This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Kuro watches blankly as Zephiro runs off, all bloody and bruised. Maybe the sight of him will be enough to draw some attention and hopefully get the cops involved. They should have called the cops in the first place, he just didn't want to be the one to do it. He doesn't want to have to explain anything to the authorities, much less get his father's attention should he find out too. Now, they have two dying people on the floor to worry about. Like Zahira said, the Dragonborn getting away probably won't be worse than being involved in murder. Sure, they could say it was self defense, as if that would get them very far. There would still be consequences he doesn't want to deal with.
Huffing, he looks down at the elf who'd been too stubborn to fall for his siren trick. It wasn't like he'd really expected that to work but...man it would have made things so much easier. Fortunately, during his time of incident boredom in his room, he'd stumbled across some posts and whatnot about how to treat burns. It seemed like a good thing to know considering all the fire training Father insisted on putting him through. Who knew it would be useful for someone other than himself.
Medicine (to stabilize the elf): (18) it was an 8 (in case it changes due to me editing)
Once finished, he stares at the older kid for a while as if waiting to see whether or not his attempts really did anything. Regardless of the outcome, he shrugs and looks at Zahira, "I don't have any rope. Probably should just call the cops." He looks down, averting his gaze and sticking his hands in his pockets. If they don't want the cops involved... well he could get his dad over here... but he really, really doesn't want him to know. If worst comes to worst, he could text his father and then leave. Then HE'LL be the one stuck with the unconscious kids, and Kuro can go hide under his bed until the whole thing blows over.
Zeph stumbles slightly when his shocking grasp fails to make contact. Cursing, he readjusts his glasses, then realizes that his hand is covered in blood. Blood that was almost definitely his own. Looking back up after the fleeing dragonborn, he grits his teeth. He really doesn't want to let him get away.
Just before he tries to dash after him again, Zahira's voice rings in his ears. "Murder?" He thinks, brain fuzzy from all his blood loss. Turning around, he sees Kuro and Zahira attempting to stabilize the elf. His eyes widen, "Sweet Cerebrum! What have we done!" Suddenly he becomes aware of each and every wound. Grasping his left shoulder where the dragonborn had struck him before, he stumbles toward the fallen elf. His body quivers as he moves, though it is not from pain. "Th-They aren't dead are they? W-We didn't kill them..." Breathing heavily, he falls to his knees next to the elf, then reaches out a shaky hand to feel for a pulse.
Zahira sighs in relief when she sees Zephyro coming to his senses.
- Not yet, but they soon will be if we don't do something quickly - she mutters, while she watches Kuro treating the elf's burns - I don't really how to treat burns, but let me try-... - she watches her friend and tries to mimic him to stabilize the dwarf. But it doesn't seem to be helping at all. Is he perhaps beyond help....? (ooc: Medicine check = 7)
"Oh, God... we were supposed to be looking for a missing kid, not getting into killing anyone ..."
-Not good, this isn't working. Guys! I still have one Cure Wounds left. But who should I cure ... ? And we should call the cops, yes, but they will take too much time to arrive, won't they? I wonder ... Flurry must have a first aid kit, right? What if we run to his shop and ask him for it? It may help!
Kuro blinks, Neither of them. Why waste a spell on these jerks when they'll probably just wake up and start fighting again? They should just monitor them while someone goes to get help, then if one of them starts getting worse... if that's possible... then they can use the spell. Instead he just shrugs, wondering if his mom is close enough to come help out. She's good at healing, so maybe she can fix this... though she'll probably get father involved and then he'll have both of them to deal with. Ugh. And if he doesn't call the cops then no one else will... oh well. Someone's bound to see that Dragonborn running down the road all beat up, so maybe they'll do it for him.
Huffing, he pulls out his phone and texts his location to his mom. Then writes, "Need help. Some people are dying." He sends it then pauses, realizing that his mom might just assume he's being overdramatic. So he adds, "Not a joke." then snaps a picture of the elf and the dwarf and sends it to her.
Then he looks at Zahira and says, "My mom might be close, so I texted her." He hesitates, staring blankly at the unmoving bodies before him. "I hate this," he mutters. Once again wishing he was at home and that his dad hadn't been so insistent on him becoming an adventurer. Then this might never have happened. But it was happening, and he had to deal with it. Shutting down and walking away wasn't an option now, he'd let that opportunity slip by when he'd been stupid enough to follow his group into the building in the fist place.
Letting out another huff, he stares blankly at his crystal, fingers poised as if to dial a number.
(OOC: I was going to have him call, but he's kind of anxious about talking to people in general, so it might take some encouragement.)
- I hate this too ... - Zahira replies, almost inaudibly. From the little time she has know Kuro, she's certain that stepping forward and sending that text must have been a big effort for the sorcerer boy, so she puts a still shaky hand on his forearm and says - Thank you for texting your mom. I hope this doesn't complicate things with your family, but if it does we'll stand by you, okay? We didn't do nothing wrong here.
As he sees Kuro's still with his fingers on the crystal keyboard, she adds:
- Does she usually answer quickly? Give her a moment to reply. It might not be necessary to call...
