Anselm makes his way back to the entourage surrounding the High Strategos, projecting an air of nonchalance as he attempts to recall the man’s weaknesses.
He considers what to do with these rumors as he continues to keep an eye out for Trant.
”I wonder my dear, if you would please do me a small service. Take this to Junior Senator Duo, in the gallery. You’ll know him by his fidget - he’s always toying with a quill. Fancies himself a writer. Deliver this with my thanks to Lady Lotheed.”
I trust Lady Lotheed, but do I trust one that she trusts?
Kamari accepts the resealed letter back from Count Zespire and makes her way to the gallery. However, she takes time to stop and check in with Lady Lotheed on the way. She weaves easily through the crowds, finally understanding how to navigate while wearing her new dress.
"He accepted your letter, my lady, and sends his thanks. However, he did not send you a written response, but has sent me to Junior Senator Duo after adding to your letter and resealing it with magic."
The Junior Senator is easy to spot as he threads the quill through his fingers and stares at the blank page.
"Copper for your thoughts, sir? Or, perhaps you are in need of inspiration." She discreetly holds out the letter.
"I do not think you've reached your peak, good Major. If anything, I'd say your star is on the rise. You've a talent that's found its rightful home!"
K'Aldrian waves his cane up in the air as he walks away, signifying that he heard comment, but also not quite agreeing with it.
Bah, I have a few years, not many more before they'll need to find someone to take care of me.
* * *
He strolls back to the Archives, hoping to encounter Duke Centimus again and also begin his efforts to discern his voting stance.
Given an opening, K'Aldrian will approach the Duke with some general comments about the Taldan Army and how the Duke feels it might best be used to advance Taldor's interests. He will ask probing questions, trying to see whether the Duke views authority in a traditional or more open manner.
Sense Motive -
* * *
He will then move to the Senate Gallery and try a similar approach with Abrielle Pace, trying to figure out what might influence her.
Sense Motive -
Well, odd. I don't quite think I remember ever hearing about her...
Elen heads for the courtyard and tries to make a positive impression on the Princess.
Waiting for just the right moment to be noticed by the Princess again, Elen approaches curtsying. "Your Royal Highness, as you well may be aware, many a young woman upon the streets of Oppara look up to you not only for your values -- but for your skilled strength and elegance in fencing," she smiles, wondering if Kamari is one of them.
She stays and listens, trying to discover what might influence Lady Morilla.
"My Lady," she says, curtsying. "The Opparian Towees have lovely plumage this time of year, don't you think?"
Elen heads into the senate, and spies the Knight known as Lord Remilliard Kastner. She makes an attempt to see what makes him tick.
"Hello," she says, once again curtsying. "You are Lord Remilliard Kastner of Taldor, are you not? I am Mallë-o i Otos Elen -- it means 'Path of the Seventh Star' -- of Tian Xia. Please call me Elen. Are you enjoying the Gala thus far?"
I mean sure, she’d have to know about them so she could guard against it in her kitchens. But it’s eerie just how much she knows. In the end, she looks at the look on your face and laughs. ”Here,” she plunges a pair of potion vials into your hands, ”In case you think I had any ideas.” She laughs even harder and gets back to the work of the kitchen.
You obtained two potions of Delay Poison along with a juicy steak, seared just enough to give it some crunch, thought the blood flows freely from the still cold center.
- - -
Maxillar is a muscular man in his early forties. Years under the elements have weathered his skin, and he keeps his silver hair closely cropped. He wears a green-and- blue tabard emblazoned with Taldor’s official coat of arms, publicly declaring his loyalty to the nation more than anything else.
- - -
Anselm is able to keep an eye on Miss Trant in the third social round of this set, and doesn’t find she’s moving much, though a couple supporters, large dour men, have joined her on the railing.
You make your way then to Junior Senator Duo, who is indeed easy to spot for his ink stained hands and wandering quill. Still, as you approach, he does flip that quill around quite dexterously - weaving it around his fingers like it had a life of its own. Quite impressive really, though the Senator is less so.
