Stella Spartaco Baroness of Varni in Gheradescci County
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on the road
Like Francesco Phandros in his own caravan a week ago, Baroness Stella Spartaco does not deign to even look at the soldiers escorting her, viewing them as peasants. Once per day she has a brief meeting with the WarPriest of Moloch and the Arcanist, Wand-Wielder. Outside of that she keeps her own council or speaks with Magnius and Yaos.
"I have an idea that will help both of us achieve our goals.
"By now House Phandros has learned of Francesco's murder by Bellflower Agents. Count Vocaturo has assigned the hunting of the criminals to Baron Valsecchi, and The Fox is certainly on their trail by now.
"But you know precisely where the attack was made and what the Halflings look like. The Baron does not.
"As the woman who lost her fiance and the Baroness who lost a Baron-Consort, I can make a big show of wanting my own champions to hunt down the Halfling criminals.
"When we reach Castle Spartaco I can tell Count Vocaturo that it should be you, with my authority, that hunts down the criminals.
"Varni does NOT have the money or resources to grant more than one Title right now. But if your personal standing in House Spartaco is elevated -- and we have a precedent of your working with my Barony -- the groundwork will be laid for your own personal rise to ascend with my Barony's!"
The young girl has thought this through. It makes her look good for sending you two to hunt down the Bellflower Agents. It helps her separate herself from her uncle the Count by taking charge of this hunt. It shows House Phandros -- and the Archduchy, House Charthagnion, that Baroness Stella Spartaco is taking power.
She does not fathom the difficulty or dirtiness or danger. It is in her mind a task no different in complexity than a butcher turning pig meat into prosciutto or salami while a vintner turns grape into wine, so that a chef can then prepare a meal. She doesn't know the steps of the process. She just knows the outcome.
"And if you do this, you will have earned a valuable place in House Spartaco that has no limit to positions of power. I could send you to other parts of the Archduchy looking for another Baron-Consort; I could send you to other parts of the Archduchy to spy and gather information. The more power and accomplishment you achieve on behalf of the Barony of Varni and House Spartaco, the more influence and status you gain in the County and beyond.
"You could be my personal cadre of specialists, the ones personally used for grand missions. With my gold and Title backing you we can both grow. And as I earn grander Titles you will of course earn Titles."
Meant to post this last night, but got involved in some nonsense online, and forgot. This takes place our first day out.
1d20 + 15 ⇒ (15) + 15 = 30 Cosmology to learn about Moloch
Magnius rides up next to the warpriest "I see you worship Moloch, the Ashen Bull, God of Fire and the General of Hell. It is good to know we have a warrior of the most formidable of archdevils keeping us safe."
1d20 + 21 + 1d6 ⇒ (4) + 21 + (5) = 30 Diplomacy
1d20 + 21 + 1d6 ⇒ (15) + 21 + (4) = 40 Diplomacy, re-roll, via Blessed Infiltration. Keeping this roll. If he's a Hellknight, that's a 42.
Guess who just read Moloch's entry in Book of the Damned last night?? LOLOL
Archaeologist Bard 8 HP 64/64| AC 23| T 17| FF 16| Fort +7| Ref +15| Will +10| Init +8 Perc +17 | Concentration +13| AL 7/8 L1 6/6 L2 5/5 L3 3/3
While Magnius and Yaos speak with Stella, arranging what Alfred is sure will be a splendid settlement of power or money for themselves, he hangs back and speaks with Ennahvail.
Far enough from the others to not be overheard, he says "Ennahvail, I may have some tasks for you in the near future when we reach the city. They should be rather harmless at first, but some may be difficult for you."
Taking another look to make sure no one is near Alfred continues, "I need you to tell me here and now if you are up to try. There will be rewards, both of gold and status, if we can succeed. If you do not want any part of it, then say so now and we will never speak of it again."
Sense Motive:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24 Alfred will watch her when she answers, determining how truthful and eager she is about her decision.
"Um, I don't know." She's unsure. In her own thoughts and fancy this all sounded intriguing, exciting, great. But now I'm faced with it in reality. "What kind of things will I have to do? Will it be dangerous?" She is unsure of herself.
Archaeologist Bard 8 HP 64/64| AC 23| T 17| FF 16| Fort +7| Ref +15| Will +10| Init +8 Perc +17 | Concentration +13| AL 7/8 L1 6/6 L2 5/5 L3 3/3
"Deliver messages. Pick up items. Overhear conversations. Advise me. Find things I need, regardless of their location. Put incriminating things in places I want them found. Or not found." Alfred rattles off the list. "Some of it might be dangerous. But not too much so. I want to make sure you can handle what I give you, so I will start out small and then as you prove yourself I will give you more difficult tasks. I will train you a bit, and give you advice, but you will need to learn a lot of it on your own."
Waiting a few moment, Alfred continues "This will most likely be the only change you get to be better than a lowly serving girl. Most people don't even get one chance. Seize it. Make use of it. Do something with your life other than menial labor for others."
Diplomacy:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (3) + 15 = 18
So many good words... so much bad rolling... the pain...
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos listens to the young Baroness Stella's proposals and plans, then pauses to gather her thoughts before replying:-
"Stella, I am going to say rather a lot. Trust me, you should listen and think carefully about what I say. I was born to a minor noble house and I am half-elven, which reduces my status in Chelian society.
