Olive_Sophia
The months were wearing on, and the Inquisition had grown quite busy. They were regularly inducting new members into the order, and their investigators began to operate even in areas where traditional authorities failed to reach. Six different inquisitors were tasked with investigating one such area, which laid on the outskirts of the human kingdom. They were ordered to convene at the local ranger's station, some two-hundred-and-fifty miles southeast of the capital.

  Local Ranger's Station, 8 AM  

It was early in the morning, golden light dappling the surrounding deep forest. You have come a long ways from home, and with only a vague map, it's been hard to know how close you are to your destination. Eventually though, you spot it. The place was little more than a run-down shack. It was an old wooden structure with a small porch on one end, and a single square room inside. The planks making up the exterior were dilapidated, and turning green from exposure. The door was off its hinges, and vines grew through the broken windows. Outside the establishment stood a lightly armored knight in all black attire. There were the remains of a fire from the night before at his feet, and his lance was leaned against a nearby tree.

He greeted the inquisitors as they arrived.  "Welcome everyone, to the eastern frontier's fourth ranger station! I know, it's not exactly the warm welcome I was expecting, either,"  he said, gesturing towards the building with a disappointed expression.  "Believe it or not, that is the only office of royal authority this far out in the frontier... It looks like it's been abandoned for years now. Somebody ought to let our boys at the capital know."  The man shook his head.

 "Sorry, my name is Tristan Bentham. I was assigned to oversee and support your mission here. Though I'm still supposed to be on light duty."  Sir Tristan Bentham? Actually he was a pretty famous knight in the capital. He made a name for himself early in the inquisition, being promoted to a high rank in a short amount of time, despite his young age. But he was seriously injured on one of his missions, and since then he has been out of commission for several months. He did look young, as the reports said. He was sort of boyishly handsome, with brown hair and reddish eyes. He looked strong, but he wasn't the tallest or most imposing of figures. Moreover, something of his characteristic charm seemed to be lacking. There were dark circles under his eyes and an unusual air of solemnity about him, despite his jokes. Perhaps the path to recovery had weighed heavily on him indeed.

 "We're to look for any sign of the enemy, of course. But our aim is to investigate the disappearance of one of our recruits - Richard Collins. They had him working the frontiers. He always left us a paper trail, but eventually it just stopped. This area was the last place he was supposed to be."  Tristan took a moment to let the others absorb the information. He turned towards the woods for a moment and scratched his head.

 "I'm not sure that there's really anything for us to find here. Deserters aren't exactly uncommon in this position. And from the little scouting I've done, there's nothing but a couple of towns out this way. But the higher ups must have had some reason to think differently. Otherwise they never would have assigned so many ranking knights to a mission like this. So I say we do our due diligence, and if no good leads turn up by the end of the week, we'll wrap this up and head home." 

He pulled out his copy of the local map. It was simple and incomplete, but he made a pair of marks on the image. One to the northeast of the camp, and one to the southeast. He informed the others that the northern settlement was a small village called Quadditch, and the southern one was a larger town called Bately. Bately was a bit closer, but both places were several miles from the camp.

---

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
The journey you were asked to make was quite the trip. It would have taken roughly a week on horseback to make it here from the capital. Let us know how you traveled here. You may need to purchase rations or supplies for the road, or account for any leisure purchases your character would have made along the way. The order will loan you a light or heavy horse for such a mission if you require it, but if you fail to return it your reward will be penalized appropriately.

If you rode a mount to the frontier, make three ride checks. If you were scavenging for food along the way, make three survival checks. You can also attempt a knowledge check to see if you know anything about the area. Choose between Local, Geography, or History.
 
Auranghzeb
White Owl is rarely the first one to speak. But he seizes the initiative this time. He is a most peculiar individual, clad in a flexible mithral breasplate of a blue hue crowne by an Owl's Head made of the strongest iron. His voice comes metallic from behind the Owl's mask that does not move of show any facial expression. As he speaks, his powerful wings -yes, wings- remain folded and relaxed as the perfect frame for his greatsword strapped to his back. He doesn't introduce himself, by now, he is sure everyone in the camp knows who he is.

  The six of us were brought to find a deserter. That seems unlikely.   

He looks around the camp, assessing the conditions of the fortifications and the state of the troops.  Knowledge Martial   (1d20+4)[ 21 ]  
  What do we know about the deserter? Motivations, reasons?   
 
 Spoiler: travel 
-*-*-

White Owl rode Virago the winter wolf all the way here. The wolf is rapacious in his appetite so he probably spent around 40 gold pieces in lamb meat.

ride checks  (1d20+16)[ 32 ] 
 (1d20+16)[ 33 ] 
 (1d20+16)[ 19 ] 
 
Aegis013
In the distance a strange glow was spotted as though it were a star shining in the sky in middle of the day. However, as it approached it seemed to be staying above a human simply walking towards the assigned post. As the details became clear on their approach the human has piercing blue eyes and is wearing fine clothes, if a bit sullied from the journey. He seems to be marching underneath a fiery impish creature bound by a collar of golden light.

Upon reaching the facility and hearing Tristan's greeting he replies.

 
  "Greetings from the Ironheart House, Tristan. I am Milus and will have the pleasure of serving with you at this..."   Milus' eyes review the state of the structure,   "...office of royal authority."   A faint sound of disappointment can be heard in his voice.   "I've heard tales of your valor from the capital."  

As he speaks, the Fire Mephit descends in lazy circles eventually perching itself on Milus' shoulders. The fiery creature is over half as tall as the man himself, yet Milus seems unbothered by supporting the creatures full weight on his shoulders. Its forked tongue flicks out from between rows of pointed teeth, backlit by the flames inside of its belly.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Fire Mephits are about 4 feet tall and weigh around 1 pound.
 

  "This is Ajet. The golden collar will prevent it from intentionally harming anyone, though, please try not to get too friendly with it."   Milus says matter-of-factly,   "I deeply apologize for not arriving sooner, but unfortunately, Ajet tends to spook horses."  

Then catching eye of White Owl and Virago, Milus gives a salute and whispers something to the Fire Mephit, not so quietly that it can't be overhead.   "I command you to clear away the foliage and make whatever repairs to the integrity of the structure you are able during our time here. Be careful not to burn the structure or set fire to the area."   to which the Mephit's golden collar glows and the creature hisses as if annoyed before slinking onto the ground where it goes to begin pulling vines back out of one of the nearby broken windows and coiling them up.
Quantumphear
      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: The Capital  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9,
 
 
 The Capital, 6.30 AM 

It is a lovely morning in the Capital, and Lazat is nursing a drink while looking at the brightening horizon. He slouches in his morning garments, nightcap and all, and he nurses a steaming cup of amber liquid as his trusty butler busily butles around him. While he blinks blearily, she is the very image of resolute professionalism, elegantly placing down a food-laden silver tray as she proffers in her other hand a bevy of scrolls, which she pointedly places in front of her patron. He pushes aside the letters and digs in, ready to start yet another day of iniquity and judgement with a full and hearty meal.

 
 Spoiler: Breakfast with a side of dialogue 

  "Sir, I have here your breakfast, freshly prepared uniform, and that set of orders you've been ignoring for two weeks. I've take the liberty to prepare a dossier for your perusal. Shall I fetch your ritual equipment once you're done?"  

He nods, biting into a fresh fruit that dribbles juice down his chin.

  "Bless your stalwart heart Valeria, what would I do without you? Bring it up, quickly now."  

She bows, and leaves the room to continue her daily duties. Lazat lazily enjoys his meal, finally giving attention to the Inquisition orders; He'd only just returned from his last assignment a day before these new ones arrived, it was only right that he took some time to rest and recuperate. It all seemed quite uninspired, missing recruits were nothing special. And six whole inquisitors for the job? Clearly  someone  in high command was fudging the accounting books. Perhaps they were assigning away more people than necessary for an easy job, with the hangers-on pocketing the funds. At least, that is what Lazat could  hypothetically  do, if he were in a position to lean on the Inquisition treasurers. Naturally he would never do something so hopelessly blatant.

Next is the dossier; Valeria has, as usual, read the orders as soon as they have arrived and gone off to the kingdom's archives to do some research. The lady is uncommonly loyal and competent, more so now that he had initiated her into the most basic secrets of binding vestiges, and Lazat once again lauds himself for recruiting her. Good help is so hard to hard to find, and his last butler had been coerced into skimming information (and funds) from Lazat's household. Well, the fellow had paid dearly for his insult, and with interest. Where was he? Ah, yes, the dossier. Information about the area, the outpost and the fellow they were supposed to meet. Valeria's impeccable calligraphy perches in the margins, noting that the archives did not have any recent reports penned by the absent recruit. Strange. No doubt the incompetent moron had run off, probably with some native woman. Some people were just slaves to their desires.

He takes a pinch from his snuffbox as he casts the letters aside, waving for Valeria to attend him. She dresses him as he complains about his onerous duties, the crumpled dressing gown replaced with his pristine uniform and trademark black cloak.


 
 Spoiler: More OOC &amp; Manservant Actions: 
 Valeria the Butler will be making some knowledge checks on her masters behalf, using her Research feat to give some slight bonuses, assuming a +2 bonus for a comprehensive set of archives. This should hopefully make it slightly easier to teleport to the Ranger Station, Scry on the missing inquisitor, and perhaps even give some knowledge about what Lazat will be encountering in this foreign location. This doesn't actually have to give any relevant information this time, but Lazat doesn't have knowledge skills; That's what servants are for, after all. In this case she'll be making a check about the Inquisition itself and its members; Perhaps it'll turn up some information about Richard Collins, the type of person he is, or what he reported before his mysterious disappearance.

 (1d20+10)[ 19 ]  Knowledge (History or Nobility, as needed)

Fun fact: A snuffbox is a container for powdered tobacco or other drugs. The name is very serious. Don't laugh.
 

 


First, the essential preparation for every day.

 
 Spoiler: Binding and Spell Preparation 

Lazat murmurs to his familiar, which takes off to the spirit realm to fetch the spells he requires. Valeria returns soon, proffering a small satchel to him with almost religious reverence. He checks the contents with a practised routine, and once she has cleared the tableware he begins deftly calling upon occult powers, drawing a seal in salt (tidying up with a slice of bread with some egg on it). The binding begins; A three-headed hound stalks into reality with a lazy stride, but it speaks like a sly professor, testing Lazat's will to know more in a pattern he is well familiar with. Within the minute the deal is done.

Lazat wipes away the seal and begins again, this time casting a spell beforehand. From the satchel he retrieves a wicked dagger, carved from jade and serrated with obsidian. As he begins casting the spell the knife pulses with a purple glow, and the air can be seen to part as it moves in his hand. He measures out a different seal, carefully and precisely, taking the time with exacting patience; This vestige is more unruly, well within his power, but he knows that this one will test him carefully for any weakness. He calls upon the Star Emperor Dantalion, the vestige appearing regally in a emanation of blinding light. This time the vestige commands him imperiously, but Lazat has the tools for victory; The knife glows brighter as it approaches the vestige, and though its posture does not change it clearly fears the pain that is laden upon the blade. The Pact is made, and the ethereal emperor fades away from his place upon the table.

Valeria cleans up the remnants of the summoning, and eventually Lazat's familiar reappears with its payload of spells. Lazat prepares appropriately for travelling to foreign lands, and he is finally ready to continue.

 
 Spoiler: Binding/Spellcalling Actions: 


Sha'Ir Spells: Lazat can call all these spells with a DC 20 Diplomacy check, taking 10 for all of these checks is a guaranteed success.

First he calls in Vestigewrack (taking  (1d6+2)[ 3 ]  minutes to arrive), using it for the subsequent binding check for Dantalion. He then calls Endure Elements, Primal Hunter, Greater Mage Armor (Extended), Primal Instinct, Greater Resistance, and Teleport. These will take  (6d6+18)[ 37 ]  minutes to arrive, and Lazat will cast them all on himself (except Teleport) the moment they arrive.

He also has the spells Wrack, Greater Invisibility, and Dominate Person prepared (from an earlier day) within his Ring of Theurgy, allowing him to access these with a move action at any time.

Naberius Binding Check: 1d20+18, DC is 15.
Naberius' Skills picking Knowledge: Geography, allowing Lazat to use it untrained for the duration of the pact. He'll also use Naberius's Disguise Self ability (at will) to make himself ever so slightly more attractive; Combed hair, strong chin, warm eyes. Barely a change worth mentioning, really. Naberius's sign is a hoarse, gravelly voice.

