(PFS) GM Alice's The Blakros Matrimony (Inactive)

Game Master Alice Margatroid

*Prods Mifune* Hoping you can use the Discovery Bonus to speak to the captain. Jakarno is bad at Diplomacy. :P

As Terrill ponders whether to attempt to free Bedard from the Paracountess' clutches, Kynrac catches his eye and discretely waves him over. Terrill leaves the group chatting with Bedard with another quick bow of his head and moves over to talk with his elven companion. He ponders Kynrac's question about the Onyx Alliance for a moment, as the name seems vaguely familiar. "Yes, I think I've heard something about them..."

Knowledge (local) to Aid Kynrac: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (14) - 1 = 13

Wishing his knowledge of such matters were deeper, he continues, "I think approaching Hamaria and offering her the Society's support is a good idea. How better to make a good impression than ease her fears of something terrible happening at her daughter's wedding?"

@GM Alice - sorry, didn't realize this whole social encounter was considered a single round. I'm used to posting my action after the DM does.

You can't aid another on Knowledge checks (unless you were doing research in a library or something, for example) - it doesn't make sense. The check represents a binary state - either you do or do not know something. You can't "help" someone on this.

In any case, using untrained Kn. Local to help on a Kn. Planes check isn't getting anywhere. :P

Neither of you know anything, ultimately!

As Barnabus played the role of the little birdie to a T, Mifune nodded once in response to the Paracountess before moving away from the scene to act upon his fellow Pathfinder's information. This Rubaani Shafar had piqued his interest. If her stories of adventures long past failed to regale him, well...at least she would be less intimidating company than the Paracountess. Suppressing an involuntary shudder, Mifune made his way to the captain of the guards as he gave a deep bow.

"Commander. This one is grateful for your company's meticulous attention to detail and overall vigilance during our stay here. The absence of live steel had unsettled these nerves, but an experienced adventurer like yourself guarding us has brought peace to this one's mind."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19
Do I get the +4 Influence bonus as well? Because if so, that would be awesomely useful :D

If Shel can catch Lady Gloriana away from the ears of others, she will quickly dart in for a few words.

"Greetings, Madame. You are looking splendid as always. Have you seen the fellow I am looking for yet? I've searched the boat and the room, but I can't seem to locate him anywhere.

Trys,

Nigel doesn't respond, instead remaining in stunned silence as you melt into the crowd. His face seemed very pale, although the anger was evident in his dark, almost completely monochromatic elven eyes.

------

Mifune,

You'll get the bonus if you exploit her "weakness" (so to speak... not really much of a weakness, is it?) and tell her stories of battle!

After Hamaria was done speaking with the commander, Rubaani had remained in her previous position on the edge of the pavilion, always close enough to get involved with anything but pointedly avoiding most contact with the guests here. For a moment, she seems to sigh as you approach, and arches an eyebrow at your actions and speech.

"You don't need to be so formal," she mutters, a little embarrassed by the show of respect. The cultural barrier was just too large for her to understand, it seems. That said, she allows herself a moment of pride in her work, straightening up and nodding to Mifune in thanks. "I put my all into this job. I will accept nothing less than perfection from my guardsmen, even amidst this... frippery." She rolls her eyes at the congregation.

Commander Shafar pauses a moment, eyeing up the samurai's rather impressive figure, something even the formal hakama could not hide. "You don't seem the type to worry about danger, even without your weapons, though. You look like you could wrestle a lion without breaking a sweat."

Feel free to continue this bit of roleplaying in your next post if you desire, even though I'm moving on to the next "round".

------

Shel,

You catch Lady Gloriana on a trip back from touching up her make-up outside. She smiles at you in greeting, although your question makes the pleasant expression melt away. She's obviously just as frustrated as you are by the absence of Tancred.

"It appears that our friend has not yet arrived," she notes with more than a hint of acid to her words. "It certainly says a lot about his kind - to not arrive at a gathering like this? What an insult to poor Hamaria after she's put so much effort into the evening..."

Lady Gloriana gives you a wide smile, hidden from view by outsiders by the side of her hand. "That certainly gives you even more... ammunition, though, shall we say. Hmm?"

Before the Taldan noblewoman leaves back to the group, she pauses and turns about. "Oh, and Shel? You're looking stunning in your outfit as well. The green suits you well."

