patrons can retrieve anything back to the reading nook and, when done, place them on a trolley for a Librarian to replace. The Archives are downstairs, and on this level are portals to every possible subject. The key of course is what subject you need. A question about Halfling migrations to Faragunia before the Year of Ascension could be in several different rooms because there are four different subjects in that inquiry.”
“Your request is fairly simple. Up these stairs are portals to many extra-planar spaces, often rented out by those who wish easy access to the Library. They often contain people’s private libraries, too. Now, the room rented by Guild Company Limited, I am quite familiar with. Why, it was only an hour ago that a young guildsman with enchanting golden eyes approached me and said he needed to meet Councilor Ableard at the Guild Company Limited room.”
(Ooc: The team has to hustle to keep up with the Guide (double moves) and will not be able to do further preparations other than Swift/Free actions)
5 minutes have passed (20 minutes remaining)
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Friday December 2nd, 2022 10:08:52 AM
From yesterday Danko follows along and keeps looking at the sights, wide eyed and mouth open.
"Oh really?" says Desdichado nonchalantly, "Yes, I believe we were anticipating he might be here already. Tell me - do you remember any other details, such as was he by himself?"
"By the way, thank you so much for bringing us here swiftly. Are you allowed to take a gratuity for excellent service?" He holds out an additional 50 gold.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:32 T:20 FF:26 CMD:40) Friday December 2nd, 2022 3:57:20 PM
Hmerrin trots after the Guide, focused on the destination.
{Hopefully, we get a couple seconds to buff once we get there.} he sends.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) d20+27=37 ; Friday December 2nd, 2022 6:38:22 PM
A bit more relaxed now that they are close, Gaffer walks speedily along and does his best to keep an eye on the surroundings for any who might be taking note of their arrival.
----- Perception: 37
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Friday December 2nd, 2022 7:06:36 PM
Ramirez keeps up with the guide. His cloak starts to shift to a vibrant blue color, but he concentrates and turns it back to white.
Active Effects: inspire courage - currently inactive
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+25=41 ; Saturday December 3rd, 2022 6:17:04 PM
Nira makes note to prepare for a run the next time she comes here to check out a book. This guide can really move! Is there something she knows perhaps? Is she knowingly leading the party to danger? Nira isn't sure. Perhaps this is just how the guide operates?
Sense Motive on the guide: 41
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Monday December 5th, 2022 7:05:05 AM
Danko thanks Nina for the gem and follows the crew
Oh Really? Co-DM SteveK Monday December 5th, 2022 4:14:10 PM
Gaffer doesn’t notice anyone focused on the team. Nira doesn’t notice anything untoward avmbout the Guide. This seems to be how she (and most Library Guides) operates.
The half-elf Guide thanks Desdichado and makes the extra money disappear as they continue about the halls. ”There isn’t any prohibition, and I’ve got a younger brother to help get into a Guild.”
“Just the man and Councilor Abelard. He is part of the ruling council for Plateau City. Very high up as an advisor to the Mayor.”
“Well, here we are. Just walk through that portal.”.
The Guide is ready to depart. . 15 minutes remaining.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:37 T:20 FF:31 CMD:45) Monday December 5th, 2022 4:57:50 PM
Hmerrin waits politely for the Guide to leave, then rolls his eyes heavenward.
{Terrific. A high up muckity muck of unknown allegiance. Cause we needed another complication}
The fighter drinks a potion, and readies another.
{Assuming Golden Eyes keeps pretending he's not a bad guy, we may have to restrain both to keep this council guy from running off.
I'm gonna close in on Golden Eyes. Who wants to keep any eye on the Councillor?
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Monday December 5th, 2022 8:08:19 PM
Gaffer casts Read Magic and review his scroll one last time to make sure he's prepared. "Do we want to send a summon through first? I'm assuming Golden Eyes was forwarned."