Dantalion Binding Check: 1d20+20, DC is 25. Dantalion's sign is a half-form face that manifests somewhere on Lazat's torso, its shape only slightly visible underneath his robe and clothes. When he uses Dantalion's powers, its eyes and mouth open to reveal an endless expanse of stars.
 

 


Now, on to business. With his spells prepared, vestiges bound, outfit donned and belly full, Lazat begins the process of leaving, turning to his servant as she leads in some of his colleagues and gives some final instructions to her.

  "Sir, your guests have arrived."  
  "Yes, yes, welcome in and mind the carpet, it's expensive! Come on close, we don't have all day. Valeria, I doubt this escapade will be anything serious, I shouldn't be away for too long. If needed I'll cast a Sending with any instructions. Keep an eye on the house while I'm gone, and your wages for this month are in the usual tin. Grab yourself something from the kitchen before breakfast gets cold.

Oh, and there's a small mess in the basement, as I'm sure you're aware. Do clean up after your predecessor."  

Valeria keeps her impassive expression as she gives an deep bow, and before she has risen again he finishes casting Teleport, the participants disappearing with the smell of ozone and the low crescendo of rushing water.

He appears in verdant clearing, close enough to the ranger station to not bother with another spell. More importantly, he has somehow, in an entire forest of dry timber and open glades, he has managed to teleport directly into a pile of animal droppings. An insect begins buzzing lazily around his head, and he begins to grind his teeth in frustration. His mood has not improved by the time he arrives at the ranger station.

  "Hmph. Yes, hello, charmed I'm sure. We're chasing this fellow who is derelict in his duties, and I for one intend to punish him for wasting my time. Find me a scrap of his belongings, or even better a drop of his blood, and we'll soon have the miscreant within our clutches."  

Lazat will begin using a patch of moss to scrap the filth off his boots, swearing under his breath the whole while.
 
 
  
ArvinLarn
 
 Spoiler: Image 
 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
   Local Ranger's Station, 8 AM   
 

'Busy' was a good way to describe the Inquisition.

Yet, it was also inadequate to convey the magnitude of work that needed to be done. Knights constantly moved in and out of the Capitol to enact the King's will in places even the Crown could not reach. Such was the magnitude of his dominion that there were plenty of places in the Kingdom for those who wished to hide.

And that magnitude showed on the dust still clinging to the cloak of the sole woman in this motley group, unless she was woefully mistaken about the individual behind the White Owl's metal mask. More than a week's worth of rough riding from her previous assignment to the Capitol and then straight to this Eastern Frontier upon receiving her new orders. Didn't even have time to do anything but purchase enough supplies for the trip before heading out once more. Not to mention the small matter of actually finding this forsaken Ranger Station, the directions given were sparse at best.

Suffice it to say that Amy's morning was comparable to Lazat's at the very least. Dust aside, her armor and gear were kept well enough: plate and maille meant to turn blades, blows and the elements, festooned in leather from which hung many pouches and knick-knacks for her work. Her steed, loaned from the Order, stood tied to a post beside the Station. It bore the rest of her equipment including, curiously, a well-made backpack and a well-worn crossbow.


 
 Originally Posted by Quantumphear 
   "Hmph. Yes, hello, charmed I'm sure. We're chasing this fellow who is derelict in his duties, and I for one intend to punish him for wasting my time. Find me a scrap of his belongings, or even better a drop of his blood, and we'll soon have the miscreant within our clutches."   
 

  "Richard could be a deserter. He could also have been ambushed in the course of his duties."   Amy suggests after Lazat voiced his displeasure, her helmet tucked under an arm with only a slight twitch of her brow hinting at what she thought of the latter's misfortune.   "The Crown's authority barely exists in this part of the Kingdom even after it'd been brought into the fold a couple centuries ago, as Tristan here has shown. Quaddich, Bately and any other settlement we find govern themselves and pay lip service to the idea of Fealty to the King at best."   She adds, her lips thinning to a fine line at the unspoken implication: they would find little help from the locals.

  "So between Richard's disappearance and the fact that the Inquisition is willing to throw all of us towards finding him? He may have found something worth our time. Plenty of places here for someone to hide."   Was her conclusion, though one that was clearly conjecture rather than fact. She glanced across the Ranger Station to Ajet clearing out the surrounding foliage and trying to spruce up the dilapidated station. Then she turned back to Tristan.

  "Anyway, perhaps it'd be worthwhile to turn this Station into our base of operations since Milus' familiar is already getting started? Though that would leave you alone while we comb through the area. Unless we dispense of that idea and move as one group."   And the famous Knight certainly looked the part of someone who should still be on Light Duties, a pity about his dashing looks now dashed. Did he come here of his own volition despite his diminished state to prove himself once more? Or perhaps this was a 'punishment' of sorts? Amy couldn't tell, only that leaving Tristan alone would not be wise given the man's current state.

She turned to the rest of her new colleagues, her expression asking the unspoken question.

 What say, you? 
 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Already bought a week's worth Rations for Amy but she is gonna try and forage during the trip. She's also loaning a Heavy Horse (and the necessary accessories to ride it and have it carry cargo) from the Order.

Ride Roll#1:  (1d20+9)[ 10 ] 
Ride Roll#2:  (1d20+9)[ 14 ] 
Ride Roll#3:  (1d20+9)[ 27 ] 

Survival Roll#1:  (1d20+5)[ 12 ] 
Survival Roll#2:  (1d20+5)[ 15 ] 
Survival Roll#3:  (1d20+5)[ 16 ] 

Amy also already made a Knowledge Local check on Discord so I had her mention what she knew in the IC
 
BelGareth
Nonsense was, well he was on a job. Not an official job, no, something he liked to do on the side, to keep his skills up to snuff…so to speak.

His mark was sleeping, and had been for a while, his hiding space high up in the rafters, he had been there for several days, observing his target, he was a snorer. He disliked snorers….but Nonsense was just interrupted.

Shard just buzzed in alarm, the signal had been made, and so he passed it on, something official was awaiting for him, and he had to hurry this up, or…abandon his mark.

He didn’t like the sound of that, not very professional sounding. He sighed, out loud, enough for anyone nearby to hear him, but nobody did. He dropped down from the rafters like a cat, his feet landing with the grace of a bird, barely touching the ground. He tiptoed across the floor, a blade in his hand, he finished the job, and then looked back to regard his work.

It wasn’t the best piece he had done, but it had that certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ and he nodded in satisfaction before heading out to meet up with shard and find out what this new mission would be.

Damn, he had to go the outskirts, not a whole lot of debauchery, thieving or sinnin’ going on, he would have to get it done quick so he could get back to the city, where he belonged.

He met up at Lazats house, he knew the Confessor was a member of this already intriguing group, and not wanting to waste his own powers, he was hitching a ride.

  “A bit off don’t you think my good man?”   He said smirking as the appeared no when near the ranger station. He was smiling as he jested with the man and walked off, seemingly gliding along the ground as he did.

Joining the others he nodded to them as he met their eyes, most he knew, others only by their reputations alone. He was dressed casually, in comfortable city clothing, though his boots where knee high leather, with laces all the way up, and were remarkably clean, as if he hadn’t walked on any dirt on the way here. Which was obviously insane.

Listening to the speakers he nodded, signaling his consent to the plan.
Olive_Sophia
 

It seemed like everyone had arrived in one piece, and that was great news. Some looked a little worse for wear, others wore the road dust like a second skin. Nonsense seemed least of all affected by the long voyage that had been asked of them. Still, it was a fine group of knights, as far as Tristan could tell.

When Millus complimented him on his reputation, he replied  "Greetings Milus, and thank you. I don't plan to disappoint."  Then the white-haired man suggested cleaning up the ranger's camp.  "Yes, that's a great idea. Last night I managed here somehow, but the place needs some work before it can be called a suitable lodging. Oh good, I see you've brought some help."  The fiery little creature went to work, starting by dragging debris out of the camp and collecting some of the broken glass. Ajet grumbled and complained the whole time he worked.    "Just great... march two hundred bleedin' miles to clean out some forest hovel. Humiliate me will ya?"    he said as he shuffled past Amy with more garbage.

 "Amy speaks true. Unfortunately we don't have a great deal of information about the man to go off of. His reports were rarely reflective - they were straightforward and businesslike. I tried to ask some recruiters around the capital before I left, but it seems he signed up at one of our field offices. No one had seen him personally. His recruitment record does say that he's a human with black hair, however."  Tristan was turning something over in his head, about to add something else, when he noticed Lazzat staring at him with a queer expression. Suddenly he felt the presence of a strange magic, targeted at him.

Sir Bentham's eyes went cold, and he threw back his cloak, revealing a quiver of javelins at his side - his pale fingers were already on a hilt.  "What's the matter with you?!"  he demanded. In that moment the young knight seemed much more frightening. But the magic fizzled against his defenses. After an intense few seconds, Tristan lowered his guard.  "Hmph. You must be Lazzat."  And with that he turned away from the strange older man. Instead he picked back up with Amy.

 "Don't worry too much about me. I can still handle myself in case of an emergency. Actually, I was thinking that I'd let you all get going, when you're ready. I'll catch up with you a bit later. I still have some spells to prepare. Since I'm supposed to support you all, I thought I'd ask what kind of support you might require. I could prepare some healing, offensive spells, or utility magics." 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Lazat's poorly bound vestige forced him to try and read Tristan's thoughts, and he was found out. Tristan passed the DC 23 will save.

 Private Check Results (revealed 07/24/24) 
 
 Spoiler: Amy 

 Knowledge Local Check (22) Result 

You know that this part of the eastern frontier is quite sparsely populated, and that royal influence isn't very strong here. Most government functions are local governments which officially pay fealty to the crown but mostly handle their own affairs.

You know that the far east was united with the kingdom after a series of wars a few hundred years ago. And that a popular variety of yam originated from the area. Locals in the frontier need to be a hardy sort of individual to deal with the untamed terrain, and with the occasional monster attack. News of such events still reaches the capital from time to time, but otherwise you don't hear much of the frontier these days.
--

 Could you make a spot check please?

Spot Check (27) Result 

Among the garbage that the Mephit is dragging out of the house, you just catch sight of a conspicuous book.
 

 
 Spoiler: White Owl 

 Martial Lore check (21) Result 
You realize that the ranger's camp was never meant to support much of a crew. There are no serious fortification, no training yards or armories. It's more likely that it was run as an office by a few rangers with light weaponry.
 

 
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
  "What's the matter with you?!"  Tristan demanded. After an intense few seconds, he lowered his guard.  "Hmph. You must be Lazzat."  
 

Amy breathed a sigh of relief, her glove fluttering away from the hilt of her Rapier.   "This mission is already off to a fine start, gentlemen."   She snarked with a tone even drier than the dust still clinging to her person. Because the task at hand wasn't already difficult enough for six Inquisitors, they had to be at loggerheads with each other.


 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
  "Don't worry too much about me."  
 

  "If you insist. I'd say focus on Healing Spells, because you still look dead on your feet."   The Greenette shook her head. She wasn't sure if it was Bravado, Machismo or something else that compelled Tristan to carry on. But if the famous Knight asserts that he can keep going, there was little point arguing.


 
 Originally Posted by Aegis013 
   "This is Ajet."   
 


 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
    "Just great... march two hundred bleedin' miles to clean out some forest hovel. Humiliate me will ya?"    he said as he shuffled past Amy with more garbage. 
 

Something seemed to have occurred to Amy as she spun around to face Milus all of a sudden.   "Milus, yeah? Could you bring your Familiar back here, Ajet was it?"   That didn't stop the woman from approaching the Mephit with intent.   "I think I saw something in that pile of refuse he was dragging along."   She explained herself, at least, as she homed in on something in particular within that clump of garbage Ajet intended on throwing away. Taking to a knee, her gloved hands pried out her prize after clearing out some of the clutter and raised it for the others to see:

A book of some kind, what it was Amy intended to know.   "Any of you can check if this tome is rigged with some kind of curse, perchance?"  
 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Amy wouldn't have seen the book without a Spot Check. Sadly, no Knowledge Checks to figure out what kind of book it is from the cover alone.
 
Auranghzeb
White Owl looked at all the newcomers, he knew very little about them but they didn't seem the martial sort, with the exception of Milus.

Good thing they couldn't see his face as deep mistrust drew across his brow.

  Are you all prepared to leave? It seems this requires swift action. I'd like to comb Bateley today before dusk while the trail is warm. Get a sense of the area and its people.

Who could be harboring deserters, and to what purpose.   


