continuing from Damned if you Do
Mancini and Norman,together with Jolinda, Aoife, Sederic, Oly, Ardenas, Kalima, and Benny
have the book from Faustus' former shop.

Somewhere in its listings of favors,
coins, and contracts traded are hidden clues to some nefarious enterprise that the rest have only been a smokescreen for...
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:50, Tue 28 Mar 2023.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 1):

Aoife, also part of this group, seeks to find who the next perpetrator is. She asks Norman and Mancini to look into it...

"Say, let's make a list of the names we've had so far.  There was Du Fontaine, right?  Who else?  And who's got a pen and some paper and ink>  We should write this down separately from the ledger."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 3):

"Writing is the scribes job. Go for it, but let me know when you are done. I thought you were keeping the ledger for that reason..."

"We were, but it occurred to me that it's easier to look down a list of just the salient names than to page back and forth through that ledger -- and further, with gods, demons, and possibly Elder things involved, we don't know how long we'll have that ledger."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 5):

npc'd
"I can keep track of it with some paper or parchmen..we just dealt with Rafelo, there was the printer's devil, the boy with the ball, that unholy warrior..."

In reply to Benny Morales (msg # 6):

"So who is next?"

Jolinda waits patiently to see which way the wind blows.

"I left my pack behind for this stuff, and I don't have any writing materials in it anyway.  But...

"DuFontaine pissing in the fountain where the Triunists get the water they consecrate; the boy with the ball pulling his sister's pigtails when she prayed, the printer's devil spreading hate from those books, the armored, fireproof man burning the market, and a fisherman getting fat nets by giving fish folk the Elder idol -- that they worship?

"The only common factor I see here is disruption of the gods-governed way of life.  And we still don't know what if any connection there is between the demons who supplied Faust's shop and the Elder beings."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 9):

"So lets keep working our way through the book. Do we have anyone sponsoring us doing this work, or is it just charity?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 10):

npc'd
"To the best of my knowledge we have no regular stipend, but are paid bouties by the Hadereum for confiscated items and for turning in cultists and demonologists, more if alive because they can't question the dead if they are damned.  On the oher hand, because we are not on retainer, we are not obligated to turn in anything we find..."

In reply to Benny Morales (msg # 11):

"That works. Who then is next?"
This message was last updated by the GM at 17:10, Mon 03 Apr 2023.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 12):
npc'd
"Tere is an odd one, marked as a favor; it looks like an act of charity, giving a coin to a blind beggar...and in exchange a silver mirror was given.  that favor seems oddly weighty to me."

"Unless, of course, the point was for someone else to see the beggar receive the coin, and injure or kill someone who might have been important in the future while robbing him of the coin.  We also don't know what the silver mirror might do besides reflect someone's face.  Perhaps the seeming act of generosity was itself the trap to get someone who didn't trust the Shop to accept the mirror.

"We don't know how much foreknowledge the forces of the Abyss have, but they seem to have a good ability to select those in decisive positions.  I'd normally expect the recipient of the mirror to be vain, likely also physically beautiful -- or someone who desperately wants to be."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:05, Mon 03 Apr 2023.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 14):

"Or someone who was vain but had no mirror, and who would become more proud, and more susceptible to hell's influence if they had a mirror. Do we have names, to start asking questions?"

In reply to Sederic (msg # 15):

npc'd
"Let's see, the woman is identified as Marisol, and the beggar is described as being found near the Mosque.. "

"If Faust took the trouble to single out a particular beggar, it seems likely the gift was significant, as well as the mirror.

"How long ago was this?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 17):

npc'd
"Lookslike the day before we got the book,so 4 days ago?"

In reply to Benny Morales (msg # 18):

"Ok, lets go check it  out."

Head off with the information we have...

"So, I guess go look for a blind beggar near the mosque, and then see if we can trace this Marisol?  When's the next prayer call, anyone know?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 20):

"I am sure we will hear. It is not subtle..."

With a degree of relief Jolinda agrees, "Let's be at it then!"
This message was last edited by the player at 08:54, Mon 10 Apr 2023.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 22):

midday prayers are soon.  you notice a number of people heading toward the mosque carrying small rolled up carpets.

Jolinda starts out towards the mosque.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 24):

Aoife goes with her, inviting the others to follow.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 25):

Sederic also follows along...

Ardenas as well.  "I wonder how these folk will react to Kalima?  She's very much not part of their way."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 27):

"Lets find out, shall we?"

She beckons for Kalima to follow them.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 28):

A pair of modestly dressed women hurridly cross to the other side of the street, making warding gestures as they go.

In reply to devout woman (msg # 29):

Aoife ignores them and continues...

Jolinda moves somewhat apart from the dodgy looking folk just in case no one will talk to them otherwise.

"Perhaps Kalima would do better to stand guard. We might do better by not having a four armed demigod following us around and scaring the folk that we need to get information from."

I will zdand wid her if'n ya like

"That might be well.  I don't know Muslim theology, but I recall they recognize only a single god."

Yeah bud lods o holy peoplez, I juz zay zhe iz a holy People.

In reply to Oly (msg # 35):

"Well, if they don't like her, they probably will not be keen on me either..."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 36):

"Not sure we should be splitting up though...we should stay pretty close in case things go wrong."

"I've got this!" exclaims Jolinda when they find the begger.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:58, Wed 12 Apr 2023.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 38):
"Alms, Alms in the name of the One!

In reply to beggar (msg # 39):

"Why do you deal with that liar? For years we gave charitably to him, for he said he was blind?, and it is obvious to all now that he can see."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:18, Wed 12 Apr 2023.

Having approached the begger Jolinda offers a wan smile to the devout man then focuses and he drops from her awareness
She says to the feloow asking for alms, "Hello, begger, I'm Jolinda. What's your name?"

After listening to any reply, assuming nothing untoward, she adds, "I do have something for you, but we will start with a short prayer, <beggar's name>." As shes cast the spell 'Aura' she gently and unthreateningly lays as two fingertips appropriately on the begger (shoulder or head). While she looks at him she has her professional, unthreateningly warm smile. It's a nice smile: it reaches her eyes, not the cold mouth-only smile of a politician..

======
OOC: 10:07, Today: Jolinda rolled 10 using 3d6.  Aura 15
-2FP for Jolinda

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 41):

"What did you do to me?"

he detects as non magical, not possessed,but is frightened.

