DrK Way of Wicked Take 2 IC

[Gyrfalcon]

Anton is the one to answer Oghash’s question this time, his voice analytical as the combined summoner admires the Knot’s new weapon. ”It is no living thing, nor is it undead. A flesh golem is made from the bodies of many humanoids, but it is animated by alchemy or arcane energies rather than the negative energy of an undead. A necromancer might make a similar thing, but the ritual is far different.”

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

As the creature rose and acknowledged him, Ahkmathi smiled - a genuine smile full of joy. And eagerness. And desire. And malevolence. Turning to the others, he nodded absently at the draconian's explanation. "Yes, it is a construct, powered by arcane energy, and driven by our will and that of our dark Lord. However, with our actions, we have started the timer. All but one of the Captains is dead. The keep wizard and several key members of the town who might have challenged us are dead. Now with the high priest dead, we must act swiftly to take advantage of the situation.

With most of the arcane and divine might of the town dealt with, our servant should pose a significant threat to any who oppose our efforts. However, with time and numbers, even this beautiful construct can be brought low. We must focus our actions, and achieve maximum chaos with limited time. Several possibilities exist - which do we think serve us best?"

---

OOC - Suggest we chat this out in the discord or OOC, but here's some thoughts.
Rando stuff

• To delay discovery of the priest's death, Anton could pretend to be the priest, perhaps with Stvari as a single bodyguard. Go to the local church (or wherever he was setting up shop) and mention being tired or wanting to prepare some sermons. If any asks about his guards, he can tell them he sent them out to investigate some recent rumors.
• Oghash warns the ladies to get out of town. Once the city falls, they don't want to be here when the bugbears arrive, so if they start leaving now, departing in twos and threes, they can head to southern cities and start to set up a network. Make sure we give them a code phrase (nothing too overtly Asmodean, but something no self-respecting Mitran would say)
• Is the Bard coming soon, and are there opportunities there to either disrupt festivities or implicate him in a plot?

Ways ahead

• Go to the tower on the outskirts of town and kill the few guards there. Ring the bells that call a group of troops from the keep. Ambush them with Kamos to reduce combat power at the keep. Alternatively, we get the guards to respond while we attack the keep.
• Head to the keep via the underground passage, leave the golem hidden with instructions on when to unleash hell (ideally when we want the distraction).
• Go after the dwarves with Kamos and kill them all. Sabotage what we can.
• Swing by and add some poison to Old Lady WhatsHerName's soup ... and maybe Timon's ale. Lower some stats before we fight?
• Start another fire, this one at the armory. Attack the keep after troops arrive to help.

Key concerns

• The keep commander ... I think he's a bad ass.
• Getting the gates open for the bugbears
• Time

Effects/Conditions: low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

Show

Str 10 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 18 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 13 HP 26/26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

Show

0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, magic missile, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

Show

(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: /1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 6/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+4 / Splash 6 dam
Scrolls: mage armor, sleep, glitterdust, obscuring mist, resist energy
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[DarkOne-Rob]

It takes Oghash several moments before she can shake of the reverie from the appearance of the golem. With a shudder that demonstrates her own superstitions against such magic and then a shake of her head as she dispels those concerns she looks about her companions and smiles grimly. In her excitement she doesn't even disguise her voice, the rough, guttural orcish blood sounding from between otherwise human-looking lips. "I'm going to enjoy this," she begins. "The Ninth Knot has never been so strong as we are now!

Let's burn down the chapel, kill the dwarves, and in the chaos scout the keep...Then tonight we feast on that fool and his fat wife," she licks her lips in obvious hunger, "and anoint the girls with their blood. Before we rest we scout the tunnel and place that," she gestures at the golem, "at the end to attack upwards overnight, killing all it can. We block the tunnel behind us and in the morning finish looting the town...and tomorrow night we take the keep!"

Her voice rises as she speaks, excitement, bloodlust, and religious fervor shining in her insane eyes. When she's done she's breathing heavily with a face full of passion that only shows when there is violence in her immediate future. "Well? Can we?" she finally asks in the silence after she's done.

[DrK]

In the aftermath of the battle the (anti) heroes glory in their new servant and his unliving properties, dispose of the bodies (by burial or eating as preferred) and manage to restore some of the uniforms of the guards to some semblance of normality. After the hour or two required for the raising of the golem and the tidy up Anton concentrates on his iron circlet and slowly shifts to the fat homely form of the now dead Priest, the fat man's holy symbol swinging about his neck.

Leaving the golem safe in the hut with orders to defend itself and slay any who find it the rest of your donning the now fixed (thanks to presdigitation) the three "guards" flank the priest as you head back into town. Marching through the streets Anton is forced to smile and make nice with a villager or shop keeper every few feet, offering advice, blessing the children who flock around him and making apologies to not tarry with those who call out to him. Heading to the centre of Aldencross you can see the large church of Mitra beckoning you. The long knave is cool and welcoming with light filtering in through the great yellow sun of the stained glass window. As you enter the three elderly woman all kneeling in prayer smile and greet the "father" warmly and point to the door beyond the pulpit here the local village priest is working on the nxt servce. One of the woman asking with a note of worry, "Is everything okay Father? The fires. The death of the magister.. have we done wrong? How can we help?"

[Gyrfalcon]

Disguised as the portly Father Donnigan, Anton smiles broadly. He had taken the liberty of adjusting his disguise to give the father tired, slightly bloodshot eyes, as if the old man had been short on sleep lately.