After this, Zahira will ready her last healing spell to use it on whoever boy seems closer to death, in case help arrives too late. She also asks Ethan:
- Ethan, with everything that has happened, can you tell us at least what where you trying to accomplish here? Clearly it was more than just partying. Why where your companions so eager to kill us all? (Ooc: Lol, tried a new persuasion and got a 2 -1 = 1. 🤣)
(OOC: oops, I meant that I was going to have him call the cops after texting his mom. He wouldn't have a problem calling his mother lol. He just doesn't want to be the one to talk to the officials :'D Oh well, it makes sense that Zahira would think he's thinking about calling his mom.)
Kuro stares at the crystal for a moment before responding to Zahira, "I... think we should call the cops..." He grips his crystal tightly, the fingers of his free hand curling a little as he stares at the numbers on the screen.
He lets out a breath, then shrugs as if dismissing the idea and shoves his crystal back into his pocket. He doesn't know what he'd say to the cops if he called, so why bother trying? They'll get involved somehow. Maybe he'll get in trouble for not calling, but that's an issue for later. For now he turns his emerald gaze to Ethen, waiting to see if he answers Zahara's question.
Ethan was ready to give chase alongside Zephyro before Zahira had yelled out to him.
"Ahh babe... Err.. Fine fine! I won't chase him jeez.."
Kuro had recievied a response back rather quickly, a text saying "What!? Where are you???"
Ethan looked nervous seeing Kuro text someone, he wasn't eager to wait for the cops.
"Crap.. Babes you don't know what's going on. Jeez.."
Zahira had asked the tiefling why he was here but he wasn't sure what to say. He came to the one's on the ground putting them in handcuffs, however.. They were indeed fuzzy hand cuffs.
"Look it's... It's complicated but you can't just trust anyone. Even if they are a cop or a knight, the people they.. We worked for.. They had people all right? You can't trust nobody. .. I can't believe I fought them.. And he got away.. Oh man there gonna skin me alive huh? Ahh jeez..."
When Kuro holds off calling the cops it causes Ethan to take a breath and take more time to answer Zahira's question. Despite her poor attempt at persuading it appeared he didn't need much convincing.
"I.. I know it looks bad, I didn't mean for things to get so bad ya know? They told me they could pay me, I needed the quick cash.. I thought it was just some small time work from those uptight pricks in Straus Haven. They told me that Straus Haven was planning on taking over Crystal Meadows and I thought I was helping.."
He took another breath as his tail lashed about.
"They.. Ended up taking kids, doing research here and in the cellar below. I can take you to the cellar.. Just don't get the cops involved. They told me they got people and they found out where I lived. I found out there a group called the purist... I don't know what that is. Or why they took the kids, I know they needed this warehouse guarded, that amp hurts people's heads and minds. They took my music.. Made it a god damn weapon."
OOC For Zahira I wouldn't say the persuasion takes a turn but the med check yes
But Zim/Trick can heal for this encounter before officially leaving ^~^
Zephyro takes a few breaths to try to regain his senses. "I can't help them. I've got absolutely no training in the medical field so I might just make it worse."As he speaks, the shakiness in his voice fades. Though now that he can somewhat fully comprehend the situation, he takes note of the other kid's wounds. Burns? Who did that? Was it Kuro? The young sorcerer had mentioned that his father was of draconic blood. Putting that thought to the back of his mind, he continues, "Zim, Trick, I think you two might be able to help." He looks at Zahira, "I don't think we should get Flurry involved in this. It's bad enough that we are involved."
Standing up, he grasps his bloody shoulder again and looks at Ethan. "Show us the cellar quickly. I don't know how long we have until the authorities come. With a bloody dragonborn running down the road...we don't have much time." He looks around the room. "I thought there was something off about that music...do you think we can destroy this stuff so they can't do it again?" He looks back at Ethan. While he's never experienced the need for money, he thinks he can understand the guy. "I don't think we can avoid the cops at this point, so if we really can't trust anyone, you should get out of here as fast as you can." He pulls out his wallet and fishes out 10gp. "Here,"He says holding it out to him."Take this and make yourself scarce. I'm sorry that you ended up in this mess, but I'm glad you had the guts to fight back rather than just go along with them."
- So this might be where that missing kid we were looking for is after all! And... this looks much much bigger than it initially looked. Cops and Knights involved? "The Purists"?- she keeps that specific name in mind, to ask Plash about it later - Ethan, during your time working for them did you get any name? Any other location that could be worth investigating? Any kind of lead?
She nods in agreement with Zephyro when he tells Ethan to make himself scarce, and adds:
- I'm sorry to hear that they used your music this way. Before you go, how can we contact you if we need it? Can you give us your crystal number just in case?
Then continues replying to Zephyro:
- Yeah, with Zim and Trick healing these guys I'd say we have that matter covered and need to involve no one else - she turns to Kuro - What do we do about your mother? Now it isn't necessary to involve her further, but I guess we'll have to think of what to tell her about all this. I imagine she won't forget about it so easily.
