DM Brainiac's War for the Crown: Table 1 (Inactive)

Game Master Brainiac

Current Date: 21 Kuthona, 4718 AR

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"Who's a despicable piece of human garbage, now?" Malphene asks, coming downstairs in a matching robe to Sara's. She stands behind the other woman and wraps her arms around her as she surveys the scene.

"Hmm, looks like you got pinched. And not in the good way." Her fingers tweak Sara's bare bum playfully.


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

Before anyone can stop her, Sara blabs. "The fine man we have an appointment with, my employer's superior and rightful ruler of this s+@%hole county and all who reside in it. A man who views the serving class as no better than food, though I'm not sure how literal that display was. The Count is tasteless, boring and indiscriminately mean, but as his subjects, we need to stay on his good side."

Sara giggles and swats at Malphene's hand as she pinches her. "Yeah, dunno who could've done it though," she lies, shrugging. "Ooh, maybe I should start training some guard dogs." She pulls a kettle off the fireplace and pours some water into a Galtan press, making some coffee. Stealthily adding more than a hint of whiskey to the press, she pours Malphene and herself a cup, offering one to both Maria and Melodie.

Sleight of Hand: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23


Pre-Marriage Alias

Melodie:
Zhi listens quietly as Melodie speaks, continuing to put books back into her bag. She avoids looking at the changeling. The mention of the Raven does, however, bring a quick surprised glance.

When Melodie finishes Zhi nods.

"I'm sorry. I don't want anyone to get hurt." She frowns. "Well, maybe Malphene. I wouldn't mind if she got hurt."

She shakes her head. "You're right. I need some time away from ... some time to myself. I'm going to go visit the Baron." The young woman smiles. "That sounds fraught with complications of its own, but the Baron is honest if nothing else. And while he might affect some parts of me, he doesn't confuse me here." She touches her heart.

Zhi picks up her filled bag and turns towards the door, but pauses.

I might not get another chance.

But it's not fair to her.

None of this is fair!

Zhi turns and drops her bag. In a few short steps she's at the bed and takes Melodie's face in her hands. Where the first kiss was flower petals, this one is hunger and passion. When it finally breaks, she takes a deep breath.

"Sorry. I couldn't leave that unsaid," she says breathlessly.

She returns to her bag and picks it up. When she reaches the door, she says, "I'm leaving early, would you tell the others where I've gone? I should be back in a day or so. At the very least before the tax collectors arrive."

She then slips through the door and closes it.


"Well, this count sounds like a right tosser. I'm not one of his subjects. Want me to kick him in the balls for you?" Malphene grins and sips her spiked coffee.

"By the way, Maria, I've been meaning to ask about that tail of yours? You ever...you know, use it to 'enhance' your experience in the bedroom? I can think of a few fun uses for something like that."

Will get to Zhi when I have more time later today or tomorrow,


ADVENTURE PATH COMPLETE

Zileska is, of course, delighted at the message from the Night Swan.

"This is excellent!" she says breathily after she reads the missive. "Either the Night Swan is a total tosser, or is working for the nobility, or just got back into town with no idea what is going on. Well, either way, this person is a knob. It'll be amusing to watch them run around protesting as we help to get Stachys back on its feet."


Zhi has already slipped off, so she is unavailable to comment on the Night Sean's note. After breakfast, Maria, Malphene and Sara take the carriage and depart for Lotheedar. Melodie and Zileska remain behind to help with the rye harvest. During harvest times, the whole town comes together, working one farm at a time as a group until everyone's harvest has been brought in.

If you wish to assist with the harvest, you will lose 3 days to backbreaking labor but generate 1 Loyalty Point, or 2 with a successful DC 21 Knowledge (nature) or Profession (farmer) check. Yes, you can use the Stachys bonus for this check. You will also finish each day fatigued.

---

Having ridden her horse through the night, Zhi arrives in Pensaris early in the morning. Nestled on the southern shore of Lake Pensaris, the largest lake in the county, this fishing village of 200 residents grew up around the nearby Okerra estate. Pensaris is one of Meratt’s most prosperous and bustling villages, second in wealth and prominence only to Lotheedar. Much of this is due to the fairness with which the barony treats its residents and the no-interest loans Baron Okerra sometimes extends to young entrepreneurs who present a solid business plan and relevant skills. Of late, however, those loans have dried up, owing to Count Lotheed's harsher tax collection policies.

Baron Okerra's estate is a small but cozy citadel overlooking the village.

---

The carriage arrives in Lotheedar in the mid-afternoon. The last time you were here, you didn't spend much time in the actual town. It's certainly no metropolis, but with 1,600 citizens, it far outclasses the tiny Stachys. With the Grand Bank of Abadar, a large marketplace, and a population of rumormongering citizens, the capital has much to offer.

Lotheedar has the following economic stats: Base Value 1,100 gp; Purchase Limit 5,000 gp; Spellcasting 4th. You can do your business here first or proceed immediately to the Palace of Birdsong.


