GM Rat Sass's Age of Worms

Game Master Governayle

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Treasure Log
The Road So Far...
Map of Alhaster
Ascaria's Pub


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Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)

Round Blather (Part I)

A wrote:
"Եվս մեկ. Ես պետք է ստանում թունդ. Չի տեսնում քեզ, քանի դեռ դուք ժամանել. Ես սովորաբար չեմ"

I'll take that as a 'No', It doesn't speak Common...

Mortimer resists the urge to pick the Creature up and dispense friendly noogies. In his infinite wisdom he instead decides to assume It can understand Common, and is choosing not to speak Common.

Taking a closer look at the creature, Mortimer notices what he thinks are spots of rust in Its metal deposits as well as the fissure in Its side. He holds his hand up to halt Tynan and his drawn short sword as he tries to persuade him to stand down.

"Whoa, Tynan -- this little guy is not much bigger than Ascaria. He looks -- really warm. That's a good way to undo your sword, maybe put it away for now?"

Turning back to the creature he says, "You look like you've been awhile? Is it true? Have things changed? Are you trapped here? I don't see you getting much past all that mold over there -- and there's alot of it -- and it's very cold. Is there another way out for you? What is your name? Who brought you here?"

Shifting his tone from inquisitive to informative he adds, "I'm Mort. There's a bunch of us here. We're just lost -- looking for a way to get into Dourstone mine. We know it's around here somewhere...", he incidentally clinks some coin together in his pocket as he pulls out his beloved palm fitting rock for (subtle) comparison to the stony Creature.


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Male, Gnome

Round: 1, Initiative: 20

Status:
HP: 14/18 (4hp is nonlethal) AC: 11 (F10/T11)
Weapon Equipped = Wand Cure Light Wounds
Cold Iron Bullets (4/10), Silver Bullets (10/10)
Conditions = None
Life Link (3) = Tynan (-3)
Channel Energy (6/7) (DC: 15) (2d6+1)
Amiable Blunder (1/1) (if Diplomacy failed by >5, reroll to avoid worsening attitude)
Ranged Attack: BAB +2, Dex +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 3, Concentration +7)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (14): Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Spark, Stabilize
First (15): (6/6) Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Diagnose Disease, Liberating Command

Ascaria looks at Rae as he’s picked up and nods, ”This is fine, thanks for the lift!”

*Boom*

Ascaria drops his link with Mort and Rae (immediate action) as he’s carried through the mold. Once on the other side, he channels energy, including their new friend, to heal the injuries.

Channel Energy (healing): 2d6 + 1 ⇒ (3, 2) + 1 = 6

He tries to find a common language with their new friend, repeating greetings in every language he knows (Aklo, Common, Dragon, Dwarven, Elvan, Giant, Gnome, Halfling, Infernal, Sylvan). ”Greetings, I’m Ascaria. Know this one?”


F Halfling Servant 3

Round 2

Oh Milani take me.

Watching the others cross, Pillette sucks it up and moves quickly through the fungus, hoping to reach the other side before succumbing to too many ill effects.


|Roll20 Link- Carrion Crown| |Roll20 Link- Age of Worms|

GM Rolls:

1d100 ⇒ 62

Pillette joins the gang, suffering the same fate as the ones who went before.

Non-lethal Cold Damage: 3d6 ⇒ (6, 4, 1) = 11

Mortimer wrote:
"Aljdkrieur aoudifreilskk dkfo kdjfaoirejg$ oaruk osjifd sofjsd# osfi d fos dfosdisf@ sddfljso fsdifsd fsoo fsjodifs& fos sofs s o fis of ssjid Mort fdfso dif ssdfosdij?"
Ascaria wrote:
"Waourka aoufi. Ascaria. Jsoudir oudfirk? Ajaoriuei amccicmie. Ascaria. Louoeriajkd ajodirl?..."

The earthen fists brandished at Tynan sag to the clay man's sides. Its lava-swirl eyes look at each and every new arrival, and it waits.

"Ոչ արդար. Ես միայն մեկը. Դու ավելի քան մեկ. Ավելի լավ է սպանել քեզ մեկը մի ժամանակ. Ոչ արդար."

Terran:

"Not fair. I'm only one. You're more than one. Better to kill you one at a time. Not fair."

Solrisa, Tynan, and Mortimer are up!


F Half Elf:
HP 135, F19R14W16,Dip+13,Fly+7,HanAnim+8;K(rel)+18, Spllcrft +17,UMD +22

Round 2

Unable to cross the mold this turn, Solrisa prepares to run across next turn if needed.


Male Human Slayer 11

Round 2, Init 6

Tynan is taken aback by the others passing through the mold to enter the workshop. I warned them about the mold... The last of his wounds fade as Ascaria's healing energy washes over the group. Seeing the stony creature's arms droop in resignation, Tynan lowers his short sword, but keeps it in hand should it be needed.

Listening to Ascaria talking to the creature in several languages, Tynan watches it closely for any sign of comprehension. I should have tried talking to it in other languages myself...

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 10 + 1 = 30 (Studied)

Status:
AC:16(F:12, T:14); HP:22/22; Saves:F3,R7,W2


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Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)

Round 2, Init 4ish, Blather (Part II)

A wrote:
"Ոչ արդար. Ես միայն մեկը. Դու ավելի քան մեկ. Ավելի լավ է սպանել քեզ մեկը մի ժամանակ. Ոչ արդար."

Mortimer watches the little Mud Man's earthen fists sag back down to his sides in apparent dejection.

It has feelings?! Did he just repeat what Ascaria said in -- something not Common or the Other language? Did he get it all? I hope he didn't completely miss my meaning.

Mortimer tries again.

"Oh heyya. That's good -- no fisticuffs," he says calmly, slowly lowering his own hands palm down. "We don't want that either. You look unhappy. Are you all alone down here? Don't worry! We can get you out of here."

He looks around the room.

