The Hospice of the Blessed Maiden was once a warehouse in the West Docks owned by the Arkona family through their charter company, Arkona Imports, but was sold about four months ago. Nothing about the sale was strange, Arkona owned dozens of similar warehouses and property on the docks was sold or leased all the time as part of standard business practices.

For a month it stood empty as it was slowly remolded and again as far as the locals are concerned there was nothing strange about it. It wasn't until it reopened as the Hospice of the Blessed Maiden a month ago that the locals took notice of it. The poor and working class of the West Docks were thankful for a place of healing so close to their homes although it did rely entirely on traditional medicines instead of divine healing magic as there were no clerics working for the Hospice and as such its effectiveness was more as a place where the sick could die in peace. A few weeks after it opened up the Blood Veil plague started spreading and the Queen's Physicians established their base of operations there. The sick that could not afford healing at the temples were channeled here so the physicians could study the disease and try and find a mundane cure for it. So far while the Physicians have claimed they are getting close, no cure has been discovered and those that enter the Hospice's doors rarely ever leave.

A few survivors are found and from their accounts it seems perfectly legitimate. The sick are kept in the large open warehouse while the physicians have set aside the offices for individual patient study and research. The survivors that the party can find never left that main central room but they do talk about how the physicians would select some of the sick to be taken to the back rooms for further study. None of the survivors recall anyone ever coming back but they admit that there was an extreme amount of turnover and with their own illness they weren't paying particular attention. Anyone sent to the Hospice was severely ill and without a cure the death rate was quite high. The nurses were always clearing out dead bodies and there was always more sick waiting to take their place.

The building is not a military compound and while there is some security it is easy enough for a stealthy operator like Kraw to climb the walls and peer through windows. Combined with interviews with people who had stayed there as well groups that have supplied food and supplies to the building the group has a good idea of the overall layout and security of the building.

1. Entry - A waiting room where those sick with blood veil can wait until a bed opens up. Entry to the Hospice is guarded by a burly nurse named Bhrunlida Torthus. By the survivor accounts she is completely devoid of any kind of compassion for the sick and has zero bedside manner. In fact they think she hates working with anyone who is ill and takes extreme precautions to avoid any contact with victims of the plague. She runs the Hospice entry with an iron fist and turns away family members and well wishers with cold efficiency. If the group plans on getting into the hospice they will likely have to find a way to bypass or bluff their way past Bhrunlida.
   
   
2. Sick Ward - A large open area in the central warehouse with about 60 cots for the sick to lie on and die. The northeast area has been turned into a makeshift kitchen so the Hospice can serve a watery gruel to the patients who can even still swallow. Typically there are about four Queen's Physicians moving about the area, studying patients and a half dozen civilian nurses who as far as the group can tell are volunteers from the area.
   
   
3. Loading Bay - This used to be where cargo was loaded in and out of the warehouse but now is unused. Nobody has seen the Physicians or nurses use this room for anything and the three large loading bay doors are locked and chained shut from the inside (DC 30 strength check to force open from the outside).
   
   
4. Lift & Stairs Up - When this was still a warehouse it was used to bring cargo up to the catwalks above. Now it is used heavily by the Queen's Physicians as they seem to not take the 3-story stairs very often to the upper offices. They also use this as a way to transport patients who are often too weak to climb the stairs. Access to the lift and stairs are guarded by a pair of Grey Maidens at all times.
   
   
5. Catwalks - Used by the warehouse to allow workers access to high storage, now it is patrolled by a pair of Grey Maidens armed with crossbows in case any of the patients get unruly or anyone forces their way past the entry way without permission. The catwalks are 20' above the warehouse floor.
   
   
6. Private Hall - Originally used as the entryway to the clerks and managers office, now it serves as a guard room with another pair of Grey Maidens.
   
   
7. Experimentation Ward - Three Queen's Physicians work here on patients in an attempt to find the cure. Originally it was a communal room for clerks to process the books but about a dozen or so cots were brought up here and patients are brought up for "additional research" although so far none have ever survived their treatment so the exact nature of their experiments and research is unknown.
   
   
8. Doctor's Office - Originally the manager's office, Doctor Davaulus has taken it over as his personal office. The windows have been covered in heavy curtains so the exact details of his office are unknown.

In terms of infiltration and disguise there is a potential opportunity. The Queen's Physicians rarely travel alone, typically they move around in groups of 3 or 4 and so it might be possible for the group disguised as Queen's Physicians to move straight through the entryway and sick ward and go straight to the lift and stairs without having to say a word to anyone. Survivors have mentioned seeing other groups of physicians do the exact same thing. However presumably such a group is moving about on specific business and once on the upper level the party's intelligence is almost nonexistent.

In addition after observation and interviews the party lands upon a very interesting question: where do the queen's physicians sleep and eat? There are about a dozen queen's physicians in total based upon when they first arrived with Doctor Davaulus and at any given time about half of them are present in either the sick wards or the research room above so where are the others? There are no signs of them staying in local inns or temples and nobody who has survived their stay at the hospice talks about a physician removing their mask to eat or drink. Either one of the upper rooms has been turned into some kind of sleeping quarters for the physicians or there is more to the warehouse than the "official" blueprints or the queen's physicians somehow have no need for mundane requirements like food or rest.

Of one final note the group was able to shadow a group of Physicians as they went out to collect a few dying citizens from the ditches of the city and the party was able to subtely scan them for magical auras.

On the Queen's Physicians, everyone had a single aura of faint Conjuration.

On their Grey Maiden escorts there was no magical auras detected.

Finally Figus after watching the Queen's Physicians move and work discovers that while they are completely silent they seem to communicate to one another through subtle hand signals. He recognizes it because the dark elves of the Darklands would use hand signals to coordinate ambushes in perfect silence. Unfortunately Figus is not famiilar with these specific signals and he would note there is no universal signal language. Each city or house of dark elves might develop their own set of signals and it is entirely possible any other race or organization could develop their own set of signals.

Not knowing the signals would be a dead giveaway if the group tried to disguise themselves as physicians.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:54, Tue 23 Nov 2021.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 1):

Ayeesha waits patiently by the back loading dock door.

"Are you up for this Kraw?" Kyra asks Kraw before they start, ready to cast her spell on him before he heads for the hospice. If the front doors are closed, she plans on opening them for him and distracting the nurse as he slips inside.

Alright, so the plan is for Kraw to scout out the place, maybe lower a rope for us from upstairs (assuming there are windows up there and that he can open one without drawing attention) or open the back doors instead (assuming it would be easier to open it from the inside). But even if he can't do either, he might at least gather info for us, so that if we need to bust down the front door, we at least have a reason for that. Sounds good?

Kyra will cast the Witness spell on Kraw before he goes in (I'll load it in my open slot), and he has one potion of Invisibility. Before we start we could also invest in another potion of Invisibility (it only has 3 minute duration, not sure one will be enough) and a Scent Blocker (unless Figus can cast his spell instead?). I think we should do so, and Kyra can provide funds for both, but it's up to do DM if we can find those and how long that would take.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:00, Sun 12 Dec 2021.

Kraw nods. "I'm ready, but the short duration of the Potion means no detailed searches. But I hope I can gather sufficient cause for us to force our way in, if needed."

OOC: Let's buy that extra potion, if possible. Maybe it won't be needed, but better safe than sorry. Kyra can cover the 300 gp. And a Scent Blocker too, unless Figus has a ready spell, for 80 gp. Money is not a problem for Kyra. DM, how long would it take to get these?

Figus will prepare and cast the Negate Aroma spell on Kraw. It will last for 6 hours.

Alright, so Kyra buys another potion of invisibility for Kraw, we cast our spells on him and he goes scouting. Possibly we provide a distraction for him to slip inside. So we are splitting the party - what's the worst thing that could happen?

How much would 2 smoke bombs set me back? The ability to draw off guards might be useful if I need to get into a secure area.

That was assuming you guys had snuck through the place, peered in all the windows etc.

The doors to the upper area are physically closed with guards standing on either side so no amount of invisibility is going to around that. Same with the elevator: it's a physical operation with guards standing right next to it.

All the easy scouting is done in that write up.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 9):

I would not mind just going in the front door and ask to see Mirukova.

We can see what shakes loose with a inquiry into his well being.

Maybe we get lucky and ferret out more information that leads to our next course of action.

Then again, if we are still stymied, we can weigh our options.

The stinging scent of alcohol and medicine floods this dingy reception room, an odor typical to hospices, morgues, and battlefields. Across from the entrance sits a long wooden desk, beyond which a stained leather curtain covers an open archway, muffling moans from beyond.

Nurse Torthus sits behind the desk making notes in a leather bound book next to her. Her eyes cast up as Ayeesha walks in and her eyes narrow. She is wearing multiple layers of scarves across her nose and mouth, presumably to avoid catching the plague from those sick in the room.

"I'm sorry but we're at capacity right now. You'll need to come back some other time when a bed frees up."

To punctuate her point she jabs a finger at the row of chairs along the wall where a half dozen sick and sullen looking citizens are slumped in their chairs. They seem to be trying to avoid the attention of the stern nurse, the only noise they make is the occasional cough. When one of them has a more severe coughing fit the nurse reaches up to tighten the scarves across her neck.

"If you'd like I can add your name to the list to secure your place."

She closes the one book and pulls out another one, this one full of lined pages with names and dates scrawled into them.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 11):


Playing it cool initially Ayeesha starts with,

"Actually I am here to see Ruan Mirukova; can you tell me where to find him?"

OCC: Anyone else joining Ayeesha in the reception room? 

"That's right, we have reasons to believe he may have been brought here." Kyra backs up Ayeesha.

Sure, why not? I don't think we actually have a reason to believe he was brought here, but it's certainly possible. And Kyra is a good liar.

Anyway, does Kraw wish to try more recon or do we just play this and see where it goes?
This message was last edited by the player at 12:41, Sun 26 Dec 2021.

Without even looking at the book the nurse starts shaking her head.

"No, nobody by that name has been admitted."

She has an air of confidence about her acting as if she had the entire dozens upon dozens of pages likely containing several hundred names intimately memorized and she couldn't possibly be wrong.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 14):

Ayeesha eyes her discerningly.

Sense motive

16:51, Today: Ayeesha rolled 15 using 1d20 with rolls of 15.  Sense Motive untrained.

"We have a witness that has stated she saw him being escorted by a Grey Maiden and a Queens Physician." 

The nurse gives a shrug.

"Anyone who was admitted is registered in this book. Sometimes people are too delirious to identify themselves and they get registered as unknown until they are well enough to tell us who they are..."

She takes the intake log and flips back a few pages and then points out someone who was admitted a few days ago but just marked as "Unknown male."

The timeframe works out but it is hardly definitive evidence that Ruan was here. As for the Nurse, Ayeesha can tell the Nurse is trying to get rid of her but as far as she can tell the Nurse isn't lying.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 16):

"Well then please escort me to this unknown male so we can identify him and take him to the Bank of Abadar to be healed."

Diplomacy check to persuade nurse.

18:37, Today: Ayeesha rolled 7 using 1d20+1 with rolls of 6.  Diplomacy to persuade nurse +1.

The nurse take great umbrage about being ordered around in her waiting room. She starts to straighten up but the scarf around her neck starts coming loose and she scrambles to fix it to her face for fear of being even slightly exposed to blood veil.

"Now listen here. I don't know who you think you are but this is a place of healing. The doctors cannot have some barbarian woman storming around disrupting their research. You do realize that they are the last hope for this city so if you would please wait, your friend will be released when he is cured."