He’s prematurely balding which makes him a bit older than you expected for a ‘Junior’ Senator, but there are a lot of old men on the floor below you. He pushes a lone strand of hair out of his face and back over his substantial bald spot as you approach, by way of trying to clean himself up. He takes the letter from you without a word and reads it. He moves his mouth as he reads, and while you don’t catch all of it it’s clear he’s being told how to vote - and he doesn’t like it.
His jaw sets though, and you figure he’s weak enough to do what he’s being told to do. Probably won’t make waves, but he does take his ire out on you a bit by dismissing you with a gesture as if you’re not worthy to be in his presence any longer.
- - -
He smiles somewhat wryly under your questioning, though his answers are somewhat halting and not always clear. He does seem to support the current reigning monarch, but he doesn’t do so slavishly. Could he be willing to support Eutropia? Hard to say at this stage of the conversation, and he’s a little difficult to talk to with long pauses between conversational periods.
You do learn what it takes to influence him though - Bluff, Diplomacy, or Knowledge (geography or nature) DC 15
Countess Abrielle Pace is another conversation altogether. A countess and member of the senate from the western borders of Taldor, Abrielle Pace seeks to advance by any means available. Only ridiculously gauche noble clothing and fine jewelry set Countess Pace apart from any other Taldan. Her face is usually in a smile, though it quickly turns to a sneer when she loses control of the conversation. She has short but well-kept brown hair locked back in a stylized bun.
Her conversation is somewhat curt as she’s trying to measure you - are you useful or useless? Her questions back to you are less of an inviting nature, and more pointed - Where did you serve? Whom did you save under? Are those the only medals you’ve earned?
Despite her unpleasantness, you do learn what it takes to influence her - Appraise, Diplomacy, or Intimidate DC 15.
- - -
The Princess doesn’t seem to recognize you, or perhaps doesn’t know you’re working for Martella Lotheed on her behalf. But then there are likely a lot of people working on behalf of the Princess these days, and it seems likely she wouldn’t necessarily know all of them personally.
Slim and athletic, Princess Eutropia bears the distinctive cheekbones and nose of her Stavian father and grandmother. Despite the ostentatious jewelry she wears, her gown and hair are more conservative than that of most of the gala’s attendees.
”Why thank you, that’s very kind. You however don’t look quite young if you forgive my impertinence.” she smiles lightly and chats with you about how Taldor is viewed in Tian Cha - once she discovers (from your dress/accent/or discussion) that you’re from there. She seems genuinely interested in how others view Taldor, and how she can improve their perception of her beloved home. You have also succeeded in influencing her once. She is not fully influenced as yet.
Lady Morilla stands tall among her noble peers, sporting the finest of Absalom’s fashion. Her attire is far less ostentatious than that of other present nobles, but she makes up for it with a grace of movement that allows her to easily shift between crowds. You note that she stays close to Princess Eutropia and seems to be paying more attention to her, then to you. She makes some mild conversation about the flowers, but her mind is elsewhere, and you are unable to sharpen her focus. You do not yet learn her influences.
Lord Remilliard Kastner is a somewhat formal man, and greets you formally, bowing slightly out of respect. He’s amiable enough if a little stiff. You quickly learn, in your short conversation, that he’s a paladin of Ragathiel, a lesser known deity around here. He speaks fondly of his family heritage as well - apparently he’s from a long line of Kastner’s, trailing back to the first days of the Taldan empire.
His weakness, as seems obvious once you speak to him, is to speak well of Ragathiel, Lord Kastner’s patron deity.
- - -
Lady Trant has not yet been spotted in the fourth round of this set. Still to go - Anselm (1), Kamari (1), Mama D (2).
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian (weakness learned)
Lady Gloriana Morilla
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace
Duke Leonard Centimus
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius
Lord Remilliard Kastner (weakness learned)
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned)
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement
- - -
You have finished influencing all the areas of the Senate. The party has gained some notoriety and are generally more visible than before. The nobles, Senators, and other powerful people are starting to take notice of you. Gains made include…
A1. Arcade of Triumphs
Learned that the crossbow Dignity’s Barb, a famed weapon of the Seventh Army of Exploration, is a replica of the original, lost many years since.
