CoffeeIncluded
It's early afternoon in the great city-state of Runite, and the hot summer sun beats down upon the crowd, already smothered by the thick humidity. Normally the gathering would be escaping the midday heat in their houses, perhaps trying to catch a bit of ocean breeze by the docks. And yet there are hundreds, possibly thousands of people cramped together in the large public square outside the Senate house, standing shoulder to shoulder (or shoulder to waist, in the case of the haflings, gnomes, and goblins of the city), waiting for the Senators to announce the new laws and measures of the city.

Normally only the politically minded or extremely bored would listen to these wealthy leaders drone on and on, as if the mosquitoes didn't do enough of that, but here something of interest has been debated among the minutiae that are of no interest to common people. The Senators have been debating whether to add another to their ranks: one Dierdre Kalidar, who helped to drain the swamps the city was built on, and installed sewers throughout Runite. Though Runite is still bordered by miles upon miles of swamp, the city itself has tamed the waters and relegated it to canals. Thanks to Dierdre and the famed dwarven craftsmen who helped her, the scourges of malaria, yellow fever, blinding sickness, dysentery, and cholera have been largely checked. Thanks to them, Runite's citizens can drink water safely, and in less than thirty years the city turned from a small trading post to the famed Gateway to the Southern Islands, and an increasingly powerful member of the Kyarian Federation. All the workers on the project became rich beyond belief, and when Dierdre petitioned to join the Senate, she should have had no problem being accepted for the powerful lifetime position.

Except for one thing. Dierdre is a drow. Accepting her as a Senator would mean having a drow--a Plavaan! in the high echelons of Runitian governemnt. And it would mean having to declare the Plavaan refugee underclass, growing in population every year, official full citizens of Runite.

No wonder thousands of people of every race and color and species are waiting to hear the official results of the vote. No wonder it seems like nearly every Plavaan in the city has turned out to the public square, goblins standing on each others' shoulders to catch a glimpse, drow hidden behind their veils, orcs squinting against the light.

There are people protesting somewhere in the throng, and there's a counter protest close by. Somewhere else, a man with a food cart is loudly advertising his wares of "Endcatch stew," which locals know is a cheap stew made from whatever the fishermen and grocers weren't able to sell the previous day. It's a good street food, popular among the less well-to-do (which of course means that in several years time the rich of Runite will make a special high-quality version of it for themselves), and it's made of different ingredients every day.

Three humans and two goblins stand close to each other in the crowd, waiting for the Senator to quit droning about municipal tax rates and get on with it...

 
 Spoiler 
And here we go. Hope I set the stage well. Jadeite won't show up for a bit, so feel free to talk amongst yourselves for a while, get to know each other!

 OOC thread 
 
Dusk Eclipse
 Common, hurry up you lazy ass!  are the muttered words from Artorias, a young human, normally he is patient (not overly so; but more than it would be expected of someone of his age); but standing in the sun for so long has drained him and put him in a foul mood. He fidgets in his place,hfrom time to time he glances at the protests, halfway hoping a fight breaks out, just to kill the boredom (and to have the opportunity to try a new move he has been trying to perfect

He looks at his goblin companions and silently wonders what they think about this.
Devmaar
Alim strains to see the speakers. Unlike most of the people here, he attended these announcements rather frequently, and definitely preferred the square quieter. Normally he wouldn't have concern with the length of proceedings, but on this occasion he was inclined to agree with his colleague.

Silently he waited, waited for the words that could determine the rest of his life.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee meanwhile was rocking back and fourth on her feet as her hands were clenched together behind her head to act as an admittedly uncomfortable pillow. She groaned and rolled her eyes as she watched yet another cloud slowly float past her in the sky above, not really listening to whatever was being said.

 Why the heck are we here again? Eye dunno about you guys but standing in a huge crowd with nothin to look at except for a bunch of human behinds isn't really  Doing  it for me. Is there a  point  to all of this? 
Athedia
Badger knelt down next to the small goblin.   "Would you like a boost?"   While she was close to the ground she gave a small tap on Naga, her basset hound's nose.  He was sniffing in the direction of the Endcatch in a hungry manner.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee sneered and stuck out her tounge at the badger, a lot of good getting a boost would do her at this point.

 No, and that doesn't awnser my question! 
CoffeeIncluded
"Endcatch! Fresh endcatch, right off the docks, and I'd swear it on me pa's life! Five copper a dish and that's guttin' meself!" the man shouts over a brief argument between the two protesting groups that suddenly got louder.

The Senator on the podium appears to be winding down his speech...
Athedia
The Badger sighed and straightened up, looking out over the crowd.  Other than the protests, the streets were calmer than usual, safer.  There still seemed to be no sign of an end to the talk of taxes.

 "It doesn't really seem to be a point for me.  I don't care how the vote goes, I still have my job to do and that doesn't change depending on who I chase.  But you..   With this she ruffled the short goblins hair, knowing it annoyed her  "You want to a citizen don't you?  You would have more freedoms."  Lifting her hand from Elsee's head, the Badger remembered "Lil Miss".  With a quick grimace she quickly wiped her hand off on the leather of her pants.
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by Draconi Redfir 
 Elsee sneered and stuck out her tounge at the badger, a lot of good getting a boost would do her at this point.

 No, and that doesn't awnser my question!  
 

  Tough luck Elsee; but don't worry I am sure this shall prove  entertaining  at the least   Artorias answered, sarcasm dripping from his voice.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee snarled and violently rubbed at her hair with her hands to try and remove the feeling of it being messed up from her skull. As the human before her, she quickly made a quick visual inspection of her hands to ensure Lil Miss wasn't on them, satisfied when she saw no signs of the parasite.

 Eye don't give a ship either way, i wasn't supposed to be living here in the first place, and even then my only job is with the guild. 'sides it's just some Drow chick not a goblin, eye don't see the point. 
CoffeeIncluded
After what feels like years but is in reality no more than twenty or thirty minutes, the Senator finally leaves the podium only to be replaced by another of his peers, a slim dwarf with fine black hair and piercing blue eyes. He keeps a carefully neutral expression as he evaluates the crowd, then takes a breath and begins to speak...

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Local) or Knowledge (Nobility/Royalty) to ID him. You could also roll sense motive if you want. Goodnight guys, I'll have another post in 8 or 12 hours depending if I can get to the computer before heading to raptors, and I'll wait until after you guys post too.
 
Athedia
The Badger peered across the crowd, did she know this senator, it could be hard to remember one from another.
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (local)  (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
Sense Motive  (1d20+8)[ 9 ] 
 
Silverraptor
A 17 year old girl with shoulder length hair blond hair stood near the group talking amongst them, but paid them no attention. She only recently arrived in Runite, hearing about the riches this city possessed, which naturall meant that new styles of dresses would be on display. She entered late into the previous day, ready to browse the shops and compare different fashion items they contained. She was disappointed to hear that most of the shops would be closed today due to this assembly and was only standing there, waiting for the crowd to disperse and be the first at the shops when they opened. Compared to the crowd, she looked way more comfortable in the hot weather. While there were those in the crowd who were sweating, she stood out as though it was the perfect temperature. Though, the reason for this was because she casted "Endure Elements" on herself when it started getting warm.

She was wearing one of her casual clothes, which happened to be an elbow length turquoise shirt that stopped just above her belly button. Her mini-skirt was a light silver color that seemed slightly shorter than the normal fashion. She was busy rummaging through her shoulder bag to make sure she had everything for her shopping spree later. Her gold bracelet clanked as it brushed against the sack of gold that was in there as well as other things she brought with her on this shopping trip. Her chainshirt and other travel items she left in her room at the tavern she was staying at. Satisfied that she definately had everything, she closed the shoulder bag with a snap and bent down to pick up a larger travel bag that was currently empty, but was expected to be full of clothing by the days end. As she grabbed hold of its strap, the silver amulet of Astrid dangled from the necklace around her neck. She stood up, hoisting the bag over her back, with her pink earrings shining brightly in the sunlight.

She looks around again, still not paying attention to anyone in the crowd specifically, but as an inquisitive  'What's taking so long?'  motion.
Devmaar
Frustrated at the other goblins apathy, Alim peers intently at the stage

  A new speaker, now where do I recognise him from...  
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge: Local  (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 

If we can try both, Knowledge: Nobility and Royalty  (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger:
 
 Spoiler 
The dwarf's name is Cesare, and you're pretty sure he's a Senator. Beyond that, you don't know who he is. He's excellent at keeping a calm demeanor though, and you can't tell what he thinks about the results of the vote--which he already knows.
 


Alim:
 
 Spoiler 
The dwarf's name is Cesare; he's the only dwarf in the Senate and one of the newer Senators as well. His claim to government and the source of his riches come from the buildings he's designed--his name is on the blueprints of nearly every building in the city center, which was the first part of Runite to be truly built up. You also faintly recall him voting against Dierdre's acceptance into the Senate every time she petitioned, which has been several years now.
Also, I'm treating that one as a 20; it was close enough. Nice roll.
 


The dwarven Senator clears his throat, and finally says, "By a vote of twenty-eight for to thirty-five against, the petition for Dierdre Kalidar to become a member of Runite's Senate has been rejected. She may reapply in four months' time, as is protocol..."

You can't hear much of the rest, as he is immediately drowned out by boos, shouts, claps, and cheers.

"Boo!!!"

"Yeah, you tell them, Cesare!"

"No Plavaan in the Senate!"

"You're full of ****! You and the rest of the Senate!"

"What the hell?! You'd be nothing without Dierdre! Runite owes her and you know it! You owe us!"

Dierdre remains quiet and poised as the crowd begins to almost vibrate with pent-up frustration. Watchmen keeping guard are quick to intervene and try to break up the groups before they can get too agitated.

 
 Spoiler 
Feel free to post thoughts, reactions, try to calm down the Runitians and Plavaan, whatever. We're still in the prologue so...

Also, guys, please use quotations marks when your characters are speaking.
 
Devmaar
Alim's shoulder's slump. His drops his head and his hands cover his face. He'd tried not to let himself get too hopeful, but still...

He stumbles away through the crowd, trying to find the nearest alleyway where he can get a moment's quiet to clear his head.
CoffeeIncluded
Though the vote sounds like it's closer than it has been in years past, it's apparently cold comfort to Alim--a failure is still a failure.

It's quieter in the alley, but not by much. He can still hear the shouts of rancor and attempts to calm the crowd behind him.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, I should have mentioned that in the last post. You would have known that the vote's closer this time than previous years with that knowledge check.
 
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
Closer, perhaps, but you summed it up pretty well.
 


The goblin sits against the alley wall, cradling his head in his hands.

 "Closer. Always closer but never there."  he mutters to himself sadly
Athedia
The Badger sighed at the outcome of the vote and walked over to the man selling Endcatch.  "Two bowls.  If you don't mind."  She placed a silver piece on the stall as the man passed the bowls over.  Carefully holding them she ducked around the protesters and into a quiet corner.  She placed one of the bowls on the ground and sat next to it, knee's supporting the second bowl as she shoveled the food into her mouth.  It wasn't the best food, but it was a change of pace.  Naga lapped up the the stew, jowls hanging into the food.
Silverraptor
As the vote was called out, the crowd became agitated. People began shoving and yelling at each other. Sora quickly didn't want to be caught in the middle of this anymore. She had already been pushed about several times and someone had even stepped on her foot. After crawling her way through as if trying to swim through moving mud, she managed to get to the edge of the crowd and to safety.

She walked further away and stopped at a corner of a building, near an alley to catch her breath. She looked back at the crowd, thankful she was no longer in that mess.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (d20+3)[ 21 ] 
Listen:  (d20+3)[ 6 ] 
Spot:  (d20-1)[ 0 ] 
Listen:  (d20-1)[ 5 ] 
 


Sora:
 
 Spoiler 
You see the shadow of a small creature, child-sized but with adult proportions, curled up in the alley. However, the shouts of the crowd drown out any sounds the person might be making.

If you look in the alleyway, you see Alim, despondent.
 


Alim:
 
 Spoiler 
You're too upset by the results of the vote to pay attention to your surroundings.
 


The stew that Badger and Naga eat is bad even for endcatch stew; the cart owner's obviously been cutting corners. Nevertheless, it's hot and doesn't smell spoiled, and it's something to fill one's stomach.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll be back in several hours, possibly moving things along then. I won't interrupt good roleplaying though.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "What a huge twist!" :smallsight: Artorias looks breifly at his companions to find them leaving,   I might as well do the same  . With those thoughts Artorias beginst to backtrack to his house.
Silverraptor
A movement of a shadow out of the corner of her eye caused Sora to turn around. As she peers down the alley, she see's a small creature curled down the alley. Her natural curiosity allowed her to take a few tentative steps. She lowered her head a little, tilting it slightly to the side.

 "Hello?" 
Devmaar
Looking up and the voice, Alim sees a young woman in armour. Stumbling to his feet, he stammers
 "Oh, oh yes. Sorry. I'm quite alright. No cause for alarm. 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rolled her eyes and immediately turned on her heel as the announcement was made. FINALLY! And all this standing around and waiting for absolutely nothing, THAT sure was a fun time now wasn't it!? With Elsee's thoughts littered with sarcasm on the situation, she was unable to notice her companions disappearing, previous members of the crowd passing around her as she begun the long treck back to the guild hall.

unfortunately it seemed some members of the crowd around her weren't of the friendliest sort, as Elsee quickly found herself snapped out of her thoughts as a palm struck her head and pushed her to the ground below. Elsee snarled feraly as the culprit walked away laughing. Gee, and now she had to put up with THIS fullship too.

 "Jerk " Elsee muttered under her breath as she picked herself up from the street.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
Yeah, it's Alim. And Sora just joined the mercenary group recently, right? I'll give you guys time to chat, don't worry.
 


As the man walks away laughing from Elsee, one of them blows a raspberry in her direction as she picks herself up.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee simply snarls at them again and shows off a lovely little hand-gesture traditionally used to insult people. If they do not respond in some way, she proceeds back to the guild hall, if they do respond, then she doesn't. Draconi just felt he had to make his post longer then one sentance.
Athedia
The Badger finished her food and set the bowl down for Naga to lick clean.  Once the dog was finished she started walking toward the guild, taking a longer route to avoid the angry crowds.   "I don't see their problem Naga.  Elsee and Alim haven't attempted to kill me yet, and Astrid knows they've had the chance."    She noticed her reflection in a window as she walked and paused to admire the henna swirled across her face.  She could apply the designs herself now, after the years of practice and never grew tired of looking at them.  Tearing her gaze from the window she continued back to the guild.
CoffeeIncluded
Eventually things calm down enough that the watch is able to disperse the crowd without too much fuss, and everyone returns to their homes. The group eventually meets up at the guild, which is buzzing with conversation, most of it surrounding the vote. The mercenary guild has a relatively high concentration of Plavaan, and you can see off in the distance a halfling trying to cheer up her decidedly grumpy half-orc friend.

When Sora goes to the head of the guild, a large severe-looking man with greying hair, he says,  "Yeah, your group? Right over there,"  before pointing to a young woman with a hound and henna tattoos, a large quiet-looking man, and two goblins--one male, one female. She recognizes the male goblin from the alleyway earlier that day.

At some point, after Sora makes her introductions and the group is the only one left in the main entranceway, they hear a knocking on the door.

 
 Spoiler 
You guys need a name.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "So you are Sora, welcome to the Guild, my name Is Artorias Kaathe a pleasure to meet you."  
 
 Spoiler 

I suck at naming things, so I'll leave the group's name to someone with more creativity.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee barely glances at the newer individual of the group, simply raising her hand palm-out for a seccond or two in greeting as her other hand as busy lifting a cup of fruit-juice to her mouth. As she lowered it again she swalled the drink down and and uttered her name before taking annother sip.

 "Elsee." 
 
 Spoiler 

Humgob group!
 
Athedia
The Badger smiled at the new arrival.   "You can call me Badger, that's what how everyone knows me.  You're not allergic are you?"  She gestured to the dog lying by her side.

 
 Spoiler 
No ideas as of yet.
 
Silverraptor
 Back in the alley 

The goblin hurried off, leaving Sora there looking puzzled. She turned to leave the alley and looked around. The lengths of the shadows caused her to look up at the sun, shielding her eyes with her hand.

 "Damn. Is it that late already? I wasn't able to shop at all!" 

Sad that her morning seemed to have been wasted, she started heading toward the guild. They told her that they wanted to see her there to have her meet the group.

 Present 

She nods at each of them as introductions are made.
Devmaar
 "Oh, hello again. Sorry about earlier, I let my emotions get the better of me. My name is Alim."  he seems a little embarassed

 
 Spoiler 
The Fighting Mongooses, that's a cool team name! 😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
The knocking continues, then pauses for a second as whomever is outside tests the door. Finding it unlocked, the unknown person opens the door. The five teammembers turn to see a young elf with pale green robes and jade green hair. He appraises them with his deep red eyes, and the snake coiled around his upper torso does so as well. The elf licks his lips, then says, confidently, but with a slight touch of nervousness, as though he's mentally rehearsed this several times,  "Hello, good sirs. I was told that this was the head of the city watch? My name is Jadeite Nocrius, and I am recent graduate of Almir's premier magic academy, specializing in necromancy. I was told that to further my studies, I would need to obtain a permit..."  Jadeite looks up and trails off, realizing that the people in front of him do not look like officers of Runite.

 
 Spoiler 
Someone decided to mess with the newcomer and gave him wrong directions. Do whatever you want. 😉
 
Athedia
 "You mess around with the dead?"   The Badger looked taken aback by this, and slightly nervous.  The dead were like the past, gone and buried.  Seeing the lost look on his face, she switched her attitude, he had probably been pranked by a "helpful" passerby.   "This is a mercenary guild, not the city watch.  I doubt they would take us." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Forgive me,"  Jadeite says with a bit of a bow, recovering quickly.  "I merely believed that your fine guild would be able to assist me in this request, as you are clearly much more essential for maintaining law and order than those officially given such duties. After all, the watch relies on you for anything more dangerous than a common pickpocketer." 
 
 Spoiler 
Bluff:  (d20+3)[ 14 ] 

Roll sense motive to counter. Nothing of consequence here, just fun stuff.
 


He frowns a bit.  "That's a rather crude way to put it. I assure you, my pursuits are wholly academic, and quite beneficial to the living. Unless you would rather I dissect live subjects?" 
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
Alim will react the same way whether he falls for the bluff or not, still, it may come up: Sense Motive  (1d20-2)[ 15 ] 

Edit: for the record, that should only have been -1
 

 "Oh, never mind the mistake. I can show you the way, if you don't mind I'd love to hear about your work. I am Alim, sadly a mostly theoretical student of the arcane."  on his way to shake hands with the wizard Alim stops and looks back,  "Erm, actually... after the unpleasantness earlier... would one of you humans mind accompanying us? I'd be much more comfortable." 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim:
 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite's a good bluffer, but he's clearly covering for his mistake in identifying the building.
 


Jadeite somehow shakes Alim's hand without kneeling, then asks,  "I did hear something of a commotion earlier?" 
Devmaar
 Yes yes. Political trouble. Are you familiar with the situation here? Anyway, it's all a little fresh in my mind. While normally I'd be keen to discuss politics with anyone willing to join me, I'd like to leave that aside for now. 
Dusk Eclipse
 "I'll go with you Alim'  Artorias stands from the table and offers a callused hand towards the elf  "Artorias Kaathe, at your service.  
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Local):  (d20+3)[ 15 ] 
 

 "I like to keep abreast of international affairs,"  Jadeite replies.  "Some sort of protracted debate over Plavaan citizenship, made even more prolonged thanks to the inherently quarrelsome nature of the Senate?"  He laughs a little bit.  "This would be the part where I offer you comfort and say that all species are alike on the inside...except that your skeletal structures are varied enough that anyone properly trained would be able to identify the skeleton's species at a mere glance. And I do consider myself properly trained." 

Without skipping a beat, Jadeite smiles as he shakes Artorias' hand.
Dusk Eclipse
O_0    " That is a morbid way of seeing things, anywaybyou were saying you were a Necromancy student right?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Not morbid so much as true,"  he says.  "but yes, I am a student of necromancy. I came to Runite as its labs would be best suited for my postgraduate research." 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge: (Arcana) or Knowledge: (Nobility/Royalty) to see why Jadeite just assumed he'd get a spot with no trouble whatsoever.

Are you guys enjoying yourselves? What do you think of Jadeite?
 
Devmaar
 "I really would be  fascinated  to discuss your studies. As long as you don't mind, of course. 
 
 Spoiler 
...
All that learning and I completely forgot the heal skill...
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Perhaps, I don't know much about graduate students, you see I am a humble mercenary; but I'm guessing you want to go to the Dean's office first.... unless you have already been there"  Artorias stops and scratches his chin seemingly lost in thought  "Errr I guess you should tell us in any case" 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim:

 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite Nocrius is a member of the Nocrius family, a long line of elven spellcasters dating back over a thousand years, known for their expertise in the school of necromancy. There are six other families, each of them specializing in a different school of magic. The Nocrius family helped create many of the necromancy spells currently known, and if elves had noble families, they would be one of them, along with the six other family lines.
 

 "As would I,"  Jadeite says.  "What theoretical magic are you currently researching?

"Tell you what?"  he asks the older man.  "The nature of my current studies?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Sorry, sometimes I tend to ramble, I meant you should tellmus exactly where you want to go, though learning about Undead would be interesing nevermind useful, creepy little buggers that just refuse to stay down..."  Artorias mumble the last part.


 
 Spoiler 
I am assuming that as mercenaries we have encountered simple undead such as skeletons or zombies in some prior missions
 
Devmaar
 "Ah, hm, I rather fear my forays into the magical arts would appear laughably basic to one of your background. It is barely more than 2 years since I managed  my first cantrip. Even now I struggle to do any more. One spell, no matter how simple, leaves me quite drained. I'm sure you'll be able to hold my interest much more than vice versa." 
 
 Spoiler 
It would not be entirely unfair to describe Alim as starstruck 😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "You have not had formal training?"  Jadeite asks.  "You seem intelligent enough, though first impressions are often wrong." 

He gives a little snort of derision at Artorias' statement.  "A waste of valuable specimens. I sincerely hope you have not too many perverters of my crafts." 
 
 Spoiler 
Yeah, but not too many. Also, Jadeite has...very little respect for cackling madman necromancers. I'll advance the plot in a little bit, I'm really enjoying this!

Alim should know that he's not exactly the perfect role model though. 😛
 
Devmaar
 Alas, such training is hard to come by for one of my... background. I am entirely self-taught. Well, in the magical part of my repertoire anyway. Thank you for the compliment though, my intellect is certainly my greatest asset, even if some do not recognise it. 
 
 Spoiler 
Wisdom penalty says it may take him a while to figure that out... and if there's one thing Alim is sure of, it's his own brain.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite is about to open his mouth and respond when the head of the guild approaches. He looks a bit out of breath, as if he's had to chase down every single team in the building--which he probably has, you realize as he speaks.

"Listen, I just got a call from the watch. They want us to help them out tonight, what with tensions running high and whatnot they're afraid of a riot, especially in this heat. A few more guys on staff might help keep things calm." He sighs. "Look, I'm sorry to ask, but do you think you all could keep an eye on the Bogs tonight? You've got two goblins; I think you'd be best able to talk down trouble before it really gets up."

He smiles a bit at Alim. "I'm sorry 'bout today, I truly am. If it makes you feel any better, we did get a few more to our side, and the others seemed closer...Another few years, and we'll see."

 
 Spoiler 
Everyone who lives in Runite--that is, everyone but Jadeite and Sora if she's not from here knows that the Bogs are the outskirts of the city, the slums where most of the Plavaan live.

Also, the head of the guild is on the Senate, and he did vote for Dierdre to be accepted (and therefore for Plavaan citizenship).
 
Devmaar
 "Sure, we can do that." 

Alim takes a deep breath. He seems emotional

 "And... thanks for trying." 
 
 Spoiler 
Do we still have time to show Jadeite his way before we have to work?
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rolls her eyes as she finishes her drink and slams the cup back onto the table, punching her chest with a fit to let out an elaborately loud belch. She'd been eyeing the elf silently since he walked in, she was never really the type for the magic-sorts, reminded her too much of her mother. Still, an Elf, pretty cute.

 "Well EYE thenk you should answer a quick question ferst boss. We keepin the city safe from the bogs, or the bogs safe from the city? Good ta know what to get ready for after all." 
CoffeeIncluded
The boss sighs. "I just want you to stop any trouble before it starts. I don't care if it's by talking or brawling, I just don't want any dead bodies tomorrow morning, and I don't give a gator's tooth if they're humanoid or Plavaan."
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rolls her eyes again, rubbing her tattooed forehead a bit as she spoke.

 huMAN boss, hu MAN. Plavaan are just as humanoid as you are, two arms and two legs yadda yadda. 
Athedia
The Badger rolled her eyes.   "Necro here could probably tell you what the difference is.  He apparently knows us inside out already.
   She ran her fingers over the hatchets on her sides, blades wrapped in a spell so they did no harm.  The quiver that held her other weapons and arrows was slung across her hip, a comforting weight.

 "So death boy, did you want to help.  We already are showing her the ropes."  The Badger gestured to Sora.

 
 Spoiler 
No offense at all the jabs at necromancy.  You know why she doesn't really like the idea of the dead coming back to life.  Or forensics for that matter...

And actually I am having some fun coming up with nicknames for him.
 
Silverraptor
As the elf talks about necromancy, the talk about everyone having the same skeleton sends a shiver down Sora's spine. She was quite happy to keep her skeleton in her skin, thank you very much.


When the guard comes in, Sora raises an eye in confusion and looks around.
 "Bogs?" 


She reacted to Badger, placing her hand on her hips.
 "Show me the ropes of what exactly?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by Silverraptor 
 As the elf talks about necromancy, the talk about everyone having the same skeleton sends a shiver down Sora's spine. She was quite happy to keep her skeleton in her skin, thank you very much.


When the guard comes in, Sora raises an eye in confusion and looks around.
 "Bogs?" 


She reacted to Badger, placing her hand on her hips.
 "Show me the ropes of what exactly?"  
 

 "The Outskirts, where most plavaan live" 
CoffeeIncluded
Anyone looking closely can see Jadeite's lips and eyes slightly narrow, in a cool voice, he airily replies,  "I assure you, my work is entirely legitimate. Though unfortunately while my knowledge of anatomy is quite broad, I am sadly not as knowledgeable on the...finer details of what makes a species different. Not yet, anyway."  The grin at the end of that is a little too toothy to be quite friendly.

 "And boy. I suppose I must be thankful to have maintained my youthful complexion well into what you humans would consider old age." 

The head of the guild demonstrates his toughness by remaining largely unfazed, telling the group, "Look, I don't want you walking into the Bogs after dark any more than you probably do, so I'd go if I were you. You too, necromancer! And next time, if you're going to sign up, submit an official request?"

Jadeite blinks.  "Wait, what?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Do you guys want me to push you out the door and into the streets now?
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "You heard the boss guys, let's go" As soon as the guildmaster tells them to go, Artorias walks towards the door, making sure to take his glaive from the weapon rack but when he hears him mentioning the Necro boy
 "You too elf" He takes the surprised Elf by the should and begins to drag him with him.

 
 Spoiler 
I am assuming no; but do the Bogs count as being inside the city fro the purpose of the non-lethal enforcement?

I hope you don't mind Jaedite being manhandled a bit; but the mental image is just too funny to not try 😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Wait, unhand me--!"  Jade struggles but is unable to break free of Artorias' grip.

The Bogs:

As the party leaves the city proper the air itself seems to get thicker as buildings are replaced by low-hanging trees. Paved cobblestone roads give way to dirt paths soggy with marsh water that squishes with every step. Mosquitoes buzz around the group and will only get worse as dusk falls; little shops take advantage and sell citronella sticks to anyone passing by. The area is stacked up on top of itself, and run down, the difference between here and the city center is start. This is where the poorest and Plavaan live, and often the terms are synonymous.

And yet, even here, there are pumps and wells that give clean water.

Dusk falls and the party encounters little trouble that threatens to escalate. However, as they pass a tavern, they hear shouting and loud noise inside...
Dusk Eclipse
 "Shut up! I'm trying to listen"  Artorias walks closer to the tavern and tries to hear what is going on in the tavern.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen Check  (1d20+6)[ 14 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
It's too loud for conversation, at least normal conversation, even with lots of people inside, and there's definitely a hostile tone to the shouts. Beyond that, it's hard to make out anything specific.
Silverraptor
Sora looks between Artorias and the tavern. While curious to whats going on, she doesn't say anything as per the order.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grunts as she looks around at the others, rolling her eyes again at their confusion.

 Et's just a bunch of Drow and Orcs and stuff being pissed off about the earlier drama. Do we  Really  need to go en there? 
Devmaar
 We should at least take a look  Alim is nervously touching his sling as he speaks
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grunted a bit in vague acknowledgement.

 Fiiine, but it'd probably be safer for just us goblins to go inside. The taller ones should probably either hide or bail so anyone else going in won't suspect the wrong intentions. 
Devmaar
 "Ok" 

Looking back at the others,  "We'll call if we need you" 
CoffeeIncluded
The bar quiets down as Alim and Elsee walk in, then resumes its loud volume once its patrons see that it's only two goblins. There's nearly twenty Plavaan in the bar, mostly orcs and goblins, though there are several hobgoblins, a few drow, and a couple half-orcs. Nearly half of them are leaning around the counter, downing beer and shouting at each other.

There's space for Alim and Elsee to sit by the counter, next to a hobgoblin and a half orc with tensing muscles, or they can sit at one of the two empty tables in the back. Regardless, they hear two groups of orcs hurl profanity-laden assessments of the day's vote back and forth.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee turned her attention to Alim and quirked an eyebrow as she rested a hand on her hip, a "well now what?" expression across her face.

 "Well? We're inside. What ded we learn from this?" 
Devmaar
Alim mutters his response, not wanting to be overheard

 "Well, it won't take much to set this lot off, but as long as no city-types show up it should be fine... 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee lowers her voice to keep herself from being heard by any but Alim.

 "You mean the city-types we just came here with? This thing is sounding more and more like a waste of time, boss probly just made things worse by sending us here." 
Devmaar
 "You might be right. Anyway, we probably won't find anywhere we're needed less than this lace. Best move on." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Rough day, huh?" the bartender, a gruff hobgoblin says to the two goblins. "Need a drink? Wouldn't give too many more, though, or--HEY! KNOCK IT OFF!" he shouts to the five orcs at the other end of the bar, who slammed their mug into table hard enough to crack the glass.

"Ha! Weak mug, weak like *hic!* yer beer!" one of them shouts. The others laugh after a moment.

"Betcha were crying into it, huh?"

"Pff!" a goblin snorts, sitting close to Alim and Elsee. "I saw ya earlier today! More snot than a baby!"

The large orc stands up and staggers over to the goblin, picking him up and pinning him against the wall. "Wanna go, bud?"
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grinned wickedly as the conflict in front of her sparked an idea in her tiny little mind, oh she'd solve the threat of riot alright. Out of the blue Elsee grabbed at Alim's shoulder and pulled her face close to his ear, whispering into it while doing her best to ensure it looked as tender as possible.

 Thenk they just gave me an idea, gemmie a minute here, might wanna get outta the way, tell the others not to worry, eye got thes. 

Without waiting for a response Elsee hoped down from her stool and scampered over to the end of the bar the angry Orc had originated from, scanning the remaining four for the drunkest one she could find. Once she found her target, she scanned the rest of the building, her eyes lighting up and a toothy grin crossing her face as she eyed a male Drow speaking to two others at a table not too far away. Elsee put on her best "scared/worried" face and tugged on the Orc's pant leg, pointing to the Drow she had spotted earlier.

 "Oe ded you hear that!? That guy just said he didn't want our gerl as a senator anyway! Can you beleive that!?" 

Elsee's heart raced in her chest as adreniline filled her blood, if this worked, she'd get the Plavaan fighting amongst themselves and wearing themselves out too much to riot. if it didn't... this was a pretty big Orc.
Devmaar
Following Elsee's warning Alim hurries outside and back to the others.

 "Elsee says she's got an idea and we shouldn't worry. I don't know about you, but I'm pretty worried." 
Athedia
The Badger knelt down outside the tavern.  With a quick order Naga stood guard near her as she pulled her bow out of the quiver and strung it.  Anyone watching would see the bow, a good double the quivers size, slide smoothly out of one of the three slots on top.  Checking the tension she pulled an arrow out and adjusted the arrow on the top.

 "Necro boy, you good at a distance or up close?  Sora, Art. Stand by for any fliers, I don't think those two will manage to stop this bar from going mad." 

At Alim's arrival the Badger gritted her teeth.  Elsee and her ideas had saved them before, but had also landed them in hot water.   "Thanks, get ready." 
CoffeeIncluded
"WHAT?!"  the orc roars in Elsee's face before turning around and stomping off, rage building as he approaches the drow. The hapless youth turns around to see a ferocious snarling drunken orc fall into a frenzy...

Outside:

Artorias, Badger, Sora, and Jadeite are interrupted by a loud crash of shattering glass as a young drow is hurled through the window and onto the ground outside. A bellowing roar is heard from within the tavern, as outside the drow weakly groans.

 
 Spoiler 
Orc's raging. Congrats, you pissed off a barbarian. :smallwink
 
Draconi Redfir
 "And that es my cue to ditch this Popsicle stand." 

Sure enough Elsee booked it out of the bar as fast as her little legs could carry her, all the while cupping her hands to her mouth and shouting  "HE'S OUT OF CONTROL! GET HEM!" 


Once outside, Elsee looks at the Drow on the ground, then to her party, with a grin she gives a double thumbs-up and speaks in a more casual tone.

 "That outta keep 'em occupied! Riot averted!... Better run now!" 
Athedia
The Badger shouted over the roar of the tavern.   "It isn't averted!  It just got started.  That orc could really hurt those people, even kill them."   She narrowed her eyes and took aim through the broken window.  As she did so she tried to note if the fallen drow needed medical attention.
CoffeeIncluded
Initiative:

 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite:  (d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Artorias:  (d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Sora:  (d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Badger:  (d20+3)[ 9 ] 
Elsee:  (d20+4)[ 24 ] 
Alim:  (d20+3)[ 20 ] 
Orcs:  (d20)[ 19 ] 
Hobgoblins:  (d20+1)[ 5 ] 
Goblins:  (d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Drow: 20

Block:
Elsee
Alim and Artorias
Orcs, goblins, and drow
Sora and Jadeite
Badger
Hobgoblins
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rolled her eyes again and put both hands on her hips as she tilted her head in a "Really?" expression.

 "Ya don't get et do ya? Boss wanted us to stop a riot goin against the you-types, so i got 'em fightin amongst themselves! Put the dang bow down and don't give 'em a target! They gotta rage to let 'em rage! at least here they'd be doin it to themselves and getting too beat up to attack the city!" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Really?"  Jadeite asks as he casts a shimmering armor over his robes with a few swift gestures.  "And if their rage spills out of this bar, or if somebody dies? Congratulations, you have turned a spat into a fight. Now I feel we must intervene." 
 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite casts mage armor, still has a move action left. We're on pre-initiative here, assume the fight in the bar is still going and initiative only matters once we wade in.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "For the love of... " Artoria resist the urge to facepalm, he quickly enters the tavern to see what in the 9 hells happened and when he sees the raging orc ,  "Bullcrap" "Wth one swift movement he removes a little leather bag from his sash  "Hope this works"  he mutters to himself as he throws the bag at the orc.

 
 Spoiler 

Edit: It seems I misunderstood the situation I though the orc was alo outside, in any case instead I move into the tavern before throwing the tanglefoot bag.
This is on my turn, I take the Tanglefoot bag as a free action (Quick Draw) and use a standard action to throw it at the orc, depening on what happens I may or not may take my move action.
Range Touch Attack  (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
 
 Spoiler 
Tanglefoot Bag
When you throw a tanglefoot bag at a creature (as a ranged touch attack with a range increment of 10 feet), the bag comes apart and the goo bursts out, entangling the target and then becoming tough and resilient upon exposure to air. An entangled creature takes a -2 penalty on attack rolls and a -4 penalty to Dexterity and must make a DC 15 Reflex save or be glued to the floor, unable to move. Even on a successful save, it can move only at half speed. Huge or larger creatures are unaffected by a tanglefoot bag. A flying creature is not stuck to the floor, but it must make a DC 15 Reflex save or be unable to fly (assuming it uses its wings to fly) and fall to the ground. A tanglefoot bag does not function underwater.

A creature that is glued to the floor (or unable to fly) can break free by making a DC 17 Strength check or by dealing 15 points of damage to the goo with a slashing weapon. A creature trying to scrape goo off itself, or another creature assisting, does not need to make an attack roll; hitting the goo is automatic, after which the creature that hit makes a damage roll to see how much of the goo was scraped off. Once free, the creature can move (including flying) at half speed. A character capable of spellcasting who is bound by the goo must make a DC 15 Concentration check to cast a spell. The goo becomes brittle and fragile after 2d4 rounds, cracking apart and losing its effectiveness. An application of universal solvent to a stuck creature dissolves the alchemical goo immediately.
 

 
CoffeeIncluded
The raging orc barely has time to turn around before the bag splatters all over him.

 
 Spoiler 
Reflex:  (d20+1)[ 4 ] 
 


He's taken by surprise and stuck fast. The bar goes dead silent at Artorias' arrival. Still raging, the orcish barbarian shouts, "GET HIM!!!" as his three friends pick up their chairs and rush Artorias...
Draconi Redfir
Elsee snorts and crosses her arms over her gut, one hand cautiosly gripping the hilt of a kurkri as she glances through the window of the bar.

 "They won't die unless you go en there, they're all probably too drunk or stupid to wield a weapon -which the probably don't even have- properly for one thing, and even ef they DO manage to off someone, so what? Maybe they'll realize getting pissed off that some check didn't get to dit in a fancy chair is freaking stupid." 
Athedia
The Badger grumbled but sheathed her bow and arrow.  In their place she hefted one of the small axes that where sheathed on her hips.   "Doesn't matter if they fight us, as long as no-one gets badly hurt." 
 
 Spoiler 
Will edit once I know what my heal came up with.
 
Silverraptor
After everything that happened, Sora is panicking. She seems to be jumping on the tips of her toes and her voice has raised in both volume and pitch.
 "Oh Goddess! Oh Goddess! Oh Goddess!" 

Her instincts finally kicked in and she rushed over to the drow that was unconscious on the road. She placed her left hand over the amulet of Astrid around her neck and her right arm over the Drow's forehead. In her mind, she focused on the magic prepared by her goddess. Finally, taking the charge of Detect Magic, she converted it in her mind as the spell began to come forth from her amulet and spread down her arm.
 "Cure Minor Wound!" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Bullcrap"  Artorias draws his Glaive (free action) and prepares himself.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll just take another free action to have the glaive out, which gives me a 10 ft. threatend space so each Barbarian will take a AoO to the face if they come 10 ft neat me (and I have 3 AoO per roun thanks to Combat reflexes)
 
Athedia
 "Girl have you never been in a fight?  Don't heal until after the battle, he just needed to walk it off."   The Badger took a deep breath and prepared to wade into bar.
Draconi Redfir
 "Yeaahhh you guys go right on in there with yer pink skin and flat teeth. Sure that'll work out swell for ya. Have fun with that!" 
CoffeeIncluded
The drow groans and rubs his temples, then sits up straight. "Crap! My friends are still inside!"

Inside the bar:

The three orcs pick up their stools and rush Artorias, eager for a fight. One of them, easily works himself into a frenzy. They swing the bar stools at Artorias...

 
 Spoiler 
Three orcs attack, one of them rages. Artorias gets AoOs against them all.

Orc 1:
 Attack:  (d20+4)[ 15 ]   17
Crit confirm:  (d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+4)[ 10 ]  NONLETHAL

Orc 2:   (d20+6)[ 11 ]   13
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+7)[ 12 ]  NONLETHAL

Orc 3:   (d20+4)[ 16 ]   18
Crit confirm:  (d20+4)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+4)[ 10 ]  NONLETHAL
 


The most ferocious orc in the middle whiffs, but the two on either side of him smash Artorias over his shoulders--he can already feel the bruises welling up as he readies a counterattack...
Draconi Redfir
Elsee draws her weapons but otherwise skips her turn, busy trying to convince everyone that doing anything other then going home is a stupid idea.
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias twirls his glaive in the air trying to strike the orcs before he is swarmed. Despite his best efforts he is still bit by two of them.

 
 Spoiler 

Attack of Opportunity
Vs Orc 4  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
crit confirmation  (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
damage  (1d10+4)[ 12 ]  NON-LETHAL

Vs Orc 3  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
crit confirmation  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
damage  (1d10+4)[ 10 ]  NON-LETHAL

Vs Orc 2  (1d20+6)[ 20 ] 
crit confirmation  (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
damage  (1d10+4)[ 7 ]  NON-LETHAL
 
CoffeeIncluded
The orcs are bruised but still standing, laughing as Artorias fights them. There's a desire to fight, and anger, but no blinding homicidal rage.

 
 Spoiler 
Goblins and drow once Alim goes.
 
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
Where's the door on the map?
 


If he can Alim will move to flank one of the orcs fighting Artorias and strike with his longsword
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 3 ]  non-lethal
 


If he can't do that, Alim will move to the doorway and ready to throw a tanglefoot bag at the orc that is not currently in the fight, if he moves towards it
 
 Spoiler 
Attack(not adjusted for range): (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias runs into the bar to see it quickly devolving into complete chaos. He rashes forward and smacks the nearest orc, wielding a barstool, around the knees.
CoffeeIncluded
The rest of the tavern quickly follows suit. Two goblins, barely out of adolescence, climb onto the countertop and begin gleefully throwing mugs around at random, shouting, "Yeeaaaahhh!!! Bar fight! Bar fight!

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20)[ 15 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (d4)[ 3 ]  NONLETHAL

Attack:  (d20)[ 4 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (d4)[ 1 ]  NONLETHAL
 


One mug smashes against the wall, but the other whacks a hobgoblin on the back of the head. He stands up, whirls around, and shouts, "WHO DID THAT?!"

Meanwhile, the two drow attack the orc who threw their friend out the window. One tries to punch him in the face, while the other launches an enchantment at the brute.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20-3)[ 16 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20-3)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (d3)[ 1 ]  NONLETHAL

Will save DC 13 against sleep:  (d20+1)[ 3 ] 
 


The first drow leaves the orc with a black eye, and less than a second later the other drow's enchantment takes hold, knocking him out for several minutes.

One goblin, seeing another of his kind aid Artorias, snarls and rushes the group, followed by his two friends.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite strides in, and is momentarily taken aback by the mad brawl that has engulfed the tavern. Standing by the doorway, just out of range of the orcs and their barstools, he calls out,  "Really now, must you be so uncouth? I think you need to learn a lesson, calm down, and  sit down. " 

With his last few words, a thin, sickly-looking ray springs from the elf's hands towards the orcs.

 
 Spoiler 
Ray of Enfeeblement.
Ranged touch:  (d20-1)[ 12 ] 
Strength damage:  (d6+2)[ 4 ] 
 


It strikes the biggest, raging orc right in the arms, which sag under the newly noticed weight of the stool. However, he's still able to lift and swing it, albeit with less finesse than before.

Jadeite smiles a little at his spell's success.  "Heh." 

The bartender, a half-hobgoblin, ducks and hides underneath the counter.
Silverraptor
Upon seeing Artorias take the hits that he did, Sora rushes up to him. Keeping an eye on the Orcs, she places a hand on the amulet and reaches out, converting the summon monster level 2 spell.

 
 Spoiler 
 Defensive Casting:   (1d20+7)[ 15 ] 
 Heal Amount:   (2d8+3)[ 10 ] 
 
Athedia
The Badger ran to the door, Alim and Sora beating her to the entrance.  Luckily she could aim above Alim, and she threw her axe and the first orc in her sights.

 "Stop brawling!" 
 
 Spoiler 

Move to E8 attack O4
Attack  (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Crit  (1d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Damage  (1d6)[ 5 ] 

Intimidate  (1d20+1)[ 21 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
As Sora goes to heal Artorias, the two orcs flanking him swing their stools at her head...her spell fizzles as she fails to maintain concentration, though she avoids their blows.

 
 Spoiler 
Oof, sorry, just missed the concentration check by 2.

 Orcs' AoOs against Sora...If they're not supposed to do this, just tell me.

Attack:  (d20+2)[ 18 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+4)[ 11 ] 

Attack:  (d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+4)[ 11 ]  
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger's axe smashes against the orc closest to Alim, knocking him out cold. The other two stop a moment, turning to look at the girl who just made such an entrance.

 
 Spoiler 
Opposed Intimidate checks:

O2:  (d20+3)[ 11 ] 
O3:  (d20+4)[ 23 ] 
 


The smaller orc quails at the sight of the Badger, but the larger, raging one merely laughs.
CoffeeIncluded
Hobgoblins:

The hobgoblin who received a mug to the head wordlessly walks over to the goblin who did that and punches him hard in the face. His action is then repeated by both of his friends, though both miss.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+1)[ 21 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+1)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (d3+1)[ 3 ]  (6 damage on the crit)

Attack:  (d20-1)[ 1 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20-1)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (d3+1)[ 4 ] 

Attack:  (d20-1)[ 12 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20-1)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (d3+1)[ 4 ] 
 


"OI!" Seeing the three hobgoblins attack their goblin friends, the hobgoblin, orc, and half-orc join the fray, though only the hobgoblin is fast enough to tackle one of the hobgoblins at the moment, boxing him around both ears.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20)[ 14 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20)[ 1 ] 
Damage:  (d3+1)[ 4 ] 

Alim, Artorias, and Elsee are up.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 

I'll wait to see the result before writing a description

Move action: Tumble check to move to I7 DC 17
 (1d20+11)[ 15 ] 
Standard Action: Initiate Steel Wind maneuver power attacking for 1

Orc 2  (1d20+5)[ 20 ] 
crit confirmation  (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
damage  (1d10+6)[ 15 ] 

Orc 3   (1d20+5)[ 25 ] 
crit confirmation  (1d20+5)[ 14 ] 
damage  (1d10+6)[ 12 ] 
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee just facepalmed and slumped herself against the outside wall of the bar. shouting out to the Badger as the human ran over to the door.

 "That would probably be a lot easier if you quit giving them a reason to attack YOU ya'know!" 
She muttered something about the Plavaan being pissed off at the paleskins even BEFORE she walked into the bar under her breath as she played with one of her kurkri in the dirt, trying both to avoid being seen with the city-folk and at the same time listen for any signs of these "total strangers" needing her help.

 
 Spoiler 

Hide: (d20+)[ 21 ]
Listen: (d20+0)[ 2 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias manages to evade the first, but gets in the way of the second...


 
 Spoiler 
AoO:  (d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (2d4+4)[ 9 ] 
 


Still, he manages to easily duck under the raging orc's barstool. With a sweep of his weapon, he knocks both orcs off their feet and to the ground, where they lie groaning in submission.

Elesee:

There's so much shouting and noise of fighting coming from the bar that the goblin is unable to discern anything specific at all.
Dusk Eclipse
Rolling between the orcs Artorias whips his glaive getting both of the in a single slas of his weapon.

Edit:  "Who's next?"  Artorias pants as he assumes another ready stance, everything hurts; but he still readies his weapon.
 
 Spoiler 
Do anybo the crits comfirm? If so they take the damage times 3
 
CoffeeIncluded
The raging orc hits the ground hard, barely managing to groan, "Fight good...for flattooth..." before falling unconscious from a combination of alcohol and Artorias' mighty blow.

 
 Spoiler 
Let me put it this way: If you were hitting for lethal you would have probably decapitated that orc. So yes, that crit hit. Good thing too, since he'd still be up otherwise! As for damage, which is unnecessary, but always nice to see..

 (d10+6)[ 12 ] 
 (d10+6)[ 15 ] 

Anyway, Alim's up, then the goblins, drow, and orcs. The ones left, anyway.
 
Devmaar
Alim falls back to the wall, sheathing his longsword and taking out his sling.
 "As long as none of them is armed, this should be fine" 
 
 Spoiler 
Looking for weapons, Spot,  (1d20-1)[ 18 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim:

 
 Spoiler 
I already rolled spot for you, but good initiative. I won't be able to post for an hour after this, but...You see that at least one goblin has pulled a knife.
 
Devmaar
 "There's a knife! Get in there!" 
Alim points towards the melee of goblins, hobgoblins etc. before taking a shot at the armed goblin
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
And then I remembered you can't edit in rolls...

Attack:  (1d20+8)[ 9 ] 
Damage(spending 1 inspiration to add my int)  (1d3+5)[ 7 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The stone soars over the goblin's head and into the far window, cracking it. One of the goblins hisses, "Traitor!" in their native tongue before charging Alim, looking to strike with his sharp dagger.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+9)[ 16 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+9)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (d3)[ 3 ]  LETHAL
 


The goblin swipes viciously at Alim, but misses.

Artorias turns around to see two goblins rushing him, and though one of them only moves to strike with a half-empty mug of beer, the other one has pulled a knife...

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 4 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+3)[ 6 ] 
Damage:  (d4)[ 2 ]  NONLETHAL[roll]

Attack:  (d20+11)[ 29 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+11)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (d3)[ 1 ]  plus Sneak Attack:  (2d6)[ 10 ]  LETHAL
 


The goblin attacking Artorias with the mug only catches empty air, but the goblin with the dagger plunges it deep into the mercenary's side, right where a deep bruise from an orc's barstool is welling up. Much more blood than one would expect from the cut spills out, and Artorias collapses.

The bar goes silent. The two drow try to jump out the broken window where their friend was thrown.

 
 Spoiler 
If I'm reading the nonlethal damage rules right, then this is the only "true" damage Artorias has taken. Since his current HP total is now less than the amount of nonlethal damage he's taken, Artorias is unconscious, but still technically in positive hit points.

Also, I'll be back in a couple hours.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 
Don't I get AoO when they come near me?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
You're right, sorry. I had to run to class and I was in a bit of a rush.

Dagger goblin (G3) Tumble:  (d20+11)[ 25 ] 
Mug goblin (g4) Tumble:  (d20+3)[ 15 ] 

They both made it, so you don't get any AoOs against them. Sorry, Dusk.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 
No problem, it happens.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Outside:
 
Elsee's outside the bar, and she can't hear anything specific. But she does hear the bar go suddenly quiet, and a few seconds later sees two drow leap out the broken window, scraping themselves against the broken glass, pick up their semi-conscious friend, and run away.

 Inside:  

Jadeite's eyes widen as he sees Artorias go down--though he's worked with several bodies in the past, and has participated in friendly mage duels, he's never been in an out-and-out fight like this. Hemlock, coiled around his shoulders hisses as the elf says,  "You brought this upon yourself,"  as he strides over to the goblin that stabbed Artorias and strikes him with two orbs at point-blank range.

 
 Spoiler 
Magic Missile damage:  (d4+1)[ 4 ]   (d4+1)[ 2 ]  LETHAL.

Sora and Badger are up. Artorias is unconscious at 10 HP and 20 nonlethal damage (which is why he's unconscious).

Okay, now that this goblin's dealt lethal damage to a character, you're going to officially get in less trouble if you deal lethal damage to him. Though if you actually kill him...Well, I'll leave that for you to decide if it's a good idea or not. 😉
 
Athedia
As the Badger saw Artorias fall she sprang into action.   "Back off"  She drew her bow and shot  at the goblin that had attacked her comrade, making sure that her enchantment was still active.

 
 Spoiler 
Staying in position.  Drawing bow (move action) and firing at G3, cant tell if it is in combat, make the necessary deduction if so.

Attack  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
Crit  (1d20+7)[ 8 ]  x3 if confirmed
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 

Would an intimidate roll against the goblins be possible?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger's arrow clips the goblin's ear, and he looks up to snarl at her. Meanwhile, everyone else runs for the back door.

 
 Spoiler 
Yeah, Artorias is unconscious and helpless, so you don't have the -4 ranged penalty. Sorry about the confusion. And yes, you can make an intimidate check.
 
Athedia
 "Get down or the next one is in you."   The Badger still hoped to end the fight with little use of her weapons.

 
 Spoiler 
Intimidate  (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
All three goblins glance at Badger...

 
 Spoiler 
Opposed intimidate:   (d20+4)[ 8 ]  4
Opposed intimidate:   (d20+4)[ 7 ]  3
Opposed intimidate:   (d20+4)[ 6 ]  2 (forgot about size penalties, sorry.)

All three are shaken next round.
 


As realization of what the goblins have done begins to penetrate their angry drunken minds, they begin shaking from fear of retribution and having bitten off more than they can chew.
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias lies on the tavern's floor groaning softly.
CoffeeIncluded
Sora:

 "Artorias!"  Sora shouts, running up to him and channeling a healing spell into him, leaving herself open to attack. The drunken goblin with the mug again misses, but the one with the dagger cuts a deep slash along her arm.

 
 Spoiler 
Drop Summon Monster 2 for CMW
Healing:  (2d8+3)[ 13 ] 

Dagger goblin's AoO hit for 3 LETHAL damage. Check the dice roll test thread.
 


Hobgoblins:

Seeing the bar fight escalate to this, they run out the back door.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee's ears perked up as she heard the bar go silent, followed by the sounds of heavy footsteps moving away from her. Curious, Elsee silently hugged the wall of the bar and made her way to the broken window her victim-Drow had created just a few moments ago, Peering inside silently to see what was going on.

 
 Spoiler 

Move silently: (d20+9)[ 27 ]
Spot: (d20+2)[ 19 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee sees Artorias pull himself up from the floor, and sees Sora bleeding from a knife wound on her arm as Alim fends off a second goblin with a dagger.
Devmaar
Finding himself in melee again Alim redraws his sword and swings at the other goblin
 
 Spoiler 
Attack  (1d20+4)[ 8 ] 
Damage  (1d6+5)[ 10 ]  spending inspiration for int to damage
 
Dusk Eclipse
Moving carefully without exposing himself,  Artorias reposition himself and attacks the Goblin with the Knife at the same time he says some very unflattering thing about his mother in goblinoid, trying to get him to completely focus on him

 
 Spoiler 

Artorias makes a 5 ft. step to G6 and initiates the  Douse the Flames maneuver , which means that if I hit, the Goblin can't make more AoO for this round

And yes Artorias knows how to speak goblin 😛

Attack  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Crit Confirmation [roll[1d20+6[/roll]
Damage (1d10+4)[ 7 ]  NON-Lethal
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cautious and wary of the sharp, lethal blade, Alim fails to put his full power into the hit; it falls short of the drunken goblin, who just laughs.

Artorias, on the other hand, whacks the goblin who stabbed him hard over his head. He staggers, but is still conscious...And even angrier at the human for the things he said.

 
 Spoiler 
You can't move to G6 with a 5 foot step, sorry. Where do you want to move? I'll keep the hit.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The goblins move away from Artorias and his threatening blade, seeking to attack the traitor to their kind and the elf who moves like a snake.

 
 Spoiler 
G4 tumbles, attacks Alim

Tumble:  (d20+1)[ 14 ] 
Attack (d20+1)[ 7 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+1)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (d4)[ 1 ]  NONLETHAL

G5 5-foot steps, attacks Alim

Attack:  (d20+7)[ 12 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+7)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (d3)[ 1 ]  plus Sneak Attack:  (2d6)[ 7 ]  LETHAL

G3 tumbles, attacks Jadeite
Tumble:  (d20+9)[ 11 ] 
Attack:  (d20+7)[ 26 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+7)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (d3)[ 2 ]  plus Sneak Attack:  (2d6)[ 10 ]  LETHAL
 


The drunken goblin overshoots, and stabs the wall above Alim's head.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Showing me your backs? I thought Goblins were smarter than that!"  Artorias Glaive whips out like snake seeking to strike the goblins when their backs are turned.

 
 Spoiler 

vs. Goblin 3  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
Crit Confirmation (1d20+6)[ 23 ] 
Damage  (1d10+4)[ 6 ]  NON-LETHAL

vs. Goblin 4  (1d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Crit Confirmation (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Damage  (1d10+4)[ 13 ]  NON-LETHAL
 
CoffeeIncluded
The goblin chasing down Alim is sent flying a few feet, but manages to right himself, though he's unable to use the momentum to land a blow.

The one attacking Jadeite, however, manages to just duck under Artorias' glaive. He springs up, and plunges his dagger into the elf's stomach; Jadeite can't help but let out a sharp agonized gasp.

  "!!!"  

It hurts, a sick blinding pain, possibly more than Jadeite's ever felt in his long life.

 
 Spoiler 
Missed the AC by one, thanks to his small size. Jadeite's at 3 HP.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I shall not die in a filthy tavern,"  Jadeite says through gritted teeth. He summons the strength to step before the goblin, trapping the creature between himself and the wall. He raises up one hand, wreathed in a pale green at the base, bursting with color at the slim fingertips.  "But I cannot say the same for you. Say goodnight!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Color spray  (No AoO, thanks to Artorias):

Will save DC 14:  (d20-2)[ 5 ] 

Blinded and stunned for 4 rounds, then stunned for one.
 


The force of Jadeite's blow knocks the goblin back against the wall, stunning and blinding him. Though he's too strong to be knocked out proper, he's effectively out of the fight.

His snake hisses, and Jade touches the viper's head with one hand while clutching his would with the other. He says,  "I would like to as well, Hemlock, but he is quite incapacitated, and I fear killing him would cause unnecessary trouble." 
Athedia
Seeing that some, but not all of those involved had decided to flee the Badger took a short step back and quickly let two arrows fly toward the goblin threatening Alim.

 
 Spoiler 
Point Blank Shot AND Rapid Shot 😁 GLR (Gotta Love Rangers)

5-foot step to E7 (shouldn't provoke AOO)
Attacking G5, NONLETHAL

Shot 1:
Attack  (1d20+6)[ 13 ] 
Crit  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 

Shot 2:
Attack  (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
Crit  (1d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The first arrow misses, but Badger's second hits hard in the goblin's arm. It would have left a deep gash if not for the enchantment, but the drunken goblin's still standing and flailing his mug, long since emptied of beer.
CoffeeIncluded
Seeing Jadeite so badly hurt, Sora channels a quick healing spell into the elf.

 
 Spoiler 
Dropping Summon Monster 1 for CLW:

 (d8+3)[ 5 ] 

Sorry Silverraptor, but I've got to keep the game moving. Elsee, Alim, and Artorias are up.
 


It still hurts, but the pain isn't so blinding and sickening anymore.  "Thank you,"  Jadeite says.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Thank you, but you needn't have,"  Jade says mildly as Artorias leaps from behind to whack the blinded and stunned goblin over the head, knocking him unconscious.

 
 Spoiler 
Wrong thread, Artorias. That's okay though.
 
Draconi Redfir
From her position at the broken window Elsee was able to watch everything that was going on, well at least everyone was making a run for it, but surprise-surprise the pissed off goblins had started trying to kill the paleskins that burst in armed and ready at the front door. She was almost tempted to cheer for her brother goblinoids but quickly decided against it, instead sinking down out of sight, Alim ruined his reputation among the Plavaan by showing he was working with the humans who attacked the bar, no way was she doing the same, they'd need some Plavaan on the inside after this whole mess after all.


 
 Spoiler 

Hide: (d20+9)[ 19 ]
 
Devmaar
Alim takes another swing at his foe
 
 Spoiler 
Attack  (1d20+4)[ 24 ] 
Damage (1d6+5)[ 11 ]  spending my last point of inspiration...
 
CoffeeIncluded
Everybody is too focused on the fight to see Elsee.

Alim's luck finally takes a turn for the better. Spotting an opening, the goblin swings his blade in an arc and finally strikes home. The blow would have cleaved his foe open if not for the enchantment, but instead it just lays him out flat.

As Alim puts his whole body weight into the blow, the goblin behind him tries whacking him with his mug yet another time, and yet again misses.

 
 Spoiler 

Attack:  (d20-1)[ 10 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20-1)[ 4 ] 
Damage:  (d4)[ 3 ]  NONLETHAL

Very nice hit, Devmaar.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I thought I told you to sit down, have a drink. Preferably water. Aren't you thirsty?"  Jadeite asks, suddenly appearing behind the drunken goblin with the mug before reaching to slam his hand on the goblin's shoulder, with a bit too much force for it to be friendly...

 
 Spoiler 
Cast Parching Touch

Touch AC:  (d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (d6)[ 3 ] 
Fort save or take 1 con damage+fatigue (DC 15):  (d20+2)[ 19 ] 
 


But just before Jadeite's spell can connect, the goblin stumbles forward; the spell hits empty air, which becomes drier to the touch. The elf frowns, and possibly mutters something under his breath.

 
 Spoiler 
Damn, just missed. Okay, Athedia, Badger's up and it's up to you to finish this combat this round! Silverraptor, Sora's up too!
 
Athedia
The Badger had already drawn another arrow and loaded her bow as she spun to scan the room for any remaining combatants.  Raising her eyebrow at the one before her she gave a small smile, and aimed at the goblins foot.

 
 Spoiler 
Point Blank Shot
Attacking G4

Attack  (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 
Crit  (1d20+8)[ 21 ] 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
 

 "Sorry Barkeep.  I believe that this would be our guildmates.  She is well intentioned, but unknowing of city life. I am sure our guild will pay the damages we have caused."   Naga came trotting in from outside where she had been watching the people fleeing the bar.  The Badger looked around, spotting the goblin who had actually injured Artorias.  She pointed to him  "He used lethal force within the city limits, against the laws which are set forth." 
CoffeeIncluded
The goblin is no match for Badger...

After the fight ends, the bartender, a half-hobgoblin with messy brown hair, shakily gets up from where he was hiding. "T-Thank you," he says, though his eyes narrow when Badger claims responsibility. "I'll be by tomorrow." He walks over and nudges the unconscious goblin with his foot. "He and his pal have been causing me trouble for some time. Frankly this was happening sooner or later."

 "His accomplice was lethally armed as well,"  Jadeite hisses, trying to hold in the bleeding wound in his belly. He looks as though he has a lot to say, but would rather do it in private.
Silverraptor
Sora is a little shaken up, but grateful the fight is over. She takes a look around to see who is the most hurt. As she spots Jadeit, she walks over and converts Bless into a Cure Light Wounds.

 (1d8+3)[ 4 ] 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Much appreciated,"  Jadeite says as his wound knits together a bit more. He pulls up the unconscious goblin who stabbed him with some effort, and asks the others,  "What are we legally allowed to do with these miscreants?" 
Athedia
The Badger walked around checking on the other fallen fighters, making sure that their injuries were not going to harm them in the long run, before picking up the other goblin.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal checks for flavor
 (1d20+4)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 12 ] 
 (1d20+4)[ 11 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger:

 
 Spoiler 
Most of them look like they're going to be fine.
 
Athedia
 "We bring them to the watch.  You come with, Art can too if he wants.  The blood will help as proof."   The Badger hoped she would not have to mention that they had technically incited the fight, things like this had happened before and people knew to keep quiet.  She slid her bow back in into the quiver, watching as it disappeared into an impossible space and recollected her arrows and axe, putting them back in their places as well.   "Let's head out, but be fast the Plavaan never like to see us carry their friends to the watch." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite nods. Once the barkeeper is out of earshot, he asks the group, disbelief clear in his voice.  "This is what you do? Risk your life on petty squabbles?" 
Athedia
The Badger shrugged, as best she could with the goblin in her arms.   "Whatever the guild asks.  Catch runners, stop fights, guard those that pay.  I don't plan to die soon, I have survived to much." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I sincerely hope you receive proper compensation,"  Jadeite mutters, still shaking his head.  "The average stipend is difficult enough to live on as it is, were I risking my life for the same pittance I would likely revolt." 

He chuckles a bit at Badger's second statement.  "A true enough sentiment, and one most share. And yet, would you like to know how many bodies I have seen my department receive, bodies not much older than you or I? ...At least, in terms of relative lifespan and not actual years lived,"  the elf amends.
Athedia
 "The pay is just a bonus for me.  I would do this without it."   She looked to the newest member of the group.   "Sora, where are you from?  You were fast back there." 
CoffeeIncluded
After a moment, the other thing that Badger said registers in Jadeite's mind. Admittedly, the pain of being stabbed is rather distracting. He turns to Elsee, his face having gone frighteningly dark, and says in a low clipped voice,  "You started this?"  The viper coiled around him has a similar expression.
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
  "The pay is just a bonus for me.  I would do this without it."   She looked to the newest member of the group.   "Sora, where are you from?  You were fast back there."  
 

 "Oh, uh... I-I'm from Kytos."  She focuses and converts light to cure minor wounds on herself.  "And I just don't like people hurt." 

But as the truth comes out on who started the fight, she turns to look with a shocked expression.

 "What?! Why would you do such a thing?! Look at how many people got hurt! People could have died!" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee sneered and rolled her eyes at the violent accusations of the two newbies, letting out a low hiss in frustration.

 “Eye could very well ask the whole lot of you the very same question! What the hell were YOU thenking!? Bursting in there armed to the teeth at a time like THIS!? Are you  INSANE !? It's no wonder the goblins pulled knives on you! Maybe if you had taken some time to actually stop and think about it then you would have realized what was going on!” 

Elsee tensed up as she spoke, raising her voice any time one of the group attempted to interrupt.

 “Thenk about et will ya! The one thing the Plavaan hate right now more then anything is YOU lot! Not just you as a group, but every stinkin person in this city with pale skin and flat teeth! They're pissed off at you because you didn't let their stupid Drow into your stupid Government, and just as their rage is at it's peak, you decide it's a great idea to burst violently into a bar weapons drawn and start attacking people!? What the hell did you  THENK  was going to happen!?” 

Elsee slapped her head with her hand in a “Duh!” fashion, continuing her rant immediately afterwords.

 “Ef you had all just LISTENED to me and gone AWAY from this mess then this whole thing could have been avoided! I was defusing the problem by setting up Plavaan against Plavaan! They needed to rage and they were going to rage no matter what happened! Eye mean have you even LOOKED at an Orc!? They're nothing but testosterone and muscle! At least the way i had it set up nobody would start a riot into the city and start burning down houses or whatever! It's just a flipping BAR fight! I've been in a few of those and for Pete’s sake nobody gets killed! Yeah, people get hurt! That's kinda the point of a fight! But you know what WOULD have happened!? It would have just been looked on as a bar fight and nothing else, they were angry, and they fought eachother to let it out, end of story. Now because of YOU lot those poor goblins are going to go rot in a prison cell for the rest of their lives for attacking one of the “Good” guys! Well can you freaking BLAME them!? How would you feel if suddenly a Troll burst down your door and started beating the everloving ships out of you just a few hours after a group of trolls killed your favourite Mayor? That's pretty much exactly what happened here! And guess what! You were the troll! Eye didn't make this whole mess worse,  YOU  did, and if you want someone to live up to their mistakes, that’s on YOUR belts boys and gerls, because eye had notheng to do weth et!” 

