Kylian Phandros Socialite; Bastard of Viscount Jeremiah Phandros
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Kylian smiles at Yaos, a sharp:
and effective smile that could mean almost anything. "And you figure I know this group. Very well, Lady, let us negotiate. I tell you about the 'group' and in return, you can do a favor for me."
He talks like a trueborn noble. His nod to your title, "Lady" was appropriate for his lesser status, but he's awfully friendly.
"My favor involves a friend from Nisroch. What group are you looking for?"
Delvehaven Abandoned, Haunted Pathfinder Lodge; Westcrown
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Deep in the peninsula of Parego Spera in Westcrown lies the old Pathfinder Society Lodge, well abandoned and, many say, haunted. In a small corner of buildings-- a money lender's office, a diamond-cutter, a real estate office for House Oberigo, and a private manor of House Rustachas, Delvehaven squats, sealed-up and empty.
In some thick shrubbery in a small square of green, next to a marble statue of Asmodeus that beautifies the neighborhood -- unseen by any bystanders -- a faint ripple of eldritch energy opens in the air. From this Dimension Door exits Azlain, an Elf and, by the looks of him, a Wizard, Holy Symbol of Geryon on his person.
Having spent the night in Delvehaven, Azlain has emerged triumphant. He's found information far better than he could have hoped for, in a fragment of a document, incomplete though it is, that could lead him to a bounty of knowledge lost since the Thrune Ascendancy.
Now he just needs to find some help to retrieve it -- having recently burned his bridges with the Darklight Sisterhood.
Meant to post this earlier, but totally forgot, sorry!
1d20 + 11 + 1d6 ⇒ (20) + 11 + (5) = 36 Knowledge(Society) on the Bellflower Network.
Good roll to crit on. I'm specifically trying to come up with a 'sly' way to refer to the Network. Ie, not outright saying their name, but still getting the point across that's who I'm talking about.
Kylian Phandros Socialite; Bastard of Viscount Jeremiah Phandros
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Kylian Phandros steps aside from his friends and ushers Yaos:
a few feet away while his friends take the hint and back off a few more feet, giving the two some space. The bastard whispers, "My friend from Nisroch is less of a friend and more of new accomplice. He is made of shadows I think. And while I like him and he sounds like a potentially great ally, it's wise to be suspicious.
"He's going to the Pleatra tonight, the slave market in Parego Dospera. I think he's looking for slaves to take back to Nisroch when he leaves in a few days.
"I want you to spy on him, find out what he's up to and what he's about. Talk to him if you'd like.
"Get lots of information without, obviously, mentioning me -- and I'll tell you what I can about this group you believe I know about."
SENSE MOTIVE checks can be attempted here; Yaos can make one to get a general sense of Kylian while he's negotiating this deal and, of course, if there is additionally a specific part of his dialog that Yaos wants to isolate for a Sense Motive check, you can make a second check for that bit of dialog.
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos replies:
"Very well Kylian. I see no reason why not. But you had best tell me your "friend's" name and give me a comprehensive description of him, or else I won't know him from anyone else in the market. And what on earth do you mean he is made of shadows?"
Sense Motive, Kylian in general:1d20 + 0 ⇒ (15) + 0 = 15
[dice= Sense Motive, Kylian on his "friend from Nisroh"]1d20 +0[/dice]
This shows up what a spendid, all round, skill monkey polymath Yaos is not.
Kylian Phandros Socialite; Bastard of Viscount Jeremiah Phandros
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No.:
"First tell me who this group is. And, if you would be so kind, why you're searching for them."
In general, Kylian Phandros is looking to make powerful contacts and deals. He'd love nothing better than to add a Battori to his list of associates, and this deal is a good first step toward that potential.
Kylian Phandros is not too suspicious of this 'new accomplice' from Nisroch; he's just checking his "P"s and "Q"s to make sure. At least, as fay as Yaos can tell.
For the record, since I'm not an actual Hellknight yet, I'm not sure how much I appear to be one, at least to those who wouldn't be rather familiar with them. I'll let you determine that Ray, but I can still use my standing to my advantage.
Maginus looks around:
Making sure nobody else is nearby. "I'm looking for some farmers, I have some information about a particular tiller I would like to trade for. If you don't know them personally, perhaps you can direct me to somebody who does?"
HP 40/45, AC 21*, Fort +4, Ref +6, Will +8, ArcRes 2/8 Active Effects: Heightened Senses, Defending Bone (45), Extended Shield, Unseen Servant,
Azlain, Taranik Garrison:
Azlain looked up at the statue of Asmodeus, lost in thought. What would you do? he mused, a faint smile on his handsome face.
Westcrown was a decaying ruin full of desperate people and lost nobility. It was civilization barely hanging on by it's fingernails before descending into anarchy and the savagery of the natural order. The Order of the Rack was the only thing holding the city together, and they were really only delaying the inevitable.
Azlain loved it.
There were so many lost things here just waiting to be found, and so many needy souls just waiting to strike a bargain. It was like being a child the morning of the Treaty of Egorian Festival. There was so much to offer, and so much to take.
