DM Acid's Council of Thieves


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Westcrown, 18th Arodus 4711

In 4606, Aroden died. When Aroden died, so did Westcrown's very soul. At least, that's what some say. Westcrown used to be the greatest city in all of Cheliax, but when the Thrice-Damned House of Thrune moved Cheliax's capital from Westcrown to Egorian, much of it's prestige was lost. Those nobles who stayed were those content to waste away in their old, broken city. Trade flourishes, but trade is a small comfort to those who recall a time when Westcrown was great.

Westcrown suffers. It's people are aware of it every passing day, though many would deny it. Hellknights police the streets during the day, and shadow creatures stalk the night. Those who believe in the cause of good must live under the rule of those beholden to the church of Asmodeus. The dottari bicker amongst their groups instead of focusing on keeping the city safe. The mayor sits in his manor of luxury, caring not for the plight of his people. Walking reminders of the city's brush with Hell walk the streets, hated and ridiculed on the very basis of what they represent.

And in the dark parts of the city, a plot begins to take form. One that could very well shatter what little is left of Westcrowns spirit.

But luckily for Westcrown, other things are forming as well...


Rego Pena, early morning

In Rego Pena, the witch Jynerva rests seated in her cheap apartment, the early morning sunrise peaking through the curtains. Work in the Coin Sector has been less than fruitful these past few days, but there's been talk of a few young nobles and their entourage coming into town, so there's hope for improvement. Cyn rests as well, seated at Jynerva's feat. He doesn't even bother to lift his head as someone begins knocking loudly on the front door.


Parego Spera, early morning

Near the Limehouse Theater in Parego Spera, Dracius Ludio lies sleeping in his apartment. His dreams are filled with visions of strife. Innocents fighting against some unknown enemy clad in flame, children screaming for their mothers, and even worse sights haunt Dracius as he tosses in his bed. Suddenly, a loud, repetitive noise grabs a hold of his head and allows him to slowly but surely push out of the nightmare haze. The knocking on the apartment door soon brings him to full consciousness.


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Jynerva watches Cyn's tail twitching in the early morning light. They had just finished their morning communion. Cyn seems a bit bored today. It's a shame we didn't get anything done last night. The night had been worthless from the start. She had spent some time at one of her normal haunts after having a pleasant dinner, but there had been no evidence of any business. The entertainment had been rather dull.

Cyn had seemed restless at the time, and Jynerva now reflected on his mood. I suppose it's probably me that is restless. We do seem to keep hitting dead ends. They had scrapped business and set out to see if they could find any new leads. The only thing they learned was that some young nobles were coming into town, so perhaps she could get some new business soon.

Jynerva sighs, addressing Cyn, "You can be totally worthless sometimes." She smiles as his tail flicks lazily again. As she starts to contemplate what they might be able to accomplish today, there is a knock at the door.

She glances quickly at Cyn, but he had not even responded. That's unusual. I can't imagine who it would be at this hour. Certainly not a customer. She stands and crosses the small apartment to the door. She clears her mind and makes sure she's ready if there is any trouble. Cyn senses her mood and jumps up, alert, but he quickly feigns a nonchalant indifference. He trots over and hops up onto a small table, watching the door.

Jynerva stands at the closed door and calls out, "Who's there?"


Male Half-Orc Cleric of Shelyn 1.75[ABD] (hp 16/16; AC 17/10/17; F: +6; R: +2, W; +8)

Dracius springs out of bed, flailing blindly, his head filled with childhood memories no doubt brought on by the dreams, Don't let them take you... The brief panic fades only when his hand connects with one of the massive bedposts and his brain reminds him of where he is.

Well, that would be one of the reasons I prefer to sleep alone..., he thinks with a sigh. The continued knocking has almost become background noise, and he is somewhat startled by it now that his mind is more alert. Another of mother's fans, I wonder? Well, let's give them a fine show...

He calls out through the door, his deep bass rumbling in his chest, "A moment, please. I am not currently prepared to accept visitors."

He then rushes to the wash basin to wipe away the sweat from the nightmare and runs his wet hands through his hair, Sister Ithona said other women were jealous of Mother's 'wild' hair, but I wonder if they realized just how unruly it can be....I'm just glad that Ithona and Father wouldn't let me cut it back then. He smiles at the thought, remembering Ithona using her magic to stop him from taking a blade to his hair. He shakes his head and chuckles, I suppose the fact that it worked means that Shelyn approved as well.., the laughter driving away the tension from the nightmare.

