Rictus Ratkiller's Travelling Circus

Game Master Steve the Cat

...the cat was just unlucky...
-Alistair Reid
Circus Lingo


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Common knowledge dictates that cats possess nine lives.

When Ringling was a mere kitten, he first "died" in a river, almost drowning before a kindly human pulled him up. His next "death" was during the fire, one which nearly claimed the human friend as well. Soon after, Ringling found his understanding of the world very much expanded, thanks to the magic of his human - Phineas. I only needed to waste two of my lives before I was awakened - to think how long these next seven shall last me, now that I am so much cleverer, Ringling often thought to himself.

And while it was true that Ringling was clever, and later became even more clever as Ringmaster, even the great Rictus Ratkiller got hungry at times. This particular time, he had found himself a delectable little mushroom. Unknown to him, this particular mushroom was exceedingly rare and its effects studied by only two or three gnomish alchemists who made it their business to study such things.

The gnomes had dubbed it the "Fungus of Seven Deaths."

As Rictus tumbled down through various states of delirium, each one more severe than the last, it became clear that his cat's luck had run its course. Although, he babbled away many of his last minutes incoherently, Rictus did gain enough clarity for just a single moment, in which he resolutely stated I'll die in this awful place, but I'll not rest here! Bury me in the Lost Lands so that damned Empire may never claim my soul! And with that, Rictus Ratkiller, formerly Ringling, breathed his last.

A quick rummage through the caravan uncovered a perfectly cat-sized box in the shape of a coffin which nobody could ever remember seeing before. As the box was hoisted - unusually heavy for it's size - onto the front of the wagon train a small inscription could be seen on the underside: Property of wizards Schrode and Dingar.

With all the formalities taken care of, there is now still the problem of the Ringmaster. Rictus never nominated a successor, and the Circus Code holds no instruction for choosing one otherwise. Since the cat's death, no major disputes have needed settling - the caravan merely continued to skirt the Stoneheart Forest until reconnecting with the main tradeway leading to Bard's Gate. One way or another (or perhaps not at all) a new Ringmaster will be chosen, but another matter of the present demands much greater attention - the Free City of Bard's Gate stands before you.

***

Year 800 since the building of King's Bridge
Summer
Bard's Gate - Tent City

Before the western gate of the city lies an odd collection of tents, pavillions, and other temporary structures seemingly clustered around a longhouse of clay and rough timbers. The whole places bustles with activity: pelt-wearing barbarians haggle with turbaned merchants, half-orcish children weave through the crowds, the tantalizing scent of familiar food cooked with exotic spices wafts from every direction, and a hundred other oddities set this encampment apart from the typical orderly towns of the Empire. The arrival of your strange caravan bearing the banner of "Rictus Ratkiller's Travelling Circus" turns many heads. Unlike the murmurs of suspicion and mistrust you are usually first met with however, this crowd buzzes with excitement at the prospect of such a show, some even giving great whooping cries as the wagons roll by.

It is clear from some of the signs outside various tents that shopping can be found here. Curious smells also announce the presence of some interesting looking food tents. In addition, a number of other tents stand out.

One corner of the camp seems far more regimented and organized than the rest. A banner bearing a green devil on a gold field flies above rows of military-style tents, outside of which a group of well-equiped men are currently engaged in some sort of training drill.

Outside another tent, a large group of barbarians are loudly placing bets on various horses - it appears as if a race is about to begin around a crude dirt track.

Nearby, a peaceful looking man stands outside a large tent wreathed in clouds of white smoke and steam.

Through a tangle of tents, ropes, and guy wires, another caravan can be seen being attended to by swarthy individuals clad in vests and trousers. Another circus perhaps? One of the wagons bears a sign reading "Mama Bobo's Palmistry and Divination."

The longhouse in the center seems to be the only completely permanent structure, over 60 feet long. The odor of smoke and meat wafts from inside, and much merry-making can be heard through its open doors.

Finally, further up the road Bard's Gate beckons. Although a high wall surrounds the city, some buildings are visible even from here, as the western gates lay open.


Golemnoid Rogue 2 | HP 18/18 | AC 16, T 14, FF 13 | CMD 15 | F +1, R+6, W +1 | Init +5 | Senses DV 120 ft | Percep +9

Scout would be filling in as a driver on one of the wagons. Yelling to the other characters in his weird sounding voice (high pitched monotone), Scout says, "Where do you guys want to park the wagons and set up?"

