DM Tanner Thursday July 18th, 2013 10:58:12 PM
The party considers the offer of House Indevan, wondering to themselves how best to approach their potential employers. Go in person? Write a letter? Send an envoy?
SKILL CHECK Knowledge (local) OR Knowledge (nobility) DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: {Despite not being nobility in the strictest sense of the word, House Indevan is still immensely powerful and influential. They own dozens of properties and employ hundreds of men throughout the Elennian peninsula. In all likelihood, a trusted steward, seneschal, or majordomo would be the point of contact for adventurers interested in the bounty. Actual family members would not associate with anyone so common. }
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Thursday July 18th, 2013 11:43:45 PM
I agree. I say we write a letter and send it to the house and await a reply.
Emrys ac10, hp28/28. d20+9=20 ; Friday July 19th, 2013 2:05:32 AM
(Knowledge [Local]: 20)
Emrys continues, "It is most likely that we will not meet with the actual family. Our contact will certainly be with a representative, such as a steward of the estate. However, we are also not common folk, we too come from families of great influence and renown. I think it would be prudent to have the letter wax-sealed with an impression of each of our family signets. This will legitimize the Vanguard in their eyes and better our chances of meeting the family. Are we all in agreement?"
To Wilma, he answers, "Very good suggestion. That's very fine parchment in the parlor desk, envelopes too. I can go get my favorite quill."
Hearing Grell's questions and clamor from the kitchen, Emrys concludes, "This can wait until after dinner. I have to say I'm curious to witness Grell's culinary talents. Looks to me that William (the shy, overweight cleric from Maplehurst) had a greater influence with Grell than I had thought."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 d20+5=18 ; Friday July 19th, 2013 5:26:24 PM
(Knowledge/local=18)
"When something got stolen it is our duty to find the thief and deliver him up to justice! Everybody should know that the Vanguards stand for law and order. Therefore it will be a great chance for us to increase our reputation if we help house Invedan."
Automatically Ariach faces Alleah.
DM Tanner Friday July 19th, 2013 8:47:07 PM
ooc: The consensus seems to be to write a letter to introduce your group. Shall I hand-wave it, or do you want to write an actual missive? I will allow a Diplomacy check through the letter.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Friday July 19th, 2013 8:57:23 PM
Grell looks over at Emrys and grins. "Normally I don't go for carrots...but you had me at honey-glazed!" Casting a side glance at the fey born bard, Grell pauses. "Hey, you don't happen to know the Oji to tli Omi Higgij Kemg do ya? It's been years since I've heard that sung! I never can get that last line quite low enough...."
Orcish translation for those that speak Orcish Highlight to display spoiler: {Ode to the One Legged King}
Grell begins happily singing away in his baritone voice that is pleasant enough in an orcish kind of way (ie loud and boisterous) making sure one of the cooking fire has a nice thick layer of coals, Grell stuffs the cleaned potatoes deep down in the coals and then begins to clean and chop the squash and an onion or two. Adding some special spices to the squash, Grell turns his attention back to the wrapped steaks. In perfect time with the music, he founds his fist roughly into the steaks several times, making sure they are perfectly tenderized.
Heading to the wash bason, he washes his hands thoroughly and then stores the steaks again. He turns to Emry and playfully slugs the bard in the shoulder. "Well...you gonna sing or what?!"
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Saturday July 20th, 2013 8:52:14 AM
Letters to announce one's imminent arrival? Things certainly are different here than in Dirt City.
"If you don't mind, put my name down on the letter as Alleah UnderBarrow. Probably best they don't realise they're inviting a member of the House of Keys into their house" the Halfling girl adds as she sips the last of her tea, avoiding any glances.
"In the mean time, I've always found the best way to get information about a house isn't from the masters, but from the help. They are the ones that know the true workings and gossip. I'm thinking I might make my way to House Indevan and wait outside for one of the servants to go out on a chore. Then strike up a conversation with them to suss out what they know" Alleah hops off her chair and straightens her clothes. "I'll keep an eye out in case I see any of you going to venture in, in which case I'll join you"
With that she gives a smile and a nod to everyone, a quick wave, and she's off.
