Yas392
You are one of the feared or revered in the entirety of Golarion, powerful enough to move the fate of cities. One day, as you are minding your business, you receive a letter from your longtime associate Tabris asking you a favor to investigate the disappearance of his mentee, former Count Aldus, who vanished without a trace after he resurfaced in a local tavern wooing a pretty face a day ago.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Give me your starting locations.

 (1d4)[ 4 ] 
 
Benoojian
Prism is unusually hard to find, but an associate from the Scales of Mourning manages to track her down in western Cheliax, where she has put down several members of a Devilish Cabal intent on subjugating the Strix. She is Regenerating one Strix's clipped wings when the dour man delivers the letter that has been entrusted to him. Tabris was generally a trustworthy enough fellow so if he thought it was important enough to track her down she would go investigate. At least one of the Devils here had escaped without a trace, but she'd broken the power they held here and that should be enough,  "I will return soon to offer more healing, I promise."  She dives off the cliff, transforming into her true angelic form as she falls and spreading her shining wings.
namo
     Calliope      (Muse form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +2934 / Will +26
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 
      
 Calliope is strolling through the corridor of the Kitharodian Academy in Oppara, Taldor. She is currently scouting for promising talents worthy of the Interplanar Academy of Battle Music, which she helped found - indirectly, of course, as is her wont.

Wherever she goes, the students stop and whisper, or giggle, and the professors are not exempt from her charms as well. Her cover story as a  professor emeritus  is an old one, here, and though many will poke holes in it, they are overall too honoured by her presence to badger her, and she goes as she pleases.

She drops by a flute class, and this is where the messenger finds her. She slinks out of the room, waving for the students to continue, and head to her apartments to read it in private, and ponder her next move. 
 
  
Aegis013
Phage waited in stillness, an agonizing peaceful boredom. The passage of time had blurred for the old undead as he rested, unmoving, waiting for news. Creeping plants had begun to climb the hem of his cloak but he paid them no mind. His decrepit hut in the Geb countryside belied the power and wealth of the entity who sat still inside. Until after what may have been days or years finally something broke the monotony of the rise and fall of the sun, coming and going of the rain, and turning the of seasons.

An undead carrier bird animated to serve as a messenger made its way back to the hovel dropping a letter. The ancient undead's hand shifting to grasp the object as dust broke free from the grooves of his bones and scattered to the wind. The bird collapsing, its job complete and the animating spirit leaving its partially rotted corpse.

   "Tabris took a mentee upon himself?"    Phage thought to himself as the red-orange in the recesses of his eye sockets scanned the contents of the missive.    "He was an entertaining fellow if nothing else. And who else he has called for aid may be yet even more interesting. I shall go and see for myself, after preparations are completed."   

Committing the old acquaintance's message to memory, negative energy welled up in Phage, destroying the missive as his bones creaked softly with their first movement in some time. The old undead spent a few minutes preparing what he needed before simply taking to the skies and flying towards the provided  meeting  location.

 
 Spoiler: Binding Rituals 
Orthos, DC 35
 (1d20+25)[ 33 ] 

Eligor, DC 30
 (1d20+25)[ 34 ] 

Marchosias, DC 30
 (1d20+25)[ 32 ] 
 
HereBeMonsters
Inque was rather well regarded in their current station. That station is one of a court's royal advisors and their royal executioner in Taldor. Being able to manipulate the minds of weaker-willed men was a remarkable boon. No need to hunt when you could have meals brought to you and you were doing a service to the kingdom as well. Inque was well fed and kept mostly to themselves when not attending the court. It had taken some time for the court to become used to the diminutive illithid, to see that the creature was not munching on the brains of everyone it saw. Their living mask allows them to hide their vampiric nature though if you can find room in your court for an illithid a vampire seems a tad tamer.

So Inque was not surprised when approached by a carrier, presuming it to be a missive from another advisor or from some other member of the court seeking advice. When they spotted the signage that indicated a fellow they knew. Tabris had been an interesting fellow and one of the few who had not sought to destroy the gnome ceremorph on sight. They had become something of friends over the years, sending missives here and there between encounters. The message was not good a missing mentee was never a good thing. Even if one returned, their disappearance could be troubling. Perhaps it was time for Inque to meet up with Tabris yet again. How long had it been? Years easily. Time to set out, there was a journey and perhaps an adventure to undertake. Inque would head to wherever the tavern was stated to be.
Aegis013
Phage approaches the nearest tavern  where the missing Count Aldus was most recently seen , descending silently from the sky. He lands on the ceiling of the structure as his form shifts becoming somewhat transparent. He sinks through the structure with ease, hiding among the rafters and begins his investigation of the goings-on within.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 

Land on the structure and change stances to Mourning Ghost Attitude to become incorporeal

Stealth  (1d20+37)[ 54 ] 
Perception: 29

If necessary, swap back to Laughing Demilich Attitude if there's insufficient space to remain in the rafters without flight.
 
Benoojian
The letter was frustratingly vague. Prism tried to think if she knew anything about a ‘Count Aldus’. She felt time freeze for just a fraction of a second as she psionically perused her own memories.

 
 Spoiler: Mechanics  
Knowledge(Nobility) with  mind palace  augmented 5 times [roll]1d20+6d4+11[/roll]
 
Benoojian
 
 Spoiler: Reroll because dice roller only allows one type of dice 
 (1d20+11)[ 20 ]   (6d4)[ 12 ] 
 
HereBeMonsters
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

Rolling for Knowledge History to recall where they had last heard of Tabris being located then a Knowledge Local to see if any of the Taverns fit what he said

Knowledge: History  (1d20+30)[ 45 ] 

Knowledge: Local  (1d20+26)[ 30 ] 
 
namo
     Calliope      (Muse form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +2934 / Will +26
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 
      
 Picking a thread from her magical garment woven out of music, she transforms it into a flute and plays on her own, her feet falling into a familiar dance. It helps her remember Tabris, and focus on what she may have heard about Count Aldus.

Then she heads to the Bard's Lament, the local tavern where she used to meet with Tabris a long time back, just in case she can obtain some information there. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 Pageant of the Peacock  to use Bluff instead of Knowledge, then Versatile Performance to use Perform instead of Bluff. Taking 10, she gets 53 on K Planes (and any other Knowledge...).

Then 53 also for Diplomacy (Gather Information) at the main local tavern she can think of.
 
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: Aegis013 - Perception 
The most frequented tavern as its sister taverns in Geb is not boisterous as other nations'. Every word that wafts through your ears are clear and audible though some undead conversations are spoken in language you do not understand or hushed. As you shift through the rafters, unseen, you spot a vampire garbed in musician attire and a ghost wearing formal wear seated themselves in one of the many tables and hear them speaking common in their exchange. The vampire is sipping blood wine, and the ghost is taking a mouthful ectoplasmic food with learned etiquette.

 "Have you seen Leaden? He was supposed to perform a duet at the square with me three days before." 
 "Did he run afoul of vampire hunters?" 
 "He is a city dweller, not the typical brood to not steer clear of danger. I asked around when he was absent on our performance day. The passerbys gave me the same answer. They neither heard nor seen him. I searched his house. He was not there. His instruments were untouched. It was like he is gone. Vanished into thin air." 
 "Any magical signatures, scent, tracks?" 
 "None. If he was abducted, the kidnapper covered their tracks well. I never known an infiltrator who snuck into Geb under tight security. I worry about Leaden's health and safety. What if he perished before he is found?" 
 "Calm, my friend. Leaden is famed across Geb and he is the Blood Lords' favourite. I heard he arranged an upcoming concert for the nobles. They will not sit tight on the news of his absence." 
 "You are right. I doubt they will not heed the rumors that had begun circulating among the masses from the day Leaden went missing." 

The rest of the talk are about daily trivialities.
 

