Uzai lies before you, all black marble buildings and white stone streets. It's a very wealthy place and prices are ludicrous compared to what you're used to, but at least the quality is better too. By the time you arrive it is but early afternoon and Loden manages to haggle for an inn whose price is only slightly strangling.

The inn itself is called The Kicking Rabbit and has seen better days but at least seems mostly clean. Raina immediately sets down her things and heads for the library, bent on clearing up this Tanzy business as soon as possible, which is a relief for more than one of you. In the meantime you may do as you wish. The tavern is filled with the lunch rush of patrons, all bustling and laughing, and there are shops a plenty to be found as well. Halek, wide eyed and nervous in such places, sticks close to Raknesh, though Loden seems quite at home in such environs.

ooc: Ok, there's a lot of places you can go. There's the town square where there's carts and shops and an enormous fountain that people like to splash in. There's the library of course, several taverns and the like, restaurants, and apparently a school for bards is located here too! They are known to litter the city, selling songs and stories for cheap. So everyone let me know where you want to go and for time's sake please roll spots, listens, and gather information so I have them at the ready should I need them :)

Bryon and Ulthol go to the town square. She had fun splashing in the fountain and then...shopping!

While shopping Bryon uses detect magic.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:21, Wed 23 Oct 2019.

Tanzy will do some exploring of her own but offers to meet Raina at the library later in the day.
Search:18
Listen:15
Spot:7
Gather info:26
This message was last edited by the player at 22:03, Wed 23 Oct 2019.

Prizzard seeks first a magical authority, particularly a divination specialist. A grand city such as this should have one. I'll move my various business here to a PM

Raknesh sent Rocky for a quick scouting fly around the town, just in case, while staying close enough to be heard and called if needed.

He will go to the bardic school. As they are known to be able to keep themselves up to date with the world's events.  If something noteworthy happened, they probably will know about it.

Bryon: Hand in hand with Ulthol, you are having a wonderful time already! There are so many shops about with sweets and clothes and jewelry and shoes and books and just about everything else you could wish to look at. You do find a few sources of magic when you try to detect it. One, is a weaponsmith who seems to have quite a collection but the prices are staggering. The other, is a woman selling random items from a dingy looking cart. She is rather dirty and worn looking and the things she's selling don't look in particularly good condition either, but you can tell there's strong magic coming from something on her cart. Should you investigate you find it is a rusty little hand bell of all things.


Tanzy: You have always felt most at home within a city, and now, finally back into the world of the living, it's all the more relieving to be in such a place. It's also nice to finally have a bit of solitude. You rarely get it these days, though Perkins accompanies you if you'll have him. Somehow, he doesn't count. He's a frog.
You look all about, very enticed by several shops though the prices give you pause. Of course, there's the five fingered discount you're so fond of, if you think you can get away with it. Meanwhile, you are able to gather some general information. It is a very good year for crops. Twice the number of babies are being born lately, and then, your blood freezes as you hear something else. In the neighboring kingdom of Yvayne, Lord Greystone is finally taking a bride. Lady Tala Vistar. Your mother. You don't know what grates you more, that she's actually marrying him or that she's gone back to her maiden name, doffing your father's surname. All the folk are quite excited as there is supposed to be many a festival for the lord's nuptials. It's only a day and a half ride to the land so many speak of going there for holiday.

Raknesh:

The bardic school impresses you. It's clearly very expensive and something tells you only the wealthiest students can afford the place but then with such an impressive education they are like to do well in the world. You can already hear music as you enter, a young woman's beautiful and clear lilt coming from down a hallway, though it's often interrupted with the bellows of a man yelling at her to do better. Halek accompanies you if you'll have him, and he looks irritable at such a lovely voice being constantly scolded. You can tell it irks him.

When you ask for news, a scrawny stick of a young man eagerly tells you he'll tell you all, for a price of one silver piece. Should you indulge him he spouts some awful rhyme about how many more babies are being born as of late that you're pretty sure borders enough on a dirty limerick that you interrupt him for the last part. After all, whatever rhymed with keenness couldn't be good for the boy's innocent ears. Fortunately, another student, a young man of about fifteen, shoves the other aside and sends him scurrying away with a boot to the rear. Sorry about him. He's a bit of a per-uh... seeing Halek he stops himself. He's not a very good bard. Now, if you want news I'll give it to you for free. This town is awful. It's expensive and dull. Thankfully there's to be a noble wedding in the next kingdom, and if you're smart you'll head over there like the rest of us! Lord Greystone is giving a holiday for his people and the celebrations are no doubt unmissable! he grins eagerly.

Meanwhile Rocky, still out and about, tells you the town looks safe enough, but that he has noticed a little girl of about five, wandering about by herself and he's a touch concerned.

Prizzard: You are able to find a diviner, though it takes a few tries. You find a blind old man, eyes wrapped in a blindfold, sitting in a small apartment on the north end of town. Should you knock he'll tell you simply to enter, gesturing to an empty chair at the table in front of him. Want your fortune do you? Whey else would you be here? It's twenty silvers and not a copper less. I can feel the ridges too, so don't think you're going to fool me. Besides, my granddaughter is upstairs, so don't try anything. He sounds surprisingly crotchety, not like you'd expect a diviner at all.

Tanzy pays for her items, deciding to save her “discount” for another time. Uzai was a little too close to home and the last thing she needed is to get into trouble. News of her mother’s wedding kindles anger and she stuffs her purchases into her pack with unnecessary force. “Looks like we have a wedding to attend,” she mutters to Perkins as they step out into the street. Having spent a great deal of time together in the underworld the little frog is familiar with Tanzy’s past as well as what was experienced during the trials. It should come as no surprise to him when she voices her plans. “Only what excuse can we give the others for slipping away for a few days?” Her family matters seem small compared to saving the world and she had no intention of distracting her companions with something so trivial.

"Money will not be an issue, but I was hoping to find a diviner of a more.. official capacity. I seek not a fortune-telling, but a mind-reader to help clear my name. I doubt you'll need magic to point me in the right direction." Two gold coins roll across the table toward the man. Prizzard had less patience than the average human but managed to keep himself calm when hunting what he needed. The darker side of society had taught him that impatience and temper did not help negotiations.

They had, of course, to caught the one bard that was awful.
Thankfully the next one proved more useful.
Apparently, there was no news of the bad events that kept following them.

As Rocky made his report, Raknesh asked for Halek's opinion, knowing what the boy would say.

So they went and followed Rocky's guidance to find the little girl.

Bryon: You take a long few minutes to examine the handbell, frowning as you concentrate on it. And then it comes to you.  Meanwhile the vendor, confused at such interest in such a piece of junk, asks if you're alright. It's nice in'it? It could shine right up I bet! I'll sell it for twenty silvers? she arches a wary brow, for it is a ludicrous price considering what she thinks it is. Of course, knowing its true nature, it's laughably low. Still, haggling is half the fun of buying things...

Tanzy: Perkins listens with the froggy equivalent of sympathy. So you plan to stop her eh? How will you do it? he asks. At your suggestion of slipping away he frowns. I understand not wanting anyone in your business, believe me, but...well if you're going to come up with a story it had better be good. That Prizzard fellow looks at you like he expects you to turn siren any second! Considering he killed you last time, I'd watch yourself around him. If you give him any reason not to trust you I worry what rash things he'll do. Thank goodness his powers are burned out! he adds with a shudder and you get the feeling that the little frog is somewhat intimidated of the man.

Raknesh: As you ask Halek his thoughts, before the boy can answer, the new bard gives you a knowing look. Did I hear you say a wandering girl? If she's in the rose district I'd be careful of her. She's not what she seems you know, he says knowingly. What do you mean? Halek demands, already entranced. Seeing the boy so curious the bard eagerly turns on his storyteller charms. Oh for a silver piece I can tell you all about her! Before you can protest the boy immediately dips his fist into his pocket and tugs out the coin, which is plucked quickly by the young bard. Well. It all started a century ago. She's been seen that long you know. A little blonde haired thing, the most pitiful creature you've ever laid eyes on. She's always in the same place, wandering through the alley's of the roses, that's the pretty way of saying it. Really it's just some back streets in the slums, but there's the thing, she doesn't belong to anyone! At least no one alive that is. She asks for help, begs and cries and looks lost as a lamb in the snows! Many a soft heart has tried to help the poor little waif. And what do you suppose happened to them? he leans in mischievously to the wide eyed Halek. What? Halek demands. C-RRRRRRK!! he makes a horrid sound, dragging a horizontal finger across his throat. Dead! They disappear for three days and on the morning of the fourth their bodies are laid all out in the street, throats slit! Halek looks aghast at this and then turns to Raknesh. That's awful! We should do something! Right? Maybe?

Prizzard: Hearing the sound of coins, the blind man feels around for them, gripping them tightly and feeling the ridges. Hmph. Well I'm well respected round here, you should make no mistake about that! he huffs. But...if you're lookin to clear your name, your best bet is Lady Silda Vistar. She actually lives in the next kingdom over but wedding business for her sister has put her in town. I should know, she came to see me just yesterday. He looks grumpy at the memory for some reason. She's a piece of work though. Biggest snob I've ever met. She doesn't like me. Nothing she says about me is true ya hear? But if you give me a few more of those coins I'll tell you where she's stayin... Should you do so, you find she's staying at a nobleman's house, a Lord Omerik, who apparently is holding a gala that very night to celebrate his accomplished guest...

"At your prices I can't afford to sate my curiosities. I don't mind paying well for the use of magic, but information I could find by overhearing gossip? This isn't exactly the black market." Prizzard rolls the blind man one more gold coin and begins to rise to leave. Perhaps the man will try to create a return customer and give the information. If not, perhaps the lawmen will be his lead on where to find this Lady Silda Vistar in town. Too bad he wasn't particularly practiced at lying..

“Mother can marry Graystone if she wants, they deserve each other. She’ll just end up a widow again soon after.” Tanzy grins at the prospect and pauses in the street to drop a coin in an old beggars hat.
“I don’t think we need to worry about Prizzard?” The fact that her words ended in a question show her doubt. If she were being truthful the idea of trust issues over the siren business struck a sore spot. “He knows more than most about my history. We could give him a watered down version of the truth and he would probably believe it. I could say I want time alone to visit my family’s graves since we are so close. The siren isn’t due to appear for awhile and it’s not like they can force me to stay?” Another question. Rolling her eyes she turned down a side street that would hopefully lead to the library. “Or we could save everyone the drama and send a message and just go now...”

Bryon is always too honest for her own good. ”I think you miss judge the value of this object. Even paying you twenty gold would be too little. I will offer you fifty gold, though, especially if you get it shiny again.”

The more the bard explained the rumor/legend, the more Raknesh raised his eyes to the sky.

Of course it could  not have been a normal little girl that got lost...

"Well, I guess we could take a look. After all, we do have some experience with the odd things, disappearances and deaths...  But you won't do anything without asking - or at least explaining it to - me."

'Rocky, could you fly and try to find the others to explain the situation, just in case we do vanish...'

Tanzy: At your mention of your mother being widowed again, Perkins gives a gasping little laugh of glee, much like a middle aged woman who's heard a particularly naughty joke and is shockingly delighted. As you go on with your possibilities, he grips your hood in his little webbed fingers and shakes it. You want to just slip off?! How tricky of you! Oh goodness, dare we do such a thing? How hard is it to kill this Greystone fellow? I can help you know. I have many uses, but if he's well armed...goodness what a predicament! But then I don't really see the others volunteering to murder a man either. They seem awfully good. Well, except that Prizzard, oh but then I already mentioned I don't trust him! he sounds frustrated at his lack of decision. And is any of this anyone's business anyway? But then supposing we do kill him. You'd better have a good alibi or they'll know you did it. That might cause problems with some of them. That Bryon seems pretty straight laced eh? Have you ever murdered a man? Self defense is one thing, but just slipped in and slit his throat? Takes a bit of getting used to, you should know that, he wags a green finger at you. It wasn't til my fourth one that I was really any good at it.

Bryon: The woman looks stunned, and your husband gives a slightly strangled expression but of course he's as supportive of your ways as ever. After a long moment, the vendor gives a slow nod. Well you sure don't know how to haggle do ya? she gives a grin. You must be noticing something I'm not. But...if you're sure... She accepts the coin, then feels guilty and looking around her dingy cart proceeds to shove a few other things your way. You end up with some worn but serviceable rope, a copper canteen, doilies of all things, and a small tin mirror. As she's finishing piling on her "extras" you see Raknesh's psicrystal Rocky fast approaching you. He telepathically informs you that his master and young Halek are investigating a string of disappearances and deaths in an alley in the east part of town and that, considering it's apparently dangerous, he thought you should be made aware...

Raknesh: Halek gives a grave nod at your orders, looking as obedient and well behaved as a little soldier. As soon as he has your permission though, he grabs your hand and tugs you on, eager to find out what's going on. It doesn't take as long as you thought to get there, though along the way you're bombarded with young men and women, eager to sell you a story or the latest gossip. You even run across the dirty limerick boy again on the way out who promises you "plenty of raunch" though of course you ignore him.

At last you arrive at the alley and for the moment it seems normal enough, albeit completely deserted. It is tucked away between two buildings, each roughly five stories high and each with boarded windows and doors. It seems abandoned, but no doubt considering its reputation this is no surprise. At first there seems to be no one there, but Halek calls out, Hello? Is any one there? then he claps his hands over his mouth. Sorry! Should I have asked first? Before you can answer though, you hear a noise behind you and see a little blond girl, standing in the street behind you. She is not acting the way Rocky or the stories described. She does not look innocent or lost or afraid. Instead she just stares. Right at Halek.

Prizzard:

Sensing he's burning his bridges, the blind man quickly backtracks, even pushing the coin back at you, to your surprise. You really are new here, he mutters. Here's a tip for free. Everyone haggles in this city. Everyone. Never accept anything at first price, you're a fool if you do. You honestly could have gotten information a lot cheaper if you just put forth a little effort. Consider that advice partial payment for money already given. The rest of it I'll give now. With that he goes on to tell you of the gala and Lord Omerik, even giving you details as to where he lives. If you want an audience with her so badly though you'll either need to have enough coin to get you an audience or you'd better have a wicked compelling story. Or be good looking I suppose. I hear she has a soft spot for pretty men. I don't suppose you're handsome? Wouldn't know of course, he gestures at his blind eyes. She is a snob but I'm told she's fair. You want your name cleared she's the one to do it.

Bryon kept trying to stop the lady, but she was busy trying to appease her customer. At the end she handed the bundle to Althol and gave the woman a hug, ”My dear, you should never look a gift horse in the mouth. This bell is magical. I should pay you for these other things, how about 5 gold?” Rocky approached and told Byron. She nodded and kissed Althol on the cheek. ”Please give this nice lady a little more money and meet me in the alleyway.”

Turning back to Rocky, ”Please take me to Raknesh.” She followed the little crystal thing to Raknesh...

"I seem to lose more than I gain when I attempt negotiation. As for how to approach her, I think I know the right person to help plot the best course. I thank you for your time and mercy." Even understanding its value, he left the coin on the table and left, a little grease in case this particular wheel needed turning again soon. One thing he understood well is that those who pay generously recieved generous and usually loyal service. It seemed it was time to visit a great tailor, and the thought of finally doing this after all these years gave him an almost giddy smile.

The fact her behavior changed from the previous description, combined with her staring at Halek only raised Raknesh's suspicion of a trap.

"Stay behind me, boy.  It might be a trap."


"What do you want?" he asked, ready to fire at the slightest threatening move.

Tanzy blinks, surprised at Perkins enthusiasm. “I’m not slitting any throats, that’s a cowards way out. No offense,” she apologizes as this seems to be a favorite for her frog friend.
“No, I’ll be looking him in the eye when I kill him. He’ll know who I am and why I’m there.” Her voice is cold with no worry or doubt as to the success of her mission.
“I won’t  need an alibi, I’ve been gone long enough they probably assume I’m dead in a ditch somewhere. I was not very capable when I ran away...” Indeed she’d come close to dying in many a ditch those early years on her own.
“I’d like to think the others would be understanding about the cause once they knew the whole story... but I‘ll not risk it just in case I’m wrong. Best we tell them we want to see the festivities especially since its in my home town.

Bryon and Althol walk up on Raknesh and the situation he finds himself in. ”Well, isn’t this cozy? Your um...friend said you needed aid so here I am. What can I do?”

ooc: Sorry for the delay and rushed post. My husband's endoscopy went a little different this time. Different drugs for him and I had to babysit him more than anticipated after. Hopefully I didn't miss anything important in this post, if I did I apologize!

Tanzy: So what will you do if they wish to come along then? People tend to like festivities you know... he informs you with a grin. And you go ahead and kill him however you see fit. But slitting throats has its merits, don't knock it so quickly, he wags a finger. Whatever you do, if you want company I'm yours. I can turn into a hippo and block the door or something. I'm very useful you know.

Raknesh/Bryon: Halek looks pleased to see you join them, the little girl turns her head briefly but quickly turns back to Halek, seemingly focused on him most of all. You, she points, you alone would feed us for a solid year! Yes, we are hungry. You'll do nicely. Judging from Halek's tiny size she can't be talking about him physically, not to mention you know that the bodies are always recovered, albeit dead. She must be feeding on something else...It doesn't much matter though for she suddenly rushes forward, moving impossibly fast towards the poor boy...

ooc: Ok, she'll be there within a round so go ahead and make your attacks. Keep in mind you're in an alley so that means friendly fire is a possibility. Here's the layout: x=the girl, r=raknesh, etc. Also please roll will saves while you're at it.

R
H                 x
B

Prizzard: Should you mention it, the blind man happily gives you directions to a good tailor and when you tell him all you desire he looks stunned. That will not come easy, or cheap, but then you probably already know that. If you can give me a little time though, I think I can put it together for you. Now, I'll need to take your measurements...

09:05, Today: Bryon rolled 3 using 1d20+2.  Initiative.

Bryon quickly makes the hand gestures needed for one of her abilities. The ground beneath the girl erupts with black tentacles.

Althol moved to put his shield between Bryon and the charging girl. His eyes go wide when he sees what his wife can do now.

Create Chill Tentacles but starting five feet from us and extending the length of the alleyway. None of us should be affected.

What Raknesh feared happened, of course.

As he noticed the strange use of 'us', the thing hiding under the guise of a little girl made her move.

"Halek, move back!" he said, moving between him and the thing.

He fired a quick volley of holy arrows, hoping to stop her progression.
init 10
         dmg  fire  holy
ATT1 36   15    5    11
ATT2 19   16    1     4
ATT3 16
ATT4 32    13    4    9

Prizzard isn't exceptionally tall at 5'9" (175cm) but weighs more than his form suggests, a trim and muscular 210lbs (95kg), much of it in his legs. "So long as I have it in time for this wedding. And you need not trouble yourself with hiding my lack of an arm, I may have it regenerated by then. I assume you'll want half up front?" The man taking his measurements will get to see his scars, glowing blood vessels, draconic tattoos, ruined cloak, and other equipment and oddities. Prizzard will allow his odd request and appearance do the intimidating for him while remaining reasonably polite himself. This is my price negotiation.

rolled 25 using 1d20+22.  Intimidate.

“I have a difficult time believing any of our companions would suddenly up and want to go to some noble wedding festivities. I’m not too worried about loosing them for a day or two.” Tanzy grins at Perkins hippo comment. “I don’t know if a hippo is the best choice, but we’ll come up with something. Did we figure out when the actual wedding day is?”

Bryon/Raknesh: Althol takes out a rod and fires an energy blast at the girl too. His and Raknehs's volleys hit true and they definitely seem to affect her, but when Bryon's tentacles try to wrap around her, something unexpected happens. With a snarl, she grabs the nearest tentacle and with a shriek of rage rips it right out of the ground, flinging it fifty feet away with incredible strength. It is then that Halek pipes in, looking excited and worried all at once. I knew it! It's not a little girl, it's an illusion! She's part of something much bigger. Something huge! I think it's an arm or something! With that he hits the thing with his white bright blast and with a scream of agony she sizzles and burns on the spot. As you gape at what is left you finally see her true form. Not a child at all, but rather a flesh colored tentacle like thing of its own, and far greater in size than Bryon's were. You also see now that it seems to be emerging from the abandoned building, the other end of the tentacle coming out of one of the previously boarded up doors. Another illusion perhaps? What is going on!? Before you can think though, another bursts through another door and starts snaking its way towards you, no longer concerned with disguising itself. ooc: Ok, for time's sake the AC is 20 so you'll know if you hit. Good luck!