”Be at ease, Daughters. Mitra is with us, though the death of the magister disturbs me greatly. I have set some of my men to investigate the happenings, but under Mitra’s light, all will be well. Go, and let your friends and family know that I will take things well in hand.” Anton smoothly lies with the Father’s voice as he helps the elderly women stand, patting their frail hands gently.

Dahaki sneers in the summoner’s mind. ”Weak, feeble mortals. They won’t be able to flee what is coming.”

”I know. But every moment they reassure the others that everything is in hand is another moment that these people remain weak and vulnerable.” Anton replies mentally, smiling genially as the women leave the church. He nods to one of the others to close and lock the doors so that the Knot can have some uninterrupted time with poor Brother Justin.

[DarkOne-Rob]

Oghash, in a different disguise now but still bearing the signs of a rough life of violence, doesn't smile at the ladies but also doesn't deliberately make a spectacle of herself. As they leave she goes to close the doors and finds - or makes - a way to block the entrance, at least temporarily. Once done she returns to the others and nods, ready to do violence to the poor church caretaker...

[Farmerbink]

Stvari dutifully follows, content for the moment to stand behind the "father" and do his bidding. He keeps his thoughts well hidden behind both his illusory mask of friendliness and a thick veil of purpose. His eyes dispassionately take in the people's worry and hope, with no care for either.

His first words in several minutes issue forth as the women leave the simple little chapel. "It'll look better bathed in orange, methinks," he purrs quietly as he prowls through the nave. Without a sound, he presses his ear to the indicated portal. He takes a breath and holds it, letting his eyes close, as he focuses his thoughts on listening beyond the stout frame.

Spoiler: OOC

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(1d20+11)[30] perception (sound only) -if dim dweller applies add +2

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

Ahkmathi kept his mien looking somewhat bored, as if this duty were completely routine. He inwardly winced at the dragon-kin's response, not liking the idea of putting concerns into the minds of citizens. But at this point, a simple guard speaking up might be considered odd, so he simply nodded to himself in 'agreement' with the priest. He did take note of the women, however, committing their faces to memory, least they need to deal with erstwhile rumors.

Once they reached a room with some modicum of privacy, he would offer to the others an idea. [i]"While I support the opportunity to learn more about things within the town and surrounding areas, might I offer another option. What if we send the younger priest to the south on a personal mission while our noble Father remains here to provide peace of mind for the masses. We could send word back to the keep that the Father is concerned about his flock and wants to sooth the fears of people, least rumors arise of trouble in Aldencross. It may grant us more time to continue our activities, complete with a base of operations that could certainly do with a makeover ... wouldn't you agree my friends?" Ahkmathi looked to Stvari and Oghash.

---

OOC - Just an idea to 'visibly' get rid of the other priest, while keeping him for torture and questioning. it would also give a reason why the father isn't returning to the keep immediately and give us some time to put things into motion with the dwarves and sabotaging the keep.

Effects/Conditions: low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

Show

Str 10 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 18 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 13 HP 26/26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

Show

0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, magic missile, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

Show

(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: /1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 6/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+4 / Splash 6 dam
Scrolls: mage armor, sleep, glitterdust, obscuring mist, resist energy
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[Gyrfalcon]

Anton moves deeper into the church, looking for Brother Justin. Finding him in one of the inner rooms, Anton coldly notes a lack of windows in the thick stone walls. Smiling with Father Donnigen’s face, the newest member of the Knot starts questioning Justin, learning all he could of the late Father to further his disguise, as well as every scrap of useful information the man knows.

The strange questions put Brother Justin off balance, and at a certain point he becomes suspicious and tries to leave, only for Anton to smash him in the gut with the Father’s mace. Choking and gasping at the surprise attack, he is helpless as he is dragged back into the room and the interrogation begins in earnest. Blood runs and pain is inflicted as Anton clinically tortures the man, repeating questions in different fashions to root out falsehoods and assemble the truth.

The rest of the Knot sees the difference between Anton and Dahaki. The dragon played with his prey as a cat does, cruelty casual and quickly forgotten. The half-elf uses cruelty as a tool, taking no pleasure from the pain, but from the knowledge gained - and the moment Brother Justin’s mind breaks, seeing Father Donnigen’s kindly smile on a face splattered with the Brother’s blood.

When the man finally expires, Anton used a simple cantrip to clean himself of the blood and gore and looks to the others. ”I think you have a good idea, Ahkmathi. Let one of you visibly leave town as the Brother, and my presence here as the Father will be well-explained.”

[DarkOne-Rob]

Oghash watches the display with a casual interest, but easily becomes distracted after seeing the pious layman start to crumble. "We need to get rid of the body too. I'm always hungry, but it will be easier to clean up outside of town. I'll go with the 'brother' and help to carry a trunk of his belongings...with the corpse inside. Then we can go around and return from the other side of town after we dump it all in the river or lake..." she says as she absent mindedly comes up and starts to slice off a portion of muscle to gnaw.

As she enjoys her snack she asks, "While we get rid of the body the others can go check out the keep, scout it. We want to be sure to stop any messengers that might call for help soon...they're probably getting nervous. Hah!

We can meet back at the inn with the girls for...dinner. How's that sound?" Oghash is clearly trying to keep up with her companions, all of whom are mentally her superiors, but her vicious instincts and experience with tracking could help exactly as she's described.