Female Rakshasa-spawn Tiefling Investigator 17 | HP 103/105 | AC 34 T 17 FF 29 | Fort +11 Ref +20 Will +16 | Initiative +9 | Perception +20 (free Insp) | Sense Motive +23 (free Insp)

Hopefully the harvest goes smoother than the one the Walmington-on-Sea Home Guard helped with. :P

A small smile played on Maria's face as Malphene asked about her tail. "Well I've not had any complaints."

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Before heading up to the Palace, Maria managed to find a service to magically augment her armour - it was something she'd meant to do before leaving Oppara and didn't want to leave it any longer.

Purchasing a +1 enhancement for her chain shirt for 1,000gp. I assume they'll get it done before we leave Lotheedar?


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

Sara sends away for a Burglar's Buckler, posting the full price of 4,655 gp, as well as utilizing Maria's contact to also augment her chain shirt as well.

She spends some time looking at lingerie with Malphene, buying a new and better corset for 150 gold, in which she hides the same six arrows she hid inside her last one, along the boning. She then arranges to meet Maria at the Palace.

That's 5805 altogether. I'd also like to spend 1,300 to turn my stiletto heels into +1 weapons if I could.


Maria finds an enchanter in the marketplace willing to make the necessary modifications to her armor as well as Sara's.

It will take 1 day to enchant each suit of armor, so you can pick them up before you leave town.

While examining the various shops, the tiefling can't help but notice numerous wanted posters adorning the market:

WANTED BY ORDER OF COUNT LOTHEED
THE VILE CRIMINALS WHO CALL THEMSELVES THE FOUR HOODS
FOR COUNTS OF TREASON, BANDITRY, AND SHELTERING THE RUFFIANS OF THE BEGGARWOOD
REWARD: 1,500 GP PER HEAD

Sara is able to find some basic lingerie, though nothing nearly as extravagant as the kind you can find in Oppara. Asking around about enchanting her heels into magic weapons leads to a small booth run by an eccentric gnome cobbler, who promises he'll be able to fulfill the esoteric request.

It will cost 2,300 gp to make them +1 weapons, unless you craft them yourselves.

The fighter also hears a rumor circulating through the town. "The Night Swan struck a trade convoy from Cassomir! They say he robs from the rich and gives to the poor, but that sounds more like Galtan propaganda than reality. Can you imagine anyone giving away money?"

By early evening, the trio reunites at the Palace of Birdsong. Sir Gul Gusairne answers their knocks with a stern gaze. "Miss Burke. Miss Grayson. I don't know you." His glare lingers on Malphene for several moments. "His Excellency Count Lotheed was not expecting a visit from you. What is your purpose here? I trust it is something important?" His tone betrays his annoyance.


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

I always do the math wrong for enchantments, jfc. In that case, I'll have my heels enchanted instead of my armor, and do my armor when I can afford to.

Sara is truly impressed by this Night Swan, feeling in them a sort of kindred spirit, and also recognizing that it will be easy to frame the ambush of the tax collector on them.

Sara automatically succeeds to aid another on Dip, assume she does so: I don't want to flavor my addition until I read Maria's.


Female Rakshasa-spawn Tiefling Investigator 17 | HP 103/105 | AC 34 T 17 FF 29 | Fort +11 Ref +20 Will +16 | Initiative +9 | Perception +20 (free Insp) | Sense Motive +23 (free Insp)

"We need to speak with His Excellency about a legal matter. He'll know which one I mean."

Once they get in to see the Count and get the greetings out of the way, Maria goes over the facts of the case and Portimer's request for punishment (omitting that it was at her suggestion).

"I realise you'd much rather have had him executed, as the laws decree, but putting him to work was considered more beneficial for Stachys' recovery - and, by extension, it's value to you - in the long run. Portimer was driven to what he did out of desperation due to a lack of food, a lack of food caused by the mill no longer being operational. A starving populace would just lead to the rise of more such desperate acts and bring the town's productivity and potential wealth down. Now that we've repaired the mill; rather than spend the time training a new miller and risk the potential waste that would result from inexperience-induced mishaps, we felt it better to ensure a trained individual operate the mill.

"In short; while you have lost a single deer in the short term, this will help Stachys recover more quickly and bring in more coin for both the town and for you as the lord of this region. I wager by this time next year, Stachys' prosperity will have repaid you several times over the price of that deer. In that respect, all you will have truly lost is the head of a single peasant.

"I would also like to point out that, in my time as a detective and aiding my father in such, I have seen far too many people ruin their lives by pursuing vengeance, no matter how justified it was in their minds. And I can hope you will see the wisdom in not following that path."

Now for the dice to kick me in the tenders.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 1d6 + 10 ⇒ (6) + (3) + 10 = 19

EDIT: See?