Prizzard:
The tailor looks like he wants to protest the short time frame, but changes his mind the closer he looks at you. He gives a defeated nod and accepts half the money up front, telling you he'll need the full three days til the wedding to work on it.
Later, at the inn, you find the tavern surprisingly full considering the hour, but then bustling cities like this always have thirsty folk. As you sit and order your drink, you don't have to look hard to find seedy customers. Within minutes a woman in her thirties approaches you and sits across from you, leaning back in her chair
to study you with open curiosity. You have an interesting look eh? If you're who I think you are, you have quite a few bounties on your head. Wanna give me a good reason why I shouldn't collect? There is a teasing, almost flirtatious way she says it, but such things might be lost on someone like Prizzard. She's a stunning woman, though there is a large scar on her cheek that some would find a bit marring.

Tanzy: Everyone underestimates a hippo! They're dangerous I tell you! They get their chompers on you and you're not getting out of it. Plus, have you seen how big they can get? You try moving one away from a door! I say Tanzy, I really must show you sometime. Plus, they have the cutest little ears! he adds with a laugh. But if you're not worried about the others then I won't either. After all, you know them and I don't really, he shrugs. And I'm pretty sure I heard the wedding's in three days.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:54, Tue 19 Nov 2019.

Bryon will use her power to teleport to a spot across from the new tentacle. She already has spiderclimb so she will cling to a wall and start to aim.

Use Flees the scene to reposition so that she can use a cone next turn without catching her comrades in the blast.

“Then we’ll leave tomorrow night,” Tanzy decides. For now a disguise is in order, she can’t afford to be recognized if they are planning on heading home. She will purchase a dress a size too big, nothing fancy, as well as a gray wig and some glasses. She’ll fine tune the outfit with what she has in her room at the inn and then test it out on her companions as they return from their various errands.

To the tailor before leaving: "I understand this is short notice, there will be a bonus depending on how well I like it." Hopefully encouraging quality and outsourcing with that promise. Balancing the carrot and the stick today!

As sexually inert as Prizzard has been, he can still admire the female form. Most of his scan of the woman was to determine if she was a threat. He underesrimated people far too often though, wasn't good at reading people, even members of his new "family" could be an utter mystery at times. For a short moment he couldn't help but comoare her.. no, he forced the thought down with the force of a practiced spellcaster and greeted her while pouring a shot of his drink, sliding it to her. Moving this convo to PMs

Prizzard will hold off on developing a decent buzz, rather occasionally sipping for taste and to just feel the edge of the drink.

Although he expected the girl to be something else, Raknesh would never have guessed it was a part of illusion using giant octopus like monster.

Keeping his place between Halek and the creature, he fired another volley.

His aim was not as good as he is used to, maybe because of the illusions, but the size of the creature allows most of the arrows to find their mark.

Tanzy: As you gather your new disguise, Rocky scurries over to you, telling you there seems to be a problem with your friends in an alley not far...ooc: I'd say time frame wise and all, you can wait a round or so and join them. It's close enough to lined up that you should be fine if you wish :)

Raknesh/Bryon:

Luckily Raknesh's attacks seem to be helping, and the tentacle coming at you reacts, lashing back and forth in pain and rage. To your surprise then it spews forth something black and tarry. It flies through the air at you...As you try to dodge you see that it sizzles and eats through some of the building walls around you. Some kind of acid but far worse than you've seen thus far. What's more, Halek's sudden yelp behind draws your attention. He's being dragged! But you can't see what's doing it, only that he's on his back, moving quickly towards one of the building doors. Invisible! Some of them are invisible! he gasps, already halfway towards the door...

ooc: Ok, so you can roll a reflex save DC 20. If you fail you take 30 acid damage, if you succeed you take half that. Even though the tentacle with Halek is invisible, you can use his position to aim. I'll just say you take a -4 to the attack roll until I come up with something better. Also, make sure your hit points are back up from the last fight. You've had time to heal :)

“If you haven’t already, make sure you let the others know! Tanzy suggests to Rocky as she heads towards the alley.

Raknesh focused his psychic senses at Halek's remark and his eyes glowed briefly.

Hissing in pain as the acid burned part of his arm, he fired another volley at the tentacle holding Halek.

"Hang on! I will save you!"
This message was last edited by the player at 08:45, Sat 07 Dec 2019.

11:54, Today: Bryon rolled 23 using 1d20+7.  REF save.
SO 1/2 is 15
Reduced by 3 bc/ damage resistance
Reduced by 5 bc/ energy resistance
So 7 damage

Bryon will focus on the "invisible" tentacle dragging their ally away.

11:50, Today: Bryon rolled 25 using 7d6.  Cone- Brimstone Blast (Fire damage).

The invoker’s Eldritch Blast does Fire damage (instead of Untyped damage).  In addition, any creature struck by the attack Catch Fire (RefNeg).  Catching fire this way lasts for up to 1 round per 5 Warlock levels and does 2d6 Fire damage each round.  Putting out the fire early is a Full Round Action. Being struck by multiple Brimstone Blasts does not increase the burning damage per round, but does reset its duration.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:58, Sat 07 Dec 2019.

Raknesh's arrows hit surprisingly true, well to any onlookers anyway. Raknesh is of course expectant of such success. The tentacle, however, flings violently and poor Halek hits the ground hard as it writhes in pain. At least it was enough to loosen him, and he starts to scramble away just as Bryon unleashes her cone of brimstone. If it was in pain from Raknesh before, now it is in agony and you can practically sense its fury as the now flaming, half invisible things rush at you in a desperate attempt to grapple you.

ooc: Ok, Tanzy you're just coming on the scene so feel free to attack. Tanzy is safe from the tentacles for the next round but Bryon and Raknesh, please make opposed grapple checks. Raknesh, your DC is going to be 24 and Bryon, yours is 22, so if you roll below that you're successfully grappled. Note, you do NOT get an attack of opportunity against him, so good luck. IF you do get grappled, please roll a fort save DC 21 or be paralyzed for two rounds at which point you can roll another grapple attempt to try to escape. If you fail that, you have to roll against paralyze again. Hopefully that makes sense. So for now I just need a grapple and a fort. If you manage not to get grappled, feel free to roll for the next round. Good luck! ;P

09:38, Today: Raknesh Kaltash rolled 16 using 1d20+9.  grapple.
09:40, Today: Raknesh Kaltash rolled 26 using 1d20+8.  fortitude check.

With all his senses and psychic power concentrated on the invisible tentacle, Raknesh failed to notice the incoming threat and got caught easily.

Thankfully, his focus allowed him to validated the 'mind over matter' motto and he managed to shake the paralysis that had begun to take hold as the tentacle surrounded him.

PM discussion with GM, turned out being high enough on the wall let Bryon avoid being grappled all together.

Bryon managed to be high enough on the wall to avid being grappled. In return she aimed her cone at the tentacle that tried to grab her. Since her fire cone had done so well the last time, she threw another at the beast this time.

11:11, Today: Bryon rolled 26 using 7d6.  Brimstone Cone (Fire Blast).
This message was last edited by the player at 16:13, Tue 24 Dec 2019.

Halek unleashes a blast at Raknesh's tentacle, worrying for his friend, and it grazes the thing, which you're fairly sure was on purpose. No doubt the boy is trying to spare Raknesh any danger. Still, it's enough that the tentacle thrashes and immediately starts pulling Raknesh rapidly towards the door it has emerged from...

Meanwhile Bryon's blast rings true, and has equally good effect. In response though, it flings that strange black acid again, the substance making the brick wall around you sizzle and burn...


ooc: Since Bryon is using spiderclimb, she's out of danger and can do a ranged attack as desired. There's the one she's attacking, the one Halek escaped from, the one attacking Raknesh, and a fourth that Tanzy is working on. So everyone can roll their next rounds and Raknesh, you can definitely use mind arrows. Bryon, roll a reflex DC 20 or take 28 acid damge, successful save= half. I know Tanzy is a bit busy at the moment so I'll npc her until she's ready to come back. Sorry for the delay guys, I was an idiot and didn't notice a PM I got a billion years ago. My apologies.

Tanzy activates her ring of invisibility and heads for the doorway the tentacles are coming from. Hacking away at those things is getting them nowhere. Time to see what is going on inside the building. The fact that Raknesh is being dragged that direction is even more motivation to see what is lurking inside the building.

05:54, Today: Bryon rolled 12 using 1d20+7.  Ref Save.

Bryon gritted her teeth and the thing flung more acid at her. In response she climbed higher, trying to avoid more of the acid next time.

MvA Climb 10 feet up

She noted that Raknesh was being taken by one of the tentacles, she unleashed another Brimstone Cone at the one tentacle holding him.

06:06, Today: Bryon rolled 24 using 7d6.  More Brimstone Blastin.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:08, Tue 07 Jan 2020.

Seeing Bryon avoiding the tentacle, Rakesh cursed himself for not using his own way of doing the same.

Still, there was a more pressing matter as he was getting close to know what was really inside the house... and he really didn't want to.

So he fired another volley.

"Halek ! Stay out of reach !"

Thankfully between Raknesh and Bryon's efforts, the tentacle dragging him is destroyed, turning visible again as what's left of it bleeds black blood onto the alley ground around you. Halek obeys his orders, keeping clear of the remaining tentacles and blasting them with his white light. He seems to be able to see them, but that's hardly surprising for the boy. You still have three remaining tentacles and Halek mutters something and they burst into visibility suddenly, which you are more than thankful for. Unfortunately they seem to turn frantic and start flinging themselves about wildly. It's quite jarring. And then you feel your muscles start to weaken...Already the remaining tentacles seem to start towards Raknesh again, the only one of you within actual reach at the moment.

ooc: Ok, roll Fort save DC 22 or you become exhausted (see below). Next round please!

"An exhausted character moves at half speed and takes a -6 penalty to Strength and Dexterity. After 1 hour of complete rest, an exhausted character becomes fatigued. A fatigued character becomes exhausted by doing something else that would normally cause fatigue."

Tanzy: You manage to slip in unnoticed thankfully and as you enter the door you find yourself in a large, empty room that seems to span the whole bottom of the building. It's old and dusty and full of debris and dirt. The bases of the tentacles, however, are all gathered here into a bulbous mass with a large, gaping mouth at least ten feet high and equally wide. Rows and rows of gnashing sharp teeth eagerly glisten, and oddly the rest of the mass seems to go down below the broken floorboards as though trailing underground.

Bryon decided to climb to the roof of the building. Being higher migh make things easier, and her range was far beyond the height of this building.

“Bit off more than I could chew...” Tanzy mutters eyeing the gnashing teeth. Her rapiers would be about as effective as poking pins in a cushion. Nevertheless she moved forward to attack hoping her invisibility would grant her some safety...

OOC: attack 1: 38 (20+18) confirm critical:20 (2+18)
Attack 2: 22 (4+13)
Attack 3: 24 (16+8)
Attack 4: 34 (16+18)
Attack 5: 22 (4+13)
I will edit this post with damage after I hear back from the gm about a few questions I had :)

Getting free, Raknesh used his slippers to climb on a nearby wall while he shoot a few arrows.

Thankfully, the adrenaline rush from his close look at an horrible death made his body move with increased energy

18:57, Today: Raknesh Kaltash rolled 23 using 1d20+8.  fortitude check.

He concentrated his fire on the closest tentacle.

move action: move and climb( walk on wall)
standard action: many shot.

Raknesh's efforts result in another tentacle's demise, leaving two left thankfully. Unfortunately, they seem desperate now and to your surprise, with a great rumbling, the entire building starts to shift as the tentacles seem to reach out with greater range than you had thought possible. One goes shooting directly towards Bryon with dizzying speed, the other goes for Raknesh. It seems they are putting all their focus on grappling each of you. Fortunately, somehow, they miss. Barely. But you realize now that it will be more difficult to stay out of their range than you thought.

Meanwhile, as Tanzy successfully deals a wicked blow amidst her attacks, the building she's in shifts and she stumbles, trying to keep her balance. What in the world? The building moved? Meanwhile the gnashing mouth spits black acid towards you...


ooc: Next round please :) If I screwed up on anything I apologize in advance. It's been a while and I'm in a rush!

Bryon retaliated with a blast of fire.

10:34, Today: Bryon rolled 19 using 7d6.  Brimstone (burning) cone damage.

Tanzy managed to keep her balance as the building shifted, but in doing so she was not able to escape the spray of acid that spewed from that terrible mouth. Gasping out a curse she attacked again hoping some backup would be coming soon...

OOC:  Attack 1: 21
Attack 2: 27
Attack 3: 10
Attack 4: 21
Attack 5: 25
Balance: 24
Reflex: 13     

"How many tentacles does that thing have?" mumbled Raknesh as he did his best to avoid more trouble and fired arrows after arrows, thankful that he didn't need to be encumbered by a big bow to do so.

The tentacles writhe in pain at both your attacks, then, in desperation, they fling out at both of you. They are clearly quite wounded and you know if you can keep going they won't have much longer. That is, if you can resist the tentacles hold...They each wrap around both of you, attempting to crush you.

ooc: Ok, no attack of opportunity for the grapple since they have a special ability. You can, however, try to roll an opposed grapple. DC 24 for Raknesh and 21 for Bryon. If you fail your grapple you are being constricted and take 19 damage. All normal rules for attacking while grappling apply. See: https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/SRD:Grapple

Meanwhile, some of Tanzy's attacks seem to be doing good and, a moment later, Halek rushes in of all people. Child or not, you're happy to see him. Especially when he releases a bolt of white energy at the thing. We need to keep attacking the head! he urges. As the words leave his mouth, the creature starts to emit a high pitched screech. You feel like your ears are going to burst. ooc: Roll fort save DC 20 or become temporarily deafened and take 15 sonic damage.

13:58, Today: Bryon rolled 24 using 1d20+6.  Fort Save.
13:57, Today: Bryon rolled 21 using 1d20+16.  Tumble v. Grapple.

Bryon used her Flees the Scene ability to avoid both the grapple and the sound attack, but is unable to take any other actions this round or next.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:00, Thu 05 Mar 2020.

Raknesh tries to avoid the huge tentacle but with little hope.

Unexpectedly, maybe because he saw Halek getting inside of the building, in wolf's den to put it mildly, boosted his strength, but he managed to repel the attack.


He retaliated with renewed fury.

Thankfully, Raknesh's efforts finally finish off his tentacle, leaving only Bryon's left. At least she's safely away at the moment, but it lunges clumsily towards Raknesh, still bleeding heavily from its wounds. You can tell it's not long before it also is destroyed, but meanwhile it flings several fist-sized balls of acid your way...

ooc: Ok, reflex save dc 20. Success means you take 15 damage, failure is 30. One more attack should put it down and then you can join Tanzy and Halek, OR you can try to bypass the tentacle and just go now. Tanzy, you are temporarily deafened by the way.

Raknesh tried to avoid the acid while moving toward the entrance and firing arrows, confident in his agility and training.
Sadly, walking on walls was not something he was very used to and things did not go entirely as planned.

OOC:
09:15, Today: Raknesh Kaltash rolled 18 using 1d20+14 ((4)).
move action: going toward the entrance
standard acction: manyshot to the tentacle.

Raknesh: You are hit by the acid but at least you give back well by finishing the tentacle off, leaving you free to rush inside where Halek and Tanzy are.

When you move into the building you see a large, empty room that seems to span the whole bottom of the building. It's old and dusty and full of debris and dirt. The bases of the now limp tentacles, however, are all gathered here into a bulbous mass with a large, gaping mouth at least ten feet high and equally wide. Rows and rows of gnashing sharp teeth eagerly glisten, and oddly the rest of the mass seems to go down below the broken floorboards as though trailing underground.

Halek turns at the sight of you, a pleased grin flashes across his features. It's clear he's relieved.

“I can’t hear a damn thing,” Tanzy warns her companions of her lack of hearing. She is  also relieved to see Raknesh joining them inside and  moves to attack again.

Raknesh too is relieved to see the boy is fine - despite the proven fact that he is more than a boy and usually very capable of defending himself.

"What the hell is that thing?  And how did it manage not to be discovered?  I know it's using illusions, but still... it's HUGE!"

Huger than you think I'm afraid, Halek shakes his head, moving further away from what's left of a tentacle. I think this thing originates underground. No time to worry about that though, look out! He interrupts himself as the gnashing mouth spews forth several melon sized creatures that you can only describe as...disgusting. They are blobular and covered in black oily substance, and they're rolling towards you.

Meanwhile, poor Tanzy can hear nothing, but she certainly notices this!

ooc: Next round please. The blobs will be there by the next round so you can either move to meet them or use ranged attacks.

Bryon used a Brimstone Blast Cone to catch as many of the creatures as she possibly can.

Raknesh fired at the creatures, one arrow each.

"Rocky, get to Tanzy and be her eyes, tell her what's happening and help her move".

He hoped the telepathic communication could help, knowing it was nothing like his own link and ability to see through Rocky's senses.

ooc: Oh, I keep forgetting how handy Rocky is! :)

IC: Rocky's involvement does indeed seem to help the deaf woman, but it takes her a moment to figure out his instruction and at first she misses, and stumbles a bit. Soon enough though, Tanzy manages to slice through some, thankfully getting her bearings better.

In the meantime, both Raknesh and Bryon's attacks seem to be successful. Whatever these things are, they are weak, thank heavens. However, in spite of that, the ones who remain are soon upon you for they move faster than you would have thought such blobbish things could move. They leap at you, each of you, and to your alarm, they attach themselves to your body, sucking away at your flesh with a squishy hold like iron. You can feel it burning horribly and try to fling them off...

ooc: Ok, go ahead and roll a reflex save DC 17. If you succeed you manage to shake them off, otherwise they will be there another round. The first round you take 10 damage and every round you can't shake them will increase the damage by five, so it will be 15 the next round etc. You can still fight normally and such with them on though, they're surprisingly light.

Bryon’s immediate reaction is to use her Flees the scene ability to reposition herself away from the blob.

No other action this turn or next.

"What kind of creature is this thing? Bloody suckers !"
Raknesh manages to get rid of the creatures before they do to much damage and quickly fires another volley a those in close range.



hit dmg fire holy
32,19,  4,  7
25,15,  3,  6
29,14,  3,  10
32,19,  4,  10

Fortunately, the blobs aren't too tough, and you are able to dispatch most of them between your efforts and Tanzy's. Halek focuses more on the gaping mouth, using his white bar of energy, though you can see he still has a blob on his leg and his little face is scrunched up in discomfort as he ignores the pain.

The mouth itself is not doing well. You can tell it's soon to be done for. In desperation, it does the only thing it can. It tries to move. Whatever this beastly thing is, it's half underground, poking up through the floorboards. The limp tentacles sink lower, starting to slide beneath the surface and the head sinks further in too. Consequently, the entire building shakes violently and large pieces of plaster and beams start falling from the ceiling and walls. The building is going to collapse...

ooc: Ok, so you can roll a reflex to see how well you can escape. You can probably hit it one more time and finish it off if you want to take the chance, otherwise you can just try to book it. So if you do decide to do one more attack, you get a -5 to your reflex roll simply because you lingered. But, if you hit him you'll finish him off so there's pros and cons. Here's the breakdown of DC:

DC 25= you get out with only 5 damage, literally just a couple scratches
DC 20=You get some glancing blows but manage ok. You take 10 damage.
DC 15=You get hit squarely. It's not great. You take 20 damage.
DC 10=You get pinned by a beam, taking 30 damage and you are stuck there until you can free yourself or someone frees you.
Anything below 10=You get stuck in the building under debris. You will be down to 10 hit points and trapped. Good luck!
Oh, and Bryon, you are of course safe with your flee the scene. Handy eh?

“This building is going down. We should fall back!” Tanzy shouts as she retreats hoping the others do the same. A few chin kid of debris graze her but she manages to escape the worst of it.

OOC: Reflex 18

"We cannot let that thing flee!" said Raknesh as he fired some arrows before moving, confident his training should allow him to escape most of the danger.

But despite his speed and rocky's guiding, he could not avoid some of the debris.

Raknesh and Tanzy manage to avoid the worst of the debris, though still obtaining some rather nasty dings and dents in the meantime. However, as you're headed towards the door, you spot Halek. He's not far from you, but he's pinned under a large beam, a pool of blood beneath him. He's still conscious at least...

ooc: If you wish to help him, you'll need to roll a dex and strength check. You'll need to be fast and strong.