------

Everyone,

At some point you drift back to your table, having been called by the wafting scent of the first course of dinner being served. There are grilled figs stuffed with goat cheese and drizzled with sweet honey; barbecued shrimp garnished with lemon and ginger; delicate mushrooms stuffed with bread crumbed crab meat; and spicy grilled chicken on wooden skewers that appear to be miniature swords.

You have some time to chat with one another over the appetisers, swapping stories of your experiences thus far and sharing what you know with one another. By the time you're done wrapping up your experiences, the second course is on the way, landing you with a rich and creamy soup made from asparagus, spinach, and roasted garlic savoury custard.

You have some time between your second course and the arrival of the main dishes to snoop around some more, if you should desire.

------

Second round of influence checks over. Begin round 3!

2/?: Nigel Aldain
1/?: Alexander Bedard
0/?: Hamaria Blakros
2/2: Jeon Raeng-Woo
2/2: Commander Rubaani Shafar (once Mifune wraps up his bit)

The elven loremaster walks towards the host Hamaria Blakros, and bows with a deep humility to her presence. "I bid you my sincerest thanks, revered Lady Blakros, for your hospitality. Rarely in elven memory has there been such a bountiful and magnificent matrimony. I am Kynrac Chronarion, lorekeeper of my people and agent at the service of the Society. I welcome this opportunity to speak with you, but also to ascertain a simple fact. I can see that the security is indeed at its best, but I would like to extend the Society's aid should something dire marr this glorious day. Something, perhaps, such as the infamous Onyx Alliance, for instance. Be assured we will be there for you in time of need, should such a time come up."

Feel free to come and aid another if you wish, Terrill.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 12 + 4 = 34

Trys moves to befriend the Andoran.
Hello sir! Bedard I presume? I understand how conflicted you must be feeling about this event, and yet you still chose to attend. The Society and I as its member think this event can be profitable for all involved, including yourself if you are able to look past your initial distaste. It is my hope that you will be able to do so. However, if you do decide to make a fuss, I'm afraid we will need to speak again, and that would not be enjoyable, for you.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (17) + 19 = 36

Terrill continues to make the rounds of the party with Kynrac, closely observing the other attendees and contributing where he can to the smooth-tongued elf's efforts to make a good impression.

As Kynrac chats with the Lady Hamaria, Terrill stands and listens courteously, then offers his own clumsy addition to the conversation. "Yes, Lady. The Onyx Alliance. Infamous. We can help. The Society, that is. You know, the, er, Pathfinders." He clears his throat and goes silent, somewhat mortified at what a clod he sounds like next to Kynrac.

Diplomacy, Aid Kynrac, with Onyx bonus: 1d20 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 + 4 = 9

Always nice to have +8 on a DC 10 check and still blow it...

"There certainly was that one occasion where this one was forced to wrestle that large, man-eating gorilla...but that is a most boring tale of adventure, intrigue, and mysterious artifacts of long forgotten civilizations."

Giving the commander a knowing smile, Mifune offered a glass (non-alcoholic) to her before awaiting her response to the exposition of his story.

Shel is hanging out right now. The only NPC left is one she has already failed with so she is not risking angering her.

You can work the crowd instead. That would be helpful.

-Posted with Wayfinder

Terrill and Kynrac,

Hamaria Blakros smiles politely at the elven duo, graciously accepting the lavish praise heaped upon her. "Knowing that even the long-lived elves with their fine sense of aesthetics appreciate the celebration warms my heart. I thank you kindly for attending this evening, the two of you; I hope that the celebration to come can make it equal to those honoured nuptials in elven history."

She seems to expect the turn of conversation as it is - no doubt every person here has been name-dropping their organisations and political ties to try and get in the Blakros matriarch's good books - but it is those two simple words that cause an obvious reaction in the woman. Hamaria's eyes widen ever-so-slightly, and for just a moment - but long enough for the two of you to notice it - the perfect façade is dropped. Shock, surprise, and perhaps a little fright linger about her eyes before she pointedly clears her throat and responds.

"Yes... Yes, I am sure the Society would have my back once more if... they should turn up," she says quietly. "You have always helped my family in times of great need. And I appreciate it dearly."

She politely says nothing about Terrill's tongue-tiedness, although he notices she primarily looks to Kynrac as she speaks. It looks like you've been demoted to hapless sidekick in her mind.

