The Turning Wheel - a Zeitgeist PbP

Game Master karlprosek

PCs are members of the Royal Homeland Constabulary in Flint, protecting king and country from threats foreign and domestic during a time of rampant technological upheaval.

Map of Current Scene: No current tactical map.
The City of Flint

Campaign site
Seized Evidence Tracker

Zeitgeist Player's Guide


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Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

Spotting Anthony ahead, Ralf shifted his path to fall in a safe distance behind the suspect, then began waving his arms in the air -- red-bordered gold trim sparkling as it flashed in the sunlight -- to catch his compatriot's attention. As soon as he was successful, he pointed emphatically at the docker ahead of him, nodding.

Considering Ralf's dayglo, metallic-trimmed outfit, Anthony should get a bonus on whatever he uses for a Perception roll. ;o)


Fighter (Armor Master) 2
Quick Stats:
AC:22; Touch: 13; Flat 20 | Hp 28/28 | Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +0 | Scrapper

Looking over the crowd for trouble (Tech Investigator): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17

Anthony's eyes continue to skim over the crowd as he and Scrapper both wait. Every once in a while when someone got pushy, he would politely ask them to step back, doing so in such away that often drew attention to both his size and uniform as he stepped closer for a moment. He was, of course, the perfect picture image of civility. Admittedly he seemed a little uncomfortable in front of so many people, but he managed to remain calm.

He was a little distracted though. His eyes swept over the crowd before him carefully, taking in minute details of each individual. He saw the man who looked to have been in a fight and his eyes very nearly passed over him, knowing that some people were prone to fights more often then not. His own friend, Carl, was a perfect example. But just before his eyes moved on to the next, his keen mind attempting to keep track of the flow of people to make it easier to study, he saw... metallic trim? Someone wearing a very guady outfit was waving behind the man.

Anthony turned his attention to whoever it was and was surprised to see Ralf, pointing at the individual who had most likely been in some sort of brawl earlier. After a moment, he directed Scrapper to remain where he was, and stepped toward the bruised individual.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25

"Excuse me sir, are you alright? You appear to have been injured." Anthony gives the individual another once over and then looks into the mans eyes, attempting to show concern. "And I'm guessing it wasn't just a fall judging by some of those bruises. Is someone in the crowd causing trouble?"


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

As Anthony intercepted the man Ralf stopped behind the suspect, trying to look innocent and blend in with the crowd. "Yeah, right" on both counts.


Anthony Dawson Zeitlin wrote:
"Excuse me sir, are you alright? You appear to have been injured." Anthony gives the individual another once over and then looks into the mans eyes, attempting to show concern. "And I'm guessing it wasn't just a fall judging by some of those bruises. Is someone in the crowd causing trouble?"

The man looked a little guilty when Anthony confronted him. He shook his head a little guiltily at the question and raised his hands as if to ward off the constable. "No, uh, no trouble, officer. Just a little thing last night. There's, uh, everything's okay. Thanks."

He looked right, toward the nearest street, then left, and his eyes widened as he saw Iscalio standing with the police. For his part, Iscalio hadn't yet seemed to notice him.

The fourth man didn't seem to notice Ralf coming up behind him, either.

-----
On the other side of the square, Aziel let Dafton walk away and pushed her way back into the huge crowd. She emerged back into the square just in time for the blast of horns. The brass cavalcade was immediately followed by an obviously magically assisted voice. "Make way! Make way! Make way for the King and his guests!"

Of course, no one had to make way, since the middle of the square was already sectioned off. Virtually everyone turned to look at the far end of the square, where a squad of drummers in bright costumes preceded a marching band playing a martial march. A line of flag bearers came behind the band, and tumblers cartwheeled and flipped all up and down the column of entertainers.

Presumably, the first carriages were behind the parade, somewhere down the street beyond the crowd.


Fighter (Armor Master) 2
Quick Stats:
AC:22; Touch: 13; Flat 20 | Hp 28/28 | Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +0 | Scrapper

Anthony studies the man closely for a few seconds, giving little indication of his thoughts. After a moment, he nods slowly, "Maybe you should go home and get some rest? Word is some people are going to cause trouble, and with this many around that kind of trouble usually gets people hurt or, unfortunately, worse. Crowds are dangerous already. Panicking crowds are ten times worse. I'll pretend I never heard anything about this thing last night, if that will help, and you can go home and sleep whatever it was off. Sound fair?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20

The magically assisted voice slightly annoys Anthony as he gives the man before him one more look. With even one such spell aiding the constables, this crowd would be a great deal easier to manage. He didn't blame the FPD. It wasn't their fault they didn't much. But whoever had called in the R.H.C. could have pulled one or two more strings if they were that worried. It gave him a bad feeling.


Male Human Monk (Kata Master) 4 / Rogue (Roof Runner) 2 HP TBD AC 19 T 19 FF 16 F 4 R 10 W 5 Perc 8 Init 3
karlprosek wrote:
his eyes widened as he saw Iscalio standing with the police. For his part, Iscalio hadn't yet seemed to notice him.

I don't think Iscalio is standing with police, other than the under-cover Jaelynn. Shane has been deliberately pacing and only glancing at Iscalio from time to time, so as not to spook him or his accomplices.

After the announcement, Shane makes his way over to Jaelynn. "Ma'm, you and your guest will need to move to the side." He gestures in the direction of Anthony and, if needed, herds them that way as if merely directing the crowd to make way for the parade.


So, anybody else going to react to the parade? I'll give it til tomorrow then move on.

I thought Jaelynn and Iscalio were standing near the FPD sergeant and his men.

Anthony Dawson Zeitlin wrote:
Anthony studies the man closely for a few seconds, giving little indication of his thoughts. After a moment, he nods slowly, "Maybe you should go home and get some rest? Word is some people are going to cause trouble, and with this many around that kind of trouble usually gets people hurt or, unfortunately, worse. Crowds are dangerous already. Panicking crowds are ten times worse. I'll pretend I never heard anything about this thing last night, if that will help, and you can go home and sleep whatever it was off. Sound fair?"