He dresses quickly and checks himself in the mirror, ensuring that his holy symbol is perfectly placed, and that his mother's signet can be seen on its chain. Finally, he straps his dagger to his forearm, and picks up his flail, just in case. Sadly, some of mother's fans thought themselves in love with her, and are less happy to see me than others.

He approaches the door, and calls out with a soothing and apologetic tone, "Apologies, as I said, I was not ready." As he reaches the door, he places flail behind it, where it remains out of sight but within easy reach, and then opens the viewport, asking, "May I help you?"


Rego Laina, mid morning

Rego Laina lies within the island Regicona, an entire island surrounded by walls to keep the riff-raff out. Few of Westcrown's citizens ever set foot on the island, so Adina Correll's residence there is particularly strange. Rumors abound of how the foreign woman was able to purchase her home, but such rumors almost never make it to Adina's ears. In fact, she sleeps in this morning, still worn out after the long day she had shopping. Her dreams are unusually peaceful for her, free of the usual nightmares that seem to plague her nights. A knocking on the front door awakens her from her slumber easily.


Rego Laina, mid morning

On the other side of Rego Laina, Tito Grulios awakens from a dreamless sleep. The past few days have been particularly vexing for Tito, as rumors have been circulating that the Grulio family will soon evict Jairo's son. The rumors were just rumors, as Tito found out yesterday, but the source of such talk has so far eluded him. It isn't until Tito finishes his morning routine that he hears a knocking sound coming from the other side of the building.


Rego Cader, noon

The Dead Sector at Westcrown's Northern shores stays true to its name. Full of abandoned inns, taverns, and stables, the Dead Sector is the perfect place for the scum of society to hide. It is in one such Inn that Razik Azkul sits, watching over his ill love, Leanna. Jace had left to get provisions, and wouldn't return to take care of Leanna until an hour later. This left Raz to watch over the young woman while she slept, her brow furrowed and contorted as the usual nightmares plagued her. A soft knocking at the door cuts through the silence. It can only be Jace, who else knows of this place?


Jynerva in Rego Pena

The knocking stops immediately. There is a long pause before a female voice can be heard from just beyond the door.

"My name is Janiven, and I'm looking to speak with a...woman named Jynerva. Would you be her by any chance?" There is a pause as she looks for a proper word to describe the witch.

Roll Knowledge: Local to know more about Janiven.

DC 10:
Janiven is fairly well known in Westcrown. She's worked for several guilds and merchants, often as a bodyguard and city guide for visitors to the city that the guilds want to keep safe. She has a reputation of being a bit rash, most recently because of an incident where she dragged her charge half dressed from a whorehouse so that he'd be at his destination before sundown. She also has a reputation of being quite trustworthy, despite that.


Heh, I have +11, but I suppose a 1 still fails :)

Knowledge - Local: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (15) + 11 = 26

Jynerva pauses for a moment. The bodyguard? What could she want with me? Perhaps she is looking for work as well... She opens the door slowly but welcomingly.

"Hello," she smiles warmly. "I am Jynerva. Would you like to step inside?" I probably don't have to worry as she has a decent reputation... but then, so do I. She offers Janiven a seat and sits down herself. Cyn hops into her lap and watches the newcomer with interest.


Dracius in Parego Spera

The knocking stops the first time he calls out, though as he cleans up, a slight tapping sound can be heard from the door, as if someone is reminding him that they're still out there. When he opens the port, he sees an attractive young human woman with short brown hair and dark eyes. She wears a chain shirt and rough, dark clothing, and carries with her a sword and longbow, both which are put away at the moment. She takes a step back from the door and give the half-orc a smile.

"Greetings. I apologize for coming so early, but...I have many people to visit today, and you just happened to be one of the closest, she says, rubbing the back of her neck in slight embarrassment. "My name is Janiven and I was hoping that we could talk for a bit. I promise I won't take up much of your time."

Roll Knowledge: Local to know more about Janiven. I have a house rule that those who've lived in Westcrown most of their lives may make untrained Knowledge: Local checks, though they can never roll above a 10.

DC 10:
Janiven is fairly well known in Westcrown. She's worked for several guilds and merchants, often as a bodyguard and city guide for visitors to the city that the guilds want to keep safe. She has a reputation of being a bit rash, most recently because of an incident where she dragged her charge half dressed from a whorehouse so that he'd be at his destination before sundown. She also has a reputation of being quite trustworthy, despite that.


Upon hearing the soft taps at the door, Razik's head would shoot up. Tentatively, he would leave Leanna's side and slowly creep to the door, his sword drawn.
He knew it was likely the old man, but in this part of Westcrown, one could never be too sure. As he reached the door, he was planning on swiftly opening the door and violently pulling whoever was behind it in, ready to gut them if they were here to hurt Leanna. He paused though.

