Male human bloodrager 7 | HP 58/74 | AC 21 | T 13 | FF n/a | CMB+10 | CMD 23 | Fort +9 | Ref +7 | Will +7 | Perc +11
DM medlii wrote:
Cephelo does not notice anything out of the ordinary. Far in the distance, he can hear shouting, as if a brawl had broken out several blocks away. From the south comes the sound of water gurgling at the banks of the river. Mifeg has dark bags under her eyes, as if she hasn't slept in several days. Her long, stringy hair and tatty clothes are unwashed.
Cephelo was still wary, "She appears to be alone so no ambush... from her."
The man kept his distance. It was clear that the woman was under some stress and her mind wasn't all there. Cephelo was wary and ... a little scared of crazy people so he let others talk, hoping they wouldn't see through his 'act'.
DC from bluff to notice Cephelo is scared:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11
Streets of Old Korvosa
Mifeg squints at Lantressa, as if that might help her recognize the woman. "Oh, I've sold a lot of mushrooms to lotsa folks. Beg yer pardon, Miss, but I don't remember ye. But you remember the grandchildren!" She seems pleased to talk about the dear children, but her voice is filled with sadness as she tells you of their encounter with blood veil. "All of them took sick and are sleeping it off now. Little Johnny, he was first to come down with it. The fever, then the red blisters, and coughing. And then the rest of them all caught it. But they're all resting, they'll be better any day now." Her eyes widen at Trey's offer of a gold coin. She grasps it tightly in her hand as if it might disappear. "Thank ye and bless your kindness, Miss. Now I can buy the little ones some food and some blankets. Oh thank you!"
Unless you have any further questions, Old Mother Mifeg rushes off into the dark streets towards her home to tend to her grandchildren.
Eel's End & the Silken Cloud
After the encounter with Mother Mifeg, you continue towards Eel's End and Lantressa's contact. You are all familiar with the name - Eel's End is the name given to a pier where five ships are permanently anchored, forming a drug, prostitution, and gambling complex run by Devargo Barvasi, also known as the King of Spiders.
The rickety wooden dock is decorated with lanterns shaped like spiders. In a clockwise direction, you note that the five ships are a barge called the Twin Tigers, the Dragon's Breath Corridor- a once-mighty vessel, now painted a gaudy shade of red, the Eel's End- an old warship, the Silken Cloud, and the Goldenhawk, a single-masted Chelish ship, patched and repaired in hundreds of places. It is immediately obvious that none of these vessels are seaworthy, and are kept in just good-enough repair to keep them from sinking into the Jeggare River.
Two men stand at the end of the dock, guarding the approach to the ships. As soon as they notice you, one calls out fiercely "Who goes there? If you're here on behalf of that lunatic calling himself Emperor, sod off!"
Lantressa:
Lantressa does not recognize either of the guards, but that is no surprise. Devargo's security force has a high turnover rate. He usually fired or killed anyone he did not like and promoted those who entertained him or stoked his ego.
Yrsa:
Yrsa knows that Eel's End is a constant headache for the Inquisitors. While Devargo always pays his vice taxes on time, he attracts a certain criminal element to the city. Many inquisitors turned a blind eye, assuming that it was best that Korvosans get their various fixes legally from Devargo and his business associates.
Streets of Old Korvosa "I am not surprised that you don't remember me, it has been a couple of years." She gets out a few gold pieces and gives them to the old woman, "Take these, and get what you need. I hope your grandkids get better soon." With that, Lantressa puts her hood back up as they all head to the Silken Cloud.
Eel's End & the Silken Cloud
Lantressa draws herself up and throws back her hood and opens her cloak, allowing herself to be seen fully, "I am Lantressa Darksong, and I serve no Emperor, nor do my allies. We have come to see Auntie Halvara, she got word to me asking if I would come and help find the missing girls. These folks helped me get here and need information that I hope Auntie can provide." She smiles at the two of them, turning on the charm, "Would you be so good as to let us through to Auntie, or at least send word that her Niece Lantressa has come to see her." Diplomacy if needed +1 if charming:1d20 + 10 ⇒ (12) + 10 = 22
AC 14 | FF 13 | T 11 | HP 45/45 | Init: +1 | Percep: +8 | Fort: +6| Ref: +3 | Will: +9
Streets of Old Korvosa
The symptoms, the Blood veil. this cannot go unchecked. trey peels off from the group grabbing Ty she whispers to him I'll be back keep an eye out for me
Trey hurries to find the old woman again, following her to her home. her one hand in her pouch clutching the two doses of the cure in her hand.
If this is left unchecked then the disease will spread here as well, and possibly mutate again. it must be stopped she whispers, her thoughts become somewhat vocal.
Yrsa calls out after Trey as she disappears into the darkness, but too late.
At least Typhon has gone with her. He'll be able to find us.
Serenrae's light apparently needs some spreading. Maybe some good will come of this, no stopping her anyway. Typhon will keep Trey safe. Let's head on to the Eel's End.
Eel's End and the Silken Cloud
Yrsa sheathes her sword, and steps into the light to be seen clearly while Lantressa talks to the doormen.
Emperor? Figured it would be pretty bad over here...