The woman huffs out at the barbarian looming over her. Despite the physical size difference of the two of them she seemed to be made of quite stern stuff. Perhaps seeing death on a daily basis had hardened her resolve.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 18):

Ayeesha glares at the nurse and responds with a steely voice edged in pent up violence as she reasons with the gate keeper

"Now listen, whats your name? Iam here to help by freeing up a bed,  magical healing is guaranteed by the Bank of Abadar or your money back.  I think you just need to be more open minded and let me help you.  Iam sure Doctor Davalus or one of his assistance would agree, so why dont you go get someone with some authority to see that the right thing is done?"

Ayeesha leans in menacingly with corded muscles ready to spring!

Intimidate attempt to get the nurse to bring a Queens Physician.

17:50, Today: Ayeesha rolled 32 using 1d20+15 with rolls of 17.  Intimidate Nurse +15.

The nurse seems genuinely surprised at being talked back to and her iron will melts beneath Ayeesha's smoldering fury.

"I..I cannot leave the front desk but you are welcome to speak to the Doctors in the back."

She gets up and opens the door that leads to the main warehouse floor and the rows upon rows of the sick and dying. The Gray Maidens up on the catwalk shift as the party enters but seeing the nurse opening the door they make no move to stop them. A few volunteers move among the rows bringing blankets or buckets of water for the sick but otherwise it is quiet. The stench upon the air is revolting, the smell of unwashed body odor mingling with various body fluids and the unmistakable stench of death.

The nurse points them towards the Gray Maiden's guarding the back room stairs and elevator (Room 4) before shuffling back to her desk and making a note in her logs about the "visitors."

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 20):

"One more thing, which bed is the unknown patient in?"

If she states a location Ayeesha will proceed to it. If not she will walk in like she owns the place and start looking for a patient that matches Mirukova's description.

Kyra follows after Ayeesha, trying to look like she's supposed to be here.

Will Kraw join us openly, or maybe follow invisibly? Just realized we have not seen Figus for a while now.

The nurse taps the book and shows Ayeesha the column where there is no bed listed.

"If there isn't a bed that means he was taken straight to the back."

She nods towards the guards at the back of the main floor where two Grey Maidens guard the doors that lead to the elevator and staircase.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 23):

Ayeesha proceeds straight to the back.  She intends to go upstairs and see whats what.

Kyra follows after, trying to keep Ayeesha between herself and the guards. She's starting to get a little worried about all this.

And I again forgot to cast Mage Armor. DM, could Kyra do that before she got inside? Casting it now could be a bad idea.

Having scouted no egress by which to enter the building, Kraw quietly (and invisibly) follows on padded feet. He looks for any opportunities provided by Ayeesha's histrionics to either ascend to the upper level (climbing was always an option) or slip past the Iron Maidens to penetrate the building's inner chambers.

As Ayeesha starts heading towards the back room and clearly not there just tending on one of the patients dying on a cot, the Grey Maidens stiffen and put put their hands on their swords. Around the room drifting silently among the rows of cots are four Queen's Physicians, all also keeping eyes on the new intruders.

The two Grey Maidens guarding the backroom move to block Ayeesha's path and one of them calls out loud and clear.

"You have no business here. Leave or will be forcibly removed."

Map has been updated to reflect party positions and the notable NPCs. I've kept Kraw roughly with the group as there hasn't yet been time for him to slip away, not that there is any real place for him to slip away into before now.

Kraw quietly sneaks to I-19. Kneeling, he positions a smokestick below the table there. Hidden from view, he lights it and sneaks forward to slip around the guards should they move towards the smoke to investigate.

In reply to Kraw (msg # 28):


Ayeesha adopts a pose that is non threating and conciliatory in nature while affecting as charming a smile and demeanor as possible.

"Hold up a minute sweet heart. We do have business with Doctor Davalus.  The Nurse said we could see him."

I will try a diplomacy check for expediency if nothing else.

06:33, Today: Ayeesha rolled 9 using 1d20+1 with rolls of 8.  Persuade Queen's physicians and Grey maidens.

Kyra can't help but notice the crossbows trained at them from above. Starting a fight here seems like a bad idea to her.

But I can't really think of anything else we could try. At least that smoke stick may give us some cover from the bowmen. Bow-women?

As soon as Ayeesha starts trying to talk and not comply with the Grey Maiden's command the guards draw their swords and advance.

"Intruders! Defend yourselves!"

Caught by surprise, Ayeesha has to throw herself backwards to avoid the slashing attacks from the maidens. Whether by luck or skill she dodges and evades both strikes. From overhead the archers let loose their arrows. The group scatters briefly to avoid the shots and one of the arrows misses Alpha and ends up striking one of the patients in the stomach. The poor Korvosan lets out a gurgled gasp before spasming as blood starts pouring out of of his wound and his mouth. With the crowded rows it is going to make

The Queen's Physicians weave their way through the cots, silently sealing off the obvious escape route and circling in on the party. Two of them approach, striking their clubs at Kyra and Figus. Kyra's' magical armor deflects the blow and Figus ducks the other one.

Just then Kraw's smokestick starst spewing out smoke filling a small cube around him and Figus with thick smoke. There are screams and cries of alarm from the ill and the volunteers but the sudden smoke doesn't seem to deter either the guards or the physicians.

Round 1





As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:03, Fri 28 Jan 2022.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 31):

WTF! Ayeesha is incredulous that they just started swinging! A bunch of thoughts go through her mind in a instant. Why are they attacking?, What are they hiding?, is one of these maidens dating that blow hard nurse? Its not adding up, I mean we are just trying to help.  We are in a tight spot and Ayeesha is mad!

Free Action?: Ayeesha uses a Harrow point to acquire Damage reduction 3.

Free Action:Rage

Misc action:5' steps into the fog at H18 to acquire cover @ 20% miss chance.

Standard Action: Casting Defensively: Cast Enlarge Person DC17

09:20, Today: Ayeesha rolled 25 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 18.  Casting Defensively +7.

She will enlarge into squares G & H, 18 & 19 shoving everything and one out of the way with a strength check.

Will attempt to shove Grey Maiden in G18 to H17 with Strength check allowed by Enlarge person spell.

DM Ruling: Spell says use Strength check to burst out or clear the area being enlarged into.  But it seems more like a Reposition Combat maneuver which would use CMB.

CMB:+14 from BAB+6, Strength +7, Large Size+1.

Strength Check:+11 from Strength +7, Large size +4.

I will roll and you decide the final result.

10:05, Today: Ayeesha rolled 15 using 1d20+11 with rolls of 4.  Strength Check from EP to clear area +11.

A 15 for Strength Check or 18 if CMB.

Dodging an attack from one of the physicians, Kyra steps away for a moment and looks around for where her hexes could do the most good. She focuses on one of the maidens up on the catwalks.

Step to I 17, Slumber on the bow maiden at N 25. Would the smoke cloud provide us with some cover from the other one?

Kraw climbs the wall at I-19=>>I-31, ascending to the catwalk. His silence remains as he seeks a way beyond the Maidens.



15:16, Today: Kraw rolled 26 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 20.  climb.

This message was last edited by the player at 00:06, Sat 05 Feb 2022.

Ayeesha suddenly grows in size, physically pushing the two guards out of position by the doors.

One of the archers starts to droop and then slumps over, her bow clattering to the catwalk floor.

Kraw quietly climbs up the wall.

Figus pulls out his blades and immediately unleashes on the physician creeping up behind them but the physician jumps back putting a cot and an innocent victim between the two forcing Figus to abandon his attack routine and reposition to re-engage.

Alpha engages with the other queen's physician but the man also uses the cots full of victims as a barrier and shield.

---

Round 2</hr>

The two Grey Maidens show incredible battle discipline and precision when facing a suddenly enlarged Shoanti barbarian between them. They both strike at the same time piercing Ayeesha in her leg from both sides inflicting massive damage. The two are shouting quick "hup! hah!" at one another that seems to be their signal for operating in unison even though they cannot see one another.

Both rolled potential crits, one confirmed. 18 total damage (-3 DR for 9 total)

The Queens Physicians continue to maneuver to get into position and trap the party within the room. Their attacks are hesitant, seemingly more intended on corraling them against the meat grinder that is the Grey Maidens.

The other guard on the catwalks lets loose an arrow sticking it into Ayeesha's arm. It isn't a deep wound but a hit is still a hit.
3 damage -3DR = 0 total

Round 1





As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:22, Thu 10 Feb 2022.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 35):

Free Action: Ayeesha will use Destined Strike to gain +2 on one melee attack.

Ayeesha focuses here attention of the Grey Maidens before her and gaining insight swings with all her might at the H17? located one.

Ayeesha Eyes the  Maids with a Steely Glare and Growls Fiercely ,GRRRRRGHH! in Ancient Shoanti.

Full Round Action: DS +2,Str 24:+7,+1 GS, BAB+6,+1+=+16,+11

16:08, Today: Ayeesha rolled 26 using 1d20+16 with rolls of 10.  +1GS+PA while Rgng w DS against GM +16.

I think I can only use Destined Strike once a round so maybe -2 off the secondary attack?

16:08, Today: Ayeesha rolled 31 using 1d20+11 with rolls of 20.

16:09, Today: Ayeesha rolled 12 using 1d20+11 with rolls of 1.  Confirm Critical.

16:12, Today: Ayeesha rolled 26 using 3d6+17 with rolls of 5,1,3.  ENLARGED GS PA DMG.

16:12, Today: Ayeesha rolled 26 using 3d6+17 with rolls of 1,6,2.  ENLARGED GS PA DMG.

52 HP Damage.

Ayeesha has reach of 10' and combat reflexes so will look for the AOO.

Kraw slips through the door at F-31 and hustles downstairs to emerge at Ayeesha's feet quietly (G-18), with the intent of entering the next door to get to the elevator.


19:36, Today: Kraw rolled 36 using 1d20+35 with rolls of 1.  Stealth
This message was last edited by the player at 03:44, Fri 11 Feb 2022.

Kyra ignores the physicians and focuses on the guards instead, deeming them the greater threat. She looks around for another Maiden to send to dreamland.

Slumber again. I'd rather target one of the two melee maidens, but I'm guessing Ayeesha has just skewered the one at G16, and the one at G19 looks to be behind a smoke screen, leaving only the second bow-woman on J31?

Ayeesha with her large size and fearsome strength cuts down both of the Grey maidens in two swift brutal strikes. Their fancy armor and coordinated efforts are meaningless against the raw power of an ogre-sized Shoanti barbarian.

Both guards are quite thoroughly dead.

With the chaos of the battle happening around him, Kraw finds it easy enough to slip through the door and creep down the stairs. He witnesses Ayeesha skewering both guards and he slips out of one door and enters the other one leading to the elevator. It is designed as a cargo lift with very simple controls. A lever is set with two buttons, presumably one for the main floor level and one for the upper offices. Kraw's keen eyes note that there is hole disguised as a knot in the wood where a third button or some kind of key could be inserted potentially leading to a third destination for the elevator.

Up on the catwalk the second archer succumbs to Kyra's curse and she falls to the grating snoring softly.

Figus engages with the physicians encircling them, cutting down one with a rapid series of strikes and cuts.

Alpha strikes at another, missing with his spear but biting a chunk out of the man's arm as he raises it to defend himself.

The Queen's Physician carefully step into place to begin flanking. Alpha is attacked from both sides but his animal instincts keep him safe and he dodges and drops to avoid their club swings. Another physician swings at Figus but he deflects the strike with his scimitar.



Round 2




As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

Kraw tries to 'pick the lock' to engage the third button.


15:58, Today: Kraw rolled 18 using 1d20+15 with rolls of 3.  Disable Device .

In reply to Kraw (msg # 40):

Ayeesha will strike out at I19 then J17 if she drops I19 with first strike.