The man blinked his eyes a few times at Anthony before nodding. "I... yeah. That's, uh, a good idea. I'm gonna..." He jumped like a nervous cat at the fanfare and amplified voice, turned to look, then rapidly turned to look back at Anthony. He gestured at the closest street and had to shout to be heard over the crowd noise, drumming, and trumpeting. "I'm just gonna go, okay!?"


tiefling fighter 2/gunslinger 1, HPs: 28/28 - AC: 17|14|13 - For:+5 | Ref:+6 | Wil:+0 (+1 vs fear) - Init:+4

Aziel skirted the crowd as well as she could as they pressed in toward the cleared lane the parade was marching down, giving her a bit of room. She headed for the bottleneck her unit was in charge of, her eyes sweeping the crowd for any potential troublemakers as she went.

Not that she expected trouble to erupt behind everyone, but no one could claim that she wasn't vigilant!

I don't know how long it will take her to get to the front, so I'm going to leave it at that.


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

Close enough to hear the conversation between Anthony and the docker, Ralf's eyes narrowed at the man's promise to "just go."

"Be telling another," he muttered while glancing down the avenue at the approaching procession, then quickly scanning the crowd before returning his attention to the suspect.

Slippery Sort (as Perception): 1d20 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 1 + 4 + 2 = 8 Gosh, there are people here.

If the man moves off, Ralf will tail him.


Female High-Elf (Lightbringer) Arcanist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 12/12 | AR 7/9 | AC 11/15*; T 11; FF 10/14* | CMD 12 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will +5 | Init +3 | Perception +8/+11
Shane Sangster wrote:
After the announcement, Shane makes his way over to Jaelynn. "Ma'm, you and your guest will need to move to the side." He gestures in the direction of Anthony and, if needed, herds them that way as if merely directing the crowd to make way for the parade.

Jaelynn made a show of frowning, and then looking hesitant. She looked to Miguel, a question on her face. Do we do what he says, was clearly in her eyes. Even before he made a decision though, she was leaning against him, subtly guiding him towards moving, while 'letting him make the call.'


Fighter (Armor Master) 2
Quick Stats:
AC:22; Touch: 13; Flat 20 | Hp 28/28 | Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +0 | Scrapper

Rather then try and reply verbally Anthony gives the man a nod and a thumbs up, then turns back toward the opening he had left when asking the FPD to send runners to the criers. Fat lot of good it did. If he ever had the chance, he'd talk to someone in the FPD and see if he can find a way for them to get something like that amplified voice for crowd control... or maybe he'd just make one if they offered to fund it. The idea shouldn't be too expensive. Amphitheaters and the like knew how to make sound go further through construction. Admittedly what he had in mind wouldn't be perfect but it might help.

When he returned to his spot, Scrapper suddenly became more lively. Anthony knew the small construct was not actually alive but he couldn't help but assign a bit of personality to it. He had, after all, spent several weeks making the device. Looking at it now, for however a brief moment, he felt another swell of pride within him. And then he turned back to the crowd. At this point trying to actually calm them down with his voice would be impossible, so he did his best to convey the need to not push and shove through body language. For someone like Anthony, big and scarred as he was, wearing armor and even carrying a hammer, it wasn't that hard to imply to others that they should not push.


The man Anthony had been talking to turned around and pushed through the crowd in the direction of the nearest street. Ralf could see him go but quickly lost him in the crush of people suddenly re-focusing their attention on the parade.

Miguel nodded at Jaelynn, putting out an elbow to take as he moved out of the way of the musicians and tumblers preceding the carriages. In a moment the policemen had rearranged the barricades to allow the parade through, and soon the drummers, marching band, flag bearers, and tumblers were marching across the bridge.

Behind them came a long line of carriages- the dignitaries come for the ship's launch. Eventually they all crossed and the police prepared to let the crowd onto the bridge and into the square on the other side to hear the speeches.

During the parade the policemen came back to man Anthony's checkpoint, freeing the constable to return to his other duties just in time for the sea of people to turn into a flood across the bridge.


Female High-Elf (Lightbringer) Arcanist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 12/12 | AR 7/9 | AC 11/15*; T 11; FF 10/14* | CMD 12 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will +5 | Init +3 | Perception +8/+11

As the crowd began to flow forward, Jaelynn tugged on Miguel's arm, keeping him beside her, scanning the people passing through.

"Keep an eye out, Miguel," she told him, "if we spot them, we can pull them aside, and then we can all get walked to our reserved place, with an escort. No pushing or shoving needed!"


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

"Amria!"

Ralf cursed under his breath as he lost sight of the docker. With the thickening crowd making pursuit virtually impossible, he turned and struggled his way back to Anthony, stepping up next to him.

"Lost in crowd. But am having mindlink, will know if suspect circles back."

Dropping the pretense of being just another attendee, Ralf turned to keep an eye on the procession... and his mind's eye on the questionable docker.

Slippery Sort (as Perception): 1d20 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 1 + 4 + 2 = 26

As stated, he'll be monitoring "signal strength" to see if the guy really goes home -- which he believes is highly unlikely. Note, link will drop at 110' (and won't resume if the docker comes back within range afterwards).


Male Human Monk (Kata Master) 4 / Rogue (Roof Runner) 2 HP TBD AC 19 T 19 FF 16 F 4 R 10 W 5 Perc 8 Init 3

As the parade arrived and FPD began to move aside the barricades, Shane made sure he ended up on the opposite side of the route from Anthony, so as to place the uniformed presence of the RHC in view to the crowd on both sides. He then focused his attention on the crowd within his view, concentrating on the spectators closest to the parade and to the barricades keeping the crowd from the bridge. Every so often, he swept his gaze across the rest of the crowd, trying to spot any of the other members of unit 11.

At one point, through a break in the parade, he noticed Ralf (he was hard to miss in his colorful docker's disguise). He kept his eye on the continuing presence of Jaelynn, who was also easy to spot with her shock of red hair and her colorful parasol. It did not appear the young man she had identified was having any luck spotting the others. Shane hoped that meant the undercover members of Unit 11 had intercepted them.

As the end of the parade came into view, Shane braced himself for the next phase of events. The crush of people would be hard to control, so he prepared to advance a bit ahead of the surge and then hold his ground and try to screen those who went closest to him.

notice using Streetwise/Wis/Lvl: 1d20 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 3 + 1 = 20


The expected trouble never materializes. Either the constables found and scared off all the malcontents or there was never anything planned to begin with. Once the dignitaries are past the barricades, the crowd surged across the bridge, rapidly filling the area set aside for the public on the far side.