Old Mother Mifeg
Old Mother Mifeg takes no notice of Trey or Typhon, who have no trouble catching up with her as she shuffles to a nearby market square, muttering under her breath the entire way. As you expected, no one is about at this hour. But that does not stop Mifeg. She stops in front of an empty bench and speaks to it. "Hello, sir, do ye have any blankets fer sale?... All out? Know of anyone else who's got some?... Let me know if you get some, I'll be back tomorrah." Finding that her illusory merchant does not have anything she is looking for, she shuffles onward to her home.
Stopping outside the small apartment on the ground floor, Mother Mifeg holds a finger to her lips and looks at Trey and Typhon. "Shh. The children are sleepin, please be quiet. I'll put some mushroom soup on for everyone." When she opens the door, you are greeted by a horrible stench of decay and rot. Two large beds heaped with blankets occupy about half of the room and flies swarm around the reeking mass.
Mifeg nods at the bed, holding her fingers to her lips again. She goes to the hearth at the other end of the room and busies herself preparing the soup.
Eel's End and the Silken Cloud
The two guards look Lantressa over as she makes her case and takes note of Yrsa and Cephelo, and after a moment, one speaks. "Alright. I'll go wake Madam Halvara. We sure could use some help around here, and I sure wouldn't mind having those girls back." He winks at Lantressa and guard retreats to enter the Silken Cloud while the other remains outside. After about ten minutes, he returns. "Miss Darksong? You and your friends can go in. Madam Halvara will see you in the main sitting room."
Walking down the pier, you reach the ship. A banner above the gangway proclaims The Silken Cloud—The Caress of Our Lovelies Will Take You Straight to Heaven. A single long structure sits atop the main deck of this ship, the double doors cracked open. It is a strange sight to those who have visited previously. Usually, the deck is filled with scantily- clad men and women loitering about the deck, drinking and talking, and the doors thrown open to welcome visitors. But now the deck is empty and quiet.
Opening the double doors reveals a large room decorated with throw rugs, large pillows, and lit by red paper lanterns. Unlit bronze braziers set on silver stands carved in the likenesses of slit-eyed serpents and proud hunting birds about the room. A beautiful half-elven woman with silvery hair hanging to her waist and wide blue eyes lounges on one of the cushions, but leaps to her feet to hug Lantressa. Lantressa, darling, I'm so glad you came to visit! And you brought friends! Welcome to the Silken Cloud. I'm Halvara. Please, make yourselves comfortable, we have much to talk about... Would you like any refreshments?" She curtsies to Cephelo and Yrsa in her diaphonous white nightgown that accentuates the alluring curves of her body. You catch the scent of her cinnamon perfume as she draws near.
When the guard returns with permission to enter, Lantressa trails a hand along each guards chest and leans in to kiss each of them on the lips, her voice low and suggestive, "I am glad to see that you are doing such a good job keeping the place safe, it makes me feel much better." She gives both of them a rather naughty little smile, "I have a couple more compatriots who should be meeting us here, Typhon and Trey, I would be very grateful if you would show them in when they arrive."
When Halvara runs up to Lantressa, she is hugged back with equal measure and a kiss on the cheek, "Mistress Halvara, these two, and a couple of others, helped me get here after I got your message." She gestures to Yrsa and Cephelo in turn, "This is Yrsa, and this Cephelo. Yrsa, Cephelo, my 'Auntie Halvara'. While I don't know if they want anything, I would love something to snack on." While Halvara is speaking to Cephelo and Yrsa, Lantressa takes off her cloak, and offers to take Yrsa and Cephelo's as well, and hangs them up. When the refreshments are brought, Lantressa sits on the cushions next to Halvara.
Lantressa's voice sounds wistful when she speaks again, "It's so sad to see the place so deserted, though I guess it is not unexpected with the plague going on. Have any of the girls gotten sick with it?" With a look of concern, "Please tell me none of them died from it at least."
Male human bloodrager 7 | HP 58/74 | AC 21 | T 13 | FF n/a | CMB+10 | CMD 23 | Fort +9 | Ref +7 | Will +7 | Perc +11
Lantressa Darksong wrote:
When Halvara runs up to Lantressa, she is hugged back with equal measure and a kiss on the cheek, "Mistress Halvara, these two, and a couple of others, helped me get here after I got your message." She gestures to Yrsa and Cephelo in turn, "This is Yrsa, and this Cephelo. Yrsa, Cephelo, my 'Auntie Halvara'. While I don't know if they want anything, I would love something to snack on."
Cephelo, more comfortable in these surroundings since he's crossed over to Old Korvosa, smiled, "G'morning, ma'am."
Trying his best to hide his admiration of the madame, he concentrated on the conversation developing, trying to discern useful information to be used later.
sense motive:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
Later in the conversation
The young man looked away from the ladies prancing around, "So who is this 'Emperor'?"
Outside the Silken Cloud
The guard is stunned in surprise at Lantressa's advance, but finally replies "O-okay. Trey and Typhon, got it."
Inside
Halvara returns with a pitcher of water, glasses, and a tray of dried fruits for snacking. She answers Lantressa's question first. "Ah, we are very fortunate in that respect. Two of the girls took sick, but at the earliest sign of symptoms, I opened our stock of curative supplies for disease treatment and they recovered quickly. It simply would not do to have an establishment such as ours be known for spreading illness. Things have become quite unsafe here for other reasons, however."