----- If the party do want a summon to weather any ambush, Gaffer will cast Summon Nature's Ally VI to summon a Dire Tiger and, once the party is ready, send the creature through the portal first.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Monday December 5th, 2022 8:18:38 PM
Active Effects: inspire courage - currently inactive
We should hold on summons until we know whats going on. What if there is an official City meeting there?
Allright, everyone ready? I think we should just go in
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Monday December 5th, 2022 8:40:26 PM
Desdichado follows up on Gaffer's thought. We can't send in any summons first. The scroll said that if anyone other than The Tide goes through, Goldeneyes can escape.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Tuesday December 6th, 2022 3:13:17 AM
Nira nods at Dez's reminder. If this deal is to be honored (and she's not sure it will be) then they should try and abide by the rules set out.
There are no other spells to cast right now. All that's left is to take that first step into the room.
--------------- Spells in effect: Arcane Sight ... Darkvision ... Mage Armor ... Magic Vestment ... Overland Flight ... Roses Temperature Control ... See Invisibility ... Resist Fire (5) ... Contingency ... Barkskin ... Telepathic Bond ... Spell Immunity (Magic Missile, Scorching Ray, Touch of Idiocy, Enervation) ... Bless (from Gimp) ... Spell Turning
Spell Immunity on Des. Immunity to: Magic Missile, Scorching Ray, Touch of Idiocy, and Enervation. Approx 110mins remaining. Resist Energy (Fire) on Ram. Approx 90mins remaining.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Tuesday December 6th, 2022 10:16:19 AM
Danko casts Shield and Stoneskin on himself before going.
All that’s Left… Co-DM SteveK Tuesday December 6th, 2022 11:08:11 AM
Assuming the order going in is…
Hmerrin Desdichado Gaffer Ramirez Nira Danko
Please confirm order.
….
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Tuesday December 6th, 2022 1:00:15 PM
(OOC: I'm good with that.)
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Tuesday December 6th, 2022 1:55:05 PM
Gaffer takes his place behind Des.
All that’s Left… Co-DM SteveK Tuesday December 6th, 2022 3:57:41 PM
Assuming the order going in is…
Hmerrin Desdichado Gaffer Ramirez Nira Danko
Please confirm order.
….
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:37 T:20 FF:31 CMD:45) Tuesday December 6th, 2022 4:27:53 PM
{Let's not kill a High Councilman of Plateau City without absolutely knowing he's a bad guy, shall we?} Hmerrin mentally notes.
He drains the potion he was holding and leads the way through.
------- In Effect Barkskin (CL12): duration 120 minutes +5 Nat Armor Heroism (CL 2): duration 20 minutes. +2 morale bonus on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Tuesday December 6th, 2022 4:42:06 PM
Danko casts Shield and Stoneskin on himself before going.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Tuesday December 6th, 2022 5:59:27 PM
Ramirez follows Gaffer through the portal.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Tuesday December 6th, 2022 7:32:34 PM
Nira draws her healing staff, confident that she's going to need it.
She follows behind Ram
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Tuesday December 6th, 2022 9:12:27 PM
“And off we go! “
A shielded and stoneskined Danko follows the group
The Anteroom. Co-DM SteveK Wednesday December 7th, 2022 11:12:16 AM
The heroes move through the door…
And find an anteroom. A sun lit room, lavishly furnished, the scent of rose and lavender. A great window looks out upon a gray fortress and smaller buildings leading to a beautiful river and, just beyond, an island with a magnificent cathedral. Local Knowledge DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {It can only be the Cathedral of Light in Plateau City!}
It looks like a study. There are a couple of chaise lounges and the walls are lined with books and shelves. One chaise looks like it has ropes around it and it is pushed onto its side against a wall where the heroes can’t see the plush area.
The chaise is groaning.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] d20+22=34 ; d20+20=25 ; Wednesday December 7th, 2022 2:26:47 PM
Looking to the chaise, Desdichado sends, I think that might just be our confirmation that the Councilman isn't a rakshasa.