The dignitaries' area on the far side of the bridge is more substantially protected than the near side, with royal marines making a proud show of guarding the King and his guests in their bright red uniforms and white pith helmets, the bayonets affixed to their muskets polished to a bright shine. There was little chance anyone would be brave or stupid enough to cause trouble with the marines poised to swoop down on them.

The police managed to keep the scene from turning into a complete madhouse in spite of all the disappointed people who had to be turned away once the square and the bridge are full. Once the crowd was settled the King emerged from a nearby building- liberally protected by royal marines- to a royal fanfare, preceded by young maidens strewing white roses in his path and accompanied by the royal anthem sung by a children's choir.

King Aodhan gave a speech- magically amplified so it could be heard throughout both squares and on the bridge- about how this ship, to be christened the R.N.S. Coaltongue, represented the future of both warfare and the future of Risur. He waxed eloquent about the Risuri engineering that went into creating the ship and how the unique blend of magic and technology was poised to transform the world. Once finished, King Aodhan smashed a bottle of champagne against the ship's bow.

The crowd cheered and the band played another march as the King walked up the gangway onto the Coaltongue for the next- and exclusive- portion of the night's festivities. The band continued to play as dignitaries followed the King onto the ship and the crowd slowly began to disperse.

As the crush began to lighten, the unit saw Delft in full dress uniform complete with medals and braid standing nearby. Delft waved the constables over to him. "Break's over, children. We’re about to earn our pay. Lots of nobles about, so first, don’t make a scene, and definitely don’t talk to any of the nobility unless they
address you first."

"Second, if something does go wrong, try to handle it yourselves, would you? I’m going to be busy applying my not-inconsiderable charms to very important people. The Constabulary doesn’t get by with just good will and pretty faces, you know."

"And third, you did good work, so I’ve got a surprise for you." He leads the unit over to the bottom of the gangway, where an older man in expensive looking red and gold robes is waiting. Regardless of his age, the man looked quite healthy and spry. There was a gleam of intelligence in his eye, as well, and his glance lingered on Jaelynn and her outfit for more than a moment.

"Unit 11, Principal Minister Harkover Lee. PM Lee, Unit 11."

DC 10 appropriate Knowledge check:
Perhaps the most powerful mage in Risur, Lee acts as King Aodhan’s bodyguard and chief of staff.

DC 15 Knowledge check:
Straightbacked and virile despite being in his 60s, Lee has a slight Ber-tinged accent, and is said to be quite the ladykiller in spite of his age. He always dresses in reds and golds and carries a solid gold orb tucked into his robes. He never eats or drinks in public.


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

Slippery Sort (as Kn:Local/Kn:Nobility): 1d20 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 1 + 4 + 2 = 24

The vitalist eyed the man's garb, nodding subtly in silent approval. Red and gold -- two of Ralf's own signature colors representing long life, inner strength, and resourcefulness.

Though if the tales were to be believed, red more likely meant lust in PM Lee's case.

"Principle Minister Lee," he acknowledged with a respectful dip of his head.


Fighter (Armor Master) 2
Quick Stats:
AC:22; Touch: 13; Flat 20 | Hp 28/28 | Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +0 | Scrapper

The Child 'Prodigy' (+1)/Local: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10

Anthony also gave a polite bow to the man, one of both professional and personal respect. Anthony briefly wondered if Delft was testing them by introducing them to said nobility, right after telling them to wait to be addressed. From what he remembered from his upbringing it was rude not to introduce yourself, specially to someone of such rank, so he erred on the side of caution. "Principle Minister Lee, it's a pleasure. I remember some of my arcane studies revolved around theories of yours when I was younger."

By this point, to avoid causing trouble, Anthony had Scrapper standing beside him now rather then father afield. The construct was currently standing at what appeared to be something similar to attention, it's eyes focused forward.


tiefling fighter 2/gunslinger 1, HPs: 28/28 - AC: 17|14|13 - For:+5 | Ref:+6 | Wil:+0 (+1 vs fear) - Init:+4

Finer Things as knowledge:nobility: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

Aziel was a bit startled to be introduced to PM Lee, but she rallied quickly. "It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Principle Minister," she said with a short bow, and not a trace of sarcasm.

With the PM's interest fastened on Jaelynn, she glanced sidelong at Anthony; she would have to ask him more about the PM when she had the chance.


Female High-Elf (Lightbringer) Arcanist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 12/12 | AR 7/9 | AC 11/15*; T 11; FF 10/14* | CMD 12 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will +5 | Init +3 | Perception +8/+11

BoE as Know: Nobility: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13
TVM as Sense Motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12

Clearly still somewhat distracted by the whole incident with Miguel, Jaelynn didn't seem to immediately pick up on exactly who she was being introduced to. At least, her mental catalog of facts didn't churn forth with much beyond the commonly-known.

She caught that his eyes lingered on her, but, as she wasn't actively trying to seduce PM Lee, it seemed that Jae was right back in her normal social form, and nothing in her reaction indicated her having the slightest clue as to what a lingering glance from the mage might mean.

She gave a curtsey, and bowed her head the appropriate degree. She did not speak.

I'm assuming a 12 isn't enough for her to know what he's thinking, but then again, that DC might be a 5. But I like the juxtaposition of her so completely vamping on Miguel, and then being (or seeming) totally clueless now.

That said, what did happen with Miguel? Did the FPD quietly grab him (and her, briefly) during the surge of crowd, or did she "change her mind," and decide that his friend being arrested, and the others not showing up, mean that he should "flee, get yourself to safety, brave Miguel..." Or what? :-)


Male Human Monk (Kata Master) 4 / Rogue (Roof Runner) 2 HP TBD AC 19 T 19 FF 16 F 4 R 10 W 5 Perc 8 Init 3

I had a post 90% ready when the browser failed and I lost everything I had worked on, including the initial knowledge check. I think Jaelynn was posting an edit at the same time I tried to preview my post. My die roll was a natural 1 and I was only adding my level since I didn't see how any of my backgrounds would require particular knowledge of the government officers.