Her face a much darker green out of frustration and a lack of air, Elsee turned on her heel and began marching back to the guild hall in a huff, her hands balled into fists on locked arms pointing down to the ground, not even giving any of her companions the chance to respond.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite can't even get in a rebuttal, about how he'd actually seen the fight and only the goblins with the knives were truly out to kill, how everything was fine before SHE went in and made that orc chuck a drow out the window (and oh, he knows that injuries like that can be severe, especially to elves) before Elsee storms off.  "Oh, I am going to have  words  with her later,"  he says before looking down at his robes.  "Look at all this blood. I've never had to use my magic to repair such extensive damage before." 

The party, still carrying the unconscious goblins, must decide what to do next.
Dusk Eclipse
Hearine Elsee's explication of the situation he glares at the Goblin, when she storms off, he runs of and  stops her.

 "Elsee I  agree that starting the fight might have let them steam off; but still someone could have been hurt, nevermind what could happen if  it escalated more.

Secondly how in the nine hells did you expect us to react to a bar fight when the guildmaster told us to come and control the situation? If you would have simply told us your plan, things would have been very different. Like it or not you are part of the guild and you have some responsibilities to it and us, your teammates." 
Athedia
The Badger shrugged at Elsee but let the goblin walk away.   "Her methods are unorthodox, and she occasionally makes a situation worse.  But I wouldn't trade her for a team of human watchmen.  She always has your back if you need it, and she is honest about it too."  She did agree with what Elsee had said about the non-Plavaan.  In her life they had often been the worst monsters, not the half-orc working as a bouncer in a bar or the goblin pickpocketing in the streets to feed themselves.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee snarled at Atorias and shoved her way past him to continue home to the guild hall, her fingers almost twitching in rage as they wanted to squeeze or hit something, she resisted pulling out her Kurkri and squeezing the handles however, as an angry armed goblin with a knife walking down the street was likely to end badly.

 "I already told you, they would have gotten hurt, that's kinda the point of a fight. But if they didn't want to get hurt they could just leave the bar, we aren't the brainless animals you THENK we are you know. And oh, i don't know! Maybe when i come running out of the bar saying "I've got it settled, lets go home" maybe you could take a second to believe me and let me explain on the way? Sometimes plans don't come to you until the last minute and if you don't act on them then and there then things will just get worse. It would have happened anyways even if i wasn't the one to start it, if even one of you had stepped through that door or looked through a window it would have started, if even one orc got too drunk and started preaching his hatred of the city it would have started, i just started it before it got out of hand, and hey, look! No flipped carts! Imagine that!" 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite turns to Badger after a few moments and asks her,  "You and Artorias appear to be the leaders of this group--am I correct? Even if Elsee is reliable, isn't her volatility enough of a liability?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Are we taking these goblins to the watchtower? Depending on how severe we tell the watch the injuries are, they could have anything from a few nights to cool off or a trial and possibly several years. It seems to me like we'd prefer the former...am I jumping the gun too much?
 
Athedia
The Badger smiled.   "We work for the mercenary guild for a reason.  We are all liabilities, I think."   She shifted the goblin to her other shoulder.   "Now what do we tell the watch?  These folks were a little drunk and when we tried to stop the fight for their own good they panicked? Or did you want something more Artorias.  You were the most hurt I will leave it to you." 
Dusk Eclipse
While Elsee storms off, Artorias mutters to himself "That goblin will be the death of me, I know it.... " , He let's out a sight and is somehwat startled  byThe Badger's question.

 "Not really sure, on one hand I would like to give it to the guard and acuse them of lethal force, I wasn't the only one who was hurt"  At this point he nods towards Jaedite  "; but with with how things are since the council denied the place to that Drow woman , I am not sure if that would be the smart thing to do."  
CoffeeIncluded
 "If I had an option, I would prefer reparations in the form of testing--rats and zombies can only tell so much after all. I wouldn't require much, just subject them to various forms of magical and physical dehydration. Think of how much more they will benefit society than by getting drunk and fighting in a bar!"  Jadiete's grin is positively predatory at this point.

 "However, I understand that such experiments would be ethically questionable at best, and I would prefer to submit my findings with minimal fuss." 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias looks a bit disturbed by the gleeful way Jaedite describe his experiments on living humanoids "Has anyone told you have a scary smile? Because you have one" 
Silverraptor
Sora looks sideways at Jadiete with a look of bewilderment and horror. She unconciously takes a small, inconspicous step away from Jadiete.
Devmaar
While his companions may be concerned, Alim understands the appeal of experimentation
 Sadly Jadeite, I fear there is too much squeamishness around for that to happen... 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Why thank you for the compliment, and yes Alim, it is a shame,"  the elf says airily.  "Hemlock approves as well."  As if on cue, the viper raises his head to look at Artorias, and flicks out his forked tongue.

 
 Spoiler 
Do you guys like Jadeite?
 


After reconvening and...discussing the fight, the group decides to take the unconscious goblins to a watchtower and see where to go from there.

When they knock on the door, a severe-looking woman in half plate armor and long orange hair just takes a look at the two unconscious goblins along with the mercenaries carrying them, and just sighs.
Athedia
 "Ma'am, these two need to sleep it off for a few days.  Violent drunks, you know how it can get.  We were just watching the bars to make sure no trouble started." 
CoffeeIncluded
The guard rolls her eyes and shakes her head, muttering under her breath. "Just leave them on the floor, I'll take care of it," she says.
Dusk Eclipse
Leaving the Goblins where the guard indicated, Artorias turns towards his companions "It seems we are done here, let's get back to the guild"  
CoffeeIncluded
As the group makes their way back to the guild, they see the city starting to quiet down as night grows longer. There would normally be people milling the streets at this hour, but it's starting to rain. While they walk, they see another group from the guild running to the watchtower--they ignore everyone around them.

They patrol for a few more hours, but don't encounter anything of note. There's some drunks, some shouting, but nothing serious.

Upon their return, the head of the guild takes one look at Artorias, Jadeite, and Sora, their clothes still stained with blood despite the rain, and simply says, "Damn, I'm sorry. Didn't think there'd actually be any real trouble."

 
 Spoiler 
No ideas for names yet?
 
Silverraptor
 "Yeah..."  She looks at the cut over her sleeve.  "I'll have to prepare a mending spell just to take care of it. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "As do I,"  says Jadeite.  "Well, this has been a rather...interesting experience, but I believe I shall take my leave here. I apologize for the misunderstanding, but I am a graduate student of necromancy, not a mercenary, and--" 

"Oh," the boss interrupts, "I almost forgot, here's your pay for this job, minus food, board, and guild expenses of course," as he gives each member of the group 50 gp.

Jadeite looks up.  "Wait, did you just say room and board?"  After a moment's pause, he turns to the others and asks,  "I suppose another listing on my resume couldn't hurt...Are you in need of a part-time necromancer?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee made a beeline for her room once she returned to the guild hall and flopped onto the bed after slamming the door behind her, burying her face into the pillow as her rage began to cool down. The others were still on patrol at the time, she having left them after the whole bar incident. She huffed into her pillow as she scratched at her unkept hair, she could already tell the newbies were going to get her in trouble despite not doing anything wrong, fun times to look forward too that's for sure.

Elsee winced as she felt a sharp pinch on her finger, tilting her head to the side and pulling the hand in front of her face to examine the cause, the familiar sight of her favoured pet clearly visible a few millimetres away from the edge of her nail.  She blinked the one eye that wasn't pressed against the pillow and stared at Lil miss for awhile, her abdomen quickly swelling up with goblinoid blood as her head was buried beneath Elsee's flesh.  “They just don' geddit do they Miss?”  She asked, getting the predictable lack of a response from the unintelligent arthropod.  “Stupid newbies, stupid all of em. Woulda worked if they had left it alone, but nooooo, they had to jump in and muck et all up, Hell wouldn't be surprised if Alim can't show his face out there anymore 'cuza that.” 

Elsee yawned a bit and rolled over on her mattress, pulling up a blanket to cover her up to her neck as she got comfortable.  “t'sa shame too, The Elf was kinda cute.”  The Tick of course said nothing, simply eating it's fill as Elsee rested her hand on her head to allow it to return whenever it so desired, her eyes slowly falling shut as the hours passed.


Elsee pretty much fell asleep soon afterwords, napping until shortly after the others finally returned.
Athedia
The Badger said her goodnights to the group going to the guild hall rooms.  She paused outside Elsee's door and knocked, waiting for a response.   "Elsee, it's Badger.  I just want to talk.  Please?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee groaned as she blinked herself awake at the knocking, idly checking her finger to find Lil miss gone, leaving behind small scar from where she had planted herself earlier. She forced herself to sit up straight as she rubbed at her eyes, mentally glaring at the door and the voice calling through it.

 "Whaddea waaant" 
Athedia
The Badger leaned next the door not yet opening it.   "I wanted to make sure you are okay with what we did today.  I know you were mad.  If we could talk about it?  You know I value your help." 
CoffeeIncluded
As Jadeite cleans off his robes with a thought and whispered magical word, goes over the contracts for becoming a part time member of the mercenary group, a rather devious thought crosses his mind. Carefully studying the legal terminology, he jots a few things down. After signing the contracts, the necromancer trances later than usual that night, taking the time to write out something, or rather several somethings.

 
 Spoiler 
Snerk. I hope this plays out right, it should be funny.
 
Dusk Eclipse
A shiver runs down Artorias' back as he prepares himself to sleep, with a slight feeling of dread the young man goes to sleep, his thoughts still troubled by the events of the night.
Devmaar
Mind in turmoil after the events of the day, Alim pores through books and scrolls, scribbling notes deep into the night. Eventually he falls asleep at his desk.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee groaned again as her eyes fought to stay closed, sitting up on her bed and wrapping herself in her blanket as she tried to focus on what Badger was saying.  "What es there even to talk about?" 
Athedia
 "I wanted you to know that I understand why you did that.  Incited the bar fight.  I know your people see us as the bad people and believe me, you are more right than wrong.  But could you warn us next time?  We had new people on the circuit, they don't know the atmosphere here."   She slid an arrow out of her quiver and started playing with it, running her fingers along the feathers at the bottom.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee groaned again as her head collapsed back into her pillow with an audible  *thud* , her words more mumbled then anything else as she spoke.

 "Eye sent Alim out ta warn ya, that shoullda been enough." 
Silverraptor
As sora gets home, she quietly bathes and changes into more comfortable night clothes. She lays out her damaged shirt to repair with a mending spell the next day, before slipping into the bed.
CoffeeIncluded
The rain stops sometime during the night, and the group is greeted by an unusually dry, pleasantly warm morning as they wake. Jadeite fixes his clothes while meditating, letting the chosen formulas and incantations from his spellbook settle into his mind.

He goes to the mess hall immediately afterwards, and sits with the rest of the group if they're already eating breakfast. The different mercenary teams are waking up and getting the day started, trading stories and jobs. One small group is going around, loudly sharing their story to everyone else, and laughing the whole time. You can't help but overhear.

"So we finally drag out the guy splashing and flailing in that well like he'd been zapped, and you know what it was?" The girl with a patchwork robe and goggles that he's talking to can't even answer before the man telling the story howls, "It was Cesare's grown lout of a son, drunk off his ass! He'd been prowling around with his buddies, and they didn't even stick around to watch the show when he fell in! I didn't even know dwarves could get that smashed!"

The girl can't help but snort into her hand and snicker, "So how much was the bribe to keep you from yapping about it?"

"Not enough!"

 
 Spoiler 
Feel free to join in or listen, I'll post another thing in a bit.
 
Athedia
The Badger sat at a table wrestling with Naga for a piece of meat. She flashed Jadeite a quick smile and then cursed, diving under the table as the dog took advantage of her distraction.  Emerging breathless a few seconds later and without the meat she pushed some bread toward him.   "Don't know what you pointy ears eat.  Aren't you all vegetable eaters or something?" 

She was always cheery in the mornings, trying to hide the fitful sleep she had at nights.  Having Naga in her room helped, but didn't stave off all her nightmares.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, no, not at all,"  Jadeite replies.  "We dine on lighter fare, and while that does mean mainly vegetables, I do partake on fish, poultry, and red meat in moderation. Hemlock, on the other hand,"  he says, gesturing to his familiar,  "obviously can't get enough of it. He prefers meat that's more...tender, shall we say. You needn't worry, you'd be far too tough and chewy." 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee, Jadeite, and Artorias:
 
 Spoiler 
You notice the woman from last night who was running to the watchtower as you left. She still looks distraught, though less panicked than last night.
 

 "...Did we not see that woman yesterday?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grumbles to herself in tiredness as she bites into a strip of bacon, her eyes still unwelcoming of the morning's bright light and the way the sun was just low enough to pierce through the windows of the room and into her eyes if she looked too far in the wrong direction.  “frikkin hate late night work”  she muttered to herself as she took another bite, her opposite hand grasping wildly as she missed her morning's grapejuice by just a few inches with each idle reach. Elsee yawned suddenly, her mouth opening wide and briefly showing off her sharp Goblinoid teeth before snapping shut around another strip of bacon.

 “ 'ny jobs git picked out yet?” 
 
 Spoiler 
 I'm assuiming you acciently put down Elsee when you meant someone else when reffering to the guard tower lady, Elsee wasn't there.
 
Athedia
The Badger shifted the grapejuice into Elsee's hand as she grasped.   "You goblins, not morning creatures are you?  Did you wake Alim?"   She fed a scrap of her meal to Naga who lay resting on her feet.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite's tuned them out; he's watching the distraught woman.  "You must see rather frightening things during your work...How bad must something be before it affects you?"  he asks.
Silverraptor
Sora is slightly delayed in getting out to breakfast for a couple of reasons. 1) She has to pray to Astrid and replenish her spells. 2) She takes the time to figure out what what she wants to wear today.
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Elsee, Jadeite, and Artorias:
 
 Spoiler 
You notice the woman from last night who was running to the watchtower as you left. She still looks distraught, though less panicked than last night.
 

 "...Did we not see that woman yesterday?"  
 

Lifting his head from his plate to look at the woman Jadeite pointed out he answers the elf between mouthfuls of food  "Now that you mention it, yes I think she is the lady from the watchtower... she looks off though. Perhaps someone should talk to her."  With that he returns to his breakfast.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite raises an eyebrow.  "You think I would provide a good shoulder for her to cry on. Though...heh...I would be able to dry her tears." 
 
 Spoiler 
All the dessication spells. Also, I'll put up a list of his daily spells in a moment.

EDIT: Okay, his spells are the same as yesterday's, but with Mending in place of Mage Hand and Spectral Hand in place of Baleful Transposition.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Jadeite raises an eyebrow.  "You think I would provide a good shoulder for her to cry on. Though...heh...I would be able to dry her tears." 
 
 Spoiler 
All the dessication spells. Also, I'll put up a list of his daily spells in a moment.
 
 
 

 "I didn't meant you specifically, just someone  (preferably not me) , though if you want to talk to her, be my guest. Though I would refrain from talking about your experiments" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Me? Why, I never! In fact, I'm offended you believe that to be all I am capable of. I assure you, I am a man of many talents,"  he says, with a flourish.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Never said that, I just mentioned that you tend to freak people out with the talk of your experiments" 

Edit: Looking around himself he notes the absence of Alim.
 "Hey, has anyone seen Alim around here?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Well, it's hardly my fault that most people fail to grasp the intricacies and complex beauty concealed behind even the simplest cantrip,"  the elf says, shrugging.  "But then again, I doubt you were raised with the family grimore read to you every night. Not everyone can be so lucky." 

Jadeite pauses at Alim's second statement.  "I suppose I'll get him. I'm quite finished with breakfast anyway." 
 
 Spoiler 
Anyone want to talk to the girl?
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Well, it's hardly my fault that most people fail to grasp the intricacies and complex beauty concealed behind even the simplest cantrip,"  the elf says, shrugging.  "But then again, I doubt you were raised with the family grimore read to you every night. Not everyone can be so lucky." 

Jadeite pauses at Alim's second statement.  "I suppose I'll get him. I'm quite finished with breakfast anyway." 
 
 Spoiler 
Anyone want to talk to the girl?
 
 
 

 "Fine, guess I'll talk with the watchtower lady"  Artorias stands up and cleans himself a bit before approaching her.

 "Hi, I am Artorias Kaathe, I was one of the guys that dropped off some rowdy goblins last night. Is everything all right? You seem a bit off. 
CoffeeIncluded
The woman jumps back when she hears Artorias. "Ah! O-oh, it's just you. Sorry..." Artorias has seen this woman around but can't quite place her name. He's fairly certain she's new though.

She shakes her head. "I, I'm fine. It's just, well...My friends and I were hunting down a burglar, when we found a dead kid in an alley." She looks down. "It was awful, he was all curled up stiff, and he looked so scared..."
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite:

The elf quietly walks into Alim's room to see the goblin passed out on his desk. For a moment Jadeite's just going to tap him on his shoulder, but then Hemlock chooses that moment to brush against his master's cheek. Jade looks at his familiar, and the two share a grin.

When Alim eventually wakes up, he's greeted by the sight of the dark green viper hanging upside down, hissing inches from his face.
Devmaar
Alim jumps slightly at the sight of the snake but quickly regains his composure.
 "Oh my! That certainly caught me by surprise. You'll have to do better if you want to give me a real scare though Mr. Nocrius, by my recollection your snakes venom is rather lacking in potency. What time is it, oh my, I better get down to breakfast. If you don't mind I'll just ready myself and be straight down." 
 
 Spoiler 
Unless I say otherwise, Alim's 1 prepared spell each day will be Prestidigitation.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, Hemlock wouldn't have to kill you Alim, merely weaken you enough for either of us to overpower. Thank you for your concern though."  He then steps out to give the goblin some privacy as he changes.
CoffeeIncluded
"I'm sorry," the woman says, still holding her head in her hands. "I'm a mercenary, I should have a stronger stomach for these things. But he was barely my age, and I don't even know how he got killed, I couldn't find any stab wounds or anything..."
Dusk Eclipse
 "Don't be, a death is a death no matter what. Though no wounds... magic perhaps?"    Artorias tries to comfort the woman by putting a hand on her shoulder.

 
 Spoiler 
I am assuming Artorias is used enough to magic to make that kind of relation, he is smart (though not as smart as Alim or Jadeite)
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Maybe, but..." She frowns. "I saw the holy symbol around his neck. Wouldn't Astrid's grace have protected him?"

 
 Spoiler 
Artorias would think that magic killed him if weapons did not.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Frankly I don't know... though I think I know someone who might, do you remember where the body was?" 
CoffeeIncluded
She chews her lip for a moment, then says, "I couldn't carry him, but I told the watch...He'd be there or at one of the temples. I just couldn't leave him in the gutter."
Dusk Eclipse
 "I'll see what we can do, thanks for the info, if you recall anything else or just need someone to lend a friendly ear, you know where to find me"  Artorias leaves with the intention on finding his companions, they definitely have something fishy on their hands.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grunted as she took a looong sip of her grape juice, almost slamming it back onto the table as she followed it up with a beltch.  "Could say that"  She started.  "We've got that darkvision thing fera reason yaknow, 'nd it's not cuz we like knowin who's too cold at night." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Thank you," the woman says. She looks a bit better.

Jadeite returns with Alim once the goblin's dressed. When he sees the look on Artorias' face, he asks,  "What did that woman have to say?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "She and some others found a dead corpse in an alley, no wounds, so I'm guessing it was magic. Figured out you would be interested"  He then notices Alim "There you are Alim are you up to some investigation work?" 
Devmaar
 "Always, just let me grab a bite to eat." 
Athedia
The Badger wrinkled her nose.   "That makes the job so much harder.  Want I should talk the town and read if anyone has gone missing who sounds like the corpse?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Probably a good idea; but I say we first take a look at the body, the gal who found him told me they told the watch, so it probably will be either with them or at one of Astrid's temples.... Is Elsee ok?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Fascinating,"  Jadeite says, visibly perking up.  "I believe I would be able to identify what magic, if any, caused his death." 
CoffeeIncluded
As the group finishes their breakfast and debates how to search for more information, they decide that there are two places to look: The watchtower or one of the several temples of Astrid. Where are they going to head first?

 
 Spoiler 
I know where the best place to go first is but obviously I'm not going to say it. And no, you don't know the location of the murder or where the body was found at this time.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "I think we should head towards the Watchtower first, any objections? No? Good, then let's move out"  Without giving the others a say in the matter Artorias begins the walk to the Watchtower.
CoffeeIncluded
At the watchtower, Artorias and the group are greeted by the same woman from the long orange hair from last night. Her back is turned to the group as she removes her armor, but everyone can head her loudly yawn. She dons a slim sword and is about to walk out the door when she sees the mercenaries and stops.

"You again? My shift ended five minutes ago; what is it now?"
Dusk Eclipse
 "Yes, yes it is us again, I was told the watch was informed of a a dead body that was found, I was wondering if you would be so kind to tell us where they took the body"  Artorias begins to talk in his usual snarky way; but as he speaks he softens his voice, trying to avoid infuriating the woman.

 
 Spoiler 
Should I roll diplomacy?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Dusk Eclipse 
  "Yes, yes it is us again, I was told the watch was informed of a a dead body that was found, I was wondering if you would be so kind to tell us where they took the body"  Artorias begins to talk in his usual snarky way; but as he speaks he softens his voice, trying to avoid infuriating the woman.

 
 Spoiler 
Should I roll diplomacy?
 
 
 

The woman's stance seems to soften a bit, but she still looks exhausted.

 
 Spoiler 
Might help, would definitely make some thing easier in the future.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 
Might as well

 (1d20)[ 2 ]  untrained Diplomacy check


WHY!??!?! 😩
 

 "Please, it is really important that we see that boy" 
CoffeeIncluded
"Well, you should have come here a few hours ago since he's not here any longer," the guard retorts as she pins her hair back. "You honestly think we'd leave a corpse stinking up the post in the middle of summer? The clerics came around early this morning, probably took him to the main temple and told his parents. Now if you'll excuse me I need my beauty sleep."

With that, she leaves.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee smirks as the human leaves, gently patting Artorias on as high of his back she could reach as she spoke.

 "There there loverboy you'll get the gerl someday. Maybe you can envite her to sometheng you both enjoy, like catching serial killers and pickpockets." 
Athedia
The Badger held back a laugh trying to keep a calm face for the benefit of the group.  "We should find out who the parents are.  Question them if the boy had any enemies."   She started walking toward the temple, assuming the rest of the group would follow.
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by Draconi Redfir 
 Elsee smirks as the human leaves, gently patting Artorias on as high of his back she could reach as she spoke.

 "There there loverboy you'll get the gerl someday. Maybe you can envite her to sometheng you both enjoy, like catching serial killers and pickpockets."  
 

 "Not right now Elsee, we've got work to do. " 

 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
 The Badger held back a laugh trying to keep a calm face for the benefit of the group.  "We should find out who the parents are.  Question them if the boy had any enemies."   She started walking toward the temple, assuming the rest of the group would follow. 
 

 "Problem is we don't know who the boy is, let's look into the main temple" 
Athedia
 "That is why I am going to the temple.  Maybe the priests have contacted the family already."   She tapped a finger to her forehead to indicate she had thought of that point and continued walking.  Naga trotted beside her occasionally sniffing the ground.
CoffeeIncluded
The temple to Astrid is large and open. The morning sun filters through the atrium and bounces off the gleaming twin statues of Chilmado and Salblaze, Astrid's sacred dragons.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry for the short post, the last class before spring break is about to start.
 
Draconi Redfir
 " "We've got work to do" "  Elsee mimicked in the best best "Artoias" voice she could muster, idly following the group towards the temple of the ever-popular goddess. As the group got closer to the temple, Elsee found herself sinking to the back of the group, somehow reaching out to try and grab Alim's wrist to pull him back with her in the process*.

 "Weee should probably wait outside 'er somethin. These types aren't really known 'fer loven our-types." 
 
 Spoiler 

* Alim if your not okay with that then just say you shrugged her off.
 
Athedia
The Badger paused before the entrance.  She had no great love of the gods, they did not seem to care about the people they called their "children", but she accepted that others believed in them and was more than glad to use the services that the temple offered.  Of course, they never liked it when she tried to bring Naga in, something about animals drinking all the holy water or some nonsense.  What animal would drink that stuff?

 "Naga, guard Elsee and Alim." 
 
 Spoiler 
If I can take 10 on that Handle animal to command a trick I will.  If not  (1d20+1)[ 20 ] 

I will just assume that succeeds, a near perfect roll
 


The bloodhound trotted over to the small goblin and sat by her feet.  His eyes met hers as he looked up at the creature he was to protect.
Devmaar
 "Hmm, probably a good idea." 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee silently sat on the ground and gently pet the small canine, resting her head on her fist wich was propped up on her leg.

 "Well eye can already tell that this'll be fun." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Inside the temple: 

The temple is quiet, as morning services finished almost an hour ago and it's another two before afternoon prayers. There are clerics and alcolytes milling about, their rank denoted by trim or lack thereof on their purple cloaks. There are also citizens waiting to receive blessings and spells. If the group listens closely, they can hear the most sorrowful sobbing, although the large echoing chamber seems to swallow sound and reverberate it at the same time, making it hard to tell the original source without some effort.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen checks please.
 

 Outside the temple: 
The already hot day is starting to become sticker, more like Runitian summer weather. After a few minutes of sitting around and doing nothing, Elsee looks up to see a small kid in old ratty clothes tear past with a thrilled yet slightly nervous look on his face. He's clutching something close to his chest as he runs.
Athedia
The Badger listened closely, trying to hear where the sound came from.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen  (1d20+8)[ 24 ] 
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grinned as she watched the boy run off, kid probably stole some bread or fruit or something from a local vender, she gave a mental cheer for him as she watched him run off, sinking herself to lean against the branches of a bush between her and the wall of the temple, still gently petting the canine with one hand as the three of them waited.
CoffeeIncluded
Thanks to her "on-the-job" training, Badger can easily pinpoint the sound's source. It's a small room off to the side, out of the way and easily passed over. The door's slightly ajar. There are at least three figures inside, and you can feel cooler air coming from within.
CoffeeIncluded
 Outside the temple: 

Less than a minute after the kid runs past, an older man, probably in his early twenties, runs along the road as well. He looks around frantically for a moment, then clenches his fists and stomps the ground with a curse.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Draconi Redfir 
 Elsee shifted her weight a pit to prevent a particularly strong branch from jabbing her in the back as she observed the older man, quirking an eyebrow at his frustration. Seemed likely that this was the guy the kid from before stole from, she didn't see any need to tell him where the kid went, but figured she may as well ask.

 "Somethin wrong ser?"  
 

The man jumps a bit; he didn't see Elsee out of the corner of his eye. With a sigh, he asks, "Did you see a kid run past? He stole my wallet."
Draconi Redfir
Elsee shifted her weight a pit to prevent a particularly strong branch from jabbing her in the back as she observed the older man, quirking an eyebrow at his frustration. Seemed likely that this was the guy the kid from before stole from, she didn't see any need to tell him where the kid went, but figured she may as well ask.

 "Somethin wrong ser?" 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 The man jumps a bit; he didn't see Elsee out of the corner of his eye. With a sigh, he asks, "Did you see a kid run past? He stole my wallet." 
 

Elsee makes her best apologetic face as she shakes her head, lifting her arms up an an "i dunno" fashon.

 "Sorry ser, seen alotta keds 'round here, most of 'em runnin fera game or somethin. Wouldn't know 'im if eye did." 
 
 Spoiler 


Bluff check: (1d20+6)[ 24 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
The man sighs; he seems to put his entire body into the effort. "Thanks...Great, this is just not my day, is it."

 
 Spoiler 
Yeah, he's not making that bluff check.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee just shrugs and resumes gently petting Naga, idly keeping an eye out to make sure Lil Miss didn't escape onto the canine in search of greener pastures so to speak.

 "Well eye always say that when ya have a bad day, et's either payin up for a good day ya had recently, or letting you have a great day soon. Yera workin man right? 'msure there was nothin in that thing ya won't make up in a few days, heck, maybe invest in a lottery ticket or two, might get lucky." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Thanks, but I--You don't understand, and it would take too long to explain." The man shakes his head, abruptly changing the subject. "Better have a hell of a windfall headed my way," he mutters, heading off.
Athedia
The Badger gestured for the group to follow as she walked over to the small room.  She knocked on the door as she opened it.   "Excuse me.  I am here to investigate the death.  Would it be okay if we talked?" 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias follows The Badger's lead.
CoffeeIncluded
The room goes silent as they knock on the door. When they open it, they see a tiny body laid out on a table in the center of the room. At first glance it appears to be the body of a child, but closer inspection shows it's that of a halfling, barely out of his adolescence. He's no longer curled up and his hands are folded neatly over his chest, but they couldn't completely smooth out the fear in his face.

The boy's parents look up as Badger, Jadeite, Sora, and Artorias enter, though they can't quite stop crying.

Jadeite is silent. Even he knows this is neither the time nor place.

Eventually, the boy's father, his eyes red, looks up at Badger and gives a shaky nod.

 
 Spoiler 
You've got to handle this one with kid gloves.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "My name is Artorias, my companions are The Badger, Sora and Jadeite"   Artorias speaks softly and motions the others as he names them.

 "We are very sorry for your loss" 
CoffeeIncluded
"T-Thank you..." the boy's mother manages to softly say.

The cleric, a middle-aged man whose cloak has faded gold trim, motions to Artorias. "Are you the ones whom the guard said found Brent's body?"
Dusk Eclipse
 " No sir, one of our guildmembers found the boy, me and my companions just voluntered for the investigation"  
CoffeeIncluded
The cleric closes his eyes. "I couldn't find anything on Brent. Not a mark, not a scratch, not a rip or bloodstain on his clothes. If anything it looks like he just dripped dead, except for the look of terror on his face. There could be signs, inside his body, but I'm just not qualified to do that..."
Dusk Eclipse
 "We were told about the lack of wounds, our first instic was that it could be magic, now I am not knowledgeable about magic; but Jadeite is a Graduate student with formal training, so he might be able to help with, Sora here is a skilled healer and might be able to discover something"  

He motions them as he speak.

 "Was Brent an Acolyte of the temple? I was told he was found with a holy symbol of Astrid" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee simple shrugs and lays back into the bush again, closing her eyes as she waits for the others with Naga and Alim.
Athedia
The Badger walked over to the parents, gently offering them a seat on the nearby bench.   "Would you like a seat?"  She kept her face still, only her eyes showing the sadness of the loss of such a young life.
CoffeeIncluded
At their words and comfort, both parents collapse onto the bench and nearly start wailing in grief.

The mother manages to choke out, "Brent...He had just received the cloak and blessing a few months ago. He was so excited to be finally learning spells. Our boy is...was..." She sobs into her hands. "Who could have done this?"

Her husband looks up, barely holding back himself. "If you can find out who did this...I want justice for my son."
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite, actually mindful of the sensitivity of the situation for once, says quietly to the others,  "I can do an autopsy if they so desire. I have a decent enough knowledge of the body thanks to my studies to estimate the nature of his death." 
Athedia
 "Ma'am, Sir.  I will make it my top priority to track down whoever killed your son.  But could I ask some questions, to get a sense of him and who would want to hurt him."   The last part she addressed to the father, who seemed the far more held together of the two.
CoffeeIncluded
The parents quietly nod their heads, then say, "But...who could have killed Brent? He'd never harm a fly."

"Could...Could this have just been a botched robbery?"
Dusk Eclipse
 "By any chance do you know where the boy was found?" 
CoffeeIncluded
The cleric shakes his head, but the boy's mother says, "I know he always spends his weekends with his friends, Yulian and Ilia...Oh Astrid, they don't know!"
Athedia
 "Let us tell them.  Do you know where could find them?"   The Badger thought for a second, trying to phrase a question carefully.   "Did he act unusual at all during the last few weeks, anything out of the ordinary even whether he ate breakfast could give us some clues." 
CoffeeIncluded
Both the cleric and parents shake their heads. "Nothing unusual at all. He ate the same meals, had the same routine, went to the same stores..."

The boy's father says, "Yulian and Ilia live on the eastern side of the city, close to Canal Street."
CoffeeIncluded
 "Shall we be on our way?"  Jadeite asks the rest of the group.  "Though in this heat and humidity we do not have much time to obtain useful information from an autopsy. Perhaps we should split up?" 
 
 Spoiler 
So Jadeite, Alim, and Sora are going to autopsy Brent's body while Badger, Artorias, and Elsee track down Yulian and Ilia, then investigate the murder site?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Outside the temple:

The day is getting hotter, and the two goblins may be of a mind to get something cool to eat...They've been waiting outside for some time.

Inside the temple:

Brent's mother finally goes over to the group and says, "Please...find out whatever you can."
Dusk Eclipse
 "We promise we'll do our best" 
CoffeeIncluded
The group reconvenes outside. Jadeite says,  "I believe they will deliver Brent's remains to the academy for me to analyze and dissect shortly; it would not do to carry a corpse slung over our shoulders through the streets. Alim, Sora, I believe you would be of assistance to me." 

However, there's still the matter of tracking down Brent's friends and finding the scene of his death.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grunts a bit as she stands, glad to finally be moving on already.

 "Trip to the guild should tell us where the theng was found, jus ask the girl who found it and go there." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Well, I would much rather do something more useful and...interesting. Like this autopsy. Oh, I do so love the thrill of discovery." 
Devmaar
 "Well, I'd be glad to help you with the autopsy Jadite. I think I could learn a lot from seeing you at work. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "And I'm sure that another set of hands would be greatly appreciated. Hemlock can only carry so many scalpels, after all."  Jadeite grins.

 "I guess...I guess I can come too." 

The other three, Artorias, Badger, and Elsee, if they're not going to observe the autopsy, must decide whether to track down Brent's friends or return to the guild to talk to the girl who found his body.
Dusk Eclipse
 "I think we should see if the girl remembers where they found the body, now that I think so, Badger you are pretty good tracking people, reckon you can find the boy's friends?" 
Athedia
 "I will see what I can do."   The Badger turned back to the parents, bowing down slightly.   "I just have a few more questions that would help me find his friends.  If they witnessed the murder then they may be hiding.  Fear can take some people that way.  Could I have a description of these friends and places you know they like to be?  May we also have your address, in case we have more questions about Brent?" 
CoffeeIncluded
The parents write down their address for Badger. She recognizes the street name; it's close to Canal Street.

Trying to hold back a fresh wave of tears, Brent's mother says, "Yulian's a human, short for a human; he always wears something green, whether it's a shirt or scarf, even in this heat...Ilia is a half-elf, with curly blue hair. They're probably getting something to eat, they've always been so nice..."
Draconi Redfir
Elsee casually nods to Artorias pnce he's spoken.

 "Eye'll come wethya, et'll be deffrent wethout blood, but eye've been en a few murder scenes, might be able to figure out if it was a surprise or ef there was a struggle and such." 
Athedia
 "Thank you.  I am sorry for your loss."   With that the Badger left the temple, sliding the note with the address on it into the belt on her pouch.

Stepping outside she relaxed, the temple had always made her feel nervous as though the priests inside could read her like a book.   "We are on the lookout for a half-elf and human, they should stand out.  Anyone want to help me look?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I believed I said I would be performing an autopsy?"  Jadeite says, folding his arms and raising an eyebrow.

 "Uhm...Actually...I might want to go with you. I need to think about it for a moment,"  Sora says, glancing over nervously at Jadeite.

 
 Spoiler 
If we're splitting the party three ways, then I feel that having three groups of two might be more efficient, plus it's established that Sora's unnerved by Jadeite. This might change, I need to sleep on it. Also, SILVERRAPTOR, THIS IS YOUR CALL.
 
Athedia
 "Well I would be no good, I know people not dead bodies.  Alim has always dealt with that.  Sora, if you wanted to come along I doubt it would hurt.  From the sounds of it I think the friends have a fashion sense up your alley."   The Badger examined Sora's fancier clothes and smiled.  Somewhere beneath that she knew there lay a fighter.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Great!"  Sora says, immediately perking up.  "I can't wait to see what the rest of Runite is like, see the oceans, watch the street performers, eat all the food!" 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by Draconi Redfir 
 Elsee casually nods to Artorias pnce he's spoken.

 "Eye'll come wethya, et'll be deffrent wethout blood, but eye've been en a few murder scenes, might be able to figure out if it was a surprise or ef there was a struggle and such."  
 

 "Thank you Elsee and who knows? Even if there isn't blood we might found something interesting there.   
 
 Spoiler 
I wasn't strictly thinking of a 3-way split; but if you are all ok with that why not?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Well then, shall we we on our way?"  Jadeite is practically brimming with excitement, which for him means shifting his cape more than usual.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll set the stages later tonight.
 
Athedia
The Badger didn't ask or wait for any confirmation from Sora before she grabbed her hand.

 
 Spoiler 
Just say if you aren't coming with, it is just fluff
 

 "Naga, good boy.  Now come on."   Cleric in tow she went off in search of Brent's friends near the popular food vendors of the city.

 
 Spoiler 
Gather Information  (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Sora: 

Runite's huge, and blue is a fairly common hair color for elves and half-elves...Even with the information Brent's parents gave her, Badger's still got a couple square miles at least to search, and that's assuming Yulian and Ilia stick to their routines. An hour passes, but there's still no definite lead on the two.

 "You'd think blue hair would be easier to find,"  says Sora, stopping a moment, to look into a window.  "Ooh, look at these scarves! They've got such beautiful patterns too!" 
 
 Spoiler 
I'm giving you a circumstance bonus because you got more info on Yulian and Ilia, but you need to make more checks. Sorry.
 
Athedia
 "Well the people here have some odd fashion choices."   The Badger fingered the pouch of henna by her side, she really wasn't one to speak about others hair color.  She started talking to passerby's asking if they had seen two young adults, a human wearing green and a half-elf with blue hair.   
 Spoiler 
Gather Information  (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "There's so many different styles! And is that silk from the Southern Islands?" 

Some people point out those who fit the description...but none of them are Yulian and Ilia.

 
 Spoiler 
You need to make 2d4+2 checks, sorry...
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias: 

The mercenary guild is quiet during the middle of the day, as most people are out on jobs. However, there's usually somebody on staff, and today is the day that Leif, the boss of the guild, usually catches up on paperwork and other managerial duties.
 
Jadeite and Alim: 

Jadeite had somehow found some time to meet with someone in the labs and academy, as they let him into the clean, very thick-walled building without any trouble. However, the guard watching stops Alim when he sees him.

"You need permission to get past here, goblin."
Athedia
The Badger sighed.  All in a day's work, but this day was still rather long.  She continued asking around, occasionally backtracking to nod and smile at Sora's windowshopping.

 
 Spoiler 
Here are a bunch, just take what is needed:
Gather Information Rolls
 (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 10 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 9 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 7 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
 
Devmaar
Alim is rather awed by the building, he's been dreaming of getting inside it for years after all. Stopped by the guard he starts and stammers,
 "Oh, I am sorry. I'm with Mr. Nocrius, Jadeite Nocrius, the fellow just there."  Alim nervously indicates towards the elf
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Sora: 

 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
 The Badger sighed.  All in a day's work, but this day was still rather long.  She continued asking around, occasionally backtracking to nod and smile at Sora's windowshopping. 
 

The two finally decide to just walk up and down Canal Street proper. The area around the canal that gives the street its name is a decidedly working class neighborhood despite the impressive views, and the reason is apparent at first smell.

 "Hey, is that them?"  Sora asks, pointing into the window of the bakery she's pressed her face against. Looking into the reflection provided by the midday sun, Badger can see a human with a green hat sitting on a bench next to a half elf with tight curls of light blue hair.


 
 Originally Posted by Devmaar 
 Alim is rather awed by the building, he's been dreaming of getting inside it for years after all. Stopped by the guard he starts and stammers,
 "Oh, I am sorry. I'm with Mr. Nocrius, Jadeite Nocrius, the fellow just there."  Alim nervously indicates towards the elf 
 

 "My apologizes. Alim shall be assisting me with my research today,"  Jadeite smoothly says, sliding a piece of paper over to the guard.

 
 Spoiler 
Bluff:  (d20+7)[ 24 ]  (Paperwork marking him as a graduate student and a Nocrius gives him a +4 circumstance bonus, is this okay?)
 


The guard nods and hands the sheets back to Jadeite. "Of course, go right in."
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 

The laboratories are huge and span at least three floors, but Jadeite somehow avoids getting lost and manages to find the autopsy room within a few minutes. Several preserving jars are lined up on shelves, and in the middle of the room, Brent's body is lying on a wooden table, having been delivered a few minutes before.

Jadeite immediately beings inspecting the halfling's body and possessions, which are lying in a tin. He then picks up a scissor and scalpel.  "Are you ready, Alim?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Devmaar, the way this is going to work is that you pick what you want to inspect, and I'll have you take 20 on the search check, and do the same for Jadeite. Then I'll list what, if anything, we find, in a RP-appropriate sense, of course. You might find the useful bits on the first try, it might take you much longer. But this should be fun, and don't be afraid to talk to Jadeite in the meantime.
 
Athedia
 "Good eye.  Although..."  The Badger turned around and twirled Sora with her.   "I would say that was their reflections." 

Striding over to the seated friends she held out a hand.   "Hello, names Badger and this is my friend.  Love your hat by the way." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Sora 
 "I'm Sora,"  the cleric says, bouncing over before catching herself, remembering the grim reason they're there.

The human and half-elf stand up; the half-elf notices Sora's change in demeanor. "Uh...Hi. I'm Ilia, and this is Yulian," she says.

"Thanks," Yulian says in a deep voice, taking Badger's offered hand. "Love your tattoos too."

Ilia tilts her head. "Do you need anything? Are you lost?"
Draconi Redfir
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Elsee and Artorias: 

The mercenary guild is quiet during the middle of the day, as most people are out on jobs. However, there's usually somebody on staff, and today is the day that Leif, the boss of the guild, usually catches up on paperwork and other managerial duties. 
 

Elsee bit her lip as she looked around the building, looked like the woman who had found the body wasn't around anymore, probably not surprising now that she thought about it, must have taken a job or a day off to get her mind off of things. Her eyes glanced in the direction of the Boss' office, if she was right he'd still be here, might know where the woman went, couldn't hurt to at least ask right?


Elsee silently motioned for Artorias to follow her as she began heading in the direction of Leif's office, not even waiting for confirmation that he was with her as she walked. The door was closed, but Elsee let herself in regardless, walking right on up to Leif's desk and jumping up to grab onto the ledge, her arms folded underneath her chest as she held herself above the ground fairly easily due to her lighter weight. A wicked grin crossed her face as she stared at Leif, her position giving her the appearance of being unusually tall for a goblin.

 " 'Sub boss? " 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias: 

Leif is completely unfazed; only his lowered files indicate that he pays attention to the goblin. He brushes some light brown hair out of his eyes, flips over a sheet, and says, "Elsee, what is it?"
Draconi Redfir
Elsee continues to grin wickedly as the leans in forwards to give him a better view of her and to ease the strain on her arms by shifting more weight onto her upper torso and allowing her legs to float in the air behind her.

 " We were 'jus wonderin, if ya know where a fellow guildmember es right now, we kinda took an unofficial job from her after she found some ked dead in an ally with no flesh wounds 'er anythin, we need 'ta ask her where the heck she found the kid so we can check it out ourselves. Figure she might'uve took the day off 'er some kinda high-focus job to keep her mind off it, think you can help us? " 
 
 Spoiler 


Not sure wich is more appropriate, strength or balance, so i'll roll one of each and let you decide.

Stregth check: (d20+1)[ 18 ]

Balance check: (d20+3)[ 17 )
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias: 

Elsee has little trouble keeping her balance, though she's perched on just her hands.

Lief rubs his chin. "Oh, that...Yeah, Mika told me about that; she's probably in her room or in a restaurant nearby, told me she was taking the day off. I hope she's up for our life."
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias just watches amusedly at Elsee's antics

 "Great,thank you boss, will go see her" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee's grin remains wide as she listens to her boss. nodding her head in understanding once he and Artorias had both finished speaking.

 "Sounds like a start! Thanks for the help boss!" 

Elsee gave a wink and a kissing motion with her lips before pushing herself off the desk and allowing herself to fall to the ground, catching herself as her feet made contact with the floor once more and quickly scampering over to Artorias' side.

 "Whenever your ready big guy!" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "After you lil' gal"  Artorias does a mock bow at the goblin girl and follows her with the intention to find Mika and hopefully the crime scene.
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias 

Leif just rolls his eyes and sighs. As they leave the office, Elsee can hear the boss shout after her, "And can you please clean your room? Some of the other mercs are starting to complain about the smell!"

After a few minutes of searching, they can find Mika in the armory, polishing and sharpening her longsword. She looks up at their entrance and asks, "What is it? If it's sword polish, you can borrow some of mine," gesturing to her bag.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Thank you; but we are not here for that... the boy you found, well  he was a halfling and we managed to find his parents. Jadeite and Alim are studying the body to see what they can find. Elsee and me were wondering if you remember where you found the body?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Mika closes her eyes for a moment, then squeezes them tighter as she tries to remember.

"Let's see...It was by the Bogs, not in the Bogs, but kinda close by. He was in an alleyway close to a bar...Dammit, I can't remember the name right now, but--oh! Yes! I do remember that they had really cheap drinks and were open late; my partners and I were going to go there after our shifts ended, but then we found that kid, and...yeah."

She opens her eyes and looks up. "That's all I can remember right now...sorry..."
Draconi Redfir
Elsee quirked an eyebrow at the woman's description of the scene, the heck would a halfling kid be doing out by the bogs late at night anyways? Still that wasn't a whole lot to go on, the bogs were huge and there were plenty of bars in the area to leach as much cash from the low-income families that lived in and near there as possible, didn't really narrow it down a whole lot.


 "Any chance for a street name or two? Maybe ya could lead us right there?"  
CoffeeIncluded
Again, Mika bites her lips and shakes her head. "Sorry, all I know is that it was close to the Bogs, but still, you know, and...wait! I could hear running water nearby, but I couldn't see it."
Devmaar
 "Well Jadeite, I'm sure you're much more knowledgeable about these things than I am, but I suppose we should start by looking athis clothing?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Taking 20 on search gives me a 24
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite 
 "A wise decision,"  Jadeite says, putting on a pair of gloves and handing another to Alim before stripping the halfling of his clothes, and inspecting them thoroughly alongside the goblin. His red eyes seem to subtly shimmer for a moment as he scans the clothes.

 "His clothes are entirely mundane, and I can find no traces of spells lingering on them...not that I expected to find any, what with his death occurring over twelve hours ago. Only traces of the strongest spells would linger." 

His clothes look new and clean, in near perfect-condition--especially his shirt and violet cape. That shirt and cloak don't even have the stitches or traces of manual repair, much less any bloodstains. They're either brand-new or kept in magical repair. His shorts are also free of bloodstains (or mudstains, or any other stains), but are a bit word around the waistline, and a corner of one of the pockets looks to be re-sewn.

 
 Spoiler 
Cast Detect Magic, and Jadeite's taking 20 gives him a 25.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Interesting,"  Jadeite says as he begins to inspect the outside of Brent's body.  "What do you make of the state of his clothes?" 

There's no cut or mar on the outside of Brent's body. There's some scraping along the back of his hand, but it's clotted.

Jadeite turns Brent's body over.

 "Oh, and what is this?" 

There's a small dark lump on his upper left back.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee goraned and rubbed her forhead at the extra informaition, more then what they had before, but still too vauge to get any pinpoint locaition out of it. She waved to Artorias to indicate for him to go ahead with something, not really sure what to say herself at the moment.
CoffeeIncluded
"I'm sorry," Mika says. "If you ask around, maybe you'll find it...Oh, another thing! That alleyway was clean. Really, really clean, no sign of garbage anywhere. It's one of the cleanest alleys I've seen here."

 
 Spoiler 
You're looking for an unusually clean alleyway by a cheap bar open late, that's close to the Bogs but not actually there.
 
Devmaar
Alim pulls on the gloves as Jadeite begins investigating
 "I'd hazard a guess the clothes are cleaned with magic, the titching on the pocket suggests they're not new and clothes on't stay looking like this for long otherwise."  as the wounds on the body are revealed he raises an eyebrow  "The wound on the could just be from the body falling, but that mark, that could be more interesting..." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I agree,"  Jadeite muses,  "But why mend the pants with conventional methods while repairing the shirt and cape with magic?" 

Jadeite's eyes twinkle.  "I believe that the wounds happened sometime before he died for them to clot...though how long before, I could not say. More than a few minutes for certain. As for the wound on his back,"  He presses the scalpel to Brent's skin with a smile,  "Would you like to find out? 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Nature):  (d20+9)[ 18 ] 

What part of his body, internally, would you like to inspect first?
 
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
Shall we start with the lifey bits? Heart, lungs and so forth. I'm not making a post in-character because this seems like a part where Jadeite would be taking the lead.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Devmaar 
  
 Spoiler 
Shall we start with the lifey bits? Heart, lungs and so forth. I'm not making a post in-character because this seems like a part where Jadeite would be taking the lead.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Cut open the torso and go from there? Sounds good. We hit the wound in the back last?
 


With some effort, Jadeite cuts into the halfling's bare torso and begins peeling back layers of flesh, fat, and muscle.

 "Lean and wiry, not much fat,"  he says.  "I have worked on halflings before, once or twice. And many of the organ systems are similar enough between our species." 
 "An even layer of muscle, ribs...One is cracked, but...no, that's an old injury, long since healed, lungs seems to be in fair condition, heart is...Oh. That is a lot of blood." 

The moment Jadeite pulls up Brent's lungs, he and Alim can both see a very large volume of blood pooled in his chest. There is no way that could have all come from the vessels Jadeite just severed to gain access.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Nature):  (d20+9)[ 26 ] 
 
Athedia
The Badger bowed her head sadly.   "Unfortunately, today we are the bearers of ill news.  Brent was found dead last night.  We need to know if you have any information as to why he might have died and who might have had anything against him." 
CoffeeIncluded
Both Yulian and Ilia stand there for a moment, mouths partially open in horror.

"No...No, that can't be right. You're mistaken, we were with him most of the night..."

"Shut up!" The half-elf strides over to Badger, her hands balled into fists. "Shut up! You're lying you're lying you're lying!!"
Athedia
The Badger placed her palm on her heart and kept her head bowed.   "On my life I would never lie to you.  Another member of our guild found him last night and my companions and I decided to investigate.  No-one should have had his fate.  I promise you, I will do everything in my power to bring him justice."   If the girl decided to use her fists, Badger decided to let her.  Anger and fear often followed death, and she would not deny another's grief.   "You said you were with him most of the night.  Do you where he went after you parted ways?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy (I feel I will need this)
 (1d20+1)[ 12 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Ilia rears her fist back, ready to swing, when she drops it and begins to cry. Yulian does so as well.

"We...We were just getting some drinks...That's all..."
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 "I'm sorry," Mika says. "If you ask around, maybe you'll find it...Oh, another thing! That alleyway was clean. Really, really clean, no sign of garbage anywhere. It's one of the cleanest alleys I've seen here."

 
 Spoiler 
You're looking for an unusually clean alleyway by a cheap bar open late, that's close to the Bogs but not actually there.
 
 
 

 "A clean alleyway, you sure? Weird to say the least, don't worry Mika we can take it from here, see you later".  Artorias motions Elsee to follow him and departs. He tries to remember  any cheap bars that he might have seen yesterday when they were going to the Bogs.

 
 Spoiler 
Untrained Local Check  (1d20+2)[ 14 ] , since I don't have it trained I can only know things with a DC  of 10 or less
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias: 

There's a lot of cheap bars around there, but most of them are centered around three blocks.
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
Should I be making these knowledge rolls too?  (1d20+7)[ 14 ] 
 

 "That... that could have something to do with the cause of death." 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
It'll help you spot things that are wrong, though in this case both of us rolled so well it's not necessary.
 

 "As would this,"  Jadeite says, tugging Brent's heart slightly loose, and twisting it around to show Alim. The aorta and vena cava are still attached--and there's a rip in the aorta, roundish and impeccably placed.

When Alim and Jadeite look closer at the cleric's lungs, they can see a tear along the side of one--it lines up perfectly with the puncture wound in his aorta.
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Badger: 

Sora ducks for a punch that doesn't come. She opens her eyes to see Brent's friends breaking down, and with almost no hesitation embraces the two of them.

 "I'm so sorry. I promise, my friends and I are going to find and catch the one who did this." 

While most people walk past without paying much notice, some stop or slow down--several humanoids, Plavaan, and those of mixed blood.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Now that I think so, there are a couple of blocks nearby that have many bars and the like, let's start there" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee nods silently as she follows Artorias, her pace at a light jog to keep up with the taller man's longer legs.

 "Wouldn't be surprised if the ked pissed someone of the wrong blood off last night, you saw the bar we went too, the Plavaan were pissed, and if this place is close to the bogs, it's possible at least one of 'em was either still on it's way home or hangin out in an outer-city bar due to overcrowding. Doesn't explain the lack of wounds though, most of us 'cept maybe Drow aren't that good with magic, wouldn't be surprised if Drow were the most pissed off about the whole thing though." 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee and Artorias have one of several ways to get to the few blocks of taverns upon taverns. However, one of the easier ways would be to follow one of the two main large canals cutting through Runite. And Mika did say she heard running water nearby

Whichever way they go, they have to go through one of Runite's many markets, which is bustling with activity at this hour. Cramped and deafening with the clamor and din of merchants hawking their wares, Elsee and Artorias repeatedly have to deal with shoppers bumping into them, occasionally nearly knocking the small goblin over.

"Oof! Watch it!"

"Oh! Pardon me."

"Please excuse me."

"Watch where you're going! Damned greenskins..."

"Did I step on your foot? I'm sorry about that."
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by Draconi Redfir 
 Elsee nods silently as she follows Artorias, her pace at a light jog to keep up with the taller man's longer legs.

 "Wouldn't be surprised if the ked pissed someone of the wrong blood off last night, you saw the bar we went too, the Plavaan were pissed, and if this place is close to the bogs, it's possible at least one of 'em was either still on it's way home or hangin out in an outer-city bar due to overcrowding. Doesn't explain the lack of wounds though, most of us 'cept maybe Drow aren't that good with magic, wouldn't be surprised if Drow were the most pissed off about the whole thing though."  
 

 "I'm not sure, the boy didn't look like someone who would look for trouble; but he was an acolyte of Astrid and Plavaan aren't fans of her... right?"
 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Elsee and Artorias have one of several ways to get to the few blocks of taverns upon taverns. However, one of the easier ways would be to follow one of the two main large canals cutting through Runite. And Mika did say she heard running water nearby

Whichever way they go, they have to go through one of Runite's many markets, which is bustling with activity at this hour. Cramped and deafening with the clamor and din of merchants hawking their wares, Elsee and Artorias repeatedly have to deal with shoppers bumping into them, occasionally nearly knocking the small goblin over.

"Oof! Watch it!"

"Oh! Pardon me."

"Please excuse me."

"Watch where you're going! Damned greenskins..."

"Did I step on your foot? I'm sorry about that." 
 

 "Careful there! you almost knocked my friend down"  Artorias yells at some of the more "clumsy/careless" shoppers. Once they are nearer the bars he takes a moment to concentrate, he makes let's his instincts go wild revealing a world normally hidden to his senses. He looks for the cleanest smelling alleway.

 
 Spoiler 
Artorias enters the Hunter's sense stance, which gives me  Scent, given the description of scent about overpowering odours I'm assuming I can find the less overpowering one. 😉
 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias: 

The smells of the city--the stench of filth in canals, the hot food wafting out of nearby restaurants, the garbage on the streets, the sweat of people in the sweltering summer sun, the sharp smell of beer, a drunken beggar pissing in an alleyway, the salt of the sea, are all overpowering and the sudden rush sends Artorias reeling.

But he is able to recover, and after a few moments he's able to detect...a gap. An erasure on the scribbled-in page, a nothing where there should be something, or at least a less. There, to the northeast, by a bar called  The Salty Mug,  that's advertising extremely cheap beer.

 
 Spoiler 
30 bonus EXP, Dusk--I wasn't expecting that. Nice move there, and I need to go over your maneuvers and stances again so I'm familiar with all of them. Not that I have a problem with what you just did.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee hisses lightly as yet another commoner "accidentally" bumps into her, waiting next to Artorias as he enters some weird meditative state or something, or at least that's what she's guessing as he suddenly closed his eyes and stopped moving. She's pretty sure she's seem him do this once or twice before, though for the life of her she could never exactly remember why.

 "You findin anythin with yer eyes closed like that?" 
Dusk Eclipse
Despite the terrible odour of the city, Artorias can't help; but smile.
 "Oh yes, I found something. Common we are heading Northeast of here.." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias 

The two mercenaries-turned-investigators follow Artorias' nose to a nondescript alleyway. Actually, there is something descript about it--the unusual cleanliness, especially compared to the other alleyways, which stink of piss and garbage (to be expected; they are outside taverns after all). Actually...the cleanliness is concentrated around one spot.

Elsee:
 
 Spoiler 
When you check your wallet, you're missing 16 gold. One of the commoners bumping into you must have been a pickpocket, but there's too many to search him out, and he's long gone.

Look, he rolled a natural 20 on his sleight of hand check and you rolled a 13 with modifiers. Artorias rolled a 10 with modifiers.

Also, a map's coming. Dusk, I assume you mean northeast?
 
Athedia
 "I am sorry to have to ask you this, but did Brent have any enemies, anyone who disliked him.  Any other friends he had or organizations he was part of?  Anything that might be important." 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias fumbles a bit with this belt pouch trying to find his thrice damned glasses*, after a few moments he finds and puts them on. He then starts to prove and prod the alleyway trying to find anything that seems out of place, he takes particular care of the cleanest spot

 
 Spoiler 

*Artorias' masterwork search tool, I couldn't really think of anything else that would work for search so yeah glasses.
Taking 20 to be as thorough as possible so Search check 30. It would take 20 full rounds so 2 minutes per 5 ft. square &gt;_&gt; How big is the alleyway again?

Edit: Yes I meant North-East 😳
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Sora: 

"No," says Yulian. Beside him, Ilia seems to be oscillating between grief and rage.

"We...We always stuck together, the three of us," Ilia says quietly. "And the only organization he's part of is the church. No gangs, no nothing."

 "The church..." 
 Elsee and Artorias: 

They begin to scour the alleyway...

 
 Spoiler 
I'm going to need a bit to draw up the map, sorry.
 
Athedia
 "May I have your addresses in case I have more questions."   As she wrote down the addresses and stored them in her pouch she wondered what the others were up to.

As she started to head back to the guild she turned to Sora.   "What about the church?  Why would any clerics want to hurt one of their own?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Yulian and Ilia give their addresses, then walk away, seeming to crumple more with every step.

Sora shakes her head.  "I don't know. I don't think they would." 
Athedia
 "At least they have each other.  The support will help."  The Badger watched the two go, wishing she could say everything would be okay.
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Sora: 
 "And us. They have us too, right?" 
Athedia
The Badger didn't say anything, just continued walking back to the guild Naga by her side.    Maybe you, but I? I can't help them.  
CoffeeIncluded
 Artorias and Elsee: 

The sun climbs overhead and reaches its zenith, and Artorias is still searching the area.

It's clean. Too clean. Sweeping and scrubbing this much of the alleyway to this state would take hours, and...there's no trace of the body, no blood, no hair, no scraps of cloth,  nothing.  This alleyway had to have been cleaned after he died then...But Mika had said he wasn't dead for long, and nobody was there, so how could the alleyway have gotten that clean, that fast.

There is some scuffing from shoes, it matches what Brent was wearing, but it looks like the scuffing came from when he was dragged, and then it stops...lifted, perhaps? Someone did have to retrieve the body after all. He can see some traces of cloth, a couple stray violet fibers snagged on a jutting piece of wood in the external wall of the tavern.

There's a back door to the tavern closer to the back of the alley, and between the back door and the clean spot, there's a ladder hanging about 10 feet off the ground. It would be easy to reach it with a running jump.
Devmaar
 "Wow, that is a... precise wound. I wonder what could cause something like that... Does that bruise seem to be an entry wound of some sort?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 
 "Maybe,"  Jadeite says, carefully cutting out the lump and flipping it over. He flinches slightly.  "Or perhaps I spoke too soon." 

There's a hole in the center, about the same diameter and angle as the one on his lungs, and slightly smaller than the tear in his aorta. But what's more important is the flesh around the hole. It's swollen, gelatinous, and semi-liquefied, as if that part of his body alone has been rotting longer than any other.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge:  (d20+9)[ 26 ] 
 (d20+11)[ 13 ] 
 (d20+9)[ 23 ] 
 (d20+10)[ 14 ] 
 

 "That is not natural,"  Jadeite simply says.

Alim:
 
 Spoiler 
Certain poisons can have that kind of reaction in the body, especially if they sit in one location and don't spread via blood circulation.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Sora: 

As they walk back to the guild, they're stopped by a throng of pedestrians, a wave of them. Should they press through the crowd or find a detour?
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
Do I need to make knowledge checks?
 

 "Ah, this looks like poison I'd say. Probably administered close to death, else it would have spread more through the body." 
Athedia
The Badger looked at the crowd stopping someone on the outskirts.   "Why are there so many people gathered here?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 
 "Or he died before it could fully penetrate his body. Insurance perhaps?"  He leans in closer and sniffs, wrinkling his nose at the smell.  "Do you know what type it could be? I admit I am...uneducated on the various types of poisons." 
 
 Spoiler 
No need, I rolled for you above. Knowledge to know it's poison, craft to identify the type. You made the first but failed the second.
 

 Badger and Sora: 
 "That's what it is!"  Sora says excitedly, pointing to the center of the crowd, where a couple of street performers are in the middle of a show, doing flips and tumbles over each other while the head of the troupe, an orc with thick muscles, bounds around the cheering crowd, getting them even more excited. He's a natural performer.

"For our last trick, I'm going to need some volunteers? Who's up for a bit of fame and danger?"

Many members of the crowd immediately raise their hands and shout eagerly.

 
 Spoiler 
Feel free to participate if you want.
 
Athedia
The Badger smiled, finally something happy.   Nudging Sora she gave her a grin and then raised her hand high in the air.   "I volunteer!"  The others should not be finished with their work for a little, she had time for fun.
Devmaar
 "No, I'm afraid there's not much to go on. From this it could be any number of things... 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Sora: 
 "Me too!"  Sora says excitedly, shooting her hand high up into the air.

"And...you lovely ladies over here!" the orc says, taking them both by the hand and into the center of the crowd, where several other people of all ages and races are standing. One kid is grinning and says to the others, "I've seen these guys before; I love this part!"

"Are you ready?" The orc shouts to the crowd while his partners in the troupe circle the crowd, holding out boxes that people put their spare change in. "Ready to see these brave volunteers risk injury and death?"

"YEAH!"

"Ready to see my buddy over here do his greatest trick yet? You won't see this anywhere else outside the dungeon, I promise you that!"

"YEAH!"

"Okay then!" He turns to the half-dozen or so volunteers, Badger and Sora included. "I'm gonna need you all to lie down in a straight line, and don't move if you want to keep all your limbs!"

The crowd is cheering and clapping. Many of them know what this last trick is going to be, and those who don't are catching on fast.
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 
 "Even so, we've learned some important information. He was poisoned, probably by the same weapon that punctured his aorta and killed him. And the poison itself wasn't the cause of death, at least not this time. Alim, some poisons can kill while others incapacitate various body functions, right?" 

He rubs his chin.  "But if the poison had not pooled here, we would not have caught it; there's no mark of entry, no external stab wound; all injuries are internal."  His eyes widen.  "Unless...Alim, pass me one of those samples from the preserving jars. One marked for disposal, please." 
Athedia
The Badger squeezed Sora's hand.   "No fear, and welcome to the city."   She lay down along the line, taking deep breathes to calm herself down.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Nervous? Me?"  Though the slight quaver in her voice betrays her.

The cheering reaches its peak, and the volunteers can hear but not see a drumbeat(?) in the crowd. If Badger or Sora turn their heads, they can see the jumper stretch his arms and legs, then dash towards the volunteers, leaping into the air...

 
 Spoiler 
Jump/Tumble:  (d20+13)[ 30 ] 
 


They can't see him leap over the volunteers, or tumble mid-air, but they hear the roar of the crowd as he does a perfect leap over the half-dozen volunteers, and perfectly stick the landing! He raises his arms and shouts in joy as the volunteers get up.

"Let's give these brave volunteers a hand!" the head of the troupe says, grabbing the nearest one--Badger--and slapping her on the back.

The crowd cheers and applauds in response.
Athedia
The Badger took a slight bow, smiling at having not been crushed by the tumblers.  She offered her hand to Sora, helping her back to her feet.
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Badger: 

Sora and the other volunteers follow Badger's lead and give a bow to the applauding crowd.

"Thank you, thank you!" the orc says. "Stick around and you'll be sure to see us again! Now go and enjoy this fine Runite day!"

The troupe circles around for donations one more time, then with what looks like a decent sum of money returns to the leader.

The performance finished, the crowd breaks up. The troupe thanks the remaining volunteers and is then on its way.

 "That was awesome!"  Sora says.  "With all the jumping and tumbling, we've got to see a whole show!" 
 
 Spoiler 
I rolled up "Crowd of people" on the random encounter tables. Do you like what I did with it?

Also, I'll dole out XP after everyone's done with their parts and we all meet up to exchange information over dinner or whatever.
 
Devmaar
 Yes, that's right.  reaching for a jar Alim asks  So ah, what's in here? 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 

With a slight smirk, Jadeite opens up the preserving jar and turns it upside down. Half a liver plops onto a tray, along with liquid it was sitting in. In one fluid movement, Jadeite draws his dagger and plunges it into the organ.

 "Good,"  he says as he withdraws the blade, leaving a neat hole where it went in.  "And now to test my hypothesis." 

With closed eyes and a few mutters words, the elf touches the liver, and its surface immediately knits together, sealing over the hole.
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Artorias and Elsee: 

The sun climbs overhead and reaches its zenith, and Artorias is still searching the area.

It's clean. Too clean. Sweeping and scrubbing this much of the alleyway to this state would take hours, and...there's no trace of the body, no blood, no hair, no scraps of cloth,  nothing.  This alleyway had to have been cleaned after he died then...But Mika had said he wasn't dead for long, and nobody was there, so how could the alleyway have gotten that clean, that fast.

There is some scuffing from shoes, it matches what Brent was wearing, but it looks like the scuffing came from when he was dragged, and then it stops...lifted, perhaps? Someone did have to retrieve the body after all. He can see some traces of cloth, a couple stray violet fibers snagged on a jutting piece of wood in the external wall of the tavern.

There's a back door to the tavern closer to the back of the alley, and between the back door and the clean spot, there's a ladder hanging about 10 feet off the ground. It would be easy to reach it with a running jump. 
 

Artoria takes the fiber and sniffs it, recalling that Astrid's clerics usually wear such colours, afterwards he pockets it, thinking that one of his companions might find it useful.

Thinking that a highers point will give him a better perspective, he jumps at the ladder with the intention to climb it.

 
 Spoiler 

Scent descriptions mentions that the user can recall distinct smells as easily as someone can recall sights, so he is making sure he is familiar with the smell on the fabric in case it becomes useful.

