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Trisane spins quickly to see Ophelia and the children rush out. Get these kids outta here! Hopefully the children get to safety fast and Pellius is among them. This will likely turn to bloodshed... He then refocuses his attention on the voice in the dark room and replies to the taunt.
Oh, we'll see alright... Trisane pulls out a sunrod and sparks it across his longsword to better illuminate his surroundings. Then he steps forward cautiously.
Sorry about that Alistair. I really thought your character was deliberately ignoring what he said. But the GM's right, I tried to make it as obvious as I could where Trisane was pointing based on the description provided. No offense taken btw. On that note, I'm more than happy to discuss things with the group OOC in terms of leadership & combat tactics/actions. Especially in the heat of combat, it can be very easy to miss important details. As the character, Trisane can be very commanding when lives are at stake, this is true. As a player, I feel everyone is responsible for what actions their own character takes (including the consequences of those actions). Ultimately, the more we communicate as players and work together as a group, the better the game will be.
Trisane stares disapprovingly at Alistair as he crosses the room, clearly disregarding his direction. Alright. We do this the hard way then. No more hide n seek. Trisane drops his guard and walks slowly centering himself in the room. He plainly and loudly addresses the residents of the next room while casually waving about his sword.
We know you're in there! You can all come out now! Gaedren Lamm's operation in this fishery is now at an end. I'm going to give you all the same choice we gave him: Surrender now and nobody gets hurt. You get one chance. I hope you don't make the same mistake he did. Trisane then raises his weapon, defensively preparing himself for the worst.
Brief tactical huddle: I want to give Ophelia a chance to do something about the opening door next to her (we don't know what's coming in from the other side) before we move on. Trisane pointed it out with his sword to call attention to it. I wanted Alistair over there to defend her but she may be on her own for a round. Trisane has every intention of provoking combat with his next action.
Trisane looks puzzled for a moment at Nik's behavior. What in the hell? You know this mutt, Nik? Then his puzzled look quickly turns to concern as he sees the door near Ophelia slowly opening. He points his blade at Alistair then toward the door to the north to draw his attention there and speaks quietly. If I want your opinion on how to do things, I'll ask for it. We agreed to do this my way, remember? Ophelia can handle the boy. Leave the dog to Nik. Fan out and go check that door over there. Trisane stays put and looks around the open door into the next room for more immediate threats while keeping his guard strong. Perception:
As Trisane sees lights behind the door, he stops fiddling with the lock and whispers to the group. I think our cover's blown now... Pellius must be with the other kids where Ophelia and Nik scouted yesterday. Time to move. Someone's awake now. We have to hurry. The kids are probably near the loading dock. Stay low & quiet. C'mon. He ducks below the windows along the building's edge toward the loading dock as he moves and motions for the others to follow him.
Just to clarify: Trisane is very much a LG character and I feel I've been playing him that way to the best of my ability. In addition to Nik, he has no intention of willfully allowing either Alistair or Ophelia to murder Gaedren Lamm. He knows that that was their plan all along but chose to accept that he will likely need their help so he kept quiet provided they followed his lead (personality compromise). Part of the reason he locked Lamm in the room was not only to end the argument between Nik & Alistair but also to prevent his pre-mature demise at the hands of his seemingly murderous companions. It is what adventures do..they are murders and thieves...we break into someones home...kill them and take their stuff. I'm sorry you feel that way. I was under the impression we were to create good/heroic characters for this AP campaign. I will not however change my character. By PF definition, Good behavior seems to be in the minority so far. If the scales don't tip toward good in the near future, do we want to take this story in a darker, more evil direction with the characters to accommodate the norm (duels/deception/murder/thievery)? P.S. This is actually a serious question to the group. Evil is certainly more fun to play. I have some morally gray characters of my own I could throw in the mix.
These things happen in just about every campaign..some are worse and some are far simpler to solve.I for see each of these characters wanting to kill the other I'll have to disagree with you there as well. Verbally antagonizing the other PCs to point of violence is not as common in my campaign experience. There's a big difference between character conflict as a result of story driven elements and behaving in such a chaotic way that it detracts from the overall story. Ophelia is correct in the understanding that the fundamental mechanic of these kinds of RPGs is to compromise and find a way to work together as a group. Therefore, the "lone wolf/ego maniac/batman/wolverine" archetype personality is not as viable as you might think unless you can make it mesh with the other PCs (not an easy task). That being said, if Alistair's personality is intended to be this way, that's fine but don't expect him to become any sort of great leader or experience any positive reactions/cooperation/respect from the other PCs/NPCs any time soon (especially the healer). Actively plotting another person's murder (whether friend or foe) is widely considered an Evil act in PF and not very heroic (LE, NE, CE). Perhaps CG may not be the best alignment choice for Alistair. I've put the definitions of good vs evil from the CORE book below for reference. Good Good implies altruism, respect for life, and a concern for the dignity of sentient beings. Good characters make personal sacrifices to help others. Evil Evil implies hurting, oppressing, and killing others. Some evil creatures simply have no compassion for others and kill without qualms if doing so is convenient. Others actively pursue evil, killing for sport or out of duty to some evil deity or master. Just my 2 cents on the situation. However you guys choose to resolve it is up to you. I am also enjoying this campaign and would like to see it continue being enjoyed by everyone involved.