Shane had been meaning to learn the names and offices of the higher muckety mucks who had influence over the affairs of the RHC to be better able to process intel he might pick up on, but his need to find a place to live, to upgrade his wardrobe, and to learn to navigate the immediate bureaucracy of the RHC had bumped said research down in priority. He knew nothing of this man except that he was obviously a big fish. Shane shifted his position while P.M. Lee was eyeing Jaelynn so that Shane was behind her. When it seemed his turn he bowed and said nothing and then stood up straight and secured a few buttons on his coat he had undone to deal with the heat of the crowd.

If this guy was so important, Shane wondered why Unit 11 was getting an audience as a reward for what amounted to glorified crowd control. He decided something important was planned for this new RHC Unit and focused all his attention on what happened next, including an eye toward reading the facial expressions and body language of both Delft and the P.M.

Edit: last sentence edited slightly from initial post.


PM Lee smiled at Aziel and the others in response to their greetings. "Always a pleasure to meet the good men and women of the Constabulary."

He waves at the new ship. "I'm certain security is in order on board, but I would like to have some constables on board in the crowd. There are a few guests who might need... monitoring during the King's speech after the banquet." The minister glanced in the direction of an older woman just then approaching- she was easily recognized by all as the King's sister, the Duchess Ethelyn of Shale.

Duchess Ethelyn was accompanied by a young elven handmaiden, and she traded polite nods with the Principal Minister as she passed by the group and continued on up the gangway. "Duchess."

"Lee."

DC 10 appropriate Knowledge check:
The duchess's extravagant diamond cluster earrings represent the stars of the night sky, demonstrating her allegiance to the old ways.

DC 15 appropriate Knowledge check, could just be from reading RHC files in preparation for this mission:
The duchess's handmaiden is Sokana Rell. Quite young for an elf, Sokana
was rescued by the duchess during the Third Yerasol War (the duchess served as a sorceress in the Risuri military) from the island plantation of a rich Danoran, who had kept her as a trophy wife. Sokana settled with an elven family in Risur, hiding her true identity to avoid retaliation by the Danorans. The duchess helped her rediscover her fey roots, though Sokana only displayed a marginal talent with magic. Today she passes as a wood elf, but when she uses magic her eyes flare an unearthly azure, revealing her heritage.

Once the duchess was away up the gangway, PM Lee nodded at the constables. "I need to be away, myself. Keep a sharp eye out for troublemakers. If you have any questions, I'm sure Inspector Delft can provide answers. Enjoy the party, but not too much." He glanced at Jaelynn again. "Perhaps I'll see you on board."

Jaelynn:
Jaelynn doesn't need a Sense Motive check to realize Lee is totally checking her out.

Lee nodded at Delft. "Inspector." With that he turned and headed up the gangway.

Delft waited until Lee was out of earshot before turning to address the unit again. "Alright, so we're all invited to the party. Try not to bother anyone, most especially me." He nodded at Anthony. "You want new toys, I need to grease the people up there with money to buy them for us. Any questions before we head up?"


Female High-Elf (Lightbringer) Arcanist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 12/12 | AR 7/9 | AC 11/15*; T 11; FF 10/14* | CMD 12 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will +5 | Init +3 | Perception +8/+11

BoE as Know:Local/Nobility: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

Jaelynn, seeing the Duchess - or, more accurately, the Duchess's handmaid- seemed to snap back into the reality of the situation they were in. She curtseyed again to P.M. Lee, making sure the curtsey was a little deeper this time, since she'd done up a button or two since leaving Miguel's side. She smiled at the minister, and gave a slight nod.

"The minister doesn't trust the Duchess? Interesting. Perhaps it's her dedication to the Old Ways that makes him nervous. Or that her handmaid is... like me. In either case, Inspector, I don't imagine that you want us bothering the Duchess."


Fighter (Armor Master) 2
Quick Stats:
AC:22; Touch: 13; Flat 20 | Hp 28/28 | Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +0 | Scrapper

'Child Prodigy': 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15 The first Knowledge check.
Technological Investigator: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27 Sense motive toward the Kings sister as she greets Lee.
Technological Investigator: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24 The second Knowledge Check.

Anthony winced when he saw the Duchess's earrings, a memory of his former life coming to mind as she passed by. He was surprised by the rather simple greeting between Lee and the Duchess and went over what he had just seen in his mind for a few moments.

Then Lee gave them a new assignment, and Antony had to wonder if he was the one who had pulled strings in the first place, just so they would be here. Considering who he was Anthony supposed it made sense that he'd want extra, unannounced security.

When Deft turned to them, and Anthony in particular, with the warning the large man decided not to be offended. He knew full well what the political life was like, having grown up in the home he did. He responded in a polite, and slightly joking, tone. "Unless you can think of anyone in particular to watch for, I just have a friendly warning. If you see my folks up there, try not to bring me up. It won't do anyone any favors."

Anthony wasn't certain just how high a life they were living these days but he was doubtful that his parents had given up on any of their aspirations of power. Though he sounded joking, the advice was quite serious. "I know exactly how to look invisible in a crowd like this, so I won't be bothering anyone unless trouble starts."


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

Slippery Sort (as Kn:Local/Kn:Nobility): 1d20 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 1 + 4 + 2 = 24

One eyebrow went up at Lee's "monitoring" remark... not so much for the comment itself, but for who he seemed to glance towards as he said it. Was the intent to keep tabs on the Duchess, or her handmaiden?

Remembering a lesson Kostya had taught about the better part of valor, Ralf chose not to ask and remained silent.


Male Human Monk (Kata Master) 4 / Rogue (Roof Runner) 2 HP TBD AC 19 T 19 FF 16 F 4 R 10 W 5 Perc 8 Init 3

General Knowledge/Int/Lvl: 1d20 + 0 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 0 + 1 = 13
Espionage Training/Int/Lvl: 1d20 + 4 + 0 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 4 + 0 + 1 = 20

Shane kept quiet at the back of the group, trying to take in what the Principal Minister was saying, both with his words and the way he said them. Was it a coincidence that the Duchess showed up just as he was speaking of guests needing monitoring during the King's speech? Shane watched the elf Sokana with interest and tried to hide the contempt he felt roiling up inside. He would make sure to keep a close eye on this one.

Shane knew enough not to make the same mistake as before and let the chance to ask Delft questions go by unused. Anthony's mention of his parents possibly being there and his lack of enthusiasm at the prospect left Shane feeling a bit bitter, thinking what he would give for one more chance to be with his own parents.

