Death and Taxes - GM Budd the C.H.U.D.'s Feast of Ravenmoor

Game Master Budd the C.H.U.D.

In life, only two things are inevitable - death and taxes. An investigation into a missing tax collector from Magnimar led our heroes to the isolated village of Ravenmoor, but what they found there was a community dominated by a cult of Ghlaunder, God of Parasites. They also uncovered the identity of the twisted being responsible for the corruption of the town, and learned that this same being has sinister plans for a small, isolated city in the mires of Ustalav. Carrion Hill beckons...

CURRENT MAP - Beneath the Slipper Market...
Map of Carrion Hill
Campaign Wiki


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Female Human Investigator (Spiritualist) 3, Medium 2 || HP 33/33 | AC 15 | T 12 | FF 14 | Fort + 2 | Ref + 5 | Wil + 9 | CMD 15 | Init +2 | Per + 10 (+12 vs surprise) | Sense Motive + 10 | IP 3/3 | Influence 0

"This is a bad idea." I said, "And it isn't taking the victim's wishes into account. You're making a mistake here, Bacarov. The fact that the two women in the party, who are much more likely to be victims of abuse, are telling you this is a bad idea speaks volumes about how bad an idea this is. Call it off."


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

"Duly noted, Inspector. And argued for by yours truly naught moments ago." Bacarov rolls his neck to work out the tension kinks. "But my suggestions fall on deaf ears in many cases among this company. So I'm left with attempting to guide this river of willful currents as best I can."

"Bartley is low hanging fruit in this town. At least it will establish our desire to clean the place up for those locals who've lived in fear of him for so long." He tests his bowstring and adds. "He's a thug, nothing more. But his influence over Marleyna and the town should end at some point."

He steps closer to his fellow Inspector and says for her ears...

Warshawski:
"Believe me, had been given leave to bring my own squad of Watchmen, I would have. Please aid me in seeing Korzha to the farm."

He steps away and nods his readiness. "We make due with what Abadar has dispensed, eh? As I requested, both you and Calwen can see Master Korzha here safely to the farm and see that his family and Marleyna are secured."

"Once I've had a chance to view his dwelling and to question him, I'll have a better picture of things." He doesn't say what he's thinking. I'm a little concerned that their are grains of truth to Bartley's rantings. What if Marleyna is voted Queen of the Festival for a reason?


Female Human Investigator (Spiritualist) 3, Medium 2 || HP 33/33 | AC 15 | T 12 | FF 14 | Fort + 2 | Ref + 5 | Wil + 9 | CMD 15 | Init +2 | Per + 10 (+12 vs surprise) | Sense Motive + 10 | IP 3/3 | Influence 0

He wasn't saying what he was thinking. What if the man was telling the truth? What if Marleyna was leading us down the primrose path. Suffering wasn't the same as goodness and scars weren't proof of sanctity.

I nodded and hooked my arm into Master Korzha's. Given the circumstances, it might be a matter of trying to guide the river rather than block it entirely.

I suppose we needed to start somewhere.

"We should go back to your farm, sir. Let officer Bacarov and his men do their work."


Male Human Monk 3
Stats:
HP: 30 || AC: 16 ||Initiative: +6||Perception +7||Fort: 5||Ref: 5||Will: 4

Why anyone would want to lead a party of adventurers is beyond me, the monk thinks to himself, still allowing the adrenaline to flow out of his system gradually. He prepares to follow along and make himself useful however he can.


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

So I guess I should go ahead and warn you guys that I'll be out of town for the weekend. I'll still be able to post a couple times, probably, but I won't be checking in every couple hours like I'd do ideally. Also, you guys have been making this GM chuckle with this sudden and rash decision to arrest Bartley. I'm improvising this bit, so bear with me if I have to make some assumptions here.

Okay, so, before you go into the barn to see Marleyna and Dio...

Viorec Korzha stares, startled, as he realizes that you really are going to make a move on Robb Bartley. He sputters as he tries to answer Bacarov's question. "Uh... I seen him with a knife before. I think he has... like, a knife collection. You want me to get Marleyna, or...? No? All right, well, I'll be in here if you, uh, need me..." He opens the door to his house and backs inside.

Bacarov's Perception:
While there's nothing much to observe about the property itself, you do notice a few passerby lingering near the fence of the Festival Grounds to stare at the lot of you. Most of them are locals you haven't seen or spoken with before, with the notable exception of Saul Lupescu, the burly, bald owner of the Lupescu Trading Company whom you know only through a fleeting glance through the window and Calwen's testimony. Saul is watching you all with a measured interest.

Dramin's Perception:
You don't see anything untoward while you watch the back door of the Bartley house, though you do find some flat stones that it looks as if you could make some blunt arrows from, given time.

You guys can go ahead and make your move now. Robb's not coming out on his own, so somebody's gonna have to go in.


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

"Look, what I'm tryin to say here is, we already got a baby drake to protect. Now we got a teenaged girl to think of, that you said has a body that looks like a Chellish thrall under her clothes. You are sayin that punkass b!$%# in there's been doin in to his own kid fer years. The mayors tried, his brother tried, but couldn't stop it. Mr. Korza has a family to think of and has done his best, but he can't take on this guy. Now we've shown our cards. He knows we're takin his girl away. He's made a threat to get even. I can handle myself, but I'm not gonna have someone else bleedin cause Warshawski declared protective custody. We got and are makin more enemies in this town. We've got to thin em out and the mayor even authorized and asked us to."

"If he can do that to his own flesh and blood think what he'll do to someone else."

"I was just tryin to make sure of our facts, cause I wasn't there for the interview with the girl."