[DrK]

The torturing of the young lay priest takes much of the morning as Anton is sure to extract every last drop of information that the young priest in training in had but soon enough the gore is cleaned away with some simple magics and the body is reduced in size (helped by Oghahs's hunger) to the point where it can fit in the travelling case. In the small yard adjoining the church there is a small horse buggy and its an easy thing for Ahkmathi and Oghash to load the buggy and trap and trot happily out of the town. A few questions from the worried townfolk at ease when they hear that Donnigan will stay in town and that Father 'Justin' will be back in a couple of days. WIth cart trotting through the streets there is little option for people to quiz Ahkmathi too closely and soon eough the cart, trap and chest are in the woods where the sad looking pony joins its former master in a hole in the ground alongside the shattered remains of the wooden trap. All covered neatly with brush and leaves to hide any evidence

---

For Stavri and Anton, now in more prosaic disguises that draw no attention the two of them head north from Aldencross following the road towards Castle Balentyne. Your actual objective, even if you've not laid eyes on it yet. The fort at Balentyne has stood here for more than a century with its ancient bridge spanning the narrow river and acting as a chokepoint preventing the orc, goblin and monster tribes of the wastes streaming into northern Mitra.

As you get a mile away the small stand so trees begin to dwindle and you can see the scree and grassy land that runs down the river cliffs. The Fort is imposing and massive with high walls, a large central keep that boasts an impressive tower at one end of it. You know that within the curtain wall and gates there is a the tall tower where the magister resided and where the rookery is. In the central keep is the grand hall and at the top of that the Lord Captain's chambers. In the grounds of the walls is also the church of Mitra. It has access to the cellar level where under the keep and walls most of barracks are. On the far side of the keep is the solid stone bridge across the river but that is well guarded with a double portucllis with murderholes and sieges weapons facing north, its these that Barnabus and his dwarves are here to repair.

The tower had 100 men assigned to it, a full century but you know now that you've slain around 20 of them along with three of the captains and the mage and the priest.



After a look at the watchtower where you can see even the farmer's wagons being searched carefully by the guards and the manned raparts you head back to the Lords Dalliance as the evening sun begins to settle arriving at a similar time to Ahkmathi and Oghash.

[Farmerbink]

Stvari watches only briefly before joining Anton's efforts with glee brought about from a totally different sort of zeal. "Please, allow me," he purrs, gently caressing the cheek of the doomed clergyman. "I'm something of an expert in these affairs. I'd hate to see him miss out on everything we have in store because he gave up too easily..."

Afterward, he helps get Oghash and Ahkmathi settled with the wagon before joining Anton for the short trek to Balentyne. "I hope you don't mind me stepping in back there," he begins casually once they're more than a few dozen paces out of town. "Though we now serve the same master, my allegiance is better due an unlikely ally." With perhaps surprising candor, the squat, ugly Dwarf explains in fair detail his grim and grisly upbringing, and the strange seemingly-cross purpose training of torture and medicine it brought about. By the time they can see the keep, Anton knows quite a bit more about his dour companion than before they left.

"Grand little keep isn't it?" he murmurs from the edge the trees. "It'll be fun watching that tower fall into the ravine," he adds with a wicked grin.

Spoiler: OOC

Show

The picture seems to suggest there's another doorway significantly to the left of the main entrance? What is that?

[DarkOne-Rob]

Oghash walks towards the inn, a spring in her step at the prospects of converting more worshippers to her dark god. "I can hardly wait to deal with that fat old woman and her husband...And then we can begin the bloodletting! If we go up through the tunnels tonight maybe we can kill the dwarves before we rest!" she says quietly to her companion. Their task for the day done she is excited to learn about the keep and how they will enter to begin finishing their work. "I think Rosemary will prove up to her task - I enjoy twisting her and the others we've given to the Dark Lord, but the best is when they take it and embrace his worship! This will be a glorious night!"

[Gyrfalcon]

Anton nods in agreement and allows the dwarf to assist in his interrogation, admitting to and learning from the cleric's superior knowledge of torture and keeping a human body alive and functioning beyond what most would assume were mortal limits, unaided by magic.

On their walk together, Anton shares his background as well with Stvari - Anton himself is a far more casual worshipper then the others, giving his faith to the deity that most aligned with his goals and needs. First he worshipped Norgorber as a thief. Once he found the tome of necromancy, he began giving his faith to Urgathoa. After being banished to the Nine Hells (he believes that the wizard discovered the location of his tome and teleported him there in revenge and to hide his studies) and dying there, he was resurrected by the devils and now follows Asmodeus. Dahaki has always been a staunch follower of his namesake, the Dragon of Destruction.

Eyeing the keep, Anton murmurs his agreement. "But perhaps our erstwhile allies can make better use of it. A keep is a keep that must be sieged, and with control of the bridge that can funnel supplies into the keep without end."

[DrK]

The sun is setting slightly as the pair of Anton and Stavri are heading back to the small town of Aldencross having seen the keep proper and the proud looking Sun flags flapping merrily in the breeze, both dwarf and dragon only imagining the towers crashing into the ravine or burning in flames...

---

Back at Aldencross Oghash and Ahkmathi head back to the Inn, heading inside the welcoming structure that is starting to seem almost like home. As you enter Rosemary see's you arriving and heads across to the table, hips swaying and a heavy tray piled high with a hearty looking meat stew and a pair of flagons of the local mead. She makes sure she has her back to the bar so her boss cannot see her before offering a brife nod of obedience to Oghash. "Is tonight the night Mistress? I am ready to lead the rest of the girls and obey your commands."