At Cephelo's question about the Emperor, Halvara asks "Do you remember the playhouse Exemplary Execrables, run by Mr. Pilts Swastel? It's about a dozen blocks from here, where Mr. Swastel directed performances like Vampire Princess, The Gore Magus, and Swords, Sin, and Spirits. And the attached Museum of Instruments of Torture and Murder, with the functioning guillotine he imported from Galt?" Halvara does not hide the fact that she is sensing everyone's reactions to the discussion of Swastel's gore-filled plays and the museum containing bizzaire paintings and exhibits such as "two-dozen-and-three severed heads" and "unwanted fetuses."
"Once Old Korvosa was put under quarantine, Mr. Swastel decided he would run the district. With no Guard or Sable Company or Hellknights to stop him, he's taken over several tenements on Silk Street and started calling himself the Emperor of Old Korvosa. Mobs of his followers kept showing up here, demanding conscripts to act in his little shows, entertain him, and hand over our food. They threatened take us prisoner and use some of those 'Instruments of Torture and Murder' on us, until Devargo summoned up a swarm of dream spiders and frightened them off. Since then, we haven't left Eel's End, with the Emperor's gangs roaming the streets. We've enough food and water here to last awhile, though it is quite dull." Halvara sighs, she does not look happy to be confined to the Silken Cloud.
"More importantly, just after the quarentine, but before Swastel was such a force to be reckoned with, I had no issue with leaving the ship and several of the girls went out. Sara was going to visit Lord Arkona. I was hoping he might be willing to provide some protection. He cares deeply about the city's safety and often supplements the guard's forces in Old Korvosa with some of his own men. But I haven't heard a single peep from the Arkona estate or from Sara, though I have no idea if she made it there safely... And Agatta was trying to find if there was any way across the river. Daisy went to visit her sister at the other end of the island. And I've no idea if they've died of blood veil, are murdered at Swastel's hands, or are taking refuge with Lord Arkona..." Halvara trails off, clearly upset and concerned for the girls.
After taking a moment to compose herself, and yawning, Halvara asks "I'm sorry, I'm not in the best of ways at the moment - am I explaining everything clearly?"
AC 14 | FF 13 | T 11 | HP 45/45 | Init: +1 | Percep: +8 | Fort: +6| Ref: +3 | Will: +9
Trey takes a deep breath trying to compose herself. Identifying the stench almost immediately. Trey needs to think of a way to convince this poor woman the truth.
Ahh, Miss? I do not think Soup is necessary, I would not want to impose. but I am a healer in service of Sarenrae. would you mind if I take a look at your children? I have done lots of work with sick children through out the city. she maintains a pleasant demeanor as she speaks hoping to convince her to let her see the children,
Sighing in relief initially, Lantressa relaxes a little, "I am glad to hear that they recovered." As she is filled in on the missing girls, Lantressa becomes obviously worried, "The fact that Lord Arkona hasn't stepped in against the so called 'Emperor' is not good, he's not one to let such a sadist go unchecked. as for the girls, I hope they made it to safety, but if not, then I pray they were killed by the plague or in the streets quickly, because if this monstrous Emperor got them, I am afraid that their fate will be far worse." At what are likely outraged or dismayed looks from her compatriots, Lantressa quickly clarifies, "I realize what I said may sound harsh but I understand the mind of someone like that better than I would like. Mistress Halvara knows my heritage, though you don't, she knows I speak the truth." Looking back to Halvara, "Do you know the routes they would have likely taken? It will help if I have an idea of where to look for them, I know the routes Sara likely took as I have used them many times myself, but the others I am not so sure of."
During the time that Lantressa is sitting with Halvara, she has been very attentive, and affectionate, quite submissive actually, unlike her behavior thus far. "Are there any other dangers to be aware of along the way to where my compatriots need to go Mistress?"
It saddens me to have learned of your lost friends. We here and two more will do everything we can to see them to safety. Even if we have to provide a fully rounded history lesson to this Swastel ourselves. He will be held accountable. I'm certain out errands will run us afoul of him, regardless, Yrsa hesitates a moment, before adding and if Devargo ever crosses that line, know that I and my companions and Longacre too are here if you need.
Male human bloodrager 7 | HP 58/74 | AC 21 | T 13 | FF n/a | CMB+10 | CMD 23 | Fort +9 | Ref +7 | Will +7 | Perc +11
DM medlii wrote:
Inside
After taking a moment to compose herself, and yawning, Halvara asks "I'm sorry, I'm not in the best of ways at the moment - am I explaining everything clearly?"
Cephelo munched on some dried fruit as the madame explained what was going on. "I think I understand. The lack of power has given rise to a madman that enjoys cruelty. Although I haven't seen any of his plays, they don't sound like something I would enjoy."
He sighed, "OK, so it looks like this Lord Arkona is someone we need to check up on. Either to see if your girls are there or to find out why he hasn't done anything about this 'emperor'."
After a moment, he asked, "I'm looking for a young man by the name of Amin Jalento. He studies in the fencing academy here. Do you anything of him?"
Depending on the answers, I propose that we wait for the others to join us and head to the closest area: a)Amin Jalento if area is provided or academy, b)Daisy's sister, or c) Lord Arkona
Upon entering the house, Ty feels a deep chill inside.