"I am worried that the Onyx Alliance will attack," she admits, her voice strained. "They took advantage of our lowered guard at the Grand Convocation last time. I will not permit myself to make the same mistake again. Not now. Not on Michellia's special day." This last part is said incredibly firmly; for all the worry you've noticed about her, you can tell that Hamaria is by no means remaining scared and fitful. Her incredible strength and power is evident even simply in that. One does not remain head of the Blakros family by harbouring weakness.

Rubaani Shafar approaches Hamaria at this point, glaring at the pair of you with her eyes in warning - no eavesdropping, you hear? After the missive, the matron rolls her eyes and allows herself the smallest of sighs. "Well, it's about time he showed up." Hamaria turns back to Terrill and Kynrac with an apologetic smile, "If you'll excuse me... perhaps we can talk another time."

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

Trys,

"What?!" Bedard splutters at the rude interruption, his cheeks flushing red in immediate anger. His voice is loud, causing a number of people to look at you and him with muttered glances. "How dare you! Who are you, woman? How dare you speak to a member of the People's Council with such insolence!" Though the councilman seemed happy enough to talk to you in the first place, it's clear that your threats played on his temper in an instant, like a match-stick to dry grass.

Nevertheless, you're fairly sure much of his protest is little more than hot air. He is getting on in years, and though his physique is strong from a lifetime of outside work, it's clear that he's nowhere near in peak condition... unlike you.

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

Mifune,

Rubaani takes the glass with a half-smile, sniffing it briefly before taking a sip. She whistles approvingly at his tale, her dark eyes shining with obvious interest. "Oh come now. Don't tease me with that. How'd you fare with the gorilla?"

The commander gives you only the shortest amount of time to answer before she pops up with a tale of her own. "Worst I've ever tackled was a manticore. That's what gave me this beauty." Rubaani points at the impressive scar lacing its way down the right side of her face. "Its tail shards quite nearly cut my nose clean off. But I got the bastard, right in its heart." She seems to be getting quite animated during story time... she's obviously enjoying herself.

Given half a chance, Rubaani will spend quite a bit of time going on with stories from her past. It seems that her adventuring days were nevertheless connected with the Blakros family, furthering their interests in the field so to speak. She's also all ears for any story Mifune wishes to throw her way as well. She does so until a member of her guard approaches, apologetically nodding to Mifune and whispering in his commander's ear.

Rubaani nods back to the messenger and turns to the samurai. "Sorry, gotta get back to work. Seeya 'round."

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

Since you're kind of blasting your way through the social part, I'm going to go through to the next round of Influence checks. This will be the last of the night.

Rubaani Shafar leaves the pavilion only after briefly muttering something to Hamaria; the Blakros matriarch likewise heads towards the entrance, obvious annoyance playing on her face for any that look close enough at her.

Shafar re-enters the pavilion flanked by a middle-aged Chelish man probably in his forties. He is almost too Chelish, with dark hair and pale skin, wearing an elegant black suit worked with impressionistic iterations of the symbol of Asmodeus; subtle enough to be wearable in polite, non-diabolist company, but clear enough to symbol to all those present of his allegiances without going overboard. Alexander Bedard nevertheless scowls quite visibly at the sight of it, although he says nothing.

"Ah! Tancred! Good of you to finally deign to grace us with your presence," Hamaria says evenly, her polite façade back in a flash - although this time laced with obvious coolness. She turns back to the crowd that had quietened at the arrival, obviously hoping for some kind of scene to erupt; but Hamaria would feed her political allies and rivals nothing of the sort.

Tancred smiles a thin-lipped smile, one that never quite manages to reach his eyes. "My sincerest apologies, dear Hamaria. There were some... complications on the trip here and it took my ship much longer than I expected to arrive. I hope you can forgive me."

"I am just glad that you're here at last," Hamaria says evenly in return. "... Enjoy what's left of the party tonight, Tancred."

The Chelaxian melts into the crowd within an instant, immediately surrounded by a gaggle of luminaries of all kinds. His lateness is obviously of no concern to them, at least openly.

Shortly thereafter, the main courses begin to be served for those that wish to continue eating. There is delicately-spiced poached salmon wrapped in paper-thin ribbons of cucumber; slow-roasted prime rib with a mustard, garlic, and thyme crust; roasted venison with port and red currant sauce; an escarole salad with olives and garlic croutons; and more, and more, and more! The food seems endless - and the alcohol even more so.