As he spoke, he absentmindedly stroke Virago's magnificent white fur. Then he said softly

  Friend, we need to push march today. Let's feed you first.  
Aegis013
 

Milus salutes each new Inquisitor as they arrive, he watches with a stoic interest at the near-spat between Lazzat and Tristan but makes no comment on the matter.

Upon Amy's inquiry Milus turns to her. Though before he can bark a command to Ajet the woman seemed intent on marching over to claim whatever prize the Mephit had dredged from the dilapidated base of operation.   "Good eye. I'm not able to determine if it's cursed, but if anyone were protective enough to lay a curse on it, I doubt it would be here... in... this.   Milus gestures the Office of Royal Authority, given its rather sorry state. Milus offers a hand, indicating that he has no fear of opening a book.   "If you're concerned, I'll be glad to take a gander at its content. I doubt a measly curse could stop me from our shared task."  

When White Owl inquires about moving Milus says   "As a Knight and Inquisitor, I am ready to depart at all times. Though, I suspect I will simply slow you down if you wish to march on Bately immediately. Keeping up with your magnificent White Wolf may be a feat beyond my measure. I do agree though, we should not give Richard Collins any additional time to plan, hide or make his escape. Whatever his plans may be."  
Quantumphear
      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: The Capital  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9,
 
 
  
 Spoiler: Active Spells and Effects 

Active Spells: Endure Elements (24hrs), Primal Hunter (24hrs), Primal Instincts (24hrs), Extended Greater Mage Armor (20hrs), Greater Resistance (24hrs)
Vestige Binding (EBL 8): Dantalion (Poor Pact), Naberius (Good Pact)
Other Effects:
 
 
Lazat is unperturbed by Tristan's response, turning up his nose with a dismissive gesture and instead directing attention to the discovered book. He extends an imperious hand towards the conversing inquisitors.

  "So much talk about haste. Read the damn book, or give it to someone who can."  

Either way, he'll take the book at some point and use his Gloves of Object Reading on it; The book should remember its owner, and a connection may remain that can be exploited.

 
 Spoiler: Actions/OOC 
 Using this item should take a few minutes; 1 minute to manifest and 5 minutes to find out details as per the  Object Reading  power. Assume that Lazat is muttering to himself off to the side somewhere; He can answer questions, talk and respond, but little else until the process is finished.
 

 
 
  
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Aegis013 
   "Good eye. I'm not able to determine if it's cursed... but if you're concerned, I'll be glad to take a gander at its content."   
 


 
 Originally Posted by Quantumphear 
   "So much talk about haste. Read the damn book, or give it to someone who can."   
 

  "It's just paranoia on my end, I'm sure."   Not that it stopped Amy from offering the tome to Milus.   "But it's paranoia until isn't."   She adds as she rummages through her pouches before procuring a holy reliquiae.

  "I do have this just in case. Let's hope we don't need it."  

 
 Originally Posted by Auranghzeb 
   Are you all prepared to leave?   
 

Amy's brow twitched upwards. For an Owl of few words, he was quite impatient.   "Yes, though I would have picked Quadditch first before Bately. Less civilization to comb through with the former."   Were her thoughts on where the Party should focus first. The difference in distance between the two settlements didn't look   that   large, at least going by Tristan's map.

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left
 
BelGareth
Nonsense nods at the chatter, he smiled at the bickering,  wow, that was fast!  he thought to himself. He reaches for the book   "I can see if it's trapped, if thats what you want?"  

without looking he responds to the others   "I would think going to the smaller town first would make sense before going to the larger one, we're performing an investigation, not a battlefield maneuver. Starting on the outskirts lets us get a feel of the locals, reduces the impact of any missteps we may make, and gives us a better starting point to focus on when we move to the larger settlement. Country bumpkins are notoriously difficult to work with sometimes, so we should probably make a story for ourselves, folk don't really appreciate when 'we' roll up and demand things, at least in my experience."  
 
 Spoiler 

(rolled in discord)
27 for search, 35 for disable device/open lock

  'Nonsense', DeNonce  
M LN Human Fighter 1/Rogue 3/Psion 1/Elocator 6,  Level  11,  Init  +10
 HP  61/61
 Speed  30
 AC  22,  Touch  15,  Flat-footed  18
 Fort  9,  Ref  13,  Will  15
 Masterwork Dagger   +13 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 12
 Condition/effects  Inertial armor, Evasion, Trap sense +1
 Power Points  37/42
 
Aegis013
 

With so many hands seeking the book, Milus retracts his own. He's curious what may be squirreled away in its pages, but not so much that he believes he has any particular right to the thing.

  "It doesn't matter to me which we visit first, as long as we ultimately bring in our target. I'm uncertain which would be more likely to aid and abet a criminal, if they even see Richard Collins as such and not simply an Inquisitor with authority over them."  

He turns to Tristan, making no specific comment on what his fellow Inquisitor should prepare, and inquires   "Do you know if word that our quarry is a wanted man reached these lands? If so, we should determine our destination and depart quickly. If not, we may still yet have the element of surprise."  
ArvinLarn
With a sigh, Amy offered the book to Nonsense. Though it didn't stop her from looking over the man's shoulder once it was clear the book didn't harbor any kind of trap, magical or mundane.   "Much appreciated."   And this time, the Greenette held no trace of irony.


 
 Originally Posted by Aegis013 
 He turns to Tristan...   "Do you know if word that our quarry is a wanted man reached these lands?"   
 

  "Doubt it. If somehow this frontier knows about the comings and goings of the Capitol more than we, that spells trouble for us."   She chimes in her two coppers on the matter.

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left
 
Auranghzeb
White Owl had not even seen the book in the debris. Even with that namesake, he wasn't the sharpest observer.

There seemed to be more support to visit the smaller village, and he was really indifferent to where to go. But he was very skeptic at the suggestion they should come up with a story.

 It won't make any difference if we pretend to be what we are not. We bear the weight of law and that is clear on our shoulders. If we lie and pretend, we will only sow mistrust. Let this deserter know we are coming, and let the people know we are fair and just in our inquiries. 


He pet Virago a little more, the cold eyes of the wolf assessed the others.

 Lord Tristan, we will be better served with general magic than with healing. I'll feed my wolf and I'm ready to leave, please call us when the rest are ready to depart. 

White Owl turned around and moved away with Virago by his side, the large wolf was almost as tall as White Owl's shoulder. He then moved into the camp and mingled among the men sharing some of the food he had while preparing a good slice of lamb for the large wolf. He was always better among the soldiers and men of fortune.


 
 Spoiler: Diplomacy and Gather info 
I'd love to roll diplo or gather info if you deem it adequate. He is trying to earn the trust of the troops and find more about the villages ad the area.
 
Olive_Sophia
Tristan seemed to relax as the others bickered and looked over the simple book from inside the camp. He even chuckled when Amy prodded him about his ill health. Weighing the feedback he had received about his spells, he said  "Very well, I'll keep that in mind. Now, you all had better set out. Quadditch is about fifteen miles northeast, but it's not the easiest riding from here on the forest roads. I'll meet up with you later. You can fill me in then." 

He stepped forward, dusted off, and watched the others prepare to head out.  "And about Richard. Remember, he isn't officially a criminal at this point. We're investigating his disappearance. Ideally he'll be happy to see us and we can all head home together."  He knew as well as the rest of them that it was an unlikely outcome, but he felt it was worth saying. His new companions seemed all but ready to skip to manacles and interrogation. Perhaps it was simply an occupational habit -- Tristan was all too familiar with the eagerness of their hunt.

  Approaching Quadditch, 9:30 AM  

The group of five had been progressing at a steady rate. The weather was mild enough today, but the warning they had received about the roads was very apt. The horses slowly clambered up and down hills, around corners, and over gnarled roots that threatened to overtake the path every so often. Lazzat had hitched a ride on Amy's horse because of his bum leg, but due to his inexperience as a rider, the bumps and sudden turns left him with a sickened feeling. As they approached closer to the village, the roads evened out considerably. The inquisitors eventually merge onto a fairly managed thoroughfare, where the scarred over tracks of wagon wheels headed in either direction.


 
 Spoiler: OOC 


You are just a few minutes from your destination now. Now is your chance to make any last minute preparations, or to decide how you want to approach Quadditch.

 Private Text   Revealed 07/24/24 
 
 Spoiler: Nonsense 

Okay, so! The book that you investigated on behalf of the party is not at all trapped. It's a leather-bound manual with no title. The contents inside are largely ruined due to exposure, but you are able to make out a name that is oft repeated throughout the pages: Ralph Anderson. You gather that Ralph was the last serving Ranger at this office. This journal is likely a record of some of his duties.  One might be able to parse more text through careful study.

[OOC - The mephit through the book out with the trash because it looked useful and he was trying to spite his owner]
 

 
BelGareth
Nonsense see's nothing wrong with the book and quickly reads through it for anything discerning   "Nothing in here except about the last ranger of this place, a one Ralph Anderson."   he says simply before handing it back.

 
 Spoiler 

  'Nonsense', DeNonce  
M LN Human Fighter 1/Rogue 3/Psion 1/Elocator 6,  Level  11,  Init  +10
 HP  61/61
 Speed  30
 AC  22,  Touch  15,  Flat-footed  18
 Fort  9,  Ref  13,  Will  15
 Masterwork Dagger   +13 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 12
 Condition/effects  Inertial armor, Evasion, Trap sense +1
 Power Points  37/42
 
Quantumphear
      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: Outskirts of Quadditch  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9, Init +8
 
 
  
 Spoiler: Active Spells and Effects 

Active Spells: Endure Elements (24hrs), Primal Hunter (24hrs), Primal Instincts (24hrs), Extended Greater Mage Armor (20hrs), Greater Resistance (24hrs)
Vestiges Bound (EBL 8): Dantalion (Poor Pact), Naberius (Good Pact)
Other effects:
Spell slots expended by level: L1x1, L2x4, L3x3, L4x2, L5x1
 
 

Lazat keeps himself busy during the ride to distract himself from his burgeoning nausea; First by analyzing the book from the ranger station, then through a bit of impromptu potion brewing, and finally with a personal makeover. Around the time they arrive at Quadditch he has two identical murky potions, handing one each to Milus Ironheart and White Owl. A stunning display of camaraderie, and definitely not a slight at the two freeloaders who had the gall to smirk at him after he transported them all the way here.

  "Interesting that the book isn't Richard's. My divination also reveals little, only confirming that this Ralph left the book behind. He doesn't seem to have dropped it under duress, but it's suspicious in and of itself that he didn't come back to reclaim it.

Seems like we've now got two persons to keep an eye out for."  
 
 Spoiler: Actions/OOC 

As mentioned previously, examining the book will take 5 minutes.

During this time, he'll send his familiar to retrieve Quick Potion x2 and Heroism x2, and will cast these afterwards to create two potions that will last for the next 10 hours. This process will take  (2d4+6)[ 10 ]  rounds and  (2d6+6)[ 11 ]  minutes to retrieve and cast the spells. Once consumed, the Heroism potion will last for 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Finally, Lazat will use Naberius's Disguise ability to take an appearance he uses quite often when he's travelling in unfamiliar territory; Far more appealing and less likely to have people recognize him and his infamous reputation.
 

 
 
  
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Auranghzeb 
  It won't make any difference if we pretend to be what we are not. We bear the weight of law and that is clear on our shoulders. If we lie and pretend, we will only sow mistrust. Let this deserter know we are coming, and let the people know we are fair and just in our inquiries.  
 

  "Not one for subtlety, are you?"   Amy gave Owl a flat look.   "Best pray the people here recognize our authority as much as you think they would, for all our sakes."   She added while shaking her head.

This was going to be an  interesting  assignment.

 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

 
 Originally Posted by BelGareth 
 Nonsense see's nothing wrong with the book and quickly reads through it for anything discerning   "Nothing in here except about the last ranger of this place, a one Ralph Anderson."   
 


 
 Originally Posted by Quantumphear 
   "Interesting that the book isn't Richard's... Seems like we've now got two persons to keep an eye out for."   
 

While Lazat had been busy poring over Ralph's journal with a close eye after Nonsense handed it to him, Amy led her steed bearing both her and the Confessor through the rough forest paths. Tristan wasn't joking: the road from the Ranger Station to Quadditch was overgrown and filled with potholes; even an experienced rider needed to be mindful. The path only relented once they were within eyeshot of the village itself.

A more potent indication of the Crown's neglect of this place, Amy had never seen. The Kingdom's highways were well-kept in comparison!

  "Odd that our orders made no mention of Ralph."   Which had the Greenette scowling. As if the start of this assignment couldn't get any more ominous.   "We will have to see if the two are related, as Lazat said."   She turned to the others as she dismounted from her steed, helping Lazat off the saddle as well.