I met my late husband Norin Battori when he was attacked as a result of one of the many feuds to which he was prone. I recognised the crest of House Battori and went to his aid. I saved him from either death or a possibly crippling beating.
Seeing my chance to rise in the world, I set about charming Norin, and soon he was proposing marriage. His parents opposed the match initially, my family is way below House Battori and I am half-elven. Dear Norin was insistent and his parents eventually relented.
Norin was handsome and could be charming, or distant. I perhaps half loved him, but I pursued him because of the status of his house. Norin was erratic, eccentric and hopelessly prone to feuds. I suspect his father Pavel and mother were trying to find him a suitable match with a girl from a powerful house but this was going nowhere.
His parents hoped that marriage would lead to Norin behaving more responsibly, that I would assist him with some of his duties, or even perform them, and keep him out of trouble. I know this because his mother told me when she informed me that although she and her husband had opposed the marriage it now had their blessing.
Both his parents plans and the marriage worked well for a few months. Norin was too preoccupied to get himself into much trouble and I assisted him with his responsibilities.
After a few months Norin... well he stopped being pre-occupied with me. We started to fight at times and Norin's genius for making enemies re-emerged. I was supposed to keep my "beloved" out of trouble, a near impossible task. I placated some of my husbands enemies, warned off others and even murdered a couple.
It wasn't enough. Three of Norin's most venomous and determined enemies combined to attack our home. The assault killed most of Norin's armed retainers, some of our servants, Norin and almost killed me. The house was damaged and set afire. Then, seeing their raid as successful, the attackers fled before a horde of conjured creatures. This proved to be a mistake, I was badly injured but not dead and managed to capture two of the attacking foot soldiers alive. These I ... persuaded to talk.
Pavel Battori, Norin's father and the patriarch of House Battori, was white with rage at hearing of his son's death. I told him myself, it was terrifying, I have never seen such rage. I think his anger had as much to do with the assault on and offence to House Battori as fatherly love.
While I was in mourning I executed the two men I had captured at my late husband's grave. I blood eagled them, tearing the lungs out through the back and placing the lungs on the shoulders. I have been called the Red Widow since.
Then I arranged for the three behind my husband's murder to disappear. One I was unable to capture alive, the others I gave over to Pavel Battori. I don't know what he did to them.
This, young Stella, is what intrigue and rivalry between Chelian nobles is like. I think my story is bloodier than average, but I have heard many more vicious histories.
You were fortunate to be born to a house where you could be made a baroness at a young age. But if you want further wealth and power ... that rarely comes without taking it from someone. And there will be those who want to take what you have as well, by fair means or, more likely, foul.
How ambitious are you Baroness? How far are you prepared to go to rise in status? And how hard, or dirty, are you prepared to fight to keep what you have?"
Stella Spartaco Baroness of Varni in Gheradescci County
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on the road "Well, truth be told, my mother the Vidame told me a good part of that tale already. Countess Olivia keeps up with all that news and such from the capital. And with you and an Arvanxi coming to my new Barony, they wanted me to know where you were coming from. Countess Olivia told my mother and the Vidame told me.
"I'm sure my aunt can tell you all about how the other noble families view Grand-Count Pavel allowing you to keep the Battori name; Countess Olivia loves that kind of gossip.
"As for my own ambition, I'm ready. This is the chance that I think all of the nobility wants but rarely gets. Most nobles strain to achieve a Title, collecting from below and paying up. Then they spend their whole lives just trying to stay ahead of the financial bottom line. It's rare to find someone who can go beyond that. In order to pay Queen Abrogail and Arch-Heathen Kettermaul I would have to spend most of my time focusing on the gold mine that granted me my Title.
"But if you and Lord Magnius are interested and willing, you can go out on my behalf, seek out weaknesses for Spartaco to exploit and execute our enemies.
"I'll provide the gold and the title. And together we can begin to gain real power.
"....I'm just not sure what Count Vocaturo's reaction will be to my idea. ....But *I* want you."
The bear of a man does not warm to Magnius. When he finally does speak a response it is barely a whisper that barely reaches beyond his enormous beard. "Moloch is the physical, strongest of the Archdevils; you speak truth. And a formidable field marshal. But he is not the most formidable."
It is not a challenge to you that the man makes with his words. There is no confrontation in his tone. ....You made a statement. ....He made a statement.
It may also be noteworthy that he does not deign to respond to you until Castle Spartaco comes into view on the horizon.
There is the barest twitch of his eye toward you when you remarked he is keeping everyone safe. (Sense Motive DC 20)
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Ennhavail, meanwhile, pays close attention from behind. She is trying to be inconspicuous, but anyone looking for a curious eavesdropper would likely notice. She does not seem afraid, but brave. ....Not so when the gray-robed caster is nearby, nor the Baroness. Them she avoids and is clearly afraid of.
There is the barest twitch of his eye toward you when you remarked he is keeping everyone safe. ....Dagreb is Not here to keep you or anyone else (save the Baroness) safe. He is here to protect the gold.
The small town of Spartaco is neither bustling nor quiet upon your arrival. Townsfolk make their wares for trade to the outlying farmers and ranchers for their produce and meats. Hunters and prospectors bring their furs and ores. A few bored guards go through the motions of making rounds. It is another Spring day for the small folk.