Gained universal solvent and unguent of timelessness from Copernia Vaunt, the Senate curator.
A2. Courtyard
Learned how to influence Princess Eutropia Stavian.
Gained +2 circumstance bonus to Bluff, Diplomacy, and Intimidate checks to influence people.
A4. Gallery
Picked up a number of valuable donations from an appreciative audience, including a wand of eagle's splendor.
Increased the number of social rounds by 1 between each act, and can move more easily around the Senate Building (+2 to moving through crowds).
A5. Imperial Archives
Learned about older Senatorial structures beneath the current Senate thanks to some old blueprints.
Pabrus Telecoum donates an unsalvageable book to the party containing, among the rot, a scroll with a handful of spells.
A6. Senate Floor
May use Senate Floor influences anywhere in the Senate for other areas.
Met and impressed Judge Dartist Mercenian who offers a gold ring as proof of his favor.
A7. Servant Area
Learned to use the servant passageways to move more efficiently (and discretely) around the Senate (+2 to moving through crowds).
Gained two potions of delay poison from Dedrien Nos, the head chef along with her appreciation and a steak.
Probably won’t make waves, but he does take his ire out on you a bit by dismissing you with a gesture as if you’re not worthy to be in his presence any longer.
Kamari happily shrugs off the junior senator's dismissal and the need to make polite conversation with an ignoramus.
Freed up from her role as messenger, Kamari looks around for Lady Trant. Considering "she’s a belligerent, narcissistic ass, and a bully as well," Kamari has some hope to find her up in the gallery looming other some other junior senator. That, or she might even spot her below on the senate floor seeking bigger fish.
Anselm next finds himself in the archives, speaking with the Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius. He listens actively to their conversation, interjecting innocent-sounding questions to help discern her interests and political leanings.
He continues to keep an eye on the younger Trant.
Mama D returns once again to The Courtyard, striking to continue her pleasant discussions with both young and old, though this time, she tends to do more listening than talking. Because everyone wants to be heard at some point. She keeps her features open and approachable, and Cuddles near to hand, should anyone be curious about her prickly companion. "Oh, he's quite tame, for me, though not always a big fan of new people. Here, try this little bit of berry tart. He seems fond of it. That's right, just the crust through the filigrees, no fingers." Meanwhile, with ears attuned and what is left of her peripheral vision on standby, she endeavors to find the weakness of one of the remaining mysteries on Lady Lotheed's list, Lady Zariyah Clement.
Should she discover Lady Clement's weakness, she will approach, in hopes of influencing her.
I forgot to include a few head-shots in my last post. Here’s a catch up of the rogue’s gallery.
Countess Abriella Pace (image)
Duke Leonard Centimus (image)
Lord Remilliard Kastner (image)
…and earlier, how could I forget, the clown!
Wyssilka The Fantabulous (image)
It doesn’t take long to figure out what she likes - a mysterious archive of objects and information known as the Endless Repository in western Porthmos which she runs. Well into her nineties, Octavia Nicodemius is one of Taldor’s oldest and longest-serving senators. She comes to Oppara only a handful of times each year, partly because of her advanced age, and partly because she strives to finish cataloging her Repository before she chooses a successor for her senate seat - and possibly for stewardship of the Repository.
You’ll need Knowledge arcana or Diplomacy DC 15 to influence her further.
- - -
Zariyah Clement’s ancestors immigrated to Taldor at the conclusion of the Sixth Army of Exploration’s disastrous expedition into the Mwangi Expanse. These forebears had acted as guides for the Taldan army, battling side-by-side against the depredations of the Gorilla King. After decades of dedicated service and political marriages, the family won entrance into Taldor’s nobility, along with a seat on the Senate, which its descendants have been careful to protect in the centuries since. Zariyah is the lady of her household, balancing management of a relatively small estate just northeast of the Verduran Forest with her duties in the Senate.
