DM Brainiac's War for the Crown: Table 2 (COMPLETE!) (Inactive)

Game Master Brainiac

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Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

Maya shares what she knows about Yanmass with the rest of the group.

The bard shakes her head as the conversation continues. "Too many questions and too few answers. Focusing on the Twilight Child for now does seem like the best plan."

Maya's ready to go as well.


Dandy 18 - HP 148/148 - AC32 - T18 - F27 - CMD42 - Init+5 (+10 Urb) - F+18 (+4 End) - R+21 (Imp. Eva) - W+13 [+1 fire/neg, +3 poison, +3 MA] - Perc+31 (+6/+2 Nat, +10 Urb) - SM+29 (+6/+2 Nat) - 1st 6/6 - 2nd 1/4 - 3rd 3/3 - 4th 1/3 - Def 1/2 - Lu 3/7

"Agreed. The more we wait around the more we will spin in circles."

Amelia begins packing up the files and her stuff, "Onward whenever you are all ready."


Once you are ready to leave, after saying farewells to your friends and neighbors, you depart Stachys heading north along the Oppara Highway. After passing through Lotheedar, you turn east down the Dalaston Hallway, heading out of Tandak Prefecture and into Krearis. The most populous noncoastal Taldan prefecture, Krearis stretches from the Falling River in the north to the base of the World's Edge Mountains in the south and to the Verduran Forest in the west. The rugged terrain, rocky hills, and boggy creeks of Krearis create dozens of distinct and isolated landscapes, from rolling fields to primeval forests to marshy wetlands. The hardy, stubborn people who settle here embrace this isolation, making them resistant to any sort of central authority, and a popular joke the rest of Taldor tells is that Krearis is ready to go to war with any of its neighbors... whenever it can stop going to war with itself. The region sees frequent infighting among its earls and especially among its barons, sometimes exploding into bloody battles.

The southern part of the prefecture supports Eutropia's bid for the throne, but the northern sections are split between lesser contenders Nazezi and Merkander. From her new power base in Meratt, though, the princess can focus her agents on convincing the holdouts of the righteousness of her cause.

After four days on the road, stopping at small roadside inns each night, you reach the small town of Dalaston in southern Krearis. Dalaston hosts one of the region's most productive iron mines. It also hosts the Blackpeak Brewery, which brews the region's preeminent ales and distills fine whiskeys under the masterful management of the Irini family.

After resting in Dalaston, you continue on your trek. Another five days of overland travel gets you to the Brokenbridge River, where you board a barge and journey upstream before taking a series of canals to finally reach the city of Yanmass, the capital of Avin Prefecture, after five more days of travel.

Taldor's largest and northernmost prefecture, Avin stretches from the Fog Peaks to the Falling River and west to the Verduran Forest. As Avin is one of the breadbasket prefectures, its economy revolves heavily around its many farms and ranches. Producing much of Taldor's wheat and gifted with access to Casmar trade and the presence of the Taldan Horse, Avin enjoys an unusual level of political influence for such a far-flung region.

Yanmass is the northernmost sizable settlement in Taldor, situated on a pair of low hills alongside the wide Verduran Fork. The only city of significant size in Avin Prefecture, Yanmass is the center of trade coming west from the Padishah Empire of Kelesh north of the World's Edge Mountains. Constantly filled with merchants arriving from across the Whistling Plains with wares from distant markets and caravans loaded with Taldan goods for shipment east, Yanmass is always bustling and lively. The long-established nobility of Yanmass keeps the peace with its own city guard and the elite cavalry known as the Taldan Horse, both funded from taxes levied on trade.

Visitors to Yanmass first notice the sea of tents surrounding the city's weathered stone walls. In pleasant summer months, this tent town sprawls larger than the city within the walls. At the center of the city rise two low hills. The smaller hill has steeper sides and supports the bureaucratic center of Yanmass. The larger hill is covered with ancient trees surrounded by well-tended grounds— this is Hedge Hill, a well-known park. The roofs of a variety of opulent inns, ornate homes, and sturdy warehouses rise above the city walls, reminding visitors that civilization and hospitality are available even in this distant outpost—but for a price.

You have arrived on the day of Baron Mauston Kustios's monthly meeting with the city's ruling Mercantile Council. Normally, city business is private, but you have been granted admission to the council's meetings per Lady Martella Lotheed's request. Now would be an excellent opportunity to attempt to sway the city's leaders to the Loyalist cause. You'll have scarcely enough time to wash off the road dust and dress in your finest clothes before reporting to Yanmass's Commerce Hall.


Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

Maya spends most of her freetime on the journey to Yanmass reading more about Erastil. The fellow is growing on her more and more. Some of his precepts are a bit stiff for the free-spirited bard, but she figures she can skirt around the parts she doesn't like with enough tact.

