locke and key- DM BrianZ Monday November 20th, 2023 7:12:40 AM
-Burton returns to the office and checks on the team -Paige suggests moving the prisoners downstairs and checking under the rug. -Fingers ponders the locks and keys, wondering the best way to proceed. He will need to experiment or...try some skill checks. Craft locksmithing, perception, and disable device(used to examine) could yield some information -Zarsellet covers Ardreth and is ready for some answers -Rhys questions Farrix -Kwarsk recovers, and stands guard by the door.
Farrix seems willing to cooperate but indicates he would rather not talk with Ardreth around. He seems concerned about the elf. The other guards are either unconscious or not cooperating. Ardreth is still unconscious but his breathing seems to be returning to normal.
There is: the desk(and safe) the wall safe the rug the guards Ardreth Farrix crates and supplies on the second floor(there is some small storage areas outside the office) more crates and supplies on the first floor
OOC- This scene began when the team got to the second floor, I'm adding the scene header now so it can be searched later if needed.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Monday November 20th, 2023 9:46:31 AM ”Hurry up, Fingers! We don’t have all night.” Paige calls out to the taur.
It’s been a long day - first the visit to the Black Cathedral, then the urgent summons to the Crypt and accepting the job to investigate Pyramid industries, the fight in the arena, chasing down Ardreth and busting into the warehouse…some of the Patchers are doing okay, but others are looking kind of tired. The cleric has just about reached her limit, and if it wasn’t for the bard’s encouragement, she’d be dead on her feet.
The half-elf is hoping the party can wrap things up soon, head back to the Patch to get rested up, discuss what they’ve found out so far, sort out how it all fits together, and figure out what to do next.
DM Sanity info:
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (probably 20+ min remaining - don’t know how much time has passed since we arrived at warehouse, and how the rogue’s ’take 20’ affects time…)
~~~~~~~~~~~ DM-Nick: Take 20 is 2 minutes. ~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d20+6=23 ; Monday November 20th, 2023 10:27:24 AM
Rhys understands Farrix’s reluctance to squeal in front of Ardreth and the others and lets the subject drop…for the moment. Instead he turns his attention to whatever else remains in the office and immediate surroundings. He carefully searches any shelves and boxes, looking for information about Pyramid Industries or anything of value. (Perception 23)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Monday November 20th, 2023 2:17:30 PM
Burton remains on guard with Kwarsk not that he would be much use as he was close to empty on spells and could rally do with some sleep.
Examining the keys and peering into the locks, Fingers concludes...
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Monday November 20th, 2023 9:24:42 PM
Kwarsk continues to stand guard. He's (almost) the best there is at what he does, and what he does is... boring (to the viewer).
Kwarsk says, in Dwarven, to Burton, "Do you think these hoodlums speak Dwarven?" as he casts a side-eye at Ardreth and his crew, looking for signs of recognition.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 d20+8=15 ; Monday November 20th, 2023 11:01:10 PM
Zarsellet joins Ryhs searching. He doubts that there is anything incriminating that isn't locked up, but maybe somebody mis-filed some paperwork?
"There were lots of boxes downstairs too...."
locke and key- DM BrianZ Tuesday November 21st, 2023 7:50:33 AM
Paige encourages the team through her tiredness.
Burton and Kwarsk continue to guard. So far it looks like Ardreth has run out of hired help.
Rhys and Zarsellet look around for anything valuable, or anything useful. So far, they have turned up a pile of the gear Ardreth and his hired help were using. (listed below)
Fingers examines the locks some more. He feels confident that the two keys will open the two locks, and also turn off the trap at the same time. Once open, the trap could be more securely disabled. The keys appear to be designed to fit both sets of locks, perhaps to save time in an emergency...
It looks like Farrix will talk, but where to question him?
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Tuesday November 21st, 2023 11:33:33 AM
Rhys helps Zarsellett gather up the goods they have found and then turns his attention back to Farrix. He pulls the man to his feet and cuts the ties binding his legs. He leaves the man’s hands tied behind his back. With a nod to Zarsellett he starts walking the man to the office door. “Let’s take a walk!” He escorts the thug down the stairs to the main floor.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Tuesday November 21st, 2023 12:52:31 PM
Zarsellet checks the bindings on Ardreth on last time. They appear to be almost tight enough to do damage, which he feels is perfect, so he follows Rhys and Farrix down the stairs. He closes the door to the office as they get on the stairs. "That creep may be faking being unconscious, but he'd have to be really good to fool all of us. Regardless, we get downstairs and across the room there is no way he'll hear anything."