DM Tanner Saturday July 20th, 2013 3:38:03 PM
ALLEAH Highlight to display spoiler: {You make your way through the crowded streets and teeming masses of Plateau City. Asking a few street vendors and pedestrians for directions leads you to the Noble's Quarter, at the corner of Parade and King Road. You find the residence of House Indevan, a large, walled villa of severe granite with iron shingles. Spikes top the wall and numerous turrets dot the perimeter. The front gate is closed, but a guard in chainmail with a longsword stands near a servant's portal set within the larger door. He notices your approach and raises an eyebrow. "Here for the bounty?" }
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+5=10 ; Saturday July 20th, 2013 11:50:24 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: { "Uh, yes, actually - though I'm waiting on a few friends to arrive first. Would you believe I'm the muscle of the group?" she says flexing her 'muscles', trying to lighten the guards mood "So do you get many here for the bounty? I'm new to this town and today was the first I'd heard of it" Alleah will try and ease her way into a conversation with the guard and gently probe him for information (Diplomacy: 10). She will not enter the premises until the rest of the party arrives however. }
DM Tanner Sunday July 21st, 2013 2:55:41 PM
ALLEAH Highlight to display spoiler: {The guard looks down at Alleah and shrugs slightly, "We've had a few groups come by, but most have been turned away. The House steward, Master Ajah, takes one look at them and waves them away. Typically too desperate for coin or too scruffy to properly represent House Indevan. If you are without your group, I doubt Master Ajah would speak with you."}
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Sunday July 21st, 2013 7:58:00 PM
"Oh man, you want to write a letter? Since when are we all upper crust and stuff. Whatever, just let me know when we're going."
Tuck retreats to his room until dinner.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 d20+6=26 d20+6=9 d20+6=25 d20+6=25 d20+6=22 Sunday July 21st, 2013 9:53:19 PM
Wilma went to the desk in the front parlor and--since it appeared that nobody else was going to attempt it--drafted a letter:
To the Noble House of Indevan:
I am Wilma, daughter of the Emerald Dragons K'Nara Illutu and Gunther of the Tribe Grell. I am the resident cleric for the Vanguard, a seasoned group of adventurers headquartered in Plateau City. It has come to our attention that you are requesting aid in the search and retrieval of your venerable ancestor's missing remains.
The Vanguard humbly offer your family our assistance in this matter. Most of our company are graduates of the Maplehurst Academy and are second-generation adventurers whose parents include notable heroes from Plateau City and from the ranks of the Emerald Dragons.
If you wish a reference of our expertise, I refer you to Graf, Commander in the Woldian League of Adventurers, an organization with whom we are allied.
We look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Wilma Illutu-Grell Priestess of Gargul Founding Member of The Vanguard
She looked over her handiwork and showed Van the result.
"What do you think, Van?" she asked. "Shall we have a courier go deliver this or what...?"
OOC: as the DM said "Diplomacy rolls throughout", I wasn't sure about how many rolls that was, so I rolled 5 times, getting 26 (natural 20, WOOT!!!); 9; 25; 25; and 22 for results.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance d20+13=29 ; Sunday July 21st, 2013 10:24:08 PM
(Emrys was going to help write the letter after dinner. As he mentioned in his previous post.)
"Wilma, this is a good first draft, but you failed to even mention the rest of us, or the fact that Graf is one of the six 'High' Commanders of the WLA, which is a big difference than just a regular commander. A fine first draft for sure, but there needs to be a bit of poetic flourish. Don't be so reluctant to be bold or even boastful."
Emrys pauses to clear his mind, hum a tune (casting Guidance, +1 skill check), and then dips his quill in the ink. He doesn't take anything away from Wilma's version, but instead adds to it with all the eloquence the bard can muster. He lists the names of each of the Vanguard, makes mention of their distinguished families and credentials, and assures the family that the Vanguard can restore the bones of the king to his royal sepulcher.
(Diplomacy: 29, for the letter, as instructed by DM Tanner)
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance Sunday July 21st, 2013 10:33:43 PM
(Forgot to mention, about making dinner.)
Emrys answers Grell, in perfect orc, "Of course, I can sing! I thought you were performing a solo. How about singing it as a round? Shall we?"
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Monday July 22nd, 2013 10:58:37 AM
I would agree with Emrys. If we are presenting ourselves to the "Nobility" we should absolutely name drop. Our parents were very well known in Plateau city at one time. I say we use them to get our feet in the door so-to-speak and then let ourselves do the rest of the talking.
DM Tanner Monday July 22nd, 2013 11:05:22 AM
ooc: I said, "I will allow a Diplomacy check through the letter." I didn't mean that you needed to make several Diplomacy checks representing the persuasive power of each paragraph, but rather that I would allow a well-written letter to enable a Diplomacy check even when you are not face-to-face with the target. Sorry for the mix-up.
Your letter is written, edited, written, signed, folded, stamped, and delivered. (cost: 5cp) You get the feeling that your efforts will not be in vain, for it is the little touches that speak the loudest when dealing with civilized company.
I will give a +2 circumstance bonus to your Diplomacy check for following protocol. Total check 31.
Within an hour, a knock at your door reveals a courier. He is dressed in House Indevan livery, striped white and blue, and bears an insignia on his breast - a white hawk with golden eyes on a royal blue field. Considering the fact that no one else in Plateau City uses livery, or would even think of using livery, this makes him stand out all the more among the crowd.