I doubt Trisane would be inclined to go rummaging about the room for treasures while his nephew's upstairs (to his knowledge) but I'd think there's certainly plenty of time for Ophelia to look around and grab things. I wouldn't deny her that opportunity (since she was in the room before she stepped out to yell at Nik and Alistair). He would use the keys to open things up for her if she wanted. We kinda skipped the searching piece to address the Nik & Alistair attempting to kill each other bit. Trisane's plan was to come back for Lamm once his nephew is safe and loot the room but we can back up if needed. Figured Gaedren'd be secured locked in his own room bagged and gagged. At least long enough for us to deal with the upper level. How about the slippery walkway directly above where the boat is docked. Is that climbable from Trisane's current position? Alistair's crawlspace idea also seems reasonable if it'll get us up to the front doors quicker (We all know how bad Trisane sucks at climbing).
After hearing the commotion, Trisane exits the room and looks at the others for a moment. Without a word, he marches over to Lamm, tears off a piece of Gaedren's rags and gags him with it. He then retrieves a sack from his pack and pulls it over the man's head securing it tight. That ought a keep someone's mouth shut for a while. Trisane proceeds to drag the unconscious man's body into the room by his chains and leaves him on the floor inside. Finally, he steps out, locks the door and pockets the keys. He turns, looking at the others again and pauses before speaking calmly. There's no way up in there. I'm going to go find my nephew now. Trisane nods at Opelia then moves with purpose towards the trapped floor. Careful, marine.
Trisane collects Gaedren’s weapons and key ring. He stands, nods to Nik and then looks over to the hanging manacles containing small remains. What a wretched worm of a man. He’s only just begun to answer for his crimes... He points at the manacles in disgust. Those should work… Lamm’s alive but he’ll be out for a while. I agree. We need to find my nephew and free the other children now. Alistair’s right, there’s probably other “goons” to take care of and I’m not leaving these kids in their hands. After they’re safe, then we’ll deal with what’s left of Gaedren and you’ll get your answers Nik. After Gaedren Lamm is cuffed (hands & feet), Trisane turns and approaches the door. Maybe there’s a way through here.
Trisane shoots Opelia a glaring look momentarily. She's more dangerous than she looks. He's out alright... Nik's right though, we still need answers. Look around for a way upstairs. At least I think he's still alive... Trisane sheathes his sword, grabs Lamm's lantern and begins to inspect the unconscious man.
He’s not gonna make it easy… stubborn old goat. He’s used to the shadows though. He’s got to be hiding something.
Trisane drops his dagger in the sand and sheaths his sword while he makes an attempt at the ledge. I’ve got to get answers to find Pellius before Ophelia and Alistair butcher him senseless with their insanity! C’mon Trisane, get up there and show these amateurs who's in charge!
Trisane points his sword and growls at Gaedren. I've got your steel right here old man. This is your last chance, surrender or we're taking you down!
I know that voice… Gaedren Lamm! Trisane spins around while drawing out a dagger to face Lamm. Perception:
Actions:
Move action – Draw dagger. Standard action – Ready Action to throw if Gaedren attacks. Alistair and Ophelia are loose canons. I need to try to keep this under control. He speaks in an authoritative voice. We need to talk. Lay down your weapons and I won’t hurt you!
Nice shooting guys! It's not over yet. Keep it coming! Alistair, I know it's exciting watching a marine in action but feel free to help at any time... At least I've got two on my team. C'mon Alistair, show me you're not just piss n wind... Trisane holds his ground and swings defensively at Gobblegut. His miss almost seems deliberate...
Whoa! That was close. Time to get out of the water. Trisane ignores Alistair's tactical mockery, clearly preoccupied with his attacker. He withdraws from the piling and moves away from the group to square off against Gobblegut on even ground. When he reaches the corner, he turns to face the croc with sword and shield in hand and looks up to the others. I'll draw him away. Shoot him when he comes out of the water!