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Tuesday November 21st, 2023 3:06:50 PM
Burton replies to Kwarsk in dwarven; "I wouldn't have thought so with the hire help but i would put nothing past Ardreth." Burton winks at Kwarsk before continuing in dwarven; "Lets cut his throat so we don't have to worry about it then take his head then dead men really don't tell tales."
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Tuesday November 21st, 2023 7:56:00 PM
Kwarsk goes along with Burton's plan.
Kwarsk replies in Dwarven, "Yes, and with his head I think Paige said she could cast a spell to make the dead talk..."
Kwarsk, facing away from Ardreth for a moment, allows a half-smile before resuming his usual taciturn face and continues on guard duty, alternating between viewing the captives and the door.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d20=14 ; Tuesday November 21st, 2023 9:53:59 PM
Paige looks from Burton to Kwarsk (Sense motive = 14+6=20) to get the gist of there conversation, since she isn’t fluent in dwarvish - just common, and elvish.
The cleric stifles a yawn, but keeps an eye on the miscreants remaining in the warehouse office.
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Tuesday November 21st, 2023 11:23:20 PM Okay, everybody stand aside. I'm going to open the wall safe
When no one is directly behind Fingers (or at least 15' away), he uses the keys to open that safe.
locke and key- DM BrianZ Wednesday November 22nd, 2023 7:44:42 AM
Rhys and Zarsellet escort Farrix to the lower floor. He agrees to talk, so it's time for some questions
Burton and Kwarsk try some intimidation on Ardreth. The effort appears wasted though, as the man is only now beginning to stir.
Paige keeps an eye on the remaining prisoners. They do not appear to be ready to cause any trouble.
Fingers tries the keys and........click! The wall safe opens. Inside, he can see the workings of the magical acid arrow trap. Opened with the keys, there is no danger of setting it off.
Inside the safe.....is a nice cache of gems, jewelry, and various coinage. There is enough treasure in the safe for 1750gp for each of you.(please add to PC sheet)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Wednesday November 22nd, 2023 2:38:45 PM Nope, nothing in here. Zilch. Uh, anyone see my backpack?
...No, no, seriously, guys -- I just found the money Ardreth owes us. Plus interest.
Now lets see what's in the other safe.
Taking the same precautions, he opens the desk safe.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday November 22nd, 2023 5:03:17 PM
Kwarsk's eyes go wide when Fingers takes a half-step back to show everyone the Patchers' winnings. Ardreth did cheat, twice (2 monsters, and then not paying when we won).
Kwarsk then returns to guard duty, wondering if he has enough for an upgrade in the Catacombs yet...
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d20+7=19 ; Wednesday November 22nd, 2023 5:50:11 PM
Rhys escorts Farrix down to the main warehouse with Zarsellett. Scanning the are he finds a quiet place out of view of the office above where he can seat his captive. ”Quite a predicament we have here…There are really only two possible outcomes for you. The first, if you are truthful and cooperate with us you can flee this place and this city. I will even blame this wound on your escape. You get a chance to start a new life, far from Ardreth and Pyramid Industries. The alternative is not so pleasant…If my friend believes you are not being open with us, I will return you upstairs and make sure Ardreth knows just how very helpful you were to us. I don’t see him as a trusting and forgiving sort”. (Intimidate 19)
The elf lets the options sink in for a moment before continuing.
Let’s start with Ardreth’s boss. Who is he or she? Has the boss visited this warehouse? What do they look like? Why are they so interested in the Crypt?
Now for this place. Are all of these good stolen? How do they get moved out of here, and to whom? What lies under that rug on the floor ?
Rhys asks each question slowly and in a calm even voice.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 d20=5 ; Wednesday November 22nd, 2023 10:45:46 PM
Paige channels a little orison through her holy symbol create water* and douses Andrath. ”You awake yet?”
She scans the trussed up bad guys remaining in the office (after Rhys and Zarsellet moved Farrix downstairs) (Perception =5+6 for 11) but is somewhat distracted by Muuru’s discovery.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Wednesday November 22nd, 2023 11:28:34 PM
Zarsellet listens as Rhys starts questioning Farrix. He hums 'to himself' as background noise while waiting.
OOC: Bardic Performance to Inspire Competence. Make that Intimidate 19 into a 21.
When Rhys pauses for an answer Zarsellet adds another question, "Do you know of any other office where Ardreth might have information? Perhaps details on Pyramid Industries?"