 
 Spoiler: Aegis013/namo - Knowledge Check on Tabris 
Tabris is a chronicler of the multiverse, a job thrusted onto him by his superiors. He had written, recorded, compiled Chronicle of the Righteous, Concordance of Rivals, and Book of the Damned. The creation of the demiplane repository of evil thoughts in the Book of the Damned was the reason of his expulsion from heaven. Nevertheless, he continued his wanderings to fulfill his calling to the present day. He allegedly mentored former Count Aldus which your networks and sources confirmed as truth.
 

 
 Spoiler: namo - Knowledge Check extra 
You recall Tabris's statement about being off-plane for an extended amount of time. Recently, you heard from a planar contact of yours that a dessicated fallen angel is constantly relocating to dodge pursuers out for his work for nefarious ends.
 

 
 Spoiler: namo - Gather Information 
You gleaned nothing new from what you already learned.
 

 
 Spoiler: Benoojian/namo - Knowledge check on Former Count Aldur 
Former Count Aldus Aldon Canter of Vieland, born and bred in Vieland, was a gentlemanly explorer, the founder of Esoteric Order of the Palatine Eye, and the publisher of the Lost Gospels of Tabris. He was Tabris's mentee along with a sect of immortal sages who venerated the fallen angel. Controversy in Ustalav over the Order's activities eventually forced him to abdicate his title as Count. He was known for his disappearances around Golarion and miraculous reappearances in Vieland. He had previously disappeared two times in years 3985 and 4028 and recently appeared in Vieland only to vanish again.
 

 
 Spoiler: HereBeMonster - Knowledge checks on Tabris and taverns Former Count Aldur was a frequent sight 
 History:  You do not know where Tabris is.

 Local:  Count Aldus was a regular in the taverns of Vieland, Uslatav.
 
Aegis013
   "Another disappearance. It's unlikely they're connected, but it shouldn't do any harm to investigate the possibility."   

Phage passes through the structure, raising from the ground at the table with the ghost and vampire. His form ceases to be transparent as he takes a seat.

  "You are correct in saying that Blood Lord will not sit idly by while a prized musician of Geb is missing. I've come to investigate this case. Did you notice anything unusual about Leaden's activities before he disappeared? Any new acquaintances or the hangouts? I would also like to canvas his home for clues myself, if you would kindly provide its location. I will do everything I can to ensure that Leaden is able to attend his upcoming concert."   Phage inquires casually, hoping to tap the font of information these individuals may have.

 
 Spoiler: Bluff 
 (1d20+28)[ 37 ]  - Phage isn't actually here to investigate this particular case, and isn't particularly concerned about a missing musician, but intends for these individuals to believe otherwise.
 
Yas392
Phage's solidification and brusqueness startle the male vampire and ghost. Upon closer look at the patron, Phage notices scales on both sides of the vampire face that the yellow mane of his hair obscured. The ghost, on the other hand, is a hybrid of between humanoid and bug, his insectile features dominate. Its most notable features are its exceeding long mandibles that go through the table and multiple arms, four slouch, two interlaced on the table. After getting over the shock, the vampire looks annoyed by Phage's lack of mannerism while the ghost bug looks cheery as they listen to Phage's lie.

 "An investigator. We could use some help getting to the bottom of-" 

The scaled vampire narrows his eyes and raises one hand to signal the ghost to pipe down.

 "I find it hard to believe you are interested in our missing musician or you are with the enforcement. The way you hold yourself and the way you take a seat at our table tells me that. You want something from us. We are not willing to part any knowledge until we know the reason of your prodding. Our allowances depend on your explanation." 
 
 Spoiler: Sense Motive vs Bluff (DC 32) (-5 from the way you approach and greet them) 
 Vampire:   (1d20+22)[ 37 ] 
 Ghost:   (1d20+22)[ 27 ] 
 
namo
     Calliope      (Muse form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +2934 / Will +26
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 
      
 Calliope sighs. She does owe a debt to Tabris, one so old they have both forgotten how it came to be, but this is rather inconvenient. Firstly, the matters they deal with, often related to the very substance of the universe, are quite far from her own domain, which is inspiration in the Arts in general, and the Arts of battle in particular. Then, it seems she will have to travel quite far to find out more about the missing, flighty Count.
" I suppose I shall have to postpone the rest of my selection, settle my affairs here forthwith and head to Ustalav. "

Heading back to the Academy, she does just that, warning her closest contacts about a leave of absence. Then she starts making arrangements for her trip. 
 
  
Aegis013
Phage replies to the vampire, a casual smoothness to his words.

  "I can appreciate your caution. I was hoping to keep this quiet to avoid unnecessary worry among the populace, so I ask your discretion to avoid spreading unnecessary concern: Leaden is not the only one who has disappeared. My instincts suggest the disappearances are connected and I have an obligation to uncover the truth. If my investigation results in Leaden's return I will be pleased with the development, though my true intention is to identify and deal with cause behind the disappearances."  

Phage places his hands on the table, both open and in clear sight as a physical sign of openness and honesty.   "I hope to rectify this situation before any one else vanishes, so I humbly ask for your cooperation, please."  
Benoojian
Prism is at a loss, she wasn't meant to do things alone, she functioned better with someone to bounce ideas off of. She had the perfect idea of who would know how to start in Ustalav, that odd not quite angel that had been at Tabris' side during the thing with the slaad invasion. What was her name again, Candice, Callie, no Calliope, Muse of Battle.

Thank goodness she'd left just the right number of slots open this morning to pull off this trick. She prayed for 15 minutes, asking Saranrae for a  sending ,  scrying , and two  greater plane shift s.

Prism's voice appeared in Calliope's head, "Tabris is up to vagueness again, calling in that favor. You are better with people, need your help investigating lost Count. Get alone for  teleport ."

She waited for Calliope's response so she could prepare the next part of the trick.
namo
     Calliope      (Muse form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +2934 / Will +26
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 
      
 " Raining Fire Through Light's Prism! " It's very much like Calliope to waste 5 words of a Sending just to get the name right. " Give me a quarter hour. Getting ready to travel to Ustalav myself, for the vanished count. "
When that time has elapsed, she is alone in her quarters. 
 
  
HereBeMonsters
Inque would ponder for some time but Tabris moved around too much to keep up contact with so their information would have been woefully out of date. But the town the tavern that the count would want to frequent was a name they could pull up with more ease Vieland, Uslatav. The small Illithid would set out for town at once, flying their way there without worry of the sun or worry of needing to stop. This wouldn't be as swift as teleporting, but Inque had a different perspective on time and never found a need to get anywhere instantly so they had never learned teleport as a spell. Perhaps this was a flaw that they would need to remedy eventually.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Traveling at top speed (50 ft fly) till they arrive in Vieland.
 
Benoojian
Prism casts scrying on Calliope, which she hopefully chooses to fail to let Prism see her surroundings.

Assuming the spell goes off, Prism will take a few moments to memorize the location before planeshifting to a favorite Celestial Bakery of hers 'The Goddess and the Baker'. She buys 5gp worth of pastries then planeshifts again into Calliope's room. " I brought those heavenly cherry pastries you went wild for all those decades ago, would you believe her granddaughter is running the bakery now? "


 
 Spoiler: Mechanics 
DC is only 29 Will if you want to negate the spell, you can make a DC 20 Spellcraft to identify the effect
 
Yas392
The scaly vampire and ghost bug chat in the same unfamiliar language Phage heard earlier which he cannot identify. The expressions he sees most are intense, frustration, and astonishment. All coming from the vampire. The ghost bug is unchanged throughout the discussion, remaining calm, only showing a bit of hesitance. It takes about five minutes for the dialogue to finish and another minute for the tension to die out. The scaled vampire turns from the ghost bug and gazes at Phage eye-to-eye.

 "I am sorry. We cannot help you. I need you to leave our table." 

The ghost bug gives Phage an apologetic look that says, "I want to be on your side, but I have to stick with my friend."