13:45, Today: Ayeesha rolled 30 using 1d20+13 with rolls of 17.  Enlarged +1GS :+13 to hit .

Second swing should of been +8 for a 19 to hit.

13:45, Today: Ayeesha rolled 24 using 1d20+13 with rolls of 11.  Enlarged +1GS :+8 to hit .


Enlarged +1GS Damage.

13:46, Today: Ayeesha rolled 27 using 3d6+17 with rolls of 4,5,1.

13:46, Today: Ayeesha rolled 27 using 3d6+17 with rolls of 3,5,2.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:08, Fri 18 Feb 2022.

With all the guards down for now Kyra shifts her focus on the doctors remaining. "Anyone brought along some manacles? Those two upstairs wont be out for long."

Slumber on J15, then step to H16.

Hmm, I think the stairwell also leads upstairs to the offices, so we can take that instead of the elevator. I think. How is the elevator powered anyway?

Inside the elevator there is a click and the elevator swiftly begins to descend down into the darkness of the earth. None of the plans they had seen or any of their investigations had indicated some kind of sublevel.

Split second decision. Stay in the elevator or jump back out. DC 25 reflex to jump out cleanly. Otherwise he takes 2d6 damage from getting a talon caught as the elevator descends.

---

The enlarged barbarian continues to strike down the physicians attacking them, cutting two down swiftly with broad sweeps of her sword.

Figus and Alpha team up to take down the remaining physician in a swift and brutal execution. The room falls quiet as those who were even aware of the conflict hold their breath and stay still waiting to see what the bloody combatants do next while the rest of the sick continue to cough and wheeze as they wait for treatment or death's release.

Combat isn't over because the guards on the catwalks are short timers for their slumber.


Round 3




As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

 Figus  heard the message, and while he did not have any manacles with him, he was sure he would figure something out. With little regard for stealth, he dashed up the stairs and sheathed his scimitar.
  "On it," he simply asserted.

 He went straight to the sleeping archer. For lack of better equipment, he proceeded to unstring her own bow and use that very string to tie her wrists together behind her back, through the balustrade and to her ankles.
  From what I gather of grapple rules, that is te equivalent of being pinned/grappled with a DC of 20+CMB (ie 29 in my case) 

 The ranger was already eyeing the other sleeping archer. Seeing as they had been attacked with lethal force and without much of a warning, he did consider bludgeoning them into unconsciousness instead... but that would not be very charitable, and he dispelled the idea quickly.

 Meanwhile Alpha sniffed around to identify further threats or incoming enemies that were yet to reveal themselves.
Figus Dva rolled 22 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 17.  Alpha perception.

"Rope. Damn, I wish I remembered to pack some rope, or better yet, shackles." Kyra concentrates for a moment, then rises in the air to glide over to the second archer. She removes the guard's weapons, careful not to wake her up. And if she has something to tie her to do the railing, she does that as well.

I don't suppose Ayeesha has any rope or shackles? Either way, Flight hex on, and taking care of the second archer.

In reply to Kyra (msg # 45):

Ayeesha will end her rage as a free action.

She physically slumps a little bit as she wipes her sword clean and then pulls a length of silk rope (50') out of her back pack and hands it off to Kyra.

"Yea, here you go.  I need a minute (6 rnds of Fatigue) to catch my breath." 

Ayeesha reflects on the what just occurred and recognizes the peril that they have just fallen into by fighting the Queens servants.  How did we devolve into this mess? And how do we get out of it?

She stands wearily and continues contemplating their plight while remaining vigilant of new threats as she renews her strength.

Kraw waits quietly as the elevator descends. As a precaution, he swallows the contents of a potion from his belt pouch.

Up above the party secures the remaining Queen's guards. Although there isn't a lot of time left on Kyra's hex the staircase is unguarded and it is easy enough to charge up the stairs and secure the sleeping guards long enough to tie them up. From here the group seemingly only has one option: to go further up towards the office of Dr. Davaullus.

---

The elevator descends down for quite some time. It is difficult to guess but Kraw suspects at least a hundred feet down. Finally with a loud screech and a jolt the elevator comes to rest at the bottom and the gate latches click and release allowing him to leave. He is in what looks to be a semi-natural stone cave. The space was probably mostly natural while someone has come through and cleaned it out to make it more habitable.

Someone has come in and plastered up the stone walls and then decorated them by hanging and posing actual skeletons in images that make them look like they are dancing and celebrating their own demise.

Each cardinal direction has a door:

West - A simple wooden door through which is the elevator.
North and South - simple wooden doors bearing a picture of a scythe-wielding skeleton on them.
East - A massive set of double doors painted to look like they are opening into the great pyramid foundation of Castle Korvosa. Two more scythe-wielding skeletons decorate these doors.

Kraw quietly listens at the North door and checks it for locks/traps. If he is clear, he opens it to look inside.

current effects
Invisibility
Hide from Undead

22:13, Today: Kraw rolled 29 using 1d20+13 with rolls of 16.  Perception .

22:13, Today: Kraw rolled 21 using 1d20+15 with rolls of 6.  Disable Device , if needed.

22:12, Today: Kraw rolled 40 using 1d20+35 with rolls of 5.  Stealth.

"Kraw, where are you?" Kyra asks aloud, not sure if their feathered friend is still with them or not. Maybe he went upstairs to confront the doctor?

Yeah, since Kraw was invisible this whole time, would we even know he took the elevator down? Did the rest of us at least see the elevator move?

In reply to Kyra (msg # 50):

"I have not seen Kraw lately, maybe he went up stairs to talk with the Doctor?  We better do like wise as he may need our help."


Ayeesha will start squeezing up the stair case behind her companions if they wish to lead the way.  She will wait at the top before entering to allow 6 rounds to pass so she is no longer fatigued before entering the Docs level.

 Figus was not sure where Kraw had gone, but he reckoned the invisible fellow could take care of himself. After securely tying down the guards, he signed for Ayeesha to follow upstairs if she wasn’t already on her way.

 “A word with the doctor sounds good… maybe I’ll let my blades do the talking. I didn’t like the welcoming committee here…”

The ranger was ready to take the lead, ears and eyes out, blades at the ready.

Ayeesha, Figus, and Kyra climb the stairs, past the catwalk and up to where the Queen Physician offices are located at the top of the landing they discover a problem however. The hallway takes a tight turn into a narrow hallway.

It might be possible for Ayeesha in her enlarged form to squeeze through but if they are stopped by any enemies she will completely block anyone behind her from attacking and if even if she goes behind it will be difficult for her to attack or dodge any incoming attacks.

Check the rules on squeezing here

and the rules for entangled here

Basically you will be at -2 to all your combat stats: attack, AC, initiative, anything STR or DEX related etc.

---

Meanwhile Kraw listens in at the door and not hearing anything he quietly opens the door to reveal some kind of storage room. Cabinets and benches fill the room while pegs along the back wall hold several black-eyed beaked plague doctor masks.

PM

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 53):

Ayeesha will bring up the rear squeezing all the way until she is clear of tight quarters.

I guess this will be until she reaches a roomy room.

Its not easy being green or large!

 Figus was very happy taking the lead. He had both curved swords out, and advanced stealthily some twenty feet ahead Kyra and Ayeesha.

 If any guard or physician came within sight, he would strike without warning.

---

Figus Dva rolled 26 using 1d20+12 with rolls of 14.  perception.
Figus Dva rolled 26 using 1d20+11 with rolls of 15.  stealth.

Kyra follows after Figus, likewise trying to remain quiet and still lamenting the loss of of her magical shawl.

16:27, Today: Kyra rolled 23 using 1d20+14 with rolls of 9.  Stealth.

Up Above
As soon as Figus opens the door a sword comes slashing at him. Out of pure instinct he flicks his hand up and deflects the strike. An arrow whizes past his face and embeds itself into the wall.

"They're here! They're here!"

It seems the sounds of their battle had alerted the guards after all.

Round 1




As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

PM

The reaction was immediate and intuitive. Figus unleashed a series of little strikes in quick succession, some of it just clinked on the maiden’s heavy armour. Still his intimate knowledge of how humans fight open the way for both his scimitar and his kukri to find a gap in her defence.

“Alpha! Flanking manoeuvre! he hissed.

The bipedal wolf ran past them and jumped over the maiden to fight a clear spot from where to attack. He threw his jaw into the maiden’s leg, but failed to grab onto anything.

---

Forgot about favoured enemy in my rolls! Just realised it makes TWF slightly more worth it.
I think it means I hit twice (AC29 and 22) for a total of 18 damage.
Alpha rolled acrobatics to jump on the other side without AOO, but didn’t hit

Kyra again uses ties to use her magical gift to put another maiden to sleep.

When all you have is a hammer... Slumber on the other maiden if Kyra has her in sight. Otherwise, Slumber on the one Figus is attacking.

Also, 5' forward to make room for Ayeesha, now that Alpha has moved forward as well.

In reply to Kyra (msg # 61):

Ayesha will look for opportunities to use her reach to attack.  She will use the Guisarme that gives her 15' of reach while enlarged or 20' for enlarged Guisarme?.

Move action: Sheath GS

Free action for +1 BAB: Pull MWK Guisarme

Standard Action: Trip attempt against Grey maiden.


She will attempt to snake in and snag an ankle to trip the maiden in range if feasible.

I will make the rolls for CMB attempt to trip if allowed or disregard and Ayeesha will wait for an opportunity to attack or help out.

CMB +10, Size +1, MWK Guisarme +1, Entangled condition -2 = +10

So should be a 23; missed a +1 when I rolled.

08:01, Today: Ayeesha rolled 22 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 13.  Trip attempt +9.

Kraw listens to the southern door. It seems quiet but then here hears what he thinks was a noise. There might be something (or someone) behind the southern door.

---

Figus lashes out and stabs at the Grey Maiden. The hallway is too narrow and cramped for anyone behind him to squeeze through to attack leaving him to hold the front line by himself. Behind Figus (and Alpha) Kyra struggles to make eye contact to deliver her curse but eventually it happens, she catches sight of the guard around the corner and she delivers her sleeping curse. The guard stumbles and falls mid-swing to pass out at Figus' feet.

The other guard tosses away her bow and pulls out her longsword and preps her shield. So far while the combat training of the Queen's Maiden's hasn't stacked up against seasoned saviors of the city, they definitely instilled a ridiculous amount of loyalty into the women as the last guard prepares to make her final stand.

Round 1




As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

Quietly, Kraw eases the door open to peer inside. He unlocks the door if needed.

Current effects
Invisibility
Hide from Undead


22:53, Today: Kraw rolled 28 using 1d20+13 with rolls of 15.  Perception .

22:52, Today: Kraw rolled 23 using 1d20+15 with rolls of 8.  Disable Device , if needed.

22:52, Today: Kraw rolled 46 using 1d20+35 with rolls of 11.  Stealth.


OOC The lift is enclosed, right? Even at the bottom? Was there a hatch in the roof, or room between the lift and the walls?

Kyra tries to get sight on the remaining guard to knock her out as well.

Keep hammering Slumber.

In reply to Kyra (msg # 65):

Ayeesha will delay until such a time as an oppotunity to act presents itself.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:55, Fri 25 Mar 2022.

Up on the third floor the second guard stumbles and then falls asleep. The group knows the guards had raised an alarm but so far nothing seemed to be charging at them from up top or down below giving them a brief moment to consider things.

Given how the guards had barricaded the hallway it seemed unlikely that Kraw had made his way up here. Perhaps he had found a different way up, or perhaps he hadn't gone upstairs at all.

The group was in the guard/waiting area. They knew from their intel that past this was the main research laboratory for the physicians and beyond that was Dr. Davalus' personal office.

