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The atmosphere in Kintargo is tense. It's been nine days since Lord Mayor Jilla Bainilus disappeared—fled to Arcadia, the government says. It's been seven days since the Night of Ashes. That night, fires raged across the city as worshippers of proscribed gods, members of the Bellflower Network, and other 'subversive elements' disappeared throughout the city. All presumed dead or imprisoned, but no official statement has been released.
Even with the cobblestones of Argent Avenue and the foliage of Aria Park still wet from the morning’s light rain, of the opera house to protest the city’s new lord-mayor, Paracount Barzillai Thrune. The city’s new leader was appointed by Her Infernal Majestrix, Queen Abrogail II, in the wake of the previous lord-mayor’s sudden flight from the city— an event that still has local rumormongers whispering furiously. In a scant seven days, Paracount Thrune has instituted martial law, a curfew, and seven outlandish and polarizing proclamations. These actions and more have called many of Kintargo’s dissatisfied citizens here on this overcast morn. There’s been no sign yet of Barzillai Thrune himself, and the opera house’s doors remain tightly closed—as they have since the man chose the landmark as his new home—but judging by the growing sound of the protesters, he surely can’t ignore the scene on the streets below much longer.
You find yourselves among the crowd. The murmering crowd is made up of students, out of work laborers, concerned businessmen, upset theater enthusiasts, and concerned citizens. Some distance away, you see Chellish loyalists eyeing the crowd with distaste. The situation is calm at the moment, but things could turn ugly quickly.
More rumors, this city never ceases to amaze me with the amount of mystery within it's walls. First The Lord Mayor up and vanishes then this chump goes and takes away my evening tea. What better reason to attend this protest than to gather some information on this tea stealing chump. Who knows, I may even hear a few new tasty bits as to The Lord Mayor's disappearance.
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Declan was always a troublemaker. He was born the second son of the prominent Tanessen noble family. Growing up his brother, Chad, got all of the positive attention, so Declan got very good at attracting negative attention. He learned to survive by his wits and charm his way out of whatever mischief he got himself into, which was plenty thanks to the expensive tastes he acquired from the privileged life of a spoiled aristocrat.
His father got him into the finest schools, but he’d invariably blow off his classes, leaving his father to have to pay or pressure his teachers into pass him. Eventually of course, dad got tired of bailing out his irreverent son, and refused to have anything more to do with him. Declan has been trying to up the ante and get his attention ever since. Not that Declan has ever been self aware or retrospective enough to recognize the reasons for his self-destructive impulses.
On this particular day, Declan’s impulses have led him to join in a protest that has gathered opposing the Thrune regime that his family has thrown their support behind. Of course in Declan’s mind, his reasons are merely to strike back at the regime which has put a damper on his lifestyle between trying to deny him his flashy attire, and withholding the his favorite pasttime, the opera. A little drunk as usual, Declan wandered through the crowds, with his manservant in tow, whom he enlisted to look for an opportunity to do a little rabble-rousing, stand back and watch the chaos.
Jeeves, I’m bored. Keep an eye out for… opportunities. This is much too quiet.
“Jeeves” as Declan insisted on calling him was quite tired of his master’s crap, but that didn’t change the fact that his was bound to answer his master’s summons for life.
At least mortals have pitifully short lives.
Yes, m’lord, as you wish. he replied with a heavy sigh.
He moved through the crowd listening intently to conversations, especially those in hushed whispers, and watched closely for any furtive glances at the guards or other suspicious activity.
Lily heard of the protest and she was headed there right away, anything against Thrune or the Church of Asmodeus is good with her. She wears a hood up to obscure the view of the mark she has on her forehead.
Damn those Asmodeus scum, they will pay for what they did to my parents!
Then as she starts to see people look at her and stare, she fades into the crowd waiting for anything to happen to give her a reason to act.
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Lily heard of the protest and she was headed there right away, anything against Thrune or the Church of Asmodeus is good with her. She wears a hood up to obscure the view of the mark she has on her forehead.