[DarkOne-Rob]

Oghash smiles proudly, obviously pleased with how Rosemary addresses her and the enthusiasm she's demonstrating. With a brief nod she confirms that tonight is the night. "Yes, Rosemary. Are the others ready? Tonight will be...intense...and may be shocking for some, but all of you will be raised up. We will begin after dinner, when the rest of my companions have returned and most of the other guests have left the common room. Do you have something you can slip into their drinks or food, to ensure the Bartholds will be easily taken downstairs?" she answers and asks as she accepts her bowl of meat stew. Oghash listens to her answer and then gestures for Rosemary to continue serving the other guests eating dinner.

As Anton and Stavri return to the inn Oghash waves them over with a genuine smile. "The ladies are ready. After dinner we will secure this place for ourselves and then we can walk the tunnel below and see how it connects to the keep. Did you learn much today?" she asks as they settle down and are served their food.

During dinner Oghash makes it a point to make eye contact with each of the serving women while deliberately not looking at either of the Bartholds. She stays in the common room until it is nearly empty, intent on being there to help her new flock take the innkeeper and his wife with a minimum of difficulty. She enjoys a mug of ale and stares into the fire, apparently content with the day and happy to let the girls prepare the scene before stepping in to take the lead when they are ready to be initiated...

[Farmerbink]

Stvari readily regales the duo with their findings. "I almost feel like I've been inside already," he begins, before casually recreating the scene in his mind. Putting the pieces together from the torture and now seeing the keep and tower in earnest, he murmurs quietly about likely locations of the various rooms.

As talk turns to the ladies of the tavern, he nods knowingly. "I'll wait in here until the innkeeper goes below, and then I'll make sure he doesn't come back up." One hand gently caresses the barbed chain wrapped tightly against his torso under the now familiar veil of a nondescript Dwarven merchant.

Spoiler: OOC

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Stvari is ready for that scene. I'll be stunned if anyone can get through him standing in a doorway with plenty of trip AoOs to spare.

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

While the others had scouted the keep a bit, Ahkmathi returned to the inn and his room to study the maps of the city and persons of interest. While primary mission was to take down the keep, he wanted to find more opportunities to whittle away at the local strength of the Mitrians. The hour glass had been turned and the sands were slowly pouring down, and with a large contingent of men still remaining in the keep, they needed to be careful.

It looked like there were opportunities to poison the men, through drink and food, perhaps, but that would likely work best right before any strike against the fortress. Additionally, they might be able to coerce some more men to come forth, via the bell system, but if the rumors were true, the Lord Commander might be suspicious. But anything that could weaken the remaining forces seemed an important thing to accomplish.

The dwarves also remained a source of opportunity, if their knowledge could be exploited. Or perhaps ... what if they received a communique from the Commander directing them to change what they were working on? Collapsing the gates as a fail safe? Dropping the center of the keep? A hidden tunnel across the river? He was not an expert at construction, so he would have to rely on the knowledge of others.

Glancing at the map, he sighed aloud. So many options, so many troops, so little time ...

---

When the call came for dinner, Ahkmathi joined the others downstairs, moving to the main room first to have a drink and listen to the current rumors and concerns of the common folk. Soon enough, Oghash would have her feast and the Ninth Knot would have more followers. But until then, perhaps he could learn something interesting here.

---

OOC - Ready to move along ... If he can take 10 or 20 for perception, he'll do that (18 or 28) to listen for rumors, but otherwise Perception - (1d20+8)[27]

Effects/Conditions: low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

Show

Str 10 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 18 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 13 HP 26/26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

Show

0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, magic missile, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

Show

(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: /1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 6/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+4 / Splash 6 dam
Scrolls: mage armor, sleep, glitterdust, obscuring mist, resist energy
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[DrK]

As the evening turns into night the 4 members of the Nessian knot wait patiently eating sparingly and sipping on the Barthold's finest wines, meads and ales. The chatter of the inn is subdued, Ahkmathi picking up on the unusual tension as many of the discussions amongst the locals speak of the bad luck of late, the fatal fire killing the poor sage, the duel between the captains and the shocking murder suicide of the Lady Rosalyn and now the good Father leaving town. Many of the town make some of the "old god's" symbols for luck, spitting into a puddle or rubbing an exposed iron nail for luck as well as their prayers to Mitra.

Eventually the inn room empties and the even Barnabus and the dwarves head up to bed. Its then the Knot strikes, Rosemary and two of the other girls joining Ohgash downstairs in the cellars and the private rooms. The coup in the Inn when it comes is fast, Oghash, Stavri, Anton and the ladies easily subduing the pair of fat blubbering oafs and soon enough foul rites are performed and Rosemary and the other two girls (Eliza and (the slightly poorly named) Hope) feast on Mistress Barthold's liver and swear to serve the Nessian Knot faithfully. All the of the knot realising that they'll have to remind the loyal girls where to hide when the goblinoid horde pours across the bridge so they don't get caught up in the chaos (the tunnel below would actually be a good hidey hole for them).

Speaking of the tunnel, when the blood letting has concluded the heroes can investigate the tunnel. The back wall of the cellar opening into a second smaller store room where the quality of the wines increases dramatically and some of the more interesting medicianal herbs are stored for some of the patrons. From there a small door opens revealing a dark tunnel, dry and well made with smooth stones heading north towards the keep. The tunnel in some ways is a marvel, 1 mile of straight, unbroken tunnelled stone soon ends in solid wall and a trapdoor directly above your heads, but the bolts are on this side allowing you to lock or unlock as you see fit.