After a quick check that his uniform was properly adjusted and dusting off some of the confetti that had settled on his shoulders after some revelers had thrown a big handful of the stuff high in the air as the Champaign bottle had hit the ship, Shane prepared to follow Delft up to the ship, curious to rub elbows with the rich and famous and to see the interior of the new warship.


Anthony caught some tension in the Duchess's greeting to PM Lee. If he had to attribute an emotion to it he would say she didn't like Lee very much. Perhaps that was why he had subtly suggested they keep an eye on her.

Delft nodded at Jaelynn. "Gods, no. Might as well go up and bother the King. Maybe you can mingle with the nobility without embarrassing yourself, but for god's sake, leave the King and the Duchess alone."

He gave Anthony an odd look. "I'll keep that in mind. Do you think they'll be trouble if they see you?"


tiefling fighter 2/gunslinger 1, HPs: 28/28 - AC: 17|14|13 - For:+5 | Ref:+6 | Wil:+0 (+1 vs fear) - Init:+4

Connoiseur as Know:nobility: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (10) + 7 = 17

Aziel watched the Duchess and her handmaiden leave, though she was listening to Delft. She kept her thoughts to herself, nodding when Delft warned them to leave the nobility alone.


Fighter (Armor Master) 2
Quick Stats:
AC:22; Touch: 13; Flat 20 | Hp 28/28 | Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +0 | Scrapper

Anthony shrugs his shoulders just a little, though their size doesn't make it seem like as small a gesture as it was. "If they spot me, they won't do anything tonight, not in such a crowded place."

The large man paused for a moment as he considered what to say. He was being quite frank about his parents, as if their actions didn't personally bother him. "They might decide to do some scheming later though, so its probably best they never learn I was here."


In time, everyone- including Unit 11- boarded the Coaltongue and the ship cast off from the dock with a blast from its steam whistle and a great gout of black smoke from its stacks. The ship made for the center of the harbor, where the sharp-eyed could make out a flotilla of traditional sailing ships waiting to escort the Coaltongue while the King is on board for the launch party.

Delft left the team to their own devices and headed up toward the bow on the main deck, where guests were mingling and being served light refreshments.

Okay, what do you want to do? I put up a map of the ship here, and the link is also posted on the Campaign tab.


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

I'm assuming we were shown plans for the vessel, or were at least briefed on the layout.

Ralf stood near Anthony watching everyone enjoy themselves for a while before leaning over and speaking in a low voice.

"Am going below. Sabotage."

Ralf will head for the engine deck. I don't see a way down from the Berth Deck, though. Are the "dashes" ship ladders? I don't see any hatches depicted except on the Main Deck.

(Also, what reading did Ralf get on the Docker he linked?)


Male Human Monk (Kata Master) 4 / Rogue (Roof Runner) 2 HP TBD AC 19 T 19 FF 16 F 4 R 10 W 5 Perc 8 Init 3

I interpret the two 10'x10' squares at the fore and aft to be hatches, which I suspect are covered during the party to prevent anyone from falling into them. It looks like the other main passage between decks is a stairway at the center, accessible through the bridge (which is what I assume the central structure is). Let us know if that's not correct.

Shane felt a mild sense of impending panic as he walked the connecting bridge to the Coaltongue. It gradually occurred to him that his long undercover stint as a Docker had left him with an automatic attitude of disdain for the people he would be mingling with. He even had composed a song about the decadent parties of the rich with counterpoint verses highlighting the plight of the poor. He always improvised a comic section where he vamped some chords with his guitar while making fun of the wealthy discussing the poor quality of the wine or the excellent hors d'oeuvres made of exorbitantly expensive and frivolous foods. He also made them out to be randy perverts and heartlessly callous to the poverty of the commoners.

Now he was at exactly the type of party he had made fun of so many times (it was a popular bit and frequently requested by the crowds). He had never been to such a party, so he was just making things up that he expected would correspond to the prejudices of the audience. He wondered how accurate he had been as he began to circulate on the main deck. He made a note of where the other Unit 11 folk were and began a process of identifying each guest and each service person. He also looked for odd bulges underneath clothing that might be a hidden weapon.

Notice roll: Espionage School/Wis/Lvl: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 4 + 3 + 1 = 28

He immediately felt conspicuous in his uniform but quickly realized he would have felt more self-conscious wearing street clothes. He had picked up some nicer clothes during his first week in Flint, but nothing as fancy as the suits and dresses worn by the invited guests. He kept quiet and did not initiate any conversations. He made a couple of slow circuits of the top deck, giving each guest a silly but easy to remember name, like 'the walrus' for a guest with a large moustache and Madame Owl for a woman who held a pair of spectacles in front of her eyes most of the time.

He paused periodically when he could stand out of the way but remain close enough to listen to the conversations of those nearby. He also tried to keep an eye on the ways of getting below deck and tried to get a sense of the rhythm of the routines of the service people. But he eventually made it a priority to spot the duchess and her elf handmaiden. Once he saw her (assuming he does spot her) he began to shadow them, coming up with excuses to sidle close enough to eavesdrop for a few sentences before slipping further away to watch from a distance.

Notice roll: Espionage School/Wis/Lvl: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 4 + 3 + 1 = 9
Wow. Feast and famine on the notice rolls.


tiefling fighter 2/gunslinger 1, HPs: 28/28 - AC: 17|14|13 - For:+5 | Ref:+6 | Wil:+0 (+1 vs fear) - Init:+4

Aziel felt drawn to mingle and look for troublemakers, but she knew she'd stand out terribly in her everyday clothes - perhaps even more than in being a tiefling - and besides, Ralf had piqued her curiosity.

Following him down the stairs to the engine, she quietly asked, "This sabotage you speak of - a little bird has spoken to you during crowd control? Or are we simply being vigilant? The engine is certainement where I would look for les saboteurs."

Soldiering as Perception, should it be needed: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13 Oh listen, they're playing my favorite song.


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

Ralf shook his head. "Just is... 'hunch' is word, da? So much anger over building this ship, is tempting target. Doubly, with nobles aboard. Two birds," he said, looking at Aziel while holding up a hand and emphasizing the numbers with his fingers, "one stone. Or bomb."