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
 
Aegis013
  "So be it. Farewell."   Phage says simply, once more becoming transparent and sinking into the floor. He slides his way out of the tavern and simply searches around the area for anything that might be of interest.
Yas392
As the four of you continue your activities, you feel two buzzing sensations in your head, tell signs of  sending  spells.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 "I believe we share a common goal. I have information about the individual you seek. Meet me in the Dancing Lancer tavern in Oppara." 
 "If you are not in Oppara, this message is layered with a greater teleport spell. Say tir ti hralenk wer vdriir draushum to teleport there." 
 
Aegis013
Phage receives the sending and without much in the way of consideration, becomes fully opaque and ascends upward, simply uttering the provided phrase in a loud clear voice.

  "Tir ti hralenk wer vdriir draushum."  
Benoojian
Since any words said aloud would activate the  sending , Prism wordlessly sent Calliope an invitation to join her Collective, if they were going to teleport to a stranger it might be better to be prepared.Plus they could use the telepathy to communicate without activating the trigger yet.
namo
     Calliope      (Muse form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +2934 / Will +26
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 
      
 Calliope accepts the Scrying attempt. The scene that opens up for Prism's sensor is all worked out to the tiniest detail to appear both fabulous and unstaged: in her richly decorated apartments, Calliope in her full Muse regalia barely reclines in a  Bergere  chair while playing the violin, her eyes closed. The music is heavenly, even by an angel's standards.

Somehow she manages to time her playing so that the last notes sound just seconds after Prism's arrival, though she couldn't have known the exact time in advance. She rises graciously, the violin vanishing from her hand as she welcomes Prism with an embrace. Stepping back and beholding the present: " You shouldn't have! Thanks. Alright I have one. Or two or three. "

Shortly after, another message lands in her mind. Glancing at her friend, it seems that something is happening to her too. " See, you've come to the right place! Oppara really is  the place to be . " she adds with exaggerated smugness. " Come, I'll take you there. Though lacing a Sending with a spell? That's a neat trick I wish I knew. " 
 
  
HereBeMonsters
Inque was not sure they liked this message directly into their brain, at least not like this because they did communicate via telepathy. But they were also aware this was going to take all damn day if they flew.   "tir ti hralenk wer vdriir draushum"   they spoke to see if they would in fact teleport where they needed to go.
Yas392
The teleport spell takes you to the Gilded City where the afternoon sun licks your skin. The Grand Bridge of the Empire can be seen from a distance as well as rows of brown smidgens from the port. It doesn't take you long to notice you are in the Grandbridge central district at the square. From all sides are ornate makeshift stalls and tents of varied bright colors their owners set up to sell their wares. Behind them ivory buildings trimmed with gold are indistinguishable except for the decoratives that divorce them from sameness. At the peak of the day, the streets are bustling with moving merchants, buyers and foreigners clamoring in high spirits on golden tiles.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Knowledge (Local) or Gather Information (DC 30) and Knowledge (Geography) (DC 30) to find the Dancing Lancer tavern.
 
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (roll twice)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 Calliope eyes Prism and declares: " Let's make ourselves less... obvious, shall we? " And she turns into her humanoid shape in which, to be honest with herself, she still looks stunning, but she at least passes for human.

&lt;  Do you think we should take extra precautions?  &gt; she asks telepathically, as much to make conversation as out of any misgiving.
Once they are ready, she  guides Prism to the tavern mentioned, asking directions only once - Oppara is a big city, after all.   and Prism take the teleport. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I assume less than 10 min have elapsed, so Pageant of the Peacock is still active and she auto-succeeds on the K Local check.

Calliope is in the Eyes of the Crane stance, so she has  advantage on Perception  rolls (in case you roll them for us).

Benoojian, we posted at the same time last time so I just saw your post.  I assume it's OK to just walk there (or hire a coach if Oppara is really huge, I don't know) rather than take the teleport. 
 
Aegis013
 
 Spoiler: Kn: Local 
 (1d20+21)[ 23 ] 

It is not possible for Phage to hit the other DCs and Knowledge Checks can't be retried.
 


Phage materializes in the Gilded City and surveys his surroundings with mild interest.  He simply takes off into the air and begins searching for the destination provided in the Sending, but quickly finds the city too large and the instructions too vague.

He continues searching, flying somewhat lazily about the city until he encounters something that piques his interest. 

Noticing others also surrounded by blue motes of light, the tell-tale sign of having appeared via teleportation the old undead turns to the others with a flourish and performs a small bow introducing himself.   "I am Phage, I have been called here to meet a mysterious benefactor at the Dancing Lancer tavern for matters of grave import. However, it has been so long since I've visited Oppara I do not know the way. Perhaps one of you could kindly point me in the correct direction? Or if we are here with similar aims, perhaps we can establish mutually beneficial relations."  

The undead raises his head, looking over the others. His face somewhat difficult to read as there is hardly anything left beyond a jaw with which it can emote.
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
You guys are adjacent to each other after teleportation. You can amend your posts if you want. I am giving you some time before the next post if you want to introduce yourself to each other.
 
HereBeMonsters
  "Hmm"   the little illithid says aloud as the teleport commences and drops them off in the Gilded City. It took them just a second to notice the others around them and give a short nod of acknowledgment. They put their hand over their stomach and one behind their back doing a proper bow to them.   "I am Inque, and I am in search of a missing assistant"   They didn't quite know what else to add onto that. It was only after this statement that Inque would begin considering where this tavern could be, and where they close.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 

[roll]1d20+26 - Knowledge (Local)[/roll]
 
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I am assuming those introducing each other are following Prism and Calliope? I haven't seen any amendments from Benoojian and namo. I am not going to move the party to the tavern yet until this is answered.

  Passive Perception  
 Calliope's Perception 1:   (1d20+23)[ 33 ] 
 Calliope's Perception 2:   (1d20+23)[ 37 ] 
 Inque's Perception:   (1d20+42)[ 45 ] 
 Phage's Perception (Take 10):  29
 Prism's Perception:   (1d20+35)[ 36 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: HereBeMonster 
It is faint but Inque hears a snippet coming from a blink dog and gorgon at the far end of the marketplace. Nymph Empress Ameiko of Tianxia and Brachina Queen Abrogail Thrune II of Cheliax are using their agents to investigate the disappearance of notable figures in their provinces.
 
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (roll twice)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 " Calliope " she replies with a smile and a shallow bow, by way of an introduction. &lt;  What a strange gathering  &gt; she thinks to Prism, &lt;  but then many of the big stories begin like that.  &gt;

" I happen to know the city quite well. I'll be your guide to the tavern, and whoever called us here. "
She takes her responsibility seriously, adding some historical commentary and art critique as they walk through the streets, as a proper tout would. As they near the tavern, she'll step away briefly, excusing herself, to cast a quick spell on herself. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Casting Bit of Luck, duration 160 min.
 
Aegis013
  "That is very kind of you, Calliope. You have my sincere gratitude. Are you also bound for the Dancing Lancer? If your guidance is an inconvenience to you, I would gladly compensate your efforts.   Phage smoothly speaks in a friendly tone.

  "Though given it seems we all arrived to this location simultaneously by Teleportation, is it possible that each of us is here to investigate the disappearance of one or more individuals?"  

The old undead continues his pontificating:   "Inque has spoken of a missing assistant. I'm here investigating a old contact's missing mentee and seeing if it is related to the ongoing case of a missing musician in Geb."  

Phage listens carefully to the responses, if any, taking the measure of the company in which he finds himself.
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I am waiting for Prism to response if she wants to be a part of this scene before we move on unless all in favor of me posting next scene.
 
Benoojian
Prism puts on the form of an elven woman before accepting the teleport. They are with others that have clearly also just teleported. " I do not know who has brought us here, and that concerns me. The inn we were told to meet them at isn't far. If this turns out to be a trap, will we be on the same side, strangers? " Prism gives a short bow, " You may call me Prism ."