C'mere you toothy bastard!
It's no good, too slippery. After a second unsuccessful attempt, Trisane grows impatient. He let's go of the rope and turns to face his enemy. It was a mistake to bring them into this. Could really use some real backup right about now... I might be on my own here. Trisane draws his longsword as he moves toward shallower water to get better footing and prepare for an attack. Looks like we do this the hard way! Nik, Ophelia... shoot it!
What the hell is that?! Trisane turns to spot what Ophelia's yelling about.
Definately time to get out of the river! He aims and fires his crossbow at an upward angle.
When he hears the sound of a satisfying thud, he drops his crossbow to its fate and grabs hold of the rope with both hands to climb with haste.
He fails miserably to escape, slowly sliding back down into the river. C'mon Trisane! Get it together! This is not the glorious death you deserve. He looks up at Alistair and speaks with a good deal of frustration. Definately NOT ok down here... Don't just stand there! Do something!
Ugh. Well this is just perfect! Didn't see that coming. What have I gotten myself into now? In fact, I can barely see anything... I gotta get outta here. Trisane stands as best he can, wipes some river slime off his face and takes a few moments to collect himself and his crossbow before the current does. He draws out a grappling bolt with a silken rope attached and begins to reload.
Ugh. That's not great... Either everyone in here is deaf or sound asleep. Let's hope for the latter. As the door swings open unexpectedly, Trisane picks up his lantern and crossbow quickly and moves inside as quietly as he can. He motions for the others to follow. He scans the room upon entering. Perception:
Stealth: If it matters now. Ha!
Thoughts:
I figured this would be locked. Almost too easy so far. Trisane rests his crossbow against the door gently, sets down his lantern, ignites the lantern and covers it with part of his cloak to provide some illumination while he works. He rests his crossbow against the door and pulls out a set of tools. Disable Device:
Trisane looks over Alistair as he approaches and watches him perform his curious ritual in silence. He grins slightly at Nik's comment. What in the hell? He better not be drunk right now. Good thing there’s no marines or guards around to witness me with this lot. I’d never hear the end of it from Deadlin especially. Maybe one day I’ll have a story worth telling. Well, there’s no turning back now, all aboard Trisane’s justice boat of lunatics… Trisane makes sure his hood stays up and covers his face as much as possible ignoring Alistair's drink offer. Right. We’re all here. Ophelia and Nik please sit in the middle and mind the sail. Should be safest there. Alistair, you sit up front with the chum. Reminds me of something we did once to a wash out in basic training... good times. I’ll steer the rudder in the back… and so I can keep an eye on you all. Let’s go.
Trisane nods to Ophelia and looks her over as she approaches. He pauses for several moments before speaking. What is she wearing? Valeria would’ve worn armor. I doubt Ophelia’s much of a warrior. At least she brought weapons. I don't know what to expect anymore. Oh well too late now... If she stays with the kids, she shouldn't get hurt. Good Morning, Ophelia. You look… prepared. I’ll sleep better when this is over. For now, we wait for the rest. Trisane nods to Nik when he arrives. Welcome aboard, Nik. We’ll do some good today alright. He reaches toward his quiver and pulls out some crossbow bolts. He hands several to both Nik and Ophelia.
Here’s something for the both of you. These are silver. In case we run into more than just children and a few guards.
Trisane returns to the barracks and spends the few hours of the evening in preparation. He tries to let his thoughts drift and get as much rest as he can.
After a very early morning routine, Trisane arrives at Pier 1 at 0330. He loads up the boat with his gear. He dons his Scale Mail armor and rests his hooded lantern nearby to be lit when needed. He secures the chum and readies the sails. He keeps his weapons close at hand, pulls up the hood on his cloak and patiently waits for the others to arrive. The waters look choppy this morning. Let’s hope I can keep this boat on course. I doubt the others will be able to help in that regard. No point in worrying about it now. I’m in this now for better or for worse to whatever end may come.
Trisane leans in to inspect Ophelia’s map where she indicates the slippery walkway. Nice work. We should be able to avoid that easily enough. He then looks around to the group.
How many more assurances do they need? I’ve got this under control and we’re as prepared as we’ll ever be. If only I could bring in a few marines instead…
I’ll find you Pellius, no matter what it takes. Trisane stands up from the table and looks for affirmation.