Damn those Asmodeus scum, they will pay for what they did to my parents!
Then as she starts to see people look at her and stare, she fades into the crowd waiting for anything to happen to give her a reason to act.
[Dice=Perception]1d20 + 2
[Dice=Stealth]1d20 + 16
Sounds like Protesting the Government to me. +2 to Bluff and Intimidate for the duration of the protest.
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The crowd mills about. Low murmers fill the air, ocassionally punctured by a shouted slogan, hoots, and loud arguments between protesters of opposing philosophies. A few brave merchants have shown up with carts, hawking sausages of questionable origin, jars of watered down beer, and shiny, gen-you-wine gold watches that fell off the back of the clockmakers cart, just 30 silver shillings for you, sir, just 30 silver shillings, Abadar himself could find no finer a deal .
Each of you will be able to perform an action as the protest continues. You may:
Listen for Rumors –
Pilfer –
Rabble Rouse –
Search for a Contact –
Silence Undesirable Elements –
Develop Contacts –
Watch the Crowd –
Everyone roll initiative and pick one of these options, then I'll go through each action in initiative order. If you want to try something else you can describe it and we'll see if it works.
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After Jeeves pointed out to his master that the loyalists had shown up in force, Declan decided he'd rather not have the fun cut short so he made his way over to where they were gathered. With his best fake smile he approached the leaders with playful punches to the gut, followed by a quick tussle of their hair.
"Reginald, Alistair, Chaunceworth! You old bastards! What brings you boys out today? Are you here to see these plebs feel the boot of house Thrune, too? You know, I think I saw some cloaked figures skulking around the back of the opera house. If you hurry you boys can catch them and show them what for!"
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Huck never was one who enjoyed getting stuck in mob, he moseys over to the edge of the mob looking for anyone meeting the description of these so called "Radical Anarchists" he has heard of. He pulls a flask from within his gray leather duster and adjusts his wide-brimmed hat before taking a swing.
With this crowd, I reckon there gonna be a fight tonight
Adjusting the brim of his wide-brimmed hat, he begins scanning the edge of the gathering.
"Howdy mate, care for a swig?" As Huck offers up his flask and tipping the brim of his hat. "Fine day to stir up some fun, eh? Laughing as he takes another swig, "You need someone with talent, and not just any talent. You need charasmia. In which case, I'm your Huckleberry.
Brushing aside his duster ever so slightly, the grip of a makeshift pistol can be seen resting comfortably on his belt. He offers his flask again before continuing. "So mate, what do you say, friends? If we couldn't be friends, I just don't think I could bare it." Taking a pull off his leatherbound flask once more, letting out a bit of a chuckle. "It also helps I've got no love for those chumps up top, what with that damned proclimation on my nightly tea." Unable to stop himself from laughing on that last bit, "Seriously, what kind of fool bans tea? Anyway, I'm Huck, Huck Le Berry. Pistol for hire, at your service."
He gives a slight bow, tipping down his hat and flipping back his duster.
Jeeves knew his role as usual was to watch for hints that his master's ploy might go awry. He watched the loyalists faces closely so he could telepathically warn his master if he needed to adjust his approach.
As Lily is sneaking in and out of the crowds of people. She tries to rile the crowd up against Thrune.
Down with Thrune, The Church are murderers! Thrune is against the people!
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You recognize several of the Chelish loyalists, although most of their number are actually drawn from the professional classes, rather than the nobility. Those of lesser birth follow the orders of the noble-born with a stern, disciplined competency that stands out from most of the crowd.
Ah, yeth, good of you to make it, Declan, Chaunceworth 'Chance' Sarini says. From a cadet branch of House Sarini, he has an opinion of himself far exceeding his actual importance (12th in line to the Countessa's seat, if you recall correctly.) His extravagant clothing and jeweled rapier stand look almost absurd next to the common folk around him.
And that ith good newth, indeed. I do tho love when they run. The men around him chuckle, and begin drawing saps and clubs from their belts. Let'th go, boys, and a Throne to the man who bringth the firth one down! The men dash off to the rear of the Opera House.