Telepathically she thinks to Calliope  &lt;Does something seem off about these two?&gt; 
 
 Spoiler: ooc 
Prism automatically succeeds at the Diplomacy(Gather Information) check to know where the inn is with a +30 bonus
 
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (roll twice)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 Calliope halts for a brief moment as she renews her assessment of their companions. She focuses on her extremely precise perception of sounds.
&lt;  Indeed. It would seem they do not breathe. But then, you do not either  &gt; she sends with the mental equivalent of a grin.

" We are here on behalf of an old friend, Tabris. " She sees no need to play coy; it's not like Prism and she are in possession of valuable information at this time. If their interests diverge, they might as well figure it now. And surely beings as powerful as Prism and her do not have much to fear. 
 
  
Aegis013
At the mention of Tabris, Phage snaps his fingers as if he just experienced a Eureka moment.

  "I too have been contacted to investigate Tabris' missing mentee, Count Aldus, who I am curious to meet. Well met, Prism. I do not expect any trap at the Dancing Lancer, as if there is some trap awaiting us, it would've been more sensible to simply draw us in one by one by Teleporting us directly into the maw of danger. However, if it assuages your concerns, I do pledge that as far as our goals are aligned to investigate and deal with these disappearances, I will not willing raise my blade in opposition to any of you. I hope we can create fond memories during our journey together."  

Phage tugs the hood of his cloak down a bit over his near skeletal-face and adds in a somewhat softer tone   "And if our mutual goal is the result of machinations of some obfuscated nemesis, I hope we can share in the amusement of unraveling their scheme and forcing them to genuflect before us."  
HereBeMonsters
Inque would listen and consider the snippets that they had heard. Looking to the others, those who were also clearly associated with Tabris.   "We are not the only ones searching, it seems the Empress of Tianxia and Queen of Cheliax have sent their agents to investigate disappearances. It seems like people of note are disappearing, so this seems to be broader than I originally believed"  
 
 Spoiler: Reroll - OOC 

 (1d20+26)[ 27 ]  - Knowledge Local Check
 
Yas392
With combined knowledge and the power of persuasion, the group follow Calliope and Prism's lead. They mosey through the winding alleyways until they come to a narrow space between two warehouses. From an observer's viewpoint, the entrance is too thin for a human-sized or larger creature to enter, needing the ability to compress body dimension to fit in. Thanks to Calliope's knowledge, the group know the front is a deception to discourage those not savvy to figure out its inner workings and they slide through the gap into the establishment.

The interior is a huge chamber, a blend of Taldorian and Qadiran design. Instead of the usual tables and stools usual tavern line up, short but wide, well-made, squared tables with expensive ornaments and sturdy couches on left half, circular tables of the same measurements in the bottommost of one step stair, carved, circular indentations with the step as seats of the same high-quality wood as the floor, furnished with abundant of gaudy fabrics and cushions and four beams enclosure with curtains, open or draped, on a raised platform bridged by stairs to the other half.

Simple square openings with braziers for the left walls and archways with votive incense candles for the right walls. What the tavern has in common is unchanged no matter the difference in aesthetic on both halves are the stage at the far end with a wide hearth of fire blazing that is occupied by exotic dancers, the stone walls, the wooden floor, a booth for the receptionist, and counter with shelves of alcoholic bottles behind manned by a professional bartender with height adjustable chair, commonly seen in bars in the wealthy districts. The atmosphere is homely.

The air is cloyed with aromatics. Waiters, waitresses present food to their patrons in a drool-worthy fashion. Races from all walks of life are co-existing, not just the rich. Be it carousing, dialogue, and eating. The tengu receptionist spots your group's entry and uses a winged hand to gesture for them to follow him through an archway. He leads the group to a room housing a catfolk in eyeless, red leather mask, bows to the host and leaves. The layout is the same as the tables on the right side of the tavern except cushier. Native, planar food and beverages of the highest standards are laid on the table. Soft, relaxing music wafts the air.

 "You have questions. Please take a seat on whichever space you find comfortable with and help yourselves to the food and drinks. I will answer them after I brief you on the situation that requires your presence." 

Once the group is seated, the mysterious catfolk sips his cup through an unseen opening of their mask.

 "I apologize for my rudeness in contacting you so suddenly and briefly and thank you for meeting me here. I cannot tell you my name, for I am a member of the Decemvirate, and my ability to guide the Pathfinder Society hinges on my anonymity. What is doubtlessly more important to you than my name is how I can help you. In recent months, I have been investigating the disappearance of a high-ranking Pathfinder agent named Osprey and have discovered a series of similar disappearances throughout the Inner Sea region, all of which occurred under similar circumstances. In each case, the missing person was last seen with an attractive stranger and appeared to be rapt with the new acquaintance's beauty and charm. Reports in most cases place the missing individual in the company of the same stranger in the Nirmathi city of Skelt, from whence the party is said to have traveled south toward a recently active volcanic ridge called the Growling Skald. Your missing friend is among those whose disappearance matches this pattern. Our divinations have located several of those who vanished on the moon. Long have reports spoken of a demon-tainted jungle on the surface of the moon-what we on Golarion see as the Moonscar. It is there that I believe those abducted have been taken, though for what sinister succubus plot I know not. Few have the means to venture into such a realm, which is why I am here, now, with you. There is little I can offer you beyond pointing you in what I hope is the right direction. Yet if you can find a way to the Moonscar and retrieve not only my missing agent and your friend, but any other captives of the demons there, then my faith in you has not been misguided. Whatever plan the Moonscar's Insatiable Queen and her servants have in the works, it has sped up drastically, and I fear for us all should they not be stopped." 

The information is relayed in a hushed voice that sounds as though it might be disguised with magic.
Aegis013
Phage lifts a bony finger to his chin and calmly adds   "Your story corroborates what I've managed to find regarding a rather high-profile disappearance in Geb. The individual seemed to just vanish, though his home and valuables were left unchecked. Who or whatever is behind the disappearances is interested in the people abducted and does not seem to be taking advantage of their now unguarded belongings."  
  "Perhaps our next location of interest is the Growling Skald. If the abductees are being brought there, perhaps there is a method of transporting them to the Moonscar hidden there."  

With those observations, Phage then awaits insight from the others, curious what they might contribute.
Benoojian
" I agree that the Growing Skald could be a good lead to investigate ."
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (advantage)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 Calliope breathes in deep as they enter the secret, select tavern. She's been here before and, though it's not her favourite haunt, she loves the smells of the place - so much better than the stink of sweat prevalent in too many establishments. She orders the house's mulled juice with just a hint of alcohol and some secret ingredients, before sitting at the table with the mysterious stranger.

Listening to the Decemvirate, she wonders briefly how this particular group was chosen. But, in her case, it's not as if her existence and her works, though not publicized, were secrets of the highest order. " I so dislike the Succubi " she muses after he is done. " Perverting all the good uses of sexual energy, which should instead be let out or channeled in artistic endeavours. Thank you for this information freely given, sir; I certainly intend to get to the bottom of this. "

" As for our next step, we could head first to Skelt, see if we can spot a Succubus there, either through our arts or by posing as bait. If we catch one, we could get even more intelligence than just the way to the moon. And if that fails, I concur that the Growling Skald is the next best option. "

As her drink arrives, she inhales its fumes with delight, and eyes half-closed her head moves gracefully as if to a song only she can hears. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
She'll sacrifice another round of Bardic Music for Pageant of the Peacock, for Knowledge 53 on
1/ Skelt
2/ the Growling Skald
3/ the Moonscar, the Succubi and their Queen
 
HereBeMonsters
Inque nods in agreement with the others about the Growling Skald being the location that they need to go to first and see if they can't find how this connects to the Moonscar and if there is a way to the Moonscar from there. If that was in fact where the victims of these abductions were taken.   "We need to investigate, perhaps they never made it to the moon, but if they did. We need to find out why these people, why now, and are they still alive? It doesn't do well to rescue corpses. But even then, we need to know what dark intentions are aimed at us"  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

 (1d20+30)[ 43 ]  Knowledge: History (For the Growling Skald)
 (1d20+30)[ 31 ]  Knowledge: History (For the Moonscar)
 
Benoojian
Prism turns back to the mysterious informant, “ Do you know how many people have been disappeared in this way? Is there a pattern in the targets? ” Prism leans in, " I have access to cheap and hard to intercept Telepathy in case we're worried about being overheard? "
Yas392
The member of the Decemvirate nods.