Once the group arrives in Yanmass proper, Maya uses her magic to clean everyone's clothes and appearance so they can all be presentable to the city's leadership. Not bothering to change her clothes, Maya instead activates her Envoy Ring to assume the most appropriate appearance for the local nobility or ruling class. They only get one chance to make a first impression, might as well make it a good one.

As everyone prepares to enter Commerce Hall, Maya hastily consults with her companions, "Should we agree upon a strategy before going inside? Would probably be best to make sure we're on the same page before people start asking questions or call on us to speak."


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

Katria enjoys the trip to Yanmass, reading and writing various treatises when she can, and studiously observing 1 the surroundings at other times.

She nods appreciation to Maya for her cleaning and for her suggestion.

"Yes, but I think this time the truth might be the best situation. If Grand Princess Eutropia's delegation has disappeared and it's not replaced, won't that reflect badly on her? To avoid that, I think we need to say that we are in fact the new delegation, here to replace Sir Dratavis," she suggests.

[1] It might be more accurate to say she gawked at the new sights, but history is sometimes kinder than it should be to its heroines.


M Half-Elf Cleric 18 | HP 165/165 | AC 45 T 19 FF 40 | F+27 R+20 W+27 | Init +16 | Perception +32 | Performance 35/41 Channel 4/6 | Wand CLW 21/50 | Active: Vestment, GMW, Reversion, Contingency, Eaglesoul, Life Bubble, Invoke Deity, Untold Wonder, Frightful, Good Hope

At two weeks, the journey is long but illuminating. Liam takes the time to talk to people in the lands that they pass through, listening to their opinions about the turmoil, the claimants to the throne, and the War for the Crown. In the inns, he stops by common rooms (if there are any) to listen. Where possible, he helps out with local needs, relying on his mundane skills so as to not draw attention.

He looks at the sea of tents with interest. Although there is no time to investigate now, he imagines they are full of exotic wares from Kelesh. The Abadarans do have a point about that... trade can help foster peaceful relations, when both sides have a vested interest in keeping it going.

"Thank you, Maya. Yes, I agree with Katria. We should be honest about our first task - to find Meir, or else fill his role in winning an alliance with the Mercantile Council for Eutropia. Yanmass knows the factions are seeking their support, and as long as we act peacefully, I don't think they'll have a problem with it. The other task, investigating the cult of the Twilight Child, we should keep that quiet."


Dandy 18 - HP 148/148 - AC32 - T18 - F27 - CMD42 - Init+5 (+10 Urb) - F+18 (+4 End) - R+21 (Imp. Eva) - W+13 [+1 fire/neg, +3 poison, +3 MA] - Perc+31 (+6/+2 Nat, +10 Urb) - SM+29 (+6/+2 Nat) - 1st 6/6 - 2nd 1/4 - 3rd 3/3 - 4th 1/3 - Def 1/2 - Lu 3/7

The journey was uneventful for Amelia, while it was nice to get out of the cities and into the frontier, she was a little uncomfortable with the unfamiliar ground. Taking whatever time she could in the towns and from passer-bys almost as if she was parched in the wastelands, it made her less than ruggedness stand out moreso than before. That wasn't to say that she wasn't capable of surviving without pleasantries, it was her life long ago, but she despised the idea of backpeddling on the persona she created in her own mind for herself.

Once reaching the sea of tents and the wall her demeanor quickly goes back to the way it once was and she has nothing but a large smile as she drinks up the new scenery and the new locale.

I will have to see those tents after, perhaps I can earn myself another exotic trinket.

Hearing the plan come from Maya and Katria, Amelia considers and adds her own piece, "There is also an added benefit, the prior delegation had vanished in a city that has a cult moving about, it may inadvertently bring them to us knowing a new delegation has arrived. I like to hedge my bets so keep yourself on guard while we move about."


Resembling an opulent manor house rather than a city-administration building, Commerce Hall has elaborate stained-glass windows, enormous chandeliers, and gold accoutrements throughout. Yanmass's Mercantile Council conducts its business in Commerce Hall on most days, although the council meets here in its entirety with Baron Kustios only once every few weeks.

The liveried soldiers at the entrance check your credentials before directing you to a halfling official named Gregor Hamble. "Good day, my lords and ladies. You are the new Loyalist delegation? I shall escort you to the audience chamber. I must regret to inform you that Baron Kustios is too ill to attend today's meeting. He has been sick at home for several days. One of the associate councilors, the banker Rhundle Navin, is also unexpectedly absent, but the other members of the council are all in attendance. They are also hosting another guest, Earl Yander Merkondus, who is already in the chambers. Do you have any questions before we go inside?"


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

Katria looks alarmed [1].

"What's wrong with banker Navin?" she asks.

Two people missing after what happened to Dratavis? I wonder if they were leaning toward the princess?

Bluff: 1d20 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 1 - 2 = 4

[1] Though she attempted to mask her momentary alarm, she failed horribly.


"I'm not certain. He simply didn't show up for the meeting today," Gregor says with a frown.