- So, what are we going to do with the cellar? If you guys where playing now, then it must mean there are people down there performing experiments right now. We are in no position to face more fighting, but I don't want abandon those kids our just leave to return later and find out that they've dismantled this place. If what Ethan says is true, then calling the cops doesn't sound like a great idea. So, who should we tell about this? Sakimoto? The Principal perhaps?
Ethan looked at Zephyro and the gold he seemed a bit.. Stuck in the moment. He had put a hand up, looking out the front window of the warehouse for a moment.
"No sight of him.. Or the cops.. For now anyway."
Ethan had crossed his arms for a moment pondering in thought at Zahira's questions. Ethan's eyes lit up when Zahira had asked for his number, he took out a paper while scrambling for a pen. When that didn't pan out he instead suddenly started rattling numbers off to her.
"Well.. I mean... There is someone I talked too... He goes by Reaper in school but I doubt that it's his real name. He's.. a good kid it's my fault he's in this mess he's a freshman like you all he's in the wizard class actually. Also.. tomorrow I was supposed to meet the purist at the mines. However, now that he got away... I'm not sure what will happen with that. I have another number of a guy I can give you. I don't know who he is, but I learned he works at the nightclub. That's.. All I got sorry. Oh wait! The cellar.. There isn't anyone down there right now. That's why we were here.. Guarding the place!"
"Heeeeeeeey, hold your horses ...! Just what did you think I wanted your number for ...??", Zahira thinks when she sees Ethan's reaction. But she just raises an eyebrow slightly, adds his contact to her crystal without saying anything else on the matter.
Reaper. She had just been talking about that guy with Himari a few days ago. She had also mentioned that he's a good kid, despite his dark nickname, so how the hell did he get involved in all this? He probably made friends with Ethan because they both seem to have the same taste in music. But one thing is to have common interest, and other to get involved into whatever seems to be happening concerning Strauss and Crystal Meadows.
- So this Reaper and that other guy that wors at the nightclub, are they involved too into all this mess you've told us? Don't you have any name for the nightclub guy? Well, in any case, we've got some leads to think about, so thank you for sharing this, Ethan. And if the cellar is empty, I'd say we should do a quick investigation while the cops aren't coming, don't you think, guys?- she asks her party - The only thing we need solving before that is .... your mom, Kuro. I don't know ... can you try to tell her that it was all a prank? You can say you have a very stupid air genasi in your party that is has the most terrible taste in pranks. I don't mind, if this gets you out of trouble - she shrugs as she says this.
Kuro blinks, why did it matter if his mom came? Pretend it was a joke? As if she would believe that. He huffed. If Mom came, then maybe she could call the police and explain the situation. This really wasn't the type of thing kids should be involved in in the first place. Why check out the scene when they could get the cops to do that? They can't seriously be thinking that searching the cellar is a good idea... ok, they probably are. He should expect that by now. He doesn't really care about this Reaper guy, and it's Ethan's own fault he's involved in this so he should face the consequences. Yet, he won't say any of this. Instead, he pulls out his crystal and stares at it for a moment. If they tell the principle, then Father will definitely find out about it. If they tell Sakimoto, then they'll just find themselves deeper in it. If mom comes, then she'll probably tell someone or call the cops, and they won't have any control over the situation anymore... not that he really wants to be in charge of this situation, but he knows that the others do. So, not wanting to cause problems with the group, he texts his mom, "Its fine. It was a stupid prank by these idiots. Sorry. I panicked." It was a lie, but at least it should be believable. She knows how he is, and it wouldn't be far off to believe that these punks were trying to fool them with some sick joke. That way Zahira doesn't have to take the fall for it either.
Then he looks at Zahira and says, "I told her it was a joke. Blamed it on them." He nods to the two on the floor.
Zephyro stands there for a moment, before putting the money away. It's probably best not to push it on him, though now he hopes he didn't offend the guy. Noting the guy's reaction to Zahira asking for his number, Zephyro is relieved that he himself had not. He had thought about it, but didn't want to give the wrong impression. At least now they have a way to contact him if necessary. Hmm, Reaper is in the wizard class? Perhaps he will have to spend some more time there. He sighs mentally, he needs to somewhat improve his skills in the arcane before his parents get suspicious. Heh, maybe he can get some ranged spells.
"I'll see if I can get in contact with Reaper. I've been auditing the Wizard class, but I may need to spend a bit more time there anyway."He states without elaborating. "It would be good if you could give us that other guy's contact, but for now let's go see this cellar."
"Are you sure..? Ya know, if you ever need me.. I am here for you dear just.. Let me know okay?"
Ethan had looked over to Zahira and Zephyro, he had begun to rattle off Reapers numbers to Zephyro.
"Though he might not answer for an unknown number, I can give him a heads up. I'll.. Have to lay low for awhile though. I can't show up at home or school honestly.. Not for awhile if I don't wanna end up dead anyway."
With that Ethan had begun to lead them down to the cellar. Down there appeared to be many tables with alchemist sets as well as arcane tools. Symbols all around and in the center, in the center was a glowing red crystal.
Zahira nods and smiles to Kuro, and then follows the rest to the cellar. On their way there, she adds another question for Ethan:
- So, those Purists bring kids to this place? Do you know if Len Pencross was one of them? He's been missing for a while and there are several other students looking for him as we speak - "Like Arthur, Himari and the rest of their party, to which this Reaper guy belongs", she thinks. They will have to share all this information with them at some point, right?