With a faint, respectful nod of his head to the statue, he made his way through the city, enjoying the walk. Striding through the massive doors of Taranik House, the Hellknight Garrison of Westcrown, he whispered a word and a sigil on his open palm lit up. The Hellknight clerk stopped Azlain anyway. Azlain displayed further paperwork, which altered itself with yet another whispered word. The clerk's eyes went wide. "Darklight?" he muttered, looking up incredulously at the man before him. Azlain shrugged, a self-amused smile on his face. The clerk's eyes went wider as he continued reading and Azlain was sent on his way with a cursory honorific and apology. Azlain commended the clerk on his diligence and made his way deeper into the Garrison.
Soon, he darkened the doorway of Maralictor Aritil Sevarn, Armory Commander of Taranik, highest ranking representative of Citadel Rivad in Westcrown.
They had met once before, when Azlain first arrived here. Maralictor Sevarn knew Azlain as a covert attache' from the Order of the Scourge here to observe and assist the Order of the Rack's mission in Westcrown. Sevarn also knew that Azlain held the same rank he did (though that was a lie. In truth Azlain held the rank of Signifier Paravicar, but Sevarn did not need to know that. As equals they could converse far more freely, which suited Azlain's purpose nicely.) They barely knew each other, but Azlain was exactly the sort of infectiously charming person who could treat someone like an old friend after only a brief meeting.
"Hope I'm not interrupting, Aritil. I just wanted to stop by to let you know that my mission will be taking me out of the city proper for a time. I have a lead I need to follow." he began to leave, but stopped himself. "This is a somewhat delicate issue which will necessitate some diplomacy with House Spartaco. It would be best if the Order wasn't known to be directly involved. Do you have any assets in the city who are friendly with Spartaco? I may need to borrow them."
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Very well Kylian:
"We are looking for a group of Bellflower Network Agents that killed Francesco Phandros, your relative. They consist of Arlo Yellowknuckle, Avalia Greenheart, Arnam Goodkin, 'Freedom ',Amina and Avarin Littlehat. They killed Francesco Phandros some time back and out allies the Spartacos have asked us to track them down. Any idea where these individuals can be located?"
to be true, before Conna answers. "Um, I don't know any tillers or farmers. And I sure don't know anything about, I mean, um, anyone who does that stuff." There is a broken note of anxiety in her voice, of a cornered animal. And the whispers of the Halfling children about fear of the Bogeyman suddenly cease.
Meanwhile, a light, clean rain is just beginning to sprinkle the cobbled streets.
The moment of tension becomes almost palpable, Magnius looking for someone. Hunting. The Halflings trapped, unsure of their precarious lives.
Kylian Phandros Socialite; Bastard of Viscount Jeremiah Phandros
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Uh oh, the bastard thinks to himself,:
I don't really have information on that. Why did she think I would? The look on Kylian's face says all that needs be said. He tries nonetheless. "Well it seems my favor is greater than the favor I can give you. I've never heard of your Bellflower Tillers, though I did know that Lord Francesco was assassinated. He was a prick.
"The best I can do is give you two more leads. There is an Imp who used to serve as Familiar to Francesco's clerk. An Imp servitor of Barbatos. I know where you can find the Imp and I'm confident the Imp has some information.
"The other thing I can offer is the name of a man who has a reputation for being friends of Halflings. It's assumed that he has some connection to the Bellflower Network, though no HellKnights have yet scooped him off the city, so who knows. Anyway, this person could likely lead you to the Tillers you're hunting.
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos replies:
"Well, Kylian that could be most useful. If you can fill me in on the details I will see what I can do about this friend of your from Nisroh." Yaos appears calm and inscrutable as she speaks, but her eyes hint at something, perhaps that she caught Kylian's moment of panic, but her voice is re-assuring.
Marcus Phandros Grand-Count and Patriarch of House Phandros
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Lucius Difax was more surprised than nervous at the improbable:
appearance of a patrol of the intimidating Phandros Lions (Cavalier guards for the great House Phandros), standing at attention only a two-and-a-half blocks away from his safe house in Parego Dospera. It had been early last night when they arrived, apparently on rumor that The Bogeyman could be found nearby and were hoping to find him.
Thinking on it now, late morning the next day, Lucius Difax realizes that it wasn't until that great Hellcat appeared next to him, revealing itself from its natural invisibility, that put him on edge. Evening in Parego Dospera and he was still wearing the visage of Lucius Difax.
The Hellcat, bored but looking straight through Lucius Difax, spoke clearly, succinctly, in his mind with its telepathy. "You look like you're familiar with this dirty part of town, give a message to the hunter of Belflowers, The Bogeyman: Tell him that Grand-Count Marcus Phandros is expecting him to attend a luncheon at the Phandros Mansion at lunch-hour tomorrow."
And in a rippling of illusory hellfire, the Infernal lion strode back to the Phandros Lions and, leading their formation, departed back to the wealthy island of Parego Regicona.
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Now, the next day has brought a trickle of rain and the lunch hour is fast approaching. Lucius Difax has a bit of time, should he think of any preparation, before the Bogeyman is to appear before Grand-Count Marcus Phandros for whatever reason.
Marcus Phandros Grand-Count and Patriarch of House Phandros
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Deep in Taranik House, where stand ready the Order of the Rack, Azlain continues his discussion with Aritil Sevarn:
He half mutters under his breath. "House Spartaco is a nothing House under the sway of House Charthagnion. They only rule a single County, Gheradescci, and all it produces is agriculture. They have no presence in Westcrown."