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday November 23rd, 2023 2:27:18 AM
OOC: I thought the bet money relating to the fight was payed into the booth before the fight.
IC: Burton will only take what money is owed to him (if any) anything additional he will put back into the safe. The money owed was from Ardreth not the owner of this warehouse whoever that might be. Though with all these poison darts he's sure a visit from the watch is pending (once he reports it).
locke and key- DM BrianZ Thursday November 23rd, 2023 7:29:27 AM
OOC- Alex is correct the prize money from the fight is back at the Crypt
Fingers opens the other safe........click! The two key combination does open it, and disarms another magic acid arrow trap in the process. The set of keys was indeed crafted to match both sets of locks.
Inside the desk safe are a number of documents and a ledger. The documents clearly show both originals and faked forgeries regarding ownership of the Crypt. The forged papers were marked by a City official.
The ledger contains information on the operations of this warehouse, most of it illegal. It will take a few minutes to skim through it all, but it looks like they were raiding trade caravans to obtain goods and then selling the goods at full price. There is no specific mention of Pyramid Industries, but the ledger does note money being paid to an 'investor'. The warehouse business is in Ardreth's name.
Rhys and Zarsellet start tossing questions at Farrix. He agrees to the deal and promises to be truthful. (DC10 sense motive gives cause to believe him)
I never met Ardreth's boss, but I heard his name mentioned once. Some guy named Duncan. I don't know if he's ever been here, but I never saw him here. He wanted the Crypt just so he could conduct some shady business there, plus fleece the gamblers until they wised up and stopped going. He's trying to build up a large amount of money, though I don't know what for.
Most of the goods are stolen, They get them 'free' and then sell them. Selling them is basically legit business, but the buyers don't know where the stuff comes from.
Oh the rug. There's a trap under there. Ardreth was hoping it would kill one of you. Just stay clear of it and you'll be fine.
No, I don't. Ardreth ran this whole warehouse himself. Whatever documents he has are probably up in that office.
Paige wakes up Ardreth(he does not suffer any effect from the holy water). Well, that was rude. He smiles for a moment as Fingers opens the second safe and then frowns when he realizes the trap is disarmed. Too bad, I was hoping to watch you eat an acid arrow for breakfast
The other 'guards' are compliant and do not offer resistance.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Thursday November 23rd, 2023 6:21:19 PM ”Can I see those documents?” Paige asks, after a cursory glance at the cache of gems, jewellery and coins. Assuming Fingers won’t object, the red head pages through the papers and ledger books. Giving them a shake, she looks around at those who are still in the second floor office room and says: ”this should help Zolbur stake his claim to ‘the Crypt’ and fight off incursions by outsiders bent on using it for nefarious purposes! We could probably leave these documents with him. He likely knows who in Plateau City would have the merchant’s best interests at heart and could be trusted to look into the matter of what to do with the warehouse and the stollen goods.”.
Paige looks to her friends to see how they take her suggestions before continuing, ”we should make notes of any names or places that seem important, like…” she looks at the documents, and adds ”the City Official who signed off on the forged documents!”
Looking from Kwarsk to Fingers the cleric adds, ”I know you guys don’t favour rough justice, so how ‘bout we see if the town guard are interested in these guys?” Paige gestures towards Ardreth and the other bound thugs.
Paige wonders if Zolbur will consider this a satisfactory resolution of the business for which the owner of the Crypt hired the party, or if he’ll have additional work for the Patchers. She wonders if Berem and Clarisse back at the Black Cathedral might be interested in what transpired? Maybe there’s some employment for Walid and the orphans - like cleaning up the warehouse and locating the owners of the stollen property? Of course any merchandise left over could be used or sold by the orphanage.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 d20+1=15 ; d20+1=4 ; Thursday November 23rd, 2023 7:38:25 PM
Rhys listens and watches closely as Farrix answers the questions (Sense Motive 15). He looks over to Zarsellett and if given a nod of approval, begins untying the captive bandit. ”As agreed, we are setting you free and trust we will not cross paths again. I will try to convince Ardreth that you managed to escape, but he is no dumb kobold and may not be so easily fooled. I suggest you leave town completely for your own safety. My friend has considerable magical abilities and will know of your whereabouts should you try to deceive us!l
If Zarsellett agrees, the elf releases the bandit and watches him leave the warehouse. He then yells out in pain ”AARGH” and walks back up the stairs to the office. ”That son of an Otyugh stabbed me with a hidden blade! He got away. Rhys lifts his shirt to examine the still bleeding wound across his abdomen.