Ardenas replies very quietly to the devout man: "We're here to find out what has recently happened to him.  We believe he may have been miraculously healed or come under some kind of spell -- which, of course, would not immediately give him a means of livelihood."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 43):

"It is true! I was blind for many years, and just a week ago my sight returned... and now I all I may plea is Alms, Alms for the Poor and Destitute, for the shadow is lifted and now I am merely underemployed. "

In reply to beggar (msg # 44):

"It is enough to drive the fellaheen from performing individual acts of charity and to fast instead!"

"So, you simply assume that when a miracle occurs, it is the culmination of a years-long fraud?  Would you feel the same if a beggar had managed to save his bits over all that time, perhaps getting one or two more a day than it cost him to eat and stay clothed, until he could purchase a spell from a healer to restore his eyesight?"

Ardenas turns to the beggar, his expression softening as he does so.  "Did the healing of your sight perhaps coincide with receiving a coin from a woman?"

"I was checking on your well-being," answers Jolinda truthfully. She looks puzzled then move back a pace or so.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 46):

"Now that you say it, I believe it to be so!"

The call to prayer begins from the minaret

"Excuse me, I must pray."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:59, Sun 16 Apr 2023.

In reply to beggar (msg # 48):

"At least he has that right. Salaam."
the man also unfurls his carpet to pray.

Ardenas looks around as many of those in sight lay down their rugs, face in the same direction, and begin their prayers.  As a non-believer, he remains standing, but goes quiet out of respect.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 50):

Aoife likewise stays quiet while they pray.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 51):

The prayers continue for a timee, and Kalima politely  stepsback and out of the field of vision of the prostrated worshipers.

Jolinds spends a little time wracking her brains for anything she may have read, been taught or otherwise heard of in relation to demons that fits the pattern of events displayed here.
When others step back she then utters prayers in her own mystical language: a prayer for Mage Sight. She then looks around to see if she can perceive any nearby magic, in particular on or near the begger.

======
OOC: 12:57, Today: Jolinda rolled 7 using 3d6.  Hidden Lore -Demons 14.
Succes, MoS 7

12:58, Today: Jolinda rolled 6 using 3d6.  Mage Sight 15
Success, MoS 9

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 53):

Demons apparently like the suffering and strife caused by acts of chaos, but more than that they like to see piety challenged by doubt.  The healing if this man's disadvantage has put him into a position where he is unskilled and no longer able to beg for sustenance and at the same time caused a number of religious folk to develop doubt or dislike for behaving charitably... none in the area appear possessed or ensorcelled, and whatever magics have affected the beggar are now finished...

When the praying comes to its natural conclusion Jolinda appraoches the begger and says, "I am Jolinda. What is your name, begger, and if I gained you an honest job, one with food and lodging, a job within your capabilities, would you work diligently at it?"

======
OOC: 23:33, Today: Jolinda rolled 10 using 3d6.  Detect Lies 12

Ardenas turns to Aoife and lowers his voice.  "I think the damage has already been done here -- we may be able to help this beggar, but there may be nothing we can do to restore the charitable nature of those who have felt duped by him after his sudden restoration."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 56):

"Perhaps, but not entirely. We can publicize what has happened, so at least people will understand that it is a recent event...but those that make the announcement should be religious leaders. We should find someone to speak to the mullahs here..."

"As if you were reading my mind," says Jolinda back over her shoulder.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:18, Fri 21 Apr 2023.

Ya, God heard his prayerz an healed 'im ... dad zhould dwizd da demonz planz again' 'em

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 55):

once the prayers are finished, the beggar responds
"All I know is how to beg. I  cannot read, I know no labor, and I am advanced in age. What work could I have?"

In reply to beggar (msg # 60):

as The fellaheen rise and gather their carpets, you notice several stopping to greet a robed man exiting the mosque.

"Sweeping floors," answers Jolinda. "Or would that be beneath you?"

Or Uzher at de demple

With Jolinda busy, Ardenas approaches the robed man, favoring him with a bow such as he would give a Master of his art.

"Please pardon an unbeliever, but I wish to speak to a leader of these people concerning yon formerly blind beggar."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 64):

"Hey, just because the floors are underneath you, that does not mean we should be too proud to keep them clean..."

Mancini has joined Ardenas in speaking with the religious leader.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 66):

"Peace of the One be upon you. I am the Imam of these people, a lowly servant of the blessed one.
What business do you followers of foreign gods have do do with the alms seeker?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 65):

"That does sound like honest labor."

"We have reason to believe that the recent healing of his blindness was part of a demonic plan.  We would not undo it, for it was a good deed, even if done with evil purpose, but we have heard that it has caused some to doubt the righteousness of giving alms, concerned that this beggar, and indeed others, may be putting on an appearance instead of truly being blind, halt, or maimed.

"We wish to assure your, uh, fellaheen that this man was truly blind and that his restoration was a miracle intended both to deprive him of his living and to deceive your people.  We are in the process of seeking the one who gave him the coin that carried his healing, along with others who had dealt with the same demons, hoping to overset the long term plan of those evil ones."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 69):

"Healed by demons? What manner of foolishness is this?
The servants of Al-Shatain do not do good works, although it would seem that much evil has come of this act.
We are a simple people, inlike those in the Cathedral who count demonspawn among their numbers...
and you travel with... this creature!"

Da Zervands a good come in a lodda zhapez

In reply to Oly (msg # 71):

"This Celestial fights demons. Does not your own beliefs regard good Celestials with respect?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 72):

the Imam makes a gesture and speaks a prayer.
"Apparently the four armed giantess is not Evil. Do go on please."

"She has been a good friend and a great help in our work.

"Is it not said that Shaitan's words and voice are sweet, even as his lies lead many astray?  Even so, might not demons encourage those they dupe to perform acts they see as good, so that evil may come of those acts?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 74):

"No truly good act can be performed by those who have truly forsaken the path of The Great One... another must have done this thing, and if you say the healing was performed by use of an object, such a thing must have been sacred, and stolen by the evil ones in order to fulfill these nefarious plans.
I heard you suggesting that the beggar might find honest work, and I agree.
There are simple labors even one of such advanced age might perform should he desire to be productive and earn his keep.
It is within my means to provide a place to bathe, and clean clothing that he might obtain such employment. "

occ: wven cheaply, this is about $75-$120 so not a small gift!
This message was last edited by the player at 16:22, Thu 27 Apr 2023.