"I'm gonna try and talk him out, but he isn't gonna escape easy, got it Dramin? We aren't gonna try and kill him, but if you need to zap him to drop him, we can always heal him up later."


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

.

》》(Arrest Scene | Suggested approach map)《《

Stealth: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Disable Device: 1d20 + 6 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 6 + 2 + 1 = 14
>>>(+2 mwk tools | +1 Careful Teamwork)
Intimidate: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23 (Saul Lupescu)

Bacarov gestures for the team to get into position. "Alright, let's move. Vinnie, Dalton...you're on the door. Dramin has the back covered. I can pop the lock on the door if you'd prefer not to knock it down."

If we want to disable the lock, them use my rolls for stealth and disable lock for the approach. If no, then he'll take up position on the side of the house to monitor the action. See Linked Map above

Bacarov nods to Saul Lupescu, locking eyes with the shop owner and conveying in his demeanor, yeah, we're on the hunt. Here's your notice. Then he angles his head once to indicate he should move along.


Male Human Monk 3
Stats:
HP: 30 || AC: 16 ||Initiative: +6||Perception +7||Fort: 5||Ref: 5||Will: 4

Dalton keeps his sword in its scabbard for now, slowly shifting his weight from foot to foot as he surveys the door, and the house around it.

Perception: 1d20 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 7 + 1 = 12


[Img] [Stats] [Info] Female Elf Cavalier 3

Calwen goes back to the Korzha residence to guard the family as suggested and make sure no one does anything foolish.

I am not sure whether Marleyna is in the barn now or in the house, but I would prefer to have them all in on place so I would take Marleyna and Dio back to the house - I don't want Orni to be snooping around while the others commence their arrest. Hopefully Mrs. Korzha does not mind a dragon in her house. The advantage of the barn would be that Windmane is there, of course.

"Greetings to all of you again and forgive us the unrest we bring. Mistress Korzha? I am Calwen Snowpaw, a pleasure to meet you." She curtseys to the lady of the house. "This is not to worry, the others are experienced officers and will conduct their business swiftly and smoothly, but remain here for now, please. This will not take long."

She makes a few steps through the room to the table, memorizing all routes in and out and the relative position of everybody. "I am very grateful for your assistance, the compassion you show graces you as well as your kind. I am sure that Orni will be a man of honour before too long. What do you say to Marleyna's look, Orni? She is lovely, is she not?" Her words are smooth and calm and her bright blue eyes look the look of everyone in the room steadily for a couple of heartbeats. Only her ears give her tension away. She does not look outside and tries to direct the others' attention away from the direction of the Bartley house.


Male Human Fighter 2 / Wizard 3 - AC 17 (Mage Armor) | Flat 14 (Mage Armor) | Touch 13 | Fort +6 | Ref +4 | Will +3 | Init +4 | Perc +0 | Prescience 6/6

Dramin gets anxious; this time alone has started to toll on him. His mind keeps picking up things in the town, and he fears that it is now paranoia moreso than actual portents. I see her influence everywhere. Keep it together. He suddenly shakes his head and decides to pull out his bow, hoping it would sharpen his sight and focus.

Come out. I need to see what potential markings lie under that shirt.


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

"Got it. It's still safer if we can call him out to us, but we can go in to get em if he forces us to."

Marsh steps up to the door and gives it an authoritive rapping with his knuckles.

"Bartley, we're from the watch based outta Magnimar. You need to come out here so you can tell us whatcha mean about the girl. You're accused of beatin her and torturin her, but there's two sides to every story and we haven't heard yours. Obviously, we aren't from around here, so we haven't observed any of what's bein alleged. Inspector Bacarov is a reasonable man. You can come to the door and be civil about things an be assured you will be treated the same. . . "

"If ya don't come out . . . Well --- then we're comin in. You already displayed yer ink and made your threat. Let me be clear---Me and my boys are goin home in one piece tonight, we got magic spells an armorments. It's six to one and that's if we don't bring our dragon into it."

"I'd prefer if you came to the door and did this the better way. It's better to tell your side of it. Resistin us is just another charge. Please don't make this worse on yourself."


Male Human Monk 3
Stats:
HP: 30 || AC: 16 ||Initiative: +6||Perception +7||Fort: 5||Ref: 5||Will: 4
Vincent Marsh wrote:
"It's six to one and that's if we don't bring our dragon into it."

Despite the tense situation, the monk has to shake his head and smile. My, but he does make us sound scary, he thinks to himself. An instant later, he regains his smooth outer expression, reminding himself to focus and be ready for anything.

If there's a second story of any description to this house, one with any windows, Dalton turns his attention upwards to those...


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

In the words of Cyclops in the first X-Men movie... 'I've got a shot... I'm taking it!'

Saul Lupescu, watching from the nearby Festival Grounds, meets Bacarov's look with a tilt of the head and a sneer. His daughter, Shel Lupescu, joins him at his side. She watches the unfolding situation with what appears to be delighted curiosity.

- - - -

While Warshawski leads Viorec Korzha inside the house, Calwen moves to the barn, where Marleyna and Dio await. The young drake's head rests in the girl's lap, and it hops up with enough force that it nearly knocks Marleyna over as it runs to Calwen and nuzzles her. "Hey," Marleyna offers. "How'd it go?" Seeing the seriousness of the look in the elf's eyes, she quickly takes in the situation and moves with Calwen into the Korzha house.

Inside, Brekka Korzha graciously shakes Calwen's hand and nods appreciatively to Warshawski. "Pleased to meet you," she says. She peers out the window and it is plain to see that she is aware of the situation about to unfold outside. "Orni, Marleyna, y'all come over here with me, won't you?" She gives Calwen a nod of affirmation, signaling that she is more than all right with what is about to happen. "It's about time somebody did this," she says quietly. "That man deserves jail at best. The noose, if I had a say in it." Even more quietly, she adds: "Or the sharp end of my hatchet..."