"We're going into that mine, maybe through the front way -- if we have to. He turns back to the Clay Man. "Did you want to come with us? Maybe you'll meet more of your kin there -- and some friends. You might not have to be alone any more. Does that sound good? If so, morph back into an egg -- at least until we're well past this mold."

Mort holds his hand over his own arm, and his other hand over the creature's "arm" in an attempt to gauge just how hot the creature might be.

If the egg is not forthwith, Mort will gingerly try to pick up the Mud Man.

Improved Grapple: 1d20 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 7 + 1 = 25 (Maneuver Training +1)

Just Right:
No problem, Mort encourages the mud man to hold on to the Muleback Cords, and steers as clear from the mold as possible, climbing if necessary.
Climb: 10 + 6 = 16

Too Hot:
"Aiya!!! ...Too hot!" Mortimer cries out. "Is there anyway at all you might be able to tone down the heat?"
He points to the exit, filled with cold mold.

I hope he's not too too heavy.


|Roll20 Link- Carrion Crown| |Roll20 Link- Age of Worms|

Pillette, Raella, and Ascaria all brave the cold. The gnome pursues a common language, to no avail. Solrisa readies to strike out across the moldy floor. Tynan declines to strike out again at the clay fellow, staring into its stony front. Mortimer struggles to communicate, then embraces the earth man so quickly, the little guy has no time to refuse a hug.

Tynan:

As soon as Mortimer picks up the earth man, signs of distress seem evident as the creature looks up at Mort then at the doorway and back at Mort.

Delaying Pillette, Raella, and Ascaria in light of Mortimer's grapple, so we can resolve the elemental's actions this round.

The worried stone in Mort's arms is nothing like the worry stone he normally carries. This anthropomorphic hunk of rock tries to break free of the big man's grasp. And it succeeds!

Break Grapple v DC 20: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 = 23

It seems to flounder a bit, regaining its center of gravity back on the workbench, stomping to reassure itself.

"Ձեռք չտաք ինձ Ոչ շուտ վիրավորվող. Ես չեմ կարող գնալ ամենուր."

Terran:

"Don't touch me. No touchy. I can't go anywhere."

Round 3
A- 25 (-1hp, Lethal)
Pillette- 24
Raella- 22 (-2hp, Non-lethal)
Ascaria- 20 (-4hp, Non-lethal)
Solrisa- 12
Tynan- 6 (-5hp*, Non-lethal)
Mortimer- 4 (-1hp, Non-lethal)

Everyone is up!


F Half Elf:
HP 135, F19R14W16,Dip+13,Fly+7,HanAnim+8;K(rel)+18, Spllcrft +17,UMD +22

Round 3

Solrisa delays.


Male, Gnome

Round: 3, Initiative: 20

Status:
HP: 14/18 (4hp is nonlethal) AC: 11 (F10/T11)
Weapon Equipped = Wand Cure Light Wounds
Cold Iron Bullets (4/10), Silver Bullets (10/10)
Conditions = None
Life Link (3) = Tynan (-3)
Channel Energy (7/7) (DC: 15) (2d6+1)
Amiable Blunder (1/1) (if Diplomacy failed by >5, reroll to avoid worsening attitude)
Ranged Attack: BAB +2, Dex +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 3, Concentration +7)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (14): Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Spark, Stabilize
First (15): (6/6) Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Diagnose Disease, Liberating Command

Ascaria looks at the surprisingly slippery creature and shrugs, unsure what to do.

He smiles at the fellow and holds up his hand to suggest, give us a moment.

He turns to the others, "We can't talk to him, and he can't talk to us. Not yet anyway. His language is similar to another I know, but purer. I think I can learn it, but not immediately. It'll take some time."

"So I'm not sure what to do until then. I can cast a spell so I can understand him for a half hour or so, but I can't talk to him. Just listen. If we can communicate some basic concepts, I can at least understand what he's saying."

Ascaria casts his spell.

Spellcraft 16 & DM:

He looks to the party for suggestions to close the communication gap.


Male Human Slayer 11

"Well, i believe his name is Artfanx... at least that was the rune on him when he was disguised as a large egg. Also, he's pretty nervous with so many people around him, and he doesn't want to be picked up... from what I can gather. I'll give you some space."

Tynan steps away from the stony creature, and closer to the half-finished sculpture.


Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)

Status:

AC 17, 21 on AoO; 23/26 HP
BAB = +3 (level 3)
ToHit = 1d20+7
RHit = 1d20+7-2 (-1 to hit, +2 dam on Power Attack)
LHit = 1d20+7-2 (-1 to hit, +2 dam on Power Attack)
Throw = 1d20 + BAB + Dex

Fort+4 (+4 vs inhaled and contact poisons, +2 vs. disease)
Reflex+5
Will+2
Initiative+2
CMD = 18, 16 if flat footed

Round 3, Init 4, Blather Last

A wrote:
"Ձեռք չտաք ինձ Ոչ շուտ վիրավորվող. Ես չեմ կարող գնալ ամենուր."

Mortimer, somewhat taken aback by the Creature's break on his hold, watches the Creature emphatically replant Itself back onto the workbench.

He holds his hands up in resignation and slowly backs away from the workbench (not into the mold).

"Whoa!! O.K.! O.K.! I get it -- you're insisting on staying right here. Maybe you'll find your own way out when you are ready?"

He prepares to rejoin Sol past the mold in the west corridor.

Ascaria wrote:
"I can cast a spell so I can understand him for a half hour or so, but I can't talk to him. Just listen. If we can communicate some basic concepts, I can at least understand what he's saying."

Mortimer halts his departure, considering this idea.

"Uh, I think he meant everything he just said there with his body after breaking my hold -- but go on ahead."

He turns to the creature once more, but this time from a non-grappleable distance.
"My friend here Ascaria,", he gestures to Ascaria, "might now be able to understand your speech. Who are you? Why are you here? Must you stay?"