M Half-Elf Cleric 18 | HP 165/165 | AC 45 T 19 FF 40 | F+27 R+20 W+27 | Init +16 | Perception +32 | Performance 35/41 Channel 4/6 | Wand CLW 21/50 | Active: Vestment, GMW, Reversion, Contingency, Eaglesoul, Life Bubble, Invoke Deity, Untold Wonder, Frightful, Good Hope

Liam is likewise concerned at these ongoing disappearances.
"I have some skill at healing. Might it be appropriate for me to visit the Baron and see if I can be of assistance, after the meeting?"


Gregor clears his throat. "I am certain the best healers in Yanmass are attending to him as we speak. But you can broach the subject with the council, I suppose."


Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

Or we can go on our own, Maya thinks to Gregor's latest comments.

Maya nods at Liam's suggestion, "Yes, perhaps a wellness check is in order for both the baron and the banker in light of the recent disappearance."

The bard says to Gregor, "Thank you for your candor. We might not have even known a couple council members were absent if not for you."

After flashing Gregor her best smile, Maya adds, "Are there any customs it would be useful to know about? We would like to make the best first impression possible."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 24 ⇒ (12) + 24 = 36


"Nothing in particular," Gregor says. "After introductions, the council will discuss business. Then you'll be invited to speak and address their concerns. Afterwards, the large group will break up into smaller groups to discuss civic matters. This would be a good opportunity to approach the council members one-one-one for more in-depth conversations."


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

Katria nods her thanks and gets ready to enter. Her fingers itch to pull out her notebook so she can take down her observations, but she lets it continue to hang from her belt.


Dandy 18 - HP 148/148 - AC32 - T18 - F27 - CMD42 - Init+5 (+10 Urb) - F+18 (+4 End) - R+21 (Imp. Eva) - W+13 [+1 fire/neg, +3 poison, +3 MA] - Perc+31 (+6/+2 Nat, +10 Urb) - SM+29 (+6/+2 Nat) - 1st 6/6 - 2nd 1/4 - 3rd 3/3 - 4th 1/3 - Def 1/2 - Lu 3/7

"A pity we won't be able to properly introduce ourselves to everyone at once." Amelia feigns sadness and continues, "I agree with Maya here, at the very least we should show up to their place in good faith just to inform them that their needs will be met and that we are available for service."

She listens to Maya's sweet talk and grins, I need lessons from that one.

"I cannot wait to get started, I am quite excited for our new position here."


Gregor nods and opens the doors to the council chambers. Several chandeliers supplement the sunlight streaming in through high, stained glass windows to light the cavernous audience chamber of Yanmass's opulent Commerce Hall. An immense oval table takes up much of the room's space. A throne-like chair at the head of the table is vacant, but most of the other chairs are occupied. Seated in ornate, padded chairs are the five principals: a human man wearing ostentatious jewelry (Lord Rudig), a half-elven woman in well-tailored clothing (Lady Aumber), a handsome human man wearing the regalia of a high priest of Abadar (Chief Enumerator Abrun), a proud halfling woman (Lady Hallianna), and a narrow-faced, worried-looking human woman (Lady Carmelio). Several other well-dressed people occupy less ostentatious chairs. At the foot of the table is a group of plain, sturdy wooden chairs, one of which is occupied by a fashionable, broadly smiling aristocrat (Earl Yander Merkondus).

Lord Rudig spreads his hands in greeting. "Ah, you must be Princess Eutropia's new emissaries. Welcome to Yanmass."


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

"Yes," Katria says. "Thank you. We're very happy to be here, and, um, look forward to becoming close friends."

As always, I assume Maya's taking the lead, but don't want to just disappear while she diplomacizes.


M Half-Elf Cleric 18 | HP 165/165 | AC 45 T 19 FF 40 | F+27 R+20 W+27 | Init +16 | Perception +32 | Performance 35/41 Channel 4/6 | Wand CLW 21/50 | Active: Vestment, GMW, Reversion, Contingency, Eaglesoul, Life Bubble, Invoke Deity, Untold Wonder, Frightful, Good Hope

"We thank you for your hospitality, Lord Rudig. The splendor of this Commerce Hall speaks to the importance of trade to this great city. May it continue to prosper."


Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

Maya bows deeply to Lord Rudig while quickly taking in the rest of the room. The group has a lot of ground to cover if they're to fully convert Yanmass to Eutropia's side.

Standing up straight again, Maya says to Lord Rudig with a smile, "Greetings to you! It is our pleasure to be here. We hope to have many fruitful conversations in the days to come."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 24 ⇒ (2) + 24 = 26
Diplomacy (Heraldic Expertise Reroll): 1d20 + 24 ⇒ (5) + 24 = 29

As a note, I realize Maya has the highest Diplomacy check, but I don't think that precludes someone else doing most of the talking. Maya can just say a few words at the beginning or end along with the check while someone else does the heavylifting (if someone wants to). Just don't want y'all to feel like Maya has to take the lead or that you can't do so.