Jump check (with running start)  (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias: 

Artorias has little trouble grabbing the ladder and climbing up it.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll allow it, but only when he's in the stance.

Do you want to search the ladder as you climb it?
 
Dusk Eclipse
Once he is in the ladder Artorias examines it as he climbs it, not as thorough as he had been witht he alleywall.

 
 Spoiler 
Well until we level up I'll pretty much always be in Hunter's Sense so I don't have problem with it. (once the stance is started it stays indefinitely until I change stances or spend an action to end it).

I don't really want to spend hours searching the ladder, so I'll roll Search  (1d20+10)[ 22 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
There's dust on the corners of the ladders but not in the center. Someone's used it, and recently. It could have been used by several people though.

 
 Spoiler 
Okay then, that's fair.

So, inspecting the rooftops?
 
Dusk Eclipse
As always being on higher ground gives Artorias a rush of adrenaline and calm at the same time; but knowing there is work to do he quickly begins to scout the surroundings from his new vantage point.

 
 Spoiler 
Yep pretty much.

I'll throw a spot/listen check just in case
Spot   (1d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Listen  (1d20+6)[ 11 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias is about 30 feet off the ground. He can easily see Elsee below him, though he can't clearly hear her in the bustle of the day. It's about 40 feet to the next rooftop, though...No, there is a ledge there, so it's more like 30 or 25 feet. Jumping down would be much easier though, and it would be easy to hide on the rooftops, thanks to the ledges and flat roofs.

If Elsee were closer, right in the center of the clean spot, he could easily jump down on top of her.

 
 Spoiler 
Take 20 on search?
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 
This time I'll take 10 so Search 20. And I think you mean Artorias, not Alim 😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Artorias and Elsee: 

There's scuff marks on the rooftops, a bit of green gunky mud mostly baked dry from the sun, some pebbles, and that's about it.

 
 Spoiler 
Whoops, thanks for that.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Nothing much up here, pebles, mud... mud? How did mud got up  here?"   Artorias takes a sample of mud with him, he also makes sure to memorize the scent.

 
 Spoiler 
Artorias is beggining to feel like a humanoid dog with his recent obsession with sniffing everything 😛 Well that's cool, after all he is based on the Wolf Knight 😎
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias: 

The mud's from deep in the Bogs, or possibly outside the city proper. Point is, it's swamp mud. Very swampy mud.

 
 Spoiler 
Shall we get him a collar? And what's the Wolf knight?
 
Draconi Redfir
Meanwhile Elsee remains on the ground as Artorias climbs about on the rooftops, as the human was searching, she removed a Silken rope from her bag and began laying it out the width of the alley, finding it having just enough length to block off the entrance if she could find something to tie it too. She really wasn't much of a CSI type or anything, but even she knew that someone mucking up a crime scene could cause problems, she aimed to tie the rope at about waist-high for a human, which would be around her head-level for her, she might need to do some climbing.


 
 Spoiler 

Search check to find something to tie a rope to on the bottom-left corner of the alley (on the map)

(1d20+3)[ 7 ]

If successful, use rope to tie an end of the rope to it
(1d20+4)[ 9 ]

If required, Climb check to reach object to tie rope too.
(1d20+4)[ 23 ]

And same pattern for the bottom-right side

(1d20+3)[ 20 ]
(1d20+4)[ 16 ]
(1d20+4)[ 16 ]

Next bit continues regardless of if she is successful or not
 


With that done, Elsee idly begins to trace the outline of the overly-clean area, searching for any signs of a source or anything that might be a clue that might have escaped the effected area, such as a blood splatter that just barely made it out of whatever caused the overly-clean area. She then moves on to the remainder of the alley, the parts that were more filthy and appeared moreso then normal by comparison, again looking for anything the cleanliness might have missed.

 
 Spoiler 


Not sure how many search checks i'd need for these, so i'm just gunna do three for the border of the clean area, and three for the dirty-area, if i need more just say so, if i need less, just use the first one or two.

Search clean area border:
(1d20+3)[ 15 ]
(1d20+3)[ 9 ]
(1d20+3)[ 18 ]

Search rest of non-clean alley in hopes of further clues.

(1d20+3)[ 11 ]
(1d20+3)[ 12 ]
(1d20+3)[ 7 ]

The rest only happens if Elsee either finds nothing, or finds something that would not otherwise stop her.
 



Elsee looked up from her search at the far end of the alley, and turned around to view the whole thing from the top-right corner ((of the map)). This alley was a dead end, why would he be in here to begin with? From her own experience people usually used alleys as shortcuts between blocks, or as a location to meet with shady individuals or have a brief romp with one's lover when home or a hotel was not an option or too far away. Her eyes glanced towards the doors to her left, idly wondering where they lead to, it's possible he came from or was about to go inside.

 
 Spoiler 

I did a lot as i missed a lot, so i'm going to stop here and hope i didn't do too much at one time, if you want me too just ask and i can split this up into multiple posts
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Artorias: 

Elsee couldn't find anything to hang the rope to, so instead she just searches the crime scene...if there were anything to find. It's pristine, and Artorias found whatever could have been found already. In fact...it's too pristine, as if the person here deliberately scrubbed all evidence of Brent's death away. But how could they have done it so quickly?

As to why Brent was there, that question's easily answered--there's a back door to the bar. He must have left through there.

 
 Spoiler 
Can you see the map? Have you checked your wallet?
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee groaned at her lack of evidence, spending a good minute waiting for Artorias as she pondered on wether or not she should go through the doors. When it looked like he wasn't going to be coming back anytime soon, she decided to go for it, moving up to the doors and slooowly opening one of them as silently as she could manage, carefully peering inside.


 
 Spoiler 

Yes i've seen the map, no Elsee has not checked her walet, but i have removed the coins from her total on my sheet.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The door's locked. If Elsee goes around to the front, she sees the bar won't open for about an hour.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee throws her arms up in frustraition and returns to the corner on the far edge of the alley as the doors, slinking down onto the ground and pouting.

 
 Spoiler 

Grumpy goblin :P
 
Dusk Eclipse
Having checked everything of interest in the roofs Artorias decides to return to ground level, with one last look of peace he jumps down towards the alleyway making sure he doesn't lands on his goblin friend.

Once on the ground he touches one of the moonstones sewn into his belts and let's out a happy sight as the positive energy course through his body mending his wounds*.

 
 Spoiler 


Yeah Artorias will jump from 30 ft. of the ground and will try to land smoothly reducing to 1d6 non-lethal and 1d6 lethal damage 😎
Tumble check  (1d20+10)[ 14 ] 
 for falling damage just scroll down a bit. 

He then activates 1 charge of his belt of healing to cure the falling damage  (one of the best low-level items ever!
Healing Belt  (2d8)[ 11 ] 

Also the Wolf Knight is a reference to Sir Artorias Abysswalker  a character/boss from Dark Souls. He is one of my favourite characters ever and yes I ripped off his name (when I say I suck at naming, I mean it) and no Artorias doesn't want a collar if someone needs it, is probably Naga 😉
 
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias can't quite fall smoothly and guarantee not hitting Elsee at the same time, and he lands awkwardly on the ground. However, he's quickly healed by his belt.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm gonna go check on the healing belts again.

Nonlethal falling damage:  (d6)[ 5 ] 
Lethal falling damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 

And Jadeite Nocrius is a shameless expy of Colonel Jade Curtiss from Tales of the Abyss, so there. 😉 Though actually they are a bit more different than they appear at first glance.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Note to self... don't try that again. Did you find anything here Elsee?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Eh, they are pretty balanced in my opinion. 3 charges per day (renewed at dawn) and as a standard action (that provokes AoO) you can spend 1, 2 or 3 to heal (or damage undead)  2d8, 3d8 or 4d8. I do agree that at low level it is a lot of healing; but you have such little HP that a crit will most likely kill you or at the very least send you into negatives.

Edit: And I just took his name and favourite attack style (jumping on people), sadly you don't see much characterization as Artorias has been corrupted by the abyss and just attacks everything that moves essentially.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee shakes her head in frustraition, pulling herself to stand as Artorius hits the ground, the showoff.

 "I'd have better luck looking for a Hay in a Needlestack then finding anyting around here." 
Devmaar
Alim's eyes widen  Of course! The killer stabs his victim and repairs the wound magically, immediately after death. This explains the clothes too, it wouldn't matter what state they were in beforehand if the murderer used magic to clean up after himself. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Mending wouldn't remove any bloodstains, but Prestidigitation would,"  Jadeite says with a smile--not a smirk. He takes the liver and cuts it in half, opening the two sides and showing them to Alim. Though the outside of the liver is patched over, the inside still displays the stab.

 "I should have realized it sooner; mending spells are how we patch up bodies after experimenting on them. And a poisoned blade as well. I would not have caught that; thank you, Alim." 
Devmaar
 It's been a pleasure. We should go tell the others what we've found. 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by Draconi Redfir 
 Elsee shakes her head in frustraition, pulling herself to stand as Artorius hits the ground, the showoff.

 "I'd have better luck looking for a Hay in a Needlestack then finding anyting around here."  
 

 "Exactly, this place is far too clean to be normal, something happened here of that there is no doubt. I also found swamp mud on the roofs, how it got up there I've no idea." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 
 "Agreed,"  Jadeite says, casting the spell over Brent's body, sealing him up...at least from the outside.  "I shall tell someone in charge to return his body to his parents. Where shall we meet the others? I wonder if they got pertinent information as well."  He walks with Alim, revising his notes from the autopsy as they go.

 
 Spoiler 
Should I time skip? Where do you want us all to meet?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Later: 

The three groups finally meet back together in later afternoon, in the lobby of the guild. What information do they have to share?
Dusk Eclipse
 "Me and Elsee went to the place where the boy died, it is far to clean, there was nothing there and I meant nothing,  not even a speck of dust, definitely not something I would expect from an alleyway behind a bar  named  The Salty Mug.  On the other hand I did find this"  He fishes the violet fibers from his pouch and shows it to his companions.

 "It was snagged near the tavern and I have the suspicion this is part of the boy's vestments. I also found mud on the rooftops, swamp mud, probably from the bogs; but I don't know how it got there.

One  more thing, that alleyway is a perfect spot for an ambush, secluded, with higher ground where you can spot almost anything; but can't be spotted from below and it is connected to other rooftops so it also provides a decent escape route".
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite nods and adds,  "That would fit in with what we found in the autopsy. The victim was stabbed in the back, and killed within moments. It was an expertly placed strike, right between his ribs and piercing his aorta; the murderer either got extremely lucky or knew what he was doing. Personally I believe the latter to be the case." 
 
 Spoiler 
Leaving the poison bit for Alim; I'm heading back to work.
 
Athedia
 "I doubt it was his friends.  They said they spent most of the night with him and that he didn't really have other friends.  The only organization he was part of to their knowledge was the church.  Their grief seemed real, at especially the girl's.  She came this close to decking me when she thought  I was lying."  The Badger held her fingers close together to indicate the near danger of the discussion.  Naga sat next to her whining until the Badger slipped some of her meal under the table.
Devmaar
 We think the blade was poisoned as well. Not to mention, we believe the killer covered their tracks with magic, which would explain the unusually clean alley as well as the lack of marks on the body. 
CoffeeIncluded
The huge pot of gumbo has been cooking for much of the day in the kitchen, and the group helps themselves to some. Thick hearty chunks of speckled and spiced sausage swim in chicken stock, and the meat from those same birds has been boiled until the meat nearly falls off the bone. Bright red bell peppers, chunks of celery, and translucent onions are draped over the meat; the trinity of vegetables combine into one aroma. Chopped okra has thickened the soup, and it has somehow maintained a crispness despite being cooked for so long. Diced tomatoes bleed red into the stew, and the mix of spices, varying from chef to chef, give the gumbo a mildly spicy kick. Though the meal is served over rice, the cook has also left out bread so everyone can mop up what's left.

Jadeite takes a bite of the meal and chews it thoughtfully, then follows it with a sip of beer and says,  "Unfortunately, we've yet to identify the poison--not that he needed it to dispatch our victim. " 
 
 Spoiler 
Devmaar, just so you know it would have been possible to identify the poison, but you would have had to roll absurdly well on the check.

Did I do well describing the food?
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee's ear twitches as she listens in on what everyone is saying, idly prodding her food with her fork, trying to determine what exactly it was.

 "So we've got poison, bog mud, a precision strike, and a magic spell. Whadea thing we're lookin for then, a Plavaan assassin with magical abilities? One with a magic item?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Knowledge local check to see if she is aware of anyone by that description.

(1d20-1)[ 19 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Draconi Redfir 
 Elsee's ear twitches as she listens in on what everyone is saying, idly prodding her food with her fork, trying to determine what exactly it was.

 "So we've got poison, bog mud, a precision strike, and a magic spell. Whadea thing we're lookin for then, a Plavaan assassin with magical abilities? One with a magic item?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Knowledge local check to see if she is aware of anyone by that description.

(1d20-1)[ 19 ]
 
 
 

 "Precise strikes can be replicated by certain spells,"  Jadeite says,  "Though the verbal component would likely blow one's cover. Furthermore, neither Alim nor I were able to identify the type of poison used." 

Magic items that would clean or mend are extremely common; Elsee has seen them on sale at many shops for reasonable prices. It would be easy for anyone to obtain one, provided they saved up some cash. As for magical abilities, that would suggest a drow, but then again the abilities could be replicated by said items.

In short, there's almost nothing to go on if trying to pick out a specific person.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm sorry, it was a good idea, but the knowledge check is just way too high for you or anyone to make right now; I'd say it would be in the high 30s or low 40s at best--you're trying to pick one person out of thousands. Later, on the other hand...
 

 "However,"  Jadeite says, steepling his fingers together,  "Elsee does have the right idea. We need to clearly list what we know, what we do not know, and what we speculate to be true." 
Athedia
Badger spoke through a mouthful of food.   "Plav seems to obvious."  Swallowing and wiping her mouth with the back of her hand, then putting said hand under the table for Naga to lick clean, she continued.   "I mean a cleric of Astrid, dying near the Bogs, with apparent magic and poison on the day that they are most likely to riot, it points too neatly to a Plavaan angry about the decision yesterday.  And in such a way that someone would investigate.  If it was just a stabbing, we would have just chalked it up to some drunk getting shivved for his wallet. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "His wallet only had a few gold in it,"  Jadeite says,  "But I don't know how wealthy he or his family was. Were you able to find out?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Hint: You did get a hint as to his family's wealth. 😉
 
Athedia
 "His father's cloak had some gold trim on it.  We could check out the house, I got the address."   The Badger produced the worn pieces of paper detailing the addresses of the people she had questioned that day.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Father?"  Jadeite asks.  "Is that how worshipers of Astrid refer to the clergy?" 
 
 Spoiler 
The cleric had gold trim on his cloak, and that's a symbol of rank more than anything else. Brent's father didn't have a cloak or cape of any kind. Sorry if I didn't make that clear.
 
Athedia
 "Sorry, no that was the cleric.  Forgive my memory it has been a long day.  But Canal Street, what wealth of people live there?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee knews on a rather tough peice of meat as the elf an the human speak, stabbing annother with a fork held in the traditional "i'm-going-to-stab-you" posistion as she swallows, waving it about a bit as she interupts them yet again.

 "Well what if it's not a decoy? what if et really WAS a Plavaan venting some steam from the other night? We all saw that bar back in the bogs, not too out of place to assume one of the more Broody Drow got his hands on a fancy homegrown poison and decided to take a little personal revenge on the next unlucky shmuck to wander out alone in the dark." 
Athedia
The Badger rested her head in her hands as she thought.  "This seems to planned for a drunken act of violence.  A drunk would just stab, not get all these spells and poisons." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Exactly,"  Jadeite says.  "Though a Plavaan murdering this cleric would be...too obvious for all but the stupidest to consider, we cannot leave it out until we have objectively eliminated it as a possibility.

"At the same time, Badger is right. This was almost certainly premeditated." 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Local) for the average income of people living around Canal Street.
 
Athedia
 "Canal Street..."  The Badger thought for a moment, she didn't have all the streets memorized thinking of them more as "the one with the good food", "that one with the bar", "the other one with the bar" and so on.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Local: (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Canal street is rather aptly named because of the canal running through it. The rather smelly canal. That's all Badger remembers offhand though.
Athedia
 "Oh 'stinky street'.  I doubt they are too rich."  After all if she had money the last place she would live near was something that smelled that bad.
Devmaar
Alim sits back, letting the others talk while he considers the situation.
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Local:  (1d20+9)[ 23 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim:

 
 Spoiler 
Canal Street is a decidedly working-class neighborhood. Many immigrants also live around there.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "While we have a method,"  Jadeite says, mopping up some sauce with his bread with surprising delicacy,  "Do we have a motive, or even a lead?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Now seems like as good a time for any to dole out XP--500 to everyone, a combination of random encounters and useful stuff found, mostly the latter. That's part of the reason I rolled for random encounters for Artorias and Elsee, and Badger and Sora, but not Alim and Jadeite--they got the most useful information out of it all. Is this fair?
 
Athedia
 "Stir up trouble.  The votes are getting closer, we may have a drow in place sooner than some people would like.  If they make them the enemy..." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "And if it is a Plavaan, set on revenge?"  Jadeite holds up his hands.  "I am not saying that it is--indeed, considering how...cunning some nobles can get your idea is more likely. But we cannot discard either possibility without further proof. The question is, how do we obtain this proof?" 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias stirs eats the gumbo slowly savouring each mouthful as he listen to his teammates.


 "The place was too clean for normal methods, you guys determined that magic  was used and the location was perfect, I find hard to believe it was a coincidence, that tells me it was planned , I would  discard angry Plaavans or at least angry ones from the council vote.  " 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite savors a particularly succulent piece of sausage for a moment before saying,  "If we could identify the poison used, that would be incredibly useful. Unfortunately, it was too degraded to perform even the most cursory analyses." 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee took another bite of her meal as she thought, randomly picking up a small crumb of meat and putting it up into her hair, more likely to result in her already messy and oily head getting minorly worse then actually feeding any Lil'Miss that lived up there.

 "Got me 'nd Alim here. Probly some populer place the Darkskins like to hang out in somewhere in the bogs, we could probly get in with minimal suspicion and spend the whole time keeping an ear out for any bragging or code-speak." 

Elsee twirled her fork in her fingers and pointed it at Jadeite, then over to Sora before speaking.

 "You two 'er probly the closest to passable noble-types we've got. Maybe ya could do the same fer the more Paleskin crowd? Probly not the most efficient methods but it'd be better then sitting on our asses and eating cake... speaking of..." 

Elsee turned in her chair and attempted to make eye contact with a waitress, wondering what exactly the desert menu was like around here.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite slightly narrows his lips. Why would it have to be someone so..ill-mannered who comes up with good plans?

 
 Spoiler 
You'll forgive me if I talk about food later? I just spent the past 40 minutes either on or kneeling before the toilet.
 
CoffeeIncluded
What does the rest of the group think of Elsee's plan?
Devmaar
 Seems like a good plan to me. Any objections? 
CoffeeIncluded
 "None in particular, though I shall likely need a couple days...and an escort. Unfortunately, I am new to this city and my poor old memory can be quite frail. Why Badger,"  he says, turning to her,  "Would you be so generous as to assist an old elf like myself?" 
Athedia
 "Old? If you are old, then I am a potato.  What do you need help with?"  The Badger scoffed at Jadeite's attempt to make her feel useful, but she appreciated it.  There was no way she could pass as upperclass with the tattoos on her face, and she liked it that way.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, just directions. I'm sure you're a living map of this fine city."

"And don't feel ashamed about your youth. In time you'll be a wrinkled sprout as well. Or things will be sprouting from you. You'd be surprised." 
 
 Spoiler 
I thought it would be obvious that he's trolling you. And I just thought up a good random encounter battle, heh. 😏
 
Athedia
 "If you ask the right questions, you can find anything.  Where too?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I was making a Portal reference.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNT1jsAWfIA 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
  "If you ask the right questions, you can find anything.  Where too?" 
 "What humanoids would want to blame the Plavaan? It seems like we would have a great many racists to sift through, and not all of them nobility." 
 
 Spoiler 
I was making a Portal reference.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNT1jsAWfIA 
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
Derp, I can't believe I missed that. And there's a way for Badger and Artorias to check out the humanoids!
 
CoffeeIncluded
The group winds down their meal, and hashes out the details of their plan as they head back to their rooms in the guild. It's been a long day, and the next few promise to be longer. The unasked question hangs over everyone's heads--will the unknown murderer stop at Brent?

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry about the delay guys, I figured it was appropriate to take the reins. Is this okay? We can continue talking while walking, I just wanted to move the scene forward. Maybe that's the cause of the slowdown the past couple days.
 
Silverraptor
Sora finishes up her meal.

 "Well, what's got me nervous is whether or not the attack was premeditated or not, the victim still was a Cleric of Astrid. I'm worried that any other clerics in this city could also be potential targets in the future."  She gulps and says in a small voice.   "Including me..."  

She stares into her stew for a moment before looking up.
 "But regardless of what the danger is for me, I need to help out my fellow clerics in any way I can!"  She nods at Elsee before turning to Jadeite, tugging slightly at his sleeve.  "If we are to go out, I'm going to have to change your wardrobe first. I will not allow myself to be seen around with someone dressed as if they are about to attend a funeral in their bathrobe." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I'm sure it's nothing to worry about,"  Jadeite says,  "And if it is, you could always convert. I'm sure Isarus would have no problem adding a human to her ranks." 

At Sora's second statement, Jadeite says,  "! I--I beg your pardon! These robes have been crafted to my physique!"  but otherwise, he's nearly stunned speechless by Sora's brazen statement.

 
 Spoiler 
Wow, you shocked Jadeite. Good on you!
 
Athedia
The Badger laid a hand over Sora's, looking her in the eye as she attempted to bring the girl some ease of mind.   "No-one messes with this group without punishment.  I will make sure nothing happens to you." 
CoffeeIncluded
As the group leaves the restaurant, determined to keep Sora and the other clerics of Astrid from any more harm, Jadeite stops Alim before their rooms and asks him,  "Would you do me a favor?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Since nobody posted, I'm going to go forward. Guys, please tell me how to keep momentum. And thank you, Draconi.

There's still time to talk though!
 
Devmaar
 Of course Jadeite, what is it? 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Just because the poison the murderer used is too degraded to directly identify does not mean we are unable to identify it with indirect methods. You appear to be quite knowledgeable on the subject--I'm sure it would be no trouble for you to procure various sample of poison for thorough empirical testing, which--"  Jadeite says, holding up a finger,  "Is the standard for any self-respecting scientist, of which I am sure you are one as well." 

He smiles at the goblin.  "I'm sure the cost of such nefarious substances will be no problem, as I do not require a complete dose for my work; simply a small visible sample would do. I would like a larger sample to replicate any results, but alas I know you mercenaries are not made of gold and I doubt I could write this off as a work expense. You do not need to worry about viper venom or venom from lesser vermin; my dear Hemlock and I shall take care of that." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Very good!"  Jadeite says happily when Alim fails to respond.  "In that case I trust you'll deliver the materials to me within the next few days, at your leisure. But don't dally, else who knows who might die next?" 
 The next morning: 

The group wakes early, a feeling of foreboding hanging the air that wasn't there a day before. They eat breakfast, preparing to split up for a long day of investigating: Jadeite and Sora will try to find a way to spy on the nobles and bourgeoisie of Runite, Badger and Artorias will observe the middle class and working folk of the city, while Alim and Elsee will investigate the Bogs.

They have a lot of work cut out for them. In a city of nearly a million, what useful information on a single shadowed murderer could they possibly find?

 
 Spoiler 
I don't think I railroaded there, did I? I Devmaar, I said I was going to move forward after dinner since I feel everyone else has been waiting too long, and we did both agree on this, right? Besides, I do think that it's very in-character to Jadeite to say and do something like this. If you have a problem with this, please feel free to talk about it OOC or via PM.

Am I posting too much for you guys? Am I not posting the right things? Please, this is the first game I've run and I've got some awesome ideas in mind and I want to make it as fun for you all as possible.

So guys, feel free to iron out your agendas, then split up and tell me what you're going to investigate; I'll lay out the scene, show the characters, maybe roll for a random encounter, and see what comes out! Silverraptor, you said you were going to take Jadeite shopping?
 
Devmaar
Over breakfast Alim speaks to the group
 I'll be trying to look into what poisons could have been used by the perp, the materials costs could be significant, would you all be willing to put some gold towards this? 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee sat herself next to Alim shortly after he had asked his question, having taken an unusually long time to get downstairs and grab breakfast, resulting in her being late for the initial meeting of the group. Elsee grinned as she put her food on the table in front of her and wrapped an arm around Alim's own, leaning into and looking up at him with a brief flutter of Goblin eyelashes in an intentionally poorly-acted display of affection.

 "Sooo beg boy, Where we goin for our little tate tonight Hmmm? Any place in mind?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Of course,"  Jadeite says, passing half his gold to Alim.

When Elsee begins flirting with Alim, Jadeite carefully ignores the two goblins and asks Sora,  "So, where were you planning to infiltrate first?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Devmaar, Jadeite gave Alim 100 gp.
 
Silverraptor
 "Well, what are our choices?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite takes out a sheet of paper and begins jotting down notes.

 "Well, our best bet would be to investigate the Senators, probably by going to the senate. We could also walk to the rich district, and eavesdrop there." 

Jadeite doesn't mention that he has no clue where the upper-class district in Runite are.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Local):  (d20+3)[ 6 ] 

Anyone want to lend him a hand? 😛
 
Athedia
Badger collapsed her head into her hands.   "Let me guess, neither of you knows the way do you?"   Thinking of the best route she closed her eyes for a second.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Local:  (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
Geography?  (1d20+1)[ 12 ] 
 

 "I haven't been to that section in a good while, but I would also advise that you change your style some.  You don't act much like money would." 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Jadeite takes out a sheet of paper and begins jotting down notes.

 "Well, our best bet would be to investigate the Senators, probably by going to the senate. We could also walk to the rich district, and eavesdrop there." 

Jadeite doesn't mention that he has no clue where the upper-class district in Runite are.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Local): [roll0]

Anyone want to lend him a hand? 😛
 
 
 

Sora nods, placing a hand on her chin.  "Yes. Those do sound like good options. However..."  She grabs hold of one of Jadeite's arms and pulls him up.  "If we're going to infiltrate nobility and senators, there will have to be some wardrobe changes done first."  She then begins to push him up stairs to her room.
CoffeeIncluded
Badger's never been there--why would she? She does know where the Senate is though, and figures that the rich would build on the most valuable land in the city--the driest and highest.

Jadeite pinches his nose.  "I fail to understand this city's fetish for money. Have you ever tried to cast spells when weighed down in jewelry?" 

He nearly yelps when Sora drags him upstairs,  "This robe was tailored, and I will not have it disrespected so!" 
Devmaar
Alim pulls away from Elsee, shuffling uncomfortably
 Ah, hm, well I do know a few places... 
 
 Spoiler 
 Knowledge:Local  (1d20+9)[ 22 ] 

And to help the others with directions  (1d20+9)[ 27 ] 
 


To Badger:
 Yes, you'll want to go...  [insert directions]
CoffeeIncluded
Alim:

 
 Spoiler 
All of the senators and many of the richest in Runite live in the Heights, which is rather aptly named--it's the highest elevation in Runite. Admittedly this isn't much, but whenever there's a bad storm or hurricane, they're the last and least flooded. You know exactly where that is and shouldn't have any problem directing them. There's a few other locations, but the Senate and Heights would be the best places to start.

As for the Bogs, you figure that talking to Plavaan religious and tribal leaders would be a good place to start. You have a sort of government within your own community, a holdover of the tribal, often semi-nomadic culture that the Plavaan brought with them from the Alavaan plains.

If Badger and Artorias want to investigate the working class and common folk, they'll want to search the many markets and the area around Canal Street. The Docs would also be a good place to look, especially if they're hungry for something greasy and cheap.
 
Athedia
 "What Alim said, high and dry is where the rich stay.  You said there were no witnesses, right?  But maybe some street kids saw something that day, they keep a close eye on goings and comings."   The Badger nodded to Artorias, she liked talking to the kids, they tended to know more than they let on, and would help for the right price.  As long as you didn't underestimate them they were fine allies, but it was a shame that they committed crimes to survive.

The Badger had caught a boy with his hand in her purse once, and after he had begged her to let him go she had made him show her where he lived.  A small house, with two younger siblings and a sick father.  She had let the boy go, there was no honor in bringing in someone who was keeping the others alive.
Devmaar
 Well, come on Elsee. We'd best make a start. 

Assuming the other goblin goes with him, Alim heads for the Bogs. His first port of call will be an apothecary or similar where he knows he can pick up at least some of his ingredients.
CoffeeIncluded
 The Bogs: 

The air is so thick and sticky one could taste the humidity with every breath, wet and heavy on their tongue and in their lungs. Grey clouds cover the sky; the threat of a downpour is looming and imminent.

The windows of every house in the Bogs are thrown open, as though that would do much good; it's just as stifling inside as out. Most Plavaan wear the lightest and least clothes they can find. Half-naked children run through the cooler mud as their parents shout warnings from their doorsteps and streets.

"Stay out of the deep water, else the snakes and gator's 'll get ya!"

Alim knows exactly where he's going, a path he's tread so many time's he's nearly memorized it. As he enters a nondescript apothecary, the chimes tinkling as he enters, he's immediately greeted by the multitudes of potions, philters, oils, and assorted bundles of herbs. The shopkeeper, an old goblin woman, smiles in recognition as she sees Alim enter.

"Aah, Alim, it's good to see you again. So, how much marshpoppy will it be today, ey?"

 
 Spoiler 
Marshpoppy is the base ingredient in drow poison; it can also be fashioned into a powerful painkiller and/or narcotic.
 
Silverraptor
Sora pushes Jadeite into her room, closing the door behind her.
 "Yeah, yeah. Your robe is fitting of your position and satire of a great necromancer in training." 
She walks over to her bag and ruffles through it until she pulls out a measuring tape.
 "Which is why if our mission is to spy on the nobles, the mission will be over before it begins. (Hold Still!)" 
She walks over to him and begins holding up his arms and begins measuring.
 "These robes scream middle to low class student wizard, causing anyone with wealth and fashion taste to vomit at the sight of them. I should know, I did that an hour ago before coming down to breakfast." 
She begins to jot down the measurements. In less than a minute, she is done and throws the measuring tape over her shoulder, suddenly walking across the room with dramatic grace and importance.
 "Don't you worry. In no time at all, you won't even recognize yourself at the crazy necromantic gothic elf. But you'll be instead Noble Jadeite, heir to the family Nocrius and successor to the family line of work of..." 
She pauses, putting a finger to her chin while thinking.
 "...Well, elf things." 
CoffeeIncluded
Hemlock hisses threateningly; Jadeite runs a finger down the viper's back and says,  "I know, I know. How uneducated of her, to insult your fine scales and our bond, not to mention the great Nocrius name.

"Perhaps you should see a cleric,"  he retorts at her comment.  "The frightful things stomach acid does to one's teeth and gums! Would you like to see a few examples?" 

However, the elf is silent when he sees how quickly Sora finishes her measurements. Though he does say,  "Elf Things just reveals the extent of your separation from culture. We study the secrets and mysteries of magic--in my case, necromancy. We unravel the natural world." 
 
 Spoiler 
Oh man, this is great. Never thought Sora would have Jadeite's number. Though the robes really are well-made. They're just suited for lab work. Did you see the picture?
 
Devmaar
 Hello! Good to see you too, I shall have to drop by more often. Actually, I just need a few things for research purposes. 

Alim hands over a list of ingredients with (rather small) weights listed
 
 Spoiler 
The list is the ingredients for Drow Poison and Blue Winnis from core, as well as the following from Complete Scoundrel:

 
 Blasphemix 
 Elemental Rime 
 Goobye Kiss 
 Gorgon's Hair 
 Salvo 
 Siren's Breath 
 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 The Bogs: 

The apothecary raises her eyebrows as she sees Alim's list. "Oh, you're a busy boy...Just what are you up to?"

Nevertheless, she says it with a wink and at once sets about the shop, muttering to herself as she pulls out and replaces various labeled jars and packets, eventually pulling a ladder out of the back and pushing it around the cramped store, racing up and down it as she searches for the more obscure ingredients, tossing the softer packets onto the floor and disturbing cobwebs from the deeper crannies of the old wooden shelves with the wearing paint.

After some time, she finally steps off the ladder, her arms full of various bundles of herbs and tiny vials of liquids. She pulls out a shining set of scales from under the counter she scurries behind, and begins deftly weighing the ingredients.

"Are you trying to poison rats with these? Trust me, traps are much better, or maybe spiders--you seen what them drow have been breeding lately?"

Finally, the goblin wraps up Alim's purchases, and holds out a green wrinkled hand. "Such small amounts, I think 76 gold's good. Well, 76 gold, 3 silver. Girl's gotta pay rent, you know, and land like this ain't cheap!"

 
 Spoiler 
Everything but the blasphemix and siren's breath. Feel free to talk to her if you want!
 
Devmaar
 Now now, you know I can't talk business here,  Alim says with a smile  Now that I think, could you do me 2 full doses of marshpoppy too? 
Alim begins counting out the payment, including the marshpoppy he'll hand over a total of 110 gp,  Don't worry yourself about the change. How's business been? 
CoffeeIncluded
 The Bogs: 

The apothecary laughs as she hands over the marshpoppy. "Same as always, got my schemers, my medics, and still got them wannabe junkies that keep coming back no matter how much I turn 'em down. Trying to talk to the paleskin clerics, tell 'em how great marshpoppy is at knocking down the wounded screamers so you can actually help 'em! Think a couple Donnites might be turning an ear, but not sure about the others yet."

She smiles when Alim tells her to keep the change. "You've always been a sweet boy...And who might be the lucky lady there?" she calls out to Elsee. "Lemme tell you, this goblin here's one fine catch!"

 
 Spoiler 
How much of the money was Alim's and how much was what Jadeite lended him? He lent 100 gp.

Draconi, what do you want Elsee to do?

Donnites are referring to Don, the dwarven god of luck, history, and travel.
 
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
I'll be giving Jadeite back 20 gold, effectively he'll have paid for the experiments and Alim will have paid for his own marshpoppy. The IC justification for this is that Jadeite clearly has more spare cash than Alim (he lent more money than Alim had at the time) and it was his idea. If you'd prefer I split it equally, fair enough but I'll have to drop the extra marshpoppy and we can pay 40 gp each.

Do goblins blush? I'm working on the assumption that they do.
 


Blushing, Alim shakes his head as he packs away his ingredients,  Oh, oh no, Elsee is my colleague that's all. We just work together. It was good to see you, but I do have to go, I'll mention the marshpoppy to a cleric I know, she might make them see sense. I'll be sure to send them your way if I manage it. Goodbye now. Come along Elsee. 

*waits to see if Draconi posts before continuing*
Draconi Redfir
Elsee had spent a majority of her time in the apothecary leaning on the wall by the door wit her arms folded and a pout on her face, her eyes occasionally glancing at the different ingredients that lined the walls as she waited for Alim to be done already. Boy suuure knew how to treat a lady didn't he?

Elsee straightened up at the mention of a “lucky lady” and half-sneered half-grinned as she walked up to Alim and wrapped herself around his arm once more, a vicious grin crossing her face as she kept her eyes on the elderly goblin, refusing to address or acknowledge the words of the struggling male in her grasp.

 “Well ef ya ask me he's pretty lousy when et comes to first dates around here, We're supposed to be goin out together, just the two of us yaknow? Eye figured maybe a restaurant, some time watching the sun set over the Glowcap lake, and what does he do? First stop is a work-related shopping trip, now is that really any way to treat a lady!?” 

Elsee made sure to grin teasingly at the apothecary the whole while as she spoke, hoping it would help prevent the elder from being offended at her words.
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
  "What Alim said, high and dry is where the rich stay.  You said there were no witnesses, right?  But maybe some street kids saw something that day, they keep a close eye on goings and comings."   The Badger nodded to Artorias, she liked talking to the kids, they tended to know more than they let on, and would help for the right price.  As long as you didn't underestimate them they were fine allies, but it was a shame that they committed crimes to survive.

The Badger had caught a boy with his hand in her purse once, and after he had begged her to let him go she had made him show her where he lived.  A small house, with two younger siblings and a sick father.  She had let the boy go, there was no honor in bringing in someone who was keeping the others alive. 
 

 We could stop by my old neighborhood, blacksmiths always seems to attract colourful fellows.   Despite leaving home in good graces with his parents, Artorias haven't visited them in a long time and perhaps it is time to rectify that. Besides he feels it is as good as any place to start asking questions.

 
 Spoiler 

I'm a really sorry for taking this long to post; but I was out of town and without internet access and to make things worse today was a really busy day.
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Hemlock hisses threateningly; Jadeite runs a finger down the viper's back and says,  "I know, I know. How uneducated of her, to insult your fine scales and our bond, not to mention the great Nocrius name.

"Perhaps you should see a cleric,"  he retorts at her comment.  "The frightful things stomach acid does to one's teeth and gums! Would you like to see a few examples?" 

However, the elf is silent when he sees how quickly Sora finishes her measurements. Though he does say,  "Elf Things just reveals the extent of your separation from culture. We study the secrets and mysteries of magic--in my case, necromancy. We unravel the natural world." 
 
 Spoiler 
Oh man, this is great. Never thought Sora would have Jadeite's number. Though the robes really are well-made. They're just suited for lab work. Did you see the picture?
 
 
 

 "I'm sorry, I didn't mean any disrespect to your snake." 
She walks over to her bag and places the measuring tape inside.
 "I merely was saying that a robe that is designed for lab, no matter how high quality it was designed for, still screams lower class to the wealthy nobles." 
She pulls out some clothes, compares them together, and then puts them back into her bag, before picking up the bag by the strap and throwing it over her shoulder.
 "And I am a Cleric, Jadeite. As such, I know how busy other clerics are with regular ailments, not to mention this recent mystery. I think it would serve in their best interest to not have to deal with puking nobles over a clash of fashion." 
She walks over to the restroom door with her bag over her shoulder. She pauses, placing her hand over the frame and giving Jadeite a smug and slightly flirty smile.
 "And as for you rants of me being uneducated... then why don't you teach me." 

She then walks in and closes the door, making it obvious that she was to be changing into clothes that would be "more suitable" to wear, and that Jadeite was expected to continue the conversation through the door.
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite pauses, not entirely sure how to respond to Sora's strange actions. However, he acts as calm as ever and coolly asks,  "And how do you know so much about nobility?" 

Flirting? Was that it? Still...yes, that's probably the appropriate response. He folds his arms and says, with a bit of a smirk,  "Funny, I thought you were one to recoil at the thought of digging through corpses to observe the tensile strength of their connective tissues." 

No, that may not have been the right response, entertaining though it may be.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry about that, the forum crashed.

So, where are Alim and Elsee, and Badger and Artorias headed off? Are they leaving now?
 
Athedia
The Badger scratched Naga's head, grabbing her pack off the floor.   "Keep an eye open then.  Don't want anything to go missing while we are out."   She started toward the door, then paused to let Artorias go in front.  "Little hard to lead to someone else's home" 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
 The Badger scratched Naga's head, grabbing her pack off the floor.   "Keep an eye open then.  Don't want anything to go missing while we are out."   She started toward the door, then paused to let Artorias go in front.  "Little hard to lead to someone else's home"  
 

 "Wait,  are you tell me you've never been to the Wolf's Fang forge? My old man is one of the best smiths I Runite; but you probably didn't know that I used to live over the forge"   Artorias seemed to be flustered at the last comment.  "Anyway , follow me, it isn't far from here"  
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The sky is dark and almost a threatening yellow-green; it's going to pour soon. Not that summer thunderstorms are anything odd in summer Runite (or late spring Runite, or early fall Runite), but the streets are less crowded than they were yesterday.

The two mercenaries make it to the edge of the merchant district, vast and one of many, still bustling in activity. The theme here, so close to the main watchtower, is equipped items, and there are a couple blocks where the heat from nearly a dozen forges crawls out into the streets. One of these forges and shops belongs to Artorias' parents, who live upstairs.

 Elsee and Alim: 

"Nope, that ain't a way to treat a lady at all!" the goblin replies to Elsee with just as toothy a grin.

As they're about to leave the shop, the two goblins see a young half-drow enter. He looks distracted, and the deep black shawl wrapped around his head is worn and frayed. He pauses for a moment, pushes the shawl about halfway back on his head, and looks at the shop and customers. His hair is cut in a way that tries to make his shortened and slightly rounded ears seem longer, but it's obviously done in a mirror and so the effect looks sloppy.

He blinks and says, "Oh, sorry. Uh, wrong store."
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite pauses, not entirely sure how to respond to Sora's strange actions. However, he acts as calm as ever and coolly asks,  "And how do you know so much about nobility?" 

Flirting? Was that it? Still...yes, that's probably the appropriate response. He folds his arms and says, with a bit of a smirk,  "Funny, I thought you were one to recoil at the thought of digging through corpses to observe the tensile strength of their connective tissues." 

No, that may not have been the right response, entertaining though it may be.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry about that, the forum crashed.

So, where are Alim and Elsee, and Badger and Artorias headed off? Are they leaving now?
 
 
 

Sora's voice comes out from the door.
 "Nobility isn't hard to understand when it comes to clothes. They are usually just behind the latest fashion and prefer the styles that fit the current political mood. Even untrue rumors will have an impact on what nobles wear." 
 "And what you do is what you do. While I think it would be more respectable to the dead to leave them in peace, I know that whatever you do has its own science and place in the world. But that's not what I meant..." 
Her voice pitch changes as she leans against the door, being closer and directing her question through it.
 "You mentioned your family name as 'Great.' Not to mention saying 'We study the mysteries of magic,' your case being necromancy. Why don't you start about telling me what that means?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grinned wickedly at the elder's response, looking over to Alim and tugging on his arm as if impatiently, unaware of the half-drow's entrance to the store.

 "Eye TOLD you! What kinda date is a shopping trip anyways!? If your expecting spawnlings outta this then you're gunna have to step up your act reeeal quick mister!" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

There's a new note of pride in Jadeite's voice as he speaks.  "Oh, nothing much. All my family has done is create or assist in the creation of at least half the necromancy spells known. More, if you account for our research that other wizards have cited. Furthermore, the cackling madman who creates undead for his own amusement is a mockery and insult to our craft. You will not find a better subject for anatomy and physiology research than a zombie, except in the most specific cases." 
 Elsee and Alim: 

The apothecary laughs, then says to the half-drow, "How can this be the wrong store? I got anything you need--potions, herbs, both vile toxins and potent cures. Looking for a bit of salve? Something to make the lonely nights less...lonely? Maybe trying a hand at some good old drow-style succession?" she says with a wink.

He looks up from a small vial he's inspecting and says, "No, I was looking for...actually--" The half-drow looks down again at the vial he picked up; he seems rather distracted. "Sorry, I just remembered something. Could I have a couple of these?"

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry Draconi and Devmaar, I didn't know if you wanted to stay or leave and I wanted to give Devmaar time to have Alim respond/react/whatever.
 
Athedia
 "Don't have much cause to go to forge's.  I can make my own arrows, and arrowtips are easy enough to find."  She looked at the sky wrinkling her nose.  Rain would destroy what little evidence was left, if any, in the streets.  She didn't like that.
Devmaar
Can I see what the half-drow picked up?
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

"I think it's rude to stare," the half-drow says as Alim peers in for a closer look.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (d20-1)[ 0 ] 
 


He can't see the label on the vial, but a bit of the potion has leaked out and smells faintly of almonds. Not bitter almonds, but slightly sweet.

Nevertheless, the question of the potions' identity is quickly and somewhat anticlimactically solved when the apothecary says, "Ah, expecting a scrap? That'll fix you up sure enough!"

"Heh...I guess," the half-drow says as he pays for the curing potions.
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
  "Don't have much cause to go to forge's.  I can make my own arrows, and arrowtips are easy enough to find."  She looked at the sky wrinkling her nose.  Rain would destroy what little evidence was left, if any, in the streets.  She didn't like that. 
 

 "Fair enough I guess; but I'd assume you have a dagger or something like that for close-combat, I know that even the greatest archers have trouble in close quarters."  Artorias leads the Badger into the Wolf's Fang Forge, the smell of metal and the heat immediately bringing him memories of his younger days

 "Yo! Dad? Are you in here?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Artorias and Badger: 

It takes a few minutes, but Artorias can soon hear his father walk in from the forges in back, smelling of sweat and molten metal like he always does.

"Son!" Artorias' father says upon seeing him. "How have you been? It's been far too long; you should see your old man more often!"

 
 Spoiler 
How's his characterization so far?
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "I know; I've  been busy with the guild stuff, how are mom and the brats doing?|"  Artorias jokes slightly.

A cough at his back reminds Artorias of their bussiness there. "Dad, I want to introduce you to The Badger, she is a member of my team at the guild, and actually we come in guild business. Have you seen anything weird or unusual? Perhaps a weird order or something?"  
 
 Spoiler 

Hard to say with only a line of characterization 😉; but the other NPC's have been well developed and fun so I have high hopes.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"They're all good, still a bit nervous around the forge, but that'll come with time." He walks over to Badger, pulling off a thick glove and stuffing it under his arm before shaking the mercenary's hand. He says, "A pleasure, and I hope my son hasn't been giving you too much trouble."

Artorias' father frowns as his son finishes talking. "Is everything okay? What happened; you can tell me and your mother anything."

 
 Spoiler 
How much family does he have? And thanks.
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Sora and Jadeite: 

There's a new note of pride in Jadeite's voice as he speaks.  "Oh, nothing much. All my family has done is create or assist in the creation of at least half the necromancy spells known. More, if you account for our research that other wizards have cited. Furthermore, the cackling madman who creates undead for his own amusement is a mockery and insult to our craft. You will not find a better subject for anatomy and physiology research than a zombie, except in the most specific cases."   
 

 "Ah, I see." 
Her voice shifts again, meaning she's stepped away from the door.
 "I guess that's pretty awesome of having a legacy like that in your family." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Perhaps,"  Jadeite says.  "But legacy is meaningless without deeds to continue them." 

He approaches the door.  "Are you quite finished?" 
 Alim and Elsee: 

If there's nothing else to do in the apothecary, where should they go next? One of the temples? A chieftain's hut?
Devmaar
 Sorry, I meant no bother  says Alim to the half-drow

 Shall we leave?  he asks Elsee


If yes, Alim will head to a goblin chieftain.
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Elsee: 

"It's okay," says the half-drow.

If the two goblins leave, they see him go to a store next door that sells headscarves, veils, and shawls that drow wear to protect their eyes and skin from the sun.

The temple to Golek, the stone-clad guardian of the goblins, is one of the few buildings in the Bogs built entirely of thick, tough stone. It's relatively cool and shaded inside, and there's a faint smell of incense in the air.

A hobgoblin chieftain, the symbol to his god hanging around his neck, is bent behind the dais in the front of the room when the two goblins enter.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry Draconi, I just figured that since you wanted to go to a chieftain first, you wouldn't mind leaving now. If you want to stay longer, then I'll figure something out.
 
Devmaar
 Greetings father. If you have a free moment I have a delicate matter to discuss with you. 
 
 Spoiler 
If there's some more appropriate term fir the goblinoid clergy, Alim said that instead
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Elsee: 

The cleric stands up and leans forward, crossing his scaled hands  over each other.

"Yes? What might the problem be?"
Devmaar
 I work for a mercenary guild assisting the watch. We are investigating a murder that occured the night of the most recent senate vote...
We do not believe a Plavaan was responsible but we think the killer was trying to make it look like one was. With the situation as... delicate as it is, we want to conclusively rule out Plavaan involvement as soon as possible. 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Elsee: 

The hobgoblin's whole demeanor seems to subtly shift. He asks, "Who died?"
Devmaar
 A priest, of Astrid 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Elsee: 

The cleric pauses, then buries his face in his hands, kneading his nails into his scalp. He quietly motions for the two goblins to follow him into a back room, where they won't be heard by anyone else.
Devmaar
Alim follows the cleric
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

The cleric sits down in his office. He looks not only resigned, but angry at the same time.

"You're joking, right? Some idiot actually went and killed a cleric of Astrid?"

He seems resigned that a Plavaan did it.
Devmaar
 No joke I'm afraid. But the attack showed clear planning, this wasn't an act of passion after the vote. Whoever did this planned ahead and a Plavaan smart enough to pull it off would be too smart to do it on that night. I'm confident this was the work of city-dweller trying to stir up trouble. 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

"So what would you have me do? If you just wished to sow fear, you've done that well enough. It's only a matter of time before the war between Kago and Tobeem fully spills over into the plains; we from the borders have already felt its effects. Laria too is threatening to crumble--where should we go, if not the nations of Kyare? The Southern Islands? Across the sea to Orrent or Alorca?"
Draconi Redfir
 "How about ya do somethin useful instead and help us either A, Track down any Plavaan that could have or has done this and either turn him in in such a way that makes it clear it was hes idea and his alone, or execute slash banish him, and hope the case remains unsolved and that the friggin military doesn't get ahold of what little evidence we've got.

Orrr plan B, sit here and pray to Golek that one or two of our friends can find the proper culprit in either the middle or high-class districts. Personally I’m more open to the one that involves doin stuff as it at least makes others believe we tried, and if it WAS a Plavaan doin all this then we can deal with the issue on our own terms rather then if some paleskin got em and soiled the name of every Plavaan in the district. But you go ahead and do whatever you want, we won't stop you." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Elsee: 

The cleric shakes his head, bows it for a moment. "You think that if one of our own commits such crimes, the humanoids will limit their judgment to him alone? They see us as one clan, not many, and even only a few clans visit retribution among all for the crimes of one."
Draconi Redfir
 "Then again, ef we find the guy ferst, and he's Plavaan, we, the three of us en thes room, either kell hem, or banish him. We do everytheng we can to cover et up, and ef we're lucky the whole theng well just die off as an unsolved case." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

"You see things too simply, little one," the cleric says. "There are nuances that are difficult to divine, and some that simply cannot be until they have already come to pass."
Draconi Redfir
Elsee kind of just blankly stares at the clerik for awhile, having not understood a single word he said... Better let Alim take care of this.
Devmaar
Alim shakes his head at Elsee
 No, no. All we want is your support for the investigation and more importantly, if this gets out, we'll need your help to keep the people under control. 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

The hobgoblin closes his eyes. "No, thank you for warning me. I shall see what I can do, though I fear it may not be much."
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Perhaps,"  Jadeite says.  "But legacy is meaningless without deeds to continue them." 

He approaches the door.  "Are you quite finished?"  
 

 "Nearly." 
He hears a little rustling on the other side.
 "So, why are you out here? What happened before someone gave you some bad set of directions?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "I graduated from one of Almir's premier magic academies with a degree in necromantic studies. I came here to further my education, and earn a doctorate by researching dehydration spells and fluid composition within the body." 

Jadeite adjusts the sleeves of his robe.  "I could ask the same of you. Why are you here?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Badger and Artorias: 

"They're all good, still a bit nervous around the forge, but that'll come with time." He walks over to Badger, pulling off a thick glove and stuffing it under his arm before shaking the mercenary's hand. He says, "A pleasure, and I hope my son hasn't been giving you too much trouble."

Artorias' father frowns as his son finishes talking. "Is everything okay? What happened; you can tell me and your mother anything."

 
 Spoiler 
How much family does he have? And thanks.
 
 
 

 "There has been a murder and we are investigating it."  Artorias was never one to beat around the bush when things were dire.
 "Also to warn you, mom and the brats to be careful" 
 
 Spoiler 

Hid Dad, his mom, a younger brother and a younger sister (who is older than the brother).
 
Athedia
The Badger wandered over to look at a small dagger.  Touching the blade she hurriedly pulled her hand away and shoved it into her pocket.   "Sharp weapons, nice.  Art why aren't you doing this?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Artorias and Badger: 

Artorias' father grimaces. "Murders happen here almost every week. Urk, what happened with this one to make you investigate and not just the watch? Artorias, are we in danger?"

 
 Spoiler 
Not that Runite is a crime-ridden hellhole, but it is a big city and with any big city there's crime.

Do you have names for the family or do you want me to name them? And thanks.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
 The Badger wandered over to look at a small dagger.  Touching the blade she hurriedly pulled her hand away and shoved it into her pocket.   "Sharp weapons, nice.  Art why aren't you doing this?"  
 

 "I am a decent smith, even if I do say so myself; but I prefer using weapons to making them" 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Artorias and Badger: 

Artorias' father grimaces. "Murders happen here almost every week. Urk, what happened with this one to make you investigate and not just the watch? Artorias, are we in danger?"

 
 Spoiler 
Not that Runite is a crime-ridden hellhole, but it is a big city and with any big city there's crime.

Do you have names for the family or do you want me to name them? And thanks.
 
 
 

 "It was a personally request by a guild member; but the victim was a cleric of Astrid. I don't think you are in danger; but it never hurts to be careful, I am just worried ok?"  
 
 Spoiler 

Father's name is Gwyn, Mother's Izaleth and the kids I'll leave them to you. (yes  they are all Dark Souls References 😳)
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Artorias' father sighs. "I hope it wasn't a Plavaan who went stupid. Your goblin partner--Alik? Alim? He might have more to worry about than us. But thank you," he says, giving his son a quick hug.

After a second his eyes flash. "But are you also asking if this murderer used one of MY weapons?"

You then notice just how muscular his arms are from working the forges...

 
 Spoiler 
A brother and a sister...Might as well continue the trend. How does Laurent and Rhea sound? Naming conventions for native Runitians tend to be Slavic, Polish or Russian, (Radic is Aequar's feminized form of  Radek ) but you guys can be immigrants or whatever if the names don't fit; it's okay. Runite is rapidly becoming a melting pot after all.

EDIT: Actually, Rhea is apparently Greek, so being from Kytos would fit...But it's all your choice, and you live in Runite now. Yay immigration!
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias returns the hug "er.... only because your weapons are the best in Runite, I know if I wanted to kill someone (not that I do &gt;_&gt; &lt;_&lt;) I would want to use a high quality weapon" 
 
 Spoiler 

Laurent and Rhea are cool, pyrobro is one of my favourite NPC's in the game. And it is really cool you even though of the naming conventions of Runite, have you considered to put on Aequar on the World-building forum? It shows how much you have worked on it.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"Ha! Too true! Here, there might be something in my records. Do you know what weapon was used?"

 
 Spoiler 
I thought about it, but there are so many spoilers in the backstory of the world that I couldn't, at least not for a really long time.

And you know from what Jadeite and Alim told you about the autopsy that the weapon dealt piercing damage to a small area, and he wasn't run completely through. Beyond that, you don't know.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Not really; but we do know that it was a small and it was a stab wound. " 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"So dagger, rapier, shortsword most likely, could be a bolt, arrow, or spear, maybe even a simple knife." He snaps his fingers. "I might have sold a couple of those recently, the actual bladed weapons I mean. Want to see if we're lucky?"
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Sora and Jadeite: 
 "I graduated from one of Almir's premier magic academies with a degree in necromantic studies. I came here to further my education, and earn a doctorate by researching dehydration spells and fluid composition within the body." 

Jadeite adjusts the sleeves of his robe.  "I could ask the same of you. Why are you here?"  
 

 "Prestige. I was asked to go see the world by the church, and this became a perfect opportunity to see different fashions. Speaking of which..." 

Sora emerges from the bathroom door in a beautiful dress with her hair done up. With the makeup and everything, she almost seemed like a different person. She stepped out with the grace of a high class noble. She even spoke differently that matched her new appearance.

[COLOR="rgb(255, 0, 255)"]"Shall we get going Jadeite?"[/COLOR]
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite would appear unfazed--except that he blinks rapidly, if only for a scant few moments.  "Yes. Let's." 

The cleric and wizard receive a few double-takes when they step out of the mercenary guild onto the streets. But most people keep walking after that glance, operating under the assumption that Sora is a noble who has hired Jadeite as an escort and guard.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm about to go to bed, but where do you want the two to go first?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite can't help but admit that Sora has skill in fashion as he admires himself. Though these clothes are simply awful for lab work and are too tight for his tastes, they do accentuate his form rather well.

 "Shall we be on our way?" 
 
 Spoiler 
50 gp, and where to next? The Heights or the Senate?
 
Silverraptor
 "Well that's the real question. Where do you think we should go from here?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I don't care where we go to start.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "The Senate would be a good place to start,"  Jadeite says.

Thankfully it's not raining yet, but odds are it'll be pouring by the end of the day. The Senate appears grand and imposing, trying to show the full weight of the laws within.

The doors are unlocked and the two can enter without any problem. Inside is a very long hallway stretching out what seems to be an equal distance on either side, along with a shorter length in front of them. Before them there are also several doors, down the hallway before them and to the sides. The one in front of them, directly in front, is large, imposing, and flanked by two guards.
Silverraptor
Sora leans over and whispers to Jadeite.
 "Do you think the guards would know anything? And what do you think they're guarding?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Only one way to find out,"  Jadeite says. He approaches the guards and says, as politely as possible,  "May we enter?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Bluff:  (d20+3)[ 22 ] 

Good thing too; that makes this much easier.
 


The guards look bored, and barely give the two a once-over before the one on the left says, "Sure, whatever. But keep it down, they're in session right now."

 Elsee and Alim: 
 "Thank you,"  Alim says.  "We'll let you know whatever happens, even if the Watch wants to keep us in the dark." 

As they leave he turns to Elsee and asks,  "Where do you think we should go next? To the orcs or the drow?"  He's got a suspicion, but it's better to bounce ideas off of somebody else first.
Silverraptor
Sora waits until they are out of earshot before speaking.
 "Nicely done. And here I was worried I'd have to teach you how to properly speak as well." 
She smiled childishly for moment at him before returning to the noble demeanor she had a moment ago.
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "You forget that I am nobility; I believe my full title is Marquess Jadeite Nocrius,"  he says quietly as they enter the chamber.

There are a few other people there with Sora and Jadeite in the balcony, but the majority of the people are Senators about a half-floor below, talking loudly and at length about some section of a legal code involving weather. There's a mention of druidic magic there, but it's all quite...boring, and so tangled in legalese one would need to be an expert in deciphering it.

 
 Spoiler 
Just an average day on the equivalent of CSPAN; sadly nothing exciting...yet. 😛
 
Silverraptor
It doesn't take long before Sora starts showing her boredom. She whispers over to Jadeite again.
 "Well, this is a bust. I'm bored, and you must be bored as well. They're not even talking about your kind of magic." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Actually, I find the concept rather intriguing. Though I doubt there are enough druids of that caliber in Runite to protect the city against severe weather for any long period of time."  He's leaning forward on the balcony, watching them wind down the discussion, then straightens a bit when he sees movement out of the corner of his eye. Sora sees it too.

If she looks closer, she can see an extremely fat dwarf, very nearly a walking sack of lard, running (no, jogging, no,  jiggling,  to an older dwarf sitting towards the end of one of the middle rows. They seem to talk for a bit, then leave towards the back, ignoring the dirty looks another Senator gives them when the fat dwarf knocks him back into his seat.
Silverraptor
Sora raises an eyebrow.
 "What do you think that's about?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Should we follow them?"  he asks Sora.

 
 Spoiler 
Silverraptor, what are Sora's spells for the day?
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Badger and Artorias: 

"So dagger, rapier, shortsword most likely, could be a bolt, arrow, or spear, maybe even a simple knife." He snaps his fingers. "I might have sold a couple of those recently, the actual bladed weapons I mean. Want to see if we're lucky?" 
 

 "Of course I want to see the records, that was the hal...a  third of the reason I came in today" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Artorias and Badger: 

"I hope the other two thirds were me and you mom," Artorias' father says as he goes to his desk and pulls out a rather thick book, flipping through the last few pages.

"Hm, let's see, big order of weapons about a month ago, but that was all for the Watch, Leif asked me to fix a chain shirt of his a couple weeks back...These few dozen entries are nothing but horseshoes, cooking tools, ship parts and the like. No, seems like you're asking for weapons, small orders by individuals or small groups...Aha! This...And this, and maybe these few too," he says. The blacksmith takes a few minutes circling names, then copying them down along with what they ordered.

"I don't know if they're who you're looking for. None of them seemed especially sketchy. Well, there was that Feliks guy, but he didn't even order a weapon!"

In the end there's four names, along with what they ordered.

Natasha ordered a pair of adamantine daggers.   Rush delivery   is written by her entry.

Cecil ordered a magic rapier. There's a note next to the order:   Made the sword without a problem, but told him to go to a magic shop for the enchantment itself.  

Feliks ordered an exotic saddle with extremely odd and specific measurements.

Demetri wanted a damaged shortsword repaired along with a new shield. Judging by the price of the repair, calling the shortsword "damaged" would be generous. A better description would be "nearly in pieces."

 
 Spoiler 
Dusk, are you okay if I say your father doesn't make magic weapons?
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Artorias and Badger: 

"I hope the other two thirds were me and you mom," Artorias' father says as he goes to his desk and pulls out a rather thick book, flipping through the last few pages.

"Hm, let's see, big order of weapons about a month ago, but that was all for the Watch, Leif asked me to fix a chain shirt of his a couple weeks back...These few dozen entries are nothing but horseshoes, cooking tools, ship parts and the like. No, seems like you're asking for weapons, small orders by individuals or small groups...Aha! This...And this, and maybe these few too," he says. The blacksmith takes a few minutes circling names, then copying them down along with what they ordered.

"I don't know if they're who you're looking for. None of them seemed especially sketchy. Well, there was that Feliks guy, but he didn't even order a weapon!"

In the end there's four names, along with what they ordered.

Natasha ordered a pair of adamantine daggers.   Rush delivery   is written by her entry.

Cecil ordered a magic rapier. There's a note next to the order:   Made the sword without a problem, but told him to go to a magic shop for the enchantment itself.  

Feliks ordered an exotic saddle with extremely odd and specific measurements.

Demetri wanted a damaged shortsword repaired along with a new shield. Judging by the price of the repair, calling the shortsword "damaged" would be generous. A better description would be "nearly in pieces."

 
 Spoiler 
Dusk, are you okay if I say your father doesn't make magic weapons?
 
 
 

 "Of course dad, and thank you this is really helpful" 
 
 Spoiler 
Yeah no problem, he is a blacksmith not an Artificer
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"What have I told you about counting your chickens, Arty? See if it's actually of use before you go making arrests!"

 
 Spoiler 
You'll need to use Urban Tracking here. Dusk, Atheida, do you want to track them down? Or do you want to talk to Artorias' dad more? He might have more information, he might not.
 
Silverraptor
 "Well, better than listening to any more of this." 
She stands up, grabbing her purse.

 
 Spoiler 
The same spells from yesterday. I need to update the character sheet.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Badger and Artorias: 

"What have I told you about counting your chickens, Arty? See if it's actually of use before you go making arrests!"

 
 Spoiler 
You'll need to use Urban Tracking here. Dusk, Atheida, do you want to track them down? Or do you want to talk to Artorias' dad more? He might have more information, he might not.
 
 
 

¬¬ "Dad, the trail had gone cold, this names are new leads and I wasn't intending to arrest anyone based on this list. I just want to give this fellas a visit to talk a bit."  Artorias eyes the list a little more   Dad is right, there is nothing that suspicious, except for that saddle...might as well check it  
 "Apart from this you haven't seen anything out of the ordinary?" 

He motions The Badger to come closer and he shows her the list.
 "Do you reckon you can track down this guys?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"Just don't scare them too much. Though if they're that intimidated by your glaive, you can tell them just who made it so sharp!"

Artorias' father shakes his head. "Nope, nothing too odd. Two of the those were half-Plavaan," he says pointing at the list, "But I figure that's just my good name getting around!" Though," The grin fades a bit, "If it was a cleric of Astrid killed...I hope not. I really hope not."

 
 Spoiler 
Silverraptor, can I update our end of it after I get back from the gym?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Jadeite and Sora: 
 "There's a door back there,"  the elf says, pointing over Sora's head behind her.  "If we go that way, we'll likely be able to avoid the two guards." 
 
 Spoiler 
I'm going to go make a minimap of the Senate, just to make finding the two dwarves easier.
 
Draconi Redfir
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Elsee and Alim: 
 "Thank you,"  Alim says.  "We'll let you know whatever happens, even if the Watch wants to keep us in the dark." 

As they leave he turns to Elsee and asks,  "Where do you think we should go next? To the orcs or the drow?"  He's got a suspicion, but it's better to bounce ideas off of somebody else first. 
 

Elsee shruged at the question, not realy knowing what to say besides the obvious.

 "Everythin is tellin me it's Drow work, or at least framed to be Drow work. Hell the whole idea was to check them out in the first place, so 'm puttin my vote there." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 
 "That's what I'm thinking too. To the temple of Erikaf then,"  says Alim, pointing out the way. The sky's noticeably darker and...yellower than it was just an hour ago.

 
 Spoiler 
I'd post more, but I need to go to sleep. Night, and I'll continue in the morning!
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

The temple to Erikaf is much more open than the one to Golek. It seems to rise from the ground and places are open for the wind to blow through, yet no rain or dirt can get inside. The place is clean and the wind whistles through special slots. It's beautiful yet haunting and gives the impression that someone is watching, that one must remain on guard.

The temple is busy, with clerics offering blessings to worshippers, nearly all drow.
Athedia
The Badger looked over the notes.   "Hmm, daggers seem the most likely of all of these.  Do you remember what Cecil wanted his rapier enchanted with?  That may be important.  I would ignore the saddle, but out of curiosity, what were the measurements he wanted, more knowledge never hurts.  And people need weapons repaired all the time, I doubt what  we saw would shatter a sword." 

She flipped through the notes again.   "Wait, which ones were Plavs?  We have a theory and knowing that could narrow down the search even more.  I can track any of these people down, if they are still in the city, but having a narrowed search would help me." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Artorias' father scratches his head for a moment. "Cecil didn't specify, and I'm not sure if he even had the money for something basic; to be honest he seemed pretty scruffy."

He passes his son a copy of the measurements, saying as he does so, "I have no idea what he's trying to ride with a saddle like that, but it's definitely not a horse."

Finally, he says. "Hm...Yes. Demetri's a half-orc and Cecil's a half-drow. They both came a few weeks ago. Now that was a tough sword to fix, but I did it in just a couple days, better than new!"

 
 Spoiler 
The murder happened a couple days ago.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "I really hope it wasn't a Plav; things are ugly enough as they are" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

His father grimaces. "It would have to be a damned fool Plav to do that; putting his whole community's neck on the line for some grudge."
Athedia
 "Well I do want to check on the enchantment especially since he is Drow, shouldn't be too hard to find information.  The sword though, probably tried to use it as a toothpick.

Cecil and Natasha are the only two I am concerned about, I will try to find more information on them." 
 
 Spoiler 
Yes, Badger is a little bit insensitive
 


Badger shook Artorias's father's hand, thanking him before walking out toward the street.  She thought about local stores or mages that could offer weapon enchantments.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Local  (1d20+5)[ 12 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

There's dozens of magic shops throughout the city, but many of them are clustered a few blocks north. You obviously don't know which one he decided to patronize though. Still, a scruffy-looking half-drow shouldn't be too hard to ask information about.