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

Oof, sorry Maria. Not knowing the DC, I will make my own roll rather than aid another because I bet I will beat that

Sara is initially quiet during the proceedings, but following Maria's statement has some comments of her own.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (17) + 15 = 32

"Honestly, Count, this weren't what we were sent here to say as it's solely my own opinion and no one else's, but the crime that the miller was charged with is stupid, based on pride and not sense. He's a miller in a town that didn't much have a mill until this week. The man has no applicable skills nor any way to provide for himself and his family, and the land near Stachys is not nearly as bountiful as your own. If you found yourself lost in the wilderness of a distant land, desperate for food, would your concern be the ownership rights of the forest, or would you simply kill a deer and feed yourself, even knowing it was the property of another noble?

"We are not asking you to turn a blind eye towards poaching in your county, but simply exercise restraint and patience in regards to Stachys as we repent for the decade of neglect- not repent on your count, Count," she says, hastily backpedaling from the implication, "but on the state's for not finding the Lady d'Valois sooner."

She takes a moment to breathe and parse her words. "Regardless of your opinion, Count, the matter is dealt with. Portimer, the accused, plead guilty and has been punished according to his request: not yours, and not mine. And, as Maria says, we all benefit from this course of action. It is my opinion, as I hope it is yours, that the Lady d'Valois has acted wisely."


Sir Gusairne leads you to a plush waiting room, where you sit for over an hour until Bartelby finally makes some time to hear from you. He seems slightly miffed that Melodie didn't come to speak to him herself, but he hears your explanation out.

"Laws are in place for a reason. If every starving miller knew they could take advantage of your mistress's mercy, then chaos would reign throughout Meratt. However... I suppose the circumstances of this particular case or unique. I will trust in Lady d'Valois' judgment this time. I only hope she is not setting a precedent." Bartelby brushes some lint off his shoulder. "If there is nothing further to discuss, I would ask that you be on your way. I am quite busy. Please, do give my regards to Melodie."


RETIRED - happily married and ruling Taldor.

Melodie waves everyone off and the sets to with a will on the harvest. Not being the most physical of folk she doesn't actually harvest herself, but cajoles, jollies, provides food and ale for thirsty workers and generally makes herself seen everwhere and does her best to boost morale.

While the work is exhausting Melodie goes to sleep with a smile on her face each night and a deep sense of satisfaction. This is good work - really helping people! This is how leadership should be.

Knw Nat?: 1d20 ⇒ 9 Can't remember the stachys bonus (+8) so that would be a 17 overall? 18 if I can use Int, 22 if I could substitute Charisma by being the town cheerleader and morale booster in chief? :D


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

Sara takes Malphene out to eat, inviting Maria out of politeness but hoping she doesn't come so it can be a proper date. She idly engages in gossip about the Night Swan, trying to understand as much as she can about the figure.

Gather Info, Dip: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (12) + 15 = 27


While Melodie's efforts to help and inspire the people are appreciated, more is needed to actually make the harvest more efficient.

It's a 17, Melodie. Not high enough, but you can use that check to assist Zileska if she rolls higher than you. She can use the +8 bonus for Stachys as well.

---

The restaurant Sara chooses has pretty decent food. "It's palatable, at least," Malphene comments. "The wine is quite good, though. Out of Voinaris? The baroness knows her spirits."

The people of Lotheedar seem split on the topic of the Night Swan. Some of them see the masked figure as a dashing hero of the common people, while others view them as a despicable villain intent in disrupting Meratt's economy. One old-timer has a unique opinion:

"You kids today are too young to remember, but the Night Swan is clearly the spirit of Lauchlein Lake! Count Lotheed stopped sacrificing virgins to appease it like his father did, and now it's hunting in the county again."

Following up reveals more about the local myth. It claims a long-dead duke drowned his young wife in Lauchlein Lake after marrying her at the circle of stones along the lakeshore. The maiden's angry spirit returned a year later as a swan who could walk as a woman under the moonlight to take revenge on her husband. The duke kept her sated and bound by pouring 6 vials of holy water into the lake on the anniversary of her death each summer—a tradition that continued until Bartelby Lotheed took control of the county—and now the restless drowned maiden of Lauchlein has begun exacting her vengeance as the fearsome Night Swan.


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

Do we know anything about the Grand Banker? I imagine the city's spiritual leader would be a good person to cozy up to.

Sara talks to Malphene about local gossip "they don't talk about much here, really. Just this same vigilante and a big f@@*ing catfish," the drudgery of county affairs and her new job as "security", also catching the woman up on the class protest she organized in Oppara.

"So then I went to jail. Because that's what they do with you when you assemble an angry mob outside the Imperial Palace, occupied or not. That's why I'm here now. These girls got us all out of a tight spot back in the Senate building and they continue to do that for me."


You don't know much beyond her name--Lady Paril. But yes, she might be a good ally to court.

"Well, while I might not approve of your methods, I do support the message. Down with the patriarchy and all that. It's about time that women had their day in this country, and I'll happily stand beside you and blacken the eye of anybody who says otherwise," Malphene says, entwining her fingers in Sara's from across the table.


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

Sara leans over to kiss Malphene, whispering something tawdry in her ear. Pulling back she clears her throat and says, "Are you a religious person, Malphene?"