I understand that Mr. Heisenberg also wanted to send a funeral wreath along with his condolences on Rictus's passing but wasn't certain where to send them.


M Aquatic Elf Brawler 1 (Shield Champion, Winding Path Renegade)/Bard 1 (Juggler, Busker) |
Stats:
HP 10/10, Stunts 6/6, AC 18, T 14, FF 14, Init +6, Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +2/+5, Perception +4

Just realized it'll be interesting to have nobody good with horses in our party.

"We need dosh," Jack replies, "More than anything else. I'm guessing we'll need to show these people something real novel to draw their attention. We don't have a lot left to offer, so one top and some wagons should be fine. Scout—if we can figure out what those other tents are showing, maybe we can figure out whether we want to pitch next to 'em or not?"


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

Simon bursts forward from one of the wagons into their conversation with a fanfare of confetti.
"Right you are, Jacky. Let's go meet the neighbors, shall we?"
He grins and rubs his hands together, eager to be back within a society.
The Neko(as he calls himself, as he's never met another person quite like him before) happens to love new people.
He currently wears his normal uniform, as he doesn't have much else, a dark cloak over a pink, purple, and white suit. A loose beanie covers his ears and his tail is tied around his waist under his clothes.


Golemnoid Rogue 2 | HP 18/18 | AC 16, T 14, FF 13 | CMD 15 | F +1, R+6, W +1 | Init +5 | Senses DV 120 ft | Percep +9

I've got a "Handle Animal" skill check modifier of +5. I should be able to take care of anything that would normally need to be done with horses short of trick riding and riding them in combat.

Scout says, "Let's wait for Simon to get back. He's better at the social end of things than I am. I'll go sneaking around later if it needs to be done."


Male Volo (Custom Race) Serpent Shaman (Druid Archetype) Lv2
Stats:
HP 16/16 | AC 16, T 13, FF 13 | CMD 15 | Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +6 | Init +4 | Perception +4 (DV 60)

Currently sitting at the front of one of the wagons, Sathyl nods in agreement.

"Jussst be careful Sssimon. I'm sssure that they won't caussse trouble for usss, but it paysss to be causssiousss."

Is the hissing lisp annoying or should I keep doing it? I think its in character for him anyway. Also, how chummy are we? Like "family," best friends, or work acquaintances? I understand the Circus family trope and that we stick our neck out for each other, but how deep is the bond?


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

Depending on how long everyone else has been in the cirque, Simon will either see you as a father(>15 years), a brother(15-10 years), or a son/daughter(<10 years).

As far as S's go, we can just assume he does that so you don't have to type that every time.
"Aw. No one wants to come with me?"
He makes a show of looking sad, but you all know him well enough that you can tell he's just being silly.


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

The Strongman is a relatively recent addition; pre-cat, but not by a lot. He only left home around four years ago, so I'd say 'with the circus' for more like two, unless DM fiat. :) Also, his vote -would- have been for the other option, feeling that they'd have much competition here.

Sergei is already unloading a bit when he begins to hear talk of where to set up. He shrugs lightly and reloads everything he's taken out, before moving to join the others, taking in a large, deep breath that fills his barrel of a chest to the brim, arms spread wide as he inhales through his nose.

"Ah, Sergei believes we should set up near the delicious smells, yes?" he takes another smell, wafting. "It is smelling like my mother's stews. But different. Has been very long since Sergei has enjoyed smells of food. He bounces a large sack full of copper and silver, the approximate shape and size of a sap in one hand. "Or perhaps further. Will tempt Sergei to eat much, and spend much." he looks to the others. "Sergei was wrong. He did not crave the country quite so much as he believed. Many lights!" He cheers, the smile crinkling his face, despite his mouth being hidden by his beard. He moves to join the Neko, giving him a heavy pat on the back. "Do not be silly, Friend Simon, Sergei will always go with you!"


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

"Good, good."
He laughs and smiles, trying not to show that the pat on the back actually hurt a bit. Poor guy isn't very sturdy.
"Anyone else? Don't suppose our other friend would like to go? Don't expect so, but it would be impolite not to ask."
He looks back towards the carts from their powwow.