When they reach the cellar, she gasps:
- My! There are lots of things here worth investigating...! - she exclaims, the scholar in her suddenly awaking with interest - ... If we had more time I would try to ritually detect anything magic here, but I guess we don't have 10 minutes for me to prepare for that, so ...- she grabs the lockpick from a pocket in her trousers, mutters the spell wording, and her eyes suddenly turn to an even lighter shade of blue, which indicates that the spell is active. Then she begins looking for anything magical in the room - ... oookay, let's see....!
(OOC: along with Detect Magic, I'm gonna roll Investigation to check the arcane tools, the symnbols, the red crystal: 24)
She see's the crystal glow with a red aura, and many other crystal's hidden alongside it. All the crystals appear to have transmutation and Necromancy. Something was odd about those crystals. Something pulsating that much she could tell and perhaps it was worth investigating them all even further.
"I just know they take kids who are good at magic... I don't know why though."
- Kids that are good at magic? Hey, I'm good at magic! Should I be offended? - Zahira giggles at her own comment, but stops inmediately afterwards when she realizes what she's joking about - Ok, sorry, not the best topic to joke about. Shut up, Zahira - she mumbles.
- Anyway, what I wonder is: are they after wizards, specifically, or could they also be targeting sorcerers, artificers, clerics... ? Guys, do we know of any other missing kid besides Len? Knowing this could help answer that question.
She is saying all this as she's checking the room with her detection spell up. When she reaches the crystals, she mutters:
- Mmmm, this stinks of Necromancy...
She keeps investigating the crystals without touching anything, and also looks for any kind of written paper or notebook that could have been left behind.
(OOC: With the 24I got, do I have to roll investigation again to check the crystals? I will leave another roll, if that is the case: 7 - or16with advantage if Zeph / Kuro help me out.)
Zephyro quickly types the number into his crystal, and follows Ethan down to the cellar. "I don't know of any other missing kids, but either way this issue is a lot bigger than I realized."Once the number is saved into his crystal, he checks to make sure it isn't already in his contacts. He seems to be oblivious to the girl's comment, as he is lost in thought. While he would hate to loose time in his studies as a monk, this thing they have gotten themselves into is probably more important...not to mention he would probably benefit from learning another spell or two in case his parents ask for some demonstration. Plus he can potentially keep an eye on Reaper and maybe get him out of a bad situation. He'll have to tell Twilight about this....
He also examines the room when Zahira starts her investigation. Once the Genasi approaches the crystal, and says something about necromancy, makes his way over to her. "Necromancy? Didn't the book from the cafeteria indecent also have something to do with that?"
Investigation: 16
Also avoiding physical contact with anything in the room, examines the crystal as well. (or helps Zahira, though I'm not sure how he'd do that if he doesn't know anything about it.)
Kuro huffs, reading his mom's text. She isn't going to let this go is she. Of course, since he'd sent a photo it probably looked as real as it was. Though he hopes that she's convinced enough not to question him later. After a moment he texts, "I know. Thanks." and leaves it at that. She'll probably ask for a rundown later, so he doesn't feel like trying to explain further over text.
Then again, he doesn't really feel like going down into this cellar either, so when the others follow Ethan, he hangs back for a moment. Was it worth potentially getting into more trouble? He hesitates, but ultimately follows the group. The last thing he needs is to be left alone, especially considering the Dragonborn and that other one got away. Who knows if they'll come back with some friends to retrieve whatever they left behind.
When they reach the cellar, he looks around with his usual bored expression. Detect magic isn't really a spell he favors, considering his father never really focused on that. Sure, he's learned it before but it was not as engrained into him as the more... destructive spells were. So he just hangs back while the others investigate.
When Ethan mentions the purists were after kids who were good with magic, his first thought is, well I guess I don't have anything to worry about. And it was probably true. At least his uselessness was good for something. He blinks at Zahira's comment, but doesn't remark on it. His face remains passive as he turns his attention back to the rest of the room. He doesn't move to really investigate anything, opting instead to stand back and observe from a distance. Judging by the ominous red glow, he doesn't really fancy getting close.
Arcana check (we'll see if the game log does any better for me...): ...9NOOOOOO the curse of the 9s returns!!!! That's officially the last time I use the game log. I can't take the 9s anymore :'D.
Ethan wasn't sure of any other kids that may have been missing but the question of course was for everyone here. It could be a matter to certainly ask about at the school sometime. As Zahira examines the other crystals they seem to be... Magical but lacking something compared to the others. As Zephyro grabs the crystal and looks it over, with his arcanic skills and investigative. Him and Zahira see.. Two prints form on the crystal. Small little digits, a haze in the crystal orb. Than they both see two blue orbs, pupils? The digits were.. Fingers yes this small form. Looking up was a small elven boy staring at them both in a school uniform. It took immense focus, tuning with the crystal but here he was... In the crystal staring at them both.