"I will make sure that this gift is spent prudently for the betterment of the beggar. May you direct me to a merchant who can sell me clothing for the beggar that is keeping with your traditions."

Mancini bows respectfully. "May the Almighty bless you and your people."

14:28, Today: Mancini rolled 11 using 3d6.  Diplomacy

Jolinda smiles as the outcome is exactly as her initial intent. These are good people!

Ardenas once more favors the Imam with a bow fitting for the master of a dojo.

"You have my thanks.  Your goodness surely contributes toward the ultimate defeat of demonkind."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 78):

The Imam passes a small bag of coin to Mancini and directs you to a vendor who assembles a plain but serviceable set of crobes and panaloons, smallclothes and shoes and a fresh turban wrap.

you bring these things back to the Imam, who approves, and takes the bundle and leads the newly sighted beggar to take a much needed bath.

Ardenas watches the Imam lead the erstwhile beggar away.

"That went better than I'd have thought possible.  Now we can but hope the Imam's understanding passes to the fellaheen."

"He's their leader and they're his faithful. It will be fine," judges Jolinda. "Now, what or where or who next?"

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 81):

"Yes, hopefully have undone the evil and turned it to a good deed. Now, who is next on the list?"

Mancini opens the ledger and starts scrolling for something out of place...

Whad aboud da woman who dropped da coin? Did da begger zee her?

Mancini ponders. "Maybe this deed was her debt and she received something of value for doing that.  If so, something useful might be here in the ledger. While Jolinda and I look over the ledger for clues, would someone talk to the beggar and see if he remembers anything about the woman who dropped the enchanted coin?"

"I'll go see what I can find out."  Ardenas hurries off after the Imam and the old man.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 86):

"The woman who did the 'favor' of dropping the coin was named Marisol, and recieved a silver mirror..."

the Beggar only knew her voice, and had seen that she had red hair, and as he put it, "a broad foundation "
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:13, Wed 03 May 2023.

Red Hair iz nod zo common, dad zhould help.

Armed with this information, Mancini asks one of his contacts the whereabouts of any broad statured, red haired women named Marisol.

15:06, Today: Mancini rolled 9 using 3d6.  Contact (12).

Content with the way things are progressing Jolinda remains in the background, ready to help where needed but without need for limelight.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 90):

Aoife likewise leave delicate negotiations to those more skilled at it...

"That depends, Oly.  Harlots often dye their hair, and shades of red are popular with their clients because of their relative rarity.  Natural red hair occurs occasionally, too, especially among peoples who run to blond, like my parents and their ancestors."  He points to his own ginger curls.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 92):

Mancini learns that  a woman matching the description can be found at the Shady Lady

In reply to Narrator (msg # 93):

Assuming he passed this on, Sederic is ready to bravely lead the way...

Jolinda's similarly keen to accompany the band that head off to the Shady Lady

Oly just slips off into the flow of people to head to the Tavern mentioned.

Ardenas watches Oly slip away.

"Let's go, then.  I'm betting the mirror makes Marisol prettier -- or at least makes her think she's prettier."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 97):

"Hmmph. This concern about looks is mind numbing. Let's just hope it does not charm others or control them."

She joins the others in heading off...

In reply to Aoife (msg # 98):

the tavern in question is deorated with heavy dark drapes, lanterns with tinted glass and a few paintings of scantilly clad women.

the inkeeper looks a little garried, and there was a small sign outside that says
Help Wanted Inquire Within

Ardenas approaches the inkeeper.  "Pardon me, madam, and I'm sorry to add to your burden, but we're seeking a woman named Marisol.  We are willing to pay for her time, if she's available."

As Ardenas talks, Mancini flashes his coun purse.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 101):

"That one, erm, entertains only one visitor at a time. As it stands, she hasn't uh, recieved any callers for the better part of a week. if you se her,she owed money for her room."

"Might we examine the room? Perhaps in return for a donation towards the monies owed for the romm?"

"For what it's worth, we're here on our business, not hers."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 104):

"If I wanted to see her, where could I find her?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 104):

"Three silvers, and its at the top of the stairs, third on the left.  I can't keep up with this place since Val left with that miscreant."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:30, Sat 06 May 2023.

Three silvers almost magically appear on the bar in front of her, only those who were watching the bar saw Oly's hand slip them down.

Mancini sticks around, asking the lady of the night if she could part with any additional information about Marisol, in exchange for coin.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 108):

Sederic gives Oly a sly look.

"Beat me to it..."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 108):

the shadow elf inkeeper tucks the coins away almost as quickly as they appeared, and shales her head.
" I make a point of not speaking on any of my customers unless they owe me, and if they owe me, they aren't. my customers. You pay up, I shut up."

Zhe zdill owez you, I don', bud I'd like zum informazun on her.

In reply to Oly (msg # 111):

"This place stays afloat because I stay bought... check the room is all I can say."

"How much for me to become a silent partner in your establishment?" Mancini says in a lowered voice.

Raising his voice slightly and with a respectful bow, "Name is Mancini, a person of means and highly connected with the Guild."

Lowering his voice once more, he added, " Having a partner such as myself could be mutually beneficial. I know many of the men could use some, um, relaxation after adventuring, and telling a business partner some gossip on one of your girls wouldn't exactly be doing anything wrong."

Oly nods   Need a Key?

With the answer, he'll head up to the room indicated. He'll use the key or his lock picks to open the door after checking for traps.
Then he will carefully and methodically search the room.

In reply to Oly (msg # 114):

Sederic will accompany him.

"So apart from owing you money and not being here just niow, was there anything else you noticed about the woman that might be considered unusual?" Jolinda asks Sharrylla.

"I respect those with principles, madam.  I hope we find what we need to know, but I will not press you further."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 117):

"Wait, you said you only talk about folk who owe you money... doesn't she owe you money?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 118):

the shadow elf nods to Ardenas and glares momentarily at the leprechaun.

She turns to Mancini.
"Be about a 5k buy in, save you from having to pay for a room. point in income too."

In reply to Sharrylla the Shady Lady (msg # 119):

Noting the glare, she responds

"What have I said wrong? Did I misunderstand something?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:26, Thu 11 May 2023.