Male Volo (Custom Race) Serpent Shaman (Druid Archetype) Lv2
Stats:
HP 16/16 | AC 16, T 13, FF 13 | CMD 15 | Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +6 | Init +4 | Perception +4 (DV 60)

Zathyl gives a slight grin at Simon's teasing.

"I'm sorry I'm not coming, but I have to help Scout tend to the animals."

Something ruffles beneath his scarf and pokes its scaly head out from beneath it and looks around.

"And it seems Slatha might want to come with you. Would that be alright? He's been stuck in the wagon for far too long," he says as he strokes the top of his familiar's head.

I guess his accent could be implied. Also, he's slightly hesitant to leave the wagons just yet. He is unfamiliar with the lost lands and him, Scout, and Veilwar seem to be the most "monstrous" in the party. Better to let the more acceptable looking party members have a look-about first.


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

"Perfectly fine."
He smiles and offers his hand for the snake to crawl across. Simon has never thought of himself as good with animals, but they seemed to like him well enough.
"Looks like it's just you and me, big guy."
He smiles and pats the strongman's chest in place of his shoulder the Neko would have to jump for.
"Just let me grab a couple things. You ready?"


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

"Of course." He nodded. He didn't have his hammer, but he had his armored coat, effectively a duster with thick metal plates thrown over a shoulder, just a moment from being worn, but not weighing him down in the slightest.


As you look for clearings amidst the tents, two spots jump out.

Closest to the main road is a clearing to the east of the Longhouse. Nearby the spot is a strange little hut with a sign painted like a green leaf, which is currently emitting various clouds of herbal, aromatic steam. Another covered wagon, laden with various spices can be found here as well.

The other clearing is on the other side of the road, a little further away and past the horse bookie. Nearby a small but hungry crowd gathers around a tiny lean-to where a very boisterous man sells some sort of roast meat. Another tent, dressed in yellow and black advertises the "Best Mead in or out of town!" The final neighbor to this spot is a goat coral next to a shack, where various dairy products are being advertised.


Skulking around in the shadows around and under the wagons, Veilwar keeps himself hidden from prying eyes. He watches from the unnatural shadows that always seem to wreath his body when in his natural form (penumbra cantrip).

He sneaks close to the others and in his oddly deep and cultured voice says, "Watch out for thieves and other ner'do-wells out there."

his eyes dart all around as if he was looking for someone, or something


Slatha: Snake Valet Familiar
Stats:
HP 8/8 | AC 17, T 15, FF 14 | CMD 9 (can't be tripped) | Fort +2, Ref +5, Will +4 | Init +3 | Perception +9 (LLV, Scent)

Slatha nestles himself on Simon's shoulder, constantly smelling his surroundings and keeping a lookout while studying the many tents and people.

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (20) + 9 = 29 (plus whatever bonus can be picked up by scent)

Despite his alertness of his new surroundings, he seems to be enjoying himself and also seems particularly interesting in the roasted meat, constantly flicking his head in that direction and smelling the air.

Since his name won't be a permanent edition to this alias, every post Slatha does will include his name bolded.

And holy cow! Nat. 20 to start off the campaign!


Golemnoid Rogue 2 | HP 18/18 | AC 16, T 14, FF 13 | CMD 15 | F +1, R+6, W +1 | Init +5 | Senses DV 120 ft | Percep +9

Scout is 35 years old, but it would be impossible to tell his age by looking at him. He has been with the circus for around 30 years. As a result he is more "personable" than a golem would be.

Scout says, "We have to wait somewhere and we probably shouldn't be blocking the road. At least for now let's just go to the spot by the longhouse. We won't have to go as far so it will be easier for Simon and Sergi to find their way back to us. Besides, setting up by the big restaurant is going to guarantee a crowd."


Male Volo (Custom Race) Serpent Shaman (Druid Archetype) Lv2
Stats:
HP 16/16 | AC 16, T 13, FF 13 | CMD 15 | Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +6 | Init +4 | Perception +4 (DV 60)

"Sure, at least we will be out of the way until Simon and Sergislav get back." Zathyl follows Scout's lead and helps guide the small caravan in that direction.

Handle Animal: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9 If any problems are caused by his roll, he will use Charm Animal on the disagreeing animal (DC 15).

Do we need to get a permit or at least permission to set up? I don't know how we should be going about this.