"Not particularly, but that one thing you do in bed makes me call out to the gods," she says breathily.

---

At the end of the first day of the harvest, Sheriff Piscum invites Melodie and Zileska to unwind at the Wolf's Whisker. Having worked hard alongside the townsfolk, the half-elf glistens with sweat, eschewing her leather armor for a sleeveless shirt and breeches. She pours drinks for all of three of them and sits at the table.

"One day down, two to go," she says before chugging her ale. "I gotta say, Lady Allis never got her hands dirty alongside us common folk. It's good to have y'all in the trenches with us."

Onora rubs at her sore neck. "Say, Zileska, I know they teach a lot of different techniques in the Calistrian temples. You wouldn't happen to know how to give a good massage, would you?"


RETIRED - happily married and ruling Taldor.

Melodie winces and drinks quickly, standing with a slight wobble as yet another woman in her acquaintance begins hitting on her colleagues.

"Yeah... massage... you do that while I *hic* go for a walk..."


ADVENTURE PATH COMPLETE

Zileska is obviously not an experienced field hand, though she does her part to help carry sheaves of grain and to look in on the occasional accidental injury.

I cannot make a DC 21 untrained Knowledge or Profession check (due to the rules limiting untrained use of those skills), but maaaaybe I can Aid Melodie, since that's DC 10 and can thus be rolled untrained.
Knowledge (nature) (untrained) Aid: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 1 = 20

As the evening wears on, Zileska carefully applies a liniment to her arms, which really aren't made for hauling heavy sheafs of grain all day long. She winces at the red burns on her hands as she rubs in a healing oil from her satchel.

When Onora speaks up she replies, "I know a little about massage... I'm not a professional masseuse, by any means, but I can certainly take the edge off, if you like. I have some oils and incense in my bag right here. Let me get a bucket of water as well, after a hard day's work it's best to combine it with a chance to get rid of all the dirt - dirt is bad for massages, it winds up grinding against your skin or getting pushed into your pores." The priestess leaves her satchel and her pack at the table and sashays outside to fetch a bucket of water, then returns and puts it down next to the table with a struggle. "Whew! I'm not so good with all the big, heavy things."

"It's best if you're on a flat surface like a table. I can massage your arms and legs as-is. If you want a back massage, you'll probably want that in private as you'll have to remove your shift."

Take 10 on Profession (courtesan) = 10 + 10 = 20.


You can use the bonus from the people of Stachys being friendly, which is +8, so that is a success!

Onora goes with Zileska into the back room of the pub. She clears some papers off the desk and removes her shirt and shift, seemingly unconcerned being topless in front of th priestess. She lies face-down and closes her eyes to let Zileska do her thing.

She sighs with pleasure as the priestess administers to the tense muscles of her freckled back. "Mmm. Yeah, right there. That feels nice..."


ADVENTURE PATH COMPLETE

Zileska makes some small talk as she cleans off Onora's back, then wipes her down with scented oil and starts kneading her shoulders.

"Have you heard of the Four Hoods? The story goes that they are some kind of brigands living out in the Beggarwood who try to help the people," she says casually. "You know, it would be... curious? curious... if the Count's tax collectors were to run afoul of brigandry like that."


"Aye, I've heard tell of them. They're anti-authoritarian outlaws, but they ain't dangerous. They're just trying to protect those who can't afford the high cost of living Count Bartelby's taxes have created."

Onora smiles slyly at Zileska's comments. "Aye, it would be mighty curious indeed. Especially if the sheriff of Stachys could provide an alibi for her tribune's whereabouts during such a brigand assault."

She groans with relief as Zileska starts in in her back again. "Mmm, you're almost as good as my husband. Rouen gave the best massages. It's been five years now, and I miss him every day, y'know. We had a long time together, but we both knew it wouldn't last. That's the consequences of falling in love with a human, I suppose. He got old and died before even half my own life had passed."

---

Melodie wanders through town, slightly inebriated. The townsfolk greet her warmly, thanking her for all she has done for them so far.

All is not well in the marketplace, however. Two brothers, Tabo and Tumnus, begin loudly arguing over the purchase of a calf. "Two gold ain't enough! She's worth three, at least!"

"In your dreams! You're just trying to cheat me of my hard-earned coin to show that floozy of yours a good time!"

"That floozy used to be your girl, if you had forgotten!"

"How could I forget? You stole her right out from under me, just like your trying to steal my gold now! Thief!"

"Cheapskate!"

The two appear to be about to come to blows!


Pre-Marriage Alias

Zhi stifles a yawn as she arrives at the Baron's citadel. She leads her horse to the stables and tries to find someone to give him the attention she knows he deserves.

Finding a ready hand, she says, "Hello there. Could you let the Baron know that Lady Mai is here to see him? And then could you see to my horse?"

She then waits nervously. She's had quite a few hours of riding to leave an impression on her backside, but it still hasn't stilled the turmoil in her head.