It is a bright day, pleasant. Chickens squawk and pigs snort, goats gripe at their milk being squeezed. The smell of pepperonis and salamis and wine is everpresent.
On the hill above the town, Castle Spartaco stands sharp and lean in its sentry over the County. Not as grand as the seats of power in the Capital, nor even Corentyn where sits the Archduke. Nevertheless, Count Vocaturo's gem is still a remarkable stronghold.
Baroness Stella Spartaco, niece of the Count, precedes the gold with its escort into the inner chambers of the Castle. There she is met by Count Vocaturo Spartaco and her aunt, Countess-Consort Olivia Spartaco, herself a cousin to the Archduke. The three take the gold into a private Hall.
Count Vocaturo nods silently to you from his position, and Countess Olivia curtsies appropriately and smiles in appreciation.
You and the rest of the escort are left with servants who will attend your needs while Count and Baroness talk business.
Emilia Spartaco-Aranovitch Count Vocaturo's younger sister, married to Sabino Aranovitch
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Within a minute of Count Vocaturo's departure with his niece and the gold, a married couple, obvious nobles, arrives in the hall to greet you.
Lady Emilia introduces herself as the younger sister of Count Vocaturo and his older brother, Viscount Mogranzini. Lady Emilia has the same sharp, almost vulpine features of the other Spartacos, but seems softer, more friendly.
While her oldest brother, Viscount Mogranzini, seems more interested in military life, and her older brother, Count Vocaturo, seems the picture of a stern Count in Chelaxian politics -- and even her niece Baroness Stella is voraciously ambitious, if effervescent and naive -- Lady Emilia seems only interested in pleasantries and small talk.
Emilia Aranovitch doesn't seem ambitious. She doesn't sound particularly intelligent. But she is quite cultured. And quite beautiful. And quite shallow.
Sabino Aranovitch Lord in Corentyn, married to Emilia Spartaco
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Lord Sabino, unlike his wife, is quite sharp.
A striking man, clearly with naval experience and proud of the badges on his Captain's uniform for the Corentyn fleet and the Chelaxian navy, Lord Sabino speaks clearly, and almost confrontationally.
"Yes, as my wife has said, we heard much about the two of you when we arrived for the wedding, Phandros to Spartaco."
Lord Sabino turns to Lord Magnius, nodding the way equal nobles nod to each other in Chelaxian feudal protocol. "Count Vocaturo described you as likened to a Hellknight." He is appraising you. Seeing for himself if your armor and weapon are more ornamental or functional, if your speech and manor is more for a Court or for a battlefield.
"And you, milady, how do I pronounce your name?...." He only barely waits for the answer. "I remember I was at a gala with ArchHeathen Kettermaul when word of your husband's death reached Corentyn. I must say that, like the Archduke himself -- and Grand-Count Pavel Battori -- I applaud your handling of the situation." It's clear he is name-dropping. He has no title, no grand House. The Aranovitch name is perhaps even less than Spartaco. But this man seems talented.
His preludes to conversation are personal, little or no pleasantry before getting to what he wants to know. But he is not rude. He is not necessarily inappropriate.
Magnius nods back "That would be an apt comparison, since I am training to be a Hellknight." His reply is short, wanting to see how the noble reacts to being in the presence of one who is soon to join the ranks of the prestigious order.
Sabino Aranovitch Lord in Corentyn, married to Emilia Spartaco
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Sabino Aranovitch is a naval captain and minor lord, he is certainly impressed with your ambition. He prefers physical ability to manipulative ability.
Count Vocaturo Spartaco Patriarch of House Spartaco & Lord of Gheradescci County
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After ninety minutes or so, enough time to refresh yourselves and have a glass of wine, Count Vocaturo's manservant arrives to bring you before the Spartaco Lord.
As before, you are taken to the small Barbazu Hall, its cherry-wood table rustic and comfortable as ever, the painting of Queen Abrogail II watching over all.
The Count has trimmed his mutton chops; they're neater than last time you were her. But his countenance remains stern.
Other than yourselves, Count Vocaturo Spartaco is the only one in the small dining hall. "I have spoken with Baroness Stella about you two, and you as well, Mr. Alfred. She wants to you to join in league with her Barony. Such alliance would no doubt strengthen Varni, and you two would publicly ally yourselves with House Spartaco.
"I understand you are not interested in furthering your own Houses.
"I have a different idea. Track down the Bellflower Agents who assassinated young Phandros and return them to me. If you succeed at this task before Baron Valsecchi, I will reward you with more than just tasks that a small Barony can assign. Spartaco is ambitious, and that means we have, or shall soon make, enemies among the other Houses.
"Bring back the Bellflower Agents and you will have the reward of a Count rather than a Baroness."
Archaeologist Bard 8 HP 64/64| AC 23| T 17| FF 16| Fort +7| Ref +15| Will +10| Init +8 Perc +17 | Concentration +13| AL 7/8 L1 6/6 L2 5/5 L3 3/3
This could prove to our advantage, or not...
Stepping forward, a bit out of place for who he his pretending to be, but having been addressed Alfred cares not. In a humble voice and a small bow Alfred replies, "While I do not want to put words in my companions mouths, I shall take you up on your offer."
"I also have to ask if you have more information, perhaps from Baron Valsecchi, on the location of the Bellflower Agents? I wouldn't be doing my job thoroughly enough if I didn't."