M Aquatic Elf Brawler 1 (Shield Champion, Winding Path Renegade)/Bard 1 (Juggler, Busker) |
Stats:
HP 10/10, Stunts 6/6, AC 18, T 14, FF 14, Init +6, Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +2/+5, Perception +4

I guess Jack has been with the circus for less than 10 years... although I'm not sure how long it was around, Half-Orcs age fast and it wouldn't make sense for him to be too old.

"Maybe, but the food stalls seem more crowded, no? I guess we can stop for a breather first."

Good call on the permit, hmm... one of us should probably know the performer laws here, or Simon can ask about them.


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

Simon grabs a stage cane.
"Off we go, then."
He flips the cane around his hand and grabs it under the handle, not actually using it to walk.
He casually walks towards the other set of brightly colored tents.
"Hello, hello, hello. Might I inquire as to your ring leader, or director, etcetera, etcetera?"
He tips his hat and smiles, charmingly.


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

Sergei watches as Simon uses all of his clothing wrong, as usual. Beanies are not for tipping, and canes are for walking. He marvels once more at the eccentricities of the exotic, not that he knows those words, but just smiles, as he looks about the other group's belongings to see what sort of acts they probably support. Important note: He is not digging, just looking at things on the surface.


I'm assuming you meant to approach the group with the "Mama Bobo's Palmistry and Divination wagon.

As Simon, Sergislav, and Slatha approach the tents and wagons three huge mastiffs announce your presence with a series of vicious snarls. As the encampment's denizens pour out of various tents you notice that many have some degree of orchish blood (including some of the children), as well as wear multiple holy symbols around their necks. Although a bit difficult to tell in all the hubbub, it would appear that this caravan does not possess the trappings of a fully-fledged circus, but rather a loose group of travelers, some of whom might be entertainers.

"Easy boys!" A large female half-orc grips the chains holding the mastiffs and jerks all of them back at once, seemingly not breaking a sweat. This display combined with her bare, muscle-bound arms gives the impression that she might even be a match for Sergei. "You come to da Wanderers? You look for Mama Bobo ya? She do fortunes, find any lost treasures quick now. You lose ball of yarn kitty cat, she find it for ya. You lose one of dem tattoos big man, Mama Bobo even find dat." The half-orc lets out a throaty laugh at her own joke.

"Leave them alone Belonda," At this point, a very pleasant looking young human woman approaches from inside the camp as well. It seems Sergei isn't the only one who's found his match here. "They look ever so weary from wherever they may have traveled here from. My name's Lolly," she says with a saccharine curtsy and a wink towards Simon, "And despite her crude nature Belonda is correct, Mama Bobo would probably be the closest thing to a leader we have. However, unless you need her divination services, I'm sure we could help you, no?"

For Slatha's Eyes Only:
Nice 20! As Slatha sits on Simon shoulder during this whole conversation, he notices a barely visible set of disembodied footprints appearing in the dust nearby. It appears someone is circling the three of you invisibly, although they haven't moved any closer this whole time.

Edit: Forgot Sergei's question. Added up top.


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

"Haha! Sergei has never lost a tattoo! Have lost many things, but never a tattoo!" He stops laughing for a moment, when she stops laughing. "You are saying is possible to lose a tattoo? Hm." his eyes move to Lolly, a stupid grin plastering over his face. "The only thing we've really lost is friends. Can Mama Bobo find this?" He seems to still be speaking to Belonda still, but the lug is more focused on Lolly.


Slatha: Snake Valet Familiar
Stats:
HP 8/8 | AC 17, T 15, FF 14 | CMD 9 (can't be tripped) | Fort +2, Ref +5, Will +4 | Init +3 | Perception +9 (LLV, Scent)

Yes some action for the snake!

Slatha hisses in the direction of the "disturbance" and uses his spell-like ability Prestidigitation. A small glowing orb of multicolored, dim light briefly appears in front of our group to grab their attention and makes a light whistling noise as it travels towards the prints, splashing into them, outlining them and any new ones that might appear.

Slatha is consciously directing the spell-like ability to do this. If Slatha loses sight of the "disturbance," he can no longer direct it to outline the prints. Since the spell is limited yet flexible, I think this is appropriate, but can be overruled by Steve. If it is overruled it simply directs them to it and hovers around it. Also, I hope I am being conspicuous enough not to give anything away.