He touches two fingers to his forehead and gives a small bow from the waist. "Greetings. I am Elor of House Indevan. This is for you. Good day." He hands you a piece of folded paper, sealed with wax. With a respectful nod, he turns and starts back down the street.
Open the letter reveals a letter, addressed to the Vanguard.
To All Those in The Regal Company of The Vanguard,
You and your associates are cordially invited to Indevan Manor, at your earliest convenience. We would be most pleased to speak with you concerning our recent troubles, and services that could be provided to remedy our woes. We would like to extend to you our warmest regards, and the assurance that your efforts would be most generously rewarded.
Master Ajah Steward of Indevan Manor
Success! Unlike the common riffraff who must inquire at the gate, you have an invitation to a private meeting with the house steward. Are there any preparations you would like to make before leaving for Indevan Manor?
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Monday July 22nd, 2013 12:36:30 PM
Highlight to display spoiler: {Alleah simply smiles at the guard. It's possible that he just delivered her a mild insult. That's ok though. "I'll just wait for them across the street then" she says, and gives the guard a friendly farewell wave. When she sees what looks to be a courier leave the premises she follows in hot pursuit, hoping to find out some tidbit of information about the House from him. Surprisingly the courier ventures straight to the House of the Vanguard. }
"Well THAT was uneventful!" Alleah advises on her return to the house "The house is walled up tight, and they've got well armed guards there. Though the guards aren't willing to share too much information other than we best look good. They can't be too hard up for gold either. I'm liking the sound of this bounty already" She will happily relay the directions and description to those present.
Once done, she will excuse herself to her room to change into her courtier clothes.
DM Ezra - Nothing Important Monday July 22nd, 2013 2:14:26 PM
A group of four men, stroll down the street, their clothes mark them as outsiders. They appear to be chatting amicably with each other as they continue down the street, and out of sight.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Monday July 22nd, 2013 2:20:54 PM
Looking out the window Alleah notices the outsiders below. "Competition perhaps?" she wonders as she finishes tying her bodice. Black and velvet, it is kept for special occasions.
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Monday July 22nd, 2013 8:39:18 PM
Tuck washes his face and hustles downstairs.
"I'm ready," he states. "I don't think that I should speak. I'd probably say something offensive."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Monday July 22nd, 2013 8:42:27 PM
Ariach takes several minutes to prepare for such an exciting occasion. He gives his armor a quick polish. He shaves his face and combs his hair.
I hope that Grell and Tuck mind their manners. I'll need to speak with them later about behaving in polite society.
He marches down the stairs, ready to impress.
"I am ready."
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Monday July 22nd, 2013 11:45:44 PM
Wilma was happy that Emrys read her draft and added his own flourishes--there was nobody better suited to it.
She was very excited when the courier delivered a reply from the Indevan household, and dug out the only clothes that she deemed prop for a face-to-face meeting with people in the upper echelon of society...
...her prom dress.
Grell, AC20/13/18, HP63/68 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 8:19:43 AM
Grell finishes his singalong with Emrys with a new found found appreciation for the bard's singing talents. Very few non orcs can pull off the last stanza of the Oji to tli Omi Higgij without doing serious damage to their vocal cords. Emrys had pulled it off without a hitch. Clearly there was more to the uppity dude than Grell had previously thought.
Before he knows it, the dinner is ready and served, and Grell is sitting back at the table relishing in the digestion of his feast. When the courier arrives, Grell is relaxing at the table with his pants partially unzipped.
He leaves the formalities to those best suited to them and heads back to his room to prepare for the impending mission. Staring at the broken window, Grell vows that when he returns he will find another kitten. Gathering an extra quiver of arrows and his favorite dagger, Grell heads downstairs in his armor, ready to go. Spotting Wilma in her dress, Grell shudders and shakes his head vehemently. "NO WAY! If you think you're gonna get me to dress up in some frumpy hoity toity dress clothes, you have lost your mind! If we have to dress up just to TALK to them, then just tell them I'm sick or something. Let me know when it's time to fight." Hands on hips, Grell is clearly not in the mood to argue about the point.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 8:53:59 AM
"Vaniime, wouldn't Grell look absolutely glorious in his new shirt, belt and pantaloons? Oh, and I took the liberty to polish your boots. They shine like mirrors!"
Emrys looks ravishing as usual. He put together an ensemble that looks not only fancy and noble but also adventurous; along with the crest and colors of Culverheart.
DM Tanner Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 1:49:20 PM
Freshly groomed and coiffed, the Vanguard depart for Indevan Manor. The city is especially bustling today, and you make your way through the teeming masses toward the Noble Quarter. Several times you hear tradesmen and washerwomen talking about House Indevan and their missing bones. Speculation is rampant, both concerning the circumstances behind the theft, and the reward offered by the rich and mighty family.