The old man is frail... I could hurt him that way.
Instead of going through with his harsh action, he decided to open the door ever so slightly, peer outside, and speak to Jace.
Were you followed? He'd ask in a harsh tone.


Jynerva in Rego Pena

An attractive human woman stands before the doorway for a few moments before giving Jynerva a grateful smile and nod as she steps inside. Janiven has short brown hair and dark, intelligent eyes. She's wearing a chain shirt over rough, dark clothing, and carries with her a sword and longbow. The sword rests in it's sheath at her side, and the bow rests on her back.

"Thank you," she says with sincerity, eyes following Cyn as he jumps up into Jynerva's lap. She closes the door behind her carefully and takes a seat, leaning forward once she does so. "I'm going to cut to the chase. I'm holding a meeting today that I think you might be interested in. We're going to be talking about what we, as citizens of Westcrown, can do to help make this city a...better place to live." Her words are innocent enough, but when she pauses, there's a sense that it's intentional.


Raz in Rego Cader

Instead of Jace, Raz sees a young woman. She's attractive, but her chain shirt and rough clothing downplay her looks. She has a sword at her side and a longbow on her back, but her hands are up in front of her, as if to show that she means no harm. Her eyes widen slightly at the sight of him, but otherwise she doesn't react.

"Nobody followed, I would know if they did," she answers, her voice calm.


Jynerva contemplates the woman with a pleasant smile, although she is a bit suspicious. A meeting of citizens? Who does she think I am?

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21

"I'm sure I'm not an important enough... citizen to be able to do much to make the city... better." Her pauses are deliberate and inquiring. "I'm not sure if you know what kind of business I'm in, but it might not be best for me if I was seen in the company of people trying to stir up trouble with the... establishment."

Her fingers are absentmindedly rubbing Cyn's ears as she ponder's this somewhat strange request. I wonder what kind of people she's inviting to this meeting. It's true that I want to know who's pulling the strings around here but she can't know about my investigations... can she?


*Knock, knock, knock* *Knock, knock, knock*

Adina awoke from her sleep. "It's been a while since I had such a peaceful dream.....is it time to get up already?" she says to herself.

She looks outside where the light of a new day shines brightly into her eyes.

*Knock, knock, knock* *Knock, knock, knock*

"Who can that be" she thinks to herself. "I haven't had visitors once since moving here. What could someone possibly want with me? I hope it's not another person coming to tell me that yet another local has been murdered. The death of the wife in house Grulios was quite enough for me", being so close to her home and all.

Adina shouts down the stairs, "I'll be with you in a minute. I just need to get ready".

*She changes from her nightwear and into her regal looking adventuring gear, grabbing her sword and hefting it up onto her right shoulder where she proceeds to walk downstairs to the front door*

*Adina opens the door* "Sorry for taking so long. I very rarely get visitors, so your presence is a little.......unexpected. What seems to be the problem?"

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13


Tito was about to sit at his father's ledger to attempt to balance the books to keep the warehouses available for a further month when he heard the knocking. Glancing at the window, he realised it was almost mid-morning. An odd time for an assassin to come calling but recently, Tito couldn't be complacent.

As he walked through the corridors, after all he had fired the staff in an attempt to stop the family coffers leaking money as quickly as they had been, he prepared himself to cast Color Spray on whoever was standing at the other side of the door.

The incessant rapping on the door grew in volume as he neared the outer door to his family manor. It had an almost urgent tone to it, but that only served to make Tito even more cautious. For all he knew, it could be a vengeful ex-member of staff looking to kill their erstwhile employer.

"Who is it?" Tito called out, trying to keep his voice flat and emotionless to hide his nervousness, "I'm not expecting any visitors."

Tito will be listening out for any signs of there being more than one person beyond the wooden door, as well as trying to detect any signs of deceit when the person answers.

Perception 1d20 ⇒ 17
Sense Motive 1d20 ⇒ 3


Male Half-Orc Cleric of Shelyn 1.75[ABD] (hp 16/16; AC 17/10/17; F: +6; R: +2, W; +8)

Untrained Knowledge Local Roll 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6

Janiven....? The name is familiar, and yet I cannot place it...

He carefully examines the woman before him, She doesn't appear to be a rabid fan - certainly I've not encountered one so well armed.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12

And she is certainly not hard on the eyes, either. The Eternal Rose has smiled on this one.