In regards to Marleyna's stunning makeover, Orni clearly blushes. "Yeah, she looks all right," he says shyly, hands behind his back and kicking at the floor. Marleyna scruffs his hair and goes to the window to watch.

Brekka quickly scolds Dio, who reaches up with his snout to snatch a piece of bread from the kitchen counter. Dio backs away slowly and hides behind Marleyna, and Brekka grins at Calwen. "I don't care who you are," she explains firmly but gently. "You don't eat until the table's set. Have you some patience, and I'll find you a snack, young sir." Dio blinks, not understanding the words but appreciative of the emotions behind them. Clearly, Brekka has some skill in handling men and monsters alike.

- - - -

Excellently planned, folks. Here we go:

Dalton:
No upstairs on this house; there's nowhere for him to go aside from the windows or the front or back doors. At least, not that you can see.

After Marsh's considerably intimidating speech, no answer comes from behind the door of the Bartley house, though Marsh and Dalton can both hear the sounds of movement inside. After a moment, even those stop.

Bacarov tries the lock, but is unable to pick it. However, the door is flimsy, and looks easy enough to knock down.

- - - -

Back inside the Korzha house, Marleyna stands on tip-toe to observe through the window. She frowns and looks at Warshawski. "He might'a gone into the basement," she says quietly. "There's a trap door under the rug near the table... Although I don't know where he could go from there, there's no way out but back up. Want me to go tell 'em?"

If I missed anything that needs addressing, please let me know. I'm on a tight time budget to make these posts. O_o


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

Oh, boy...you're one of those types are ya? Bacarov changes tactics on Saul and instead gives him a sly wink and uses his right hand to draw outward from his nose. Like a mock proboscus. Yeah, I'll be adding you and your chum Markham to the list soon enough. But I'll play the hunch with you funboy.

Bacarov puts Saul in the back of his mind, a set of scrolls on his desk back at the office he'd get to soon enough. Now, he's busy not being frustrated by a...backwater hillbilly door lock some dirt bag punk of a... He slips his lock picks back into his pouch and knocks his blunt arrow. Estates his head at Marsh indicating the block is a no go.

He drums a beat along his bow and refocuses his gaze into the threads and patterns of the magical realm (Detect Magic) and stares at the door.

If there's no magic detected...

Bacarov gestures to Marsh and then to Marsh's boot. Next he points at the door then left. Then he points to Dalton, then towards the door and to the right. Finally he points at himself and then to his bow and to his eyes. Marsh kicks in the door and enters left. Dalton goes in right, I'll cover with the bow.

Sebastian stands back from the doorway and readies his bow.
Readied Action (bow): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15
Damage (non lethal): 1d6 ⇒ 3


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

"Fair enough, your call Bartley---we're comin in---I suggest you go down easy."

"Checkin the door for heat."

Check for traps: 1d20 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 7 + 1 = 13

Assuming it is clear or at least he doesn't detect anything.

"Checks clear---I'll try soft knock."

Lock pick: 1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 5 + 2 = 11

"Ah nuts! F$!+ it---we're goin loud!"

Marsh unlimbers Masher and targets the portion of the door near the lock.

1d20 + 4 - 1 ⇒ (9) + 4 - 1 = 12
1d10 + 3 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 3 = 11


[Img] [Stats] [Info] Female Elf Cavalier 3

Calwen displays her typical warm, calm smile as she sees how Dio is accepted in the house. On passing by she caresses the little drake's neck.

Calwen steps by Marleyna's side, ready to interfere if she tries to climb out of the window. “If he leaves through this trap door, that would leave the trap door exposed, would it not? Is there any other way out of the basement that leads to the outside? An 'official' entrance, a hatch for coal or one for potatoes?” It would be a lot better to inform the others right away, but she does not want to leave her post either. Yelling across the village and possibly even distracting the others while they were making their move was out of question.

“Warshawski, would you like to inform them quickly? I would... prefer to stay for now.” She does not want to mention it but she gestures subtle at her armour and her weapon. '… because I am better armed and armoured in case they need protection.'

Back to Marleyna she says: “Please, stay away from the window. If he notices you by any means that may further provoke him and make it more difficult for the others to stay on top of the situation.” … and I would not have to fear you do anything foolish.


Female Human Investigator (Spiritualist) 3, Medium 2 || HP 33/33 | AC 15 | T 12 | FF 14 | Fort + 2 | Ref + 5 | Wil + 9 | CMD 15 | Init +2 | Per + 10 (+12 vs surprise) | Sense Motive + 10 | IP 3/3 | Influence 0

A hidden basement. Possibly with an exit. Or who knows what else. Fantastic.

"I'll go." I told Calwen. She was better able to protect the family, with Dio's help, should trouble find its way here. Calwen was right.

I liked this family. The mother was tough and strong with a great sense of humor. The father was gentle and intelligent with a good dose of common sense. They reminded me of my own family. I wouldn't want harm to come to them.

I unwrapped my scarf and slipped out the door. I wished I could ask the spirits to deliver the message for me but that was beyond my power. At the moment, anyway. So, instead, I ran, racing across the space between the Korzha farmhouse and the Bartley residence.

When I get into loud talking distance - up to Budd if it happens this round.

"Bacarov!" I didn't want to shout and be heard inside the house but I couldn't afford to get in whispering distance. "There's a trap door under the rug, near the table. No exit that we know of but he could be hiding."


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

Marsh nods to Warshawski.

"Thanks for the heads up."