She speaks proudly of these things, though distantly. In response to a question by another, she is firm in her proclamation, ”I’m Taldan. I’m from Taldor.” and you can imagine some may erroneously question her loyalty, or even her skills, based on her heritage.
You learn her weakness: Recognize she’s Taldan though of Mwangi ancestry and she’ll respect you in return, and what it takes to influence her: Bluff, Diplomacy, or Sense Motive DC 15.
- - -
As Kamari watches from across the mezzanine, Malphene Trant eventually makes her way back to the upper gallery alongside a few of her sycophants, corners the young Senator Amadorian Dou, and shoves him into the Beldam II Waiting Room, closing the door behind them. She then, presumably, notifies Martella as per the plan, who tells the group through the Senate Badges that Miss Trant is on the move. ”Miss Trant is on the move. She’s cornered Senator Dou in the Beldam II Waiting Room. See what you can do!”
Anselm is the first to arrive, having also caught sight of Miss Trant making her move.
Available Senators & Other Important People (you can see their current status here (link) on the third tab)
Princess Eutropia Stavian (weakness learned)
Lady Gloriana Morilla
Kalbio of Breezy Creek (no weakness)
Earl Gahez Varima
Baron Nicolaus Okerra - fully influenced
Countess Abrielle Pace
Duke Leonard Centimus
Viscountess Octavia Nicodemius
Lord Remilliard Kastner (weakness learned)
High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus (weakness learned)
Wyssilka the Fantabulous
Lady Zariyah Clement (weakness learned)
- - -
That lady is a real bully.
Kamari spots Anselm headed for the room and rushes to meet him.
"Feel like breaking up a party?"
"I thought I might... Try some performance art. How does this look?"
Anselm says a short prayer and suddenly looks... a bit... like one the High Strategos' aides.
Elen receives the message and responds Beldam II Waiting Room. Understood, on my way.
She meets up with Kamari, who appears to be with one of Strategos' aides. "Where are the others? Shall we interrupt them with a ruse? Maybe I want to show you all a new dance routine, and we need the space? Then detain the poor senator while Trant is on her way out?" she suggests.
She brings her attention upon Anselm's ruse. "I'm sorry I don't believe we've -- Anselm?! Is that you!? What's this? An Aide to Strategos? Do they have any authority over... boors?" She carefully scrutinizes his look.
"...By any chance does that work in order to make you look enough like an actual someone else that you could be mistaken for them? Maybe we could walk in with another Senator Amadorian Dou! The room is called 'Bedlam' after all. We might as well give it reason to bear that name."
She considers for a moment, glancing at her Lotheed badge. "Or maybe, that's not the kind of attention we need to be drawing to ourselves right now," she sighs.
The somber looking brute smiles, gap-toothed. "Assuming she’s working to uphold primogeniture, I’ve no doubt she’ll respond to a summons by the High Strategos. But perhaps you are all milling about up here be happenstance. Now, let’s not tarry. This won’t last long."
Muri hears Lady Martella's petition through the convenience of the Badge, while he's found a quiet place outside the Kitchen to proffer the Taldogis steak to Lady Underfoot instead. Knowing her good fortune, the sheepdog makes quick work of the choice meat, both feet in front of her to assert dominance over any piece that might unfortunately break from the meat of the meat.
Only when finished does Muri click his tongue, and both halfling and dog make their way upstairs, seeking the Waiting Room. From a distance, he spies his new associates hovering about the closed door, so keeps his distance, not wanting to draw undue attention to the goings on.
Once they make their way inside, Muri bids Underfoot follow to the wall just outside the room, and take position. He'll seek to discourage any others from entering the room, so as not to overwhelm the poor, outnumbered girl Trant.
Acting a bit slowly, K’Aldrian moves to support his strike team. He’s never been in the front lines, and he’s always been more comfortable in support. He clacks to where he can comfortably watch the oncoming interruptive advance and provide support if needed.