 "Certainly. Telepathy is not necessary. I have reserved a room warded from unwanted ears. The missing figures are all famous figures of their regions, each kidnapped after a two-day interval from the previous abduction, the recent being Former Count Aldus. They are:

Leaden of Geb, Male Vampire Singer.
Former Count Aldus of Ustalav, Male Anthromorphic Owl Founder of the Esoteric Order of the Palatine Eye, Gentleman Scholar and Adventurer.
Greenhand of Tian, Male Treant Protector of Nymph Empress Ameiko.
Scathscar of Cheliax, Male Cornugon Adviser to Queen Abrogail Thrune II.
Osprey of Varisia, Male Ratfolk Pathfinder Agent.
Andabar Ceroban of Lastwall, Male Half-Celestial Commander of the Knights of Ozem.
Pendrel Zarafari of Nex, Male Awakened Gelatinous Cube Oenopion Golemcrafter.
Obenna Sirara of Taldor, Female Cloaker Druman Kalistocrat.
Garrin Levoye of Andoran, Male Avariel Councillor of the People's Council.
Professor Zembe Utomo of Mwangi, Male Earth Genasi Magaambya High Mage.
Enlina Charthagnion of Cheliax, Female Erinyes Chelish Noble and Famed Opera Librettist." 
 
 Spoiler: HereBeMonster/namo - Skelt 
Skelt is a nigh impregnable city of strategic importance. It is situated beside the Shining River on top of a bluff which can be access by water-powered lifts and ramps that consist of multiple drawbridges. The same dwarven technology are the heart of their lumber, mining, and metal production industry. Their economy and lifeblood of the city hinges on trade. Skelt traded with dwarf hold of Kraggodan for a long time initially which expanded to Varisia once Bloodsworn Vale was reopened as a viable trading route.
 

 
 Spoiler: HereBeMonster/namo - Growling Skald 
Growling Skald is an isolated volcanic ridge averaging 11,000 feet in elevation. In the distant past, Azlanti astronomers created outposts in this area of restrained volcanic activity to study and harness Golarion's leylines to interact with outer space and celestial bodies. These Azalanti researchers met a sudden end by a rare eruption that destroyed these outposts. Recent increase in seismic activity has uncovered these Azlanti ruins and the Somal Gate, a gateway artifact rumored to enable users to travel to the moon. It is also home to a tribe of fire giants who are drawn to any large-scale events.
 

 
 Spoiler: HereBeMonster/namo - Moonscar 
Azlanti's ambition to reach the stars in the past caused a dimension tear into the Abyss that flooded and scarred the moon with its demonic jungle region and demons hence the name.  The moon is still on the material plane but the environment is meshed with the abyss and subjected to its laws. The Moonscar exists in two dramatically distinct phases. By day the place is unbearably hot, the equivalent of severe heat, but by night a thin but steady snow falls and the temperature plummets, becoming severe cold. The moon is tidally locked. Day and night are longer than Golarion; the ratio of transition between phases is two weeks to one day in Golarion. If the visitor stayed there longer than 2 weeks, they may experience a greater number of lunar days. There are rumored sightings of voluptuous woman riders with bat-like wings on Shantaks.

 
 Spoiler: Planar Traits 
 Strongly Chaos-Aligned and Evil-Aligned:  Nonevil or nonchaotic creatures take a -2 circumstance penalty on all Intelligence-, Wisdom-, and Charisma-based checks in the Moonscar. This penalty stacks with itself for creatures that fall into both categories, resulting in a -4 penalty for creatures with alignments that are neither chaotic nor evil.

 Enhanced Magic : Spells and spell-like abilities with the chaotic or evil descriptor are treated as if their caster levels were 2 higher than normal. Additionally, because of millennia of influence by the Insatiable Queen and her mistress Nocticula, the save DCs of spells and spell-like - . abilities of the charm and compulsion subschools increase by 2, regardless of who casts them. This increase stacks with other methods ofincreasing a spell's save DC (such as the Spell Focus feat).

 Extraplanar Natives:  The Moonscar is home to many extraplanar outsiders, including the succubi who rule over the demonic jungle. Such creatures receive a +4 bonus on saving throws made to resist being banished back to the Abyss, as their affinity for the Abyssal jungles of the Moonscar binds them strongly to the Material Plane.

 Impeded Magic:  To cast a spell or use a spell-like ability with the good or lawful descriptor, a caster must make a concentration check (DC 20 +the level of the spell). If the check fails, the spell does not function but is still lost as a prepared spell or spell slot. If the check is successful, the spell functions normally.
 

 

 
 Spoiler: namo - Succubi 
 Succubus 
 

 
 Spoiler: namo - Insatiable Queen 
Insatiable Queen, Izmiria, is the succubus ruler and apostle of demon lord, Nocticula. She has ruled the Moonscar and its succubus inhabitants descended from her for the 12,000 years since the blight's accidental creation by the ancient Azlanti, and as of 4712 AR had spent much of that time working to ensure the apotheosis of her patron, the former demon lord Nocticula, into true divinity. Her current desire is to expand her dominion across Golarion for her mistress. For that purpose, she sends her servants and agents to the surface of the world to kidnap victims to use as breeding stock or to subvert into sleeper agents to be seeded back into Golarion's societies through unknown means to be activated as the queen sees fit. Her agents occupy multiple important positions in Golarion Society including but not limited to Vudrani royalty, the ranks of the Chelaxian House of Thrune, and the leadership of Mwangi tribes. Izmiria is a capable anti-paladin. As an extension to Nocticula, she was granted boons by the demon lord herself such as the resistance to energy types typical succubus lacks, increased resistance to the energy types succubus resists, immunity to negative energy, and immunity to effects that permanently hampers her. Her whip sword, Iron Lash, also a gift from Nocticula, is an unholy sword that has many powers. One of them is firing a destructive non-elemental, lightning shaped beam that cracks like thunder at the target. The other abilities are well-guarded secrets beyond the scope of your knowledge.
 
Aegis013
Phage ponders the new information presented.   "Ten high-profile individuals spirited away to the moon. If the Scrying efforts located them there, that indicates they must have been alive when they reached the moon and rather recently at that. Though corpses have their uses, I'm quite certain the victims would prefer to be rescued alive as most living things would."   he adds, addressing Inque's concern.

Listening to Calliope's addition Phage adds   "Since we haven't already been targeted, I'm concerned our presence in Skelt will only cause our foes to become more cautious and grant the Moonscar's Queen more time to further her plans, given that the victims were first approached elsewhere. Admittedly, I'm not certain the Growling Skald will have what we're seeking, but traveling directly from the ground to the moon presents its own challenges and in this case, a less direct route may actually be faster."  

Upon hearing Prism's offer of Telepathy, Phage whispers to Prism   "Your telepathic talents are likely to be invaluable when we are no longer shielded by our anonymous friend."  
HereBeMonsters
Inque considers what they recall and makes a few clicks of the tongue as they consider how best to relay the information.   "Or perhaps not, the Azlanti were in pursuit of ways of travel off this world."   they began.   "They had one, the Somal Gate. An ancient artifact now. If it is active then it should provide a way there."   though they looked unsure   "But the moonscar is no place for those unprepared. It has hash temperatures, the days are different than on the world. And the corruption of the planes will be everpresent. If we are to travel there, we must be sure we are ready for the dangers that lurk"  
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (advantage)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 Calliope whistles softly at the enumeration, hitting higher and higher notes perfectly - she stops before she shatters the crystal candelabra above their heads.
" They kidnapped an impressive assortment of shakers and movers, if not the people in power themselves. I wonder what they have to gain from it; I would have imagined succubi leaving their charmed targets in their position to leverage them... But perhaps they have uncovered a way to turn them permanently, and in undetectable fashion, where Charms and Compulsions can be quite easy to notice. "

She scoffs politely at Phage's remark. " We'd just need to not get noticed in Skelt.