"Pleasure to meet you," Artorias' father says, giving Badger a very firm shake in return.

 
 Spoiler 
Ready to do some Urban Tracking? Just tell who you're searching for and roll. Is it fair if I say you can only efficiently search for one of the four at a time, and searching for several at once would give a penalty to the check? If not, please say so.

Also, I find the mental image of someone using a rapier as a toothpick to be hilarious.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
I was referring to the short sword actually and the cause of it's breaking.
 


Stepping out into the city air again, the Badger took a deep breath, and quickly regretted it.  The fumes from the forge, though familiar to many people made her cough even out here.  Catching her breath she looked around. "Might as well start with Cecil, the magic shops are near enough and he will probably be easier to find." 
 
 Spoiler 
Gather Information  (1d20+5)[ 9 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The two get disoriented for a few minutes, but soon find their way. The first of several shops appears to deal nearly entirely in potions and scrolls, with no devices for enchanting weapons in sight.

 
 Spoiler 
Okay, that makes the visual even funnier. And sorry, you need to make more than one roll.
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias allows himself to smirk a little as The Badger coughs from the fumes "First thing you learn when working on a forge, breathing in deeply is usually a bad idea" 

Thinking back on his days as errand boy Artorias tries to remember which is the nearest magic shop to his family's forge

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+2)[ 13 ]  K:Local to  aid another  on the Badger's knowledge check, she has it trained, I don't.
Also I suggest people to start taking 10 when not in a hurry, it is an awesome help at low levels.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Artorias knows there's a cluster of magic shops several blocks north.
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Can you take 10 on gather information and knowledge?  I didn't think you could.

And just use as many of these as needed from top down.

 (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 20 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The third shop they encounter is rather large, with shelves of items of all prices and types. And there's a sign advertising an arms enchanter employed by the store. Cecil probably went here.

 
 Spoiler 
Working on an OOC post, just give me a moment and I'll elaborate on this. Sorry!
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

One of the shop-keepers, a spry half-elf with curly pink hair props himself up on the counter and waves at the two mercenaries. "Hello!" he nearly shouts. "You looking for a good deal today? Weapons sharpened, shields spelled, a couple wands or scrolls or magic potions to chug? You need it, we've got it!"

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry about the OOC thread. I was just struck with the horror of the recursive loop and oh god I can't escape it.
 
Athedia
 "Actually we are looking for some information.  I saw you do enchantments here.  Did a scruffy half-drow come in here in the past week, looking to enchant a rapier?"   The Badger looked around, the place held items that would be of little use to her, and the ones that would were far to expensive for her tastes.
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The half-elf seems to roll over on his arm, tapping his lips with his index finger rapidly before saying, "Actually, I did! Came here about a week and a half back, still surprised he could pay for it at all. But he did, and still had more than enough left over for a nice enchanted cloak!" He seems proud at the sale he had made.
Athedia
  He had money?  Then why did he look so bad... That is certainly odd    The Badger paused in her thoughts.   "Would you be able to tell me the enchantment he got?  And just out of curiosity what kind of cloak was it?" 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias decides to leave the questioning to the Badger, meanwhile he just browsed looking for anything that might catch his attention.

 
 Spoiler 

Just a general action, I am currently looking at my books for some cheap magic items that might come in handy 😏
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The half-elf shrugs, sending his bubblegum-pink curls bouncing with the movement. "Just your basic enchantment, nothing really fancy or expensive. Same with the cloak, it's the kind that makes your mind and body and reflexes tougher, but he couldn't get a seriously boosted one. Still, something's better than nothing! Let me tell you, I've got a cloak like that, saved my rear more than once. Sure you don't want one for yourself?"

Dusk sees an awful lot of things on the shelves, and quite a bit reasonably priced as well.

 
 Spoiler 
He's talking about a +1 rapier and a +1 cloak of resistance, like the kind Natalia gave Mithril off the dead guy after the choker.

Dusk, you looking for anything in particular? Odds are they have it but let me see first.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Badger and Artorias: 

The half-elf shrugs, sending his bubblegum-pink curls bouncing with the movement. "Just your basic enchantment, nothing really fancy or expensive. Same with the cloak, it's the kind that makes your mind and body and reflexes tougher, but he couldn't get a seriously boosted one. Still, something's better than nothing! Let me tell you, I've got a cloak like that, saved my rear more than once. Sure you don't want one for yourself?"

Dusk sees an awful lot of things on the shelves, and quite a bit reasonably priced as well.

 
 Spoiler 
He's talking about a +1 rapier and a +1 cloak of resistance, like the kind Natalia gave Mithril off the dead guy after the choker.

Dusk, you looking for anything in particular? Odds are they have it but let me see first.
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
I was thinking on a couple of potions of Enlarge Person preferably at CL 1 though (they are cheaper and even with 1 minute duration they will be useful for most fights.
 
Athedia
The Badger rubbed her fingers together.   "Little cost prohibative.  But I have heard tell of some spells that could be useful, sell any Mending spells recently?  I have heard they can really patch up clothes and I have been told to check them out." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

There's a whole aisle of potions, several dozen of which appear to be potions of Enlarge Person.

"Of course! Scroll, potion, or wand? We've got a cleaning kit available, at very reasonable prices too. Your Mending, Prestidigitation, and Mage Hand spells in neat wand form, guaranteed lower prices than our competitors! Oh man was Scruffy upset when he heard that."

An man walks into the store and goes to the scroll aisle, then begins leafing through all of them.
Athedia
 "Wait.  Scruffy, the man I was asking about, he wanted a mending scroll?"   The Badger lowered her voice, trying to keep the man who had walked in from hearing her conversation.
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"Uhm, no," the half-elf says, suddenly getting nervous. "Uh, why are you asking?"

The man picks up a scroll, strides over to the half-elf, and drops it on the counter along with a sack of money.

"Okay, is this enough for it? Come on, it's gotta be enough!"

The half-elf opens up his wallet, counts the gold, then shakes his head and says, "Sorry, you're still short."
Athedia
The Badger shrugged  "Thought if he did then this would be the place to come for them.  I am not that great at sewing so I have been thinking about getting some spells.  Just wondered because he bought some other nice sounding things, but those are far out of my price range."   She wandered over to Artorias, gesturing for him to pay attention to the shopkeeper and the man.  Looking at various potions she attempted to listen to the conversation.

 
 Spoiler 
Listen check:  (1d20+8)[ 23 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The man isn't even trying to lower his voice with the shopkeeper.

"Come on, please! You know me, just this once, I promise to pay it back!"

"Look, I'm sorry, but you're almost a hundred gold short. The boss'll have my head if I'm short that much."

"Please! I'll work off the debt, I'll sell you my sheets! I need this scroll!" He's begging at this point.

The half-elf sighs. "Feliks, I'm sorry, but I can't. Look, why can't you just go to a temple and ask a cleric to cast this spell for you?"

Feliks quickly shakes his head. "I-I can't. I just can't. Please, I need this scroll, and I need it now."
Athedia
The Badger nudged Artorias and wandered over to the man.   "What seems to be the problem?   She tried to get a glimpse of the scroll he was trying to purchase.   "Could I help?  It seems a shame for someone to be in debt over a scroll." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Feliks seems both piteous and hopeful as he looks at Badger. "I...It's just, I had enough to pay for this, but I got robbed yesterday and had the last bit of money stolen from me. I need this scroll, I really need it."

 
 Spoiler 
Spot check please?
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Spot  (1d20+8)[ 9 ] 
 

 "Well what is the cost?  As for getting robbed, I am pretty good at finding things if needed.  I could try to help you get your money back, if you wanted." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The scroll's tightly wound up, and Feliks is holding the price tag in a way that only the first two letters,  Di--  can be read.

Feliks says, "It's 725 gp, but I'm 80 short...And you would? Truly?"
Athedia
 "Well that is almost all my money, fraid I can't cash over so much for a stranger.  But how about you tell me your story, what the scroll is you know.  Just so I make sure you are not crooked, sort of thing." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Feliks shuffles nervously. "Just...Just a way to ask Mars something is all. It...I need help."

 
 Spoiler 
Mars is the fire god.
 
Athedia
 "Are you in trouble?  Can I help?  God's are dangerous to mess with." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Feliks shakes his head. "Thanks, but it's personal, I...I don't want to get you involved in my troubles.
Athedia
The Badger raised her hands.   "I understand not wanting people to get involved."   But then she laid a hand on his shoulder,  "But having someone else, anyone to tell about your troubles helps.  It helps more than I can ever explain.  If I had someone I could talk to I might still have a family to go home too."   Her eyes were completely sincere as she said this, a hint of sadness, anger and longing mixed together as she thought about the past.
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Feliks' eyes soften, though he still seems reluctant to talk about it.

"It's just...Everything's been going wrong lately. Everything."
Athedia
 "Would you like to talk about it? I am sure this nice shopkeeper can just hold it behind the counter for a little if you want some air.  Especially since it would be paid in full once we come back."   She smiled at the shopkeeper, with a calm cool smile that seemed to suggest that her suggestion had more weight than she let on.
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Feliks stamps the ground in frustration. "I keep getting robbed and I just want to be cool and I just need to ask Mars something and I promise I'll pay back the scroll but I need it now! Please!"

The shopkeeper asks, "Are you offering to cover the difference?"
Athedia
The Badger sighed, she wanted to know more about this strange man and his saddle. "Look, I will pay.  Just check in with me okay?  If you don't I did tell you I can find things, people are under that list.  So don't try to scamper, all I want to do is help."   She grimaced as she reached into her wallet carefully counting out 80 gold.  She had very little left and would need to go some extra jobs for the guild if she wanted more anytime soon.  She wrote down her address on a scrap of paper and handed it to him with a reminder.  "I want to make sure you don't get in over your head.  Trust me, it isn't worth it." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"Oh thank you! Thank you so much!" Feliks says, hugging Badger in delight as he finally gets the scroll he's been after.

"I promise, I'll check in with you the moment I get answers from Mars. Thank you so much!" He practically dances out of the store in delight.

 
 Spoiler 
Athedia, trust me. I didn't railroad too much there, did I?
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Just a little, but I could have been all day.  Badger can be kind, but trusting she is not.  Especially since that guy is on our suspect list.
 


The Badger smiled at his exit.  Well he didn't seem so suspicious now, probably just a lonely person with odd tendencies.  Her mind flashed to Jadiete, well he certainly was odd, but she didn't know about lonely.  Spinning she turned back to the shopkeeper.   "Now, now.  You were saying Scruffy didn't want any Mending spells.  But why so nervous if he wasn't looking for one.  Those spells just fix clothing." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The half-elf shakes his head. "He wasn't nervous, just upset when I said he could've bought it cheaper here."

He takes a breath. "You're a sweet person."
Athedia
The Badger looked confused.  "What, that?  With whatshisname, Feriks?  He just seemed so out of it, looked like he needed support.  Nothing much.  Sorry about seeming so nosy by the by."   She smiled and walked over to Artorias.   "Find what you wanted?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"You still took your time out to help him. A lot of people here wouldn't."

 
 Spoiler 
Cecil's the scruffy half-drow upset that he couldn't get a cheaper mending spell. This nervous guy who keeps getting robbed is a human named Feliks.
 
Silverraptor
Sora leans around the corner to look where the dwarves are. Seeing them at the edge of another hall, she turns to Jadeite.
 "I can't hear what they're saying." 
Draconi Redfir
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Elsee and Alim: 

The temple to Erikaf is much more open than the one to Golek. It seems to rise from the ground and places are open for the wind to blow through, yet no rain or dirt can get inside. The place is clean and the wind whistles through special slots. It's beautiful yet haunting and gives the impression that someone is watching, that one must remain on guard.

The temple is busy, with clerics offering blessings to worshippers, nearly all drow. 
 

Elsee shuffled her feet a bit as the two goblins entered the temple, even approaching the thing she slowly became overwhelmed with an urge to leave, a feeling of not supposed to be here causing her already small body to shrink as she was suddenly surrounded in a very unfamiliar culture. In all likelyhood it was probably just culture shock and she knew that, she had spent her entire life either in goblinoid territory or in the majorly human Runite, and while she'd never had a problem talking to or working with drow, being in a place that belonged to them suddenly felt incredibly intimidating.

Her eyes darted to Alim as they walked further into the temple, hoping he would do the talking as he had done twice before already, something told her she would involuntary squeak if she tried to speak right now.
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite presses against the wall, trying to sidle as close as possible before they could hear him. He's able to make it about a third of the way down the hall before deciding it's safer to stop.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Silently:  (d20+2)[ 15 ] 

This shows how far he can move before risking being heard, in this case.
I miss Natalia's sneaking modifiers...☹️
 

 Alim and Elsee: 

Some of the drow notice their presence and quiet down.

 
 Spoiler 
More post later. Sorry, in class.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
 The Badger looked confused.  "What, that?  With whatshisname, Feriks?  He just seemed so out of it, looked like he needed support.  Nothing much.  Sorry about seeming so nosy by the by."   She smiled and walked over to Artorias.   "Find what you wanted?"  
 

 "Kind of, I've heard good things about  Enlarge Person  and figured out this would be a good opportunity to try it."  Artorias grabs a two of the cheapest looking bottles and walks to the counter.

 "How much for these potions?"  he ask to the salesman.

 
 Spoiler 

I forgot to answer you last night; but you can take 10 in all skills (except UMD) as long as you are not rushed or threatened, you can also take 20 in most skills as long as there isn't a bad consequence for failing the check (like a disable device check to jam a trap for example).
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The half-elf looks at a marking on the bottom and says, "It's 250 gp. Good stuff too."

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, that's what's in the SRD. I thought it would be cheaper too!
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Badger and Artorias: 

The half-elf looks at a marking on the bottom and says, "It's 250 gp. Good stuff too."

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, that's what's in the SRD. I thought it would be cheaper too!
 
 
 

 "Damn, I don't have enough, oh well" 
 
 Spoiler 
No problem; but I want to make note that it cost 250 because it is made at CL 5, which only affects duration in this particular case, at CL 1 they should cost 50 GP as per the Potion making formula (Spell level*CL*50). The reason for the jump in cost is because in 3.0 Enlarge person only modified your size by 10% per CL so you needed CL 5 to get to large size; but that was changed in 3.5 where the spell just changed your size to large regardless of the CL.

 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Dusk Eclipse 
  "Damn, I don't have enough, oh well" 
 
 Spoiler 
No problem; but I want to make note that it cost 250 because it is made at CL 5, which only affects duration in this particular case, at CL 1 they should cost 50 GP as per the Potion making formula (Spell level*CL*50). The reason for the jump in cost is because in 3.0 Enlarge person only modified your size by 10% per CL so you needed CL 5 to get to large size; but that was changed in 3.5 where the spell just changed your size to large regardless of the CL.

 
 
 

  Badger and Artorias:  

"Hang on," the half-elf says. "This is the extra-strength version. There's a cheaper, less powerful variety in back; we just got it in stock. A fifth of the duration, but all of the effects and a fifth of the price!"

 
 Spoiler 
Wait, really? Let me double check.

Damn, you're right. Okay, never mind. I'll fix that. I'm sorry about the confusion.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Great, then I'll take two of those" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

"Not a problem," the shopkeeper says happily, making the purchase. "Anything else?"
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite presses against the wall, trying to sidle as close as possible before they could hear him. He's able to make it about a third of the way down the hall before deciding it's safer to stop.

 
 Spoiler 
Move Silently:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 

This shows how far he can move before risking being heard, in this case.
I miss Natalia's sneaking modifiers...☹️
 
 
 

Sora follows behind him slowly, trying to stay quiet herself.

 
 Spoiler 
Watch as this goes horribly wrong.
Move Silent:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 

Edit: eeeeyup. Guess what Jadeite, Sora thinking fast is incoming depending on what happens next.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Sora's barely able to round the corner when the corner of her shoe snags on something, making a loud squeak that echoes partly down the hall. Jadeite whips his head around and gives her a piercing glare. The echoing footsteps of the two dwarves rounding the corner stop. Both wizard and cleric hold their breaths, but neither of their targets turn to follow the sound. After a moment Jadeite presses against the wall and tries to hear what they're saying.

 
 Spoiler 
God I miss +8 modifiers to the sneaking checks. Sorry I didn't prepare invisibility today. Also, really good thing you didn't roll one less...

Listen:  (d20+4)[ 24 ] 

...I haven't rolled this good a streak in a while. Sorry for stealing your thunder.
 


His keen elven ears have little trouble picking up their muttered conversation in Dwarvish.
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

Alim wipes the sweat off his green palms as he approaches the drow in the center, the oldest and hopefully the one in charge. He waits until the drow finishes with the one he's talking to, then nervously says,  "H-Hi. I'm Alim, and this is Elsee." 

The drow cleric smiles a bit. "Well, what a unique sight. What is it?"
Silverraptor
Sora waits, not daring to move for fear of making even more noise.
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Sora hears the two dwarves muttering in their native tongue. She can't make out much, and doesn't understand what she can, but she's able to make out the names, "Cesare," and "Calix." The fat dwarf sounds like he's whining, but she can't be certain.
 
 Spoiler 
Since you didn't roll for listen, I'll assume you're taking 10 for a 13. And Sora doesn't know Dwarvish, does she?
 


Jadeite hears nearly the entire conversation.
 
 Spoiler 
"Daaad, it was just a bit too much to drink!"

"Calix, they found you passed out in the well! Do you realize just how lucky you are that's it?"

"Grrmmm..."

"Calix, I've got enough people breathing down my neck. Every time the votes get a bit closer."

"I don't want that Dierdre bitch on the Senate! And didn't you say a lot of people owe you? 'Guess whose pockets Cesare's got his hands in' and all that?"

"Son, I don't want her around either, and I'll do everything I can to stop it from happening."

"Good. Those savages stink up this place just by being here."
 
Silverraptor
Sora waits, hoping Jadeite can hear what they're saying.

 
 Spoiler 
No, she doesn't speak dwarvish.

And Jadeite better be thankful they didn't come to investigate. Sora's first thought was to do a full brace kiss for a cover up on sneaking around.😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite keeps listening...

 
 Spoiler 
"And what about the other guy? He's ruining me!"

"Patience, Calix. You need to learn to play the game."

"But I don't wanna! I want to win now!"
 


The elf turns to Sora with a look of distaste.  "What an utterly repulsive creature." 
 
 Spoiler 
...Okay then. I don't know whether to laugh or be horrified. Probably both. I'm not responsible for Jadeite then.
 
Silverraptor
Sora whispers back to him.
 "What? What did he say?" 
 
 Spoiler 
And what would Jadeite's response be to that?😏
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Remember another mercenary was bragging about how he found 'Cesare's brat' drunk in a well? That obscenely fat dwarf is Cesare's ill-tempered son, and I struggle to recall seeing a more spoiled, petulant grown man in my lifetime." 
 
 Spoiler 
Let's just say that would one of the times I wished Jadeite was a regular PC and not a DMPC.

Anyway I'm exhausted and about to go to bed, so basically read the spoilers to hear what Jadeite told Sora; he gives her the gist of it, though not the exact words.
 
Silverraptor
Sora groans.
 "I can't believe it. Nothing else that would give us clues to what is going on?" 
Athedia
The Badger shifted from foot to foot, waiting for Artorias's purchases to finish.   "Just one last question that came to mind.  Do you have any idea where Scruffy would be?" 

Once she had her answer she walked out to the street, patting Naga, who had been sitting outside the door waiting, on the head.
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Now Sora, we did glean some useful information. We have confirmed that Cesare and Calix are racists who will use their influence to prevent Plavaan citizenship. Calix is spoiled and impetuous, and has a grudge against some personal rival and competitor. Though unfortunately there wasn't as much to go on as I would have liked,"  he whispers.

 Badger and Artorias: 

"Well, Scruffy's half-drow, so my first guess would be the Bogs, but I can't say for sure."
Athedia
As the Badger started heading toward the Bogs she worried, maybe she should go find Elsee or Alim.  Two humans asking about a half-drow would not look good.
Dusk Eclipse
Once finished Arotiras rejoins the badger outside the shop "Ok, now I'm ready, did you found any leads on our guys?" 
Athedia
 "Feel like a trip to the Bogs?  Cecil just got some basic enchantments here, but I did hear he was upset that he could have gotten...wait for it...a wand of MENDING for cheaper here.  Stabbing, plus knowledge of Drow poison, plus mending?  Hate to say it but that looks mighty convincing. That man who came in was Feliks, but I doubt he could have killed anyone.  He seemed to out of it to be able to make a plan like that." 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
  "Feel like a trip to the Bogs?  Cecil just got some basic enchantments here, but I did hear he was upset that he could have gotten...wait for it...a wand of MENDING for cheaper here.  Stabbing, plus knowledge of Drow poison, plus mending?  Hate to say it but that looks mighty convincing. That man who came in was Feliks, but I doubt he could have killed anyone.  He seemed to out of it to be able to make a plan like that."  
 

😩 That doesn't bodes well, sure let's give Cecil a visit."  
Silverraptor
 "Well, lets atleast get out of here if there's nothing else for us. I'd rather we not get caught sneaking around still." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

Rumbling thunder crashes outside as they leave the shop. The sky is dark as twilight and the wind is picking up as rain pours down.

 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "I concur,"  the elf says. As Cesare and his son go to his office, Sora and Jadeite slip out of the hallway relatively unnoticed.

By the time they get outside, it's dark and windy, pouring rain.
Silverraptor
Sora looks at the dark and gloomy weather.
 "Oh fiffle." 
She looks at Jadeite.
 "I don't suppose you brought an umbrella by any chance." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite looks up at the sky.  "I'm afraid not, but no matter. A little rain never killed anyone, and I can simply dry our clothes with magic later. I'm rather hungry though." 
Silverraptor
 "It takes a little more effort than just drying to make these clothes presentable after getting wet. There is some extra amount of work that must be don-" 
She's interrupted with her own stomach growling.
 "...Well. Atleast we agree on something." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "I suppose a full three-course supper would be out of the question, thanks to the price of these clothes?" 
 
 Spoiler 
It's early afternoon in Runite right now. Up for street food? A restaurant?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

It's pouring rain as the two mercenaries leave the shop, and the flashing lightning and crashing thunder only threaten to make the storm worse. Water's already running down the edges of the streets, and the alleyways and earthen side streets are already becoming muddy--what are the unpaved Bogs in the swamp going to be like by now, let alone nightfall?
Draconi Redfir
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Elsee and Alim: 

Alim wipes the sweat off his green palms as he approaches the drow in the center, the oldest and hopefully the one in charge. He waits until the drow finishes with the one he's talking to, then nervously says,  "H-Hi. I'm Alim, and this is Elsee." 

The drow cleric smiles a bit. "Well, what a unique sight. What is it?" 
 

Elsee shifts herself a bit as she straightens herself to awnser the Drow.

 "Not anythin good. Not anythin easy to say either." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

The drow frowns, looking up at the few worshipers lined up to receive his blessings and those from the other clerics. With a businesslike look, he crooks his finger at the goblins, indicating they should follow him to the back.
CoffeeIncluded
 Jadeite and Sora: 
 "We should probably investigate the Heights after eating,"  Jadeite says, leading the way.

...Leading the way into a dark back alley, muddy and growing muddier by the moment.

 "Oops,"  says the elf, about to turn around when he notices something crumpled in the back corner of the alleyway.

 "...Oh dear." 
Silverraptor
Sora was a little distraught, trying to avoid as much mud as possible. She nearly runs into Jadeite.
 "What? What's going on?" 
She turns around to see what he was looking at.
CoffeeIncluded
 Jadeite and Sora: 

Drawing his dagger, Jadeite cautiously sidles over to the curled-up figure in the alley. He pokes it, then turns it over.

The figure limply rolls on its back. It's a human woman, in her mid-twenties. She's wearing a violet cloak and a symbol of Astrid around her neck. Her eyes are wide open, green, and glassy. She's dead.
Silverraptor
Sora is completely still as she stares at the body. As she seems to add more and more of the details together, she seems to go into shock.

 
 Spoiler 
Why were we traveling through an alley to begin with?😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Be on your guard,"  Jadeite says, running his hand over her body with one hand and reading a spell with the other.  "She's still mostly limp, and only her extremities have cooled. She's been dead less than an hour." 
 
 Spoiler 
Take 20 on search for 25.
Spot:  (d20+4)[ 11 ] 
Listen:  (d20+4)[ 23 ] 
Knowledge (Nature):  (d20+9)[ 17 ] 
 


She was taken by surprise. There's no obvious marks on her clothes, and Jadeite's sure he'd see the same as Brent underneath, but he feels uncomfortable essentially feeling up a dead woman in a back alley, in public. Best to save such things for the autopsy table, where no ill rumors could be born.

He hears nothing but the sound of rain pouring on wood, earth, and stone, and the splashing footsteps of the people left on the streets going about their business, or hurrying for shelter.

 
 Spoiler 
You got lost and she was dead, but I figured it would be easier narrative-wise to find the body yourselves than finding out that night. Prevent stalling and the like. Also I wanted you to find her. 😉

Also, do you want to roll a heal check, or any other checks?
 
Silverraptor
Sora didn't hear Jadeite. She couldn't register anything around her other than the dead fellow priestess on the ground. Her eyes could not leave the symbol of Astrid around the priestess's neck.

 
 Spoiler 
Sora is a little too much in shock to make any checks right now.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite finally notices, and awkwardly, places a hand on Sora's shoulder in an attempt at sympathy. He's quiet, and his familiar is also still.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm going to go to bed now. Sorry, but if I stay on I'm going to do something stupid.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Badger and Artorias: 

It's pouring rain as the two mercenaries leave the shop, and the flashing lightning and crashing thunder only threaten to make the storm worse. Water's already running down the edges of the streets, and the alleyways and earthen side streets are already becoming muddy--what are the unpaved Bogs in the swamp going to be like by now, let alone nightfall? 
 

 "And this just gets better and better" Artorias grimaces a bit under the rain, he pulls up the hood of his cloak in a vain attempt to keep dry. "Moving through Bogs like this will be quite difficult" 
Athedia
Both the Badger and Naga shook their heads, droplets flying off their hair and fur. "Let's go back to the guild, wait for Elsee and Alim to get back.  I would feel safer with them in the Bogs, they could give us some protection and would probably get more information." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

How do the two mercenaries wish to return to the guild?

 
 Spoiler 
Directions are important here; you might see something. Right now Elsee and Alim are in the Bogs, which is at the far north of the city. Sora and Jadeite are southeast of the Heights and Senate and Guild. Badger and Artorias are southwest of the guild and several blocks west-northwest from Sora and Jadeite.

I need to make a map of Runite and its neighborhoods.

No gather information checks or searching for Cecil?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Elsee: 

The drow crosses his arms. "What news do you have?"
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
 Both the Badger and Naga shook their heads, droplets flying off their hair and fur. "Let's go back to the guild, wait for Elsee and Alim to get back.  I would feel safer with them in the Bogs, they could give us some protection and would probably get more information."  
 

 "That is a good idea, let's go" 

 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Badger and Artorias: 

How do the two mercenaries wish to return to the guild?

 
 Spoiler 
Directions are important here; you might see something. Right now Elsee and Alim are in the Bogs, which is at the far north of the city. Sora and Jadeite are southeast of the Heights and Senate and Guild. Badger and Artorias are southwest of the guild and several blocks west-northwest from Sora and Jadeite.

I need to make a map of Runite and its neighborhoods.

No gather information checks or searching for Cecil?
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
 Where is the guild compared to us?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger and Artorias: 

The guild is northeast of their current location. If Jadeite and Sora are investigating the Senate and the Heights, they're to the west of Badger and Artorias. If Alim and Elsee are still in the Bogs, they're to the far north.
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

Alim swallows, tries to maintain his composure. He asks,  "How has your flock taken the news about Dierdre?" 

The cleric raises an eyebrow. "About as well as could be expected. I suppose that must be surprising to the humans of the city, given our thoroughly unearned reputation."

 Badger and Artorias: 

They make it back to the guild easily and without incident, though it takes some time and they're soaked from the storm.

 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Sora,"  says Jadeite as the rain pours down.  "This is not the time. Mourn later, in safety and shelter. I cannot bring her body to the watch or autopsy lab alone." 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rolls her eyes at Alim's attempting to dodge the real issue here and shuffles her shoulders and feet to try and shake herself of the culture shock before speaking.

 "Arright look, there's no easy way to say this so i'm sayeng et hard and fast. A Cleric of Astrid was murdered last night, bog slime was found, and from the looks of things the murder was done with a precision strike with a thin piercing weapon, poison, and some kind of cleansing spell to clean up the area around it immediately afterwords. Now we hate soundin like paleskins right now, but you guys are pretty good with poisons, magic, and being graceful right? We're just thinkin it might have been done by a Drow, if not, then someone trying to frame you." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

The drow cleric stares at Elsee for a moment, then throws his head back and begins to laugh.

 "Oh, no. Elsee, get out of here--" 

"Ahaha! Blunt and brutal; you talk like an orc! I like that." The cleric shifts his stance. He seems more...not unguarded, but you get the sense he'll let you see the blows before instead of after the strike.

"So, an assassin was sent to besmirch our good name? Is that what you're saying?"
Draconi Redfir
Elsee shrugs and makes an "i have no effing idea" face, internally somewhat phased by the Drow's reaction.

 "'ts what eye figure anyways. Could be anyone who was really careful, but ya gotta admit it sounds like a Drow crime." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

"Because we are known for giving in to our emotions and rage? Because we do not see the votes over the years, the inevitable arc? Walk away with checkmate in sight?"

He shakes his head. "They do not know drow at all."
Draconi Redfir
 "Eye was more pointin to the fact that yer usually stereotyped as graceful magical poison masters. But sure." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

The cleric just smirks a bit at Elsee's statement, but says nothing. Actually, you're not sure if he's even smirking at all.
Draconi Redfir
Then there will be a moment of awkward scilence as Elsee has no idea what to say either... until finally...

 "... Nkay 'ta be honist i have no idea why we're here, it was thes guy's idea. So doya know of any Drow who might've taken thes whole theng too hard 'er just plain don't like the Astrid types?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

The cleric simply smiles again and spreads out his hands, indicating every single person in the temple.

 "Lovely,"  mutters Alim. He looks up and asks,  "But, if you do find something?" 

"It would be in my best interest to show how willing I am to work with the authorities, would it not?"

 "Yeah, I guess..." 
 
 Spoiler 
I kinda think it's funny how Elsee's lost in the little "game" here. Do you?
 
Draconi Redfir
 "Great"  Elsee mutters at the Cleric's indicaition.  "Reeeaaal nice job of narrowing the list for us there, thanks for that." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

The drow replies, "I said we had a motive. I did not say we would act on it. I do not know any who would be so...foolish."
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 
 "Thank you,"  says Alim. He turns to Elsee.  "Do you think we should return to the guild?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee just shrugs again.

 "'N guess, didn't get anything from thes whole trep so eye don't see the point." 

Elsee crosses her arms and pouts as her original plan returns to mind.

 "I was expectin denner at some fancy Drow restaurant too. Worst date ever." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee and Alim: 

They leave the temple and back onto the soggy streets.

 "It wasn't a waste of time,"  says Alim as he holds up the bag of poison samples.  "And we also alerted the leaders. They'll look out for anything suspicious." 

Alim blushes a bit, and mutters,  "Well, we could get curry or something later." 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  Sora and Jadeite: 
 "Sora,"  says Jadeite as the rain pours down.  "This is not the time. Mourn later, in safety and shelter. I cannot bring her body to the watch or autopsy lab alone."  
 

 "I.." 
She half glances around, still not taking her eyes off the body.
 "W-What?..." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 
 "She has not been dead long,"  Jadeite says. There's a clipped, sharp undertone to his voice. It's new, foreign, and unnerving.  "Her assassin could still lie in wait. If you wish to bring her body to a watchtower or temple, we must do it now, or request someone to retrieve her body for us. I will not have you go alone." 
Silverraptor
 "Oh..." 
She stares at the body for a moment longer.
 "I can't... leave her here." 
She looks at Jadeite, then over her shoulder, then back to Jadeite.
 "Lets get her back to the church. They'll know what to do." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

Jadeite looks down, then back up.  "I don't think we can just heft her over our shoulders and bring her to a watchtower. We need to call the guards, or have someone call them for us." 
 
 Spoiler 
Yeah, just step out of the alley and call, "GUARDS, GUARDS!" or something. 😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Elsee, Alim, Artorias, and Badger: 

The two humans and the two goblins meet up in the main hallway of the guild. The rain's starting to let up, though there are deep puddles in the ground.

What information do they have to share? What do they want to do next, and where do they want to go?

 Sora and Jadeite: 

With Sora still in shock, Jadeite places a hand on her shoulder for a moment. Hemlock slithers down his arm and coils around her upper bicep, flicking his tongue and staying alert.

The necromancer steps out of the alleyway and waves down the first person walking by.  "I need you to bring the watch here at once." 

The person stops and tries to look in the alleyway, but finds his view blocked by Jadeite, who says.  "That is unnecessary. Just bring the guards here now." 
Dusk Eclipse
 "So we did get some leads and they lead us towards the Bog; but frankly I don't think it is a good idea to go there right now and well our most likely suspect is Cecil a half-Drow".  
 
 Spoiler 

Sharing info is the best option right now i guess, from what I understand it is nearing night right now and Gather info take a lot of time IIRC (1d4 hours or something like that right?)
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Dusk Eclipse 
  "So we did get some leads and they lead us towards the Bog; but frankly I don't think it is a good idea to go there right now and well our most likely suspect is Cecil a half-Drow".  
 
 Spoiler 

Sharing info is the best option right now i guess, from what I understand it is nearing night right now and Gather info take a lot of time IIRC (1d4 hours or something like that right?)
 
 
 

Pretty much all the Plavaan in Runite, except the rich or lucky, live in or around the Bogs. You don't know Cecil's income, but considering how he was described as rather scruffy...

 
 Spoiler 
It's early afternoon. If you start Gathering Info now and succeed on the checks, you'll run into him tonight. Badger's modifiers are high enough for you to find him tonight if she starts now and rolls...well, I'm not telling you the DC. 😉 Point is, you can find him tonight.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora and Jadeite: 

The guards are there in minutes. There are two of them: a portly man with a very dented helmet and a skinny scrawny kid.

"What's the matter?" the kid asks. "Is anyone hurt?"

 
 Spoiler 
Does Sora want to say anything?
 
Silverraptor
Sora is still silent, lost in her own thoughts.

 
 Spoiler 
Nope.😛
 
Devmaar
 "The Drow elder we spoke to didn't think any of them would be foolish enough, but a Half-Drow could be more impetuous..." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Jadeite and Sora: 
 "My friend and I came upon the body of an Astridian cleric,"  he says, showing the guards her corpse.  "She was murdered approximately an hour ago. A few days ago another Astridian cleric was murdered in what I believe to be the same fashion. My friend and I are part of a mercenary team in Leif's guild and have been assigned the case. I have received permission to perform an autopsy after her next of kin is notified,"  he says.

The scrawny kid is obviously thrown by the sight of the dead cleric, but the older guard keeps his composure, lifting her up in his arms. He says, "You can come to our station two blocks over in about an hour or so. Thank you."

As they leave, Jadeite looks up at the buildings. They're two floors high, with ledges and windows that look like they wouldn't be too difficult to climb, though the rain would make them rather slippery. Still, anyone experienced would know how to compensate. He looks around at the ground, not really expecting to find anything of note. Whatever the assassin had not eliminated with magic would be washed away by the storm. Far better to try and get a sample of the poison he's sure is in her body before it degrades too much.

 "We should return to the others,"  he says, leading Sora out of the alleyway and back to the guild.

 
 Spoiler 
Let's just say that Sora and Jadeite return to the guild and catch up with everyone. Anyone want to greet them?
 
Athedia
 "Apparently he looked a little scruffy but still had the money for some fancy enchantments, AND he was interested in Mending spells.  I hate to say it, but he does have some backing.  And him only being a halfie could give him incentive, maybe the Bogs didn't like him as much." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger, Artorias, Alim, and Elsee: 

You see Jadeite and Sora enter the main hallway, both sopping wet. Jadeite seems to be supporting Sora, who is frighteningly pale and silent. Jadeite seems unusually grim himself.

 
 Spoiler 
And we are all caught up. I want to give you guys a chance to talk while I go through my notes on basement membranes, signal transduction, and the cytoskeleton for the umpteenth time.
 
Devmaar
 Sora! Are you alright? 
Silverraptor
On closer inspection that can easily be overlooked due to being soaked, she was crying silently to herself, covering her eyes with her hands.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite looks at Sora, then back at the others and shakes his head.

 "We found another." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "We found no overt signs of a framing attempt in the Senate, but shortly after leaving we came upon the body of a second Astridian cleric, also dead in an alleyway. I suspect she was killed in the same manner as Brent was." 

He indicates Sora.  "Our cleric is still in shock. What have you found, and what do you plan to do with it?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Well, let's go see if we can track Cecil! Devmaar, did you get the info on those poisons?

I'll dole out EXP once we're done for the day. Which we're not quite yet...Just one thing left...
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias looks shocked at the news, he is no stranger to death; but this somehow struck a chord in him  Another one... We must find who did this, we must.  
CoffeeIncluded
 "I agree. You did find information of use, did you not?" 

How strange. He always thought he'd be more...excited at the prospect of solving a mystery like this.
Athedia
The Badger repeated what she had said before, pointing out again how the halfie might have incentive to stir trouble if he felt neither side really wanted him.   "He would have the knowledge about poisons and a rapier can hold poisons." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite grimly nods.  "Then we should hurry, but not jump to any hasty conclusions. I will need to depart soon to conduct the autopsy however." 
 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite's going to leave after a couple hours, so whether or not he's there for the interrogation will be dependent on how well you roll. It shouldn't make that big a difference though. Also, Athedia, your PM box is full.
 
Devmaar
 I'm afraid you'll have to work alone this time Jadeite, while you're doing that I'll start working on those poison samples. 
 
 Spoiler 
What's the market value of these samples? Need to know for crafting times.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee didn't really have much to say on the whole matter, she and Alim hadn't gotten anything as far as she was concerned, so she didn't have any knowledge to share, and any planning they were doing wasn't exactly getting through to her for some reason. instead she kind of just wound up idly twirling a strand of hair as she listened to everyone speak. She'd probably be pretty decent at interrogation at least, depending on what they needed a gentle touch or a sharp knife could go a long way, and she was capable of both.
CoffeeIncluded
 "It shouldn't take too long to finish these samples, should it?"  Jadeite asks Alim.  "Regardless, we should do this as quickly as possible, lest more clerics die." 
 
 Spoiler 
Damn, looks like I'll have to split the party again. At least it's just two groups this time. Let's finish this quickly and get everyone back together. I don't think it should take too long.
 
CoffeeIncluded
As the others are about to head to the bogs, Jadeite reaches forward, takes Sora's holy symbol, and places it under her shirt out of sight.  "I don't think advertising your religion would be wise,"  he says.

He then turns to Alim.  "How quickly do you think you can get those poisons synthesized? I should be finished with the autopsy rather quickly." 
Devmaar
 Hopefully I can get them done tonight, certainly I can be done tomorrow. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Perfect!"  says Jadeite, clapping his hands together.  "Say, would you mind showing me to a butcher on the way? I need to pick up some supplies." 
Athedia
The Badger smiled at Jadeite carefulness and took the clerics hand.   "Don't worry, no-one will hurt you if we are with you."   Leading the way toward the bogs she started trying to find the location of Cecil, the mysterious half-drow.


 
 Spoiler 
Gather Information Rolls: Take as needed
 (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger, Artorias, Elsee, and Sora: 

The group searches for hours, all through the day and into the early evening. Whenever they think they might have a lead, the Plavaan in the bogs either refuse to talk to the humans, out of a desire to protect their own against outsiders who might wish them ill, or the information turns out to be useless.

However, finally, when the mosquitoes begin swarming in full force and the party ducks into a cheap restaurant to get a quick dinner and escape the worst of the mosquitoes before heading out to continue the search after dark, Badger and Elsee see a scruffy-looking half-drow sitting at a counter across the room. He'd be less scruffy if he cut his off-white hair more neatly; he tried to shape it to accentuate his ears and make them seem longer and pointier, but the haircut's obviously been done in a mirror by an amateur.

Elsee:
 
 Spoiler 
It's the half-drow from the apothecary who bought the healing potions this morning.
 
Athedia
The Badger gritted her teeth and then smiled at the barkeep.   "How much to buy that cute drow a drink.  You can tell him it's from me."   She knew it wasn't as uncommon as people liked to pretend for "exotic" matches to be made, people like Cecil had to come about somehow.  She passed over the needed coin to the barkeep and smiled at the drow as he was given the drink.
CoffeeIncluded
 Everyone but Jadeite and Alim: 

The bartender, an orc woman with a low-cut shirt, shrugs and pours out another beer to the half-drow, who's currently eating some sort of rice dish.

After a moment talking to the barkeeper, he looks over at the table where Badger and her friends are sitting. He looks back at his drink, and taps his fingers on the counter for a couple minutes before taking a deep breath. He pushes back his chair and heads over to their table.

"Uh...hi." His voice is quieter than you'd imagine. "You bought me a drink?"
Athedia
As Badger saw him walking over she looked down at her drink, playing bashfulness.  Inside she was grinning, her plan had worked, he had come to them and that would look better than the other way around.   "Yeah, sorry, do Drow not drink? Sorry." 
CoffeeIncluded
 Everyone but Sora and Jadeite: 

The half-drow scratches the back of his neck. "No, I do, it's just...Heh. Wasn't really expecting this."

He looks at the three with Badger, blushing a bit. "You decided that on your own?"

 
 Spoiler 
Would fake flirting require a bluff check? I think it might.

Is it okay if I roll your bluff and his sense motive? As for the interrogation, tell me when you want to start.
 
Athedia
 "Yeah, figured this is the Bogs. Didn't you would make a move.  Specially with how tense things are." 
 
 Spoiler 
Make whatever rolls you want.  The Badger is going to try to stick toward telling the truth, vaguely and let the others direct the conversation into an interrogation.
 
Silverraptor
Sora had changed into different, more comfortable clothing, also taking the advice of Jadeite and storing her amulet out of sight. She follows the group wherever they go, but otherwise doesn't say much, still lost in her thoughts.
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger, Artorias, Elsee, Sora: 

The half-drow seems to relax a bit at Badger's statement. "I was just afraid that...well, never mind." He takes another drink. "Yeah, things are pretty tense around here. It might not be safe for someone like you. I mean, I can pass, but you, uh, can't."

He sticks out a hand. "By the way, I'm Cecil. What's your name?" He's blushing a bit now, though it's hard to see through the washed-out gray of his cheeks.

 
 Spoiler 
Okay, so I rolled bluff/sense motive to see if Cecil picked up that Badger's not actually interested in him, not that she wants to interrogate him about the murders, which he probably would have caught wind of by now whether or not he's responsible. Thanks to Alim and Elsee, along with your searching all night, nearly everyone in the Bogs knows. I'll leave it to you to decide whether or not that's a good thing.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 

The smell of raw meat permeates the entire butcher's shop; whole skinned chickens lie behind the counter and smoked sausages hang from the ceiling. Jadeite waits patiently in line, or at least appears to wait patiently. When it is his turn, he places some money on the counter and points behind the butcher to the room behind him, where a whole pig is in the middle of being carved up into bacon and pork chops and other cuts of meat. The bloody cleaver is buried in a wooden cutting board, waiting to finish its work.

Jadeite asks,  "May I purchase a segment of the pig's back, approximately this large? It's for a rather important task, you see." 

The request is unusual, and his grin leaves the butcher slightly unnerved. "Uh, sure." He heads to the back, with a few thwaks of the cleaver separates a large portion of the back from the rest of the pig carcass, vertebrae included, then wraps it in butcher paper and hands it to the elf.

 "Thank you,"  Jadeite says.

He turns to Alim as they leave the shop and says to the goblin,  "If you cannot finish the poison samples today, then this shall have been a tragic waste of otherwise good meat. But no worries." 

They go to the laboratories, which appear to be in much the same condition as yesterday. Jadeite points Alim to where the workshops and lab benches are.  "You should find everything you require there." 
Devmaar
Alim thanks Jadeite and gets to work

Rolls:
 
 Spoiler 

 
 Elemental Rime  (1d20+12)[ 13 ]  
 Goobye Kiss  (1d20+12)[ 23 ]  
 Gorgon's Hair  (1d20+12)[ 29 ]  
 Salvo  (1d20+12)[ 14 ]  
 Siren's Breath  (1d20+12)[ 30 ]  
 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 

Jadeite performs the autopsy much the same as the last one. This woman also died instantaneously, from a quick deep stab that severed her spine.

He peels back the skin around the stab wound, already turning an unnatural cover.  "Hello there."  There's about a teaspoon's worth of clearish thick fluid, definitely not made by the body, seeping into the spinal cord and eating away at the surrounding tissue. And it appears to be mostly intact. With a little smile and a muttered word, Jadeite carefully lifts up the droplets of what he assumes is the poison with his magic and runs it into a tiny vial. There's very little there, but hopefully enough for the analyses that he plans to make.

Alim's never tried to prepare such small samples of poison before, and not so many at once. It ends badly for two of his "projects"--the elemental rime completely boils off while he crystallizes the gorgon's hair, and when he tries to mix together the salvo...well...

Hey, it was only half an eyebrow, and those grow back.

Thankfully, at least the other three poisons: the gorgon's hair, goodbye kiss, and  siren's breath  blue winnis are made without too many problems. By that evening the three successful samples are sitting in tiny vials, carefully marked.

 
 Spoiler 
You needed to roll a 15 to make it tomorrow, and a 20 to make it today. Ah well, 3 out of 5 isn't too bad!  What do each of the poisons do again? Sorry.  Never mind, I was smart and wrote them down.
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias smiles at The Badger's approach to the half-drow, it is certainly something he wouldn't have thought to use.
He quietly studies the surroundings, being caught unaware it something he has learnt to avoid.

 
 Spoiler 


Spot Check  (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Everyone but Jadeite and Alim: 

It's just a kinda dingy restaurant that needs a good sweeping and some more lighting, at least to your human eyes. There's maybe a couple dozen other Plavaan there, some couples, some friends, one family.

It's probably not a good idea to start an altercation here. You're already standing out enough as it is, and it's probably a good thing Elsee's with you.
Dusk Eclipse
Satisfied there isn't any immediate danger, Artorias relax a bit, finishes the ale in his hand and motions the bartender. "Could I get another pint of ale please?" 
CoffeeIncluded
The orc bartender looks up, then fetches a pint of ale for Artorias.

It's very dark and strong.
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias seizes the chance and speaks quietly to the bartender.
 "I'm sorry ma'am; but you see that girl who is talking with that Drow?"  at this he discretely motions towards The Badger and Cecil.
 "She is a good friend of mine and I feel somewhat protective of her, so I was wondering if you know something about him?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Not sure if I should roll something.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora, Badger, Artorias, and Elsee: 

The bartender shrugs. "He just comes in for dinner and a drink a few times a week."

 
 Spoiler 
No check required for a name, but more would require diplomacy, and she may not know anything.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Oh well that is a pity, I was hopping you could tell me more; but can you at least tell me his name?"  He smiles at the bartender.
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 

Damn, forgot to roll

Untrained diplomacy roll (1d20)[ 3 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
You're sitting next to Badger; Cecil already introduced himself to her and I assume you heard it too.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 
I missread, I thought The Badger was the one who went towards Cecil's table 😳
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
It's okay. Athedia said Badger's going to try and keep Cecil off guard while the rest of you interrogate him?
 
Dusk Eclipse
Bracing himself Artorias let's his instincts go wild for a moment, separating the scent he memorizes Cecil's scent, figuring it would help if he needs to track him again in the future.

 
 Spoiler 
Intiate Hunter's sense stance to gain scent. God I love that stance 😁
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Artorias: 

Cecil smells like he's been out in the rain, and hasn't really dried off. He smells of dirt and dust. The rain masks quite a bit though.
CoffeeIncluded
 Jadeite and Alim: 

Jadeite walks into the lab where Alim is working. He silently observes the scorch marks on the lab bench, the results of the salvo exploding, and mildly remarks,  "I do hope you managed to isolate something with a less...vigorous reaction." 
 Everyone else: 

Cecil takes a step back from Artorias as the warblade inhales his scent, then seems to notice Elsee for the first time. He asks, "Hey...Did I see you earlier today with your boyfriend?" He looks around curiously, but doesn't see Alim.
Draconi Redfir
 
 Spoiler 
 Gee thanks Coffe, now instead of picturing the lot of them sitting from the bartender's view as Cecil, Badger, Elsee, Artorias, Sora, i'm now picturing the same thing, but Artorias has walked over to Cecil's right side and is now deeply inhaling at his neck to try to grab his scent. Good job.
 



Elsee blinked and looked up from her drink as she sensed herself being addressed. She looked around a bit until her eyes finally landed on Cecil, finally noticing that it was indeed the same half-drow from the potions shop, she'd recognize that lousy haircut anywhere.

  "Heeey yeah thenk so." 
Devmaar
 I managed most, just a couple went wrong. Don't tell anyone I messed up the salvo, I'd never live that down.  Alim offers a grin woth the last comment
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 
 "I didn't think making salvo required explosions or...pieces of eyebrow,"  he says, looking at the singe where the left half of one of Alim's eyebrows was with a bit of a smile,  "But you're the poison expert."

Regardless,"  he continues,  "I managed to isolate a visible quantity of poison from this victim's wound. She died of a single blow to the second cervical vertebrate, and died nearly instantly as the stab wound severed her spine."  He holds up a small vial with a smaller amount of clearish liquid inside.  "I believe there is enough to serve as a control in my experiment, as well as further analysis. Which poisons have you managed to synthesize?" 
 Everyone else: 

"Say," Cecil asks Badger, suddenly with a somewhat flirtatious undertone, "What's your name?"

 
 Spoiler 
Ha! That's not exactly what happened, but glad I could make you laugh! And that mental image is fantastic.

Also, I don't know how to flirt and have never been flirted on (knowingly) so...this might be painful to read.
 
Devmaar
 I've got the siren's hair, goodbye kiss, blue whinnis and drow poison, that one could be interesting, all considered. And salvo's not difficult, but it's anything but stable. If it goes wrong there's no knowing what'll happen. 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 
 "In that case, the poison used probably was not salvo. This murderer knows what he or she is doing. The poison appears to be insurance; I doubt they would risk it on an unstable compound."  Jadeite picks up the vials.  "Shall we test what you found?" 
Athedia
 "Ba..Baxter."  She stuttered catching herself from saying her real name.  She shook his outstretched hand.

 
 Spoiler 
I was trying to find a prophetical match.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger, Sora, Elsee, Artorias: 

"So why come to the Bogs this late at night, Baxter? Really just to see me?" He tilts his head and gives a little smile

 
 Spoiler 
What do you mean by a prophetical match?
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
I meant phonetic.  Blech, stupid spelling.
 

 "Well show solidarity, make sure nobody tries to hurt innocents for what has been happening in the city, that kind of thing.  I figure that with news of the murder some people will blame you Plavaans." 
Devmaar
 Yes let's.  Alim could get used to these labs
CoffeeIncluded
 Jadeite and Alim: 

Jadeite leads Alim back to the autopsy room, where he seals up the dead women with a quick spell before placing the pig's back on another table. He takes a piece of paper and draws a quick representation of the pig's back, with seven dashes and seven words underneath them: Blue Winnis, Drow Poison, Goodbye Kiss, Siren's Hair, Hemlock's Venom, Control Venom, and Control.

Jadeite takes the four poisons Alim made and the sample he got from the victim. One by one he uncaps the vials, pours each onto a small blade, and then drives the blade into the pig's back. He cleans the blade thoroughly with his magic and repeats this process six more times; the last time with a clean blade. For the sixth poison, Hemlock bites down on the blade and lets his own venom soak it. He glares balefully at Jadeite, who only responds,  "Don't be so petulant. You've bitten on worse." 
 Everyone else: 

"Yeah," Cecil says quietly. "Though, well, a lot of us aren't exactly upset, you know? I mean, I don't think anyone who moved here did so by choice."
CoffeeIncluded
 Jadeite and Alim: 
 "All we have to do now is mimic the environment in which Brent's body was found, and see if any of these poisons have the same effect as the one the murderer used." 

Jadeite trails off, then looks at Alim with a smirk.  "Alim, would you assist a frail elf in a physical task?" 
 
 Spoiler 
And you have my PM.
 
Devmaar
 Of course Jadeite 
 
 Spoiler 
Str 9? Alim only has 8 😛
I do get to add Int to str checks though
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Alim and Jadeite: 

Jadeite whispers his plan in Alim's ear.

It's dark by the time Alim and Jadeite return to the guild, ignoring the looks they receive from bystanders as they lug their cargo. None of the others have yet returned to the guild.

Afterwards, the two have a very late snack of slightly dried bread and preserves. Jadeite says to Alim with a wink,  "I'll let you know as soon as I do. We best rest soon, so we can wake early." 
 Everyone else: 

"So, Baxter," Cecil says, leaning forward onto the table, "What exactly do you do for a living?" He gives her a coy smile.

 
 Spoiler 
I kinda want to finish the interrogation tonight if possible. This has gone much longer than I expected and I don't think it's fair to Devmaar to make him wait several more days for everyone else to catch up.

I'm not being rude or anything, am I?
 
Silverraptor
Sora's mind isn't with the group and the events unfolding. She is quiet and reserved, which is nothing like her behavior. The discovery of the body had really shaken her up. She decides she needs something to take her mind off the events for today. And she has seen a lot of people retreat to it when they are down and depressed and just want to forget the day's events.

She flags down the orcish bartender.
 "Do you have any wine or other good alcoholic drinks available?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I'm sure you guys can guess where I'm going with this.😏
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Sora, Elsee, Badger, and Artorias: 

The orc bartender looks at the shelf of liquors. She turns to Sora and says, "We've some wine here, not sure how great it is though. I've always been more of a rum orc myself." Still, she gives Sora a bottle of wine.

 
 Spoiler 
Oh god, this is going to be fantastic.
 
Silverraptor
Sora uncorks the bottle and sniffs. She immediately likes the sweet smell that comes from it, but she raises an eyebrow at the weird extra smell that was mixed with it. She gently pours a little bit into the glass that was provided to her and sets the nearly full bottle down. She raises the glass and takes a sip. Her face contorts and she sticks out her tongue at the first taste of alcohol.
  How could anyone drink this stuff?  
But as the alcohol taste fades, the sweet flavor of the wine becomes an after-taste and has her pause. She looks at the liquid in the glass for a moment, before deciding to give it another try.

 
 Spoiler 
Just be wary that Jadeite will have a drunk Sora to deal with later.😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil looks over at Sora, opens his mouth but then decides against whatever he was going to say and closes it. He smiles at Badger, and says, "Hey...You want to talk some place a bit quieter?" He's not particularly pushy though.
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias finishes his newest ale in one big gulp, motions for another one and faces Cecil.
 "Hold your horses, Drow-boy!"  He then puts an arm "protectively" around the Badger and in a somewhat slurred voice he says:
 "Ba...Baxter here is a really good friend of mine, nay more like a sister to me, so I can't let any prutty boy going with here"   Once the bartender refills his tankard he takes another swig, let's out a small burp and cleans himself with the back of his hand.
 "What you do for a living? Huh boy?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Please read this in a drunken/slurred voice, I'm terrible at conveying speech patterns through text.

Oh and I am already regretting this... not much; but a little 😉
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Uh," Cecil seems to withdraw a bit at Artorias' sudden change in demeanor. There's rather little beefy raw-strength muscle on the half-drow like Artorias has, though Cecil's got the wiry build of an acrobat.

"Animals. I work with animals."

 
 Spoiler 
Is Artorias fake drunk or actual drunk? Also, this is fantastic. I'm definitely doling out the EXP here; I bet you'll like the totals when all's said and done.
 

 EDIT: 

Artorias:
 
 Spoiler 
Cecil seems to be telling the truth; he does work with animals.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "oh Animals, good, good, Baxter here looooves animals. " 
 
 Spoiler 
Right now he is faking; but he is beggining to get buzzed and will get drunk with a couple more tankards I guess.

I'm going to bed right now, good night everyone
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Really?" Cecil says. "Baxter, what kind of animals do you like?"

 
 Spoiler 
Okay. Goodnight! Do you think it's fair if I say that once he gets drunk he takes a minor Sense Motive penalty?
 
Athedia
This was something that Badger didn't have to fake.  "Dogs, I just love them.  They are so loyal and kind.  I have the friendliest puppy in the whole world.  I left him at home right now, because I am still training him but he is so sweet and loving.  He can look scary but he is the biggest softy ever." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Dogs are so loyal," he says. "They'll defend you to the last."

He smiles. "So what do you do?"
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil continues to try and flirt with Badger, spurred on by her buying him the drink. He is receptive to other questions, particularly from the goblin. He doesn't pay the other humans too much heed. In fact, he seems to be paying more attention to Badger only because she started flirting with him. He drinks a bit more, though not too much.

 
 Spoiler 
Remember, Cecil cut his hair to make his shorter half-drow ears seem longer and pointier.
 
Athedia
 "Cecil, I haven't run into many halfies.  What is that like?" 
Silverraptor
Meanwhile, Sora is not paying attention to the conversation. Her focus is on the glass and bottle of wine (that was quickly emptying) in front of her. She never tasted alcohol before and it left a... slightly exotic taste? As she consumes more, her sense of reasoning goes more and more on hold, causing her to drink a little more.
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil pauses. It's easy to tell he holds some bitter feelings over this. "Half-elves have it easy. Half-drow...we're truly stuck between worlds unless we get lucky. Neither trusts the other, and either only sees the other in me. You've got to pick one side, and do you seriously think I can pass as human?" His nose wrinkles a bit as he says the last word.

He's clearly holding some anger in his heart.
CoffeeIncluded
Badger tries to get a sense of Cecil...

 
 Spoiler 
Cecil...Is a very angry person. There's a lot of rage and resentment bottled up inside. Someone like him could just spend his life in simmering hatred...or he could burn it down. At the same time he's almost desperate for affection.
 
Athedia
 "Well I do see you are focusing on the drow in you.  Are you trying to win the favor of the other drow by doing that?  Why not use yourself as an example that humans and Plavaan can coexist." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Don't think I haven't tried that?" Cecil mutters. He shakes his hand and takes another swallow of beer. He clearly wants to get off the topic.
Draconi Redfir
Sensing things were quickly going south atthe current topic, Elsee made her best wicked grin as she leaned forward onto the bar to get a better look at Cecil from behind Badger and Artorias, spoutting the first thing that came to mind that could help them.

 "Ya got any hobbies ked!?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil seems to be a bit moodier than he was a few drinks ago. Nevertheless, he responds to Elsee's question. He seems more comfortable with her than Sora or Artorias.

"Animals. Raising them and breeding them and...stuff."
Draconi Redfir
Elsee nodded her head, not really being that big on animals herself, but she needed to keep this going.

 "What kind? Pets 'N stuff?" 
CoffeeIncluded
"Well, uh..." Cecil catches eye of the humans and squirms a bit before saying, "Spiders."

Knowledge (Local) DC 14 (For Elsee DC 12):

 
 Spoiler 
This is reasonable. Drow are known for keeping and breeding spiders. It's a long cultural tradition for them.

If you roll 20 or higher (for Elsee 18 or higher):

 
 Spoiler 
They keep spiders and their webs as makeshift mosquito nets and traps, invaluable in a swamp. Because of their usefulness there's a lot of cultural significance held to spiders.
 

 
Athedia
The Badger shrugged before taking another drink of beer.   "Makes sense, they mean a lot to Drow don't they.  That and I bet the webs are really nice in these swamps.  Keep the mosquito and their friends away."  Spiders were not exactly her favorite creature, but she had no beef against them.  They generally didn't bother her.   "But aren't you worried about them biting you?  I heard that they can pack some poison in them." 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil smiles a bit as Badger doesn't immediately lash out. But he blinks at Badger's second question. He says, "I've been bitten before; anyone working with spiders gets bitten eventually. It sucks, but it's not exactly lethal. We're not stupid."

He sets down his drink.

Sora, Badger:
 
 Spoiler 
Cecil's caught on. He's starting to figure out there's another reason Badger got him the drink.

He rolled really, really well on his Sense Motive check. I'm not going to tell you what the modifiers (if any) were, but he rolled well enough to beat the "hunch" DC of 20.
 
Athedia
The Badger stood up, carefully circling behind him, blocking him into his seat.   "Were you thinking of leaving so soon.  We were just starting to get to know each other." 
 
 Spoiler 
What the heck, covers blown.

Intimidation  (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil's eyes widen. He instinctively backs up a little bit. "L-Look, Baxter, I promise I wasn't going to bother you or anything. Wasn't even going to invite you back to my house unless you wanted. What are you leading me around for?"

Two Plavaan sitting a couple tables away glance at Cecil and the mercenaries, then take a second look.

 
 Spoiler 
If Cecil is the murderer, then now he's probably fairly certain why you came here. If he's not, he's confused and threatened and thinks he's suspected of something.

Either way, he just barely failed the intimidate check--rolled a 10.
 
Athedia
Badger sat back down, burying her head in her hands.   "I don't know.  I made a mess of this didn't I.  I thought you were going to leave, but I didn't want you to... I just felt nervous, you know."  
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil's warier now, seems to be walking on his toes. "Did your friends put you up to this?"
Athedia
 "No, I just.  Look I have never talked to a drow before.  Half of me wants to run but I also want to get to know you.  Can I get you another beer or something to say I am sorry?" 
CoffeeIncluded
"No, I'm good," says Cecil, more curtly than before. He looks like he's about to leave, and his hands are shaking a bit.

 
 Spoiler 
Elsee can try to keep him with a diplomacy check.
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias shifts uncomfortable in his seat, not really sure what to do, his instincts tell him that letting Cecil go is a bad idea; but he knows he might make things worse if he intervenes.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee groaned inwardly to herself as things continued to spiral south. Whatever, "Baxter" seems to have taken initiative here and if she wants to keep this ruse up she'd need all the help she could get.

With little effort, Elsee propped herself up onto the bar and carefully dodged beer and wine glasses as she made her way to "Daxter" and the Half-Drow, sitting herself down on the bar between the two as she cleared her throat.


 "Alright ked here's the skinny. Baxter here is a veeery close friend of mine who, for one reason or another, has some pretty "Exotic" tastes for a human, elves and dwarves just won't cut it for her oh no! She's into the reeeally mysterious and different-coloured guys, like you! Beggest problems were that Goblins were too small, Orcs were too big, and any pureblood Drow would either use her or suspect her of using them!"  

Elsee leaned forward a bit to wrap an arm around the necks of each of the two "lovers" and pull them slightly closer to one another.

 "So imagine my surprise when eye ran into you in that potions shop back there, might not have looked like it -was tryin to seem interested in the lousy boyfreind back there- but that whole time i was thinkin "Bingo!" Eye might just have found the right man for my little friend here! So i told her about ya, she seemed interested, and the rest of the gang came along to provide moral support (and backup if things got too hairy, you know how those Orcs can act and blah, politics) and we've been tryin ta find ya ever since! 'M sorry we didn't tell ya this earlier, but Baxter here wanted the meeting 'ta seem more "natural" then say, the easy way of me trackin ya down again and introducing ya to her outside the bogs. she's weird like that. And now lookit ya, ya both like and work with animals, ya both like booze, 'm sure there's plenty of other stuff ya might have in common too! Ya just gotta give her a chance! I can almost hear the quarter-breeds runnin around now, whatta ya say?" 

Elsee gave her biggest, most innocent grin she could manage, mentally knowing that if this wasn't the right guy, she may have just accidentally committed Badger to a twenty-year marriage. C'mon "Baxter" Play along! Look flirty or somethin!

 
 Spoiler 

Bluff: (1d20+6)[ 16 ]

Diplomacy:(1d20+6)[ 18 ]

Noncannon alternate ending:
 
 Spoiler 


Elsee grinned wickedly and pulled the two "lovers" closer together so they were just a few inches apart, a wicked grin crossing her face.

 "Now kiss." 
 

 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil swallows audibly as Elsee pulls him and Badger closer together. He squirms out of her grasp and looks at them. There's less hostility in his gaze, though he's still wary.

The half-drow takes a tiny sip of beer, more to give his hands something to do than anything else.

 
 Spoiler 
Okay, you prevented it from completely melting down. Also, I love Elsee.

I really wish I could post more in response to that fantastic post, but I'm working on an outline due tomorrow.
 
Athedia
 "Honestly didn't think you would believe me being friend with a goblin.  I guess I really messed this up, but other than Art here and Elsee's boy I don't know many guys.  I just get nervous around them rather easy."  She spoke plainly, trying to calm the drow some more.   "If you want to go fine, but could you answer me one question about spiders?  Why do their webs break so easily when they are walked through, but still catch flies?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil looks at Badger in blank confusion. Clearly, he does not get the metaphor. "Because you're that much stronger than a fly." He folds his arms.
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil relaxes a little bit. Or rather he slips back into a coy pose, if only very slightly. He looks like a cat sizing up a rival, almost.

"So, why do you want me around so much? It can't just be my dashing hybrid vigor."
Athedia
 "Do I need a reason other than I found you interesting.  I know I shouldn't have scared you, and honestly aren't drow supposed to be masters of the subtle?  What will it take for you to see me again tomorrow?"   Badger saw her last chance at following this lead starting to disappear and she dropped her wordplay and embarrassment and gave it one effort.
CoffeeIncluded
"Perhaps," Cecil replied, "But then again I'm only half."

He pauses for a moment, then gives badger a crooked half-smile. "It would take another rainy day."

 
 Spoiler 
Because, you know, light sensitivity. The veils help, but they won't do too much on a bright sunny summer day.
 
Athedia
 "I am low on funds at the moment, but I think I will start saving up. " 
 
 Spoiler 
Going along with the rainy day thing.
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Aren't we all," Cecil says, paying his bill for the previous drink--not the one Badger got him.

Cecil says with a half-lidded smile, "Maybe next time I'll get to know a bit more about you. After all, I couldn't help but notice how little you told me," before leaving the restaurant.

 
 Spoiler 
He's still suspicious, but not to the extent he was before.
 
CoffeeIncluded
There's not much left to do in the bogs, now that Cecil's left. At least they haven't managed to attract too much attention. Still, they should head back.
Athedia
Badger smiled, she had salvaged a little of her mess.  Wincing she turned to the barkeep.   "How much for the drinks?"  Gesturing to the one she had bought Cecil and the one she had drank.  With the "donation" she had given earlier that day even a little spent would feel like more.
CoffeeIncluded
"It'll be eight silver," says the barkeep.