"Aoife, she already said she'd do no more than let us look in the room.  Let's not push her further.  In fact, let's follow Oly upstairs and let Mancini carry on his negotiation."

Good as his word, Ardenas turns toward the stairs and starts up.

Mancini attempts to haggle a lower price.

23:40, Today: Mancini rolled 14 using 3d6. Merchant (16).

In reply to Mancini (msg # 122):

occ mancini can buy in a 50% share for $4500, and can add up to 2 points of passive income.

the rest of you head up the stairs, which do not creak, nor do the floorboards.

the second room on the left is locked, with a deadbolt from within (customers are encouraged to bring their own locks)

"We're after the third on the left, are we not?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 124):

sorry same setup...door opens outward

"So Miss Marisol is either in the room, or left by another route.  I may be able to defeat this lock by magic -- you've seen me do that, Oly -- but that doesn't always work.  Oly, how fast do you think you could climb from outside to the room's window?  Do we even know if these rooms have windows?"

Mancini agrees to terms and makes payment arrangements with the elf.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 127):

"It is a pleasure doing business with you... feel free to make any modifications to the place you want, like rearranging the doors if need be."

To my knowledge Oly opened the door ... he may have closed it again to avoid everyone stirring up the evidence.

See Msg 114

With the deal concluded, Mancini goes up to check on the rest of the crew. If Only has not opened the door, Mancini will order the door removed.

In reply to Oly (msg # 129):

something stirs inside the room, which is a bit musty

In reply to Narrator (msg # 131):

Fine, Has Oly managed to move the bar/lift the lock?

In reply to Oly (msg # 132):

the door has a deadbolt inside with a padlock holding it in place. you may need to remove the hinges

Are they on the outside? If so, Oly get's to work. Hammering with a piece of cloth/leather between the hammer and the drift to deaden the sound.

If not, we go for the window idea.

Jokinda lurks, keeping watch at the end of the little hallway.

In reply to Oly (msg # 134):

Aoife, being small, suggests she head to the window outside...but she asks for help to make sure she gets the right one...

In reply to Aoife (msg # 136):

Sederic stands guard...

"With one window over the stairs so they don't need lamps during the day, you'd want the fourth window from the front on the second floor.  Jolinda, why don't you go with her, in case she needs a boost or an extra pair of hands?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 138):

"Actually, hold that thought for a minute...let me take a peek under the door first..."

She casts a spell,, then seems to melt into a pool oof iicky green slime, which starts to ooze toward the door!

"Good idea," Jolinda replies with a nod.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:00, Mon 15 May 2023.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 139):

your slimness can see a candlelit room with a figure hunched ovr a table

In reply to Narrator (msg # 141):

Has the figure seen me? Is it aggressive?

In reply to Aoife (msg # 142):

the figure seems to be miving a bit but you are behind it and on the floor looking almost straight up- it will require a change of form to see more.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 143):

How far away is it?

In reply to Aoife (msg # 144):

you are in a small bedroom, one that probably is four yards by three

In reply to Narrator (msg # 145):

And how far away is the individual?

In reply to Aoife (msg # 146):
as a puddle of slime 2 feet accross by about 1/2" thick and with upwards facing eyes it is a little difficult to gage;
the room has a bed and to your right a table and chair, they are sitting with their back to you.

this puts them two yards from the door.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 147):

Can Aoife slime up the door one lift the bolt?

In reply to Aoife (msg # 148):

ok reviewing the body of slime spell, you can raise up and try for the bolt, but you see a lock on the deadbolt.

a voice from behind you says "What is that awful smell?"

He gets to the window after a short climb and looks in carefully hoping not to be noticed.

In reply to Oly (msg # 150):

Oly  can see through the slats of the shutters - a redhaired woman turning from the table she is sitting at the look at a short pile of festering slime.

she screams! "What is that thing?"

This message was deleted by the player at 19:26, Sun 21 May 2023.

Assuming Mancini wasn't really able to push through the locked door.

He tries the window to see if it will open.
If not discovered and the window opens, he will open it and slip inside.
If the window is locked, he'll look at how, so he can unlock it.
If discovered, he'll say  I kin ged id fer you adding Open da window zo I kin ged id. if he can't easily open the window.

Ooc: sorry misread. Will delete.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 154):

Aoife resumes her natural state.

"Not a thing...a person. Now be nice and open the door. You have guests..."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 155):

the woman, who you can see now was an attractive one but looks like she might do fir  meal and a bath, clutches at something on the table (again, Aoife is about 2 foot tall).

Olly can see that the shutters are openable but pinned- a lockpick roll at -2should remove the pin in the bolt.
(picture the securing pin to the latch on the walk-in freezer in the shining, only with louvered shutters instead of a door.

He fumbles the first try, takes a deep breathe and tries again.

In reply to Oly (msg # 157):

Can Aoife reach the bolt? If not, is there anything to stand on?

In reply to Oly (msg # 157):

Aoife is too short to reach the loking bar of the window, and the door has a padlock...

Oly manags to loosen the pin.

He will try to quietly open the shutters, aware that it will bring in more light, and get inside.

Jolinda lurs quiestly, biding her time to be useful.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 161):

Aoife thinks to summon help, but decides against it.

"Excuse me, what have I done that you ignore me? What are you doing locked in here alone?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 162):

"What are you and why are you in my room?"

In reply to Marisol (msg # 163):

"I am a leprechaun and we are here because people are concerned and wanted to know what happened to you. Do you still take guests?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 164):

"If I was receiving guests I would not have locked my door!"

Has Oly made it in Yet?

In reply to Oly (msg # 166):

Oly slips the pin and opens the shutters

In reply to Narrator (msg # 167):

"Why are you not receiving guests? I have heard you have not been receiving guests for quite a while..."

Oly slips in trying not to let in any more light than he has to and usinghis body to block the light.

In reply to Aoife (msg # 168):

"I put a lock on my door so as not to receive guests! Get out of my room!"

Oly pulls the shutters closed behind himself and looks around the room as his eyes adjust. Marisol doesn't look too bad, given her 'rode hard and put up wet' life style.

In reply to Oly (msg # 171):

Noticing the hooded man's presence, the woman pales, and backs up to the table, where she reaches for something.

