GM SpiderBeard's Second Darkness (Inactive)

Game Master Barvo Delancy

Chapter 3: The Armageddon Echo

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Bofur's bolt just misses the chain and clatters against the wall before falling to the floor. Roaring bloody murder, Mutt charges in at a brightly-costumed carnie now wielding two vicious-looking dagger. The carnie hisses at Mutt before she is chopped down with a ruthless strike to the collarbone.

Variel is up!


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

As the carnies begin to move, Variel notes the bouncers moving in with their clubs. Right, then. They aren't in league with the staff.

He pulls his whip from his belt and snaps it loudly as he steps forward. "You may surrender now, if you wish to survive."

Move action to draw weapon, move forward 15'. Swift action to declare Judgment of Protection +1 AC). Variel doesn't accept rage song this round.

[ooc]The scorpion whip is a lethal 10' reach weapon, so anyone stepping up to attack provokes an AoO.


.

The sight of the maniac with the giant axe, Variel's extremely nasty-looking whip, and the power of Fiona's song seems to shake the morale of the carnies. One of them looks at the ruin of what was once a laughing, dancing, thieving tumbler.

"That...that was Brin. You killed Brin," she says dumbly in response to Mutt's incredible display of violence. She looks up at the group pleadingly. "I didn't like Brin anyways! You lot! Help us out and you'll get a cut! What do you care about this stupid casino?"

Carnies are using a free action to parlay.


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Fiona is taken off-guard at the sight of the new Shoanti brutally cutting down one of the carnies.

"...I don't need your money. I'd argue your boss, on the other hand, does." Fiona keeps her earthbreaker at the ready.

Fiona's open to parleying.


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

"I care about the casino inasmuch as I am one of the people you were hoping to fleece. As to what to do with you, that is up to those you wronged.".

Variel looks around at the remaining customers, and watches for any sign of the casino's owner.


.

Whoever owns this casino seems to have absolutely no intentions of coming out. The crowd slowly, slowly make their way out. The bouncers look confused until one of them calls out.

"No deals! How about you bastard tumblers put down your weapons and wait for the gendarmes? This casino is protected!"

The tumbler looks around miserably.

"Those we wronged? Get off yourself! Fine, that's it, we're out of here! No allies here!"

During this quick exchange, the bouncers have moved in, and begin beating on the carnies with cudgels, two of them scoring nasty hits.

Club: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13 Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5
Club: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18 Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5
Club: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7 Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
Club: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5 Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6
Club: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21 Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5
AoO: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12 Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4
AoO: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7 Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

The carnies just flee outright, several of them bearing vicious wounds. One leaps onto the bar, sending cups scattering as he races along the top before leaping out the door. Two rush by Bofur in an attempt to get out while one more attempts to get away from the guards but is clubbed into unconsciousness.

Three of the carnies went out the south door, two the northeast door. One is unconscious. Variel can take an AoO if he so wishes. You can choose to give chase, or otherwise end of combat


Male Dwarf Rng 2/Rog 1 | A 16 T 13 F 13 | hp 24/27 | F +5 R +8 W +2 | In +5 | Per +8

"Come back here, ya lily-livered, pox-ridden fire-eaters!" Bofur slips out the front door to watch which direction the carnies run off it and to avoid questioning by the powers that be. He puts his bow away and fetches a meatpie from a street vendor.


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Fiona doesn't pursue the carnies, content that at least one of them was captured by the bouncers. She brings her song to an end.

"Well, I didn't expect them to react so fearfully, suffice to say." She rests her earthbreaker across her shoulders and looks over at the new arrival. After a moment's hesitation (Well, can you blame me? He just put an axe through a man's neck with all the fury of a cinderstorm!), she approaches the newcomer.

"Kel-grish, newcomer. And well-struck." She stops before him, smiling.

Shoanti:
"Greetings..."


.

The bouncers crudely thank you, and then less than politely kick you out of the casino without a thank you for catching the ongoing robbery.