 
 Spoiler 
Mmm, there's a real price difference between food and the adventurer's budget, almost too much. I think I'm going to go and raise the prices for food a bit. Not much, just enough so you can't but yourself a banquet every night without it cutting into your potion and scroll budget.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "And how much for these?"  Artorias motions to his empty tankards.
CoffeeIncluded
"Gold and a half," says the orc as she pulls out a list of prices.
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias reaches for his money pouch and pays the orc "Here you go, thanks you"  He stands up; but woobles a little. "Wow... that beer was stronger than I though  Despite feeling slightly dizzy he manages to steady himself.
Athedia
 "Let's get you home Art."  Badger put down the coin and reached under Artorias's arms to help stabilize him.   "Wait.... Where's Sora?" 
Silverraptor
As the group looks around, they find Sora sprawled over the bar with her back to them. An empty bottle of wine lay close to her and the empty wine glass was in her hand. She was twirling the glass slowly on wooden countertop of the bar, balancing it precariously.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee goraned at the sight of Sora and planted her palm against her face, pushing herself off of the bar soon afterwords to walk over to the cleric's side.


 "Ked's probably never had a drink in her life. 'nd we introduce her to the bogstuff that's mostly alchohol to make up for the lack of flavor." 
Athedia
 "Do you think clerics learn a Sobriety spell?"  The Badger dropped Artorias's arm, leaving him swaying near the table.  As she got closer to Sora the smell of alcohol overwhelmed her.   "Okay... Someone with money make sure her tab is paid."  She hefted Sora onto her shoulders, staggering a little under the clerics weight.   "Yease, she is feather.  Do clerics eat?"   
Silverraptor
Sora stirs slightly, looking around with half closed eyes.
 "Oh hey... Badger... you hase any mussshrooms with you?" 
She chuckles feebly at her joke.
Athedia
Badger rolled her eyes and adjusted her hold on Sora.  Of course the girl had never had a strong drink before, she was sheltered for gods sake, and after what she had seen today she probably didn't care about being smashed.  If it had been anyone else she would have been tempted to leave them there, but Sora... she had promised to protect her and she didn't break her word.

As she set off for the guild she muttered curses under her breath about clerics, gods and drunks.
CoffeeIncluded
The streets are still slippery and wet, and hard to navigate in the dark. Sora slips and falls into puddles of water and unidentified much more than once. Still, they manage to make it back to the guild without any injuries.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Good night everyone, I'm going to bed right now"  With those words Artorias stumbles towards his room, once there he barely takes the time to put his glaive and dager somewhere where he won't stab himself and crashes right into his bed.
Silverraptor
Sora sways a bit, before heading shakily upstairs.
 "I'm gonna take a break fffrom being a fissssh..." 
Athedia
 "Sounds like a good idea."  Badger followed Sora up the steps, watching her to make sure she didn't fall down them.  She left the girl once she got to her door.  Inside Naga lay sleeping, Badger smiled.  The dog wasn't supposed to be in the living quarters, something about fleas and chewing the linens ("problems" she had pointed out plenty of the guild members had), but he had some fans in the guild and they often let him sneak up to her room.  Shoving him aside on the bed she yanked some of the blanket over herself.   "Been a long night boy, and I may have two killers on my scent now." 
Silverraptor
*20 minutes later*

Whatever Jadeite is doing in his room, a soft, erratic knock came from his door.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite rouses from his trance slowly. It takes several moments before he opens the door.
Silverraptor
Sora falls through onto him, having put all her full weight on the door.
 "Oh... Jaidete. What are yeah doin in my room?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite manages to sidestep as Sora falls. However, his floor isn't nearly as lucky. Even with prestidigitation, that stain will take a while to get out.

 "I should be asking you the same question."  He sniffs, and wrinkles his nose.  "As well as why you smell like the floor of a tavern, but I believe that question answers itself." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite raises an eyebrow. "I understand that my floor is quite comfortable, but I'm sure yours is much the same." He reaches down and helps her up. "I would recommend you go to sleep."
Silverraptor
Sora allows Jadeite to help her up, but after she's on her feet, she pulls away and walks into the room unsteadily.
 "What I dun't understand is, why's the room wanting to ssshpin the way it does. It can't be comfffortable." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I expect you'll feel much the same in the morning. If I were you, I would get some sleep,"  Jadeite says, firmly nudging Sora into her bed, then taking the time to shut the blinds on the window before leaving and returning to his trance. However, he doesn't leave her any water--he's not quite that generous.

 
 Spoiler 
If you're done, I'll move to tomorrow after class."
 
CoffeeIncluded
 The next morning: 

It's a bright, sunny day in Runite. The morning light streams through the windows and illuminates the floating dust particles hanging in the hair. It's hot, but not as humid as the day before.

Jadeite gets up somewhat earlier than the others and spends time meditating and studying his spells. He then smirks and goes over to Alim's room, waking him up and beckoning for the goblin to follow, leading him to outside Badger's room.

Badger wakes to see Naga sniffing at the window, and apparently not liking what she smells much. Seconds later she's assailed by a foul odor of rotting meat.

 Badger: 
 
 Spoiler 
If Badger looks outside her window, she sees a large strip of a pig's back, with several holes placed in an orderly linear fashion down the spine, quietly rotting on her windowsill. It's already looking slimy and flies are beginning to alight on the meat. The holes seem to be filled with something, and a couple of them are swollen and greenish-black around the incision. It smells disgusting already and only promises to get worse. There's also a note carefully pinned to the pig's back, far enough removed from the rotting meat as to not touch it. It reads:

 Badger:

Seeing as your windowsill faces the east, I decided that this would be the best place to put this sample. I would appreciate that you not move it, as this experiment is critical to identifying the nature of the poison used, and you wouldn't want to compromise our investigation, now would you? I'm sure you understand.

P.S. Death Boy, huh? 
 


General notes:
 
 Spoiler 
Don't worry, Devmaar. Alim got the full 8 hours. So did Sora and Jadeite.

Jadeite's spell list coming in about 40 minutes? Sorry, studying for genetics now.
 
Athedia
Badger carefully packed her items and walked over to Jadeite's room.  Seeing that he was currently away she started to make herself at home.  Once she was done Jadeite's items were moved into her old room and her items were comfortably put away.  She left a note on the door saying

 "If I had known that you would need a laboratory I would have made the shift sooner.  Now you can do your studying all night so you can see the results.  Sorry that I inconvenienced you.

Badger 

before heading downstairs to eat her first meal of the day.  As she passed Alim she rubbed his head.   "Wouldn't happen to know why Jadeite and I had to switch rooms, do you?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Why, because Badger is such a wonderful, generous teammate!"  Jadeite says right on cue, wearing a broad grin.

The grin's just a little tight by his cheeks.

 "Why else would she give me such a generously sized room, with such a beautiful view of the seashore?"  he continues, not taking his eyes off Badger.  "And I do appreciate your foresight so; I must sincerely thank you for allowing me to perform my work late at night without having to disturb anyone else. Although truly, moving all our items?"  He shakes his head, clucks his tongue.  "While that was truly generous of you to spare my poor elven constitution, it was not necessary. Look at you, all smelly and disheveled so early in the morning! It's simply not becoming of someone as glamorous as you. Please, allow me to thank you." 

Before Badger can react, Jadeite lays a hand on her shoulder. Instantly, the sweat and smell of sweat and rotting pig meat vanishes from her body, to be suppressed by a sweet floral scent.

A very floral scent. Perhaps the girliest scent she's ever smelled in her entire life. Badger no longer smells like rotting pig, but she smells like she bathed in a vat of whatever perfume Sora would spend half her salary on. The pink poofy flowery smell is almost overpowering.

 Everyone else: 
 
 Spoiler 

Not only does Badger smell like she's wearing several doses of the most effeminate perfume ever made, she also looks like someone dumped a giant bucket of pink glitter over her head. The sunlight reflects off of Badger and her hair, skin, and clothes are all dancing with glimmering sparkles.

Why yes, Jadeite just made Badger a  sparklepire. 
 
Athedia
Badger started coughing at the scent, nose wrinkling in disgust.  Guts she could handle but this?  This felt like she had fallen into a vat of perfume.  Seeing her arm glittering she attempted to wipe it on Naga, as was her usual course of action, but this gesture sent a waft of the scent to the poor dog and sent him into a sneezing fit.  His ears flopped and he whined at the assault on his poor nose.  When Badger went to comfort him, the basset backed away from the source of the scent a look of confusing passing his wrinkled face.
Devmaar
As the Badger asks him the question Alim just stammers  uh, whu, hm  and looks confused, then when Jadeite casts his spell he shakes his head  Oh dear Jadeite, I think you've overdone it somewhat... Well Badger, it is only for an hour after all, I could sort it out but I'd rather not run through my reserves of magic so arly in the day. 
 
 Spoiler 
Antagonism? I have an 8 in wisdom and no ranks in sense motive, what antagonism?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, we simply cannot wait an hour,"  Jadeite says, clapping his hands together.  "I simply must wake everyone!" 

He then goes and does just that.
Silverraptor
Sora is fast asleep on her bed spread out in a position that couldn't possibly be comfortable. Her snarled snoring is accompanied by minor drooling. Her blankets were all intertwined as she tossed and turned during the process of body metabolizing the large quantity of alcohol she consumed the night previous.

With a sudden amount of light and the door opening completely with a loud bang, Sora was awakened. The first she noticed upon reaching consciousness was a sudden splitting headache. The second, the loud banging sound caused it to throb, intensifying the pain momentarily. Third was the light was also contributing to the pain of the headache.

She groaned loudly as she buried her face into her pillow to block out the light. After pulling up the blankets over her, she speaks with her voice muffled.
 "Wha's gonin on?" 
 
 Spoiler 
And thus, this is how Sora sleeps under the effects of alcohol.😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Now Sora, this is no time to lie in bed!"  Jadeite says cheerfully, tearing off the blankets and throwing open the blinds.  "We have a mystery to solve! Come on now, or do you want another one of your sister clerics to be murdered?" 
Athedia
Badger ran back to her room slamming the door of her new room shut, finding various pieces of furniture to shove against the door as well.  If she had to suffer with this, then no-one would see her.  She shut the windows on the room as well and sat in the dim light that filtered through sulking.  Wizards, no sense of the practical.
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Now Sora, this is no time to lie in bed!"  Jadeite says cheerfully, tearing off the blankets and throwing open the blinds.  "We have a mystery to solve! Come on now, or do you want another one of your sister clerics to be murdered?"  
 

The blankets would not come easily. Jadeite would find Sora had a rather good grip on them.
 "Its probably me then, since I already feel like I'm dying." 
 
 Spoiler 
Now that was just cruel of Jadeite to say.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, but you don't seem poisoned to me! Come on, we need to check the results!" 
 
 Spoiler 
But in-character?
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias is suddenly awakened by a door being slammed.
 "What was that?" , with a grunt the young human manages to extract himself from his own bed. Surprisingly he only has slight headache, he was expecting worse considering how strong the Bog's beer was.

Thanking Mars for his luck he starts his morning routine, before long he finds himself walking towards the guild's messhall to grab a bite to eat; but a particular..."girly" smell invades his nose and makes him choke.

 Ugggg... who the hell uses that kind of perfume?"  He covers his sensitive nose and resumes his way, lightly shaking his head.
Athedia
Badger sat in her room for a while, cross legged on the bed.  But the glitter and perfume didn't seem to fade, if anything they were growing stronger. And the mornings activities had raised her hunger, now her belly was grumbling with the sounds of emptiness.  Groaning at the idea of facing the others she moved the furniture away from the door and found her largest cloak.  Pulling it over herself she slunk downstairs, glaring at all who noticed her.  She flopped down next to Artorias and grabbed some food, hiding under the cloak as much as she was able.  She didn't speak, just grumpily ate and glared in the direction of Jadiete.
CoffeeIncluded
With a little smile from Jadeite, the smell of perfume slightly fades, merely being a very noticeable presence instead of borderline hostile, but Badger's cloak becomes glittery as well.

 "Why are you so mad?"  he asks innocently, having just left Sora's room and waiting for her to come downstairs?  "I'm simply showing you my gratitude for giving me a larger room and storing my supplies. You don't have to stink of death anymore I'm such a good friend!" 

The grin fades slightly as Jadeite addresses those who are present.  "Once everyone else arrives, I need to show the results of the experiment." 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee blindly stumbled her way into the mess hall that morning, her arms stretched out infront of her or otherwise grasping the nearest obstacle to navigate her way through the guild hall as her vision was thoroughly obscured by a tight sleeping-mask covering her eyes, had she not managed to burn most of the guild hall to memory by this time she may have made several more fatal mistakes such as tumbling down the stairs rather then the mere stumble she made when she assumed there was another step or two to take before the sudden loss of a floor. Several guild members would find goblin hands or face bumping into them as Elsee scoured the mess hall for her proper table, grunting apologizing to whoever she may have accidentally grabbed or ran into in increasingly awkward ways. Eventually however she was able to locate Sora by the smell of her perfume, geez she realy lathered it on today didn't she? forget to shower or something?

Elsee's hands would grab at Artorias' back a few times as she searched for an empty seat, finding one right next to him and quickly climbing onto the bench with her familiar wicked grin crossing her face, the success of her idea causing her to beam as if she had just saved the world from catastrophe all by her lonesome.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Okay, since we're all here, I want to show you what Alim and I did last night. We injected a pig's back with various samples of venom as well as one used in the murder, then left it out overnight to mimic the conditions in which Brent's body was found."  Jadeite says.  "Elsee, you might want to actually look at the evidence." 

He places the rotting pig's back on the table; it makes a disgustingly squishy yet solid sound. Jadeite indicates the holes, saying,  "The poisons are Blue Winnis, Drow Poison, Goodbye Kiss, Siren's Hair, Hemlock's own venom, and the poison we found. This last mark is just a stab with a clean dagger as a second control." 

No two stab wounds look alike. The Drow Poison wound is almost like the poisonless wound, except a bit runnier around the edges. The Goodbye Kiss wound seems stiffer around the edges than it should be.

The wound made with the poison found is swollen and black-green, as if the tissue underneath is rotting away much faster than anything else. The closest thing to that stab is the one made with Hemlock's venom. That one also looks as though the venom has caused the tissue to blacken and go necrotic much faster than the rest of the pig's back, but the actual site is flatter and slightly less firm than the site of the poison used in the murder.
Devmaar
 Hmm, it looks like it might have been an animal poison of some sort then...
Perhaps even a larger snake, or a spider... 
Athedia
 "Well we know who works with spiders."  Badger sighed and rested her head in her hands.   "He seemed so nice though.  Should we go arrest Cecil now? If we do you may want to disenchant me, or he may go blind from the shine." 
Silverraptor
Sora had come down late, slowly and grudgingly taking a seat. She had her head placed down on the table and her arms over her face. She was listening, but barely. The rest of her attention was on trying to tolerate the massive hangover she has.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Do we actually have the authority to arrest him?"  Artorias ask with some confusion on his voice.
 "Besides it isn't like he is the only one with access to spider venom, we still have two guys to check. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I'm not sure if it's a spider,"  Jadeite says.  "It's certainly a venom derived from some type of animal, but the damage is...Extremely extensive, to say the least. It's definitely a hemotoxic venom, like Hemlock's, but much more potent."  The viper around Jadeite's neck hisses, but the elf only responds with a,  "Oh shush, you know it's true.

"Anyway,"  he continues,  "It might belong to a spider, or it might be derived from another creature entirely." 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Nature):  (d20+9)[ 25 ] 
 


Jadeite hums and shakes his head.  "No, I don't believe it was a spider's venom. Most of their venoms, especially those of the spiders drow breed, tend to immobilize their prey rather than causing such extensive and relatively rapid necrosis." 
Dusk Eclipse
 "What if it isn't an animal's venom; but perhaps a magical beast?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I said creature, did I not? And whether magical or mundane, their poisons often work in similar fashions." 
 
 Spoiler 
What are you thinking, Dusk?
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Most people would default to animal when hearing creature" 
 
 Spoiler 

Nothing specific really, I could go and check the MM; but that would feel like cheating
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite grins.  "But the educated ones know to keep an open mind. Regardless, I believe we should at least learn more about the other two potential suspects. You say you found two yesterday? Cecil and another?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I really need to go study, but...Yeah, I guess I'll be bouncing back and forth. It's okay.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Yesterday we spent most of the day tracking Cecil; but we have three other names: Natasha, Feliks and Demetri, who is a half-orc".  
 
 Spoiler 
Currently going through the IC thread to see if I missed anything, this might take a while &gt;_&gt;
 
Athedia
 "Feliks did order a saddle for what we think is a magic creature, but from what I feel from him I doubt he would be organized enough to do anything." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "What kind of magical creature?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "My dad didn't know; but we did get the  measurements, I reckon we can use them to narrow the search" 
Devmaar
 I agree with Jadeite. It's probably not spider venom. 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite looks at the others.  "It might be best to investigate the other suspects. Besides, on a sunny day like this many Plavaan are probably indoors." 
Athedia
 "Well dual dagger girl was on my question list, she isn't Plav and I mean daggers?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "They aren't normal daggers, adamantine daggers,just one is pretty expensive; but two? This girl really has cash to spare". 
Athedia
 "Well I think we should look into her, Natasha right?  I doubt the half-orc is involved, this took finesse, not force." 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Yep, going from my assumption that she is well rich, I guess we should start searching in the upper districts"  
Athedia
 "Well, that isn't exactly my area of expertise. Maybe I should stay here and help scout out the orc after all."   Badger seemed to want to avoid the upperclass area's, but that was not news.  She had turned down jobs before that had led to those areas as other people knew well.  When questioned she just replied that "the people make me feel small, leave that work to those who are comfortable."
CoffeeIncluded
 "Now,"  says Jadeite,  "Don't be shy. I hear that floral fragrance and glitter all all the rage among the aristocracy these days! You'll fit right in." 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee frowned as she listened in on the conversation, moderately upset nobody had asked her about the sleeping mask so she could tell them about the brilliant idea she had the night before to stop the morning sun from burning her eyes as she ate breakfast as it did every morning. In mild frustration she pulled off the mask and opened her eyes, wincing and covering them again with her hands as a sharp jab of light hit her like a brick, the Goblin having failed to realize keeping her eyes in the dark like that would prevent her pupils from contracting to prevent such a thing from happening.

The rest of the group continued to talk as Elsee's eyes slowly grew accustomed to the searing light of the sun, mentally cursing as the first thing she saw when she was finally able to keep them open for a decent amount of time was the half-rotted pigsback the Elf had been talking about earlier.

Great, now she was hungry.
Silverraptor
 "Is that where that smell is coming from?" 
Sora lifts her head to look at Badger with half closed eyes, trying to focus on her.
 "At first I thought it was one of my perfumes, but this is way too strong a smell. I'm suprised that you use this type, Badger." 
Athedia
 "Hmph.  Don't piss off wizards is my advice."   Badger hunched over glowering at the others as the others conversed.
Silverraptor
Sora looks at Jadeite.
 "Do you know what she's talking about?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, nothing, nothing at all,"  Jadeite says through a sharklike grin.

The group finishes their breakfast--where do they want to go next? They've got a day of investigation ahead of them.

 
 Spoiler 
And I think that after last week you can forgive me for pushing you all forward.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
  "Well, that isn't exactly my area of expertise. Maybe I should stay here and help scout out the orc after all."   Badger seemed to want to avoid the upperclass area's, but that was not news.  She had turned down jobs before that had led to those areas as other people knew well.  When questioned she just replied that "the people make me feel small, leave that work to those who are comfortable." 
 

 Badger, I know you don't like the upper end; but you ere the only one here who can track down Natasha, I guess I could ask a few questions myself; but you are the expert here. 
 
 Spoiler 

Would normal Gather information check be enough even if I don't have urban tracking and a rather lacklustre GI modifier (+1)?
 
Athedia
 "Fine, let's go."  The scent and glitter had faded from her skin and when she whistled for Naga he approached hesitatingly.  Smelling that Badger was back to normal he bounded over licking her face.  Badger walked out onto the street heading toward the wealthy section of the city.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite frowns a bit as he sees the results of his spell start to fade only a few minutes after leaving the guild, though he takes care not to show it.

The sky's clear and dry this morning, with barely a wisp of cloud. The group makes their way south, looking to start searching the Heights from the lower end and work their way up.

As they pass through the blending boundaries between the two neighborhoods, the Heights to the north and Great Gate (the old merchant's and port district; though most of the day-to-day activity has moved east to the Docks it's still a middle-class neighborhood, with tradesmen and a rustic yet well-cared for feel), Naga stops. She sniffs the air and points south with a whimper.

Badger and Sora:
 
 Spoiler 
Badger looks where Naga is pointing, and sees a thick tendril of smoke rising in the air a few blocks south. After a moment, Sora sees it too.
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias frowns a bit as they enter the Heights, he had met many rude and snobbish people when he made deliveries for his father. He knows not all people are like that; but so far the majority has been like that.

He raises an eyebrow at Naga's action; she probably caught a scent, grinning slightly Artorias sniffs too.

 
 Spoiler 

Hunter's Sense stance: Initiate!😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias:

 
 Spoiler 
It takes a while to tell over the smells of the sea, and in fact he can't tell for sure until the wind blows his way, but...Artorias thinks he smells something burning.

Artorias may have the Hunter's Sense stance, but a bloodhound's nose is something else entirely. Mostly roleplaying here, but if some smell's borderline undetectable, you may not be able to notice. Basically, if Naga's got a very, very hard time picking up the scent, Artorias may not be able to. Is this fair?
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Guys, I can smell something burning, faintly; but I am sure I can"  He scouts the general direction the smell is coming from.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias can almost see a shimmering haze, a darkening in one place of the sky, but he can't quite narrow down the location. However, it seems that Sora and Badger have spotted something.

 
 Spoiler 
Just missed the DC.
 
Athedia
 "Smoke... there is a fire over there."   Badger seems frozen in one spot unable to move, her speech dulled and monotone.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite gives Badger a curious look, then asks the group in a matter-of-fact tone, "Should we investigate?"

Naga presses up against Badger and whines. She's still fixed in the direction of the smoke.

 
 Spoiler 
Do you not want me to narrate Naga's actions here?
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Feel free to do so.  I will just put in my attempted commands and other things.
 


Badger nodded, her body still frozen and eyes fixed on the smoke.
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias eyes narrows, he knows better than most how dangerous fire can be, he unconsciously rubs his right shoulder as the phantom pain flares. "Common guys, we must help them"  He begins to run towards the fire; but he stops when he notices The Badger's condition, he waves his hand in front of her trying to get her attention. If that fails, he lightly shakes her.

 "Hey, Badger.... snap out of it" 
Athedia
 "Yeah, sorry."  The Badger's inflection was still stilted but she started moving, jogging at a pace the smaller members of the group could keep up with toward to the fire.
CoffeeIncluded
The smell of smoke becomes stronger and stronger as the group makes their way through the older neighborhood of Great Gate. Finally, they come across a block several blocks in, where the smoke billows black out of a single house, and orange flames crackle uncontrolled, easily visible into the streets. There's a house on fire, burning down.

People are gathered around the house, yelling for help, shouting, panicking.

"Somebody get the fire department!"

"What the hell happened?!"

"Water! We need water!"

"That house is gonna burn down and take the whole damn block with it!"

"How the hell did a house catch fire that fast?"

Indeed, only the still wind and dampness from yesterday's storm have spared the rest of block from the flames.

A young man runs up to the group and asks, "Are you the fire department? The watch? One of Leif's mercs?"

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, I have to run to class, then have an essay to finish when I get back!
 
Athedia
 "Is anyone left in the house?" 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias tries to calm down man "Stay calm, breathe... that's it, we are members of Leif's guild, please answer her question"   he motions towards The Badger.
CoffeeIncluded
The man nods, panic written all over his face. "The house just burst into flames a few minutes ago; I think someone's still inside!"

Behind him, more flames shoot out behind a window, and are quickly obscured by smoke. They're moving so quickly...

A few embers scatter onto a nearby roof and catch fire, to the screams of the growing crowd. A novice cleric, a low-ranking disciple of the water deity, dashes out of the crowd and with a few hasty movements managed to douse those flames with summoned water, but there's too little to actually put out the burning house, just protect the closest one from the most imminent danger. And the cleric seems visibly exerted by the effort.

"They're not gonna make it! Where's the fire department?"

"Not here fast enough! Didn't you say someone was inside?"
Devmaar
Alim is quick to react  "Jadeite! Sora! Do you have any spells that could help with the fire? Badger, Artorias, Elsee, let's get inside and see if we can find whoever's trapped there."  he casts his  Prestidigitation  SLA for the day, I'm using it to keep around my face clean, I'll do the same for the others as long as they're close enough.

Moving towards the building Alim holds an arm in front of his face
CoffeeIncluded
With a sigh of resignation, Jadeite takes a small flask from somewhere in his robes and begins tracing sigils over his body. He says,  "I have a spell that can mitigate much of the damage from roaring flames, but I only prepared it once today." 

He looks up at the window.  "We might want to procure some form of protection against the smoke." 
 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite has one casting of Resist Energy prepared. There really isn't that much else he prepared that'll help against a regular fire.

I'd recommend reading over  smoke effects.  Tying a wet cloth over your mouth will give you a +5 bonus to the fort save that'll decrease by 1 every round until all the water's evaporated and the cloth is useless.

Oh, and Jadeite just cast False Life on himself. No, he couldn't cast it on anyone else, and why would he? He's only got 16 HP.

Temp HP gained:  (d10+3)[ 10 ] 
 
Athedia
Badger ripped off a section from the bottom of her shirt grabbing the nearest water source and soaking the scrap in it for a second.  Tying it around her face she dove into the flames, fighting toward the likely places for someone to hide.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite follows, soaking the front of his scarf-cape in water and pulling it up over his nose and mouth.

The heat is searing as they open the door, and a red glow echoes from within...

 
 Spoiler 
More to describe, but I really need to shower. Back in about 20 minutes with more, sorry.
 
Silverraptor
Sora looked at the group, then back at the flames.
 "I'm sorry. I don't know the first thing about running into a burning building. But I'll be ready to heal whoever you pull out." 

She grips her amulet tightly in her hand.
CoffeeIncluded
Thick black smoke blooms out from the center of the small house; several of the walls have already burnt to the ground and bright flames crawl along the scorched floor, licking at the remaining foundations. Though it's hard to see through the thick smoke, the group sees three walking pillars of flame--two are at least two feet taller than Artorias, while one is about a foot shorter than Jadeite. They grab at the table, run burning claws along the ground and leave flame in their wake. The floor and walls crackle and burn all around the walking flames, and behind them lies a man, still and unmoving on the ground, his eyes closed. Most of the group doesn't know the man, but to Badger and Artorias, his clothes and dark wavy hair are awfully familiar...

Badger and Artorias:
 
 Spoiler 
It's Feliks.
 


Everyone:
 
 Spoiler 

I'm going to bed, initiative roll tomorrow morning. I'm sorry about pushing you guys like this but I do want to make up for the lost week. I'm not going to lie. This is going to be a very tough fight. You're going to want all hands on deck for this one.

Oh, and you might want to make some Knowledge (Religion) and Knowledge (Architecture and Engineering) rolls too. Just saying.

Whom should Jadeite cast Resist Energy on?
 
Athedia
 "FELIKS!"    Damn, this is my fault.  He wouldn't have been able to afford this if I hadn't intervened.   The Badger fought back the anger she felt at herself and directed it toward the creatures.    What were they?  
 
 Spoiler 
Untrained Knowledge checks
Religion  (1d20)[ 2 ] 
A&amp;E  (1d20)[ 8 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
If Badger had actually paid attention during religious studies, she might have some idea what these creatures were. All she knows is that they seem to be living fires. As for the house, they clearly can't stay long, but beyond that she can't tell much.

Jadeite looks around, observing the scene.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Religion):  (d20+3)[ 20 ] 
Knowledge (The planes):  (d20+3)[ 17 ] 
Knowledge (Architecture and Engineering):  (d20+9)[ 26 ] 
 

 "Fire elementals,"  Jadeite says.  "That man must have botched a summoning attempt. They'll burn everything in their path unless we stop them."  He points at the wall before them, on their left side, with flames creeping up almost to the ceiling.  "We best keep our distance; that part of the wall appears to be in imminent danger of collapse." 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee snarled to herself as Jadeite spoke, annoyed at the distraction from the task at hand, what did any of this even have to do with looking for whoever did the whole murder deal? as far as she was concerned it was nothing, and as a result was entirely pointless. Still, the others seemed hellbent on helping this guy, so it looked like she was stuck with joining in.

Her ears perked up as Jadeite finished his little speech, her eyes quickly glancing down to the magic Kurki hanging from her belt.

 "like hell am eye gunna be any good against those things, and eye ain't riskin my knife blowin up even ef eye was. Eye'll grab the guy, you guys go ahead and risk yer necks fightin livin fire if ya really want to." 

Without waiting for an answer, Elsee grabbed a half-charred rag from the smoldering ruins of the building and soaked it in the same water the rest of the group was using, holding it up to her face as she crouched down and began stealthily making her way into the building, for one glad she was shorter then most others in the city as her lack of any decent height helped keep her head low and away from the worst of the smoke.


 
 Spoiler 


sneaking into the building to try and get to Feliks, avoiding the fire elementals and staying as far away from them as possible. just say this happens after initiative order has been taken if you want, going to Ireland tomorrow and not sure if I’ll read this thing before i leave.
Move silently: (1d20+9)[ 26 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
The fire elementals look up as they see the group enter the building. The flames rippling off them seem to glow brighter as they prepare their attack.

Taking a closer look, Elsee recognizes the man on the ground...

 
 Spoiler 
Remember the guy robbed by the kid? The guy Elsee refused to help? Yep, that was Feliks too. Did I mention that name means "Lucky"? 😛
 


Initiative:
 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite:  (d20+2)[ 7 ] 
Sora:  (d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Artorias:  (d20+2)[ 18 ] 
Badger:  (d20+3)[ 7 ] 
Alim:  (d20+3)[ 20 ] 
Elsee:  (d20+4)[ 23 ] 
Small Fire Elemental (x1):  (d20+5)[ 7 ] 
Medium Fire Elementals (x2):  (d20+7)[ 15 ] 
 


Initiative order:
 
 Spoiler 
Elsee and Alim
Artorias
Medium Fire Elementals
Jadeite and Badger
Small Fire Elemental
Sora
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias rips off his sleeve and makes a makeshift mask to protect himself from the smoke.

 "Can any body do something about the smoke? I can barely see the elementals and that is bad"  he draws his Glaive and prepares himself.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Unfortunately, any wind that would dispel the smoke would merely blow flames into other houses. I believe that effect would run counter to our interests." 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Nature):  (d20+9)[ 21 ] 
 

 "Although,"  the elf continues after a moment's thought,  "Water may suppress the smoke as well as the flame, at least for a short time." 
 
 Spoiler 
Read: Obscuring Mist will suppress the smoke in an area and eliminate itself, but only for one round. Next round, the smoke returns.
 
Devmaar
Alim soaks a rag and covers his face.

Not sure what action that is, but if still have a move action I'll draw my sling.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledges
Religion  (1d20+7)[ 20 ] 
A&amp;E  (1d20+7)[ 8 ] 
(Planes)  (1d20+7)[ 18 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim draws a sling as he tries to recall what he knows about the creatures before him.

 
 Spoiler 

They're fire elementals, likely the result of a botched summoning attempt. They're disoriented and basically rampaging right now; you'll have to beat the tar out of them.

That was pre-initiative as you entered the house; you still have an action left to attack.
 
Devmaar
In that case I'll shoot at the nearest one

 
 Spoiler 
Do you mind if I also use that roll for Knowledge Devotion?
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 10 ] 
Damage  (1d3+1)[ 2 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
It's very difficult to see the fire elementals through the smoke; Alim's shot bounces off the burning table instead of the fire elemental a few feet away.

 
 Spoiler 
Not at all, though you still miss.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee hunkered down as she proceeded into the flames, she could already tell she'd be brushing uncomfortably close with one of the fire elementals, and she'd likely need to run through the flames themselves just to get to the shmuck. Why was she helping this guy again?

With one last inhail of fresh air, Elsee entered the smoke, doing everything in her power to avoid being detected by the living inferno's inside.


 
 Spoiler 

use as needed:

Move silently; (1d20+9)[ 28 ]
Tumble: (1d20+3)[ 14 ]
Tumble: (1d20+3) [ 18 ]
 

 
 Spoiler 

ooc: God DANGIT mom! I'll write this dang thing faster if you stop talking so i can think! So sush!
 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee somehow manages to slip past the first fire elemental, though in her caution she can't quite protect herself against any oncoming attacks that may result. She manages to keep from coughing even as the ash irritates her eyes and the heat sears at her skin.

 
 Spoiler 
You got really lucky here. Dusk, Artorias is up!
 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 

I'll post description after the action is resolved


Artorias delays until he can receive the spell; but here is his action once he recieves it. Charge the first elemental he can reach (which I think is 10/11 K/L)


Charge attack Power attacking for 2  (1d20+6)[ 15 ] 
Crit comfirmation  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Damage  (1d10+9)[ 11 ]  (4 str, 1 electric from least crystal of energy assault, 4 from power attack. )
Miss chance 80-100 misses  (1d100)[ 41 ] 
 
Silverraptor
Sora hesitates and looks around frantically. The crowd that has gathered were all doing different things from grabbing water to evacuating people. She looks at the house before placing her hands on either side of her head.

What was she to do? Her uncertainty and fear caused her to be frozen before all that has happened.

Edit:  
 Spoiler 
Yeah. This is one huge, gigantic, humongous leap waaaaaaaay out of Sora's comfort zone. And she doesn't even know about the elementals yet. She'll eventually rack up the courage to go in, but it'll take a little bit.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The first larger fire elemental rushes around the table to attack the group, but bumps into Elsee, who seemingly appeared out of nowhere. With an almost crackling roar, the elemental instead attacks the goblin.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (d6+1)[ 6 ]  plus fire damage:  (d6)[ 3 ] 
 


Thankfully, Elsee is able to duck into the smoke and dodge the elemental's attack.

Artorias, seeing Elsee attacked, runs into the fray the moment Jadeite casts his abjuration, but with a sweep of his glaive manages to catch only the flames rippling off the elemental and not the creature itself.

The second elemental rushes several steps forward, leaving a burning trail in his wake...

 
 Spoiler 
Just missed, Artorias. Okay Athedia, Badger's up!
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Point Blank Shot
NOT Rapid Shot

5-foot step south (D9-10, E9-10)

Attack  (1d20+8)[ 16 ] 
Crit  (1d20+7)[ 15 ] 

Damage  (1d6+2)[ 4 ] 
 


Badger stepped aside pulling back her bow and loosing an arrow as she did so.  The smoke made it hard to see and she prayed she did not hit anyone non-elemental.
CoffeeIncluded
Badger's arrow goes wide and misses the fire elemental, hitting the burning wall instead.

The smaller elemental rushes over the table, burning the cheap wood as it goes, and attacks Badger with its flames. However, she manages to sidestep its attack.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 7 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+3)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (d4)[ 1 ]  plus fire damage:  (d4)[ 1 ] 
 


Less than a second after the arrow hits the burning wall, a portion of it finally crumbles and slides to the ground, smothering some of the flames, at least for a few moments, covering them with hot rubble. Some of the wall also crashes down on the fire elemental attacking Elsee.

 
 Spoiler 
Crushing damage:  (d6)[ 3 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
As the flames and smoke spread throughout thee room and the house falls to bits around them, the urgency of the situation is made even more clear.

 
 Spoiler 
Unless Sora's going, we're back to the top. Smoke moves at the end of every round, as do any terrain changes other than fire spread as the elementals move.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee glared at the ground next to the fire elemental in frustraition as the creature blocked her path to the passed-out man, herself being too unwilling to glare directly at the creature or waste precious breath an a growl. Thankfully Artouras seemed to have charged in and distracted the fire elemental for the most part. Elsee's eyes darted about as she searched for an alternate route to take to get past this thing, it was difficult given the searing heat and the smoke floating above her, but thanks to her low altitude and the wall next to the elemental collapsing, Elsee was eventually able to determine there was annother room nearby, and that it had an entrance directly behind Artorias, from the looks of the rubble, she could use it to bypass this thing entirely. Not wanting to waste any time, Elsee went for it.


 
 Spoiler 


Moving up to J/K -4/5, then across to P/Q -4/5.

Tumble out of the fire elemental's threatened square(s)

Tumble: (1d20+3)[ 21 ]
Tumble: (1d20+3)[ 22 ]

Move silently to avoid detection:  (1d20+9)[ 15 ]

Just incase i need them,

Reflex: (1d20+7)[ 21 ]
Reflex: (1d20+7)[ 16 ]
Fort: (1d20+2)[ 5 ]
Fort: (1d20+2)[ 19 ]

aaand i think that's all i need to/can do for now. with that i'm off to bed. see you next round!
 
CoffeeIncluded
As Elsee tries to step back into the burning bedroom, hot ash and rubble flies into her face, and she inhales a good portion of it. The searing ash and smoke makes her seize up and start coughing uncontrollably.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, you fail the fort save and lose this round of actions. I'll let you take a 5 foot step though. Oh, and now the fire elementals know where you are. They'll still see Artorias as the greater threat though.
 
Devmaar
Alim runs to Badger's side, drawing his longsword, and strikes at the creature

 
 Spoiler 
Attack  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alims' blade passes harmlessly through the flames of the fire elemental, failing entirely to harm the core of the creature.

The two larger elementals attack Artorias; the nearer one shrugs off the blow of the falling debris, while the larger one charges, almost ignoring the point of Alim's glaive.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (d6+1)[ 5 ]  plus fire:  (d6)[ 2 ] 

Charge Attack:  (d20+8)[ 28 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+8)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (d6+1)[ 2 ]  plus fire:  (d6)[ 3 ] 

Artorias' AoO:  (d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 24 ] 
Damage:  (d10+4)[ 7 ] 
 


Both strikes hit, and knock Artorias' blow off-balance, almost a foot off to the side. Jadeite's spell eliminates the immediate burn, but is Artorias able to avoid catching fire from the elementals' attack?
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite steps to Alim and Badger's side, quickly scanning the room fr any other breaks or weaknesses in architecture. He then shoots a blinding ray of colors at the smaller fire elemental.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (A+E):  (d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Color Spray will save:  (d20)[ 10 ] 
 


The color spray hits the fire elemental square-on; the creature falls flat unconscious on its back, and won't get up for at least some time.

Jadeite points to the ceiling above the burning table, where the fire's already spread and left cracks.  "The ceiling above the table will soon cave in; do watch out!" 
Athedia
Badger took a step back, bringing her bow up and shooting at the elemental in front of her.

 
 Spoiler 
5-foot step to D5-6, E5-6
Point Blank Shot +1 attack, damage
-4 firing into melee
Attack (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
Crit  (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 

Damage  (1d6+2)[ 8 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger's arrow takes the fire elemental completely by surprise. It disappears into the rippling fires of the beast's body, but its sudden roar makes it clear that she hit.

 
 Spoiler 
I had Badger hit the medium fire elemental since it was still upright. Is that okay?
 
Athedia
Badger twitched her aim to the side as Jadiete's spell hit, loosing the arrow at the elementals still upright.

 
 Spoiler 
Fine either way.
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias mentally thanks Jadeite for the spell, knowing he could have been seriously burned by the elemental attack, noticing the embers on his clothes he instinctively tries to smother them.

 
 Spoiler 

I'll post the rest of my actions after knowing if I can act.

Reflex save  (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
Fort save with +4 bonus  (1d20+8)[ 14 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias manages to avoid catching fire, but as he smothers the flames he ends up kicking up even more dust and dirt, and is left doubled over coughing like Elsee next to him.

 
 Spoiler 
Yeaaah, the fort save was DC 16; it goes up by 1 every turn you're in the smoke. This...is not going well. At all.
 
Silverraptor
Sora heard the sound of combat, spells casting, and rumble collapse. Her fear suddenly pushed aside she ran in and looked around. Upon seeing the 3 fire elementals, she reaches up and grasps her amulet.

 
 Spoiler 
Sora takes a ready action that if she's attacked, to use sanctuary.
 
CoffeeIncluded
With a loud crash, a portion of the ceiling falls in, bludgeoning one of the fire elementals over the head and utterly crushing the flaming table. Smoke billows up like a second chimney, and it's easier to hear the screams of the crowd just outside

 
 Spoiler 

Damage to the elemental:  (d6)[ 4 ] 

Back to the top. Alim and Elsee are up.
 
Draconi Redfir
Still choking on the smoke of the fire, Elsee crawls as quickly as she is able to the rim of the smoke, taking a breif moment to cough any soot up from her lungs and take a gasp of fresh air before turning and running right back into the soot, pressing the wet cloth to her mouth and nose as hard as she was able while using her natural shortness to stay low and out of the worst of the soot.


 
 Spoiler 


Five-foot step up to J/K 4/5, grabbing some fresh air, then moving to Q/R 4/5, and if i have the movement left for it (doubtful due to difficult terrain), moving down to Q/R 6/7 from there.


Reflex: (1d20+7)[ 16 ]
Reflex:(1d20+7)[ 23 ]
Fort:(1d20+2)[ 22 ]
Fort:(1d20+2)[ 16 ]

i have a -1 to wisdom so it's impossible for me to pass that archetecture thing.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The air's still hot enough to singe the inside of her mouth and growing hotter by the moment, but Elsee's able to keep her composure and duck inside the bedroom. Smoke is filling the room and the dresser is in splintered ruins from the collapsed wall, but Elsee can see Feliks' bed, neatly made, with drawings of wyverns posted on the wall nearby and a thick book by the floor of his bed, next to a pair of crumpled pajamas.
Devmaar
Alim will 5' step and strike MF2
 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+4)[ 15 ] 
 (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 

Know: A&amp;E  (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
As Alim strikes out against the nearest fire elemental, slashing against what must be its claws, he sees that the roof above the largest mass of wild flames is sagging dangerously, and is going to fall in soon.

 
 Spoiler 
Concealment:  (d100)[ 69 ] 

The 9 foot square of STU 11-12-13 is underneath this turn's cave-in
 
CoffeeIncluded
The first fire elemental continues its attack on Artorias, while the other brings its fists down against the little goblin who managed to strike a clean blow.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack on Artorias:
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (d6)[ 2 ]  plus Fire:  (d6+1)[ 4 ] 

Attack on Alim:
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 10 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (d6)[ 3 ]  plus Fire:  (d6+1)[ 4 ] 
 


However, both strikes only hit empty air.

With a little smile, Jadeite says,  "I wonder how well a dehydration spell will work against a creature composed entirely of flame,"  before making a swift gesture and pointing at the fire elemental Alim struck. Though it's tough to see through the smoke, the fire elemental doubles over, trying to shrug off the effects of Jadeite's attack. The air around it is even drier than before, if that's even possible.

 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite cast Dessicate on the fire elemental.
Damage:  (2d6)[ 8 ] 
Fort save to halve:  (d20+3)[ 22 ] 

Dusk, Athedia, you're up.
 


The fire elemental stands back up, and sends out a quick angered pulse of flame.
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias tries to recover from the coughing fit brought in by the smoke and ashes, he carefully backsteps and attacks both elementals with one swipe of his glaive.

 
 Spoiler 

Fort Save:  (1d20+7)[ 9 ] 
5-ft. step to  4/5 KL
Initiate Steel wind to hit the elementals Power Attacking for 1
Attack  vs. MF2
 (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
crit Confirmation  (1d20+5)[ 12 ] 
Damage  (1d10+6)[ 9 ] 

vs. MF1
 (1d20+5)[ 21 ] 
crit Confirmation  (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
Damage  (1d10+6)[ 13 ] 
 


Edit: Artorias keeps coughing like crazy.
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias can't even get into his normal stance before he breaks back into a coughing fit.

 
 Spoiler 
You didn't use the maneuver, don't worry about that.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Attack M2
then move

Point Blank Shot
Attack  (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
Crit  (1d20+4)[ 6 ] 

Concealment  (1d100)[ 3 ] 

Damage  (1d6+2)[ 5 ] 

Moving to NO 5-6
 


The Badger let off a quick shot before ducking into the smoke, following Elsee's path.  Squinting through the smoke she yelled to the small goblin.   "Don't think you can carry him.  Grab his books, notes." 
CoffeeIncluded
The shot goes wide and flies into the burning table. The elementals don't even seem to notice that she fired at all.
Silverraptor
Sora drastically looks about. She wished there was something she could do...
 "Oh wait!" 

She places her hand over her amulet and concentrates.
 "Summon Monster Level 1!" 

A Celestial Giant Fire Beetle will form in front of her.

 
 Spoiler 
Has been a long time since I last summoned a monster. I hope there wasn't any rolls I needed to do.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The celestial beetle flies into the smoke to attack the nearest elemental.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+1)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (2d4)[ 5 ] 
Concealment:  (d100)[ 21 ] 
Fire damage:  (d6)[ 5 ] 
Reflex save:  (d20)[ 3 ] 

Hang on, I think I forgot a bonus.
 


The celestial beetle bites into the elemental, then catches fire. In a puff of brightly colored smoke, it vanishes. But its self-destructive attack did leave a clean hit.
CoffeeIncluded
With a loud crash, a large section of the roof crashes in, only a few feet away from Feliks. It smothers the flames, but leaves burning rubble instead.

 
 Spoiler 
Top of the initiative; Elsee and Alim are up. The small fire elemental will be conscious in 2 rounds.
 
Devmaar
Alim strikes again before stepping out of the smoke

 
 Spoiler 
Attack  (1d20+4)[ 6 ] 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 

Know A&amp;E  (1d20+7)[ 12 ] 
 

 Artorias! Are you alright? 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim can't land a blow on the elemental without risking falling into the beast, and he can't see where the house is going to collapse next through all the smoke.
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee tries to make her way through the rubble and fire on the ground without doubling over in a coughing fit again.

 
 Spoiler 
Fort save:  (d20+5)[ 16 ] 
Fire damage:  (d6)[ 5 ] 
Reflex save:  (d20+7)[ 9 ] 
 


The goblin is able to pick her way across the rubble, but the flames are much higher than she thought. They scorch her skin, singe her hair, and even catch her clothes on fire. Not just her clothes--as she looks at the unconscious (dead?) human, Elsee realizes from a sudden blinding pain that she's caught fire!

The fire elementals continue their attack--one is still trying to pummel Artorias, not comprehending why the warblade is able to endure his searing heat with seemingly little trouble.

The second one seems to have a bit more sense and goes for Alim, perceiving the goblin to be an easier target.

 
 Spoiler 
Fire elemental one attacks Artorias.
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 25 ] 
Damage:  (d6+1)[ 7 ]  plus fire:  (d6)[ 5 ] 

Fire elemental two attacks Alim (Forgot to add in charge modifier, sorry. It missed either way).
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (d6+1)[ 4 ]  plus fire:  (d6)[ 2 ] 
 


Artorias takes a blow right to the chest, but Alim manages to duck under the attack.
CoffeeIncluded
With a swallow as he sees the fire elemental bearing down on him and Alim, Jadeite takes his crossbow and fires it at the beast.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (A+E):  (d20+9)[ 12 ] 

Attack:  (d20)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 8 ] 
 


The shot manages to hit the elemental right between the eyes. Molten lava in appearance, they seem to widen just before the walking flame vanishes with an audible  poof! 
 "Artorias, can you handle the other?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "I'm ok, the forges get pretty hot too"  sweat streaks down Artorias' face, he grimaces as the elemental punches him, the blow ploughing right through his armour.

Hearing a crunching noise Artoriad tries to avoid the falling rubble that threatens to cover him.

 
 Spoiler 

Reflex  (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 
 


Clear of the rubble the young human backsteps out of the smokes and tries to cleave the elemental in two, putting his whole body behind the swing.
 
 Spoiler 

Power Attacking for 2  (1d20+4)[ 17 ] 
Crit confirmation  (1d20+4)[ 5 ] 
Damage  (1d10+9)[ 18 ] 
miss chance, 1-20 miss  (1d100)[ 75 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Artorias manages to dodge the worst of the flames; his experience in the forges having taught him the steps long ago. His blow is strong and true, slashing through the elemental's body. The metal blade glows red where it passed through the flames and stuck a clean, deep blow.
Athedia
Badger swore and followed the goblin.  What did she think she was going to do, drag the body through the flames?  She braced herself for the flames and smoke.

 
 Spoiler 
Fort save:  (1d20+8)[ 21 ]  assuming from Elsee's roll that the cloth is at +3 right now
Fire damage:  (1d6)[ 3 ] 
Reflex save:  (1d20+6)[ 25 ] 
Attempting to move to XY 8-9 I checked the movement works out

okay um definetly pass the rolls, yes the plan is to stand over Feliks body at the moment.  Did I even avoid catching fire as well? correct me if I am wrong there.
 


Passing through the smoke, Badger dashed through the flames before they could set her on fire.  She stood in the open over Feliks body, breathing in fresher air.   "Elsee go back and get the books.  You can't lift him, if I can carry Sora I don't doubt I can carry him."  She knelt down next to the body and looked over him.    Please be alive you fool  
CoffeeIncluded
The heat and the flames sear at Badger's ankles, but with her longer legs she's able to avoid the worst of it and not catch fire. As she runs through the flame, she sees what looks like the very remnants of...a bed on the floor, straw like what Naga sleeps on, but much bigger. It's pretty much all gone, burnt to a crisp, used as the first kindling that set the house aflame.

There's a shelf by Feliks. There's several books and some knicknacks in there, and a closed crate. There's no time to investigate now though; they need to get Feliks out of there, assuming he's even still alive.

There's a window by the shelf, closed and about ten feet off the ground.

As Badger looks over Feliks, she notices that he's breathing--though barely. His breath is harsh and ragged, wheezing and gasping. She pulls him away from the fire; he's covered in ash and his arms are all burnt. Badger manages to dislodge the worst of the smoke from mouth (his mouth and throat are bright red and inflamed) and get him to clearer air. He's not in immediate danger of death if she's careful and doesn't jostle him too much, but he needs medical attention immediately.

 
 Spoiler 
-4 and you just stabilized him.
 
Silverraptor
Sora see's Artorias get seriously hurt and runs over to him.
 "Here, let me help you." 
She concentrates and, converting Bless, prepares to cast cure light wounds.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d8+3)[ 4 ] 

And if I'm missing any rolls, let me know as well.

Edit: Tpppphhhh.🤢 Of course a 1.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Unfortunately, all the smoke and frenzy of battle makes it difficult for Sora to concentrate. She can only channel a bit of her healing magic into Artorias.

It's probably better she did it then instead of a few second later though, because the moment she finishes her incantation, most of the rest of the dividing wall between the bedroom and living room collapses. Right on top of Elsee.

 
 Spoiler 

Damage:  (d6)[ 6 ] 

Okay, back to the top of the order! Elsee and Alim, you're up.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee cursed mentally atthe shooting pain caused by the falling rubble of the wall, as if the fire everywhere else around her and the annoyance that was Badger trying to help wasn't enough, nooo she just HAD to get a wall fall ontop of her too, if it hadn't then things would have just been too fun now wouldn't they?

on the bright side the rubble had doused the larger flames around her and left her free to move ab out without as much worry, but she was still in the middle of a burning building with a passed out human and a woodland critter getting in her way and shouting about books.

Ignoring Badger's badgering, Elsee continued with her intended goal and grabbed the unconcious human by the first limbs she could find, pulling him away from the smoke and into the relitively fresher air at the back of the house.

 
 Spoiler 

pulling Felix out of the smoke entirely, to X/Y 10/11 since Badger is taking up 8/9. If that beige stuff is a table then she takes shelter underneath it at Z/AA 9/10, bringing Feliks with her if possible.

Strength check if needed: (1d20+1)[ 16 ]
Fort:(1d20+5)[ 16 ]
Dex:(1d20+7)[ 19 ]
 
Devmaar
Alim stabs at the prone Elemental
 
 Spoiler 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 7 ] 

Know A&amp;E  (1d20+7)[ 11 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee dives to the floor and rolls around. She manages to put out the fire, but the effort kicks up more smoke and ash, and she's left coughing and hacking while kneeling on the ground.

Alim delivers a deep stab to the fire elemental, though not deep enough to finish it off.

With a crackling roar, the other fire elemental continues to ram at Artorias, bringing its fist down upon his head.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 26 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (d6+1)[ 5 ]  plus fire:  (d6)[ 5 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Seeing Artorias successfully fending off the larger elemental, Jadeite reloads his crossbow and shoots the unconscious, smaller elemental at point-blank range.  "I agree Alim. Best to ensure that even incapacitated foes are unable to re-enter combat." 
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+4)[ 18 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 7 ] 
 


The smaller elemental also vanishes in a puff of smoke. Jadeite looks up with a small smirk.

 
 Spoiler 
Dusk, Athedia, Sora, you guys are up.
 
Athedia
Feliks was going nowhere in his condition but at least he was alive for now.  Peering through the smoke clouding her vision Badger could make out what appeared to be Sora, and one remaining elemental.  Raising her bow she let off two quick shots in the elementals.

 
 Spoiler 
Point Blank and Rapid Shot, plus shooting into combat gives
+6 base + 1 MW +1 PB -2 RS -4 melee = +2 not great but hopefully two shots will override that disadvantage.

Attack 1:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Crit 1:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Damage 1:  (1d6+2)[ 6 ] 

Attack 2:  (1d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Crit 2:  (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
Damage 2:  (1d6+2)[ 8 ] 

Concealment 1: (1d100)[ 70 ] 
Concealment 2: (1d100)[ 5 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The first shot hits nothing but smoke, but the second one solidly lands where the elemental's lungs would be, if it were human. With a surprised roar, the third and last fire elemental vanishes with a pop.

The elementals are gone, but the flames still crackle and burn around the party, and the smoke still fills the room. Without the sounds of combat, the shouts from outside are getting clearer, and more panicked. They really should leave before the house comes down around them.

 
 Spoiler 
Nice one.
 
CoffeeIncluded
As the last fire elemental falls, Jadeite, unable to clearly see through the smoke to the other side of the house raises his voice, shouting over the burning wood.  "Have you found the inhabitant? Are you able to exit the house with him? Do we have any more reason to remain in a burning building? When I said I study dehydration, I did not necessarily mean in this context! Unless you would like me to devise an experiment from your charred remains, in which case by all means remain inside!" 
Athedia
 "Sora get over here. I don't think he can be moved without a little healing first.  And Elsee got hit by the fire, the path is mostly clear just hurry!"   Badger looked at the books and the window and cursed.  Not enough time to see what was worth saving.  Well the crate was probably the armor he had ordered, that she could guess.   "Artorias, could your father's work survive this fire?"  She shouted out as she started chucking books through the glass of the window above.  Hopefully no-one would steal them in the time they lay there, but you never knew.  Breaking glass drew all the wrong people.
CoffeeIncluded
The shattering sound of breaking glass, followed by the smoke streaming out, draws some of the onlookers to the other side of the house, through the narrow alleyway between the burning house and the next. With another opening to the outside, they can hear more gasps, screams, and even the occasional shouted, "Are they even alive?"

Jadeite calls over to Elsee and Badger,  "Shall I assess the situation outside, and see if the fire department has arrived yet?" 

No sooner does he say it than another piece of the roof sags and caves in, smashing what was left of the main table to splinters.

If Badger lifts up the crate and rattles it, she does not hear one solid, smooth sliding thump like she would expect from a single piece of leather saddle. Instead, she hears many smaller things rattling and clinking together. If she really listens closely, she might hear a bit of sloshing with the clinks.
Silverraptor
Sora looks at the collapsing building around them.
 "I don't think it would be a good idea for me to heal anyone currently. Are you sure you can't move him outside first?" 
Athedia
Badger grunted as she continued chucking books out the window.  Heaving the crate over to the window to stand on she puzzled at its unexpected sounds before.   "Moving him would hurt him more, he is near death as it is." 
CoffeeIncluded
Many of the books are damaged by the smoke, though thankfully not destroyed. The contents are varied; Badger can't get more than a glimpse because she's in such a rush, but among the titles are things like  Magical Creatures of Eastern Nordica, A Beginner's Guide to Draconic,  and  Aerial Ace! A History of Flight.  There's many more that she didn't get a chance to look through.

 
 Spoiler 
Runite is in southwest Nordica, in case you were wondering.
 
Draconi Redfir
 "The planes are you doing woman!? quit messin around and help me out down here!" 

Elsee shouted through fits of coughing up smoke after she had managed to crawl her way into a more smoke-free portion of the building, grabbing  Felix's arms and wrapping them around her neck in as tight a grip as she could manage to pull him away from the smoke and flames.

 "If yer not gunna carry thes guy weth me, howbout you do something useful and blast a hole in the wall!? Books and boxes are keyenda pointless right now yaknow!" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Depends on the material; but I am pretty sure it would survive this at the least"  Answering The Badger's answer in a horse voice Artorias runs towards Elsee and Feliks while touching one of the moonstones in his belt, which glow slightly, he then lays a hand on Feliks as the glow fades.
 
 Spoiler 

Activated two chages of my belt of healing to heal 2d8 points of damage to Feliks  (2d8)[ 6 ] 
 

 "Elsee go help The Badger, I got this covered"  He takes feliks from the Goblin's shoulder and start making his way towards the exit
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks groans as Artorias hefts him up on his shoulder. His voice is rasp and painfully hoarse.

As Jadeite sees Artorias carry Feliks out of the smoke and flame, he helps support the barely conscious man, draping his other arm over his shoulder. Together, the two men hoist Feliks out of the burning building.

As they leave, they see a crowd of at least a hundred, probably more, watching the house burn. As they see Jadeite and Artorias carry the man out of the building--coughing, choking, but alive--they let out a cheer.

"They did it!"

"He's okay! You're all okay?"

"What happened in there? Where are the others?"

"Cleric! Someone get these men a cleric!"

"The fire department's almost here; they're just a block away!" Sure enough, they can hear the clatter of horses galloping down a nearby street, coming closer.

Jadeite starts to speak, but stops to compose himself and suppress a cough. He tries again.  "Our...allies are still inside; they are relatively unharmed and should exit shortly." 
Silverraptor
Sora emerges, less dirty than the others after going in late, but still has soot over her. She then starts administering healing to those who need it.
Athedia
 "Feel free to run Elsee, the window is clear.  But he has lost enough."   With that Badger ran back to the bedroom grabbed the lone book from the bed and tore the pictures off the wall.  As she ran back to the window a section of roof caught her back leg gashing it open.  She climbed on the crate and jumped through the window, leaving the crate behind.

 
 Spoiler 
Well if she stayed in that long she was definetly testing her luck. crush damage on leg  (1d6)[ 2 ] 

For going out window:
Tumble  (1d20+9)[ 18 ] 
Jump (1d20+3)[ 17 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
There's already a crowd of people outside, who start cheering as they see Badger land on her feet, despite the blood running down the back of her calf.

The fire department's already arrived; one of them starts casting a spell that shoots water at the burning house, while another takes a flask, unstops it, and fixes it to a narrow tube. A jet of water then shoots out of the improvised hose and begins dousing the flames.

 
 Spoiler 
I'll describe what you found later. Are you guys going to investigate the burnt-out house later?
 
Athedia
 "Did a goblin girl get out?"  Badger dropped the items she carried and went to head back into the house.  "ELSEE! Are you out?!" 
 
 Spoiler 
I will investigate.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "I'll be fine, the others need the cleric more than me."  he says to the crowd outside.

Artorias once more touches his belt and let out a happy sight as the magic in the stones heal his body.

 
 Spoiler 

 (2d8)[ 7 ] 
 

 "Wait... is Elsee still inside?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee fumed at Artorias' taking of the passed out human from her, wuickly grabbing a breath of fresh air while she could before storming her way out behind him. Her eyes opened wide was the cheers errupted from Artorias emerging with the unconcious feliks, the man SHE risked her dang life to save only to have the entire trip be rendered useless by a pair of humans and the glory taken from her!


 "OH COME ON!" 

Elsee pouts in a rage just in time for the firemen to finally show up and start doing their jobs too little too late. Horaaay more humans to steal the goblin girl's thunder, why not!? not like it hadn't happened twice already in the past minute.

Elsee turned on her heel to head back towards the guild hall, fully planning on ditching any plans she may of had with the group in favor of a shower and a change of clothes, only to stop at a few steps as a sudden realizaition dawned on her, her eyes widdening in fear of what could possibly be.

Ignoring the calls of her own name, Elsee quickly shot her hands up to her scalp and began rummaging her fingers through her soot-covered hair, a small cloud of black falling out around the Goblin as the ashes and soot shook free of the tangled mop. After about a minute of frantic searching, Elsee sighed with releif as she felt a sharp jolt of pain on her finger, the telltale sign of her parasitic companion stopping for a bite to eat. Elsee grinned as she resumed her return trip to the guild, carefully bringing her hand up infront of her and gently stroking the steadily expanding rear-end of Lil-Miss with a single finger of her one availible hand.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite watches as Elsee, still covered in soot and smoke, with her clothes scorched (along with the skin beneath), storms out of the burnt house and back to the guild. He turns to Artorias and asks,  "What's gotten into her?" 

One of the clerics--the cleric from before, flanked by a just-arrived cleric of Mars, who looks like his sister or cousin, takes Feliks off their shoulders.

The female cleric speaks up. "I think I've seen this man before at services." She looks him over. "He's pretty badly hurt. I'll take him back to the temple a few blocks down and we'll check on him. If you need to speak to him, could you wait a few hours? That is, assuming he'll, you know, be able," she mutters, looking down at the unconscious man.
Athedia
Badger emerged from behind the house leading some people holding the books she had thrown through the window.   "Feliks, I had to leave the crate behind, but I rescued your books.  And the drawings."   Not sure if the man could hear her she placed the book she had dived through the window with in his hands.  Turning to the clerics she asked  "I may know a little of why he ended up in this.  If I could stay with him until he could speak, I will stay out of the way. " 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks groans a little and looks at Badger, though he seems to be quite out of it. "Hrrmmm?" he asks in a hoarse, barely audible whisper when Badger places the book in his hands.

The female, older cleric, who looks related to the male cleric they saw earlier trying to contain the fire says, "You saved his life; now we need to make sure he keeps it. Are you related to him? I'm terribly sorry, but we'll need some space to check his condition and stabilize him. He may not be able to speak for a while; would you be willing to return in a few hours?"

Jadeite looks curiously at the book with the crumpled pictures sticking out haphazardly, but says nothing.
Athedia
 "Not related, but he owes me a debt and an explanation.  My best interests are for him to live.  My colleagues and I will visit the temple later today, we hope for good news."   With that she nodded her head and disappeared behind the house to collect the rest of the books from the alley.
CoffeeIncluded
Several members of the crowd have already started picking up the books. When they see Badger, they grin and hand them over to her. Some applaud. One of them gives her a friendly slap on the back and says, "Damn girl, just who are you and your pals?"
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Jadeite watches as Elsee, still covered in soot and smoke, with her clothes scorched (along with the skin beneath), storms out of the burnt house and back to the guild. He turns to Artorias and asks,  "What's gotten into her?" 
 &lt;snip&gt; 
 

Artorias shrugs  "Your guess is as good as mine, she sometimes blows up like this;but to be honest I am not really sure what is going through her mind right now. " 
Devmaar
Alim cleans everyone off with the spell he cast earlier
 I hope Elsee's ok...  experience told him it was best not to approach the other goblin when she was in this mood

He then indicates to Jadeite that he'd like a word, apart from the crowd
 From what Artorias and Badger said, it doesn't seem likely Feliks was a spellcaster, how do you suppose he ran afoul of those elementals? 
 
 Spoiler 
Possibly appropriate
Knowledge: Arcana  (1d20+9)[ 23 ] 
Knowledge: Planes  (1d20+7)[ 27 ] 
Spellcraft  (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Troublesome"  Artorias mutters to himself as he inspects the crowd.

 
 Spoiler 

Spot (1d20+6)[ 11 ] 
Listen (1d20+6)[ 19 ] 

Not looking for anything in particular, just trying to see if something/one catches Artorias' attention.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite frowns.  "I am reluctant to say without knowing the full details, but I believe that those elementals were berserk as a result of an improper summoning attempt." 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Arcana):  (d20+11)[ 20 ] 
Knowledge (The planes):  (d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Spellcraft:  (d20+11)[ 14 ] 

And Devmaar, that's what Alim thinks too. Feliks is probably not a spellcaster, but that was definitely the result of a botched summoning attempt. He probably wasn't even trying to summon an elemental at all!
 


Artorias:
 
 Spoiler 
Artorias hears the cheers of the crowd.
 
Devmaar
 Perhaps an insufficiently understood attempt at ritual? Hmm, Badger mentioned books...  Alim scurries after The Badger, his curiosity piqued.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite follows Alim. Hemlock slithers out from beneath his master's robes and tastes the air. His whole body seems to shiver a bit at the heavy smoke hanging over them, and Jadeite responds by gently stroking the viper's head.

He and Alim see Badger in a back alley. She's placing several books in her bag as a large, cheerful-looking man talks with her.
CoffeeIncluded
"That was absolutely fantastic!" the man says to Badger. "Tell you what, you and your pals come over to my restaurant tonight, dinner's on me!"

Jadeite waits for the man to finish and says,  "So, what was so important in this man's house that you stayed inside to collect it?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Sorry about the short posting; I'm in the middle of studying orgo.
 
Athedia
 "Figured his books could tell us what he was up too.  Don't all you magic types love to read?"   Badger shoved some of the books into Jadeite's arms and resumed picking up the rest.

 
 Spoiler 
Finished my last final, only code to finish now.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "As does anyone with a good education,"  Jadeite says, picking up a few of the books.  "There are several here; is there a park or someplace quieter nearby where we may read them at a more leisurely pace?" 
 
 Spoiler 
There is. I am so sorry about the slowdown; my 3-day sprint of finals starts tomorrow and I'm nowhere near comfortable with organic chem, let alone cell bio or genetics.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Everyone but Elsee: 

The park is fairly well-kept, shaded by trees as the grass blows with the sea breeze. Several children kick around a ball as the group sits on a bench and begins looking through the titles and summaries of the books they managed to save from Feliks' house. There's too much content for them to actually read, but the titles and general content of the books are as follows:

 Magical Creatures of Eastern Nordica,  a bestiary of...well, magical creatures that live in Eastern Nordica. It gives a general description of their appearance, habitat, abilities, behavior, and interactions with humans, and appears to cover Kago, Eastern Tobeem, and the Alavaan Plains.
 A Beginner's Guide to Draconic,   the first of a volume of books to teach people the draconic language.  "I used a much earlier edition of this textbook, years ago,"  Jadeite says.
 Aerial Ace! A History of Flight,  which is written by five authors. One author discusses the history and use of various flight spells, while the other four authors write about the four different flying mounts: the pegasi of the frozen north, the griffons of the great Orrent deserts, the giant eagles of the southern islands, and the wyverns of Kago's cliffs. The spine of the book is heavily worn at the section about the wyverns.
 A Brief Military History of Kago,  a rather dense book about, well, the military history of Kago--their structure, basic strategies, campaigns, and so forth.
 How to Train Your Wyvern,  an instructional book about how to best train a wyvern mount, with several repeated warnings about its difficulty. The book is written by the same author who wrote the wyvern rider section of  Aerial Ace!
Speak Up,  a self-help book on self confidence and possibly public speaking.
 Tales From the Deep,  a recently-published collection of short stories that's grown to be extremely popular.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm sorry, but it seemed like it would be best to move forward to the next scene. I've got my first final tonight so I want everyone to have a chance to talk about what this all means, and for Badger and Artorias to tell Jadeite and Alim how they know Feliks. I'll try to think of something for Elsee to do in the meantime, though that might not be for a couple hours. Expect me to get back up to speed Friday or Saturday, depending on whether or not I have to pull an all-nighter Thursday night and so crash Friday afternoon.