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

With those very high rolls, you've actually succeeded in swaying both Bedard (although how intimidating him works I have no idea - but such is the RAW) and Hamaria. Now, there's only Nigel and Tancred left...

Shel and Mifune, since you didn't give me any rolls for the previous round, you can make an extra Influence or Discovery check with Nigel (only; Tancred was not present previously) this round if you prefer, or we can just say you hung around chatting with Gloriana and Rubaani instead of moving on.

Discovery check on Nigel 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (9) + 7 = 16

I'm still a bit confused about Discovery checks. Are those made by just observing him and trying to recall things about him, or is interaction required? That's a Diplomacy roll for me.

Discovery checks may involve observation, prior knowledge, interaction with the person in question, interaction with other guests, or something else entirely. It's basically just focusing on finding out information rather than focusing on swaying him over to your side.

I edited my last post with a roll, and wanted to make sure you saw it, DM. Got a 16 on Diplomacy.

Yup, I saw it :)

Shel,

During your time with Lady Gloriana Morilla, she edges you into a larger conversation circle with a number of other guests, commenting quietly that you needed to gain some more expertise with dealing with situations such as this. This - and worse - is the reality of Taldor, after all. Nigel Aldain is here, as is his wife Dhrami Blakros, but there seems to be some awkwardness between them, as you may have noticed all evening. They do not stand together as many of the couples present this evening do, and it is only occasionally that they directly speak to one another.

"Say, you two - you were the last ones married in the family, weren't you?" One man, apparently the husband of a Blakros cousin or some such (you're a little lost after all the whirling introductions), asks with a grin. "When should we be expecting a new member of the family, eh?"

Both Nigel and Dhrami freeze awkwardly; Nigel seems pained and frustrated, while Dhrami appears sad and yet angered.

"Ah, yes, you know..." Nigel coughs and clears his threat. "These things take time..."

"Yes, they do. After all, you can only raise a child properly if everything is all set in order," Dhrami adds; you detect a hint of coolness to her speech, and Nigel grimaces ever so slightly.

"If you'll excuse me, cousin, I must fix my make-up," the woman says with a smile - although the anger remains in her eyes. She spins on her heels and strides away quickly.

"... I'm going to get a drink," Nigel announces with a sigh.

One of the other men pats him comfortingly on the shoulder. "Don't worry about her, Nigel. You know how women can get!"

The elven curator strides off to drown his sorrows in the alcohol table, but the conversation going on about you continues on unbidden.

"I wonder when Hamaria is going to get around to picking out a better husband for Dhrami," one of the women says with a pointed glare at Nigel's back. "The nerve of him to not take the Blakros name! It's no wonder she doesn't want to have his children."

"Yes, quite the bothersome affair. I'm shocked that he's lasted this long. Maybe he's got something over her."

"Probably something to do with the museum. He's worked hard for the family for so long - maybe she feels like she owes him one."

The bitter conversation continues behind Nigel's back for some time, and you eventually feel like slipping out of it for nicer, greener pastures away from the back-stabbing bitterness of the Blakros relatives...

Success! You gain a +4 bonus on Influence checks against Nigel if you bring up his marital/name/family issues.

I'm not totally sure if you're intending for us to launch into the next round or wait for the outcome of Shel and Mifune's actions, but I'll get a post up and see.

Terrill sees the Chelish knight enter the pavilion and manages to hide his disgust, Well, here's a foul scion of that land of deviltry and slavery. I could almost forgive them the former, after their history, but the latter I will not tolerate. Still, I've got to play a quieter game about it than Bedard. As he thinks this, Terrill scans the crown for Bedard, hoping to ensure that the man doesn't cross paths with Tancred any time soon.

He then makes his meandering way through the party, waiting for an opportune moment to engage the Hellknight in conversation. As Tancred separates himself from a small knot of conversation and moves away, Terrill matches his stride and greets him, "Good evening, sir, and welcome to this glorious feast. I am Terrill Mayern, of the Pathfinder Society here in Absalom." Chuckling in an ingratiating fashion, he goes on, "I'm sorry to hear about your troubles in arriving here. The Society has accomplished many amazing things in its day, and I've no doubt you have done the same. But I fear it would take wit and luck in even greater measure to maneuver the shoals of Lady Hamaria's anger should one arrive overly late to an occasion so important to her. I am happy that you seem to have avoided that fate, sir."

