Marius smiles at Zarabetas new found enthusiasm and agrees with her comment "Aye it would be best if we avoided the colours of the Prince of Lies..."

He'll organise a quick training session for anyone who wants it..crossbows being the main focus but with some dirty tricks for close in fighting thrown in

Any thoughts on whether or not the horses from Mount can attack? I'm guessing probably not, but it's a thought.

Any thoughts on whether or not the horses from Mount can attack? I'm guessing probably not, but it's a thought.

Hope that helps.

My opinion on mount is in the discussion thread.

The hideout:

Mathalen (female Chelish human commoner 1): remains at the hideout. She sews uneven stiches, but she puts in plenty of them and they'll hold.

As the night progresses the other rebels straggle in:
Amaya, a beautiful, but plainly dressed woman. She looks worried and says little.

Fiosa, a halfling woman. She pitches in on the masks, stitching quickly and well. When Waiffrin goes to bed, Fiosa takes over supervising the sewing.

Larko, a lanky young Garundi man with stringy muscles.

Tarvi (female Chelish human commoner 1): Tarvi is dressed impracticaly, with a gauzy veil covering her head and torso.

Vitti (N male Chelish human expert 1): Vitti is a strange, eccentric man who dyes his hair green and refuses to eat any food he doesn’t grow or catch himself. A talented woodcarver whose works earn him a modest income, he prides himself on the fact that he only carves wood that’s been harvested from deadfalls and other trees that died of natural causes. He seems surprised and embarassed to see Zarabeta here. They live on the same street. His large garden is a minor wonder of the neighborhood. He arrives last. He proves surprisingly agile with a needle.

Tarvi declines Marius' impromptu class, but the others all try. None of them are trained fighters. Larko shows the most promise in hand to hand. Mathalen does allright. She sometimes gets a surprising amount of force in a blow and seems cool enough. Vitti also shows a little talent; he fights with a heavy oaken walking stick. Amaya and Fiosa would be outright liabilities in combat, although Fiosa is a demon then throwing rocks at targets.

The stables :
Gorvio, Ermolos, Rizzardo, and Yakopulio go with Raven to the stables. Perhaps Mother V too???

Yes, Mother will go to the stables; she's more interested in livestock than plotting revolution. :-)

As the night progresses the other rebels straggle in...

While the warrior conducts his class, Akorian sits back and continues to assess them from afar. Occasionally, he interacts with those sitting out the instruction and provides encouragement between bouts with Marius. For some reason, he finds himself a bit put off by Tarvi's strange dress and Vitti's eccentric mannerisms. More than anyone, he feels drawn to Amaya...and who could blame him having an interest in a beautiful lady, no matter how plainly dressed.

"You seem a bit nervous," he tells the girl during one of the breaks, "Are you troubled by the thought of challenging the Order of the Rack? Or fearful of what may happen to Arael?"

Raven is most displeased indeed for missing out on the pretty girls. :-P

On a more relevant note, however, did we actually decide on the number of horses before the group going to the stables set out? How many horses should the elf rent from the nice bearded chap?

On the way to the stables:

Mother V notices Ermolos frequently staring at her, but he always manages to slide his eyes away. She finally catches him undeniably staring. He laughs. "It's your armour. Unusual work those spikes. I'm a blacksmith by trade. Arms are not my line, but they interest me."

Yako overhears the remark and smirks. "Yes, and they're very becoming on you."

Mother laughs at Ermolos's comment. "Well, big fellow, I reckon my husband would agree with you, although 'unusual' isn't the word he'd use. 'Just plain nuts', is what Ralf would say! He always says I look like a porcupine when I'm wearing it, and suspect he's right. But from time to time there's some critter I'm tussling with that's worth more dead than alive and it's more humane to stab 'em than strangle 'em."

She laughs again at her own comments. "Listen to me! I sound like more like a soldier than a farmer! But I can't help it; I like wrassling, and that all there is to it."

She gives Yako a knowing sidelong glance. "If you think this armor flatters me, you got a mighty queer sense of fashion, ma'am, but thank you all the same."

Lowering her voice, she asks: "Ermolos, how'd a fine blacksmith like you get mixed up with a band of hot-blooded revolutionaries?"

Marius will shift most of his attenton to the more competent members of the group.He grins however thinking how Raven will be cursing his luck..pretty women everywhere...always a good thing..

He will try Fiosa with a thrown dagger or darts if they are available...

Whilst he trains he tries to get to know the rebels..probing to find their dreams for Westcrown. He is off course looking for those most amenable to Andorani ideas of democracy and liberty.