Also, I still think the group should have a name. Any ideas?
 
Athedia
Badger shook her head as she at the self confidence book.   "Don't think this helped him much.  Jadeite, I think I may have some extra information about him.  Artorias and I ran into him at a shop yesterday, I lent him some money for a scroll, all I spotted of it was that it cost 725 gold and started with the letters Di.  I don't know if that is any help.  He said he would show me what he was doing once he succeeded, but I think that today's events show that his plans went the opposite. 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite's eyes widen.  "A misread or misactivated scroll could definitely cause...unwanted effects. If the original scroll was a conjuration or summoning spell, then a botched reading would result in a berserk summon. But he could have also been trying to cast some sort of fire-based spell, or even casting a spell involving a fire-based deity. Whatever it is, the spell involved fire in some way, even if only indirectly through the caster's intent." 
 
 Spoiler 
Spellcraft:  (d20+11)[ 24 ] 
 
Athedia
 "Well I get the idea he worships Mars, he deals with fire right?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "He could have been trying to curry favor with his deity."  Jadeite smirks, just a little curl of his lips.  "Obviously it was not-well received. Unfortunately, this is just a hypothesis, albeit a likely one. Of course, from there the question is: Why?" 

He turns to look at the goblin beside him.  "Alim, do you have any suggestions?" 
Devmaar
 Hmm, it's hard to say... Say Badger, the other book, the one you gave him? Do you think you could borrow it? It could shed some light on this. 
 
 Spoiler 
Spellcraft  (1d20+11)[ 21 ] 
Using Cunning Knowledge

anything else I should roll?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim comes to pretty much the same conclusions Jadeite did: Feliks tried to use the scroll to cast a spell that had to do with fire or a fire deity or fire in some way, and the scroll misfired. Badly.

 
 Spoiler 
A knowledge: Religion or knowledge: Arcana might help.
 
Devmaar
 
 Spoiler 
Using Cunning Knowledge on both
Arcana  (1d20+12)[ 19 ] 
Religion  (1d20+10)[ 28 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim:

 
 Spoiler 
He...probably tried to ask something of Mars, maybe Astrid (both have the fire domain but Mars is explicitly the fire god), but the scroll misfired and accidentally summoned some berserk fire elementals. You doubt he was even able to ask his question.

Sorry about the lack of posting and stuff. Just until tomorrow afternoon.
 
Silverraptor
Sora:

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Religion:  (1d20+7)[ 8 ] 
 *Headbang* 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Sora can't think of anything that would cause the fire elementals to go berserk. Perhaps she should have paid more attention during her lessons.

Jadeite looks up from the copy of  Aerial Ace! , having just finished a section about the armor and equipment usually used by wyvern riders to protect themselves from their mounts.  "Artorias, you said that Feliks had commissioned your father to design a special saddle, correct? Judging from what we've found, it was probably a wyvern saddle. Your father wouldn't recognize the dimensions, as there are no wyverns in this part of the continent."  He closes the book.  "There might still be evidence in his house; I'm sure we can have it designated a crime scene and search what's left without too much trouble.

Still,"  he says quietly to Hemlock, who's staring at the cover art of the book,  "Why in his right mind would he want a wyvern as a mount anyway?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Do you want to search the rubble of the house, or search for Natasha?

Welcome back, everyone!
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Umm i think the better question would be, why  wouldn't  you want to ride a Wyvern? They are badass; but yeah I doubt dad would recognize the creature from the sizes alone... perhaps for a horse I guess". 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias peruses the " Aerial Ace " book, taking particular note on the wyvern section.
 "Wait, didn't we found that the poison in the dagger wasn't   from an animal? According to this book, the flying lizards have a poison stinger, and from the look of it's a pretty nasty poison at that." 
 
 Spoiler 

Does the book goes into details of a Wyvern saddle? If so I would like to compare it with the notes that Artorias' father wrote about the exotic saddle
 


Artorias whispers quitely to Alim  "Hey,  do you think you would be able to get a sample of Wyvern poison?"  
Devmaar
 I can certainly make some enquiries. 
Athedia
 "I don't think he managed to get a wyvren though."  Badger didn't want to believe Feliks did it, she was torn.   "We still haven't investigated Natasha, but I think we should go back to the fire to retrieve what we can." 
CoffeeIncluded
The page is damaged from smoke, but Artorias is able to see that the author, Heath Fairburn, had included an example of several different types of wyvern saddles. The dimensions that Artorias' father was given by Feliks and gave to his son are for a smaller beast, but the proportions seem to match.

As the group returns to the burnt-out remnants of Feliks' home, the thick smell of smoke and burnt wood hangs in the air. Black ashy water drips in puddles, and the edges of the walls end in jagged scorched splinters. The table is rubble, a good chunk of the floor ash. In the center of the floor is a pile of burnt straw, so burnt that only little pieces are left to identify it. The ashy remains are in a circle, as if the straw was originally a nest.

Leaning against the wall is a twisted burnt leather device. It looks like the remains of a saddle, and even from what's left you can tell it was finely crafted.

A corner of the crate is burnt off and the whole thing is blackened, but the box itself is still mostly intact. If Badger opens the crate she sees seven glass bottles inside; their necks of the outer bottles a little warped from the heat but the liquid inside seems okay. They're all the same, containing a cool blue liquid.

 
 Spoiler 
Anything else you want to look at? Test the bottles?
 


Alim:

DC 15 Knowledge (Local) check:
 
 Spoiler 
There aren't any wyverns on this part of the continent, and poison that nasty is highly illegal to start with.
 
Devmaar
 (To Artorias) 
 It would be very difficult though. There are no wyverns in this part of the continent, not to mention the illegality of something that dangerous... 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite is busy looking through the small kitchen, whose cupboards and cheap counters have somehow remained mostly intact. He opens a drawer; it sticks partway and he needs to give it several sharp tugs before it jerks open and sends a cloud of something in the air. The elf coughs and the snake coiled around him gives a sharp hiss, but they both stop when they smell what puffed out. Jadeite then rummages through the draw until he comes out holding a now mostly-empty bag.

 "This is a rather common elven spice,"  Jadeite says, showing what's left to the rest of the group,  "Or at least a close cousin of it. It's somewhat of an acquired taste to humans when powdered as finely as this, though." 
Draconi Redfir
In the few hours that Elsee had been gone, she had managed to return to the guild, grab a shower, change her clothes, and even grab a bit of the snack before heading out again. Elsee's hair was still an oily mess as she refused to use shampoo for the sake of her parasitic pet, but at least she had managed to get the soot and ash out of it. Right now she was heading back to the burned down house, either figuring she could loot the place and if questioned pass it off as "evidence" before making a dash for it, or maybe the rest of the group was still there doing something useful for a change.


Her question would be answered as soon as she rounded this corner. and the verdict iiisss... Everyone was still there. Darn. She was hoping she could get something nice out of the place.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Elsee,"  Jadeite says coolly as he sees the goblin walk into the ruins of the house,  "Are you here to assist us in searching for evidence, or are you going to run off and refuse to take responsibility, whether for good or ill, again?"  He motions over to Badger on the other side of the house and says,  "I believe she found something useful,"  before returning to search Feliks' kitchen. He's already found the spice, now he leans underneath, opens another cabinet, and...

 "That is an awful lot of dried meat." 
 
 Spoiler 
Almost done with evidence, but there's still more for the others: What new conclusions, if any, have you found?

Also, anyone want to roll a check to see if they know what's in the bottles?
 
Devmaar
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  
 Spoiler 
Almost done with evidence, but there's still more for the others: What new conclusions, if any, have you found?

Also, anyone want to roll a check to see if they know what's in the bottles?
 
 
 

 
 Spoiler 
What should I roll
to save time:  (1d20)[ 4 ]  and I'll add the bonus when I know what it is
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
Roll an alchemy or spellcraft check, and lemme check the modifiers to see if you got it. Gimme a sec.
 


EDIT: Alim can't really tell what the vials contain; they seem vaguely familiar, but the heat might have changed the color of the actual contents. He'll have to taste-test one of the vials to know for sure what's in it.
Devmaar
Alim snoffs at the liquid then dips a finger in to the bottle, licking it to get a taste of the substance.

 
 Spoiler 
Alchemy  (1d20+10)[ 16 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Once Alim tastes the liquid, he knows exactly what the substance is. He's had it many times, chugging it before getting to work with more...unsavory substances. The bright cool blue liquid is antitoxin; the color changed from the heat of the fire, but the actual contents just as potent as they otherwise would be. There was room for ten bottles of antitoxin in the crate, but there's only seven in there.

 
 Spoiler 
Once you taste it, you know what it is. I figure Alim's had antitoxin before since he works with poisons and the like. There's seven antitoxins in there.
 
Devmaar
 Antitoxin... Looks like Feliks was worried about poisons. 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite comes over to Alim and Badger.  "I also found a large amount of dried meat and some elven spices in his kitchen. Perhaps he already obtained a wyvern?" 

He takes a significant look around the ruins of the house.
Athedia
 "No...."  Badger's face paled at the thought.   "We need to see him at the temple.  He must have healed some by now.  And if he is our murderer, he needs a guard." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite nods.  "Shall we bring any evidence with us?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Tell me what you guys want to bring with you to show Feliks, and then I'll move you all along.
 
Athedia
 "I think we should. At least the some of the toxins, those are the most damning of the lot."   Pausing, Badger turned to Sora.   "He worships Mars, I don't know much about the gods and their business, but do Mars and Astrid get along?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Sora, anyone who rolls 15 or better on a Knowledge (Religion) check:

 
 Spoiler 
There's no real animosity between Mars and Astrid.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The group takes the seven bottles of antitoxin along with some other supplies, and heads to the temple where Feliks is being treated. Upon seeing his rescuers, the cleric who took them in says, "He's awake, and should recover. But he's still rather frail, so I'll ask you not to push him too hard."

Feliks is sitting up in a clean bed, his eyes half-closed, his foot and lower leg wrapped in bandages. When he sees Badger and the rest of the group, he smiles, sits up a bit straighter, and starts to hiss-wheeze something out before stopping and wincing in pain. He then motions for a pen and a piece of paper. When he receives it, he writes,  Thank you. Pretty pathetic of me, huh? 
 
 Spoiler 
Here's how the interrogation is going to work: Feliks is still really weak and anything you ask of him is going to be responded to in writing. If you push him too hard or agitate him too much, you'll be asked to leave as you'll be stressing him out too much and not helping him heal.

You know that Feliks is obsessed with wyverns, wants one badly, and may actually have (or had) one. Why exactly has he been so evasive though? Is it just because keeping wyverns is illegal, or something more?
 
Athedia
 "Nah, though next time I would advice not wearing the clothes before burning them."   Badger motioned to the items the group was carrying.   "So, that spell you bought earlier.  Didn't go as planned?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks hangs his head and shakes it plaintively. He then looks back up at the items they found; a brief flicker of panic crosses his face.

 
 Spoiler 
You've got the books and the antitoxin, what else did you bring?
 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
  "I think we should. At least the some of the toxins, those are the most damning of the lot."   Pausing, Badger turned to Sora.   "He worships Mars, I don't know much about the gods and their business, but do Mars and Astrid get along?"  
 

 "Well, they don't hate each other, if that's what your asking." 
Athedia
Badger tried to calm him down.   "We are not the guard.  I am just worried for you.  Wyverns are very dangerous creatures." 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks glares at Badger, then scribbles down,  I know that! I was prepared!  He doesn't seem angry, more...defensive. Guarding.
Devmaar
 Is that what the spell you attempted was? A precaution? 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks pauses, then shakes his head.  Not to protect me from wyverns,  he writes.
Athedia
 "You know, you never actually told me what the spell was.  I put my money towards it, I would a little information." 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks squirms uncomfortably and then finally, slowly, writes down,  Divination. I needed to ask Mars something...I guess it didn't work. 
Devmaar
 What were you asking? 
CoffeeIncluded
"Uhhhh..." Feliks wheezes out, before scrawling down,  Just how I'd be able to easily find/get my wyvern. 

Everyone:

 
 Spoiler 
He doesn't seem to be lying.
 
Athedia
 "Well that explains the fire elementals.  Feliks, you realize that wyverns are illegal, right?  Not getting you in trouble, but that is more a hobby you should take.. out of the city." 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks makes a sort of whining sound as he writes.  But I like Runite. And there's wyvern rider guards in the Kago capitol. 
Devmaar
 We're not in Kago and you're not a guard. 
Athedia
 "But what of your neighbors. Or the other people in the city?  I know I don't chug an antitoxin each morning in case Jadeite gets a fancy to summon a wyvern." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Why, thank you for that brilliant idea,"  Jadeite says with a too-wide grin.

Feliks glares at the group again, then begins furiously scrawling something down. When he's almost done, he pauses, his eyes go wide, and he begins crossing out whatever he wrote.

 
 Spoiler 
Want to take the paper from him?

Thanks for making me laugh, guys. That was pretty funny.
 
Athedia
 "Feliks, can you please show me that."  Badger held out her hand, a concerned look on her face.  If he refused to pass over the paper she would let him, but reluctantly.
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks rips off the bottom half of the paper and gives the top half to Badger. It reads:  I had the saddle, the antitoxin, the books, everything! There's pegasi in the city and even giant eagles, so why not wyverns? It's not my--  There the paper is ripped off.

He's definitely trying to hide something.
Athedia
 "See Feliks, I may not have said the whole paper but I meant it.  Did you mean it's not your fault maybe?  Look, I know.  I want to trust you.  But please let us help." 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks squirms uncomfortably. He seems to be debating whether or not to spill his final secret. He just needs a little push.

 
 Spoiler 
I need a diplomacy check.

Also, Athedia, Badger has Endurance as a bonus feat, and are you going to switch out Dodge for anything?
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias just stands there watching his companions interrogate Feliks, he knows better than to interrupt them.

 
 Spoiler 

Yeah, not terribly inspired and diplomacy isn't my strong suit, so I'll sit down this for the moment.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger seems to have prodded a bit too hard, or Feliks just doesn't want to say the last bit; he's so...ashamed? It's hard to tell. Either way, he's not talking.

 
 Spoiler 
You can try guessing what Feliks is trying to hide yourself, or someone--probably Sora--needs to roll well on diplomacy.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Hey, Feliks if you don't mind me asking, why do you want a wyvern so much?" 
CoffeeIncluded
This is a topic Feliks is more open to discussing at the time. He writes,  Because they're awesome. I love the idea of riding around on a wyvern's back! Plus my grandfather was a Kagoan wyvern rider. 
 
 Spoiler 
Anyone played Ace Attorney? You know the psyche-locks? Feliks has one last psyche-lock left, which you can open with several methods, but he'll talk about other "unlocked" things.
 
Silverraptor
 "Hey Felix, you wouldn't by any chance know about the mysterious deaths of Astrid clerics lately, would you?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I didn't know what else to say. :P
 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks pauses. He writes,  Yes, but what does that have to do with me? 
 
 Spoiler 
I think it should be fairly plain what to say in response. 😉
 
Athedia
 "They were poisoned Feliks.  And as you seem to know, poison and wyverns go hand in hand." 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks just sits there, stunned. "No," he whispers hoarsely. "No no no no no..."

Finally, slowly, he picks up the paper and writes one word.  Stolen. 
 
 Spoiler 
And crack goes the psyche-lock!
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rolled her eyes and unfolded her arms as she pushed herself off of the wall she'd been leaning up against while the others spoke. She somehow managed to squeeze herself between the majority of the group and Feliks, waving her hands towards Feliks in a "presenting" kind of way.


 "Does this REALLY look like someone who can kell a squirrel, let alone two human clerics? wheye are we even bothereng with this guy!?" 

She pauses for a moment before turning to Feliks himself.

 "No offence." 
CoffeeIncluded
 I DO hunt,  Feliks writes with a wry smile.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Hunting is very different from killing, I can assure you that; but what do you mean stolen? Did you have Wyvern poison samples in your house?"  
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks shakes his head, then writes,  Not poison, my wyvern. Kheel. Stolen. 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias' eyes widen at Feliks admission "You had a wyvern? How did you hide a wyvern in your house?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks writes,  Small. Baby wyvern, smuggled in. Please don't ask how. 

Now the smaller proportions of the saddle make sense.

Jadeite, who read the book, says,  "He wanted to raise the wyvern from infancy, as is normal for wyvern riders to ensure fidelity and trainability." 
Athedia
Badger hid her face in her hands.   "First, once we find it, you can't stay in the city.  The risk is to high, but I am certain a place in the country would be easy enough to find. Also what were you thinking?  It would grow to large to hide and then where would you be?"   She lifted her head up as a realization dawned on her.   "That's why you were using that spell wasn't it.  To ask Mars where Kheel is?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks nods. He grabs yet another sheet of paper and writes.  Yeah, to ask where Kheel was, and who took him. I barely told anybody about him, and he's not that loud. 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rubbed at her chin and narrowed her eyes as her small goblin brain tried to come up with something. It took a few tries, as well as a few minutes, but eventually her eyes opened wide and she snapped her fingers.

 "Could our keller be the baby Wyvern? these things fly and have stingers right? it could come and go from the rooftops at least, and both murders being clerics of Astrid could be a coincidence!" 
 
 Spoiler 


Yes i am aware both murders involved magic and were very precise, I’m just purposely ignoring this in an attempt to keep her/my idea "dumbed down" due to her low mental scores.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Kheel would  never  do something like that!  Feliks writes furiously.

Jadeite sighs and says,  "The killing wounds were made by extremely precise dagger blows. Furthermore, if a wyvern had killed our victims, it would have consumed them, at least partially. There was no evidence that our victims were preyed upon." 
 
 Spoiler 
I know, and thanks, Draconi.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "We have one stolen Wyvern and a pair of poisoned clerics, could a baby wyvern's poison kill an adult?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Arcana):  (d20+11)[ 21 ] 
 

 "Maybe,"  says Jadeite,  "Though Alim would be more of an expert on the subject than I am." 
Devmaar
 It wouldn't be a sure thing, and anyone particularly tough would have a good chance of surviving it, but it would be well capable of killing most, and could certainly weaken them enough that finishing them would be short work. 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Well one of the victims was a halfling and young one at that... Who did you tell about Kheel Feliks? 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks writes,  Not many people, and I doubt you'd be able to find them, even if they're not all human. But they couldn't have taken Kheel! 
 
 Spoiler 
I'm going to drop off a job application and get something to eat; back in an hour?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Perhaps,"  says Jadeite, turning back from the open window that overlooks the bustling street. Music faintly floats in; somebody is playing a flute for money outside.  "But we must eliminate any and all possibilities. So please, tell us who these half-dozen people are." 

With a pause, Feliks turns over the sheet of paper, and writes down six names, handing them to Badger.

Two of the names have the same last name as Feliks; they must be his siblings or parents. Three of the names sound unfamiliar, but the last, the fourth in the list, is.

 Cecil Hardrak 
Athedia
Badger looked a little peeved. She started grumbling to herself.   "He thinks I can't find them.  I will find them, I always find them." 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Easy Badger, it is easy for someone who doesn't know you to doubt your tracking prowess, though it seems we have already found one" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "You already met someone on this list?"  Jadeite asks.

The six names on the list are:
 
Anton Lanski
Katarina Lanski
Vera Mellic
Cecil Hardrak
Maxwell Oriander
Kasper Ghil 

Feliks shuffles on his pillows and closes his eyes. He looks exhausted. The soft music floating through the window and billowing curtains probably isn't doing much to keep him awake either. But still, looking at his injuries, imagining the burns beneath his bandages and his seared lungs, rest is probably the most he needs right now, more than anything else.

 
 Spoiler 
Anything more to ask Feliks?
 
Athedia
 "Cecil.... Feliks, did Cecil seem interested in you wyvern?" 
CoffeeIncluded
It takes a while for Feliks to respond. But he eventually opens one eye, then reaches across to the nightstand and feels around for the steadily decreasing stack of papers and his pen, before writing once more (and even more sloppily this time, as he's leaning back and his eyes are half-closed):  They all were. Cecil, I think he wanted to know more where and how I got it. Wait, what are you asking? 

He's probably in denial, and exhausted, but he could really be that slow on the uptake too.
Athedia
 "I am so sorry Feliks."  Badger turned to the others.   "I feel that there is no longer a need to search for Natasha. I am going to find Cecil, who is with me." 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks looks...betrayed. There's denial written all over his eyes and face as he shakes his head.

Jadeite asks Badger,  "Who is this Cecil?" 
Athedia
 "A half-drow we questioned last night.  We had some evidence pointing his way, but I didn't push as much as I could have.  I felt bad for him."   Seeing Feliks face she winced, she didn't want to hurt him but the people who had died came first.   Feliks, I didn't want it to be him.  I swear.  But I can not drop this when there are already two dead, one a mere child." 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks slumps back in the bed. It appears to be almost too much for him to take.

The cleric passes by at this moment, juggling several boxes of bandages and ointment, and says to the group, "Are you finished? Have you disturbed him enough?"
Dusk Eclipse
 "We were just about to leave sir/ma'am*; but before we leave may I speak with you in private?" 



* 
 Spoiler 

I don't recall if the cleric is male or female so assume Artorias is using the proper term
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Of course," she says. "Could you please wait outside?"

If the group looks into the room after being ushered out, they can see the cleric change the bandages on Cecil's foot. The skin underneath is red, raw, and blistered, almost blackened in places. Feliks whimpers a bit as the cleric washes and dresses his burned foot.

After some time, enough time for the musician outside to finish a song or two, she reappears and asks, "What do you need?"
Dusk Eclipse
 "As you may be aware, we are conducting a murder investigation and Feliks might be implied or even in danger, please keep an eye on him and if you see or hear anything fishy, please contact us at the guild, have a good day"  Artorias bows slightly and leaves the cleric to her duties.
CoffeeIncluded
The cleric nods and says, "I'll see if we can get a guard."

As the group leaves the temple they notice that it's gotten cloudier, although it's not quite completely overcast.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Oh great, more raining just what we needed" 
CoffeeIncluded
Though the sky's overcast, the clouds are more white than gray, and there's still blue peeking through. It might rain later tonight, but not the thunderstorm of yesterday. Or it could get clearer.

 "Are you searching for this Cecil?" 
Athedia
 "Yes, I have a little idea of where we can find him." 
 
 Spoiler 
Gather Information: Use as needed.
 (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 6 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 18 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 17 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
A couple hours into the search, where a lead has them searching the narrow, winding, shaded streets of the Docks, Badger hears a faint cry for help.
Athedia
 "Not again."  Badger ran toward the sound hoping that it was only a minor incident, a pickpocket or other small criminal.
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias draws his glaive and steeling himself from what is to come, he let's his sense go wild, sniffing the air for any clue of what might happen.

 
 Spoiler 

Free action: Draw glaive
Swift action: initiate Hunter's sense
Wisdom check (1d20)[ 11 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The alleys are dark, narrow, and shaded in the Docks, and the whole place permeates with the smell of the sea, sweat of sailors, tobacco, and fish. But the voice is barely down the block, and the incident is not minor.

The ground's as clean as the alleyway as the first murder, not a speck of dirt out of place. Except for the two clerics. One is a young man, face-down in the alleyway. The other is a young woman, not much older than him, arm pressed against her neck, with red leaking out between her fingers.

Both wear purple capes. Both look Kagoan.

Artorias can't smell anything. The place has been bleached clean, but recently.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal check, anyone?
 
Athedia
Badger grabbed her kit from her pack as she knelt beside the woman.   "Stay calm, a cleric is coming."    At least I hope she is, and I hope she knows how to cure poison.     Badger applied what she could to stop the wound from bleeding.
 
 Spoiler 
+2 circumstance bonus from kit (9 out 10 uses left)
Heal:  (1d20+8)[ 28 ] 
 
Dusk Eclipse
Reining in his instincts, Artorias begins to carefully check the bodies, he hides his frustration and rage behind a veil of stoicism; but anyone can tell his hands are shaking as he examines the clerics.

 "Two more.... two more... we were so close this time." 
 
 Spoiler 

take 10 on an untrained heal check for a total of 12 (it turns out healing belt gives a +2 bonus on heal)
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite appears calm, but anyone looking closely can see his balled fists shaking as he scans the alleyway, pausing at the bruises on the clerics.  "The spells were cast less than a minute ago,"  Jadeite says.  "The auras are weak, but fading even now. I believe the spells cast were a Prestidigitation and a Mending, as Alim and I predicted." 

Badger barely even needs to check on the man to see that he's dead. A neck should not stick at that angle. The woman, however...She's alive, but barely. As Badger moves to staunch the bleeding, she sees the pallor of her skin the way she's shaking and sweating and twitching, even with the wound that nicked her artery--this blow was made hastily, not the clean cut on the first man. But it wouldn't matter if Badger hadn't gotten to her on time, and even not it may not. She's been poisoned, on the brink of death with the venom still eating away at her body.

 
 Spoiler 
The male cleric's dead. The female's stable at -9, has been poisoned an unspecified amount, and the poison's still working its way through her (IE: She's taken the initial damage but not the secondary. And if she takes that, she dies.).

Aren't Nat 20's awesome?

Don't forget, you've got 7 antitoxins.
 
Athedia
 "Jadeite, please tell me you still have the potions we showed Feliks."   Badger turned slowly to look at him.  If she sees a hint of the anti-toxin she grabs it and holds it up to the womans mouth to help her drink.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite immediately hands her one of the bright blue bottles, saying,  "I have six more,"  while going to gather evidence--at least, what little he can find.

 
 Spoiler 
Alright, I'm waiting for Silverraptor to post before she makes the saving throw--Sora might be able to help.
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias let's sights in relief for the woman before he stands up.
 "Less than a minute old? The assassin could be near" 
 
 Spoiler 

Spot  (1d20+6)[ 18 ] 
Listen (1d20+6)[ 15 ] 
 
Silverraptor
Sora panics as she tries to stop the bleeding with Cure minor wound.

 
 Spoiler 
That was just to give her a little more time. That should stabilize her and Sora will cast cure moderate wounds next round.
 
CoffeeIncluded
He sees and hears nothing but Jadeite inspecting the crime scene, Badger pouring the potion down the dying woman's throat, and a couple people peering into the alleyway, then gasping and running on. One, a headstrong young man, shouts, "You're the cleric butchers?!"
Athedia
 "Idiots."  Badger grumbled as she finished pouring the potion down the woman's throat.   "Art, didn't you say they were on the roof before?" 
CoffeeIncluded
The cleric shudders, trying to fight off the poison, on her last threads of life...

 
 Spoiler 
Saving throw:  (d20)[ 19 ] 
Badger's opposed healing check:  (d20+8)[ 9 ] 

Made it.
 


She shudders, and for a moment it looks like she's perished, but then...her breathing returns, more even. Though she's still gravely wounded, the worst of the poison seems to have passed.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Is she alive?"  Jadeite asks before trying to talk down the young man and the small but growing crowd.
Athedia
 "Yes, where is the nearest temple?" 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Barely"  Artorias answer with a slight growl in his voice, he turns towards the crowd and stomps towards the man who just accused them of murder, his glaive forgotten in the ground next to clerics.

 "Did you just hear yourself? "Are you the cleric butchers" Seriously? How can you ask something like that.... please by Mars don't tell me  you were actually expecting an answer" 

He then faces the crowd and bellows at them  "Common, don't stay there looking like idiots. Someone get the guard.... NOW!" 
CoffeeIncluded
The young man, a dwarf, sputters as he shrinks from Artorias' full height. "W-well," he sputters, "I saw you guys with your weapons out leaning over two dead an' dying clerics, what didja want me to think?!"

He looks around frantically. Eager to leave the scene, he says, "I'll get the guards!" before running off.

 "You heard them,"  Jadeite says,  "I'm sure you all have something better to do than gawk. Perhaps something constructive and useful to solving the case?" 

Behind him, Sora places her hand on the dying woman and tries to heal her.
 
 Spoiler 
CMW:  (2d8+3)[ 14 ] 
 


The wound knits itself together and the color returns to her face. She's still unconscious, but not in the same state she was in before.
CoffeeIncluded
Sora knows that there's a temple not too far from where they are. The female  cleric's life is no longer in immediate danger, but she still needs medical attention in a cleaner setting than a back alley, even a recently prestidigitated one.

The guards come running in, and they stop and gasp when they see the two dead clerics. They immediately draw their swords.

"Explain yourselves!"

"Are you treating them?"
Silverraptor
Sora tries to lift up the female cleric and turns to the guards, her amulet dangling down in full sight.

 "Please, we have to get her back to the temple!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Emphasis on *tries*. She has 6 strength.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The watch rushes in; their professionalism is apparent as they are able to keep calm despite the gruesome scene. The head of this precinct, a woman with short blonde hair tied back in a high ponytail, watches Sora struggle to lift the barely conscious woman and says, "It's okay, we've got this."

She effortlessly slings the wounded woman over her shoulder; one of her subordinates assists Jadeite with collecting what scant evidence there is (there really isn't much, if anything), then picks up the dead cleric. The cleric's head flops around disturbingly, at all the wrong angles, as if the bones inside have been replaced with rubber...or completely severed. Blood flows where gravity drags it, staining the inside of his neck a blotchy red, then purple, as they rush to the nearest temple.
Draconi Redfir
 "Yaaaayy another temple"  Elsee mutteres to herself as the large group runs, her eyes occaisionally jumping to the uncomfortable sight of the dead man's head bobbing about.  "More time for me 'nd Alim to sit outside and derp about while everybody else has all the fun. And this time it'll be raining, oh the joys of this town." 
Athedia
Badger heard Elsee's complaint and while helping Sora carry the woman spoke to the guards. "These goblins are needed in the temple.  They are the only ones who will be able to help us figure out how to catch the person who did this." 
CoffeeIncluded
The guard with the ponytail nods as they hurry to the nearest temple devoted to Astrid.

The cleric who opens the door jumps back in horror as he sees the dead and wounded ones in the guards' arms. "Oh no, no no not another one..."

"This one's alive!"

The guards and the group are rushed in, and the two clerics, dead and close to it, are taken from them. Both guards and the group are left awkwardly standing in the foyer, whose glass ceiling is designed to let in the maximum possible amount of sunlight, for several minutes until they're called in.

"...You too," the cleric says after a moment's hesitation, pointing to Elsee and Alim.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, I'm packing up. Headed home tomorrow, but I'll post as much as I can.
 
CoffeeIncluded
"You best come in," says a senior cleric, his rank marked not only by the fringe of gray on his head, but also the golden trim on his cape.

The whole group, goblins, included, follows the senior cleric through the main room, past the imposing stained glass visage of a towering Astrid flanked by her shorter, but no less intimidating draconic attendants, into a back room; the senior cleric's personal study. It's cluttered with books and scrolls, but appears to be in much better condition than the personal study of the hobgoblin cleric Elsee and Alim talked to. The desk and chairs are made of more expensive wood, the walls are actually painted and insulated (not like Runite needs protection against the cold), and there seems to be some sort of ventilation or cooling system set up, though a crude and ineffective one. Still, anything is remarkable, and a testament to the scientific advances as of late. Jadeite appears interested in this, and begins looking around for vents or anything that might reveal itself to be the cause. Still, when the cleric begins speaking, the necromancer turns back to him.

The senior cleric folds his hands. He's blunt and to the point. "Tell me everything."
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias folds his arm over his chest, inhales deeply and starts talking.  "I see no point to beat around the bush, so here how it is. We are members of Leif's guild and we have been investigating the murders, I'm sure you are well aware of them, during the course of our investigations we determined the most probable way the assassin operates and made some inquires. It was during our investigations today that we heard a scream and found those clerics, the young man was sadly already dead; but the quick actions of my companions saved the girl's life." 

Motioning with his head towards Alim and Jadeite he says
 "Alim and Jadeite found that the assassin used some type poison in addition to magic, sadly they haven't been able to determine which poison was used." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Now Artorias, we're better than that,"  Jadeite says. He turns to the cleric.  "The poison used is a venom, secreted by an animal, either mundane or magical. The venom is hemotoxic; it attacks the bloodstream and tissues, causing rapid organ failure and death if not treated. Based on other, corresponding evidence, we have reason to believe that the exact poison is wyvern venom." 

The cleric spends a moment studying the elf and goblin before saying, "If that's true, it is impressive indeed."

At this moment, the cleric who took the injured woman from the guards knocks on the open door and asks, "Harold, can I talk to you for a moment?"

Harold steps out from behind the desk and has a few hurried whispered words with her. After a moment, with a nod and a, "Thank you," she leaves, and he returns to his desk.

"The cleric you saved will live," he says. "The last of the poison is being purged from her body as we speak. She should wake soon." He frowns; his serious expression becomes much more frightening. "My men and women are afraid to leave their homes. It's only a matter of time before my flock is paralyzed by the same fear." Harold closes his eyes. "This murderer is a menace to our society. I'm going to petition to have him declared a Wolf's Head."

Knowledge (Local) DC 12:
 
 Spoiler 
Being declared a Wolf's Head is a big deal. If this passes, the murderer will be declared an outlaw, not subject to the protections of Runite's laws, as he has rejected them himself (or her, but masculine of grouping here). Put simply, if you guys catch the murderer, you are allowed to kill him and take his stuff.

Knowledge (local):  (d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 
Devmaar
Alim nods to corroborate Jadeite's information, and pulls out some papers  I've been writing this report on what we know of the poison used, it includes comparisons to some known poisons but I haven't been able to work on it since we discovered the potential link to wyvern venom.  after the cleric speaks Alim nods again  I think I agree. Whoever this is, they are extremely dangerous. 
 
 Spoiler 
I hope you don't mind the report thing Coffee, it just seems like something Alim would've been working on in his free time.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Harold raises his eyebrows as he gingerly accepts the papers from the goblin. They stay fixed in position as he reads the report.  "...You wrote this yourself?"  he asks, the note of disbelief clear in his voice.
Silverraptor
Sora clenches her fists before stepping forward and pointing a finger in Harold's chest.
 "And just what are you implying?! Are you saying that goblins are unable to become literate?!" 
CoffeeIncluded
Harold steps back, but recovers quickly. His eyes narrow a bit, and his voice is laced with a note of warning. "Are you sure you should speak in that tone to your seniors?"

He leans over the desk and looks down at Alim. "Nevertheless," he says to Sora and Alim, "I was not implying that you are illiterate. Rather, I find myself...impressed by this level of work coming from a goblin."

 
 Spoiler 
Sure you should speak like that to a senior member of your church? 😛

Still, you're lucky that Harold's spent most of his life in Runite and not Kago or Laria. But remember this takes place about a century, maybe a bit less, before Murphy's Law.
 
Athedia
Badger looked around a little clueless.   "Forgive me, but what is a Wolf's Head again?  It doesn't mean we actually have to kill a wolf does it?"   She looked around for any help in the matter.  Seeing Sora step up for Alim she smiled, no wonder her church had been glad to send her to the mercenaries.
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Harold steps back, but recovers quickly. His eyes narrow a bit, and his voice is laced with a note of warning. "Are you sure you should speak in that tone to your seniors?"

He leans over the desk and looks down at Alim. "Nevertheless," he says to Sora and Alim, "I was not implying that you are illiterate. Rather, I find myself...impressed by this level of work coming from a goblin."

 
 Spoiler 
Sure you should speak like that to a senior member of your church? 😛

Still, you're lucky that Harold's spent most of his life in Runite and not Kago or Laria. But remember this takes place about a century, maybe a bit less, before Murphy's Law.
 
 
 

 "That tone?! THAT TONE?!" 
She points to what would be the outside.
 "There is some psycho nut out there poisoning and killing clerics of Astrid, the guards and the other clerics are to afraid or are unable to do anything about it, and you're in here insulting one of the few people are actually doing anything about it!! So focus less on my tone and watch yours!!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Put it this way, Sora is still in breakdown mode. But instead of fear, its more like anger and frustration at this point.😉
 
CoffeeIncluded
Harold winces at the shouting, then sighs. "I apologize for this, but you're clearly distressed and must calm down before we can discuss our next course of action. I promise, I am not harming you, but simply casting a spell which will allow this."

He says a few muttered words and instantly a calming aura covers the group.

 
 Spoiler 
You can roll a will save against his spell, Calm Emotions, if you want, though I have a feeling only Sora may fight it. The rest are pretty calm right now as it is. 😛
 
Devmaar
 A wolf's head means the criminal will be outside the protection from the law. We would be free to deal with them however necessary, even fatally. Sora, thank you for defending me but it's not necessary, please calm down.  Alim seems somewhat agitated by Sora's outburst, then he speaks to the cleric  I'm a hard worker and a keen student. Studying is my passion and I work at it as hard as anyone would a hobby they love. 
Athedia
 "I would rather not kill the person we are chasing.  I will bring him in unharmed if possible so he may properly account for his actions."  Badger did not want a life on her hands without due cause, especially if it was Cecil.  There was also the factor of how the Plavaan community would react to the killing without trial of one of their own.
CoffeeIncluded
Harold nods, and appears to eye Alim with...is that respect? "That is very commendable of you. I do hope you will put yourself to use and better society."

He turns to Badger. "I too would like to see this murderer brought alive before the courts, but that may not be possible. I would rather present a murderer's body and his live captors than a live murderer in chains, and half his captors dead."

 
 Spoiler 
Knowing the truth but not being able to shake the impulse...At least it's a first step. Baby steps, Harold.

Also, don't forget that you're free to loot a Wolf Head's stuff.
 
Athedia
 "All respect, but if my companions manage to get themselves killed, they were not trying hard enough.  Jadeite, how many of those anti-toxins do we still have? They will be useful if we have to face him while he still has poison."     Badger smirked at the cleric.  The guild's members didn't die so easily, and she had brought in plenty of people alive without having others die.

 
 Spoiler 
Yes she is a little overconfident about this.
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias puts a hand on The Badger's shoulder "One step at a time Badger, first we have to catch him, then we can figure out how to take him down." 

He smiles at the senior cleric
 "However, I have to agree with her, we are good, quite good in fact." 
 
 Spoiler 

Sorry; but bravado  is contagious, and Artorias loves a good fight.
 
Devmaar
 Thank you. I hope I can. 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite lifts an eyebrow.  "We still have half a dozen, though I would not like to depend on them alone in a fight. I traveled to Runite to further my education, not to die at the hands of an assassin."  He shrugs, and holds up his hands in a  what can you do?  gesture.  "Still, I must admit I am loath to leave you to such a fate as well." 

Harold smiles a bit. "In that case, best of luck. Of course, we will be doing what we can as well."

He stands and opens the door more fully. "If you would like, you may speak with the cleric you saved--provided, of course, that she is awake."
CoffeeIncluded
"I can't thank you enough," says one of the clerics in the medical room as the group goes to check on the cleric they saved. "At least you managed to save Beatrix. Any miracle's welcome this week!"

If the group goes in to check on Beatrix, the cleric they saved, they see her lying on the bed, eyes half-closed, flat black hair pushed back with single strands still brushed up against the white bandages wrapped around her neck. She looks tiny, swallowed up by linen and wraps, her purple cape hung up by her bedside, so much bigger than her.

Her eyes open when she sees the group come in. "Hwwm?" The tiny movement makes her whimper in pain, and the cleric immediately rushes in.

"Drink this," he says, pouring something down his throat. If Alim's close enough, he recognizes the smell. It's marshpoppy extract, the same base ingredients for drow poison, but prepared in a different way to become a fairly potent narcotic.

Beatrix's posture soon becomes more relaxed. She can probably tolerate some questioning.

 
 Spoiler 
Same thing as Feliks: You can only ask so many questions. Beatrix will be more forthcoming, but considering she's doped up on proto-morphine she may not be as responsive as you'd like.
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Hello Beatrix, my name is Artorias, how are you feeling" 
CoffeeIncluded
Beatrix takes a moment to register the question and shake off the haze of the opiates. "...Better," she whispers, her voice surprisingly rough and gravelly for a woman of her size.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee squinted her eyes and rubbed at her chin as she examined the recovering cleric, specifically at her covered neck.

 "Both the other two died pretty much the same way, from behind, a swift strike to the heart. You were attacked at the neck, Yer buddy's got snapped clean in half. Why? Did you see the attacker before he could use hes usual method?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Beatrix blinks; her eyes widen in slowly dawning horror. Evidently nobody told her this bit. "Perce...Perce is...dead?"

She starts to quietly sob.

 
 Spoiler 
Yeah, nobody told her her friend's dead.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee blinked at the human a few times before slowly turning her head to look up to the more taller members of her group.

 "Uhhh... Woops?" 
Athedia
 "If you want the bastard caught we need you to calm down.  Did you see who did this?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "How insensitive,"  Jadeite remarks as Beatrix continues to sob.

After several minutes, Beatrix manages to choke out, "...Dark."
Athedia
 "We don't have time to tiptoe around."  The Badger spoke to Jadeite's comment on her actions.  Facing the injured girl again she questioned her.   "When you say dark, do you mean you couldn't see, was it the person's skin? If it was the person, human, halfing, elf, Plavaan? 
CoffeeIncluded
Beatrix seems slower to respond. The marshpoppy must be fully kicking in. Wearily, exhaustedly, but still through her tears, the cleric says, "Dark, all dark...alley, skin, clothes, all dark. Heard Perce, saw red...then dark. So fast. Red the moment I opened the door."
Athedia
The Badger growled a little and stalked out of the room.  Finding the priest who had administered the drug she confronted him.   "Our only witness is useless, to drugged to form a sentence."  She then left the temple sitting on the front steps where Alim and Elsee usually waited.
CoffeeIncluded
"I'm sorry," says Harold. "Marshpoppy purified like that is a fairly potent painkiller, and you're probably seeing the side effects. It won't wear off for a while, probably some time in her sleep."

 "I don't think it was that difficult to understand,"  says Jadeite. He recounts her few sentences.  "Beatrix was unable to get a good look at her attacker, as the alleyway was dark and the attacker struck within seconds of her opening the door. However, she could tell that the attacker had dark skin and clothing--though whether it was the black of a drow or brown of a humanoid is unclear. Finally,"  he adds,  "The attacker killed Perce (I believe that would be her nickname for Percival, but again I cannot be entirely sure of this point) before she was able to reach him. It is likely that the only reason she survived was because the attacker was not expecting her to leave the building so soon after killing Perce, and so he did not have time to land a precise killing blow like with his other victims." 

Jadeite finishes with a shrug.  "Of course I could be entirely wrong, and those rambling sentences were mere nonsense produced under the influence of powerful opiates." 
 
 Spoiler 
Yay having a high intelligence score!
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Thank you Beatrix, do you remember anything else? Did you hear anything at all? 
CoffeeIncluded
Beatrix shakes her head; she's barely awake now. "No. Just steel...and one scream." That might have been her, the scream that the group heard.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee quirked an eyebrow as she looked up to the elf once he had finished speaking.

 "But like eye said, the last two were hit in the back and aimed for the heart weren't they? Why was this guy's neck snapped instead? Didn't see the other bodies mind you, but eye didn't hear anything along the lines of THAT happening." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite shakes his head.  "The second murder was also committed in the same fashion, by severing the victim's spine. Presumably our serial killer is striking at whatever spots he can reach." 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee nodded slowly and shruged a bit then, turning her attention back to the recovering cleric yet still speaking to the elf and the rest of the group.

 "Neeevermind then! Unless we've got two kellers in witch case we're just talkin crazy, you can just ignore me when it comes to this kinda stuff." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite asks,  "Since our few witnesses are in no condition to speak at this time, shall we call it a day and try again tomorrow?" 
Devmaar
 Good idea Jadeite. I believe we were offered a free dinner.  Alim grins at his companions
CoffeeIncluded
Badger has little trouble finding the restaurant where they were offered a meal. Frankly it would be worrying if she had; the owner gave her the address. It's near the middle of Great Gate, on flat ground and surrounded by buildings. The restaurant isn't more than a few years old, and advertises Tunit Island fare--curries and other dishes from one of the northernmost Southern Islands, and the ones around it.

The owner perks up as he sees the group walk in, he nearly runs from the open kitchen area, where the heavy scent of spices wafts from and permeates the entire small but not quite cramped restaurant, and laughs as he gives each of them a friendly pat on the back. He's a large man, and sends Jadeite stumbling forward several inches; the elf immediately brushes off his robes and pretends nothing happened.

"There you are!" he says in his booming jovial voice. "The heroes of Great Gate, come on in! Everything's on me tonight, curry, drinks, you name it!"
Devmaar
Alim grins at the man,  Hello, thank you! I'll have a beer and a look at your menu please. 
CoffeeIncluded
The waiter immediately seats the group, and comes around with beers for everyone. The drinks are strong and full-bodied, but not as strong as the drinks in the Bogs. A waiter, his right arm ending in a stump several inches above where his wrist would be, hands out menus to everyone. Several curries are on the menu, ranging from relatively mild to mouth-blisteringly spicy, with meat, with cheese, with vegetables. There's dishes of rice and meat and spices, and flat breads with tangy sauces.
Athedia
The Badger accepted the menu, trying to avoid looking at the man's limb.   "Mild curry and plain rice.  I am not used to this kind of food." 
CoffeeIncluded
The man seems friendly enough, and the lost limb seems to be an old injury. He says, "If you want something mild, I'd recommend the korma. It's almost creamy, and not very spicy at all."

Jadeite points to a rather spicier dish and says,  "I will take this one,"  then gives Badger an almost challenging smile.
Athedia
 "The Korma it is then."  Badger smiled at Jadiete, refusing to give in to his challenge.   "I believe my friend here would appreciate the hottest food you have, and he has promised to eat everything you bring out to him.  Oh, and please bring him some water, other drinks make him ill." 
Devmaar
Alim orders one of the spicier dishes, but not the spiciest.  Vegetable please, and with flatbreads. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "But of course,"  Jadeite says, the smile never leaving his face.  "And my friend would like you to know that the korma is just a warm-up for her as well; she'll be sharing her meal with me. Or rather, we'll each get the same thing." 

The waiter takes down Alim's order, balancing the chalkboard on his stump, then pauses at Badger and Jadeite's one-upmanship. "Uhm, okay."
CoffeeIncluded
 "Neither will you,"  says Jadeite with what could be pity.  "After all, didn't you tell me you were lactose intolerant? I simply do not particularly enjoy dairy products." 
Athedia
 "Not lactose whatchu call it.  I simply avoid the milk served by the guild.  Who knows how long they have had it."   Badger pointed at the chalkboard, "An order of your fine yogurt as well." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Oh, that comes standard with the meal," the waiter says. "Frankly you're an idiot if you don't have it, though there are definitely idiots who take the Curry Challenge." He points at a large blank wall to the side, with only a few pictures of patrons and so much space around them. "They had a whole bowl of the phaal, with no yogurt--I assume that's what you're both doing?"

 
 Spoiler 
And yes, a hundred years from now Radic's on the wall.
 
Athedia
 "I feel it may be worth it.  Who else is in?"  Badger looked at the rest of the group, allowing her eyes to stay a second longer on Jadeite.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Challenge accepted,"  says Jadeite. He's still grinning.  "After all, where's the fun in doing this alone?" 

The waiter just looks alarmed at the group. Frankly the human with the armor and glaive was the only one he might have expected to take the challenge; maybe the short-haired girl with the henna tattoos, but definitely not the elf!
Silverraptor
 "I'll take the Korma as well." 
She looks down at the beer.
 "Do you have alternatives to alcohol?" 
CoffeeIncluded
"We have water, and several juices," says the waiter. "Are you sure you don't want anything?"
Devmaar
 Ah, I won't be taking the challenge thank you... 
Silverraptor
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 "We have water, and several juices," says the waiter. "Are you sure you don't want anything?" 
 

 I'll take cranberry juice if you have any. 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee gawked blankly at her menu for some time as the others spoke, still not quite used to the types of foods they have here. Eventually she just gave up and folded her menu shut, not even bothering to remember any spesific meals or the like.

 "Just get me some kinda cooked-up meat that's still kinda juicy, not too spicey... How the heck ded we get this meal again?" 
Athedia
 "Apparently the owner was happy that we risked out lives." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Your near-suicidal heroics?" asks the waiter. "It's more for the heroics bit than the near-suicidal part."

He points at each member of the group seated at the table. "I've got two Phaal challenges,"--he winces a bit--"two kormas, a goat biriyani, and what are you getting sir?" he asks Artorias.

 
 Spoiler 
I don't know if Artorias is going for the Phaal challenge or not, so Dusk I'm waiting for you.
 
Dusk Eclipse
Artorias is startled by the waiter's question, he had been rather been deep in though since they left the temple.
 "Huh, what?" Artorias quickly checks the menu, not having heard the waiter and orders the first thing that sounds tasty.

 "I'll have the Phaal thing-y and if you have something stronger than beer I would appreciate it very much..."  

edit inside: 
 Spoiler 

Sorry I haven't had reliable internet access with a computer the last few days (apparently my dad forgo to pay the internet bill ¬¬; but it should be ok now).


In case it isn't clear, Artorias just accepted the challenge without noticing.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The waiter's eyes nearly bug out of his head when he hears Artorias distractedly take the challenge. "O-Okay then."

He takes their orders to the back. Those with sharper hearing can swear they hear a large piece of kitchenware clatter to the floor in the kitchen.

The waiter soon comes out with beer for everyone. The mugs for Jadeite, Badger, and Artorias are noticeably larger than everyone else's.
CoffeeIncluded
After a relatively short wait, the waiter comes back with six plates of food.

Elsee's goat biriyani is savory and not too spicy, with just a bit of kick that becomes most apparent as she chews on the rice and sucks the goat meat off the bones.

Alim and Sora's chicken korma is a rich thick saffron color. It's relatively mild, with an almost pleasant heat that doesn't build too much in intensity, and is washed away with little trouble by water. The sauce itself is thick and creamy, and coats the rice. It really is delicious.

Jadeite, Badger, and Artorias' dishes are a deep red, almost black, threatening and bubbling like a cross between magma and tar--and they smell just as hot. There isn't even the delicious curry aroma from everyone else's dishes, just heat.

"May the gods be with you," says the one-armed waiter as he sets down the three chicken phalls in front of the foolhardy mercenaries., and a large bowl of rice in the middle for them to share. The heat sears the inside of their nostrils. He raises his voice for the restaurant to hear, "Let the Phall Challenge begin!"

Jadeite stares down at his curry, then looks at the others, stirs in some rice, and takes a large bite. The heat seems deceptively mild at first. And then it grows. And grows. It claws at his throat and sears his lips and tongue. He can feel the fire on his teeth! Still, Jadeite manages to swallow the first few bites, and manages to not wince even as it scorches all the way down his throat.

 
 Spoiler 
Fort save:  (d20+3)[ 14 ] 
 
Athedia
The Badger watched Jadeite's reaction to the spicy food.    Why did I do this?  Oh well let's get this over with   She poured a portion of rice onto her phaal and picked up her utensils.    Just eat it fast and get this over with.  
 
 Spoiler 
Fort Save  (1d20+5)[ 9 ]  vs DC 10
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Fort Save  (1d20+5)[ 8 ]  vs DC 12
Take 2 😡
 


Badger tried again, spitting out the spicy food as it touched her tongue.  Downing her entire beer she pushed the food away from her. "I did say I wasn't used to spiciness.  Can I have the korma now please." 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Challenge... what challenge?"  Artorias merely shrugs, thinking the waiter to be overtly dramatic, sure it looked spicy; but it couldn't be that bad... right?

Pouring some of the thick paste over his rice portion, Artorias simply eats a mouthful.

 
 Spoiler 

Fort  (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
 
Dusk Eclipse
 "Hey, this is pretty good!"  Artorias happilly swallows the phaal covered rice, thoroughly enjoying the tingling and searing sensation building up in his mouth and throat.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Now then Badger, it really isn't so bad,"  says Jadeite before taking another bite.

So much for smooth words. If anything, it's even hotter. The heat's filled his mouth by now and his migrating to the rest of his face; his eyes are watering and his nose is starting to run.

 
 Spoiler 
Fort save:  (d20+3)[ 6 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Wheezing against the sheer heat, more spice and pain than actual taste, Jadeite coughs, drains nearly half his beer, and tries again.

 
 Spoiler 
Fort save:  (d20+3)[ 19 ] 
 


With the temporary cooling of the beer, Jadeite manages to keep the next several bites down. But he's no longer even trying to hide the pain.
Athedia
Badger muttered into her beer,  "So I see it may be getting a little much for you, my dear elf." 
Dusk Eclipse
 "..."  Artoria continues eating, seemingly unaffected by the phaal.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+4)[ 21 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite wordlessly points at his nearly half-empty bowl of phall, then at Badger's untouched dish. Taking a deep breath, he scoops up another spoonful and shovels it in his mouth, sweating profusely even before he tastes it.

 
 Spoiler 
Fort save:  (d20+3)[ 8 ] 
 
Athedia
 "But I walk away with a full stomach, no pain and this tasty food."   The Badger made a show of accepting a replacement bowl of korma, and carefully tasting each bite a look of self satisfaction on her face.
CoffeeIncluded
A few bites in, and now the elf's ears are ringing. They're flared red all the way to the tips, and as the whining increases, he starts looking nervous. Still, he tries again.

 
 Spoiler 
And now I've got to roll a 19 or 20. Eh, he did a lot better than I was expecting. Good job, Jadeite. Better than Badger, anyway. 😏
 (d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 
Athedia
 "Oh, couldn't handle it?  Something about elvish brains, they don't know when to quit.  No common sense, not like humans or goblins."   Carefully Badger watched Artorias.  She prayed that he would last longer than Jadeite, and she was never the praying type.  She just wanted the elf to be beaten by someone.
Dusk Eclipse
 "What in the nine hells are you guys talking about?"  Artorias ask The Badger and Jadeite in between mouthfuls of curry.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+4)[ 14 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "And what is it I heard about human females? I'm terribly sorry for your frail constitution makes you unable to defeat a frail old elf like myself in an endurance contest,"  Jadeite says. Somewhere in the past few minutes he picked up a mildly spicy curry--something called aloo gobi, made with potatoes and spices.

He looks at Artorias, and waits.

 
 Spoiler 
Failed the fort save, Artorias. Try again against a DC 22.
 
Athedia
 "That we possess the brains to tell us when to quit and try again later?  I see why your school was so eager to give you that degree, if you are always as foolish as this." 
Dusk Eclipse
 
 Spoiler 
Roll take two... it would be DC 22? Crossing fingers.
 (1d20+4)[ 18 ] 
 
Dusk Eclipse
As he swallows another mouthful of Phaal, the pleasant tingling Artorias had been enjoying seems to burst in fire, causing him to cough and tear up a bit.

He quickly downs at least half of his beer trying to put out the inferno in his mouth and throat.

 "New question... what in the nine hells have I been eating?"

 

He manages to says in between coughs.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite grinds his teeth; anyone looking closely might see a vein pop in the back of his jaw. He says,  "I can see how pitifully uneducated you are, to confuse daring and panache, which any good research institution would promote, with foolishness." 
 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, Artorias.
 


With a smile, Jadeite turns to Artorias and says,  "Phaal curry; the spiciest item on the menu." 
Athedia
 "I have had plenty of education, which I doubt you would understand the nature of.  What you know of books I know of life." 

With that Badger finished her food in silence.  When she was done she thanked the waiter, saying she may visit again while not on the owners dime.  Patting Alim on the head she spoke to no-one in particular.  "I will be at the guild if you need me.  No point trying to find our killer when we are at a disadvantage." 

She quickly left the restaurant jogging back to the guild hall.  Naga was still there where she had forgotten him in the panic of the fire.   "Good boy, ready for bed?"  Badger scooped up the dishes of food and water that other guild members had put out for him and deposited them in the kitchen.  Not going up the stairs to her room like normal she instead walked with Naga to the kennel.  Sleeping with the dogs always made her feel better, and after a day like this she would try anything.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Spiciest thing in the menu? Nah, you are kidding.  Artorias answers, the sarcasm dripping from his mouth as he finish what's left of his beer.

Motioning over the waiter he politely ask.
 "Another beer if you would be so kind.  
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh dear. I may have gone too far with that one,"  Jadeite says quietly, into his bowl of curry. It's spicy, but not the searing pain of the phall. There's actually flavor in this; it's pretty good.

What was it with Badger though? She could definitely get cranky and cagey, and what was that name anyway?
CoffeeIncluded
The waiter comes over with a large beer and says, "If it makes you feel better, that was a good effort. I wasn't expecting you two to do so well. Especially you," he says to Jadeite.
Silverraptor
Sora remains relatively quiet as the 3 have their contest. She spoons in the last bite of her korma, takes a swig of cranberry juice, and says in a disapproving, half-mocking voice.
 "You're all idiots." 
CoffeeIncluded
As the group sans Badger waves goodbye and leaves the restaurant, they notice that it's drizzling a bit outside. It's not a heavy rain, but Jadeite and Artorias welcome any amount of coolness their mouths can get.

They return to the guild without incident and go to bed earlier than the night before.

The next morning is bright and clear. But the air is still, and hangs heavy and low in the sky. The more astute members of the party wake up with a nervous feeling in their stomach. Jadeite rises from his trance and immediately gets to work on his spellbook, pushing aside the protestations of his stomach on the meal the night before.

 
 Spoiler 
See character sheet for spells. Everyone ready for the day? I need spells from Sora, and...well, you'll see. Heh.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite walks into everyone's room. Loudly. Ensuring they're awake. However, he stops when he opens Badger's door.  "Has she already gone hunting for our serial killer?"  he asks.

 
 Spoiler 
Guys, I'm free tomorrow and much of the weekend. Let's finish up here!
 
Athedia
The Badger woke up from where she was curled up.  Naga had drooled all over one of her boots and there was some straw in her hair.  But she felt better, the dogs always made her feel better.

Leaving the kennel she snapped her fingers by her side and Naga followed her.  No-one was up when she grabbed some food and sat in a corner of the room eating the porridge slowly.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite sees Badger finishing her breakfast as he goes downstairs to get his. He and the others eat a quick meal before convening in the lobby.

 "Where should we search first?"  the elf asks.

 
 Spoiler 
Guys, please post.
 
Devmaar
 Obviously Badger's the expert but the Bogs may be a good starting point. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Then we will be counting on you and Elsee to guide us there without incident." 
Draconi Redfir
 "Ya sure you wanna go in there still after that bar fight awhile ago? Still possible someone might reccognise ya."  Elsee chewed on some breakfast saussages as she spoke, yawning heavily as she stuggled to keep her left eye open to the sunlight.  " 'nyways we saw the ked at the potions shop Alim was goin too last time, the woman there might know where he's at if he visits often enough." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "That would be wise,"  says Jadeite.

As the group follows Elsee's advice and lets Alim lead them to the apothecary, they can't help but notice that the Bogs seem more...subdued. Kids are still out playing in the mud, but the adults, the older Plavaan who fled persecution to Runite walk faster, don't quite look the humans and elf in the eye. They can't help but sense that Alim and Elsee are a calming presence that prevents the Plavaans' reaction from being worse.

Alim knocks on the door of the apothecary. He's greeted by silence, then a shout of, "I'm coming, I'm coming!" followed by the sounds of a chair scraped against the floor, footsteps, a loud crash, a cat's sharp yowl, and a curse followed by, "Ah shut it; it's not that bad!"

The old goblin woman opens the door; goggles are pushed over her eyes and she's wearing a stained and slightly burnt smock. Her frown is replaced with a smile as she sees Alim, and she says, "Hey, how's my favorite goblin doing? Killed them rats yet? Have some fun times with the lucky lady?" She gives Alim and Elsee an exaggerated wink.
Devmaar
Alim blushes and stammers,  Ah, um, well, we were actually just here to ask you something 
CoffeeIncluded
The apothecary grins wickedly and says, "Suuuure you are. So, what is it?"
CoffeeIncluded
The goblin apothecary shifts her stance. She looks at the other humanoids with Elsee and Alim and asks, "Ya sure you should be with them? I mean, with talk of this cleric killer, most of us are keepin' our heads down."
Athedia
Badger cleared her throat.   "We aren't here to do harm, and they are probably safer with us then alone at the moment.  And ma'am, we need your help, and your people's help to make the city safe again. For all of us." 
CoffeeIncluded
The apothecary looks at Badger, then at Alim, then at Badger again. She sighs. "You're the Badger, right? I think Alim's mentioned you a few times. I'm just praying the butcher ain't Plavaan, but...what do you need?"

Again, you can't help but notice how the Bogs are more subdued than they were a few days ago. It's not much, but it's definitely there.
Athedia
Badger quirked a half-smile as the woman noticed her.  Part of her was glad that her name was getting around, but she also wished not to be in the public eye.  "Well that is complicated.  We need your word not let any information leak out first, if our killer has any clue he may flee or worse change how he works." 
CoffeeIncluded
The old goblin  looks around, then crooks one green clawed finger, beckoning the group inside.

As they enter the shop, they notice the mixed smell of various herbs and potions and sundry goods, all floating together in the air. Dried herbs hang suspended from strings, bottles of potions are lined up in the shop, and behind the counter, a cauldron is bubbling somewhere between purple and brown. Long green reeds lie half-chopped on a cutting board next to the cauldron, and the wood beneath is stained and scorched in places.

A lean but healthy-looking black cat hisses and leaps onto a high shelf at the sight of Naga, curling up as his back brushes against several small wooden boxes.

The apothecary enters last, flipping the sign on the door to read  Closed  and shutting the door tight. She turns around. "Should be private now. What do you need?"
CoffeeIncluded
When nobody responds, Jadeite speaks up.  "I'll be blunt. Have you met or interacted with a half-drow named Cecil?" 

The goblin woman pauses, rubs her chin in thought for several moments. Finally, she says, "You know, I think I have. Came in a couple days ago, just--just let me--" She runs behind the counter and begins pawing through several sheets before finally coming up with one slip of paper. It's a receipt, and there's no invoice for poisons on there.

"I ain't seen him before, no wait, I think he came in about a week and a half ago too. Can't remember what he got then though, sorry."

 "It's okay. Thank you for this information,"  says Jadeite.  "So, shall we be on our way?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rolled her eyes unconciously at the Elf.

 "Didja forget why we came here ta begin with!?" 

Elsee turned her attention to the elder goblin, folding her arms over her chest as she spoke.

 "Ya know where he is? We kinda need ta talk to him." 
CoffeeIncluded
The apothecary slowly, hesitantly nods. "Somewhere in the Deep Bogs, I think. Near the real deep swamps."
Draconi Redfir
Elsee nods and claps her hands together to  get back any wandering attention anyone may have.

 "Right then! That narrows things down a bit then don't it?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Indeed it does,"  says Jadeite.

 
 Spoiler 
Are you all going to go there now? I'll need a couple Gather Information checks.

Are you going to drink the antitoxins?
 
Athedia
As they walked out of the shop, the Badger stopped Jadeite.   "Could you give me one of the anti-toxins? I don't want to risk a lucky hit from him."   Remembering they only had enough for the group she sighed and knelt down.   "Home, Naga.  Home!" 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite hands Badger a bottle of the alarmingly blue fluid, then distributes four more before pocketing the last.  "It would be prudent for us all to help ourselves." 

Naga whines and lowers her head, but follows her master's orders and heads back to the guild. Leif would let her in.
Athedia
The Badger examined the liquid.   "How long will this last? I may not want to drink it until we have found Cecil."   She pocketed the vial and strode ahead, ready to start her search.

 
 Spoiler 
First Naga is a male.

Second My Gather information Checks:
 (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 22 ] 
 (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Three hours pass with no sign of Cecil. The Bogs are hot and sticky, and the Plavaan refuse to cooperate; they're too nervous about the ill rumors. Finally, in the fourth hour, they make it to the Deep Bogs, thick with swampwater, quiet and isolated from the bustle of the city. There's few sounds of people, but instead the droning whine of mosquitoes. The sunlight is thick and faded through the haze.

The party finally comes upon a run-down house, the staircase rotting, the supporting stilts suspect. A rank smell comes from within.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, I didn't realize.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The door hangs ajar on one side. As the group peers inside the house, their range of vision is limited by the darkness shrouding everything inside. They can make out a countertop, a high shelf, a wall sloping out, and in the back, a wall.

Jadeite, Elsee, and Alim can see better by sheer basis of biology, and they can see a door in the back wall. This door is shut tight.

 
 Spoiler 
 Map. 

What do you guys do?
 
Silverraptor
Sora blinks in the dimly lit room.
 "Its too dark in here. Light!" 
Suddenly her holy symbol glows brightly and she holds it in her hand to light up the room.
CoffeeIncluded
Sora thrusts her lit holy symbol through the gap in the door. Now everyone can see that the wall on the other side of the large room has a door locked shut.

Nobody can see anything living in the room. There aren't any dead bodies either. However, there is chopped meat on the counter. All the furniture looks old, worn, and barely upkept, except for a shelf and lockbox in the back.

Elsee, Sora, and Jadeite:
 
 Spoiler 
There's a silence in the room where there wasn't before. Then, the faint sound of sliding metal.
 


Jadeite opens up his bottle of antitoxin and drinks it down.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee squinted her eyes as she tried to pinpoint the location of the sliding metal, carefully taking a few steps further into the room as she followed Jadeite's lead in drinking her bottle of antitoxin. She could already tell that if anybody was home, they knew they had company just from Sora's light spell, meanwhile she herself and the rest of the group were completely in the dark so to say of hopefully-half-drow-boy's location, were he even here to begin with. Silently as she could manage, Elsee slowly made her way into the room, drawing her Kurkri and raising them defensively as her eyes darted around this way and that, jumping to every creak and crack of the old building, keeping an eye out for any surprise attacks. She wouldn't be surprised if that sound had been a weapon being drawn, and she wouldn't let herself be caught off guard.


 
 Spoiler 


Move silently too... lets say K-10. (1d20+9)[ 28 ]

Aaand keeping aware of her surroundings incase of an ambush, i'm not sure wich one(s) would be applicable, so i'll just roll once for spot, listen, and search, just use wichever fits.

Spot: (1d20+2)[ 16 ]
Search: (1d20+3)[ 22 ]
Listen: (1d20+0)[ 1 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
The moment Elsee opens the door, something's thrown in the middle of the room that casts the center of the room in shrouded darkness that Sora's light cannot penetrate. She takes the clattering moment to sneak inside the house and look around. She can't see anything amiss, can't see anything in the dark at all, but...someone's inside.

Jadeite touches his chest as he enters, protecting himself in a shimmering magical aura.  "That's a darkness spell,"  he says quietly.  "It will be...difficult to accurately locate or attack anything within its radius." 
Athedia
Badger chugged her antitoxin as Elsee opened the door.  She could feel the hair on the back of her neck rise as she feared whatever was behind the door.