But he sits back in his cherry-wood desk and pauses, looking at the scholarly wizard and knowing his reputation. This would not be frivolous. He stretches his memory and concentrates for a second. "Grand-Count Marcus Phandros set one of his great-nephews to marry a Spartaco recently -- rumor is that House Spartaco recently found a gold mine. I don't know if it is enough to constitute a new Barony or Viscounty. Couldn't be too much; I hear the wedding was called off at the last minute. House Phandros is keeping it hush-hush, obviously."
"But if you're looking for allies of House Spartaco, talk to the Grand-Count. House Phandros will have some information."
He wandered out into the city again with a conspiratorial wink to the clerk at the front desk. Westcrown did not have much of a public library or archive. He was going to have to go to Citidel Ravad. The library there was not the most impressive he'd ever seen, but in spite of the fact that it had burned to ashes scarcely more than 200 years ago, he had to admit that the Order of the Rack had done an admirable job restocking it's shelves. (He couldn't help but smirk at the poetic irony of the headquarters of the Order of the Rack nearly burning down because their books had caught fire).
He walked to the Taranik House stables where his steed was garrisoned. He didn't bother going inside or calling for a slave to fetch his mount. He simply spoke. "To me."
A few moments later a fully barded and skirted Fresian warhorse trotted slowly out. The beast was clearly unnatural. It displayed none of the usual huffing, stamping or proud head motions that warhorses in particular were known for. It merely obeyed and did not move beyond what was necessary. Azlain's horse was quite dead. It had belonged to a fallen Armiger who hadn't managed to pass his Test. The summoned devil had killed the lad and his horse. A few coins later and the impressive horse corpse had been his. It didn't retain much of it's superb training, but it still knew how to move in armor, and it was simply a massive horse. It was a beast befitting the Scourge Emissary he was currently portraying.
The risen beast was almost completely covered in blackened armor and a horse-skirt bearing the heraldry of the Order of the Scourge. A rare sight in Westcrown to be sure, but it suited Azlain's cover.
He mounted up and his wizard's robes melted into a suit of horned and spiked baroque armor that matched his steed.
Normally, Citadel Ravad was a day's travel from Westcrown, but Azlain's deathless horse could run at an unnaturally fast sprint without ever tiring. If nothing got in his way he'd be there in a few hours.
Azlain has a Bloody Skeleton Heavy Horse (combat trained in life, giving it armor proficiency).
If nothing stops me on the road I'll continue my narrative of getting to the Citadel Library.
And takes a seat on whatever debris is available. "Ma'am, I'm not here to cause you any trouble. If I were going to arrest you, would I be having this discussion? I'm just looking for some information, and if you don't have it, I would appreciate it if you could please direct me to someone who does. Then, I shall leave you and yours alone." The young man says in a calm, reasonable tone.
1d20 + 21 + 1d6 ⇒ (5) + 21 + (2) = 28 Diplomacy. I'm not actually lying here, but if you would prefer I roll Bluff, that's fine.
1d20 + 21 + 1d6 ⇒ (7) + 21 + (1) = 29 Re-roll. Keeping this one, jeebus those were both *terrible* sets of rolls.
Whispering again to the other Halflings, trying not to be overheard.
Stealth:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19 "No, absolutely not! We can't trust him; I don't care how pleasant he seems. He's only sitting down to get us to drop our guard. Remember the first rule of survival: Never trust a friendly Chelaxian. We just have to tell him we don't know Aaron Smallbridge or Lucius Difax. But he may force it from us; we have to warn them somehow. Anna, see if you can sneak out the back and go straight to Aaron Smallbridge; tell him."
And after a pause Conna speaks out to Magnius again. "I'm sorry Sir, I really don't know anything." Bluff:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11
Old Woman with the Cats Homeless Lady in Parego Dospera
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Seeing Magnius by happenstance as she:
meanders through the streets in the trickling morning rain, the old lady with all the big cats tagging along around her calls out to Magnius. Her voice is bland, toneless, and her words are neither interrogative nor imperative."Why don't you leave those poor Halflings alone."
Even through the voluminous tattered robes and rags covering her frame, and even through the smell of stale and unwashed femininity and dead rats hanging by twine around her waist, the homeless lady's strength of voice and lack of fear cut through.
First two, then another, and finally two more pale caracal cats silently pad their way into the scene from various directions and hiding places.
Kylian Phandros Socialite; Bastard of Viscount Jeremiah Phandros
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Reassured by Yaos' words, Kylian:
nods, "Very well. His name is Winnow though "his" is not a good choice of word. Winnow is androgynous, pale akin and white hair. I assume a typical acolyte of Pangolais if he's human at all. I don't know whether he casts a shadow in light but there's always a shadowy reflection of him, or two or three, at his feet in different angles. Sometimes I can just make out the outline of an ethereal form over his shoulder. I've never seem him show emotion but I've only known Winnow for the past two weeks. I've never seen him during daylight and was starting to wonder....
"Anyway, Winnow and I may be doing business together relating to Nisroch and I wouldn't mind knowing a bit more about him. As I said, he'll be in the Pleatra tonight and perhaps a few other nights before departing back to Nisroch.