[DarkOne-Rob]

It takes most of Oghash/Sharon's self control to rein in her prodigious appetite as she waits for the ritual feast, but in spite of audible rumblings from her stomach throughout the night she manages. She broods a bit, deliberately putting her back to the innkeeper and his wife so that she won't glare at either of them, but always has an encouraging nod for the three ladies if they come by to check on her. The worries and rumors being voiced help to distract the unrepentant cannibal, eliciting more than a couple of silent grins and chuckles from the monstrous woman.

The dwarves are the last to go, causing Oghash to lean over to Stvari and say, "You dwarves drink like I eat - it never stops, does it?" when the workers are brought yet another round of ale. Regardless of his answer she goes back to waiting before asking a bit later, "Do you think their guts would be...pickled?...if we took them tonight, after they're in bed? It might taste alright, if cooked well..."

---

When the attack begins it is so fast and quiet that Oghash/Sharon nearly seems disappointed at the ease of it all. But as the two sacrifices are bound and gagged firmly enough for the ropes to begin to cut painfully into their flesh - an effort to show some appreciation for Stvari's proclivities - Oghash/Sharon smiles broadly and proudly at the three new converts. "Well done, Little Sisters, well done. Now, to properly roast these two pigs!" she emphasizes her words by cruelly jabbing into the flesh of Alicia Barthold with the handle of her dagger, not stabbing the woman but demonstrating to the other women what she expects. "Take spoons, brooms, whatever you like - make them hurt for all the times they ignored your tears or sent you to serve some soldier without mercy. Return their cruelty in kind!" she orders, and then watches as the three begin to sink into depravity (mostly) on their own.

The whores don't take as long to kill the pair as Stvari would, but once they've had a taste of sadism they seem to be ready students, taking his advice and attempting with their unskilled hands what he would undoubtably do better, and for longer. After the two victims stop moving Oghash/Sharon spurs the women on again until the Bartholds stop breathing and actually die, leaving the three prostitutes exhausted, delirious with the feelings of power, and likely a little sickened by the depravity the Knot has brought them to embrace.

While Oghash/Sharon begins to butcher and prepare the corpses she directs Rosemary to lead the others in profane prayers and chants, encouraging and directing them verbally while she attends to the meal. "They're too big...even I can't eat all of them tonight...Only the choicest cuts, then..." she murmurs at one point as she places pieces in a cooking pan and oversees the girls as they roast their previous employers. Finally, when all is ready, the three women are directed to take the first bites of the feast, which they do, even if it takes a bit of prodding and somewhat gentle encouragement from Oghash/Sharon. "You swore to trust and obey me, as the Elder Sister. The first bite isn't easy, but it gets easier...there, now wash it down...that's right..."

She doesn't force them to eat much, instead demonstrating what she wants with her own meal. As they see Oghash/Sharon eat, the woman seem to find some encouragement, which is increased when the rest of the Nessian Knot settles down to participate. After several minutes the three women are laughing, smiling, and eating more casually as they settle into a newfound family (cult) that has welcomed them wholeheartedly in spite of their professions.

---

"There is one detail left," Oghash explains as they are nearing the end. "Your new names. These are for us here, just us seven. Do not share them with anyone else - not your lovers, nor those you bring into the fold. Keep them safe, and secret. Now, kneel as I name you anew..." The three women kneel before Oghash/Sharon, who takes a bowl of blood in one hand as she goes to each in turn. "Rosemary is the name of a flower - the thorns are blunted and it is only good for others to enjoy. Now, you shall be named Belladonna - if you wish you can be kind and provide relief to those in need. But when you turn on them you shall be a poison that kills from the inside," she intones as she uses the blood of the Bartholds to draw an upside down pentagram on the young lady's forehead. "You will lead these three in my absence so long as you serve the Prince of Law..."

Next Oghash/Sharon renames Eliza - "A motherly name, Eliza - gentle and kind. Use this sweetness to lure the undeserving to their doom as Melollam, a deadly bowl of honey. Obey Belladonna as you would me and always serve the Dark Lord." she says, holding the girls jaw up firmly and looking her in the eyes as she draws the blood-pentagram, using enough that the red drips down onto the girl's face in bright, scarlet rivulets.

Finally Oghash/Sharon comes to Hope. "Hope - such a silly, fleeting thing. But you, you will not be fickle and fall away from our covenant. No, you will capture men like the flytrap does flies. Falsaspes, is your name now. With Melollam you will follow Belladonna and serve me, and this Knot, and the Master of Witches. Grow in his worship and service and you shall have all you desire!" Oghash/Sharon encourages, first brushing a tear from the young woman's cheek and then painting her head with the mark of the cult.

---

A casual phrase, whispered from Anton/Itrproinhelk to her makes Oghash/Sharon smile broadly as she stands, raising a glass of wine (sprinkled with the blood of the sacrifices) and says, "A toast to our new, Little Sisters, on this, their first Red Feast. May it not be their last in service to the Nessian Knot and their new Master, the First. May he bless them with great ambition and hunger as they spread his worship to the south and induct Sisters beneath each of them wherever they go!"

---

As the Red Feast ends, Oghash/Sharon directs the women what to say and do to prepare for the morning. "Go to the Bartholds' room and strip it bare. Bring everything down here, past the hidden door, and place it in crates hidden away where they can't be found. Then lock their door, kick the key inside, and go to your rooms. Wash up, go to bed, and in the morning when you wake prepare for the day as if nothing has changed. Serve the guests breakfast and care for the inn, but do not give yourselves to any men. Instead, stick together and support each other, be sure they all stay strong. We four will protect you in the days to come - trust us.