The council members nod with approval. "We look forward to that as well. Please, have a seat."

Once you are seated, Lord Rudig stands, gesturing to the empty seat at the head of the table. "Given Baron Kustios's continued absence, I'd like to call this meeting to order in his stead. We know that much of Taldor is currently in political turmoil, but we have pressing problems close to home. Yanmass suffers under the grip of several troubles, and our discussion today must confront these. First, terrible, unsavory dreams haunt many of our citizens; some of us here have had them, I understand, and their cumulative effect is crippling to morale and our economy. Second, the Taldan Horse cavalry regiment that protected our city has, in large part, vanished. This leads to the third issue, which is the rise of banditry on the eastern plains: Qadiran bandits, specifically, preying upon good Taldan trade."

"All trade, to be frank," interjects Lady Carmelio, "Keleshite and Taldan alike."

Enumerator Abrun speaks up, "There's another thing, although it's not a clear threat: the Cult of the Twilight Child in the Encircling Bower. Good citizens are joining this mystery cult. Perhaps it's as benign as rumors say, but we can't ignore a new philosophy that is ensnaring so many of our citizens."

"Religion ever reigns in your mind, Enumerator," says Lady Aumber, "but people aren't suffering from the cult as they are the other troubles."

Lady Hallianna sits up straighter and adds, "Our esteemed guest, Earl Merkondus, assures us that he has a group of troubleshooters already acting to alleviate all of these concerns. But so long as Yanmass suffers, so does trade—and therefore so do we."

Lord Rudig turns towards you. "At this time, I will give the floor over to our new arrivals. You have heard our concerns. What are your thoughts?"


Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

At Lord Rudig’s question, Maya bows once again before saying, “We share many of your concerns. While it would be ideal for us to be able to address all of your concerns at the same time, we have to act prudently and tackle matters one at a time. If we’re going to handle these situations, we want to do so properly.

“The missing baron and banker seems like the matter we should address first given the recent disappearance of Princess Eutropia’s previous emissary. Assuming both are simply ill or attending to other pressing matters, this should also be the simplest and quickest matter to address.

“Unsavory dreams are certainly troublesome and something to be rid of, if possible, but it seems like a matter we would need more information about in order to address. If you have the names of a few of those who have experienced said dreams, perhaps we can question them and elucidate the nature of these nightmares and be better prepared to act as needed.

“As for the Taldan Horse cavalry regiment, what happened to them? This seems like a rather significant problem, but as with the dreams, we would need more information to act effectively. The bandits will have to be taught lessons, painfully, if necessary. Taldor is not a lawless country, even in the absence of an official monarch. Taldan trade must continue unabated and we can help facilitate the continuance of such.

“As for the Twilight Child’s cult, it may not present an immediate threat, but the person at its head claims to be risen royalty. We would be wise to find out what other deceptions they have subjected Yanmass to if this person is lying. The cult is all the more significant in the off chance the child is royalty. Though as Lady Aumber said, this seems like the least pressing of the matters you have brought up.

“So, if you want my advice, I suggest checking in on the baron and banker, then see to the continuance of free trade across the plains. After those two matters are addressed, we can investigate the disappearance of the cavalry regiment - though perhaps the truth about that will be discovered in the course of dealing with the bandits - and inquire further about the Twilight Child’s cult.”

Maya pauses to take a breath for the first time in what seems like quite a while. She glances at her companions to see if they have anything to say before Lord Rudig takes back the floor.


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

Katria nods at Maya's concise summation of the problems.

"It would also be helpful to know what steps have been taken already," she says. "Clearly, Earl Merkondus' 'troubleshooters' aren't able to solve the problem, but what failed efforts have they made, so that we can learn from them? Have any locals done anything that we might be able to learn from?"

She speaks with obvious curiosity, clearly focused more on answers than possibly badmouthing their rivals, even if her words might have the same effect.

"Also, you do all seem to have various concerns of your own. Does the council have one that they agree is most urgent?"


"Baron Kustios is not missing, simply ill. He is convalescing in his manor at the moment," Lord Rudig assures you. "Rhundle Navin didn't make it to today's council meeting, but I would hesitate to call him 'missing' just yet. Though we will send somebody to ascertain his whereabouts.

"Lady Aumber can give you the names of some of the people who have been afflicted by the nightmares, but of course, there's no way to produce an exhaustive list of all the victims.

"The Taldan Horse regiment seems to have disappeared entirely. Nobody is sure what happened to them. Lady Rauls has been looking into this matter. I'm certain she would be willing to share her leads with you."[/b]

At Katria's words, Yander Merkondus clears his throat, bristling slightly. A small man in his early thirties, the earl's beard is neatly trimmed and well-oiled. He leans on a jeweled walking stick, and his furs are cut in the latest fashion from Oppara. "With respect, my lords and ladies, I resent the insinuation of the incompetence of my team. It has been slow-going, but I assure you the Kozan Bravos have the situation well in hand--they'll need no help from these Loyalists."