"Get me some information and I'll tell you all I know, limited though it may be."
Kylian Phandros hasn't shown too much distress; he just became concerned that he wouldn't be able to fulfill his side of the bargain -- that's a really bad hole to fall into in Cheliax. Which means he'd have to walk away from what could be a very profitable meeting.
But his mentioning of the Imp was clearly a reference to Itch, the Imp Familiar of Camabah who, after failing to poison Yaos to sleep, invisibly fled the fight. Manius Battori was going to hunt down the handful of fleeing guards as well as Itch, but apparently the Imp made it back to Westcrown.
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos nods, thinks a moment and then asks:
"That sounds fine Kylian. Do you have any problem with me sharing what you have told me with a travelling companion? His investigative skills are much better than mine, so you will probably get better information if I do."
DM Ray- Which knowledge skill is it to establish which race this Winnow is from the description? And the DC?
The hushed conversation, and decides that's good enough.
"Alright ma'am, thank you for your time. Have a good day." With that, he gets up and leaves. Seeing the cat lady as he walks out, he nods to her. "Sorry ma'am, just trying to find out some information, not trying to stir up any trouble. I'll be on my way now. Enjoy the rest of your day."
Lucius should never have been seen in Parego Dospera. He should have assumed another guise – any common guise would have allowed him to go unnoticed. But now, Count Marcus Phandros’ messenger had found him here and asked him to contact the Bogeyman. Did Count Marcus know? Likely not for if he had, wouldn’t he have asked Lucius himself to attend the luncheon?
Lucius had no way to be sure. In any case, others could have seen him making his way into Parego Dospera. So he had to make it look good, regardless…
***
Lucius quickly made his way to the Dusk Market, which would soon fade into the night. He was looking to purchase drugs for friends who could never venture into these dark and dangerous streets. While rare, his presence in the market was not unusual. But he appeared nervous and worried, which was odd but understandable given that he had just been mandated by one of Westcrown’s most powerful families to deliver an invitation to a monster who would as soon kill him as listen to him.
Lucius confided his dire straits to a few friends. ”It’s a fool’s errand!” he complained. ”I can’t find the Bogeyman and if I do, I’m a dead man!”
Diplomacy to start a rumor:1d20 + 27 ⇒ (4) + 27 = 31
Soon the rumour took flight: the Bogeyman was meeting with Count Marcus Phandros at noon on the morrow. Lucius had kept himself out of the story, which would have to do on short notice.
”I am going home,” Lucius decided. ”I am sure that the Phandros messenger had no idea who I am. And I am not going to get myself killed to run an errand – even for a count!”
His mark – a low-level tiller – approved, as did his companions.
”Be careful tonight,” he warned them before disappearing into the night.
***
Nobody paid much attention to the nondescript servant returning from the Floating Market with a crate of fresh vegetables. He was greeted with a perfunctory nod when he delivered the crate to the cooks of House Phandros, and nobody noticed when he took a step into the hall rather than back into the courtyard.
It took only a moment for the peasant to change his guise. The Bogeyman appeared in the shadows and remained there for a while, focusing on the task at hand, steeling himself for what was to come...
Like a ghost, the Bogeyman made his way through the halls of the mansion, wondering if he would need to ask for directions or if he could find the dining room on his own...
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos, having concluded:
her agreement with Kylian spends a while socialising with Kylian and his gay friends, joking and discussing the desirability of passing menfolk. She then takes her leave and returns to the condo she is currently sharing with Magnius Arvanxi. If Magnius is not there Yaos will feed and exercise the horses and then go and have a word with the lady in the bath house about her new friends. Yaos knows she was playing a bit of a prank but thinks it is funny.
Richemar Alamansor HellKnight Lictor, Order of the Wrack in Citadel Rivad
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Riding through the Turanian Hills, Azlain:
observes slaves toiling in the clay pits, another song stuck in his head during the journey to Citadel Rivad.
Approaching the fortress for the HellKnight Order of the Wrack, the ashen smell of burnt paper and parchment wafts on the breeze. Before the gate a young Half-Elf woman, almost completely burned to death, hangs limply from a cross of iron above the smoldering remains of her pile of blasphemy. The smoke and fire from her heretical collection wasn't great enough to kill her outright, but she will expire soon enough on her cross as the blistering deepens through her skin and the day's sun finishes the righteous job. The gentle rain from earlier in the morning is long gone.
After the perfunctory introductions at the gate and foyer, Azlain waits only several minutes before being escorted to meet with HellKnight Lictor Richemar Alamansor, gleaming today in his own Baroque armor.
"You must be brief Azlain, as an informant has given us a possible location in Corentyn for an apostate. I'm quite looking forward to scrying on the scene when my HellKnights arrive."
Overhearing from down the halls a master-of-servants raise her voice in sharp vitriol:
to the kitchen servant who lost sight of the now-missing food-delivery-peasant, the tension in the air of Phandros Mansion gets intense. Will they now be looking for the servant?
Wondering where a meeting with Grand-Count Marcus Phandros would take place, The Bogeyman flits past a number of other servants, in and out of a labyrinthine complex of halls, great and small. A magnificent painting, oil on canvas, of Her Infernal Majestrix dominates the wall of a plush study. Oak, obviously imported from Andoran, perhaps even before they betrayed Cheliax, furnishes the study. That's where The Bogeyman meets Lady Gadyva. "You look lost." It's a question more than a statement of observation.