I recognize that smell. To many young ones died of exposure and starvation, or once Lamm got ahold of 'em , abuse. He always left the bodies for us to clean up....Man's dead now Ty get over it. So sad to see the little ones here dead though, with someone to care for them. No wonder she's loony." "Ahem. Yes Ma'am Trey is one o the best..."
Ty stands near the door, not sure of what to do or say...
Mother Mifeg's Home "Oh, that would be wonderful!" Mifeg beams at Trey, her missing teeth obvious. She goes back to preparing the soup, ignoring that part of Trey's request.
Trey's suspicions were correct. When she uncovers the blanket, it is clear that the six children have been dead for at least a week. Although the corpses are beginning to decompose, the telltale red pustules of late-stage blood veil scar their skin.
The Silken Cloud
Halvara nods and smiles at Yrsa, but does not say anything in return.
"I fear you might be right, Lantressa. A quick death could be a blessing in a time like this. Honestly, I'm not sure of their routes. Daisy's sister lives somewhere on the western end of Old Korvosa, but she never told me where. Agatta - heavens know how she expected to cross the river." Shaking her head sadly, she changes the subject.
"Mr. Swastel and his mobs are the main danger to be concerned with. They roam the streets in groups of half a dozen or so during the day and evening to find victims and food. Late at night, you are actually safer as they are occupied in watching whatever grisly entertainment Swastel has dreamed up. And feral dogs, shingle spiders, and other vermin scuttle about with a bravery I've never seen before."
To Cephelo, she shakes her head. "No, I'm not familiar with that name. The fencing instructor, Master Orisini used to visit Devargo occasionally, but I have not seen him since the quarantine."
As you make your plans, Halvara asks "By chance, do you have news on if the bridges will be repaired or when the quarantine will be lifted?"
sense motive, DC 15:
Madam Halvara is nervous and upset at being trapped in Old Korvosa and concerned for the girls that are missing. You detect disgust as she describes Pilts Swastel's latest stint as Emperor. She downplays her hope and excitement when asking about the repair of the bridges and lifting of the quarantine.
Cephelo, you can use your sense motive check from previously
Sense Motive:1d20 ⇒ 10
Noticeably worried by all that Halvara describes, Lantressa lets the others ask questions for now, still dancing attendance on Halvara as needed. When the question of the bridges comes up though, Lantressa tells her experience from earlier, "I tried to convince the Grey Maidens to let me cross at one of the old bridges Mistress, I lucked out that the woman in charge there has great respect for hellspawn and couldn't tell I wasn't one. She never came out and said it, but I got the distinct impression that they won't lift it until everyone is dead here, maybe not even then. It seems everyone here is on their own Mistress."
Male human bloodrager 7 | HP 58/74 | AC 21 | T 13 | FF n/a | CMB+10 | CMD 23 | Fort +9 | Ref +7 | Will +7 | Perc +11
DM medlii wrote:
The Silken Cloud
Halvara nods and smiles at Yrsa, but does not say anything in return.
"Mr. Swastel and his mobs are the main danger to be concerned with. They roam the streets in groups of half a dozen or so during the day and evening to find victims and food. Late at night, you are actually safer as they are occupied in watching whatever grisly entertainment Swastel has dreamed up. And feral dogs, shingle spiders, and other vermin scuttle about with a bravery I've never seen before."
To Cephelo, she shakes her head. "No, I'm not familiar with that name. The fencing instructor, Master Orisini used to visit Devargo occasionally, but I have not seen him since the quarantine."
Cephelo noted the madame's concern for her missing girls and her disgust at the 'emperor'. However, he also knew that the 'emperor' was not really his concern nor of any of his companions that he knew of. At least not yet.
Not trying to sound to aloof, he simply stated, "We'll look for your girls and our other concerns here. Should the 'emperor' cross our path then he will be dealt with. Right now, it seems that the academy may be our closest destination, on our way to the Arkonas, so we'll go there first."
He looked at his companions for agreement.
tag any?
later
He once more addressed the madame, "I suggest you stay put until you hear news from us. It's yet early in the day; we'll try and touch base before dark but don't be too concerned if we don't. You can assume that we hit trouble if you don't hear from us in 48 hours. Understood? Anything else we should know before we head out?"
Cephelo votes to go to the academy unless something more pressing comes up.
AC 14 | FF 13 | T 11 | HP 45/45 | Init: +1 | Percep: +8 | Fort: +6| Ref: +3 | Will: +9
Trey already knew from the smell and the scene before her. but this confirms it.
She places the covers back over the bodies, and turns to Mother Mifeg, I am afraid that their condition requires they be moved to a Hospital. I can see personally to their care. but due to the effects of the disease You will not be able to go with them I am afraid. Is this alright with you?
diplomacy:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (15) + 15 = 30 bluff to convince her the children will be alright.:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12 (bonus cause she wants to believe Trey?)
Trey looks to Ty, hoping to silently ask him to assist her.
Old Mother Mifeg
Mother Mifeg looks simultaneously hopeful but reluctant. "Oh... are ye sure it isn't too much trouble? I would miss them so much." But after Trey and Typhon convince her of Trey's prowess, she finally agrees that you can take them to this hospital. "Oh, bless ye, I can never repay ye for somethin like this, you are too kind."