Dracius smiles in response, "By all means, come in..." He begins to unlock the door, but continues to speak through the open viewport, and then through the opening doorway, "Apologies, for my initial skepticism, but there have been a few of mother's fans who seem to want to wash away the stain of her sin, namely me. I would rather those misguided fools wear themselves out against a sturdy door than have to do them any harm."

He closes the door behind her as she enters, and smiles at her, directing her to a chair, "Please, sit and be welcome. Can I offer you anything - I admit that you woke me so I have no tea ready, but I can offer you water or cider, if you like?"

If she accepts, he will fetch something, either way, after the refusal or delivery..

Dracis drops into an oversized chair and turns to his guest with another smile, "Now, you wanted to discuss something with me? And take all the time you need, I am, after all, required by my goddess to admire beauty."


Raz would bare his fangs at her like a startled animal.
No one was supposed to know about this place. In his eyes, the only people who would come here would be people looking to loot the place, or to find Leanna and finish the job. Raz had thought for a moment to murder her just to be safe, but he paused for a moment.

She's just a woman... I don't even know what she wants... I shouldn't hurt her... Leanna wouldn't forgive me for it.

His urges to indulge in wanton slaughter were getting worse lately. It seemed like his body looked for excuses to kill, but his mind wanted to just protect. He had to force himself not to hurt people in these recent days. He was confident his will was stronger than his heritage, however.

Still though, she was a stranger, and while he wouldn't kill her, he sure as the Hells wouldn't trust her.

How did you find this place?! What do you want?! He would demand, the door closed slightly more to where only a single eye was peering through at her. Behind the door, he had his sword-sized knife ready in case his initial suspicions were true.


Jynerva in Rego Pena

"Importance isn't an issue. What I'm looking for is -concern-," Janiven replies, clasping her hands together in front of her. "And I think you misunderstand me, we aren't looking to stir up trouble. What we want is to take an honest look at what we can do to make Westcrown a better, -safer- place."

Cyn closes his eyes as Jynerva rubs his ears, and purring can just barely be felt coming from the creature. Janiven looks down at him for a moment before she continues speaking.

"For example, we could be doing more to help with the shadow beasts. If the dottari refuse to get to the bottom of it, how else are we going to get our nights back?"

Sense Motive:
Janiven speaks with great passion, and you can tell that she's sincere in her want to help the city. She hasn't lied, though you get the feeling that she knows a bit more about you than just your name, especially with the way she looks at Cyn.


Adina in Rego Laina

The knocking stops once Adina calls out, though there continues to be a faint tapping against the door, as if whoever is out there is afraid of being forgotten.

Once she opens the door, she sees an attractive human woman wearing dark, rough clothes. She carries a sword on her hip and a bow on her back, and wears a chain shirt. She gives Adina a smile.

"Oh, it's no problem at all. I was just hoping to speak with the resident of this fine place. Are you Adina?" she asks, her tone pleasant.

Sense Motive:
She doesn't seem to mean you any harm, but her eyes widen slightly as you open the door, as if you weren't quite what she was expecting.


"I am, though you seem a little surprised. Shouldn't it be the other way around? You're banging on my door as if it's a matter of life and death and other than the occasional visit from my landlord, you're practically the only person to call since moving here. I'm just as surprised as you are, though probably for very different reasons."

"Anyway, what's the problem?" Adina says while smiling.


Tito in Rego Laina

The knocking stops the moment Tito calls out. It sounds as if there's only one person behind the door, and he can clealy hear said person take a step back before speaking.

"Janiven, my name is Janiven," a woman's voice calls through the door. "I was hoping to speak to Tito Grulios?"

Roll Knowledge: Local to know more about Janiven. I have a house rule that those who've lived in Westcrown most of their lives may make untrained Knowledge: Local checks, though they can never roll above a 10.

Knowledge Local DC 10:
Janiven is fairly well known in Westcrown. She's worked for several guilds and merchants, often as a bodyguard and city guide for visitors to the city that the guilds want to keep safe. She has a reputation of being a bit rash, most recently because of an incident where she dragged her charge half dressed from a whorehouse so that he'd be at his destination before sundown. She also has a reputation of being quite trustworthy, despite that.

Sense Motive:
You can't detect any deceit in her voice.


Dracius in Parego Spera

Janiven seems to be somewhat relieved as he opens the door, as if she was worried that he wouldn't. "Oh, it's okay, I understand completely. I mean you no harm. These-," she points to her sword and bow, "Are merely part of my profession as a sometimes-bodyguard. Ah-, that's okay, I don't need anything, but thanks for asking." she replies, taking a seat in the chair.