In fact he'll suggest to Waif that the word Liberty should be stitched under the Rose on each mask

"Let's be open about our intentions" he explains

good old Sam Adams would be proud off me

...Lowering her voice, she asks: "Ermolos, how'd a fine blacksmith like you get mixed up with a band of hot-blooded revolutionaries?"

Marius will shift most of his attenton to the more competent members of the group....

He will try Fiosa with a thrown dagger or darts if they are available...

Whilst he trains he tries to get to know the rebels..probing to find their dreams for Westcrown. He is off course looking for those most amenable to Andorani ideas of democracy and liberty.

In fact he'll suggest to Waif that the word Liberty should be stitched under the Rose on each mask. "Let's be open about our intentions" he explains

Larko and Mathalen are good enough and steady enough that Marius can feel comfortable lending them swords and letting them spar in simple patterns.

Vitti moves well. His timing is a bit slow and he tends to overswing. He also refuses a sword after a few seconds hefting and swinging it. "It doesn't feel natural for me."

While uniformly dissatisfied with the current state of Westcrown, the rebels have a mixed bag of reasons, from personal grudges to altruism, for that discontent. Inherently conservative by upbringing, they seem devoted to the idea of monarchy. Your tentative hints about the blessings of Republicanism fall on deaf ears. (It may just be need for more education .... )

... More than anyone, he feels drawn to Amaya...and who could blame him having an interest in a beautiful lady, no matter how plainly dressed.

"You seem a bit nervous," he tells the girl during one of the breaks, "Are you troubled by the thought of challenging the Order of the Rack? Or fearful of what may happen to Arael?"

Amaya considers the question carefully. "A mixture of both. We never planned on combat. The goal was to lead the people to a better future through noble actions and deeds. Not to overthrow the government in a bloody coup. Now it seems we must be as attached to Arael as we are to our heads." She smiles wanly at her small jest.

He then shifts into a philosophical contemplation of her situation as viewed from the tenets of Milani, hoping he doesn't bore her with his conversation.

"You know, peace is preferrable to war...or having to fight for something," he tells her, "But sometimes, fighting for what's right is preferrable to peace...or a false sense of peace that really only perpetuates tyranny and injustice."

"I lived most of my life in Egorian," he shares, "So I've personally seen how House Thrune rules Cheliax. I came to Westcrown to escape the sight of all those atrocities. I couldn't bear to watch people suffering under a pall of fear and trepidation. I hoped I'd find inspiration in Westcrown as the former capital of a once nobler Cheliax. But now she's a pale shadow of her former self and the embers of Aroden's faith have all but faded. Only Iomedae and Milani are left to shepherd his followers."

"I chose the Everbloom for guidance, not because I wish a bloody coup...with all the accompanying death and tragedy it would create. Rather, I chose Milani out of hope. That's her primary doctrine, you know? Hope for a better world. Finding ways to change the bad situations around you to usher in a safer, happier time. She gives me hope. And to share that with everyone else, I realize I have to find ways to inspire others."

"Arael does the same," Akorian admits, "Or rather, he's been doing the same with all of you...all of us, I mean. He does so by preaching Iomedae's faith. And there's much to admire and aspire to about the Inheritor. And truly, she is the one who'll inherit any good that comes from the changes Milani's faithful eventually enact. For the Everbloom's followers always take on the hard tasks...the ones that become necessary in the course of achieving a greater good. But, when we're done, we go back to our lives of peace and, hopefully, prosperity...more than willing to leave the guidance of government in the hands of those adhering to Iomedae's faith."

"So, for me, rescuing Arael is important," Akorian explains, "He's the only real hope for this city. His faith is what will see Westcrown to a brighter future. But for him to have an opportunity to achieve that vision, we've now got to act on his behalf. That's exactly what Milani expects of me...and us. And I've got faith she'll guide our words and actions to that end."

He pats Amaya's hand reassuringly. "So take courage, my lady. Rescuing Arael is still a noble action and deed that will lead the people of Westcrown to a better future. We're just going to have to face a few challenges along the way. And, as children of Westcrown, we all have our part to play. Mine, and the others, will be to free Arael from Hellknight custody before they get him to Citadel Rivad. Yours, and the rest of these fine folk, will be to draw away his escort. No need to fight them head-on. Just lure them away and then scatter safely back into the hills."

"You make sure you listen to Janiven, though," he advises, "She's a good soul and she's got a good head on her shoulders. You do, too. So stay strong for one another. Together, we'll see Arael safely home."