Vinnie grins to his team mates as he works over the door.

"Cheeky little bastard isn't he."

"If he wants to turn this into a badger hunt---fine with me. We'll smoke'em out, dig'em out, carry'em out---whatever it takes. Damn weasel."


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

Marleyna doesn't know of any other exits from the basement. No traps or magic detected. Warshawski easily makes it to near enough to the house to tell the others. Marsh, the door cracks under the weight of your flail but doesn't completely fall. You'll need to give it another good whack. Phonepost ftw!


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

"Okay you tatted out f#~~ stick, your door's comin off the hinges. It's time for an asskickin---"

Vinnie winks at Bacarov and gives him a wolfish grin.

"---for goodness!"

Masher arcsaround twice before its screaming demon head impacts the door.

1d20 + 4 - 1 ⇒ (8) + 4 - 1 = 11
1d10 + 3 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 + 3 = 11


Male Human Fighter 2 / Wizard 3 - AC 17 (Mage Armor) | Flat 14 (Mage Armor) | Touch 13 | Fort +6 | Ref +4 | Will +3 | Init +4 | Perc +0 | Prescience 6/6

Dramin hears the loud noises coming from the front and assumes that the explosive sounds are from the huge man's fists or flail.

He quickly whispers using his spell, the link being strong still.

"Still clear back here. Bow at the ready."

His eyes scan around, hopefully he wasn't wrong.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20 Heightened Awareness + Careful Teamwork


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

"Watch your back, Dramin." Bacarov replies along the message spell. "Lupescu is there, burly bald man. He might incite trouble."


Male Human Fighter 2 / Wizard 3 - AC 17 (Mage Armor) | Flat 14 (Mage Armor) | Touch 13 | Fort +6 | Ref +4 | Will +3 | Init +4 | Perc +0 | Prescience 6/6

He chuckles. "My back watches itself. I'll try not to cause too much trouble, it has been a long day so far and I am dreadfully tired and very much running on borrowed patience. Keep me informed if you guys slink around inside."


[Img] [Stats] [Info] Female Elf Cavalier 3

While Calwen does not want to alert the others in the house more then necessary she gets puts the bundle with arrows out of her backpack and positions them next to the window. Then she starts to assemble her composite bow.

She nocks an arrow onto the string and aims outside, careful to point it no one and keep it aimed out of the window. "Just a precaution. I am sorry to bring weapons into your house in the first place. I am sure that my comrades are perfectly able to handle one man without employing deadly violence..." she continues talking more to herself. "But I have a strange feeling when it comes to this village. There is more to it than meets the eye. And I could never forgive myself if any harm would come to any of you."

Maybe this village gets her paranoid, but it almost feels like this strange sensation of being watched in the village. If there was another who was waiting to make a move, now that the others were distracted would be a good time. She did not know of anyone who had a reason to make a move on Marleyna or the Korzhas and while they may be some he might want to get rid of Calwen herself a direct attack at this point seemed unwise. But still, just that she did not know a reason did not make it better, rather the contrary. She was not very concerned about Robb Bartley, it was what she did not know that concerned her.

She took a look across the room and out of the other windows as far as she could from her position without aiming the bow inside the room. Then she looked out again and as before, the motion of her pointy ear tips gave away that she was more focused on her hearing than her sight. She even tried to hear whether Windmane made any sound and the motions of the people in the room.

She believed that the accusations that Robb Bartley had uttered against Marleyna where the truth as he saw it. Yet she did not like the simplification that the Taldan term "truth" contained. It was always a matter of perspective. "Harlot" would likely translate into "free spirit", witch translated into "talented hopeful of the arcane arts" and manipulative schemer translated into "irresistibly charming girl on the verge of womanhood, beautiful inside and out, but not above fighting with weapons of a woman".

She made a quick comforting gesture towards Dio. She did not want to alert him all too much, even though she could not hide her tension from him.


Female Human Investigator (Spiritualist) 3, Medium 2 || HP 33/33 | AC 15 | T 12 | FF 14 | Fort + 2 | Ref + 5 | Wil + 9 | CMD 15 | Init +2 | Per + 10 (+12 vs surprise) | Sense Motive + 10 | IP 3/3 | Influence 0

Lupescu was watching. Him and his daughter. Civilians at best. Potential hazards at worst. I've seen the looks in their eyes before. Vultures who enjoyed seeing others get hurt. The boys could handle the jackass inside. Calwen had the family and the girl protected. Which left crowd control to me.

I wandered over to the Lupescus. I kept things simple. Not too friendly. Not too hostile.

"Hello, folks." I said as I stepped onto the porch next to them, turning to face the action but keeping Lupescu and his daughter in my peripheral vision. "Name's Warshawski."


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

With a thunderous and satisfying crash, the front door of the Bartley residence shatters under the weight of Masher's demonic visage. The shattered husk of the door is dashed into the house, allowing sunlight to spill inside and illuminate what lies beyond...

Behind the house, Dramin keeps a sharp eye out for any signs of movement, but sees nothing. Everything appears still within the Bartley residence.

Assuming someone- I'm guessing Marsh and Dalton- step inside...

Inside the Bartley House:
There is a large, central room beyond the doorway, with a pair of worn-down chairs for sitting and a bearskin rug that looks and smells as if it has never been cleaned. Nearby is what passes for a kitchen- a mostly-bare counter with a stained iron pot, and a plain table. There appears to be only one bedroom, the door to which is closed; a small pallet with a straw mattress and sheets lies in the far corner, a few books and items of girls' clothing piled neatly nearby. Empty wine bottles and random bits of debris and discarded clothing dot the floor.