She putters about the room, picking up a ragged doll and battered toys for the children's trip. "'Ere... this is Johnny's favorite toy swords, and Angela's dolly." She makes no protest if Trey and Typhon do anything with the children, but her hands fidget anxiously as she watches and waits.
Trey and Typhon, although you are still finishing up at Mother Mifeg's, in terms of timeline, you would get back to Eel's End at this point, to rejoin Lantressa, Yrsa, and Cephelo.
Silken Cloud
Outside, Typhon and Trey find the guards at Eel's End know them by name. "Ms. Trey and Mr. Typhon? Lady Lantressa is just inside, if you'll follow me." The guard leads you into the ship marked as the Silken Cloud, where you find your companions sitting on comfortable lounge chairs and cushions. They fill you in on the previous discussions about the Emperor of Old Korvosa, his mobs, and the missing girls. You can read through the conversations above if you haven't already.
Halvara is disappointed at Lantressa's news about the quarantine. "That is disheartening, but it is better to know the truth than to wait for something that will never happen."
She listens to Cephelo and nods "Very well, I will speak with Devargo as soon as he wakes in the morning. I will do what I can to help if we do not hear from you. And, if what you say about the quarantine is true, I will start plotting how to get us out of here once you return. I don't know of anything else you should be aware of. I think the mobs are your biggest danger, though I have not left the ship - heaven only knows if other horrors are lurking out there."
As for the time, it is about 3am in game time now. Are you planning to wait until morning or leave immediately?
When the guard escorts Trey and typhon in, Lantressa looks up at them and then leans to Halvara and whispers,
Whisper to Halvara:
"Mistress, if you will excuse me a moment, I need to speak with the guard."
Lantressa then gets up and moves to the man who brought them, leans in, and gives him a light kiss on the lips before whispering to him,
Whisper to the guard:
"Thank you, and as I promised earlier, if you and you fellow would like me to demonstrate my affection I will be happy to, either when you get off your shift or at some other time. Mistress Halvara can get you in touch with me if I am not here when you do."
That accomplished, she returns to Halvara's side and sits again. "Moving at night or during the day seem to be our options. While I do not want to put off our various tasks for something so simple, I would point out we have all been up and active for a long time, and it might be a good idea to be rested before we venture out into the streets any further." Looking back to Halvara, "I assume that, were we to stay here for a while to rest we would be safe to do so? It doesn't sound like the emperor is so bold as to strike here, at least not yet anyway." looking back to the others, "What do all of you think?"
Male human bloodrager 7 | HP 58/74 | AC 21 | T 13 | FF n/a | CMB+10 | CMD 23 | Fort +9 | Ref +7 | Will +7 | Perc +11
Lantressa Darksong wrote:
Looking back to Halvara, "I assume that, were we to stay here for a while to rest we would be safe to do so? It doesn't sound like the emperor is so bold as to strike here, at least not yet anyway." looking back to the others, "What do all of you think?"
Cephelo agreed, "That's fine. It sounds like things don't change much either day or night here so we may as well be rested."
With that, Cephelo took a cushion to one of the corners of the room and propped it up against the wall. He then sat in the corner with his axe across his lap, arms folded over the weapon. Used to sleeping in moving wagons, the young man was soon resting.
I had thought it was closer to dawn but no matter. At dawn we head to the academy then.
AC 14 | FF 13 | T 11 | HP 45/45 | Init: +1 | Percep: +8 | Fort: +6| Ref: +3 | Will: +9
earlier with the dead:
assuming she has the ability then Trey was going to try and see about giving the children a decent burial. she still will need to deal with Old Mother Mifeg
Trey seemed a bit more uneasy after being filled in. all of this is rather strange, the cure for the blood veil has been available for quite some time, much of the city was cured. It seems that this section has been denied the cure. The old woman with the mushrooms, her children have been dead for at least a week now, the cure, if properly distributed would most likely have prevented that. What is it about Old Korvosa that people want to keep the plague running rampant here?
Trey is pondering this aloud not realizing she is doing so, her questions and comments are directed at anyone in particular.
No problem if you want to finish up with the dead. My apologies for rushing you.
Trey and Typhon did not notice an obvious place to dig a grave nearby in the city where the streets are paved. However, it is likely that you could find a park or similar area if you search around. You do not notice any shovels in Mother Mifeg's home, but she does have some small trowels for digging up mushrooms and roots. Mifeg does not protest anything you do with the children - she fully beleives you are taking them to the hospital for treatment. will let you take them since she thinks you are taking them to the hospital.
Eel's End
Madame Halvara's jaw drops open when she hears Trey mention a cure. "There is a medication to treat blood veil?" she asks, shocked. "Why, Queen Ileosa has just left us to rot! An entire quarter of Korvosa! That is a good question, Sister. Why, indeed?" She asks angrily, as if Queen Ileosa had just personally slapped her in the face.
"You are welcome to sleep here of course, we have plenty of beds," Halvara smiles wickedly when you mention resting for a few hours. "Though I doubt they will come here, I'm sure you will find Swastel's mob patrolling the area whenever you leave."