Can Ardenas hear enough of the conversation inside the room to get the sense of it?

Relax, I came do check on you and now perhapz do prodecd Aoife. No one meanz you any harm.
Bezidez, yer kinda cude.

In reply to Oly (msg # 174):

Noting she was no longer alone, Aoife smiles.

"No need to be rude. Rudeness upsets people. You have been keeping folk out and not paying your bills. Now we know you visited an odd shop and bought something unusual. We want to know what you bought, and what you paid for it."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 175):

"Get out of my room! I have important things to do!"
she clutches a silver mirror to her chest.


Ardenas can hear this shriek from outside in the hall.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 17:04, Tue 06 June 2023.

Mancini goes upstairs to check on things ...

Ardenas begins to concentrate, taking a ready pose for a powerful punch.

Oh, I will nod even dudch your mirror, I promize, but led me led Aiofe oud o'da door. Id iz da mirror we came do azk aboud.

He moves to the door and while keeping an eye on Marisol, he looks at the lock to see if a quick rap might open it or if he'll need to use picks ... or maybe just twist and break it is it s a cheap one.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:59, Tue 06 June 2023.

In reply to Marisol (msg # 176):

"That is not going to happen nicely. Now either we talk, or I start to get angry. You don't want that, because when I get angry, other people do the useless shouting..."

She clicks her fingers, and bees start swarming around her!

In reply to Aoife (msg # 180):

the lock on the deadbolt is a cheap one

 the woman  screams

Olygives it a firm twist and pull to see if it will pop.

In reply to Oly (msg # 182):

As Ardenas powers up, he can hear a snapping sound on the door and the clatter of a lock strikingly the ground.

Does jolinda hear a woman scream?

"Oh."  Hearing activity behind the door other than Marisol's shouts and scream, Ardenas drops his concentration and resumes a relaxed stance, looking expectantly at the door.

He clears the latch so it will open and then unlatches it and opens the door.

In reply to Oly (msg # 186):

"Now that I have your attention, perhaps you need to start co-operating, or the bees and I might get angry...and give you reason to scream. We know you have been dealing with demons...now tell us what you agreed to do for them."

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 184):

yes Jolinda heard a woman scream.
Oly pulls open the door and you hear whimpering and the angry buzz of bees.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 188):

Does she start to co-operate?

Aoife, give her a chance do dink, dis az been purty quick an all.

"Indeed, let's at least give her a chance to cooperate.

"Miss Marisol, I presume?  Please excuse my hotheaded little friend.  We're working against the demons who backed the shop where you got your mirror, trying to prevent them, well, unbalancing the universe."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 191):

Aoife sighs.

"You are all too soft. The bees have not started even swarming to her...yet. Fine...I will give her a chance to co-operate."

She keeps the bees behind her...

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 191):

at the name of the item, the woman peers into the hand mirror and smiles.
"I still don't understand what you are doinh in my room or why there are bees. You can't take my mirror. I  am ugly without it."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 16:36, Fri 09 June 2023.

Join da crowd... zafer dan damnazuhn.

"From what I've heard, you're very wrong in that respect -- word is you were plenty attractive before you got that.  What I do see, however, is a powerful fixation -- as if you can't stand not to look at yourself in the mirror.  I've seen that kind of fixation for drugs like opium, and for another person.  It doesn't end well.

"Already you've locked yourself in here, stopped pursuing your livelihood, stopped paying your expenses.  How long until Sharylla has your door broken down and tosses you out on the street for what you owe, or until you're too weak from thirst or hunger to even lift the mirror?"

In reply to Marisol (msg # 193):

"Ha! You don't understand beauty or ugliness then! It is a perception, and like all perceptions, it differs between any individuals. There will be someone who finds you the most beautiful person in the world, but to be honest, if you don't accept that yourself, you will not accept anyone who thinks you are beautiful. Fix your mind, and throw away the mirror! Only you can do that, and the mirror does not help!"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 196):

"You don't understand  I look so much better,here, look"
she extends the mirror in a way that she can see her reflection but so that Oly can see his reflection if he looks.

"I would advise against looking in it, anyone. Whether it be truth or merely a delusion dreamt up by a demon, it is slavery. Jolinda, do you remember the tale of the man who looked into the river and saw his own reflection?"

OOC: I'm referring to the tale of Narcissus.
This message was last updated by the player at 23:05, Fri 09 June 2023.

Jolinda heads up the stairs. "Someone called for me?" She looks at Ales, "Oh, it's you, Ales. Right, yes, of course I know the tale of Narcissus. He's known by other names in other cultures too. Reputedly the son of a river god and a nymph. There are other attributions."

======
OOC: 21:50, Today: Jolinda rolled 9 using 3d6.  Hidden Lore (Demons) 14

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 199):

Oly make a dodge roll to avert your eyes!

"Yes that's the one. In various tellings, it is either a punishment or a curse put upon the gods. I would agree that that mirror has been more of a curse to you than a boon, Marisol. You locked yourself up in your room and are slowly wasting away to nothing obsessed with your reflection, just like Narcissus of old. Except you're doing it for the amusement of a few bored demons."

Um, no....


13:37, Today: Oly rolled 17 using 3d6.  Dodge.

In reply to Oly (msg # 202):

Unable to avert his eyes, Oly can see himself in the mirror beside a more stunning Marisol.
The Oly he sees has even teeth, and no harelip, and is quite handsome. He has not seen himself like this before, except in dreams.

Make a will roll.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 203):

Aoife suspects trouble while the mirror is visible. She has the swarm land all over the mirror, stinging any who try to remove them.

"I think we have seen enough of that!"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 204):

the bees all turn to face the mirror... and fly at it as if trying to enter it, dashing themselves against the reflective surface.

Marisol tries to shake them off.

Oly, make a will roll

Jolinda utters a short prayer to Minerva as she looks at the rear (or side) of the mirror.

======
OOC: 17:59, Today: Jolinda rolled 9 using 3d6.  Mage Sight 15.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 206):

The Mirror is most definitely magical in nature, as are the bees and to a lesser extent, Oly and Marisol.

She looks harder at the mirror.

======
OOC: The Mage Sight spell, RAW, shows the aura of a magical item. Is that like its college? Or good/evil? or..?