He moves directly toward the chaise, keeping his wits about him for a hidden Goldeneyes (Perception: 34). Assuming someone is tied up in it, he looks to see if they are injured and how badly. (Heal: 25)
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:37 T:20 FF:31 CMD:45) d20+11=27 ; d20+19=30 ; Wednesday December 7th, 2022 3:22:07 PM
Hmerrin makes a face at the absence of Golden Eyes.
[Know Local 27] {"Big church out there is the Cathedral of Light in Plateau City."} he sends. {"Where is he?"}
Hmerrin draws his halberd and moves cautiously into the center of the room. Head slightly tilted to hear better, he slowly spins, carefully peering for any sign of this creature. [Perception 30]
----- In Effect Barkskin (CL12): duration 120 minutes +5 Nat Armor Heroism (CL 2): duration 20 minutes. +2 morale bonus on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Wednesday December 7th, 2022 8:25:33 PM
“Maybe poke it with a stick or something “
——— Shield +4 to AC Stoneskin
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+24=27 ; Wednesday December 7th, 2022 9:55:43 PM
Generally speaking, lounges don't groan. Nira leaves the investigation of it to the others, while she keeps her eyes open and looks around the rest of the room. It's partly an excuse to look at all the books here, but also in case an ambush is planned.
Perception: 27
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Wednesday December 7th, 2022 10:47:07 PM So, we're still in the City? I was expecting something more....planar.
Ramirez moves up to the chaise with Des. His cloak twitches with a few color changes until he focuses and turns it white.
The Anteroom. Co-DM SteveK Thursday December 8th, 2022 5:54:22 AM
Hmerrin and Nira check out the room. Most importantly, there seem to be no lurking enemies in the anteroom, which is comfortably large enough for twice the seven people and accompanying furniture that currently occupy the area. Hmerrin with his careful study can determine that besides the way they came in and the windows, there are two more closed doors that would lead to other locations. Nira, with her Arcane Sight and extensive knowledge, can assure The Tide about several additional pieces of information. - They are in a pocket plane, when they crossed the threshold, she detected a momentary loss of action as if she had just cast a teleport spell. - The ‘windows’ are non-magical and actually just very, very good paintings to make it look like they are in Plateau City. - Both doors radiate strong conjuration magic.
Desdichado, Ramirez, and Danko check out the groaning chaise. It turns out to be an old Halfling, bald as an egg, who is currently hanging from the ropes tied around his body. Des sees that besides a knot on his head, he is in fairly good health. ”Is this a new tactic? I’ve been nothing but cooperative, and for very little in return, just a few requests from an old Halfling to keep my mind on things don’t you know. And speaking of that, it’s been a minute or two since I’ve had a sip of something, and I’m feeling parched. The water was fine from before, cool and clear, but not what I would call a real refresher. It brings to mind a cordial my mother made in my youth. Current based it was, and bits of this and that to give it a spice, but so light to quench the thirst of a giant. Yes, yes, a real refresher!”
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Thursday December 8th, 2022 7:04:43 AM
Gaffer is quick to dismiss the halfling as they start rambling but then pauses, tensing up. "Nira, can you tell when a Rakshasa is in disguise?" he sends rather than speak aloud the question.
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:37 T:20 FF:31 CMD:45) d20+5=9 ; Thursday December 8th, 2022 2:47:06 PM
{Doubt it,} Hmerrin sends back. {Too much talk and not enough arrogance. Course he might be a really good actor.}
Hmerrin regards the two doors. {Dez, see if you can get him to tell us where Golden Eyes went. And if anyone knows how to get through these doors without another one of them Glyphs going off, I'm all ears.}
Sense Motive 9 on halfling's answers to anyone else's questions.
----- In Effect Barkskin (CL12): duration 120 minutes +5 Nat Armor Heroism (CL 2): duration 20 minutes. +2 morale bonus on attack rolls, saves, and skill checks
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] d20+28=35 ; d20+30=47 ; Thursday December 8th, 2022 4:51:24 PM Agree with Hmerrin, Desdichado sends, It sounds like he's been passing intelligence to the rakshasa from what he's saying. It's probably safer for him - and us - if he stays put for a few minutes until we deal with Goldeneyes.