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Kuro watches blankly as Zephiro runs off, all bloody and bruised. Maybe the sight of him will be enough to draw some attention and hopefully get the cops involved. They should have called the cops in the first place, he just didn't want to be the one to do it. He doesn't want to have to explain anything to the authorities, much less get his father's attention should he find out too. Now, they have two dying people on the floor to worry about. Like Zahira said, the Dragonborn getting away probably won't be worse than being involved in murder. Sure, they could say it was self defense, as if that would get them very far. There would still be consequences he doesn't want to deal with.
Huffing, he looks down at the elf who'd been too stubborn to fall for his siren trick. It wasn't like he'd really expected that to work but...man it would have made things so much easier. Fortunately, during his time of incident boredom in his room, he'd stumbled across some posts and whatnot about how to treat burns. It seemed like a good thing to know considering all the fire training Father insisted on putting him through. Who knew it would be useful for someone other than himself.
Medicine (to stabilize the elf): (18) it was an 8 (in case it changes due to me editing)
Once finished, he stares at the older kid for a while as if waiting to see whether or not his attempts really did anything. Regardless of the outcome, he shrugs and looks at Zahira, "I don't have any rope. Probably should just call the cops." He looks down, averting his gaze and sticking his hands in his pockets. If they don't want the cops involved... well he could get his dad over here... but he really, really doesn't want him to know. If worst comes to worst, he could text his father and then leave. Then HE'LL be the one stuck with the unconscious kids, and Kuro can go hide under his bed until the whole thing blows over.
Zeph stumbles slightly when his shocking grasp fails to make contact. Cursing, he readjusts his glasses, then realizes that his hand is covered in blood. Blood that was almost definitely his own. Looking back up after the fleeing dragonborn, he grits his teeth. He really doesn't want to let him get away.
Just before he tries to dash after him again, Zahira's voice rings in his ears. "Murder?" He thinks, brain fuzzy from all his blood loss. Turning around, he sees Kuro and Zahira attempting to stabilize the elf. His eyes widen, "Sweet Cerebrum! What have we done!" Suddenly he becomes aware of each and every wound. Grasping his left shoulder where the dragonborn had struck him before, he stumbles toward the fallen elf. His body quivers as he moves, though it is not from pain. "Th-They aren't dead are they? W-We didn't kill them..." Breathing heavily, he falls to his knees next to the elf, then reaches out a shaky hand to feel for a pulse.
Zahira sighs in relief when she sees Zephyro coming to his senses.
- Not yet, but they soon will be if we don't do something quickly - she mutters, while she watches Kuro treating the elf's burns - I don't really how to treat burns, but let me try-... - she watches her friend and tries to mimic him to stabilize the dwarf. But it doesn't seem to be helping at all. Is he perhaps beyond help....? (ooc: Medicine check = 7)
"Oh, God... we were supposed to be looking for a missing kid, not getting into killing anyone ..."
- Not good, this isn't working. Guys! I still have one Cure Wounds left. But who should I cure ... ? And we should call the cops, yes, but they will take too much time to arrive, won't they? I wonder ... Flurry must have a first aid kit, right? What if we run to his shop and ask him for it? It may help!
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Kuro blinks, Neither of them. Why waste a spell on these jerks when they'll probably just wake up and start fighting again? They should just monitor them while someone goes to get help, then if one of them starts getting worse... if that's possible... then they can use the spell. Instead he just shrugs, wondering if his mom is close enough to come help out. She's good at healing, so maybe she can fix this... though she'll probably get father involved and then he'll have both of them to deal with. Ugh. And if he doesn't call the cops then no one else will... oh well. Someone's bound to see that Dragonborn running down the road all beat up, so maybe they'll do it for him.
Huffing, he pulls out his phone and texts his location to his mom. Then writes, "Need help. Some people are dying." He sends it then pauses, realizing that his mom might just assume he's being overdramatic. So he adds, "Not a joke." then snaps a picture of the elf and the dwarf and sends it to her.
Then he looks at Zahira and says, "My mom might be close, so I texted her." He hesitates, staring blankly at the unmoving bodies before him. "I hate this," he mutters. Once again wishing he was at home and that his dad hadn't been so insistent on him becoming an adventurer. Then this might never have happened. But it was happening, and he had to deal with it. Shutting down and walking away wasn't an option now, he'd let that opportunity slip by when he'd been stupid enough to follow his group into the building in the fist place.
Letting out another huff, he stares blankly at his crystal, fingers poised as if to dial a number.
(OOC: I was going to have him call, but he's kind of anxious about talking to people in general, so it might take some encouragement.)
- I hate this too ... - Zahira replies, almost inaudibly. From the little time she has know Kuro, she's certain that stepping forward and sending that text must have been a big effort for the sorcerer boy, so she puts a still shaky hand on his forearm and says - Thank you for texting your mom. I hope this doesn't complicate things with your family, but if it does we'll stand by you, okay? We didn't do nothing wrong here.
As he sees Kuro's still with his fingers on the crystal keyboard, she adds:
- Does she usually answer quickly? Give her a moment to reply. It might not be necessary to call...