"I am expected," The Bogeyman answers with typical brevity. "Take me to Count Marcus Phandros."
Turning to reveal his horrifying visage, he makes it clear that he will not take no for an answer.
Intimidate to get limited assistance:1d20 + 32 ⇒ (2) + 32 = 34 Not a great roll, but the total remains considerable and in any case, it's more for flavour than effect!
Old Woman with the Cats Homeless Lady in Parego Dospera
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With a look in her eye directed at Magnius:
indicative of either the town dunse or a sagacious Druid or Shaman, the homeless lady lingers a moment longer. Then, muttering a barely audible verse of poetry about cats in the morning rain, shakes off some water and hobbles away, her large cats skirting back into the Dospera hiding places from which they emerged -- all making eye contact with Magnius even if only briefly.
HP 40/45, AC 21*, Fort +4, Ref +6, Will +8, ArcRes 2/8 Active Effects: Heightened Senses, Defending Bone (45), Extended Shield, Unseen Servant,
Azlain, at Citadel Rivad:
"It wasn't my intent to keep you, Lictor. I am only here to borrow your archives for a while. I have some research to do before I head out on my own mission." Azlain said with just the right amount of deferment tot he Lictor. "I tried to tell your clerk not to bother you on my behalf, but I suppose I have to accept that I am an oddity here, and all oddities draw attention."
"If you have no objections, I'll be in the library if you have need of me. Enjoy your scrying."
I'm going to assume there's no objection and move things forward.
Later, Azlain was deep in a pile of books, tomes of all shapes and sizes aranged carefully across a massive table. He was taking his own notes and cross referencing.
I'm going to Take 20 on Knowledge Nobility and Knowledge Geography regarding House Spartaco, House Charthagnion and County Gheradescci. I'm also trying to dig up anything I can find about the canceled wedding. I'm specifically looking for leverage angles that I can use to help or hold over House Spartaco if I need to. Once I have that information I'm heading out toward Gheradescci county.
At the odd old lady, and takes his leave. However, he does not go back to his family's condo, instead he ducks around the building, attempting to trail the halfling to this Aaron Smallbridge.
empty upon her return from Kylian Phandros' fencing hangout, and after tending the horses, returns to the adjacent bath to speak with Bellma. It is brief eye-contact from the dentist, though, that stands out. He has a quizzical look on his face, through his shop's window, as Yaos leaves the apartment above him to visit the bath.
Inside, Bellma is only somewhat busy tending three separate ladies, none of whom are noble. Bellma lights sanguine on Yaos' entrance and there is just an angle of a mischievous air in her question to The Red Widow from across her bathing-house, "So, how did your meeting with 'the boys' go?" She draws out the question, sheepish and coy at first, then opening in wide smile.
Marcus Phandros Grand-Count and Patriarch of House Phandros
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Looking at The Bogeyman with:
a wry annoyance, the infernal maiden allows herself a studied look. "Then I shall escort thee to his waiting room, since ye are expected. Come hither, Mortal."
She, or 'it,' has a hungry look about her visage and as her tentacle-like, woven-like appendages hover over the floor toward your destination, presumably the Grand-Count's waiting room, a light sound of air blows underneath her. But no air is felt, just heard.
"What is thy name, Mortal, who is expected by mine Mistress' Lord Husband?"
In only a few moments you arrive with her to a large room, locked and guarded by two officers. With a quick spell she unlocks the door and enters, ignoring the honor guard. Inside the room an enormous fireplace dwarfs a tiny fire, not enough to heat half the room, though if it were fed enough, could probably melt your teeth. No chairs or table or desks furnish the room, but a wide ring of shells enchanted to stick to the floor circle the central area in which a few people can sit cross-legged. At the far wall corner (fireplace-side) is another door, and at the opposite corner of the far wall a spiral staircase leads to another level of the mansion.
With you behind her, the devil looks directly at an empty spot in the fireplace and addresses it harshly, "I found something ye allowed in; make tighter thy security, Imp." Then she turns back to you. "The Grand-Count shall be with ye presently; ye may wait in the circle. The Imp shall attend thee." And she begins to leave.
In the fireplace, an Imp allows his invisibility to end and you can see the reddish-purple devil bedecked with all manner of magical items. The Imp stands, setting down a book he was reading, and looks past the greater devil to The Bogeyman. You can see the book is most likely an arcane spellbook. "Welcome. Your method of entrance was most unusual, Sir, and sheds light on flaws in my security. Thank you. I shall endeavor to improve. May I provide water or wine while you wait for Grand-Count Marcus?" He is articulate, this Imp, and did not seem at all nonplussed by the harsh tones of the greater devil.
Aaron Smallbridge Bellflower Network Sympathizer, Halfling in Westcrown,
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Magnius has no trouble stealthily following the halfling:
child through Parego Dospera to warn Aaron Smallbridge, a Halfling of whom he has never heard any tale or rumor.