Zarabeta fusses with the clothing, occasionally using prestidigitation to evoke some minor magical change in color or style, but remains silent, listening to her companions pitch their various philosophical wares. A strange sort of haggling has begun, it seems...

She makes another, probably futile, attempt to contact Uqabi, who may not be within a mile, if he is even alive, and one side of her says a prayer for his safety, while another side of her once again ponders the merits of a toad, that she can shove in her backpack and forget about.

hit me over the head enough and I'll catch on.

Zarabeta's mystical probing for her avian companion bears fruit. Something like relief channels through the connection between her and the bird.

Over the last of the sewing, Vitti observes, "I didn't expect to find you here. A pleasant surprise, yes?"

Strange haggling indeed. The soul of a rebellion is a precious thing.

Amaya nods at Akorian's words. It's not clear if she agrees with all of his sentiments, just a few, or even if she's actually listening at all. Her expression is still quite worried.

speaking of Janiven.

Janiven thinks Marius' idea for training is good and pitches in to help. Her swordsmanship is a solid practical thing. To Marius' sharp eye it's clearly born of hard-won fighting. She may not know the finer tricks of the fighting pits, but she could take most men-at-arms in single combat.

"Indeed," Zarabeta says to Vitti, "in a city of this size, the odds of us running into someone we already know here seem quite unlikely." Glancing at his distinctive hair, she adds, "You, in particular, should keep your hood pulled tight. Even fools such as we face may have little difficulty tracking down the one green-haired man in the city..."

The thread in her hands turns a bright emerald green, and then back to black in her hands, as she magically re-colors it.

Waifrin listens to the conversations as she works before finally commenting.

"I like this Everbloom of yours, Akorian. All I ever heard of gods was that we had to worship Asmodeus, and take whatever he doled out to us as justice - usually a sound beating. It didn't take a long time to work out that was a crock of s*%#, and I thought all gods would be the same - I'm glad they aren't. We could all use a bit of hope."

She turns back to the others she has been working with.

"I wish you could get what you seek by just doing noble deeds, but I know the Hellknights and Asmodeans too well. If you fix things they don't want fixed, or even suggest that their rule isn't perfect, then you ARE as rebel and a law-breaker, and need to be crushed. Things aren't going to get better with them around, I can assure you. If you don't take the fight to them, they'll bring it to you."

"My cousin speaks true..we were raised as good Chelaxians...but we know now that being a good Chelaxian and being a 'good' person are different things...you can go on as you are paying lip service to the Prince of Lies...and eventually condeming your souls to hell..or you can seize liberty...let the people speak and show the House of TRhrune that their hold on us isnt forever and that they and their damned infernal patron can go back to the Hell he came from"

"... Even fools such as we face may have little difficulty tracking down the one green-haired man in the city..."

The thread in her hands turns a bright emerald green, and then back to black in her hands, as she magically re-colors it.

Waifrin's and Marius' blunt words obviously shock the others. Tarvi loudly laughs nervously, twisting her hair in her fingers. They may be engaged in rebellion, but they've clearly also been engaged in self-deception.

Janiven frowns. "Killing and strong arm tactics are the methods of the enemy. We will resort to them only in the most extreme circumstances. First we must win the hearts of the people. Show them that there is a better path. "

Janiven frowns. "Killing and strong arm tactics are the methods of the enemy. We will resort to them only in the most extreme circumstances. First we must win the hearts of the people. Show them that there is a better path."

"Instead," he suggests, "We have to think much more long-term than that. Smaller steps. As Janiven says, we must win the hearts of everyone first. Show them there's something better...that a small group of citizens can take it upon themselves to solve the problems the Hellknights can't...or won't...and to solve them with better solutions than their heavy-handed, tyrannical style. As soon as people start getting inspired by that, more and more of them will make small, subtle changes...both in attitude and in action. And that will lead us as a whole to a better place. If nothing else, it'll require less attention from the power centers of Egorian. They may even come to value our contribution. And that should buy us time to expand this series of changes beyond just Westcrown."

"That should be our long-term goal," the priest finishes, "And as long as we're giving people hope, that goal will carry on regardless of what happens to us. In the meantime, we should focus on our short-term goal. And that's rescuing Arael. As I said before, Westcrown's hope rests on him. We just need to buy him time to start inspiring the rest of the city. And he can't do that from Citadel Rivad. So let's get him back and restore some hope to everyone."

"Perhaps we should look to what has succeeded in the past." Zarabeta offers. "Which nations have broken with tyranny without bloodshed, and which have had to resort to the blade?"