Out in the streets Bofur finds an astonishingly nice meat pie for a few copper, knowing after all that violence is the best sauce. A few customers can be seen chasing off the brightly-coloured carnies while the remaining ones mill about, talking to each other and arguing about where to go next.

Unless you had further things to do in the casino you're back in the street where you can talk.


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

Variel smiles. "Well, that was certainly an adventure. And we've learned to carefully vet our entertainers, eh? Perhaps it is time to make our way back home for the night."


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13

Seeing the carnies flee, Mutt scowls and screams, "GET BACK HERE, COWARDS!!" However, they're gone, and the dwarf is running after them. Cursing, he straps his axe back on his back. He then finds himself being shoved out of the casino by the bouncers and into the street. The woman's song may have ended and the rage may be gone from him, but Mutt is still angry. As the bouncers try to guide him out, Mutt shrugs off any hands they place on him and argues with them.

When the group is in the street, the Shoanti woman approaches him.

Description:
Before you stands a young man, standing at 5’8”. He’s dressed in a chain shirt, his muscles straining, along with standard roughly spun traveling clothes. His body and face are littered in scars. Some from weapons and some appear to be from wild animals. His nose appears to have been broken once. He has a large greataxe strapped to his back. His hands is clenched and shaking. A handaxe and a warhammer rest on his hips and a backpack his slung on his back. His features show mixed hints of Varisian and Shoanti heritages. He has a tattoo on his face. Those of the Shoanti Quahs can recognize it as a totem marking from their culture (specifically the Sklar-Quah). Again, Mutt is half-Varisian/half-Shoanti. I apologize if I'm repeating this a lot.

He looks at the Shoanti woman, heavy frown on his face and brow raised. "Kel-what? What does that mean?"

Seeing the four people he was looking for, Mutt asks, "You lot work at the Gold Goblin, right? I was sent by Larur to find you. He needs you to begin cleaning up."


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14
Mutt wrote:
"Kel-what? What does that mean?"

Fiona pauses. "It means 'greetings', sir." I thought with that tattoo on your face you'd know our language--apparently, I was wrong.

Mutt wrote:
"You lot work at the Gold Goblin, right? I was sent by Larur to find you. He needs you to begin cleaning up."

"Were you now?" Fiona relaxes slightly, her dark skin turning slightly pale. "I don't suppose he gave you our names as well?"


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13
Fiona Sun-Touched wrote:
Mutt wrote:
"Kel-what? What does that mean?"
Fiona pauses. "It means 'greetings', sir." I thought with that tattoo on your face you'd know our language--apparently, I was wrong.

Mutt's brow furrows. "Well, I don't know your language or really any of your customs. I may be half-Shoanti but I wasn't raised in any of your clans."

"Fiona Sun-Touched wrote:
Mutt wrote:
"You lot work at the Gold Goblin, right? I was sent by Larur to find you. He needs you to begin cleaning up."
"Were you now?" Fiona relaxes slightly, her dark skin turning slightly pale. "I don't suppose he gave you our names as well?"

Mutt shakes his head. "No. Larur just told me to find this Saul's "partners", as he put it. Just told me to find..." (points at Tahbet) "a large Shoanti man..." (points at Bofur) "a dwarf..." (points at Variel) "an elf..." (and finally points at Fiona) "and a Shoanti woman running around together. He told me to tell you to get back to the casino so you can help clean up for opening day. Now I found you. So let's go so I can get my job." He begins to walk away when he stops, turns, and says, "Oh. And by the way... Larur said that I was to join your ranks. So, congrats, I guess."

During the trip back to the Gold Goblin, on the ferry, Mutt stares at Fiona. Eventually, he asks, "You. That song you played. What was that?"


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14
Mutt wrote:
"You. That song you played. What was that?"

Fiona looks down at the ferry before she answers. "It was a song of battle, one that spurs a Shoanti warrior's rage forth. Perhaps I went a bit too far in singing it?" She purses her lips.

"Is that why you were staring at me?"