  "So how are we tackling this? I'm inclined to go find the tavern and get a feel of Quadditch, see if they've seen Ralph or Richard."   Were her thoughts on the matter.

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left
 
Auranghzeb
White Owl openly scoffs at Amy's comment on subtlety and waves an arm around.

  Have you seen us? Have  you seen   me  Do you take people as fools? What kind of story can we conceive that covers for what's so obvious?
I do not think blindly that our authority holds at all in these lands. Only our deeds can protect us, and pretending what we are not, deceiving people, and lying about our purpose are not the deeds that will bring people to our side.
  


As they approach the village, White Owl dismounts Virago.

  Stand behind me, old friend. We shall not scare people right away.
   

Then he suggests.

  I'll walk ahead.   
Aegis013
 

As the group makes it way to Quadditch, Milus uses his mask to increase his speed and prevent himself from slowing the group. Upon receiving the potion from Lazat, Milus reaches out with both hands a charming smile and a kindly   "Oh. Thank you."  

When White Owl tells his magnificent Wolf companion to stay Milus touches his chin thoughtfully and turns to Ajet, who is still following Milus since the previous orders were to work on improving the Office while they were there, and they have departed from that location.   "Ajet, I command you to stay near Virago, the White Wolf. Stay hidden and do what you can to keep yourself and Virago from harm."  

With Ajet's hissing and skittering up a nearby tree being sufficient affirmation of the commands for Milus, he turns on his heel and hustles to catch up with White Owl and the others.   "The tavern does seem the ideal place to hear the local gossip. Hopefully they'll serve some local delicacy."   Milus agrees while trying to brush the dust of the road off his particularly fine clothing which may stand out in this smaller settlement.
Olive_Sophia
After a few minutes of preparation, the inquisitors resume their journey towards Quadditch. These roads are well-worn, but well-kept. Obviously they see quite a bit of use. After a few more minutes of easy riding, they spot a pair of armed men approaching from further down the road. The men hail cautiously and approach the party. As the distance closed, the inquisitors noticed that there were three more men in tow, walking amongst the trees off to the side and looking on. Their simple brown clothes made them hard to pick out against the shaded wood.   "I told you I seen 'em,"   one of them grunted.

The armored men looked slightly more professional, strapped with swords and bows.  "Are you lot heading towards town? We're Quadditch guard. What business do you have with us?"  one of the men asked. While not entirely unreasonable, it wasn't the warmest welcome. The other guard spoke up and continued:   "We're a little wary to see such heavily armed folk heading towards our little village."   He looked the group up and down - there were lots of weapons and armor among them. There were horses, and sophisticated looking people. Clearly something a little out of the ordinary was going on here.

  "We're a simple people, so I'm afraid that if you're looking for goods or services, we won't have much to offer you."  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

 Private Text    Revealed 07/24/24 
 
 Spoiler: Milus 

 Sense Motive (12) Check Result: 
The guards seem truthful.
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy 

 Sense Motive (15) Check Result: 
The guards seem truthful. They are wary of you, though not actively threatening.

 Spot (32) Check Result: 
You don't see any other people nearby or potential traps in the forest nearby.
 

 
Aegis013
 

Despite the somewhat cold greeting, Milus smiles warmly, spreading his hands out with his palms open and towards them.

  "Well met, Quadditch Guards. I understand your concern, and assure you we have no intention of making trouble for you. We are here on official business from the Capital investigating the disappearance of one Richard Collins. Information has been scarce so we're not certain of his circumstances though his last known location was in this region. Given your respected position, might you perhaps know anything? If you happen to have information we find useful I'd be willing to make sharing it worth your while."  

Milus shifts his weight to intentionally cause his purse to clink with the weight of coins. While most of his gold is stored in his Haversack, he expects these country-side guards may appreciate even a paltry amount of his coin.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Diplomacy: 27
Sense Motive: 12
 
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Auranghzeb 
 White Owl openly scoffs at Amy's comment on subtlety and waves an arm around.

  Have you seen us? Have  you seen   me  Do you take people as fools?   
 

  "This is the first time we've met, so no. I wasn't aware your reputation preceded you."   Amy's tone was as flat as her expression.   "And no, I doubt the people of Quadditch are idiots. Just that I was hoping we could not just reveal our hand so openly."   She adds with chagrin.

  "But if you insist: we'll see how cooperative the locals are."   Even if her doubts were clear on the matter.

 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

And the response from the people of Quadditch was expected, if worrying: two of the Guard addressing them, three more that were hard to pick out on either side of the road. Not quite an ambush but not a friendly greeting either.

Amy's crimson gaze scoured the treeline. Was it just the three others or were there more? Or perhaps some kind of trap like a log to be rolled down should the exchange turn ugly?


 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
   "We're a simple people, so I'm afraid that if you're looking for goods or services, we won't have much to offer you."   
 

  "That is perfectly fine. Warm food, cool drinks and a roof over our heads is exactly what we need right now."   Amy chimes in right behind Milus, dismounted with a hand on her steed's reins.   "And it is as Milus said: Richard Collins has been missing for a while and we've been dispatched to figure out his whereabouts."   She adds, motioning to the snowy-haired Knight who had the clever idea of showing he was willing to pay the toll to enter Quadditch.

  "But what about you, Ser? May we have the pleasure of knowing your names?"  
 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
Gonna have Amy roll  Spot  to see if there are more than five of the Quadditch Guard in the treeline or possible traps:  (1d20+13)[ 32 ] 
Also gonna have Amy roll  Sense Motive  to gauge the intentions of the two Armored Guards on the road:  (1d20+13)[ 15 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left
 
Quantumphear
      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: The Capital  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9,
 
 
  
 Spoiler: Active Spells and Effects 

Active Spells: Endure Elements (24hrs), Primal Hunter (24hrs), Primal Instincts (24hrs), Extended Greater Mage Armor (20hrs), Greater Resistance (24hrs)
Vestige Binding (EBL 8): Dantalion (Poor Pact), Naberius (Good Pact)
Other Effects:
 
 

Lazat keeps an even expression as he evaluates the situation. This is unusual behavior for a small backwoods village; To send a group of 5 to intercept incoming travelers can mean many things, very few of them positive. Best to stall for time and fish for information. His familiar agrees, dissolving into the ether to fetch a spell for him.

  "Such fine gentlemen to show us gracious hospitality. I would expect nothing less from hardy provincial folk. If you would be so kind as to lead us to your village then we would speak with whomever your leader is."  
 
 Spoiler: Actions/OOC 
 Lazat will send his familiar to fetch the Shadowspray spell, which will arrive in  (1d4+2)[ 5 ]  rounds.
He'll make a rushed Diplomacy check to improve the attitude of the guards, which Naberius allows as a standard action with no penalty. If he can take 10 on this check (Naberius allows this when distracted or threatened) then that is a Diplomacy result of 40, otherwise he gets Diplomacy  (1d20+30)[ 33 ] 
 

 
 
  
Auranghzeb
 Everyone had a tongue of silver. 

Though White Owl as the others tried to sooth the scouting party.

He waited to see where things went.
Olive_Sophia
The guards seemed to react positively to Milus' entreaty.  "'Official business from the capital,' is it? Well I ain't never heard of him." 
  "If you insist on asking around, we'll see you into town. You'd better speak to Brother Samuel."   They did take some issue with Amy's comments.   "You don't seem to get it. Don't expect to enjoy anything in town except what you've brought in your pack. As professionals, I'm sure you understand."  

The guards began to lead everyone towards Quadditch. The other three men kept their distance at first, but still watching the group, they eventually started after them.   "Another thing,"   the guard explained.   "It's a crime in Quadditch to brandish your weaponry. If you start swinging those things about we won't let ya off easy."  
  Quadditch, 10 AM  

The oppressive canopy of the forest finally opens up a bit as you ride into town. It seems that just enough of the trees have been felled over the years to make space for the settlement. Beyond the town and somewhat to the left, you can see farmland in the distance. Those lush hills look almost golden in the strengthening sunlight. In front of the town proper, there is a large beaten field where men are hard at work. Raw lumber sits on one side of the yard; some men are tasked with sawing the logs down into usable pieces, while others are busy lifting the pieces and assembling them. You realize that they are building wagons, carts, carriages, and other types of wooden contraptions. There is a big shed on the far side of the yard, presumably where some of the finer parts are tooled. A few of the men stop their work and watch as you pass by, curiosity apparent on their sweaty faces.

There is a small gate just ahead that leads into Quadditch. The guards escort you within, where you see rows of tall houses with gabled roofs. Everything must have been built by the people who live here, but the craftsmanship is very respectable. The townspeople seem unusually flighty. The sight of such an unfamiliar crowd puts a look of shock on one woman's face. You see others retreating inside their houses, or watching you quietly from behind glass windows.

Eventually you reach a simple wooden house, where a dark-clad man meets you on the front porch. The guards quickly explain the situation to him as they present your party in introduction. The man has a certain air of authority about him. He has a brimmed hat, and his all black clothes are simple, but create a somewhat religious impression.

 "I see, so that's what brings you our way. My name is Brother Samuel. I wish I could help, but I don't recognize the name. Who was this Richard Collins- what was his occupation? And if you don't mind me asking, who was it that sent you all this way to find him?" 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 

You may attempt one knowledge check as you enter town (other checks will be possible later) Specify what type of check you are making and on what topic.
 
Auranghzeb
White Owl took a secondary position as the group walked in, his aspect was not discreet at all and at least he could remind silent and observe. His eyes darted from behind the mask trying to identify the trees and what could their uses be as wood. Was this a usual operation or was this an exceptional exploitation of the woods due to an emergency?

He took a silent note of the people around, their general aspect and nutrition. He intended to talk to them as soon as possible.

 
 Spoiler: K. Nature 
 (1d20+6)[ 9 ] 
 
Aegis013
 
  "A pleasure to make your acquaintance, Brother Samuel. I'm Milus of house Ironheart. Richard Collins, the individual we are searching for, is an Inquisitor. Unfortunately, his communication with the Capital stopped abruptly so we were sent out to investigate his circumstance and in the unlikely scenario there's any trouble, to help deal with it."  

Milus gestures widely towards the work fields and continues   "I see the people of Quadditch work together efficiently and effectively and seem to be in reasonably good spirits. It's nice to see such a tight-knit community. If you or anyone happen to have information that is useful to our task and duty, I'm willing to pay in coin or service. Perhaps a stranger passing through recently or the like? I'm sure just like us, any strangers stick out here."  
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
   "You don't seem to get it. Don't expect to enjoy anything in town except what you've brought in your pack. As professionals, I'm sure you understand."

"Another thing, it's a crime in Quadditch to brandish your weaponry."
   
 

  "Of course, wouldn't want to impose upon the good folk of Quadditch."   Amy nods as she backs down. She leads her steed through the streets of Quadditch right behind their armed escorts. From the hardworking folk tending the fields to the craftsmen and the merchants (who quickly bolted for cover as they approached) within the town proper, it was clear that Quadditch rarely received visitors from the Capital. Let alone ones as heavily-armed as they.

As she feared, but it was a cold comfort at best. They would have their work cut out for them in trying to get anything about Richard or Ralph out of these folk. Still, for a frontier town, Quadditch seemed to be doing right for itself on the surface.

 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
  "I'm Amahiel Sunvale. A pleasure to meet you, Brother Samuel."   Amy introduced herself once it was her turn after Milus and the others, giving a brief bow for good measure. The good Brother looked to be someone the people of Quadditch look up to, especially when dealing with outsiders. She wasn't about to repeat the same mistake she'd had with the guards. There was also no need for Samuel to know that Richard wasn't a full-blown Inquisitor just yet, Milus had summed up their purpose here well enough.

The Greenette spoke up once more behind Milus after the Ironheart was done explaining.   "Out of curiosity, Brother Samuel, may I ask when was the last time anyone from the Capitol had passed through Quadditch? We apologize if our sudden intrusion has disrupted the peace in this fine town."   Because that certainly looked to be the case from the reception they received.

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
Gonna have Amy roll for Knowledge Geography to get an idea of the kind of terrain Quadditch, Bately and the Eastern frontier is surrounded by, and perhaps it's position related to the other Kingdoms including the Lizardfolk Kingdom.

Amy's Knowledge Geography Check:  (1d20+14)[ 26 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left
 
BelGareth
Nonsense had been remarkably quiet during the whole journey, happy to let the others do the talking, he was busy inspecting everything, making mental notes. It seemed strange to him, that this village, if that's what you would call it, has guards in such a capacity, and then claim they don't have much....which was obviously incorrect once seeing the lumber mill and the activity. This was a flourishing village on the verge of industrial revolution....something was off, the xenophobia seemed a titch too much. He scanned the area, and tried to suss out the answers while the others spoke to the Brother.