---

Down in the depths Kraw studies the door and listens but doesn't notice any traps or obstacles and so he quietly turns the door knob and opens the door...right on a group of four physicians crouched and ready to spring the attack.

They start swinging their clubs before the door even fully opens. It seemed like they had known the elevator had descended and had been lying in wait for some kind of signal to spring the attack. That meant they had all been staring at the door, weapons at the ready and no amount of stealth or invisibility would hide the turning of the door knob.

However that didn't mean they knew exactly where Kraw was. One of the attacks goes high, possibly not expecting Kraw to be crouched as low as he was but the other two connect, hard.

One misses complete. The others hit on a 20 and a nat 20. Both pass the 50% miss chance for being invisible.

13 damage

The attacks don't disrupt Kraw's spell but he sees the physicians silently look at each other  as their clubs seemingly halt in midair. Then as a group the physicians prepare to rush out of the small chamber, possibly to try and grapple with Kraw and pin their invisible intruder down.


Round 1



As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

"Kraw, if you are here, this isn't funny anymore." Kyra says as she rushes to disarm the fallen guards, tying them up with whatever she can find.

We need to find Kraw. I'm thinking that the elevator would be the next place we would look, even if none of us has seen it descent down below. Can we call it up from this level?

Alternatively, Kyra can fly down the shaft, or give the ability to fly down to someone more useful in combat.

In reply to Kyra (msg # 68):



"Kyra, Figus, can one of you check the elevator shaft and see what the deal is?
I will volunteer to fly down the shaft if you all like the idea."

 Figus helped secure the sleeping maidens, using their bowstrings thereby sabotaging the weapon and finding an appropriate imrprovised tool. He removed their helmets and checked their eyes, muttering to himself:
 "Are these women drugged? They attack with startling commitment... surely they cannot all be as wicked as the physicians themselves..."

 The ranger leant an ear to the elevator shaft, mumbling:
 "Did you hear something there?"

 

---

 Hoping to hear something of Kraw's so that we can come to his aid

The group has just enough time to get to situated at the top of the stairs (and for Ayeesha to squeeze her way through the narrow hallway) when the double  doors silently open up revealing a trio of Queen's Physicians advancing on the group. They move quickly and swiftly bringing their clubs to bear. Both Ayeesha and Figus take glancing strikes as they adjust to engage with this new group of combatants.

Figus takes 3 damage,  Ayeesha takes 7 (-3 DR) for 4 damage)

FYI this happens 1-2 rounds after combat ended last time so this interrupts your attempt to find Kraw




Round 2


As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

PM

In reply to Kraw (msg # 72):

Ayeesha rages and whacks the Physicians with her Great sword while Power attacking; splitting attacks between the ones nearest her.

17:10, Today: Ayeesha rolled 19 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 13.  +6 GS PA.

17:10, Today: Ayeesha rolled 22 using 1d20+11 with rolls of 11.  +11 GS PA.

17:12, Today: Ayeesha rolled 33 using 3d6+17 with rolls of 4,6,6.  ENLARGED GS PA DMG.

17:12, Today: Ayeesha rolled 28 using 3d6+17 with rolls of 4,2,5.  ENLARGED GS PA DMG.



Both whacks connect for 33 and 28 points of damage.

"Surrender or else!" Ayeesha warns as she drops two more.

Kyra again focuses her arcane gift on the attackers, or at least on those attackers still in one piece after Ayeesha and Figus get to work on them.

Slumber, targeting whatever (if any) doctor is left standing after the rest of the party has their turn.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:23, Fri 01 Apr 2022.

Seeing as the physicians were kind enough to come out and meet them, Figus responds with a flurry of quick sharp strikes.

Only one of his blows is lucky enough to meet flesh, the others being easily dodged or diverted.

one physician takes 11 damage

Down below Kraw slips away successfully, backing into a corner of the room. The Physicians slowly start fanning out, swinging their clubs around hoping to catch him but their slow and steady pacing means he has a bit of time before they trap him in the corner...

Up above Ayeesha carves her way through two of the physicians while Kyra causes the third physician to drop asleep. Once again her hexes are proving nearly as useful as Ayeesha's man-sized greatsword. With the immediate threat passed the party is treated to a sight of horror beyond what they have already seen in the city.

Rows of white-sheeted beds line the walls of this room. Each is occupied, every bed bearing a patient restrained by leather straps that bind the figure to the sturdy metal frame. At the room's center stretch simple wooden worktables, each covered in fluid-filled beakers, intricate glass tubes, small burners, and other alchemical instruments.

The patients all appear to be alive, somehow, but show various degrees of vivisection. One has their chest cut open and ribs spread apart with some kind of metal contraption putting their pulsing organs on display. Others appear to have been operated on with organs plopped into bowls or jars next to the patients, suspended in some kind of alchemical solution.

Thankfully it seems the patients are unconscious, likely from some kind of smoke pouring from a censor in the middle of the room. Despite the horrific scars and surgeries performed on them, the patients all seem to be in peaceful slumber, some even have a little smile on their face.



Round 3



As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

Using his avian form as best he can, Kraw quietly leaps high and wedges himself high in the corner, well above the sweeps of the physicians. As his body slowly heals, he glances at the elevator to see if there was access to any space above the lift car.


02:47, Today: Kraw rolled 32 using 1d20+18 with rolls of 14.  Acrobatics . Jump 16' high.

02:47, Today: Kraw rolled 10 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 4.  Climb check.

In reply to Kraw (msg # 77):

Ayeesha ends her rage and will be fatigues for 2 rounds.

If she can squeeze into X,Y,17,18 squares she will do so but wont if it risks any patients.

"WTF are they doing to our people?"

Ayeesha looks on in concerned disgust at the macabre seen and takes in every details that she is able while listening intently.


08:48, Today: Ayeesha rolled 27 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 18.  Perception +9.

 With one physician still alive, albeit asleep, Figus lingers at the back at first. He ties the man's wrists and ankles, in case they needed him later on. He also removes the grotesque mask that covers his face.
  "What is this device for anyway? Does it actually protect them from the plague?"

 He follows behind Ayeesha, and upon taking in the scene, winces in disgust. He has gutted more animals than he can remember in hunting, and enough humans to develop a keen knowledge of their anatomy, but this was still a bit more than he could stomach...

 The half-drow looked at the incense burners and warned:
  "These fumes could be what keeps them asleep... and blissful apparently. Don't breathe in..."

 He put a kerchief on his mouth and nose, and avoided breathing the fragrant smoke. Pointing his scimitar to the door at the far end, he uttered:
  "Let's get to the man behind it all, and end it for good..."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:55, Wed 06 Apr 2022.

Before following after Ayeesha and Figus, Kyra takes a quick look inside the elevator shaft, in case Kraw is in there for some reason. With the guards they had to deal with, it does not seem likely he was up here at all.

Since Kyra is already by the elevator, can she take a quick look down the shaft? Maybe figure out that the elevator goes down to the basement as well? If it's too dark in there to tell, she has the Dancing Lights cantrip.

Down Below...

Kraw scrambles up the rough cave wall trying to put some distance vertically between him and the sweeping physicians. The wall s are rough and Kraw's clawed feet find purchase although the ceilings are not that tall here. It is possible he can evade them but if his luck turned hard against him he might find himself trapped.

The elevator does not have a ceiling, in fact it seems to be open although the elevator shaft seems to be completely dark. Of note that whatever rope or magic or mechanism to raise the elevator is hidden, instead the elevator connects to four grooves in the wall (two on each side) that allows it to raise and lower somehow.

The physicians continue to fan out looking for Kraw, slowing advancing on his corner.

Don't know if this is what you're going for but from looking at it across the room it would only be about a DC 15 however it would require 14 successful checks and a slip and fall could get catastrophic very quickly.

---

Up Above...

Kyra opens up the door to the elevator. The shaft is pitch black but a quick cantrip sheds some light. The elevator shaft extends upwards past their currently floor although there doesn't look to be any doors or exits. Perhaps it is just part of the elevator mechanisms?

Looking down she sees the elevator platform two stories down. It seems the elevator is on the first floor so if Kraw did take, he didn't go very far...


To clarify:
Kraw is at Level: -6 or so
The ground floor where the elevator is at is at Level: 1
The party is on the third floor: Level 3.

That means there are two elevator cars and one is now blocking the subterranean level...

  "I don't know where Kraw went, but he's not stupid enough to put himself in mortal danger. He's probably scouting the place, and will meet us back up here. In the meantime, we should press our advantage and finish this."

 Unless the others objected, he moved to the door and prepared to open it once he got a nod from them to signify their are ready.

 He tried not to look at the subjects of the ungodly experiments that were happening here.

"I hope you are right. Alright, let's finish this and we can look for him then."

In reply to Kyra (msg # 83):

Ayeesha prepares to squeeze into the next room in support of Figus after apparently, not perceiving anything of note in the vivisection room.

Up above

Blood, bile, and other humors bubble away within oddly formed beakers and twisted tubes in this sizable laboratory that has been set up in what used to be the manager's office. Any wall
space left unobscured by cabinets or over-laden bookshelves is covered by worn parchments depicting magnified aspects of human anatomy in grisly detail—many pierced with pins and flags like the war maps of a veteran campaigner. In the corner, a desk of elegantly carved white ash bears the image of a herd of antelope, but the stains of dark chemicals and gore disfigures the once-beautiful piece.

Down Below
The physicians continue to sweep closer and closer to Kraw's position...

From behind his desk Dr. Davaulus looks up at the intruders into his office, his face reddening slightly with anger that leeches into his voice.

"What in the nine hells are you doing here? We are conducting vital research and you are rampaging through my lab, killing my assistants and guards. For what? What are you hoping to accomplish here? I am commissioned by Queen Ileosa herself which makes your actions here tantamount to high treason. Get out. Now. I have more important things to do than deal with your...whatever foolishness this is."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:42, Wed 20 Apr 2022.

I was going to post here, but just realised I've switched to new character - over to you then!

"That is very interesting" noted Figus "because we have been commission to seek the source of this plague and the trail has led us from bodies, a sunken ship, to your organization here. But, when we tried to ask a few questions in the performance of our duties on behave of the city and her highness, we were attacked."

Figus moves slowly keeping a careful eye on the man, ready to act if he makes any moves to attack, use magic or flee.

In reply to Figus Dva (msg # 88):

Ayeesha squeezes into a position that brings Dr. Davalus into her reach as she attempts to discern his intentions.

16:43, Today: Ayeesha rolled 4 using 1d20 with rolls of 4.  Sense Motive untrained.

"Innocent servants of the Crown do not attack people for inquiring after a patient. Call me a barbarian but when so one stabs me with steel, I respond in kind. Now, perhaps you would be so kind as to take us to Ruan Mirukova so we can get him cured. Yes?"

Kyra stay behind her team mates, but keeps an eye on the not-so-good doctor. Should she judge he is trying something funny, she is perfectly willing to knock him out as well.

If Sense Motive is needed, Kyra actually has a decent skill. Shame about the roll, though.
18:11, Today: Kyra rolled 17 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 7.  Sense Motive.

Dr. Davaulus narrows his eyes at the Shoanti and the others.

"You do realize we are in the middle of a catastrophe, right? The guards have to expel angry and confused friends and family every day. The protocol is to ask people to leave and if they refuse, to subdue them to prevent them from disturbing the patients...or our research."

He shifted, his eyes darting between the three heroes, lingering on the wolf that was magically standing upright and somehow holding a spear in the back.

"So before you start throwing around accusations lets check if protocols were followed. Were you asked to leave? And when asked to leave did you comply?"

He seems to be completely unphased by the allegations thrown at him. In fact he seems to be viewing this as both an unfortunate misunderstanding and a complete disruption of his work. Seeing the weapons the group are holding and how they are trapping him in the office he gives a sigh and sits down, motioning for the others to as well.