When the child reaches a long-abandoned, small church at the northern edge of Westcrown, he enters and announces his purpose. "Some Chelaxian was just asking about you, Mr. Aaron. He was all friendly and nice, trying to trick Conna into believing he was a good guy. She sent me straight here to warn you."
Inside the decaying church you hear the sound of two adults. One quickly starts ruffling or shuffling papers, whisper-shouting a string of Halfling expletives in panic and hurriedness. The other is more calm. "Thank you, Child, now I must see if you were followed."
From Magnius' hiding point in the shadows you see the face of Aaron Smallbridge poke out a window and scan the area with both fear and excitement. A few alchemical vials are strapped to his fine studded-leather armor and he has the look of one who uses arcane magic, alchemy and also a general roguishness to make his way. He reminds Magnius a bit of himself.
Find the Stealthy Magnius:1d20 + 15 + 1d6 ⇒ (8) + 15 + (2) = 25
He chooses to remain standing while waiting for the Count and refuses the refreshments summarily, but he decides to offer some free advice. "Even the most powerful spells cannot guard against human error." His voice is monotonous and cold, expressing nothing and suggesting cold-blooded determination.
Citadel Rivad HellKnight Headquarters, Order of the Wrack near Westcrown
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Azlain finds spending the day in the archives:
pleasant, reading on House Spartaco and other immediate interests. Unfortunately, what Azlain really wants, blackmail-leveraging angles and any word on the wedding, is not present. Perhaps Grand-Count Marcus Phandros is a better option. But there is plenty of useful information.
House Spartaco:
Count Vocaturo Spartaco, "The Lion of Justice," is the second son of Baroness Vimandy Spartaco, formerly of Corentyn. The first of her tiny House, she had been born a bastard of House Salisfar and would have been nothing except for her exceptional ruthlessness, intelligence and Witch-magic. She married a Charthagnion bastard after turning down a low member of House Salisfer, and created her own House with Charthagnion's blessing. Using her arcane power and infernal guile, she carved out a Barony's worth of power through mercenary soldiers in the southern Anferita Wood above Corentyn. Baroness Vimandy Spartaco lives there still, in a cottage with all manner of arcane guardians and Witchly fetishes. None go near her home of retirement in the southern Anferita.
Her older son Mogranzini Spartaco married a low-born, Tiefling Witch, Carnacella, who revered Baroness Vimandy as her Matron. Mogranzini is a Viscount in his younger brother's County and leads a powerful force of Hobgoblin soldiers. Vidame Carnacella is as ruthless and intelligent as her mother-in-law.
They have a daughter, Baroness Stella Spartaco, who has only just been granted her Barony after a gold mine was discovered on the western edge of Gheradescci County -- in the rocky badlands between the northern edge of Anferita and the southern Eismonts. Baroness Stella is only nineteen and there is considerable question on whether she can hold a Barony for her Uncle the Count.
The Count himself, Vocaturo Spartaco, made his name as a great Fighter and Bloodrager. His individual power was met with equal intelligence and guile and he forced himself to be granted a full County, far north though it is from Corentyn. He took one of the ArchDuke's nieces, Olivia Charthagnion as his wife, though they yet have no children. Countess-Consort Olivia Charthagnian-Spartaco is very clever and thoroughly knowledgeable in the politics of Cheliax, a true Aristocrat.
Baroness Vimandy Spartaco has a third child, daughter Emilia, who did not show ruthless guile or intelligence. She married a low-noble back in Corentyn, Lord Sabino Aranovitch -- a naval captain and Swashbuckler.
Baroness Vimanda also has a younger brother, though information on him is not in the records in Citadel Rivad, at least, not in the pile Azlain has been reading.
Also, there is significant background information in the Campaign Info tabs you can read.
House Charthagnion:
The seat of power for the Archduchy of Longmarch, House Charthagnion is thus one of the six most powerful Houses in all of Cheliax. The ArchDuke, self-named "ArchHeathen" Kettermaul Charthagnion, rules Corentyn -- and the Longmarch ArchDuchy -- with a cold, calculating wisdom. He traffics freely with Devils still in Hell, not just ones bound to service in Cheliax. This has (and can still) cause him problems. A powerful Ice Devil (Gestalt Ranger/Arcanist) named Oronothos serves the ArchHeathen as top aide, adviser and confidant. And the ArchDuke is close allies and personal friend of HellKnight Lictor Uro Adom of The Order of the Chain.
Count Marcus Phandros Grand-Count and Patriarch of House Phandros
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The Bogeyman only waits:
a few minutes before Grand-Count Marcus Phandros descends the spiral staircase to the waiting room. Sleek and brilliantly-trimmed black hair and wide goatee frame his sharp, handsomely evil face and dark violet eyes. Marcus Phandros wears a noble's robe with a radiant, platinum brooch of the House Phandros Lion. A gleaming mithral breastplate shines from underneath the robe and a bastard sword silently crackles with arcane lightning at his hip. Most of his jewelry seems ornamental but you are certain of the eldritch power from at least some of his accouterments. The lean noble looks aged forty, which is probably forty years younger than he really is. In his hand he holds a rod, like a sign of office, which he presently hands back to the empty air behind him. Then it disappears in a cover of invisibility as whatever invisible crdature behind him takes possession of it.