Hiding his loathing for the man behind a smile and a quiet laugh, Terrill continues to walk with Tancred for a moment, looking about to see if any of his companions are nearby to bolster his diplomatic efforts.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21

Kynrac, anyone - aid another perhaps?

Yup, progressing into the next round.

EDIT: Terrill - Tancred is NOT the groom. The groom is Damien Kastner. :P

Shel nods at Lady Gloriana, and makes her move toward Nigel. "Aw, Nigel, don't let that Blackros lot get you down. Family relationships are complex issues, especially with those sharks swimming around you and your bride.

You do good work at the Museum...several of my fellow Pathfinders were complimenting you on that earlier today. I haven't had the pleasure of venturing there yet, but I hope to do so soon.

Well, anyway, there is a fellow I have to meet, so I must take leave, but I just wanted to stop by and remind you about how much good you do. Keep your spirits up, friend."

Diplomacy 1d20 + 7 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 7 + 4 = 27

EDIT: Terrill - Tancred is NOT the groom. The groom is Damien Kastner. :P

Oops! Edited that bit out. You know these Chelish - it's hard to tell 'em apart.

Don't know if I have any other knowledges that are relevant.

Kynrac observes Desimire with a quizzical look, trying to figure out what makes this particular person so special. Gauging his attitude as Terrill tries to win him over, the loremaster studies the Chelish man's every reaction.

Trying a discovery check on him, what are the possible skills?

I meant no disrespect to your position, Counselman, merely having a clear and direct conversation. I have little time for social subtleties. Good day, freedom fighter.

Discovery for Tancred is Knowledge (nobility) or Sense Motive

Discovery for Tancred for next round.

Sense Motive 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7

DM

Discovery, knowledge nobility: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9

Using knowledge of ages

Discovery, knowledge nobility: 1d20 + 3 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 3 + 4 = 17

Trys will troll the general crowd.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (13) + 19 = 32

Terrill,

Your quick scan of the crowd proves that Bedard has pointedly placed himself on the opposite side of the room to the Chelaxian. Perhaps he took heed of your earlier comments - or perhaps he simply knows that he should probably avoid making a scene. (Well - you heard his angered blustering before - another scene?)

Despite outward appearances (or, more correctly, stereotypes - the arrogant Chelish noble much beleaguered in Andoren comedy and theatre), Tancred seems perfectly happy to speak to you, his every action and word smooth and respectful. In some regards, though, he reminds you of Zarta Dralneen - that smooth as silk tone of voice, slippery and soothing at the same time. And being reminded of the Paracountess is probably not a sign of good things to come.

He tips his wine goblet to Terrill with a smile. "I suspect that dear Hamaria is still not pleased with me, but I will endeavour to change her mind over the course of the weekend. Perhaps my congratulatory gift to her daughter will sway her mind," he adds with a chuckle.

"A Pathfinder, you say?" Desimire murmurs, taking a moment to eye you up. "How interesting. I have much interest in the organisation myself - for I hope that the Society may change its tune when it comes to a certain thorn in its side." He tips his goblet pointedly at one Zarta Dralneen, currently in another conversational circle a short distance away. "The Society could gain much from House Thrune by ridding themselves of her pernicious influence. Don't you think?"

---------

Shel,

Nigel seems rather taken aback by Shel's upfront comments, his previous calculating conversational style and almost pompous airs evaporating in an instant. He seems on edge, but at the same time your encouraging words buoy his worries, if only a little. It's hard to feel bad when you've got a cute-as-a-button halfling cheering you up!

"I hope you're right," he murmurs, staring into his wine glass pensively. "I truly hope so. I... I would not want to lose her, or my job." The elven man heaves a sigh, lost in his thoughts even before you make your leave.

---------

Kynrac,

You've actually heard some rather... interesting goss on the grapevine around the Grand Lodge about Lord Tancred Desimire, now that you think about it. You'd not paid much heed of it previously - only the most diehard of political tragics paid much attention to the dance and sway of Chelish current affairs - but this one could be useful to bring up with him...

Not too long ago, a group of Pathfinder agents caught a Chelaxian nobleman with numerous ties to the hated Aspis Consortium. He was killed by that same team in the isolated demiplane contained within the Hao Jin Tapestry before he could cause too much nonsense. If you recall correctly... this Chelaxian went by the name of Aglorn Desimire, and was indeed the brother of Tancred.