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13

Mutt nods. "I was staring at you because your song provided me with a rage. A rage that I know all too well." His hand clenches tightly.

He looks to the entire party. "Since I'll be joining you, I need to know your names."


.

The group enjoy a relatively peaceful ferry ride back to the Gold Goblin. There, they land and are greeted by Larur.

"Good, about time! We're opening tomorrow. Glad you found each other."

Speaking in his dry, pleasant voice he indicates Mutt. "Mutt here came in looking for work and I thought this fellow had a certain energy we could use. Saul said to keep an eye out for people who seemed appropriate to add to the 'partnership' as he calls it. In reality we're managing the casino for him. He's the boss."

Larur looks over Mutt.

"Work with Tahbet, it seems pretty obvious that you're on security. Tahbet here had an idea about challenging people to fights in our octahedron as a way to deal with real troublemakers. The others can how the day to day will work. So we'll have you on that, and then Saul may have special jobs for all of you. Also, you have a room here and we'll feed you."

The dwarf smiles as he looks over the group.

"Damn my eyes, this is going to work I think. I hope you spent today drumming up some business, we're open tomorrow. Any last questions or thoughts?"

Last bit of downtime, I'll start the next scene tomorrow. Feel free to converse with Larur or each other or whatever else.


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

Variel bows slightly to Mutt. "I am Variel. I am a minor priest of Calistria, out seeing how she is seen among the people of Varisia. My travels brought me here to Riddleport with a shortage of funds, so I have accepted Saul's offer of employment. I will be the pit boss, overseeing operations on the floor and keeping an eye on things."

Variel has a large scar across his throat which appears to have been made with a hunter's knife. Probably related, his voice is much hoarser than most elves. He has a pleasant demeanor, and a twinkle in his eye that makes him seem perpetually amused.


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Ferry

Fiona feels rather awkward when Mutt says his rage sprang from her song. "Ah."

"At any rate, these are Bofur and Tahbet Earth Shaker." She points out each person she names. "My own name is Fiona, known amongst my quah as 'Sun-Touched'. What about your name?"


Male Dwarf Rng 2/Rog 1 | A 16 T 13 F 13 | hp 24/27 | F +5 R +8 W +2 | In +5 | Per +8

Bofur looks the newcomer up and down. "I feel safer already," he says without irony or malice.


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13

Mutt nods at Variel. 'So, the elf will be one of my bosses in a way? Hmph. He seems rather small. Wonder what happened to his voice and throat.'

Looking at Tahbet, he looks the Shoanti man up and down and says, "I guess we're working together, then. Very well."

Looking at Bofur, who is eyeing him, Mutt says with a deadpanned expression. "Are you saying that genuinely or because I cleaved a man in half earlier?"

Turning to Fiona, he nods at her. He's about to answer, when the ferry makes its destination. Without answering, he leads the group back to the casino.

As Larur talks about him, Mutt proceeds to look tough, crossing his arms. When the dwarf stops, he turns to the group. "Well, Larur told you who I am. But I'll give you a proper introduction. I am called Mutt! So called for my mixed heritage. I am a... former pit fighter from Kaer Maga. That is all."

Bluff: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22

Sense Motive DC 22:
You can tell he's hiding something in his hesitation on his profession.

When Larur says that they're only managing the casino and that Saul is in charge, Mutt responds with, "Hmph. Well, I would like to meet this Saul. I would like to know and meet the man who I'm entering a 'partnership' with."

When Larur mentions fighting people, Mutt breaks out into a feral grin. "Fighting? Well, I look forward to that. Where is this octahedron? Are weapons allowed?" He then frowns. "I'm too assume that killing is not allowed, yes?"

When Larur asks for any other questions, Mutt replies with, "I have none."

When the business is all done, Mutt will walk around the Gold Goblin, learning about where everything is and meeting the employees.


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Fiona arches an eyebrow at Mutt's mention of his heritage and previous occupation, but decides against saying anything. Let him have his secrets. It wouldn't be worth getting on the wrong end of his axe.
-------------------
"Can't say I have any more questions, Larur."