The Imp Wizard in the mostly empty fireplace, having resumed studying his spellbook, immediately puts the book back down and stands at attention at the Grand-Count's appearance. Marcus Phandros ignores the Imp.
"You are the infamous 'Bogeyman' whose name is much feared in the Parego Dospera. I am glad the peasant my Hellcat found was able to get word to you somehow. I would like to hire you."
The Grand-Count allows a moment for you to ask any question or make comment. He replies as needed. Then he continues.
"A young nephew of mine, Francesco Phandros, was to marry a minor Baroness in rural Cheliax, nothing grand though I'm sure her little House was thrilled.
"As it happens, Lord Francesco never arrived as assassins from the Bellflower Network murdered him. Lord Francesco was young and I admit didn't have much potential to strengthen My House, but he was growing a reputation as an excellent manager of House slaves and one must assume that it was this reputation, and the presence of twenty slaves that were to serve him in his new home, that made the Bellflowers bold enough to attack. He was well out of Westcrown when it happened.
"My own hunters have yet been unable to hunt down those responsible. And while the other House has vowed to find the assassins, I have little faith in Spartaco's ability to accomplish anything other than making wine, nice prosciutto and pepperoni, and fighting off monsters in Anferita Wood. The Bellflower Network is beyond them.
"Which brings me to you. I want to offer a bounty for the ones responsible for Lord Francesco Phandros' assassination. Can you do it?"
Having come straight to the point and not, apparently, being one for small talk or pleasantries -- at least with the likes of "Bogeyman," Marcus Phandros looks at you for reply.
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You know that the Grand-Count married non other than ArchDuke Kettermaul Charthagnion's youngest sister, Marita Charthagnion, now Marita Phandros.
The Bogeyman listens until the Grand-Count has finished, before speaking: "I am not a bounty hunter. However, I do believe that the Bellflower Network must be destroyed. As a favour, I can hunt down the assassin, but I will expect a favour from you in return."
Female Half Elf Master Summoner 9 HP 65 Max 90 (9d8 + 18) Defence AC23 Touch 16 Flat Footed 18 Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +9 (+11 vs. charm and compulsion); +2 vs. enchantments Immune sleep Summoner Spells Lvl 1 7/7Lvl 2 56/6 Lvl 3 5/5 Summoning Master SLA 13/13
Yaos notes:
the dentist taking an interest in her for future reference as she heads to the bath house. Yaos smiles and her eyes dance as she replies to Bellma saying "The meeting with the lads went well enough Bellma, though they seem uninterested in anything so macho as fencing. How is business going in your bath house?"
still as a statue, watching the halfling fail to find him. He strains his ear, seeing if he can overhear anybody inside the church talking. But first, he casts a spell to aid him. Casting Acute Senses gaining a +10 bonus to Perception.
1d20 + 25 + 1d6 ⇒ (2) + 25 + (4) = 31 Perception
Man, I am glad I rolled that nat 20 on my stealth!
Count Marcus Phandros Grand-Count and Patriarch of House Phandros
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Nodding at The Bogyman's mention of:
'a favor' as if he somewhat expected it, and appreciates the implications of intelligence, Grand-Count Marcus Phandros replies. "Indeed.
"I would prefer to hire you for a specific price, something in the venue of gold, magical power or real estate. But if you would prefer to leave it an open-ended 'favor' -- I can oblige." Count Marcus looks in your eyes, face to face appraising you. He knows of your excellent reputation. He knows that there is tremendous mystery regarding you. And now he knows that you are intelligent enough to have legitimately earned your reputation.
"If you have something,.... specific in mind, please tell me." He's fishing for something now. He wants to solve some of the mystery of The Bogeyman. But he's smart. Exceptionally perceptive and knows that you haven't done anything for him yet. He's an excellent player at intrigue. There's a reason his House is so powerful -- and a reason that he is its patron.
Aaron Smallbridge Bellflower Network Sympathizer, Halfling in Westcrown,
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A furrowed brow shows itself on the Halfling's facade as he looks for Magnius Arvanxi:
, or rather, 'some Chelaxian' who may have followed the child here. Just because he doesn't see one doesn't mean one isn't there.
Without taking his eyes off the street, Aaron Smallbridge retrieves one of the viles from a pouch on his belt, apparently selecting it by touch, and quickly quaffs the potion. For an instant moment his eyes flash in a pale blue that ripples to white then yellow then red. And his pupils seem to dilate with magic.
He looks again, not just on the street level but also in the air for flying creatures.
Aaron Smallbridge grows more concerned. He takes out another potion, looks to make ready to throw it. But nothing happens.
Six seconds later he brings himself back in the church, leaving the window open. And Magnius Arvanxi hears him speaking again to the other Halfling inside. "Quickly,.... Put the papers in my Bag of Holding. I didn't see anyone out there but that doesn't mean they're not there. I didn't see any invisible imps or devils either. But we must act as if if they're there. You go to your safe-place and lie low. And I to mine. Hopefully they'll only get one of us. Good luck. Maybe we'll see each other in Andoran some time."
yawn. "Business?.... Well you know what they say, 'The last bit of business was good.' ....I could always use more."
She tends the other women. "Anything else I can do for you, Lady?" Bellma the bather has no formal education in the manner in which one speaks to nobility. She tries, and she's learned a thing or two. But her gaffe is still a gaffe. One does not call out to one's betters from a distance. Nonetheless, the peasant is trying.