It seems the affair caused some strife within Cheliax, for Aglorn was found to have a letter on his body decrying the House of Thrune; the backlash landed at Tancred's feet to some extent as well. You've heard that, ever since, he has had a number of unpleasant run-ins with Zarta Dralneen and is working to undermine her influence with the Society as best he can. Hmm... interesting...

---------

Trys,

Not sure what you're doing exactly - but if you're going around threatening the crowd at random, someone's eventually going to call the guards on you and have you escorted from the premises.

Gotcha DM. I'll try with Tancred tomorrow then!

Terrill acts very slightly taken aback by Desimire's inquiry about Paracountess Dralneen, responding, "Ah, sir, that may well be true, but I would not know. It appears your knowledge of the inner workings of House Thrune, and where loyalties to it lie, far exceeds my own. I had understood the Paracountess to be here in Absalom at the behest of House Thrune, and to aim to serve them, admittedly in an...unorthodox fashion. Perhaps you can enlighten me as to why you feel Thrune would do well to be rid of her? That would help me to recommend any course of action to my fellow Pathfinders."

Mifune began to spread himself about the patrons after having bid the Guard-Captain farewell. Armed with his drink, his wit, and some well-placed charm, he set himself to the task of extricating information regarding this Tancred Desimire and the groom who had yet to show his face.

Discovery (Diplomacy): 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (13) + 10 = 23

Just as a heads up, Mifune, Kynrac has discovered all there is to know about Tancred...

Oh mighty Alice - can we get a summary of NPCs, how many successes we've had against 'em, who we've learned secrets about, etc., like you did a while back? Thankee.

Just as a heads up, Mifune, Kynrac has discovered all there is to know about Tancred...

Ah-hah! Well then...this is awkward. Any other viable targets for my super-sleuthing skills? I'm assuming that we can't preempt the missing Groom and Bride by making a Diplomacy check on them...

(Correct up until my last IC post, not those that came after it)

3/3: Nigel Aldain (+ secrets!)
3/3: Alexander Bedard
3/3: Hamaria Blakros (+ secrets!)
1/?: Tancred Desimire (+ secrets!)
2/2: Jeon Raeng-Woo
2/2: Commander Rubaani Shafar

That's right - because of the incredibly stupid scaling rules, one check was all it took to sway over Hamaria. You guys won't even need the later Influence checks. :P

Mifune, actually the bride and groom are not technically included in the 'NPCs you must win over' list, although you're welcome to instead spend your time sniffing out what's going on with them... or something else.

EDIT: Also, can't respond IC right now, about to head out to class.

Well, I'm glad we're making a good impression. But it is odd that the DCs for Diplomacy and other social skills don't scale up as characters' abilities do. Makes it easier and easier over time to turn enemies into friends, which doesn't make any sense.

Mmm. Like I said, the GM who ran it for me didn't actually use the scaling success rule - and I would not have done so if Trys didn't mention it. We were able to influence 5/6 of the characters without it, and that's with my Paladin refusing to have anything to do with Tancred (the one we didn't influence) so it's not like you even NEED it...

I have nothing I can do...we've pretty much curried favor with all the different people already and if there isn't one that we've talked to, we at least have all the information to curry favor with them... o_o

Trys will assist with Tancred if anyone wants to ask her to do so. Or she can go at him alone. ;)

I'd LOVE to see him bullied (regarding what happens in "the Disappeared" and "Day of the Demon"), so be my guest Trys.

Whoops, sorry! I said morning, but I wound up having to pull an unexpected babysitting job today. My 1.5 y/o nephew said he swallowed one of those small round batteries and we needed to watch my niece while he got taken off to the hospital! Turns out he hadn't actually swallowed it, but... y'know.

Terrill,

Terrill acts very slightly taken aback by Desimire's inquiry about Paracountess Dralneen, responding, "Ah, sir, that may well be true, but I would not know. It appears your knowledge of the inner workings of House Thrune, and where loyalties to it lie, far exceeds my own. I had understood the Paracountess to be here in Absalom at the behest of House Thrune, and to aim to serve them, admittedly in an...unorthodox fashion. Perhaps you can enlighten me as to why you feel Thrune would do well to be rid of her? That would help me to recommend any course of action to my fellow Pathfinders."