Halvara shows any of you that wish to private bedrooms to sleep, remarking "It is rather unusual for anyone to sleep alone in these rooms," though she does not make any advances. One has a bed covered in furs from exotic beasts, the second has black silk sheets, and the third room's bed is heart shaped. If Cephelo elects to sleep in the main room, she finds some quilts for him, though the night is warm enough that blankets are probably not necessary. After ensuring everyone is comfortable, she retires to her own room to sleep for a few hours. Through the remainder of the night, the barge rocks gently in the currents of the Jeggare River.
Lantressa:
Halvara winks at Lantressa, pleased to see her enjoying herself. The guard groans at her kiss. "Mmm... Come back soon, I'd love to take you up on that offer when my shift is over."
In the morning, you find another visitor waiting in the hold of the Silken Cloud. The tall, lithe man sits easily on one of the cushions. "Devargo Barvasi," he says, introducing himself to Trey, Yrsa, and Cephelo. The black leather armor he wears is decorated with spiders of all sizes. A live spider scuttles across his arm and up his shoulder, perching there for a moment before scurrying off. He pays the spiders no mind. "Breakfast, from our stores," he says, nodding at a haversack on one of the lounge tables. Inside are dried fruits, nuts, and some hard cheese.
Recognizing Lantressa, he says "I knew you couldn't stay away from this place."
When he sees Typhon, he grins in delight. "Hey! Up for another game of knivesies? Where's that gnome friend of yours?" Whether or not anyone asks, he retells the story. "This guy here, he and his buddies went up against some of my guys playing knivesies. There was this little gnome girl, with crazy purple hair, so filthy she looked like she just crawled out of a gutter. She bet me my pet pseudodragon that she'd win! I thought to myself, no way! That scrawny girl can't beat my best guard! And when the game started... she roasted him alive! He didn't stand a chance." Devargo laughs at his own story, relishing in the memory.
Lantressa:
Just as you remember, Devargo loves two things - entertainment and talking about himself.
Let me know if you make any preparations when you wake up in the morning. Otherwise, I will continue tomorrow with your journey to Orisini's Academy.
AC 14 | FF 13 | T 11 | HP 45/45 | Init: +1 | Percep: +8 | Fort: +6| Ref: +3 | Will: +9
dealing with the dead.:
could we possibly have them sent back to trails end and be buried there? it seems it would take quite a bit of time to bury them here.
Trey sleeps rather well considering her accommodations. but at time like these you take what luxuries you can.
At breakfast trey pulls out one of the vials with the cure. Madame Halvara, consider this a gift of the Church of Sarenrae, a single dose of the cure for the blood veil. she tosses the vial to her.
"We may be staying here until morning, come by and check, if I am asleep, feel free to wake me. Bring your partner too if you wish, I owe you both. I'll be in the room over there." She points to the room with the heart shaped bed in it.
Before retiring for some rest.
Lantressa heads to the room with the heart shaped bed, "I always enjoyed this one, so many good times have been had on it."
Once Devargo arrives in the morning.
Lantressa curtsies to Devargo gracefully, "My King of Spiders. I am not here to stay, at least not for long. I have not seen you for some time now, are you doing well?"
Male human bloodrager 7 | HP 58/74 | AC 21 | T 13 | FF n/a | CMB+10 | CMD 23 | Fort +9 | Ref +7 | Will +7 | Perc +11
Cephelo stretched his muscles after a tough couple of hours; he's had worse.
Munching on some dried fruit, he was ready to go when the curious spider king appeared. He'd heard of him before but decided to let others talk as he watched.
FYI, I'll be traveling/out of town until Saturday but I 'should' be able to follow along and post. Happy New Year!
Yrsa chose the room with black sheets. After a few hours' rest, she joins back in with the others, trying to keep a low profile and not cause controversy with their hosts. She finds a spot near Cephalo, enjoying some breakfast as well.
Trey knows several different funeral rites for the deceased, and realizes that she has many options. She could take the bodies back across the river to Trail's End for burial, or set the boat adrift and hope that it makes it across the river for burial when her mission is finished. From her long studies of Sarenrae's traditions, she also knows that the Dawnflower has rituals for burials at sea when digging a grave is not an option. Some sects also believe that the fire of cremation returns a soul to Sarenrae's domain.
Kn. Religion:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
Eel's End
Devargo grumbles "Not much business when no one has any money for shiver or gambling or whores. Emperor won't pay for any of it either. How's a man supposed to earn a living when everyone's broke or dead?" Sighing, he adds "But if we just sit tight, we'll win em over. They'll get sick of their little plays and games soon enough. I'm a patient person. Although I wouldn't shed a single tear if you want to kill that idiot, Swastel, while you're out. "
Streets of Old Korvosa
Although most of the morning's fog has burned off, the sky is overcast when you leave the Silken Cloud. A stiff breeze off of the ocean carries the stench of smoke and rot, but does little to cool the heat of the day. The streets are quiet, save for a few feral dogs that slink out of your way as you pass, growling from doorways and alleys. Most of the windows and doors here are boarded over.
A group of six men in piecemeal armor armed with various swords, maces, and spears notices you within a few minutes. "Looky here boys. A whole batch of fresh meat. " The largest man strides up to Cephelo, looking him in the eye. "What's the meaning of this? Why are you in Emperor Pilt's kingdom?"