If anyone asks you about the Bartholds, tell them that you haven't seen them and don't have a key to their room. They may ask more questions, but stay together and only tell them that you went to bed last night, after the dwarves, and know nothing more. When we get back we will have more directions for you," Oghash/Sharon directs, placing a small bag of nine gold coins in each of the girls' hands. "We will be back in the morning, maybe before you wake...If we're not up when you are, make an extra pot of coffee..." she finishes with a rueful chuckle before gathering the women up into a genuinely warm embrace and sending them to their tasks.

---

As they explore the tunnel Oghash allows her Iron Circlet-disguise to fall and sighs as she stops making the mental effort to change her voice. At the trapdoor the thoroughly half-orc Oghash stretches and flexes for a moment before asking, "Well, shall we? Are we going to the top, or what?"

[Gyrfalcon]

Anton moves with surprising grace as he takes the fat innkeeper from behind, a makeshift sap employed without warning allowing him to easily club the man senseless. The true trick was easing his corpulent form to the floor so that no untoward noise worried the guests of the inn. Once down in the tunnels, the half-elf allows his dragon visage to once again come to the fore, and refrains from joining in the blood-letting that follows - except when Hope is busy with the woman, while Stvari is busy instructing the other two with the man. The dragon steps forward and demonstrates with a claw pressure points that Hope can stimulate, grinding into nerve clusters and causing the woman to scream and spasm in overwhelming pain.

When it comes time for the meal to be served, Anton and Dahaki join in the feast, though Ahkmathi Sek is left wondering where the meal consumed by the dragon goes - does it appear in the half-elf's stomach through magical means, or does it disappear into the void the dragon emerges from? Either way, the two are respectful as Oghash dedicates the three newest recruits of the Knot and gives them their new names.

"Elder Sister Sharon is wise in the names she gives you at this red feast. Remember that all other names are now merely masks for your true selves. Maintain the fiction of Rosemary, Elza and Hope, for these masks will shelter and protect you. Your true self will remain safe, and can be set free here among the Knot. Take victims when it pleases you, but above all, remember that the patient huntress hunts the longest. Savor the hunt as you draw your prey into your traps, and ensure that their demise cannot be linked back to yourselves or us."

At the trap door, Dahaki tilts his head one way and the other. "I am not opposed to taking the garrison now. We can sneak about and confirm the map that the soldier made for us, but perhaps we can better finish the dwarves while they sleep and bring the golem here. Once we are fully rested, then tomorrow night we can slay all who remain."

[Farmerbink]

Stvari enjoys his actual dinner, thoroughly- exchanging banter with the innkeeper and his wife over several portions of the stews and meat they have to offer. He partakes only sparingly of ale, however, as his counterparts across the common room demonstrate different inclination. "I've heard it said," he responds to Oghash, "That the Dwarf's stomach makes the best ale. I always took the saying to mean that without the stomach of a Dwarf, one lacked the experience needed to hone their trade, but perhaps the legends are more literal?" He chuckles in genuine amusement at the twisted thought, but doesn't spare the departing engineers a passing glance.

Instead, he finds himself quietly stealing away behind the counter and into the cellar beyond. Perhaps only 30 seconds ahead of Anton and Ahkmathi, he announces himself with a clearing of his throat. "Aye, you and the lady make sumptuous lamb chops. Really a shame how this is gonna go," he comments. Like a cat with a mouse, Stvari toys with the overweight Barthold for only a few moments before Anton's sap drops him to the floor. "Poor form, that. Could have been-" he looks down at the overweight fellow. "Ah, 'spose you're right. He never woulda put up much fight..."

Stvari eagerly guides the fresh recruits in their sadistic efforts, offering surprisingly gentle guidance when one of them gets carried away. He's disappointed, but not surprised, when the pair expires earlier than he'd have liked. "Ah well, nobody does it right the first time, eh? It's hard when there's a personal connection." His interest (and mean streak) sated, he settles back to watch Oghash's part with a patient mask of apathy.

When one of the girls looks his way (as he pointedly does not partake of the roast barkeep), he smirks. "Wise to keep it unsaid, but in time your boldness may serve you well. You can do what you see fit when Sharon or our master says so. I personally much prefer the lamb." He does, however, finally partake of the wine in earnest alongside the fledgeling acolytes.

---

Several minutes later, he nods in agreement with Anton. "One day of the barkeep's absence won't hurt our cause, and I've little left in the way of magical help tonight. Best if we meet the rest of the soldiers tomorrow."

[DrK]

The take over complete the anti heroes shuffle down the long dark tunnel to the cellar, now where the Bartholds belongings are stacked and hidden. The inn looks neat and tidy, the three new acolytes seemingly happy and habituated to still leave the place neat and tidy each night.

As you awake in the morning, all sounds normal. The faint clatter of the day cooks (so live locally and just come to the Inn morning and evening service) can be heard and the low droning murmur of the near two dozen dwarves having their breakfast.

As you rest in your rooms there are knocks at the doors as “Melollam” and “Belladonna” appear with heavy trays laden with honey smeared bread, steaming pots of Kaf and some cold meats and cheese. Tray delivered they curtsy low with evil smiles of shared depravity and head back down to the inn room leaving you to discuss your plans for the day…

[DarkOne-Rob]

"I've heard it said that the Dwarf's stomach makes the best ale. I always took the saying to mean that without the stomach of a Dwarf, one lacked the experience needed to hone their trade, but perhaps the legends are more literal?"