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 208):

It was a good, but not great roll.  There is enchantment, illusion, and some degree of mind control. but you aren't quite sure of what

In reply to Narrator (msg # 209):

Aoife will have the entire swarm cover the mirror, trying to direct them not to enter it and to sting Marisol's hand a little so she drops it.

Jolinda says, "The mirror is magical, enchanted, and has powers of illusion and mind control. Something else too that is beyond me."

"No real surprises there, then.  It's probably nearly indestructible as well -- what would be the point of turning something like that loose in the world only to have it broken if someone drops it?"

"The loss to those ensnared perhaps," speculates Jolinda. "Try. Hit it from the rear. Hopefully not hurting any bees."

"Marisol, Marisol", Mancini said, his voice changing into one that was both soothing and lyicsl. "You don't really need that mirror, do you? You just want to free yourself of the burden of the mirror..."

11:49, Today: Mancini rolled 13 using 3d6.  Voice based Hypnosis 9 .

In reply to Narrator (msg # 203):

He pulls himself away, Dad iz nod how udderz zee uz.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:21, Mon 12 June 2023.

In reply to Oly (msg # 215):

Marisol, while probably in need of a bath and a little hydration, is an  attractive and well founded woman.

she appears to still be in the thrall of the mirror, even with the bees... their buzzing partially drones out Mancini's soft words.

she drops the mirror to the table, and looks aghast at her  swelling hand.
"Ow! What have you done?"

she reaches to brush away the bees and is stung...
This message was last edited by the player at 13:09, Tue 13 June 2023.

Yu iz an addracdive woman, Marisol, ya don' need da mirror. Aoife, jus keep da beez on da mirror pleeze

Ardenas spends a moment patting himself down, then frowns.

In reply to Oly (msg # 217):

Aoife moves to take the mirror, turning it to the ground as she moves it away, the bees still covering it and protecting her as she does so.

"Just what is necessary. You should thank me later..."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 219):

"What is going on? I don't understand and my hand hurts."
she glances at Oly.

In reply to Marisol (msg # 220):

"The mirror is controlling you, causing you to not look after yourself. We need to break its control over you, so you can think properly again."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 221):

bewildered, the woman looks around her.
"Don't look at me, I am hideous!"

"You are far from hideous.  To anyone who fancies redheads, including myself, you're very fetching -- but you're still under the influence of that cursed mirror.  Let us take it away to be destroyed, and heal your hand, and you'll soon feel yourself again."  Ardenas crosses his fingers -- the human ones -- behind his back, hoping he hasn't spun a falsehood.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 223):

"Like I said, beauty is in the mind of the beholder. if you think you are hideous, you need to change your thinking, not the mirror!"

She takes it and puts it in her pack.

I'll help you  bezd I can... You iz very good lookin'.

"Norman, fetch me a mirror. One hopefully not enchanted by demon magic."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 226):

"There was one down bybthe bar. I'll grab that."

In reply to Norman (msg # 227):

"I'll say. Very much my type!"

Jolinda happily plays wall flower.

Once Norman returns with the mirror, Mancini places it in front of Marisol. "If you don't believe Oly or Sederic, take a look for yourself. You are a very attractive woman, Marisol. Your madam wouldn't keep you in her employ if you were not."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 230):

"Great goddess! what happened to my hair? Oh I feel weak."

He gives Norman several coins (about $25 in value) and tells him to go fetch Marisol some food and drink.

"Marisol, love, while you've been staring into the demon mirror, you have neglected yourself. Luckily, we came in time. My aide is fetching you food and drink, and in time, your strength will return."

H

In reply to Mancini (msg # 232):

Normal returns shortly with provender, a platter with a trenchervof stew and a pitcher of thin ale.

Oly looks about, sure that a woman would have a comb and likely a brush as well.
If he sees them, he takes them to Marisol and hands them to her, he'll hold the mirror for her if need be.

In reply to Oly (msg # 234):

"My dear, you need to worry less about the image! What good are looks if they are not used?"

He approaches her and takes her hand gently, trying to get her eyes to meet his...

"Take that mirror away!" Ardenas whispers to Oly.

"Take care of your inner self first, as Master Albrecht would say.  I'd guess you haven't eaten or even taken a drink in days; you need food and drink and possibly sleep before anything else."

Oly Palms the mirror and slips it into a hidden pocket.

Is Oly trying to get the bee-covered mirror from Aoife? if so then your roll should be for pickpocket, but there are issues with the bees.


Jolinda suspects that perhaps any further intervention ought not be made by any of the room invaders or leering males at this point.

After he sees that food has arrived, Mancini announces his leave. "If you need my assistance, I'll be downstairs."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 239):
"I see that you got the door open.  Are we going to have her vacate or pay her debt?"

In reply to Sharrylla the Shady Lady (msg # 240):

Sederic will leave when it is suggested.

"How much is her debt?"

In reply to Narrator (msg # 238):

If Aoife has it, I will not bother her or the mirror.

Jolinda says, "Ok, folks, are we done here? I think we've intervened enough here."

In reply to Sharrylla the Shady Lady (msg # 240):


"I think she'll be back to work in no time. It seems she was obsessing over her reflection in a mirror laced with demonic magic. Why they wanted to cause chaos here seems out of character for demons..."

"What still remains on Marisol's tab?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 244):

"She owes two weeks upkeep, call it $200 since she hasn't been taking her meals. I don't question people's personal business, but unless the demon is paying rent it can go."

Jolinda looks at the Shady Lady intently as she cites $200 is owed.

======
OOC: Detect Lies, success, MoS 7
Was it about $200 ?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:43, Thu 22 June 2023.

In reply to Sharrylla the Shady Lady (msg # 245):

Sederic hands her the $200.

"She may need some time to recover...but the source of the problems is gone."

OOC: Ardenas was referring to the ordinary mirror Norman had brought from downstairs, not the bee-covered cursed one.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 248):

two weks of room and board is around 300, so 200 for just the room seems roughly correct.

the mirror that Norman brought from the bar is about 1'x2'and heavily framed.
the magic mirror is a hand mirror in a silver frame about a foot long with an oval reflective surface that is 4"×6".
Aoife has it (and the bees) tucked away, but until she dispells them, the bees (a swarm) cover and surround her...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 249):

To bee or not to bee, that is the question...Aoife will keep her little friends for now...

"Is it time to move on?" asks Jolinda. "Or is there more to do here?"