She's content to let Mutt become better acquainted with the facilities, instead deciding to pull Variel aside. "So... about the rest of that paper you gave me..." She asks (somewhat awkwardly, surprisingly enough).


Male Dwarf Rng 2/Rog 1 | A 16 T 13 F 13 | hp 24/27 | F +5 R +8 W +2 | In +5 | Per +8

Bofur sizes up the biracial warrior and replies "Let's just say that this is a business and we won't get many repeat customers if you leave them split in twain."


.

Larur smirks.

"Depends on what they've done. But yeah, try to throw people out unless they're trying to kill you. Then, have at. As for the octahedron, the fights are typically beast fights. Bojak, is our animal handler. Fights to the death between combatants aren't too common, but we've seen a few."

After some more conversation with Larur the group help out a bit with the cleanup and finally head to bed before opening day. Mutt takes some time to explore the Goblin. The casino is two storeys high, although the casino floor itself has a cathedral ceiling with hidden catwalks high up. The top floor is pretty much Saul's domain with his offices and private quarters, most of which are off-limits. The main floor has some private rooms, bedrooms for the staff, a kitchen, and various rooms for counting and storage.

As for the staff, the mainstay staff are Hans and Beyar. Hans being a gruff, somewhat crude man and Beyar his silent partner. Both are fiercely loyal to Saul. Larur is the floor manager and handles the cash. Lixy Parmenter is a somewhat shifty dwarven woman who runs the ghoulette table. Then there are around a dozen assorted other staff which make the place run.


.

Opening Day

The following day the Gold Goblin opens for business. Almost immediately the place is full, but rather than with enthusiastic gamblers, belligerent patrons from the failed tournament show up drunk and angry and with fists full of chips. Several people immediately begin complaining about how the house cheated them before they even try to cash in their chips, and the mood on the floor is tense.

There are now two maps of the goblin. One shows all levels with marked rooms. The other is the current one with tokens. Please place yourselves appropriately on the map. Remember there are also catwalks up above if you want to spot cheaters and use a ranged weapon.

Finally, I'll need skill checks for the evening. Pick an appropriate skill to your job and roll it. Perception to spot cheaters, intimidate to settle down violence, perform to encourage business, diplomacy to calm violence, or profession gambling to run games. Any other skill you can think of a creative use for is up.


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

Finishing the conversation from the evening

Fiona Sun-Touched wrote:
She's content to let Mutt become better acquainted with the facilities, instead deciding to pull Variel aside. "So... about the rest of that paper you gave me..." She asks (somewhat awkwardly, surprisingly enough).

"Yes? Were you intrigued by the finer aspects of Calistria's worship?"


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

As the Gold Goblin opens, Variel walks the floor, his eyes open for cheaters or disgruntled patrons who might cause trouble. He makes sure to keep Bofur, Tahbet, and Mutt in sight, having shown them all a few simple hand signs to point them at different types of trouble that might require their attention.

If we have to pick a single skill, I'll go with Perception, because that's his best. He'll also be using Sense Motive to monitor the crowd's mood.
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13

Previous Day...

Mutt spends his time wandering around and looking around. He talks to several people (Hans and Beyar in particular). Despite the similar dreariness, the dirty conditions, and the atmosphere that reminds him of the arenas that his former master would drag him to, the Gold Goblin is a completely different beast. And Mutt would like to understand it before he can combat it.

Opening Day...

Mutt patrols the floor, on edge due to all of the tension. He does his job, intimidating the customers, throwing out those who are really riled up, and trying to keep his rage under control. He is gritting his teeth, deep scowl on his face. His hands are clenching and unclenching. He looks like that he wants a fight to break out.

Despite, Variel's (supposedly) frailty, Mutt understands that the elf is his somewhat boss. He follows the inquisitors hand signs to help do his job effectively.