"Andora did not become free without accepting that those who would not embrace the new ways had to be marched to the gallows. I can think of not a single nation that has won freedom by retaliating against violence with pretty words and good intentions."

"Are the devils so much kinder of overlords, so much easier to call master that you would not raise a blade against them? In Mendev, the fiends are demons, and not a single crusader preaches that men must resolve their differences with the demons without accidentally killing one of them... Our foes have chosen to serve Hell, and one cannot serve Hell and any goodly interest in this world. Do not mistake the Hellknights and House Thrune for creatures that you can bargain with. That was the mistake they have made, making deals with Hell itself, greeting them with words, instead of blades, and you see all around this city where that foolishness has gotten them. Dealing with them in the same coin will only lead to the same sad end."

"Do as you wish, but I will not fight this war on Hell's terms." Zarabeta finishes with conviction. "I have never taken a man's life, but when the time comes, I will not hesitate to send a slave of devils to greet his masters in Hell before I allow any person in this room to be harmed in his place."

She looks at the various citizens gathered around. "I value your lives more than my own squeamishness."

The hosteler nods, accepting Raven's story. "Horses and a wagon, then? How many will you need?"

"Andora did not become free without accepting that those who would not embrace the new ways had to be marched to the gallows. I can think of not a single nation that has won freedom by retaliating against violence with pretty words and good intentions."

"Are the devils so much kinder of overlords, so much easier to call master that you would not raise a blade against them?....Our foes have chosen to serve Hell, and one cannot serve Hell and any goodly interest in this world. Do not mistake the Hellknights and House Thrune for creatures that you can bargain with. That was the mistake they have made, making deals with Hell itself, greeting them with words, instead of blades, and you see all around this city where that foolishness has gotten them. Dealing with them in the same coin will only lead to the same sad end."

"But Hell doesn't pull their strings," he explains, "In fact, I would go so far as to say that many within the halls of governance in Egorian itself, hold no love for House Thrune or how they came by their power. I'm living proof of that, since House Henderthane has supported the Chelish legions both before and after House Thrune's rise to power. In those days, everyone accepted their leadership to quell the chaos caused by Aroden's death. In a time of such uncertainty, the people chose stability and peace...even if it came with the taint of Hell's devils providing it."

"Now, the people live in fear of what they allowed to happen," he goes on, "House Thrune uses devil-kind to enforce their will and maintain power. They quash any hint of rebellion as a threat that will return Cheliax to those same days of chaos and barbarism. Most are content to allow these conditions as long as the remainder of their lives continue to prosper. The empire is safe. Businesses thrive. And life goes on. Some of us aren't satisfied with that. Living in fear of bandits and brigands...or the shadowbeasts plaguing Westcrown...isn't an enjoyable or even tolerable part of life. And yet, House Thrune with all its Hellknights and devil-powered might can't solve those problems. If we can, by embarrassing the Hellknights and calling into question their value...and by hunting down these shadowbeasts and bandits...we'll start to show people they don't need Hellknights or alliances with Hell to keep the peace and secure everyone's safety."

"If we can drive home that message, we gain a groundswell of support that no army can put down," he finishes, "The Hellknights and House Thrune will become powerless when the circumstances that brought them to power disappear...and when the people realize they don't need or want them anymore."

"Do as you wish, but I will not fight this war on Hell's terms." Zarabeta finishes with conviction. "I have never taken a man's life, but when the time comes, I will not hesitate to send a slave of devils to greet his masters in Hell before I allow any person in this room to be harmed in his place....I value your lives more than my own squeamishness."

"But we can help them," Akorian emphasizes, "At the same time we help the rest of the people, we can make many of the Order's members question their mandate as the only force capable of keeping the peace and security of Westcrown. If we do that, and we manage to win some of these Hellknights back, they'll provide a far more potent force for change, because they'll have a platform from which to deliver a stronger message of change for Cheliax than any of us could accomplish by simply killing as many of them as we can. It does Westcrown no good if we plunge her into a civil war that attracts the attention of Egorian's legions. That will only lead to death and suffering for everyone."

"However," Akorian offers a verbal olive branch of conciliation to Zarabeta, "I'll make you a promise. The day a fiend of Hell tries to stand against us, I'll be the first to take arms against it. And none will fight more furiously than I to ensure it's driven out of Cheliax forever."

Zarabeta looks amused at the mention of being an outsider, given her appearance. She shakes her head the mention of of devil's serving men, but allows Akorian to finish his thought.