"Am just not wanting all surveillance focused on party," he added as they continued to work their way into the bowels of the vessel. "Will feel better sweeping lower decks. Am not much use for fighting, better use of Unit resources this way."

He looked at the tiefling again. "You are practiced with guns, da? Good in fight. Why you are coming?"

Slippery Sort (as Perception): 1d20 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 1 + 4 + 2 = 14 Apparently that song's one of Ralf's favorites as well...


Female High-Elf (Lightbringer) Arcanist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 12/12 | AR 7/9 | AC 11/15*; T 11; FF 10/14* | CMD 12 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will +5 | Init +3 | Perception +8/+11

Jaelynn found herself in something of a nightmare. One she'd lived through before, true, but surviving a painful experience didn't typically make one anxious to do it again.

Still, she plastered her "out in Society" smile on her face, and did her best to fit in with the rest of the nobles and "high society" types, despite being slightly under dressed. She hoped that she wouldn't have to meet any of her idiot "cousins," but didn't let the possibility bother her excessively. Instead, Jaelynn sought out a moment alone with Sokana Rell, waiting for an opportune time to approach her fellow High Elf.

Adopted Noble as Fitting In/Diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18
VM as Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19

She'll be working through the crowd, nodding and saying hello as required (not trying to initiate conversations, and, in fact, ending them as quickly as is politely possible). Her eyes are open, but she's mostly looking to see if she can maneuver to catch Sokana alone. She's got a whole "hello, Sister," thing ready to go, but doesn't really want to unload that in front of the muckey-mucks.


The ship's ladder allows movement between decks. It is 2 squares tall on each map level and has 4 dashed lines. There are 2 sets of ladders on the Gun Deck; all other decks have only 1 ladder. They are very steep- just google ship ladder and you'll see how steep a ship's ladder is. Very tall people are likely to bump their heads while traversing the ladders.

There are also 10x10 cargo hatches fore and aft, but at the moment they are closed.

Aziel/Ralf, Belowdecks
Aziel and Ralf climbed down to the Gun Deck. This deck was quiet and uninhabited. The cannons were all capped and the gunports closed. The door to the observation room to the rear of the ship were unlocked and unguarded, allowing the two constables to enter and see the large table in the middle of the room and the two large shutters on either side. The private rooms leading off of the observation room and the access doors to the stacks were locked, as was the door at the bow leading to the ship's mage's quarters.

They noticed that while the cargo hatches are closed with steel shutters on the main deck, here below deck the hatches are covered with gratings. They can see down or up to the next deck through the grating.

1d20 ⇒ 16
1d20 ⇒ 5

Aziel noticed gold wire inlaid around the gunports, windows, and on the floor where it met the hull.

1d20 ⇒ 9

She didn't know why such a valuable metal might be used to decorate a warship.

Going down another level, the constables came to the Berth Deck. For now, all the ship's common sailors' hammocks were stowed, leaving a wide open gallery from the stacks to the magazines. There was a royal marine standing guard by the magazines; she was young but looked like she knew how to use the bayoneted musket in her hands.

"Excuse me? Sir, ma'am. I think you're supposed to be with Ensign Aughtbrook if you want a tour." She sounded nervous, as might be expected if she thought she was telling off a couple of nobles.


Anthony/Jaelynn/Kostya/Shane, Main Deck
Rear of the two-story command tower, the aft main deck had been turned into a field kitchen for the caterers. The party was happening on the foredeck, with the band playing from their spot against the port rail and the long, white draped buffet tables set up under the glass frame of the ship's magical capacitor.

Briefings had only hinted at how it worked, but every now and then harmless electricity crackles across the glass, drawing gasps, chuckles, and titters from the assembled nobility and military officers.

On the bow was the Brand, supposedly the ship's most potent weapon. The papers reported that the Brand was a unique blend of magic and technology capable of sinking an enemy warship with a single blast. The Brand and the capacitor were apparently linked somehow, but that information was the purview of people far above the constables pay grade.

Nobles drifted in and out of the capacitor with plates of food and glasses of various wines, liquors, and other drinks. There were no more than a hundred people mingling, but they were the very upper crust of Risur's nobility and military establishment. Delft was holding his own, talking small unit tactics with a trio of military officers as the constables passed by.

*****
Shane noticed no hidden weaponry in the crowd, but there were swords, daggers and pistols by the score. King Aodhan did not ban weapons to his nobles and military officers in his presence. As Shane kept himself apart from the party goers, none sought him out to speak with him.

He came to stand near a naval officer wearing a captain's rank insignia talking to a black-bearded dwarf. Eventually he worked out that this man was Rutger Smith, the captain of the RNS Impossible. To his surprise, Smith was expounding on the works of William Miller, a philosopher popular with many dockers for his works on morality and political philosophy and for a treatise on hypocrisy that got him branded a heretic by the Clergy. Smith was arguing that political conflict was avoidable with enough understanding of the other party's needs and desires while the dwarf was countering with standard Eschatological theory.

*****
Jaelynn slipped easily through the crowd, spotting none of her cousins and smoothly and politely extracting herself from troublesome conversations. She spotted the Duchess and her handmaid engaged in a private talk, but almost as soon as she spotted them, Sokana Rell waved her over.

The Duchess smiled at Jaelynn when she drew near. "You're one of Lee's, aren't you? One of his little birds? I saw you with him and that constable down on the docks. What's your name, dear?"


Female High-Elf (Lightbringer) Arcanist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 12/12 | AR 7/9 | AC 11/15*; T 11; FF 10/14* | CMD 12 | Fort +0 | Ref +2 | Will +5 | Init +3 | Perception +8/+11

Jaelynn quirked an eyebrow as she ducked her head and curtsied appropriately to the Duchess.

"I am Jaelynn, Your Grace." Jae darted a quick look at Sokana while her head was down, and made a slight gamble, introducing herself in a way she usually did not. "Jaelynn Vance-Saerpheni." Though Jaelynn met the Duchess's eyes as she stood and spoke, she also kept an eye on the elf girl's reaction to her own High-Elf surname.

"I am not sure what you mean, Your Grace, when you call me one of Minister Lee's 'little birds.' If you mean 'lover,' I am afraid that you may have been misinformed, Your Grace. The minister and I met only today - the very encounter you mentioned was the first time I have encountered him at all. If the Minister's reputation is to be believed, I do not doubt that he may desire such an arrangement, but men do tend to desire that which seems beyond their reach." She gave the Duchess a soft, slightly rueful smile. In true Jaelynn fashion, she did not seem to have realized that calling a spade a spade wasn't traditional "small talk" etiquette.