"Your resentment is noted, Earl Merkondus, but to be honest, we all could use all the help we can get," Lord Rudig says. "All of the troubles plaguing Yanmass are of equal concern. I'd suggest you approach them in whichever order you are able to.

"Now then, let us break into our smaller committees."

The meeting transitions into a more informal gathering as groups of councilors gather across the chamber. Now would be a good time to approach the principals individually.

Earl Merkondus spares you a look, then he makes his way around the lesser council members, schmoozing and glad-handing.


M Half-Elf Cleric 18 | HP 165/165 | AC 45 T 19 FF 40 | F+27 R+20 W+27 | Init +16 | Perception +32 | Performance 35/41 Channel 4/6 | Wand CLW 21/50 | Active: Vestment, GMW, Reversion, Contingency, Eaglesoul, Life Bubble, Invoke Deity, Untold Wonder, Frightful, Good Hope

"I imagine these problems could be connected - the cult's activities to the bad dreams, for example."
---
Liam approaches Lady Rauls. "A missing cavalry regiment is indeed troubling news, your Grace, not only for the lack of their protection but for the uncertainty of what they may be doing in this time of turmoil.
With no Emperor and no Senate, one would think they would just carry out their prior orders. Or, at least try to keep Yanmass safe for the benefit of whichever contender they support. It's possible there was a quarrel between their commanders.
What have you been able to find?"

Are we doing straight-up Diplomacy checks, or does this have rounds of discovery and influence? If the latter, Liam will try Sense Motive to figure out how best to influence Lady Rauls. Is Lady Carmelio also Lady Rauls? First name and last name? Carmelio was the one chiming in to the bandit matter earlier.


Yes, sorry. Her full name is Carmelio Rauls. This isn't a full-fledged social encounter, but you can either make a Diplomacy check at a higher DC or one of a few different skill checks at a lower DC to impress each NPC.

"Yes, indeed," Rauls says to Liam. "I deal primarily in armor, weapons, and equestrian gear. I hold a lucrative contract to supply the Taldan Horse, which amounts to a whole lot of nothing without them here. Not to mention the rise of banditry without the Horse protecting my caravans. Do you know much about horsemanship?"

You can attempt a Craft (armor), Craft (weapons), or Ride check to impress Rauls. Or you can try the Diplomacy check.


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

Katria tries to think if she's heard of the Kozan Bravos, hesitating before heading to talk to Lady Rauls, her intrigue caught by the disappearing regiment.

Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (6) + 15 = 21

Edited, because I was ninja'd:
"Do you think they left, or was there something ... more to their disappearance?" Katria asks.

Diplomacy (+resonant power): 1d20 + 5 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 5 + 1 = 14 (though I'm actually more just curious about the answer, since if they just left, Katria's less interested and will likely move on.


The Kozan Bravos are a group of adventurers from the southern town of Kozan. They are lead by Lieutenant Grammel Taychar, a former soldier in the army, and have recently been hired by Earl Merkondus. Their members include a warpriest of Gorum and a duo of brother and sister mercenary warriors.

"I'm not sure. I've heard one lead, but... I don't know if the source is reliable," Lady Rauls says. She seems a bit reluctant to say more, though.


M Half-Elf Cleric 18 | HP 165/165 | AC 45 T 19 FF 40 | F+27 R+20 W+27 | Init +16 | Perception +32 | Performance 35/41 Channel 4/6 | Wand CLW 21/50 | Active: Vestment, GMW, Reversion, Contingency, Eaglesoul, Life Bubble, Invoke Deity, Untold Wonder, Frightful, Good Hope

"Sadly, I am not a rider. It was not a part of my upbringing - we were of a more scholarly bent. I will defer to your expertise. Based on your knowledge and investigations, what do you think has occurred? Even a tentative lead could be of use."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24

Kozan Bravos? Just noticed that... so they are from Liam's hometown, or at least claiming to be. Interesting...


Heh, yes, funny coincidence that...

Lady Rauls considers Liam for a few moments before nodding. "Very well. My investigation lead me to a gnome priest who was passing through Yanmass a few weeks ago, about the time that the regiment when missing. He claimed to have seen several members of the Taldan Horse riding to an old ruined manor outside of town. If that's true, then it's likely the old Orvestikar Manor, a ruin 9 miles out of town. The manor has a reputation for ill luck among the people of Yanmass, who have shunned the site for generations.

"I've got a more reliable lead on the bandit attacks. An elderly Qadiran merchant witnessed two separate attacks recently, and he noted that both of them originated near a caravanserai called Talgrasses, out on the Whistling Plains east of the city."