She rubs the rear of her breeches.

Damn, you'd think they'd have more padding then that.

And I still don't even know what to say to him.


The stable hand heads up to the baron's citadel to inform him of Zhi's arrival. She wanders the small town while she waits, taking in the sights the fishing village has to offer.

"Oh! I know who you are. You're the princess from Minkai!" A young girl rides up to Zhi on a pony and grins at her. With her dark hair and skin, it's easily to see the family resemblance to Nicolaus. "Father's spoken a lot about you! I'm Selli! Nice to meet you!"

She holds out her hand, which Zhi can see is missing the last two fingers from it. It's wrapped up tight with bandages.


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

After lunch, Sara and Malphene take in the sights of Lotheedar, as much as there are, lastly visiting the Grand Bank and inviting Maria along for this last. "Holy spaces are so beautiful," Sara whispers, taking in the architecture. She grabs Malphene and tries to scope out places to get away with doing the deed before deciding against it and to introduce themselves to the spiritual leader as newcomers representing the leadership of Stachys and that if there was any help needed, Stachys was willing to give what it could as a show of fellowship and community.

Dip: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (9) + 15 = 24


Pre-Marriage Alias

"Well, hello Miss Selli. Nice to meet you as well," Zhi says as she shakes the girl's hand gently. "My name is Mai Zhi, but my friends call me Zhi."

She bows back at the girl.

As she straightens back up, she can't help but grin at the girl's energy.

"Although some would debate the princess part. I've heard quite a bit about you as well. I hear you want to be a great warrior."

She glances at the bandages on the girl's hand.

"Engaging in battles already?"


ADVENTURE PATH COMPLETE
DM Brainiac wrote:

"Aye, I've heard tell of them. They're anti-authoritarian outlaws, but they ain't dangerous. They're just trying to protect those who can't afford the high cost of living Count Bartelby's taxes have created."

Onora smiles slyly at Zileska's comments. "Aye, it would be mighty curious indeed. Especially if the sheriff of Stachys could provide an alibi for her tribune's whereabouts during such a brigand assault."

She groans with relief as Zileska starts in in her back again. "Mmm, you're almost as good as my husband. Rouen gave the best massages. It's been five years now, and I miss him every day, y'know. We had a long time together, but we both knew it wouldn't last. That's the consequences of falling in love with a human, I suppose. He got old and died before even half my own life had passed."

"Well I'm no great fan of authority figures, myself," says Zileska as she leans into a knot in Onora's shoulder. "People should live happy lives and pursue the things that they desire, and bother and b**&%$!s to all the stuffy folks who get in the way." She rubs a little more scented oil into her hands and continues up to Onora's neck. "I'm sorry to hear about your husband. You're right, it's particularly difficult for those of us living in the middle, between two worlds."

"So I've been thinking a lot about these tax collectors and how if they actually get to Stachys they could just ruin everything we've been working so hard to build recently... you know, it would be a much better system if they never got here at all and instead the accurate and appropriate taxes were sent from Stachys to the capital, rather than hiring some thugs and telling them they can carry off anything they want as long as they just siphon a little bit back."


RETIRED - happily married and ruling Taldor.
DM Brainiac wrote:

Melodie wanders through town, slightly inebriated. The townsfolk greet her warmly, thanking her for all she has done for them so far.

All is not well in the marketplace, however. Two brothers, Tabo and Tumnus, begin loudly arguing over the purchase of a calf. "Two gold ain't enough! She's worth three, at least!"

"In your dreams! You're just trying to cheat me of my hard-earned coin to show that floozy of yours a good time!"

"That floozy used to be your girl, if you had forgotten!"

"How could I forget? You stole her right out from under me, just like your trying to steal my gold now! Thief!"

"Cheapskate!"

The two appear to be about to come to blows!

Melodie spends a few seconds simply watching as her brain catches up with her senses, when it does however she steps in - voice full of authority.

"Stop it at once, both of you! Arguing in the street like fishwives - your mother would be ashamed of you! Tether the calf and then you are going to discuss this with me like responsible adults! And at harvest too - everyone is pulling together and you two need to be a part of that!"

Intimidate: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (9) + 13 = 22

It's not her best speech, but being tired and having the onset of a headache makes her pretty convincing.


Sara, your date with Malphene was dinner, so you'd probably wait till the morning to sight see and visit the temple.

The Grand Bank of Abadar is a local architectural marvel, with sweeping eaves and grand vestibules adorned with stained-glass windows depicting the Master of the First Vault and his many teachings. Archbanker Lady Paril greets Sara, Malphene, and Maria warmly. "Welcome to Meratt. It is good to meet some of the new leaders of Stachys. I understand that you have already begun to make many civic improvements in that village. That is great to hear.

"I wonder, though, if you might have news of two of my acolytes, Mise and Maladus. Baron Telus has been out of the public eye for some time, and in his absence the town of Jambis has reportedly fallen to ruin. I sent my acolytes to investigate two weeks ago, but I have heard nothing back. I know they took the southern highway to deliver several books to Stachys along the way. When you return to town, could you inquire about their whereabouts? If you can find out what happened to them and rescue them from any danger they might have fallen prey to, I can promise you a rich reward in return."