"Devils do not serve men, Akorian. Not ever. I am as well-versed in the arts of Conjuration as any student of your devil-academies, and only a fool believes that he is the master of the voices from the outer world. I have no doubt at all that this nation is filled with fools, who believe that they have gotten the better of deal with a devil, but a mortal cannot 'win' in a bargain with a fiend. Indeed, their willingness to make such a bargain in the first place guarantees that the devil need not lift a finger to ensure their damnation, and so the devils have no reason at all to grant them favors, save to corrupt those around them into making pacts as well, making the petitioner a living portal to Hell, damning all who admire his new gifts of infernal power, and would seek to emulate his foolishness."

"The Church of Asmodeus, prince of devils, would declare war on Cheliax in an instant if there was any chance whatsoever that these arrogant fools could actually impose thier will upon his devil servants. But instead, they openly support and praise House Thrune, for they know the will of their Master, to allow the elite of this nation to believe that they pull Hell's strings."

"As for taking up arms only against devils, what is more evil, I wonder, the fiend made of equal parts malice and suffering, unable to make a different choice, as evil is bred into his bones, or the man who can choose to be a Cleric of Milani, for instance, but chooses to serve Hell instead, selling his very soul for mere short-term gain?"

"A Hellknight is a man who had a choice, Akorian, which makes him a traitor to our very race, allying with forces that seek to damn us all. A fiend was made from foulness, and to foulness was consigned when it was made. A man born to this world who chooses to embrace foulness for his own selfish and short-sighted reasons has abandoned any right to mercy or forgiveness, along with his humanity."

And tomorrow, Zarabeta will probably send a Fiendish Wardog after someone. "What? No, it's okay if *I* do it... I'm totally in control of this. I can quit any time..." :)

"...what is more evil, I wonder, the fiend made of equal parts malice and suffering, unable to make a different choice, as evil is bred into his bones, or the man who can choose to be a Cleric of Milani, for instance, but chooses to serve Hell instead, selling his very soul for mere short-term gain?"

"A Hellknight is a man who had a choice, Akorian, which makes him a traitor to our very race, allying with forces that seek to damn us all. A fiend was made from foulness, and to foulness was consigned when it was made. A man born to this world who chooses to embrace foulness for his own selfish and short-sighted reasons has abandoned any right to mercy or forgiveness, along with his humanity."

"Choices are never permanent, my lady. As long as we still draw breath, we have time to make a different choice. And though we all live with the consequences of our actions, no one is irredeemable. No one. Not even a Hellknight. For you to deal in such absolutes, it defines the exact intolerance they force on Westcrown. But these are people just like you. They haven't lost their humanity...just their way. And who among us hasn't done that in our own lives? It doesn't require a deal-with-the-devil to lose our way. And neither are we constrained from turning back just because we chose poorly."

Don't read too much into the intra-party tension. I don't want to alienate Zarabeta as much as engage in some cool roleplay.

Also, I'm not sure if you're aware, Set...but James Jacobs has characterized Cheliax as a place where the nobles pull the devils' strings by being very wise in how they word any deal with them. Originally, I imagined Cheliax exactly as Zarabeta describes it...where the devils are the power-behind-the-throne. But in James' world, he's saying the Chelish have the upper hand in their negotiations...thereby using the fiends more as the means to an end. How exactly he justifies all of that, I don't completely understand. But it's the vision he painted for Cheliax as far as I know.

Don't read too much into the intra-party tension. I don't want to alienate Zarabeta as much as engage in some cool roleplay.

Also, I'm not sure if you're aware, Set...but James Jacobs has characterized Cheliax as a place where the nobles pull the devils' strings by being very wise in how they word any deal with them. Originally, I imagined Cheliax exactly as Zarabeta describes it...where the devils are...

As Akorian grows angrier, Zarabeta actually seems emboldened, and leans closer, to speak directly in his face, like a haggling merchant in a crowded souk, with a foreigner's disregard for personal space.

"While my knowledge of fiends is considerable, your training would speak more of the disposition of souls than mine. Perhaps those who have sworn fealty to Hell can buy back what they have sold, deceiving even the god of trickery himself. I'm in no hurry to leave this world behind to find out which of us is correct..."

She steps back, clearly having other words on her mind, but raises a hand and visibly says something different. "It is pointless for us to fight. I shall save my energies for opposing your enemies and rescuing *your* hapless friends, and you can save your energies praying for them to stop dragging your people away in the night."

So many 'oh snap' comments come to mind. I actually had to pick my third choice, as the first two were too confrontational!

As Akorian grows angrier, Zarabeta actually seems emboldened, and leans closer, to speak directly in his face, like a haggling merchant in a crowded souk, with a foreigner's disregard for personal space.