DC for lifting the beam will be 15, same for getting him out in time before the whole thing collapses. If you come up short, your consequences will depend on how much you miss the mark. I'll let you know should that happen. If one or both of you manages to get the required rolls though, you're good to go. Literally! :)

Bryon returned to see the person pinned. She motioned for them to let her pass. She looked down at the trapped person and said, don’t fight this, I’ll have you out in a jiffy.”</yellow> She then uses her ability to move both herself and the trapped person out of the crumbling building.

Flees the Scene operates like Dimension Door, So she can carry passengers.

Tanzy swerves and without hesitation runs to assist Halek though it’s clear there is no way she will be able to lift that beam. She’s greatly relieved when Bryon appears to whisk him away.

OOC: reflex: 28
Strength:1     

Raknesh too rushed toward Halek. Strength is not is best asset but in this situation, he apply the 'mind over matter' motto from his masters and does the impossible.

And Bryon's sudden apparition and solution to put the boy in safety  lifted great weight off his shoulders.

08:59, Today: Raknesh Kaltash rolled 17 using 1d20-1.  strengh.

08:59, Today: Raknesh Kaltash rolled 25 using 1d20+14.  dex.

Thankfully between all your efforts, poor Halek is rescued. Raknesh manages to lift the beam and Bryon whisks him away until soon enough you all find yourselves on the street outside the building, which is still collapsing in on itself.

Halek is bleeding heavily from his legs and he plops down on the ground, exhausted. I guess we know what has been luring people to their deaths now, he says tiredly. Do you think he's dead?

Meanwhile, a crowd has gathered to gawk at the sight as debris crumbles into the street, blocking the path somewhat and covering everything in dust and bits of shattered brick. A stout, middle aged woman pushes her way towards you. She looks most angry. Is this your doing? I leave my shop for one lousy hour and you've completely ruined it! she points towards a small building directly across the street from the one you've just destroyed. The windows are all shattered from debris and the entrance is covered as well. I hope you intend to pay for your damages! she sniffs.

Bryon laughed at the woman, ”What do you say we have that monster come back and let it eat you?”

I'll have you know, I've managed to avoid that monster for twelve years! If I were so concerned with it, I would not have my shop here. You deciding to be aggressive shouldn't be something I have to pay for! she sniffs, still fuming.

Meanwhile, a small crowd has gathered, with several onlookers. Monster? You mean the little girl who takes people? A wide eyed boy asks. Did you stop her? Did you really stop her?! Judging by the looks on others' faces, they do not share in her displeasure, looking at you with awe. The woman, however, gets even more defensive. Oh, stop looking at them like they're heroes! They ruined my business! They should pay! Someone, fetch a watchman, there should be consequences for this!

Bryon just rolled her eyes.

"I really hope it is, Halek. I managed to hit it a few times as the building collapsed on us."


Outside, he is taken aback by the old woman's ranting.

"You mean you knew there was an huge monster down here, snatching kids away and you did nothing? Not even warned the guard?"  asked Raknesh.

"In that case I must join you in your request. We must wait for a watchmen and there will be consequences... but maybe not the way you expect..."

The woman looks shocked at Raknesh's threat, then realizes she's said too much. The townsfolk all turn to look at her in surprise. You knew it was a monster Lila? one of them accuses. You said it was a ghost, that nothing could be done about it.

She just wanted a break on her rent! another fumes.

What? No. Just a slip of the tongue, that's all! I never realized what it was, you all know that. She starts to look panicked as the crowd grows angrier. I've been a contributor to this neighborhood for years, I'd never lie. She turns to Raknesh with a glare. Now look what you've done! Get out of here, now. I'll even let you off the money you owe me, she hisses in a low voice.

“It would appear this woman has been turning a blind eye to the evil that has plagued this street. I trust you all will handle this situation far better than we outsiders,” Tanzy suggests to the angry crowd. The last thing she wanted was to get wrapped up with the law...

Bryon said, ”Yea, and if not we’ll just come back and finish it ourselves. Laters.”

You manage to extricate yourself from the situation, and indeed, Lila seems to have her hands full now, as the crowds' mood sours all the more. Halek just shakes his head, limping along, but then none of you are unscathed.

As you head away from the place, you see a familiar figure approaching. Loden. There you are! he pants, clearly having been running. Raina sent me out to find you. She needs help with a bit of shopping for our little siren friend here, he pats Tanzy's shoulder with amusement. Seems like she's found most of the basics, but there are a few...more difficult items to procure. As he talks, a tall, gangly fellow catches up to you, apparently having been trying to follow Loden. Raknesh recognizes it as the scrawny bard back at the school. The one so fond of dirty limericks. Don't go so fast! These lungs are meant for singing, not running! Loden rolls his eyes. Ah, and this young man, is Talmet. He's a bit on the bawdy side, and already he's annoying, but he claims he can get us a meeting with someone who can sell us one of the ingredients we need. It won't be easy, he adds. Or cheap. Meanwhile, Talmet, who's barely 18 from the looks of him, looks at Tanzy and Bryon appreciatively. Oh my. What pretty companions you are! Heh, you sure you want to be cured? he asks Tanzy. I'd let you gnaw on my neck any day of the week!

Bryon smiled, faintly, and said (with good cheer), ”I’m married to the most wonderful man alive, so taken. You can look but you cannot touch.”

Tanzy snorts at the newcomers remarks. “Sorry, you’re too scrawny and gangly for my taste,”  She leaves it open to interpretation if she’s referring to a potential partner or the sirens next meal. “As for the items,” she turns her attention to Loden with a grin. “Point me in the right direction and I can make it happen...” While she has refrained from stealing much in present company her pick pocketing skills are no secret.

Talmet looks a bit displeased with Tanzy's rejection, but at least Bryon hasn't discouraged him, so he promptly settles his gaze on her chest with a look of delight, though he shoots Tanzy a glare from time to time. Well, you need a black pearl from the northern sea. Aren't too many around here, but, my stepmother has a necklace of them! It's her prized possession. I despise the woman, so anything you can do to ruin her day would make mine. Only problem, she hates me as much as I hate her. I can get you in probably, but you'll have to lift it yourself. Oh, and there's the other little problem. She runs the local assassin's guild so...she could kill you. A lot.

Bryon smiled and let him have his looks. Looking was fine by her, touching was completely out of the question. She waited for the others to decide how to proceed.

"You, decidedly, have a peculiar family..." said Raknesh, not particularly pleased to see that youngling again.

"But apparently she doesn't hate you enough to use her talents or guild to make her live easier.   Maybe she would pay us with a pearl if we offer her the possibility?" he added with a slightly wicked smile, just to see the young man's reaction.

He quickly continued, as he didn't want Halek to have a wrong impression.
"But let's not be hasty. Are you entirely certain there is no other way? I'm not exactly looking forward to adding another person wanting to kill us on our list..."

Talmet looks a bit startled by Raknesh's suggestion, taking a wary step back. Rude. And you're the ones who will have to figure out the necklace thing, not me. I can just get you in, for a price. I know when her guards are at their heaviest and lightest, and what sorts of things she likes. If you don't want to make her your enemy then you'll have to make sure she doens't know it is you who stole from her. Or, you could try to barter, I suppose, but good luck with coming up with something better than that necklace. My fool father gave it to her, he rolls his eyes. I mean, maybe if you had a way to counterfeit one? But she'd never sell it, she's too dead gone over my father. Uggh. The pair are sickening!

“What about recruitment? Is she looking for any new members?” Really all they need is to get close enough to snag a pearl, hopefully without her noticing. “Or does she go out much? I’d rather catch her off guard when she isn’t surrounded by her minions.” Tanzy frowns “Also I don’t think it’s necessary for everyone to get involved, I won’t have anyone getting hurt on my account.”

Bryon continued to listen to the planning.

Talmet frowns at Tanzy's questions. You know...I could see recruitment working. She's always on the lookout for new pawns. And you all look somewhat bloodthirsty...'cept for the kid, he makes a face at Halek. Leave the pipsqueak with a sitter. Halek says nothing to this, just listens calmly. You have a feeling it would take a lot to insult the child. Yeah...I think this might work. You go in as new blood. She'll have a challenge for you of course, she's all about challenges, he rolls his eyes. But if you think you can live through it, you'll have access to her manor. Should be pretty simple to lift it after that, right?

ooc: Let me know if you decide to go with this plan. If so, I'll need bluff checks, sense motives, etc. That way I'll be set when the time comes.

"I like your plan Tanzy. Let's hope we will be quick enough to escape before she lauches her goons after us."

Bryon says, “I can make myself invisible at will.”

That will be very handy, Loden nods appreciatively at Bryon's words. Good idea. Speaking of, that makes me think. We shouldn't have the entire group go. As much as I'd love the manpower, I doubt it will go over well with the guild. Bringing in so many strangers may set their hackles up. Obviously Raknesh, Tanzy, and Bryon should go, though Bryon should keep invisible if she can. I imagine Prizzard will be handy too. Now, I think you can only spare one more without reaching suspicion. What do you think? The rest of us could lay low near by, and Rocky can contact us if we need to intervene?

ooc: Basically, pick which NPC you want with you. Loden, Raina, Halek, or Bryon's husband Althol. If Tanzy doesn't have her rolls by tomorrow, I'll roll for her so we can officially get started. :)

Bryon hugged her husband tightly. “Sorry darling, we can’t bring you with us.” Bryon then passed out of sight.

My vote would be for Raina. Prizzard will use some intimidation, but low-key, non-offensive stuff. Confidence, glares, choice of words, etc.

rolled 22,4,31 using d20+6,d20-2,d20+25.  Bluff, Sense Motive, Intimidate.

“If we’re going to do this we need to be extra careful. I imagine these guys can spot a lie pretty easily...” Tanzy wasn’t concerned  with her ability to fit in but she wasn’t so sure about the others. “I think Raina could come in handy for this situation, Tanzy adds with a grin.

OOC: Bluff :21 (9+12)
Sense Motive: 30  (20+10)

I agree.  I know you are more than capable to take care of yourself and deal with whatever might happen, but I don't think it's a place for young ones. And you would not fit with the crowd.

Well don't I just feel valued, Loden laughs at the fact that you've chosen Raina over him, though you can tell he's just joking. Very well then. We'll be at your ready should you need.

It takes a few hours to regroup with Prizzard and Raina and properly fill everyone in, but soon you find yourselves with a somewhat nervous looking Talmet as he leads you to a very large warehouse on the outskirts of the city. From the outside it looks abandoned, with boarded windows and the like. The door is locked too, but Talmet knocks on it, a very particular pattern, it seems, and it swings open, revealing a greasy looking man about two feet taller than he should be and twice as wide. Ug. What do you want, you pimply little brat? he sneers at Talmet. The bard ignores the insult. I want to see her. You have to let me in, you know the rules. I have some new recruits for her. Not looking for recruits, he shakes his head. Oh come on Trodd! Talmet whines. She'll like them, I promise! If not, I swear I won't come back for the rest of the month. Apparently the idea of his absence is tempting enough that soon you are allowed admittance. Bryon must scurry in to avoid the door being closed on her, invisible as she is...

The place itself is mostly just a massive room, with some other doors leading off somewhere in the back. The actual room, however, is bustling. There are about thirty or so men and women, of various races and ages, all seeming to be having the time of their lives, drinking, dicing, and having quite a good time. As Talmet picks his way through the room, you on his tail, you are surprised to see Finn, of all people, dicing away at a table!!

Blowing gently on his dice with a big grin, Finn gives them a violent shake and throws them down. With a loud yell "SEE! I told you it was high time I win back some of the coin you've been filtching off me you lucky sons." He puts his hands on his hips and smiles. "well what ya waiting for? pay up fellas."


Looking around as the other players toss the coins together he notices his old friends come in  and scoops up his winnings. "Aint that interesting" he whispers to himself before politely backing from the table.

Making his way towards the group he waves to make sure they have seen him.

Loden is too much of an upright citizen to really fit in here, sorry. Even Halek would draw some attention due to his age.

Upon spotting Finn, Prizzard waves back. The final memories if this man were painful in many ways, but he was glad to see their previous companion doing well. He is at a loss for words.

Upon seeing the many people, Raknesh hopes things will go smoothly.
And he keeps Rocky in an pocket inside his tunic, just in case.

He then notices Finn and nearly miss a step in surprise.

When the help of Rocky, he send a telepathic message to Prizzard, recommending the use of his own familiar until they can ascertain the situation, and to communicate the vital informations to Finn once they have a better understanding of his current affiliations.

Bryon followed as closely as she was comfortable with.

Tanzy rolls her eyes at Talmet’s conversation with the guard, a little concerned at his lack of popularity. And also  wondering if they really wanted to be connected with him?
She was in her element in the bustling room and easily spotted Finn. She hid her surprise with a quick grin but played it cool so as not to draw attention to themselves. After all they didn’t know who’s side he was on after his abrupt disappearance.

Fin: You see Prizzard's acknowledgement, and the others' surprise, but you also note they don't exactly approach you either. You have a crafty mind, and it comes up with all sorts of possibilities for this. They could be mad that you left them, they could be on some caper, they could be trying to keep their anonymity, any number of reasons. Your curiosity is, admittedly up. The fact that they're with Talmet is all the more interesting. The gangly stepson of Ursa, mistress of the assassin's guild. He's tolerated around here, but no one likes him, Ursa included. How did they manage to get themselves embroiled with him? Around you, it seems that one or two of your watchful colleagues have noticed the minor exchange between you and the others.

Everyone: The bustling place barely notices your entrance, at first. Then, you realize, it's not that no one noticed you. It's that they're subtle about it. Every eye is watchful, every ear is listening. They simply don't want to look like it. Talmet pushes his way through the crowd, sneering at several passerby who shoot him daggers. Yes, he doesn't seem to have a lot of friends here. A bit disquieting. Eventually he leads you to a table at the back of the room. There's a woman, in her forties, and very well preserved. She's deep in conversation with a man some ten years her senior, with scars and a missing eye. Talmet goes right up to the both of them. Hello father. Ursa, he adds reluctantly to the woman. Ran across some newcomers asking questions by the school. You still got rewards for new guild members? I ran out of my allowance early. Both Ursa and the man look less than pleased to see Talmet, but their eyes scan over all of you with curiosity. My stepson has overstepped his bounds letting you in here, Ursa says bluntly. Give me a good reason I shouldn't have you killed for even knowing this place exists?

Bryon will use Spiderwalk to climb the walls. She will Spider-Man sit in a corner as high up as she can get and watch the whole thing.

Prizzard adopts a tone of tired, required pleasantries, as though this threat is cliché. "It would not be worth the personnel losses, and we are in need of work."

Fin catches up to the party and steps up uninvited. With a huge smile on his face and his arms in the air with his humored greeting..

Ursa... Our lovely lady of lethal levities... I see your " cough "son has brought in some guests.

Fin smiles and waves at them all as he continues his friendly banter. "Too be honest, I'm as shocked as you are that he brought them in," He pauses for the briefest moments for effect. "But for a whole different reason. If you remember me telling you when I got here about the group I traveled with when I had that THING  take control of me. These are the fellows who were with me. Not that my word should mean much in this den of cut throats and cheats." His smile broadens as he nods towards were the throngs are "pretending" not to overhear. "But I've seen them handle themselves, and they could be useful"

Is there any kind of target practice or dart game in the area? If there is, Raknesh will materialize his weapon, change its form, then fire a quick volley et the target.  A risk, indeed, a bit of bravado, but he will follow Prizzard approach.


"I must agree with both, and add we have very useful special skills.  Like myself, for example.  No weapon, but still deadly."

Tanzy remains quiet, letting the others do the talking. It’s too early in the game to be nervous and while they were in a room full of killers she doubted they were much of a threat.

Ursa arches a brow at Prizzard's vague threat, but Fin's recommendation clearly has some merit. When Raknesh demonstrates his skills, her eyebrow climbs all the higher. Talmet grins from ear to ear, as though he can personally take credit for you all. See? They're the real deal. Test them out if you don't believe me. Go on, throw everything you've got at em! I would like my money though please. He actually holds his hand out expectantly. Finally, his father speaks, looking at his son with a mixture of irritation and embarrassment. Out Talmet. But fath-I said out. He interrupts firmly. You're lucky I don't beat your hide boy. I've clearly been too lax with you. We'll talk soon. Go back to school and don't come back here again. I'll see you at home. Talmet looks more than offended, glancing at you all as though hoping you will do something. Should you not say anything, and understandably so, he will stalk away, pouting.

During this exchange, Ursa is studying you with a thoughtful frown. So, you all just decided you wanted to join an assassin's guild eh? Or is it mine in particular that drew you? Why? What do you expect to get out of this that you couldn't get on your own? And, most importantly, how in hades did you get tangled up with that idiot boy? She turns to Fin then, nodding her head towards the group. You're lucky you have Fin to vouch for you. He's earned his place here, odd as it is. But, he'd better be right about this recommendation. You wouldn't want to lose my good favor Fin, she adds darkly.

“Each of us has our own reasons for wishing to be part of such an infamous guild,” Tanzy speaks confidently and is sure to direct a respectful nod towards Ursa. “While I cannot speak for my companions, I personally need someone dead. What better way to reach that goal than to learn from the best?”

"I only seek work, not membership. I have much travel yet ahead of me." Prizzard will drop his hood and allow his reputation to prove his words. He has never officially joined a guild nor remained in one city for more than a year.

"I met your boy while looking around, trying to get a feel of the city.

I must say he did not make a good first impression, but he did give me some clues.
We met again as the rest of our little group gathered to exchange what we learned.

And as we had not really made progress, and didn't know what our next step would be, he provided us with an opportunity."

He paused a moment.

"But it appears we were in fact a means to an end for him. Money apparently..."

Ursa listens with a slight frown, contemplative. Prizzard's un-hooding does cause her to widen her eyes, slightly. She clearly recognizes him, but is still maintaining her composure. Yes. My stepson only cares for money and women. Not unforgivable, I suppose, except he's so inept at going about it. It's good that you aren't particularly close to him. It would only damage your reputation, believe me. Now, you should know, that the only thing keeping you alive right now is Fin's good word. He's sung high praises of you, and that is...significant. She gives him a slight smile. So, I'll get right to it. What work do you think to obtain? We are an assassin's guild. Are you willing to throw your skills in with some of our higher targets? she looks to Prizzard in particular when she asks this. Then,she turns to Tanzy. Who do you wish to have killed? For a price, we could take care of that for you, you know.

Raknesh sent a telepathic message through Rocky.

'I'm beginning to think we might be able to negotiate the needed element in exchange for work, Talmet looks less and less reliable. What do you think?'

"Assassination generally isn't my thing, but capture or intimidation I have no qualms with. I could also teach some fighting classes." He isn't concerned about coming across as soft, her reaction was enough for him. Indeed, aside from the origianl crime he was pinned with, Prizzard almost always kills in self-defense. Now for companions as well, but that is a recent change.

“I doubt I could afford your services,” Tanzy admitted, “Besides, it’s personal I’d rather handle it myself. I’m sure you understand?”

Tamlet is a terrible almost embarrassing connection. Let’s see how this plays out, she doesn’t seem like the type who would just hand over what we need without a hefty price. Once she knows we are interested in the pearls we will loose that element of surprise.”

"I know how to kill when it is needed." answered Raknesh.
"But I do not like killing those who do not deserve some punishment. If any of your higher target fit the bill, then I can make it work.  "

He would do it, however reluctantly, for they needed some leverage.
And many more lives where at stake.

'Indeed, but if we do succeed on some of the hard jobs, she might be willing to exchange one pearl instead of a lot of gold?
I would be better than risking our lives to steal it... And yet it's still plan B if we fail to convince her.'