Count Vocaturo Spartaco Patriarch of House Spartaco & Lord of Gheradescci County
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Only slightly raising his eyebrows at Alfred Ensbridge, Count Vocatuo nods to himself, allowing just a moment before replying. "It is certain that Baron Valsecchi had less information when I sent him word to find these Halflings than you three did, considering you were there personally when the assassination took place. He was not given any special information; all the knowledge we had came from your report of the incident."
1d20 + 21 + 1d6 ⇒ (19) + 21 + (4) = 44 Sense Motive on Count Vocatuo
Magnius listens quietly while the Count presents his offer, and he and Alfred have their exchange. It was an interesting proposition, but one he wasn't fully positive he wanted to accept, at least right away.
As he pondered all of this, the young Hellknight in training asks "The Bellflower assassins proved to be quite the fight for us last time. They ambushed us, giving them the advantage. I believe when next we face them, it will be to the death. Is this acceptable?"
Ray, let me know if I need to make a diplomacy check here
Count Vocaturo Spartaco Patriarch of House Spartaco & Lord of Gheradescci County
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The Spartaco patriarch answers easily, "To the death is fine. I am not overly concerned if, for example, their mouths are destroyed beyond what an Asmodean Priest can interrogate after death. I am not concerned with any motives that they may or may not have had. I would like to simply give honest testimony before my Archduke, and House Phandros, that they are dead by the hands of House Spartaco -- and this through your deeds on behalf of my House if you get there before Baron Valsecchi. I don't need to know specifics."
He allows a slight smile, "Of course, I assume Marcus Phandros has sent his own inquisitors out for the murderers by now as well;.... I think it more likely that these from House Phandros would be under orders to bring back at least one Halfling alive for questioning.
"Oh, and this time,.... perhaps you ought to ambush them," he says with a wry smile.
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OOC....(Sense Motive & Diplomacy):
Keep putting out your Diplomacy or Sense Motive (or Bluff) rolls when you feel it apropos for the circumstance. I prefer you put them in Spoilers so I can think on them Prior to seeing your result but that's not really a big deal.
But regarding Sense Motive for general conversation, please let me know to what statement or sentiment of the NPC you are suspicious or concerned. Sometime it'll be obvious, of course -- you don't need to point out why you're rolling if my NPC says, 'I saw Lizzy Proctor speaking with the Devil!' I'll know to what you're rolling your Sense Motive. But often there will be a number of potentially ambiguous or deceitful phrases or comments in a post of Dialog from an NPC, or you may just have a concern about how the NPC is reacting. If you're specific in what you're looking for I can better address your roll.
In this case my assumption is that you noticed (It's kinda conspicuous.) that I didn't give any clues to Count Vocaturo's body language or emotion. Obviously this was intentional; in times past the NPCs' body language or emotion (and even surface thoughts) were given between lines of dialog. ....Here we have (for the first time, I think) both a higher level NPC and a potentially important (if not critical) moment of roleplay. It's a perfect time for you to ask for a Sense Motive (And you got a 44!)
I don't see a need at all for a Diplomacy here, but I'll go ahead and post some specific information on Count Vocaturo (following the Spoiler) based on your roll. If I don't address what you were aiming for, ask me specifically what you're after -- and in the future, ask when you roll. (This also means more than one PC can ask for a Sense Motive roll for different elements of an NPC's dialog.)
Count Vocaturo is intelligent enough to know he may not have the whole story, though he believes the heart of the tale told to him. He is certainly intelligent enough to know you three are quite powerful -- and ambitious and intelligent. ....And he wants to use you to gain more power for his House. He is not concerned (as his niece is) that he could be playing with fire, that you could be dangerous to him. And he is not naive enough to think that sending you to hunt the Bellflower Agents is an easy task. Indeed, he likely figures you can succeed by either already knowing who the Halflings are, getting extremely lucky, or just track down some random Bellflower Agents and kill them, saying that they're the guilty ones.
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Non_Player Character wrote:
Sabino Aranovitch
Lord in Corentyn, married to Emilia Spartaco
"And you, milady, how do I pronounce your name?...." He only barely waits for the answer. "I remember I was at a gala with ArchHeathen Kettermaul when word of your husband's death reached Corentyn. I must say that, like the Archduke himself -- and Grand-Count Pavel Battori -- I applaud your handling of the situation." It's clear he is name-dropping. He has no title, no grand House. The Aranovitch name is perhaps even less than Spartaco. But this man seems talented.
YAY-oss BAT-ory, Lord Aranovitch, a pleasure to make your acquaintance"replies Yaos with a pleased smile "I am flattered my deeds are known so far from where they occurred, came to the notice of those high born and also by you graciously leaving out where I failed in the matter, in not keeping my dear husband alive. As for what came after, well, there are times for diplomacy, times for restraint and times, like this, when one must make a bloody example. Stipendium peccati mors est."
Got ya! Totally makes sense! I might forget from time to time, but I will definitely try to be more specific when making checks like Sense Motive and Diplomacy. Adds a lot more to the game.
"This seems like an acceptable proposition. We will begin the hunt as soon as we're able."
Once again Count Vocaturo Spartaco allows you use of Barbazu Hall; once again he assigns a couple of servants to attend your needs and show you your guest chambers.
And without further ado, bids you the blessing of Asmodeus on your hunt and departs.