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

It can color things, so it could realistically color the dirt within a footprint :)


"Mama Bobo find anything!" Bellonda yells, but then leans just a bit closer, lowering her voice. "Don't tell Mama Bobo I says this, but if it people you really want to find, you go to Ka'zic."

Turning to Sergei with a sly smile, Lolly adds, "I believe that may have been a joke, Bel. But if you do ever need to find someone, Ka'zic the Tracker is the man you want. He lives in...mmm...the Outer Quarter?"

At this point, Slatha begins to draw your attention to a point on the ground, where a handsome young man appears out of nowhere, launching a rapid volley of words as he does. "HOOOWHEEE! That's one fancy magic snake you got there! Where on earth did you find such a thing? I'll buy it from ya! Name's Tarrio by the way. Ooh, better idea, maybe we could play cards for it, eh? I'll wager you this here magic ring against it. That's what turned me invisible see? You look like you'd be real good at cards, what with all your cat-senses and whatnot. How 'bout it friend?"

Also, those of you on the wagon are perfectly welcome to take action in another part of the Tent City. Just label the top of your posts with Group 1 and the group over at the Wanderer's Encampment can use Group 2. I can't tell if you decided on the spot by the longhouse or went with Jack's suggestion of being by the food. Also, don't worry about handle animal checks unless I specifically call for them or you're doing some trick riding.


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

He might've been startled by the dogs, but does a good job hiding it.
He also laughs at the joke, whether it was funny or not.
He returns her wink with an almost imperceptible smile and nod.

"We were just coming over to meet our neighbors of current. We noticed your tents and thought there might be a Day and Date in town."

He uses a circus term to ask if there was another circus in town. That way if they weren't they wouldn't know the term and get mad at the implication that they were a circus.

"I'm afraid the snake belongs to a friend of mine, and I'm not one to wager something that doesn't belong to me. That is quite nice ring, though. You better hold on to it well."
He smiles at them both, not showing any difference of expression to the young man or woman.

He crosses his arms and holds out a hand to both of them with the cane hanging on his elbow.

"Nice to meet you all, my name is Simon Saito."


Slatha: Snake Valet Familiar
Stats:
HP 8/8 | AC 17, T 15, FF 14 | CMD 9 (can't be tripped) | Fort +2, Ref +5, Will +4 | Init +3 | Perception +9 (LLV, Scent)

Group 2

Slatha seems to dislike the talk of selling or betting him. He firms his grip around Simon's shoulder, shivers as if cold, and shakes his head back and forth. He retracts his Prestidigitation back to him and forms a small red, blinking floating orb which he puts between him and the man with the ring.


Tarrio and Lolly both share a grin before grabbing and shaking Simon's hands simultaneously.

"Ask your friend about it, yah?" Tarrio looks longingly at the snake.

"Wonderful to meet you Simon," Lolly says, and then acknowledging his earlier question about the Day and Date, "Although many of us have worked a carny or two, were not a fully fledged circus, more a collection of odd jobs-men and entertainers. Much of our income comes from Mama Bobo's divination services. Anyhow, I hope you'll call on us if you need any sort of assistance, we're always happy to help any who call the road their home."


Veilwar waits for the others to return, keeping a watchful eye on their possessions.


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

"I'll ask, but don't be surprised if he says no. Slatha here is a dear friend to him. To us all, really."

He rubs the snake under the chin with the knuckle of his index finger.

"Excellent, thank you. I'll remember that. Don't suppose you could point us to the who, what, where, when, and why of getting our little show set up for a day or two of performing, could you? We haven't had a good audience in far too long. Mayhaps we'd both be obliged to set up together, and perhaps be the talk of the town for a night?"

He punctuates his offer with raised eyebrows.

"We could perhaps work out a good night all around, eh?"

He smiles charmingly with his hands on his hips.


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

"One thing we have no shortage of... is tents." Sergei continues to beam.


M Aquatic Elf Brawler 1 (Shield Champion, Winding Path Renegade)/Bard 1 (Juggler, Busker) |
Stats:
HP 10/10, Stunts 6/6, AC 18, T 14, FF 14, Init +6, Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +2/+5, Perception +4

Alright, here goes. Jack can give a speech to Group 1, since nobody seems sure of what to do now that we've arrived in Bard's Gate:

”Right,” Jack says, calling the others over once he’s comfortable they’re not being watched by any overeager outsiders, ”We should work out a plan for this city. It’s much harder to change a reputation than make one, so I’ve got an idea for some things we could change up in Bard’s Gate.”