"I can see your convictions are held and from what I have heard you likely think you have the cities best interest in mind so before anyone resorts to further violence let's discuss this like civilized adults."

He pauses, leaning over to try and look past the group down the hall.

"Are the other physicians and guards alright? I am happy to discuss this further but not if they are bleeding out. I may not be able to bring the dead back to life but I would rather end this day with fewer deaths for a change."

Down below

Kraw unleashes his coiled muscles and springs across the room, never once touching the ground. With perfect grace he snags one of the lift lines and swings himself up out of possible sight (should the invisibility drop).


19:17, Today: Kraw rolled 38 using 1d20+18 with rolls of 20.  Acrobatics.

Nat 20 plus +18 modifier equals flashy move.

"This man can talk his way out of a fire" thought Figus "But, not this time!"

"Do not worry about them bleeding out Doctor. Most of their blood is already out. You indignation and bravado are misplaced. You are most likely the cause of this contagion as the evidence we found on the ship confirms. Now, you can surrender, get on your knees and place your hands on top of your hands, or ...

God, how I always wanted to say that!"

NOW, get on your knees.

In reply to Figus Dva (msg # 93)

Ayeesha smiles charmingly as she says "Dr Davaulus ..."

As she finishes wiping off her sword and sheathing it.

Her smile turns into a grim visage and then reaches over and attempts to grab him.

19:17, Today: Ayeesha rolled 18 using 1d20+11 with rolls of 7.  Grapple attempt on Dr.Davaulus +11.


"EERR!, you spread this disease through your infected coins in their necromantic boxes.

Then you torture these people, I think you should just sit there and empty your pockets and submit to a search and seizure.


Where did Rolth take Mirukova?

What have you found out in all your research?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:15, Fri 29 Apr 2022.

Davaulus doesn't resist. As Ayeesha grabs him and bends him down he doesn't resist, submitting and being tied up with the others. That doesn't stop him from talking though.

"You don't know what you're doing. You're dooming this city. I don't know what you have found or think you have found but you are making a grave mistake. I don't mean to throw this word around lightly but inteferring with the discovery of a cure and assaulting the queen's personal physician is likely going to be viewed as treason. I hope whatever evidence you've found is irrefutable or you're just dooming yourselves."

Ayeesha searches him and from pockets and pouches produces the following:

- x1 glass vial labled 'Elixer of True Healing'
- x1 glass vial labeled 'Elixer of Disease Removal'
- x1 magical rapier
- x1 magical amulet
- x1 set of keys, likely to the building and its various exits and rooms
- x1 weird metal object.

The metal object looks like a button fromt he front but the back side if a complicated looking key.

Not auto-identifying them as I don't know how much time you want to spend searching or studying artifacts versus the fact that kraw is still missing.

Treasure:
- x1 glass vial labled 'Elixer of True Healing'
- x1 glass vial labeled 'Elixer of Disease Removal'
- x1 magical rapier
- x1 magical amulet
- x1 set of keys, likely to the building and its various exits and rooms
- x1 weird metal object.

Figus commands Alpha to watch the good doctor while hi is being restrained, meanwhile Figus takes a closer look at the weird metal object. He does not push the button but does cast a  Detect Magic and spends some time examining it.

"Lets try the simple method first"

"What is this thing, Doctor?"

In reply to Dr. Reiner Davaulus (msg # 95):

Ayeesha's Enlarge spell only lasts  for 6 MIN, so I am sure that it will end before we move on from here.

After Davalus is securely tied up Ayeesha will commence to search the room for any kind of "Research" or incriminating evidence that may exist.

Ayeesha will rage and flex her enlarged state while it lasts to coerce the Doctor.

"Oh, You hope we find irrefutable evidence do you? Well then why don't you confess and show me it!"

12:34, Today: Ayeesha rolled 36 using 1d20+21 with rolls of 15.  Intimidate +15,+4_Size,+2 rages(STRENTGH)!

10:26, Today: Ayeesha rolled 13 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 4.  Perception +9.

If needed, Ayeesha would like to take 20 on the spot check to ensure we search the place thoroughly.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:49, Wed 04 May 2022.

Kyra tries a bit of the old good cop - bad cop routine, but with magic to help her out with the "good" part.

"Doctor, please, don't provoke her. Once she gets in a rage like this we can't control her! All we want is our friend that was brought here, and we will be out of your hair. So just tell us where he is and you can go back to your work."

Got one more Charm Person spell left and I'm using it before speaking (DC 14, but he might have a bonus against it for being threatened by Kyra's allies). Kyra has no diplomacy to speak of, but would a bluff roll be appropriate here? Or would this be more of a Aid Another to Ayeesha's intimidate? DM can roll against whatever he decides on for Kyra.

Kyra casts her spell and it seems to take hold. Davaulus relaxes and his eyes take on that dreamy state they had seen before, his body relaxes and he gives a smile to the adventurers.

"Oh...how can I help?"

Ayeesha asks him to confess and he just looks confused.

"Confess to what? I have done nothing wrong..."

But there is a glint in his eye, and not one from magical effects. Both Ayeesha and Kyra catch that Davaulus isn't actually enchanted, he's just pretending to be so. Ayeesha roars with rage putting her blade to his throat and finally the Doctor's visage breaks.

"Alright, perhaps you're not as dumb as you look. Spare me and I can show you what you are looking for but just, realize what you are asking. Have you been outside? This city was on the verge of tearing itself apart just a few months ago. The masses squeezed together like a pressure cooker just waiting to blow. Do you know who is killed in a riot? The strong. The healthy. The young. The weak and the dying watch from safety while the future of the city bleeds out in the street.

In nature the wildfire is integral to the cycle of life. Sometimes there must be a great culling to clear out the dead wood, so to speak, and make way for new life to grow and flourish. Yes the fire is a tragedy in the moment but in a years time when that dying forest is brilliant green and bursting with life can you really say it was the wrong thing to happen?

This is a dark time for Korvosa but it will survive and it will be stronger for it. It needs room for new life to grow and when it does, it will be a place you and I are proud to call our home."

He nods towards the button that Figus is examining.

"That goes to the elevator. This warehouse was built on a network of caverns that used to be used for smuggling. Now the Urgathoan's use it for their own experiments. I swear I am here to research the disease but they...they are also researching things but for a different purpose."

As he talks Ayeesha looks around and finds various papers and notes but doesn't really understand what they are. Luckily Davaulus is there to help translate.

"The biggest problem with this city is the native Varisians. Shifty and untrustworthy, resistant to any kind of attempts at law and order. However it seems that pure-blooded Varisians have some kind of inherent resistance to the disease. By studying them we had hoped to better understand the disease, perhaps even develop an antidote for when it had run its course and the brush had been sufficiently burned."

As the doctor makes his confession, Kyra looks over the various papers and notes. "Interesting tale doctor. Perhaps we should arrange for you to share it with someone else later. For now though, you say that the elevator goes down to these tunnels as well? Maybe our friends are down there." Though why Kraw would head down alone without so much as warning them is beyond her.

Before we leave here, Kyra would like to to stuff her bag of holding with as much papers and notes as possible, and the more incriminating, the better. Also any interesting books to complete her collection back home, if there is time to look over the shelves. And we can take the magical stuff to identify and divide later.

Unfortunately we can't really stuff this guy in a bag of holding as well, but maybe we can just leave him tied up here for now. Or do we drag him down below with us?

In reply to Kyra (msg # 100):

"Kyra, Do those squiggle lines tell you what he was doing?"

"We can leave him tied up here until we return from below or take him with us."

The room is absolutely stuffed full of books. They are almost all medical tomes and books on biology, anatomy etc. Other than the papers that were lying out and easy to identify you could probably spend hours trying to look through the papers and books here.

To clarify there is no "grab something that looks interesting" or you'll end up with Ptolem's Anatomy Vol. 19 or something. Either you'll have to spend time here making Perception checks or you should move on and consider coming back later when you might have more time to sit down and focus.

Or if everyone is fine putting the search for Kraw on hold, we can switch to him and see what happens for him for awhile...

This message was last edited by the GM at 03:57, Fri 06 May 2022.

Then Kyra will just take the those papers lying around and easy to identify and hopefully come back to check out the rest of the stuff later. We have a missing tengu situation to deal with first.

Can Kyra get anything from those papers as she stuffs them down her bag, or would she need more time to examine them for that? So that I know what to say to Ayeesha.

Dr. Davaulus ideas discussed Figus. His notion of superiority and survival went against everything Figus believed in. There were no mercy or charity in his words, no feelings for those who were less fortunate in their lives. They were plainly unacceptable. Figus also contemplated untying the good doctor just to strip the man's armor. It was something the group overlooked before securing him.

"I think we would like to check those 'caverns'. I do not believe that Urgathoan are doing anything which is good for the city, or even something which should be allowed to continue."

In reply to Figus Dva (msg # 104):

"Yes Figus, I believe we need to delve deep to find the rot infecting the city and cut it out."

In reply to Ayeesha (msg # 101):

Kyra pauses for a moment to glance over a piece of paper, but then just shakes her head and resumes stuffing the notes in her bag. "I'd need more time to go over what we found here, and I fear our time here may be limited. We need to find Kraw, if it's not too late already."

In reply to Kyra (msg # 106):

Ayeesha is torn between the choices as she weighs the consequences of their actions.

"I think we need to get help for these sick patients, maybe we could take five minutes and find the watch to turn Davalus over to and request aid for the sick and dying before we go on from here? Or find Kraw then double back and engage the guard? So, Kraw or Guard?  If we go down and don't come back, who will know what was going on here? If we go down we will need to be very cautious and have Kyra ready to fly out of there and get the guard if we get in trouble."

The group drags Dr. Davaulus along with them back towards the elevator. The elevator doesn't appear to be on this floor, instead it is on the ground floor.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 108):

We go down the stairs to the ground level and check the elevator.

As you arrive at the ground floor, the door to the elevator opens, and there stands Kraw, a ragged hole in the floor of the elevator behind him. He says "these guys were really sneaky. An elevator, and a dummy-elevator for appearances when the regular elevator is down in the sub-basement. About 100 feet below us is a Temple to Urgathoa, staffed by those silent Doctor assistants. Those things cannot be human, they're too strong. The double doors to the Temple are trapped, but 4 of the assistants attacked me before I could disarm it. Lucky I prepared my escape with a Monkeyfish potion."

"Finally." Kyra says as they find Kraw still in one piece and breathing. "You got us really worried. How the hell did you end up down there anyway? Oh, and yeah, we already learned of what's below from our good friend the doctor here. At least now we can take the time to hand him over to someone and not drag him down with us."

Since we have found Kraw now, I'm good with taking a few minutes to hand over the doctor to a patrol.

Also, Kyra will walk to the nearest dead assistant to remove his mask and finally see what they are dealing with here. Undead?

"Although I would like to get this one off our hands" Figus nods toward the doctor "I think we need to clean this place up before that. We cannot afford to lose time. Nor do I want to have him out of our sight."

Kraw responds "given that this was a doctor hand-picked by the Queen, I think we need Kroft here, possibly with a troop to support us if we are fighting a Temple of these Urgathoans."

In reply to Kraw (msg # 113):

"And all these sick people need help.  We should get the guard then take care of the Urgathoans.""

Dr. Davaulus is handed over to one of the patrols and given strict instructions to hold him until further notice.

Meanwhile the group goes over to one of the bound doctors and pulls off the plague mask...revealing a human face. One broken with blisters and boils and with scarred flesh carved with the symbols of Urgathoa but otherwise it seemed to be human.