Dandy 18 - HP 148/148 - AC32 - T18 - F27 - CMD42 - Init+5 (+10 Urb) - F+18 (+4 End) - R+21 (Imp. Eva) - W+13 [+1 fire/neg, +3 poison, +3 MA] - Perc+31 (+6/+2 Nat, +10 Urb) - SM+29 (+6/+2 Nat) - 1st 6/6 - 2nd 1/4 - 3rd 3/3 - 4th 1/3 - Def 1/2 - Lu 3/7

Amelia listens to Lord Rudig and Maya taking charge, Qadiran bandits, typical. She shakes her head but allows the Taldans to talk, meekness was a weapon when used by the proper people. She has trouble shaking the idea that there are dreams haunting people though, something about it seemed less rumour and more truth and she made a silent note to herself to examine it in detail once she was unchained.

Upon hearing that Lady Aumber does not consider the Twilight Child cult a threat Amelia grins, No cult starts off dangerous, they would hardly get members. The dandy doesn't agree with Maya's assessment but it would not be in her best interest right now to speak up about it. Though she is fairly regimented, I have to say I misjudged her.

Hearing Liam talk up, she whispers to him, "I have a suspicion this Cult is the cause of them as well, perhaps even the missing horsesmen. Something rotten is brewing, I can't say why but I just feel it." She shrugged and listened as they began to break off.

I know this isn't a formal Party, but would Hobnob be active here as it is a Particular Event?

Hobnob (Ex):

Hobnob (Ex): In addition to the usual hunter’s bond ability, the dandy can spend 10 minutes at a particular event or party hobnobbing and introducing his allies to the right people in order to provide them with half the skill bonuses of his favored nation (though not the bonuses on attack and damage rolls) for the duration of the event.

She seems to flow around the room like a cat in their natural habitat, and much like a cat she sizes up the Taldans and thinks back to the advice she handed her companions before entering. Hopefully they take it to heart. Moving between the different groups in the chamber, she introduces herself, her travelling friends before eventually leading up to striking a conversation with Earl Merkondus, hoping that his cold shoulder had warmed up a little.

Seeing her moment, the pretender moves up to the Earl, hoping to get something from him. "My Earl Merkondus, first I would like to formally introduce myself to you as Amelia Reed, a scion of a family once sent to Lastwall and back. Second, I would be remiss to not formally apologize for the insult that Katria may have done upon you or those in your employ. She is in an unfamiliar place and the long ride has made her clearly delirious." Flashing a smile she offers a deep bow, hoping that her finery attracts.

Happening to notice the furs, she takes a stab at the dark and compliments him on them, "Those are Opparan correct? You seem to have a fine taste." She hopes her luck holds out... That she guessed that he would care enough about the compliment, and that she knew where the furs were from.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 18 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 18 + 8 = 35 Adding +8 from Luck

"Could you tell me anything at all about your team? I would like to have this matter settled and the best way is for us to double our output."


Hobnob works just fine here.


Dandy 18 - HP 148/148 - AC32 - T18 - F27 - CMD42 - Init+5 (+10 Urb) - F+18 (+4 End) - R+21 (Imp. Eva) - W+13 [+1 fire/neg, +3 poison, +3 MA] - Perc+31 (+6/+2 Nat, +10 Urb) - SM+29 (+6/+2 Nat) - 1st 6/6 - 2nd 1/4 - 3rd 3/3 - 4th 1/3 - Def 1/2 - Lu 3/7

Awesome, edited in a little chat about Hobnob and a roll. I have an engagement this evening so I won't have time to return after seeing all of your results.

Hopefully Hobnob will help you all here.


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

Katria listens to Lady Rauls, but lets Liam take the lead, especially as the conversation turns to the bandits. Eventually she drifts away, making her way to Enumerator Abrun.

"This cult you mention," she asks, when the opportunity presents itself. "Can you tell us anything more about them? I've done some studies, and while cults haven't played that large a role in Taldor -- outside of the Sarenites, of course -- they have been major forces in other countries..."


Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

With Liam speaking to Lady Rauls, Amelia handling Merkondus, and Katria talking to Enumerator Abrun, Maya decides to speak with Lord Rudig.

Approaching the man, Maya gives an overly-deep bow. With a smile, she says, "Your oversight of the council meeting in Baron Kustios's absence is quite admirable. Have you given any thought to this so-called 'War for the Crown'? To head off any objections, yes, I will try to win you over to Princess Eutropia's side, but that can wait. I'm curious to hear your perspective on the matter, for better or for worse."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 24 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 24 + 2 = 39 If I understood Amelia's ability correctly, we all get +2 to the applicable skill checks, correct?


Amelia and Merkondus:

Merkondus inclines his head towards Amelia. "A pleasure, Miss Reed," he says, drawing out the word as if to emphasize her lack of a noble title. "I will accept your apology on her behalf, but perhaps her lack of diplomacy would be better served in a more effete city--your friend might find this one too rough and slanderous for her delicate ideals."