Smiling at his old friends and then back at Ursa, Fin says with a gleam in his eye. "Well this should be fun... and profitable."

ooc: Man! I keep changing her dang speaking color! I'm going with green. That's final! ;P

Ursa listens, a hint of amusement on her lips. I never would have thought you so hesitant, Prizzard. She says the name with purpose. Especially with such a price on your head. You're lucky I don't turn you in myself, but there is honor in this guild, even amidst killers like us. The smile widens. So, you all seem to have some degree of consciences, save perhaps this one. She gestures at Tanzy. Clearly that does not mesh well with an assassin's life. You are not material for my guild, not in the long run. Though, your friend Fin here is a bit...careful regarding the morality of his decisions as well. If you give me a good enough reason to allow you to live, it may be lucrative for you for now. Just ask your old friend, she adds with a nod to the halfling.Now. I want the truth and nothing but the truth. The woman wants to kill someone, and I believe her. Is money the only thing the rest of you want? There are easier ways to get it than coming here. Raina, who has stayed silent throughout this, glances at all of you with a touch of uncertainty. It seems that the assassins around you have quieted, listening to their mistress with interest. You have the feeling that if you say the wrong thing, they will pounce. I can probably scrounge up a job or two that won't compromise your pure little souls too much, but, I'm going to have you supervised. I don't trust you. Not one bit. You're up to something, I can feel it. But I'm also curious. Can't help myself, she smiles. So, Fin. You'll go with them. Keep an eye on your old friends. And Nylok will join you too. A laugh from the crowd puts you on edge already.


Bryon:

Meanwhile, Bryon, still invisible and hidden on the wall, notices a man come to a nearby table, sit down, and start drinking. He glances up then, a smirk on his lips. You know there's about three of us who can see you, right?

ooc:

At Ursa's inclusion of fin, his eyebrow raises. "I was joking about the fun part, but I guess this is what I get for putting my foot in my mouth."

Turning to Prizzard, "well old friend it looks like we've been fated to travel together once more."
To Tanzy "Ursa's a strict one, by the book. 2 outcomes I've seen come from working for her. You do the job right and make some coin, or... well it is a guild of death." He smiles and cocks his head towards Nylok. "And that is her insurance policy, so I'm all for option 1."

"Easier ways tend to be slower, and I would like to have my arm restored before we leave town. I would also like to replace these old rags, if possible." He is keeping his tone almost flat, his posture solid but not rigid. Aside from speaking and keeping his eyes on Ursa, he's not really doing much.

Sonnenixxus glides from the window to land on Prizzards shoulder.
"We could mention we need coin to buy items for a magic ritual, that we need supplies to fight the undead horde, or even that we have a wedding to crash in a few days and need to look the part. Any of these would be true and expensive. If we wanted to drop the Dark Goddess news for some reason, Finn could back that up if he's willing."

Prizzard seems to listen to the pseudodragon for a moment. "Excuse our companion, she's shy."

Tanzy shrugs at Fin’s comments of Ursa. She wasn’t afraid of the woman or her “insurance”. She’d run in similar groups before, much less well known but she had an idea of how things worked. After what they’d been through though, a guld of assassins coming after them felt like a picnic. “When do we get started?”

All I really need is a distraction when there are less people around. I could probably steal that necklace without her even knowing...  It would be risky but better than doing whatever job Ursa might have in mind.

Oh, don't worry about leaving town, Ursa purrs. I have plenty of people around these parts who need some...comeuppance. Now, if I promise on my father's grave that the person being taken care of deserved it, will that satisfy your consciences? I could even have Nylok do the dirty work. I just need you to get him in. There is a particular nobleman with a great deal of enemies. Stalten. He's been on my to-do list for some time.

Fin, as you listen, you see Nylok, sitting a few tables away. He's ignoring all of you, your companions would not be able to pick him out, of course, but you already know he's listening to every word and probably sized up each one of you.

"This seems reasonable to me. What does the job pay, and do you have any information already gathered?" Prizzard turns to look upon the members but Son on his shoulder remains fixed on Ursa.

“Out of curiosity who wants Stalten dead?” Tanzy asked. Being so near her home she was familiar with the name but had never met the man personally.

Raknesh saw nothing to add to refuse the work.

"We will do some scouting then tell you if we require your man's intervention or if it's easier to do without him."

He then waited for the answer to the question he had not dared ask, but is very curious about.

Ursa listens with mild amusement. The job pays well enough. she shrugs. Twenty thousand gold to split among you. Her eyes watch for your reaction, waiting.

In the meantime, she addresses Tanzy's question. Stalton is third in line to the throne in this region. Some think he's going to try to force his way up the ladder through murderous means. He's been a nagging chore for me for some time. Scum like him knows my guild too well though. It makes it...tricky, to get the upper hand. So, your timing is something I mean to take advantage of.

At Raknesh's suggestion, she outright smirks. I'm sorry my dear. But I'm afraid Nylok is non-negotiable. For one, if you fail and this gets traced back to me, I'll have some problems, won't I? For another, none of you seems like the cold blooded killers I need. Do you really think you could do the job? Lastly, I don't trust you. I want some kind of assurances.

"A murderer with eyes in the throne and knowledge enough to stifle or erase the competition. Sounds like a proper villan to me if I can trust your word. What say we plan to do this tomorrow night?" Prizzard has no issue with the price. One so powerful should have excellent defenses in place though.

Bryon continued to hide and watch.

Tomorrow suits me well. Meet back here, and Nylok will accompany you. Should you return alive and successful, you'll have your reward. You have my word on it, and Fin here can vouch for my word, she looks at him fondly. And Fin, keep your friends out of trouble, will you? No one wants this to go better than me.

ooc: Ok, if no one has problems with it, we'll go ahead and skip to the next night. If anyone wants to do some digging on whether this noble has it coming to him, you can roll gather info or take a 20, either way. Also, make any preparations you wish too. Let me know if there's anything specific you need to do ahead of time.

Prizzard had other matters to attend to, so he wouldn't have enough time to take 20 on the check, so he tries for an assist roll.
rolled 14 using 1d20+6.  Gather Information .

Tanzy couldn’t help but feel a little uneasy with this new task. Not about killing or arranging the death of the nobleman, but about the danger it may be putting them in. And also that it was a very roundabout way of getting closer to Ursa and her black pearls. And also how were they all going to sneak their way into this mans house? She also noted that Ursa easily side stepped her inquiry as to who wanted Stalten dead. These concerns as well as her personal plans were enough of a distraction that she did a very half hearted job of collecting information on Lord Stalten.

OOC: Gather info 6

Tanzy will do a little investigation around this guys house, see if she can figure out if the servants have a specific uniform they wear, locate all the entrances and exits and whatnot. She will of course employ the use of her ring of invisibility:)

Raknesh is not used to idle chat and gathering rumors, but in this case, his wish to know they won't hunt an innocent appears to motivate him quite a bit.

And Rocky's telepathic help might have been a boon to.

Tanzy gathers little. Prizzard turns up stories that definitely support Ursa's tales, and Raknesh, from what you glean, the man is scum itself. Far deserving of such a fate. That said, you do hear a whisper of why he is so well protected. It seems he has a bodyguard. A witch, so the rumor goes, though no one has ever truly seen her. All that's known is any who try to attack him, all end up very, very dead, without him even lifting a finger. Quite troublesome indeed.

Bryon will patiently await her friend’s return.

Prizzard shows up before sunset with his news, a second arm, and a hefty bag of coin, from which he offers 100 platinum pieces for party funds. Noting the immediate curiosity he simply states "Ran a job last night, it paid pretty well." For the most part he manages to act like his previous disability never existed.

Tanzy eyed Prizzard’s new hand with curiosity glad that he was apparently whole again, but full of questions that would have to wait for another time. “Clearly you were more productive than I was,” she grins before admitting she’s come up with very little in the way of information on their target. She did offer her two cents as to how they should go about sneaking into Lord Stalten’s home. “We definitely shouldn’t all try and go in at once. If he’s having an event some of us may be able to pass as guests? Also if anyone has the ability to be invisible they should use it. I can loan my ring to someone who might find it helpful.  She wasn’t worried about getting herself in but sneaking some of the others in was stressful to think about. “And maybe Halek should stay behind? As backup in case we run into trouble.” She added so as not to offend the boy.

"You have indeed been busy" commented Raknesh he then added his own info.

"The witch bodyguard might cause some trouble, but otherwise, I see no reason not to do what was asked of us.

If I have some time, I will attune my blade to our new objective.  Know that I can, if needed fire an arrow that would bypass any wall or armor, unless there are magic walls.

Combined with some distance enhancement and Rocky as a secondary target scope, I should be able to dipose of the man from a safe distance.  At least that's what I thought. But now there is the witch factor..."

"And a warning shot from a distance could make the objective impossible. No telling what protections are in place. Imthinking there would be fewer wards during the event, making it easier to get into position, and wait until he retires to strike."

“If everyone who tries to kill Stalten ends up dead why not take Ursa up on her offer and let her man do it? What do you know about this guy Finn? Can we have him make the first attempt and see if he lives to tell about it?”  She didn’t know what sort of protection this witch offered her master but it was alarming that he’d survived so many attempts on his life. “Or one of us girls,” she tilted her head towards Bryon, an excellent flirt despite her married status, “could get close enough to get him to drop his guard? Once he was alone a ranged attack might not be so risky...”

ooc: Looks like Fin hasn't logged on in a month, so I'll NPC him for now...

ic: Fin frowns at Tanzy's question, thinking. Well, truthfully I wouldn't be sad to see the end of that man. He's terrifying. Probably even more of a pyschopath than Stalten. I'd run him through myself if I thought I could get away with it, so don't bother yourself about his safety if you don't have to. That said, Ursa might mind if you don't at least make it look like you tried. Hm. He might just do the dirty work, if you let him. It depends on why Ursa really wants him. To actually get the job done? Or to test YOUR trustworthiness. Probably a bit of both. But if you want him to give you glowing reviews, you'll want to at least lift your fingers a little bit...I suppose your hardest job will be to get Stalten alone, or at least alone enough that you can take out any straggling guards. Women, he turns to Bryon with a thoughtful, appreciative nod, are exceptionally good at that sort of thing....

“Technically Ursa offered if we got him in,” Tanzy shrugged.“I was just thinking if Stalten has some sort of instant death curse to those who threaten him, it might be handy to test it out on someone more...expendable? After all no one really knows the extent of the witches powers.”

Bryon lifted a brow and smirked at Fin. ”I can handle that. Where should I get him to?”

“Bedroom? Or a private garden or somewhere secluded. Rocky should be able to help communicate their location so we can find them right?” The last question was directed at Raknesh.

"Outdoors would be excellent. Sonnenixxus can keep an eye out as well."

"Yes, we have very valuable assets thanks to Rocky and Sonnenixxus.

I fear that if we guide him to the garden, there might be more guards or chances to be seen.

We could use a closed space.


Tanzy, what do you have in mind?"

Bryon gave a knowing smirk and unlaced her bodice until it was almost obscene. She Let her hair down and shook it out. She put on a very sultry face and proceeded to where she thought this man would be.

“I recommend Bryon use her...assets to get him alone. Rocky can help us track them down if they go to his private rooms. She and I can gain entrance to the party fairly easily. Anyone not good at lying will need to go in the sack or use this,” She twists her ring of invisibility off her finger and offers it to anyone who could make use of it.  If everyone agrees on the idea she will spend the rest of the day acquiring a gown and some other accessories to disguise herself and Bryon. She also recommends the others do the same as far as nicer clothes go. In the off chance they do get caught it will be easier if they at least look the part.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:37, Mon 09 Nov 2020.

Prizzard frowns a bit at having to find a new outfit but glances at his shredded garb and nods. He will find new clothing in a similar style and better fit. Still the clothing of a shady adventurer, but new. And he would clean the magic clothing meticulously. Maybe he could pass as a professional if he also bought a nicer rapier to wear at his side, which would of course need to be given up at the door.


OoC here: Wouldn't Byron being so obvious set off some mental alarms?

"I'm good at hiding, but such a ring would come in handy."
He checked his garb too and quickly admitted it would not fit such a party.
And anyways, he was quite bad at lying.

Tanzy passes her ring off to Raknesh instructing him on the little magical code to activate it.
“Maybe be a little more discreet,” she adds with a grin towards Bryon. “We will be among nobility and don’t want to draw any more attention to ourselves than necessary. We need to keep our eye out for the witch as well.” She adds with caution.

OOC: It’s such an uncertain situation we should probably have a back up plan in case Bryon doesn’t catch his fancy. Also did we find out if he has a wife?! We know he’s a scumbag but I doubt he’d go so far as to flirt and cheat in his wife’s company... Probably we will have to wing it if the seduce and kill doesn’t pan out.

ooc: You do find out that he has a wife. A much younger wife. Also, I assume anyone doing the lying will need a nice outfit, depending on what lie you're going to go with. You'll want to select something cost wise that you are cool with paying me, mwahahahahahaha! Or, maybe Tanzy will just steal one, lol.  Who all is in the bag then? I just need a final count. Also, who's going to do the lying and what story are you going to go with?

Here are the basics of the situation. Stalton is having a dinner that night for the local nobility. It seems many are in town, having traveled for the soon to be wedding in the neighboring kingdom. They are passing through and Stalton is using the opportunity to host them in his house, no doubt to grease some palms and make some deals. It's a good chance for your needs, but you also know security will be tight. You'll need a good story or a really good roll...

"I can just tweak the truth slightly so that even a ward would not suspect me, but I'll need to practice. I would prefer to enter through the door and get in the bag later."

It's going to take a significant amout of cleaning as all but his pants and shirt are magic items. This should make his lie much easier, claiming to be a sought-after freelancer with critical business at this party with Stalton himself. And he will easily give up his fancy new blade at the door as he has no intention of spilling blood tonight. Technically, it's all true. He'll need somebody to practice poking holes in his story. I'd like to Take-10 on the Bluff check with circimstance bonus for ease of believability!

Tanzy has money for appropriate clothing and will go the honest route and pay this time around. “I can get in as a distant relative of the soon to be bride from the neighboring kingdom,” Tanzy says confidently. Like Prizzard her lie was mostly true, she was just more closely related than anyone would expect. She also has a signet ring with the family mark to help sell the story. Bryon could get in as her chaperone.

OOC: Tanzy will be sure to hide multiple daggers on her person. The dress makes it easy to smuggle such items in. She also offers to distract Stalten’s wife if needed. She seems a little antsy to be rubbing shoulders with nobles but definitely looks the part once she’s dressed and ready. She can cover the cost of Bryon’s dress as well if needed. Just let me know the damage :) We definitely need Raina to be there in case we meet up with the witch!

Bryon nodded, ”And I your hand maiden.” She retrieved a nice outfit from her stash of clothes, one that accentuated her natural assets. She decided lying wasn’t a good idea. She approached the man with a smile that held the promise of adventure. When she is close enough to clasp his hand she pulled him close and whispered in his ear, ”I’ve something I’d like to discuss with you...in private.” She let the seductive smile play on her lips as she pulled back. She felt it best to let him fill in the blanks himself.

Nylock gets stashed away in the bag as planned, though he looks uncertain about it. The fact that Fin goes with him helps, though.

Raina offers to be another handmaiden or go into the bag, whichever is preferred for the cover story.

Fancy attire is found fairly easily, considering the size of the town and its amenities, and it's surprising to see each other so fine looking, especially since you're used to seeing everyone covered in blood and less than polished from your endless travels. It's rather nice!

At last the time for the party arrives. The house is massive, a great, pillared marble thing with guards posted on every entrance. Five to a door and several others patrolling. Judging from the way they move, they know what they're doing. It would be very difficult to sneak past them. Not necessarily undoable, but tricky at best.

Meanwhile, a stream of guests approach the one open entrance, each stopped and questioned at the front door by a bear of a man, a handful of guards behind him. You get in line, which fortunately moves quickly. Your turn comes up. He looks down at you, scowling, as he looks down at the list in front of him. Names? he grunts.

ooc: Ok, roll your bluffs/diplomacy if needed, etc! I will allow 10 to be taken, no problem. This is your last chance to let me know of any preparations you made or any plans you have. Good luck!

Taking 10 gives me a 16 on Bluff before circumstance modifiers.

Prizzard shows up separate from the others but will meet up with whomever helped him pracrice his ruse while waiting in line, exchanging niceties like two acquaintances catching up. If the one who helped isn't on this mission or must remain solo, he will be stoic until it is his turn to greet the guards.

Tonight he dressed well indeed. The new shirt and pants are dark enough black that they could only be both new and expensive. He wore the chain shirt under his shirt as usual but changed out the usual hemp undershirt for a rough, thick silk dyed less thoroughly black that the shirt. The rest of his gear was usually well-disguised by ground-in dirt, blood, and worse, but had been thoroughly cleaned to shine like new as only magical gear can. That chain shirt, a belt, pair of rings, single earring, gloves, boots, and rapier looked unused to the untrained eye. It took hours and a little magic. He even sought a stylish trim and a shave for his very rare facial hair.

"I am known as Mokosh. I will not be on your list as my attendance was required at short notice."
Mokosh is a rashemi word meaning "a spirit of the harvest", also the name of a bright star that marks the coming of Autumn.

Edit: Ah yes, contingencies. If even the backup from Tanzy doesn't work, Prizzard will aggressively hand over his weapon and state "My business is with the Lord of the house, not the guard."

rolled 38 using 1d20+25.  Intimidate. Before Circumstance penalties.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:33, Wed 18 Nov 2020.

Tanzy cleans up nicely indeed in a velvet soft gown. The fabric is a dusty pink color with a flowing cream underskirt. The dress is cut to flatter her figure and no one would guess that the wide flowing skirts hid a couple daggers and a few other surprises in case of emergency. Her jewelry consists of her usual bracelet and a strand of pearls and matching earrings she’d purchased for the occasion. On her right hand she wears a signet ring in place of the invisibility one she’d let Raknesh borrow. Her hair is also pulled back in a fashionable twist with a small ivory comb.

An expert at lying Tanzy more than likely offered to help Prizzard with his story and lingered near holding polite conversation ready to back him up should he have any problems. Raina and Bryon she kept close as well, chattering here and there about how lovely the evening was. When their turn comes she flashes a smile at the burly man with the list.

“Lady Rosalie Drazhan. And I’m quite mortified to say that I am not going to be on that list. You see I am traveling to my cousins house, she’s getting married in a few days, I’m sure you have heard...” She paused for effect before plunging on with her ruse. “We were to arrive this evening but our wagon threw a wheel and we were forced to stop here for the night. Originally I had it in my head to go straight to my bed after being tossed about in that wagon. I’ve never been so frightened in my life! But then I heard of Lord Stalton’s gathering and realized it would be quite rude of me not to make an appearance.” She spoke with confidence as if she were granting them the favor of her presence.

OOC:Bluff 27
Diplomacy:16

Bryon spoke in Sylvan, [Sylvan] ”I do not understand you, greasy male, but I have on my prettiest party dress so why don’t you look at my boobs?”

Taking 10 on Bluff for a 20
The old “I don’t speak your language but I’m pretty” con

The guards are shrewd. Shrewder than you gave them credit for, and the burly man's dark eyes narrow at your various stories. Prizzard, more than anyone, seems to set off his hackles, though there is a flash of nerves as your eyes meet. He addresses Tanzy first, clearly seeing her as the most genuine of all of you. Do you know these folk milady? he frowns, glancing doubtfully at Prizzard again. His hand stays by his sword hilt. I'm afraid I can't let any of you in without invitations. Lord Stalton is very particular about that, even for nobility such as yourself. I can, however, have you wait under watch and see if my master will make an exception for you? He would hate to offend any nobles, I'm sure. Still, I'm afraid your...companion will have to give up his gear. All of you, must be searched, in fact, he adds apologetically, obvious uncomfortable with the request. He's seemingly willing to let Prizzard in to wait with Tanzy, but he's greatly on edge around him. You also sense that he'd be willing to let a few things slip with a little manipulation, simply because he seems nervous even asking Prizzard to give up his things and you doubt he'd have the guts to argue the point too much.

Then, at Bryon's words, he gives a seedy smirk, answering back in perfect Sylvan. Well, you certainly are lovely. But that's not reason enough to let you in, my pretty. What are you doing here? Hoping to slip into a party are you? he chuckles. You get the sense that he could believe you if you came up with a good enough reason, but that he's not going to let you in on looks alone.

Bryon gave the guard her sultriest smile, giggling and running her finger tips over his forearm. "Greasy male, you are educated? This is good. I am sent by the Fey to...ENTERTAIN your master." She leaned forward just and bit and used her arms to press her boobs together.

Having already handed over his weapon, Prizzard had nothing more to give the man than his maille shirt. At the mention of 'companion', he got a little flustered. "Ah, no, the lady and I are merely acquainted as we have traveled together a few times previously. You may search me but it would be uncouth, at the very least, to ruffle the young noblewomans dress." He attempts to hint with hand gestures, for only the guard, that he can speak more out of the range of the public ear.