Magnius casts a minor spell, and then looks around the room(I assume the Hall, but doesn't make a difference) to see if there are any magical listening devices. Casting Detect Magic and 1d20 + 15 + 1d6 ⇒ (10) + 15 + (4) = 29 Perception for any mundane listening devices
Assuming he finds none, he'll discuss some of their options Taking your suggestions Alfred and bringing them in game"Alfred, why don't you go out into the town, and see if you can find any who might be sympathetic to the Bellflower Network. If successful, perhaps we can use them to find our prey."
1d20 + 3 + 1d6 ⇒ (16) + 3 + (5) = 24 Local, to see if I know of any wizards(preferably not within the castle) who might be able to assist us.
"Meanwhile, Yaos and I will go and see if we can find a wizard capable of magically locating our foes."
There is no magic in Barbazu Hall (the small dining room), except what magic items the PCs carry. There are no mundane eavesdropping methods such as hole cut into the Painting of Queen Abrogail's eyes or other less obvious things.
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Count Vocaturo has two arcane casters, both are loyal to him but perhaps could be bribed or bought.
Varrin is a 5th Lvl human Wizard who focuses more on Divination and research. More of a trouble-shooter and adviser than a battle-mage, Varrin has been in the service of Count Vocaturo for twelve years.
Szomniaro is a 9th Lvl human wizard who provides arcane artillery and defensive support for Count Vocaturo. He is the most powerful arcane caster in the service of House Spartaco. He has only served Count Vocaturo for three years and you are not aware of his history or the depth of his loyalty to his current patron.
Lanolyn is a Half-Elf Arcanist in the town of Valsecchi who is quite well known and spoken of even in Castle Spartaco. Based on bits of overheard conversation you can guess she is about your level of ability. (Whether she is with her Baron or not is unknown to you.)
Spartaco Village surrounding Castle Spartaco, the County Seat
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The small village of Spartaco and it's roughly 850 villagers are quite pastoral, easy-going. They go about their small-folk lives day to day, pleased when their Count walks among them once or twice a month, observing.
They call him "The Lion of Justice."
After spending a half a day among them, trying to get a feel for their loyalty to Cheliax and their loyalty to Count Vocaturo, trying to get a feel for any presence of a black market or underground movement, trying to get a feel for any news or knowledge of Bellflower Agents in the area or anything on even disgruntled Halflings, you come to the conclusion that these these villagers are the model of loyal Chelaxians, and they respect and admire and fear and approve of their Count.
No hint of an underground movement is present, no taste of Bellflower sympathy exists.
If Archeathen Kettermaul Charthagnion has a spy in the castle or village, he is deeply camouflaged in his cover. If the Red Mantis have an agent here, she is veritably invisible in her hidden life. If there is a Bellflower Agent or sympathizer in Spartaco, he or she is not at all easily found.
But the vintners make their wine. And the capicola & pepperoni & prosciutto & salami are being cured. And the goat milk is becoming cheese and soap and other products. Chandlers are making their candles. Glass blowers are hard at work. And it is a beautiful Spring day in Spartaco.
"It would seem our best bet is to go to one of the larger cities, and look for leads there. My suggestion is my home city of Westcrown. Between my familial connections, and the Council of Thieves, we should be able to track down some leads to our foes."
After discovering the identities of the trio of mages, Magnius decides to do a little fact finding on Szomniaro.
1d20 + 24 + 1d6 ⇒ (9) + 24 + (6) = 39 Gather Info, specifically trying to learn just how loyal he is to the Count, and whether he would be willing to assist 'outsiders'.
Ray, I want this to be super on the down low, so let me know if I should roll bluff as well, to avoid anybody important learning this.
Also, out of curiosity, would I gain any bonus to my Society check to learn 'about' Westcrown, as I am actually from there?
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Non_Player Character wrote:
Count Vocaturo Spartaco
Patriarch of House Spartaco & Lord of Gheradescci County
Other than yourselves, Count Vocaturo Spartaco is the only one in the small dining hall. "I have spoken with Baroness Stella about you two, and you as well, Mr. Alfred. She wants to you to join in league with her Barony. Such alliance would no doubt strengthen Varni, and you two would publicly ally yourselves with House Spartaco.
"I understand you are not interested in furthering your own Houses.
"I have a different idea. Track down the Bellflower Agents who assassinated young Phandros and return them to me. If you succeed at this task before Baron Valsecchi, I will reward you with more than just tasks that a small Barony can assign. Spartaco is ambitious, and that means we have, or shall soon make, enemies among the other Houses.
"Bring back the Bellflower Agents and you will have the reward of a Count rather than a Baroness."
"What you say of furthering my house is ... true and not true. I am always interested in furthering the interests of House Battori. But directly advancing the interests of House Battori is not the purpose of my current activities, and no path to do so is evident.
What you say on the question of the Bellflower agents makes good sense Count Spartaco. We will seek them out and destroy them as you wish."
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos accompanies Magnius while he investigates local mages. Yaos informs Magnius that at present neither she nor any of her conjured creatures can employ the magics he needs. Sometimes summoned creatures can cast very useful spells, but not these, at least not at level 8.
Magnius Arvanxi wrote:
"It would seem our best bet is to go to one of the larger cities, and look for leads there. My suggestion is my home city of Westcrown. Between my familial connections, and the Council of Thieves, we should be able to track down some leads to our foes."