He doesn’t know yet what he could be doing to help, but with the Lady insisting this is important, he is there.
He looks around the room for anyone else (outside of the party) that also might be watching this with too much interest.
Perception
"Assuming she’s working to uphold primogeniture, I’ve no doubt she’ll respond to a summons by the High Strategos."
"You never know. Sometimes belligerent, narcissistic-ass bullys think they are above the law and have ideas of their own."
Elen stays on, ready for anything.
Major Kort doesn’t see anyone nearby, and the chamber is somewhat remote (likely picked that way by Miss Trant for her nefarious purposes).
The Beldam II Waiting Room is a 30-foot- by-30-foot area, with lavish white marble floors and sturdy wooden walls at the end of a hall in a little cul-de-sac section. The centerpiece of the room is a vast 10-foot-wide gold-trimmed window peering down over the city of Oppara. Chairs and tables are spaced throughout the chamber to promote socializing though they’re somewhat scattered now.
Dame Malphene Trant (image) is a towering, broad-shouldered, athletic young woman and she’s surrounded by three strapping young lads - all intent on doing mischief. As you approach the door, you hear snippets of the discussion within.
Senator Amadorian Dou had apparently been a reluctant ally of Senator Trant’s before Martella coaxed him into taking a stand against primogeniture. The elder Trant apparently responded by asking his daughter and a few of her young, high-society friends to shake down the young man and regain his obedience which they’re now doing, with some force.
The doors are open, and we’re in initiative as you arrive as things are happening quickly. The room smells of fear as Senator Dou is pinned down by a superior force. No weapons have been drawn by anyone.
Round 1
Anselm walks in, saying, "Ah, ahem. Apologies, milady. The High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus asked me to find you and request your presence at once. He awaits you in the Arcade of Triumphs."
He remains by the door, his body language projecting less conviction than he had hoped to muster.
"You heard the man!" Kamari pushes through the door passed Anselm.
"You have a very full schedule. I will not have my lady waiting longer because you dallied with your earlier appointments." She stares past Lady Trant at the senator.
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Round 1, Init 16
"Is this the bathroom? I thought it was this way?" K'Aldrian says aloud, doddering in. "You there..." he jabs his cane at one of the sycophants. "Give my your hat! I need to go...quickly!"
Intimidate
Kort moves in between Anselm and Kamari, noting that neither have taken an aggressive posture.
Being an man with older characteristics, he takes a defensive posture, ready to raise his cane in defense as needed.
hp: 10/10
AC: 15/13/12
Saves: F1/R4/W5 +2 vs. enchantmentLowlight. PBS.
Aroden's Verve: 0/3 used
GlitterBomb: 0/0 used
Extend GammaRadiation: 0/0 used
Quantum Leaps used:
Pathfinder Carry: 0/0
Staff of Courage: 0/0
0: (create water, detect magic, light, stabilize)1: 0/2 used
to hit; damage.
to hit; (+PBS)
damage;
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Round 1, Init 16+
" ... "
" ... "
Oh, dear, none of that sounded convincing. Elen bites her thumbnail in thought, wishing everywhere was as peaceful as Jinin.
Elen floats into the room and over to Trant.
"What do we have here? Lady Trant, isn't it?" she glances a her psychophants in scant acknowledgement. "I am Mallë-o i Otos Elen."
She turns her attention to the Senator and beckons to him. "Come out of there now, Senator," she says gently but with authority.
Readdressing Trant she says, "Why do you resort to such shady tactics? Have you no shame? Last I checked Taldor is a free society, it's members able to vote how they wish, not how others would have them under threat of violence. Leave now, and we will not report this incident to higher authority."
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Round 1, Init 7
AC = 15
HP = 11/11
Weapon Equipped = Quarterstaff(Shepherd's Crook)
Condition(s) = None
Muri is entertained by the range of emotions so suddenly foisted upon himself. First, anxiety. Second, worry. Third, apprehension. Fourth, reassurance.
The halfling beckons Underfoot to his side, standing in the doorway.