Near the kitchen table, there is an awkwardly-angled rug only partly covering an obvious trapdoor that must lead down into some sort of basement.

There is no sign of Robb Bartley.

- - - -

In the kitchen of the nearby Korzha residence, the young drake Dio stands stalwart at Calwen's side, a sort of plucky determination in its reptilian eyes. He shuffles about anxiously, talons clicking on the wooden floor, as if he can innately detect that something is amiss.

Viorec and Brekka Korzha nod to Calwen, understanding the elven knight's precautions. "Well," Viorec says, keeping his hands protectively around young Ornigaard's shoulders, "hopefully you don't have to use that thing..."

- - - -

Outside, near the fence where several spectators- including Saul and Shel Lupescu- have gathered to observe the siege of the Bartley residence, Warshawski approaches the suspicious family and introduces herself.

Saul smirks and tips an imaginary hat to the investigator. "Pleasure to make your acquaintance, ma'am," he says. "Saul Lupescu, of Ravenmoor's own Lupescu Trading Company. My wife, Anya, should be around here somewhere- I'll introduce you when she shows herself. Shel, now, don't be rude- you introduce yerself to the nice lady."

Shel Lupescu flips her golden curls and gives Warshawski an appraising look. Rather than do as her father has suggested, she instead quips, "So, what? Y'all gon' arrest Mr. Bartley, or kill 'im, or what? I ain't one to complain- I'm jus' inter'sted, s'all." She is a stunning beauty, but there is a curious detachment in her manner. It is plain to see that Shel is wearing the fur cloak that Calwen had been wearing when she first met the investigators from Magnimar; that said, Shel seems to wear it with a bit of disdain, similar to what she bears in her eyes when she looks at Warshawski.

Before the conversation can go much further, a worrisome Mayor Andretti Kriegler hustles over to the fence and stands near the Lupescus, nodding in acknowledgement of them before turning to Warshawski. "What's going on here?" he asks. "You're making a move against Bartley? I assume he must have done something to provoke an immediate response, considering I'm certain we agreed that your group would consult with me before taking any such actions." He tries to sound friendly, but he wears his anxiety and frustration clearly upon his brow.

Many apologies for the lack of posts over the last couple days. In case my panicked responses in the discussion thread hadn't clued you in, I kind of got marooned at my sister's house in Texas for five days without my computer, and the one computer we did have died on day two. Ugh. Anyhoo, I'm back and everything should be back to normal. Hoorah!


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

"Hold on the trapdoor. I'm gonna clear the rest of the house first."

Marsh tries the bedroom door.

"Clearin the bedroom Dramin, but not pokin my head out, keep eyes on."

The big man checks to see if it's unlocked first. Once inside he sweeps the room.

perception: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 7 + 2 = 24+3 more for concealed items

He will smash the door in if needed.

1d20 + 4 - 1 ⇒ (11) + 4 - 1 = 14
1d10 + 3 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 + 3 = 10

"Freakin wino pad. This is the type of place you find a sex dungeon or a basket of baby heads down in the root cellar."

"Okay Bartley, were closin in on ya---time to give yer-self up. No sense goin out hard. The odds are unwinable. Inspector Bacarov will accept your surrender, so will I---but, it's game on til you are no longer a threat pal. I remember you sayin you, "put people in the ground"---well it ain't gonna be me."


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

Bacarov steps into the house as Dalton and Marsh clear the main room. He grips down on his bow as he sees the meager corner given to the girl as a bed. But the empty area keeps his attention.

"Wait," Bacarov warns Marsh before he had to smash in another dolr. He aims his bow towards the bedroom door and whispers to himself. "I see the door, I see the door, and the knock, knockin' begins..." The old rhyme from a bayou song is a favorite of his, one that channels his energies to cast an Open/Close spell.

"Dalton," Bacarov signals once towards the bedroom door then puts a finger to his lips in a hush signal. Then he holds up a hand, "Backup Marsh," he says to the monk.

Then he shifts his attention to the trapdoor to keep it covered, bow at the ready.

Perception: 1d20 + 9 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 9 + 1 = 23 (listening for danger)

If all is clear in the bedroom, he nods to the trapdoor. Bacarov reaches into his pack and withdraws his crowbar, slipping across the room to hand it to Marsh. He points to the trapdoor. Then he angles himself to cover the opening.

Stealth: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16 (get into position)
Readied Action (Blunt Arrow): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19
Damage: 1d6 ⇒ 4


Female Human Investigator (Spiritualist) 3, Medium 2 || HP 33/33 | AC 15 | T 12 | FF 14 | Fort + 2 | Ref + 5 | Wil + 9 | CMD 15 | Init +2 | Per + 10 (+12 vs surprise) | Sense Motive + 10 | IP 3/3 | Influence 0

"I wonder who spends more time staring at you." I mused out loud as the little shop wench spewed out her vague venom. "The local boys or yourself in your mirror."

But then there was the mayor, looking in a right panic. I didn't blame him, honestly. This was his town and he just lost total control of the situation.

"We intended to chat with the man." I explained to his honor, watching him intently. "First he insulted, then he threatened. Officer Bacarov deemed the threats to be serious enough that the child-beater at least needed to be questioned, to determine if he was of further danger. Except he retreated into his home. We know there's a hidden basement and there was concern of an escape route, so Officer Bacarov decided to go in."

Sense Motive on Saul Lupescu: 1d20 + 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (18) + (5) + 9 = 32
Sense Motive of Shel Lupescu: 1d20 + 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (20) + (4) + 9 = 33
Sense Motive on the mayor: 1d20 + 1d6 + 9 ⇒ (3) + (2) + 9 = 14


Male Human Monk 3
Stats:
HP: 30 || AC: 16 ||Initiative: +6||Perception +7||Fort: 5||Ref: 5||Will: 4

Dalton noiselessly steps across the threshold, scanning all directions for any unpleasant surprises. His hand rests lightly on the hilt of his sword, without clenching his fingers. He nods to Marsh, indicating his readiness to follow him downstairs for backup.