That seems a fine idea Magnius. I defer to you and Alfred when detective work is required. My skills in this regard are ... limited."
Szomniaro Castle Wizard for Count Vocaturo Spartaco
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After spending the past day at the castle and in the little town of Spartaco, looking for information and getting a feel for the pulse of the place, Magnius Arvanxi meets the local chandler whose grandfather was from Trollheim in the Lands of the Linnorm Kings.
Which is exactly what he was looking for.
Szomniaro, the castle wizard and Count Vocaturo's most powerful arcane caster, is also from The Lands of the Linnorm Kings -- at least, his great aunt was. But his viking-blonde hair and blue eyes show the wizard is still thickly Ulfen-blooded.
The chandler, whose first name is 'Tom' or 'Jon' or somesuch unimportant thing, seems all to eager to help Lord Magnius Arvanxi find this or that in town. And with such a perfectly inconspicuous "in" to a conversation that so easily leads to Szomniaro, the chandler may make for an ideal source of knowledge on the wizard. All done innocently and casually. As good as it gets.
The chandler answers, "O ya, you betcha, my kinfolk came from the Linnorm Kings Lands, they did. I didn't know you were so interested in the north, Sir. Beautiful sky and snows all around. The mostest pretty place anywhere, you betcha. My Gramp used to telly ma Ma stories when a she was a little girl in Corentyn; thas where I was born. And my Ma use to telly me the stories Gramp toldy her.
"Ya know, you can almost always telly if'n someone's got Ulfen blood in the veins. This bright blonde hair and these blue eyes. You betcha! Just looky at Count Vocaturo's wizard, Szomniaro. He's Ulfen, you betcha. Most powerful mage in all a Gheradescci County! And a darn nice guy, too. I 'member when he afirst came here to come into Count Vocaturo's service. It musta been, oh, a good three years now, you betcha. Good man, Szomniaro. And his kinfolk are from where my kinfolk are from, yes Sir."
Ray, it is very hard to take this NPC seriously with all those 'you betchas' lol. Also, which type of chandler is he? Ship or grocery?
Magnius smiles and nods here and there where appropriate as his 'guide' to Spartaco rambles on about the Lands up north. "I find it best to learn as much as I can about those I might consider my allies, or even my friends. The tales of the mighty Linnorm Kings, slayers of some of the most fearsome creatures to ever walk the earth, have always fascinated me. And you say Szomniaro is not only the most powerful mage in the county, but is also Ulfen? Astounding!"
1d20 + 21 + 1d6 ⇒ (5) + 21 + (5) = 31 Diplomacy, to further ingratiate myself to 'Jtom'.
the clever girl was concerned she disappointed her new patron; was she a coward for beeing too afraid to spy? Has she now lost her opportunity to be more than a common girl who tosses grains, collects eggs and plucks feathers.
It would not do. This was her chance.
. . . .
After a long day at Spartaco in the shadow of Count Vocaturo's castle, Ennahvail finds Alfred to tell him of her day among the other small folk. "I was real careful no one got suspicious; I just made small talk. But here's what I learnt: ..."The town cobbler has a brother who is one of Countess Olivia's personal bodyguards. It's the cobbler's younger brother. ..."Also, the apiarist is in love with the oynter but since he's married already she's afraid she'll never fulfill her love. The reason I mention this is that the oynter is supposedly one of the only men who Count Vocaturo lets in his castle late at night. I guess when he runs out of oil he doesn't want to wait for the oynter to open shop the next day and sends for him immediately. ..."The weaver, the glassblower and the lampwright all get together once a week late at night. The glassblower's tenter told me -- I think he likes me. But the boy doesn't know what they do when the three of them get together. ..."Finally, the falconer I think got a little bit suspicious of me when I tried to casually talk to him about sending messages back and forth to Corentyn and Westcrown and Hinji and Macini and the Capital and such. I tried to make small talk as if my working with chickens could maybe prepare me to work with falcons, but I don't think he believed me. So I didn't push it; I said 'Oh well' and left."
Ennahvail is hopeful that she did everything right. She looks at Alfred expectantly, wanting approval. She's concerned the little bits of gossip won't help him, but maybe just the practice will be a good start. And she's afraid of the falconer. "Did I do okay?"
Stella Spartaco Baroness of Varni in Gheradescci County
.
Late in the day the irrepressible young Lady finds Yaos:
and conspiratorially ushers her into a private room in her uncle's castle. "I heard you are taking the assignment from Count Vocaturo instead of me; I can't say I blame you. ....But if you're still interested in my patronage as well -- perhaps as a "silent partner" -- I'm in. You publicly accept patronage from Count Vocaturo but also feed me whatever intelligence you get. ....There's a lot of gold in my mines, well more than my uncle or the Archduke realizes. In time I will be able to overreach the rest of House Spartaco. In a five or ten years I can buy Gheradescci County and maybe even push her borders and expand her wealth to become a Duchy. 'Duchess Stella' has a nice ring to it, I think. I'll be in my thirties before that happens, obviously, but if you stick with me now, even silently, I'll make sure that you move right up along with me."
Szomniaro Castle Wizard for Count Vocaturo Spartaco
.
Chandler continues the small-talk:
"Oh, you betcha, he's a right'n powerful wizard. Now I don't know if'n he's ever been up north to where'n our ancestors are from, but I know that's where Szomniaro's kin-folk came from."