But now, as Inque mentioned, I remember the tales of a gate to the Moon in Growling Skald, so I do not mind heading there first. "

After inquiring briefly if it's needed, she shares her knowledge of Succubi with the party, so that they may be prepared for their main adversary.
" Their Queen will be something else entirely, with stronger defenses and powers to be wary of. Lightning and thunder, profane powers, ...

As for the Moon, I pride myself in being ever-ready. We cannot be sure of all that lurks up there, but for myself, I do not need an extended period of time to prepare for the trip. " Even her clothes are enchanted, so that she does not need to pack countless replacements. 
 
  
Benoojian
Prism extends a telepathic probe to Inque and Phage, inviting them to her collective.
Aegis013
Phage happily joins the collective.    "I believe our next objective is reaching the Growling Skald. I can fly there, but it will be slow going. How shall we proceed?"    He broadcasts to the others in the collective.
Benoojian
&lt; If I cast Wind Walk in the morning, we can be there in a couple of days &gt; Prism's voice rang into the heads of everyone in the collective. &lt; If we're going to be working together I can lend a bit of celestial power at times, though it takes a bit of meditation to get the hang of using it, we should find an inn and practice while we have the light &gt;
Yas392
 "Are there any more questions? If not, I will depart." 

The masked catfolk gestures to the many foods and drinks on the table.

 "Should you require to stock up for your journey, take these as you will. Should you require this room for further discussion, it is yours for the day. The Society has paid for this room and nourishments." 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
If there are no more question, the NPC will depart and wishes you good luck.
 
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (advantage)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 Calliope waves their informant goodbye.   I wonder if we'll cross paths again. Those secret societies always have the thrill of mystery but... they're not my wheelhouse.  

She starts sampling the food on the table as they continue the mental discussion.
&lt;  Very well, let us partake of these delicacies... Or, well, I shall, since none of you are likely to eat much.  &gt;
By now she's certain the two odd characters are undead, which she doesn't mind. There is a certain appeal to immortality... but she encourages her charges to seek it through their works rather than an actual eternal life, which likely leads to eternal boredom, or disconnection from the world.

She goes to the door and calls a waiter to ask for no interruption, then shuts the door, so that Prism may perform his rituals in peace. 
 
  
Aegis013
Phage telepathically broadcasts a simple message    "Yes, take care of anything you need now. While time may be of the essence for the abduction victims, I expect the journey to the Growling Skald to be much easier on the inexhaustible such as myself, and preparation will increase our odds of success."   .

The undead then remains perfectly still. An uncanny sight, as though he suddenly became a statue. Phage awaits further input or for the Wind Walk spell to be cast.
Benoojian
&lt;You misunderstand my dear fellow, it is you that needs to make preparations, not me. Calliope has seen this power before but I have grown considerably in power since then so she will need to re-meditate as well.&gt; To illustrate, Prism reaches out to touch Calliope, causing a blob of ectoplasm to cover her body making her look like a sentai warrior before the armor adapts to fit her style, waiting for instructions &lt;There will be many options but the one we are looking at today is Martial Manuevers, as they require meditation to set them before they can be used, so spend all the power there for now. It will try to harmonize with your natural chi patterns but you can force it into other disciplines if you wish&gt; Prism offers a hand to Inque and Phage to manifest on them as well. She also borrows the party's fast healing to quickly recover, as pushing the power to its limit wounds her.

 
 Spoiler: Mechanics 
Spending 19 pp and a focus to cast form astral armor on Calliope for 12 customization points, as ectoplasmic skin form, then spending a full round to recover focus and manifest twice more in subsequent rounds (for 3x19=57 total pp). Overchannel for 2 levels each time for

 (3d8)[ 11 ] 
 (3d8)[ 17 ] 
 (3d8)[ 9 ] 
damage
 
Aegis013
Phage takes Prism's hand without hesitation, and returns to his unnatural stillness.
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I will move from the current scene to the next once someone in the party use an ability to transport the group to the Growling Skald.
 
Benoojian
After training, Prism rests until morning and prays for spells, preparing a   wind walk   for the journey. She gathers white clothing for the group and hands those out then casts her spells, including a  Superior Resistance  for Calliope and Phage, who had both privately asked for the spells the night before, then the  wind walk , turning them all to fog. “  Try to stay together, we can use the telepathy to stay in contact if we get separated though.  ”
Yas392
In the morning, Priam whisks the group in contact with her to the Growling Skald. There is no difficulty or obstacles because it is a clear weather and Calliope directing her to the volcano with the knowledge from her dance that magically let her bluff herself into becoming one with the universe briefly to know what reality knows through its records. The party arrives at the location at midday after multiple stops and rests, materializing back to solid forms 1,000 ft above the place of interest. The height gives a bird's eye view of the tall mountain nestling within the Mind Mountains with the fiery color of the caldera at its peak giving its nature away. It is encircled by vegetation of trees. A river snakes through south the base of the mountain, splitting the forest into two sections. There is nothing noteworthy around the area except for the lake northeast of the volcano. The group detect no dangers with their senses.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
  Passive Perception Checks  
 Calliope Perception 1:   (1d20+23)[ 33 ] 
 Calliope Perception 2:   (1d20+23)[ 34 ] 
 Inque:   (1d20+42)[ 56 ] 
 Phage (Take 10)  - 29
 Prism:   (1d20+35)[ 36 ] 

Will need to know if Prism is windwalking about 15 hours or doing multiple windwalks for a couple of days including stopping and resting. After that is confirmed, I will update this post.
 
HereBeMonsters
Inque accepts position within the collective and gives a gentle nod in the direction of Prism. When they are teleported Inque would keep their head on a swivel looking around, being cautious of a possible ambush or if someone had left some boobytraps behind or worse wards.   "We should be mindful of threats. They have had time to plot and plan for enemies, we haven't"   they spoke clearly within the collective.   "Where shall we begin dear friends?"  
Benoojian
&lt;  We should rest for the day and finish the flight tomorrow  &gt;
Aegis013
Upon arrival at the Growling Skald, Phage broadcasts    &lt;"I guess it was too much to hope for an obvious glowing portal to the Moonscar. If the abductees were taken through here though there is likely to be some trace, the question is simply how do we go about uncovering it?"&gt;   

As he ponders he's going to try to determine if he can identify any unnatural features of the volcano which might be a worthwhile starting point to investigate.

 
 Spoiler: Kn: Nature 
 (1d20+21)[ 41 ] 
 
Benoojian
Prism slowly circles the volcano as she descends, taking mental snapshots to build a mind palace map of the place and try to notice any details she might have missed the first time.

 
 Spoiler: Mechanics 
Using Mind Palace for 9pp to add  (5d4)[ 15 ]  to a Perception reroll

 (1d20+35)[ 39 ] 
 
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (advantage)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 Calliope rattles off the possibilities out loud, so someone can tell her if she's missing something. " The Moongate could be hidden in the forest, in the river, underground, or by illusions. Possibly into the volcano, but I doubt that. Does any of you possess divinations or allies to help us explore the area? Otherwise I fear it may take very long, if we rely on chance only.
We could start alongside the river, since historic settlements are often near freshwater sources. We could also split into two groups, to cover more ground.