Male Human Fighter 2 / Wizard 3 - AC 17 (Mage Armor) | Flat 14 (Mage Armor) | Touch 13 | Fort +6 | Ref +4 | Will +3 | Init +4 | Perc +0 | Prescience 6/6

"I hear you Marsh. If you plan on sticking your head out of a window, tell me first or I may wipe you out through reflex."

Despite being lacking in conversational skills and appeal, he feels the ice return to his voice, the same that was there when talking about the dream women and dealing with threats and bandits.

"Any idea where he may flee out of? Otherwise I will keep scanning the back here."

Dramin will take a shot if the man comes out. Lethal damage at first, will reassess situation after.


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

Shel Lupescu's face tics as Warshawski's comment clearly throws her for a loop; she is quite obviously unused to being told off.

Warshawski:
Shel Lupescu's thin veneer of aloof confidence might impress others, but you see right through it. You get the impression that she is not putting on a show only for your benefit- from the way her eyes dart over toward her father frequently, you get the impression that she is playing some part in his act. What sort of act that is, however, is unknown to you... You also detect in her tone that she might actually want Bartley gone, albeit not out of any sense of justice. Her initial coldness toward you now seems to be heading toward outright hatred.

Saul is a little tougher a nut to crack, but you've been around the block enough times to pick up on the hints. He plays a good concerned citizen, but he's as slimy as his girl and then some. His pleasant tone is forced, and there is a note of hostility in his beady eyes.

In a way, the mayor's arrival is both a blessing and a curse- any rebuttal, whether verbal or physical, that either Lupescu might have hoped to make against you is immediately cut off at Kriegler's approach, but they quickly take advantage of the moment to peel away and get their acts together. That said, the Lupescus suddenly seem to see you as some sort of threat.

- - - -

The bedroom door within the Bartley house is not locked, and easily opens up. The room is tiny and unremarkable, save that it seems to match the slovenly state of the rest of the house.

While Bacarov keeps an ear out for danger, Marsh pokes around inside the room. An old trick he remembers from his days on the force leads him to check beneath the mattress, and indeed he finds a small book with a simple lock tucked away beneath. Nothing else of import is found here, aside from the usual grotesqueries of a drunkard's bedroom.

That leaves only the trapdoor. With the crowbar in hand, Marsh attempts to pry it open.

With the three of you there, plus a crowbar, there's no need to roll. Working together, Bacarov, Dalton, and Marsh can easily open the trapdoor.

A creaky-looking set of stairs leads downward into the basement of the Bartley house. It is pitch-black within. While both Bacarov and Dalton are ready for anything that might leap out, after a moment, you hear nothing from beyond the trapdoor.

Going down?


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

"Dramin. We got a book to look at an the rabbit went down its hole. Come cast light on some coppers. . . I"

Marsh stops for a minute and concern crosses his face for a moment.

"I'm not hearin anything down there boss."


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

Not with that crowd out there...not with Lupescu..

"Hold position out there Dramin. Support Officer Warshawski, but keep an ear out..." Bacarov calls out. Then pulls a copper from his pouch. "I've got it covered..." He whistles a 3 note tune and the copper shines with an orange brilliance (Cast Light). Looking to the others, he tosses the coin to the bottom of the stairs and resumes his aiming of is bow.

Perception: 1d20 + 9 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 9 + 1 = 12 ('not' listening)

Readied Shot: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7 (ugh)

"I'm running out of patience, Bartley..." He says in an even tone, sending his voice down the stairs at a volume just for those in the house. "This town has all the earmarks of trouble, and I'd pegged you as someone I could lean on for information. Maybe even barter a bit to lower the charges. But if you don't want to deal, I can understand. Child abuse, illegal drug possession, public nuisance and brawling...and threatening public officials. You've got 5 - 10 in the Hells of Magnimar coming. Sure you don't want to deal?"

Bluff: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24

He places a hand to his chest and signals five fingers, points down the stairs, then slowly counts them off...

5

4

3

2

If nothing happens, assuming we're going down?


Male Human Monk 3
Stats:
HP: 30 || AC: 16 ||Initiative: +6||Perception +7||Fort: 5||Ref: 5||Will: 4

Dalton will certainly follow.


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

Gimme a marching order, please. :)


Female Human Investigator (Spiritualist) 3, Medium 2 || HP 33/33 | AC 15 | T 12 | FF 14 | Fort + 2 | Ref + 5 | Wil + 9 | CMD 15 | Init +2 | Per + 10 (+12 vs surprise) | Sense Motive + 10 | IP 3/3 | Influence 0

I was beginning to get a picture of what was going on. After all, criminal scum were a dime a dozen but the best of them liked to hide behind legitimate enterprise. The Lupescu family were used to having power. Was it because they were rich? Because they controlled the only trade in town? Or because they were a power behind the strange goings on in this cursed little backwater?

I offered the mayor a faint smile.

"I'm sorry about this." No reason to get on his bad side. Not for the moment. "You have to understand, I saw the girl without her clothing on when she took Calwen and I to the pond to clean up. I've seen galley slaves from ships with fewer scars and lash marks. Her back looked like a scribbled on road map. Me? I understand that going in head-first can make things worse but what's happened to that girl has triggered the fathering instinct in our menfolk."


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

Marsh 》Dalton 》Bacarov? Will that work, guys?