F Halfling Servant 3

Round 3

Having over-reacted and charged through the mold, the halfling rethinks the mold. Pillette follows Tynans lead and takes a step back, before retrieving her rope, pitons and a hammer.

She fingers her rope, looking over at Mort. I wonder if whatever that is could be tied to still him, make hims easier to handle. Probably not, but rope couldn't hurt, could it?

She'll also take a look at the wall, sizing up just how high the mold reaches. If I have to return, perhaps a spike or two driven into the wall will let me back without freezing my little feet off.

Status:

AC: 16 (T: 14 FF: 12)
HP: 10/21 (nonlethal)
F3/R6/W0

Melee - +3 / Ranged - +6 (+7 Point Blank)
Condition: Subservient but wary
Equipped: Hammer & piton (rope coiled around her shoulder)

Perception +5/ Know (Local) +7 / Know (Nobles) +3 / Sense Motive +4


Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)
Pillette wrote:
She fingers her rope, looking over at Mort.

Making eye contact with the halfling, it slowly dawns on Mortimer that Pillette is considering binding the Earthen Lava Creature.

He subtley shakes his head at her whispering, "It'll likely just burn up."


|Roll20 Link- Carrion Crown| |Roll20 Link- Age of Worms|

Out of Initiative, as the group enters the awkward dynamic of one-sided diplomacies ;)

The clay man looks from Mort to Ascaria, then back at Mort.

"Ինչ վերաբերում է կարճ է. Դուք կարող եք թողնել նրան. Դուք բոլորդ գնում. Դուք խոսում, բայց դուք չեք խոսում. Դուք կողոպտում բայց դուք չեք կարող պահել. Եթե Nadroc գնացել, ապա ես խրված. Դուք գնալ հիմա: Թողնել փոքր մեկը."

Terran, Ascaria:

"What about the short one? You can leave him here. You all go. You speak but you don't speak. You grab but you can't hold. If Nadroc is gone, then I am stuck. You go now. Leave the small one."

The creature waves you all to leave, back through the doorway.


Male, Gnome

"Hrm. He is not pleased, that much is clear. He says he'd like you all to go, except me apparently. I think he's intimidated by you lot. He also said if some guy by the name of Nadroc is gone, then he is stuck here. Mort, is that the guy in the bathroom?"

Ascaria frowns at the party, "I don't like that he's stuck here. We should do something about that, shouldn't we?"

He thinks a moment, "I don't think we can help him now - at least not with the skills we have at our disposal. I suggest we leave him be, and leave the egg here. I'll learn his language, which may take some time, or we can get a tongues scroll or something, and come back to help him."

"Might be a while, but I think it's the best thing we can do for him."

He looks to the poor elemental and smiles in as friendly a manner as he can muster.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26


|Roll20 Link- Carrion Crown| |Roll20 Link- Age of Worms|

GM Rolls:

1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16

The earth man's stony demeanor appears unchanged, despite Ascaria's amiable grin. It pays attention to who is speaking at the time, apparently.

It remains firmly in place, waiting.

Mortimer:

Having seen the almost completely skull-like face of the man in the commode, it has no discernible features with the man in robes in the bed chamber, to whom Tynan had previously tethered the name 'Madroc'. Close enough, it seems.

When you're ready to depart, the earth bloke watches you leave, but does not follow.

"Եթե դուք վերադառնալ, մուտքագրեք մեկը մի ժամանակ Ես չեմ կարող սպանել քեզ բոլորը մեկ անգամ."

Terran, Ascaria:

"If you come back, enter one at a time. Fair. I can't kill you all at one time."

Crossing over the mold, everyone, save Solrisa, enjoys the invigorating sensation of hypothermia again.

Non-lethal Cold Damage: 3d6 ⇒ (4, 5, 1) = 10


F Half Elf:
HP 135, F19R14W16,Dip+13,Fly+7,HanAnim+8;K(rel)+18, Spllcrft +17,UMD +22

Solrisa continues to delay, waiting for her sister to tell her everything is alright.


Male Human Slayer 11

"Nadroc is the personal rune I saw on the relief carving in the bedchamber. We can try to see if the guy in the bathroom looks to be the same person, I suppose."


Male, Gnome

Damnit - apologies to Mort. I thought he said, aloud, there was a guy on the commode, but he didn't - it was a message to himself. Clearly the con has me thinking backwards.

Please ignore that bit. We do not know there is a dead guy nearby...

Once through the mold again, Ascaria will channel, again (twice), to remove the worst of the injuries.

Channel Energy (healing): 4d6 + 2 ⇒ (1, 2, 4, 6) + 2 = 15

"When we come back, we need to find a way around that damnable mold!"

GM Rat:
Ascaria will also re-establish his link with Rae and Mort.


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Male Human Slayer 11

Tynan leaps across the floor trigger, and heads down the corridor to the carving which prevents it from activating.

Acrobatics:Jump: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 20

Tynan once again places his hand on the carving. "OK, it should be safe to cross now."


F Halfling Servant 3

As another wave of cold had washed through her, the halfling began to stagger before the Gnome's burst warmed her blood. The Houses always said Gnomes were less trustworthy, but if many of them are like this one, perhaps it is more they are just too powerful to keep in line as much as others of us found underfoot. Not a bad one to know, at least not this one.

Almost all the shivering having stopped, she scowls back a little at where the earthen man stood, concentrating as she tries to put any pieces from this trip together.

She mutters mostly to herself. "What are we doing here, again?" And how best to make sure we survive the plans of our new employer, and turn them to our own benefit?


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Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)
Ascaria wrote:
"[ ... ] if some guy by the name of Nadroc is gone, then he is stuck here. [ ... ] I suggest we leave him be... [ ... ] Might be a while, but I think it's the best thing we can do for him."

"Something tells me The Creature can wait -- It's already been waiting for a long time if Nadroc bound It here.".