---

Zhi

Selli dismounts her pony and mimics Zhi's bow."Like that? Is that how they greet people in Minkai? I've only read stories about that place, but I've always wanted to go there!"

The girl waves her truncated hand in the air. "Nah, these aren't battle wounds. I lost my fingers to a fox in a game of lazt Azlant. But the game was crooked, yeah? That fox was counting cards! If I ever see him again, you can be sure things will turn out differently next time!"

---

Zileska

"You're right, that is a much better system," Onora says. "Too bad ol' Bartelby will never go for it. Now, maybe if Princess Eutropia ever gets off her high horse long enough to take back her family's lands, things might be different round these parts. But I don't see that happening any time soon, and besides, Bartelby ain't going to give up his cushy lifestyle without a fight."

---

Melodie

Tabo and Tumnus look abashed at Melodie's tongue-lashing. They mutter apologies and tether the calf as they explain the situation to the tribune. "My brother here says this calf is worth 3 gold pieces, but it's clearly got a bit of a limp, see? It's barely worth 2 gold, if even that."

"3 gold's a fair price and you know it, brother. You're just letting old grudges color your perception."

"'Color my perception?' Listen to you and your fancy phrases! You've been reading too many books!"

Melodie can resolve the situation with an Appraise, Handle Animal, or Profession (farmer or merchant) check.


RETIRED - happily married and ruling Taldor.

Appraise: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21

Melodie examines the calf closely, before making her judgement. Feel free to fill in whatever is appropriate GM!


Melodie determines that the calf is worth 2 gold pieces. Tumnus's offer is a fair one--his brother is trying to extort him a bit.

Having passed her judgment, Tabo agrees to lower his asking price. "No hard feelings, brother?"

"We're square. Only because we're family."

The two depart, satisfied with the transaction. The bystanders nod in approval of Melodie's fairness.

You have gained 1 Loyalty Point!


Pre-Marriage Alias
DM Brainiac wrote:

Selli dismounts her pony and mimics Zhi's bow."Like that? Is that how they greet people in Minkai? I've only read stories about that place, but I've always wanted to go there!"

The girl waves her truncated hand in the air. "Nah, these aren't battle wounds. I lost my fingers to a fox in a game of lazt Azlant. But the game was crooked, yeah? That fox was counting cards! If I ever see him again, you can be sure things will turn out differently next time!"

"Well that explains everything," Zhi says with a knowing smile. "You should know better then to play cards with a fox."

She leans closer to whisper conspiratorially, "Foxes always cheat. Always."

She straightens back up and looks about the village.

"Selli? Could you take me to your father, please?"


"Oh, of course! He'll be so happy to see you!" The girl gives Zhi a conspiratorial wink. "I think he likes you. Like, like likes you."

It's about that time that Baron Okerra arrives astride his horse. The tall man's beard is a bit unkempt--it doesn't look like he's shaved in the past few days. "Selli! What did I tell you about riding off on your own unsupervised?"

"Um, don't get caught?" Selli offers.

"Don't do it, period! Or do you want to lose more of your fingers?" Nicolaus dismounts, then clears his throat and bows before Zhi. "Apologies, Lady Mai. If I had known you were coming, I would have prepared a proper reception. I hope my daughter wasn't bothering you."


Pre-Marriage Alias

Zhi bows in return.

"Selli and I were just discussing Fox's lack of honor in cards," she says with a smile towards the young girl.

"I would have sent word of my visit, but it was ... I hadn't planned on ... It was kind of a spur of the moment thing. I hope it's not too much of an inconvenience, but I would love to spend the day with you both."


"Ah, yes. Fox has quite sharp teeth, too," Nicolaus says sternly. Selli sighs and rolls her eyes.

The baron shakes his head then favors Zhi with a grin. "It's no problem at all. We were just about to head out on a morning ride around Lake Pensaris. Would you care to join us? There's plenty of room on my horse. I know you're not the most, er, experienced rider."


Pre-Marriage Alias

Zhi looks nervous.

"Ummm ... Normally I would be quite happy to join in a tour like that, however ... well ... to be totally honest ... prior to my ride this morning, the longest I've ever spent on a horse was the jousting tourney at the festival."

She looks around before continuing.

"Parts of me are still recovering."

She smiles hopefully.