Oghash/Sharon nods, as if making a mental note of the saying. "I will save one or two to test this theory with you," she says quietly as she watches the dwarves leave for their beds.

"Elder Sister Sharon is wise in the names she gives you at this red feast. Remember that all other names are now merely masks for your true selves. Maintain the fiction of Rosemary, Elza and Hope, for these masks will shelter and protect you. Your true self will remain safe, and can be set free here among the Knot. Take victims when it pleases you, but above all, remember that the patient huntress hunts the longest. Savor the hunt as you draw your prey into your traps, and ensure that their demise cannot be linked back to yourselves or us."

Oghash/Sharon nods in agreement with the wise counsel given by her draconic ally. She doesn't add anything, instead briefly distracted as one of the girls looks to Stvari.

"Wise to keep it unsaid, but in time your boldness may serve you well. You can do what you see fit when Sharon or our master says so. I personally much prefer the lamb."

With a quiet snort to herself Oghash/Sharon apparently dismisses her concerns, confident in the Little Sister's deference to the dwarven sadist. On their way to look at the trapdoor she speaks to Stvari, stiffly saying, "I trust you to find me a new one if you have to break Mellolam. She was too bold, but you still owe me for putting me in Branderscar. Don't kill her unless you must, and if you must I want to do it. Agreed?" Her tone is both protective and respectful, as she reminds the dwarf that though they are partners and - perhaps - growing closer, she still holds a grudge from their very first encounter.

---

Oghash/Sharon nods in recognition to the two Little Sisters as she breaks her fast, stomach rumbling unnaturally in spite of the meal once she's done. "To the tower? From below?" she asks her companions simply. "Kill the dwarves and then gather the...golem?"

[Farmerbink]

Stvari nods almost imperceptibly at Oghash's comment. "I'm not worried about an overconfident whore," he grunts, not bothering to spare a glance for Mellolam. "She will be useful- one way or another. But since you asked so nicely, I'll let you get involved in it." He grins wickedly, amused by some profane thought.

"Still, she will likely be more use alive than eaten, and we should be grateful that ambition alone isn't a death sentence. She may well be the most productive of this little troupe," he muses, with a thoughtful expression.

---

Stvari opens the door to his room wider than usual- enough to allow Melollam a glimpse of the profane shrine he's erected behind it. "Come in, neophyte," he grumbles in a tone that brooks no argument. He gestures to the small shrine, impeccably well maintained and clean- despite the small wooden bowl now irreparably stained with blood. "Have you ever cleaned blood from a granite censer?" he asks, prompting a quick shake of the head.

"It's porous," he explains, "so things will seep in a bit- just below the surface." Lifting a small, ornate receptacle, he demonstrates the cleanliness of it. "Blood in particular can be quite tenacious," he comments dryly, indicating the bowl. "In the end, most items have to be replaced, as they have simply outlived their usefulness... The Bartholds, for example." He begins to grind a small portion of aromatic herbs in the bowl, unfazed be the metallic tones to the pervading odor.

"Keenness is a virtue- Make no mistake. Ambition the force that drives us. Harness it, and it will serve you well. If it guides you, however....." He pours the strange mixture of blood-infused herbs into the censer and lights it. "You'll only get burnt." It burns out quickly, leaving little more than a strange scent and a strange lecture in its wake.

"Go on now. I'll call for you later."

[Starbin]

Ahkmathi Sek, Elven Conjurist

Ahkmathi was silent during the evening. He brought a small book that he took notes in, specifically the women's names, old and new, making sure for them to see him write them in the blood of the fallen. When they ate, he took notes, making annotations next to their names. When they partook of the depravity 'Sharon' and the others offered, he would note that as well. If any of the 'ladies' looked at him directly, he paused and stared, unblinkingly and without expression, until they turned away. As they each turned away eventually, he also noted something next to their names.

He bowed for the prayers, he paused his note taking during the instructions, but he did not eat anything with the group; only a small glass of wine from one of the innkeepers finer vintages. Once the lessons were done, new names were given and instructions doled out, Ahkmathi nodded curtly to each woman as they departed. Once they were alone, only then did he sigh and put away his book. The task of proselytization was time consuming, but a necessary factor - especially if the Ninth Knot wanted to ensure they had allies throughout the coming days. If they failed to take advantage of these opportunities, their lack of vision would prove to be their downfall later. Besides, every tyrant had to start somewhere. Of course, with Oghash taking a more active role in the expantion of faith might be an indicator that she may be more of a rival than he originally thought. Fortunately, for now she was an ally, bound by the same oaths he himself had made. As was Stvari. Was the half-dragon so bound? Time would tell, but best to presume he had made some sort of oaths of fealty.

Joining the others in the tunnel, Ahkmathi walked the length of the passage, pausing underneath the trap door to listen for long moments, least they find the opening was in the main hall. Once he was satisfied that there was limited noise above, he returned to the inn with his companions, already wondering how to use the dwarves to their advantage.

---

The next morning, Ahkmathi arose and joined the others. Witty comments and educational quips aside, he waited for the women to leave so the core Knot could discuss plans for the day. "I think it is time we considered our actual battleplan for the keep. While I wish to eliminate the dwarves from the situation well before our allies arrive, I wonder if they might not be useful. Perhaps someone with a silvered tongue could ply some 'tradecraft' from their ale-soaked bellies this evening?" Ahkmathi glanced at Anton before continuing on.