You find the residence of House Indevan, a large, walled villa of severe granite with iron shingles. Spikes top the wall and numerous turrets dot the perimeter. The front gate is closed, but a guard in chainmail with a longsword stands near a servant's portal set within the larger door. He notices your approach and raises an eyebrow. "Here for the bounty?"
Presenting him with your letter, he raises his eyebrows and bows from the waist. "Pardon the interruption, honored guests. This way, if you please." He leads you through the massive gates into an expansive courtyard, filled with numerous fountains, walkways, flower beds, and topiary. All manicured to perfection. You see additional guards in livery and chain patrolling the grounds, and servants of all stripes hurrying from door to door, using the courtyard as a thoroughfare. It all just screams money. The guard leads you about halfway toward the main entrance, before hanging a right and approaching a large building with window panes for walls. It is an atrium, filled with exotic plants. Sunlight streams down into the room and washes the chairs and conference table at the center. "Please make yourselves comfortable, Master Ajah will be here in a moment."
The table is lined with a variety of foods and beverages. A plate heaped with fruit slices, a collection of dainty pastries, a bowl of mixed nuts, and several small boxes with a variety of smoking snuff stand next to jugs filled with iced lemon water, mint tea, and sweet vermouth wine. Enjoying yourselves for a few minutes, you hear a latch click and the door opens again. You see a dark-haired, clean-shaven man of approximately 35 to 40 years old, wearing a finely-tailored courtiers outfit. He wears a large, iron ring on his thumb displaying his mark of office. (Picture) He smiles and touches two fingers to his forehead. "Greetings, I am Master Ajah, Steward of Indevan Manor. I trust you are the Vanguard. I was most pleased to receive your missive. If you would, have a seat and let us discuss our current predicament."
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 5:22:14 PM
Ariach is impressed with the fortifications and security of the Indevan house. "My my, this is quite fun. Don't you agree, Wilma?" He looks at the priestess but quickly glances away, a bit of color rises on his cheeks.
Too nervous to eat, Ariach paces in the room until Master Ajah presents himself. Ariach casts a stern look at Alleah, Grell and Tuck as if to say, "Behave yourselves!"
Ariach bows to Master Ajah before taking a seat as suggested.
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 5:26:39 PM
Tuck casts an appraising eye on the guards as they enter. "I could whoop him. I could whoop him. I'd definitely whoop him!" he says to himself.
In the waiting room, Tuck helps himself to fruit and nuts. After Ajah told them to sit, Tuck finds a comfortable looking chair and does just that.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 9:11:44 PM
Wilma suppressed a sigh.
"Grell," she said evenly, "I just know that both Mama and Papa told you that the Wold is made up of all kinds of people. We will be presenting ourselves at our best, yes...but nobody says you have to change yourself in a drastic nor a permanent way for them. We're visiting people who have fine things and will expect you to respect them and their position in Plateau City. After all--Grandpa Grell expects anyone calling on him as the tribal chief to respect him and act as the tribe would act...at least while they're seeing him. Same thing here. Nice clothes, controlled manners...while we're seeing them at their home. No more...no less."
She leaned over and slapped the back of her brother's head.
"Now go upstairs and change into the stuff Emrys got ready for you!" the redhead said emphatically, scowling. It was amazing just how much she looked like their mother, K'Nara, when she scowled. "No one expects you to be fancy-dancy forever! Just make a good impression!"
The priestess was courteous and demure for the group's arrival at the House of Indevan, bowing her head in acknowledgment of Master Ajah's salute.
"Good afternoon, Master Ajah," Wilma replied graciously, "May I present the Vanguard...?" She introduced each member of the party by their name, using her hand-carved staff to indicate each person in turn, saving herself and Grell for last.
"...and this is Grell, my younger brother..." the teenage cleric introduced, poking the slightly-slouching young man into a straighter posture, "...you would be hard-pressed to find a warrior with strength and stamina such as Grell possesses! And I am Wilma Illutu-Grell, cleric of Gargul." Once again, the redhead bows her head and then delicately perches on the edge of a nearby chair.
"Pray, Master Ajah...do tell us how the Vanguard may be of service to the House of Indevan...?"
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, d20+6=14 ; Tuesday July 23rd, 2013 10:19:44 PM
Vaniime gets ready for the meeting and heads out with the rest of them. She tries not to get prickly with the guard and his snidish remark and just hands him the invitation.
When lead into the atrium, she let'sloose a small sigh as the natural light and plants make her feel much more relaxed. Pouring her self a glass of minted tea, she looks around at the others, including their newest addition and nods thinking to herself. This is one good group of people.
Finding a place where she can observe the upcoming procedings, she smile knowing that Wilma will take the lead on this, leaving her to watch and interpret.
Something about Master Ajah doesn't quite sit right with her, which doesn't make much sense to her as she has never to her knowledge met the man, but she would watch and try to figure out what ulterior motive he might have in all this. Sense motive DC 14
DMTanner - Vaniime does not detect any ulterior motives.