Tanzy shows great distress at the idea of being searched. “Oh how disappointed Cousin Fayrah will be when she hears how I have been treated! I can’t imagine Lord Stalten would be welcome at the Graystone wedding after an incident such as this!” Her voice rises a pitch higher with each sentence. “I will not subject myself to being man handled like some street urchin! I fear I may faint at the very idea!” She lets herself waver to the side as if she’s loosing her balance.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:01, Mon 30 Nov 2020.

Seeing the scene that Tanzy is making, the guard looks uncertain, exchanging uncomfortable glances with one of the other men. He holds up his hands then, as if to shush her. My apologies, good lady. Apologies indeed! No, you're right. We will satisfy ourselves with searching this man. I'm sure such a fair noblewoman as yourself has nothing amiss. He says this all in a rush, as his partner indeed does search Prizzard. Seeing Prizzard is unarmed, another guard is called up to escort you, taking you inside and down a corridor and into a waiting room of sorts. It's private and very, very nice. You are pleased to have made it in with such relative ease, especially considering you don't have that much time before your companions must be released from the bag hidden beneath Tanzy's skirts. However, to your displeasure, the guard who escorts you, does not leave. He merely stands at attention, waiting only a few feet away. Word has been sent, my lord and lady. We will wait here for my master's news. I can have refreshment sent if you wish? Won't take but a word to a passing servant.

Meanwhile, Bryon's story seems to be very much accepted by the guard that's been questioning her. His eyebrows shoot up and he quickly gestures you to follow him, clearly not wanting any passerby to hear what you've just told him.
He leads you inside, past the crowds of impeccably dressed guests, down a hallway, and then into a sitting room, where he gestures you to sit. He speaks, in rapid Elvish, clearly fluent. You can't be here tonight. His wife knows about his dalliances with the...entertainment. Now, I don't recognize you. You must be new. You would be wise to cut your losses and I will escort you out. With payment, of course, for your time. However, my master values his secrecy. If you even think of blackmailing him, he has ways of stopping your tongue. Forever. Now, shall we head to the back exit? I'm certain you'll be reasonable about this. He folds his arms half menacingly. He's not a small man, at all.

"A beverage would be excellent, after a trip to the privy. Something sweet, preferably." Surely some of the guards benefit from Tongues, Truesight, and the ability to detect magic, perhaps even more, so Prizzard keeps conversation simple and civil. He seems to realize something suddenly and gestures to Tanzy for the guard. "The lady is likely suffering worse, if she retains the habit of being ready at the last second. I can wait."

It's not hard to play this as a jab: feigned politeness, suppressed grin, and all. Even if there were no examples of procrastination in reality, it is a fun accusation and the type of habit any guard would quickly pick up on and remember. Plus it should get a wholly real reaction.

Bryon looked stunned at the man's near accusation, [Sylvan not Elvan Language of the Fey]"Blackmail? Sir you wound me." She got a little misty eyed and went on, "Sir, you must understand, I was sent by...he who cannot be named...the ArcheFey? I am sure you have heard of him. If I do not at least make contact with your master I will be punished severely and regrettably not in a fun way. Can you not arrange for a mere moment when I can speak with him." She used her finger to wipe aside a tear, then reached out and touched his forearm again, "I would be very grateful and I am willing to show you my gratitude."

“I’m quite capable of getting ready in a timely fashion,” Tanzy sniffs in offense. “That said I could use a little freshening up after that ordeal at the entrance...” She made the “ordeal” sound like much more than it was, a gentle reminder that she was capable of  causing drama if she didn’t get her way.
She was acutely aware that the smuggled bag of holding and it’s contents were in need of some fresh air.

"You're about as fresh as they come, just like I remember. At this rate I may be forced into yet another rematch at the wedding." Banter isn't his strongest point,  but its fun anyway.

“A rematch indeed!” Tanzy laughs, “I’ll be sure to arrange it!” She couldn’t be more proud that Prizzard was doing a decent job of keeping their ruse up and she enjoyed the banter.
She hoped Bryon was fairing well on her own. They had strayed from the original plan and she was nervous not knowing what their friend was up to especially not being in a position to provide back up if needed.

Tanzy/Prizzard:
ooc: I'm running on the assumption that you're actually going to go into the bathrooms. If you change your minds, let me know and I'll edit this.

 The guard listens to the exchange with feigned interest, and an apologetic look to Tanzy. It's clear he doesn't care much for the dealings of nobles, more for keeping his master safe. Ah, well, I'm afraid until you've been properly vetted, I can't have you running off without escort. The guest list is very strict, you see. And your entrance must be finalized before I leave you. I will accompany you to the privy myself, and send for some sweet refreshment for you both. I'm sure this will all be over soon and you can enjoy the party. Shall we?

If you allow it, he'll lead you down the hall towards the privies. Along the way, he catches the attention of a passing servant and says, "Please send some plum wine to the sitting room in the east hall, along with some pastries. Oh, and send for Marcus, won't you? I could do with a word with him. He says it all very politely, flashing you both a smile.

The privies, are divided by gender, though still located next to each other. A decent sized room for each, lined with the accoutrements that supply such a location. He will, at least, seemingly allow you to each enter on your own, without him.

Bryon: The man's eyes widen at your words. It is so important to the archfey that you please my master? Goodness! I would gladly take you up on your offer, milady, of such a tempting dalliance, though if my lord finds out I've sampled his own...entertainment, I think the consequences should be dire. As for producing the man himself, I suspect he's otherwise engaged. I...think I can try to slip him a communication, see if he's willing to see you? Unfortunately, that would require me to keep you in this room, for your safety and his secrecy. But I would be back soon? He seems sincere, eager, even, to help.

"I would expect to be escorted. Thank you." Prizzard has nothing more than the usual business to tend to, this was entirely to get Tanzy somewhere she could open the bag for a while.

Once in the privacy of the room Tanzy will quickly slip the bag off and open it giving its contents some fresh air. “You can either stay in the bag or get out and hide in this room until you can sneak out. I can’t guarantee I will have another opportunity to open this unnoticed. If you have the ability to be invisible I would strongly recommend it...” Her voice is little more than a whispered hiss and she motions for everyone to be quiet.

Bryon nodded, "It is so. And the Archfey will be glad to reward you for your helpful service since you do not wish to partake of mine. I will await your return."

The companions in the bag, which consist of Nylock, Raknesh and Raina, all heartily desire to be let out and stay out. Apparently, the air quality was rapidly deteriorating and they were not anxious to repeat the near miss. Raina informs you they will search about the place, see if there are any weaknesses they could exploit, and meet you back in the bathroom later should any of you get the opportunity.

The whole affair takes no time at all and before you know it, you're back out in the hall with Prizzard and the guard, who looks suitably satisfied that nothing is amiss. After all, what could you have been up to so quickly?

Soon you find yourselves back in the sitting room, the aforementioned refreshments waiting, should you desire them. The guard waits with you, wordlessly, clearly just biding his time until word reaches the proper ears. At long last, it does, and a sour faced older woman enters, looking slightly put out to be interrupted. She's looking at a rather impressive tome in front of her, squinting at the words. Rosalie Drazahn, you say? she mutters, flipping through the pages. That sort of sounds familiar, possibly. This book should have your name in it somewhere. I keep track of all noble births in these parts, you see. Hm...Hm... It is then that she looks up and Tanzy's heart skips a beat. In a bad way. The woman's eyes bulge in surprise. Evelyn Vanadey! As I live and breathe! Is it really you?! You recognize the woman. Her name is Synderis Mayne, and she was always rather chummy with your mother...


Bryon: You wait, patiently. Should you try the door, it is unsurprisingly locked, but then you were warned it would be. Roughly fifteen minutes goes by, which isn't too bad, and your thoughts are filled with your next steps. However, when the door unlocks again, it is not Lord Stalton you see. Rather, five guards and a woman, who enters with an air of confidence. She's in her forties, with pale blonde hair and a hard, but handsome face. She crosses her arms, looking you up and down. Give me one good reason not to kill you right now. She speaks in perfect Sylvan as she says it. Something about her deeply rubs you the wrong way. This woman is dangerous.

Prizzard partakes gladly, enough to feel it slightly. He can't help but laugh lightly when the old woman calls her out "Busted, mi'lady. Couldn't help but wonder about that pseudonym. But, Evelyn?" He likely didn't know her real name before this, so he deflects his knowledge to a different pseudonym in the past. Andnyes, he's jabbing lightly at this 'real' name.

Tanzy cringed at the sound of her real name. She was hoping that her eleven year absence would have helped her escape recognition. She took it in stride though and smiled at the older woman.“Lady Mayne! How good to see you again. It has been such a long time. Please I beg you don’t tell anyone that you have seen me. I wish to surprise my mother as a gift for her upcoming wedding.” It was a long shot but worth a try.
Prizzard’s remarks brought a rueful grin and a shrug. She had disclosed some of her history to him but certainly not her given name.

The guard watches the exchange with the slightest lift of his eyebrows. Did you say Vanadey? He frowns. As in, your mother's marriage is the talk of pretty much every city for the next fifty miles? He turns to the noblewoman for confirmation. She laughs. Of course! She has more right to be at this party than I do, considering, she laughs. Yes, my lord is friends with your soon to be stepfather, he nods to Tanzy. Since Lady Mayne vouches for you, you have my blessing to be here. Your man too, if you think you can trust him. And, I will keep your surprise a secret, as you wish. He gives a respectful nod before leaving. Unfortunately, you're still stuck with the noblewoman. A surprise, eh? Oh I'm sure your mother will be thrilled! Especially after the tragedy with your brother. Honestly, I had thought you were lying in a gutter somewhere. Everyone has thought so, my dear. But look at you! So healthy! She goes up and pinches your cheeks.

Well, luckily it seems you've gained full entry to the place now. Unfortunately, you have one of the worst gossips this side of the continent in the room with you.

Bryon's eyes narrowed. [Sylvan] "Because then my Master would be displeased." She stood, smiled, and used Flees the Scene to go to the main gathering. Flees the scene leaves behind an illusory copy, and it waved at them as it vanished into sparkly purple glitter dust.

Flees the Scene to get to the main gathering so they can assassinate.
It will be a round before she can do anything else.

 Tanzy assures the guard of Makosh’s reputable character as he exits the room.
“Dead in a gutter?! Heavens no!” She laughs lightly despite the fact that the woman’s assumption probably hit closer to home than she realizes. She doesn’t bother to offer up where she’s been all these years. Instead she changes the subject. “I was wondering... since the cat is out of the bag...if by any chance you would arrange for a meeting with Lord Stalten this evening? If he’s not too busy for us?” She flashes an innocent smile.

"I thank you for helping me in here, hopefully the lord will see me tonight as well. In the interim, I'll find some fun failing to blend in with this crowd." The tray of pastries is nearly empty and Prizzard is on a second glass of the wine, but left the bottle. He's crumb free somehow, probably ate each pastry in a single bite.

Finally out of the bag, Raknesh let's Rocky out of his pocket and confers with the rest of the 'spy team'.

"I don't think I should meddle with the guest as I'm quite terrible with social interaction.  And because of my height and this nice new hand, I might attract too much attention.

I will sneak around to find possible exits or protections and to see if I can find more about his witch bodyguard."


That being said, he will, if it's big enough, get out by the window and use his slippers of spider climbing and elven cloak to climb up unoticed to find another path to enter, or a study or anything like that.



OOC sorry for the absence. I suppose it's a bit to late to link all the party with his mindlink power to allow easy communication?^^

if it is, then he will link with Raina and, if he wants, Nylock

ooc: Nope, I very much think you guys would have had the foresight to mindlink beforehand, so I'm totally cool with it! :D

ic: Tanzy/Prizzard: The woman gives a tinkling little laugh at Tanzy's words. Oh but of course! Lord Stalton is a most impressive man, though you should hear some of the nasty rumors about him! she laughs, as though delighted at that aspect. I'm wonderful friends with his dear wife. I think of her like my own daughter you know. After all, my real one turned out to be such a disappointment, she sniffs. Tanzy well recalls the noble's daughter left home years ago to marry a farmer and raise beets. It had raised quite the scandal at the time. And my dear sir, she turns towards Prizzard with a smile, any friend of Evelyn's may join such a momentous opportunity! Now, tell me about yourself dear man. I need to be able to make the proper introductions! She turns towards you shrewdly then, already scrutinizing you.

Raknesh:
The others agree to your plan, Raina bidding you to take care and telling you to keep her posted. She and Nylock will go to the ball itself and see if they can spy the man. Our biggest concerns will be getting out of here I should think. she frowns. Keep an eye out for that especially.

Then they leave, and you're able to slip out with ease. Looking around outside gives you some valuable information, but not as much as you'd like. All four walls of the massive place are equally well guarded it seems, but a dozen or so men and more not far off. Stalton knows he's a hated man apparently. That said, there does seem to be a better chance of escape on the south side of the building. There are far more alleys and buildings to lose any pursuers.

At last you climb inside, finding yourself in a guest room from the looks of it. The furniture is fine and the bed large, but it looks too neat and tidy and simple to be someone's actual residence. You open the door a crack and peek out just in time to see a handful of guards race down the hallway past you. They are clearly after someone...

'Is everyone alright?  I just spotted guards who looked very much in a hurry'

He offers a hand to shake in greeting, glove taken off. "Mokosh, ma'am, and I doubt we're quite close enough to be called friends. With this revelation I'm not quite sure if my bodyguard duties have been real. My business here today is with Stalten, running into Evelyn was an unexpected bonus." Indeed, some mistrust from the trials is bubbling up, and now seemed like an excellent time for a diversion. "There's no rush to know me now, I am but a mercenary and we'll be meeting again shortly at the wedding. I seek an audience with the lady Silda Vistar and heard she would be in attendance."

Bryon's comment. I've been made. Small window, going for Tango. Keep guards busy.

ooc: I'll post for Tanzy and Prizzard soon, just waiting on something.

ic: Bryon, you find yourself in the crowded room, appearing suddenly right next to a rather astonished looking middle aged man holding a glass of punch, which he promptly drops. What in the world?! he exclaims in fright.
The room itself is large and full of bustling people. It's difficult to know which one Stalton is at first, since there are so many people, but there is a man in the front of the room who looks to be particularly fawned over, so that is a safe bet. He's surrounded by people though, and there are guards everywhere, mingled throughout the crowd.

Raknesh: As you continue watching, you see a woman stalking after the guards. She's in her 40's with pale blonde hair and a hard yet attractive face. She looks furious and you half wonder if the guards are in so much of a hurry because they're looking for Bryon, or because they're afraid of this woman. She stops suddenly, right outside your door, though her back is to you. She turns slowly, peering into the room, yet seeming not to see you. Who's there? I can hear you breathing. she says bluntly.

Tanzy/Prizzard: The noblewoman listens to Prizzard's words and she claps her hands with glee. Oh! How splendid! I can make the proper introductions! Though you should know, she's a very serious sort, she rolls her eyes at that. And she'll be intrigued that you're here, Evelyn! Considering your mother and all that. she laughs. Oh, that's right! It's a secret you're here, right? I keep forgetting!

Tanzy wracks her mind, thinking of the name. There are so many people from your past you've tried to forget. Silva, Silva, Silva....You remember not liking her for some reason. It's probably been since you were a child that you've seen her. You remember she's powerful as sin, with more money and influence than one person should have. She could probably squash Stalton like a bug if she really wanted. Hopefully it's been long enough since she's seen you that you're safe from recognition...

ooc: Ok, let me know how you want to do this. I basically need diplomacy checks from both of you, especially for Prizzard. And bluff checks too. Then I'll be ready to move you to introductions whenever you're ready.

Prizzard was never skilled with politics and would prefer to keep his interactions with this woman to a minimum, using the "stoic mercenary" stereotype to prevent making a fool of himself. He did have a lot of practice at that after all. "I'm aware of her reputation, and I'm not in the proper outfit for that meeting tonight. You shall find me far better-dressed at the wedding. Tonight my business is with Stalten, and then my bed a the inn. If you could though, please pass on that I will be seeking her there and must ask for her renowned skill in divinations."


rolled 7 using 1d20+5.  Diplomacy.

And while Prizzard is doing his best to avoid any lies for the sake of divination magic or exceptionally skilled conversationalists/politicians, a Bluff roll:
rolled 22 using 1d20+6.  Bluff
This message was last edited by the player at 11:36, Tue 12 Jan 2021.

When able, Bryon begins making her way to the man they are intended to kill. She hopes to get close enough to grab him and use Flees the Scene to take him as high up as she possibly can and then drop him.

“Yes we wouldn’t want to pull anyone away from their social obligations this evening. Perhaps we should mingle a little bit and then if the opportunity to meet our host present itself we would be happy to be introduced.”  Tanzy is very curious as to why Prizzard would be interested in meeting Lady Silva but she will save her questions for another time. Right now Bryon’s warning that she’s in trouble is at the forefront of her mind. Ditching the nosy noble and getting to the real gathering seems more pressing even if they are passing up the opportunity to be introduced to their target.

OOC: Bluff 19 Diplomacy 26
This message was last edited by the player at 18:50, Tue 12 Jan 2021.

Tanzy/Prizzard: The noblewoman looks a bit disappointed not to be thrust into the middle of your business, more so at Prizzard than Tanzy, but she gives a polite smile, recovering. Yes, yes of course, I understand. I shall let the lady know to look for you at the wedding then. A note, her favorite color is green. If you pick up a suitable frock in that shade, I'm certain it will only improve her spirits! she points a helpful finger at Prizzard. In the meantime, good luck with Stalton. He's very paranoid you know. A lot of people have tried to kill the man, after all. Getting close will take a bit of finagling. Well, she sniffs, straightening, I'm sure I'll see you inside somewhere. With that she gives a polite nod of farewell, turning to leave. The guard gives a small bow too, following behind her.

ooc: Ok, he's well guarded. You're not going to be able to walk up to him. But, if you have a good enough story and bluff, you might just have a chance of being allowed to see him. Best ready yourselves and let me know your plan when you've got one. You can look at my post for Bryon below to get an idea of what you're dealing with.

Bryon:
Unfortunately, as you try to get closer, you see it will not be so easy as that. Stalton seems to be surrounded by guards, their eyes ever watchful. If you're going to get close to him, it probably won't be by rushing him. He's clearly paranoid, but then the assassin's guild said he had many enemies, so it makes sense that he'd be prepared. You don't have long before the witch finds you too, so your options are closing fast...That said, you spot Nylock and Raina across the room, their eyes are on the man as well. Raina's eyes meet yours and she gives you a nod to approach her.


Raknesh: pm

"Thank you for the advice, though it may be quite late to make that change. I am usually travelling and rarely have appropriate clothing for such an occasion. I am sure my tailor will barely have the outfit ready on time as it is." Prizzard moves walks toward and beside the woman, hopefully she will turn and allow Tanzy to escape while he continues speaking quietly.
I'm working on a strong diversion. It is unlikely I'll be able to fight, but I should be able to get him alone.

Bryon quickly went to Riana to recenoiter.

Raknesh swears mentally.

He had not expected someone could hear such a faint noise with guards running nearby.

He will hold his breath, hoping it would suffice, but if not... fighting might be the only solution, a quick deadly volley.  Or there will be trouble.

And with is luck, this must be the dreadful sorceress.

Raknesh: You hold your breath, and she pauses, poised and listening. You feel on edge, sure that she's going to find you at any moment. Instead, she shakes her head and mutters, You're losing your mind Tagatha. With that, she sighs and heads quickly down the hallway, no doubt trying to catch up to pursue Bryon. She's no doubt headed to the ballroom so time is ticking on that score.

ooc: Lol! You got so lucky! I rolled a natural one for her. Let me know where you decide to head. If you want to go to the ballroom, it's not far. You'll be there soon if you want to rejoin the others. Otherwise, let me know if you want to keep sneaking.

Bryon: Looks like you made it in. Well done. Nylok says if we can get Stalton alone, he can get the job done. I don't see the witch anywhere. But she could be hiding in the crowd perhaps? We should probably rendezvous with Tanzy and Prizzard before we do anything. My thinking is we need to thin out his guards. A distraction maybe? But we should discuss it with the others perhaps or we're going to get stuck in here.

Tanzy/Prizzard: The noblewoman looks enthralled by whatever Prizzard is saying, so it is a good opportunity for Tanzy to sneak by if she so desires. Should she do so, and if she enters the ballroom, she will spot Raina and Bryon talking, eyes often glancing to the very well guarded Stalton.