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

GM Rolls (no peeking!):
RBS: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24

Marsh: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8
Dalton: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20
Bacarov: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24

As the trio descends the rickety stairs into the basement, the orange light cast by the glowing copper piece reveals a lair most grim. The room is small, but tells a story nonetheless. Directly ahead of the stairs, you see a low, flat table that almost looks like an altar. This table is covered in dark stains that one might imagine to be long-dried blood, and you can see shackles where wrists and ankles would be locked in. This is far beyond the simple whims of a violent drunk; this is, for all intents and purposes, a proper torture chamber akin to what one might find in the home of some amateur priest of Zon-Kuthon. Implements and devices of torture are placed with care upon nearby shelves, a far cry from the carelessness of the dwelling above.

A quick canvassing of the area reveals no doors that Robb Bartley could have fled through. However, before you can move too far into the basement, indeed only moments after Bacarov steps off of the stairs, there is a flash of movement in the shadows.

1d20 + 3 ⇒ (11) + 3 = 14 Miss! As does Bacarov's readied shot!

A shape comes rushing from its hiding spot beneath the stairs, but Bacarov spins on his heels and sees it just in time to bat away the dagger-wielding hand plunging toward him. The body is certainly that of Robb Bartley, if the tattoos are any indication, but the face has been hidden behind some sort of black mask, featureless save the eyeholes. The eyes glaring hatefully from those holds are bloodshot and crazed. The surprise of the attack startles Bacarov into releasing his readied arrow early, and it pings past the man's naked shoulder without so much as glancing him.

Marsh, Dalton, and Bacarov are now in combat. The rest of the group has no way of knowing until someone takes some action to alert them; again, remember that we're doing averaged initiative.

Initiative!:
Bacarov: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 2 = 15
Calwen: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 2 = 11
Dalton: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20
Dramin: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8
Marsh: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22
Warshawski: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4 Avg. 13

Bartley: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 1 = 12

Party's up! No combat map for this one, I fear.


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

》Move Action - Five foot step away for a shot
Blunt Arrow: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 = 23
. | Damage (non lethal): 1d6 ⇒ 4

Abadar's Scales! The man is far beyond drunkard! He hisses a curse as his snap shot goes wide. But he slips back to give Marsh and Dalton room to flank the fiend, freeing himself to launch a blunt arrow.

"Mind yourselves, he's crazed!" A quick glance to Marsh and he nods. "Subdue if possible, he might have information..." But he has a feeling which direction this battle may take...


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

The scene, smells and masked man was all too familiar to Marsh. Vincent looses his shit and goes to work.

"You f+@%ing sadistic piece of shit! You'd do shit to your own daughter down here! You attack my pal!? Buckle up buttercup!"

favored enemy, rage, power attack: 1d20 + 5 + 2 - 1 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 5 + 2 - 1 + 2 = 19
1d10 + 6 + 2 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 6 + 2 + 3 = 14

"You wanna carve on someone, come at me bro! I'm gonna wipe those tattoos off your scrawny ass!"


Male Human Monk 3
Stats:
HP: 30 || AC: 16 ||Initiative: +6||Perception +7||Fort: 5||Ref: 5||Will: 4

Dalton is disgusted by the tableau of torturous devices before him; clearly, the man was far more sadistic and evil even than he first appeared.

With a swift glance and a nod to Bacarov, Dalton jumps into action. The monk moves low to avoid any swinging limbs and his sandaled feet make rapid clip sounds on the stony floor as he moves into flanking position. He takes advantage of the mask's lack of peripheral vision and attacks him from behind, attempting to lock the crazy man in a full nelson. If I have to provoke an attack of opportunity to get behind him, I will take that risk; but I'm getting behind him.

Grapple attempt, flanking.: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 7 + 2 = 24


Male Human Fighter 2 / Wizard 3 - AC 17 (Mage Armor) | Flat 14 (Mage Armor) | Touch 13 | Fort +6 | Ref +4 | Will +3 | Init +4 | Perc +0 | Prescience 6/6

Dramin sees a quick glimpse into the future and a shot in the dark.
Something happened.

He doesn't have time to react and his Forewarning makes his legs move faster than his thoughts. The fact that the vision cut off early was unfortunate but he has faith in the three on one odds.

Surprise Round
Dramin Moves closer to the house, within 30 feet of any cellar windows there may be.

Keeps Heightened Awareness up

---

1st Round
"You guys sit tight, call if you need help. I'll hold here otherwise but there isn't much support I can provide you." He feels useless in this location... until he realizes it is a location.

Knowledge (engineering): 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31 On the structural integrity of the building and any locations which may make holes for trap doors from the basement out.

Panicking is for the feebleminded anyway. His teeth glint a wolfish smile.

He then goes to position himself near any potential openings and Ready an attack. Trigger being the same as before, Bartley in sight.


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

Dramin:
You examine the exterior of the house and are able to determine that, given the nature of the soggy ground around here, it is unlikely that any sort of tunnel leading far from the house could be built without extensive construction, meaning the only way out from the basement other than through the ground level would be a cellar of some sort. There is no such cellar outlet anywhere nearby, so from the looks of things Bartley is trapped down there with them. Unless, of course, he can somehow dig his way up through a few tons of mud.

Round One Results:

After evading Bartley's wildly swinging knife, Bacarov calmly steps back and nocks another of his blunt arrows, loosing it nearly point-blank into the psychopath's masked face; it makes contact with a meaty thud, and Bartley staggers.

Meanwhile, Dalton puts his agile feet to work and begins making his way around to flank Bartley even as Marsh's demon-faced flail comes arcing down upon him. With a bloody crunch, Bartley's shoulder is torn to tatters, causing him to drop his dagger; it clatters to the floor just as Dalton spins behind the man and grabs him from behind, attempting to pin his arms to his sides.