Eventually, Mutt can't take it anymore. The drunks. The whining. The complaining. His rage nearly reaching its spilling point, Mutt walks up to the people that are trying to cash in their chips for money. Mutt shouts out, "Enough! Calm down, you lot! If you keep on acting and complaining like children, I'll have no choice but to throw you out!"

I'll use intimidate to settle down violence.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Variel: Previous Evening:
Fiona purses her lips. "Well... yes. Not so much her ideals of vengeance, but the parts on trickery and..." She trails off, looking a bit embarrassed.

Opening Day

Today was the big day--the day the Gold Goblin opens for business once again. Part of her doesn't understand why she's decided to do this, as it doesn't help her find out more about the Blot...

Eh, baby steps. You've got local rumours so far--you can work on learning more later.

Fiona looks over herself in the mirror once more. Her tanned brown skin contrasts with the small red, winged bikini of her succubus costume, serving to make her more alluring. The horns on the costume's hairband match the tail she's wearing. She runs a hand through her black hair and takes a breath to settle her nerves.

Alright... showtime.

She turns and leaves the storeroom, ready to knock 'em dead.
-------------------
As Fiona steps out onto the casino floor, the first thing most people would notice about her is how fit she is--her entire body is well-toned, and she moves with a quiet grace. She struts to the podium in the centre of the room, letting the customers and staff alike take in the view.

Once she get's into position, she starts to lounge around provocatively... and sing.

Perform (Sing): 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (14) + 11 = 25

And so she begins. It's a slow-paced song...

"Where have all good men gone
And where are all the gods?
Where's the street-wise Hercules
To fight the rising odds?"

She languidly stretches out across the podium.

"Isn't there a white knight upon a fiery steed?
Late at night I toss and I turn and I dream of what I need..."

Out of the corner of her eye, she notices the drunken, belligerent tournament-goers stomping in and complaining. She feels a surge of worry, but it appears that Mutt has things in hand for now...

The tempo of her song doesn't change.

"I need a hero.
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night...
He's gotta be strong,
And he's gotta be fast,
And he's gotta be fresh from the fight."

She arches her back and looks forward, letting the casino's lights illuminate her.

"I need a hero!
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the morning light!
He's gotta be sure,
And it's gotta be soon,
And he's gotta be larger than life..."

She continues her songs well into the night...

Using Perform (Sing) to encourage business.


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

Fiona, previous night:

Fiona Sun-Touched wrote:
[...]but the parts on trickery and..." She trails off, looking a bit embarrassed.

Variel smiles. "And enjoyment of all that individuals can offer one another? That is an important part of her worship. With our long lives, elves in particular find the variety is an important spice, so we appreciate the freedom of Calistria's service."


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Variel: Previous Evening:
"I don't doubt it." Fiona trails off, nodding. "Well, I mean, I wouldn't know. I've never actually *indulged* in that..."

She clears her throat and bites her lip. "Anyway, that part of it wasn't what I wanted to talk to you about--rather, it was the bits dealing with truth and lies that I was more interested in for now." She folds her arms and shifts her weight to her other foot. "I've noticed you have a very discerning eye and ear for picking apart lies--I was hoping you would... perhaps, teach me how to do the same?"


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13

Retcon: Earlier in the Opening Day...

As Fiona walks out, she catches Mutt's eye. His brow raises at the scandalous outfit she's wearing. He looks away before she catches him and proceeds to a group of people Variel pointed out. "Hey! Hey! What do you think you're doing?!"


Male Dwarf Rng 2/Rog 1 | A 16 T 13 F 13 | hp 24/27 | F +5 R +8 W +2 | In +5 | Per +8

On opening day, Bofur gets himself an ale and positions himself up in the catwalks, where he has an unimpeded view of he goings on below and where he can clearly see, be seen by and exchange hand signals with the Beyar at the door. He can also admire Fiona's outfit from above, leaving even less to the imagination.

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27


.

I've added a map of the catwalk to the left of the goblin map, so Bofur is on that. Also, missed something.