 
 Spoiler 

  K.local  - (1d20+7)[ 10 ] 
  'Nonsense', DeNonce  
M LN Human Fighter 1/Rogue 3/Psion 1/Elocator 6,  Level  11,  Init  +10
 HP  61/61
 Speed  30
 AC  22,  Touch  15,  Flat-footed  18
 Fort  9,  Ref  13,  Will  15
 Masterwork Dagger   +13 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 12
 Condition/effects  Inertial armor, Evasion, Trap sense +1
 Power Points  37/42
 
Olive_Sophia
Brother Samuel shook Milus' hand and responded to his introduction  "House Ironheart... I'm afraid I haven't had the pleasure."

"So you must be inquisitors? Word of your order has been spreading amongst the traders in Bately. But I don't believe one of you has visited us before."  He placed a hand on his clean-shaven chin in a thoughtful gesture, but seemed to come up blank.  "We don't get a lot of visitors out here in Quadditch. We send men twice a week to do most of our trade in Bately, but every now and then one of their folk will come up this way."  He seemed to take note of the jingle of Milus' coinpurse; his brow furrowed a bit at that, but he didn't voice his concerns.  "Of course, you're free to ask around a bit more, if you insist. Our people do observe an early curfew, however. I only ask that you conclude your business by sundown and leave us our peace." 

Amy was next to question the man.  "From the capital? Now that's a rare thing indeed. I'm not sure if he was from the capital city, but there was that ranger fellow a few years back. He came around every so often trying to collect taxes and dues and such. He was a troublesome man. We've always paid what we owed to the crown, but he always found some reason to ask for more. But we haven't seen him around here for the last few winters." 

Seeing that you were still aiming to investigate, Brother Samuel gives you a nod of understanding and heads inside.

 "Right,"  the less polite guard said.  "Mind your manners and don't cause trouble. They are good people here, but they won't hesitate to tell you what they think if you give them offense." 
 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Just want to get some information out there to avoid confusion. There is no tavern or inn in Quadditch. As far as you know, there are only private houses and buildings, the industrial yard out front, the fields, Brother Samuel's office, and barracks for the guards.

 Investigation Rounds have Started 

Time to start investigating. Here's a few guidelines for how this will go.

Investigation rounds are a way for us to resolve important skill checks or to execute plans in slightly less fine detail
Some time will pass automatically during investigation rounds - make your peace with this.
Don't make a bunch of different important skill checks in one round. One round represents a good chunk of time, but just enough for you to focus on one major thing.
You can make multiple skill checks if it makes sense to group them together as part of your plan or action
You can cast more than one spell during an investigation round, unless they have long casting times or are considered to have a very high investigative value by me.
No need to roll initiative, post your turn when you're ready
Permission to split the party is granted, but you can assist another player if you wish.
Try to be specific about what you're investigating and how. Specific checks are easier and more fruitful than general ones.
Investigation rounds will be interrupted by combat or story events.

 Investigation Round 1 
 
Quantumphear
      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: The Capital  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9,
 
 
  
 Spoiler: Active Spells and Effects 

Active Spells: Endure Elements (24hrs), Primal Hunter (24hrs), Primal Instincts (24hrs), Extended Greater Mage Armor (20hrs), Greater Resistance (24hrs)
Vestige Binding (EBL 8): Dantalion (Poor Pact), Naberius (Good Pact)
Other Effects:
 
 

Before the others begin to disperse, Lazat swaggers forward, signalling to Amy to accompany him and 'assist' with his in.

  "Brother Samuel. I ask that we retire to your office for some small amount of time. By the powers vested in my station by the Crown, I have some routine questions for you to answer. Naturally, my colleagues will guarantee the truth of your words through some small magics. Harmless of course, so long as you do not resist. It would be most unfortunate for your village to be penalized any rash reactions."  

Behind his disguise Lazat is sweating; Holding back the urges of Dantalion without provoking its displeasure is difficult , but as the interrogation begins he finally attempts to pry into the thoughts of this provincial priest.

 
 Spoiler: Actions/OOC 

This is really conditional on what the priest does. He might submit to questions and refuse the mind-reading, he might agree to both, or he might get angry and throw them out after refusing Lazat's demands. Lazat is using Diplomacy to convince him to answer questions, Bluff to disguise his supernatural ability as someone else's lie detector, and only uses Intimidate (insinuating that there will be consequences for the village if its leader cannot be verified for truth) if Brother Samuel refuses. Even if the Brother refuses the mind reading Lazat has to try mind-reading anyway (or suffer the vestiges penalty), which requires a DC 23 Will save from the Brother. I'd like to emphasize that the ability has zero visible effects,  no verbal or somatic components, and the target gets no information about what the effect does or even who the source is, so he has little reason to suspect that it is anything other than a lie-detector. If Brother Samuel fails the save, Lazat will hold concentration while talking with him, which shouldn't require a concentration check,  and will let him browse his surface thoughts while the interrogation continues. Finally, a good old sense motive check to detect if the Brother is lying to him as the conversation continues.

Diplomacy (Take 10) = 40
Bluff (Take 10) = 34
Intimidate =  (1d20+20)[ 36 ] 
Sense Motive = 1d20+13 (separate checks for each lie told by the Brother, probably should be rolled by the GM.

If the Brother is accepting the interrogation, please consider all of Lazat's investigation rounds to be spent on this activity, with the skill rolls used as necessary.
 

 
 Spoiler: Interrogation, if accepted 

As for the interrogation itself, Lazat will do his best to not betray any indication if he is seeing the brothers thoughts, nor will he comment if told any outright lies. Questions that he will ask include:
  "Tell me about this ranger that imposed these extra taxes upon you. The small-folk must always be protected from unfair taxation, and I promise you I shall investigate if any of his takings were improper."  
  "These villagers trust you with their spiritual guidance. How long have you been their shepherd? What deity do you serve?"  
  "Have you imposed this curfew recently? And for what reason?"  
  "Your flock seem most adept at their woodworking. Do you know much about who is purchasing these honest works?"  
  "As one man of the cloth to the other, do you have full confidence in your wards? Are there any who you feel are putting their souls in danger with immoral or dangerous thoughts?"  

Naturally, if the mind-reading is successful, Lazat will scan the Brother's thoughts to see what bubbles up unprompted when these different and conflicting questions are put to him.
Ultimately, he's prodding to see if the Priest is hiding him, what his fears or concerns are, and if he can glean any information from how the Priest instinctively reacts to these questions.
 

 
 
  
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
  "So you must be Inquisitors?"  
 

  "Indeed. The Order's inception is a recent development."   Amy chimes in, affirming the good Brother's own statement. Not counting Richard of course but it seemed the missing would-be Inquisitor had never set foot in Quadditch. Alas, their search for the man would not be so easy.


 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
  "We don't get a lot of visitors out here in Quadditch."  
 

Which lined up with what little Amy had read up on Bately, Quadditch and this area of the Eastern Frontier before departing from the Capital: dense forest that stretched on for miles before eventually ending out West and South. Plenty of hills, steep elevations and rugged cliffs to make travel even treacherous on top of the forests.

  "After traveling the roads up to here, the dearth of visitors is understandable."   She added with a slight sympathetic smile, though her brow quirks briefly when she sees the Brother's brow furrow looking at Milus.   "And the roads only grow rougher still the further East one goes until they reach the sea, not that we have another week to go that far."  

Nevermind that the edge of the Lizardfolk's domain is just a hundred miles South of Quadditch, less than half the distance from here to the Capital. The good Brother needn't be alarmed... unless they somehow ran into some Lizardfolk skulking around this part of the Frontier.


 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
  "From the capital? Now that's a rare thing indeed."  
 

The Greenette nods.   "We have yet to find signs of said Ranger as well. The station he was supposed to maintain had long been left abandoned."   Which she notes with a growing frown on her young-ish features.   "And from what you say and what we found, the man may have abandoned his duties and used his position for his own gain. We will find and bring him to justice, the people of Quadditch should not be subject to such abuses."   Lofty words, especially from the skeptical Amy, but getting on the Brother's good graces was one step to making the people of Quadditch a little more... amicable to cooperating with their investigation.

An investigation that will have to conclude by sundown due to Quadditch's early curfew.   "We will not impose."   She re-assures both the Brother and the Guard before this meeting adjourns and their Party decides on how best to conduct that investigation throughout the small town.


 
 Originally Posted by Quantumphear 
 Before the others begin to disperse, Lazat swaggers forward, signalling to Amy to accompany him and 'assist' with his in. 
 

And already it seemed the aristocratic Confessor had an idea in mind. Apart from raising her brow, Amy didn't ask what Lazat was planning. She was going to have to play this by the ear.


 
 Originally Posted by Quantumphear 
   "Brother Samuel. I ask that we retire to your office for some small amount of time."   
 

  "No need to lay the dramatics so thick. It is but a simple lie detection spell that the Academy developed."   Amy rolls her eyes. Verbally strong-arming the Brother like this might well result in them being thrown out of Quadditch entirely. Good grief.

 
 Spoiler: And assuming Brother Samuel does agree to further questioning 
Assuming Brother Samuel consents however, the Greenette pulls out a wand from one of her pouches. With the first question that Lazat poses to the good Brother, she waves the rod with a simple flick of her wrist and mutters   "Veritas"  . Not that actually did anything apart from conjuring lights of either calm sky blue and blaring red from the tip because actually activating the Wand while pointed at Samuel would be... disastrous. The over-eager Confessor would have to supply whatever other trickery he felt would sell the illusion of the spell.
 

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
Mechanically speaking, Amy's going to be doing Aid Another to Lazat's Diplomacy and Bluff rolls if that's possible. And gesticulating with her Relic without actually activating it.
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Inspiration Points: 5/5
 
Aegis013
 

Satisfied that Lazat and Amy have will get anything useful out of Brother Samuel, Milus makes his way out to the work yard. While he's no artisan, he's not above physical labor. He first tries to help out if he can, figuring an extra pair of strong hands never hurt and he listens and talks with the workers. He makes sure not to flaunt any granted authority though he doesn't bother lying if asked direct questions.

Hopefully, once the workers see he's a relatable guy like them and happy to get his hands dirty to make their lives a bit easier, they'll open up and tell him if there's been anything unusual, interesting, or difficult lately.

 
 Spoiler: Gather Information 
 (1d20+3)[ 16 ] 

If needed while interacting with the workers: Diplomacy  (1d20+16)[ 33 ] , though the Gather Information roll is Milus' primary activity.
 
Auranghzeb
White Owl has a certain disdain for long conversations. His mind drifts to menial details of the village and its people. He knows he is bound to gather some attention with his strange aspect, but that's not always a negative thing. He lazily spreads his powerful wings once and then walks towards the workers with Milus.

 Need a hand? My name is White Owl. This is Milus. he tells them.

 Do you folks grow the trees yourselves or is the wood a wild one? I saw it was dense and well kept, this village is bound to thrive with strong people like yours.  

If they react cordially he will try to find out information about the animals and threats the lumberjacks face.

 gather info  (1d20+9)[ 13 ]  
Olive_Sophia
  Investigation Round 1   
  Lazat and Amy, Brother Samuel's Office  

Brother Samuel met the two prodding inquisitors at the door, in a genial mood thanks to the former politeness of Milus and Amy. He listened to them for a moment, but grew visibly angry when Lazat suggested that he be put under the lie detector.  "For shame, Inquisitor. As a man of the cloth you know that waving that wand in my face is as good as swinging a sword!"  Hearing brother Samuel's raised voice, the guards from before came running back to support him.  "I have other business to attend to, so what else do you need to know? Ask quickly." 

The man answered a few more of their questions, and then sent them towards the barracks with the two guards from before in tow.

  Milus and White Owl, Work Yard  

Milus and White Owl headed back out to the front of the village. There they split up and investigated things separately. Milus decided to help out with the labor and see what he could learn. He threw himself into it and worked up a sweat. There were some laughs all around, but he seemed to do a good job. He got a good look around the work yard, and eventually earned enough rapport to chat easily with some of the men.

White owl on the other hand had been surrounded by men as soon as he approached. Interested in his strange appearance, some of the guys who were on break pulled him to the side and had him drink cider with them in the shade. They talked for a while, even getting a bit rowdy in the heat of it. Eventually a sterner looking man came out of the main shed and started inspecting the place and ordering people back to work. In the overseer's presence, the men seem to straighten up and quiet down. After a few more minutes, most of the men return to the job more seriously.