The loyalists are pathetically easy to read. They're bullies, looking for a cheap thrill.
Most of them, anyway. One of them in particular seems altogether more cunning, and competent than the rest. He wears the black and red of House Thrune, and you identify him as Darius Regegious, the son of Baron Tombus Regegious, a minor noble with estates outside Kintargo. As you watch him, he catches your eye, startling you with a smirk and a slight nod of respect back. When the rest of his crew runs off, he mutters something beneath his breath, glances up at the third floor, and retreats east, toward Temple Hill, his black cloak fluttering in his wake.
You nearly shout yourself hoarse, decrying the crimes of House Thrune and the Church of Asmodeus. Despite your best efforts, the crowd seems faintly embarrased, prefering—at least for the moment—a more genteel protest. You don't get much out of the crowd but the occasional mutter of 'quiet down, you damn slip.
You encounter a bunch of tough, serious, studious looking young men, all carrying a variety of barely concealed weaponry. One in particular responds positively to you, a young human man who introduces himself as Mikhail, and in short time you find yourself talking to their leader.
Emma, they call me, dear,. A prim-looking human woman in late middle age, wearing a severe black dress with an ostentatious purple hat seated on her head, with a pair of wicked looking hat pins sticking out the back.
Well, you think you're quite charming, I'm sure, but I don't go in for that. she says, eyeing you over the bridge of her nose. We in the Society for a Free Kintargo prefer action over words. But, you're here, which is more than I can say for most of the fat burghers in this town.
After pausing, she nods approvingly. Perhaps you'll do. We have meetings in the Devil's Nursery, at a tavern called Lucetti's. Mikhail here often attends there. If you're interested in a Kintargo where every man and woman is free, and where people are made safe from the predations of the rentier and the industrialist, as well as the church of Asmodeus, look us up.
She gives you a curt nod. Also, if you're with the dottari and are trying to infiltrate us, know that they'll never find your body.
A man with one glove isn't much to go on, but it's all you have for your contact. You're alert, and your eyes are active, but you're unable to spot anyone matching that description. You do get a pretty good look at the crowd, though.
An hour passes, and the sun rises higher in the sky, struggling weakly to break through the thick cloud cover. More citizens arrive—some merely curious about the disturbance, others clearly disgruntled by the behavior of the city government.
We'll be keeping the same initiative order, but you can choose another action from the same list as before. You can attempt to do the same thing you did last time, or choose something different.
Syndacalists – A group seeking to advance trade unionism to bring economic justice to Kintargo. They actively seek the expulsion of House Thrune and Church of Asmodeus. Seek to organize society around democratic workers councils and an all-worker city council.
Democratic activists – Seek to replace an appointed Lord Mayor with an elected mayor, on some sort of limited term. Also want some form of elected legislative body. Expanded—although not necessarily universal—suffrage. Very fractious, with numerous factions espousing more or less radical proposals.
Merchants – Relatively conservative elements, who want laizez-faire economic policies and a relaxation of the trade restrictions that Barzilai Thrune has established.
Students – Students of Kintargo's Alabaster Academy or Lady Docur's School for Girls. Very chaotic mix of viewpoints, but most support either a totally free Kintargo, or a special status for Kintargo while still remaining in the Chellish Empire.
Anarchists – Support a radically egalitarian society based around a stateless, communalist social order.
Loyalists – Reactionary group, fiercely loyal to House Thrune, supporting a preservation of the Status Quo
Partisans – The largest group. Disgruntled citizenry, with no fixed ideology except supporting a free and independent Kintargo, or at least a Kintargo with a special, semi-independent status within the Chellish empire.
Damn people don't seem to care, well maybe I can at least learn some information by listening to people
"Emma, darlin, there are two things you should know about me. First, I always respect a woman with such a fine lookin hat." Pausing for a moment to offer Emma a pull from his flask. "The second, there be more than enough hypocrisy, treachery, and deceit within these city walls. If I have a quarrel with you, I'll tell ya over some of that tea this yack has decided to take from us... just in spite."