BoE as Active Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28 To Determine Sokana's reaction (if any) to realizing Jae is a High Elf and/or to her family connection.
BoE as Know Nobility: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19 To remember anything she may know about the Duchess and where she stands, politically. Jae may know what the various factions (there are always factions in politics) are in Risuri politics - I don't. :-) But, she's been out of Slate for a few months, and the gossip rags are often used as political/social tools, as much as actual reporting.


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

So gold's function as a teleportation barrier isn't generally known?

Berth Deck

Ralf grunted in approval when he spotted the guard. "Good," he declared, flipping his badge at her when challenged. "Ralfael Tergsvor, Aziel Charbonneau," he said with authority, jerking a thumb at his companion as he mentioned her name. "RHC Unit 11, assigned supplemental patrol for event. Making security sweep of lower decks."

He ducked his head towards the magazine. "Is good, guard stationed here. You are seeing anyone unauthorized down here so far?"

Ralf's eyes then narrowed almost imperceptibly, and he studied the marine closely.

Slippery Sort (as Perception): 1d20 + 1 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 1 + 4 + 2 = 12 Good ol' paranoid Ralf, looking for hints she's an imposter.


Fighter (Armor Master) 2
Quick Stats:
AC:22; Touch: 13; Flat 20 | Hp 28/28 | Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +0 | Scrapper

It took a lot of Anthony's discipline not to spend the first twenty minutes on the ship actually studying the ship. While he wasn't able to do a lick of magic himself, and his own inventions were pure technological feats, it didn't mean he didn't understand the theory or enjoy studying superior craftsmanship. Scrapper seemed such a small feat compared to this wonderful ship, even as the construct followed him around the boat. He still couldn't help but try, in the back of his mind, to try and piece some of its inner workings together from what he was seeing. It was hard to resist that temptation.

Technological Investigator (as Knowledge Engineering): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

As he moved about, he was careful to try and avoid notice. It took a few seconds to recall, but Anthony had long since mastered not being seen at parties like this when he was 16. His time as a shop keeper merely refined his understanding of people and let him pick out the perfect spots to go to to both observe and hide at the same time. Rather then try and rely on his eyesight to spot anything in particular out of the ordinary, Anthony instead tried to look for patterns in the crowd. People who were nervously moving about, wait staff who were visiting an area way to often. Anything that didn't fit the normal pattern for a party of this sort got noticed and put toward the mental picture he was forming of this place.

Former Shop Keeper, Scarred Blacksmith (To avoid notice): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19
Technological Investigator (As perception/sense motive): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26


tiefling fighter 2/gunslinger 1, HPs: 28/28 - AC: 17|14|13 - For:+5 | Ref:+6 | Wil:+0 (+1 vs fear) - Init:+4

Huh, I thought the gold stopping teleportation was common knowledge.

Ralf Tergsvor wrote:

"Am just not wanting all surveillance focused on party," he added as they continued to work their way into the bowels of the vessel. "Will feel better sweeping lower decks. Am not much use for fighting, better use of Unit resources this way."

He looked at the tiefling again. "You are practiced with guns, da? Good in fight. Why you are coming?"

Aziel smiled, patting her rapier. "If there is a saboteur - or several - I would not want you to be overwhelmed. It would look very bad on the paperwork, no?" She winked, her smile broadening to show the points of her teeth. "Besides, one is such a lonely number, no? Two is much better."

She nudged Ralf with an elbow as they passed the gold-inlaid gunports. "Fancy, n'est-ce pas? Only the best for the Risurian Navy."

When the guard challenged them, Aziel showed her badge as well. "Pah, "unauthorized." Have you seen anyone else down here at all?"


Male Human Monk (Kata Master) 4 / Rogue (Roof Runner) 2 HP TBD AC 19 T 19 FF 16 F 4 R 10 W 5 Perc 8 Init 3

Shane moved away from the conversation about Miller's philosophy, although he marked Captain Smith as a progressive military man. He hoped there were more like him. Knowing what the enemy needs and desires is wise, although in the case of Vekeshi terrorists, they seemed to only desire death and destruction. As he felt his thoughts going to the very dark place of his parents' deaths, he repressed the memories and forced himself to focus on the party. As the evening progressed, he began to mark those who were getting most inebriated and began to stand close enough to them that he could eavesdrop to find out if they were prone to violence. And he continued to watch for opportunities to drift close to the duchess and her elven handmaiden.

Espionage School/Wis/Lvl: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 4 + 3 + 1 = 16


Aziel/Ralf, Belowdecks

Aziel Charbonneau wrote:
Huh, I thought the gold stopping teleportation was common knowledge.

Fair enough. I was thinking a DC 15, but she hit a DC 10 target for common knowledge.

Aziel Charbonneau wrote:

When the guard challenged them, Aziel showed her badge as well. "Pah, "unauthorized." Have you seen anyone else down here at all?"

The young marine looked back and forth between Ralf and Aziel. She relaxed a hair as she realized they were police rather than nobles. "Well, there've been the engineers. A couple went down a few minutes ago, I guess to help the other guy. Tours will be coming down once they get organized topside. So far, though, just the guys working on the engine. I don't think anyone else is down here. Nobody's tried to come in the magazine."


Jaelynn, Duchess/Sokana

Jaelynn Vance-Saerpheni wrote:

Jaelynn quirked an eyebrow as she ducked her head and curtsied appropriately to the Duchess.

"I am Jaelynn, Your Grace." Jae darted a quick look at Sokana while her head was down, and made a slight gamble, introducing herself in a way she usually did not. "Jaelynn Vance-Saerpheni." Though Jaelynn met the Duchess's eyes as she stood and spoke, she also kept an eye on the elf girl's reaction to her own High-Elf surname.

1d20 ⇒ 17

Sokana looked more closely at Jaelynn and gave the constable a small nod of acknowledgement. It wasn't a gesture of universal sisterhood or anything, but the other elf did seem mildly less guarded.