He smiles thinly at her compliment and brandishes the fuzzy hem of his cloak. "Why, yes, these are from Oppara. And yours are from--where, exactly? I don't believe I've seen that sort of style in any of the empire's courts before," he says, adding a disdainful cluck of his tongue.

"The only thing you need to know about my team is that you would do well to stay out of their way. They work best without interference from those with a misguided sense of justice."

***

Katria and Abrun:

Chief Enumerator Abrun seems guarded in his response to Katria. "The Cult of the Twilight child seems benign, but I'm uncomfortable with the public perception that it's an offshoot of the Church Abadar. I don't believe that to be the case, and I wonder whether the cult is hiding something sinister." He glances around the room before lowering his voice. "I would like to discuss this matter further, but not here. Come to the temple later, if you're able."

***

Maya and Rudig:

Lord Rudig chuckles at Maya's forthright manner. "I appreciate your candor, but I fear your efforts will be in vain. I've made no secret of my support for the Imperialist faction lead by High Strategos Pythareus. They just seem like most stable choice for our nation going forward, not to mention that these days, it just seems safer to be an Imperialist! The Loyalists have suffered more than Imperialists in the recent events. The ill Baron Kustios has Loyalist leanings, the missing banker Rhundle Navin was an outspoken Loyalist, and even the Qadiran bandits have been targeting merchants with Loyalist leanings the most."

He steers the conversation towards the latest fashion trends in the empire, and after Maya proves herself a competent conversationalist, the foppish man taps his chin. "You know, the troubles in Yanmass started shortly after a terrific new restaurant called Savories opened. It could just be a coincidence, but perhaps the owner of that restaurant has some insights he might share."


Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

Maya’s expression darkens as Lord Rudig speaks of the ills that have befallen those friendly to the Loyalist cause. The party would have to do something about that. Perhaps if the Loyalist position becomes more stable, Maya will have more luck at winning over Lord Rudig.

At Lord Rudig’s offer of a potential lead, Maya smiles. “Thank you, Lord Rudig. We’ll be sure to speak to the owner of this Savories. Do you happen to know his name?”


"The owner's name is Argentus," Lord Rudig says. "If you do pay him a visit, tell him that I said hello!"


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

"Of course," Katria says. "We've worked well with the Church of Abadar back in Stachys, where we've been living, and I'm sure we could come pay our respects in Yanmass later.

"The church there supports Princess Eutropia and the Loyalists, and I hope that holds true here. Hopefully we can talk more about that. Also: Banker Navin. Is he part of the church as well? Sometimes Abadaran titles confuse me, I have to admit." Trying to figure out if he's a banker in our RL sense or a religious leader.


Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

Maya nods to Lord Rudig and says, "Very good. Thank you for the information. Your aid is greatly appreciated, especially since our viewpoints don't seem to be aligned for now."

The bard puts extra emphasis on for now.

Could be both, Katria. :)


Abrun nods. "It can be a tad misleading at times. But Rhundle Navin is a banker in the traditional sense. He is not a member of my clergy."


M Half-Elf Cleric 18 | HP 165/165 | AC 45 T 19 FF 40 | F+27 R+20 W+27 | Init +16 | Perception +32 | Performance 35/41 Channel 4/6 | Wand CLW 21/50 | Active: Vestment, GMW, Reversion, Contingency, Eaglesoul, Life Bubble, Invoke Deity, Untold Wonder, Frightful, Good Hope

Liam continues to make the rounds. The party has a lot to go on, and no need to keep impressing everyone here, so he makes small talk but mostly tries to listen. In particular, he tries to gauge how the members of the Council react to Earl Merkondus's schmoozing and glad-handing.

Are they deferential to him? Do they seem to regard him as an annoyance? A threat? A valued ally? A sleazy huckster?

Sense Motive, Hobnob bonus: 1d20 + 14 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 14 + 2 = 31


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

Katria smiles in appreciation as the cleric clarifies. She continues to make small talk, as best she's able, though she can't hold a candle to her more eloquent companions.

She glances over and sees even Doritan deeo in conversation with Lady Halliana Let's not forget Doritan's out of pocket for a bit; so we should PCPC him or have him DMPC'd. And since no one's talked to Halliana yet.... She catches a snippet of his conversation as she walks by, saying how the two of them seem to be quiet. She didn't say much during the meeting, he notes, and wonders if she thinks Merkondus' mercenaries will get the job done or if she has any other concerns.

I think otherwise we've talked to everyone of note? We could try to get the names of some specific sufferers of the bad dreams from Lady Aumber.


Most of the lesser council members seem to be neutral towards Merkondus. Lord Rudig seems favorably disposed towards him, and judging by the looks Lady Hallianna keeps throwing his way, the halfling seems quite smitten with the earl. Liam notices a subtle frown on Enumerator Abrun's face whenever Merkondus is near, though. It's likely the priest is suspicious of him.