He pauses for a moment, before giving a good full belly chuckle. "As for action, well I ain't got no qualms about getting my hands dirty neither, provided it betters this here city."
Huck takes a step back, tipping his hat towards Emma."Well darlin, it's been a pleasure. I think I'll see if Mikhail here wants to go make nice with the locals. I'll be seein you."
Turning to Mikhail, "So partner, what do you say we go find ourselves a drink and make nice with this powderkeg of a gathering? First round's on me."
"Well darlin, it's been a pleasure. When I see you at Lucetti's, first round's on me." He gives a respectful bow and tip of his hat before taking his leave.
He turns to Mikhail, "Don't go getting yourself dead before we have a chance to cause a tussle." Tipping his hat as he leaves, "Be seein yall."
Well, she sure was the friendly type now wasn't she. They may just be my sort of people, could be fun.
Huck moseys around the outside of the crowd again, every now and then pulling from his flask. With this kind of ruckus, I'm sure I can dig up a rumor or two, mayhaps even find someone to talk about ol' Professor Stabby.
"A shame really, such a fine establishment falling as it has. Good ol' Professor Mangvhune and his killin spree surely didn't help none." Being catious not to let his duster slip and reveal the iron on his hip. He tips his hat "I'm Huck, I recon I have a mighty fine fancy for Ol' Stabby's story. You have to be something truly special..." letting out a light chuckle before continuing "to become the most infamous serial killer in Kintargo." Offering up his flask, "Care to join me for a drink?"
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Declan can't help smiling after pulling one over on Chauncey. That jeweled rapier is so pretentious! he thought as he straightened his silk waistcoat.
Now that the spoilsports are preoccupied, it is time to rile things up a bit.
Declan scanned the crowd and made his way towards the most vocal protesters.
Ahem, a proper introduction if you please.
hopefully this wanna be pop king shows up soon, I'm getting hangry
Starting to lose his patience, Rathgur starts pressing his way through the small gathering. As he jostles some other citizens he gives them a 1000 mile stare.
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Jeeves found this part especially humiliating, so he took what chances he could to rebel against his pompous master. He stepped forward into the crowd and announced, May I present the lord, Declan Merriweather Tanessen, third of his name, captain of the Kintargo prep polo team (intramural), climber of the big oak (sapling), letterman, killer of three ponies (he was... a portly child), fourteenth in line to the viscount of Kintargo (behind both his younger sisters).
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Declan strode past Jeeves with a flourish with his jewel-topped cane, and his chin thrust skyward. He took one look at the crowd and turned back to address his manservant but made sure to speak with plenty of volume, Jeeves, who are these unwashed masses? I think I see my dentist out there. Did they invite tradesmen? Tradesmen?! There seems to be a woman--surely not a lady--with a child attached to her naked bosom like a leech. Is she a harlot? And for the love of Asmodeus, what is that smell? My father was right, we should starve them until they don't have energy for these types of public displays, I would not throw my pearls at these swine!
He then finally turns to address the crowd directly, Don't you have a cockfight or something that you could be attending? In the name of House Thrune I command you to go home and clear this square at once for those of us with breeding.
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A hail of rotten vegetables flies through the air at you as you make your retreat. A few of the merchants even get in the action, with sausages and painted tin jewelry bouncing off your clothing as you retreat.
You certainly got an effect. Whole sections of the crowd are raging. Shouts of 'Down with Thrune' and 'Down with the Nobles' spring up, and nearly all of the factions present take part. Some of the more charismatic participants even start leading others in chanting and rhythmic foot stomping.
You meander around the crowd, speaking to those who look likely to respond. You get a few more insults thrown your way, but this crowd seems less hostile to halflings than the rest of the city.
”The Thrashing Badger burned down a few nights back....they're saying it was another bar fight gone too far, but they're just a bunch of old drunken professors and barristers. Seems like a lot of places have been burning down lately, between this, the Silver Star, and the Victocora estate.”