"Ah, I did..." she says, turning her head suddenly in an attempt to hide the light blush on her cheeks. "I was wondering if you would be interested in attending a meeting of concerned citizens. A meeting dedicated to finding out what we can do to make Westcrown a safer place to live."

Sense Motive:
She seems sincere, though her sudden unease at the compliment makes it somewhat hard to tell.


"Well, it's true that we could always use safer streets, but..." Jynerva pauses, thinking quickly. If she is sincere, then this group she is putting together might provide me with an avenue for further investigation... "Well, I suppose I do have some talents that might help, but I'm not sure I want to be tackling Shadow beasts... How many people are you recruiting for this... meeting? Where and when is it?"


Raz in Rego Cader

"I want to talk...and help, if you'll let me," she answers, hands still up in front of her. "I'm Janiven." Her voice is calm and controlled, as if she's trying to calm a wild animal down.

Roll Knowledge: Local to know more about Janiven. I have a house rule that those who've lived in Westcrown most of their lives may make untrained Knowledge: Local checks, though they can never roll above a 10.

DC 10:
Janiven is fairly well known in Westcrown. She's worked for several guilds and merchants, often as a bodyguard and city guide for visitors to the city that the guilds want to keep safe. She has a reputation of being a bit rash, most recently because of an incident where she dragged her charge half dressed from a whorehouse so that he'd be at his destination before sundown. She also has a reputation of being quite trustworthy, despite that.


Male Half-Orc Cleric of Shelyn 1.75[ABD] (hp 16/16; AC 17/10/17; F: +6; R: +2, W; +8)

Dracius smiles again, ...and she does not realize how lovely she is, which only enhances her beuaty... as does her slight blush..., and then sobers slightly as he considers her offer. He gives voice to his thoughts immediately, "An interesting offer, to be sure... although I must confess to some curiosity as to who these 'concerned citizens' might be... My grandparents, for instance, are often 'concerned', though not in a way that betters the life of the people of Westcrown."

He raises a hand to stall her response and says, "However, you came to me and not to them, despite their greater resources... and says much about the sort of people you're seeking out. I am certainly intrigued, and would like to hear more."


Adina in Rego Laina

The woman raises a brow in response. "Your house is fairly big, I was afraid you wouldn't hear," she explains, rubbing the back of her neck. "Anyway, I was hoping we could talk a bit? I'm Janiven. I heard you were new in town, and I wanted to see how things have been going for you. Sort of a...belated welcome." She shifts from one foot to the other, as if realizing how strange this must sound.

"I was also hoping to invite you to a meeting of sorts, if you'd be interested."

Roll Knowledge: Local to know more about Janiven. I have a house rule that those who've lived in Westcrown most of their lives may make untrained Knowledge: Local checks, though they can never roll above a 10. As Adina has lived in Westcrown for a month, I'll allow you to make the check at a -5 penalty.

DC 10:
Janiven is fairly well known in Westcrown. She's worked for several guilds and merchants, often as a bodyguard and city guide for visitors to the city that the guilds want to keep safe. She has a reputation of being a bit rash, most recently because of an incident where she dragged her charge half dressed from a whorehouse so that he'd be at his destination before sundown. She also has a reputation of being quite trustworthy, despite that.


"A belated welcoming? I'm confused. How did you learn of my name and know where to find me?"

Adina frowns and seems a little confused, but goes on to say "Anyway, it's a pleasure to meet you. I haven't had a decent chat in quite some time, so please come in and make yourself at home. It sure beats talking on the doorstep for hours and I had a pretty big day out yesterday, so I'd feel more relaxed if we were able to sit down and have a chat, out of public earshot."

"Oh and excuse my large weapon. It's for protection really, but I don't go anywhere without it. It's been good to me so far."

*Adina looks at Janiven, noting her sword and bow*

"I'm guessing you're armed for the same reasons? I don't feel as though I should be too cautious around you, so perhaps you and I are pretty like-minded."

Knowledge: Local 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (11) + 0 = 11


Knowledge: Local1d20 ⇒ 14

Razik took a moment, but after a while, recognized the name, and while he had never met her in his life, he had never heard anything bad about her. All his instincts told him to not trust humans, except for one. Despite this... Maybe she did want to help.

Fine... But I swear, if you try anything, I'll...
At this point, Razik figured she got the point.

Just... Come in, quickly.
He still had his sword drawn. He would never take risks around Leanna.


Knowledge local 1d20 ⇒ 7
Sense Motive 1d20 ⇒ 1

"I've never heard of you," Tito replied harshly, not moving towards the door, "What do you want?"