   Investigation Round 2.  Quadditch, 10:45 AM   
 Lazat and Amy are tied up with the guards this round. They can go through the motions and deal with being followed next round, try to investigate the barracks, or try to throw off the tail.

The overseer is making investigation at the work yard more difficult. 
Auranghzeb
White Owl fraternized with these common folks. They were the ones who had the burden of war when it came, the ones that toiled for the lords he served. Once, in another life, he had shown disdain for them, trapped as he was in the game of honor and then the rage of defiance. Now he truly appreciated these brief moments of human kindness. He sat down and lift the mask just enough to drink the cider. Those closest to him could catch a glimpse of his scarred face...


He didn't have any reasons to mistrust these men as they felt free to tell him stories of threats and dangers. But still, he was on a mission, and he dutifully observed them with care.

 Sense Motive  (1d20+7)[ 19 ]   

He then tries to slip the name of the missing man in the conversation.

 Was anyone attacked or injured by those beasts? Is there anyone missing from the village? Gorgon Bulls and Wyverns are formidable enemies. Did you happen to have the help of the ranger outpost a few miles from here? Were were they when these creatures appeared? 

He takes another swipe of the cider and takes out two pounds of seasoned meat.

 Let me share this with you, I keep it for me and my wolf. Yes, I travel with a magnificent wolf. Could we cook it and share it? Not the best idea to drink on an empty stomach.  
Aegis013
 

Seeing the authority the overseer held over the workmen, Milus continues making his own contributions to the efforts though when he sees an opportunity, he approaches the overseer. No doubt in such a small community the overseer will realize he isn't one of the usual workmen but hopefully Milus' sustained effort and contribution to the work will create a favorable impression, and provide a distraction for the overseer that the workers may appreciate.

Milus tries to see what information he can gather from the overseer, both in where a strong pair of hands will be best utilized in their work and if the overseer himself has any specific problems that have been on his mind. After all, Milus has no suspicion that anything untoward is happening here. Creating the vehicles to transport goods throughout the kingdom is a noble and necessary task and Milus will show the proper respect to all those engaged in the work and praise their efforts.

 
 Spoiler: Gather Information 
Gather Info  (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 

If necessary  (1d20+16)[ 33 ]  diplomacy
 
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
   Investigation Round 1   
  Lazat and Amy, Brother Samuel's Office  
 "I have other business to attend to, so what else do you need to know? Ask quickly." 
   Investigation Round 2.  Quadditch, 10:45 AM   
 Lazat and Amy are tied up with the guards this round. They can go through the motions and deal with being followed next round, try to investigate the barracks, or try to throw off the tail.

The overseer is making investigation at the work yard more difficult.  
 

Amy put her Wand back in it's sheath with a sigh. Not surprising that Brother Samuel would take offense to two Inquisitors browbeating their (theoretical) authority over him.

  "Well, that was a productive talk."   She turned to Lazat in a chipper tone with an expression far more saccharine than the Confessor had seen of her yet. She wasn't quite in a hurry to be escorted out of the Brother's house but she wasn't about to pick a fight with the two guards.

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
None at the moment.
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Inspiration Points: 5/5
 
Quantumphear
 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
   Investigation Round 1   
  Lazat and Amy, Brother Samuel's Office  

The man answered a few more of their questions, and then sent them towards the barracks with the two guards from before in tow. 
 

      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: The Capital  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9,
 
 
  
 Spoiler: Active Spells and Effects 

Active Spells: Endure Elements (24hrs), Primal Hunter (24hrs), Primal Instincts (24hrs), Extended Greater Mage Armor (20hrs), Greater Resistance (24hrs)
Vestige Binding (EBL 8): Dantalion (Poor Pact), Naberius (Good Pact)
Other Effects:
 
 
Outwardly, Lazat is the picture of pleasantness as he is escorted from the residence. Inwardly he is  seething . Malicious thoughts of revenge storm within his mind before he reins in his worst impulses, and his familiar fades away as it seeks to indulge him. With his entourage of guards, he waits until they pass through an area less visible to the rest of the village; Perhaps the shadow of a barn, or a street that seems more secluded than most. When this happens he stops in place and motions for Amy to play along.

  "You two. Clearly you have better things to do than this. My companion and I want some private time together, and I'll pay you 50 gold each to find something else to do, far away from us."  
 
 Spoiler: Actions/OOC 

Firstly his familiar is fetching Curse of the Putrid Husk, which will arrive in  (1d4+3)[ 7 ]  rounds, easily enough to arrive before they get anywhere near the barracks.

Next Lazat is dipping into his purse to give them a  hefty  bribe. Gotta spend money to make money.
Diplomacy (Take 10) = 40
Bluff (Take 10) = 34

 

 
 
  
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Quantumphear 
   "You two. Clearly you have better things to do than this. My companion and I want some private time together, and I'll pay you 50 gold each to find something else to do, far away from us."   
 

If one looked closely enough, they might've seen the errant twitch in Amy's eye. It seemed the Confessor was as much a gambler as he was... a negotiator, of sorts.

  "Yes, yes. It has been a long day. Some time to ourselves would be nice. We've imposed upon Quadditch quite enough as is."   The Greenette chimes in a sickly-sweet tone. She... leaned on Lazat's shoulder, a lot closer than she would've liked.

At least he was paying the bribe and not her!

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
None at the moment.
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Inspiration Points: 5/5
 
BelGareth
Nonsense wandered off by his own, much more capable than any of the others to get out of trouble, or go to their assistance than they, and so he wore his solitude like a rain coat, even if it wasn't raining. With hands in pockets, he walked off, his feet barely off the ground, but he didn't let it show. The serenity of this village hit him like a subtle spell, a pernicious dweomer that snaked it's way inside his thoughts, he had always hated country life, the city was where he felt he belonged, the thrumming of the city, the pulse of the nightlife, the ebb and flow of people, it was the constant background noise he needed to feel comfortable.

This place however.

This place had none of that, and he walked along uncomfortable, he popped his long collar up, and hunkered down as he walked, hands in pockets, head down.

Up until he saw a little street urchin following him. He decided to see if he could lose the critter, but it seems intent on following him, so he played a little game of cat and mouse, which eventually turned into trying to get near the blighter, but all he could do was catch a glimpse of brown hair. The little wretch ran from him as he approached.

Now his interest was piqued, he followed the little tike, trying to keep the shadows and not be as conspicuous as he truly looked.

 
 Spoiler 

apropos checks:
  hide  - (1d20+18)[ 35 ] 
  move.s  - (1d20+18)[ 38 ] 
  'Nonsense', DeNonce  
M LN Human Fighter 1/Rogue 3/Psion 1/Elocator 6,  Level  11,  Init  +10
 HP  61/61
 Speed  30
 AC  22,  Touch  15,  Flat-footed  18
 Fort  9,  Ref  13,  Will  15
 Masterwork Dagger   +13 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 12
 Condition/effects  Inertial armor, Evasion, Trap sense +1
 Power Points  37/42
 
Olive_Sophia
  Investigation Round 2

Lazat and Amy, South Quadditch  

The two guards couldn't help but make a few jives at the inquisitors they'd been asked to escort.   "Well, what did I tell you?"   the nicer one started.   "I can't believe you'd threaten Brother Samuel as quickly as you'd arrived. You're lucky he's not having you thrown out of town."  
 "You went and made him uncommon mad. That wasn't very priestly of him..."  the other continued. The first guard shot him a look, but he just shrugged. Afterwards, in the shadow of a corner house, Lazat makes his offer - Amy leaning on his shoulder and supporting the bid. A hundred gold altogether was serious money - a lot more than a country guard was likely to come by in normal circumstances. The two men were obviously shaken by the bribe. The less well-mannered guard took the money. He offered a share to the other, who indignantly refused.   "That's... that's unthinkable! Have you learned nothing from Hirako's example?!"  

So the other guard took all the money and ran off. The remaining man became quite nervous, seeing that he was outnumbered and unwanted. Eventually he withdrew as well, but not without some parting words.   "Brother Samuel will hear about this!"  
  Milus and White Owl, Work Yard  

The men who gathered around White Owl had straightened up when the overseer made his presence known, quickly shuffling to put away the drinks. Technically they might still be on break, but they were eager to look busy in front of the boss. The men quickly answer your questions, telling you that the Gorgon bull was spotted while some of them were traveling, not anywhere nearby. Luckily they had managed to avoid fighting the creature head on. They've heard some of the details of the wyrm attack in Bately - apparently there were some deaths during the incident.

 "That ranger wasn't ever no help with defending the town, though. Just a tax man he was. Trying to make an easy living off of our hard work."  The man's tone was obviously one of distaste. The men decline the food for now, wanting to get back to work. But you're told that they wouldn't mind hearing more of your stories later.

--

Meanwhile, Milus was talking with the overseer directly. The man was better dressed than the others, and more put together. He wasn't sweaty or boisterous - he watched and directed the work with a cool eye. He listened to the inquisitor's introduction calmly before acknowledging his efforts with the work crew. He sidestepped the questions a bit, instead producing a small bag of silver.  "Here. Honest works deserves honest pay. But I'm afraid I'll have to ask you to leave us to our own work now. Your partner will have to go, too. Some of what we do here is confidential. Our craftsmanship is the best in the area, and we don't want to lose our cutting edge to any prying eyes." 

Acknowledging that you have already met with Brother Samuel, the overseer is polite, if not welcoming.  "Best of luck on your mission, sir. I don't think anyone in town will give you trouble, but it's a busy day for all of us today."  Before much more could be said, a worker came running up, informing the overseer of some problem in the storehouse.  "Very well. I'll check it out. Good day, sir,"  he says, offering a wave as departs.


  Nonsense, Outskirts - Southeast Quadditch  

With practiced light steps, Nonsense sneaks after the young boy who had been following him. This was part of his profession after all and he was quite adept at it. He stays out of the kid's line of sight, even as the boy carefully checks behind him every so often. The two of them were heading a bit out of town, it seemed. The buildings abruptly gave way to thickets, shrubs, and trees. The inquisitor doesn't break even a leaf as he tracks the boy, watching to see what he's up to. There, on the outskirts of Quadditch, he witnesses something very unusual....


  Investigation Round 3 has begun. The time is now 11:30 AM  
BelGareth
  "Curiouser and curiouser"   he mumbles to himself as he observes the small person vanish from sight.

Now, while he was more than confident he could take care of himself, and perhaps he could, he also knew too many stories to count where people blundered into a job, and were bushwhacked out of operation. He hadn't gotten to where he was now without a good amount of caution, and if one were to ignore all these past stories as a lesson to live by, one would most likely repeat history, as his uneducated competitor's failed to understand....or learn...or live by.

No, he would not take the obvious bait, he would move back to the village and find a companion to report to, this was  obviously  something they should all investigate.

 
 Spoiler 

Move back to the village and find someone on the team to report to.

  'Nonsense', DeNonce  
M LN Human Fighter 1/Rogue 3/Psion 1/Elocator 6,  Level  11,  Init  +10
 HP  61/61
 Speed  30
 AC  22,  Touch  15,  Flat-footed  18
 Fort  9,  Ref  13,  Will  15
 Masterwork Dagger   +13 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 12
 Condition/effects  Inertial armor, Evasion, Trap sense +1
 Power Points  37/42
 
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
   Investigation Round 1

Lazat and Amy, South Quadditch  
  "Brother Samuel will hear about this!"   
 

Amy blinked. Just when she thought the whole of Quadditch was incorruptible (or at least more loyal to each other than to outsiders). Even this Guard hesitated before doubling down and threatening them both.

Okay, perhaps the Confessor may have yet to claw them out of the metaphorical hole they've dug into.

Slinking off of Lazat's shoulder after the unscrupulous Guard had ran off, the Greenette's sickeningly-saccharine smile lingered as she clapped her hands together to get the more principled Guard's attention.

  "Now, now, there's no need for that~ We're well aware of Hirako and their... teachings."   She emphasized. A small village cult, how  quaint .   "Fortunately, their following is not part of our mission so we don't need to report this to the Crown. That is, if you would be so kind as to stay quiet about that little gift."   Her ponytail sways as she nods towards where the bribed Guard had ran off to.

  "And even if should we ever have an accident..."   Amy motioned to herself and Lazat.   "... I would remind you that the Crown will want to know what happened to us. We will not be the last agents sent here if we disappear."

"So let's go our separate ways and pretend this never happened, hmm~?"  
 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
Gonna have Amy roll a Bluff Check to see if she can fool the tattletale Guard into not saying a word to Brother Samuel.