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 251):
npc'd

"You have retrieved the cursed item, and rescued the victim (and hit on her) which is maybe not so great, and made some arrangements for the other affected person to engage in honest work... All we need to do is cash in or destroy the artifact."

"Actually getting paid would be a good thing," proposes Jolinda.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:24, Fri 30 June 2023.

In reply to Sederic (msg # 247):

the dark haired shadow elf shrugs.
"You pay, she pays, it is all the same. Now her business is no nes but her own as long as she keeps up with her tab. If you'll excuse me, I need toget a keg from downstairs."

In reply to Sharrylla the Shady Lady (msg # 254):

"I cant help but wonder if the item might have been useful for that errant knight running around...perhaps we might find it useful in the future."

She will keep it in her pack, but stop maintaining the bees...

In reply to Aoife (msg # 255):

"What's next boss?"

"We can either search the ledger for another client or try and sell this mirror to the Haedereum. What does the group want to do?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 257):

"Search the ledger. We can sell the mirror later...if it is not used."

"I believe I'd be more comfortable turning it over to the Hadereum.  They seem better equipped to keep it from causing more trouble.  I also doubt it would have helped in dealing with that warrior; it seems to appeal primarily to the hidden vanity in most of us, the desire to be more beautiful than we are.  That fellow seemed to be well beyond caring about that."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 259):

"I am not so sure. Most of those to whom that shop appealed thought pretty highly of themselves, and I suspect the warrior would have been one of them..."

"I don't agree.  I think the common factor is feeling there's something missing.  The little boy just wanted a bouncy ball, and he was willing to pull his sister's pigtails to get one.  The printer's devil only needed access to writings that matched his ideas.  Du Fontaine needed to be listened to instead of talked over.

"On that basis, I'd say most likely Marisol here felt she needed to be even more attractive, and the knight felt the need to feel untouchable.  Her bait wouldn't work to trap him, and vice versa."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 261):

"Perhaps you are right. Let us keep it hidden, face down in my bag, for a little just to see if it may yet prove useful in avoiding violence in future. We can always sell it at a later date if you are correct."

"So it seems we are leaning towards going ahead with the next name on the list..."

Mancini opens up the ledger and scans until he sees another oddity in the accounts.

12:56, Today: Mancini rolled 13 using 3d6.  merchant (16)-- notice discrepancies

In reply to Mancini (msg # 263):

npc'd
"Got another 'favor' this one  looks to involve replacing a roof tile... and there are multiple lists of the same favor, with different uh, clients."

"How many?  Enough to amount to a whole new roof, or just to fix a leaky one?  Are they all the same roof, do you suppose?  It'd make sense, but how much sense did it make to trap a woman with a lying mirror after she ruined someone's livelihood as a beggar?"

Mancini ponders the situation for a moment. "Could the demon shop have made the same deal with multiple people? If it's related people making the requests (like a poor widow's children, for example) all asking for the same favor, and the demon shop grants the request, how would they all know that someone else made the same request? In that way, this shop could gather many souls and cause great chaos with a single favor.  After all, no one is going to go around and say openly that they made a deal with a devil. Most people will think you unwell."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 265):

"What details are given? Can we cross-reference all those entries?"

In reply to Aoife (msg # 267):

"There are ten different entries for this task, all in different locations. we man need to get a proper mam of the city from the Hadereum to plot this.... there are also a couple of requests to remove a roof tile, in exchange for something. I am not sure if those are related to the tile placements... and the tiles were provided by the shop it would  seem."

"I'll go ask the devil spawn, I mean, Haedereum for the map of the city. Once we have these favors plotted maybe we can have a clearer view of the shop's goal in this set of favors and I can know what information I need to ask from my contacts."

Mancini heads to the Haedereum.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 269):

"Can I help you?

"Honored Acolyte Flavius, I come to ask for your assistance once again. Our crew is need of an accurate map of Northport."

14:42, Today: Mancini rolled 12 using 3d6.  Diplomacy 16.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 271):

"That will cost you $50. are you tracking something interesting? "

Jolinda offers, "Yes, and for a discount we'll tell you all about it."
She doesn't really care about the money, certainly not such a triffling amount, but she finds the money-grubbing by the priest somewhat annoying.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 273):

as servants of the god of wealth and earth as well as death, the Plutocrats are by definition  money grubbing.

======
OOC: Ha!

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 275):

Sounds like most politicians to me...
This message was last updated by the player at 06:30, Fri 07 July 2023.

"Perhaps if Pluto would be so inclined to allow you to give us a rebate on account of all the work we are doing on behalf of the Haedereum, we might be inclined to tell you why we need a map of the city."

13:40, Today: Mancini rolled 12 using 3d6.  merchant (16)--- get a better price on the map.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 277):

"What I can do is get you a better quality of map for that price."

"By better quality, what are you exactly meaning?"

15:36, Today: Mancini rolled 15 using 3d6.  merchant (16)-- haggling .

Ardenas, never known for his talent at this kind of thing, follows the thread of conversation, his head swiveling back and forth like watching a rat between two tethered terriers.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 280):

Aoife also lets them do their thing...

Oly eyes the Acolyte's purse.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 279):

the acolyte pulls a small scroll from a rack and unfurls it, showing a minimally detailed map of the city, barely useful as to your needs.

Then he pulls out oune twice the size an highly detailed.
"This one was just retired, you can see this drawn over area in redlight where the new park was built over the area where the treet collapsed. Usually this would go for $200, but as it has just been recopied, I  can let you have it for the price you mentioned. "
This message was last edited by the player at 20:04, Sun 09 July 2023.

This hooks Ardenas's attention.  Detailed and up to date.  He nods, and then catches himself.

Mancini nods his approval. He has Norman pay Acolyte Flavius out of Mancini's coin purse.

"Pluto be thanked," Mancini said, politely bowing and collecting the updated map.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 285):

Aoife wonders what the catch is, but says nothing...

"So then, where next?" prompts Jolinda.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 287):

"We head back to the new base, lay out the map and cross reference the map with the locations of the tile replacement favors from the ledger, and see what comes of it."

"Good to have a plan!" Jolinda replies. "Let's be about it then!"
This message was last edited by the player at 09:16, Wed 12 July 2023.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 289):

"Agreed. Lets get some action then!"