”I hear the dottari guard towers are so full of prisoners they're storing them in warehouses. My cousin even says they're putting prisoners to work in places like the Salix Salt works.”
The Student you talk to is scandalised by your mention of Mangvhune ().
'That was over a hundred years ago, the student says. It's the only thing people know about our school, and it's really a shame, because it's a great institution...'.
Still, you manage to smooth things over. ()
”I don't really know what's happening to this city, anymore.” the student says, who introduces himself as Merrick. ”A bunch of the professors died when they burned down the Thrashing Badger...Rexus Vicotocora is dead, he was in that noble family whose house was burned down last week. I knew him, we had classes together. It's just...this doesn't feel like the Kintargo I grew up in. I just think we should do something, you know. I tried to get my friends to come out here with me, but they're all scared of the Dottari, or that awful devil-woman Thrune has working for him.
Merrick introduces you to a few other students from the University here at the protest: Uther Danos, a Kellid from Ustalav studying abroad; Ulma Aulorian, a student of law from a noble house in this city; and Triana Bastriles, a student from Docur's School for Girls. The three of them all seem agitated about the state of affairs in Kintargo, but much less so than the Anarchists. You get the feeling that the most agitated of students have already aligned themselves with other factions, and that the students who haven't are much less willing to support open revolution at this time.
Going for the strong and silent method, your determined, intimidating glare turns immediately to a yawp of surprise, as you lose your footing on the slick flagstones.
A burst of laughter rises up from the nearby crowd. 'Ah, look at that, right on his arse!
Fairly sure you didn't bruise your tailbone, you are helped to your feet by a few kindly protesters.
These streets are treacherous in more ways than one, friend, one of them says—a halfling woman, who introduces herself. 'Laria Longroad, at your service. Not really attending, just passing through. And don't mind the Egorian Chorus here, nothing folks love more than a laugh at someone else's expense. Every halfling in Chelliax knows that.
She tips you a wink, and starts walking off. Ever find yourself in Villegre, come by my place—Longroads Coffeehouse. Free cup, on me.
Time passes, and the protest enters its third hour. You may each choose another action for this hour. Declan, if you're returning, I'll need a Disguise, Stealth, or Bluff check from you.
I need to find someone to talk to. These people here are alot better to me than most of the people in this town. Maybe now is a good time to make some friends.
I try to look through the crowd to find some of the merchant folk of the town.
Well Hello how are you fine folk doing. Terrible how long they make us wait when we all have work to be doing. What kind work do you guys/gals do?
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Ooooooh, look at all these angry humans. I wonder what has them in such a huff? It's a beautiful day, they should just relax and take in the sunlight.
Waving to some of the people on the outer fringe of the gathering.
"Heya, what's going on here? And why is everyone so grumpy?"
"Well Merrick, it's time I take my leave." Huck tips his hat while offering one more pull from his flask, "I thank thee for your time, and if you or your friends ever decide to get uppity, mosey on down to the Tooth and Nail and ask for Huck."
Huck pauses for a moment, before turning to the students. "Do be careful out there tonight, I have this funny feelin that things are about to get a bit complicated out there. I'd hate to see my new friends turn up on the wrong end of things."
Things sure are a brewin out here, not long before some dumbass lights the match.
Huck moseys on past some of the merchants, keepin an eye out for anyone he met recently within the Anarchists.
Anyone that enjoys people watching will see a scruffy lookin human walk past the merchants, flask in hand. Sporting a gray leather duster, common enough looking shirt and trousers, a brown leather wide brimmed hat, and cowboy boots.
Tipping his hat "So of all the wonderful ruffians at this here party, I find myself drawn back here. I reckon that makes us friends darlin." Offering up his flask, "After we parted ways before, I ran into some people that could prove to be useful." Letting out a bit of a chuckle as Huck takes a swig from his flask again. "These students, I reckon they are not much of the in your face action sort, but information however... well darlin, they do say knowledge is power."