Amy Bluff Check:  (1d20+13)[ 16 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Inspiration Points: 5/5
 
Aegis013
 

Milus refuses to accept the overseers offer of money and puts up no resistance simply walking away from the work yard with his head held high. However, he considers the possible ulterior motives that the overseer may have in shooing away an inquisitor and even going as far as to offer a bribe.

 
 Spoiler: Sense Motive 
Result 14 - rolled in Discord
 


Not much for stealth and subterfuge, Milus elects to go make sure Ajet isn't tormenting Owl's wolf.
Quantumphear
 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
   Investigation Round 1

Lazat and Amy, South Quadditch  

The two guards couldn't help but make a few jives at the inquisitors they'd been asked to escort.   "Well, what did I tell you?"   the nicer one started.   "I can't believe you'd threaten Brother Samuel as quickly as you'd arrived. You're lucky he's not having you thrown out of town."  
 "You went and made him uncommon mad. That wasn't very priestly of him..."  the other continued. The first guard shot him a look, but he just shrugged. Afterwards, in the shadow of a corner house, Lazat makes his offer - Amy leaning on his shoulder and supporting the bid. A hundred gold altogether was serious money - a lot more than a country guard was likely to come by in normal circumstances. The two men were obviously shaken by the bribe. The less well-mannered guard took the money. He offered a share to the other, who indignantly refused.   "That's... that's unthinkable! Have you learned nothing from Hirako's example?!"  

So the other guard took all the money and ran off. The remaining man became quite nervous, seeing that he was outnumbered and unwanted. Eventually he withdrew as well, but not without some parting words.   "Brother Samuel will hear about this!"   
 

      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: The Capital  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9,
 
 
  
 Spoiler: Active Spells and Effects 

Active Spells: Endure Elements (24hrs), Primal Hunter (24hrs), Primal Instincts (24hrs), Extended Greater Mage Armor (20hrs), Greater Resistance (24hrs)
Vestige Binding (EBL 8): Dantalion (Poor Pact), Naberius (Good Pact)
Other Effects:
 
 
Lazat  does not  allow the first guard to take all the money and run, instead banishing his attempt with a glare. He's already giving these  peasants  more money than they would see in a year's wages.

  "Here's  your  share. Perhaps you should convince your comrade to spend his portion virtuously."  

He rolls his eyes at the inane antics of the second guard, preparing to bark a command that should worm past his faith-addled mind. It is not even midday, and already he is tired of this village. Tired of the tangle of their provincial humdrum and short-sighted foolishness.

 
 Spoiler: Conditional on the guard being a nark 
 Lazat is expecting that further diplomacy or bluff to be useless. He's going to ready an action, if the guard ignores his comrade's bluff attempt then Lazat will use his supernatural ability Persuasive Words to  Command  the guard to Approach [DC 23 Will Save]. If this is successful, the guard needs to spend his whole action approaching Lazat, and cannot do anything else, include talk.

  "OBEY."  
 

 
 
  
Auranghzeb
Oblivious to what was going on with the others, White Owl continues his talk with the working men.

 I have a companion, a big white wolf, I found it traveling through the frozen fjords of the North. You haven't seen such an amazing creature.

Would any of you volunteer to show me where you have seen those monsters?  
Olive_Sophia
  Quadditch, 12:15 PM  -  Final Investigation Round  

Nonsense, wary after what he had witnessed, returned to town and started looking for his companions. Unexpectedly, the first person he came across was Tristan. Apparently the decorated knight had made his way into Quadditch as well at some point. At any rate, he seemed to be up to no good.

 

There was a woman with Tristan, dressed in a long-sleeved blouse with a simple apron over top. The streetwise inquisitor didn't catch the beginning of their conversation, but the woman looked to be somewhat distressed by Tristan's presence, even trying to dart away from him. But he blithely grabbed her hand and pulled her back, addressing her in a smooth, but low voice.  "Don't worry, my dear. Your husband told me to meet him here around this time." 
  "But he didn't mention anything about that..."   she protested. Tristan continued trying to smooth talk her, only acknowledging Nonsense when the woman's embarrassment caused her to turn the other way. He gave a wave and a cynical smile, but then he gestured for Nonsense to give him some space to finish whatever it was he was doing. When the woman turned back, he effortlessly stepped back into the conversation, eventually coercing her to invite him in.

--

Meanwhile, Lazat and Amy were still dealing with the guard situation. They'd successfully bribed one of their pursuers, and now the other had been momentarily incapacitated by magic. He dropped all pretenses and slowly approached the dark haired inquisitor in a daze. Amy was ready to take hold of him if necessary, and Lazat was working up yet another supernatural effect, hopefully to achieve a more lasting solution. If their luck held up, they'd be able to manage this without being spotted.

--

South of town, Milus had arrived to check on his unwilling ward. He had been worried that the mephit would be up to more mischief, but he was surprised to see Virago, the large winter wolf, pinning the red creature to the ground beneath.   "Boss!- Boss you gotta get me out of this. I don't know what this thing's problem is!"   Seeing that Milus had arrived, Virago lazily gave up the struggling mephit without much coaxing. Ajet dramatically sucked in lungfuls of air as if he had been near death. But the stern inquisitor was well aware of his exaggerated behaviors by now.   "Are you sure there's nothing I can do for you here? I know how to turn a village over..."  

--

Unfortunately, White owl wasn't able to learn any more in the work yards. The workers were now busy with their redoubled efforts, and the overseer insisted that they not entertain any more strangers in their midst.



 
 Spoiler: OOC 


Last chance for now to find more clues in Quadditch! Next post will be a regrouping to figure out our next plan of action.

Small update - Lazat was not able to prevent the guard from taking the full 100 gold.
 
BelGareth
  "And further down the rabbit hole we go. I wonder how he's going to justify this..."   he talks to himself, not caring to further spy on the man, even if....no, wait.

He looked at the dwelling Tristan had entered, analyzed the structure to see if he could get up onto the roof to find a window that he could listen in on. He then set  Nimble  down, and commanded it to listen, relaying the conversation back to him. If he couldn't find a good hearing spot, then  Nimble  was to alert him if the Good Sir Tristan left. Nodding, he moved over the roof to another alley and dropped down, looking to find one of his companions to relay this additionally information....not to mention the kid vanishing inside a cliff...

 
 Spoiler 

No need for climb check, he can just levitate up using his scorn earth ability.
  hide  - (1d20+18)[ 33 ] 
  move.s  - (1d20+18)[ 19 ] 
  'Nonsense', DeNonce  
M LN Human Fighter 1/Rogue 3/Psion 1/Elocator 6,  Level  11,  Init  +10
 HP  61/61
 Speed  30
 AC  22,  Touch  15,  Flat-footed  18
 Fort  9,  Ref  13,  Will  15
 Masterwork Dagger   +13 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 12
 Condition/effects  Inertial armor, Evasion, Trap sense +1
 Power Points  37/42
 
Aegis013
 

Milus lets out a sigh as the Mephit scurries onto him.   "Well, I didn't have any luck uncovering anything, so perhaps...   Milus considers it, his voice trailing off.

   There was something unusual happening today. It could be relevant.    Milus thinks to himself, weighing the potential of how wrong things could possibly go.

  "Very well. Go Ajet, use your skills to learn what you can and then return to report. However, you are to disguise yourself and are strictly forbidden from harming any humanoids. If you are discovered, return here immediately, even if you've learned nothing."  
 
 Spoiler: Ajet's attempts 
Disguise  (1d20+2)[ 13 ]  to make himself look less... evil. +4 for acting
Bluff  (1d20+10)[ 27 ] 
Diplomacy  (1d20+8)[ 12 ] 

Hide  (1d20+13)[ 30 ] 
Move Silently  (1d20+9)[ 10 ] 

Spot  (1d20+8)[ 20 ] 
Listen  (1d20+8)[ 25 ] 
 
ArvinLarn
The smile on Amy's face slowly fell. Lazat wasn't the only one growing weary of the charade. All this trouble and nothing to show for it, perhaps even sabotaging their own efforts in the long run should Brother Samuel decide to rally the whole of Quadditch against their investigation.

And now they had  this  idiot to deal with. Some people just do not get the hint. The Greenette tensed, hands firmly at her sides. Last thing they both needed was for the guard to panic and draw steel... but they also needed the man to shut up before the rest of the village caught wind.


 
 Originally Posted by Quantumphear 
   "OBEY."   
 

  "Quick thinking."   Amy nodded in approval after she saw the guard's expression slacken and his eyes glaze over.   "I see why you were promoted to the rank of 'Confessor'."   A first hand demonstration of why one had to be careful around Lazat.

  "We could tie him up and leave him somewhere hidden but that would cause further problems down the line."   Someone would go looking for the guardsman at some point.   "I don't suppose you could puppet him around and have him pretend to escort us around the village?"   They had already escalated to this point, might as well make the most of it.

  "Either way, best we depart from here. Hopefully the others have had better luck when we rejoin them."  

 

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
Check the Discord for Amy's Grapple Roll to subdue the Guard.
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Adamantine Rapier of Aptitude: [INDENT] Attack:  +16
 Damage:  1d6 Piercing (+7 with Island of Blades Stance, 18-20/x2)

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Inspiration Points: 5/5
 
Quantumphear
      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: The Capital  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9,
 
 
  
 Spoiler: Active Spells and Effects 

Active Spells: Endure Elements (24hrs), Primal Hunter (24hrs), Primal Instincts (24hrs), Extended Greater Mage Armor (20hrs), Greater Resistance (24hrs)
Vestige Binding (EBL 8): Dantalion (Poor Pact), Naberius (Good Pact)
Other Effects:  Command (Cooldown 5 rounds)
 
 

As the guard turns around and walks towards them, Lazat curses underneath his breath at how poorly the situation is developing. The ring on his finger glows a deep purple as he siphons magical power from it, a return on earlier investment.

  "Hold him still and silent for a moment."  

They are a hair's breadth from catastrophe and he spends his effort where it is needed, beginning to draw borrowed powers to him as he weaves a thread of power that should ensnare the guard to serve his will.

 
 Spoiler: Action 

Lazat will use his move action to call the Dominate Person spell from his Ring of Theurgy. After this he'll begin casting Dominate Person, which has a casting time of one round, as standard action to  begin the full-round action , and will use next turns standard action to finish the cast and have it go off immediately.
Dominate Person: Enchantment spell, DC 24 Will Save
 

 
 
  
Olive_Sophia
  Investigation Rounds have ended

 

Deep Forest 1:45 PM  

After spending all morning poking around that provincial town, the inquisitors had finally regrouped. Everyone was in attendance, even Sir Tristan. Amy and Lazat had managed to evade the guards and get out of town without incident. There was a lot on everyone's minds, but it was plain that they needed some distance from Quadditch before they could really discuss things. So they marched rather silently through the forests. Mid-day had now passed, but the sun was still high in the sky and it was growing hot. Wherever the shade was lacking, it became uncomfortable to endure - thankfully there was a lot of it in this maze of great tree trunks.

Finally everyone settled down in a grove a few miles out from the town. Tristan looked around a bit, trying to make doubly sure that they weren't under surveillance.

 "Well everyone, that was Quadditch,"  he began.  "I didn't think there was anything amiss about it yesterday. I've seen lots of quaint little places like that in the frontiers. But there was definitely something odd about it today. Everyone was shut up tight. Maybe Samuel didn't expect me to bring more of my order around so quickly."  The brown haired knight paused to gather his thoughts, though with some difficulty, as if he was distracted. He shook his head and continued.

 "Something must be going on today. I found my contact making up enough party favors for half the town. And I noticed there were hardly any women out and about today. Maybe they were busy, too - preparing for whatever it is. I certainly didn't get an invite." 

Tristan stopped for a while to listen to the others share what information they had gathered. They'd have to decide how to proceed with this new information.


 
 Spoiler: OOC 


For convenience, we can discuss on discord about what to do next. PbP isn't the best for those kinds of discussions.
 
Quantumphear
      
  Lazat, Inquisitorial Confessor 
 Level 11 Binder/Sha'ir/Anima Mage | Senses: ~ | Speed 15ft Walk | Location: The Capital  
  
 Spoiler: Defenses and Conditions 
HP 50/50, AC 19, Touch 11, FF 18, Fort 9, Ref 7, Will 9,
 
 
  
 Spoiler: Active Spells and Effects 

Active Spells: Endure Elements (24hrs), Primal Hunter (24hrs), Primal Instincts (24hrs), Extended Greater Mage Armor (20hrs), Greater Resistance (24hrs)
Vestige Binding (EBL 8): Dantalion (Poor Pact), Naberius (Good Pact)
Other Effects:
 
 
As the party reconvenes in a secluded glade, Lazat leaves the dominated guard a fair distance away, with instructions to keep a lookout while appearing as if he's relieving himself against a tree and having a smoke. Any nosy observers should have to deal with him first.