"Err..Councilman Abelard?" asks Desdichado to the halfling. "Are you okay? I'm afraid I can't help with refreshment at the moment. Would you happen to know where the person you've been speaking with went? We've come here looking for him. Once we've found him we can come back and untie you right quick...and see about finding you some refreshments." (Diplomacy: 35) (Sense Motive: 47)
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Thursday December 8th, 2022 7:54:47 PM
Danko listens intensely
Shield +4 to AC Stoneskin
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Thursday December 8th, 2022 10:40:09 PM
Ramirez casts detect magic and tries to figure out if there are actually any glyphs on the doors.
The Anteroom and Councilor Ableard. Co-DM SteveK d20+25=35 ; Friday December 9th, 2022 11:54:38 AM
Desdichado asks and gets a nod and a paragraph about how they already know he is and why would they want to play games like this after all these months? Then the Paladin gets a running commentary on the different months of the Woldian calendar and how each, but for different reasons, is the absolute favorite of Councilor Ableard. When hearing he won’t be untied for a while, Ableard asks if they would do him the courtesy of at least righting the chaise so he is not hanging against the ropes. Although he assures you it is quite pleasant and he remembers a time when he was sailing the Plactik Ocean as a lad and he slept in a hammock which was not quite unlike the very ropes he is bound with at the moment. And he knows you are just teasing him because you know quite well that Golden Eyes knocked over the chaise before departing so all Ableard could see was the wall. Nice crack near the bottom, it reminded him of a map of Angel Springs…
(Desdichado gets the thought that Councilor Ableard is a master at disinformation, and uses his old man persona to lure his opponents into underestimating him. Quite a useful skill set if this is indeed Ableard!)
Ramirez casts Detect Magic, but after a few seconds can only see what Nira saw: the door radiates strong conjugation magic. The bard’s excellent knowledge further tells him that Glyphs can be read with Read Magic, but only detected with normal Perception (which the team has already done and found nothing). Ramirez also knows that Glyphs are Abjuration magic and would not normally radiate as Conjuration.
Well, he's definitely unscrupulous, he sends. I wonder what he means by Golden Eyes leaving. Does anyone have a handy way of True Seeing around him?
"I'm sorry he knocked you over," replies the paladin to the Councilor as he rights the chaise lounge. "You just sit tight for a moment we'll help you once we know it's safe for you. I don't suppose you know which way he went as he departed?"
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Friday December 9th, 2022 5:42:02 PM
Ramirez sighs. He was facing the wall, and likely didn't see. We'll have to hope he heard Golden Eyes say something about the destination. Ramirez helps upright the chair so the councilman is more comfortable.
I looked at the doors, conjuration auras would seem to indicate portals and not traps.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis d20+24=43 ; d20+25=39 ; Friday December 9th, 2022 6:57:27 PM
Nira takes out the groups Gem of True Seeing and peers through it - first at the halfling, and then the rest of the room. The group have seen far too many polymorphed creatures of late. When she's convinced that she has seen everything, she tucks it away again.
"I'm afraid I don't have any cordial with me, but I do have something that tastes other than fresh water if that would quench your thirst" Nira takes out her flask, casts Create Water in it, and then follows up with Prestidigitation to give it a currant flavor. She hands it to the man and waits for him to take a sip.
"You mentioned that you were cooperative with them. What was it that you did for them to let them leave you alive?"
-------------- Perception: 43 Sense Motive: 39
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Saturday December 10th, 2022 12:25:17 AM
Gaffer waits as patiently as he can while the others talk to the halfling.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Sunday December 11th, 2022 4:25:52 PM
Danko waits with Gaffer and keeps an eye out for trouble
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Sunday December 11th, 2022 7:22:09 PM
Assuming the glyphs are noticed by Nira (or pointed out to her) she'll cast a Read Magic cantrip and have a look at them.