(Deception = 4 if diplomacy and 10 if I get to use Intimidate)
Fingers (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Friday November 24th, 2023 12:26:41 AM Let him go, Rhys. I'm not worried about him. We've got bigger problems.
If there's a City official who's corrupt, then there might be more. I'm not a big conspiracy fan, but this might even reach the Guards.
Until we know more I think we should keep all this quiet for now. Instead of the Guard, let's take the prisoners and this evidence to the Cathedral, and ask Berem and Clarisse to keep them in a safe...place that's out of sight.
After we get some sleep, the Cathedral can help us look into the matter. Maybe once that official is arrested we can turn over our prisoners and evidence.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Friday November 24th, 2023 3:37:00 AM
Burton say; "I suggest we report this to the central watch rather than the local watch. I have no evidence for it but if i was running this enterprise I would have a few of the local watch in my pocket just to keep trouble away. While it doesn't rule out the same for the central watch it might be less likely."
locke and key- DM BrianZ Friday November 24th, 2023 7:34:48 AM
Farrix is released, and he doesn't waste any time leaving.
The documents will absolutely prove the legitimate ownership of the Crypt by Zolbur. The City office is a trickier matter however. If they only saw the forged documents then they would not have realized their part in this. Of course, if someone was bought and paid to help, it would have made it easier. Unfortunately there is no specific signature, just a stamp from the Office of Property Control.
There is some discussion, but decisions need to be made. What to do with Ardreth, the hired help, and the treasure. The documents at least would seem to be a clear decision.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Friday November 24th, 2023 8:47:46 AM
Paige scratches an itchy spot at the back of her head. ”The only dealings we’ve had with the law in the quarter is with a guard named Bersi at the local lock-up. He seemed like an honest enough fellow.” Looking at her companions, the half-elf continues, ”Kwarsk. Fingers. You remember him!? He let Musetta off with a warning after he caught her with stolen goods.”
If Burton and Zarsellet need further convincing, Paige will give them a brief summary of how whilst on their first mission for the Black Cathedral the group had stumbled upon the guard after he had apprehended a young thief. Concerned for the elf girl, the party had stuck their noses into the affair and had their fist encounter with what passed for the law in the Quarter. For the most part, the guards seemed overworked and understaffed, however, they did have a gaol in the area.
”I figure we dump these miscreants off there.”
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Friday November 24th, 2023 9:46:16 AM
Rhys catches up with what has been discovered upstairs. ”Looks like we have enough to prove the rightful ownership of the Crypt. Zolbur will be pleased with that. Whose name is on the fake title? the elf leans in for a closer look. ”As for these fine specimens…I say we turn them in to the guard. With our testimony and all the stolen goods in this warehouse they’ll be lucky to see daylight for a long time. If any of the stolen goods are traced back to killings, well they might just hang. As for the treasure in the safe, seems like we could put those ill gotten gains to better use than they would.”
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday November 24th, 2023 1:43:44 PM
Kwarsk, long listening, says only, "I agree. Bersi first, and make sure to ask 'm to keep it to the most reliable senior officer at first."
(OOC - caught a bug just before Thanksgiving, and was out of it all day yesterday, sorry for missing the post.)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Saturday November 25th, 2023 1:58:50 PM
Burton does not mind which member of the watch Ardreth and the evidence is handed to as long has he ends up in chains.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Saturday November 25th, 2023 3:05:55 PM
OOC: Sorry for my absence. I got sick on Thanksgiving day and was just wiped out 'til this morning. Bad to be sick on the national day of gluttony, unable to even keep a glass of water down....
Zarsellet considers the disposition of the prisoners. "Can we be sure that Ardreth will be locked up long enough for Walid and the orphans to clean this place out? I wouldn't be surprised to find that he has other funds stashed somewhere and he might be able to buy his way out."
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Saturday November 25th, 2023 4:31:12 PM ”Well, if Berem and Clarisse back at the Black Cathedral are updated, they might put some pressure on the law, and if Zolbur presses charges, that should keep a spotlight on Ardreth.” The half elf wrinkles her brow, ”I want this guy locked up while we follow up any leads.
locke and key- DM BrianZ Monday November 27th, 2023 7:10:00 PM
The Patchers seem to be in agreement with taking the prisoners to the guard. You have not heard of instances of prisoners escaping, and you can feel confident that they will be held.
Rhys looks over the documents again, and notes the warehouse is listed as owned by Ardreth.
There is a suggestion to have the orphans help with cleaning the place out, but it seems the first step is to take the prisoners in.