Prizzard: At your words, the woman gasps, turning pale. Oh my. Oh MY! her hands fly to her face. This is dreadful, quite dreadful! Yes, yes, I will appeal to his wife, tell her what you told me. I know she'll see to it he gets a word with you. Soon, if I have anything to say about it! Oh my goodness! She rushes off.

ooc: Ok, Prizzard, let me know if there's anything more to say to the woman. She's very keen to get you an audience asap so you're good there, but if you have any instructions let me know. Also, should you go to the ballroom, you'll see Bryon and Raina talking to each other. And don't forget guys, you have Rocky to communicate through too.

Indeed Tanzy does sneak out and while she spots her companions across the room she hangs back. She’s relieved that Bryon appears safe but is concerned that there could be more trouble on the way.

Prizzard will remain in this spot rather than join the ball, paying particular attention to the snacks the guard had delivered, from the comfort of a nearby chair if possible.

'I got nearly found out by a certain 'Tagatha', as she was moving with the guards and seems VERY perceptive, I suspect she is the infamous sorceress.

She is moving toward the ballroom, so Bryon, you better not stay there.

As for a distraction, I could cause some ruckus, fell some guards, I could even, with Rocky's guidance try to fire my mind arrow through the wall at a target, but I don't know how it would help.'

Bryon said, "I've got her on my tail. I think I can provide a distraction, but it will be very loud and messy."

With Raknesh's new information, decisions must be made quickly. Raina answers via Rocky, her voice ringing in everyone's mind:

Ok, we have a couple options for distractions. We may need both if there are enough guards. Theoretically, Stalton will be Nylock's problem. she gestures to the man near her. We're just supposed to clear the way. Well and good. My biggest concern is getting out again. We're going to be scuffling with guards whether we like it or not. We just need to find a way to thin their numbers. So getting out will be key. Any luck finding likely escape routes Raknesh?

I'll get Stalten alone for Nylock. Release me.

Can we hold off on doing anything crazy just yet? All we need to do to get a handle on this situation is hide Bryon. None of the others have been made yet. A messy distraction will probably complicate the situation and this place will be locked down tighter than a jar of string beans... Bryon, how do you feel about a short trip in the bag? Or can you go invisible? At this point Tanzy isn’t worried about her own capabilities of getting out of this place but she’s becoming increasingly concerned about getting everyone else out in one piece. Especially now with Raknesh’s confirmation of the presence of Stalten’s witch woman.

Bryon nodded and became invisible.

Use Walk Unseen to become Invisible

ooc: I'm going to go out on a limb here and assume Rocky will let Prizzard out of the loop. I'm also going to assume that Bryon goes somewhere discreet to turn invisible, lest someone see her. It would be easy enough to do.

ic: It's a relief to have Bryon out of sight, especially as four more guards enter the ballroom, eyes scanning the area as though looking for someone. They glance at their master, see the other guards are not concerned, and then continue out, no doubt looking down the hall for Bryon.

Meanwhile, a woman also enters. She has blonde hair and is in her forties with a hard face and intelligent eyes. Bryon, you recognize her immediately as the woman in the cell who had confronted you. You feel...unsafe, with her in the room. If she's as powerful as they say, you may not be out of danger, even while invisible....

ooc: Ok, Prizzard you can feel free to start your plan if you like. Just make sure to roll appropriately. Also, you won't get close to Stalton himself, though you could try to call out to him. He has a wall of guards in front of him always keeping about a 15 foot distance between them. So you could call out to him or try to convince one of the guards, if that's the route you decide to go.

The witch has a killer reputation from what you've all gathered. Raknesh, you would recognize her too, from the hallway. Prizzard and Tanzy, however, would not know who she is.

The necessary seed has been planted, Prizzard will wait here.

Bryon will cautiously move out of the room to a place she can be hidden.

Raknesh will cut the link with Prizzard, as requested, but not before he informs the party of his exploration and potential way out on the South side.

He will get to the ballroom too, if only to do something if Bryon is in trouble and to keep his eyes on the witch.

Tanzy hangs back, her attention divided between her companions and Stalten. It’s a relief to see that Bryon is in hiding especially when the guards show up. She will casually make the rounds blending in, ready to assist should anyone need it.

Luckily Bryon's exit seems to have kept her from the witch's view and she scans the crowd, looking at last satisfied that nothing is amiss. She then draws near to Stalton himself, murmuring something in his ear. He gives a slightly surprised nod and she draws away, disappearing down the hall again, perhaps to look for Bryon once more. The guards, tighten their stances but otherwise the room stays the same. Stalton seems fairly relaxed, under the circumstances, still allowing certain guests near him who seem to meet his criteria.

Meanwhile, Nylock draws closer to Tanzy with a growl. Stalton is better protected than ever now. Any genius plans to get those guards away from him? I don't think Ursa would be impressed so far. he sneers.

ooc: So you're good to move about the room again and Bryon can re-enter now if she wishes, but clearly Stalton is on edge now.

IC: As you wait for the right opportunity to fall into place, you are surprised when a plump older woman cuts through the guards and whispers something into Stalton's wife's ear. A quick exchange follows and soon both the women are ushering Stalton up and out of his chair. The guards, sensing something amiss, turn to look at their master questioningly, and the intense conversation continues. After a long moment and a look of frustration, Stalton leaves the room, closely followed by his men. The plump woman then turns to find Prizzard and gestures him over quickly.

Should Prizzard approach, she will say, Alright, you only have a minute with him. He's most displeased. Better make it quick good man. He's waiting in the hallway for you. She shoos you toward the door.

Meanwhile, Nylock watches the scene shrewdly, waiting for his chance. He doesn't seem to care about plans or schemes, quickly leaving through a different exit. Judging by the murderous look on his face, you suspect he's going to do something...

ooc: If anyone else meanders nearby they can roll listens to see if you hear her.
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:24, Thu 04 Feb 2021.

Bryon will watch and follow the Tango (ie target) by crawling the ceiling invisibly. Once they have just him and his guards she will use an action to use Nightmares Made Real, turning the hallway into a nightmare Landscape of altered gravity (they are now on the walls which are spinning) and long black tentacles which appear on all surfaces. The surfaces seem corroded and covered in filth and gore of all descriptions. It is as close to the Abyss as can be without death leading on to the real thing.

See my sheet for link to the ability description

Prizzard set down his refreshments and went along. He knew enough to keep his hands visible and empty and entered the hall with his hands up. "I don't want to be here either, the view and refreshments are wonderful. However, I deemed this information worth your time and I'm not exactly fond of assassins. Ursa knows things that perhaps even thise closest to you shouldn't know. I'm not here to discuss the assassination attempt, you seem prepared enough for that."

Feeling the need to keep an eye on him, Tanzy follows Nylock at a discreet distance. He’s up to something, she warns the others. As she follows she also keeps an eye out for anything that could be used as a weapon. Her hidden daggers brought comfort but she was hoping for something that would provide better protection should a fight arise.

OOC: move silently:34 (20+4)
Hide: 18 (4+14)
Search: 24 (13+11)

Raknesh will keep an eye on the witch.

Should things go bad, he will try to fell her by surprise with his mind arrows.

If needed, Rocky will be his spy to follow her if it would be too obvious if he himself followed.

Stalton listens to Prizzard with an arched brow. Ursa is behind this? I might have known. But, if you aren't here to discuss that, what do you want? he arches a black brow. Before you can answer, though, the corridor descends into madness as Bryon's spell takes effect. The men all unsheathe their swords, ready to do battle, crowding around their master. Stalton, seeing the chaos, gives an unconcerned sigh. That's when you see him place his fingers around a strange looking necklace that he pulls out from beneath his tunic. A shimmer of light forms a glow around his body disappearing just as fast. He keeps holding the necklace between his two fingers though. Just a little protection bauble from my witch. How do you think Ursa hasn't been able to get me all these years? he chuckles.

Meanwhile, Bryon, you see this come to pass, not hearing the words he said but guessing it has some sort of protective significance. The guards busy themselves trying to hack at the tentacles, seemingly oblivious to you for the moment.

Tanzy: You follow Nylek, who moves quickly and quietly down the hallway, almost eager to get his business done. You can hear voices and shouts as you near Bryon's work, coming from the opposite end. Then, everything happens at once. Nylok turns the corner, sees Stalton, and looses a black tipped dagger so quickly you almost don't realize what it is. It goes hurtling towards the man, destined to land in his chest, but then at the last second, it collides with something invisible and drops to the floor. Stalton actually looks slightly startled but shakes it off quickly. He points then and with a sharp whistle, he gets his men's attention. Three break away from the madness and immediately start towards Nylock at a full run.

Raknesh: You follow the witch as she pokes through the halls. She's clearly still looking for Bryon but she's currently the opposite way. Suddenly, though, she stops in her tracks, tilting her ear as though hearing something, though you certainly don't know what that would be. I knew it! she hisses, immediately turning to run the opposite direction down the corridor. You realize she's headed towards where Stalton and the others are. It looks like there's going to be quite a mess on your hands in a minute...ooc: If you decide to attack her please make your rolls Raknesh :)

ooc: Ok, at the moment no one is actually attacking YOU guys because they don't know you are involved yet. Bryon is invisible and everyone else's cover is still intact. Nylok blew it and he's the target for now. Right now everyone but Raknesh knows about Stalton's invincibility unless someone relates it to him. So that is an important factor. Prizzard, you notice that the entire time the man is holding onto the stone with his fingers, leading you to believe it has to be held in such a way for it to work. You also doubt you could just grab him while he's doing that. Still, it's very useful information.

"Ursa knows things I doubt you'd want anybody to know, and I thought you would like to know. It seems you can handle that one, I'll get the next!"

Prizzard expects the witch will come shortly. He comes close to the door, summons his scythe, and prepares to have a 'misunderstanding' with her. If somebody he doesn't recognize enters, he attacks.

Prizzard rolled 25,11 using d20+19,2d4+9.  Prepared Action: Attack.

Things are getting very chaotic and Raknesh doesn't know how the plan - if there ever really was one - is going (and he is unaware of Prizzard's plan)
But he knows the witch is a threat and in the chaos, he might be able to get enough advantage to get her.

Not sure Raknesh can fire one arrow or his usual volley.

if there is only one, then he will use his psychic strike ability to add 1d8 to the damage.

If not, the he will fire all his arrows.

(And then try to hide in the chaos)

This message was last edited by the player at 09:58, Thu 18 Feb 2021.

Bryon, still invisible and clinging to a spot where wall meet ceiling the gestures again, creating Chilling tentacles. These are exactly like the illusory ones, and they come out of the walls behind the target. They will attempt to grapple him.

Cast Chilling Tentacles, see sheet for link describing effect of spell like ability.

Tanzy remains close, watching the outcome and ready to provide back up for Prizzard and Bryon if needed. Nylock is on his own. The fool was stupid enough to charge ahead with his own plan of attack, which clearly failed. Tanzy isn’t about to get caught up in his troubles.
I can probably get that necklace off him if I can get close enough, Tanzy offers. Though it wouldn’t be easy with the guards and the tentacles... if they’d known this was his protection all along different tactics could have been suggested...

Raknesh: ooc: You are able to do the full volley and she is unaware of you at the moment too. The fray is probably about 50 feet away, but around the corner. She closed the distance a bit before you attacked. Since you're in the hallway too, you can't hide in a crowd per se, but you are able to find plenty of alcoves, rooms, sculptures, etc. So that does work to your advantage. Also, for future reference, her AC is 24, so you'll know if you hit.

ic: Her back to you, most of your mind arrows find their mark. Squarely. She gasps in surprise and pain, immediately turning around to scour the corridor, murder on her face. You are able to duck into an alcove before she sees you, but that doesn't stop her from reacting. Nice try, but I don't have time to play hide and seek, she growls. With that she purses her lips and blows gently down the hallway in your direction. Roiling smoke with white hot embers rolls down the corridor, catching tapestries and such aflame as it envelops the area... ooc: Raknesh, you can go ahead and roll a reflex save to half the damage, DC 24. Otherwise, you take 22 damage. Also, as soon as she's done with the smoke, she moves to try to go down the corridor again. Stalton seems to be her biggest concern. You can fire one more volley before she turns the corner, however with the smoke concealing her you have a 50 percent miss chance. So if you roll a percentage die 51 or over, you hit, otherwise you miss. You can also go after her, but you'll take more damage from the smoke because it's following her for the moment. She will be within sight of the other group within the next round, btw.

Tanzy/Bryon/Prizzard: By now Nylock is running away from the fray, the three guards at his heels. He doesn't so much look afraid as he's being tactical about it. Meanwhile, Bryon's new set of tentacles emerge from the wall, attempting to grapple Stalton. He gives a startled yelp, barely managing to squirm away as the writhing things grasp for him. He moves away, closer to where Tanzy is watching from down the hallway, though his movement is greatly hindered trying to avoid the tentacles themselves. If you want me to know Ursa's precious secrets, then get me out of this! he snaps to Prizzard, clearly stressed. The tentacles have him rattled, which leads you to think that even though he can't be harmed with his talisman, he can be restrained.

You also can hear things happening from the other side of the corridor, and you have a feeling its probably reinforcements.

ooc: Ok, so the three of you get a decent look at the talisman around his neck. You're not sure what limitations that puts on you in regard to his vulnerability, but you can roll a knowledge arcane check or anything else that would be appropriate for such things to see if you recognize it. Here's a look at what you're dealing with visually:





-----------------------------------------------
  R                           W                |
                                               |                           R=Raknesh
                                               |                           W=Witch
                                               |                           P=Prizzard
                                               |                           B=Bryon
-------------------------------------          |                           T=Tanzy
                                    |          |                           S=Stalton
                                    |          |
                                    |          |
                                              B|
                                    |          |
                                    |          |
                                    | P        |
                                    |   S      |
                                    |          |
                                    |          |
                                    |          |
                                    |          |
                                    |          |
                                    |        T |

Prizzard approaches Stalten, ignoring the absolutely insane illusion and is surprised to find that the tentacles on him are real, and a few profanities quietly follow. He still takes a moment to consider what that amulet could be as he weakly assists Stalten and gets grappled himself. He makes sure his hands are near Staltens neck if possible.


Forgot to roll a Will save against the incantation, hopefully that passes.
Rolled 23 using 1d20+12.  Will vs Byron.
Rolled 37 using 1d20+18.  Know Arcana

Rolled 30 using 1d20+16.  Opposed Grapple for Byrons turn.

Tanzy emerges from her hiding spot but tries to stay out of reach of the tentacles. “I was looking for the powder room...did that man try to kill you?!” If Stalten and Prizzard get out of the tentacles she will motion for them to follow. “We can duck into one of these rooms and barricade the door until reinforcements come!”

Bryon focused on holding the target. She needed him to stay put.

Raknesh managed to avoid most of the damage, despite his surprise at the witch apparently shrugging off his deadly volley.

'Rocky, stay close and help me see what's happening.'

He launch another volley before following her.

'The witch is on her way, I failed to kill her but she is hurt'
he sent, avoiding names, just in case.

Prizzard and Stalton both manage to get out of the grapple of the tentacles for now, barely managing to escape. Seeing Tanzy, Stalton, in his stress, believes the lie and moves her direction, taking the offer to duck into a room if she indeed follows through with it. Meanwhile, Prizzard gets a closer look at the necklace. It's familiar and you think it might be a protection talisman called a barott. It protects the user from physical and magical effects as long as they have it activated, such as by touching it with their hand. It cannot be taken from them as long as they're holding it, and since the fray has started, Stalton has not let go.

ooc: Let me know if you do the barricaded door route with Tanzy or not. Stalton is definitely game for it.


Meanwhile, the witch has rounded the corner and sees the fray before her. The tentacles, the thrashing entangled guards, and she reacts quickly. There's another on my heels. That way! she barks to two guards who were trying to free their companions. They turn and rush towards Raknesh's direction, swords drawn. Then, the witch's eyes glance up to see Bryon, invisible or not. You again! she growls. And with that she hurls a fireball at you...

ooc: Ok, so Bryon, go ahead and roll a reflex save dc 15. You take 22 damage if you don't make the save, otherwise half that and take 11. She can absolutely see you. Also, she's surrounded by white flaming smoke, making it difficult to see her. So if you hit, you'll need to roll a percentage die to see if you use a spell that requires such a thing. 51 or over is success. Right now you're not affected by the smoke, since you're on the ceiling I believe but if you come down you'll need to roll another reflex save.

For everyone's reference, her AC is 24 so you'll know if you hit or not. She's also seemingly not as inclined to take as much damage as she should be for some reason...

Raknesh: You'll need to take another volley of smoke/fire damage if you go around the corner after her. You can just keep the same reflex as before and the same damage amount as before. The guards are running towards you so they'll be within range and you may attack them. Their AC is 22. You may absolutely use Rocky to help with the smoke if you go after the witch, or for any other reason you wish. I'll say he increases your chance of hitting her by 20 percent. So you just need to roll above a 30 on your percentage die. Your last 2 shots certainly seem to affect her, but not like they should. She must have some kind of protection. But then, she wasn't supposed to be easy. She's kept Stalton safe all these years for a reason.

Once they're in the room Prizzard hopes to lend some credence to Tanzys attendance. "Ms. Vanadey, you seem to again be on the edge of trouble. But worry not for the Lord, he has a fine Barott to shield him from all harm"

If they're in a sealed room he will pound on some walls with his boots in search of a thin spot before asking "Which wall do you want through?"

If there's a window he will immediately begin carving that wall for an escape route. Adamntine is quite useful.

08:02, Today: Bryon rolled 24 using 1d20+7.  Ref Save.
11 - 5 (Energy Res Fire) = 6
6 - 3 (DR Cold Iron) = 3 HAHAHAHA!
This message was last edited by the player at 14:04, Tue 09 Mar 2021.

Raknesh will follow the path to safety and use his slippers of spider climbing to get on the ceiling too.
To avoid the guard and, if possible, the flames and smoke.

he will fire another volley, shorter as he has to move.

20:39, Today: Raknesh Kaltash rolled 33 using 1d20+14.  reflex save.
-11 pv

Bryon took her reprisal in the form of a Vitriolic blast at the witch.


12:02, Today: Bryon rolled 19 using 4d6.  Extra Damage.

11:55, Today: Bryon rolled 23 using 7d6.  Damage.

11:54, Today: Bryon rolled 29 using 1d20+13.  Vitriolic E. Blast v. Touch AC.

"Eat Acid, you like it?"

“Yes, apparently searching for the lavatory in this house lends great risk to one’s safety!” Tanzy offers a wry smile. “Lucky you are that you have such powerful protection my lord!” She adds grasping Stalton’s free arm casually. “It would have been quite upsetting indeed had that dagger hit its target!” She doesn’t release Stalton’s arm, hoping to create a comforting bond during this stressful situation. “Now it seems our mutual friend...” She nods toward Prizzard, “Is set to make us an exit. Where can we go to get you to safety?”

Prizzard & Tanzy: ooc: Roll diplomacy Tanzy, just to see how comfortable you can make him. Maybe do a bluff too, since I'm sure you'll need it.
ic: With Tanzy's pretty clothes and face, Stalton, even in his state of fear and marital status, seems to notice. He looks uncertain but those factors alone have likely have kept him from twisting away from you thus far. He looks quite on edge, fear in his eyes, and you have a feeling that most threats don't get nearly so close to him as Bryon's display. Do the outer wall, Stalton orders Prizzard, pointing towards the wall on the other side of the room. We can put a few hallways between us if we can get through there. That is if the door isn't torn down first, he shakes his head. His eyes never leave the door, waiting for the inevitable to happen, though he certainly barricaded it upon entry. Now, what do you know of my attackers? You said you had information for me, he adds to Prizzard as he works.

Bryon: Your acid hits squarely and she gives a shriek of pain, the sizzling of her flesh audible. She actually shakes with the shock of it, but within seconds you are stunned to see her skin start to knit back together, though not completely. Gasping, her expression turns to a chilling smile. Not going to be that easy my sweet. With that she flicks her hand and a cloud of golden particles covers the entire hallway, every inch, every person, covered in the stuff. As annoying as it is simply to have it on you, more concerning is the fact that you can feel it in your eyes....The only saving grace is that the soldiers seem to be just as affected as you. Clearly this woman cares nothing for her minions.

ooc: Ok, Raknesh and Bryon, you'll both need to roll will saves DC 18 or be blinded. Also, since you're coated, you can't turn invisible and hide checks have a -40 because you're literally glittering. Here's a reminder of being blinded:
"The character cannot see. He takes a -2 penalty to Armor Class, loses his Dexterity bonus to AC (if any), moves at half speed, and takes a -4 penalty on Search checks and on most Strength- and Dexterity-based skill checks. All checks and activities that rely on vision (such as reading and Spot checks) automatically fail. All opponents are considered to have total concealment (50% miss chance) to the blinded character. Characters who remain blinded for a long time grow accustomed to these drawbacks and can overcome some of them."