Proping his legs up on a table while taking a seat, looking about the room. "The way I see it, this little shindig is about to become one hell of a party. Once that happens, there aint no goin back. This fiddleheaded muskrat may go and start making other pointless proclamations, and we just can't have that. These students, they are just as riled up as everyone else... sadly not the sort to go and rough someone up. They do however have the potential to be a mighty fine source of info, stars and stones, one of em even studies law."
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Declan was feeling pretty proud of himself despite the annoyance of having to pick bits of lettuce out of his ruffled collar, perhaps because he left it to Jeeves to do the actual cleaning. You had better get those tomato stains out or they’ll be hell to pay! he intoned telepathically, which was met with only quiet muttering from the eidolon as he vigorously applied the salt and seltzer he’d acquired from a nearby tavern, to the stains.
Once restored to a proper, dignified appearance, he surveyed the square to see where things stood before venturing back out. As a fan of the finer things in life, the merchants guild certainly interested Declan, and they seemed to be captivated by an intriguing young halfling woman. Well, well, well. She looks far too lovely for me not to have made her acquaintance.
Declan made his way over, determined seize the opportunity to charm two for the price of one. Although this time he made sure to skirt the periphery lest he catch the attention of the mob he helped create. As always he made sure his man, Jeeves, provided him with the proper entrance Another introduction, if you please, and let’s keep the ad libbing to a minimum, shall we?
Jeeves once again introduced his master after a loud sigh, and he certainly tried to keep his asides quieter at least this time.
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"And who do we have here? My lady, I don’t believe I have made your acquaintance," Declan said with a low bow and sweep of his jeweled cane.
Oh my! That is quite a scar, he thought as he rose and gazed into her eyes, Mustn’t let on that I even notice it. Hmm, despite its mark she is still quite lovely. Far too lovely to be denied my affections.
With a nod and a smirk to his favorite tailor, "Sayid, I trust you have offered the lady your finest silks at your your fairest prices? I must say, that this color would look ravishing on you," Declan said as he stroked the blue silk cloth across Lily’s cheek with a twinkle in his eye, before quickly turning his attention back to address the whole crowd of merchants. "I can only hope that this nonsense," he gestured towards the unruly crowds behind him, "dies down soon enough. It is such a shame, when politics gets in the way of good business. More profits bring more tax revenue, which benefits the realm, which trickles down to us all." After a short pause he turned back with a charming smile at Lily, "wouldn’t you agree, m’lady?"
Lily turns red and smiles.
I can't believe he is talking to me, someone like him would usually never give me the time of day
That is absolutely correct, hopefully this dies down so all you fine people can get back to doing great business.
She starts to walk away but then leans in close to Declan and whispers.
The name is Lily.
Then she smiles and walks into the crowd.
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Where are you off to in such a hurry? Declan called after her as he jogged to catch up. Lily? A fine name for a delicate flower such as yourself. You might not want to go too far as things are just about to get interesting here.
Then seeing the crowd he'd riled up earlier up ahead, he threw his arm around Lily and attempted to steer her around. Why don't we head over this way, the vantage from the other side of Argent Avenue really is a much more... he hesitated for a moment as he caught whiff of the crowd again and wrinkled his nose, tasteful view.
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You speak to a number of individuals in the business community. Most are polite, but commit to little, and some seem actively intimidated by Declan's presence.
One individual—a tall,thin,balding human male, introduces himself as Letvar Karatik. An impeccably dressed halfling beside him informs you that Letvar is the owner of several workshops and manufactorums around the city.
Very pleased to meet you, both, Letvar says, bowing formally. I must say, I find gatherings like this...distasteful, in general,but feel that events of the past week merit some sort of response. And given the presence of some of the more...shall we say, colorful elements here, that it would be good to have some of the more productive elements of society make an appearance.
Emma gives you a grim, humorless smile, and nods her head toward the third floor windows.
'I've seen Thrune peak his head out of those windows three times already. If I know my reactionaries—and I do—he'll be sending out the Dottari any minute now. A few of the young men around her flash blackjacks, clubs, and Kintargo Bricks—broadsheet newspapers carefully folded into fist sized improvised weapons.