Opposed Grapple Check vs. Dalton: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15 Nope!

Bartley savagely struggles in Dalton's grip, despite the crippling damage to his shoulder, but is unable to break the monk's grasp. He hisses and curses, his voice muffled by the mask, which stretches tight over his mouth as he screams.

End of Round One. Party is up. Bartley is currently sitting on 4 nonlethal damage and 14 lethal, for the record.


Human Barb 1/Rgr 2/Rog 2 HP 41 AC 19, touch 12, flat-footed 17 Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +1 Init +4 Perception +9 Sense Motive +7 Evasion

Marsh sees that Bartley is held, but still struggling. trying to prevent a repeat of the previous incident with Masher the big man drops his flail and goes with a fist to the face---but the hands of Vinnie Marsh, forged and tempered in the pits of Magnimar are lethal weapons. As his fist streaks towards the masked man's face all Marsh can see are the faces of young children's horrified faces frozen in the embrace of death. Children who dies at the hands of the Skinsaw and to the hands of their own parents. His own girls faces swirl before him their hands reaching up to him begging to be held. Bartley's black mask becomes a patchwork collection of the skin from children's faces cobbled together. Bartley's red eyes staring into Vinnies own.

"You prey on little girls! You don't deserve to be called a father! F*$* YOU!"

Marsh is wearing cestus

Rage, favored enemy, flanked, power attack: 1d20 + 4 + 2 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (19) + 4 + 2 + 2 - 1 = 26
1d20 + 4 + 2 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (12) + 4 + 2 + 2 - 1 = 19
2d4 + 8 + 4 + 4 + 1d6 ⇒ (4, 2) + 8 + 4 + 4 + (5) = 27

The ironshod ham fist strikes its target and buries itself as Marsh tries punching through the image of Father Skinsaw to strike at the demons underneath.


Male Human Monk 3
Stats:
HP: 30 || AC: 16 ||Initiative: +6||Perception +7||Fort: 5||Ref: 5||Will: 4

Jesus christ dude, with dice like that you're going to punch through his head and hit me in the face


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

He's dead, Jim.


Male Human Monk 3
Stats:
HP: 30 || AC: 16 ||Initiative: +6||Perception +7||Fort: 5||Ref: 5||Will: 4

Dalton is knocked backwards, off his feet, from the force of Marsh's blow. He's knocked on his ass with the corpse of the tattooed man lying back on him, which the monk quickly shoves off. Climbing to his feet and dusting himself off, he spares a glance at the dead man. "Sic semper tyrannis," he murmurs under his breath. "There goes our chances of interrogating him. Warshawski's not going to be pleased."

He turns his attention to Marsh, about to make a comment about unnecessary roughness, but he can tell at a glance that the adrenaline hasn't fully left Vinnie, and decides it's wiser to say nothing more for now.


Oracle (lvl 5) | HP 30/30 | AC:19 (23 CoD), T:12, F:15 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save F+1, R+3, W+5 (+4 vs Illusions, Disguises, Divinations) | Init:+3 | Perc: +9 (DV 60ft) || Wands CLW 25/50 || Spells: lvl 1 (6/7) | lvl 2 (4/5)

*sigh*

Bacarov lifts his hand from his sap and closes his eyes. He was lost, crazed. He'd have slice and diced all of us with his back against the wall... He looks to Dalton after his comment, the glare in his eyes hinting at what his next words declare. "Never mind her, worry about me."

He takes a breath and shoulders his bow. "Our first arrest attempt in town and we pulp a restrained suspect. Not good for first impressions." He scoops up his magicked coin and holds it aloft as he continues. "It happens...the guy was clearly crazed." He glances over his shoulder. "Marsh, if you would please go upstairs and take a breather, cool your blood. I'd request that you remain in the house until you're settled." He sighs again. But you'll do as you like I'm sure.

"Mister Dalton, I'll ask that you head up and send in Warshawski, Dramin and the mayor. Don't say a word other than his honor needs to see this." He looks Dalton's way to explain his intentions. "I want to see his face when he sees this basement. I want to know if its for the first time."

He moves to the body and crouched down begins studying the body, the remnants of the mask and the dagger Bartley had used.

"Marsh, when you're calmed, you amd Dalton please see to perimeter of the house. Keep the locals out," He doesn't look over from his crouched position over the body. "Both of you please go. I'd like a moment alone."

Perception: 1d20 + 9 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 9 + 1 = 29 (scanning the mask, body & dagger, then the room and altar)


Enormous Radioactive Monster - - hp tons/tons - - AC nuh-uh I got forcefield

Bacarov:
The mask, seemingly made of leather, seems to have no unusual properties, aside from being wrapped around a pulped skull. Inspecting Bartley's body further, you find evidence of ritual scarring, likely self-inflicted. The dagger is of unusually high quality, masterwork no less.

The room itself tells more than a few horror stories, with numerous implements of torture located on assorted shelves and stuffed into open boxes and chests, along with several bottles of wine and a large bag stuffed with what you immediately identify as flayleaf- a supply capable of providing for the entire town, if need be.

The altar holds no further secrets. You can tell from studying the blood stains that someone- or, more likely, several people over a period of years- had been strapped into these shackles and chafed their wrists and ankles enough to bleed.

You also find several whips, a cat o'nine tails, several sets of manacles and lengths of rope, a set of strange knives, and- perhaps most alarmingly- a spiked chain.

I imagine Dalton and Marsh are going to head upstairs and, uh, explain how Bartley fell on the stairs and smashed his head on the floor?

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