Tito's nerves strained. There were no meetings set for today with business partners so she couldn't be someone sent on their behalf.


Jynerva in Rego Pena

"I already have a number of people interested, though they won't be coming to this particular meeting. Don't worry about the shadow beasts, we aren't going to be heading out into the night to hunt them so much as...researching the possible cause," Janiven assures her, shifting in her seat as she puts her thoughts together.

"Shadow beasts aren't our only concern, by the way. I was only using them as an example. There are things in this city that go unnoticed by all except the common citizen. Robberies, shadow beasts, murder, the dottari and the Hellknights have the luxury to pick and choose what they get involved with. We don't." She waits to gauge Jynerva's reaction before she continues.


Sorry, I wasn't up after all, but it was close

Well, she certainly knows more than I would like her to. She's trying to invoke some sort of sympathy given my history... foolish. Although, I could certainly let her think that's my motivation.

Jynerva lets a sympathetic frown cross her face at the discussion of what the dottari and Hellknights ignore. "You are correct, there are plenty of crimes that fall through the cracks..." She moves Cyn off her lap and stands up abruptly. "I believe I will attend your meeting. I assume you will provide more useful information when we have gathered..."

As she waits for the bodyguard's response, she thinks, Heh, worst case scenario I might meet some new clients.


Dracius in Parego Spera

Dracius's raised hand is well placed, for Janiven was already opening her mouth halfway through him voicing his own concerns. However, she lets him finish before starting in on her own passionate response.

"I'm being particularly careful with who I contact as to this meeting. You're right, there are many people in this city who are...sadly ignorant. They are motivated more by anger and fear than by a genuine love of Westcrown. You have a mixed reputation, but it's not difficult for me to separate the truth from the fear and ignorance. There have been a few meetings of this type, and I already have a group of people interested in helping with whatever we decide to do. I've had to be particularly careful with setting these meetings up, as the Hellknights might mistake our movements for rebellion, which is the last thing I want." She glances back towards the door before she continues. "The Hellknights don't care about this city. They care about their own concept of justice. It's easy for them to overlook things when they don't have to deal with the horrors of living in fear of the night."

For a moment it seems as if she's going to get ahead of herself, but she stops and takes a deep breath. "The city needs protectors who know what it's like to be afraid of what the next day will bring."


Adina in Rego Laina

"I often work as a bodyguard and guide here in Westcrown, so the people here are accustomed to seeing me armed," Janiven says with a nod. "Protection is also an issue, yes."

"A friend of mine told me that someone had moved into this place, and I asked around from there. An old friend used to live here before he passed on, so I suppose I feel a bit...well, I just wanted to make sure everything was going well for you here. Westcrown can be a bit...shocking to newcomers." If allowed, Janiven makes her way inside as she explains herself.


Raz in Rego Cader

Janiven nods and enters, closing the door behind her. She doesn't seem all too surprised at the disrepair of the place as she looks around, though her eyes immediately go to the stairs.

"I'm not here to evict you, but it's dangerous here," she says, getting straight to business. "There are...you know you're not the only one living in the ruins, right? How long have you been-," she cuts herself off. She then shakes her head and runs a hand through her hair. "I don't know your name, but I think we can help each other. There has been a string of robberies and murders within the last few weeks, and from what I can tell, the suspects make their home in the ruins here. I've been trying to find exactly -where- they live, but all I've found is you...and your friends. You can't stay here, not with those crooks around." She stops and looks back at Razik. "Do you want help?"


Tito in Rego Laina

"I want to talk. I was thinking we could help each other out," comes the answer, somewhat quieter than before. "Could we possibly talk about this inside?"

Sense Motive:
You can't tell much, but you're fairly sure she isn't going to stab you to moment you open the door.


Razik would listen to her, perched upon the nearest table as if he were a gargoyle. He was perturbed that she knew that he and his loved ones were living here, but it was what she said last that truly caught his attention.

Murders... What can you tell me about these murders? He would say with a hint of malice in his tone, all the while leaning in, anticipating her answer.


Male Half-Orc Cleric of Shelyn 1.75[ABD] (hp 16/16; AC 17/10/17; F: +6; R: +2, W; +8)

Dracius catches himself nodding, caught up in his unexpected guest's passion. She is right, especially about the Hellknights..

He turns to her, regarding her with admiration, and responds, "Well, you have done well to separate truth from rumour, enough to get a read of what is in my heart."

She is wise, beautiful and passionate... I almost wish we were meeting under different circumstances.