After this, Zahira will ready her last healing spell to use it on whoever boy seems closer to death, in case help arrives too late. She also asks Ethan:
- Ethan, with everything that has happened, can you tell us at least what where you trying to accomplish here? Clearly it was more than just partying. Why where your companions so eager to kill us all? (Ooc: Lol, tried a new persuasion and got a 2 -1 = 1. 🤣)
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
(OOC: oops, I meant that I was going to have him call the cops after texting his mom. He wouldn't have a problem calling his mother lol. He just doesn't want to be the one to talk to the officials :'D Oh well, it makes sense that Zahira would think he's thinking about calling his mom.)
Kuro stares at the crystal for a moment before responding to Zahira, "I... think we should call the cops..." He grips his crystal tightly, the fingers of his free hand curling a little as he stares at the numbers on the screen.
He lets out a breath, then shrugs as if dismissing the idea and shoves his crystal back into his pocket. He doesn't know what he'd say to the cops if he called, so why bother trying? They'll get involved somehow. Maybe he'll get in trouble for not calling, but that's an issue for later. For now he turns his emerald gaze to Ethen, waiting to see if he answers Zahara's question.
Ethan was ready to give chase alongside Zephyro before Zahira had yelled out to him.
"Ahh babe... Err.. Fine fine! I won't chase him jeez.."
Kuro had recievied a response back rather quickly, a text saying "What!? Where are you???"
Ethan looked nervous seeing Kuro text someone, he wasn't eager to wait for the cops.
"Crap.. Babes you don't know what's going on. Jeez.."
Zahira had asked the tiefling why he was here but he wasn't sure what to say. He came to the one's on the ground putting them in handcuffs, however.. They were indeed fuzzy hand cuffs.
"Look it's... It's complicated but you can't just trust anyone. Even if they are a cop or a knight, the people they.. We worked for.. They had people all right? You can't trust nobody. .. I can't believe I fought them.. And he got away.. Oh man there gonna skin me alive huh? Ahh jeez..."
When Kuro holds off calling the cops it causes Ethan to take a breath and take more time to answer Zahira's question. Despite her poor attempt at persuading it appeared he didn't need much convincing.
"I.. I know it looks bad, I didn't mean for things to get so bad ya know? They told me they could pay me, I needed the quick cash.. I thought it was just some small time work from those uptight pricks in Straus Haven. They told me that Straus Haven was planning on taking over Crystal Meadows and I thought I was helping.."
He took another breath as his tail lashed about.
"They.. Ended up taking kids, doing research here and in the cellar below. I can take you to the cellar.. Just don't get the cops involved. They told me they got people and they found out where I lived. I found out there a group called the purist... I don't know what that is. Or why they took the kids, I know they needed this warehouse guarded, that amp hurts people's heads and minds. They took my music.. Made it a god damn weapon."
OOC
For Zahira I wouldn't say the persuasion takes a turn but the med check yes
But Zim/Trick can heal for this encounter before officially leaving ^~^
Zephyro takes a few breaths to try to regain his senses. "I can't help them. I've got absolutely no training in the medical field so I might just make it worse." As he speaks, the shakiness in his voice fades. Though now that he can somewhat fully comprehend the situation, he takes note of the other kid's wounds. Burns? Who did that? Was it Kuro? The young sorcerer had mentioned that his father was of draconic blood. Putting that thought to the back of his mind, he continues, "Zim, Trick, I think you two might be able to help." He looks at Zahira, "I don't think we should get Flurry involved in this. It's bad enough that we are involved."
Standing up, he grasps his bloody shoulder again and looks at Ethan. "Show us the cellar quickly. I don't know how long we have until the authorities come. With a bloody dragonborn running down the road...we don't have much time." He looks around the room. "I thought there was something off about that music...do you think we can destroy this stuff so they can't do it again?" He looks back at Ethan. While he's never experienced the need for money, he thinks he can understand the guy. "I don't think we can avoid the cops at this point, so if we really can't trust anyone, you should get out of here as fast as you can." He pulls out his wallet and fishes out 10gp. "Here," He says holding it out to him. "Take this and make yourself scarce. I'm sorry that you ended up in this mess, but I'm glad you had the guts to fight back rather than just go along with them."
Zahira is shocked at the revelations:
- So this might be where that missing kid we were looking for is after all! And... this looks much much bigger than it initially looked. Cops and Knights involved? "The Purists"? - she keeps that specific name in mind, to ask Plash about it later - Ethan, during your time working for them did you get any name? Any other location that could be worth investigating? Any kind of lead?
She nods in agreement with Zephyro when he tells Ethan to make himself scarce, and adds:
- I'm sorry to hear that they used your music this way. Before you go, how can we contact you if we need it? Can you give us your crystal number just in case?
Then continues replying to Zephyro:
- Yeah, with Zim and Trick healing these guys I'd say we have that matter covered and need to involve no one else - she turns to Kuro - What do we do about your mother? Now it isn't necessary to involve her further, but I guess we'll have to think of what to tell her about all this. I imagine she won't forget about it so easily.
- So, what are we going to do with the cellar? If you guys where playing now, then it must mean there are people down there performing experiments right now. We are in no position to face more fighting, but I don't want abandon those kids our just leave to return later and find out that they've dismantled this place. If what Ethan says is true, then calling the cops doesn't sound like a great idea. So, who should we tell about this? Sakimoto? The Principal perhaps?