"While my knowledge of fiends is considerable, your training would speak more of the disposition of souls than mine. Perhaps those who have sworn fealty to Hell can buy back what they have sold, deceiving even the god of trickery himself. I'm in no hurry to leave this world behind to find out which of us is correct..."

"It is pointless for us to fight. I shall save my energies for opposing your enemies and rescuing *your* hapless friends, and you can save your energies praying for them to stop dragging your people away in the night."

After she's gone, he shakes his head. "Children of Westcrown, indeed," he mutters.

"The people aren't taught about devils the way you are, Zarabeta - the devils do the bidding of the House of Thrune, who keep the chaos away - and using devils is better than Chaos. Worshipping Asmodeus is better than worshipping a weak god or none at all ... that's how they sell it," Waifrin shrugs. "I don't like it, but that's how it is. You have to be really desperate to even consider anything else. I was, and I heard about the Andorans and their way ... and now I've heard about other gods too," she nods to Akorian.

"We can inspire people. We can do the good things. But ... we'll have to fight the Legions eventually. They WILL treat any weakening of their power in Westcrown as a challenge, and they WILL use force to destroy that challenge. Make no mistake, things are the way they are because they want them that way. So we have to to be prepared to fight ... or if we aren't, we may as well give up right now."

OOC: blasted server ate my first post ...

Last Vestige of Aroden wrote:

The hosteler nods, accepting Raven's story. "Horses and a wagon, then? How many will you need?"

Raven thinks on it for a moment before answering. "I should think around twelve horses would do? Along with a wagon of course." He turns to the others with him for suggestions in case anyone has something to offer.

Janiven's purse in sufficient to cover the hosre rental. No need to actually RP the haggling. Especially PbP.

While you wait a handsome young man strides purposefully through the gate. "I am Thesing Umbero Ulvauno, prince of the stage. I require three mounts for my production tonight. Is Theodo here?"

Gorvio makes his apologies and tells Thesing that Theodo has left for a few moments and all the horses are let for the day.

"No horses! But you will ruin my show! Look! I see horses right here. They are beautiful. Exactly what I need! I will take these. Here is the customary fee." He tries to push a handful of gold into the dumbfounded Gorvio's palm while reaching with his other hand for the first horse's bridle.

Know(local) roll once read as high as you can (add 4 if you're a real fan of the theater, but if you are you better RP it!): DC 10

DC 14

DC 18

Know: local 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18

Mother perks up. "How do, Master Ulvauno! My daughter told me she went to see your show. Right good, she said it was." She slaps him collegially on the arm.

An interesting mixture of pleasure at the flattery and disgust at being slapped, however collegially, by a metallic porcupine passes breifly over Thesing's face before he bestows a broad gleaming smile upon Mother. "Lovely, madame! I'm so happy she enjoyed it. Then you can see how important it is that I have these horses. I'm sure you can find another three down the street." He gathers up the reins of a second horse.

At the hideout:

The sparring has ended as all of the others become enmeshed as spectators to Akorian, Waifrin, and Zarabeta's discussion. When the discussion breaks off most of them stay with Akorian to rehash his points and add their agreement. Tarvi is especially emphatic that they need to remain non-violent as much as possible. She concedes that Arael's rescue is a special case and a fight to save him is inevitable. That's why she thinks the masks are a smart idea.

Larko follows Zarabeta. "I agree with you. Conflict will happen. I was so very happy that Marius worked on training us. We know nothing about fighting and we will need to soon. But don't doubt Akorian. He has been with us for some months now, and has been a good and trusty ally. He has been generous with time and money and runs the same risks as all of us."

While listening to the argument, Janiven kept looking toward the door. A certain impatience in her manner betrays an "I should have gone myself" attitude, but she says nothing.

Shortly after the argument ends, Morosino drifts back in. He speaks to Janiven, but loudly enough that everyone can hear. "Sclavo says the Hellknights sent ten men to pick up Arael. He's also heard that the ones we defeated in the sewers will be going back to Rivad too. The Dottari will have twelve men escort them until they leave the city gates. They will leave within two hours.

"Then let's make haste," Waifrin urges. "How're we going to do this?" She seems to direct the question more at Marius than anyone else.

Zarabeta seems concerned at first by Larko's words (particularly the 'I agree with you' part, which causes her to place her arm on his shoulder and lead him away, lest the faithful mistake his words for heresy), but then her eyes narrow and she relaxes as he finishes up.

"I have yet to defy Akorian's beliefs, Larko, worry not. Whomever you wish to agree with, do not take it upon yourself to violate his orders, as to come between a believer and his faith is to bare your neck to the blade."