As the darkness spread she looked at the building.  Then she remembered how she had escaped from Feliks's home and tore toward the back.

 
 Spoiler 
First drinking the antitoxin
then double movement to W15
 
CoffeeIncluded
As Badger runs, she doesn't see any windows, at least none she can easily reach.

A soft blue glow envelopes Sora's holy symbol, highlighting her chest like a bulls-eye.

 
 Spoiler 
Spellcraft:  (d20+13)[ 16 ] 
 

 "Faerie Fire,"  hisses Jadeite.  "It's used to hunt in darkness. Sora, get out of here." 

Artorias  enters the building, stops next to Jadeite, feeling his long green hair brush against his face. The warrior stops and sniffs.

 "There,"  he says, pointing...ahead of him. Maybe.

Jadeite traces several sigils on his chest, silently.

 
 Spoiler 
False life: [roll]d10+3[/roll]

Need 2 actions each from Alim and Sora, and one action from Elsee.
 
Draconi Redfir
It was difficult to see now, Elsee could barely see her hand infront of her face, still she could hear the voices of her companions behind her, meaning anyone in front of her would be her enemy. Not wanting to let her opponent get the upper hand on her, Elsee moved silently to her left, focusing on her hearing to try and locate her attacker.


 
 Spoiler 


move silently to K7 (1d20+9)[ 27 ]
Listen: (1d20+0)[ 16 ]
spot: (1d20+2)[ 12 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee doesn't hear or see anything. It's quiet. Too quiet.

 "Come on out, Cecil,"  Jadeite says, as if admonishing a child hiding in the closet. If anything, the house gets quieter.
Devmaar
Alim drinks his anti-toxin and waits to the rear of the group. He calls out,  Cecil! If you come out peacefully we won't hurt you. 
CoffeeIncluded
Somewhere, in the dark, there's a pause. Sora's head dips, catching a bit of her face in the bulls-eye glow on her holy symbol over her heart.

And then, a quiet voice. "Is Baxter here too?"
Silverraptor
At Jaedite's yell at her, Sora backs up nervously about 10 feet. Then as an afterthought she focuses on her Amulet.
 "Sanctuary!" 
I glowing ring circles around Sora's feet and projects a transparent barrier around her.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Baxt--yyeess, Baxter is right here,"  Jadeite says, trying to catch himself.

Cecil pauses. In the dark, he asks, "Then where is she? And why did you bring  her? " he asks, his voice laced with venom.

When Sora casts her spell, Cecil hisses, "Damned cleric! You lied to me! I hate you! I hate you!" He draws his sword and runs straight at her, but is stopped by running straight into Jadeite's chest.

 "I'm afraid I can't let you do that,"  says the elf.

Cecil responds by stabbing Jadeite in the stomach.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+9)[ 15 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+9)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (d6+1)[ 2 ] 
Concealment (miss on 1):  (d5)[ 1 ] 
Jadeite's fort save:  (d20+8)[ 21 ] 
 


The point of Cecil's rapier tears through Jadeite's flowing robes, but somehow leaves his body intact.

 "Wrong move,"  Jadeite says.
CoffeeIncluded
Initiative:

 
 Spoiler 
Cecil:  (d20+9)[ 17 ] 
Jadeite:  (d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Artorias:  (d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Sora:  (d20+2)[ 8 ] 
Badger:  (d20+3)[ 6 ] 
Alim:  (d20+3)[ 22 ] 
Elsee:  (d20+4)[ 21 ] 
 


Initiative block order:

 
 Spoiler 
Alim and Elsee
Cecil
Jadeite, Artorias, Sora, Badger
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee turned her head as she felt a breath of wind rush past her, in addition to the voices of Cecil and Jadeite, she could vaguely see Cecil's form not too far away from her. Acting fast, she moved into position and attacked, the timing just right to heighten Jadeite's words.


 
 Spoiler 


moving to J 11/12, flanking Cecil, and able to sneak attack. Using nonleathal-damage enchantment still.

Attack: (1d20+9)[ 29 ]   (( +2 given for flanking))
Crit confirm if any: (1d20+6)[ 14 ]
Damage(using magic kurkri only due to move action) : (1d3+2)[ 5 ]
Sneak attack: (1d6+0)[ 8 ]

I’m guessing there's a concealment thing as was on jadeite, so i'll just copy what coffee did.

Concealment (miss on 1) (1d5)[ 3 ]
 

 
 Spoiler 

Sweeeet😁
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil yells as the dagger cuts into his back.

 
 Spoiler 
Was that for lethal or nonlethal? Also, nice hit; I'll work with the damage after I walk the dog.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim takes out his sling and hurls a stone at Cecil's direction.  "Please, come quietly!"  he pleads.

 
 Spoiler 
Cunning insight for damage:

Attack:  (d20+6)[ 12 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 9 ] 
Damage:  (d3-1)[ 1 ] 
Concealment (miss on 1):  (d5)[ 3 ] 
 


The stone shoots past Cecil and hits the wall.
CoffeeIncluded
With a snarl, Cecil steps back and mutters a quick incantation in his native dialect. His rapier seems to glint, even in the dark.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm not rolling for tumble since he automatically makes any tumble checks against AoOs.

Sora, Jadeite, Badger, and Artorias are up.
 
Athedia
Badger heard Sora's shout from around the side of the house and ran back.  Diving into the inky blackness she pushed past some robes and and almost tripped on what she hoped was Elsee or Alim as she shouted out for Cecil.   "It's me, it's B..Baxter!  We don't want to hurt you!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Run x4 movement to N11
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Yeah right!" shouts Cecil. "You--You've been tracking me down this whole time! I'm a Wolf's Head now! That night in the bar was all fake, wasn't it?!"

 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy, please.
 
Athedia
 "Yes, I was tracking you.  But I couldn't continue, I wanted to believe it was someone else." 
 
 Spoiler 
Diplomacy  (1d20+1)[ 6 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
You can hear Cecil grinding his teeth, hear the whine in his voice. "It doesn't matter! I'm a dead man anyway! Unless...Unless I go through you first!"
Athedia
 "Then kill me.  I have been dead for years."   Badger faced Cecil's voice without fear, if she could delay him long enough then the others would be safe.
CoffeeIncluded
"Then you know exactly what I mean," says Cecil.

 "Okay, enough chitchat, hands off Badger!"  shouts Artorias as he rushes forward and swings his glaive.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 11 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Damage:  (d10+5)[ 8 ]  for nonlethal
Concealment (miss on 1):  (d5)[ 5 ] 
 

 "Surrender now,"  says Jadeite as he casts his spell.

 
 Spoiler 
Color spray spell resistance:  (d20+3)[ 21 ] 
 


"Argh!" Cecil manages to leap over Artorias' weapon, but takes Jadeite's spell in the face; the flashing popping colors in the dark send him reeling back.
Silverraptor
Sora winces at the sound of combat.
 "Please! We don't need to do this. Can't we just talk?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Now for Diplomacy:
 (1d20+13)[ 17 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Like I can trust you and your kind!" shouts Cecil. He's staggered in the dark, with one hand clapped over his face.

 
 Spoiler 
Honestly the DC for that one was closer to "No."

Anyway, back to the top. Elsee and Alim are up.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee licked her lips as she looked around the room, blindly searching for the half drow as she twirled both kurkri in her hands. She took a few steps in a random direction, keeping her ears out to any signs of movement

 "C'mon ked, eye don't wantcha gettin inta trouble any more then you do. Hooowsabout we make a deal eh? I know a few folk back in the plains, great guys, love 'ta hunt. Give up now, give back the Wyvern, 'nd we'll find a way ta pass it off as the killer'nd you can disappear from the reccord books. Aaall fer the low-low price of not killin the guys who hate our guts enough already 'cuz of some old legend of theirs. Howsat sound 'eh?" 

As she spoke Elsee walked around quietly, trying her best to not stay in one spot for too long.


 
 Spoiler 


Diplomacy: (1d20+6)[ 18 ]
Move silently to P/Q 11/12: (1d20+9)[ 27 ]
aaand just for the sake of it, Listen: (1d20+0)[ 11 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee can see Cecil bent over, rubbing the sparks out of his eyes. He doesn't seem to react to her movement, but he does say, "You would, but she," he hisses at Sora, "Wouldn't. And Baxter would probably hound me too."
CoffeeIncluded
As Elsee moves through the house, she can see the door more clearly, along with the lock, shrouded in darkness. She can also see what may be a picture on the table across the room, but she can't quite tell.
Devmaar
 Come on Cecil. You can't win this, isn't it better to come out alive? 

Alim stays where he is, waiting for Cecil to reveal himself.
CoffeeIncluded
"And then what? Be handed over to the executioner? I'd rather die fighting than at the end of a gibbet!" His voice quavers, but he doesn't move; instead he continues to rub the sparks from his eyes.

 
 Spoiler 
Cecil's stunned. Badger, Artorias, Jadeite, and Sora are up.
 
Athedia
 "Name's actually Badger by the way.  If you are going to kill me, might as well know who I am."  Badger spoke as she crept closer to Cecil.  Launching herself at him she attempted to hold him still and overpower him.

 
 Spoiler 

1. AoO, does he get on while stunned?
2. Melee touch attack  (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Unh!" Cecil grunts as Badger grabs him.

 
 Spoiler 
No, you don't trigger an AoO from him. I'm going to roll both grapple checks now.

Badger's check:  (d20+4)[ 11 ] 
Cecil's check:  (d20+3)[ 5 ]  (why not have a dex modifier?)
 


Badger manages to successfully hold Cecil fast.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Allow me to assist you,"  says Jadeite as he hurls a spell at Cecil. Badger feels his skin dry under her hands.

 
 Spoiler 
Dessicate damage:  (d6)[ 5 ]  for lethal
Fort partial:  (d20+3)[ 14 ] 
Spell resistance:  (d20+3)[ 5 ] 
 


The humidity of the swamp, and Cecil's natural resistance mitigate the effects of the spell.

Artorias is more proactive, and thrusts his glaive at the half-drow.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 14 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (d10+5)[ 13 ] 
Concealment (miss on 1):  (d5)[ 1 ] 
 


Artorias can't get a good target on Cecil in the darkness without risking hurting Badger, and so his glaive goes wide.
CoffeeIncluded
Sora remains frozen in fear at the door, terrified of entering while the bullseye floats above her heart.
Devmaar
Alim moves up to the grapple, draws his longsword and stabs at the half-drow

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge: Local (for Knowledge Devotion)  (1d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Attack  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage  (1d6-1)[ 0 ] 

The devotion adds 2 to attack and damage
I'm hitting for non-lethal
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Dammit!" shouts Cecil as Alim's blade scratches his arm. "Come on Alim, you understand! You're Plavaan too, you know what they do to us!"

 
 Spoiler 
 Lethal or nonlethal?  Thanks. That's 3 damage total.
 
Devmaar
 Yes things need to change, but you're going about it the wrong way! 
 
 Spoiler 
Non-lethal, I edited it in, did you see the damage increase?
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Devmaar 
  Yes things need to change, but you're going about it the wrong way! 
 
 Spoiler 
Non-lethal, I edited it in, did you see the damage increase?
 
 
 

"And what way is there? They kill and kill and you're just going to take it?!" He tries to wriggle out of Badger's grip but is held fast. "Eventually you've got to fight back!"

 
 Spoiler 
I did, and thanks.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee answers Cecil's ranting question with two quick stabs of her own.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 12 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+3)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (d3+2)[ 5 ] 

Attack:  (d20+3)[ 12 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+3)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (d3+2)[ 4 ] 

Just missed, and I forgot to roll for concealment but it doesn't matter in this case.
 


Elsee's kukri's shred Cecil's clothes, but don't actually land a blow on him.
CoffeeIncluded
"Sorry about this,"  says Cecil as he wrests his hand to his side and draws a small dagger, "But if someone's dying today, it's not me!"

Badger can see that the dagger has an odd sheen--it's coated in poison. And then he plunges the dagger deep into her side.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+25)[ 28 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+25)[ 28 ] 
Damage:  (d4)[ 2 ]  plus sneak attack:  (4d6)[ 9 ] 

Cecil cast True Strike, which ignores concealment, so I think he also gets sneak attack off it since then Cecil's concealed but Badger's not.

Roll a fort save against the poison.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The pain from the venom is searing and almost blinding, but Badger manages to endure it. There may not have been as much on it as she thought.

Upon hearing Badger's cry, Jadeite hisses, "Hypocritical fool; you have made a fatal error!"  before shooting a draining ray at Cecil.

 
 Spoiler 

Ray of Enfeeblement:

Ranged touch:  (d20)[ 14 ] 
Spell resistance:  (d20+3)[ 9 ] 

Why do I keep missing rolls? Probably a reason now is because I'm watching a horrible reality show set WHERE I LIVE.
 


Cecil gasps, but is somehow able to shake the effects of Jadeite's draining spell.
CoffeeIncluded
With a cry of,  "Back off!"   Artorias thrusts his blade at the half-drow.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 25 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (d10+5)[ 8 ] 
Concealment (miss on 1):  (d5)[ 1 ] 

Badger and Sora are up.
 


The blow would have cracked Cecil solidly across the head...except that he shifted out of the way in the last minute while struggling with Badger. The powerful swing only hits empty air.
Athedia
 "Guess your poison doesn't work on me."  Badger grunted as she ignored the pain coursing down her side.  With a heave she attempted to smash Cecil into the ground, where he would be less able to hurt her.

 
 Spoiler 
Grapple check  (1d20+1)[ 20 ]  Forget by BAB should be 23
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil spits a curse at Badger as he's forced to the ground.
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Grapple:  (1d20+4)[ 22 ] 
Attack? (1d20)[ 12 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
Grapple:  (d20+3)[ 12 ] 
 


Badger manages to wrest the dagger from Cecil's grip, but as she moves to stab him, he grabs her wrist and holds it fast.
Silverraptor
Sora hears Badger cry out in pain and stumbles forward, making sure she doesn't bump into anything.
 "Badger, where are you? Are you hurt? Do you need healing?" 
Athedia
Badger grunted as she wrestled over the knife. Why had she sent Naga home? He would be useful right now.  "Not as much as Cecil will need when I am done."  It felt like he had not kept his nails short, they dug into the thin skin around her wrist.

 
 Spoiler 
Please! Yes she would like some heals.
 
Silverraptor
Using the sound of Badgers voice, Sora pinpoints and rushes over to where she is. Nervously aware that her amulet was lit up, showing her positioned, she was more concerned about Badger than her own life. As she approaches, she see's both Badger and Cecil grappled with each other. At first, she can't figure out who is who, but as she approaches, she realizes the light from the amulet could help her distinguish the 2 from each other. Converting the summon monster 2 spell in her mind, she tries to heal Badger.

 
 Spoiler 
I hope the description of the glitter spell was alright and accurate enough.

Cure Moderate Wounds:  (2d8+3)[ 11 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil stares at Sora, his red eyes smoldering in hatred. The half-drow can't get his eyes off the holy symbol of Astrid.

 
 Spoiler 
Alim and Elsee are up.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee sighed somewhat as the scene played out across the room, wincing at every fatal-damage blow dealt by her comrades. Seeing Cecil had been fairly pinned under Badger, and Badger adequately healed by Sora, she quickly stepped between the cleric and the assassin, twirling her Kurkri in her hands as she crouched down infront of Cecil to get a better look at his face in the darkness.

 "C'mon ked eye like ya"  She started.  "Whatset gunna take ta make ya just geve up so my buddies can quit whailin on ya? I like ya kid, you're kinda cute. I don't whantcha dead, 'nd 'm sure if ya stopped trying to murder the newbie here then the others wouldn't either. So howabout 'ya drop the knives, let Badger do a quick search of ya, 'nd we can have a little chat around some tea about why you're doin all this and how to get this wolf's head business -which I’ll tell you hasn't been officially declared yet-, outta the way and how ta get folks like us off yer back by shifting the blame to somethin else just long enough for ya 'ta skip town Hmmm? We'll even get the cleric 'ta go home if it bugs you so much.” 

Elsee rested her kurkri on their sides atop her legs, pinning them into place with her arms while her hands kept a fair grip on the handles. She could only hope the others would chill out if he actually listened to her, though doubting either outcome. This was the same group who had burst into a Plavaan bar fight weapons drawn and spells ready during a time of high tensions after all, and seeing as all other diplomacy attempts had failed, it seemed fairly likely that the kid wasn't going to quit anytime soon, quite frankly she'd be so surprised she would count the stars themselves to ensure she was still in the right version of reality of both her friends stopped attacking, and Cecil surrendered.

 
 Spoiler 


One last Diplomacy check now that the half-Drow is pinned.

(1d20+6)[ 25 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil can't quite look Elsee in the eye. "No, I saw the posters this morning." Now he looks up. "How can you possibly work with these...humanoids? How can you call them your friends? People like  her. "

The half drow continues. "We're chased off our plains and hunted for sport, and even here we're shunted off to the side in the ghetto! We've got to fight back! You and me, Elsee; don't betray your own kind!"

 
 Spoiler 
The diplomacy check did *something.* I'll tell you the specifics later, if you want.
 
Devmaar
Alim stands back warily, holding his sword.
 Don't you see that by killing you're justifying all the wrong the humans have done? Showing them they were right to call us savages? 
 
 Spoiler 
No combat actions this round
 
CoffeeIncluded
"They're the savages first!" Cecil shouts. "They kill everyone! They killed my--" Cecil stops, choking on his words. "You know what, Alim? You...I'm sorry, but you've gone soft. They've tamed you! We're nothing but monsters to them, so you know what?" The half-drow looks at Sora. "If you want a monster, then today's your lucky day!"

He wriggles free of Badger's grip, and draws a shortsword before thrusting it into Sora's chest.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+9)[ 19 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+9)[ 21 ] 
Damage:   (d6+1)[ 7 ]   6 plus sneak attack:  (4d6)[ 19 ] 

I rolled the opposed grapple checks in secret; Cecil beat Badger handily. Silverraptor, roll a fort save against poison. The potion bonus applies.

EDIT: Owwww...I think Sora's at -4.
 
Silverraptor
Sora stands motionless as the sword is stabbed through her chest. After a moment, she barely has time to utter a  "Oh..."  before falling over backwards unconscious.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, big mistake,"  Jadeite says with a visible hiss. He strides, almost glides, instantly over to Cecil, drawing his dagger, and attempts to grab him by the wrist, casting a spell into him.

 
 Spoiler 
Cast Parching Touch
Attack roll:  (d20)[ 14 ] 
Spell resistance:  (d20+3)[ 20 ] 
Concealment:  (d5)[ 5 ] 
Fort save:  (d20+3)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (d6)[ 3 ]  LETHAL
 


"Arrrgh!" Cecil shouts as his wrist shrivels under Jadeite's firm grasp. Blood soon reflows into the wound, but the skin is clammy and drawn, and even in the half-light the color doesn't look quite right.

At the same time, with an audible hiss, Hemlock leaps off Jadeite's neck to bite into Cecil's hand.
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+4)[ 6 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+4)[ 17 ] 
Damage: 1
Poison fort save:  (d20+4)[ 18 ] 
Poison damage:  (1d6)[ 5 ] 
 


Hemlock's bite can't quite penetrate his glove, despite sinking in deep. They must be made of a special material.

 "Sora!!!"  Artorias rushes to the dying cleric, leans down, and unloads nearly all the charge from his healing belt in one go, in a desperate attempt to staunch the bleeding, though the floor beneath her and her clothes are already stained red.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal:  (2d8)[ 2 ] 
 


There's so much blood, and so much damage, nearly all of the magic is spent just trying to prevent the cleric from bleeding out. When it's done, she's unconscious. But her life is no longer in immediate danger. And there doesn't seem to be poison working its way through her body.

Cecil...seems to stop for a moment. For a beat in time, his eyes seem to go wide.

 
 Spoiler 
I think Sora's still unconscious, at -2 and stable. Athedia, you're up.
 
Athedia
Badger stood up with a crazed grin on her face.  A trickle of blood ran down the side of her face from where she had bit her lip during the struggle.  Dropping her bow she pulled out one of the hatchets she kept by her side.

 "Now, now Alim's no monster.  Sora's no monster.  The Plav's are no monsters."   She flipped the hatchet in the air once, twice, three times and then brought it swinging toward Cecils head, her eyes flashing in the dark.   "But now I am!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 6 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil dodges to the side; the axe swings through the air and leaves a splintered gash in the ground where it slams.

 
 Spoiler 
Of course it's a crappy roll. I'm sorry, Athedia.

Are you hitting for Lethal now?

Oh, and now Alim and Elsee are up again.
 
Athedia
The Badger grinned at where Cecil had dodged to. "How long can you run?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Very Lethal
 
CoffeeIncluded
"How long can you keep swinging that?" Cecil grins back. But some of the bravado's gone out of his voice, and he's become aware of the five conscious members of the party surrounding him, closing in.
Devmaar
 Dammit!  Alim steps in, swinging his sword

 
 Spoiler 
Cunning insight on attack
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 26 ] 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 3 ] 
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee snarled and sighed as she drew her blades again, wishing it hadn’t come to this.

 "For the record, 'm workin with 'em 'cuz i owe em, big time. And really, can ya blame 'em for giving us a ghetto? This place was full even before we showed up, they barely have enough room for other humans, much less three-plus races of immigrants! Shoulda been glad ya already knew how to live in a swamp and that you had a roof over your head, i've seen a looot of human, elf, and every other paleskin Bums who would LOVE to get in on that action. As for my kind? Mine are short and green, medium and orange, or tall and brown. What are yours?" 


Figuring she'd do the kid a favor and try to knock him out before he was killed, she brought up her blades and aimed at his arms, hoping he'd pass out from pain or something.


 
 Spoiler 


A NON-leathal attack, with two kurkri since I’m not moving

(1d20+3)[ 10 ]
(1d20+3[ 22 ]

1st crt if any (1d20+3)[ 23 ]
2nd crit if any (1d20+3)[ 19 ]

damage:
(1d3+3)[ 4 ]
(1d3+2)[ 3 ]

Sneak attack due to flanking:

(2d6+0)[ 6 ]

And just for the sake of it, lets throw in a diplomacy roll to see if he surrenders.

(1d20+6)[ 9 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Stunned at the goblins turning on him, Cecil tucks into a roll, trying to duck under Artorias, beside the unconscious Sora, and flee the battle.

 
 Spoiler 
Tumble:  (d20+16)[ 19 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I don't think so!"  roars Artorias as he swings the glaive down on Cecil's head. This time, he's aiming to kill.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack of Opportunity:
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 21 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (d10+5)[ 10 ]  LETHAL
Concealment (Miss on 1):  (d5)[ 4 ] 
 


The sharp blade misses a lethal blow, but it splits Cecil's back, spatters his white hair red.

 
 Spoiler 
Athedia, you're up.
 
Athedia
 "Not so fast."  Badger grunted and hurled the hatchet at Cecil as he ran.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (1d20+6)[ 8 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+1)[ 2 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The axe misses Cecil and buries itself into the wall next to him, vibrating. As he whips his head around, he fails to see Artorias' blade yet again come crashing down.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+6)[ 16 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+6)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (d10+5)[ 6 ] 
Concealment (miss on 1):  (d5)[ 5 ] 
 


Artorias just barely misses his target.
CoffeeIncluded
With an uncharacteristic growl, Jadeite draws his crossbow and fires it right at Cecil.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 6 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+3)[ 7 ] 
Damage:  (d8)[ 1 ] 
Concealment:  (d5)[ 2 ] 
 


At the same time, Hemlock slithers onto the ground to sink his teeth into Cecil's ankle.
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+4)[ 8 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Damage: 1
Fort save:  (d20+3)[ 14 ]  Con damage:  (d6)[ 3 ] 
Concealment:  (d5)[ 3 ] 
 


Neither wizard nor familiar can hit their targets.

 
 Spoiler 
Alim and Elsee are up.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rushed after the half-drow as he took off, swinging her Kurkri wide as she was finally within reach.  "Sorry Ked!" 
 
 Spoiler 


attack
(1d20+3)[ 15 ]
If crit
(1d20+3)[ 19 ]
Damage (non-leathal)
(1d3+3)[ 4 ]
 
Devmaar
Alim presses a catch on his sword hilt, causing a small vial to be released. Catching the vial in his other hand, he splashes the contents onto his blade as he swings at Cecil again

 
 Spoiler 
Cunning Insight on attack
Attack  (1d20+8)[ 28 ] 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 4 ] 

If it hits, Cecil can make a DC 16 fort or take  (1d4)[ 4 ]  Dex damage and is vulnerable to fire for 10 rounds.
 
CoffeeIncluded
In two simultaneous flashes of green, the two goblins spring into action. Cecil manages to side-step Elsee's sweeping blow, but that was just the set-up. Out of nowhere, Alim comes crashing down, landing on Cecil head-first.

The half-drow doesn't even have time to react. He follows Alim's arc, and falls unconscious to the ground.

 
 Spoiler 
Fort save:   (d20+4)[ 8 ]   7 and either way he fails.

Cecil is now unconscious, due to a combination of lethal and nonlethal damage; that just put it over the top. Fantastic work, everyone.
 
CoffeeIncluded
The moment Cecil is knocked out, Artorias runs to Sora and expends his last healing charge, praying that it's enough to bring her back to consciousness.

It works. Sora lets out a gasp and opens her eyes.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal for:   (d8)[ 4 ]   11 HP

Sora's at 9 HP.

Okay, everyone in the party's conscious, Cecil's unconscious but still in positive HP, the Darkness spell and concealment will be up for some time, and you've got a house to explore. So... *Rubs hands excitedly*
 
Devmaar
Alim kneels beside the body and takes a pulse
 He's alive. Someone get some rope.  with that Alim start rifling through Cecil's pockets and patting him down for anything concealed

[take 20 on search for a 24]
Athedia
Badger calmed down, tearing her hatchet out of the wood. "Good, your alive."   She helped Sora up before grabbing Cecil and removing all his weapons.   "You can help me wake this one up.  We need to know if he placed any traps around here." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite kneels down next to Alim and helps search Cecil as well, stripping him of anything valuable while Hemlock searches through his sleeves and pant legs. The elf's eyes flash with a few muttered words, and he begins separating the possessions on Cecil's body into two piles--one for magical items, the other for mundane items.

The pile of mundane items contains the dagger, the shortsword (still stained with Sora's blood, and a hand crossbow with 20 bolts. All the items are masterwork and Alim can tell that the hand crossbow's loaded with a poisoned bolt. Also in the pile is Cecil's armor--masterwork studded leather--and  (5d20)[ 56 ]  gold.

The pile of magical items contains the rapier (also poisoned), the finely wrought gloves he's been wearing the entire fight, a cloak, three wands, and three potions. Alim remembers that Cecil bought these potions at the apothecary a while back--all three are potions of Cure Moderate Wounds.

 
 Spoiler 
You can have all the magical items identified later, and there's more to find, both treasure and plot-related.
 

 "I would prefer to restrain him first,"  Jadeite says.
Devmaar
Alim sniffed at one one of the bottles and tasted it,  Yes, these are healing potions if anyone requires such 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite turns around to see Sora coming around.  "Are you okay?"  he asks. Then pauses for a moment, as if he himself is surprised at the words that came from his mouth.
CoffeeIncluded
When Badger asks to wake Alim, Jadeite asks,  "Would you honestly trust him to tell us which areas in his house are safe?" 
Athedia
 "If we make him walk in before us he will."   Badger grabbed Cecil by the collar and shook him before dropping the unconscious body to  the ground.
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil just drops limply to the ground, though he does whimper, "Not now, 'Art..."

 
 Spoiler 
I think you need to heal him before he regains consciousness. He's at 19 HP but has 26 nonlethal damage.
 

 "While he's in dreamland,"  Jadeite says coldly,  "Perhaps we should see what answers his house holds. I doubt his domicile will withold as much information as Cecil likely will." 
Silverraptor
Sora treats the return to consciousness with a confused set of blinks, before the partly healed wound makes itself known causing her to let out a high screech yelp of pain.
 "Aiiiih! Cure Moderate wounds!" 
She doubled over, placing both her hands over the wound and letting the spell loose, trying to rid the pain entirely.

 
 Spoiler 
Cure Moderate Wounds:  (2d8+3)[ 10 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Sora's wounds mostly knit themselves together, though they're still a bit open. Still, by tomorrow they should be scabbed over.

 "Welcome back, Sora. Do be more careful next time you go and try to get yourself killed. At the very least, could you please be considerate enough to wait until I finish writing and distributing my contracts?"  There's a wry smile on the necromancer's face, but the relief in his voice is obvious.

 
 Spoiler 
And goodnight, everyone! Don't forget, right now, Cecil is NOT tied up.
 
Silverraptor
Sora gasps a few times before reducing herself to deep breaths. She shakes her head, not looking up.
 "Shut up, Jadeite!" 
Athedia
Badger waited for someone to find something to tie Cecil up with  before sighing and searching the room for some rope.

 
 Spoiler 
If any is found, Use Rope  (1d20+3)[ 14 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger finds a short coil of rope in the kitchen. It's somewhat frayed at the ends, but it should do the trick.  
 Spoiler 
You have time to take 20; do you want me to assume you did that instead?
 


While searching, Badger finds some old drawings. They look professionally done.
Athedia
Badger grabbed one of the drawings and passed it to Sora. "You know anything about art?"   Then she knelt and started tying up Cecil before he woke.   
 Spoiler 
I forgot about take 20, need to reread those rules. And yes please
 
CoffeeIncluded
If Sora looks at the picture, and if Badger does too:
 
 Spoiler 
The pictures look commisioned. They depict a familt of four: a human female, a drow...probably male,and two half-drow, both also probably male. The older one looks like Cecil.
 


Knowledge (Religion) dc 20:
 
 Spoiler 
The younger half-drow apears to be dressed for a coming-of-age ceremony
 
Athedia
 "A brother...or sister, maybe."   Badger was staggered, Cecil had never mentioned his family, except.   "He said we killed them.  Did he mean them?"   She looked at the picture again.  If he had lost his family, that would drive any person insane.
CoffeeIncluded
There's some pictures of them in previous years, one with Cecil wearing the same garb and his sibling barely out of toddler years. But the picture Badger first picked up appears to be the last one.

There's writing on the back.

 
 Spoiler 
What languags does Badgr know?
 
Silverraptor
Sora looks over the picture, her attention focused on the human woman.
 "But his mother was human! Why would he want to kill human clerics?" 
Athedia
 "I don't know.  Jadiete, is this elvish or something?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Only Common.  BTW I just started playing LA Noire on my new computer (which I finished building yesterday!).  So now I am picturing Badger as in the game.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite takes the letter, and flips it over.  "Close, it's drow. The two languages share the same alphabet, and possess similar grammatical rules and vocabularies. I should be able to translate it." 

He reads it slowly, sounding out the letters silently in his head. His finger traces the words, and then he takes out a sheet of paper. He writes something in Elvish on that sheet, looks between the two sentences, compares them to each other, and then finally says,

 "I believe it says:  I'll never forgive them. I wish I could have protected you."  
 
 Spoiler 
He can translate simple sentences like this, but anything more complex would be beyond him.
 
Devmaar
 Let me take a look  Alim does know Drow
CoffeeIncluded
Alim:

 
 Spoiler 
The words on the back say:  I wish I could have protected you. I could have, should have done something. I'll never forgive them for what they did. 
 


The handwriting is also shaky.
Athedia
As Alim took the paper to translate, Badger questioned Jadeite.   "Always was curious, what is different really about Drow? Humans come in all shades, and from looking at you and one of them, you"re both pointy eared and creepy.  What makes them Plav and you, well...not?" 
 
 Spoiler 
GAHH! Keep messing up your and you're and then noticing after posting.  My mom is an ex-librarian turned English teacher, I could be disowned for getting that wrong!
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite nudges the unconscious half-drow with his shoe.  "Truthfully there is little physiological difference between elves and drow; much of the variation is cultural. Drow tend to be more photosensitive than elves and are less..."  He pauses, searching for the word,  "Drow are more resistant to the effects of arcana than elves are; they can endure some spells more easily. Nobody has figured out why yet." 
 
 Spoiler 
Heh, both pointy-eared and creepy.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite goes over to the locked door.  "Is anyone able to open this?" 
Silverraptor
Sora puts her hands out in the air, as if to say 'Don't look at me.'
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grunts and otherwise silently raises her hand,  "Guessen that's my job, heard somethin in there earlier, probly the wyvern. So if ya get attacked by a baby monster then ya probly stood too close to the dang door." 

Without much else to say, Elsee broke out her theives tools and twirled them about in her hands as she approached the door. Thankfully the lock was at the perfect height for her to look directly into, meaning she didn't need to deal with the hastle of standing up on her toes or crouching down as most medium-sized individuals did. She didn't bother looking for traps, the guy was living here for petes sake, what kind of person booby-traps his own home right!?

 
 Spoiler 

open lock;
(1d20++4)[ 17 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
The door sticks, but creaks open when Elsee rams it with her shoulder.

The first thing the group notices is the dark. The second thing they notice is the smell--a mixture of blood, dung, and rotted meat. The darkness spell reaches into this second room as well, but even in the shadowed half-light, the group can see a large hunk of...bone, with long shreds of meat hanging off. It's a big bone, gnawed at the edges and in the middle, a large leg bone, probably too large to be human.

They then hear a scuttling in the corner of the room, and what sounds like a whimper. A deep one.
Athedia
 "Oh god, what did he do."   Badger walked into the room carefully, peering through the darkness.   "Hello, do you understand me?"   Did wyverns even speak like humans?  Was it even a wyvern?
CoffeeIncluded
Badger and the rest here more scuttling, something beating against a wall, and a hiss.

Jadeite, and anyone else who speaks Draconic:
 
 Spoiler 
It's a deep voice, a threatening hiss, but the actual words spoken are a fearful, "W-who are you?"
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee, not being able to understand Draconic, simply rolled her eyes at Badger's question.  "Et's an animal Badger, they don't speak or thenk like we do.  You don't go around talking to your dog about the latest book it read now do you?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite shakes his head.  "It's speaking Draconic, and inquiring who we are. It appears to be rather frightened." 

Clearing his throat, the elf answers in a growling hiss,   "We do not mean any harm. Who are you, and why are you here?"  

There's a pause, and a growl in response. Jadeite translates,  "The creature says he is a wyvern, and was taken by Cecil approximately two weeks ago. However, he cannot exactly determine how much time has passed." 
Athedia
Badger fought the urge to stick her tongue out at Elsee.   "Give animals some more credit, Naga can best some our guildmates in tests of wits."  Turning to the wyvern she rubbed the back of her head.   "So umm, I am assuming you were with Feliks then.  You know it's illegal for him to keep you in the city limits, and I guess if you are intelligent and Jadeite isn't just pulling another prank, you would be tried as well.  I wonder if wyverns can testify in court?"   Badger stood for a second in thought before looking sideways at Jadeite.   "You know it would be very inappropriate to pull a trick on me right now Pointy.  Hey wyvern, do your growl thing three times if he is telling the truth." 
CoffeeIncluded
At the sound of Badger and Jadeites' voice, the wyvern slinks closer to them. He's smaller than they expected, about the size of a pony, hunched forward on the ground. His claws look rubbed raw against the partially rotted wood and sores are beginning to develop where his scales have scraped the floors, ceiling, and walls. His tail looks...slightly mangled, as though Cecil didn't quite know how to extract the poison.

The baby wyvern tilts his head at Badger's speech, then looks at the rest of them, paying most attention to Badger and Jadeite.

 "He doesn't understand you,"  says Jadeite.  "And honestly, why would I jest about this?" 
 
 Spoiler 
The wyvern only speaks Draconic. He doesn't know more than a few words of Common. You could get a scroll of Comprehend Languages or Tongues or something and understand/talk to him that way though.
 
Athedia
 "Boy who cried wolf and all that."   Badger stared at the pitiful creature.   "Um, could you tell it I am trying to help? So I don't get bit or something?"   Badger swung her pack off her back and took out her kit. Gently she opened it and showed the creature the contents.  She then carefully approached the wyvern and attempting to dress the worst of it's wounds.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal Check  (1d20+8)[ 28 ]   with bonus from kit, mostly for flavor since I don't think it will do anything.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite doesn't even have to say anything at first. The wyvern stiffens, then relaxes as Badger cleans and dresses his wounds. Kheel flinches, but it's clear he understands that she's trying to assist.

  "That's right, she's just helping,"   he says.
CoffeeIncluded
Badger finishes patching up the baby wyvern, who still seems skinny, but is in better shape than before. The darkness is wearing off, and in the gradually brightening room they can see the mottled purple and gray of the creature's scales.

The wyvern sees Cecil tied up and unconscious on the ground, and growls.

 
 Spoiler 
What are you going to do with them both?
 
Silverraptor
Sora looks between the wyvern, to Cecil, before hesitantly placing a gentle hand on the wyverns head, as if to pet it.
 "I'm with you on this." 
CoffeeIncluded
The wyvern starts and stiffens under Sora's hand. Then, as before, he relaxes. He turns and sniffs the blood on Sora's chest, then grumbles something.

  "You can't eat that. We'll get you meat soon,"   Jadeite says, before turning to the group and explaining,  "He's hungry." 
Silverraptor
Sora turns to Jadeite.
 "What do Wyvern's eats?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Meat, mostly,"  Jadeite says.  "Honestly, did anyone read the books we retrieved from Feliks' house?" 
Devmaar
 Ok, I'll go get some meat while the rest of you look round the house. Don't touch any herbs or anything in vial or flask unless you're  absolutely  certain what it is. 
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Arcana  (1d20+9)[ 19 ]  to pick up any details on what we'll need
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim:

 
 Spoiler 
He needs meat, and a lot of it--he's growing after all. That poisonous stinger looks pretty badly hurt; Cecil probably had no clue how to extract the poison and so inadvertently damaged it in the process.

Are you going to search the house?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Anyone searching the house:

 
 Spoiler 
You find various foodstuffs, some books, and old furniture. You also find in a drawer an old bracelet and some ceremonial-looking clothes.

You also find two vials containing a clear, slightly viscous substance and a wallet containing  (10d100)[ 540 ]  gold.
 
Athedia
Badger shrugged.   "They started using weird words, but the diagram's were cool."   Badger looked at the tied up Cecil,  "Sora, would you mind waking him for me?  I want to have a little chat." 
Silverraptor
Sora subconsciously puts a hand over the half-healed wound on her chest.
 "Do *I* have to?" 
Athedia
 "Well, none of the rest of us can heal very easily.  So it will have to be you.  Just show you are a better person." 
Silverraptor
Sora groans.
 "Alright. I guess if I have to..." 
She bends down and focuses.
 "Cure Light wounds!" 
After healing, she quickly backs away.

 
 Spoiler 
Cure Light Wounds:  (1d8+3)[ 9 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil opens one eye blearily, then notices his circumstances--tied up and lying down in front of the group. He strains and struggles, but can't break free.

 
 Spoiler 
He's not making either check.
 



"What are you doing?!" he spits out. "If you're going to kill me, then just run me through and be done with it! Don't make me a show too!"
Athedia
 "No-one here is going to kill you, at least not while you are tied up and helpless.  If you escape, I have an arrow with your name on it, but I doubt that will happen."   Badger crouched down next to him and gestured to the wyvern.   "Thing is, we want to know why? Sora never hurt you, hell I have never seen her fight anyone.  Between the two of us I think she is afraid that fighting would damage her clothes.  So why don't you tell us about these people, are they your family?"   Badger held out the picture she had found.
CoffeeIncluded
"Give that back!" he cries out, thrashing against the bonds, trying to snatch back the picture. "That's mine! You can't have it! That's all I have of them, don't take that too!" He glares at Badger, his teeth set in a snarl. But his voice is desperate, almost pleading.
Athedia
 "Calm down, I am not going to damage it."   Badger waited until Cecil stopped thrashing and laid the picture down in his lap.   "Now, will you tell me what happened to them?" 
CoffeeIncluded
"What do you think?!" Cecil retorts. "You humans went and killed them all! Everyone! Ev--Even Mom..."

The photo shows a human woman. She doesn't look Kagoan though; she's probably from Tobeem.
Draconi Redfir
 "And ya thenk that's an excuse?" 

Elsee plopped herself down nex to to Cecil and Badger as they spoke, listening on their conversation.

 "a back home a small group of hobgoblins raided our village fer it's resources, killed my grandmother before my dad was even full grown, ya thenk  he  went off on a huge revenge spree against the entire subspecies? Nuh'uh, didn't need to. The warriors captured or killed the hobo's who did it 'nd we kept on trading with our hobby brothers 'nd sisters." 
 "Few months after i left i ran into some Orcs who had recently been robbed by some Dwarvish highwaymen. First thing we did after they let me stay with em a few nights was go to a Dwarven bar some gerl set up after hearin 'bout our hard times. 'er name was Grilda, real nice lady, gave away free bread 'nd cheep booze while funding herself by trading anything the Plav's brought in 'ta sell with richer Paleskin settlements without the bias. Try 'n touch her 'nd every Orc in the room would be on your ass faster then dust on a broomstick." 


Elsee leaned in close to Cecil, squinting her eyes at him, flashing a glance from the photo before jumping back to his own eyes.

 "What makesya so special 'eh? What makes ya think ya kin take out some petty grudge on a whole species for the actions of some small group? 
 
 Spoiler 


Dunno if this is intimidate or Diplomacy, so i'll just roll both, take whatever works.
Intimidate: (1d20+5)[ 18 ]
Diplomacy: (1d20+6)[ 22 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil quails, but says, "Why don't you go ask the Astridians that same question? They're the ones killing us for what our ancestors may or may not have done! It's right in their ****ing holy texts!" He points at Sora. "She's a cleric of Astrid, that means she's been raised to be our enemy!"

 
 Spoiler 
True in some cases, not in others. Things are starting to change. But you already knew that.
 
Athedia
 "Sora, kill someone?"   Even under the seriousness of the situation Badger started to laugh.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite covers his mouth too, but anyone looking can see the grin.

Cecil's mouth hangs agape in disbelief.

"You think it's funny?! You think it's a joke?!"

 
 Spoiler 
Cecil holds more hatred than the average Plavaan, and he doesn't know Sora.
 
Athedia
 "No, not a joke.  The death count, your family and the innocent clerics you murdered, that is serious.  But your reasoning is.  I can tell you that other humans can be horrible people, but for each one of them there are hundreds of people who just want to live their lives, raise their children and in Sora's case buy new clothes.  All you are doing is making those people who would wish you harm feel justified."   Badger shifted into a crossed legged position facing Cecil.
Silverraptor
Sora looks around, half leaning on the table.
 "Well, I don't know about other clerics, but I certainly haven't killed anyone. And seriously, those classes they put me through were so boring at times. If it wasn't for the rod, I'd probably have slept through half of them." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Oh, then you missed out," Cecil snarks.

He turns to Badger. "I'm just paying them their proper dues. They were either going to make our lives hell or were already doing it. I can't bring back Artim or my parents, but I sure as hell am going to avenge them!"
Silverraptor
Sora raises an eyebrow in confusion.
 Wait, that doesn't make a lot of sense. To avenge your dead family, your going to kill others who didn't even know your family existed? How is that going to avenge them? Cause it sounds like if everyone used that logic, then once someone dies, everyone needs to kill everyone else and then no one's left alive..." 
 
 Spoiler 
I hope I captured the innocent clueless version of Sora really well.😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil glares up at Sora, grinding his teeth. A vein pulses in his temple. He opens his mouth to speak, but nothing comes out. He tries again, but all he can say is, "Shut up! Shut up! You don't know, how could you know, you don't...understand..."

 "Are you sure we'll get much else out of him?"  Jadeite mildly remarks.

 
 Spoiler 
You did. Good job.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grins and pokes Cecil's cheek lightly with one finger, the gears in her mind twisting and turning as a brand new scheme formed in her mind.

 "Tell ya what ked. you know who specifically killed yer family? If they're still alive somewhere, 'm sure we could track 'em down 'nd help ya get yer - proper - revenge before turnin you in. Maybe then 'ol mom 'n pops will be able ta bear lookin at ya." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite turns at looks at Elsee.  "Do you realize what you are requesting?!" 

Cecil stops and stares at Elsee. "Even if they're still alive...You'd really do that?"
Draconi Redfir
Elsee shrug and turns to Jadeite.

 "Ya wouldn't want the same? Way i see it he's just a messed up ked with anger issues, 'nd pretty much everyone in here knows there's no way 'ah him gettin out of this alive, 'nd he's pretty much screwed Plavaan reputation here in the process. May as well get Some good out of the whole deal by avenging an innocent family right!?" 

Elsee turns back to wink at Cecil

 "No offence" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "He is a criminal, a murderer, and this occurred years ago on the other side of the continent. Honestly, Elsee,"  Jadeite says with a sigh.
Draconi Redfir
 "And if he made it this far from there in that long, then it's not possible the other guys could have done the same!? They could be right next door fer all we know!" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Except that the others had no need to flee, unlike Cecil." 
Draconi Redfir
 "Neither did i! Neither did you! Neither did any immigrant to this entire gaddang city! People just move sometimes! Maybe it was for a new job or a new family or just for the heck of it! But it's at least possible to - find - them! Even ef we DON'T do anytheng about et!" 
CoffeeIncluded
"What the heck?" Cecil says, "You seriously think we all came here just because we wanted to?"
Draconi Redfir
 "Kinda excluding the obvious here ked, more reffering to Elves, Dwarves, 'nd Gnomes 'nd such." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "That is exactly my point,"  Jadeite says.  "Runite is a city where all races can be tolerated, if not openly and fully accepted. Cecil here has threatened to destroy this tenuous balance. He must pay the penalty." 
Draconi Redfir
 "And he Will, but seesh, ya can't at least take some pity on a kid who's family was killed infront of his eyes in cold blood?"

"Come to think of it, We haven't even heard how that happened now did we?" 

Elsee turned slightly towards Cecil, raising an eyebrow expectantly.
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil pauses and shakes his head. He mutters, "It was the day of his ceremony..." but nothing else.

 "Really now Elsee. You call me cruel, yet you wish to make him relive the worst day of his life?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee rolls her eyes and opens and closes one of her hands in a "mouth won't stop talking" fashion while mutely blathering on about absolutely nothing herself. She figured she's wait a bit and see what the other's thought of the idea.
CoffeeIncluded
 "You do realize,"  Jadeite adds,  "That even if we are to track down his presumably Kagoan killers, even if we are assuming they still live, we would have to travel across the continent? Through two separate warfronts?" 
 
 Spoiler 
Around this time period there's the revolution in Laria that overthrew the inbred king and installed Elroy Ashblade as the Larian king, and a large war between Kago and Tobeem. Some of the more eastern Plavaan tribes have been caught up in this war.
 
Athedia
Badger watched the argument go back and force for a while before speaking.  In a quiet voice, she muttered.   "I would be willing.  But Cecil, I want to ask you.  If your family could see you now, what would they say?  Would they think you were honoring their memory?" 
CoffeeIncluded
"I bet they'd be happy," Cecil says, having recovered. "They'd be glad I'm avenging them, and you're avenging them too!"

Jadeite just rolls his eyes and shakes his head, reaching his hands to the sky in a plaintive gesture.  "Am I the only one who realizes how incredibly impractical and unrealistic your proposal is?" 
Athedia
 "Look unless you come from a long line of bandits, a 'Wanted Dead or Alive' poster usually means that you have messed up along the way.  And no family wants a criminal."   Badger mused for a second at Jadiete's exclamation.   "Well maybe the war has taken care of them for us, still doesn't excuse your murders by the way Cecil.  Clerics here are a little different than in Kago.  Maybe someone misread a 'holy book' along the way and the big words confused them." 
CoffeeIncluded
"Then they've misread it for centuries," Cecil says. "Alim,Elsee, you can't tell me that even in this supposedly free city you feel welcome in temples for Astrid."
Draconi Redfir
Elsee snirks and half-snorts in the process.

 "Wouldn't wanna go en there even if i did. our places are way nices, cooler weapons hanging on the walls, better food, better wine, better structures, all they've got is some shiny swords, some lame-arse crackers, and big squares with a piller or two on top." 
CoffeeIncluded
"You're right, but--ack! That's not the point!" Cecil is still guarded, and rightfully so.

Jadeite falls back, waiting to see what else happens before giving his opinion again. He waits for Alim to return.
Devmaar
Alim returns, carrying a large piece of beef.
 Have you found anything interesting?  He asks as he carries the meat over to the wyvern
CoffeeIncluded
The wyvern eagerly snatches the meat out of Alim's hand, and gulps it down. He growls and sniffs Alim's hand, nudging against it as if asking for more--which he probably is.

Artorias shows Alim the gold and the three vials he found.  "I believe they contain the same poison Cecil used in his crimes,"  he says.

Jadeite chimes in.  "Cecil has confessed to the murders. While the others in the group have bought his excuse and are looking to deny justice, I on the other hand wish to maintain order. You're sensible; I'm sure you agree with me." 

"Oh screw you!" Cecil shouts. "Come on, we're both kin here! You can't tell me you don't care about what those humans did to me!"
Athedia
Badger sighed at Jadiete's summary of the situation.   "We, well I still want justice done.  He will probably hang for this, but we offered to also bring to justice some other murderers, though they are probably long dead."   At Cecil's comment she pointed to his less rounded ears.   "You are as kin to him as me, more to me even seeing as you are not a elf human mix, but a drow human." 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil says to Badger, "And you humans abandoned me."

The way Cecil acts, whom he associates himself with, the way he looks and dresses--in the garb of drow, with his hair cut to accentuate his ears as much as possible--he doesn't identify himself by his human half. He's rejected part of whom he is.

As Badger says Cecil will hang for it, he starts shaking. Almost imperceptibly, but it's there.

 "Good,"  Jadeite says at Badger's clarification.  "Perhaps there are other ways to deal justice in this situation, if the original killers are already deceased. Of course, why should that prevent justice from being meted out upon them? Heh heh heh..."  He smirks.
Athedia
Badger watched Cecil shake.   "What did you expect?  You would get a slap on the wrist?  Hell, I will bet even the Plav will call for a harsh sentence to show their disapproval in the matter." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Nobody wishes to die,"  Jadeite says coldly.  "Perhaps you should have given those you killed the option as well." 

At this, Cecil finally falls silent. He still has the motive of a zealot, but now his fear is starting to show.

 
 Spoiler 
Is there much else to do here, or should I move forward to the part where you guys (presumably) turn him in? I'll do a quick timeskip then, including your rewards, an identification of the loot given, and experience.
 
Devmaar
 I'm sorry for what happened to you Cecil, but you've done too much for me to feel any sympathy for you now. I'm sorry. 
 
 Spoiler 
I'm fine with timeskipping
 
Draconi Redfir
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
  "Good,"  Jadeite says at Badger's clarification.  "Perhaps there are other ways to deal justice in this situation, if the original killers are already deceased. Of course, why should that prevent justice from being meted out upon them? Heh heh heh..."  He smirks. 
 

Elsee's ears perk up at Jadeite's words, a light grin crossing her face as she speaks.

 "Ooohhhh, 'Nd what does the mighty necromancer have en mind? Hmmm?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite shrugs.  "Oh Elsee, there are so many uses for the undead in research." 

The group takes Cecil to the Watch and makes the report, leaving him to his fate. As they bring Cecil, though they try to avoid attracting attention, a tied-up half-drow and a baby wyvern inevitably turn heads. Humanoids and Plavaan alike turn and stare, though the Plavaan's expressions are more fearful. Still, you can't help but get the sense that if not for the presence of Elsee and Alim walking with the humanoids, there'd be a lot more trouble.

The next couple of days pass in a blur. While both Feliks and Kheel are recovering, the wyvern is staying with the group until they figure out what to do with him (when Leif found out, he simply rolled his eyes and sighed). The items confiscated from Cecil's house are identified, and, as Cecil was declared a Wolf's Head, given to the group for them to keep. However, the poison is immediately confiscated and presumably destroyed. They are also given a reward and payment for their services to Runite. They comfort those who lost friends and help Sora.

And in a few hours, Cecil is to be executed, hanged in the town square where announcements are given.

 
 Spoiler 
Do you want to go to the execution?
I'll repost all the loot in one spot on the OOC page, but these are the magic items:
+1 Rapier
+2 Gloves of Dexterity
+1 Cloak of Resistance
3 Cure Moderate Wounds potions
Wand of Mending with  (4d10)[ 19 ]  charges
Wand of Prestidigitation with  (4d10)[ 13 ]  charges
Wand of Silence with  (4d10)[ 20 ]  charges

You're also paid 800 gold  each  in addition to the gold found in Cecil's wallet.

 Everyone hits level 4. 
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee sneered to herself as she pushed past yet another lovely view of human crotch to get towards the front row of the execution, she figured she kinda owed it to the kid to be there for him, gods know she'd have likely been in his position once or twice if it wasn't for the help of someone else, okay so not quite to the extent of being a wolfs head, but the point still remained.

The front crowed was filled with Dwarves, Gnomes, and children as she finally made it passed the Forrest of medium-sized legs to get this far. She could see a few other goblins scattered about in the crowd, their ears perked for any signed of trouble, and most of them possessing worried expressions. Elsee ignored them and instead slipped her hands into her pockets, one brushing against the slip of paper that the group had forgotten about as they picked Cecil up to turn him in. Her eyes darted around this way and that to ensure she wasn't being watched, before finally looking to the restrained half-drow.
CoffeeIncluded
The crowd is filled with throngs of observers of all races and ages. After all, everyone loves a good hanging. The Plavaan stay grouped together, finding safety in numbers. They look around nervously and some seem to be the loudest, others the quietest. They're either trying to stay out of the way or loudly showing they're not like Cecil.

Cecil, for his part, is standing on the gallows with his hands tied back and a rope hanging loosely around his neck. The executioner is watching him, though Cecil's feet are bound too. He's visibly shaking now.

Someone is going onto the execution platform, presumably to announce his crimes,. Everyone, including the executioner himself, turns to watch him, though the executioner is still within arms' reach of the half-drow.

Jadeite is standing silently in the crowd.
Athedia
Badger and Naga walked to the execution together.  Her arm had a new henna tattoo on it, a design similar to that of a spiderweb, though at the moment covered by her shirt.  She didn't have much trouble reaching the front of the crowd, if there was someone in her way a quick growl from Naga got them through.  Standing at the  front she saw Elsee a little away, hands buried in her pockets.    She did try to help him, but some people...   She didn't let the thought finish, instead watching as Cecil was taken to the gallows.
Draconi Redfir
If ever Elsee was going to get a chance, now was going to be it. It was obvious her original plan wasn’t going to work here, but her mind worked fast, and she was quickly able to determine a suitable backup. Making one last quick check to ensure everyone was suitably distracted, Elsee snuck beneath the rope fence surrounding the base of the gallows, silently making a note of the half-Drow's position between the speaker and the executioner.

Elsee found herself fortunate as she crawled under the walled-off cage beneath the collapsible floor, the wood used to construct the device was old and used, small holes in the wood and decent-sized seams serving her purpose well. As it turned out, Cecil's foot was resting atop one such hole, allowing Elsee to sneak a finger inside and gently tap the bottom of his shoe. She then carefully slid the photo of Cecil and his family through one of the cracks between the wood planks, ensuring it landed right next to his foot and face-up before sliding away to the corner of the cage. She'd be stuck there for now, though the crowd should disperse relatively quickly once the boy fell, this would give her a chance to crawl back out and quickly return home before she was spotted. For now at least, the solid-wood wall beneath the platform Cecil stood on would give her a decently shady hiding spot.


 
 Spoiler 

Main plan with the photo is that Cecil can just look down at it to take his mind off things, and quickly cover it with a shift of his foot if someone looks at him. Otherwise it should just look like he's hanging his head in shame.

... please don't kill Elsee 😁
 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil blinks when he sees the picture of his family. He peers through the cracks until he spots Elsee, then closes his eyes. "Thank you," he whispers, low enough that only Elsee can hear.

The man on the platform finishes announcing his crimes, and ends with, "...and for these crimes against the laws of Runite and humanity, your punishment is to be hanged by the neck until you are dead. May the gods have mercy on your soul. Cecil Hardrak, do you have any last words?"

Cecil pauses. He looks up at the crowd, out at the faces of Badger and Jadeite and Artorias, and into the eyes of the Plavaan huddled together. He says, and his voice sounds like that of someone younger, "You know why I did it. I know you've suffered the same way I have. Is it wrong, is it weakness or strength? Who's the weak one here, the one who keeps their head down and accepts their place at the bottom of the caste, or the one who tries to fight back?"
Athedia
Badger didn't know what Elsee was up to, but when she looked for the goblin she was gone.  As Cecil spoke his final words, she rolled up her sleeve and crossed her arm over her heart.  Staring up at Cecil, knowing he couldn't hear her she mouthed the words.   "If only things had been different." 
CoffeeIncluded
Cecil's question is met with silence. He closes his eyes, tilts his head to the sky, and mouths something that is lost forever.

The executioner then walks up, places the black sack over his head, and a hush falls over the crowd. Even the ubiquitous food-cart peddler, hawking endcatch stew here as well, goes silent. The only sounds are the shrieks of gulls and the breeze catching against cloth and beating on the sea.

Then the executioner pulls the lever, the floor disappears under Cecil's feet, and the sound of his neck cracking echoes throughout the square.

There's still quiet now, but less tense--albeit only slightly. The crowd ad executioner wait to see any signs of life--thrashing, struggling, a cry against the rope--but there's nothing. For Cecil, at least, it was mercifully quick, a clean hanging.

There isn't much to see above the scaffold, thanks to the bag covering the half-drow's head, but underneath Elsee is treated to an up-close view of Cecil's body twisting, suspended in mid-air.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee sneered in disgust at the sight she was treated to, the downside to doing the guy a favour she guessed. looking down beneath him, Elsee could see the picture again, facing the ground from several flips as it fell. Once she was sure nobody above was looking, Elsee quickly grabbed the photograph and slid it into Cecil's shoe along with a single gold coin, quickly retreating into the corner of the cadge to await the crowd's imminent dispersal. once this was done, she would meet up with the rest of the group back at the guild hall.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite mentally sighs, but is silent. However, he does wonder what they'd do with his body, and if he would find it on a table in the labs within the next few days.
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee waits under Cecil's body for the crowd to disperse, then heads back to the guild herself as the attendants approach to cut him down and send his body off to an unknown location. As she meets up with the rest of the group in the lobby, Artorias reluctantly says that his father's short a person to help, hurt himself, and needs his help in the shop. However, he promises to return as soon as he can.

 "The pleasure was mine,"  Jadeite replies, being completely sincere.

 
 Spoiler 
Okay, Surdrak can introduce himself now.
 
super dark33
The previously half empty cafeteria started to fill with the merceneries who remained hungry after the execution.
Which is to say, all of them. It's their job.

A tall hooded figure in a black cloak walked to get its food needlessly discreetly.
The figure sat down at the table next to the group of recent heroes and started eating quickly, with eyes darting from one side of the room to another, in such speed it didn't even conceive what it was actually seeing but some blur lines.

It took down its hood and revealed itself to be the resident warlock Surdrak, heratic fiend plus machine of destruction extraordinaire.
He was none of these things.

He had to finish his meal quickly and get back in his room, and time is against him due to going to see the hanging of Cecil Hardrak, double-outcast plus mental-mass-killer extraordinaire.
Who was these things.

In a divine retribution of clumsiness, Surdrak hit his knife instead of grabbing it, and the handheld food cutting device sled away to nearby the seat of Sora, far enough for him to reach it, but close enough for her to pass it to him.

 May I have my sharp object back? 
Athedia
 "Oh great the freak returns.  What were you doing for the past few days, could've used you.  As bait."     Something about Surdrak, if that was his real name which Badger had a suspicion it wasn't, always bugged her.  Maybe it was something similar to Jadiete, them both being creepy magic boys and all, but she felt it was more just nature pasting a warning sign on his forehead.  She understood the guilds need for him, if the criminals want them, we want them more, but still....

 
 Spoiler 
Just realized I never updated my skills.  Derp.  And nothing against your character.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite pauses as he sees the new kid. Something about him sets the wizard off. There's clearly a magical aura about him, but not one he's especially familiar with. Hemlock senses it too, slithering up Jadeite's arm to rest over his ear and hiss at the young man.
super dark33
[ Good pre-afternoon to you too. And you would be somewhat surprised to know that I actually did use myself as bait for the past few days as I wore a purple cloak, I even saw you in the temple of astrid when you walked there. Speaking of purple cloaks, I don't think I recognize this lady that sits above my pointy metallic food processor. Or that green elf. His Innate elf magic seems concentrated. Are you a spellcaster? Have you come to test the theory of warlock vulnerability to oak tree?

གཇངཙཇ. 

The last word was a racial profanity in the language of eldritch beings he didn't know. Somewhere in the void a squid with bat ears is crying.
Surdrak's glass has shattered, luckily it was empty.


 
 Spoiler 
Surdrak used BALEFUL UTTERNACE.
Surdrak hungers for magic. When he will hit level 6 he will get voracious dispelling that will quench this hunger.
 
Silverraptor
Sora looks about confusingly from the knife and Sarudark before hesitantly picking it up to slide it back.
super dark33
 Thank you. 

Surdrak cut the last piece of meat to two final bites.

 Now if you'll excuse me I have a cell wait I mean room to walk into. In unrelated news, the kids that come every once in a while to toss random objects through my window improve in their aim, and apparently have a higher standard from vegetables. 

Surdrak took off from his chair, nodded the goblins a hibye, and strode quickly into his  cell  room.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee giggles to herself as she munches into her meal while the resident warlock takes his leave, he was always a strnge one, didn't do much interestingly, at least not that she could see.

 "Gotta love this place's tendancy to attract the just-barely-evil types dontcha? Amazed the pesents haven't rioted against us yet sometimes." 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite doesn't tear his eyes off the location where Surdrak was, instead following him to his room. He rubs his hand on his chin for thought.  "Hm...Yes, indeed. This guild does seem to attract all manner of strange folk. Perhaps it is a way to channel destructive abilities to a more useful purpose?" 

He changes the subject.  "Is that young man always like that? Not...all the way there, so to speak?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I think I have an idea of what do do with warlocks, but Jadeite needs to see Surdrak to mention it.
 
Athedia
 "More or less.  Whenever he is needed he has a guard, someone the guild trusts.  Just to make sure he doesn't well do anything to warlocky."   Badger flexed her fingers, these new gloves felt nice.  She had noticed a change in her balance with them, when Naga had run around her that morning (an activity which usually left Badger stumbling and grabbing a wall), she had been able to step nimbly over the small dog.   "See they trust you cuz your a professional.  Creepy and weird, but you have that piece of paper.  Surdrak, there...  I am pretty sure the only paper with his name is a wanted poster."   Badger looked outside, the sun was up enough to cut through the morning haze.  Saying goodbyes she went out to visit the temple to visit the survivor of Cecil's rampage.  Stopping by the Temple of Astrid, she once again merely wished the girl well and told her that her that the killer had been caught.  Then she left slowly walking toward the Temple of Mars where she had last seen Feliks.
CoffeeIncluded
 "A warlock..."  Jadeite rubs his hand over his chin.  "Well, that certainly explains a lot. I wonder if it's already begun." 

At the temple, Badger is greeted with warmth and celebration, immediately given food, embraces, and blessings. Beatrice has fully recovered, except for an ugly scar crossing her throat and a rasp in her voice that will never quite leave.

"Thank you," she whispers, burying her head in Badger's arms.

The sun is up and hot as Badger and Naga make their way to the temple of Mars, and Naga is happily sniffing the debris and filth that builds up in the gutters, occasionally barking at bird swooping low. It's no cooler inside the temple, but it's blessedly drier. It doesn't take long for Badger to find Feliks, who's leaning upright against crutches, his foot still bandaged but less so than a few days ago

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Arcana) DC 25 to know what a warlock is in my setting. Jadeite already knows it, and he'll reveal it to everyone upon meeting Surdrak again. It holds no plot relevance to the game, but...
 


Back in the guild, the group sees Mika, wearing a new chain shirt, coming over to them. "Hey, is Badger around?" she asks.
Athedia
Badger waited for the clerics to leave her alone with Feliks. "We found the wyvern, just though you would like to know.  I am sorry, Cecil didn't know how to care for him.  I did what I could, but he is in the guild now. And Cecil.. Cecil was the killer, he was executed.  I know you felt you could trust him.  But it wasn't your fault, believe me.  And if you need a place I am sure the guild can help you.  Since your home burnt down and you did help in the investigation." 
CoffeeIncluded
As Badger explains the culprit behind all this, Feliks just...crumples. There's no other word for the way he seems to collapse, with only the two crutches able to support him.

"I...I thought I could trust him," Feliks says. "He seemed like he had a chip on his shoulder, but I thought we were friends. But..." His whole demeanor seems to darken. "Dammit, he was just using me! This whole time he was using me! I should have listened, shouldn't have trusted him..."
Athedia
Badger rushed to support him.   "Don't blame yourself, he had driven himself mad with revenge.  I wanted to trust him to, but he fooled us all.  I believe a part of him was still sane and knew he was wrong, but for some the path of revenge buries their true self."   Her words were meaningless, she knew the anguish Feliks felt.  So after awkward holding him up for a little, she stopped talking and just embraced him, letting the stress and pain of the betrayal bleed away.
CoffeeIncluded
"I shouldn't have trusted him!" Feliks chokes out into Badger's shoulder. "They're all the same! They're all the Mars-damned same..."
Athedia
Badger pulled away staring Feliks in the face.   "Who the Plavs? If it were not for two of the best guildmates I have ever had you would be dead by now and Cecil would never have been caught.  Or humans, because Cecil was one of us as well." 
Devmaar
Alim nods to Surdrak as he enters the dining hall. Joining his companions he asks  Anything interesting going on this morning? 
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Originally Posted by Devmaar 
 Alim nods to Surdrak as he enters the dining hall. Joining his companions he asks  Anything interesting going on this morning?  
 

Mika walks over to the group, playing her hands over the hilt of her polished sword. She still seems nervous, but much less freaked than the day after finding Brent's body. "You guys were the ones who found the Cleric Butcher, right? I overheard you were also searching out a bunch of other suspects--was one of them named Natasha Polzin?"


 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
 Badger pulled away staring Feliks in the face.   "Who the Plavs? If it were not for two of the best guildmates I have ever had you would be dead by now and Cecil would never have been caught.  Or humans, because Cecil was one of us as well."  
 

"Yeah, but they're not Drow! They're not schemers, they--aargh!" He pulls back, burying his face in his hands, blushing red. "Forgive me, I don't want to think that, but..."
Athedia
Badger helped Feliks sit down.   "From what I hear, if we hadn't found Cecil and the Drow had he would have had worse than a swift execution.  The Drow in the city follow the law, if they didn't can you imagine what want would happen to them?  I understand that you feel the need to blame, but the guilty party was grief, not a race." 
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks pulls up a stool to rest his bandaged leg on. He lays his hands on his lap and can't quite meet Badger in the eye. "I wish it were that easy," he says. "I wish I could just snap my fingers and boom, I don't think any different about Plavaan. But it's not going to happen like that, it's not that simple. I know it, but deep down I'm always going to be looking twice, glancing at my back for the knife."
Silverraptor
Sora spent most of the day shut up in her room. She sat down crossed legged on her bed, amulet of Astrid in her hands. She thought over how her fellow clerics were killed, how their lives were ended from one person's revenge. Why did it have to come to this? What did they do to deserve their lives to be ended so short? She herself even tasted death in this tragic event that unfolded.