Or I could try to create an illusion - let's say, of a dragon or something equally impressive, flying around the top of the volcano - to see if it gets a reaction, but there's no guarantee it would work. " 
 
  
Benoojian
Prism looks at all the nice safe places Calliope mentioned then pointedly at the volcano. &lt;I know my luck, and that almost certainly means the Moongate is directly inside the volcano. Do the two of you still need to breathe? You never said quite what you were.&gt;  Prism had kept her elven disguise the entire time she'd been around them, pretending the wind walk was the only source of flight she had access to.
Aegis013
   &lt;"Unfortunately, divination is not within my talents."&gt;    Phage broadcasts when the inquiry comes from Calliope. To Prism's observation Prism simply replies    &lt;"I am simply Undead, thus I took my last breath ages ago. I should be able to effectively dredge the underbelly of the river if we determine it to be the most efficient method of scouring our surroundings for our quarry."&gt;   
Benoojian
&lt;  Do you think we are within an hour of the portal? I could cast  divination  to narrow down the search or I could cast  find the path  to lead me there directly. Alternatively I could try to contact my deity for advice, but that's usually a last resort. Tell me everything you know about the Moongate  &gt;
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: Aegis013 
Phage knows nothing.
 

 
 Spoiler: Benoojian 
Leaning her body downwards and squinting her eyes, Prism hears the magma bubbling from the caldera and sees no unusual activities in the pool until she barely catches movement that ripples the pool as if something writhes under it.
 
Benoojian
&lt;  Great Mother! There’s something moving under the magma. I think we may have found our target  &gt;
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (advantage)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 " While it's well within the realm of possibility, are you not jumping to a conclusion a little too quickly? The magma being inhabited by a creature doesn't mean the Gate is there. I would think Finding the Path would be ideal, if its prerequisites are met, before we try to defeat a foe of unknown power. "

Calliope would like to contribute more, but she has to recognize that Prism has access to much more varied and powerful magic than she. She is happy for her friend, and grateful to benefit from her powers, but there's still a tinge of envy there, unbecoming of a Muse - hence she wouldn't admit to it out loud. 
 
  
Benoojian
&lt;I’m not sure if the Somal Gate counts as a location or an item. I wanna go touch the lava though, who’s with me?&gt; Prism manifests  environment shield  to its peak for her and Calliope and a lesser manifestation for the non-breathers. She starts to float down to the magma’s surface.
Aegis013
 &lt;  "Well this is a potent protection."&gt;    Phage comments upon receiving the Environment shield. He moves above the lava, swaps to the Mourning Ghost Attitude Stance and allows himself to drop a short distance into the lava to test the shield's protection and see just how effective Orthos' granted blindsight is underneath molten rock.
Yas392
As the group descends to the caldera, Phage and Prism floats down to test the magma. Phage detects a lifeform with his blindsight and sends a signal to Prism. When they are 10 ft above the pool, a mass erupts, coagulating into a seething, shapeless bubbling molten rocks. Phage and Prism's superior senses warn them ahead of time that there is a threat lurking beneath. When their fiery enemy appears, they are not surprised by the ambush.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Phage and Prism do not need to roll perception checks vs enemy because of blindsight and perception modifier is high enough to prevent surprise round. It sucks at hiding anyways. The group except Phage and Prism (who start at any squares but 10 ft above magma pool) can start at any elevation and squares.

  Initiatives  
 Calliope 1:   (1d20+10)[ 22 ] 
 Calliope 2:   (1d20+10)[ 30 ] 
 Inque:   (1d20+17)[ 18 ] 
 Phage:   (1d20+16)[ 27 ] 
 Prism:   (1d20+12)[ 20 ] 
 Enemy:   (1d20-5)[ 0 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Knowledge (Dungeoneering) 
 
 Spoiler: Knowledge DC 17 
Magma oozes are living pools of molten rock. They roam the borders of the Plane of Earth and Plane of Fire, and on the Material Plane they sometimes arise spontaneously from strange magic, usually in the vicinity of volcanoes.
 
 
 Spoiler: Knowledge DC 22 
They can split into two from cold or slashing attacks unless they are almost dead and those that damaged them with weapons in melee may be burned.
 
 
 Spoiler: Knowledge DC 27 
They are immune to fire and vulnerable to cold and water. A create water spell, a water from a large bucket or a blow from a water elemental that strikes a magma ooze may limit its actions. Submerging it in a large body of water such as a lake may petrified it.
 


Anyone who pass the DC with Nat 1 do not need to roll but will need to  declare  that they are using knowledge skill in their posts.
 

 
 Spoiler: Initiative Block Order 
 Party 
Enemy

Bold means the members of this block can act in whichever order.
 
Aegis013
Phage first gazes upon the fiery foe, trying to determine both what it is, and how best to strike at it. Then switching stances, he moves to engage bringing his scythe down upon the foe.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
Free: Knowledge Dungeoneering  (1d20+21)[ 40 ]  result also determines bonuses granted by Knowledge Devotion (+5 bonus)
Free: Activate Eligor's Chromatic Strike
Automatic: Phage gains 10 Animus

Swift: Stance swap to Laughing Demilich Attitude
Move: Approach the foe and draw Scythe
Standard: Souldrinking Strike Maneuver against the target:

To hit  (1d20+23)[ 39 ]  plus Kn Devotion result for a total of  [44] 
Upon a hit, expend 3 Animus to threaten critical  (1d20+35)[ 48 ]  plus Kn Devotion bonus for a total of  [53]  to confirm

On a hit it deals  (2d4+16)[ 23 ]  plus Kn Devotion bonus for  [28]   slashing  piercing (based on Kn result) damage, an additional  (1d6)[ 1 ]   Cold  Acid damage (based on Kn result) and  (3d4)[ 9 ]  Intelligence damage,  (3d4)[ 10 ]  Wisdom damage, and  (3d4)[ 7 ]  Charisma damage.

On a successful critical hit it deals an extra  (6d4+48)[ 62 ]  damage and 3x Kn Devotion bonus for  [77]  extra  slashing  piercing damage and inflicts a -8 penalty to the creature's Dexterity.
 

 
 Spoiler: Phage's Status 
HP: 231/231
AC: 31, DR: 20/Good &amp; Bludgeoning, 50% miss chance, Immunities: Positive Energy (Stance), Fire (Environment Shield), Cold (Environment Shield)

7/10 Animus

Maneuvers Granted:
 (1d9)[ 9 ]  - Scything Reaper Riposte
 (1d8)[ 8 ]  - Poltergheist's Wrath
 (1d7)[ 4 ]  - Ancient Lich Parry
 (1d6)[ 2 ]  - Rotting Axe Style
 (1d5)[ 2 ]  - Shrieking Shadow Axe
 (1d4)[ 4 ]  - Headman's Descending Axe
 (1d3)[ 1 ]  - Wretched Ghast Riposte

Next round:
 (1d2)[ 2 ]  - Feasting Wraith Strike

Following round:
Howling Banshee Strike
 
Yas392
A single slash is all it takes to end the battle. Not the swing that carves out chunks of magma that flies back into the pool. The swing that has an effect that deteriorate the creature's mental faculties. It collapses into a heap, to not rise again, but it's form still holds.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Battle is over! The Magma Ooze is comatose and helpless but alive. If you want to finish it, feel free.
 
Aegis013
Phage observes the Ooze as it is rendered helpless.  &lt;  "It has been rendered helpless. I doubt such a creature acted on ill intent, as I'm not certain it is even capable of such. It likely merely approached us out instinct. Disappointing."  &gt;  the old undead projects with the mental equivalent of a sigh.

Phage's head swivels about observing the large Caldera and adds  &lt;  "It will take a great deal of time to systematically scour a caldera of such size when limited to a perception radius of a mere thirty feet. If we have no other option but brute force a solution I shall put myself to it for as long as this Environment Shield persists or until we find our prize or the caldera is fully explored. However, if you are able to Find the Path, Prism, I believe that should be our next step."  &gt; 
Benoojian
Prism frowns at the quick jump to violence, and studies the creature for a moment. &lt;  I think it was only acting on instinct, it doesn't deserve to die for that. This should only stabilize it but step back in case it's only barely dying  &gt; Prism extends a telepathic probe to the helpless ooze, then diverts a trickle of healing to the creature before disconnecting it from the collective.

Then, assuming the creature doesn't wake up to attack, Prism flies back up to a height of about 50ft and begins casting  Find the Path  to the Somal Gate.