-- Before the casino opens --

As the group set up for opening day and Bofur familiarizes himself with the catwalk, it becomes apparent nobody has seen Tahbet. Larur wanders irritably into the centre of the casino, his typically soft voice booming out.

"Where the hell is my head of security?!" he sighs miserably. "Well we don't have time to find him. You lot let me know where your pal Tahbet is. Mutt, you're promoted."

He looks around at the bouncers. "Do what this guy says." He points over to Mutt. "Congratulations. Just don't order Hans and Beyar around. They report direct to Saul and are on cash cage duty only."

-- After the casino opens --

The doors to the Gold Goblin swing open and soon the place is back in business. Variel, Bofur, and Mutt quickly work out a system for spotting cheaters and dealing with rowdies with Variel on the floor, Bofur on the catwalks, and Mutt using himself or the bouncers to fix problems quickly.

Fiona's performance throughout the evening is a triumph as she attracts a great deal of positive attention and sets a festive tone for the evening.

The belligerent tournament-goers continue to put a damper on the evening, however, until Mutt finally loses his temper, shouting at them.
Many of the of the drunks stammer something and back off, but four of them seem undeterred, and step away from the cash cage to sneer at Mutt.

"Yer all a buncha crooks takin' mah money! Y'don't look so tough ya weird bastard." fumbling at his side, the man who spoke, and three others, make to draw weapons. "We're taking our money back!"

No fight has started... yet. So lemme know responses. If you attack, make your rolls and then I'll fit that into an initiative roll.


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

Fiona, previous evening:
"Well, as much as I am able, I certainly am willing. I will tell you much of it comes from a century of watching people, but there are some signs and tells I can teach you. We'll be on the lookout for them when we talk to people, and we can discuss what we see."

As the men start to draw their weapons, Variel moves up to one side. With his hand caressing the nasty looking barbs on his whip, he says quietly, "You really don't want to do that. The events of the night of the tournament are regrettable, but not the casino's fault. It's really not worth losing a body part, is it?"

Take ten for 18 Intimidate, stalling to let Bofur get a clear shot and the bouncers to move in.


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13

Mutt scowls heavily at the man's insults. He makes way to grab his greataxe. He growls out, "Oh, yeah? Well, I suggest you turn away right now. I'll give you two options: stop this idiocy and go on your merry way. Or you can fight me in the Octahedron. But, personally, I would take the former option if I was you."

Roll to Intimidate. Try to settle them down and get them to leave or, if that doesn't work, take them to the octahedron.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27

EDIT: Wow. I think they got the message. :)


Male Dwarf Rng 2/Rog 1 | A 16 T 13 F 13 | hp 24/27 | F +5 R +8 W +2 | In +5 | Per +8

Bofur is alarmed at the development of the four patrons silly enough to not let go of their anger. He's somewhat relieved to see Variel step up as well, knowing that the two of them likely make a pretty threatening picture. When Mutt suddenly gets his back up, he can feel the menace all the way up in the catwalk. He swallows and loads his crossbow.

He mutters to himself, "Easy there, Mutt. We don't need the other patrons to see these guys chopped in half. Bad for business. Baaaaad for business. Take it outside."


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

As Fiona sings, she takes another look at the drunken men accosting Mutt again. Her heart skips a beat as she hears the sheer rage in the man's voice, and knows that Mutt's threat is not an idle one.

The House of Nabin was proof enough of that...


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Variel: Previous Evening:
"I could surprise you, you know." Fiona smirks. "I am a fast learner."

"You have my thanks for indulging me, Variel."


The drunken lout snarls and stares into Mutt's eyes for a long moment before he slowly, slowly takes a step back, having seen something he was not happy about.

"I er... I think we're done here boys!" he calls out in a cracked voice. The former tournament-goers leave without even cashing their chips, likely saving Saul a pretty penny.

The crowd start to turn back to their games, but the din cuts away as Saul Vancaskerkin seems to emerge from nowhere, and step up near Fiona on the pedestal. Once her song finishes, he turns to address the crowd, beaming.