None of them, including Ardreth offer any resistance to being escorted to the jail.
Muuru "Fingers" Murgirun (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 d20+10=16 ; Monday November 27th, 2023 10:57:10 PM
Fingers grumbles at losing the vote to take the miscreants to the Cathedral instead of the guard.
[b]Well, we still have to turn everything over to the guards, including the money. I think we'll be able to get it back as our due, or something.
Make note of that city official's name, but don't call attention to it when we turn the stuff over.
Now everyone stand back. I'm going to make that rug-trap safe before we leave[b]
Disable Device: 16
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Monday November 27th, 2023 11:00:58 PM
Rhys assists with getting the captives down the stairs without offering any chance of escape. Once down on the main floor he moves over to the dead thug who was so interested in battle. The elf searches the corpse and removes anything of value before moving the body to a less obtrusive spot. ”Careful of that carpeted area, It’s likely some kind of trap. Fingers, you may want to take a closer look when we return”.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+12=21 ; Monday November 27th, 2023 11:25:22 PM
Kwarsk helps Rhys escort the captives. Kwarsk keeps them secure while Rhys checks out the deceased thug.
Kwarsk is on edge, wondering if Ardreth is being peaceful because he magically called for reinforcements...
(OOC Perception = 21)
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Monday November 27th, 2023 11:28:55 PM
Paige helps bundle the bad guys down the stairs and through the warehouse. ”Are you able to set some locks on the doors to the warehouse, Muuru? Something simple to open with a key, and not trapped.
The cleric will suggest the paperwork related to the ownership of the Crypt be dropped off at that establishment.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Monday November 27th, 2023 11:32:08 PM
Zarsellet joins the group as they start moving the prisoners out and to prison. He moves over by Paige, "Do you want me to head over to Walid and crew? I'm sure there's a lot of valuable stuff here. But in this neighborhood somebody will notice that it is unprotected really quick. They'll either strip the place or move in."
prisoners and guards- DM BrianZ Tuesday November 28th, 2023 8:04:33 AM
Fingers secures the other trap, a pit under the carpet. Removing the carpet and placing markers around the edge will have to do for now.
Paige suggests locking the place up. Since Fingers has put in some work crafting locks, it would not seem to pose a problem.
Rhys gathers up some remaining gear and Kwarsk helps secure the prisoners.
Zarsellet suggests involving the orphanage. You will need to decide if you want to pursue that before dropping the prisoners off at the Jail.(will adjust as needed in next post)
Upon arrival at the jail, you find several alert guards in the very early morning hour. They start paying close attention as you arrive, and adjust their weapon belts just in case they are needed. One of them hails you.
Greetings! What do we have here today?
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Tuesday November 28th, 2023 12:00:31 PM
Paige will ask for Bersi, but whether or not the guard is available, she will provide an explanation of why the Patchers have brought a handful of bloodied and bound individuals to the jail…
”With all due respect, we’re bringing these bad men in to be charged with crimes and held in a cell until the appropriate punishment can be determined by the powers that be.”. The cleric points to the symbol of Domi hanging from a leather cord about her neck, and the badge pin identifying her membership in the Woldian League of Adventurers by way of signalling her passion for righting wrongs in the god’s name, and fighting evil in all it’s forms.
”These men, with that one” she singles out Ardreth with a gesture, ”as their leader have been shaking down the owner of the Crypt. He’s trying to run a clean gambling house with entertainments for all sorts,” Paige remember the presence of folks from the miner’s guild as well as Walid, and even some orphans! ”However this Ardreth fellow and his associates have been leaning on Zolbur and trying to force him to sell.”
The cleric won’t go into the details of the shake down, leaving any explanation of the particulars, including the falsified ownership documents, etc. for the gnome owner of the Crypt to explain.
”We followed Ardreth, and his henchman after he tampered with creatures in an arena match, and discovered a warehouse stocked with stolen goods. There are documents to support our claim.”
She will look at her companions, and take a step back so they can fill in with any information she may have omitted.
(OOC: Assuming documents related to the ownership of the Crypt have been dropped off and are with Zolbur, and possibly, per Zarsellet’s post above, Walid and the orphans have been made aware of the warehouse.)
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Tuesday November 28th, 2023 3:10:46 PM
Burton will have tagged along with the others to the watch house, as Paige pauses he will add; "I believe we have also recovered a number of poison darts from the warehouse some of which where thrown at us during our investigation. Further to this some if not all of the stolen good were obtained by acts of banditry which may or may not have involved the murder of law abiding citizens. Make no mistake these are very dangerous criminals and should be treated accordingly."