"That sounds good to me."

"Well let's be about it..."

In reply to Mancini (msg # 292):

Benny takes out a small sewing kit from a pouch after smoothing out the map, which nearly covers the table.

"Let's see, here is the first tile replacement request, and marks the building with a pin."

Mancini seems to recall some information about that location.

17:22, Today: Mancini rolled 11 using 3d6.  Area knowledge Northport 15.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 294):

it is a spot in the  western portion of the Artisanal district, where a goblin engraver works. thefavor in this case was to remove two roof tiles and replace hem with only one provided, apparently leaving a leaky roof.

"That sounds weird," reflects Jolinda. "Let's go have a look."

"Wait, Jolinda, let's not run ahead of ourselves.  Let's get the rest of the roof tile locations and what was done at each first -- there may be a pattern of some kind.

"So far, we just have one goblin artisan with a presumed leaky roof as well as a tile that came from the demon shop."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:47, Wed 12 July 2023.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 297):

"Yes, lets map them all first."

In reply to Aoife (msg # 298):

"There are several more here, let me mark a pin in each one... hmmm didn't see that before, a contract marker. No location though."

As he places the pins, a rough circle or pair of circles form... well not quite circular , but they could be...

In reply to Benny Morales (msg # 299):

"We could ask the building occupants who did the work...as well as buy a few tiles to replace the old ones so we can take the old ones and investigate them."

"We might also want to hire someone who actually knows how to replace a roof tile so the roof doesn't leak afterward.  The only time I've been on a roof I was running across it."

"There might be someone I can trust that works at the Guild who can tell me where to find a non-demon shop beholden roofer."

Mancini nods at Norman to go find out from their usual contact.

11:18, Today: Mancini rolled 8 using 3d6.  Contact (12)

"Good idea!" encourages Jolinda. "Nice to have friends in high places." She looks up to the rooftops.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:12, Thu 13 July 2023.

"Oh, I can pretty easily get to a high place -- but I wouldn't know how to replace a roof tile once up there."

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 304):

npc'd
"I doubt that any of the folks living under these rooves were aware of the tile placement requests, it just seems like the shop wanted the tiles placed in those locations."

Norman returns with a laborer named Ronnhie, who seems confused by the summons.

I've knocked a few off in my dime

In reply to Benny Morales (msg # 305):

"What can I help you with?"

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 304):

"We are looking to have some roof tiles swapped out. It seems they were placed there without the occupants knowing, and we want to try to work out why."

On the map, what is at the centre of the circle/shape?

In reply to Aoife (msg # 308):

the center of the shape seems to be on the edge of the Merchants and Artisanal districts.

Benny undoes the thread wrapped arond the outer andbinner perimeter and starts to tie threads in the order that the favors were requested.

"Ronnie, what would your going rate be for the task we've requested?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 310):

"I work for $30 a day. make that $40 if trolls are involved. "

"I doubt any trolls will be involved, but I understand you need to be compensated for such a risk. Any chance you would be willing to lower your fee?"

13:49, Today: Mancini rolled 7 using 3d6.  merchant (16)-- haggling

In reply to Mancini (msg # 312):

"If someone else carries thenladder, I could work for $25 if there isn't much lifting."

In reply to Ronhnie (msg # 313):

"I can help with the ladder...but I assume you have the ladder?"

"Then it seems we have an arrangement."

He turns to Benny. "Where's the first location?"

In reply to Mancini (msg # 315):

npc'd
"In order of listing, dockside, corner of Rue de Valle and the way of the  Net menders....it is a warehouse for a rope vendor.  If you don't ming I am going to stay with the map... I want to untangle the pattern."

"An excellent idea, Benny. Jolinda, do you think Minerva's wisdom could aid in unraveling the pattern, or would you like to help examine the tiles? Either way, you would be a great assistance..."

"Let's start with the tiles. I'm sure I could help with the map if Benny gets stuck with it but I prefer the more active role. I've been attentive all along Just quiet as I didn't see an opportunity to be useful and there's no point in just making noise. That's unhelpful at best and can be annoying," replies Jolinda.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:18, Sun 23 July 2023.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 318):

indeed. trying to let npcs do off camera stuff and get the pcs active , not splitting the players.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 319):

except for Benny, you head with Ronhnie to
the first stop on the map, where he mounts the ladder and climbs onto the tiled roof.

"What am I looking for?"

In reply to Ronhnie (msg # 320):

Aoife goes up the ladder with him. Her light frame should present no problems for the roof.

"We are looking for a tile that does not belong, or is different."

Can she see any distinct tiles, perhaps one with a rune?

In reply to Aoife (msg # 321):

make a per roll!

Aoife is generally pretty perceptive...

In reply to Aoife (msg # 323):

in the ids of hundred year Old tiles you spot onevthat looks fresh. once you have pointed itvout, Ronhnie deftly pries it out without knocking off any other tiles.

If shown the tile Jolinda eyes it for magicality.

When Jolinda finishes her examination, Mancini flips the tile over and marks it with a small number 1 and hands it to Norman to put it into his bag.

In reply to Mancini (msg # 326):

Sederic hand Ronnie one of the replacement tiles.

Ardenas cocks an eyebrow as Sederic hands the tile over.

"Wait.  Jolinda, would you examine this one too, to be sure we haven't been tricked into replacing bad with worse?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:40, Sat 05 Aug 2023.

She smiles, "Glad to be of service," and does so.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:14, Sat 05 Aug 2023.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 329):

What method are we using? the terra cota tiles that Sederic has all seem ordinary, although the one Ronhnie retrieved has a rube cut into it.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 330):

(Doesn't Power Investiture show the presence of magic like Magery does?)

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 331):

Sederic will use his own ability to detect magic as well...

OOC: M77 doesn't say anything about this "passive" detection, compared to Magery, for which a GM "Sense" roll is explicitly call out (M66).  Surely possible DFRPG has changed this, but DF (the multiple PDF books) hadn't, AFAIK.

In reply to Ardenas Barehand (msg # 333):

pI lets you detect levels of sanctity as magery does with mana levels, but does not have that 5pt "second sight" advantage that is magery 0.

a hidden lore: magical writings may work, or occultism-2

OOC: Neither of those. Just keep going, it's fine.

In reply to Jolinda (msg # 335):
you gather the tile and head off to the next location