"Ladies and gentlemen, let it be made clear that the Gold Goblin is under new management! Fiona, Variel, Bofur and.." he leans over. "Who's that scary bastard? Mutt? Really? Okay. MUTT are my business partners and we have a zero tolerance policy on criminal lawlessness. You are my customers, and you come here to be safe and enjoy yourselves, not to exist under perpetual threat of violence. All acts of hostility will be met with force and furthermore, starting tomorrow the Gold Goblin will enforce a NO WEAPONS policy!"

There is a mixture of grumbling and applause, but the statement seems to have worked and the rest of the evening is peaceful.

Several hours later as the Gold Goblin closes up, Saul makes his way over to the four of you. The gigantic key in the place of his hand glimmers oddly in the low light.

"My sincerest apologies for not introducing myself to you earlier, Mutt. I am Saul Vancaskerkin and the owner of this establishment. Unfortunately I have also given you an extra job - make sure all weapons are locked in the cashier's cage until the owners depart the hall. And of course, you are all exempt from the no weapons policy. Tonight was a good start, and I will ask that you all do your part to drum up business. Your first pay will arrive at the end of the week, a cut of profits. So hopefully we have some to share. Now, did any of you have questions for me, ideas, or other things you need to speak on?"


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Not having had a chance to change out of her succubus costume, Fiona merely nods. "Can't say I have any questions, except one: how did I do for my first day on the job?"


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13

Mutt snorts as the drunks leave. They didn't prove to be a challenge. When Saul steps up and makes his announcements, Mutt remains silent, his lessons as a slave coming forth. During the rest of the time, Mutt continues to patrol the floor and give directions to the other bouncers (while covertly looking at Fiona when he thinks she isn't looking from time to time).

After the shift, when Saul introduces himself, Mutt nods. "A pleasure to meet you, Saul. I do have a question. I don't believe I was told how much I would be payed."


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Perception?: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8

Suffice to say, Fiona is a little too distracted by several things to notice Mutt's peeking at her.

Just waiting on our GM. :)


Male Dwarf Rng 2/Rog 1 | A 16 T 13 F 13 | hp 24/27 | F +5 R +8 W +2 | In +5 | Per +8

Bofur scrunches up his face, trying to think of a question he'd likely get an answer to. Obviously, the owner was not going to spill the beans about any fiends involved in the business. And so far he hadn't noticed any further signs except for the imp curmudgeon. Then noncreative inspiration strikes. "What if we organized a blot-themed evenin'? We could hire an illusionist to make it look like odd things are happenin'. Fiona could sing some songs about... I don't know... dark clouds and stuff in the sky."


Saul beams at Fiona. "Splendidly; I could barely pay attention to my own paperwork. You're going to help our reputation a great deal."

He then nods over to Mutt. "A more complicated question than you would first think, dear Mutt. But suffice it to say your weekly pay is ten gold. This then varies according to how much profit the casino turns in. Weeks where we do good business, why, could you could make twenty, thirty, or even sixty gold. Weeks where business is poor, you could make nothing. Right now, the returns from tonight aren't too promising. So it'll be eight gold a piece unless we can increase our profitability."

He taps his key-hand against his leg as he speaks.

"So in order to make a profit we need to drum up business, catch cheaters, put off fights or end them decisively, and think of ways to attract positive attention. Bofur's idea of a Blot-related night. Make it happen, Bofur. You're in charge. Larur will provide funds for an illusionist."

Please make some skill checks now which we'll use to determine profit for the week. Mechanics explained in the spoiler below. The AP pacing is a little weird in this section, but I'll be moving week to week between scenes unless stated otherwise. Feel free to continue the conversation with Saul or each other.

Mechanics of Gold Goblin Profit:

Every IG week of play you will be asked to make a skill check, similar to what you did on the casino. This skill check, DC 15 for usual tasks, DC 20 for more difficult ones, will add a bonus to Saul's Profession: Gambler roll.