Jaelynn Vance-Saerpheni wrote:


"I am not sure what you mean, Your Grace, when you call me one of Minister Lee's 'little birds.' If you mean 'lover,' I am afraid that you may have been misinformed, Your Grace. The minister and I met only today - the very encounter you mentioned was the first time I have encountered him at all. If the Minister's reputation is to be believed, I do not doubt that he may desire such an arrangement, but men do tend to desire that which seems beyond their reach." She gave the Duchess a soft, slightly rueful smile. In true Jaelynn fashion, she did not seem to have realized that calling a spade a spade wasn't traditional "small talk" etiquette.

The Duchess laughed at Jaelynn's denial. It was a pleasant laugh, genuine and warm. She grinned at Jaelynn. "No, dear, that wasn't what I meant. But it is good to know that Lee's predilection to pretty young things like yourself is well known. We wouldn't want his hobby to be too easy."

She shook her head, still smiling, and leaned in toward Jaelynn. "I meant that you're spying for him. Reporting back to him on possible malcontents, if you don't like the term spying. Have you overheard anything interesting yet?"

Jaelynn knew the Duchess had been vocal in her condemnation of this ship. The King's sister was a strong adherent to the old ways and she had written editorials and given speeches stridently arguing that the Coaltongue was a step backward for Risur, not forward. She thought the kingdom should be weaning itself off technology, not incorporating it into their war strategy.


Anthony/Shane, Main Deck

Anthony couldn't work out too much from up here. The stacks obviously led down to the boiler room, but without being able to see either the engine or the controls he couldn't puzzle out much more than that. The capacitor and the Brand were a complete mystery to him, more magic than technology.

1d20 ⇒ 14

Anthony didn't notice any guests or wait-staff acting out of character and no one gave him a second glance as he skulked through the crowd.

Shane ended up near a knot of mixed military officers and civilians standing around a tiefling, who was expounding on the ship's capabilities. Shane could tell the tiefling was already a little tipsy and they hadn't even gotten to the ship's mooring spot yet. He worked out that the tiefling was Geoff Masarde, one of a handful of tieflings working for the Risuri military to help construct warships and other technological weapons. Masarde constantly worked in little jabs at Danor, his home country, as he talked.

Other than the King, Masarde was probably one of the most likely targets for an assassination attempt tonight. There were people in both Danor and Risur who wanted him dead for collaborating with the Risuri military.


Male Human Monk (Kata Master) 4 / Rogue (Roof Runner) 2 HP TBD AC 19 T 19 FF 16 F 4 R 10 W 5 Perc 8 Init 3
karlprosek wrote:
Other than the King, Masarde was probably one of the most likely targets for an assassination attempt tonight. There were people in both Danor and Risur who wanted him dead for collaborating with the Risuri military.

Shane left those around Masarde long enough to find Anthony. Speaking into his ear, he said, "I'm going to shadow Marsarde and watch for anyone who might have it in for 'im. Maybe you should stick close to the king. If there's trouble, it will likely center on one o' them two."

Then he returned to the group listening to Marsarde, pretending to be interested in the engineer's explanations, but really watching those around him for suspicious moves. If possible, he works his way, without being rude, to within 10 feet of Marsarde.

espionage school/wis/lvl: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 4 + 3 + 1 = 25 for noticing trouble.

espionage school/dex/lvl: 1d20 + 4 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 4 + 2 + 1 = 8 for getting closer to Marsarde.


tiefling fighter 2/gunslinger 1, HPs: 28/28 - AC: 17|14|13 - For:+5 | Ref:+6 | Wil:+0 (+1 vs fear) - Init:+4
karlprosek wrote:
The young marine looked back and forth between Ralf and Aziel. She relaxed a hair as she realized they were police rather than nobles. "Well, there've been the engineers. A couple went down a few minutes ago, I guess to help the other guy. Tours will be coming down once they get organized topside. So far, though, just the guys working on the engine. I don't think anyone else is down here. Nobody's tried to come in the magazine."

Aziel raised a brow, frowning at the marine. "Engineers? During the party? What "other guy?"" She shook her head sharply. "Alors. Never mind. Come, let us have a look at what they are doing." She nudged Ralf with her elbow again, then headed toward the engine.

"Keep alert! I do not think there should be anyone else down here now," she called back to the marine.


Male Human Vitalist 3
Quick Stats:
HP 26/26 (0 NL) | TW 7/7 | PP 17/17 | CM: 4/4 | AC 17; T 12; FF 15 | CMD 13 | Fort +5 | Ref +3 | Will +9 | Init +2 | Status: Focused

Ralf's eyes narrowed at the mention of "the other guy," and he nodded in agreement with Aziel. "Am also thinking this."

"Mow is when most wanting thought talk," he grumbles as the pair hustle towards the next deck. "Am not liking rest of Unit unaware. Can feel fuzziness in head sometimes practicing with Cat, but not there yet."

He made a little sound that might have been a laugh, deep in his throat. "Except for wanting food, but not needing mind reader to know that. Cat always is hungry."


Shane, Masarde

Shane Sangster wrote:
Then he returned to the group listening to Marsarde, pretending to be interested in the engineer's explanations, but really watching those around him for suspicious moves. If possible, he works his way, without being rude, to within 10 feet of Marsarde.

Shane pushed his way through the crowd, accidentally knocking the drink out of a Naval officer's hand as he tried to get back to Masarde. On further inspection, Shane realized the man wore the same number of stripes as the William Miller-quoting Captain Smith, though he looked older than the enlightened captain philosopher.

The captain glowered at Shane. "You need to watch where you're going, boy."


Aziel/Ralf, Belowdecks

The two constables made their way down another deck. The berth deck had been warm, but this deck was hot. The engine deck was dominated by a huge bin of firegems to the fore and the thrumming, churning engine to aft.

A little stick of a man looked up at the constables as they descended the final ladder. He wore protective goggles, heavy leather gauntlets, a smith's apron, and had already sweated all the way through his white shirt. His hair was heavy with sweat and thick with dust and dirt.

He reached up and pulled up his goggles, staring at Aziel. "Uh, hello? Did you folks want a tour of the engine room? You're pretty lost if not." The young man grinned at Aziel, sparing a quick glance for Ralf.

1d20 ⇒ 16
1d20 ⇒ 10

Aziel noticed a pair of large men on the far side of the engine, attired in much the same protective wear as the young man talking to them.

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