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Sunday December 11th, 2022 8:33:48 PM
Danko waits with Gaffer and keeps an eye out for trouble
Hmerrin (MikeK)(HP 155/192 AC:37 T:20 FF:31 CMD:45) Monday December 12th, 2022 10:45:14 AM
"Where do those doors go?" Hmerrin asks the halfling.
The Anteroom and Councilor Ableard. Co-DM SteveK Monday December 12th, 2022 12:26:33 PM
Gaffer and Danko wait.
Ramirez thinks the portals are fine, and are actual portals.
Nira is ready to tackle Glyphs, but no one has found any: it has all been speculation.
Desdichado doesn’t have a high opinion of this Halfling, but till takes care of the old Halfling’s safety frist.
Nira takes out the groups Gem of True Seeing and peers through it. Councilor Ableard is REALLY… an old Halfling. And the rest of the room looks as it should too: no polymorphed creatures at all. The absentminded babbling of Councilor Ableard changes to very clear-headed and directive.
”Gem of Seeing. Neither Golden Eyes or Gilramirsch need one of those. Let me see you through that thing and I’ll know you are who you say you are.”
(Sense Motive DC 20. Autopass. The Tide get a hint that the meandering grandfather persona is just a mask Ableard uses to make people underestimate him and allow him to avoid answering questions. He obviously possesses a sharp mind when he wants to show it!)
At Hmerrin’s question, the ‘persona’ is back in place. ”why that one, as you very know, is my home away from home. Me and the companions you provided me so sweetly. An old man needs companions to talk away the hours…”. And he is off, going from subject to subject with indiscriminate abandon.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] d20+28=46 ; Monday December 12th, 2022 2:38:01 PM
Assuming Nira is willing to let Council Ableard use the Gem, he explains why they are here and tries to see if he is willing to provide any helpful information.
(Diplomacy: 46)
"We know these rakshasa have been menacing Plateau City and the Wold for a while. We're here to put an end to their operations. We need to act quickly, though, so we can explain the details later. Anything you can tell us about where to find Golden Eyes right now would be immensely helpful. I promise you we'll untie you once we know this area is safe. And who is Gilramirsch? That's a new name to me."
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Monday December 12th, 2022 7:23:59 PM "You can drop the grandfather act you know. We both know you're smarter than you're pretending to be" Nira holds out the gem for Ableard to look through, but keeps a firm hold of it.
"So now that you can see that we're not raks, perhaps you can tell us what was it that you did for them to let them leave you alive?"
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Monday December 12th, 2022 9:28:00 PM
Gaffer offers his usual suggestion of "Let me know if you want some summons to be sent through the doors." but otherwise keeps quite since the discussion is moving in the right direction.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Tuesday December 13th, 2022 12:26:16 AM
Ramirez hopes the councilman has been duped or coerced. If he is actually in league with the Rakshasa, he could be in a position to cause some trouble for the group.
Ramirez then shares his thoughts with the group over the link.
The Anteroom and Councilor Ableard. Co-DM SteveK Tuesday December 13th, 2022 2:17:26 AM
Nira calls Ableard out for his ‘grandfather act’, and holds out the gem for Ableard to look through without giving it to him. The old Halfling’s eyes sparkle, and he listens to Desdichado’s quick explanation. ”Thank Domi””, Councilor Ableard breathes. Then his eyes get sharp.
”Right. I’ve been prisoner at least a year, lost track of time.” He points his nose at the first door. ”Prisoners kept in there: one other besides me, Ms. Djali Merrytoes. Used to be some Rakshasa jailors, but they left through the door to the Royal Library about an hour ago after tying me to this couch.”
“Gilramirsch is a Bison-headed Rakshasa that has been impersonating me since I have been captured. He lives here and interrogates me daily for more information about the governing of Plateau City. I’ve been quite unable to stay on topic, rather forgetful, and repetitive,” he says with a chuckle. “While I’m still alive; ergo useful, and he hasn’t gotten any critical secrets, Gilly has been able to get enough of my techniques to not be found out by the Mayor or other Councilors yet. So I say our mental chess match has so far been about even.”