Best thing for him to do, of course, would be to let these folks tire themselves out and go home. Most of them don't have the heart for real rebellion. Some of them might think they do'--here she nods to some of the Alabaster Academy students, engaged in a spirited chant of one man, one vote--'but they don't. Not yet.
But, a heavy-handed Egorian tyrant starts breaking skulls? Brings back excruciations? That might get people out in the streets.”
At this point, Emma nearly has to shout to be heard over the crowd, which has grown increasingly loud during the third hour of the protest.
Ah, speak of the devil, I believe we are about to start. Emma says, pulling an eight inch hat pin from her hat and sliding it up the sleeve of her dress, as the third floor doors open and Barzilai Thrune steps out on the balcony.
Despite your best efforts, the protesters don't reveal much. Those that respond at all have more questions for you than answers, what in the Hells are you being the most frequent.
You scan the crowd, and notice how most people are naturally crowded into groups of people similar to them—well dressed business men, laborers in their work stained clothes, young students and activists. However, here and there, you see some people standing on their own. Watching the crowd, like you. Waiting.
Watching.
Before you can even begin to do anything about it, the doors on the third floor spring open and Barzilai Thrune strides out on the balcony.
Success. You'll gain a +4 bonus to initiative on any future initiative rolls made during the protest.
You continue to watch the crowd, hoping for a glimpse of your contact. The crowd is getting increasingly rowdy, but you still think you catch a glimpse of your contact—a tall, dapper looking man carrying a cane, wearing a single glove, but you lose sight of him in the crowd, seconds before the balcony doors open and Barzilai Thrune steps out to address the crowd.
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The bells of the Church of Asmodeus toll three times—not an unusual event, as the Bells of the former church of Aroden ring at odd times, for no reason anyone in the city has ever been able to deduce.
Shortly after, Barzilai Thrune steps out onto the balcony of the Kintargo Opera House. A large man with a scarred face and short-cropped hair, wearing extravagant red, orange, and black clothing, and with an ornate black breastplate with a blood red pentagram on it, he spreads his arms wide to address the crowd, a condescending sneer on his face.
“Ah, my adoring little chickadees. I am sorry to say I have not yet adapted to your quaint, country ways, being accustomed as I am to the sophistication and learning of Egorian. Nonetheless, know I have heard your concerns, and that I appreciate your valued feedback, and I know we shall eventually find a mutual understanding in the fullness of time. I take pride in updating Kintargo’s quaint, outdated laws to the modern standards the city deserves, and strengthening its ties with the empire in these cruel times, but obviously” here he holds his hands up in a mea culpa, ”I have approached my duties too aggressively. You say you chafe at the presence of nonnatives in positions of power? That authorities not of this city have no place as its leaders? That you will not be yoked by intruders? Your lord-mayor hears you. And so it is with a heavy heart that I issue this proclamation, in response to your demands: all ships’ captains are hereafter barred from leaving their vessels and setting foot on Kintargo docks or streets, under pain of... let’s say... squassation!”
The reaction of the crowd is immediate, with a roar of anger rising from them as Barzilai raises a glass of wine to toast them, grinning all the while.
Players, roll Knowledge Local and tell me what you want to do.
Think it might get very interesting very soon, I need to learn all I can and quick
While keeping an eye on Declan I want to try to sneak around a bit and try to listen any rumors.
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Tucking her wings in a bit tighter, curiosity trumping her concerns over the comments. Leila moves towards the working folks all the while watching the watchers. Right then, the Lord Mayor comes out and gives his speech, and the crowd takes a bit more of a chaotic bent.
Heh, not how I expected the day to go, but this could be fun.
"So this is the one that banned tea? Not cool. Certainly putting a damper on some of the regular customers at the shop."
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[dice=Knowledge Local] 1d20 + 5
Think it might get very interesting very soon, I need to learn all I can and quick
While keeping an eye on Declan I want to try to sneak around a bit and try to listen any rumors.