When the discussion breaks off most of them stay with Akorian to rehash his points and add their agreement. Tarvi is especially emphatic that they need to remain non-violent as much as possible. She concedes that Arael's rescue is a special case and a fight to save him is inevitable. That's why she thinks the masks are a smart idea.

While listening to the argument, Janiven kept looking toward the door. A certain impatience in her manner betrays an "I should have gone myself" attitude, but she says nothing.

"Rest easy," he tries to reassure her, "Raven knows his business. They're in good hands. There's few I trust as much as that elf. He'll be back with the horses before long. Have a little faith." He smiles at his last comment. What else did she expect a follower of Milani to say?

Shortly after the argument ends, Morosino drifts back in. He speaks to Janiven, but loudly enough that everyone can hear. "Sclavo says the Hellknights sent ten men to pick up Arael. He's also heard that the ones we defeated in the sewers will be going back to Rivad too. The Dottari will have twelve men escort them until they leave the city gates. They will leave within two hours."

'It's times like these I fear my own weakness, Milani. I know on my own...or even surrounded by these well-meaning people...I lack the strength without you behind me. I just ask you grant us the opportunity, the will, and the fortitude to make a stand. Help us save Arael and bring about a better future for Westcrown. Help me keep these people safe. And if this should be my time to lay down my life in your service, I just ask I be allowed to do so in a way that inspires others to carry on your work...to give hope to the downtrodden...and lay the path for lasting change. For, I ask and pray these things upon the Everbloom. So let it be done.'

In what could very well be described as the manner of an adoring fan, Raven approaches the new arrival, taking care to show a mixture of enthusiasm and nervousness at his presence. "Not the Thesing Umbero Ulvauno? One of the greatest actors this city has seen in a decade and certainly the greatest of the last three years? I am truly privileged Master Ulvauno! 'Ashes of Aroden' is undeniably a good play, but your role as Third Prince Harce Thrune? Now that is what made the play a true masterpiece if I may be so bold, an instant classic."

The elf pauses for a moment. "I... I am sorry. I hope I am not making you uncomfortable? Although you must be used to higher praise than mine by now, I am sure..."

"If it were up to me, I would give you all of the horses my Lord. But we truly need them," he goes on, his tone apologetic, if not shameful, as if inconveniencing the actor is a true crime. "Can we not reach a compromise? Perhaps if we promise to bring them back by the time you need them? Although, perhaps..."

The rogue seems to have a suggestion to make, but hesitates. "No, no... I am sure it is foolish of me to even think it..."

Knowledge (Local) 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

"Two hours you say."Marius' head jerks up at Janivens commnet "that does not leave us much time to prepare..do we have the caltrops I suggested..if not someone needs to go get them now..and someone else needs to go find our friends and bring them back here with the horses"

He turns to Akorian

"You probably have the right of it about the rank and file of the Hellknights..the armigers for the most part are men brought there by hunger and privation..much like any soldier anywhere I suppose. But...." he leaves a significant pause "...the church of Asmodeus is not part of any such bargain..they stand damned by their oaths and actions..I tell you now Akorian Henderthane..should a Priest of that church come within reach of my sword...there will be no mercy from me..for him..or for any who try and gainsay me"

The fighters eyes bore into Akorians...there is no trace of mistruth in his look or his tone

"...the church of Asmodeus is not part of any such bargain..they stand damned by their oaths and actions..I tell you now Akorian Henderthane..should a Priest of that church come within reach of my sword...there will be no mercy from me..for him..or for any who try and gainsay me."

He adds a wink and then continues as he gathers his things. "I'm not a pacifist by any means," he explains, "Anyone who stands against us and takes up arms...be they blades or dark blessings from the Deceiver...will be met with your swords, my morningstar, or the divine power of the Everbloom herself. Make no doubt about that. But we would do well to avoid seeking out such confrontations for now. And we'll evaluate the readiness of Westcrown and Cheliax for anything more, if and when we get to that point."

"As for the caltrops," he suggests, "You seem to know what we need. Why don't you go and procure them now? I have enough coin to pay for several such bags if you need it. And, I can go find Raven and the others in the meantime."

"Janiven? Start getting the others armed with those crossbows and make sure they understand the plan well enough to execute it and get out before the Hellknights reach them."

In what could very well be described as the manner of an adoring fan, Raven approaches the new arrival, taking care to show a mixture of enthusiasm and nervousness at his presence. "Not the Thesing Umbero Ulvauno? One of the greatest actors this city has seen in a decade ... what made the play a true masterpiece if I may be so bold, an instant classic."