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance d20+10=29 ; d20+12=28 ; d20+8=10 ; d20+14=29 ; Wednesday July 24th, 2013 12:07:22 AM
(Knowledge [Nobility]: 29, to use proper etiquette with stewards employed by nobility. Diplomacy: 28, turning on the charm.)
As they are led into the Indevan Manor, Emrys tries to make note of the architectural design of the house and the courtyard. (Knowledge [engineering]: 10) However, he is unable to recall the style or even the designer. He gives a look to his friends as to say, 'check this place out!'
As they wait for Master Ajah, Emrys helps himself to some of the vermouth wine. As he sips from the wine, to calm his nerves, he takes stock of everything in the room and tries discern every bit of information he can from it, including the ring on Master Ajah's thumb as he arrives (Perception: 29).
Soon as Master Ajah enters the room, Emrys puts his glass down upon a tray and rises to greet their host. Emrys gestures the proper response to the steward's greeting with a little added flourish. He then waits to sit until their host does so as well.
"Master Ajah, we were equally pleased to receive your invitation. We are honored you made time for us."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+15=30 ; d20+16=35 ; Wednesday July 24th, 2013 1:27:21 AM
Alleah gives a slight nod to the guard and smiles once again to him as she passes in.
She gives a whistle of appreciation at the style of the atrium. Whoever lives here sure does have money to spare. The little rogue helps herself to a pastry and tucks in in much the way a proper lady wouldn't. She notices Ariach's glare and simply smiles back. "I might save some of these for later" Alleah says with her mouth full, as she helps herself to two more pastries. She stuffs them in her pocket, along with something else (Perception check to make sure noone is looking too hard: 35. Sleight of Hand: 30 to pocket one of the small snuff boxes).
She does so just in time before the steward arrives. Alleah stands and gives a slight bow to the Master but says nothing. Realising she still has some pastry on her face she wipes it away with the sleeve of her bodice, only to realise the flour stain contrasts her lovely black velvet top. She spends the next few moments trying to brush it clean. Not the way one usually impresses the upper echelons!
OOC: The next time Alleah levels she will be taking a level as an Obsessed (think kleptomaniac). Placing her in a room full of nice, rich things it's in character for her to try and pocket a little something
DM Ezra - Giggling Ghost Wednesday July 24th, 2013 1:23:52 PM
Each of the Vanguard finds something rustling in a pocket. Reaching in they find a small envelope. Opening the envelope reveals a golden ticket. The ticket wiggles and twists, casting off golden rays of reflected light.
You are hereby invited to the Giggling Ghost in celebration of the great and mighty heroes of Blackbird Lake! To journey to the Giggling Ghost, tear this ticket in half. Time has no meaning in the Giggling Ghost.
DM Tanner Wednesday July 24th, 2013 1:30:31 PM Alleah Highlight to display spoiler: {You swipe one of the snuff boxes in the blink of an eye. It is made of heavy white marble. On the lid is a blue shield of lapis lazuli with an ivory hawk's head. It weighs 3 lbs.}
He smiles a warm, charming smile at Wilma and steps toward her. "May I?" He takes hold of her hand and kisses it in a chaste fashion. "It is not very often that clergy visit the Manor. Occasionally a priest of Ffloy will come to witness a contract or bless a venture, but they are never so young and lovely."
Emrys can perceive that House Indevan is wealthy, indeed. Not only that, but they have been wealthy for quite some time. The manor is built of mortared granite blocks, giving it the strength and endurance of a fortress - compared to most villas that simply have wrought-iron fences and timber construction. The grounds are decorated with topiary and a well-cultivated garden - things that require time and attention and cannot simply be bought.
Emrys also notes that the iron ring on his thumb is a combination of badge-of-office as well as a signet for sealing letters. It denotes him as not only steward of Indevan Manor, but chief steward among all of the stewards of the various holdings of House Indevan.
Master Ajah pours himself a glass of lemon water, and takes the seat at the head of the table. He drinks and clears his throat. "The matter at hand concerns the earthly remains of King Froederick the Great, First King of the Plateaus. He lived approximately 400 years ago, and is the noble progenitor of this great house." He drinks again and furrows his eyebrows. "At least that is what the more zealous members of House Indevan espouse. In reality, he was a military strongman who seized power in a coup and ruled the lands surrounding the city by edict alone. He died 20 years after taking the throne, and his son was deposed the day after the funeral." He picks a fig from a platter and takes a bite, using the uneaten half to punctuate his words. "The king had a bastard, as most kings do, and that bastard founded House Indevan. He was a brilliant merchant and moneylender, and his descendants have wielded great economic power, but have no legitimate claim to rulership." He eats the remainder of the fig and brushes his hands. "The remains of King Froederick were interred in the Indevan family mausoleum, in the Plateau City graveyard. Four days ago the guards from the mausoleum stumbled into the manor, bruised and beaten. They had been subdued by masked assailants. A search revealed that the remains of the king had been stolen. Curiously, many valuable burial vestments and treasures on the other bodies in the crypt were undisturbed. They only wanted the king."