He wags his nose at the second door. ”That’s where Gilramirsch and Golden Eyes must be: it’s Gilly’s suite. Goldy has questioned me with Gilly sometimes, so I know her. Soon after the jailors left, Goldy came in here and started yelling at Gilly about ‘he’ is out of patience and that it is now ‘them or us’. Gilly started asking me a question, and Goldy knocked me and the couch into the wall. Said something about ‘eating the useless Halfling later’, and then I heard the door to Gilly’s room open and close. Sigh. I miss eating and drinking when I want.”
(Due to phenomenal skill ranks: The Tide feel that Abelard is telling the truth.)
And Ableard’s monologue begins to wander, speaking about the wonderful foods he used to have, and the locations, and the nice tablecloths… (Sense Motive DC 20, auto pass. The Tide gets a hunch that the ‘absentminded grandfather’ is not completely a persona…)
Danko Pureheart (Yves) -- AC 24( 28 shield) -- CMD 36 -- HP 119/119 Tuesday December 13th, 2022 12:44:35 PM
“Ok, some of us have spells expiring soon. Let’s move this along. “
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Tuesday December 13th, 2022 3:49:26 PM
"Alright team, we've got two rakshasa behind door Number 2. Everybody ready?" Desdichado asks as he moves toward the door to open it.
"If you have any last minute spells to cast, best do it now," he says as he casts Holy Sword.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Tuesday December 13th, 2022 4:46:58 PM I'm ready. And I think we should untie the councilman here. No sense in letting him wait for us.
Desdichado (Ryan) [HP:169/198; AC:32/15/30 - CMD 34] Tuesday December 13th, 2022 7:42:42 PM I'm not sure I trust him enough yet to let him free until we've cleared the raks, sends Desdichado. He's a master manipulator and while I think he's telling the truth, I don't want Goldeneyes or the new one dominating him to use against us, or him wandering around while we're trying to secure the place. He'll be fine for a few more minutes, I think.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Tuesday December 13th, 2022 9:39:10 PM
Gaffer takes his original position in their line, prepares to step through the door and braces for some unknown pain.
Gaffer - Courtney - HP: 149/149 AC: 32(T:18/FF:27) CMD:35) Tuesday December 13th, 2022 9:39:14 PM
Gaffer takes his original position in their line, prepares to step through the door and braces for some unknown pain.
RobC - Nira Wynvyre -- AC 29/15/25 -- CMD 23 -- HP 122+29/122 -- DarkVision/ArcaneSight/SeeInvis Wednesday December 14th, 2022 3:28:48 AM
Nira isn't entirely trusting of the halfling either. Perhaps she's had too many dealings with deceptive raks that she's become too untrusting these days? Either way, she isn't too concerned if the group choose to leave him tied up.
She resumes her position in the group and readies to face the raks again.
The Door. Co-DM SteveK Wednesday December 14th, 2022 7:21:34 AM
The Tide make final preparations while leaving Councilor Ableard tied up for his own safety. Ableard agrees. ”If you lose I have plausible deniability”, is his quip.
With a final set of spells, the heroes open the door and go through…
….. Ooc. 1. CLIFFHANGER! I am taking a break and will not post during the Yuletide. Next DM post will be on 3 January.
2. Jerry is going to announce everyone in the Wold goes up 1 level over Yuletide. a. All Tide heroes are 17 level! b. All Tide heroes gain 1 Hero Point! ( I should have done this right after the Den fights: you guys were all awesome!) c. Combat can’t start until all PC Sheets are approved by me or DanK by 3 Jan… or 14 Jan whichever comes first.
Ramirez (BrianZ) AC32/20/25 HP 122/122 CMD32 Wednesday December 14th, 2022 7:32:37 PM
Ramirez finds a comfortable chair, and gets out a snack. He has a few leftover apples from their visit with the adventurers in Nightmare Quarter if anyone would like to share.
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