... "If it were up to me, I would give you all of the horses ... "Can we not reach a compromise? Perhaps if we promise to bring them back by the time you need them? Although, perhaps..."

The rogue seems to have a suggestion to make, but hesitates. "No, no... I am sure it is foolish of me to even think it..."

"[b]Yes. It is foolish. I swear to you it will ruin my show. If it were just me it would be all right. I am an expert horseman. But my costars --. Well some players have their limits."

"If you let me have the horses, we will acknowledge you in the show's introduction. Perhaps you would like to attend? Tonight in Plaza Seppo?

Zarabeta asks Waifrin, "What sort of tactics, beyond the use of many horses and caltrops, are intended? I missed some of the planning session in my rush to get adequate sleep to prepare my spells."

"The only nonlethal option that leaps to my mind is to unhorse as many of the enemy as possible, by attacking their saddle-straps with my acidic serpents, and to send their horses fleeing, leaving them stuck on foot. If we can truly defeat them, stealing their armor, weapons and boots would hinder them as surely as if we'd tied them up, but given the numbers Morosino has outlined, I don't think that is a realistic option."

"If their own wagon can be steered into the river, it could take them hours to pull it free, further hindering pursuit and embarassing them in the eyes of their masters..."

Janiven nods at everyone's comments, then starts issuing orders. "Morosino run to Gorvio's. Let him know we are coming. Then go back and wait to see if Sclavo finds out more.

" Marius take Larko, Vitti, and Mathalen. Get the caltrops. Here's some money. Meet us at Gorvio's uncle's. It's on Oak Avenue, three blocks from the city gate. The purse contains enough for 4 sets of caltrops.

"The rest of you slip out in small groups. We'll all meet at Gorvio's. Wrap your weapons in bundles. We don't want to look like a war party when we leave the city gates."

Mother and Raven, you'd better secure those ponies.

Zarabeta makes sure that those who depart have the outfits that Waifrin made to disguise their features.

Of those that remain, she asks Fiosa if she would accompany herself when she leaves, as she does not know of this Gorvio and requires guidance to the meeting place.

"If there's trees around, we have rope - why not use it to unhorse them?" Waifrin suggests. "All we have to do is lure them one way and then pull the rope taught."

Waifrin glances toward Zarabeta.

"I don't know either, but if anyone can tell me where it is in Westcrown, I can find it."

'I might as well give it a try I suppose,' Raven thinks before continuing, his tone still apologetic.

"Foolish of me indeed to suggest something an actor of your caliber must have already thought of himself," he goes on with a sigh. "For surely you have already considered contributing to a play's very creation, its story and direction. The script asks for horses, yes... But can you not do better? Would it be possible the story could be made greater with a change here or there? One that perhaps would not call for horses or, at the very least, not so many horses?"

"I really am sorry to inconvenience one such as yourself Master Ulvauno, but perhaps our little impasse is a blessing in disguise, an opportunity for you to exercise your considerable talents not only in acting, but writing and directing as well? All the more fame and glory for you I should think!"

In the midst of all this, the rogue steals a glance towards the rest of his companions. 'If this does not work, and it seems like it will not, can we make do with nine horses? Or perhaps we should just hit him over the head...' he thinks to himself.

Well, I guess there is a limit to how much bs-ing he can pull off in a day, huh? :-P
And I would not worry about the dice-rolling Thom. None is more pathetic than me in that department, be it with real or imaginary dice. Heh!

The stable:

Thesing listens with an with a rapidly increasing appearance of annoyance which breaks at the mention of "improvements". He mutters, "Well, Rosalind could ride double on my horse. She could wrap her arms around me, hmmm. But Rolund needs a horse, I'd look a paltroon engaging a standing man from horseback. "

"You may have something there, friend. Two horses might be better." He releases the reins of the paint and begins walking toward a coal-black mare. "These two, the grey and the black. Yes. They will be perfect."

...

Of those that remain, she asks Fiosa if she would accompany herself when she leaves, as she does not know of this Gorvio and requires guidance to the meeting place.

...Waifrin glances toward Zarabeta.

"I don't know either, but if anyone can tell me where it is in Westcrown, I can find it."

Amaya tacitly attaches herself to Akorian. "We'll make a handsome couple out for their morning stroll."

Amaya tacitly attaches herself to Akorian. "We'll make a handsome couple out for their morning stroll."

Amaya stifles a giggle and smiles. A few of her worry lines smooth out. "That would be fun. But I warn you, I am not a cheap date."