He takes a drink. "The chief constable and his men have scoured the mausoleum and graveyard, but have not discovered any clues to the whereabouts of the remains or the identity of the thieves. Our own magical examination of the guards showed that they were truthful. The constable is likely still there now, keeping away gawkers."
He looks at each of you, weighing you in his mind. "I am prepared to offer 35,000 gold pieces for the return of the remains. You will also have salvage rights to the jewelry and vestments on the body." He sits back and laces his fingers on his lap. "Is this agreeable?"
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 5:34:46 PM
The price seems reasonable to Tuck, though he has little care for money except how it can help to enhance his abilities or support those less fortunate. The story piques his curiosity. Why did they just take the king's remains? Quite intriguing.
Further details would need to be brought forth, such as how many attackers, whether the Vanguard might have a look at mausoleum, what else was on the body when it was taken, and what spices they used on their nuts. They were quite tasty! Tuck is confident that Wilma or Emrys would venture such questions and in a way much more delicately than the monk could.
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 5:40:33 PM
Ariach nods along politely as Master Ajah relates his story. "I am so very sorry for your troubles, Master Ajah. Please be at ease. We will uncover the late King's remains for House Indevan. This I swear!" He pounds a closed fist into the palm of his other hand making a loud smack.
He looks to Wilma to continue the dialogue with Master Ajah, to iron out the details.
Such a well-spoken lady. And so radiant! How lucky I am to be in her presence.
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 Wednesday July 24th, 2013 6:48:21 PM
Wilma's eyebrows twitched at Master Ajah's show of courtly manners, but she otherwise didn't react. She did, however, listen very carefully to the story of King Froederick and how his remains were stolen. Once the steward was finished speaking, the redheaded cleric asked her own questions:
"Four days ago, you say? Has nobody attempted to demand a ransom?"
"Have you any knowledge of rival factions that may have taken the Indevan ancestor in order to provoke the family..?"
"Do you know what the state of the remains were, sir? I mean--is King Froederick relatively-intact--such as a desiccated body or a whole skeleton--or has time reduced his state to a more...um...loose or even powdery existence?"
DM Tanner Wednesday July 24th, 2013 8:29:17 PM
As Tuck ponders further questions, Master Ajah turns to him and smiles. "Please feel free to speak. There are other talents beyond a honeyed tongue. There were two verifiable attackers. If there were more, they went unseen by our guards. Yes, of course you may see the mausoleum. I would expect it to be the very first place you visit. Items on the body included a burial shroud, funerary robes, and a variety of jewelry."
SKILL CHECK Knowledge (arcana) DC 22 Highlight to display spoiler: {Master Ajah has a detect thoughts spell currently active.}
He turns to Ariach. "Your enthusiasm is most appreciated, brave warrior."
He turns to Wilma. "I am afraid no ransom notes have been forthcoming. We initially supposed that a necromancer was responsible, but it makes little sense when a skeleton is a skeleton regardless of their occupation in life. Yes, he was a skeleton. His tomb was quite secure, and all that remained was a desiccated husk with bones inside. House Indevan has many rivals, and more than a few enemies, but they are all merchant houses and trade consortiums. If they wanted to hurt us, they would do it with coin, not our family crypt."
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance d20+12=17 ; d20+15=26 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 12:14:17 AM
(Knowledge [Arcana]: 17, bah! Of course if he is, a saving throw is required) (Perception: 26)
Emrys listens intently to everyone in the discussion. Something does strikes him as odd about the offer. He waits for the appropriate moment and then asks, "Master Ajah, your offer is very generous. However I have one question. Wouldn't the family be bothered about us claiming their ancestor's personal effects?" He certainly would feel outrage if someone had taken his mother's belongings from her grave, so this aspect of the offer presents a moral dilemma for the bewitching bard.
As he says this, something else puzzles him, but he can't put his finger on it.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Thursday July 25th, 2013 2:12:45 AM
Alleah's eyes practically glaze over at the thought of 35000 gold pieces. Of course, it wouldn't be all hers, but still.
"Have you commissioned any other groups at the present time to also undertake this quest?" she pipes in. Another thought then crosses her mind "Just out of curiosity, how would one be able to determine the King's skeletal remains from the remains of another? What would stop another less honest group from simply returning you a body they dug up from somewhere else?"
There is no malice in this question. Alleah intends to fulfil the quest honestly.