The other five men begin to spread out as if to surround your group. A balding man wolf whistles at Trey and winks. "I'm gonna take that Priestess back to my place and-" A younger man with a long nose elbows him, interrupting whatever lewd comment he was about to make. "Yeah right. That dwarf is more your style... she might even be uglier than you!" The men all snicker.
"What about that one, with the horns?" Nah, she's prolly some sort of vampire or witch or something. Put a curse on you if you try anything." Pointing at Typhon, another remarks "I knew elves worship nature and all that garbage, but look at this guy - he thinks he's a bird! Go eat some dandelions, you scrawny fairy."
Social rolls are welcome if you want to reason with the Emperor's men.
Before leaving the Silken cloud I would be casting Mage Armor, makes sense considering what we are expecting to come across.
Giving the man a haughty look as he insults her, "No, I'll just send you to the abyss that spawned me."
If I can get 3+ in a 30 ft radius:
Lantressa chants briefly and holds her hand out, a glowing red mote appearing above it and flying to the largest knot of adversaries, promptly exploding into a blast of fire. Fireball DC 19:7d6 ⇒ (3, 6, 4, 4, 1, 2, 6) = 26
If she can't get at least three in the blast area:
Lantressa chants quickly, making a diminishing motion with her hands and fades from sight. Cast invisibility on herself.
Ty cocks his head at the comments, not unlike the bird he was likened to. He then pops both wrist sheathes, grasping his mundane daggers in his hands.
Beckoning Bruce Lee style...
"Looky here, friends, we've discovered the bottom dregs of the slops barrel. In the sunlight even."
Smirking..
" Or maybe the nightsoil bucket.."
Male human bloodrager 7 | HP 58/74 | AC 21 | T 13 | FF n/a | CMB+10 | CMD 23 | Fort +9 | Ref +7 | Will +7 | Perc +11
depending on what happens, Cephelo will first try to intimidate
Cephelo shook his head, "You are all the same. You either are a very slow learners or you can't see very well in the morning hours. Too much to drink last night?"
He flexed his arms, "Take a good look at me, at us and tell me what you see."
He waited a second before adding, "If you took a good look around, you would have seen trouble, lots of trouble and pain. Looky here, the ladies here will make you feel sorry you ever got up this morning. Me, I just might snap a couple of bones and leave you be."
He turned to Ty, "He might even kill you."
He showed his calloused hands, "So how about you just keep on your way?"
AC 14 | FF 13 | T 11 | HP 45/45 | Init: +1 | Percep: +8 | Fort: +6| Ref: +3 | Will: +9
dead kids :(:
in an effort to put that part of the story to bed, lets just assume the bodies are burned and a prayer to both Sarenrae and to Pharasma are given.
Trey walked with the group the issue with the blood veil and the children weighed heavily upon her. but the approach of some thugs snapped her back to reality.
she clutched her staff tightly her face was one of a frighten girl. worried what the men might do.
bluff:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9
it may not take much for the thugs to see through her ruse of innocence.
Yrsa cracks her knuckles under the plate gauntlets and shakes her head from side to side. She draws her falchion. Finally, I've been looking forward to this all morning.
Yrsa has a problem with thugs like these. In these violent times and at this violent place, she seems to have let go of some restraint. Lethal force might be about to get used..
The encounter map is updated, the thugs are numbered to avoid confusion.
Initiative Order: Enemies, Cephelo, Lantressa, Typhon, Trey, Yrsa. Since the enemies went, the party can all go in any order you'd like.
Roll your attacks, damage, etc and move your icons on the map as needed. If you aren't sure of something just ask, or like Lantressa did, post your backup plan.
Round 1: Old Dock Thugs
The leader laughs at Cephelo's bravado. "Yeah right. If you're lucky, we won't kill you and the Emperor will let you live for a few days! Surrender or die!"
Three of the men are hit by Lantressa's fireball. "Holy $#%@! Send her back to the abyss!" They scramble towards her, swords drawn. They all look badly burned and absolutely furious. In his rush to get to her, the first thug does not come close to hitting Lantressa, but the second slashes her across the arm with his sword. Lantressa takes 7 damage from Thug 4.
Yrsa, you get an attack of opportunity on #3 as he moved past you during combat. Cephelo, you can take an AOO on #1 as he moved past you as well.
"Now that they're done with their little tricks, surround them and capture them!" the leader commands, drawing his own battleaxe to engage Cephelo. Too busy shouting orders, his swing comes nowhere close to Cephelo. The remaining thug holds his position behind his leader, throwing an axe at Cephelo, but he dodges easily and it hits the building behind him with a thunk. The man that tried to maneuver next to him scores a hit, gashing Cephelo's leg. Cephelo takes 3 damage from Thug 1's swords.
Glaring at the one who managed to cut her, Lantressa snaps out angrily, "You're mine." She steps away from the thugs to get some room and chants quickly, making a diminishing motion with her hands and fades from sight.