"Any information regarding weaknesses or gaps in the defense of the keep would be useful ... or any efforts one might take to circumvent the current defenses.
Once we have that, we can deal with our construction friends and turn our eyes to an evening at the keep."

---

OOC - Sorry for the delay - I was on vacation. Ready to press on, just offering a way for us to potentially use the dwarves to our advantage.

Effects/Conditions: low-light vision

Spoiler: Status

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Str 10 Dex 16 Con 12 Int 18 Wis 12 Cha 10
AC 13 HP 26/26 Init +11 Move 30' / F +4 R +6 W +4

Spoiler: Spells (4/3+1/2+1)

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0: detect magic, message, ghost sound, mage hand
1: enlarge person, silent image, magic missile, color spray
2: flaming sphere, bull's strength, euphoric cloud

Spoiler: Extracts

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(4/day)
1: enlarge person, targeted bomb admixture, illusion of calm, enlarge person

Mutagen: /1 (+4 Int/Wis/Chr for -2 Str/Dex/Con, +2 AC; lasts 30 min)
Bombs: 6/7 per day (fire), +6 / 2d6+4 / Splash 6 dam
Scrolls: mage armor, sleep, glitterdust, obscuring mist, resist energy
Skills: Arcana/Planes +15; Local/Religion/Nature/Dungeon +14; History/Engineering +13; Geo/Nobility +12; Spellcraft +10; Craft Alchemy +10; Perception +8; D.Device +8; UMD +5
Teleport (‘5): 7/7

[DarkOne-Rob]

[Ahkmathi taking notes during the Red Feast]

Oghash/Sharon explains to the Little Sisters, saying, "Each of us - and you - are different. We each hunger in our own ways. Do not think to judge us - we are your Elders. Instead, learn to strengthen each other as we do. Bring your talents to offer to the Dark Prince and give him your best. The gift is yours, but it must help make your Sisters' gifts better than they would be alone. For now, submit to the Knot and all its members. In return we will protect you and you will go forth in power!"

"Still, she will likely be more use alive than eaten, and we should be grateful that ambition alone isn't a death sentence. She may well be the most productive of this little troupe,"

---

[Stvari mentors Melollam]

"Ambition is one of Asmodeus' highest...ethics (I think that's the word...)," says Oghash seriously. "If led well, and lifted by strength, it will serve Melollam, the Little Sisters, us, and the Dark Lord well. It isn't a death sentence - it is a hot coal to fan to grow, but not out of control...We understand each other - I am satisfied."

---

In the morning Oghash hides a smile as she observes Stvari train Melollam, obviously pleased with the sadist's efforts to guide the ambitious Little Sister.

As Ahkmathi brings up plans Oghash nods deferentially. "Are we worried about...reinforcements?" she asks. "Not for us, but for the Mitrans...And when it is time to kill the dwarves, Stvari and I wish to harvest some of their innards. How soon can we do it?"

[DrK]

In the morning there is a bustle in the inn room in the morning as you join the few other merchants having breakfast looking across the room at the cluster of several tables at the far side where the dwarves all gather. Shouts and merriment a they all sup on their breakfast dark beers and chew on the tough sourdough breads that they seem to be enjoying. From where you sit Stavri can hear the chatter, mainly gossip about the state of their wives' beards or complaints about how much work there is still to do on the bridge over the gorge at the Keep and the paucity of the gold that the Mitran army are paying them

The young woman serve the breakfasts happily enough as they all wink at the "heroes" and bustle around the inn. One of the merchants being asked about the inn owners and easily being deflected with a comment on "Apologies, Barthold is visiting family, some sort of emergency..." that generates little more than a shrug from the mercant before the man goes back to his morning food.


How are you luring the dwarves to the tunnels?

[DarkOne-Rob]

Sharon/Oghash waves over the nearest of the Little Sisters and asks, "Are they working to repair the bridge? Or something else?"

Once she has the answer, the human-looking woman will stand and walk over to the dwarves' table. "How much to answer a question about some stonework? Before they left the Bartholds showed me their wine cellar - we're looking to...invest - but I have some questions that need an expert's eye. How much? It won't take long..." she asks them, hopeful that an offer of quick coin will be enough to entice the troop down into the tunnels below the inn. It's clear she's struggling with some of the words, but not trying to be threatening, at least not yet.

Spoiler: Mechanics

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Bluff: (1d20-1)[12]? I'm not sure that really is what I'm going for here, but Oghash is being deceptive. She's deliberately not lying about anything and the party has enough gold, though she obviously has no intent to pay them...

I suppose I could threaten them for a +6 (Intimidate), but I just don't see that being the way to go, quite yet. We're still keeping a low profile, at least until we unleash the golem...

[DrK]

Belladonna the nearest cultists/waitress looks over at Oghash with a slight curtsy. I think they are repairing the bridge over the gorge at the keep. They've been complaining about old stones and the state of the gate looking over the bad lands. But I don't know more than that miss.". It would tally with what Stavri has overhead so seems plausible.

As Oghash approaches the dwarves the burly balding leader looks up at her, eyes looking up and down her form. "Aye miss. We dwarves are the best in the business at stonework. If ye want me tae take a look I can do. Me and a couple of the lads will come down after breakfast if that be suiting you?" he suggests and pointing to a couple of his men.