For context Kraw, the doctors have 14 STR so Ayeesha easily puts them to shame, strength wise. You were hit with a crit which is why it seemed so much worse.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 115):

After the guard comes and she sees the patients are going to be cared for; a quiet rage steels into her soul as she turn her focus to the cause of all the suffering they have witnessed.

Her eyes meet her companions with a barely contained fire in her steely stare.

"Now we can let the elevator take us down and we can go crazy!"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:43, Tue 24 May 2022.

"And now we know why they carry those masks. Damn they are ugly. Plus the symbol would be a dead giveaway, of course." Kyra wipes her hands on her clothes, promising herself a bath once they are out of here.

The elevator is already down and we have to get it back up again first, right? But the controls for that are in the elevator, aren't they? So, do we have to find some other way to get down there?

Kraw asks "did the doctor have a special key for the lift? I found a keyhole that brought me down to the bottom, but there must be some sort of key or item to operate it normally."

"He did, yes. But where's that keyhole?"

Kraw answers "ground floor, hidden behind a wooden panel. I jimmied it earlier to get me access but the lift was locked down and I couldn't return. Maybe an override in the doctor's office?"

Figus waited for the others to finish the discussion before proceeding. He was not happy about letting the doctor out of his sight, but it did free up Alpha, and the at least the guard could be trusted.

In reply to Figus Dva (msg # 121):

Ayeesha looks down the shaft and posits a plan.

"Well, since the elevator is down below, I have 50' of silk rope if someone else has some we could combine the rope to 100' and climb down the shaft if we cannot get the elevator up."

Kraw nods, but adds "let me try to gimmick it up first. I can try that from the original controls."

The group searches around and finds that the special key also fits into the "dummy" elevator cover. It is easy enough to insert while stepping off to the side and when performed there is an audible sound of some kind of locking mechanism releasing.

Then the dummy platform rises up into the ceiling and from below the actual platform rises up to take its spot.

Kraw would know the plague doctors down there would definitely notice the platform going up and would be prepared for intruders. If the group chooses to descend with the elevator they should be prepared for battle...

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 124):

Ayeesha taps herself with the wand of cat's grace.

It's on spell list so don't roll low.

15:55, Today: Ayeesha rolled 19 using 1d20+1 with rolls of 18.  Use Cat's Grace wand.

Success! 3 min of +4 dex.

"Anyone want a Dex boost?"

Ayeesha then steps into the elevator.

She will drink 2 potions of CLW for 7hp of healing.

"Hang on." Kyra tries to stop Ayeesha from drinking the potions. "That's why we have these." She brandishes a wand, ready to heal Ayeesha and anyone else that could be injured from the fighting.

Almost forgot we had these, can Ayeesha choose to not drink the potions? And who else needs healing? Kraw?
19:22, Today: Kyra rolled 8 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 7.  CLW wand.
19:21, Today: Kyra rolled 6 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 5.  CLW wand.

Also, I think we already bought a new CLW wand, didn't we, in April last year in the OOC thread? And Kyra then gave the old one to Figus? The old wand had 13 charges left, so her new wand should now have 45 left. I think.

In reply to Kyra (msg # 126):

"Thanks Kyra! I wasn't thirsty anyways."

Kraw says as he opens his pack "two of the assistants hit me with clubs even though I was invisible. But before I came across them, I found robes and masks for all of us. They may be on alert because the lift went back up, but if we go down disguised as them, they might hesitate and grant us the initiative." He passes out the physicians robes and masks he confiscated in the cloak room.

HP 29/42.

"Could work." Kyra takes the offered robe and mask hesitantly. She does not like the idea of wearing anything that belonged to those doctors, but she likes the plan of just walking into an ambush without any preparations even less.

Healing Kraw, 3 charges.
19:35, Today: Kyra rolled 7,2 using 1d8+1,1d8+1 with rolls of 6,1.  CLW, CLW.
19:35, Today: Kyra rolled 6 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 5.  CLW.

"Having some more speed never hurts. I will take a shot of that Dex boost if you do not mind Ayeesha."

In reply to Figus Dva (msg # 130):

17:39, Today: Ayeesha rolled 5 using 1d20+1 with rolls of 4.  Use Cat's Grace wand.

That should be good enough for Figus.

"Sure, there you go."

"Excelent. Thank you."

As the group prepares, Figus will smear a dose of Blue whinis poison on his throwing dagger.

18:53, Today: Figus Dva rolled 85 using 1d100 with rolls of 85.  5% change for poison.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:54, Wed 15 June 2022.

I'm assuming everyone is ready

The elevator descends slowly and the anticipation builds. At any moment the door would become visible and battle would commence.

Finally after an agonizingly slow minute the platform comes to a halt. Opening the door...reveals an empty  open room. There is a pair of closed doors on the opposite wall and left and right of the elevator are single doors, also closed.


Round 1

"Yeah, like they would not be ready for us ..."

Figus casts a Detect Magic spell and looks around the room before exiting the lift.

Kyra stays well back in the lift. From her magical bag she digs out two vials of green liquid.

Hmm. They could be just waiting to rush in from all sides the moment we step outside. Got two vials of shard gel, we could throw them at AN11 and AP11 to slow down anyone trying to get to us through east or south, leaving only the north doors. What do you guys think?

Kraw points "I'm fairly certain those double doors are Trapped. I got the disguises from behind that north door" he points to the left, "but there's no guarantee that some enemies aren't waiting there now. The room had no other exit. The door to the south held my 4 previous assailants."

In reply to Kraw (msg # 136):

Ayeesha will move to AN 10 with MW Guisarme pulled to give her 10' of reach looking for AOO and a readied action to strike attackers entering doors and/or approaching with in range.

Kyra nods at Kraw's words, then follows Ayeesha outside and sends one of the vials flying to smash against the door to the north of them.

Move to AO8, throwing shard gel at AL9. All neighboring squares to AL9 are now under caltrops, so watch your step everyone.

Kraw detects magic coming from the doors but doesn't detect anything else in the room. The party enters and makes the preparations, laying down traps or just getting into position.

A few seconds after they enter the main double doors open up revealing a long hallway and two of the plague doctors blocking the passage with their weapons drawn.

Round 1

Kyra again uses her favorite ability, wondering if it will even work on these cultists or not.

Slumber on doctor at AM13.

Glad to no longer hold back, Kraw charges ahead and leaps over the head of one doctor, landing in AN-14. With a flash of motion, a dagger is in his hand, stabbing at the doctor before he can turn around.



06:47, Today: Kraw rolled 22 using 1d20+18 with rolls of 4.  Acrobatics.

06:47, Today: Kraw rolled 14 using 1d20+12 with rolls of 2.  Dagger attack, flanking.

06:46, Today: Kraw rolled 9 using 1d4+5 with rolls of 4.  Dagger damage.

06:46, Today: Kraw rolled 19 using 3d8 with rolls of 4,7,8.  Sneak stab damage.

Figus will move forward to engage the Plague Doctors (AN12) and give Kraw a chance to flank While stabing the other.

12:48, Today: Figus Dva rolled 11 using 2d6+6 with rolls of 4,1.  Scimitar damage (+4 if human).
12:47, Today: Figus Dva rolled 24 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 14.  crit check.
12:47, Today: Figus Dva rolled 27 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 17.  Scimitar (+4 if human).


Alpha moves up to suppport (AM11) and attacks the same target as Figus with her spear

12:50, Today: Figus Dva rolled 7 using 1d8+3 with rolls of 4.  Alpha spear damage.
12:50, Today: Figus Dva rolled 21 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 15.  Alpha spear attack.

In reply to Figus Dva (msg # 142):

Ayeesha held back for a moment to see if the attack was just the tip of the spear. Seeing her companions take down the cultists, she will 5' step to A11 a stab them both once for good measure.

09:23, Today: Ayeesha rolled 15 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 11.

09:22, Today: Ayeesha rolled 10 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 1.  PA cultists w GA.

09:24, Today: Ayeesha rolled 18 using 2d4+12 with rolls of 2,4.  PA dmg GA 2d4+12.

Opps... missed the first, hit the second 18.

The plague doctors move fast but the party of experienced adventurers moves faster. Much faster. In second both doctors are cut down by a multitude of blades and after a second to confirm that there is no further threat the party is able to take stock of its surroundings.

Kraw scouted a couple of rooms so he knows the southern room has no exit and there was an unexplored exit in the "locker room" to the north.

The group is now at the threshold of a pair of giant ornate doors that are currently open allowing the group to see into the horrors of the next room. Dozens of the living dead line the walls of this chamber, their rotting faces sneering and broken fingers clawing at each other.

A layer of rotting bodies lines the floor, the shattered forms twitching in vain, bones and splintered appendages grasping hopelessly. Yet, rather than some massive, nightmare grave, this horror show seems instead to be a stomach-churning attempt at art, as the mangled living dead lie trapped behind walls and beneath a floor of thick glass.

There are doors leading north, south, and east in this room of gore.

"Well, there's something you don't see everyday." Kyra comments the grisly sight. "Kraw, you were down here before. Is there another way inside that doesn't lead through... whatever this is supposed to be?"

Yeah, I'm in favor of searching the other rooms first. Those gel shards should only last a couple more rounds.

Kraw nods, saying "unexplored exit behind that northern door. Probably a back entrance to whatever is down here."

In reply to Kraw (msg # 146):

"Kraw, do you suggest door B then? If so would you like to check it for traps?"

Kraw nods and moves slowly past the trap set before the north door. Dressed as a doctor, he sneaks to the door inside and listens intently.

As the group turns to open up the northern door there is a slight creek as door (F) next to Figus cracks open and a fox pads its way out of the room. It stops and locks eyes with the group, frozen still at being spotted.

 The door actually opens as if by magic, pushed by an invisible force and producing a slight creek, until it's just about six inches ajar. The moment after though, just a few feet to the side of the door, a creature appears as if summoned into existence or gradually gaining consistency after being invisible for a spell.
  Beril was actually invisible in the room, but his spell was about to run out, so might as well reveal him

 The creature is an anthropomorphic fox, about five and half foot tall and relatively skinny, dressed in typical varisian clothing over his bright orange fur. He doesn't carry any armour or weapons.

 The most noticeable and perhaps striking feature in Beril's natural shape is the bright fluffly bouquet of tails flashing behind him where typically one would expect to see a single panache of orange fur.

 He appears starttle by the group, but his big open eyes quickly flicker from the brawny Shoanti to the half-Drow, from the Raven-man to the Wolf-man, and finally lands on the young Witch.

 His palms are open and raised, his multiple tails flutter behind him, and his snout opens to say in an accent typical of the streets of Korvosa:
"Yee not with'em, are yee?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:52, Wed 13 July 2022.

Kraw mutters "what in the nine hells is a kitsune doing down here?"

Kyra peeks at the stranger from behind the rest of the party. "We're with the guards, so we're the ones asking questions here. Now, who are you?" She asks with suspicion in her voice.

I fear I'm out of the loop here. Is Beril replacing Figus?

 Beril looked to Kraw but did not reply. It seemed an odd comment considering the menagerie that had just walked in.

 He picked up on the coldness in Kyra's response, and said:
 "Name's Beril... and yee don't look like no guards."
 "Yee sound Varisian though..." he added with a hopeful smile, as if the realisation brought him some comfort.

 He glanced back at the door behind him and whispered:
 "Keep yer voice down... some nasty doctors in there. They got people open and all..."

 

---

 I'm not replacing anyone, more of an addition I suppose.

"Oh, we know about them. But what are you doing here?" Keira asks back.

Oh, right. Sorry, for some reason I thought you were replacing Figus. I really should have just looked in the OOC thread.