Mortimer doesn't need a translation to understand that The Creature wants them to leave. In an effort to save some energy for Ascaria, he offers to carry anyone who wants to be carried over the mold by climbing.

"Grab onto the Muleback Cords."

Climb: 10 + 6 = 16

He ascends the wall, looking once in farewell over his shoulder at the Mud Man before climbing out of view toward Sol.

~

Descending on the other side, he allows anyone who took him up on his offer to disembark, then he greets Sol.

"Oh Hi! There you are! Everything is alright! Are you alright?"

He starts striding toward the commode.

"C'mon, Everyone! You got to see this -- there's some pretty keen stuff over here."

He enters the room and raises a cacophony of clatter -- as if he was flailing about a small room too full of thousands of metal rings -- the sound occasionally punctuated by muttered apologies. After a brief moment, he emerges with a set of beautiful chain mail, three palm-sized figurines- a palace, a spire, and a stadium all made of pearlescent stone, goggles and two sets of gloves.

"Either the orange porridge got to him, or the dead soldier in there seems to be indicating that this might not be the friendliest latrine to have to use."

After a pause to let everyone take in the find he says,

"We should ascend topside and sort these things out, and maybe come up with a plan to get into Dourstone that doesn't involve putting anyone person at particular risk. Maybe we could disguise ourselves as miners and go in the front? I even know a tattoo artist or two who could manage a temporary tattoo of similar quality to the ones the miners bear that might suffice to get us past."


Male, Gnome

If we can all 'climb' out on Mort's broad back or on Pillette's ropes, obviously I'll keep both channels for tonight. Rat? Do we take the damage?

Ascaria follow the big man to the latrine. "Wow."

The greed in him takes over and he immediately casts Detect Magic and takes a hard look at the various items Mort has discovered.

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14 chain mail
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24 three palm-sized figurines- a palace, a spire, and a stadium all made of pearlescent stone
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19 goggles
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27 gloves
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (10) + 7 = 17 gloves

While he's at it he takes another look at the belt Mort found earlier (I sense a pattern...)

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13 belt

When his spells are spent, he tells the group what he discovered, if anything, of their value.

He turns to Mort's other discovery - a plan.

"Well I couldn't disguise myself as a miner as I'm already too well known among the mining community, but I don't suppose that will matter as I can, with an escort (you guys) go into the mines on my own anyway."

He turns to Mort, "You sure these tattoos of yours are temporary?"


AC:
AC (when in chain shirt) (16)18, touch 11, flat-footed 18(16) (+7(5) armor, +1 Dex)
HP and saves:
HP:41(49 if raging), Saves:Fort +7, Ref +2, Will +3
Skills:
Acro: +7 (+9 to avoid AoO for leaving a threatened square/move through a creature's space, jump :+11), Climb +6, H. Anim.: +6, Intmdt.: +6, Know.arc.: +3, Prcptn: +9, Spllcrft: +3

"Yeah, I think I'd need some decent disguising. I've tried mining in the past; it didn't take. They may still remember me." she turns at the mention of Mort's tattoos. Her mouth twists. "Let's hope not, Mort. No offense, but I'm sure you can get better done somewhere."

Rae will go along with the plan to sneak into the mine using a disguise, but she will need help being disguised.


F Half Elf:
HP 135, F19R14W16,Dip+13,Fly+7,HanAnim+8;K(rel)+18, Spllcrft +17,UMD +22
Mortimer Smith wrote:
...then he greets Sol. "Oh Hi! There you are! Everything is alright! Are you alright?"

Sol brightens when Mort emerges from the moldy area. She claps briefly, happy for a moment.

"What was all the fun about? Who were you talking to?" Sol smiles moreso when she sees her sister.

"That's so neat that you had an adventure. What was it like?" Sol asks Mort, trying to know everything about what happened to her sister (who tends to be less communicative about things) while following the assertive Mort to the commode.

"Oh! I'll wait out here if you have to go! Maybe we can talk when you get done."


Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)
Ascaria wrote:
"You sure these tattoos of yours are temporary?"

Mort pulls his chain shirt and its underpinnings away from his neck and looks down for a peek at his recently aquired body art.

"Quite certain," comes the somewhat muffled reply.

Raella wrote:
"Yeah, I think I'd need some decent disguising. I've tried mining in the past; it didn't take. They may still remember me." she turns at the mention of Mort's tattoos. Her mouth twists. "Let's hope not, Mort. No offense, but I'm sure you can get better done somewhere."

"No offense taken. I know there's better artists out there, but these two are the only ones I know about locally, and they can do temporary. The miner tattoos aren't all that complicated -- their skills might be good enough to copy one -- Ascaria might even be able to suggest simple one. Who knows -- maybe they know a good disguise artist too?"

He pauses pensively.

"Maybe it's not a good plan? I haven't sorted out how to explain to the artists why we would need this, but I figure if we pay them well there will be no questions asked. It's the only way I could think of that keeps us together and won't cause too much of a ruckus if it works. I'm open to alternatives."

This town and its eyes. We should all walk around naked, 'cos that's how it feels anyway. Won't be the least bit surprised if we are able to just saunter right in through the front door just as we are...

While moving to rejoin Tynan at the exit, Mortimer finally gets around to addressing Sol's curiosity. He falls into line and keeps pace next to her.

Solrisa Iome Arabasti wrote:
"That's so neat that you had an adventure. What was it like?"

"Sorry about that," he says, gesturing back toward the commode. "I wanted to get those items out of there while I was still thinking about it. My memory is not the very best."

He tells her all about nasty shoe staining cold mold and the disappointing skills of anthropomorphic rocks with regard to communication, despite their apparent knowledge of multiple languages. As they come, he answers every question she has about the incident.

"I wouldn't call it an 'adventure' as such. Really, I think It's just been here for a long while, and It just wants to be left alone. Ascaria thinks we might be able to help it out of here at some point, but he has to learn things before we can even try."


|Roll20 Link- Carrion Crown| |Roll20 Link- Age of Worms|

Build up of mold around the doorway ensures that climbing the walls over the mold still nets the damage while passing through the doorway, on foot or by wall-climbing.