It’s not… the traditional tactical though he’s been schooled in, but in desperate times a company like this needs its own field sergeant.

”First of all, no permit laws means they probably get a lotta poor, cheap, unprincipled perfomers here, enough to mean any circus enthusiast’s probably seen their fare share of letdowns. Second, if we set up by all these fancy shops, it might get us a bit more of the highbrow crowd.”

”So here’s what I’m thinking. I don’t do any clowning, Simon keeps his hallucinations from getting bawdy, Veilwar doesn’t lie to the audience about when he’s using magic. We launch an honest-man’s show—cut out anything cheap, crass, underhanded or aided by spellery—put on the sort of rare show that draws buzz and maybe pulls a few noblemen to the outer gates.”

”It might be easier to do anyway, now as we have so few people. No dwarves riding hippos, no big but half-trained acrobatics team. We portray ourselves as a small band of extremely skilled, well-trained experts, each of whose craft as an individual is worth seeing.”

”We stick to one tent, high-topped but small—it’s pretty much all we got now anyway. But only one ring, only one performer at a time. Break the show down into 5-minute segments, with one 10-minute acrobatic finale. Post separate playbills for each one of us, the Amazing something-or-other, bill it like they’re getting to see five different independent experts ply their craft for the price of one ticket (Scout, I’ll get to you in a minute). We could a slightly-discount ticket that’s only the last act or two, to really drive through the impression that they’re getting a bargain for their money.”

”If this is gonna work, we’ve gotta make sure that anything we do on the sides for coin or buzz before the show isn’t as flashy as the main thing. Kids want to see Sergei lift something real heavy again, they gotta buy another ticket, but he’ll be happy to lift them up and toss ‘em around with one hand, something like that.”

”Right, so, the show. If we’re lucky, there’ll be some mages in the audience, if not we can hire a patsy. At the beginning of every act, we invite any spellcasters to come up and scan the performers for magic, announcing ’Everything you see here is true and proper talent and ingenuity, the result of years of honed study, not cheap tricks.’. Someone else can come up with better patter. But we’ve got Slatha and Veilwar doing magic in their segments to show then that we’re not too poor to afford ‘casters, just talented enough to go without them.”

”Veilwar, what do you say about doing shaped illusions? Not a smoke and mirrors act, but one where you stand in front of the audience and tell them that everything they see is a common spell made wondrous. Then we play with the lighting to make your illusions really pretty, the sort of things that stand out. Maybe use one of those ‘ghost sound’ things, if you ken it, to imitate exotic animal noises or all the instruments in a band, one by one. Ask for requests from kids in the audience—bet they’ve never seen that before. I’m not going to tell you how to do your act, but I would wager that an honest illusionist might be worth more in this city than all the dishonest ones.”

”Zathyl, can you talk with Slatha beforehand to respond to a set of real complicated verbal cues? It might be more impressive if you look like you’re taking to him without that spell all you druids get to talk to animals.”

”Simon could do one of those journey-to-the-center-of-the-mind things, pose hypnotism as a high-end science of thought and charm people into doing things that are polite and proper, but we’ll ask him about that.”

”Scout, what do you say about being made-up to look like some sorta fancy china doll? I think you’re small enough that with a day’s practice I could juggle you and a few other ‘toys,’ make it look like I’m showing off my ability to juggle breakable things, then in the middle of the act you come to life and start suddenly juggling yourself, surprising the audience as the announcer shouts ‘oh my, it appears we’ve got a special guest talent’ or something like that? I’ve never tried juggling someone who was juggling themselves, but if we only do one or two regular objects each it might be doable.”

”For a big finish, maybe Sergei could throw us up into the ropes. You, certainly, and if he can’t toss me I can climb. Then we can make sure we’ve got a rope set as high as we can safely tumble—put a bit of a mat down and wow everyone with a miraculous fall that leaves me unharmed and you unbroken.”


Group 2
Lolly smiles at both Simon and Sergislav but then gives an incredulous look. "Permits!? No, you can't mean to say that you've never been to Bard's Gate before? Most professions do have a guild of some sort or the other, but there are so many performers here that it'd be impossible to keep track of them all. That being said, some districts have their own guards, some more corruptible than others, who might demand some sort of permit money for such a fanfare. Setting up here in the Tent City wouldn't be a problem at all, and we'd all be happy to lend our talents."