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos in reply:
"The political reality is we really have to accept Count Volcaturo's offer. If we had refused saying we preferred to work for you, that would put you in a position that is... difficult at best. However, the good Count Vocaturo has not said anything about reporting intelligence only to him. Reporting also to another important member of his family is to my mind entirely consistent with his wishes, even implied wouldn't you say." Yaos winks at Stella and smiles warmly, then continues
"I would of course be delighted to continue to work for and with you. Information obtained I will convey to you. Perhaps I can assist you in other ways too, other tasks, even just plain muscle. I urge you to bear in mind that rather verbose speech I made about the dangers of Chelian politics, it is a vipers nest. I may be somebody you can talk plans or problems over with. I think it likely your star is rising and mine could as well in your wake. We will prosper." Yaos embraces her young friend, sealing their pact.
Archaeologist Bard 8 HP 64/64| AC 23| T 17| FF 16| Fort +7| Ref +15| Will +10| Init +8 Perc +17 | Concentration +13| AL 7/8 L1 6/6 L2 5/5 L3 3/3
Speaking with Ennahvail:
Surprised to hear the information Ennahvail was laying out before him, Alfred listens carefully while not moving at all.
Not overly useful, but she tried... There might be something with the weaver and company though.
"This is unexpected. Though not unwelcome." Alfred tells Ennahvail. "In the future remember that being discreet is more important than getting information. You can't tell me anything if you get in trouble or killed."
That might've sounded more like an admonishment than intended...
"This information is a good start though thank you."
Gesturing for her to sit, Alfred explains what is to happen next.
"I shall be leaving here in the next day or so to pursue an opportunity. If you want to continue working for me, you will come with me. I will out fit you with some nicer clothes so you can interact with more than just the common folk. As I said before though, most of the work will be simple to begin with and very much in line with what you've done today."
Wanting to make sure he was clear about what coming along meant Alfred adds, "Even if you do not want to continue, I will give you a small purse as compensation and see you on your way. However, if you do come then that will be it. You will work for me and not have the option of quitting part way through. Now I am not threatening you with this, I am warning you. Once you start people will notice you, people will want to harm me by getting to my staff, and you will get into dangerous situations. There is no backing out once you start to play the game."
And now to the benefits, "You will get to acquire wealth and status though. It will be slow at first, but you will eventually earn rewards you can only dream of right now."
After that Alfred stands up and pulls out 10 gold coins, "Here is the purse I mentioned as compensation. I will send for you when I know I will be leaving if you are interested in more."
Alfred will wait to see her reaction, if she has nothing else to add then he will head out to find the glass blowers tenter.
DM Ray, use your discretion regarding moving on to the tenter or staying here for me to talk to Ennahvail more.
Chandler takes the moment of pause to breathe in the beautiful Spring day, not at all aware of how odd it is for a lord to be making small talk with a candle maker, and resumes, "So, what can I do you for, Sir, need some candles to light your studies, do ya?"
Stella Spartaco Baroness of Varni in Gheradescci County
.
Baroness Stella awkwardly returns Yaos' embrace,:
and one gets the feeling that members of House Spartaco don't often hug. But the young girl tries.
"After you take care of the Bellflower Agents we can talk about our next step. The land here is only good for agriculture, and my barony for gold. To expand we'll want for information on other places. And like you said, Chelaxian politics is a den of jackals or scorpions.
Corentyn and Westcrown are beyond us, for now, I think. Way too many Houses in each city, vying for influence and intrigue. But Hinji and Macini? Big enough to make a mark, and small enough for us to look at.
"Count Vocaturo is interested in either of them. I am certain he is thinking of those places when he is thinking of you. When our House speaks about expansion, it is there to which we look.
"I'll be here, my mother the Vidame thinks I should spend more time exploring my bloodline magic, preparing for the time when I must contribute to House Spartaco as a Sorceress.
She is attentive, and thinks through what Alfred says.:
'Being discreet is more important than getting information.' "I understand.
"And I want to continue as your servant. I will follow you." But then she thinks about it. She is still a bit nervous.
"If you want, though, I could stay here in Spartaco and try to live as one of the peasants here. I could get a job in town or at the castle and live a double life. To everyone here I'll seem like another serf, but I'll also secretly be a spy for you." It seems safer to her than a life on the road as some rogue or rake. But she'll follow you.
"But if you prefer I will come along and try to do the tasks you set for me."
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Continued Colloquy:
Yaos listens to the young Baroness attentively, then replies:-
"Indeed hunting down the Bellflower Agents in next on the agenda. I am sure you are correct about expanding into Corentyn and Westcrown. I and my companions will give some thought to the situation in Hinji and Macini.
I think your mother speaks wisely. I said earlier that personal power is worth cultivating, it is always with you and under your control, a precious thing in an uncertain world.
I look forward to seeing you on our return."
No hug this time since it made the young lady feel awkward.
Archaeologist Bard 8 HP 64/64| AC 23| T 17| FF 16| Fort +7| Ref +15| Will +10| Init +8 Perc +17 | Concentration +13| AL 7/8 L1 6/6 L2 5/5 L3 3/3
To Ennahvail:
"I prefer you come with me. I have little need for a spy here and you need to learn more before you could hope to spy on the people I need watching." Alfred says to her.