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Tuesday November 28th, 2023 4:39:18 PM
Rhys keeps a careful watch over their captives until they are secured by the guards.
prisoners and guards- DM BrianZ Tuesday November 28th, 2023 7:06:03 PM
OOC- DM supplemental post
Nick has reminded me that the door was smashed upon entry to the warehouse. With the supplies inside, it should be possible to put up something makeshift that will suffice for a few days.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Tuesday November 28th, 2023 8:36:05 PM
OOC: Can Fingers also provide a key, to let the orphans, and me, in? Hmm.... Smashed door? That'll let us in.
With the nod from Paige Zarsellet slips away and heads off to the orphanage. He knows that there are probably still some danger involved, but the resources for the kids can't be ignored. Arriving he asks for Wallid and explains why he is there. "We cleared all of the bad men out, and most of the traps. There's one trap that we didn't have time to clear, but it is exposed and marked. If you are interested I'll go with you and a few of your oldest orphans so you can assess this. See if you are interested? Oh, and the front door was damaged but we've got that blocked. I've got my weapons, and a little magic left. Do you or any of the kids have any skill with weapons? If you do decide to accept the goods you might need to work with a couple of us to guard the place until it can be cleared out."
"Now I know it's a lot of stolen goods. But that can be legally sold or used, or returned to the original owner if there are any markings indicating who that might be. There might be a reward, and good will in the city for that?"
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. d20+12=31 ; Tuesday November 28th, 2023 9:09:38 PM
Kwarsk, like Rhys, keeps watch over the captives. He pays close attention to Ardreth's hands, in case they've palmed a poison needle ring or some other holdout weapon.
(OOC Perception = 31)
If there's an opportunity, Kwarsk will offer testimony that corroborates what Paige has said, through the lens of his own experiences.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Wednesday November 29th, 2023 3:18:58 AM
OOC: Who smashed the door?
My understanding was the guys inside opened the door to throw a dart at Kwarsk? Then left it open and Burton put together a plan to assault inside through the open door. The stones in front of the door had been lifted but don't think the door was harmed.
prisoners and guards- DM BrianZ Wednesday November 29th, 2023 7:56:17 AM
Zarsellet stops by the orphanage. It is really early but one of the kids answers the door quickly and takes little time to get Walid. With the unusual activity, soon the whole place is abuzz.
Walid does have a concern however. Well, I have no problem watching over the place for you, and the kids are great lookouts. But I dont think we should accept any known stolen goods. Maybe as you say, the guards will make an offer for the return of the items?
At the jail, the guard explains that Bersi is not currently on duty, but he will be contacted if needed.
My name is Myron. Hmmm. Well one of these fellas is known to us as a repeat troublemaker. And your group is not unknown to the City Guard. With a nod, the other guards step forward and take Ardreth and the other men into custody.
Now, until we complete our investigation, please leave the warehouse as it is. We will secure it. The issue with the Crypt will need to be settled at the government, but it sounds like you have what you need to help Zolbur out. Please see guard Ellis and make written statements. We will check into all of your statements. Is there anything else?
OOC- I did not see anyone specifically post to travel to the Crypt as yet, so the group still has the documents with you.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Wednesday November 29th, 2023 10:57:26 AM (OOC: Paige summoned a spiritual hammer to bash on the warehouse door, but the door remained intact per the DM. Oct. 17-18 The small door situated in the larger door was opened from the inside and some poisoned darts sent out. Oct 20.
Posted twice that documents related to the ownership of the Crypt were dropped off and with Zolbur, but did not role play interaction.)
Earlier…
Passing by the Crypt Paige makes a quick trip inside to deliver the documents associated with the ownership of the establishment with Zolbur. She advises the gnome the party will be by later to answer any questions the gnome might have (and collect their reward of 2000 GP each!), but currently have their hands full with p Ardreth and the bad guys being escorted to the local lock-up.
At the jail…
The half elf is glad to hand the bad guys over to the guards for incarceration, and will repeat for Ellis, what she told the first guard and hand over the journals/documents related to the inventory of stolen goods inside the warehouse.
Trying to stifle a yawn, the cleric will suggest the party seek out a bite to eat at that place where Clarisse and Berem used to meet with the party, if it isn’t too far. She doesn’t remember the name of the place, but they served little round cakes with holes in the middle and sweet glazes with sprinkles on top, and something else called ‘coffee’ that made the cleric almost feel like she’d had a short rest!