In reply to Kyra (msg # 154):

Ayeesha studies the Kitsune for a moment and listens to his question of "..not with them?" and responds by looking at the dead plague doctors laying on the ground, her guisarme dripping blood then back at the kitsune.

"Not so much. Beril is it, what else is behind these doors?"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:07, Thu 14 July 2022.

The fox-man, or kitsune for those well versed in the elusive races of Golarion, seemed ageless but he was evidently male and there was something resolutely Korvosan about him.

He seemed to only then register the pile of corpses behind the group. He nodded and muttered:
“Aye, makes sense… guess they were no good doctors after all.”

“I’s on a night out… got clocked in the neck, woke up in a cell down’ere. We still in Korvosa I reckon, I can feel it.”

He pointed to the door behind him, and described:
“It’s like a sick ward. A dozen bed or so, gents cut open, and then five of them doctors… a nasty looking one, sort of a chief surgeon with knives galore. I gave’m the slip, looked for an exit.”

“How’d yee lot get here?” he asked, looking to Kyra and Ayeesha in turn.

In reply to Beril (msg # 156):

"I vote we prep then blitz the Vivisectionists in the next room that Beril told us about and give them a dose of their own medicine!"

“That some big words, but I concur.” the Fox man said.

While he didn’t know much about the physicians, he appeared very keen to give them a piece of his mind…

“I’d go first and throw some confusion in there, if yee lot all right with it…” he added, then considered the motley crew one after the other.

 A Varisian and a Shoanti, a Drow (or was he half-drow?), with not one but two anthropomorphic beasts... he did wonder what fancy of fate had brought these together. Questions could wait though. There's no bond like that forged in the heat of a tavern brawl... or in this case, a hospital skirmish.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:19, Mon 18 July 2022.

 Seeing as there was at least a modicum of trust established with the newcomers, or at least an agreement that they currently had a common enemy, Beril proceeded to cast a defensice spell before they rushed into the room.

Cast Displacement

The door opens up on a scene of horror. Less a place of science and medicine and more a butcher's shop. There are rows of iron beds with people strapped to them. The people seem to be alive, albeit barely. Several have been partially vivisected with their chest and torso skin peeled back so their internal organs can be studied while the patient is still alive. They seem to be infected with some kind of horrific disease judging by the boils and red blisters covering their skin and on several their blood has turned thick and black instead of the bright red a gaping chest wound should be producing.

There are five people in the room. Two of them have the garb of the Queen's Physicians. The other two are dressed in the garbs of clerics but they don't carry a symbol that is one of the major pantheon and their faces are covered in the same boils and rashes that appear on the victims.

Moving about the room is a thin pale man wearing a long black robe. He is wearing a butcher's apron and is carrying an impressive array of bladed instruments.



Buffs have been noted. You have the surprise round. Do what you're going to do.

Round 0





As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

Kraw quick-draws his short blades and throws a dagger at a queen's physician with an flourish.

5' step to get line-of-sight on AR-15.
QuickDraw free action
Single attack round action vs AR-15



23:39, Today: Kraw rolled 27 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 17.  Dagger attack. -2 for range still hits.

23:38, Today: Kraw rolled 8 using 1d4+5 with rolls of 3.  Dagger damage.

23:38, Today: Kraw rolled 14 using 3d8 with rolls of 3,3,8.  Sneak stab damage.

This message was last edited by the player at 09:36, Thu 04 Aug 2022.

 ooc: trackers look good - can't wait to find my armour again though!

 Though they had only just met him, they all could see that Beril was not one much tailored for the melee, or even fighting in general. He remained at the back, simply side stepping to adjust his line of sight into the room - the layout of which he already knew.

 One of his tails flared for a moment, and a mental wave of confusion traveled through the room, centred on the thin pale surgeon and affecting everyone in a 15ft radius around him.

  "And now Chaos, do your work..."

 The fox-man grinned to himself from the back.

---

I'm assuming we get only one action in the suprise round, let me know if that is not the case.

 5ft step to AL15
 Cast Confusion, centred on the bottom right hand corner of AT16
  (whih should catch the baddies, not us - and hopefully not Kraw!)
  Will DC19 negates 
 

One quick look at that room was more than enough for Keira. She immediately targets whoever she can with her magic.

Step to wherever I can get line of sight on the boss or, if that can't be done, one of the clerics. Aaaand Slumber.

Thought about Glitterdusting them instead, but they are so spread that I can't catch them all.

In reply to Kyra (msg # 163):

Free action: Rage

Standard action: Ayeesha will charge AR15 and attempt to shove him back using a raging cross check with her Guisarme.

AC 18, -2 charging, -2 Raging, +2 luck, +1 Cat's grace for AC 17

CMB +10, Raging +2, Charging +2 for +14


06:32, Today: Ayeesha rolled 33 using 1d20+14 with rolls of 19.  Raging Bull Rush Charge +14.

Ayeesha wishes to end her movement in AR15, but if she can lift and shove the plague doc into AT15 as the effect of the Bull Rush she would be most happy to launch him into the cleric behind him.

Through gritted teeth Ayeesha lets loose a low growl as she exhales her pent up rage at the evil sight before her "GGGReeerr!"

Kraw's thrown dagger hits the physician in the throat and it drops quickly, silently choking on its own blood.
Take your 1st round action

Beril moves in and casts his spell although at the moment he is unsure if anyone was affected until they start moving.

FYI:
<quote>
CRB: 216-217 You do not sense when creatures succeed on saves against effect and area spells.

Kyra tries to evil eye the boss butcher but she can sense that her curse just slides off of him like water on water fowl.

Ayeesha charges into the room and if the Queen's physician wasn't already dying, he surely would be dead. Instead she pushes right on past the dying man taking position in the center of the room.

Figus and Alpha shift to the other door just in case anyone tries to make a run for it and prepare a flanking maneuver once battle lines are established in the room.

Next round...

Round 1


As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

Kraw activates a Shield spell, then runs in Ayeesha's wake, tumbling to position himself at AT-16, hoping someone could help him find a flanking partner.


01:25, Today: Kraw rolled 19 using 1d20+18 with rolls of 1.  Acrobatics to avoid AoO.

Feh.
AC 23 w/Shield

 Beril was ready to move. He followed behind Ayeesha and Kraw, and as he moved he took a minute sip from the little vial hanging on his necklace.

 He stepped into the room and turned his vulpine maw towards the physicians on his left, and made a sound that was more like forced hurling than magic incantations... the worst alcoholic breath that one could ever imagine spread from his mouth towards the three "doctors", catching them in a cone of nauseating fumes.

  "They're yours to pick..." he muttered to the others. "Don't get too close though."

 The fox-man still looked like he was in two places at once, adding to the inebriation theme.

---

Move: move to AQ16
Standard: Cast Drunkard's Breath (leaving rows AQ and 16 out of the cone area)
 Effect: as Stinking Cloud, nauseated (fortitude DC17 negates, must roll each round for up to 6 rnds, lasts d4+1rnds after they leave the area)

Effects: Displacement, Protection From Evil, current AC12 (14 vs evil)
This message was last edited by the player at 10:50, Wed 17 Aug 2022.

Kyra follows inside as well, looking for the best place to place her spell. When she finds one, she casts her spell and a cloud of golden dust covers the the group to the east.

Move to AP15, Glitterdust (DC 15) on SE corner of AS18, covering the three to the right.

In reply to Kyra (msg # 168):

Full attack against Butcher.

09:10, Today: Ayeesha rolled 14 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 10.  Raging PA W /MWGuisarme VS Butcher +4.

09:09, Today: Ayeesha rolled 15 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 6.  Raging PA W /MWGuisarme VS Butcher +9.

Boo two misses!

Now Ayeesha really mad!

"ARGGGGG!"

Kraw isn't quite as smooth as he wanted to be but the enemy was caught so unprepared he was able to slip by anyway.

Beril lets loose a blast of noxious fumes. The cleric and butcher seem unfazed but the Queen's Physician in the back doubles over in pain.

Then Kyra drops a burst of glitter on the group and once again the cleric and butcher seem to resist the effects while the physician is now vomiting in his mask, seems confused by his surroundings, and doesn't seem to be able to see.

Given how many spells you've cast, I think it safe to say that you would realize that the Butcher is extremely strong vs. fort and will savews, the clerics are fairly strong at fort/will saves and the queen's physicians are good at reflex saves.

In response the butcher seems to calmly step deeper into the stinking fog, raising a hand and summoning a hail of ice on the heroes. Chunks of ice come whipping out of thin air at high speeds pummeling the area of the room that wasn't covered in fog.

Krya, Beril, Ayeesha (and Alpha) are battered by the cold and ice.
12 bludgeoning, 9 cold

The two clerics pull weapons and start swinging large vicious looking scythes. Both Kraw and Alpha are agile enough to evade their attacks.

Round 2


As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

Kraw shows his appreciation by doing his best to carve new scars into the cleric in front of him. Kraw's daggers flash in the torchlight as he alternates thrusts.

TWF


23:17, Today: Kraw rolled 25 using 1d20+8 with rolls of 17.  Dagger attack.

23:17, Today: Kraw rolled 7 using 1d4+5 with rolls of 2.  Dagger damage.

23:17, Today: Kraw rolled 15 using 1d20+8 with rolls of 7.  Dagger attack.

23:17, Today: Kraw rolled 3 using 1d4+2 with rolls of 1.  Dagger damage.

Kraw scores a stab for 7 damage. His Shield spell is up, granting him AC 23.

In reply to Kraw (msg # 171):

Ayeesha will 5' step to AR16 and full attack The Butcher!


13:11, Today: Ayeesha rolled 22 using 1d20+4 with rolls of 18.  Raging PA W /MWGuisarme VS Butcher +4.

13:11, Today: Ayeesha rolled 21 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 12.  Raging PA W /MWGuisarme VS Butcher +9.

13:15, Today: Ayeesha rolled 17 using 2d4+13 with rolls of 2,2.

13:14, Today: Ayeesha rolled 16 using 2d4+13 with rolls of 2,1.  PA MW GUISARME DMG 2d4+13.

Two hits for 33 points of damage!

With an eye out for AOO she closes on the cultist!

"HHHAAAaaaa!"

I miss calculated damage: Strength 18 is 22 while raging for +6 being +9 for two handed weapon or 4 more damage making it 37 hitpoints of damage instead of 33.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:37, Sat 27 Aug 2022.

With Kyra's magic not making much of a difference, she draws a wand instead to heal. Starting with herself, of course.

Step 5' back out of the room, draw wand of CLW, healing herself for:
14:52, Today: Kyra rolled 5 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 4.  CLW.

 Beril was battered by the cold anf biting hail, but he held his ground. He grabbed a little chain hanging from his wrist and pointed it to the ground by the butcher. Two chains sprung into existance from the tiled floor, wrapping around his ankles and pulling him to the ground!

  "Stay down..." he hissed.

 The noxious vapes were still in the air, a rancid stench of alcohol and puke assaulting the lungs of the butcher and his goons.

---

 AC14, hp 15/36
Move: step back to AQ14
Standard: Cast Barbed Chains on Butcher (trip attempt 27 vs CMD), will save DC16 or shaken for 1 round (note Prone means AC-4 vs melee, and shaken -2 on most rolls)

Effects: Displacement, Protection From Evil, current AC12 (14 vs evil)
 - Drunkard's Breath (2/6): nauseated (fortitude DC17 negates, must roll each round for up to 6 rnds, lasts d4+1rnds after they leave the area)
 - Confusion (3/6): Note sure if some foes failed the save. Also worth noting: Any confused character who is attacked automatically attacks its attackers on its next turn.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:17, Mon 29 Aug 2022.

The cleric defends himself as best he can but picks up quite a few wounds in the process. Enough to slay a lesser man but this is a man fueled by fanatic belief in a dark god and that faith provides him power.