 
 Spoiler: mechanics 
Unconscious creatures are considered willing for Psionics so Prism can add the Ooze to her collective as long as it has a Wisdom score then divert a single point of fast healing from the next person to get it to stabilize it.
 
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: Find the Path 
The spell points your senses westward at the moment.
 

 
 Spoiler: EXP 
Each of you gain 800 XP for the magma ooze.
 
Benoojian
&lt; The spell worked, it's to the West right now &gt; Prism forgets she's supposed to be pretending to fly at the slow wind walk speed and uses her natural flight to fly towards the gate.
Aegis013
Phage also flies, following Prism through the air.  &lt;  "Lead the way."  &gt; 
Yas392
Prism follows the spell's direction, leading the party westward past the caldera, past the slopes before the spell nudges her senses downwards to a crevice. Floating down 100 ft below the surface, she lands on a narrow but sturdy grey bridge above a pool of lava. The width is enough to fit large creatures except some parts of the bridge which only medium creatures can squeeze through. A 20 ft platform jutting outward to connect to a 110 ft diameter circular platform with runic inscriptions framed by stone. The spell lures Prism to the circular platform and fizzles out.
Aegis013
Phage silently approaches the closer to the inscribed platform, keeping to the air and slowly circling around the platform trying to stay out of sight of any potential onlookers if possible. He tries to determine what he can about the runes or what this thing may be or do.

 
 Spoiler: Skills 
Stealth  (1d20+37)[ 39 ] 

Knowledge Arcana  (1d20+21)[ 41 ] 
 
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  42 / Touch 38 / Ff 28  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +33 / Will +25
 Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23 (advantage)
 Stance  Eyes of the Crane (SC1) 
      
 Calliope resists the need to say "told you so" when it turns out the creature is unrelated to the Gate, because  nobody  likes to hear that. It's hard, because it's such a deep, primal pulsion, in feys like in humanoids...

Following Prism down in to the caldera, onto the bridge, then the platform, she communes with the cosmic strings of the universe again, her arts bringing untold knowledge from the past into the light of the present. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Pageant of the Peacock (10 min) for the usual 57 (taking 10) on all Knowledges.
(Note that this can't easily be used in combat, however, so she'll need help from her companions to id some monsters.
 
Yas392
The party detects no enemies within the vicinity their senses but the bubbling of lava.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
  Passive Perception  
 Calliope's Perception 1:   (1d20+23)[ 42 ] 
 Calliope's Perception 2:   (1d20+23)[ 30 ] 
 Inque's Perception:   (1d20+42)[ 48 ] 
 Phage's Perception (Take 10):  29
 Prism's Perception:   (1d20+35)[ 42 ] 

@namo What are Calliope's knowledge checks for?
 

 
 Spoiler: Aegis013/namo 
Phage knows that these ancient runes are part of the components to create the portal on the Somal Gate. Studying the dull inscriptions, he concludes that the gate is dormant and needs some sort of catalyst or source such as a Somal Stone to activate the runes.
 
Aegis013
 &lt;  "This appears to be the Somal Gate we were looking for, but it's magic is inactive presently. It needs a catalyst of some kind of be activated. I believe it's usually a Somal Stone. We could lie in wait here and ambush the agents of the Succubus Queen when they attempt to use the gate again, but it would probably be best to determine if we have any other tools at our disposal that might allow us a shorter route to our objective. Unfortunately, the manipulation of magic items is a skill in which my proficiency may be lacking given the complexity of this particular task."  &gt;  Phage muses, hoping to spur the others who have shown themselves to be exceptionally capable to some kind of action.
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: namo 
Calliope knows the direction to the stone and location with her knowledge which is at the east end of the Growling Skald. It looks like a white stone lying on a scree next to a pedestal.
 
namo
     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  46 / Touch 42 / Ff 32  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +37 / Will +25
 Init  +16  |   Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23
 Stance  Silver Crane Waltz (SC1): +4 AC/Ref, +6 Init 
      
 " Let's go east, and look for a white stone, near a pedestal. It should allow us to make use of the Gate. But I wouldn't be surprised if it's contested. "
There is a subtle shift in how she flies towards their next goal. 
 
  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Switching to the Silver Crane Waltz stance.
 
Yas392
Calliope leads her companions to the destination. Other than strewn rocks, slopes and a grove below the elevation, the setting is isolated and accurate as the details fed to her in her dance to peer into the akashic record for information. The white stone is dull. The group detects no enemies. The sun is shining above the sky indicating a short amount of time has passed.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
  Passive Perception  
 Calliope's Perception 1:   (1d20+23)[ 33 ] 
 Calliope's Perception 2:  [roll]1d20+23)[/roll]
 Inque's Perception:  [roll]1d20+42)[/roll]
  Phage's Perception (Take 10):   29
 Prism's Perception:   (1d20+35)[ 55 ] 
 
Aegis013
 &lt;  "My knowledge of this topic is already exhausted. Can any of us verify if the stone here is the Somal Stone we need, or if there are any unusual requirements we should be aware of? Or, can we simply move this stone to the Gate and take it to the Moonscar?"  &gt;  Phage ponders telepathically as he observes the surroundings.
Benoojian
 
 Originally Posted by Aegis013 
  &lt;  "My knowledge of this topic is already exhausted. Can any of us verify if the stone here is the Somal Stone we need, or if there are any unusual requirements we should be aware of? Or, can we simply move this stone to the Gate and take it to the Moonscar?"  &gt;  Phage ponders telepathically as he observes the surroundings. 
 

&lt;Perhaps with a little assistance, you can remember more about the particulars of the stone?&gt; Prism approaches Phage, offering a glowing hand, &lt;Would you like me to jog your memory?&gt;
Aegis013
Phage takes Prism's hand without hesitation, his bony fingers cold to the touch.

 
 Spoiler: Kn: Arcana 
Regarding the Somal Stone:
 (1d20+21)[ 40 ]  plus whatever buff Prism is providing.
 
Benoojian
Prism freezes Phage's mind in a moment of almost painful clarity, letting Phage peruse their own memories and piece them together like a jigsaw into new insights.

 
 Spoiler: Mechanics 
Mind Palace at ML 19 for  (10d4)[ 25 ]  and taking  (5d8)[ 22 ]  damage, which will be healed almost instantly by siphoning the party's healing
 
namo
-     Calliope      (human form)
  AC  46 / Touch 42 / Ff 32  |   HP  291/291  |   Saves  Fort +28 / Ref +37 / Will +25
 Init  +16  |   Senses  Blindsight 120ft, Mindsight 100ft; Perception +23
 Stance  Silver Crane Waltz (SC1): +4 AC/Ref, +6 Init 
      
 As her companions  dither  continue their careful preparations, Calliope flies to the stone. She looks it over quickly to see if there are any inscriptions of note. If not, she attempts to raise it, to make sure she can carry it back to the Gate. 
 
  
Yas392
 
 Spoiler: Aegis013 
The Somal Stone is broken but functional. It is very resistant to physical and magical effects. It is unremarkable during day but glows when moonlight shines on it. Upon exposure to moonlight, it channels arcane energy into the leylines, activating the Somal Gate.
 

 
 Spoiler: namo 
 Perception 1:   (1d20+23)[ 38 ] 
 Perception 2:   (1d20+23)[ 28 ] 

Caliope sees no inscription. Just a polished stone.
 
Aegis013
 &lt;  "Thank you, Prism. It seems we need moonlight to shine upon the stone to invoke its magic and activate the gate. Otherwise, it will remain inert. It should be resistant to magic, but I am still concerned that there will be some kind of ward or magical trap protecting something so valuable. Unfortunately, I'm not able to produce moonlight to activate the Stone's magic. With my skills, the only option is simply to await a sufficiently clear night for the Stone's magic to activate."  &gt; 

Phage pauses for a moment, his body unnaturally still, despite the movements of his clothes as if the air were moving more than the it is presently and awaits input from others as he carefully watches Calliope collect the Somal Stone, expecting some danger to appear.