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+9=29 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 4:42:44 AM Knowledge Arcana: 29. Oooooh
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, Thursday July 25th, 2013 7:40:16 AM
Vaniime listens and thinks a bit then waits for a lull in the conversation to insert her questions.
Is there anything special about the timning of this theft? Is there an important date or function related to or dealing with the "Kings" remains? Are there any cermonies, etc. that include the king or the mausuleum? What might happen to your house should these remains be brought back to animation and caused trouble? Or what if someone could prove that the remains were actually not those of the King?
I mean why would someone steal a bunch of bones unless they knew they could damage your house somehow through that theft? I just don't see the reason.
DM Tanner Thursday July 25th, 2013 11:38:13 AM
Master Ajah turns to Emrys. "While the remains hold great symbolic importance to House Indevan, the funerary vestments and jewelry have not been seen in at least 350 years. We can only assume that they are there since they were seen the last time the tomb was opened. It may be nothing but rust and rotted rags by this point, it may still be quite valuable. Regardless, House Indevan plans on making quite the public display once the remains are recovered, and will provide new materials for a re-dedication of the mausoleum."
He turns to Alleah. "Several groups have taken up the offer through the announcements of our heralds. But you, dear company, are the first to receive a private commission. I'm also offering you a higher compensation for your time and talents, since you are obviously of higher caliber." He takes a drink of his lemon water. "As for frauds... when a group returns the remains, it is presumed that they will also recover some of the funeral garb and jewelry, which will verify their claim. If not, magical scrutiny... very thorough magical scrutiny... will be used."
He turns to Vaniime. "There does not appear to be anything special about the timing of the theft. We have no anniversaries, no large business acquisitions or mergers, nothing that seems connected. If, gods forbid, the remains were to be animated, then it would of course cause a scandal. But then retrieving the remains would be all the simpler, wouldn't it? The scoundrels would make themselves known rather than hiding."
He sighs in annoyance. "I'm being completely honest with you when I say that I have no clue, not even the hint of an idea, why the remains of King Froederick were stolen. Many have suggested that it is to embarrass us, blackmail us, lower our morale... but other than forcing us to spend a minor amount of gold on a matter of maintaining House pride, nothing is being accomplished by the theft."
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 d20+5=16 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 1:31:41 PM "A minor amount of gold?" 35000 is minor?!?" Alleah can't help but be amazed.
"I think we can help you, Master Ajah" the halfling girl responds with a smile, that quickly fades "It's just... the Vanguard currently have some orphaned children in care. Should anything happen to us while recovering the King's remains, the children will be without any means of support. Would it be an imposition for your house nurse to care for the children in our stead? Our house is well stocked, and it would only be until our imminent return of course. Why, not only would Indevan house pride be restored with the return of the King's remains, but consider the good will caring for these children would generate with the populace!"
(Diplomacy: 16. Alleah really does care for those worse off)
Ariach AC 26/14/19 ; HP 69/69 Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:09:53 PM
OOC: Thanks Tuck for taking Ariach over!
For Ariach it seems that 35000 goldpieces are an enormous amount of goldpieces for that task. But although he would search for the King´s remains without getting payed, he knows how much good you could do with so much money. He keeps silent and waits until his friends have finished to ask their questions to Master Ajah. Eager to see the mausoleum Ariach cannot await the end of the conversation. "Let´s go to the mausoleum. Maybe we can find a hint of the evildoer."
Tuck HP 49/49 AC 21/21/17 d20+7=10 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:45:42 PM
Ever so slowly, a perplexed look creeps over Tuck's face. His eyes squint and his nose scrunches up as he tries to figure out how Ajah knew what he was thinking. He looks quite silly.
Is he psychic? Wait, did he just hear me think that?! Wait, did he just hear me think THAT?!
His eyes open quite wide as mixed emotions and thoughts jumble about in his brain. He shifts uncomfortably in his chair.
Standing quite suddenly, he clears his throat. "Excuse me, but I believe I'm going to get some fresh air. Goodbye."
Quickly, he is through the door and heading back towards the entrance gate to get away from the spooky Ajah.
DM Tanner Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:50:25 PM
Master Ajah turns to Alleah, a small quirk at the corner of his mouth. "Yes, it would be an imposition. Our servants have duties keeping their time full and productive at Indevan Manor." He regards the halfling for a moment before continuing. "Would an advance be sufficient to cover your... domestic responsibilities... while you are away? It would not be difficult to pay you 1,000 gold pieces now, and 34,000 upon your return with the remains. With that money you could hire a very competent nurse."
He turns to Ariach. "Yes, please do. You will find the chief constable and his men still there. We are hoping that you will find something that they have not."
He watches Tuck go out the door. "Perhaps your friend needs assistance. I wouldn't want him barging into the kitchens when he is looking for the front door."