The golden-haired gnome looks over the items with avarice. His skills provide him an adequate assessment of several of them.

Spoils:

Very nice chainmail, detects as magical
Very well-sculpted figurines(3), stone seems uncommon, though not magical
Goggles of Minute Seeing
Assisting Gloves
Apprentice's Cheating Gloves
Belt of Tumbling

The ascent with the cylinder proves uneventful, as well as clearing the Whispering Cairn's entrance.

As the conversation continues regarding the possibilities of breaching the Dourstone Mine, several points come together. The guards supervise the comings and goings of the miners meticulously. This is claimed to be for miner safety, but the miners Ascaria is friendly with tend to suggest that it's Ragnolin's paranoia about theft that keeps headcounts a necessity. Also, Dourstone is the only mine manager who employs dire moles, which are wrangled by several of the dwarven miners who have proven their ability. Ascaria has seen to mole maul before with two of the Dourstone dwarves. Lastly, Dourstone is the only mine in Diamond Lake that doesn't run a third shift of miners. From the hours of midnight to the fifth bell, the only contingent of workers are the guards themselves.

Not presuming you return to Diamond Lake from the Whispering Cairn. What next?


Male, Gnome

Ascaria mumbles a little as he goes through the items, "...Oh, small... hey, that'll help...yeah, Mort will like this."

Eventually he speaks up and tells everyone what they've found. Please read the spoiler 'spoils' above.

Ascaria walks tiredly back to Diamond Lake. He'll have more to say after a good afternoon nap...


Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)

Mortimer listens to the others discuss their knowledge and experience about the mine and its Guards' habits.

"What?! Really? Dire moles? ... And there's no third shift?! They actually do head counts?! So much for trying to blend in with the Miner Crowd! he laments, mostly over the missed opportunity for additional temporary tattoos.

"Do we know anyone who can make us all invisible?" he asks rhetorically.

He falls introspective upon remembering how the Guards outside Dourstone -- after the Filge affair -- let them back into town without incident.

Smenk's a fool. Maybe I'm wrong about Rastophan's Gang being pawns. Smenk can give them all the resources they need to do -- snooping, grave robbing and whatever else it is that they do -- he'd never have to know how they might choose to use his resources. Maybe it's the Gang controlling the town and the Pawn is Gullible Greedy Smenk.

Naw. There has to be someone higher up behind this. Governor Neff? Smenk said he wouldn't like what we're doing, or that we're consulting Allustan. Why? What would he get out of this? Or is it Ragnolin himself?

"Wait up -- Ascaria! Does anyone else also remember Smenk saying that Governor Neff would frown upon what we're doing? Did he mean the Age of Worms mine investigation? Does anyone know if there's a connection between Neff and Rangolin, or Rangolin and Rastophan's Gang?"

"I mean -- I was just thinking -- they're being such sticklers about securing the Mine's Front Door, but does anyone ever see actual cultists using that Door? If not -- there must be a secret way into the mine. Does anyone know how to go about discovering a hidden cult? Maybe we can "disguise" ourselves as Cultists?"

Turning to Rae he grins, "I hear they wear hoods, not tattoos."

He tries to picture the party dressing up as quiet evil cultists, and bites his tongue in order to prevent himself from laughing.

Ugh. Listen to me. I'm just flailing here...

He eyes the belt, somewhat curiously.

"Can I try that?"


Male, Gnome
Mortimer Smith wrote:
"Do we know anyone who can make us all invisible?" he asks rhetorically.

Knowledge Arcana: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22

Ascaria stops in his tracks and looks slowly at Mort. Then he throws his hat in the air and catches it, "GREAT idea! We just need to find a decently powerful mage somewhere and have them cast invisibility sphere!"

"Even if we can't, surely someone around here must be able to cast a simple invisibility. That would allow us to do the distraction plan we had with more safety. Think of it - one of us - invisible!"

Mortimer Smith wrote:

"Wait up -- Ascaria! Does anyone else also remember Smenk saying that Governor Neff would frown upon what we're doing? Did he mean the Age of Worms mine investigation? Does anyone know if there's a connection between Neff and Rangolin, or Rangolin and Rastophan's Gang?"

"I mean -- I was just thinking -- they're being such sticklers about securing the Mine's Front Door, but does anyone ever see actual cultists using that Door? If not -- there must be a secret way into the mine. Does anyone know how to go about discovering a hidden cult? Maybe we can "disguise" ourselves as Cultists?"

Ascaria thinks a bit before he says, "Well we'd have to watch, and find their entrance, and spend some time on it. Maybe days. I don't want to wait that long. I mean if they're really evil cultists, they'll be plotting some evil plan - right? We need to nip that thing in the bud, I mean now - tonight."

"No, let's stick to the original plan, but with invisibility!"

Knowledge Local: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
Does Ascaria know anyone in town, other than Allustan, who might be able to cast these spells? Or, failing that, where one might buy a potion of invisibility? (150gp)

Oh, and everyone should totally take the magics they want. Ascaria is kind of eyeing the Apprentice's Cheating Gloves if no one has any objection.


Male Human Slayer 11
Mort wrote:
"Does anyone else also remember Smenk saying that Governor Neff would frown upon what we're doing?"

"I think Smenk said the Governor would be upset if he knew we were bothering his brother. You know Allustan is Governor Neff's brother, right?" Tynan gives a concerned look to the others.

"Would anyone mind if I use the belt? It could be of use helping me get into a good striking position in battle." Tynan looks over at Pillette, and gives her a smile. "I think the goggles would be very useful for you, Pilette. You should use them."