Tancred smirks; it is obvious that he hardly expected you to know such things, but relishes being able to speak down to you about them anyway. "Oh, I will not bore you with the particulars of the House of Thrune... but I assure you that the Paracountess operates on her own machinations, and her own machinations only. I think, hidden beneath her skilled veneer, there is an ambition to challenge the mighty House Thrune..." Tancred laughs harshly and takes a sip of his wine. "Of course she has no chance of succeeding, but it's best to rip out weeds before they become too unpleasant. Don't you think?"

Shortly thereafter, the Chelish nobleman excuses himself, leaving you with the most distasteful of musings - that of Chelish politics.

----------

After a long night of dancing and music, of expensive wine and delicious cuisine, and of ingratiating yourselves with the stars of Absalom, eventually the evening comes to an end. Hamaria Blakros signals the musicians to a halt and raises a final toast to those in the pavilion.

"And that, my friends, is the end of the evening. I thank you once again for coming in celebration of my daughter's happiness, and I am glad that everyone seems to have enjoyed themselves this night."

"My guards will lead you to your guest rooms; rest well, and dream of the beautiful wedding ceremony in the morning."

Led north across the island by the lines of decorated torches and scattered guardsmen and women, you are brought to the door of your lodgings here. The guest rooms are in fact small villas, their construction and paint still visibly fresh. You are assigned to one in particular, with singular beds for each of you separated by hanging curtains. Your belongings have been shipped here and are neatly lined up beside the front door; for the more paranoid among you, no, there's no sign of anything missing, either.

Before you get settled in for the night, there's a light rapping at the door of your cabin. Answering it reveals a familiar face - Trade Prince Aaqir al'Hakam, who greets you with a polite nod of his head.

"Good evening, Pathfinders; do excuse me for the interruption, but I wanted to speak to you about your... activities today," he murmurs with a sly smile.

"I was watching as you went, if you'll excuse me for the invasion of privacy. Most impressive work, I must say; much more than I expected of Pathfinders - but perhaps I should not doubt those chosen by Valsin."

"It seems you've made... many friends indeed," he notes, impressed. "And so fast! Like a desert storm, you've blindsided them all so far, it seems."

"All except Desimire..." The Qadiran chuckles to himself. "A bastard to be sure, but with a cunning tongue I'm sure he can be won over to your side as well."

Aaqir al'Hakam pauses a moment before continuing. "Now, I do not wish to chide, but Valsin asked me to keep an eye on you... continue being on your best behaviour during the ceremony tomorrow, yes?" He seems bemused at the request; looks like Ambrus was more worried about you than he seemed! "If you've any problems, do rely on me; I am always a friendly ear for those with whom I have good dealings. But aside from that - I bid you good night."

Assuming no further questions for him, the Qadiran trade prince leaves you to your bunks for the night.

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

Can everyone make a Perception check for me?

Does anyone have anything they'd like to do this evening before we progress to the morning? Also please let me know any particulars for the next day (spells prepared or some such) if they've changed at all from today.

Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25

Kynrac would like to share information with his fellow Pathfinders so that everyone is up to date. Then he will retire for a peaceful mediative trance. Or do elves sleep now in Pathfinder? I can't remember. The next morning, he's going to take time to prepare and make sure his appearance is at its best.

Perception 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (20) + 9 = 29

Shel isn't going to press for any other information from the Quadiran at the time.

Kynrac and Shel, as you're discussing your experiences of the day and preparing your things for tomorrow, you hear the faint thump of something lightly hitting the side of your cabin from the outside.

Shel looks at the elf wondering if he heard the same thing she did. "You want to check it out? Sounds like someone is trying to get our attention."

Shel turns to go outside. "I heard something. I doubt it's anything, but if anyone wants to investigate it with me, come on. If not, I'll yell if there's a problem."

Wait Shel, we'd better all go together.

Whether all of you or only a few of you go outside, it's with bated breath and careful footsteps that you approach the source of the noise on the back wall of the cabin. Perhaps you're more paranoid than the typical person - but that's the sort of attitude that keeps you living in your dangerous profession.

You hear a low, pained groan coming from within the darkness, and that causes you to hurry a little faster--but in the end you're faced with neither shadowy assassins nor demonic forces but simply a dishevelled young man halfway covered in his own vomit.

Jeon Raeng-Woo looks blearily up at you, his eyes having a lot of trouble focusing on their desired targets. "H'llo," he says, wiping his mouth awkwardly, "I'm... I'm alrigh'... shorry fer wakin' ya...."

"Good evening, Jeon...are you alright? Been doing a bit of drinking, have you?"