He continues more quietly, so that the rumble of his deep voice is almost felt more than it is heard, "I share your concerns. Too many works of art -- and artists, for that matter -- have gone missing as a result of the Hellknight concept of 'justice'... and, too, I have seen how that 'justice' is often applied when it is safest to do so... and how some people appear to be, shall we say, more worthy of protection than others."

He pauses a moment, pushing away a few fragments of his earliest memories, "You are right -- I have lived knowing that fear and despiar, bordering on hopelessness. I have lived on both sides of the divide of 'justice' and 'safety' -- and it is only good fortune and Shelyn's grace that delivered me from that life. I owe this city, and the people in it -- especially those who were so dedicated to my mother to shame my grandparents -- and I would pay that debt... not only because I should, but because I can and it is right to do so."

He stops, somewhat surprised by the strength of the feeling in his own voice. He focuses his attention on his guest once more, A lovely woman, a risky offer, temptation... this is like waking up within a bard's song..

He voices his thought with a chuckle, though his tone is still wary, "I do admit that I am still somewhat cautious - a lovely woman such as yourself appearing and singing a siren's song to lure me away would certainly please my grandparents... but you have a sincerity and passion about you that strike me as most genuine... and, to be frank, attractive. Enough so that I find myself wishing we'd met earlier... and under less, shall we say, sensitive circumstances.."

Again, he raises a hand to forestall any response, "In any case, I am interested enough to attend your meeting... and, I promise that I am not doing so simply because of an interest in the messenger."


Jynerva in Rego Pena

Janiven nods. "There will be more information at the meeting, I assure you. We will be meeting at Vizio's Tavern at around four for an early dinner. I know it's short notice, but I've found people are more likely to come when it's fresh in their minds." She sits up to better look at Jynerva, and then stands as well. Cyn trots over towards Janiven and jumps up into the seat she was just occupying. He makes himself comfortable and begins purring, possibly at the warmth from the chair. In any case, he seems quite pleased.

Vizio's Tavern

Knowledge Local DC 10:
Vizio's Tavern is named for the family that once ran it. It used to be a gathering place for merchants to relax. A few months ago, the owner passed away, and his family moved out of Westcrown to live in Corentyn. It is located in Parego Spera near the shore, and you've passed by it more than a few times.

Knowledge Local DC 15:
Vizio's Tavern has recently been bought by a half-elf man and a human woman, although they seem to be taking their sweet time getting the business up and running.


Knowledge Local: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14

"I know the place, although I did not know it had reopened." She stares at Cyn, wondering at his behavior. He is certainly taken with this woman. I suppose that should tell me something.

"I shall be there to listen, although I cannot commit to any actions before I know what your plans are," she smiles, hoping to soften the hesitancy. "In any case, it is nice to know there are citizens who are thinking of the safety of our streets."

She pauses, trying to think if there is any more information she might get out of the bodyguard. Not able to think of anything that won't be more easily obtained at the meeting, she heads to the door to escort the woman out.

"I shall see you this afternoon, then."


Raz in Rego Cader

"There was a weaponsmith and his wife, both murdered at night. None of the doors or windows were broken into. The culprits left wooden coins at the scene, on each body and in the building. There was also a fairly wealthy family and their child, all dead in their beds. Their daughter is also missing. The door was left open, so the dottari assumed the two incidents weren't related. However..." Janiven then reaches into her pocket and pulls out a small coin sized object and tosses it onto the table Raz is perched on. It's a wooden coin, with a demon's face in profile carved into it.

"I found this at the building, tucked into one of the windowsills. Either the dottari missed it, or there were more, which the dottari gathered and kept quiet about. I'm leaning towards the former, but I'm not ruling out the latter. There have also been many robberies, with the same coins left inside the buildings. Now, I'll ask again. Do you want help?"


Tito deliberated internally for a moment before pulling the door open, indicating to the woman to step inside.

"You have five minutes, then you leave," Tito said, motioning towards the office door at the end if the hallway.


As she tossed the wooden coin to Razik, he would catch it in mid-air, observing it as she spoke.
At first, he took in her words clearly. Then, as if suddenly feeling pain seconds after a deep cut, the all the anger his demonic blood contained rushed like a tide.

His tail stopped swaying and his eyes grew wide. His face was getting redder than it already was. He gripped the coin until there were cracking noises: some from the coin snapping, others from the breaking of his scales from his claws, grasping so hard that blood dripped from his fist. He grit his teeth till blood trickled from his gums.

He didn't think in words. He thought in screams now.