Ayeesha comes in and hits the Butcher hard with her her polearm causing major damage..

Beril's chains come out of the ground and snake out under the feet of the butcher causing him to be swept right off his feet.

Figus and Alpha cut down the other cleric.

The cleric slashes Kraw with his scythe and Kraw very nearly takes it on the neck but is able to roll his shoulder up at the last second.
7 pts to Kraw. Nat 20 but they didn't confirm the crit with the scythe...

From the ground the Butcher seems as unfazed as ever. Clearly not an advantageous position but he also doesn't panic and  try to immediately stand up and scramble away exposing himself to  yet another attack. Instead he rolls on the ground, avoiding Ayeesha's followups while he crafts a spell aimed at her!

Make a DC 18 Will Save vs. Hold Person!


Round 3
From across the hallway doors are thrown open. It seems the party has become engaged in battle right next to the enemy barracks! While the physicians and priests have been battling in silence a raging barbarian and the sounds of all that ice smashing against the ground has stirred up interest. A pair of Queen's physicians come out of each door but it is clear there are more people gearing up for battle behind them!

Round 3


As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6

In reply to Beril (msg # 174):

13:08, Today: Ayeesha rolled 26 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 19.  Will Save vs Hold Person DC 18: +7.

Ayeesha smells blood and moves to finish the Butcher!

She will 5' step and full round attack or move and standard action attack.

I don't know where the Butcher went but, Ill roll for iteration attack anyways.

MW Guisarme +11,+6; Raging +2, PA -2, Prone -4 AC.

16:52, Today: Ayeesha rolled 23 using 1d20+11 with rolls of 12.  Raging PA Guisarme +11.

16:52, Today: Ayeesha rolled 18 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 12.  Raging PA Guisarme +6.

16:53, Today: Ayeesha rolled 20 using 2d4+15 with rolls of 3,2.  Raging PA Guisarme +11 Dmg 2d4+15.

16:54, Today: Ayeesha rolled 20 using 2d4+15 with rolls of 3,2.  Raging PA Guisarme +6 Dmg 2d4+15.

Both hit AC 17 for 20 damage for one or 40 for Two.

"Where are you going?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:30, Wed 07 Sept 2022.

Kraw takes a 5' step to AT 17, intent on finishing one opponent and opening a space to flank the butcher from. He takes advantage of the blinded doctor (striking AT 18) to deliver two precise strikes.


21:09, Today: Kraw rolled 23 using 1d20+8 with rolls of 15.  Dagger attack, flatfooted.

21:08, Today: Kraw rolled 7 using 1d4+5 with rolls of 2.  Dagger damage.

21:08, Today: Kraw rolled 17 using 3d8 with rolls of 6,7,4.  Sneak stab damage.

21:07, Today: Kraw rolled 19 using 1d20+8 with rolls of 11.  Dagger attack, flatfooted.

21:07, Today: Kraw rolled 3 using 1d4+2 with rolls of 1.  Dagger damage.

21:07, Today: Kraw rolled 16 using 3d8 with rolls of 6,6,4.  Sneak stab damage.


AC 23
This message was last edited by the player at 04:11, Wed 07 Sept 2022.

"More of them coming!" Kyra shouts a warning as she focuses her magic on the reinforcements.

Slumber on Physician at AM15.

 Bireli noticed the reinforcements coming, and realised he was not in the best of conditions after the ice pellets had washed over him... not to mention he had not yet found his armour or his weapons. He took a moment to cure the worst of his wounds.

 He knelt to pick up a weapon from the fallen physician (along with anything useful he may have on him)

---

standard: cure moderate wounds +24hp
 move: pick up weapon

The Butcher didn't move, actually. You can't 5' step while down so that would have provoked an AoO. It seems like the Butcher was hoping to paralyze you before adjusting his position however...

Ayeesha breaks free of the paralyzing spell and responds by slamming her polearm over and over again into the butcher until he has been reduced to a bloody pile.

Kraw steps next to him and is immediately hit with a revolting sensation in his stomach.
Fort save failed! Kraw is nauseated! Nauseated creatures are unable to attack, cast spells, concentrate on spells, or do anything else requiring attention. The only action such a character can take is a single move actions per turn.

This effect will last as long as you remain in the cloud + 1d4+1 rounds after


One of the Queen's physicians stops in his tracks, his head drooping slightly before he collapses to the ground.
I don't think I've ever made a saving through with one of these guys...

Figus and Alpha turn around to address the reinforcements however the physician is ready for them, fending off Figus' scimitar and Alpha's spear attacks.

The remaining cleric steps forward and slashes at Ayeesha who is too busy smashing the Butcher to defend herself properly from the attack and gets a deep  gash in the side as a result.
Ayeesha takes 9 from the attack

Beril heals himself and picks up a club.
You're not going to be able to cast a spell and loot the body as both are standard actions. Picking up a dropped weapon is fine.

Round 4
A third queen's physician comes out from the barracks and behind them comes four skeletons marching forward!


Round 4


As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 21:32, Sat 17 Sept 2022.

 Bireli was focused on the newcomers in the first room, and didn't notice Kraw walking into the area of noxious fumes that he had summoned. He mumbled to the avian man:
  "Aww man, get out of that! Just cough it out..."

 He realised he didn't have much to help dispel the nausea in his ally... he would just have to wait it out.

 He started an incantation and targetted one of the two newly arrived physicians, with gestures reminiscent of a puppetmaster's. The man felt his skeletton rattle in his body and he was moved by an irresistible force towards Figus and his companion.

---

 std: cast Boneshaker on AM17, 21 damage and move 5ft south (fortitude of half and no move)
 move: to AO19

Kraw moves back to his recently-vacated spot and tries to cough out the noxious fumes.

In reply to Kraw (msg # 182):

Ayeesha's AC is 19 from Cat's Grace. (It looks like Cleric rolled an 18 to hit so miss?)

If allowed

AOO trip attempt against Cleric would be CMB+13.

10:21, Today: Ayeesha rolled 23 using 1d20+13 with rolls of 10.  AOO MW Guisarm trip attempt against Cleric CMB +13.

Will 5' step if necessary to full round attack cleric.

10:25, Today: Ayeesha rolled 22 using 1d20+11 with rolls of 11.  Raging PA W /MWGuisarme VS Cleric +11.

10:25, Today: Ayeesha rolled 10 using 1d20+6 with rolls of 4.  Raging PA W /MWGuisarme VS Cleric +6.

10:27, Today: Ayeesha rolled 20 using 2d4+15 with rolls of 2,3.  Raging PA W /MW Guisarme VS Cleric 2d4+15.

One hit for 20 HP.


"You want some, Get Some!"

With one physician down, Kyra focuses her magic on another.


Let's test this. Slumber on AM18.

OOC: The cleric took a 5' step to avoid the AoO and his actual to-hit roll total was 21. I don't always put in the bonuses when I make lots of rolls.
Round 4
Kraw leaves the cloud but finds that his stomach is still causing him to heave and double over in pain.
2 rounds total so disabled for Round 5 but active for round 6 (next update)

Beril causes one of the physicians to shake himself to death in a rather gruesome display. Surprisingly the physician remains silent even as his arms and legs are violently bent and his insides are pulverized.

Ayeesha splatters a cleric and steps up to get into position to defend their spellcasters.

Alpha moves back to keep the last cleric engaged while Figus

Figus lands a strike out of his flurry of attacks and while the physician is badly woudned it doesn't drop.

Kyra tries to get the last physician to fall into a slumber but surprisingly he is able to resist her curse.
Ha! Finally made one!

Round 5
A physician tries to attack Figus but he is able to defend himself.

Two clerics appear in the northern door. They are brandishing their scythes and seem to be the  ones directing the skeletons as they point and the skeletons move to attack.

The skeletons move forward and make clumsy attacks at both Kyra and Figus. While they aren't much of a threat as they are moving there is some danger from the sheer number of attacks they  can make as they bring their clawed hands scratching at the two heroes.

Round 5


As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:19, Wed 14 Sept 2022.

Kraw staggers past the nausea-inducing cloud to come up behind Beril as he slowly gains control of his guts.


Move action to behind Beril, staying out of the green-bordered cloud.

Kyra backs away from the undead, seeking cover behind their bloodrager. Using her wand she heals said cover as well.

Step to AQ16, healing Ayeesha for measly 4 hp.
13:27, Today: Kyra rolled 4 using 1d8+1 with rolls of 3.  CLW wand.

 Beril retreated in the room to provide Ayeesha with some healing, which she may need if she was going to hold the frontline again.

 He was quickly but not brusque, and starting his healing chant that he thought she would recognise for what they were, and not be alarmed by them. After all they had only just met.

---

cure moderate wounds: +11hp

In reply to Beril (msg # 188):

OCC: Thanks for the explanation DM, the old 5' step... should have realized.

Free Action: End Bloodrage: Fatigued = -2  to Str & Dex for 10 rounds.

Readied Action to attack anything that comes with in range and looking for the AOO's.

Cat's Grace still gives her a 16 Dex for a 19 AC.

Will continue to Power Attack for +8,+3 to hit & 2d4+10 to damage.

Round 5
Ayeesha lets the red rage leave her and feels her limbs weaken as a result.

Figus strikes down the other Queen's physician in front of him but Alpha fails to take out a skeleton.

Round 6
The skeletons move forward after Ayeesha. She strikes one down but the other rushes forward and claws at her although she easily uses her blade to deflect its claws.

Alpha defends against the skeletons but Figus does take some light damage from the claws.
Figus takes 3 damage

The priests move up. One takes a swing at Alpha but the wolf has his sharp instincts that let him duck out of the way. Figus is not as lucky and is clipped by the other priest's scythe.
Figus takes 6 damage

The party notes with some relief that there are no longer any more reinforcements pouring out of the room across the hall.


NOTE: There were some copy/mistake issues with the Cleric stat blocks. They didn't come in injured, they came in healthy. This is reflected below

Round 6


As always check to make sure your trackers are correct. This is the first combat since you leveled up to 6
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:45, Sat 17 Sept 2022.

In reply to Dungeon Master (msg # 190):

5' step back to Full attack skeleton w MW Guisarme.


13:23, Today: Ayeesha rolled 19 using 1d20+8 with rolls of 11.  PA Skele w MW Guisarme +8.

13:24, Today: Ayeesha rolled 6 using 1d20+3 with rolls of 3.  PA Skele w MW Guisarme +3.

13:25, Today: Ayeesha rolled 16 using 2d4+10 with rolls of 4,2.  MW Guisarme PA DMG 2d4+10.

One hit for 16 slashing damage.

Kraw runs forward to leap over Figus and the priest, twisting to avoid any attacks  Landing in AL-18, he turns to thrust one blade into a priest's back. The blade skip's off the cleric's armor.
AC 23 (Shield)


11:37, Today: Kraw rolled 28 using 1d20+18 with rolls of 10.  Acrobatics to avoid AoO.

11:37, Today: Kraw rolled 15 using 1d20+12 with rolls of 3.  Dagger attack, flanking.

11:37, Today: Kraw rolled 6 using 1d4+5 with rolls of 1.  Dagger damage.

11:36, Today: Kraw rolled 11 using 3d8 with rolls of 2,2,7.  Sneak stab damage.

This message was last edited by the player at 18:40, Sun 18 Sept 2022.

 Bireli was on the move again, he followed behind Kraw who was done retching. He found a spot right in the corner of the room, and cast a spell. He pointed a finger at the healthiest cleric and shouted:
 "Kill yer mate, won't you?!"

 And the murderous thought spread through his mind, like an irrepressible cancer.

---

move to AO19
  cast Murderous Command (will DC negates)