"Well said, Elen. These ruffians have no place outnumbering the honorable Senator. I wonder what the punishment is for extortion."
Kamari tries to bluff the Senator (and surrounding folks) as Anselm strides in confidently, but something in his demeanor shifts as he speaks, and it doesn’t sound as convincing as he’d like. Elen, suspecting the former attempts may not have succeeded, tries a more direct and diplomatic approach. Major Kort, anticipating hostilities, takes up a defensive position even as he threatens to pee on their clothing. Muri goes straight for the jugular with one of the sycophants, making him distinctly nervous.
But the opposition holds its ground.
Dame Trant gives all of you a steady look for a moment before dismissively waiving you aside, ”I’ll not take orders from the likes of you. My father’s a Senator in these halls, what were your fathers? Pig farmers no doubt, if you even know who they are. Now leave, I’m busy.” She turns back to the task at hand briefly before turning around again, ”You’re shtill here? I said leave. Now.”
She doesn’t move, clearly accustomed to having her orders followed. You can see, behind her towering form, the small Senator Dou, looking quite frightened - his eyes pleading for help though the meaty arm on his shoulder keeps him in position.
Her supporters shift slightly, smirking at the party, though red looks distinctly nervous, and they all clutch their hats.
- - -
Muri doesn't address the Dame, preferring instead to offer a quick rebuttal.
"She's drunk."
"Milady, your father may be a senator deserving respect. His daughter, it seems, lacks even the nobility of a pig. How would it sound if these halls discovered his daughter drunkenly bullies respected Senators like milord Dou? Should you persist, we'll certainly see to it your antics are well known."
Anselm's hands twitch as he considers which sort of celestial creature would do least damage to Trant's face.
"You might have a drunkard's courage, but you lack her...actually, you look like one, too."
Kamari takes a 5' step forward and follows the Major's wise move of being prepared for an attack. She stands on the balls of her feet and keeps her hands ready to deflect any blows.
Round 2, Init 16
"I said leave. Now.”
Kort pauses his belligerent rouse, realizing it might not be the best tack. He had hoped to bait the enemies into revealing their intentions. It wasn't completely successful, but they had learned something.
Sense Motive
Ah. They have been drinking.
"You can *try* make me leave, Trant, if you wish. You don't give orders to me. I'm retired. And tired," K'Aldrian replies gruffly. "You might want to listen to my friend here and get gone."
aid Anselm's bluff
hp: 10/10
AC: 15/13/12
Saves: F1/R4/W5 +2 vs. enchantmentLowlight. PBS.
Aroden's Verve: 0/3 used
GlitterBomb: 0/0 used
Extend GammaRadiation: 0/0 used
Quantum Leaps used:
Pathfinder Carry: 0/0
Staff of Courage: 0/0
0: (create water, detect magic, light, stabilize)1: 0/2 used
to hit; damage.
to hit; (+PBS)
damage;
Round 2, Init 7
AC = 15
HP = 11/11
Weapon Equipped = Quarterstaff(Shepherd's Crook)
Condition(s) = None
Muri observes the sword on the Dame, and the several rods the supporters sport, so lays down another threat from the doorway. "My dog is easily excitable. If you pulled out your sticks, she would probably leap at the chance to take if from you. If you used your sticks to beat that poor man in the corner, she'd probably take a nip at your buttocks." As if she understood, Underfoot takes a step forward, allowing herself to be restrained by a halfling hand on her collar.
Mama very nearly missed the call to arms, and so is the last to arrive. Catching a glimpse of the ne'er-do-wells, she tries to recall anything she might know about any of them that could prove useful.
The inns name is the Sleeping Gnoll Tavern.
- - -
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Straightening her shoulders, she bustles into the room, seemingly talking without taking much notice of the current situation. Suddenly, she draws up short and smiles brilliantly.