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Wednesday November 29th, 2023 11:52:44 AM
Zarsellet hears Walid's answer and hangs his head in shame. He glances around at the kids. "You're a good man Walid. Sometimes I'm too much the entertainer and ignore my moral compass. All I saw was resources that the orphanage could use, not where they came from. It would be a bad example. I'm sure the government will get involved, and anything where the original owner can be identified will go to them. But, maybe there will be a reward for good service?"
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Wednesday November 29th, 2023 12:33:15 PM
Rhys leaves his statement with the guard and provides a last warning ”Keep a special eye on that one, he’s particularly nasty and may yet have some trick up his sleeve!” He points a finger at Ardreth as he speaks.
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Wednesday November 29th, 2023 1:35:49 PM
Burton will give his statement of all the events that have occurred since their employment. Once everyone has finished he will suggest that they return to the Patch to get some sleep or go to the eatery that Paige has mentioned.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Wednesday November 29th, 2023 2:09:07 PM
Kwarsk leaves his statement with guard Ellis and adds verbally, "Rhys is correct. You're better off assuming he has some holdout weapon on him that we missed. I hear the Guard is very good at finding such things," Kwarsk finishes.
Kwarsk waits for others to give their written statements, and then after they step outside and out of earshot of Ardreth and the Guard, says in a low voice to the Patchers, "Paige, that eatery sounds like a splendid idea! I think they even had white gold to go with their food!"
Muuru "Fingers" Murgirun (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Wednesday November 29th, 2023 10:45:39 PM
Fingers gives his statement, and turns over the makeshift key to open the warehouse door. Doesn't anyone else want to go home and go to bed?
prisoners and guards- DM BrianZ Thursday November 30th, 2023 8:11:49 AM
The team leaves their statements with the guards, and the guards, at least for now seem satisfied. Ardreth and his men are taken away(with extra guards, just in case) and Myron promises to keep the group updated.
The documents were dropped off with Zolbur, and Walid agrees to wait on the City investigation and hope a few of the funds go their way.
The team discusses someplace to eat. Sampson's place isn't too far. Closer to home there's The Crooked Inn and the Cheap Imp. Or, if you are just in the mood for some cake and candy, you could always stop by Grumble and Sprock.
Now all you need to do is decide which one to go to, or to go home first and get some rest......
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 34/38 CMD 13 Thursday November 30th, 2023 10:50:52 AM
Unable to remember the name or exact location of the donut shop Paige sighs. ”You’ve got a point, Muuru. I suppose we can wrestle up some breakfast back at the Patch and then get some sleep.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 20/31 Thursday November 30th, 2023 12:01:34 PM ”I’ll be right behind you.” Rhys takes a different route back to the Patch and stops by a small shop he discovered when looking for forging supplies. He purchases 12 rolls, each one with a cinnamon center and a sweet icing on the outside. The aroma from these freshly baked treats announces his arrival back at the Patch.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 27/T 13/FF 24 (Barkskin), HP 37/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Thursday November 30th, 2023 3:29:09 PM
Kwarsk leads the Patchers back to the Patch, keeping an eye out for ambushes... Kwarsk doesn't know why, but he feels that Ardreth must have more thugs somewhere, or perhaps is just a pawn of some larger smuggling operation that is now looking to wipe out the Patchers in revenge for the loss of their warehouse...
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Thursday November 30th, 2023 4:29:39 PM
Zarsellet arrives back at the Patch and admits his error to the group. "Well, I gotta admit that sometimes my moral compass is bent, but Walid is a good man. He said he'd be fine with having a couple of the kids watch the warehouse if we want, but won't accept anything from the place if it's stolen. Since Ardreth was in charge I can't imagine that anything was legit!"
"But, Once the city gets it all sorted out, if there's any reward money or such available, he wouldn't pass on some of that legit coin!" He sniffs the air and grins, "Do I smell cinnamon rolls? Hope there's plenty!"
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Thursday November 30th, 2023 5:21:02 PM
Burton can hardly keep his eyes open by the time they reach the Patch. He perks up slightly as the cinnamon rolls appear he greatfully excepts one before heading off to bed; "Good night all or morning".