As the only caster, Ascaria is likely the only one who CAN use the gloves. :)


|Roll20 Link- Carrion Crown| |Roll20 Link- Age of Worms|

Ascaria, Knowledge(Local) Check, DC 20:

Nice rolls :)

Oh, the possibilities! Leaving Allustan aside, your mind rolls through the town, lighting those you know with a glow that marks them with the likelihood for drawing forth magics that could yield invisibility.

There is Ellival Moonmeadow, one of the mine managers. The elf is known to frequent Lazare's, a steadfast dragonchess player, and practitioner of the bardic arts.

Merovinn Bask. You've met him, at least, although you never drew words from the man sitting at the table. Todrik kept your attention well enough, his confidence evident in the company of a wizard.

Your friend, Benazel. His alchemy is well established, and you are already a patron. That he enjoys variety in his wares is obvious, but you haven't been privileged to his full inventory.

Finally, there is the mage new to town, Khellek. His interest in exploration is no secret, and he makes no effort to disguise his flare for prestidigitation while he socializes in Lazare's.


F Half Elf:
HP 135, F19R14W16,Dip+13,Fly+7,HanAnim+8;K(rel)+18, Spllcrft +17,UMD +22
Mortimer Smith wrote:
He tells her all about nasty shoe staining cold mold and the disappointing skills of stones.

Solrisa brightens as Mort mentions speaking to stones.

"Oh! I know what that is like! I talk to my stoneswork all the time...and they never answer back," Sol reflects happily. "I will be carving a new piece, like a towns butcher for a village dragonchess set, and I will say to the butchess, 'Butcheress, are you going to be nice?' and you know what the butcheress says back? Do you Mort?"

Sol looks and waits for Mort to think about what the stone carved butcheress might say, a big goofy grin on her face. After a few seconds, she blurts out the answer...whether because she can't hold it in or because she doesn't want Mort to suffer waiting for the answer.

"Nothing! Because it's stone! But I wish it would talk back and tell me what I could do to improve upon her to make her a better piece. Or say what's on her mind, like 'Oh, you poor thing, you. Please, tell us more. You must be so vulnerable,' but the stony butcheress never says that. Because that would be a crazy thing to say."

* * *

Ascaria wrote:
Eventually he speaks up and tells everyone what they've found. Please read the spoiler 'spoils' above.

Sol walks next to her new rock-talking best friend Mort.

"Oh, Mort...you should take that shiny armor. It would look good on you," Sol suggests, not knowing much about the man's fighting style.

Mortimer Smith wrote:
"I mean -- I was just thinking -- they're being such sticklers about securing the Mine's Front Door, but does anyone ever see actual cultists using that Door? If not -- there must be a secret way into the mine. Does anyone know how to go about discovering a hidden cult? Maybe we can "disguise" ourselves as Cultists?"

Solrisa shakes her head, unable to help or opine with any sort of authority.

"If there is bad things in the mine, then we should talk to the guards and explain things. If they let us in to check out the problem, then that would be best. But if they attack us, then they might be a part of the cult and we should deal with them as appropriate," Sol says, holding up her big hands and pointing at her sword.

"Sometimes bad people do bad things and I don't like that. Othertimes neutral people help bad people do bad things, like cults. I don't like that either. But good people would help us against bad people...we should ask them what they are," Solrisa says with certainty.

Solrisa will go along with any plan that Rae agrees with, however, she has her own preferred method as well.

* * *

Tynan Swale wrote:
As the only caster, Ascaria is likely the only one who CAN use the gloves. :)

I think just about anyone can use the Cheating Gloves.

Sol has no intents on the belt, Tynan. Sol will mention that it suits you.


Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)

Mortimer imagines snagging the belt from the pile and wrapping it around his tunic midrift under his chain shirt as he listens to Ascaria.

Perfect, he imagines beaming at it -- but before he can act the belt is wrapped neatly around Tynan's waist instead.

...
... Thief. He shrugs nonchalantly and wanders away from the pile.

Ascaria wrote:
"We need to nip that thing in the bud, I mean now - tonight."

"It's not over come the town yet. Can't it wait a few days? Smenk can't expect us to 'storm the castle' on such short notice with zero support. His 'birds' are probably just watching to make sure we don't skip town or otherwise avoid our ... task."

"It might behoove us to take a little time here before we go in -- get prepared. Let things settle down a bit after the ruckus I caused early this morning. 'sides, we should pick our things up from Allustan. His insight and some of that stuff we left might help us better prepare for what's down in the mine."

"I'll go along with whatever plan whenever you all think is best."

~

Sol wrote:
"and you know what the butcheress says back? Do you Mort?"

Mortimer finds the pleasant timbre of Sol's voice washing over him, though he has some difficulty with the subject matter. He halts his stroll to look at Sol.

Her eyes. So very green. Like emeralds. Whatever is she saying? ... Oh, right. The Rock.

Sol wrote:
"Nothing! Because it's stone! [...] Or say what's on her mind, like 'Oh, you poor thing, you. Please, tell us more. You must be so vulnerable,' but the stony butcheress never says that. Because that would be a crazy thing to say."

Are you? Vunerable? Of all the things a stone could say if it could talk, why ask the person who made it something like that? Is it true? She never seems so... Does she actually want someone to ask her that?

Scratching his head while trying not to feel bewildered Mort tries to reassure her, "Huh? ... Uhhh... I guess you're right. I hadn't thought of anything like that before. That would be crazy."

Sol wrote:
"Oh, Mort...you should take that shiny armor. It would look good on you,"

Mortimer slightly embarrassed and now truly bewildered, stares dolefully at the pile of shine in question.

Noooo... So much metal, ugh. I HATE armor.

"Th-thanks Sol. You think so? I guess I'll try it if no one else is interested."

~

Sol wrote:
"But good people would help us against bad people...we should ask them what they are."

Oh Gods... Mortimer glances at Raella, a strange feeling overcoming him. That ... must be nice... to actually think that things could work like that.

"I don't know, 'Risa. In my experience, it's still hard to know who is what because people lie."