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(It's up to you where you want to go next. Yaos has plenty of time before reuniting with the other PCs. Feel free to 'gather info' on one of the other (hopefully) intriguing NPCs you've seen in Westcrown -- or just push an agenda on your own, any ideas are okay.)
Count Marcus Phandros Grand-Count and Patriarch of House Phandros
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Azlain's request for an audience:
with Count Marcus is met with the typical polite but somewhat condescending answer to those without a noble House and no invitation. But like in all of these such knocks-at-the-door some officer or invisible Imp recognizes an acute note of power and importance from Azlain -- and you are quickly ushered into a comfortable waiting room. An elegant and rich wine is offered to quench your thirst, as well as three slices of jerked goat meat on a silver fork. A painting on the wall shows Queen Abrogail Thrune with ArchDuke Kettermaul Charthagnion and Grand-Count Marcus Phandros signing a pact in blood, an ethereal Asmodeus smiling in the clouds above them and a beautiful Westcrown beneath them. Perhaps the most conspicuous aspect of the painting is the absence of Westcrown's Lord Mayor -- of House Arvanxi.
It is actually quite a long wait for a brief few minutes with the patriarch of House Phandros. At some point there is a brief few minutes of commotion outside; apparently some peasant or other delivery person in the manor has gone missing and security is on the alert. But without too much panic, all returns to quite. And Azlain waits.
It is another few minutes, wine and kid consumed, before someone enters to apologize, half-heartedly, for the delay. The Grand-Count is in another meeting, the woman says to Azlain, and is unsure how long the meeting will take place. "Perhaps I can take your message to Count Marcus, or maybe even answer your request personally." It is a young girl, maybe 18 or 19 and with all the physical features of the Phandros bloodline. A small black cat hugs the back of her shoulders and stares at you, almost certainly a Familiar of some manner.
HP 40/45, AC 21*, Fort +4, Ref +6, Will +8, ArcRes 2/8 Active Effects: Heightened Senses, Defending Bone (45), Extended Shield, Unseen Servant,
Azlain, at Count Marcus' residence:
Before taking the food or drink, Azlain sprinkled a bit of powder into the cup. Then he sipped it and waited for a solid ten minutes before continuing. He was paranoid, yes, but in Cheliax paranoia was often deserved.
Taking an Antitoxin
"Perhaps, yes," Azlain replied to the young woman. He made a show of admiring the artwork on the walls. "My name is Azlain. May I ask who you are, miss?"
If she follows the various gossip and scandal of the capital, she might recognize the name. Azlain is not using an alias right now and he's (unfortunately) a minor celebrity.
Rainaka Phandros Wizard, unmarried Lady of Phandros aged 18
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Coyly looking at Azlain, the Phandros girl:
answers easiy. "Oh, I know who you are; it's why I was sent to check on you instead of someone else. I've been studying wizardry since I was ten; I'm better at that than court intrigue, I guess. Well, and the Handmaiden said the wizard Azlain was waiting here for Count Marcus and I should make sure you were okay. Or you know, if I could help you instead of taking the Grand-Count's time."
Then, as though she's forgotten something else she adds, "Oh, um, I'm Rainaka."
It's evident that Rainaka Phandros is not the one to talk to about gossip or House and political intrigue. She has a poor time speaking like a Lady and the intelligence behind her cat's eyes, crouching behind her shoulders like it's ready to unleash a Phantasmal Killer, is evidence that arcane power is clearly this girl's strong suit and not courtly intrigue.
Nonetheless, it's Lady Rainaka Phandros with whom you have an audience. 'Perhaps' there's no harm in asking?....
“You want to find some assassins,” the Bogeyman finally speaks after taking some time to think. ”My ambition is to destroy the Bellflower Network entirely – along with any other who refuses to accept the righteous order of Asmodeus. To do this, I will eventually need to leave Westcrown and hunt down the Queen’s enemies abroad. When I do, I want you to ensure that the shadow of The Bogeyman stays present in the narrows.”
HP 40/45, AC 21*, Fort +4, Ref +6, Will +8, ArcRes 2/8 Active Effects: Heightened Senses, Defending Bone (45), Extended Shield, Unseen Servant,
Single Chelish Wizard looking for same. Willing to experiment. Can cast Alter Self, Unnatural Lust, Bear's Endurance, and Grease:
Azlain had an easy, disarming smile. Unlike the young Lady Phandros, Azlain was a political animal. "A pleasure, Lady Rainaka" He politely kissed her hand in greeting. He did not linger or tarry on her hand. He knew better. He simply moved through the formality with casual confidence.
"If you know who I am, and have no interest in politics, then I can be at ease with you. It's a relief really. I so often have to try to guess at who knows what about who."
"I am in your father's lands on a mission for the Hellknights. Normally I would not have found it necessary to pay this call, but the nature of my mission is... clandestine." he did not emphasize the word. he merely chose it, knowing it was the sort of thing that would pique the interest of any young chelish lady who'd grown up reading trashy pulp dramas about spies and crowns and devilish rakes.
"I wanted to be sure I was known to the Count in case my mission's required duplicity put me at odds with any of his own retainers.