Raknesh: Before the cloud of glitter happens, you're at least pleased that you can evade both the cloud and the guards, though one of them does manage to fling a throwing knife your way, more as a reaction than anything else. It misses though, and a moment later you're distracted with the effort not to go blind...

Prizzard speaks between carving at the wall

"We'll not air that with the lady preset.
As for your assailants I only met one.
The man with the knife is Nylok,
Ursas man. The rest of the crew,
I was told, is outside help. We were
mentally linked upon arrival and don't know
one another, or at least that's what I'm told."

Prizzard manages to stick to the truth and leverage a "strangers" presence to withold the "sensitive information" which brought him here.

rolled 23 using 1d20+5.  Diplomacy.

09:56, Today: Bryon rolled 14 using 1d20+8.  Will sv vs Blind.

Bryon is blinded and visible. She is feeling very vulnerable.

The witch really deserve her reputation.
While Raknesh avoided the blinding effect, there was no hiding from her now, and who knew what kind of deadly spells she could cast not that she had targets.

They had to fell her quickly or things will start to get bad on their side.

With Rocky's help - and hoping the tiny crystal will avoid being noticed, he fired another volley of his arrows.

But it appears he still has some glitter in his eyes as he mostly misfired.

He then ordered Rocky to go to Bryon. With his telepathic sight and speech he could direct her a bit.

only one hit
hit: 35 dmg 12,3,8 concealment 58
This message was last edited by the player at 10:47, Mon 05 Apr 2021.

Tanzy stays close to Stalton but gives him a little space as he barricades the door. Playing a proper lady she does not assist, but instead offers  words of encouragement.“You are doing a fine job, surly that will keep any villains out while we make our getaway!”  She is of course always on the lookout for a good opportunity to steal his talisman but plans to wait until he is feeling more at ease so it will be less noticeable.

She also mentally checks in on the others to make sure they are holding up okay...

OOC: Bluff 20 (9+11) Diplomacy:22 (14+8)

Prizzard/Tanzy: Prizzard is making good headway on breaking through the wall, though it will still take a bit of time before you're through. Stalton seems to be calming down a bit though. It helps that no one is pounding on the door trying to get through to you, which does make you wonder how your friends are doing. You can hear an awful lot of commotion in the hall. Stalton also seems to appreciate Tanzy's words of encouragement, and though his fingers are still tightly on his talisman, you suspect that given enough distraction you could get your chance.
Meanwhile, he turns to Prizzard with a thoughtful frown. Nylock eh? His reputation precedes him. Ursa must want me badly to send him after me. It's time I stop ignoring our little rivalry and squash her little band. I have many questions for you. But yes, his eyes dart to Tanzy, It can wait.

ooc: Tanzy, you might be able to distract him enough at some point to get him to drop his hand but you'll have to be crafty ;P

Raknesh/Bryon: Laughing, the witch wastes no time on going after Bryon, who she sees as the bigger threat. She moves towards her, grasping her arm as violent bolts of electricity burst through your body. It is...awful.
Meanwhile, Raknesh's arrow hits and she turns to look at you with fury. You're next. she fumes. As she speaks, the guards who aren't frantically rubbing the glitter from their eyes, try to attack Raknesh. Most of them miss, but one manages to slash you in the leg with his longsword. Still, compared to poor Bryon, you have it pretty good at the moment. Fortunately, Raknesh, you see a familiar figure running towards you from down the hall, a glowing ball of purple light hovering over her hand. Raina. You've never been happier to see her.


ooc: Ok Bryon, you have two more rounds of being blinded. The glitter will last longer on your skin, so you won't be able to be invisible for a while, but you will be able to see again in two rounds. You can still fight and move and all that, you'll just have those penalties. So feel free to roll your next round. Meanwhile, you take 18 damage and Raknesh, you take 7. Also, you can tell you're hurting the witch, but she's healing. So it's going to have to be all about that big damage to help slow that down.

Tanzy isn’t surprised the coward still clutched his lifeline despite being out of present danger. She flipped through multiple plans in her head trying to determine they best way to get him to lower his guard. Flirting was always an option but was doubtful to get her anywhere with tension so high. Her lack of originality was shameful but she settled on a fainting spell. Already close to Stalton she lets herself lean heavily against him. “I’m sorry my Lord but I’m feeling frightfully dizzy...To much excitement...If you could help me, I need to sit down...”

OOC: I went ahead and rolled another bluff in case you needed it and sleight of hand if he ends up letting go.
Bluff 13
Sleight of hand 27

Noting the ruse, Prizzard adds a distraction by activating his belt to carve the wall at double speed.

Belt of Battle -3 Charges (6/9)

The soldiers are barely a threat, especially up there on the ceiling.

So Raknesh continued to focus the witch, worried about what she could do to Bryon.

But he had trouble adjusting his aim with Bryon so close.

Meanwhile, Rocky tried to describe what was happened to her.

Bryon knew where the witch was, since she was holding onto her, and thus knew where to point her cone.

Using Cone + Acid to make sure she hit the witch hard.
08:12, Today: Bryon rolled 14 using 4d6.  Extra damage.
08:12, Today: Bryon rolled 23 using 7d6.  Acid damage.

Total 37

ooc: Wow Tanzy. You lucked out:
17:20, Today: Secret Roll: Artemis rolled 1 using 1d20.

ic: The fainting works remarkably well! He catches you, his face startled and as he grips you, you're able to brush his neck with your hand, your deft fingers expertly undoing the clasp as you let it drop into the folds of your sleeve. He doesn't seem to notice, but you feel like you'd better keep him distracted. The moment he gets afraid of something and goes to clutch his talisman, he's going to notice its gone....
Meanwhile, Prizzard, you see this. It's incredibly impressive, how skilled she is. Due to your enhanced efforts, you're able to break through, though it will still be one more round before the hole is big enough to squeeze through. Stalton turns, excited by this. Is that done? I should go first. They're after me.

Bryon/Raknesh: ooc: Raknesh: Smoke is gone....you're in the clear ;P
Raknesh's shot hits. Hard. You manage to get her right in the chest, and had she not been enhanced somehow, you're certain she would be dead. Just as she gasps in pain from the shot, Bryon blasts her with acid, point blank. The scream that comes from the woman is actually alarming and she staggers away, looking genuinely frightened. You can tell she's not well, and she's trying to buy time for her body to heal itself. She mutters an incantation and suddenly there are ten of her, all standing near each other and mimicking her movements. They all cluster together, moving this way and that, mixing themselves up. For Bryon, who is only now just able to start seeing again, she is well and truly unsure which one is the real witch. Raknesh, however, gets a better look, and has a better chance of trying to figure out which is the real witch...

During all this, Raina's purple blast goes after some of the guards, trying to keep them off your backs.

ooc: Ok, so the witch is actually running away, as are the illusions, so it's a big clump of witches down the hallway. You get the impression she's trying to get time to recover from all that big damage via her healing abilities. She's still within range but won't be much longer unless you follow her. Area affects will get her, but she's using the other witches for cover too, so it will only be oh so effective, theoretically. That said, Raknesh, roll spot. If you get DC 18, you will be able to target her effectively from her decoys. Otherwise, pick a number between one and 10, make your roll, and I'll let you know if you hit her!

Gesturing to the small opening he simply said "Soon" before continuing to hack at the mortar and pry the bricks out.

Unless Tanzy finds a good opportunity first, Prizzard plans to knock him out as he tries to get through the hole. A well-placed blow to the back of a stationary head/neck would debilitate most non-combatants readily. Hopefully the blunt force of his weapons adamntine handle wouldn't break the mans neck outright.

With the sparkling dust still around Raknesh had some trouble getting a good target, but thanks to Rocky telepathic sight he managed to see through the illusion.

So there is another volley of arrows that flew toward the witch after he started to follow her.
'We are almost done with her ! Get her !'

spot 19, Rocky's role is just for the story, the swag ^^

Instead of trying to figure out which was the real witch, she back up enough to catch them all or most, in the cone of acid she blasted from her hands.

10:44, Today: Bryon rolled 15 using 4d6.  Extra Acid damage.

10:44, Today: Bryon rolled 34 using 7d6.  Acid Damage.

“Such a gentleman,” Tanzy gushes trying to keep Stalten distracted. She wasn’t sure what their next step would be but she already felt better knowing the talisman was off. “I’m feeling much improved now, thank you. Though perhaps you should keep near in case the dizzy spell returns.”  She claps his hand before he can object. “Your wife must be a very lucky woman,” she squeezes his bicep, fighting the urge to roll her eyes. If allowed she will hold onto that arm until he’s ready to go through the wall.

Bryon/Raknesh: Raknesh's aim is true and a very surprised witch yelps in pain and fury. A second later, Bryon unleashes her acid and the screams turn to shrieks of panic. The witch illusions disappear in the acid, leaving the real woman, huddled on the floor and shaking. P-Please. I'm just doing my job. Spare my life, she trembles. Don't kill me! Indeed, it looks like one more solid blow would end her, though with her healing capabilities, it won't take long for her to be trouble again. Still, she looks genuinely terrified and her eyes plead with you as blood and acid drip from her body.

Meanwhile, you hear several oncoming footfalls. Reinforcements. Better choose fast.

ooc: Moral dilemma! Your choice guys! You can always roll a sense motive to see if you buy her sincerity or not. Also, roll spot too, while you're at it.

Tanzy/Prizzard:
Tanzy's attentions seem to work and you can see a lecherous smile cross his face in spite of the circumstances. Don't worry milady. I will stay close, he wraps an arm around your waist to prove his point. By now, Prizzard is through. The opening is just big enough for a full grown man to squeeze through.

ooc: Ok, Tanzy's keeping him distracted enough that he's unaware of his talisman for now. Prizzard, if you're going to bash him, make sure you make the appropriate rolls. Good luck!

Prizzard readies an attack for when Stalton gets his arms and head in the hole, leaving the back of his neck open. It should be an easy shot, the target practically helpless.

rolled 33,15 using d20+15,2d4+9.  Non-lethal Attack.

If plausible that in this position he'd be considered helpless and I have time to place the blow, a coup de grace action would be preferable (auto-hitting crit), and as he's flat-footed at the very least Tanzy could attempt a sneak attack.

Byron is unmoved by the witch's pleas. "Then you shall die doing your job." She unleashed another blast of acid.

Roll damage or Coup-de-Gras?

Raknesh marked a pause : striking opponent who surrender , however dangerous she is, does not go well with him.
But the dilemma was short lived as Bryon took matters in her own hands.

below only if the witch is indeed dead.

'No more witch to worry about' he sent to Tanzy, ' how are things you way'?

'Raina, we will need to bag of holding. We will take the body with us for now, and give it back later, without the useful items she most certainly has. We can't stay here to search her with the guards all around.'

'Bryon, can you still do your teleportation?'


He will fire a few arrows toward the guards, if they haven't fled with the witch's demise. To try to frighten them enough to make them leave, but without unnecessary killing.

Prizzard/Tanzy: ooc: I am counting it as a coup de grace :)
ic: Prizzard's blow rings true. Very true. Stalton, ducking to try to squeeze through the hole, staggers from the strike, gasping in shock and pain. Dazed, he fumbles at his neck, searching for his talisman, realizing in a panic that its gone.You...tricked me! he manages to accuse, trying to push himself through the opening in desperation.

ooc: Ok, so he's not knocked out, but he's looking pretty bad. You have another chance to attack before he's through. It won't be coup de grace because he's aware now, but he will be pretty easy to hit since he won't have his dexterity.

Raknesh/Bryon: ooc: Hahahaha! Very nice Bryon. And I'll just roll acid for you, she literally only has about five hp left.

ic: The last blast of acid finishes off the witch, leaving her dripping corpse a mess in the hallway. Raina, hears Raknesh's request, pulling out the bag of holding and helping to stuff the witch's body inside. Meanwhile, the guards nearby are nervous enough, seeing the witch be dispatched, that they do indeed keep their distance. However, they seem to be simply waiting for their backup to come. By the time you finish stuffing the body, that backup has arrived...

ooc: Ok, you can book it if you want, but there are guards coming from behind you and you have one round before they are in melee range. Feel free to do a ranged attack but after that you're in for it if you don't run. If you do decide to run, roll a constitution check so I can see if you can outpace them. Or, if you want to stand and fight, you may. There are about 12 guards...

"At least I didn't wish to kill you." Prizzard activated 3 charges of his belt again and made a series of blunt attacks down his back. I expect there are many broken ribs.

rolled 21,18,25,31,12,15 using d20+15,d20+10,d20+5,d20+15,d20+10,d20+5.  Double Full Attack.
rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  Crit Confirm.
rolled 16,17,53,14,12,14 using 2d4+9,2d4+9,8d4+36,2d4+9,2d4+9,2d4+9.  Damages.

We’re just finishing up with Stalten. Tanzy responds to Raknesh. “If you guys can get out then do it. We can meet up outside.”

Tanzy produces a couple daggers from beneath her skirts, though holds off on attacking the lord for the time being. “So are we not killing him yet?” She asks Prizzard with confusion. She had mixed feelings about the whole thing anyway, though there was no doubt in her mind that Stalten got what he deserved. She just preferred that they not be the ones to do it.

"Death is a mercy at this point." Prizzard didn't want the blood on his hands either, but he slid the slender blade under Staltens neck and gave the command trigger for his glove. The fast, clean cut of keen, magical adamantine would seem unnatural and may help them escape. "Something invisible made that hole and killed Stalten." The guards would be here shortly, maybe somebody on the other side of the hole heard the commotion.

Tanzy winces as Prizzard sliced Stalten’s neck. Dead after all, She thought to herself, trying not to feel guilty. “It sounds like Bryon and Raknesh took care of the witch,” she reports since Prizzard is not linked at the moment.
With a swish of her sleeve she produces the stolen talisman. “I wonder if our new employer would accept this in trade for one of her pearls?”  That is if they can get out without being caught or searched...

"If the guards don't find it on you." He seems down about the kill, but Ursa would have killed him anyway after lengthy torture. He checked the glove for any blood residue and wiped it off. Magic items were pretty handy in that regard. It seemed he expected to leave through the front door in no hurry, and he approached the barricade to tear it down.

Bryon turned and ran. They had done what they came for, it was time to GTFO. She got to it.

Tanzy could tell Prizzard hadn’t wanted to kill Stalten. She was feeling guilty herself, though more so for the fact that everyone was in danger opposed to the murder of the evil lord. “I’m sorry you got dragged into this,” the apology is sincere and she moves to assist with the barricade. “There’s probably going to be trouble on the other side of this door. Should we split up once we’re out?” At this point she was ready to go to the nearest window and jump out.

Don’t forget you still have that ring, going invisible comes in handy if you run into trouble.  She shoots Raknesh a little reminder.

"One way or another, this was his time." The words improved his mood "I believe we have a solid story. Your real name was known here, if you're spotted fleeing the scene.." He kept his voice annoyingly low, anybody could be near that hole in the wall by now. He seems to be silently speaking some mantra.

Raknesh fled too, toward the exit path he had spotted earlier.
Bryon should have been informed about it, but if it is not the case, he will send her telepathic information about what he saw.

He count on his natural speed to distance the armored guards. That and the fact he would take the first available window to keep running on the walls outside.

Tanzy nods in agreement, even if her true name weren’t known, a lady dressed as she was leaping out a window was bound to be noticed. “Okay then we’ll act naturally,” She whispers, trying to be quiet as well. She tucks the talisman into her bodice, someone would have to get pretty handsy to find it there, and the daggers disappear back underneath her skirts.

Prizzard/Tanzy:  Stalton does indeed die fairly easily, which is at least a mercy for him. And soon you find yourselves back in the corridor. You see a slew of guards rush past as though chasing someone and they very much seem out for blood.

Before you get far though, a couple of stragglers approach you, their already drawn swords pointing at you. Who are you? Have you seen Stalton? What were you doing in that room? The questions come out in a burst, and the way they look so stressed leads you to think they're on the cusp of attacking you right there. ooc: Bluffs please!

Raknesh/Bryon:
ooc: Wow. The guards got a 1, lol.

At first, it seems as though you aren't going to be able to outpace the guards, but you manage to turn a corner and then another and somehow, they run past you. It's not too far to the escape route that Raknesh had planned before, but along the way you hear a scream of pain from a man down the hallway on your right...
ooc: You can either ignore it and keep going or investigate. Should you investigate, you'll see Nylock, gutting a man with the biggest smile on your face you've ever seen.

“I saw Lord Stalton in the drawing room earlier,” Tanzy answers, sticking to a half truth.
“I am Lady Rosalie Drazhan and this is Mokosh. And as far was what we were doing in that room...” she flashes a suggestive grin and hooks her arm though Prizzard’s. “These parties can be so dull...I trust you will be discreet. I have a reputation to protect.” Her tone is demanding, as if she has no doubt the guards will keep her secret.

OOC: Bluff 19
This message was last edited by the player at 04:02, Sun 09 May 2021.

As dangerous as that bluff is, it plays hard on one of Prizzards key weaknesses, a specific innocence and combined with the hard turn from the plan, he's reduced to a bashful mess and covers his blush with his free hand.

Zero need for a blush check here. Might count as an assist though!

Bryon will follow Raknesh's lead, whether or not to investigate the noise.

Raknesh will not investigate in person but send Rocky while they keep on fleeing.

Tanzy/Prizzard: Fortunately, the guard seems to buy Tanzy's explanation, fixing you both with a look of impatience. I don't have time for your indiscretions woman! You're useless! he barks, already rushing down the hallway. He's in such a hurry, he doesn't take the time to doubt your words, though Prizzard's blush sells it anyway. You can already hear the shouts of guards and the like from other hallways. Seems like the place is in an uproar and it won't be long before someone stumbles on the body, from the sounds of the fuss they're making....

Raknesh/Bryon: You keep running, and Rocky reports back on Nylock's activities. He's covered in blood and chuckling like a maniac. He's clearly unhinged. Should Rocky follow, he'll find that the man is running through the hallways, killing anyone he comes across.

Meanwhile, you both are able to make it to the other end of the building, the floors littered with the dead. From the looks of it, it's not just guards he's killed either, but rather guests too. Men and women, nobles and servants. It's a blood bath. The way to your escape is conveniently cleared by this carnage, but obviously Nylock is out of control.

ooc: If you decide to just book it, if you don't have spider walk, you'll need to roll a climb check DC 14 to see if you can climb down safely to the alley. Or, if you decide to hole up and wait for Prizzard and Tanzy, you can roll listen checks instead while you're waiting.

“Sorry,” Tanzy mutters softly, “I panicked a little bit.” Releasing his arm she heads in the opposite direction the guards are going. “I don’t know what all the commotion is about, hopefully it doesn’t involve Raknesh and Bryon...”

Are you guys in the clear? There’s a lot of guards in the hall, I don’t think it will be too long before they find Stalton...  She reaches out through their link.

Prizzard just nods at the first, still collecting his wits. Once they get moving he begins to focus again. "News of the assassination attempt was likely leaked and these people dont seem.used to dealing with threats like that. It only takes one hysteric reaction to drive a room mad."

While waiting on her friends, Bryon is blithely unaware of any sound around her.

08:07, Today: Bryon rolled -1 using 1d20-2.  Listen check.

"Bryon, we might have a situation on our hands. Nylock is even crazier than I feared.
He is currently killing anyone who crosses his path.

Including innocents.

We brought him here so that carnage is our responsibility. However evil our target might have been, the rest probably didn't deserve such a fate.

But you are wounded and I don't know if the others could escape or help us.

And we will probably attract attention, our faces no longer unknown.  And if we manage to kill him, we will have a full guild against us.

One that specialize in killing people...   I need your opinion on this matter as there is more at hand than myself and my actions."

Bryon asked in a whisper, "Can we stop him without killing him?"

"I do not know... He is an expert killer, from what we have been told.

And we are not exactly good close range fighters."

Bryon look strained. "I wish Althol were here. I don't like making decisions." She looked at Raknesh as she thought it over. Finally she said, "What he does is of his own volition. I take no responsibility for him or those he ends. If you wish I will help you end him, but I will not decide to do that alone."