"Waaaait one minute!" Tarrio, deep in thought, suddenly bursts with excitement, but then slows down the speed of his voice to explain himself. "Tent City is wonderful, yes, but don't you think you've got your sights set a little too low? I know a guy who could get us a cozy little space in the Grand Plaza. It's usually reserved for market stalls, but if we set up during the night we could, ahem, expand our boundaries a little and be ready to perform in the morning! The Inn of Six Candles is right there too, what with all those wealthy merchants. It could be very," Tarrio adds with a sly smile, "Profitable."

"He means cards," Lolly quickly adds, "Tarrio has quite the knack when it comes to such games of skill and chance, but doesn't often get an excuse to mingle with the more affluent "high stakes" members of society. And there are a handful of other inns lining the Grand Plaza as well."


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26Sense motive for if it's 'too good to be true.' ;)
Also, what was meant by "expand our boundaries?" Inferring tone from text is hard. :/
My two guesses are drastically different, and I don't won't to mistake it.

"Are we sure it's the best thing for us to take center stage on our first day in town?"
He asks, but seems open to the idea.


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

"Is probably not. Is always better to work way up. Less chance of slipping in ice under snow. Is better to keep both feet on ground, yes? And we do not need permits for operating in Grand Plaza?" he asks, a little surprised. Everywhere, thus far, had required them to have permits upon permits.


With regards to the 'boundaries' comment: The usual market stall spaces might not be big enough depending on what you were setting up, so if you got there in the night when some of the stalls were taken down you could grab a bit more space than if you set up with the merchants in the morning.

Simon:
Tarrio seems completely confident in himself, however Lolly's voice has a bit of uncertainty to it.

"Of course, friend! No permits necessary! May as well aim as high as you can! Anyways, it's not like you're be playing one of the Auditoriums. Those would rake in some real coin, but it's near impossible to get a spot. If you're really worried about this 'starting small' nonsense you could always do a show here now and then move in to the Plaza tonight." Lolly nods in agreement with him.

DM Screen:
1d20 ⇒ 8


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

Group Awesome
Sergei is silent while he tries to come to terms with the concept of 'no permits'. Ever since he had joined the circus, it had been about permits... and the permits had eventually worked towards his home falling apart. Needless to say, he was going to be slow to adjust.


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

That makes more sense than thought #2. XD
"Well, if your friend really can get us space there, and we won't get lynched for popping a tent up in the center of town overnight..."
He looks to Sergei.
"We could at least ask everyone else."


Golemnoid Rogue 2 | HP 18/18 | AC 16, T 14, FF 13 | CMD 15 | F +1, R+6, W +1 | Init +5 | Senses DV 120 ft | Percep +9

Group 1

Scout says:

"I'm not so sure about juggling while being juggled. I could see various problems with that. And you really need a minimum of three objects to do a decent juggle. However, I could possibly do tumbles and flips while you juggled me. That might work better."

"Another possibility is that I dress up like a child and start playing on the high wire. Some of you other guys could act like I'm not supposed to be there and we could have a slapstick routine where you try to and eventually get me down safely."


Male Volo (Custom Race) Serpent Shaman (Druid Archetype) Lv2
Stats:
HP 16/16 | AC 16, T 13, FF 13 | CMD 15 | Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +6 | Init +4 | Perception +4 (DV 60)

Group 1

Zathyl stands up from the wagon and stretches, tail flicking back and forth. While listening to Jacks speech, he smiles in amusement at upon hearing his plans for Slatha.

"No offense to my Familiar, but he's more suited to work in tandem with my act than he is as a single act reacting to verbal cues. Besides... he is no stage magician or big practitioner of the art. His magic is extremely limited," he says scratching his chin, "Though if he behaves, he might be a good before/after show for the kids. Also, wouldn't he be more impressive that he does his magic with out verbal cues?"


M Aquatic Elf Brawler 1 (Shield Champion, Winding Path Renegade)/Bard 1 (Juggler, Busker) |
Stats:
HP 10/10, Stunts 6/6, AC 18, T 14, FF 14, Init +6, Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +2/+5, Perception +4

"Oh... sure. Part of your act would be fine—I just thought it might be neat to avoid any spells of speaking-with-animals."