She continued to pray to Astrid, something she did half-heartily as her duty as a cleric. This time was different, she needed answers. Was it all worth it? Was this feud between the Plavaan worth the death it would bring? She waited for some time if Astrid would answer, but she received none. Finally, she changed her prayer to a request. She was determined to figure out the answer to her question on her own, but she couldn't do it in her current state. She asked Astrid if she could be granted the strength to be able to go out and find the answer.

 
 Spoiler 
Yes, I made a whole post about Sora leveling up. Sue me.😛
 
CoffeeIncluded
Mika looks around the room, but doesn't find Badger. So she says, "Look, there was a job posted about this Natasha Polzin but, well...nobody wants to deal with it," she squeezes out all at once. "Er, just check the address and you'll see for yourself," she says, handing the flyer to Alim.
Devmaar
Alim takes the flyer and looks it over  Thanks Mika, we'll take a look 
CoffeeIncluded
The flyer is a job offering; it's a missing person flyer, searching for one Natasha Polzin. Anyone taking the job is to go to the Polzin Estate in the Heights to discuss the matter. The reward appears to be fairly generous.

Knowledge (Local) DC 15:
 
 Spoiler 
The Polzins are a fairly prominent noble family in Runite, specializing in trade with the northern members of the Kyarian Federation.
 


Knowledge (Local) DC 20:
 
 Spoiler 
The Polzins have three daughters.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 Badger: 

Feliks calms down after his tirade. After a moment to catch his breath, he asks Badger, "Kheel, where is he? Is he safe?"

 Everyone else: 

The name means nothing to Jadeite, but he says,  "This seems like a lucrative proposition. Shall we pursue it, or wait for Badger to return?"  Hemlock, meanwhile, stares up at where Surdrak had left the room.

The reward given is 9,000 gold for Natasha's safe return.
Athedia
 "With the guild.  I think Alim is taking care of him.  Or he has developed a taste for raw meat, but I am thinking it is Kheel."  Badger patted him on the knee and excused herself, this was not technically a day off and she was still on call in the guild.
CoffeeIncluded
Feliks sighs with relief. "Can I please see him? Once my foot's all better, I mean?"

As Badger returns to the guild and gets breakfast, she sees Jadeite, Alim, and Elsee waiting for her in the cafeteria. Alim is holding a flyer--a job posting.

 
 Spoiler 
I have to go to my internship soon; can you guys please discuss the job with Badger?
 
Athedia
 "Once you are better, of course.  But then we need to deal with the legal matters of Kheel being here."   Badger wandered back to the guild, stopping by the kennels to pick up Naga.  She wouldn't be leaving the dog behind anymore, he was finally old enough to stay by her side.  As she walked back into the guild she saw the rest of her group huddled around a poster.  Pushing in she inquired  "What's this? Going to start something without me?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Naga bows into a full-body wag when Badger lets him out of the kennels, crawling up her body and licking her face. He then snaps to attention when Badger clicks her fingers, and faithfully follows her master.

When Badger and Naga enter the cafeteria (Naga busy sniffing the left over breakfast of various cured meats) Jadeite hands Badger the flyer.  "You said one of the potential suspects in the murders was named Natasha Polzin, right? It appears she's gone missing, and there is a substantial reward for her safe return." 
 
 Spoiler 
See above for knowledge check DCs and info.
 
Athedia
 "Natasha? Right, you know I was hoping it would be her. Ah.."  Badger looked around, not spotting Sora.   "Well you know what I mean."   She sat down and started reading the flyer.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge Local:  (1d20+5)[ 23 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger:
 
 Spoiler 
Badger knows that the Polzins are a fairly prominent noble family in Runite, specializing in trade with the northern members of the Kyarian Federation. The Polzins have three daughters, all around her age, give or take a few years. The parents are...kinda snotty, from what she recalls. But they should pay. Besides, their worry here might override it.

The flyer states that anyone wanting to take the job should head to the Polzin Estate in the Heights. The reward is 9,000 gold for her safe return. The flyer doesn't look more than a day or two old, tops.
 
Athedia
 "Polzin, Polzin.  I knew that name sounded familiar.  They're rich, up the hill.  Got that way through trade. Three girls, round about my age.  Don't know which one Natasha is." 

Badger sighed, shrugging.   "She was getting twin daggers, the expensive sort. Probably just ran away 'because no-one understands'.  Badger made prominent air quotes as she spoke, disdain dripping from her voice.   "When we find her she will probably be begging for us to bring her home." 

She stood up, placing the flyer in her pocket for proof.   "Still, that is good money." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "In other words, an easy job?"  Jadeite asks. Meanwhile, Hemlock slithers down his arm and flicks his tongue out at Naga.
Athedia
 "Doesn't mean easy.  She could have gone anywhere, and there are always people willing to take advantage of a naive girl."   Badger felt her quiver, dipping her fingers into each of the slots to count the arrows and feel her bowstring.
CoffeeIncluded
 "All the more reason to hurry then. Of course, breakfast is just as important." 
 
 Spoiler 
I need to update Jadeite's spell list. Gimme a moment.
 
super dark33
 Hey! Omnivore Weasel reletive! 
Surdrak calls Badger.

 I will accompany you on this mission. Leif's orders.  

Surdrak ignites energy of sources it's best not dwelled in around his hand.
It looks like ink, Black with shapes of red and blue appearing every now and then, like fish in a pond.

 From what I gather a girl got lost, and we are to retrieve her.  

The energy solidified into a crab claw.

 Which means that some people will have much prettier faces if you know where I'm getting at. 

The claw turned into a hand, then faded into the air.

 If you have qualms with it, speak to Leif. 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite whips around, laying a hand on Hemlock to stop the familiar and calm his unusually hostile reaction. It's hard to keep his voice light, but he manages and says,  "Now Surdrak, you see, the problem with that is that we have been tasked to retrieve this girl alive and unharmed. I believe your suggestions might run counter to that." 
Athedia
 "Again? I had to watch you last month with the robbery.  Just don't wave that thing in witness faces anymore, we don't want to scare the victims. "   Badger looked at the group, with Artorias gone she felt alone.  They had fought together for a long time, but now the only other human was Sora.  Okay well technically Surdrak was human, but he was different somehow.  Where was Sora by the way?

 "Stay."  She spoke as much to Surdrak as to Naga as she headed up the steps to Sora's room.  Knocking on the door she spoke.  "Sora?  Are you alright?  We are all meeting downstairs, we have a a girl to find." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Lovely,"  Jadeite mutters to Hemlock.  "Not only will we have to retrieve some poor lost rich girl and extricate her from a self-inflicted mess, but we'll have to babysit a warlock while doing so."  He raises his voice and asks the rest of the group,  "Do you even know what a warlock is? Watching him can be a risky proposition, though definitely a...rewarding one for the more scientifically minded." 
 
 Spoiler 
Draconi, Devmaar, you busy?
 
super dark33
 Im not daft you know.
And if you thought i was going to harm the girl then you are mistaken.
Gone rich girl probably means kidnap. Kidnap is either keeping her as hostage or other things I will not talk about in public.
With crooks like this I know how to deal. Which involves this metal crook.  

Surdrak takes his crowbar halfway out from his belt bag.

 Just like I dealt with Zevik the Fox. Remember that guy Elsee? Never sneaked anywhere again. Painted the whole alley. 
 
 Spoiler 
I can invent stories too!
 
Athedia
 "Her buying those daggers suggests she planned to have them.  Missing rich girl doesn't always mean kidnapping.  It can be rebellion, them wanting to prove they can handle life."   Badger puzzled at Jadiete's statement.   "What do you mean?  He uses magic, like you, but is a little creepier about it.  Right?" 
super dark33
 And she walks the streets, trying to look strong, walking into others she thinks are rebelling like her an inevitably, someone recognises her as the rich man'a daughter and in moments new 'friends' become enemies and a 'gilded prison' seems much safer.  

Surdrak looks at his fingers.

 Unless she puts the daggers to good use. 

Surdrak looks up.

 What am I saying of course she won't.  
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite shakes his head.  "Not quite. As a wizard, I honed my innate aptitude through years of study and research. Sorcerers utilize their magic through sheer brute force and innate inborn skill. Those who cast divine spells get blessings from their deities or nature itself."  He shakes his head.  "But warlocks, warlocks are something else. There are spirits out beyond this world, or spirit fragments. Nobody quite knows what they are, or what they look like. They are powerful, but powerless without a host. But they are not exactly, shall we say, benevolent. Warlocks are people who makes pacts with these spirits, offering themselves as hosts in exchange for the spirits' power. But these pacts are not as mutualistic a relationship as they seem. The pact may grant you the power of the spirit, but in return the spirit gets...you." 

He gives Surdrak a...look.

 "The erosion may have already begun. I can't tell for sure, as I have never met a warlock before."  He grins, a very toothy grin.  "Say, Surdrak, when you go mad and die, may I study your brain to further the general scientific body of knowledge?" 
Silverraptor
At Badger's voice, Sora gets up and proceeds downstairs.
 "Hey guys, what's going-" 
She stops as she sees the scene unfolding.

 
 Spoiler 
 
 
Athedia
Badger stepped between the two.  "Okay, well Surdrak, you're still creepy.  But Jadeite, if he goes mad that is why I am here.  If he acts out of control we bring him down and back here.  In a way him being weird makes more sense now." 
super dark33
 The erosion takes longer in me than other warlocks. I was bred for that along with my spirit.
They don't look like anything even though my family sees them as some sort of sea monsters. Also due to breeding.  

Surdrak gives Jadeite and even more ................. Look...

He stops making a weird face at Jadeite and looks normally at Sora.

 Information exchange.  

He swiftly turns his look to Badger.

 It won't happen until I'm old so no worries. 
CoffeeIncluded
 "At which point we will have to kill you. For your own good, of course,"  Jadeite says through closed teeth. Hemlock is coiled tensely on Jadeite's shoulder, and anyone looking closely can see that the elf is unusually stiffened, though he still talks with ese.
CoffeeIncluded
The group finishes their breakfast, thick oatmeal made sweet with heavy cream and golden honey, and heads to the Heights, keeping a close eye on their newest party member so he doesn't do anything foolish and get them in trouble with the guards.

It's once again a hot, muggy, but clear day, and the streets are starting to thin out as people escape the high noon sun.

The Polzin Estate is large, but only compared to, oh, every other neighborhood in the city. The white mansion is surrounded by carefully manicured trees, many of which aren't native to Runite. Some have tropical fruits hanging off their leaves, and one tree with long drooping branches has a wooden swing tied to a thick one. There's a long tiled path leading up to the house, and the whole estate is walled off with a wrought iron fence, polished to gleaming.

A doorman, a private guard hired by the Polzin family, stops the group as they walk by. "Please state your business," he says.
Athedia
 "Natasha, heard you were looking for her.  We're here to offer our services."  She spoke quickly, avoiding the man's gaze.  She couldn't avoid seeing his lip curl at Naga as the dog sniffed a nearby hedge.
CoffeeIncluded
The guard looks down at Naga, then meaningfully at Badger. "You're from Leif's guild?" He gives them a curt not. "Follow me, and please be on your best behavior for the mistress."

 
 Spoiler 
And with that I'm going to bed. My evening sucked; hopefully tomorrow will be better.
 
super dark33
Surdrak looks around the Estate. reminds him a bit of home.
He keeps silent and stands in the back.
Devmaar
As usual in the upmarket areas of Runite, Alim feels rather uncomfortable and out of place, he hangs back at the rear of the group.

 
 Spoiler 
Realised I never made that Knowledge: Local roll earlier for the spoiler  (1d20+10)[ 22 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The group is led inside the mansion, where they are greeted by a butler, who tells them to stay close. "And keep your feet clean."

The floors are pristine, the walls spotless thanks to the maids who keep the huge manor clean. The butler takes the group past a grand winding staircase to a drawing room in back. The arched wide windows have the curtains thrown open, and sunlight streams in to illuminate the rich wine carpet.

"Lady Polzin, the guild has sent a team concerning the matter of your daughter."

Lady Polzin turns around, making sure to show off the rings on her fingers. Although she says nothing, the expression on her face is clear.  This motley crew is tasked to retrieve my daughter? 
 
 Spoiler 
Feel free to open the spoilers, Devmaar.
 


Badger:
 
 Spoiler 
You recognize Lady Polzin, though she's a bit fatter than you recall.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Good afternoon,"  Jadeite says with a slight bow.  "My name is Jadeite Nocrius, of House Nocrius in Almir, and these are my comrade-in-arms, Alim, Badger, Sora, Elsee, and...Surdrak,"  he continues in extreme politeness, indicating each person as he speaks.

 "I understand we have been tasked with locating your missing daughter, Natasha Polzin? I promise you that we shall ensure that she is returned to you alive and unharmed." 

Lady Polzin pauses, startled by Jadeite's demeanor. She takes a long drag on her cigarette, affixed to the end of a long stick, and coolly regards the rest of the group, waiting for them to say something.

The drawing room is open, but it feels constrained, as if the group is pinned between reclining sofa and grand piano.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm going to bed, will continue tomorrow morning. Guys, please say something.
 
CoffeeIncluded
"Hmph," Lady Polzin says when the rest of the group fails to respond. "Well, I do hope that your actions speak much louder than your words, or lack thereof. Well?" She takes another long drag of her cigarette. "What are you waiting for? Find my daughter, chop-chop."

As they're led out of the drawing room back to the main lobby of the mansion, standing awkwardly on the ornate rug and trying not to jostle any of the large oil paintings, the butler procures a picture of Natasha, which he gives to the group.

"I apologize for my mistress' actions, but we are all beside ourselves with worry," he says.

Almost as if on cue, a young woman, approximately Sora's age, peeks out from behind the wall to the next room. She's dressed in fine silks, with pink ribbons tying back her black hair.

"You better find my sister," she says, looking at the group. Her eyes lock onto Badger's for a moment. "Knowing Natasha, she probably got in over her head again."

Badger:
 
 Spoiler 
Facebook message headed your way.
 
super dark33
 Any idea where would she go should she left on her own? 
CoffeeIncluded
Natasha's sister thinks for a moment, twisting the long tails of her ribbons between two fingers. She looks up at a panting of her family behind the group--the family has three daughters, and the one currently answering their question is the youngest. Natasha appears to be the middle daughter.

Eventually, she puffs out air from her cheeks into a sigh, and says, "Well, I'd say she'd head to your guild, since that's the go-to place for adventurers, but Leif would probably recognize her and bring her back home. So...I'm not sure where Natasha would go. Probably up north on one of the trading routes, or out to sea. Oh no!" She shudders. "There's pirates in the oceans! Or what if she got kidnapped in the Bogs?" The teenager's voice starts to grow shrill with panic.
Athedia
Badger stared at the painting.   "Look, if she had been kidnapped you would have had a ransom demand by now.  They know you have money.     Naga nudged his mistresses feet, her pose had stiffened and was becoming more and more defensive.   "I don't suppose you know why she was buying expensive daggers the other day.  Your mother doesn't have to know, god knows I wouldn't tell her anything.  But sisters gossip and keep secrets." 
CoffeeIncluded
The teenager shuffles awkwardly, then gives a guilty, glancing look to the butler and her mother back in the drawing room. She motions for the group to follow her to the foyer, and in a low voice says, "Natasha said that she'd need them to protect herself, and something about only getting the best. She showed me the daggers, they looked awfully shiny and sharp." The young woman looks down and fiddles with the buttons on her blouse. "Protect herself from what? Where did she go?"
Draconi Redfir
Elsee shrugged and rolled her shoulders a bit, gently patting the sheathed Kurkri on her belt, She'd take them out to show them off, but considering the type of people who lived in this home, walking around a corner to see a Goblin holding a pair of sharp knives up to one of the house's daughters prooobably wasn't the best of ideas.

 "Probly got bored of the high-life 'nd went out lookin to become an adventurer, 'else she's doin the same while running away from something, arranged marriage, inheritance of something she doesn't want, guilt, that kinda theng. Preeety much the same theng eye went through back home, pretty much the same story too! Daughter of a noble woman, goin into a job she doesn't want or can't do, runs off into the wild 'ta try 'nd make et on her own." 

Elsee taps the eye-shaped rune on her forehead as she speaks, trying to indicate it's significance and similarity to being born a rich human.


 " A'course 'ndless she's been getting combat training like eye did or otherwise knows how 'ta dance along the line of the less-moral side of the spectrum, she's probly gunna have some trouble, worst case scenario we find her dead, best case scenario she stoops to doin some things she probly doesn't wanna do for some guys she probly doesn't wanna get involved with 'n exchange fer a favour 'er her life." 

Elsee grinned a row of sharpened teeth as her own speech reminded her of her own solo adventures, she was pretty much speaking from experience here, half of her hoping to find a kindred spirit within this Natasha girl if and when they found her. Speaking of doing unmentionable things to unmentionable people in exchange for favours, she wondered if Bolo the Barbarian ever got over that little bite she gave him while she had his guard down...
super dark33
Surdrak Ogled suspicously at Elsee.

He thought:
  Im starting to think this sobbing lifestory is probably as common for us pseudo-grim anti-heroes.

 Only now? 

Oh shut up you.

 Its starting to feel small in here! give me some space! 

You have enough space already now shut up and listen!

 Grglub..   

Surdrak stopped talking with his bodymate and waited for the "veteran leader" to command the depart from this wonderful estate and into the mission.
Athedia
Badger rested a hand on the girls shoulder.  "We will find her.  And if she really wants adventure, when we get her back we will see if she can apprentice at the guild."  She gestured to the group as she left the building, walking past the butler very fast as he gave her a look of disgust.  Once back on the street she headed started her search.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+5)[ 12 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The young woman gives the group, especially Badger a strange look, hope and trepidation and...something else.

Badger doesn't even bother looking around the Heights for her. Indeed, she walks as if she can't wait to leave the neighborhood. Instead, they start the search in the next neighborhood over, in Great Gate, walking into the little shops and food stands offering  eclectic goods and food from the world all over. Nobody knows anything about Natasha Polzin, although they do leave with an order of fried plantains, sweet and thick, just a bit greasy and pleasantly soft.

As the group walks past a well, a large one with multiple drawing buckets, Naga stops and sniffs the stone rim of the well. He stands up, placing his front paws on the edge of the well, and looks down, sniffing even harder. Badger can see the hair between his shoulders start to rise.
Athedia
Badger ran over.   "What is it boy?  Find something?"   She peered down the well, trying to make out what the dog had found.
CoffeeIncluded
It's dark in the well, too dark for even Jadeite or Elsee or Alim to see well. However, each of them can make out, to various degrees, the sides of the well dropping down several feet, and the rough stone leading down into the water several feet below.

Jadeite looks into the well and thinks.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (A+E):  (d20+11)[ 27 ] 
 

 "There must be a maintainence tunnel nearby,"  he says.  "Perhaps then we can find whatever's in the well." 
super dark33
 Why would a well need a maintenance tunnel? It's a hole that gathers water not an underwater temple! 

Surdrak never been to an underwater temple. He isn't sure if those exist.
Yet.

He ogles around and into the well to see if something catches his eye.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+1)[ 14 ]  spot
 (1d20+2)[ 9 ]  search

Edit: He was probably distracted by something.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "In case maintenance needs to be done on the wells. After all, I would suspect several spells are used,"  Jadeite says, looking around for any signs of such a structure.

 
 Spoiler 
 (d20+6)[ 10 ] 
 
super dark33
 Spells you say.... 

Surdrak and brainresident decide its time to flex some brain muscles.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+8)[ 11 ]  Spellcraft
 (1d20+4)[ 17 ]  Knowledge Arcana.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Surdrak doesn't have more than faintest guesses about what kinds of spells could be used in the wells.
Devmaar
 If you're interested Surdrak I think I have a book somewhere on the construction and maintenance of wells. 

Alim looks around

 
 Spoiler 
Search  (2d30+4)[ 57 ] 
 
Athedia
The Badger looked around the street for anything that would allow them to access the well.  She considered just lowering Elsee into the well, but decided to try another path first.
 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+8)[ 10 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
So far nobody's having too much luck finding the maintenance tunnels. Then again, this isn't exactly unexpected. Dierdre conceptualized them after all, and her...not quite paranoia, but...would drive her to conceal the maintenance tunnels.

 
 Spoiler 
My "L" key is stuck so if I miss any "L"s that's why.
 
Athedia
Badger groaned in frustration.  Something was down there but of course the tunnels were hidden.  She looked around for a street cleaner, one of the underclass of the city hired to keep the streets clean.  Usually they had some connections with the criminal underground, and it was call underground for a reason.   "You know how to get down there, into the tunnels?" 
 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+5)[ 19 ] 
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee blinked and idly gaped at her companions as they were suddenly overcome with an unusual urge to go clean out the sewers or something. Finally as it became apparent the moment wasn't passing, she spoke up.


 "Have you all gone insane? We're supposed to be lookin for someone here! Not poking around in the sewers because some dog smelled some rotting rat down there and wants to grab a bite to eat!" 
Athedia
Badger whirled at the insult directed at Naga.   "He knows better than to hunt on the job.  Maybe I should use my first idea and just drop you down the well!" 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite claps his hands with a smile.  "That would be an excellent idea to ascertain exactly what's inside the well, and Elsee would be a prime candidate for her ability to see in the dark. Of course if the well's too deep she could very well drown, but I think we can write that off as an acceptable loss."  The smile just grows broader as he continues.

Badger finds a street cleaner, but he doesn't give a full answer, instead saying, "Dierdre's tunnels? Damn girl, never tried!" as if she's mad for suggesting.
super dark33
 It is a good idea, but I don't think the rope is strong enough.  
Athedia
Badger was still mad from the slight at Naga,  "Who needs a rope, we can just leave her there."   So Diedre's tunnels, that was the drow that couldn't get elected.  Damn, all she would have to do is stop maintaining the sewers and that would convince them to let her in.
super dark33
 As much as I'm an avid fan of drama based entertainment I must regrettably inform you that there is a rich girl missing, that is still hopefully full of blood. 

Surdrak knew attempting to meditate would draw the fire to him and cease the hostilities.


   Last time you did that got you shanked. 

It didn't even damage my flesh integrity, and the other person looked much more handsome once I was done. Red is very flattering.

 I couldn't agree morgruglub.  
  
Draconi Redfir
Elsee sneered and removed her backpack and armour, leaving only her basic clothes and kurki on as she removed the fifty feet of silk rope she somehow carried with her at all times and thrust the arm holding it up towards Jadeite before carefully climbing up the wall of the well, holding on to one of the posts that held the bucket above it.

 "Ef et'll get us to stop waisten time then  fine . But three tugs and eye'm touching water, four tugs and eye need to come up fast. 'Nd don't get any breyeght eyedeas corpsehugger, as cute as you are eye'm not gunna let you fondle me ef you "oh so accidentally" forget to pull me up and wind up with an ex-goblin." 
 
 Spoiler 

With nothing but Elsee and her Kurkri, the total weight is 45 lbs.
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, you wouldn't be an ex-goblin for long,"  Jadeite says smirking as he flashes the black onyx gems he carries around in his pocket.


 
 Spoiler 
So we're dropping Elsee into the water?
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee just sticks her tounge out at the elf while motioning for him to tie an end of the rope around her waist or something of the sort.


 
 Spoiler 

I've got no objections... though i think i'll get around to leveling her up now... put a few of those skill points into Swim😁
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite obliges, tying one end of the rope fast to the wooden pole above the well, while Elsee fixes the other end to her waist, looping it through her belt several times.

 
 Spoiler 
Yeah, that would be a good idea. I'm not going forward until you're leveled up anyway.
 
super dark33
Surdrak ogled back and forth between all the combatants in this verbal skirmish.

He might need to build a bunker.
Oh ha ha what a funny.

  That green scavenger will get himself to a real pickle some day with his tongue that is almost as pointy as his ears of his.

 Great now the mention of the word 'pickle' made me hungry good job. 
We will eat later.   
CoffeeIncluded
As Elsee takes the rope and hops into the well, she realizes that it's not nearly as deep as she initially thought, only about ten or maybe fifteen feet deep. Then again, that would make sense as the water table of Runite is rather high. The stone walls of the well are smooth and in good condition, with only a few scratches and marks.

The reason nobody could see far down is because there's a dark stone floor on the bottom of the well, and the well goes deep, much deeper than the opening. A light current bobs Elsee against the wall of the well and pushes her up if she doesn't swim forward. It's dark underneath the well, with only a small spot of light from above providing illumination--and that doesn't pierce the darkness for long. There's a river of water underground that streams in and up the well, as well as past it, and to Elsee's right there's a platform that rises about a foot and a half, maybe two feet, above the underwater surface. There's about seven feet of space between the platform and the ground above, and the underwater river goes...deep.

Elsee scans the dark waters, trying to see anything else hiding within.

 
 Spoiler 
I'm going to need to brush up on the swimming rules, but I think you've been underwater for a round so far.

Also, I'm going to need spot checks please. It's dark and so darkvision applies. Low light vision would also work but people without either can't see underwater without a light source. Sorry.
 
Draconi Redfir
Before moving any further, Elsee allows herself to surface for annother gulp of air and to shout out to those above, tugging on the rope three times to indicate that she's hit water before shouting up to those above her, hoping the narrow passage would allow her voice to carry up towards the others.

 "There's nothen down here 'cept an opening to an underground river, looks like a platform up ahead a bit, but it's around a corner, 'm gunna check et out, but the rope might drag across the corner and tighten et up too much for me to move or for you to feel me tugging for you to pull me back up. Gimmie as much slack as ya can, 'nd if ya don't hear from me in an hour, throw Alim in after me! We'll start an aquatic subspecies or somethin together if we're both alive after all this!" 


With that Elsee took a deep breath of air and dove underwater again, pushing herself off the wall of the well and into the river, aiming for the platform not too far away.


 
 Spoiler 


Sorry if i went slightly off the rails there, but for the sake of things here are three spot checks and three swim checks, hope that's enough.

Spot: (1d20+2)[ 14 ]
Spot: (1d20+2)[ 19 ]
Spot: (1d20+2)[ 18 ]

Swim: (1d20+3)[ 19 ]
Swim: (1d20+3)[ 19 ]
Swim: (1d20+3)[ 19 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Else's thinks she can see a ladder, but it's too far to reach while she's tethered. To make it to the platform she'll either have to climb or jump.

The second thing she sees are several dark shapes moving towards her in the water. Moving fast.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee's mind raced as her eyes jumped from the ladder, to the dark figures, to the platform. She' rather keep the Rope with her for now as a quick-escape should she get in trouble, and she really didn't like the idea of fighting something while underwater and unable to breathe, that left only the platform up ahead, hopefully any air above it was breathable and non-toxic, other then that Elsee could only hope the Rope stayed intact and didn't hamper her movements at all. With her mind made up, Elsee quickly resumed swimming towards the platform, grabbing for it once it was within reach to climb up out of the water and onto it's surface.


 
 Spoiler 


Swim just incase: (1d20+3)[ 16 ]

Climb: (1d20+4)[ 21 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee scrambles up out of the water onto the ledge; it's damp and covered with moss and algae but is otherwise safe. From above, she can see just what was chasing her. They were crocodiles, three of them, and they snap at her, though she's too high for them to drag down--yet.

 
 Spoiler 
Initiative:
Elsee:  (d20+4)[ 5 ] 
Crocodiles:  (d20+1)[ 21 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
All three crocodiles leap out of the water, snapping at the green goblin and trying to tear into her.

 
 Spoiler 
Elsee's not flatfooted.
C1:
Attack:  (d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 7 ] 

C2:
Attack:  (d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 8 ] 

C3:
Attack:  (d20+2)[ 10 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 22 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 8 ] 
 


Two of the crocodiles miss, but the one in the center bites down hard on Elsee's leg, dragging its long sharp teeth in and down before sliding back into the water.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee hissed at the crocs as she quickly scampered away from the water further onto the platform, instinctively drawing her Kurkri and twirling them about in her hands as she readied for combat, waiting for the beasts to come to her. She had left her armour up top to keep her weight down, meaning she lacked a fair bit of protection, she would need to rely on her own skills at dodging to stay alive. Her eyes briefly skipped to the rope tieing her to the rest of her group, if she was lucky the Crocs would be too dumb to put two and two together and leave it alone, if she wasn't, she'd need to act fast and cut the rope.


 
 Spoiler 

taking a 5ft step backwards to J;18, making a readied action to full-attack the first croc to get within 5ft of her.

Attack1: (1d20+6)[ 10 ]
Crit: (1d20+6)[ 13 ]
Damage: (1d3+2)[ 5 ]

Attack 2:(1d20+6)[ 16 ]
Crit: (1d20+6)[ 8 ]
Damage: (1d3+1)[ 3 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
The crocodile who tasted blood is the boldest of the three; he leaps for Elsee first, while the others only follow after he makes his move.

 
 Spoiler 
C1 jump:  (d20+4)[ 14 ] 
C2 jump:  (d20+4)[ 18 ] 
C3 jump:  (d20+4)[ 21 ] 
 
Athedia
Badger had handed the rope over to the others to hold and she paced nervously.   "She has been down a while, maybe she got hurt or breathed in the water."   She looked down the well, trying to judge if she could survive jumping into the depths.  She wasn't a strong swimmer by any means but if she had sent one of her people down to a death sentence she was obligated to try to help.
CoffeeIncluded
One crocodile hits his head against the platform and slides back into the water, but the other two make the jump and slide towards Elsee, biting down. The first one hisses as Elsee slashes him across his long green snout.

 
 Spoiler 
C2 attack:  (d20+2)[ 14 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 9 ] 

C3 attack:  (d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 13 ] 
 


Elsee is nimble, and light on her feet. Though her leg is bleeding profusely, she manages to backflip and just evade both snapping jaws.

The crocodile who failed to clear the jump instead finds an odd target, and bites down against that.
 
 Spoiler 
C1 attack:  (d20+2)[ 21 ] 
If it hits, it snaps the rope.
 


The rope breaks with a muffled but audible snap. Both Elsee and the rest of the group above feel the slightly taut rope suddenly go slack.

Jadeite looks to the others.  "Is Elsee in trouble?" 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee grinned wickedly as she jumped up onto the snout of the croc that had decided to take a bite out of her, the blade of her Kurkri digging into it's flesh as she kicked herself off just in time to dodge the bite of the second croc to make it up to her. It was only then that she noticed an unusual lack of resistance to her movements, she cursed under her breath, the third one must have snapped the rope somehow, so much for getting pulled to safety if things got harry.

Elsee fought the instinct to keep herself low, as doing so would only help the Crocs in biting her, but with quick feet she jumped and rolled to the side, darting off as fast she could manage along the longer edge of the platform while pulling up and gathering as much of the rope as she had remaining attached to her. She knew her Kurkri wanted to taste blood again, and maybe she could take one of these things out on her own, but any thief worth her salt would tell you a two on one fight is only favourable when you have a friend with you.

 
 Spoiler 


Tumble check to avoid attacks of opportunity as she retreats to the right of the map, aiming for at least S;18 i think.

(1d20+3)[ 19 ]
 
Athedia
Badger grabbed the rope and yanked it.   "No, no, no"  She quickly climbed onto the side of the well.   "Naga, guard the well."   She looked down into the well and drew a hatchet.  Before she could change her mind she slipped into the water below, hoping the drop was not to far.

 
 Spoiler 
Tumble  (1d20+9)[ 20 ] 
Swim  (1d20+1)[ 9 ] 
Jump  (1d20+3)[ 9 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger trips into the well, but she manages to make her way to the bottom, where she sees something swim away from her, sticking close to the wall for some reason.

 
 Spoiler 
Initiative:  (d20+2)[ 21 ]  (22)
 


Meanwhile, the crocodiles chase after Elsee, though she's slightly faster than them.
Athedia
Badger hit the water spluttering, but uninjured.

 
 Spoiler 
Swim  (1d20+1)[ 5 ] 
 


She forgot how to move her arms as she hit the water and tried to figure out the motions needed to return to the surface.  She was glad she had drawn a breath before hitting the water.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite peers into the well, then grabs Sora's wrist and sighs. At the same time, Hemlock bites down onto Jadeite's robes.  "Come on Sora. I'd rather not go through the paperwork today." 
 "But--my clothes--"  Sora protests as she's dragged into the well too. Both of them hang on to the remains of the rope as they swim down.

 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite Swim:  (d20-1)[ 11 ] 
Sora swim:  (d20-2)[ 5 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite remembers his younger years swimming in ponds and lakes and rivers, blowing bubbles out his nose as he descends to the bottom of the well. Sora's not far behind, but she's visibly struggling as her clothes drag in the water.

 
 Spoiler 
Initiative:
Jadeite:  (d20+2)[ 16 ] 
Sora:  (d20+2)[ 6 ] 
 
super dark33
 Ah འལཋབཟ.  
Somewhere in the void a horned jellyfish hears the name of its genitilia and smirks.

Surdrak grabbed the rope of one of the buckets and jumped down.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20)[ 8 ]  swim
 (1d20+3)[ 12 ]  initiative.
 


The fall disconcerts Surdrak, and he kicks his legs to stabilise his position.
A well is not like the sea.
Devmaar
 Oh dear...  with a gulp, Alim follows his companions into the well.

 
 Spoiler 
Jump  (1d20+1)[ 20 ] 
Tumble  (1d20+6)[ 17 ] 
Swim  (1d20-1)[ 3 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim and Surdrak make it to the bottom of the well with much spluttering and protestation. They can see a large shape hugging a platform to the right, moving away from them. Jadeite, Sora, and Badger see it too.

 
 Spoiler 
Need initiative from Alim. Also tell me, everyone, if you're staying underwater or surfacing. Don't know if I can post before tonight.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite and Sora attempt to kick their way to the surface, and see just what the creature is:

 
 Spoiler 
Jadeite swim:  (d20-1)[ 16 ] 
Jadeite spot:  (d20+4)[ 23 ] 

Sora swim:  (d20-2)[ 14 ] 
Sora spot:  (d20+3)[ 7 ] 
 


Both clear the surface of the water with little trouble, and Jadeite realizes what the creatures are first.  "Elsee is being attacked by three crocodiles!"  he shouts.
super dark33
Surdrak attempts to swim to the surface

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20)[ 8 ] 
 

 Blurmble! 

Surdrak is best left muffled by the water for now.
Athedia
Badger kicked as she attempted to return to the surface and see what was moving in the water.

 
 Spoiler 
Swim (1d20+1)[ 12 ] 
Spot (1d20+8)[ 17 ] 
 


Her head broke the surface and she took a breath of, what might not have been fresh but was a least breathable, air.  She managed a few strokes toward the platform, but was still stuck in the water.
CoffeeIncluded
Badger, like Jadeite and Sora, moves about fifteen feet in the water and surfaces into stale but breathable air. The shape she sees is long and alive...almost like a crocodile.

 
 Spoiler 
Is Badger surfacing?
 


Surdrak makes no progress, though he stays underwater.

Everyone:
 
 Spoiler 
Swimming is DC 10. Move two squares as a move action, three as a full-round action. Unless specified, I'm writing you down as a full-round swim action (which you need now anyway to get out of the well).
 
Devmaar
Alim attempts to break through the surface of the water
 
 Spoiler 
Swim  (1d20-1)[ 16 ] 
 


Inhaling deeply, Alim swims to G14
CoffeeIncluded
Everybody except Surdrak is able to exit the well and swim into the underground river itself.

 
 Spoiler 
About to go. Alim and Badger are up.
 
Athedia
 
 Spoiler 
Swim  (1d20+1)[ 20 ] 
Climb  (1d20+1)[ 10 ] 
Attempting to swim to/climb on the ledge.
 


Badger cut through the water, remembering the motions as the shock wore off.  In the dark water she groped at the shadows trying to find a handhold.
CoffeeIncluded
Badger's hand slips on a low carpet of dull green moss that hangs off the edge of the ledge, but she manages to get her elbows up and pulls herself onto the platform, where she sees blood before her and, several feet down, Elsee fighting off two more crocodiles.
Devmaar
Alim swims over to the ledge

 
 Spoiler 
Swim  (1d20-1)[ 16 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim makes it over to the ledge with little trouble.

 
 Spoiler 
DC 10 climb check to climb up.
 


One crocodile sees Alim swim to the ledge and charges at the goblin, trying to drag him below water.
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+4)[ 11 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 8 ] 
Grapple:  (d20+8)[ 24 ] 
 


However, in the crocodile's haste, the beast instead chomps down on the rope instead of the goblin.

Another crocodile sees Badger and makes its way over to what it perceives to be new and larger prey.

The third remains attacking Elsee.
 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+2)[ 3 ] 
Crit confirm:  (d20+2)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 8 ] 
 


Elsee actually manages to jump on top of the crocodile's already bleeding jaw and stamp it shut for a moment.
Devmaar
...and attempts to pull himself up

 
 Spoiler 
Climb  (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
...And slides back down, unable to find purchase in the long slippery strands of moss.
super dark33
After another six seconds of playing make-believe as a starfish, Surdrak decided to swim back to the surface again.
It's not like he couldn't do that for some reason!

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20)[ 19 ]  swim
 
CoffeeIncluded
Surdrak swims out of the well and rejoins the others.

Jadeite, treading water, attempts to concentrate enough to cast a spell to incapacitate the alligator attempting to eat Elsee.  "I would rather you not eat her! Elsee, are you still intact?" 
 
 Spoiler 

Swim:  (d20-1)[ 19 ] 
Concentration:  (d20+9)[ 15 ] 
Sleep Save DC 15 (C2):  (d20+2)[ 12 ] 
 


A quickly-dimming light falls upon the alligator. It struggles, then slumps over, asleep.

Sora, too, surveys the situation, treading water as she does.  "Come on, come on, we can't fight like this. Heavens, hear my call!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Swim:  (d20-2)[ 9 ] 
Concentration:  (d20+8)[ 24 ] 
Summon  (d3)[ 3 ]  Celestial Porpoises if successful.
 

 
 Spoiler 
Elsee's turn. The gator attacking her is asleep.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Three gray-gold porpoises suddenly materialize around Sora. They flip in the water, then swim off and ram into the alligators.

 
 Spoiler 
P1 attacks C1
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 5 ] 
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 16 ] 
Damage:  (2d4)[ 5 ] 

P2 attacks C1
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 5 ] 
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (2d4)[ 8 ] 

P3 attacks C3
Attack:  (d20+1)[ 18 ] 
Attack:  (d20+1)[ 13 ] 
Damage:  (2d4)[ 4 ] 
 


The first two porpoises are still slightly disoriented by the summoning and miss their attacks, but the third regains its bearings and slams its pointed nose into the alligator's soft underbelly.

 
 Spoiler 
The porpoises go on Sora's initiative. Elsee's turn, then back to the top.
 
Draconi Redfir
 
 Originally Posted by CoffeeIncluded 
 Elsee actually manages to jump on top of the crocodile's already bleeding jaw and stamp it shut for a moment. 
 

(( Thank you Coffee, you've done half of my work for me 😁))

Elsee's grin at her success of jumping ontop of the Croc and slamming it's mouth shut quickly turns to a frown as the beast falls asleep, Elsee turns while remaining on the Croc's head only to smile again as she sees a growing crowd of familiar faces emerge from beneath the water, ohh how convenient, they've come to play! And would you look at that, the Elf actually made her plan a little easier while he's at it, what a sweetheart!

With the grin remaining plastered on her face, Elsee unties the rope from herself and begins to spread out the bundle that had remained attached to her after being snapped in half, she couldn't quite tell, but from the looks of things she assumed she had at least fifteen to twenty feet worth. Carefully prying the Croc's mouth open as it slept, Elsee quickly tossed the middle section of the rope into the very back of the creature's jaw, making sure it did not line up with any teeth to avoid getting snapped in half again, and ensuring that it would rub against it's gums and “cheeks” when tugged. She then wrapped each end of the rope around the base of the creature's snout several times to keep the rope steady while still allowing the Croc to open and close it's jaws.


 
 Spoiler 

sorry i'm not doing this more often, not a fan of breaking up posts in the middle to roll things, then editing them afterwords to do/not do something else.

Use Rope: (1d20+5)[ 24 ]
Handle Animal: (1d20+4)[ 21 ]
 



Grinning wickedly Elsee slammed her heel into the crown of the 'Gator's skull, shouting down at her new “pet” as she pulled up on the reigns, ensuring the rope tugged at the skin of it's jaws.  “C'mon Scarface wake up! You've got a new boss now 'nd she wants ya moven!” 
 
 Spoiler 

ALL HAIL ELSEE! QUEEN OF THE CROCAGATORS!

Also while i'm at it; Knowledge (nature) to see what exactly the queen knows about her subjects.

(1d20-1)[ 12 ]


Edit: Not much apparently, Hopefully she at least knows about death rolls.
 
Athedia
Badger looked down at the hatchet in her hand and the approaching gator.  Shrugging she hurled it at the gator's face, before reaching into her bag and dropping the retrieved sunrod on the ground to activate it.

 
 Spoiler 
You had said that it was dark down here, and most of us don't have low-light or darkvision.

Attack (1d20+8)[ 12 ] 
Crit (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
Damage  (1d6+1)[ 5 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The hatched spins past the alligator and drops into the water with a  sploosh-plunk. 

A moment later, a good chunk of the tunnel is illuminated. Anyone looking up can see just how smooth and curved the ceiling is, while the lower walls appear more rough and jagged.

 
 Spoiler 
Devmaar's up.
 
Devmaar
Alim strains again to pull himself up, while thinking on everything he knows of these creatures

 
 Spoiler 
Climb  (1d20+1)[ 10 ] 
Knowledge(Nature)  (1d20+7)[ 17 ]  (for Knowledge Devotion)
 


Dragging himself onto the ledge he mutters,  Actually Jadeite, I believe these are alligators, not crocodiles. 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim is able to pull himself up onto the ledge this time.

 "Fascinating,"  Jadeite says,  "Though I would not consider that a pressing concern at the moment and-- What in Isarus' spellbook is Elsee doing?"  
 
 Spoiler 
You still get a standard action, though I'm going for the alligators too.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Both alligators locked in melee try to tear into the nearest porpoise, seeing the marine mammals as better potential meals.

 
 Spoiler 
C1 attacks P2
Attack:  (d20+4)[ 18 ] 
Crit:  (d20+4)[ 19 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 12 ] 

C3 attacks P2
Attack:  (d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Crit:  (d20+4)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 13 ] 
 


The first alligator deals what would have been a lethal blow, and is startled to find, instead of meat and blood, nothing appear between his jaws as the summoned porpoise vanishes.

The third alligator awakens with a start, and nearly roars when he finds himself with a rope in his mouth and a goblin on his back. He immediately starts thrashing about and dives into the water, swimming in circles and twisting and rolling at top speed in an attempt to throw Elsee off his back.
 
 Spoiler 
Ride check, Draconi!
 
Draconi Redfir
 
 Spoiler 

+4 raicial modifier to Ride checks, don't fail me now!

(1d20+8)[ 20 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Let's finish this battle quickly, before Elsee gets any more rash ideas,"  Jadeite mutters as he attempts to tread water with one hand and fire a spell at the wounded alligator with his other.

 
 Spoiler 
Swim:  (d20-1)[ 3 ] 
Concentration:  (d20+9)[ 18 ] 
Magic Missile Damage:  (2d4+2)[ 6 ] 
 

 "Got it!"  Sora says, clasping her hands together over her heart.  "Bless! I pray for our success!" 
 
 Spoiler 
Swim:  (d20-2)[ 3 ] 
Concentration:  (d20+8)[ 21 ] 
If successful, Sora casts Bless.
 


Both spellcasters slip underwater, but manage to complete their spells. Sora's spell infuses everyone nearby with a bit of strength, but Jadeite can't compensate for the increased drag in water. He can't complete the hand gestures in time, and his spell fizzles.

 
 Spoiler 
The DC for concentration checks will be 20 if they can't surface. Sora cast her spell, but Jadeite's fizzled.
 


The two remaining porpoises surround the alligator in the water and ram into him again and again.

 
 Spoiler 
P1 attacks C1
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 4 ] 
Crit:  (d20+3)[ 10 ] 
Damage:  (2d4)[ 4 ] 

P3 attacks C1
Attack:  (d20+3)[ 22 ] 
Crit:  (d20+3)[ 20 ] 
Damage:  (2d4)[ 2 ] 
 


One misses, but the other one manages to bruise the alligator on the...probably the elbow.

The alligator bucks and thrashes, but Elsee manages to hang on and even direct the reptile's direction, albeit crudely.

 
 Spoiler 
Okay, it's DC 15 to stay on the alligator and DC 20 to guide it in a direction. You have to repeat the check every turn and add 5 to the DC if you want to do anything else that round. So which direction do you want the gator to go next turn?

Super Dark, you're up. Then back to the top.
 
super dark33
Surdrak turns to the first Crocigator in order to punch it in the snout.

 
 Spoiler 
  (1d20+4)[ 16 ]  attack
 (1d20+4)[ 22 ]  crit
 (2d6)[ 6 ]  eldritch damage
 (1d3)[ 2 ]  +1=3  gauntlet damage

Note that if I miss his AC, the eldritch damage can still hit his touch AC.
 
Draconi Redfir
 “WAAAAA HOOOOOOOO!!!!! EYE AM ELSEE! QUEEN OF THE CROCAGATORS!” 
 
 Spoiler 

Not sure if both of those are ride DC's or if one is ride and one is handle animal, I’ll just do both for now, let me know.

Ride: (1d20+8)[ 27 ]
Handle Animal: (1d20+4)[ 15 ]
 


Pulling up on the reigns to ensure she herself was still at least partially above the surface long enough to take a breath, Elsee tugged at the ropes in her hands in an attempt to get the beast turned around, ideally aiming for the Crocagator that was currently being distracted by a pair of celestial porpoises.


 “Rammeng Speeeeeed!” 
Devmaar
 Wha... 

Trying to ignore Elsee, Alim steps up next to Badger and swings his longsword at the gator.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack  (1d20+5)[ 13 ] 
Crit  (1d20+5)[ 11 ] 
Damage  (1d6+5)[ 6 ]  Cunning Surge
 
CoffeeIncluded
Surdrak deals the alligator a hard blow to the snout, and he hears things crackle.

Elsee, to the shock of everyone, manages to wrap her small arms and legs around the alligator's torso (it's awfully skinny...) and force it to swim directly into melee. The alligator's still bucking and thrashing, but Elsee holds tight.

 
 Spoiler 
You can get it to move, but it's not going to attack the other alligators. Just saying.
 


In Alim's utter shock at Elsee's actions, his sword goes several inches wide and cuts nothing but empty air.

 
 Spoiler 
Badger's up.
 
Athedia
Badger took a quick step back as she withdrew her bow.  She saw Elsee's antics from the corner of her eye but soon that was blotted out as she focused on the looming head of the crocodile.  She would deal with Elsee later, and as glad as she was that the little goblin was alive, the fact that she had promptly decided to do a risky stunt peeved Badger.  Did she have no sense of self preservation?

 
 Spoiler 
5ft step AWAY from crocodile.
Attack: (1d20+10)[ 30 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+10)[ 17 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 4 ] 

by the way, crits for Comp. Shortbow are on 20's and are x3. 😎

And that's how we roll, Badger style 😁
 
CoffeeIncluded
As the alligator opens its mouth, its teeth shiny with saliva, Badger calmly shoots an arrow point blank, straight down its throat.

 
 Spoiler 
 (d6+2)[ 4 ] 
 (d6+2)[ 3 ] 
 


The arrow pierces its way all the way through the soft part of the alligator's mouth, behind its palate. It skips past bone and punches through green scales, until the tip of the arrow, now bloody, pokes through the back of the alligator's skull.
CoffeeIncluded
The alligator so badly wounded by Badger seems to hesitate, but it appears to also be extremely thin, and tries to take a bite out of Alim before turning and running.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+2)[ 21 ] 
Crit:  (d20+2)[ 11 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 8 ] 
 


It tears a huge chunk out of Alim's arm, then gulps it down as it flees the battle.

The other alligator in the water tries to attack the porpoise, perhaps hoping that this time it won't vanish.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+2)[ 5 ] 
Crit:  (d20+2)[ 15 ] 
Damage:  (d8+6)[ 9 ] 
 


However, the porpoise is able to easily evade its attack.

The alligator Elsee is riding bucks and thrashes and is ultimately guided into melee.
 
 Spoiler 
Elsee, you can attack with a ride check. It'll be with your weapons though; the alligator won't attack.

Surdrak and Elsee are up; I'll go for Sora and Jadeite in a moment. Don't forget Bless is active!
 
super dark33
Surdrak suddenly received visions from the endless void:
A muscular blond man on a boat yabbering about crocodiles and the way he hunts them.

The visions ended in said muscular blond's grave.

Surdrak was so moved he just had to imitate the things he saw, for the memory of some random bloke!

Surdrak leaps upon the large lizard.

 
 Spoiler 
DUNN DUNN DUNN! GRAPPLE!

 (1d20+3)[ 9 ]  (actually is 10)
Crocagator gets AoO.
Ah crap. Hopefully he will try to wrestle too.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite attempts to make his way back to the surface, and cast his strength-draining ray at the alligator battling the two porpoises.

 
 Spoiler 
Swim:  (d20-1)[ 10 ] 
Concentration:  (d20+9)[ 20 ] 
Ray of Enfeeblement Touch attack:  (d20+1)[ 6 ] 
Strength damage:  (2d6+2)[ 11 ] 
 


Jadeite kicks to the surface, but his ray shoos over the alligator's head and instead chips away at the ledge.

Sora's eyes widen as she sees Elsee riding an alligator, both tearing towards her. She kicks backwards, trying to make it to the surface and summon another porpoise to replace the one just defeated.

 
 Spoiler 
Swim:  (d20-2)[ 13 ] 
Concentration:  (d20+8)[ 10 ] 
 


Sora manages to make her way to the surface, but in her panic mischants the spell, which fizzles.
CoffeeIncluded
And now another crazed humanoid attacking it?! The alligator tries to retaliate, but can't bite with the rope in his mouth. So instead the reptile turns around and tries to strike Surdrak with his tail.

 
 Spoiler 
Attack:  (d20+2)[ 4 ] 
Crit:  (d20+2)[ 12 ] 
Damage:  (d12+6)[ 11 ] 
 


However, Elsee is such a drag that he can't even turn all the way around.

 
 Spoiler 
Is this the one Elsee's attacking? Speaking of which, she's up.
 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee cackled wildly as she held on to the beast for dear life, daring to guide it this way and that, still trying to figure out how to open it's jaw on command to bite at his former colleague but unfortunately not having as much luck.

 “Hey Badger! Who'dya thenk would win in a race? Naga or Mr. SparkleScales here?!” 
 
 Spoiler 

Ride check: (1d20+8)[ 25 ]
 
Athedia
Badger's eyes widened.    I left him behind. "Naga!"  She shouted for the dog still looking in the well.
CoffeeIncluded
The alligator continues to thrash and flip, turning over in the water and trying to paw at its mouth, but Elsee  still  manages to hold fast, whooping and hollering like a maniac.

 
 Spoiler 
No direction? No attacking with your daggers? You made the DC exactly.
 


Badger can't hear Naga, and Naga probably can't hear Badger either.
Draconi Redfir
(( was writing up the action at the time, you just posted too quickly :P))

 "Yeah you're probably right! Just look at thes guy's stubby legs, he'd loose faster then a snail against a Kobold. Unless it was a water race of course, THEN he'd keck some major tail!" 

Elsee's eyes opened wide as a particularly strong buck of the Crocagator sent her briefly into the air, she was able to keep her hold on the reigns, but the force of the jump managed to loosen one of her Kurkri and send it into the air above her. It wasn't what she was planning, but Elsee knew an opportunity when she saw it. With a quick hand, Elsee reached out to grab the Kurkri, and quickly brought the blade down upon the Crocagator currently being attacked by the dolphins. She couldn't tell if she had hit or not, but regardless she directed Mr. Sparklescales away from the battle for the time being, she'd either return to strike again or guide the enemy Crocagator into a chase, didn't matter which.


 
 Spoiler 


Attacking Crocagator #1
Attack: (1d20+6)[ 14 ] (apply any penalties you see nessisary)
Crit: (1d20+6)[ 9 ]
Damage: (1d3+2)[ 3 ]
 
CoffeeIncluded
Elsee brings her kukri down to strike, but just as she's about to make the blow, the alligator veers sharply off in the opposite direction. Elsee's jerked off the reptile for a moment, but manages to grab her kukri before it falls into the water, right herself, and spur the beast away from battle.

 
 Spoiler 
Sorry, I thought you were posting it all at once.

Okay, Badger and Alim are up again!
 
Athedia
Badger returned to the spot she had so recently vacated.  Bringing another arrow up she let the fleeing gator escape and aimed at the one near Surdrak.  Not that she wanted to save him, but the paperwork she would have to fill out if he went missing was never fun.

 
 Spoiler 
5ft step forward.  Attacking C1
Attack: (1d20+10)[ 23 ] 
Crit:  (1d20+10)[ 27 ] 
Damage:  (1d6+2)[ 7 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger's arrow slams into the alligator's ribs, dealing a grievous blow.
Devmaar
Alim draws his sling and flings a stone at the gator fighting Surdrak

 
 Spoiler 
Attack  (1d20+4)[ 13 ] 
Crit  (1d20+4)[ 9 ] 
Damage  (1d3+2)[ 5 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Alim's stone whizzes inches above the alligator's head.

 
 Spoiler 
You'd have hit if you were flanking. Sorry.
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badly wounded, the second alligator tries to smash his way through the summoned porpoise and flee the scene.

 
 Spoiler 
attack: [roll0] (11)
Crit: [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]
(He missed)

Tumble: [roll3] (19)[
 


He whiffs, but manages to dive underwater and prevent any retaliatory attacks.

 
 Spoiler 
what's Elsee doing?
 
super dark33
Surdrak lets loose a spray of ink at the first crocagator.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+6)[ 9 ]  ranged touch attack
 (2d6)[ 5 ]  Damage
 
CoffeeIncluded
The ink dissipates harmlessly into the water.
CoffeeIncluded
With no enemies left in range of his spells, and seeing that the remaining alligators (except the one Elsee's riding) are in retreat, Jadeite focuses on swimming to the platform.

 
 Spoiler 
Swim:  (d20-1)[ 8 ] 
 


His robes and hair drag him down, and the elf fails to make much progress.

Noticing Alim's bleeding leg, a whole chunk taken out of it, Sora does the same.

 
 Spoiler 
Swim:  (d20-2)[ 18 ] 
Rolled a 5 on the climb check

Elsee is up!
 


Sora manages to make her way to the platform, but is too tired from treading water, and too wet to grab a firm grip. She slides back down when she tries to climb on the platform.
Draconi Redfir
Seeing the Crocagtor she had just attacked before swim up next to her, Elsee grinned and chewed at her lip, tugging on Mr. Sparklescales' ropes to try and prompt him in closer, shoving the handle of the Kurkri into her mouth to give her an added grip on the rope.

 
 Spoiler 


Ride: (1d20+8)[ 11 ]
 


Unfortunately as she's putting the Kurkri in her mouth, her other hand slips, sending Elsee tumbling off of the Croc's back and into the water below.

 
 Spoiler 

Can i reflex check or something to try and keep a grip on the rope?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Sensing an opening, the alligator bucks and thrashes wildly, sending Elsee flying off his back.

 
 Spoiler 
Strength check:  (d20+4)[ 14 ] 
 


He sends Elsee soaring nearly fifteen feet, where she falls into the water with a  splash-plunk!  The alligator doesn't even bother looking back, and swims away. Anyone looking could see the universal  What the hell is wrong with you?! Dude, I'm outta here!  expression on his face.

 
 Spoiler 
Since all the alligators are swimming away at top speed and nobody can even come close to catching up to them, combat's over.
 
super dark33
Surdrak swam to the well hole and grabbed the rope of the bucket he jumped down with, if it was still there that is.
CoffeeIncluded
Jadeite swims over to the ledge and, with some effort, pulls himself up.

 
 Spoiler 
no rolls--there's no time pressure and he'll make them at some point.
 


Once he is upright on the ledge, he removes the water from his soaked robes with one spell and casts another as he looks up.

 
 Spoiler 
prestidigitation and detect magic.
 

 "Wow,"  he says with a hint of awe.  "The entire ceiling is held up with magically infused architecture." 
Draconi Redfir
Elsee splashed about and briefly struggled to get her head out of the water, spiting out a small amount that had managed to get into her mouth as she finally managed to do so. She frowned somewhat at the sight of the retreating crocagators, but still raised an arm to wave them off.

 "Bye Mr. Sparklescales! I'll see you laaaterrr!~" 

With a newly reassured grin, Elsee swam her way back up to the platform to join the rest of the group, prodding Badger lightly in the leg with her finger.


 "Oe... There's nothin down here." 

With the rush of adrenaline gone, it was only now that Elsee was finally able to feel the pain of a fair-sized chunk of her leg missing, quickly prompting the Goblin to sit down at the Badger's feat and cradle her wound, who knows what could have gotten in there!?
Athedia
Badger knelt down, tearing a piece off her shirt and using it to tie Elsee's leg.   "So how did the gator taming go?"   As frustrated as she was a the foolhardy nature, she was glad the little goblin was alive.  Elsee, for all her flaws, was a soft spot of Badgers.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot  (1d20+8)[ 22 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger:

 
 Spoiler 
Badger sees...something, an unknown lump, in the darkness at the edge of her vision, several dozen feet away on the ledge.
 
super dark33
Surdrak ogles around while holding the rope.

 
 Spoiler 
 (1d20+1)[ 16 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
Surdrak:

 
 Spoiler 
Surdrak may see...a lump of something further off.
 


Jadeite:
 
 Spoiler 
Spot:  (d20+4)[ 24 ] 
 

 "There's something on the platform, several dozen feet away,"  says Jadeite.
Athedia
Badger stood up from where she was looking at Elsee's wound and carefully approached the bundle.  She gestured for the others to stay back, in case it was another, weaker, alligator.

Placing her bow back in her quiver she withdrew the quarterstaff from its section.  It always amazed her how these items fit inside.  Staying a good arms length away she poked at the bundle with the stick, waiting for teeth to clamp down on the end.
CoffeeIncluded
The lump doesn't stir as Badger and the rest approach. As they get closer, they see...damp cloth. And a humanoid figure inside those clothes.
Athedia
At first Badger was all to willing to write the lump off as a beggar, but then she remembered how hard it had been to get down into the sewers.  And a beggar would be out at this time of day, panhandling coppers off the street.

She gently moved the rags aside, checking for a pulse.

 
 Spoiler 
Heal  (1d20+6)[ 26 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
It's a beggar, a human in his late thirties or maybe early forties, dark hair just starting to be speckled with gray. He's soaking wet, and ice cold. Badger finds a stab wound between his ribs. He's obviously dead.

Badger also finds  (10d10)[ 40 ]  gold and some flint and tinder in his pockets, the result of many weeks worth of begging.
Athedia
Badger closed the man's eyes and held the hold tightly in her hand.  He would get a funeral, she would be sure of it.  But another stab wound?    "He was stabbed, but Cecil only targeted clerics... Who would have killed an old man like this?" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "Look,"  Jadeite says, searching through the beggar's pockets. He comes up with some shredded soaked papers, about the size of receipts, and an empty liquor bottle.  "He could have just gotten into a fight. Don't murders like these happen every day?" 
 
 Spoiler 
I'll assume you're all taking 20 on search here unless you tell me otherwise.
 
Athedia
Coffee:
 
 Spoiler 
What can Badger see of the stab wound?
 
CoffeeIncluded
Badger:

 
 Spoiler 
Badger sees that the wound was delivered quickly, with a dagger or knife. It looks imprecise, as if the killing blow was delivered more from luck than skill. There's also various bruises and scratches on the man's body, and his knuckles are split, though the blood has been washed away.
 
Devmaar
 Sora, could you take a look at my leg please? 

Alim hobbles towards Badger and Jadeite, but he hangs back and lets them inspect the corpse.
Athedia
 "He has been in a fight.  But I don't think it was with another sewer dweller.  They would have dumped him in the water, better he was never found at all.  No, I would say he tried to fight back but the person got lucky."   And luck can end someone's life faster than one would believe.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Oh, of course! Cure light wounds!" 

Sora heals both Alim and Elsee.

 
 Spoiler 
Alim:  (d8+4)[ 6 ] 
Elsee:  (d8+4)[ 9 ] 
 
CoffeeIncluded
 "But he has been in the water. Look at his clothes. Perhaps he washed up on a lower section of the platform?" 

Jadeite takes a breath, and looks around.  "There is magic imbued in these tunnels as well. Perhaps we should look around more?" 
Draconi Redfir
 
 Originally Posted by athedia 
 Badger knelt down, tearing a piece off her shirt and using it to tie Elsee's leg.   "So how did the gator taming go?"   As frustrated as she was a the foolhardy nature, she was glad the little goblin was alive.  Elsee, for all her flaws, was a soft spot of Badgers.

 
 Spoiler 
Spot [roll0]
 
 
 

Elsee grinned as she cradled her newly bandaged wound  "I'll see hem again! Me and Sparklesclaes really connected Yaknow?" 

It was then that Elsee got healed by Sora's magics, allowing her to stand up properly without too much trouble and walk over to the dead hobo.

 "Probly better it didn't get in the water. Wouldn't wanna be drinkin rotting corpse now wouldja? Think i heard a story about that once, a human girl went out to play with her friends, went missing for three months, then people started complainin 'bout a weird taste and smell in their drinkin water. They look in the water tank 'nd find the corpse of the girl who had apparently fallen in three months ago when it was last open, drowned and/or starved, 'nd had been rotting in their drinking water ever since." 
super dark33
 Probably this begger got stabbed by another begger, drunk or both a few days ago when it rained. 

Surdrak poked the body with his crowbar.
CoffeeIncluded
 "Fascinating,"  says Jadeite as he turns over the hobo's body, rifling through his rags for any sort of identification.  "I wonder, does that story describe what she looked like? What would three months of decay in a still body of water do to a corpse. What tissues would break down first? Oh, this is a fascinating question!" 
super dark33
 How long do you think the body was here? I know more about creating bodies than tending them.  

Surdrak folded his arms, then manifested his eldritch claw to the form of a tentacle.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee scrunched her face and proded her lips with a finger as she tried to remember any spesific details of the story.

 "Nnnnooo don't thenk so. said the body was floating i think, other then that i can't remember." 
CoffeeIncluded
 "That's a shame,"  says Jadeite.  "Would you like to put this to the test right now?"  He grins down at the body.

 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (Nature):  (d20+11)[ 25 ] 
 

 "I doubt he's been dead more than a few days." 
Draconi Redfir
 "Yeaaaaahhhh, no. I'd rather not drink corpse water if i have the option." 
Athedia
 "Let us just bring him to a cleric.  I wonder if this is what Naga smelled.  Well he could tell me if I hadn't left him above ground."  Badger looked sheepish as she wondered how Naga was doing.  She had said she wouldn't leave him again, and then had jumped down a well.
CoffeeIncluded
 
 Spoiler 
Knowledge (A+E):  (d20+11)[ 17 ] 
 

 "I believe if we follow this path we should reach another exit. Look,"  Jadeite says, pointing to the weak but present current,  "If this body were thrown down the well we descended, he would not have washed up here, as the water flows in the opposite direction." 
Silverraptor
Sora puts her hand over her mouth in both disgust and horror.
 "That's horrible! How could such a thing happen?! And how could you think like that Jadeite?! She was another person!" 
CoffeeIncluded
 "I would place emphasis on the was,"  Jadeite says with obvious glee.
super dark33
Despite disturbances in the void, Surdrak knew how it was when two vision of death clash.
He nudges Jadeite with an eldritch elbow.

 This is most certainly not the time señor dead-arousal.  

Surdrak is well aware of the hypocrisy in his words and finds it funny.
He quickly turns his look into the well hole to check if the bucket is still there.

 
 Spoiler 
Being connected to the spirit void, Surdrak is catching glimpses from beyond the 4th wall.

 You also need to start another wool-line or whatever.  
Who let you in here? Get the ψηདབན out of here!
 
CoffeeIncluded
It's too deep for the bucket to drop.
Draconi Redfir
Elsee playfully kicked at Jadeite's leg as badger's comment reminded her of something, causing her to poke and prod through her own hair.

 "Yeah and that just gets yer ears aaalll tingly doesn't it ya necrophile" 

She grinned and giggled at her own little joke before finally finding what she was looking fore, sure enough there was a large round bulge on her head that she couldn't feel as being a part of her, and from the way it was pulsating, it was safe to say Lil'Miss was safe and alright, probably managed to either climb into or already be inside an air bubble trapped by her hair as she dove, or perhaps the parasite simply knew how to breathe under water or hold it's breath for a long time, it would make sense given she had her face jammed in Elsee's flesh half the time. Elsee made a mental note to have Naga babysit next time she decided to go swimming.
Dusk Eclipse
 "Stubborn Old man, he breaks his wrist and I have to do his work.... could have asked a cleric and he would have been better in 5 minutes, hell it wouldn't have costed a single copper coin; but NO "I thought I taught you better than to rush this thing"  Artorias muttered to himself as he walked down the road, having just finished  a delivery of freshly sharpened swords for some rich family's personal guard.

He was so deep in thought that he almost missed the big dog keeping guard over a well.  "Naga?"  The dog barked at him as if acknowledging him.  "If you are here... it means The Badger must be near."  Artorias hadn't seen his friend a lot in the last weeks, he had to help his family; but he knew Cecil's execution has rattled them.

 "Hey boy, where is the Badger? huh boy?" 
CoffeeIncluded
Naga looks into the well, then turns back to Artorias and barks.

Meanwhile, underground, Jadeite looks back down from the ceiling as his spell expires.  "This tunnel is a wonderful example of cooperative arcantech; Dierdre could not have built this by herself, assuming there are more of these tunnels beneath every well."  He turns to the others.  "Nevertheless, should we return to the surface? There may be another exit if we keep traveling in this direction." 
 
 Spoiler 
Assuming the others are cool with it, I'll return everyone to the surface and post a new thread tomorrow morning. Last chance for doing anything in this tunnel for now!"
 
Athedia
Badger nodded and then hefted the corpse onto her shoulder.  She was slowed by its weight, but still could keep up with the goblins shorter legs.  She had said this beggar would get a funeral, and a funeral she would provide.

 
 Spoiler 
Naga is actually small :P here is a picture.
 
 
CoffeeIncluded
The group walks along the platform, hoping to find another exit that doesn't involve swimming back up the well.

  
 Spoiler 
New ic thread, everyone! This was not easy to do on my phone.

 http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showt...php?p=15553849 
 
flat_footed
  The Fullmetal Mod   : Raise Thread 