Zzzzzzzz
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 d6=1 ; d6=2 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d6=4 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d6=4 ; d6=5 ; Friday December 1st, 2023 1:03:26 AM
Before folks call it a day, Paige will get any who are still wounded to huddle up. She will then channel healing energy through her holy symbol. (4 x using up all slots for: 2+6=8, 4+4=8, 6+4=10, 4+5=9 for a total of 35 HP *note: re rolled the 1*)
Heroism from Zarsellet (40 min or 400 rounds (probably expired?)
rest and recover- DM BrianZ Friday December 1st, 2023 8:15:02 AM
Back at the Patch, Paige tends to some wounds and the team enjoys some warm, fresh from the oven cinnamon rolls, the icing still melting on them, courtesy of Rhys.
There is some concern that Ardreth may have one final trick up his sleeve, but so far, no emergency has appeared.
The heroes get some rest, and now it is time to decide their next move.
Muuru "Fingers" Murgirun (Shawn) | AC:13(17), T:12 FF: 11(15) | HP 22/34 | CMB:5 CMD:17 | Fort:3 Ref:5 Will:3 Friday December 1st, 2023 9:54:06 AM
Fingers sleeps. After our "breakfast meeting" he'll choose his spells for the day.
Paige Potter (Carla) AC 17, HP 38/38 CMD 13 Friday December 1st, 2023 11:22:08 AM
Paige does the minimal self care required to get cleaned up before falling into a dead sleep. On rising, (is it okay to assume a ‘long rest’?) she thanks Domi for his continued guidance. The cleric feels like her days and nights have been reversed, and is having a bit of trouble orienting herself (what time of day might it be?)
Paige will seek out her companions and discuss what they should do next. The cleric suggests visiting the Crypt in order to collect their winnings from the arena fight bet and discuss Ardreth and Pyramid Indistries with Zolbur. There might be some loose ends to wrap up before they can claim the reward the gnome offered.
The half elf is concerned that Ardreth and his hired help are but one rung of a longer ladder, and that when news of the team’s interventions gets out, there might be trouble.
Rhys (Bob W) AC 20/24 vs AoO; CMD 21/23 vs Disarm or Sunder; HP 31/31 Friday December 1st, 2023 11:33:16 AM
Rhys sleeps undisturbed by the days previous events. His wounds healed by Paige’s efforts, he feels as limber as ever upon awaking. A fresh shirt to replace the damaged one and he joins the others in the large common room to discuss next steps. ”I agree with Paige, our first visit should be to the Crypt to collect our winnings and hand over the documentation to Zolbur. Perhaps he knows who the mysterious ‘Duncan’ might be.”. The elf hopes their work to date is sufficient to earn their promised reward from the owner of the gambling house. He has plans that require that gold.
Kwarsk (Wayne) AC 25/T 13/FF 22, HP 44/44, CMD 18/22 vs. Bull Rush & Trip. Friday December 1st, 2023 2:16:00 PM [OOC]Unbeknownst to each other, Kwarsk and Paige have each alighted upon one possible future - a hornets' nest has been stirred, but to what end?[/OOC]
Kwarsk gratefully accepts Domi's healing from Paige, refreshed and restored to once more seek Pantheon's justice... after a couple of cinnamon pastries and some white gold and a good rest... as Kwarsk dozes off to sleep, he wonders about hiring guards to alert the Patchers if they are ever attacked while all Patchers are sleeping... perhaps some clattering noisemakers the orphans could set off from the shadows without ever exposing themselves to danger...
Burton Fleming (Alex)AC:17 T:12 FF:11; HP: 25/25 Fort: 4 Ref: 4 Will: 7 | Friday December 1st, 2023 5:19:12 PM
Burton reappears 9 hours after finally getting to bed. He is having the same thoughts as Kwarsk about hiring a number of guards to protect the Patch and the Patchers when they are sleeping or are away. 6 might do it so the Patchers would have two guards on 8 hour shifts.
He also resolves to learn the Alarm spell he has heard about to secure an area while he sleeps.
Zarsellet Fahring (Randy) AC 16, CMD 14, HP 32/32 | Fort: +5, Ref: +8, Will: +5 | Perception +8 Friday December 1st, 2023 11:48:28 PM
Zarsellet meditates for a short while so he will be able to sleep. He has too many thoughts on his mind to fall asleep without using the technique.
He wakes early in the morning wondering how the night went so quickly. Remembering his thoughts from night before he pulls out paper, a writing stick, and his masterwork lap harp. He starts playing simple songs that he knows well, thinking about the fight in the arena. The chase to the warehouse and the fighting there. It had been a close call.... He sits the harp down and starts writing, words first, then melodic line around it. He doesn't have time for harmony now, but maybe sometime?
Once he finishes he puts the stuff away and moves down for breakfast.
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