Trisane empties his plate in no time and chugs down the rest of his water. He wipes his face clean and throws down the napkin on the table. Delicious! My compliments to chef Tau. I can see now why you come here so much, Alistair. Wait, did he say lights? Was that a serious question? I can't tell if he's joking or not with that silly grin. There's more important things to worry about.. Trisane inspects his uniform carefully to make sure he didn't get any food on it then he straightens up and repeats Nik's question to Ophelia. What's all this about a walkway?
This is my first PbP as well (Mostly just tabletop and live Roll20 sessions). The RP stuff is great in this format in my opinion since you don't get to see a lot of solid, well thought out stuff at a table on the spot. I'm enjoying it so far and looking forward to the first combats. I don't have any issues with the pacing so far. I would think there's generally a lot of background and story build up to get things rolling before the action at the start of most campaigns.
Trisane digs into the food eagerly as it arrives while everyone else speaks only really half listening. He slices off some of the haunch of smoked meat, rips a hunk of bread from the loaf, spoons out some mushrooms and vegetables on a plate in a heaping portion and pours himself some water. Despite the company this beats the mess hall, for sure. He barely notices Rom lifting a bit from his pile of food and only stops eating when he hears Ophelia ask her question. He belches loudly before speaking. Good, now that we’re all friends again… To answer your question Ophelia, there looked to be some kind of underpier past the old barge. Once the shark is taken care of, we should be able to slip inside from there somewhere. If we can stay quiet enough, we’ll catch them by surprise. If we’re really lucky, they might even be asleep. Trisane looks up to the rafters at Rom and back to Nik. Rom would make a good lookout… but he’s not the only one. I saw a kid in the upper riverside window all afternoon on watch. Rom could distract the little lamm for us long enough to sneak past undetected. He seems like a friendly enough bird.
They want my advice but they don’t want to listen! All this arguing is giving me a headache. I doubt Alistair realizes how insulting he is to the rest of us. Nik shouldn’t take it so personal. Dock nobles think they own everyone. Ophelia shows more grace in rags and reeking of fish. Civilians over-complicate things and ask far too many questions. It’s so much easier to give orders and follow them… I doubt any of them will understand. I have to try though… Trisane asks Nik politely to sit back down. He then responds with a quiet but stern voice. You want my advice? Words are wind. It’s our actions that define us. You’re all undisciplined and inexperienced with this sort of thing so you’re going to need my help. Truth is you need someone to tell you what to do. Right now, that someone is me… Alistair, if you really are as good a swordsman as you claim, that will be far more useful than your mouth. Stay close, stay quiet and try to stay sober. Nik, I can tell you’re good with animals. I could use your help pacifying a certain striped fish. That’s how we’re going in. Ophelia, you used to be a “Little Lamm”, this place is crawling with them. Try to keep the kids safe and out of our way. I don’t want any innocents to come to harm. Remember, we’re only after Lamm himself. Trisane sits back and shakes his head as he speaks to everyone. Listen, I know you’re all scared even if you don’t want to admit it. Trust me, I didn’t want to get mixed up in this either. If you want to get through it in one piece though, your best chance is to follow my lead. You know it’s true even if you don’t like it. No more deceptions, silly games or pointless bickering. Bring only what you need and all the courage you can muster. If we manage to work together as a team, we’ll see this to the end one way or another. With any luck, nobody has to die. Trisane tucks his cloth napkin into his collar. Not much more to it than that. Now let's eat. I'm starving.
Trisane glares at Alistair and Ophelia for a moment, clearly unimpressed by Alistair’s behavior and Ophelia’s bribe accusation. He then speaks to the group. Money can’t buy everyone. “Our” Report, eh? All he did was hang around the boat, drowning his sorrows. A few gold sails and nice clothes can’t change the truth. Let’s just say that the fish of the Jaggare have nothing to fear from the two of us. All I saw at that rundown fishery was a rotten boat, a few kids and a jigsaw: Nothing that’ll keep me from closing in on Lamm any longer. I was hoping Ophelia and Nik might have gotten some more useful information... As I expected though, nothing’s changed. I suggest we accelerate the plan. We go in after midnight: 0400 at pier 1. I have everything prepared. Trisane sits back in his chair. Enjoy yourselves tonight if you must.
“ol’ Alistair” He must come in here a lot. Probably for the booze and fancy company. I'm sure he pays well. Better tread carefully. Nothing of any great concern. My name's Trisane Imphawke, Sable Company. I'd just like to talk to him and we've arranged to meet here this evening for a discussion over some of Tau Grimsby's fine cuisine... Why do you ask? He's not causing any trouble is he? Trisane looks over to the bartender intently waiting on a response with a slight grin.
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