Potential rolls:

Bluff - Spend 2 hours a day cajoling citizens and tricking them into visiting.

Craft - Spend 2 hours a day creating advertisements.

Diplomacy - Spend 2 hours a day greeting customers and managing the help, or 4 hours convincing citizens to go to the Goblin.

Intimidate - Spend 2 hours a day working as a bouncer. Or 4 hours a day threatening customers at the competition.

Perform - Spend 2 hours a day performing.

Profession (gambler) - Spend 2 hours a day crouping or dealing.

Perception - Spend 2 hours a day looking for cheaters.

Other skills, or even ideas such as visiting rival casinos like you did, will help the profit rating. Be creative!


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13

Mutt thinks for a moment, when inspiration hits him. Something that he's seen many times in Kaer Maga. He looks at Saul. "I have a thought. Why not host a fighting tournament of some kind? We can hold it in the octahedron, Charge an entrance fee. Setting up a betting pool. It can be one-on-one, team vs team, or both."

Take 10 on Intimidate to work as a bouncer: 10 + 7 = 17. I can take 10, right?

I suggest that we go out to rival casinos as well. Maybe we can figure out who the other movers and shakers are in Riddleport and check them out (maybe get them to work with us). Maybe get the support of churches to certain gods (like Cayden Calian, Calistria, Desna [as a goddess of luck], etc.)


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -
"Mutt" wrote:
I suggest that we go out to rival casinos as well. Maybe we can figure out who the other movers and shakers are in Riddleport and check them out (maybe get them to work with us).

That is exactly what we were doing when you joined us. It's why you had to go find us that night. ;-)


'Yasraena Zauviir'|DR: 2/-|Spell Slots: 1st: 6/6; 2nd: 5/5; 3rd: 4/4|Performance Rounds: 27/28|Female Human (Shoanti) Skald 9|AC: 20/13/17 (19/12/16 in Raging Song)|HP: 67/67|Saves: Fort: +9, Ref: +6, Will: +8 (+11 in Raging Song) (+4 vs. Bardic Performance, Sonic, Language-Dependent, +1 vs Fear)|Init: +6|Perc: +14

Fiona beams with pride. "Thank you, Saul." She looks down at her costume and wrinkles her nose. "Now, I should go get changed--if we're going to go through with this Blot-themed night, I'll need to find something appropriate to wear..."

She wanders off to get changed back into her hides.


'Zov' Male Human (Varisian/Shoanti) Bloodrager (primalist) 9 | AC 19 T 12 FF 19 | Damage Reduction 1/- | HP 54/90 | F +10 R +4 W +6 (+1 morale bonus to all saves vs fear) | Init +4 | Perc +13
Variel Duardlon wrote:
"Mutt" wrote:
I suggest that we go out to rival casinos as well. Maybe we can figure out who the other movers and shakers are in Riddleport and check them out (maybe get them to work with us).
That is exactly what we were doing when you joined us. It's why you had to go find us that night. ;-)

Oh, I know. But still, it wouldn't hurt to scope out/put more pressure on the competition. Especially with Mutt around. :)

Also, do you guys think I should bring up my idea of talking to the churches in character? Or would that be too smart for Mutt?


.

Feel free to have a staff member bring it up. You guys are managers so you can use avatars if you wanna bring up ideas or rp situations which may not fit your character concepts. Take 10 is fine - DC 20 for riskier things. Anyways, gimme your rolls and I'll move to the next week. Also, I'm at a conference for the remainder of the week. Posting rate may be irregular but I should make it.


CN [Male Elf] Inquisitor of Calistria 9 | HP 51/51 (+18) | AC 21 (T 12 F 20) | CMB +10, CMD 22 | F +7 R +5 W +11 | Init. +5 | Percep +18, Sense Motive +20 | Speed 30ft | Judgment: 3/day (1 used) | Bane:14/day (1 used)| Conditions: -

Variel will take 10 for 15 Profession: Gambler to supervise the floor.

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