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F Halfling Servant 3

Listening to Sol, Pillette shudders inwardly.

"Ma'am, even if the guards are not part of the cult themselves, they are more likely to be loyal to their paymaster than to simply let us pass on our word of possible evil or danger below. Whatever the case, avoiding combat would be preferred, as any conflict is likely to alert the cult to our presence, sooner if not later."

I think any could use the gloves, but if Ascaria doesn't have these spells, I'm certain he would find them useful.

"That belt would look good on Mort." Pillette will take a keen interest in the goggles. "I think I could be helpful with these."


F Half Elf:
HP 135, F19R14W16,Dip+13,Fly+7,HanAnim+8;K(rel)+18, Spllcrft +17,UMD +22
Mortimer Smith wrote:
"I don't know, 'Risa. In my experience, it's still hard to know who is what because people lie."

Sol smiles, agreeing with Mort.

"Well, of course they lie. That's how we know if they are good or bad. But we should give them the chance to be good or bad before we accuse them of anything."

* * *

Pillette wrote:
"Ma'am, even if the guards are not part of the cult themselves, they are more likely to be loyal to their paymaster than to simply let us pass on our word of possible evil or danger below."

"Well, okay. If you think there is a better way, Pillette, I'm happy to do that. Otherwise, maybe we should try talking too."

Solrisa happily marches back to town. Occasionally, she will look at the clouds or flowers and smile cheerily.


Male, Gnome

Ascaria see-saws his thoughts as the party tries to formulate a solid plan. "I dunno Sol, I think they'll be loyal to the folks giving them money. Even if they believe us, and there's no guarantee of that, they might still not let us past them. They might go down there themselves - or challenge the cult publicly."

"That will eliminate our element of surprise. Let's talk to them on the way out, shall we?"

"As for our other plan, I have a few ideas of folks that might be able to help us out. I say we split up again and meet for dinner while I do a little shopping. We can decide then whether we want to go in tonight, or wait as Mort suggests."

"I'll also sell these figurines, unless you think we should show them to Allustan first. Yeah, that's probably a good idea. Let's let him have a crack at them - maybe he wants to buy them."

Ascaria is very excited that the party has a plan for getting past the guards, and a plan that might just work! He walks quickly back to town.

GM Rat Sass, and anyone who joins Ascaria shopping:
Assuming the party splits up OK, I'm going to head to Benazel's first. I'll sort of loiter checking out his wares if anyone is in the shop, then pounce on Benazel as soon as we're alone.

"My good man, I have a need that I hope you can fill! We need some invisibility. Ideally a potion of Invisibility Sphere, but, lacking that, a potion of Invisibility will do the trick as well."

"Do you have anything like that in stock?"


Male Human Slayer 11
Pillette wrote:

"That belt would look good on Mort."

Yeah, she's probably right... he is pretty mobile in a fight.

"I think you're right, Pillette. Here you go Mort. It almost looks like it belongs with those cords." Tynan smiles, and hands the belt to Mort. "Just don't cinch it too tight."

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

"If we're still thinking about a more... subtle... approach, I'm more than willing to try to sneak in and cause a distraction so we can get past the guards and into the mine."


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AC:
AC (when in chain shirt) (16)18, touch 11, flat-footed 18(16) (+7(5) armor, +1 Dex)
HP and saves:
HP:41(49 if raging), Saves:Fort +7, Ref +2, Will +3
Skills:
Acro: +7 (+9 to avoid AoO for leaving a threatened square/move through a creature's space, jump :+11), Climb +6, H. Anim.: +6, Intmdt.: +6, Know.arc.: +3, Prcptn: +9, Spllcrft: +3

[b]"What?!?! and cover up those *great* tattoos? That would be criminal. No no, *I' ll* take the armor. Mort can have something else. Unless Mort moves very fast, the armor is gathered up by Rae.


Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)
Solrisa Iome Arabasti wrote:
"But we should give them the chance to be good or bad before we accuse them of anything."

"I was just hoping that we don't have to involve them at all. If they are disposed toward our idea of good, what they can't or don't see is advantageous for all of us."

Tynan wrote:
"I'm more than willing to try to sneak in and cause a distraction so we can get past the guards and into the mine."

"Since you're volunteering for Active Distraction Duty my good man -- keep the belt. It'll come in handy if it comes to that," says Mortimer, handing the belt back to Tynan.

He smiles in tremendous relief as Raella pounces on the armor.

As they head back to town Mort announces, "I'll be at the Smithy if anyone needs me. Meet at the ' Gar for dinner!"

Rat Sass:
Mortimer goes to check on the iron ball situation and do some actual smithing to get as many as Monday's duties out of the way as possible before Monday. Actually, is there anything special about Monday that would cause Manlin to demand Mort's presence at the Smithy on that day that Mort would know about, or is he just being a bearboss about Mort's recent and persistent absences?


F Halfling Servant 3
Tynan wrote:
"I'm more than willing to try to sneak in and cause a distraction so we can get past the guards and into the mine."

"I tend to be overlooked, and can often get past folks without them noticing, if that would be helpful. And when people do notice me, they tend not to see me as a threat, as I'm usually just 'another slip' running an errand for somebody."

Pillette will accompany Ascaria, eager to learn more of just what is available from whom in this rustic but complex little berg.


F Half Elf:
HP 135, F19R14W16,Dip+13,Fly+7,HanAnim+8;K(rel)+18, Spllcrft +17,UMD +22

Solrisa, with most of the day already gone, chooses to go into town with Ascaria. She both wants to shop for herself (but not actually buying anything), but also to make sure there are no problems with what Ascaria plans.