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Ethan looked at Zephyro and the gold he seemed a bit.. Stuck in the moment. He had put a hand up, looking out the front window of the warehouse for a moment.
"No sight of him.. Or the cops.. For now anyway."
Ethan had crossed his arms for a moment pondering in thought at Zahira's questions. Ethan's eyes lit up when Zahira had asked for his number, he took out a paper while scrambling for a pen. When that didn't pan out he instead suddenly started rattling numbers off to her.
"Well.. I mean... There is someone I talked too... He goes by Reaper in school but I doubt that it's his real name. He's.. a good kid it's my fault he's in this mess he's a freshman like you all he's in the wizard class actually. Also.. tomorrow I was supposed to meet the purist at the mines. However, now that he got away... I'm not sure what will happen with that. I have another number of a guy I can give you. I don't know who he is, but I learned he works at the nightclub. That's.. All I got sorry. Oh wait! The cellar.. There isn't anyone down there right now. That's why we were here.. Guarding the place!"
"Heeeeeeeey, hold your horses ...! Just what did you think I wanted your number for ...??", Zahira thinks when she sees Ethan's reaction. But she just raises an eyebrow slightly, adds his contact to her crystal without saying anything else on the matter.
Reaper. She had just been talking about that guy with Himari a few days ago. She had also mentioned that he's a good kid, despite his dark nickname, so how the hell did he get involved in all this? He probably made friends with Ethan because they both seem to have the same taste in music. But one thing is to have common interest, and other to get involved into whatever seems to be happening concerning Strauss and Crystal Meadows.
- So this Reaper and that other guy that wors at the nightclub, are they involved too into all this mess you've told us? Don't you have any name for the nightclub guy? Well, in any case, we've got some leads to think about, so thank you for sharing this, Ethan. And if the cellar is empty, I'd say we should do a quick investigation while the cops aren't coming, don't you think, guys? - she asks her party - The only thing we need solving before that is .... your mom, Kuro. I don't know ... can you try to tell her that it was all a prank? You can say you have a very stupid air genasi in your party that is has the most terrible taste in pranks. I don't mind, if this gets you out of trouble - she shrugs as she says this.
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Kuro blinks, why did it matter if his mom came? Pretend it was a joke? As if she would believe that. He huffed. If Mom came, then maybe she could call the police and explain the situation. This really wasn't the type of thing kids should be involved in in the first place. Why check out the scene when they could get the cops to do that? They can't seriously be thinking that searching the cellar is a good idea... ok, they probably are. He should expect that by now. He doesn't really care about this Reaper guy, and it's Ethan's own fault he's involved in this so he should face the consequences. Yet, he won't say any of this. Instead, he pulls out his crystal and stares at it for a moment. If they tell the principle, then Father will definitely find out about it. If they tell Sakimoto, then they'll just find themselves deeper in it. If mom comes, then she'll probably tell someone or call the cops, and they won't have any control over the situation anymore... not that he really wants to be in charge of this situation, but he knows that the others do. So, not wanting to cause problems with the group, he texts his mom, "Its fine. It was a stupid prank by these idiots. Sorry. I panicked." It was a lie, but at least it should be believable. She knows how he is, and it wouldn't be far off to believe that these punks were trying to fool them with some sick joke. That way Zahira doesn't have to take the fall for it either.
Then he looks at Zahira and says, "I told her it was a joke. Blamed it on them." He nods to the two on the floor.
Zephyro stands there for a moment, before putting the money away. It's probably best not to push it on him, though now he hopes he didn't offend the guy. Noting the guy's reaction to Zahira asking for his number, Zephyro is relieved that he himself had not. He had thought about it, but didn't want to give the wrong impression. At least now they have a way to contact him if necessary. Hmm, Reaper is in the wizard class? Perhaps he will have to spend some more time there. He sighs mentally, he needs to somewhat improve his skills in the arcane before his parents get suspicious. Heh, maybe he can get some ranged spells.
"I'll see if I can get in contact with Reaper. I've been auditing the Wizard class, but I may need to spend a bit more time there anyway." He states without elaborating. "It would be good if you could give us that other guy's contact, but for now let's go see this cellar."
Kuro had received a text back in a few moments.
"Are you sure..? Ya know, if you ever need me.. I am here for you dear just.. Let me know okay?"
Ethan had looked over to Zahira and Zephyro, he had begun to rattle off Reapers numbers to Zephyro.
"Though he might not answer for an unknown number, I can give him a heads up. I'll.. Have to lay low for awhile though. I can't show up at home or school honestly.. Not for awhile if I don't wanna end up dead anyway."
With that Ethan had begun to lead them down to the cellar. Down there appeared to be many tables with alchemist sets as well as arcane tools. Symbols all around and in the center, in the center was a glowing red crystal.
Zahira nods and smiles to Kuro, and then follows the rest to the cellar. On their way there, she adds another question for Ethan:
- So, those Purists bring kids to this place? Do you know if Len Pencross was one of them? He's been missing for a while and there are several other students looking for him as we speak - "Like Arthur, Himari and the rest of their party, to which this Reaper guy belongs", she thinks. They will have to share all this information with them at some point, right?