[dice=Stealth] 1d20 + 16
[dice=Diplomacy] 1d20 + 8
The mood is ugly, and getting worse. The only things you're hearing are shouts of abuse toward Barzilai Thrune and complaints about the Proclamations.
You will begin the next phase in stealth.
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Just who does this jackass think he is... chickadees, really? If I was a gablin man, and I am, I'd wager he is tryiin to pick a fight... with the whole damn city.
Looking quite insulted while looking over the crowd, listening to the cries of hate coming from them. Taking one last swig from his flask... "Wouldn't ya know it, empty." Unsnapping his trusty pistol from it's holster. "Well Emma darlin, it looks like theres to be a party after all, and the whole blasted town's invited."
"Quick get inside, rumor has it the old fool is a plannin something rightfully dreadful for this little shindig."
That outta keep em safe, at least for the moment.
Tipping his hat once more towards Emma. "You wanted to see action, I do think you are about to have it. I aim to go see what I can do, if there's anything that can be done. I know you can take care of yourself, but do try not gettin dead out there."
Pulling his pistol from his holster, brushing the barrel. "Well Bessy" "We may get to have some firewords today afterall!" Kissing the barrel gently before placing her back in the holster.
Huck then makes his way back towards the edge of the party by the merchant carts. Listening to what's being said, hand on Bessy, just waiting for the party to start.
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Squirming in his bag, Mr. Flap Flap gets a reassuring pat from Leila.
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The unrest continues, the citizens furious at the announcement of another Proclamation.
Your warning to the others around you is succesful, and many of them begin leaving.
Nearby, one of the protesters reaches down to the street and grabs a handful of horse manure. Rearing back, he hurls it as hard as he can towards the third-floor balcony. The projectile doesn't hit the Lord Mayor, but it comes close enough to make Barzilai spill his wine, splashing burgundy across the front of his breastplate. His formerly smug face contorts in rage, and he shrieks ”Enough of this! Nox, run them off, arrest them, kill them, I don't care!”
The Lord Mayor whirls and returns to the safety of the Opera House. On the ground floor, the main entrance doors fling open and a hulking woman with stringy black hair and carrying a wicked looking glaive steps out, accompanied by two of the Dottari.
At the same time, a number of members of the guard fling their cloaks off, revealing matching armbands identifying them as members of the Chellish Citizens Group. Sporting wide grins and large black truncheons, they begin swinging wildly at the protestors, who quickly begin fleeing the sudden display of violence. The only members of the crowd who aren't fleeing are the Anarchists, which are wading into melee with the CCG with relish.
HA, I knew it, rascals were just itchin for a fight.
"Well Bessy, I do belive they are playin our song. Shall we dance?"
Well we all saw this coming, we have to stop these guys before more innocents get hurt.
He sure left in a hurry. One little horse apple and it ruined his day, who would have known
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The woman with the glaive: Nox. She came to Kintargo with Thrune, and there are a lot of dark whispers about her—that she's made some sort of contract with a devil, selling her soul in return for infernal powers.
Chellish Citizens' Group thugs: These men are fervent Chellish patriots and loyalists. Not well trained, they make up for what they lack in discipline with sheer enthusiasm. These men are wielding clubs and are wearing studded leather armor.
Dottari: The Dottari are the strong arm of the Thrune's in Kintargo. Part town watch, part military force, the Dottari ranks have swelled since Barzilai Thrune arrived, the relatively small pre-existing Dottari reinforced with outsiders from greater Chelliax that travelled here with Barzilai, as well as some of the smarter Chellish loyalists.
Dottari are well trained, disciplined, and fiercely loyal to the Thrunes. They typically carry heavy maces and light steel shields, along with longbows, and wear chain shirts.
Seeing his contact in the crowd, Rathgur takes off after him. When Thrune appears he loses him when he looks up and listens.
well this is going to be fun
As the road apple flies in the air, I loosen my axe in it's straps in anticipation. When the Dottari and Miss Glaive appear, I move up to take a place in front of the crowd. As the CCP show themselves I pull my axe and charge the nearest one
Begin rage