As she walks, she shifts between jabbering happily about this and that, and watching the scenery as she walks. She occasionally points out neat looking birds or flowers, wondering how they would take to being Dragonchess pieces.


|Roll20 Link- Carrion Crown| |Roll20 Link- Age of Worms|

GM Rolls:

1d100 ⇒ 99
1d100 ⇒ 73
1d20 ⇒ 18

The afternoon of Starday seems much less busy, as daylight departs. Benazel's office door is unlocked, and Benazel is conveniently located behind his wooden counter. At present, he's enjoying a plate of bacon and eggs, with buttered toast. Lifting his gaze from food to friends, he licks his fingers spiritedly, and beckons you to come forward with still greasy fingertips.

"Well, now, if it isn't my favorite resident gnome! How went your beetle burn? Is Diamond Lake a safer place for your effort?"

Ascaria wrote:
"Do you have anything like that in stock?"

The half-elf grins widely as the gnome brings about the intent of his calling. "From extermination to espionage, eh? I can only imagine you'll be investigating love potions next, so as not to leave out romance." Benazel sighs with amusement, albeit self-generated, while letting his eyes drift over Solrisa.

"I'm sorry, but I don't believe I've had the pleasure. I'm Benazel, resident alchemist. And you are...?" Benazel reaches a hand out to Solrisa in greeting. He seems to consider extending the same hand to Raella once it's finished, but decides best not to do so.

He reaches for a cloth towel, making sure his hands are well clean, before he produces a small rack of vials from beneath the counter. His hand almost instinctively reaches for a vial swirling with a purple fluid with fleeting glimpses of gold.

"Come now. You can tell me. What is your purpose with this precious potion? A little voyeurism at the Midnight Salute? Seeking to strike it rich at the tables? This vial isn't cheap, and you surely are wise enough to put it to good use, am I right?"

Benazel turns to look Pillette over, almost as if he's seeing her for the first time since the conversation started. He also nods to Tynan, noting the man's presence towards the back with more than a little curiosity.

Mortimer:

Entering Osgood's at the end of Starday, you are not surprised to find the building vacant, for the most part. You can hear Aesur muttering in the basement. Osgood and the rest of the crew are likely about town, enjoying the fruits of their labor.

Moonday's approach is no different than any other workday, so you'd gather that Osgood is beginning to bear, so that others don't begin to think that Mortimer's attendance or lack thereof is acceptable.


Male Human Brawler (17), Thief (0)

Rat Sass:
Mortimer looks for the remains of the iron sphere, then heads to the basement to seek out Aesur to question him about the sphere. Assuming he's in his room Mort pounds on the door and hails him.


F Half Elf:
HP 135, F19R14W16,Dip+13,Fly+7,HanAnim+8;K(rel)+18, Spllcrft +17,UMD +22

Solrisa smiles readily and accepts Benazel's handshake in her strong sculpting hand.

"Hi, I'm Solrisa. I'm a friend of Ascaria's," Sol smiles even more innocently, genuinely glad to meet Benazel. "This is my big sister, Raella. She's the best."

Solrisa awaits purchase of the potion, smiling and letting Ascaria handle the talking.


AC:
AC (when in chain shirt) (16)18, touch 11, flat-footed 18(16) (+7(5) armor, +1 Dex)
HP and saves:
HP:41(49 if raging), Saves:Fort +7, Ref +2, Will +3
Skills:
Acro: +7 (+9 to avoid AoO for leaving a threatened square/move through a creature's space, jump :+11), Climb +6, H. Anim.: +6, Intmdt.: +6, Know.arc.: +3, Prcptn: +9, Spllcrft: +3

Rae nods and grunts at as Benazel's greeting, such as it is.

"A pleasure, I'm sure."

She hangs back to let the others talk, but keeps a keen eye on her sister.


|Roll20 Link- Carrion Crown| |Roll20 Link- Age of Worms|

Mortimer:

As you descend the wooden stairs into the basement, the muttering stops, and Aesur comes into view. There are three candles lighting the basement on a table in the corner. Aesur is sitting astraddle on a bench, leaning on his knees, while facing an empty chair in front of him. He straightens as you gain the basement floor. The backroom door is closed.

"Mort."

As you inquire about the iron, Aesur nods. "Iron's pure. Better than pure. Make a weapon from that metal, and you're guaranteed a less breakable blade." Weapons made from the iron spheres have a chance to made with the Impervious condition.


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Male, Gnome

Ascaria eyes the vial, "Benazel, is this invisibility or invisibility sphere?"

GM Rat Sass wrote:
"Come now. You can tell me. What is your purpose with this precious potion? A little voyeurism at the Midnight Salute? Seeking to strike it rich at the tables? This vial isn't cheap, and you surely are wise enough to put it to good use, am I right?"

"Boy, I don't know..." Ascaria eyes Benazel coyly and with a wry smile, "Seems to me that if we share a story, then we should get a discount, having entertained you for however short a time. Doesn't it?"

He folds his arms in a slightly humorous stance as if he's withholding something of value. He grins again, "It's quite a story - I'm not even sure you'll believe it really. But if you'll knock 20% off the top, I think I'd be happy to include you in our little ruse... Of course that makes you a co-conspirator too!"

He opens his arms widely and laughs, "So do you want to be in the inner circle - or what?!"

Bluff: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21 (Making the story seem grander than it is)
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (7) + 12 = 19


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F Halfling Servant 3

Pillette stays at attention, acting as a good slip, ready to assist Ascaria or the sisters if they have needs, helping with a cloak, brushing off dust from the road, holding/retrieving any items as required as the group shifts from the outdoors to a more business-like setting.

As the alchemist's gaze crosses over her, she bows slightly in respect, but her bearing clearly oriented to the needs of the Gnome and the Ladies.

As Benazel inquires of the purpose, she tries to discretely size him up, curious as to his attentions. Perhaps it would have been better to send just one. If the cult has hooks in him, this purchase may raise their suspicions. Even if he is trustworthy, the group of us tromping into an alchemist's may encourage them to watch us more closely. She looks for any clues in the situation as to Benazel's affiliations, and looks him over carefully as he asks about the intended use.

Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17

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