Wilma; AC17 (+1 Mithril chain shirt); HP 51/51 d20+1=11 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 5:52:44 PM OOC: Wilma's Knowlege (arcana) sucks with an 11. Besides...I thought that you needed to do a Spellcraft check if you're determining a magic effect, right? Yes? No?
"Our apologies, Master Ajah, if our persistence about the why's and wherefore's of this matter are trying your patience," Wilma said glibly, "We are merely trying to be as thorough as possible." Her sapphire eyes roamed the faces of her compatriots.
"And I agree with Alleah about the children," the priestess added. "We only recently returned from a mission and have not had time to establish a governess for them. We appreciate your assistance on that front while we see to the retrieval of King Froederick's remains, so your offer of that advance payment is certainly satisfactory..." She pauses a moment.
"Can you recommend where we may ask after the proper person for such a position?" Wilma asked. "We have never even had to think of this type of situation before. I am sure that you know all the right sort of people who could qualify..."
DM Tanner Thursday July 25th, 2013 6:25:16 PM "Just a moment." Master Ajah looks at the floor between his feet and begins moving his mouth without making any noise. After a pause, he begins again, indicating that he is having a conversation with someone not present in the atrium. A minute later, he nods and looks up. "I have arranged for a nurse to watch your children. Her name is Goodwife Delvecutter, a dwarven woman, the wife of our head groundskeeper. In lieu of an advance, she will care for the children for as long as is needed and her wages will be deducted from your bounty. She has been informed of your address, and will arrive tomorrow morning." He smiles, satisfied at having solved a problem. "Is there anything else?"
Emrys ac13, hp28/28. guidance d20+12=14 ; d20+14=16 ; Thursday July 25th, 2013 10:39:36 PM
Emrys' eyes widen a bit when arrangements are made for the children ... so quickly, efficiently, and magically. "Very impressive, Master Ajah. We can now fully concentrate on the problem at hand without distraction or worry. We thank you." Emrys pauses to look for approval from everyone else, and then he answers with a grin, "If everyone is in agreement, then let the hunt begin."
(Emrys is so impressed, it distracts him from everything else. Knowledge [arcana]: 14, and Perception: 16)
RobC - Alleah Lighttouch AC 15/15/11 -- CMD 15 -- HP 44/44 Friday July 26th, 2013 12:36:01 AM
Alleah gives a bow of appreciation to Master Ajah. He has been a gracious host.
"Yes, let's go"
Vaniime AC 18/14/15, HP:52/52, knowledge arcana d20+7=11 ; spell craft d20+7=26 ; accident d20+7=9 ; Friday July 26th, 2013 7:50:27 AM
Vaniime gives Alleah, Wilma, and Emrys nods of approval as she keeps an eye on Master Ajah's body language, there is something just not quite right going on here but she can't quite put her finger on it. knowledge arcana d20+7=11 ; spell craft d20+7=26 Though perhaps it is just a bit of nerves. It would not be very good for their new carreers to be unable to complete this task satisfactorily. In fact it might put a serious crimp in future jobs. And Yet, she is pretty sure, with her family here, that if they put their full efforts into doing something there is little that they can't accomplish.
As she hears what seems to be the winding down of the conversation, she comes back to the present and adds her final comments as well.
"Master Ajah, We appreciate your invitation and your time and you may rest assured that The Vanguard will do its utmost to get to the bottom of this situation. Please keep us informed of any developments you might also hear about."
DMTanner - You detect no current magical effects.
DM Tanner Friday July 26th, 2013 8:48:49 AM
ooc: Since there seems to be some confusion, let's clear things up. I have italicized the applicable uses.
Knowledge (arcana) Identify auras while using detect magic Identify a spell effect that is in place Identify materials manufactured by magic Identify a spell that just targeted you Identify the spells cast using a specific material component
Spellcraft Identify a spell as it is being cast Learn a spell from a spellbook or scroll Prepare a spell from a borrowed spellbook Identify the properties of a magic item using detect magic Decipher a scroll Craft a magic item
You can identify a spell as it is being cast using Spellcraft, but you use Knowledge (arcana) to identify a spell that is currently in effect.
DM Tanner Friday July 26th, 2013 9:17:39 AM "Thank you, Vanguard. We hope to hear from you soon with good results." Master Ajah rises and rings a small bell on a table near his chair. A footman opens the door to the atrium. "Willem will show you out. Good day." The footman leads you across the immaculate gardens, back to the front entrance of Indevan Manor. The guards respectfully bow as you pass, having been show that you are far above the common riffraff that pass by their door on a daily basis. You stand once more in the streets of Plateau City, in the Noble's Quarter, having received a lucrative commission from one of the most powerful families in the Elennian Peninsula. Now to head to the graveyard to investigate!
End Scene 1. All PCs are awarded 540xp each for skillfully contacting and contracting with Master Ajah.
LOG ON