"I would love a walking tour, though."

~~~

assuming that he's agreeable to that ...

Zhi seems quite content to let the Baron carry the majority of the conversation, prompting and questioning as needed to not seem too occupied in her own self-reflection.

At one point as Selli is out of earshot, she leans in close to her companion.

"Nicolaus, do you not have any healers here?" she asks quietly with a trace of concern in her voice.


Nicolaus has a pair of servants return his horse and Selli's pony to the stables. He offers Zhi his arm as he leads her through town and towards the lake.

At 12 miles long and almost 2 miles wide, Lake Pensaris is the largest lake in the country. Fortunately, the baron limits the stroll to the southern lakeshore, rather than try to circumnavigate the whole thing. Numerous fishermen line the shore or float on the lake in boats, and they all greet Nicolaus and Selli warmly as they walk by.

"Gonna catch me the General today, Your Grace! Care to join me on my boat?" asks a fisherman.

"No thank you, Henri! I look forward to hearing the tale when you return tonight!" the baron replies.

"Ha, ha! Good ol' Baron Okerra, never wanting to get his feet wet! Face it, boys--our fearless leader's scared of the water!"

"Not so, Henri! I merely prefer to keep my feet on solid ground that doesn't buck like an unbroken stallion!"

The fishermen share a laugh with the baron as the walk continues. Further along, numerous otters play along the lakeshore. Nicolaus smiles fondly as Selli runs ahead to get a closer look at the little critters.

When Zhi asks about healers, Nicolaus sighs. "Archbanker Lady Paril paid a visit to bandage her up, but it will take more powerful magic than what's available here to regrow her fingers. In time, I'll take her to Oppara and have the clerics there tend to her. I hoped this would be a wake-up call for Selli, but she's still as rambunctious as ever. She seems even more determined to learn to be a soldier to make sure something like this doesn't happen again. I don't know what to do with her."


Pre-Marriage Alias

"Selli doesn't strike me as dim," Zhi says with a smile. "I'm sure she learned from the incident. Whether it's the lesson you'd like her to learn or not ... "

Her smile fades as she wades through memories.

"But I'm sure she did learn something."

She looks at the bandages on the young girl's hand and then up at Nicolaus with sadness.

"That has to be very painful, Nicolaus. Please don't make her wait long. As someone who's father felt that pain was a great teacher, I can speak from experience that after the initial lesson, pain does continue to teach, but not necessarily the lesson you wish to impart. If it's a matter of funds, I'll gladly help cover the cost."

~~~

as the tour concludes ...

"Now Baron, there's something that I'd like to talk to you about," Zhi begins, her voice taking on a very business-like tone. "I feel uncomfortable bringing it up and it's not why I came here today, but I feel that I would be remiss in my duties to my employer I didn't say anything. As well as the fact that I always wish to be honest with you."

She takes a moment to collect her thoughts.

"Count Lotheed and his family has stewardship of the Palace of Birdsong and the authority it brings."

"Princess Eutropia has requested that he relinquish control of the palace to her as the rightful and legal heir. He has refused. She doesn't have the military support to force the issue. Stewardship is a honorable calling, but when the Steward refuses to turn that which they're entrusted with back over to its rightful owner then they've become something else."

"Baron, my father is ... was the greatest thief in the great city of Kasai, but he would say that the Count lacks the honor of even a common thief."

"The Steward should step down. That's the culmination of his role - to return to his master in good standing that which he's been entrusted with."

"Hence the reason my friends and I are here. Besides doing as much for Stachys as we can, we would like to gather support for Princess Eutropia's just claim on her ancestral home. If we can present to him the united support of all the land-holders and the communities they represent then perhaps he will see the correct path and step down."

"I hate politics, Baron, as I know you do as well. But, my chosen profession notwithstanding, the rule of law must needs be enforced. Especially in turbulent times like these."

She smiles wistfully.

"And with that said, with your permission, I will stop off my soapbox and hopefully enjoy the rest of this wonderful day away from politics and ... " She frowns. "other things."


Baron Okerra is silent for a long time as he ponders all of the ramifications of Zhi's confession. "I have lived my life as a man devoted to honor and loyalty above all else. First in the military, and now as baron of these lands. Count Lotheed is the lawful ruler of Meratt, and though he may admittedly not be the best man for the job, it is his by rights.

"However... I supported Princess Eutropia's bid to overturn primogeniture. I know what she stands for and I endorse her policies. I will have to study her family's claim to these lands, but if it is a legitimate one, then she will have my support in this matter. Though I know the count's temperament, and I doubt he will secede his position here willingly."

Nicolaus sighs. "These sort of underhanded dealings churn my stomach. But I recognize that sometimes one must resort to underhanded tactics to triumph over oppression. Whatever you and your friends decide to do here, you will have my support. Now, as you say, let us move on to other things. Lunch, perhaps?"

You have gained 2 Loyalty Points!