Five foot step away and cast invisibility on myself. Already did the movement if that is ok, if not I will refrain from doing so from here on.
acrobatics to avoid AoO and move through enemies squares:1d20 + 12 ⇒ (20) + 12 = 32 Dc is thug 3 and 4's CMD+7, if successful, he stabs thug 4 with flanking. stab with flanking:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24 damage:1d4 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4 sneak stab damage:4d8 ⇒ (4, 8, 2, 7) = 21
With a forward handspring that turns into a leap, Ty spins sideways over the heads of two of the burned thugs. Landing facing them, he stabs the one beside Yrsa.
" You don't get to ignore me, mate!"
Yrsa stands statuesque as the fireball explodes, almost immobile as the thug #3 runs past her. In a single, soundless slice she cuts the man in half, blood spattering her armor, and turns to the next two.
Slice!:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16
damage:2d4 + 11 ⇒ (3, 4) + 11 = 18
Thug #4 is next in line. He can't even see the dwarf's eyes.
Supa Slice!:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17
damage:2d4 + 15 ⇒ (3, 1) + 15 = 19
Thug #5 is the victim of a sudden downward chop. Yrsa flicks the viscera from her blade. It all happened so fast. She drops into her knees and holds her falchion in another ready position.
Grr..
Dice Deets:
Yrsa full attacks and enters crane style. Yrsa power attacked. Full attack bonus for aoo; +4 str, +7 BaB +1 weapon, +1 wep training -4 power attack but +6 damage since it's two handed. +1 attack to confirm critical hit for ruthless trait. Double strength to damage for aoo and attack two for fighter archetype.
Male human bloodrager 7 | HP 58/74 | AC 21 | T 13 | FF n/a | CMB+10 | CMD 23 | Fort +9 | Ref +7 | Will +7 | Perc +11
may not be able to post until late tonight so here'smy post whenever it's my turn
Bloodshed all around, Cephelo tried hard to not give in to his rage. What if I can't control it? What will they think?
Instead, he grabbed his axe with two hands and concentrated on cleaving the man in front of him in two. His training kicked in and he swung his axe at the leader next to the thug.
Lantressa, yes, move your icons as needed on the map, saves confusion of me guessing where you want to go
Cephelo, I did not take your DR into account in the previous attack
Ty, your acrobatics check is fine
Yrsa, Ty killed #4, so I'll apply your hit to the leader.
Cephelo scores a gash across the thug's cheek and blood drips down his face. Typhon's precise strike to the man's kidneys ensures that he is dead. Yrsa is a whirlwind of steel as her falchion cuts down one thug and scores a solid hit to the leader's abdomen, blood seeping through his leather armor.
Round 2 "They're just lucky! We got this under control! Kill the meathead here" the commander shouts, pointing his axe at Cephelo. He still sounds confident, even though only two of his men remain standing after your display of prowess. The man Cephelo attacks maneuvers behind him to put Cephelo off balance, but misses. His stunt allows the leader to score a superficial blow across Cephelo's chest.
Darn, got a sneak attack in but minimum damage! Cephelo takes 5 damage from the leader, not counting any DR
The other remaining mobster joins in the fray, crowding around Cephelo, but also misses. Cephelo twists to attack the man behind him and finishes him off before he can continue his distraction. The strength of his swing brings his axe full-circle to strike the leader, nearly knocking him off his feet.
Everyone can act in whatever order for round 2. I already counted for Cephelo's action. The leader and Thug 2 are still alive.
With one diagonal, Ty can get flanking with Cephelo, without a AoO. Funny I forgot the +2 for flanking last time.XD
Maneuvering around, Typhon slips up behind the 'leader' of the thugs.
attack with flank:1d20 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 9 + 2 = 24 damage:1d4 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6 sneak stab:4d8 ⇒ (8, 4, 6, 2) = 20 " We're not really the bluffing type."
He whispers in the lead thug's ear as he slides his dagger home.
Lantressa moves around to get a clearer shot at the enemies ending right in line with them. She chants quickly and holds her right hand palm out where a moderate size red glow appears which turns into a pair of beams, racing towards the leader and his remaining compatriot.
Scorching Ray 1:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 194d6 ⇒ (4, 4, 1, 3) = 12 Scorching Ray 2:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 204d6 ⇒ (4, 4, 6, 4) = 18 So, they lose dex to ac because I am invisible when I cast it, against their touch ac and invis breaks. I'll let you add any other modifiers though I added the +2 for being invis already.
Typhon's dagger skewers the man, and he slumps to the ground, dead. Lantressa's blast of fire kills the final remaining man before he had time to consider fleeing after his leader's death.
The men were not particularly well-equipped, and you recover five sets of studded leather armor, five longswords, a set of masterwork studded leather armor, and a masterwork battleaxe. Two of the men are carrying knapsacks stuffed full of brightly-colored curtains, clothing, and jewelry worth 100 gold. They also contain some charcoal stubs and parchment, though nothing has been written on the paper.
Thanks, more details are always good during combat if you want to make sure I'm taking all the buffs and debuffs into account!
I'm assuming you are continuing on to the fencing academy unless you let me know otherwise.
Lantressa goes to the body of the man who cut her with his sword, kneels, and uses the nails of her hand to cut his throat, showing them to be actual claws. "I didn't give you permission to touch me, and now you won't touch anyone ever again, fitting." Looking at her companions, shall we proceed?"[/b] She chants and flicks her hand, the blood and gore falling off of it. She stands up, and begins to walk down the street when everyone is ready.