More importantly, as the others huddle together and share notes, Lazat goes through the laborious motions of preparing his scrying mirror. The spell is called from the aether, the mirror is etched with precise runes, and the diary of the ranger Ralph is held aloft as Lazat breathes the incantation to spy upon the missing miscreant.

 
 Spoiler: Actions 
 Beforehand, Lazat will cast his shadowspray spell into his ring of theury before it expires, storing it for later.

Scrying takes up 10 minutes to call, and another hour to cast. DC 18 Will save.
 

 
 
  
ArvinLarn
 
 Originally Posted by Quantumphear 
   "Hold him still and silent for a moment."   
 

  "Trying!"   Amy grunted as she wrestled a gloved hand above the bewitched guard's mouth. If getting caught wasn't so deleterious to their mission, the sight of the smaller Inquisitor trying to wrangle the bigger guard might've been comical. Perhaps the gods had finally opted to throw them a bone after the misfortunes of the day because the Confessor's hex had finally, finally made the last damned guard pliant.

... So what now?


 
 Originally Posted by Olive_Sophia 
   Deep Forest 1:45 PM  
 "Well everyone, that was Quadditch..."  
 

Reconvene with the rest of the Inquisitorial Team thankfully, including the belated Sir Tristan. Hopefully the silent march through the nearby woods would be enough to throw off any would-be eavesdroppers from Quadditch trying to spy on their activities. Still, Amy couldn't blame Tristan for looking over his shoulder even then.

  "'Shut up tight' indeed."   The Greenette agreed with the senior Inquisitor as she clicked her tongue in dismay.   "Near damn everyone in Quadditch looks up to Brother Samuel and the man was adamant about not revealing anything substantial. Took offense to me and Lazat trying to question him. Best we got out of the man was that most of the carts Quadditch makes is sold to Bately along with the other trading they do. That and him complaining about that Ranger, Ralph, squeezing more out of the village than what they owed the Crown."   She goes on, leaving out the rather... invasive manner by which the Confessor tried to question the Brother.

  "Then he had a pair of guards escort me and Lazat to the guard barracks so they'd all know our faces and that we're persona non grata to the good Brother. Lazat managed to bribe one and subdue the other before that could come to pass, at least. But Samuel still expects the guards to keep a close eye on the two of us from hereon."   Looking over in Lazat's direction for a moment, the man was busy with more of his Sorcery. One could only hope it would result in an actionable lead. She scanned the treeline again, more out of paranoid habit than any real worry of eavesdroppers.

  "That's about it on our end. Well, apart from one of those two guards letting slip that they have their own little religion whose founder was some man named 'Hirako'. So we may or may not be dealing with a Cult within Quadditch, maybe even with Samuel as part of its leadership."   Amy snaps her fingers, having nearly forgotten to mention the local religion.   "But while dealing with a Cult might be interesting, it won't get us any closer to finding our missing man. So unless you lads found something, I'd say we cut our losses for now and try our luck finding something about Richard in Bately."   She concludes, not that she was happy about their prospects thus far.

Nobody said being an Inquisitor was easy, especially this far away from the Crown.


 

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
None, yet.
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Adamantine Rapier of Aptitude: [INDENT] Attack:  +16
 Damage:  1d6 Piercing (+7 with Island of Blades Stance, 18-20/x2)

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Inspiration Points: 5/5
 
Olive_Sophia
 

The inquisitors spent a good while discussing everything they had learned throughout the day and casting scrying spells. The pickings were slim, but clue after little clue was stacking up against Quadditch, in Tristan's estimation.

 "I don't like this. This town is too strange. And White Owl's information really raises a lot of questions. I believed these people when they said most of their business was local - but now it seems that their reach extends much further than that. Those high-quality carriages they were manufacturing... that's not what the town business is really about. They sell 'em, sure -- but they make the real money  using  them to ship cargo across the country."  The knight paced back and forth as he talked.  "The question is, what are they moving? We've only seen crops and timber, and those things aren't worth the trouble."

"It's starting to make sense now!"  he continued, somewhat aggressively. There was a strange glint in his eye, somewhere between indignation and avarice.  "Those nice wooden steps in town; the fine porcelain and shining glass windows! You can't squeeze that much gold out of dirt farming." 

Another issue was the incident that Nonsense had witnessed at the cliff. It was by far the most alarming in itself, and so they decided to investigate that first of all.

 "No doubt that magic was involved in what you saw. If there is a powerful magician nearby, that incident may well have been a lure, or even an attempt on your life. It's too soon to say for sure, but we ought to be cautious when we arrive."

"I don't feel like dealing with any more 'officials.' Follow me, I can probably get us there without drawing too much attention. The place isn't in town proper, right?" 
   
  Outskirts, Southeast Quadditch  -  4:45 PM  

Following Sir Tristan's lead, the group managed to make it most of the way without incident. With further direction from Nonsense, they are eventually able to locate the cliff from before. The forest finally thinned here at the edges, and the fertile soil below gave way to exposed stone. An austere face of solid rock created a natural border ahead. The rise was easily a hundred feet, and it didn't look to be easily scalable. There was no way for a young boy to simply vanish into it without a trace.

Tristan looked back towards the others. He didn't say anything aloud, but the question was clear: What's our move?
BelGareth
Nonsense describes the area as best he can, which is actually pretty good. Following the good knight Ser Tristan, whom he believed was not who he seemed to be, but he was willing to walk down the yellow brick road with him and see what happened.

He pointed at the area where the kid vanished.

 "Should we just try ti move through it, or does anyone have any other means of investigation?" 
 
 Spoiler 

  'Nonsense', DeNonce  
M LN Human Fighter 1/Rogue 3/Psion 1/Elocator 6,  Level  11,  Init  +10
 HP  61/61
 Speed  30
 AC  22,  Touch  15,  Flat-footed  18
 Fort  9,  Ref  13,  Will  15
 Masterwork Dagger   +13 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 12
 Condition/effects  Inertial armor, Evasion, Trap sense +1
 Power Points  37/42
 
Aegis013
 

Milus considers it for just a moment before turning his head to the Mephit hanging off of his shoulder by its claws in a way that had to be rather painful for the inquisitor.

  "Go and stealthily take a look, then come back and report. Avoid being seen or heard and don't cause trouble."  

Ajet mutters as it climbs down Milus's side, the Inquisitor not flinching even as the mephit's claws pinch his body for grip but it obeys, unable to refuse. It moves quietly to the edge of the cliff seeking out the mysterious entrance.

 
 Spoiler: Mephit Skills 
Hide  (1d20+13)[ 14 ] 
Move Silently  (1d20+9)[ 19 ] 
Spot  (1d20+8)[ 15 ] 
Listen  (1d20+8)[ 12 ] 
 
Olive_Sophia
After a moment of patting around, the inquisitors witness Ajet too, phase through the cliff wall. Tristan looks at the others with an unsettled face. This confirmed what Nonsense reported. After a few more minutes, the fire mephit returned, phasing back through the apparently solid wall.

  "It ain't real,"   he announced.   "There's some old hovel hidden behind there. Nobody's home as far as I can tell."  

Tristan nodded and approached the entrance, his guard still raised.  "Let's poke around a little." 

You too passed through the false cliff side without incident. From the inside, the illusory rock wall was translucent. There was another like it, only some twenty five feet further back. There was an old house built here, in the natural recess of the escarpment. A wooden establishment, it was partially in ruins, with a noticeable lean to its structure and a hole in the roof. The brown haired knight nodded to the others and opened the door, proceeding inside. There were a spare few pieces of furniture here. Some mismatched chairs and a grimy table. But there were also various other little things stored here in the living room. Sticks and rocks and dried flowers. A few simple toys were strewn around the room - a knitted doll, a hobby-horse, and a red pinwheel that was rumpled, but otherwise looked new.

All was quiet in that run down abode. The inquisitors looked around, trying to make sense of the scene.

 "This is not what I was expecting. But it seems that there were children here at any rate. I'm going to turn this place over. There may be more to learn here."  Tristan started rummaging through some of the junk in the corner. Little odds and ends scattered everywhere as he quickly turned over a box of mementos and scanned them visually. From among the mess he picked up a large silver coin. Holding it to the faint light from the window, he could see that it was emblazoned with the image of a coiling snake. And the letters at the bottom read 'SERESVULG'.

 "Curious. Maybe we were lucky to find this place unattended. Keep looking." 
Aegis013
 
  "What exactly should we be looking for? A magically disguised hovel isn't exactly evidence of crime or conspiracy. There are myriad other reasons such a place as this may exist. It could be a shelter for emergencies among countless other possibilities."   Milus offers, more interested in the magical concealment of the place as he sticks his hand through just to see his arm appear to end at the elbow where it collides with the wall.

  "Alas, I don't see anything here that is obviously connected to our objective, and even being an inquisitor, I'm not keen on scavenging through someone's stuff unless they're a person of interest. I'll keep watch and signal you all if anyone is coming this way. Ajet, you can help Tristan search if you like, just make sure to avoid being spotted by any people from Quadditch."  

With that, Milus steps through the illusory entrance and stands watch, doing his best to appear casual. Turns out he manages to appear too casual, finding a shaded spot nearby, sitting down and staring at the passing clouds.

 
 Spoiler: Skills 
Milus' perception on watch (he's bad at it)
 (1d20-1)[ 3 ]  Spot
 (1d20-1)[ 6 ]  Listen

Ajet:
 (1d20-2)[ 11 ]  Search (untrained)
 (1d20+13)[ 26 ]  Hide
 (1d20+9)[ 29 ]  Move Silently
 
BelGareth
 "Agreed"  said Nonsense to Milus' words. This was disappointing.  "Perhaps it is indicative of a witch being here. I'm not a magical expert, but I've heard stories of witches and children...we all have. But nothing here seems pernicious to me. Maybe we are seeing shadows where there are none." 
 
 Spoiler 

  'Nonsense', DeNonce  
M LN Human Fighter 1/Rogue 3/Psion 1/Elocator 6,  Level  11,  Init  +10
 HP  61/61
 Speed  30
 AC  22,  Touch  15,  Flat-footed  18
 Fort  9,  Ref  13,  Will  15
 Masterwork Dagger   +13 (1d4-1, 19-20/x2)
 Abilities  Str 8, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 12
 Condition/effects  Inertial armor, Evasion, Trap sense +1
 Power Points  37/42
 
ArvinLarn
  "May I?"   Amy chimes in, reaching out with an open hand in Tristan's direction so the Knight could hand over the silver coin to her.   "Could be a mere child's trinket. Could be something of actual value. It may yet be in the tip of my tongue. 'SERESVULG'..."   She clicked her tongue as she turned the word over and over in her mind. Hmm.

After a few moments more did the Greenette hand back the coin to Tristan.   "Alas, I've no incantation to dispel illusions like the one that hid this alcove from us."   She told Milus and Nonsense with a disappointed sigh, stepping out of the decrepit house to run her gaze and her hands along the alcove walls.

  "In any case, I agree with you two: if we don't find something within the next few minutes, there may not be anything here at all."  

 

 
 Spoiler: OOC Details 
Gonna do a Knowledge Roll for Amy to see if she's run into 'SERESVULG' from Tristan's coin before, her Bonuses for the appropriate Roll listed below:  (1d20)[ 4 ] 
(Planes: +4, Dungeoneering Engineering History Nobility Religion: +5, Arcana Nature: +10, Geography Local: +14

Also gonna have her roll Spot and Search for any illusory walls within the alcove/cave that may allow the Party to delve deeper:
Search:  (1d20+10)[ 30 ] 
Spot:  (1d20+13)[ 27 ] 
 

 
 Spoiler: Amy Stats 
 Amy Stats 
HP: 48/48
AC: 28
AC (Flatfooted): 22
AC (Touch): 18
Fort Save: 8
Ref Save: 14
Will Save: 12
Init: +10

 Adamantine Rapier of Aptitude: [INDENT] Attack:  +16
 Damage:  1d6 Piercing (+7 with Island of Blades Stance, 18-20/x2)

 Arcane Dilettante Spells: 
Solid Fog
Haste
Cat's Grace
Shield

Opportunistic Piety: 4 uses left

Inspiration Points: 5/5
 