When they reach the cellar, she gasps:
- My! There are lots of things here worth investigating...! - she exclaims, the scholar in her suddenly awaking with interest - ... If we had more time I would try to ritually detect anything magic here, but I guess we don't have 10 minutes for me to prepare for that, so ... - she grabs the lockpick from a pocket in her trousers, mutters the spell wording, and her eyes suddenly turn to an even lighter shade of blue, which indicates that the spell is active. Then she begins looking for anything magical in the room - ... oookay, let's see....!
(OOC: along with Detect Magic, I'm gonna roll Investigation to check the arcane tools, the symnbols, the red crystal: 24)
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
She see's the crystal glow with a red aura, and many other crystal's hidden alongside it. All the crystals appear to have transmutation and Necromancy. Something was odd about those crystals. Something pulsating that much she could tell and perhaps it was worth investigating them all even further.
"I just know they take kids who are good at magic... I don't know why though."
- Kids that are good at magic? Hey, I'm good at magic! Should I be offended? - Zahira giggles at her own comment, but stops inmediately afterwards when she realizes what she's joking about - Ok, sorry, not the best topic to joke about. Shut up, Zahira - she mumbles.
- Anyway, what I wonder is: are they after wizards, specifically, or could they also be targeting sorcerers, artificers, clerics... ? Guys, do we know of any other missing kid besides Len? Knowing this could help answer that question.
She is saying all this as she's checking the room with her detection spell up. When she reaches the crystals, she mutters:
- Mmmm, this stinks of Necromancy...
She keeps investigating the crystals without touching anything, and also looks for any kind of written paper or notebook that could have been left behind.
(OOC: With the 24 I got, do I have to roll investigation again to check the crystals? I will leave another roll, if that is the case: 7 - or 16 with advantage if Zeph / Kuro help me out.)
Peindre l'amour, peindre la vie, pleurer en couleur ♫
Auriel | Shenua | Arren | Lyra
Zephyro quickly types the number into his crystal, and follows Ethan down to the cellar. "I don't know of any other missing kids, but either way this issue is a lot bigger than I realized." Once the number is saved into his crystal, he checks to make sure it isn't already in his contacts. He seems to be oblivious to the girl's comment, as he is lost in thought. While he would hate to loose time in his studies as a monk, this thing they have gotten themselves into is probably more important...not to mention he would probably benefit from learning another spell or two in case his parents ask for some demonstration. Plus he can potentially keep an eye on Reaper and maybe get him out of a bad situation. He'll have to tell Twilight about this....
He also examines the room when Zahira starts her investigation. Once the Genasi approaches the crystal, and says something about necromancy, makes his way over to her. "Necromancy? Didn't the book from the cafeteria indecent also have something to do with that?"
Investigation: 16
Also avoiding physical contact with anything in the room, examines the crystal as well. (or helps Zahira, though I'm not sure how he'd do that if he doesn't know anything about it.)
Arcana: 21
Kuro huffs, reading his mom's text. She isn't going to let this go is she. Of course, since he'd sent a photo it probably looked as real as it was. Though he hopes that she's convinced enough not to question him later. After a moment he texts, "I know. Thanks." and leaves it at that. She'll probably ask for a rundown later, so he doesn't feel like trying to explain further over text.
Then again, he doesn't really feel like going down into this cellar either, so when the others follow Ethan, he hangs back for a moment. Was it worth potentially getting into more trouble? He hesitates, but ultimately follows the group. The last thing he needs is to be left alone, especially considering the Dragonborn and that other one got away. Who knows if they'll come back with some friends to retrieve whatever they left behind.
When they reach the cellar, he looks around with his usual bored expression. Detect magic isn't really a spell he favors, considering his father never really focused on that. Sure, he's learned it before but it was not as engrained into him as the more... destructive spells were. So he just hangs back while the others investigate.
When Ethan mentions the purists were after kids who were good with magic, his first thought is, well I guess I don't have anything to worry about. And it was probably true. At least his uselessness was good for something. He blinks at Zahira's comment, but doesn't remark on it. His face remains passive as he turns his attention back to the rest of the room. He doesn't move to really investigate anything, opting instead to stand back and observe from a distance. Judging by the ominous red glow, he doesn't really fancy getting close.
Arcana check (we'll see if the game log does any better for me...): ...9 NOOOOOO the curse of the 9s returns!!!! That's officially the last time I use the game log. I can't take the 9s anymore :'D.
Ethan wasn't sure of any other kids that may have been missing but the question of course was for everyone here. It could be a matter to certainly ask about at the school sometime. As Zahira examines the other crystals they seem to be... Magical but lacking something compared to the others. As Zephyro grabs the crystal and looks it over, with his arcanic skills and investigative. Him and Zahira see.. Two prints form on the crystal. Small little digits, a haze in the crystal orb. Than they both see two blue orbs, pupils? The digits were.. Fingers yes this small form. Looking up was a small elven boy staring at them both in a school uniform. It took immense focus, tuning with the crystal but here he was... In the crystal staring at them both.