"Be ready for when I send for you then. I have to go look into some things now." Alfred says as he walks away to find the glass blowers tenter.
Szomniaro Castle Wizard for Count Vocaturo Spartaco
.
The Chandler in Spartaco Town, speaking of Szomniaro:
"Oh ya, you betcha, Count Vocaturo brought him in from Corentyn a good'n five years agon.
"And it was a good choice too, you betcha. When that ol' Hag in the Anferita started stirrin' up her hexes and monsters, our viking wizard stood side-by-side with Viscount Mogranzini and those Hobgoblins of his to take care of the old bi+ch, you betcha."
Spartaco Town at the foot of Castle Spartaco, County Seat
.
The Glassblower's Shop:
A small house near the center of the town, almost adjacent to the little town square, the glassblower's shop is superficially typical in it's plainness and banality. A small family obviously lives in the back an in a small second floor, and the front is a lobby where people can request panes of glass to replace their broken windows or lanterns when need. Half a dozen small objects d'art, two of which are reasonably aesthetic, are on display should any person with a few gold coins to spare on such luxuries wish to do so.
The glassblowers, Alfrend and Eliza Glass both look up as Alfred Ensbridge enters.
Within a few minutes of easy dialog it seems clear that Alfrend and Eliza Glass are typical Chelaxians loyal to their Count. Alfrend is clearly an ethnic Mwangi though his speech and manner indicates he and likely his parents and grandparents were all born and raised in Cheliax. Other than the color of his skin, there is nothing about him to indicate he is not completely Chelaxian. Eliza Glass, for her part, is mostly ethnic Chelaxian, though there is some other bloodline in her ancestry as well, Nidalese perhaps, or maybe even Varisian or Ustalovic. Eliza and her husband are both outgoing and friendly, they speak easily and charismatically.
Their tenter must be in the back; house and work sounds both come from beyond.
After departing from Baroness Stella, making your way through Castle Spartaco to your guest chamber, Yaos observes a small, open dining hall wherein Emilia Spartaco-Aranovitch sits with a bookish, somewhat overweight man in his late thirties, rich brown hair just starting to show flecks of gray in his beard. Based on his look and what you've heard from Alfred's scouting, the man is most likely Varrin, Count Vocaturo's Divination Wizard. A pudgy Imp hovers in a seating position next to the arcane caster, reading a book. A few attendants are in the small hall as well, doing whatever small folk do when their betters are eating a quaint lunch and talking.
None seem to notice Yaos as you walk by, so you can enter if you wish to join in their conversation, or continue to your guest chambers or elsewhere.
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos stops as she notices the pair and thinks for a moment, then enters the dining hall and walks over to the table and makes her presence known saying:-
"Lady Emelia, a pleasure to see you. And you sir, you answer the description of the Wizard Varrin. If my guess is correct I am most pleased to meet you, I have heard tell of your abilities."
Yaos favours the wizard, if that is who the man is, with a radiant smile that might be capable of starting a minor war.
Varrin Castle Divination Wizard for Count Vocaturo Spartaco
.
Varrin nods an affirmative in introduction:
and asks Yaos' opinion on the matter currently being weighed between noble and caster. Both debaters offer you an adjacent chair.
"Yes, and as I was telling our esteemed Lady of Corentyn again, that without an escalating presence of The Order of the Gate in her new city, the ArchHeathen's intelligence regarding threats to his beloved port will not be sufficient to discern all her enemies."
Quickly it is becoming clear that this is one of the favorite pet topics on which Varrin enjoys proselytizing-- matters of intelligence in Corentyn and Her Infernal Majestrix's national security. One can tell in both the yawning, monotone way in which he discusses it, and the look on Lady Emilia's face (one of bored redundancy) that she's heard Varrin's discourse ever since she was a child here in Spartaco. And of course now that she is a Lady of Corentyn, Varrin is eager to resume his argument in support of more HellKnights and more intelligence gathering to his Patron's younger sister.
And his relaxed sermon drones on, just warming up, "What the ArchHeathen really needs is agents from the Order of the Cipher. Our Infernal Majestrix really ought to consider expanding that most important Order of HellKnights, perhaps dramatically." Even in complaint, Varrin tacitly keeps a respectful tone regarding Queen Abrogail Thrune, of course, and even his deepest beliefs are only relayed to his audience as 'ought to consider' suggestions. Lady Emilia has heard it all before.
His pudgy Imp Familiar continues to hover in a sitting position nearby, reading his book and ignoring the whole conversation.
Emilia Spartaco-Aranovitch Count Vocaturo's younger sister, married to Sabino Aranovitch
.
Sitting with Yaos and Varrin,:
Lady Emilia remains noncommittal to Varrin's opinion. "I'm more confident now than when I lived here that ArchHeathen Kettermaul Charthagnion has an exceptionally good intelligence service working for him. And it doesn't take a Divination Wizard to guess that Her Infernal Majestrix also has a good intelligence service in my husband's city. There's a reason, my dear Varrin, that the Order of the Cipher is so small; the nobles keep their own spies."
Emilia is not as clever or articulate as her older brother the Count, nor even as her sister-in-law, Vidame Carnacella. But while she has a reputation for being less than sharp, perhaps living in Corentyn has matured her critical thinking skills and perception at least somewhat.