Doritan Diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24

Doritan seems to be hitting it off well with Lady Hallianna. The halfling is not particularly political, but she is a font of rumors and gossip:

Rumors: 3d6 ⇒ (3, 6, 3) = 121d6 ⇒ 1

"We got snubbed at that new restaurant, Savories, last night. It caters to the best of the best, and I've heard it's exquisite. They were too crowded even give me a table. Me! There's something unnatural about a restaurant becoming so exclusive so quickly."

"People wonder where the bandits might be hiding. I’d put my money on the ruins of Orvestikar Manor. It’s isolated, and hardly anyone goes out there."

"I saw a couple of shady figures lurking around the temple of Abadar the other day. They scattered as soon as they saw I saw them, but they didn’t look up to any good."


Dandy 18 - HP 148/148 - AC32 - T18 - F27 - CMD42 - Init+5 (+10 Urb) - F+18 (+4 End) - R+21 (Imp. Eva) - W+13 [+1 fire/neg, +3 poison, +3 MA] - Perc+31 (+6/+2 Nat, +10 Urb) - SM+29 (+6/+2 Nat) - 1st 6/6 - 2nd 1/4 - 3rd 3/3 - 4th 1/3 - Def 1/2 - Lu 3/7

"Miss Reed indeed, though titles don't matter much when you are on the lines in the Worldwound. It is a shame you haven't seen the beauty of the sunrise there before; when the hoardes aren't out it is lovely."

Bluff: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (7) + 18 = 25

She had only heard of it in passing but she speaks with enough authority to seem like it is plausible. "Ah yes, this? It is Varisian actually, its wonderfully resilient and great for long wanderlust. I would recommend a tailor but I think he prefers his work to see plenty of travel."

She takes a couple of subtle jabs at him, then bows. "I hope whatever happens we can come to some resolution to the matter."

---

She returns to move about the crowd keeping an eye on the Earl, something about his demeanor didn't seem right and she was hoping that she could find or hear something out of the ordinary.

Stealth: 1d20 + 12 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 12 + 4 = 18 Terrain
Perception: 1d20 + 11 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 11 + 4 + 4 = 23 Favored Nation, Terrain

Can't seem to roll well today. Oof.


Sense Motive: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (17) + 19 = 36

Merkondus raises his eyebrows dubiously at Amelia's claims of being a crusader. "Forgive me, Miss Amelia, but I have seen my fair share of crusaders who have come home after a tour at the Worldwound. Suffice it to say, your soul has not been thoroughly hollowed out enough for me to lend credence to your claims, and I am somewhat offended you would diminish the deeds of those who have bravely risked their lives and sanity to battle against the tides of darkness with your false assertions. You Loyalists, truly have no shame, do you?" He clucks his tongue, and a few of the minor council members nearby whisper quietly to each other.

"Don't you worry. I am certain all of these troubles will come to an end very soon," the earl says to Amelia with a dismissive nod.

***

The dandy is unable to ascertain anything else out of the ordinary.


Female human occultist 18 HP 168, AC 29, Touch 18, FF 22, F20/R14/W15*, CMD 29

Can we stab him yet?


Halfling Court Bard 9 | HP 64/66| AC 21, T 16, FF 18 | CMD 18 | F +7, R +12, W +10* | Init +3 | Perc +10
Resources:
BP 24/26 Rounds, Spells - 1st: 5/7, 2nd: 3/6, 3rd: 3/4

Yeah, I won't feel bad if/when the opportunity comes, though I suppose Amelia kind of walked into that one.


Dandy 18 - HP 148/148 - AC32 - T18 - F27 - CMD42 - Init+5 (+10 Urb) - F+18 (+4 End) - R+21 (Imp. Eva) - W+13 [+1 fire/neg, +3 poison, +3 MA] - Perc+31 (+6/+2 Nat, +10 Urb) - SM+29 (+6/+2 Nat) - 1st 6/6 - 2nd 1/4 - 3rd 3/3 - 4th 1/3 - Def 1/2 - Lu 3/7

Nothing ventured, nothing gained. I can always twist the story at some point... Someone had to have laundered their clothes, prepared food, and tended to the weak; a fitting job for a title-less Miss.

Honestly he seems so obvious that I think he may be a red herring.


M Half-Elf Cleric 18 | HP 165/165 | AC 45 T 19 FF 40 | F+27 R+20 W+27 | Init +16 | Perception +32 | Performance 35/41 Channel 4/6 | Wand CLW 21/50 | Active: Vestment, GMW, Reversion, Contingency, Eaglesoul, Life Bubble, Invoke Deity, Untold Wonder, Frightful, Good Hope

Liam moves to speak with Lady Aumber. "Greetings, Lady Aumber. Am I to infer that you are the most knowledgeable about the nightmares that have been plaguing the people of Yanmass? Have you been able to discern any patterns in who is having them? Familial relationships, geographical proximity, a common occupation or experience? Or any common threads in the dreams themselves?"

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