"In another situation I would have stopped him. But now is not the right time... luckily for him.

But his actions won't be forgotten nor forgiven.  And if we can end him somehow before we have to leave, then I will gladly to so.

But we have a vital mission to achieve, one that cannot be put in jeopardy.

Once we meet the others, we will decide what to do with him.

But I could motivate him to flee by firing a arrow at him, one that would go through walls without leaving a trace.

It won't kill him, but it might stop his killing spree.

But he most certainly will know it came from me. As I showed part of my skill when we bargained.

We are safe and ready to get out, but he might take revenge on our friends still inside..."

'Tanzy, you should hurry' he send, trying to guide them on a path that would not get them close to the killer, using Rocky if needed.

Tanzy/Prizzard: You go the opposite way of the guards, eventually looping around towards the direction that Raknesh and Bryon are, waiting for you. Along the way you hear guards here and there, searching corridors nearby, but they are scattered and distant. Raknesh gives you a route via Rocky, and it works well, for you are blissfully unaware of the murders, that is, until you hear a woman screaming in absolute terror, nearing your direction. She screams for help, sobbing hysterically. You have time enough to hide, should you wish. Otherwise, should she see you, she'll come rushing towards you, blood trailing from a wound in her side. We've got to find someone! Find the guards! There's a mad man on the loose! He's killing everyone! I lost him, but he'll be back! I know it! She's shaking uncontrollably.

ooc: For time's sake, I wrote her bit in case you want to actually investigate. Then you don't have to wait an entire week for me to respond. If you do decide to just hide though, go for it. She's not likely to see you anyway. Otherwise, if you want to go after Nylock, she can tell you where to find him. I'm flexible either way!

Bryon/Raknesh: As you stay in the room, waiting for your friends to arrive, you hear a commotion from the street below. You're about three stories up, and should you look out the window, you see people are streaming out of the building, running over each other in a panic. The guards outside, alarmed by the sudden swarm of screaming folk, try to keep order and find out what's going on but they're nearly trampled instead.

Prizzard would avoid the hysterical creature. He assumes the body has been found and the news set off a panic. If something managed to kill the lord with his known protections, all of the more-vulnerable lesser nobles might panic. If he hears of the slaughter though, it's time to ask questions and hunt the lunatic. Either way, he wants to leave with his new rapier so he'll want to go to the front door.

At first Tanzy assumes Stalton has been found which explains the frantic woman. But her sharp eyes quickly take note of the wound she is clutching at her side and she moves to intercept. “Who did this?! Where are they?!” As much as she wants to leave she can’t ignore the woman’s warnings.

I’ve got an injured woman here... Tanzy warns Raknesh and Bryon through the link. It seems there’s someone besides us causing trouble tonight. We may be a little delayed...

Unless Prizzard objects, she has every intention of investigating.

Bryon watched the people scattering.

Raknesh sighed as he heard Tanzy's message.

Bryon, it appears we might have to go back, depending on Tanzy and Prizzard decision.

'Tanzy, I suggest you avoid that area. From what we learned, our 'friend' Nylock is on the loose.'

He’s killing innocent people, he needs to be taken out. We smuggled him in which means these deaths are on our hands.    Tanzy already feels guilt for Stalton, even if he deserved it. Nylock killing innocents is unacceptable. I’m not volunteering anyone. If you’re already out then stay safe, especially if you’re hurt or worried about being recognized by the guards.

“It’s Nylock, Tanzy brings Prizzard up to speed.

He seems to payse for a moment, filtering his words for their present company. "I believe we can take one lunatic. Madame, please have a guard fetch my blade." The latter was addressed to the injured woman primarily. He would keep the scythe hidden if possible. For now he would have to hope he could pin Nylok well enough for Tanzy. He took off, following the noise

Bryon reached out for his hand. "Where do you want to go specifically?"

"To where Rocky spotted Nylok, for round 2 it appears."

Bryon nodded and then gave him a warning, "I will be disoriented for a few moments so you will be on your own. Ready?" When/If he took her hand she will use Flees the Scene to take them where Raknesh wanted to go. She will be dizzy and disoriented for about six seconds.

The woman goes rushing off to fetch Prizzard's weapon, after getting the relevant details, and Prizzard and Tanzy go the direction she indicates. As you go down the hallway, you see bodies littering the way. Nylok has been busy, it seems. You go a little further and practically run into Bryon, Raknesh and Raina as they suddenly appear in the hallway ahead of you. Bryon's been at it again with her magic, it seems, and though she takes a few moments to recover, soon you are all in search of Nylok together. It doesn't take long to find him, for the noises of his latest victim's death gurgles mark his location. Should you follow, you'll see Nylok, finishing off a guard. The man is completely drenched in blood, but more than that, he looks...different. Taller. Thicker. Stronger. And when you look at his wide, grinning mouth, his teeth are sharp, his eyes are gold.

ooc: Ok, go ahead and attack if you wish. You have one round of ranged attacks if you want and then you'll be in melee range. Also, you can roll the appropriate knowledge checks to see if you know why Nylok looks the way he does etc. His AC is 24, so you'll know if you hit.

While considering the possibilities Prizzard takes a sprinters stance, ready to charge at a moments notice. The plan is to intercept him at 20'.


rolled 35 using 1d20+18.  Know Arcana.

Readied Action:
rolled 27,16 using d20+16,d20+7.  Charging Bull Rush, Touch Attack and Strength.

Bryon will create Chill Tentacles on the wall just in front of Nylok. "Stay beyond it's range."

The dices are tossed, lets hope we won't have all the guild against us in a few hours...

By the state of the man, he knew there wouldn't be talks, except for the weapons.


OOC: if the rolls allow him to learn the man is somehow possessed or not in control, he will not fire his arrows, otherwise: rain of fire !

Tanzy makes a noise of disgust when she sees the carnage Nylock has caused. I don’t think this is what Ursa intended when she sent Nylock along... Hopefully Stalton’s demise will help soften the blow a little bit...

Daggers at the ready she holds off on attacking, letting someone else make the first move. She will use this time to do a quick check to see if there are any abandoned weapons in the area. While handy in a pinch she’s not confident her tiny daggers will do much against whatever it is Nylock has become...
This message was last edited by the player at 07:28, Wed 02 June 2021.

Nylock, seeing you and deciding you are all to be his next victims, smiles his wicked smile and starts toward you. He doesn't seem to even notice the chill tentacles at first, such is his focus, but they quickly wrap around him, attempting to grapple him. With a snarl of effort, he rips away from them, his muscles bulging, veins throbbing, but they do slow him considerably, giving you a little more time to plan your next move.

Meanwhile, two of Raknesh's attacks miss, by a lot...but he does get a little damage in with his others.

Prizzard: pm

Tanzy: You do find plenty of weapons to choose from, littered along with the dead. Short swords, long swords, daggers, and even a few rapiers, nicely made too...

By now Nylock is clearing the tentacles, though still about twenty feet away from you. At that point, Prizzard makes his move, charging forward, pushing the man back with his bull rush, though it is definitely not easy....

ooc: Ok, next round everyone. Prizzard, feel free to expound on your bull rush and roll your next attack. He barely lost the strength check because I rolled crappy. Meanwhile, everyone else, you can run up and melee or you're still good for ranged, keeping in mind that Prizzard is in the way somewhat. They are about 25 feet away I believe, so however you want to handle that in terms of combat is up to you in regard to ranged or moving etc. Sorry this is a bit rushed. My day is already getting away from me and I'm a bit rusty after about 2 months of not posting. Hopefully I remember how to do this, lol.

Prizzard twisted suddenly from the bull rush, out of the way and to the side of Nylok before wielding his scythe for 3 quick attacks.

HP: 162/162
AC: 21/19/15

Free: 5' Step

Prizzard rolled 37,17,12 using d20+19,d20+14,d20+9.  Full Attack.
Prizzard rolled 15,12 using 2d4+9,2d4+9.  Damages.

That wasn't what she had expected. She went back to her hold stand-by, a cone of acidic death!

09:33, Today: Bryon rolled 18 using 4d6.  Acid damage next round.

09:32, Today: Bryon rolled 27 using 7d6.  Acid damage.

There is no way Raknesh would go near that man.

"It's some kind of berserker, be careful!"

He fired another volley of arrows at the man, hoping for more success this time.

Tanzy retrieves two mismatched rapiers and then moves into a flanking position. She’s not keen on close combat with Nylock but aside from tossing a few daggers she doesn’t have much of an option.

OOC: no attack this round as she had to pick up weapons and move into position…

ooc: If you're in melee with Nylok, be sure to roll a reflex save against Bryon's acid. This round is 27 damage, next round is 18. As for the DC, Bryon, do you happen to know what the DC is for your acid? If you don't, we'll figure out a decent sounding number.

ic: Nylok takes the various damage from your attacks well. So well it seems like he barely feels them, no matter the blood and acid that runs down his clothes. Instead, he moves like a wild thing, lunging with his longsword at Prizzard and hitting him squarely. Then, out of nowhere, he reaches inside his jacket and flings a small blade at Raknesh, the edge slicing your arm. Both of you can tell by the way your wounds immediately burn, it is tainted with some kind of poison.

Almost as soon as the throwing dagger is unleashed at Raknesh, another is flung towards Bryon, but she manages to dodge it. Barely. You have no idea how he's moving so inhumanly fast, but Raknesh's words ring true. This man is definitely rabid.

ooc: Next round!

Save DC is 21 for all E.Blast stuff.
The blast itself works v. Touch AC but this is a cone so if close enough it just hits. Sorry...:-(

Prizzard seemed to expect the blast of acid, but the speed and power of Nylok surprised him and he decided to respond with his own burst of speed, quietly burning out the last charges of his belt. This time he kept the scythe out and let it ramble its telepathic madness at Nylok. "Do you really have time to play with the others?"

HP: 124/162
AC: 21/19/15

rolled 20,28 using d20+13,d20+12.  Fort DC20, Ref DC21.

rolled 34,22,16 using d20+19,d20+14,d20+9.  Full Attack.
rolled 21,30,21 using d20+19,d20+14,d20+9.  Full Attack 2.
rolled 16,13,13,13,16,15 using 2d4+9,2d4+9,2d4+9.  Damages.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:41, Tue 17 Aug 2021.

Tanzy was not dressed for a fight and her long skirts prevented her from avoiding Bryon’s acid. If she had been planning on reusing the dress those plans vanished with the sting of acid. Still in a flanking position she whips her borrowed weapons around for an attack.

OOC: attack 1: 28 (13+15) damage: 18 (if sneak attack applies)
attack 2: 13 (3+10)
attack 3: 25 (20+5)  damage: 13 (if sneak attack applies)
attack 4: 12 (2+10)
attack 5: 9 (4+5)
Reflex 18

Thankfully, this time - probably because of the adrenaline rush - his body managed to overcome the poison.

The battle in in a frenzy and the madman seemed harder to kill than he had hoped.

Wondering if his state was something usual, and if it was how could that damn woman not tell them, Raknesh fired another volley, carefully timing the arrows at times when his allies were not in the path.


arrow 1 : critical nat 20
          confirmed with nat 20  (any special effect?)
          damage: 16,5,7     (X3, can't remember if the flame and holy damage are times 3 too)

arrow 2: ATT 34, damage: 12,1,8
arrow 3: ATT 24, damage: 15,6,4
arrow 4: ATT 28, damage: 14,1,6

Between the acid and Tanzy and Prizzard's attacks, Nylok is taking a lot of damage, but even so he's far more vigorous than you'd like. Whatever berserk state he's in is lending him healing that no normal mortal should have. He's about to retaliate, bringing his poisoned blade up towards Tanzy, when Raknesh's volley hits. The first arrow negates all the others, for it speedily finds its way into Nylok's eye, burying itself deep into his brain with pin point accuracy. The man stiffens, gives a gasp, and his sword clanks on the stone floor as he involuntarily drops it. A look of shock melts through his expression as, with a twitch, he falls to the ground next to his abandoned weapon. Dead.

Bryon spoke quietly, "I think now would be a good time to go. If everyone would join hands I can get us the heck out of here."

"Well... that was a lucky shot" commented Raknesh, his mind still proceeding the fact the battle had ended.

"I agree, but let's keep the body too, it might get some value for our next meeting with Ursa... if we ever dare to meet her again, of course."

After processing the sudden fatal shot: "It seems I was wrong, I thought he was a Tevvik."
In response to Byron: "I still need to exit as any sane mortal is expected to, although I'm suddenly craving the taste of pitted pig. Maybe the inn will have something similar."

His weapon stashed and companions ready to teleport, he approaches the door the woman left through a moment ago to get his rapier.

“Lucky shot indeed!” Tanzy drops her borrowed weapons with a clatter and joins hands with whoever is closest to her. “I certainly plan to pay Ursa a visit,” she adds scowling at Nylok’s lifeless body. “We didn’t sign up for something like this.”

I believe he was a Tevvik, Raina nods at Prizzard's comment. But even they don't fare well when shot through the eye. Well done Raknesh, she gives him an impressed smile and a squeeze on the shoulder.

Should you decide to shove the body in the bag, you do so easily. You'll have to hurry though, for guards are on their way, you can already hear their ensuing din in the distance. Likely they are there to try to dispatch Nylok.

ooc: Whoever plans to leave with Bryon can, and if you go out through the front gate you'll be questioned by the guards as they are still trying to find out what happened to their master and who did it, not to mention the Nylok debacle. Because of their thin numbers and stress, however, it won't be quite as difficult as it otherwise would be, to leave. So Prizzard, if you walk out be sure to roll a bluff check so when they question you, we know if they found you suspicious or not. The DC is 15 for if they will believe you or not...

Also, it's about 10:00 p.m. by this time. Are you planning to go back to the inn and recoup? Or go straight to Ursa? Let me know your plans and who all is doing what and then I will be able to post properly.

rolled 25 using 1d20+6.  Bluff, but I'd take 10 if I could.

Prizzard wants food but won't mind if Ursa needs to be the first stop. The kitchen is probably closed anyway.

Clasping hands with those in her group she closed her eyes and focused on the rooftop she and Raknesh had just vacated moments before.

“Should we plan to pay Ursa a visit tonight or tomorrow? Either way I would like to retrieve my regular weapons…and change clothes.”  She plucks at her ruined dress with a sigh of regret.

Raknesh kept his question about Tevvik for a safer time.
He helped store the body and grabbed Bryon.

He had left Rocky with Prizzard, now that his link had been severed with him.

"I know it was better for them to leave the 'normal' way, but I hope their exit goes smoothly.

Now, let's get out of here too, with our tendency to walk on walls, it shouldn't be that troublesome."

ooc: I'm going to move things along for the sake of keeping the story going. I'm just going to have you go to Ursa that night. If, however, anyone is vehemently against it, I'll tweak the following post and have it take place the next night/day what have you.

ic: You all manage to get out with only minor hassles, the pandemonium of so many deaths has greatly distracted the attentions of the guards, who are beyond stressed for the death of their employer. Soon enough you are all able to regroup at the inn and change and tidy up as needed, obtaining your own weapons for those who need them.

By the time you make it to Ursa's, it is late. Very late. Even so, as you are admitted by a surly looking guard, there are still plenty of people bustling about, drinking and talking or just brooding silently at their tables. It doesn't take long for Ursa to find you. You don't even have to send word, for she seems aware of you already. She gestures for you to follow her, leading you to a large sitting room, decadently furnished. She looks tired, but her eyes are sharp as she glances at your faces as if trying to read them. I heard about Stalton. Nice work. Now, where's Nylok? Her brow lifts, waiting.

"He attracted a little too much attention for his own good. We at least managed to bring back the body." Prizzard doesn't gesture or do much of anything with tone or body language. From years of practice in other underground circuits he defaulted to consice facts and a bland presentation. For most it was the better way to deliver bad news. He stood in the same damaged outfit from the party, having temporarily covered it with his usual robe for the trip here.

As before Bryon is invisible and walking on the walls, acting as backup in case things go badly.

Raknesh keeps his composure while Prizzard calmly stated the fact.
He did not, for now at least, explain how her special assassin found his demise.

But from the skill displayed by the guards, it was obvious none of them could have defeated Nylok.

There was the possibility to bluff their way with a battle with the witch, but the arrow wound would be hard to explain.

He waited for Ursa's reaction, hoping there wouldn't be another bloodbath.

She listens to Prizzard's explanation, her face unreadable as her eyes flick to each of you. So, which one of you killed him? Or was it a community effort? Nylok wouldn't go down easy. But tell me, who was it who scored the final blow? She arches a curious brow.

Meanwhile, all around you those still milling about stop, likely wanting to hear the answer themselves. You don't sense hostility as yet, though of course in such a place that could change any time.

ooc: If you decide to lie, roll bluff. Otherwise go for the truth, whatever floats your boat! ;P

If nobody else speaks up after a reasonable pause: "It looks like it was a lucky arrow shot into his skull rather than skill. I was fighting him, his sword caught me here and there should still be some of his poison in the wound. I did say before that I don't condone killing those who don't deserve it. I thought after a good show of force he would flee, and you'll see that the wounds I dealt were not enough to kill him. The others were present as the job was done and we were getting ready to leave when news of his slaughter came. They caught some poisoned wounds as well for being there."

It's practically the truth and includes a reminder of his ethical compulsions. Should have seen this one coming, Ursa.

Tanzy is impressed with Prizzard’s tactful answer to Ursa’s questioning. Her response would have surly brought trouble had she not hesitated. Instead she crosses her arms and chimes in with “I hope you’re still planning on paying us…” She was back in her usual attire with Stalten’s talisman tucked into her jacket for safe keeping. She was prepared to use it as a bargaining chip if needed.

Raknesh mentally thanked Prizzard for his intervention as he was increasingly pressured by his own morale code to admit he killed the man, but didn't want to endanger the others while doing so.
He is still ready to 'take the blame', should his companions be in danger.

Now, depending on her answer, there might be another bloodbath, but he hoped they had better sense than to die stupidly.

They might win, but if had to guess, Nylok was there ace in the shelves, and they might not try their luck with those who fell him.  At least not here in the open...

Ursa's mouth twitches as she listens, the corners threatening to break into a smile. Very carefully chosen words, she looks amused. She turns to Tanzy then and does break into a grin then. Yes, I'll pay you. If you admit to having a hand in Nylok's end I'll even give you a bonus. You see, I was hoping something like this would happen. I figured either he'd keep you in check or you would do the same. He was too reckless, too wild. I can't have that in my guild. she shakes her head. Between his demise and Stalten, you've been quite useful additions to my crew already. Shall we celebrate? she arches a brow, nodding to the bar.

With people like her, it was hard to guess if she was really happy of the situation or just trying to lure them.

"So if I understand correctly, you knowingly jeopardized the mission you gave us, hoping we would do the cleaning you were  unable to do?

It's a miracle we succeeded in completing the first part."

Honestly, I thought it would be a win either way. Either you finally took out Stalten for me, or you took out Nylok. He's been useful in the past, very useful. But his blood lust was becoming a liability. I didn't want to risk any of my own men removing him from my employ, so I thought I'd give you lot a try. Worst case, you all died and I didn't have to worry about strangers sniffing around my guild anymore. She shrugs, far too unconcerned about the idea of you dying. I never dreamed you would actually do both. Color me impressed.

"Regarding your offer. For me tonight was enough partying for a month and we still have an apocalypse to attend next week, so I'll have to decline." We can't exactlt be new additions to this crew. He's significantly more relaxed now that the news of Nylok went over well.

Bryon remained invisible and silent on the wall.

“He killed a lot of innocent people,” Tanzy frowns at Ursa’s lack of remorse. “Stalten deserved his end. The others didn’t. I don’t suppose we are such a good fit for your guild after all…” She reaches into her pocket to confirm Stalten’s talisman is still tucked away safely. “That said there is one small matter I’m wondering if you would be willing to discuss in private?” Hopefully the woman would be willing to make a trade.

Raknesh nods as Tanzy mention the 'small matter'.

"Yes, you mentioned a bonus, and you have something that might interest us. It shouldn't bother you as we need only one and you have plenty of those pearls."

07:43, Today: Raknesh Kaltash rolled 16 using 1d20+3 ((13)).

With a +3 in diplomacy, I did not write with much subtlety^^

"If we performed far better than expected, a small bonus should be reasonable to ask."

rolled 12 using 1d20+5.  Aid Other (Diplomacy).

Adds +2 to Rakneshs roll.