Pre-Marriage Alias

"Lunch, yes, please!" Zhi says with a smile and a small clap of her hands.

~~~

As the lunch conversation carries on, Zhi finds herself talking more openly about her past. She talks at length about her childhood in Kasai and the transition to life in Oppara and the struggle finding acceptance in a foreign culture. She hides nothing regarding their profession. She even reveals the recent discoveries and suspicions regarding her father.

pretty much everything in her current backstory

After lunch, she enjoys spending time with Selli. Using a pair of straight sticks as swords she discovers pleasure in showing the young girl the proper stances and positions that her father taught her as well as places to strike a foe that some would consider dishonorable.

"A drilled swordsman will stab forward to strike a foe here," Zhi says, indicating with her finger on Selli's belly. "He'll strike straight and fast because he wants to avoid the ribs catching his sword. And he wants to stab in and out and step away quickly to the next foe. But belly wounds can take a long time to kill someone. What works better for m ... some people, is to use a longer narrow blade and when you thrust, you step closer and thrust under the ribs and upwards towards the heart. That can kill very quickly and takes very little strength."

She demonstrates again with her finger and can't resist a tickle in the process.

Noting a frown shadowing Nicolaus' face, she composes herself. "But that's not really my place," she says to Selli with her eyes on the Baron. "I'm sure your father has many techniques better then that to show you someday if you can avoid card games with any more foxes."

~~~

Her tongue loosened with the wine served with dinner, Zhi begins regaling her hosts with the group's adventures under the Senate building and after that the Dignified Repository and the rescue of Martella Lotheed from the Silent Brotherhood. She continues on to the ladies' current endeavors at the Betony estate.

As the stories continue, she finds herself avoiding any references to her current emotional entanglements. However, the gaps in the story are becoming more and more glaring. She finally stumbles to a halt, looking at an empty plate and an empty wineglass.

"And so I decided to come visit you," she finishes simply. "And meet this wonderful warrior woman that I have heard so much about."

She smiles at Selli.


Nicolaus listens studiously to Zhi's stories, appreciative of her candor and honesty. Selli delights in the sparring match and hangs on every word of the rogue's recent adventures, gasping and laughing at the appropriate spots. Nicolaus looks at his daughter with the warm smile of a loving father.

"And it was the best decision you ever made!" Selli adds on with a laugh.

Nicolaus finishes his own glass of wine and looks out the window. The rays of the setting sun play across the surface of Lake Pensaris in dazzling colors. "The hour is growing late. I will have the servants draw you a bath, Lady Mai. They have prepared quarters for you here so that you might rest in comfort tonight and prepare for your journey back to Stachys in the morning. Selli and I have greatly enjoyed your company today. If there's anything else we can do for you, please don't hesitate to ask."


Pre-Marriage Alias

Zhi gets up from the table. She has a thought to refill her wineglass, but then thinks better of it.

With a smile she gives Selli an expression that says clearly, 'Scoot!', she walks over to stand next to Nicolaus and joins him in the view of the lake.

"I wish I could have met Selli's mother," she says quietly. "If Selli's anything like her then I think we would have been good friends."

She watches for a few more moments in silence.

"Are you angry with me?" she asks in a small voice.


"Nirvenna would have liked you very much," Nicolaus says. He stares out at the lake quietly until Zhi asks her question. He turns to face her, eyebrows raised.

"Angry? Why would I be angry?"


Pre-Marriage Alias

"Because I think you know as well as I do that I can't stay."

She looks up at him.

"I find you very attractive Nicolaus. And I think you're attracted to me. I would love to stay here and see what comes of that. The home you have is so ... It's what I've always thought a home should be." She looks back out the window. "And Selli ... I can't say enough wonderful things about her. It would be like a storybook."

She steps forward for a better view out the window and puts her hands on the frame.

"It's not meant to be though. Taldor is tipping on an arrowhead. Without the proper push, it can all come crashing down. I'm one of the people that's in a position to do the right thing and I can't shirk that responsibility."

Her voice drops to almost a whisper.

"And my heart's already being pulled in too many directions as it is."

She steps back from the window and composes herself.

"May I write her? Selli, I mean," she asks hesitantly.


Nicolaus frowns and looks back out the window. "I know. My heart is heavy with the knowledge, but I understand that sometimes things don't work out the way you want them to. Maybe in another life..."

He sighs. "Of course, you may write. And you may still visit whenever you wish. Stachys is only a short ride away."


Female Human Fighter (Cad) 13, Brawler 2 | HP: 55/185| AC: 19/17 (11 T, 17 F)| CMB: +19/+28, CMD: 28| F: +19, R: +12, W: +7| Init: +7| Perc: +17, SM +12, Dip +45, Intim +39| Speed 35ft| Martial Flexibility 3/4, Serpentine Tattoo 3/3, Beast Form 2 (Lion) 1/1, Terrible Cost 5/5| Active Conditions: N/A

Sara nods enthusiastically, always eager to impress pretty women. "My Lady, I will gladly ask around and do my best to ensure that your acolytes return safely home. Can you tell us anything about the Baron? I can't say I've ever heard of him."


Pre-Marriage Alias

"Thank you, Nicolaus."

~~~

Zhi spends the rest of the evening swapping stories with Selli and enjoying herself immensely.

~~~

The next morning she bids farewell to Nicolaus and Selli as the sun is rising.

"I'll try to visit again, but I'm not sure when that will be. Selli, If you would like to send me a letter, you can send it to that address that I gave you, the tea shop in Oppara. I'll write when I can."

She then sets off on her journey back to the estate.

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