He leaped from the table, throwing his fist back, and burying it within the wooden support beam. He ripped his hand out and trudged back to the table, tossing it aside, letting out an inhuman scream as he thrashed about at the air.

After a few seconds of catching his breath, he would turn to Janiven with the same rage he had before. He stomped towards her, stopping only at her arm's length, where he began to scream and point at her.

You will TELL me where these murderers are, you will TELL me where the dottari reside, you will TELL me what I need to do to find every last one of them, be they here or the Hells, so I can find THEM, their LOVED ONES, their SONS AND DAUGHTERS, so I may KILL. THEM. ALL!

He paused, his senses returning to him and his adrenaline subsiding. That wasn't him speaking. He knew this. But he also knew he liked it.


"A bodyguard you say? That's partially the line of work I'm after myself. While staying here I'll need a steady income if I'm to afford this place. Shop work in any fashionable clothing store is also what I'm after, though I wouldn't say no to a little paid adventuring on the side if you know of any jobs going?"

Adina continues to talk as Janiven steps inside, leading her to the dining room as a more comfortable place to sit down and discuss things further.

"I'm sorry for your loss, but no, I haven't had any problems with Westcrown so far. The only thing which came as a shock to me was the death of that Grulios woman. It was so close to home that I wondered just how safe I would be in my own place, alone."

Am I even entirely safe now? Adina thought to herself.

"Anyway, you had something you wanted to say to me. Go ahead, I'm all ears."

Adina looks at Janiven and smiles in a friendly manner.

"While you're here, would you like a drink of water? I don't have alcohol and it's a little early in the day to be getting drunk"

Adina laughs a little.


Tito stared at the woman intensely, awaiting her words.

Just a bump as I don't know what happens if the thread hits the bottom of page 3.


Dracius in Parego Spera

Janiven gives Dracius a smile which suggests that she's used to such interest, despite her red cheeks. "I am glad to hear that. The meeting will be at around four today, at Vizio's Tavern. I'm sorry it's such short notice, but discretion is key in this, with the city how it is. There will be food, so don't worry about eating before, unless you're afraid of me poisoning you," she jokes.

Vizio's Tavern

Knowledge Local DC 10:
Vizio's Tavern is named for the family that once ran it. It used to be a gathering place for merchants to relax. A few months ago, the owner passed away, and his family moved out of Westcrown to live in Corentyn. It is located in Parego Spera near the shore, and you've passed by it more than a few times.


Jynerva in Rego Pena

Janiven nods to Jynerva as she's led out. "Thank you. I'll be there," she assure her before heading on her way. Cyn stretches out in the seat and meows, staring at Jynerva with tired eyes.

If you wish to ask around for more information on Vizio's tavern, you may make another roll, this time diplomacy. If you hit DC 15, you get the same info as the Knowledge Local DC 15 in my previous post to you. If not, you may go ahead and let me know at about what time you reach the tavern, if you try to investigate the area beforehand, ect.


Male Half-Orc Cleric of Shelyn 1.75[ABD] (hp 16/16; AC 17/10/17; F: +6; R: +2, W; +8)

Knowledge, Local (Untrained): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19

Dracius chuckles to himself a little, Oh, now, have I been played? Taken in by a blush? Lured in as if she were Fae? And here, I thought I was the Thespian. Well done, lady, well done.

Dracius begins to laugh aloud, this time at her joke, responding, "You could have driven your blade through me when I turned to get water and it would have been blamed on a deranged fan of mother's, with whispers it was my grandparents. I'm inclined to think poisoning me in a recently closed tavern might be more effort than it's worth."

He smiles and continues in a jovial tone, "Truly, it would only complicate my murder and bring about strange questions that nobody really wants, while not at all improving the narrative of the story."

He winks at her, adding flirtatiously, "...and besides, you don't want to be rid of me so soon."

He then nods, "I will be there as you request... it wouldn't do at all for a gallant such as myself to refuse the request of so fair a lady."


Tito in Rego Laina

"Thank you." As he opens the door, Tito notices that the woman is, in fact, armed, but is holding her up hands as if to show she means no harm. At her hip is a sword, and there is a bow on her back. She's dressed in a chain shirt and dark clothing. She's attractive, but has a no-nonesense look about her. She waits a moment to see if he'll change his mind before stepping inside.

"I'm holding a meeting of concerned citizens, and I was wondering if you'd be interested. There are many...crimes being committed in Westcrown these days that are overlooked, and I'd like to discuss ways we could...alleviate this problem," she says, watching Tito carefully as she speaks. "I'm certain you know of the kinds of crimes that I'm talking about, Mr. Grulios."

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