Male Volo (Custom Race) Serpent Shaman (Druid Archetype) Lv2
Stats:
HP 16/16 | AC 16, T 13, FF 13 | CMD 15 | Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +6 | Init +4 | Perception +4 (DV 60)

"You didn't know that Slatha can understand common? He may not speak it, but he is intelligent enough to understand conversations in the tongue," Zathyl says with surprise and a shrug.

For more information on Slatha's familiar status, please look at my previous discussion post.

To Scout, "Juggling while being juggled.... Seems interesting. If you don't think you can accomplish that, lets put it on hold for now. Your other ideas sound good enough though for starting up. I say we practice and see what we can come up with. Might as well try something unexpected eh?"

He then steps down from the wagon (I'm assuming we parked) and starts to stretch more and loosen his cramped, travel worn muscles.


Male Volo (Custom Race) Serpent Shaman (Druid Archetype) Lv2
Stats:
HP 16/16 | AC 16, T 13, FF 13 | CMD 15 | Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +6 | Init +4 | Perception +4 (DV 60)

"Well, at least I know what I'm doing in my act."

Not to be stingy, but wouldn't it be assumed that we have a regular sequence of acts setup and we are just discussing something new to add? If that's the case, look at my discussion post for a reoccurring favorite act."


Golemnoid Rogue 2 | HP 18/18 | AC 16, T 14, FF 13 | CMD 15 | F +1, R+6, W +1 | Init +5 | Senses DV 120 ft | Percep +9

I figure everybody knows their solo acts. What we have to work on are group acts and organizing the show as a whole.


M Aquatic Elf Brawler 1 (Shield Champion, Winding Path Renegade)/Bard 1 (Juggler, Busker) |
Stats:
HP 10/10, Stunts 6/6, AC 18, T 14, FF 14, Init +6, Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +2/+5, Perception +4

That's entirely reasonable! I'm just not sure if we want to change them or not, and I figured I should post... something....


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

"We'll ask them. This could go well. Then I bid you both good bye, and I'll be back with an answer soon.
He smiles and starts to turn to go, before stopping and turning back.
"Oh, um, do you happen to know anything about those military tents over there? Soldiers, or...?"
He trails off, hoping they'll fill in if it's not soldiers.


"Mercenaries," Belonda answers with a sneer, "Blackfinger's Devils. Tried to recruit me once. Much too ord-er-ly for my taste."

Tarrio chuckles and adds, "They're lead by a bloke named Dennin Blackfinger, some bad bit of magic stained his fingers black, right? Anyhow he's supposed to be a real tricky commander and supposedly knows a bit of magic as well. They're all decent sorts though, just as long as no one ever hires them against you! Then I'd be real worried." All of a sudden he vanishes, and his voice continues from the same spot. "Well, I personally wouldn't be worried, but you get the idea."


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

"Perhaps asking the others about performing in the center of town is wise? It does sound more lucrative... and Jack wanted to make money." he shrugs. "Sergei is simple, does not need all of these things, but understands why a stomach filled is not all one can desire."


Male Wyvaran Summoner/Sorcerer/Bard 4
stats:
Hp:48/48 Bp:15/15, Hero4, Init (5), AC 15, Touch 15, Flatfoot 10, CMD +7, Fort 4, Refl 9, Will 7, Perception+15Dark/lowlight vis,

"So not the kind to get involved with. Understood."

Soldiers were easy, impressionable, frustrated, and often lonely, but mercenaries... not so much. Far too structured. Too much discipline. Mercenaries weren't good for much more than an audience.

He nods, sort of like a bow, lifting his hat again.

"Thank you for your assistance. It has been my greatest pleasure to meet you. Perhaps we will get to know each other better by the time we get to moving along. You have been most helpful."

He smiles and heads back to his group after goodbyes are finished.

"You're right, Sergei. As satisfying as a good bellyfull can be, there are still greater things for one to desire."

He smiles to the much larger man.


HP: 24/24; RP: 8/8
Stats:
AC/Touch/Flat/CMD 15/11/14/17 | Fort/Ref/Will +04/+01/+00 | Init +01 Perception +5
Human Bloodrager (Abyssal/Steelblood/Primalist) 2

Sergei gave Simon another grin, and bowed as Simon had to the folks before him. "If we need to find something that isn't a person, Sergei will remember to return here."

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