"Artie! Is that you!?! Why you're the spitting image of your father. Do tell me he is here this evening with you? I know how much Seimon hates these sorts of things, but they really are important, you know. And how are things at the Sleeping Gno..." She cuts off short, as if just realizing she might be interrupting a previous engagement.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Ar-Arthur, I didn't realize you were already with friends. It's just I haven't seen anyone from Skathen in, well, practically forever. Do you think they could spare you for just a few moments? I have something I want to send to your father."
Round 2, Init 16+
Elen looks from Mama D. "Artie", fixing her gaze on him and jerking her head in the direction of Mama D. to encourage him to just leave.
"what were your fathers? Pig farmers no doubt, if you even know who they are. Now leave, I’m busy.... You’re shtill here? I said leave. Now.”"She's drunk."
Elen's eyes dart to Muri then back to Trant, and she pulls out a pencil and a small pad of parchment and starts writing. "'You're' ... 'shtill' ... 'here?' ... 'I said' ... 'leave.' ... 'Now.'." She looks up from her parchment at Lady Trant.
"Is that true? Oh, Trant, you have a problem. On top of everything else, you're drunk." She sucks in her lips as if making a difficult decision.
"We're giving you a chance. Can you show us that some portion of you is still civilized? Call off" she waves her hand in the direction of Trant's goons "these people and leave."
Muri relaxes, just a little, as the women take the lead in directly confronting the inebriated Dame. Mircene would have enjoyed an opportunity like this, I think. Nobles acting on their baser desires... I wonder if she'll regret this evening, when she sobers up.
Mama D almost convicts ‘Al’ to stand down, but Trant gives him the stink eye, and his courage is bolstered. Kamari knows where Trant is coming from, and is having none of it. Anselm dishes back to Miss Trant, who reacts badly to the insult. Elen starts writing down everything she says, which confuses the inebriated Miss Trant and she hesitates, but not for long. Major Kort confirms his resolve to stay as he tries to help Anselm. Muri correctly identifies what simple weapons they have (though not out) and counters with one dog.
Miss Trant reacts hostilely to the parties commentary, shaking her head rapidly as if trying to get you all out of it. She crosses the room to punch Anslem in the face, or try to - she’s at least certain of the target of most of her anger. She provokes from Mama D if she’s got a weapon/unarmed strike. ”They’re just girls and old people - get them and teach them a lesson!”
Her allies back her up! They each attack unarmed, though they are not proficient and provoke if you have a weapon out or improved unarmed strike. Remember your weapons are peace-bonded (which means a full round action to free them) - even you Muri.
Red charges Kamari with reckless abandon.
Blue steps up on Major Kort, though Muri’s got him a bit frightened.
And finally green throws a punch at the Senator, guessing perhaps it might be his only chance, before closing up with Elen.
The good Senator's nose breaks, and blood flows freely all over his fancy clothes as he mourns, "I'm gonna die, I'm gonna die!"
Sigh. I really need to pack better next time.
Kamari longs to free her rapier, but decides to wait for them to do so first. We've already provoked them into throwing the first punch and we will need every advantage when it comes time to explain this to the guards.
Kamari moves between one ruffian and the senator .
"Defend the senator!
She punches at the one who punched the senator.
She whiffs and longs even more for the sap stored neatly at home.
Round 3, Init 16
Expecting an attack, Kort lashes out with his cane at the one trying to punch him:
to hit;
damage.
Kort shakes his head and clubs Trant with his cane, not trying to do serious injury, but hoping Mama D will distract her enough.
to hit;
non lethal damage.
hp: 10/10
AC: 15/13/12
Saves: F1/R4/W5 +2 vs. enchantmentLowlight. PBS.
Aroden's Verve: 0/3 used
GlitterBomb: 0/0 used
Extend GammaRadiation: 0/0 used
Quantum Leaps used:
Pathfinder Carry: 0/0
Staff of Courage: 0/0
0: (create water, detect magic, light, stabilize)1: 0/2 used
to hit; damage.
to hit; (+PBS)
damage;
"Oooh!OOOH! Do Be Careful, Artie, I believe this Harridan has gone quite mad!" Mama D shakes her walking stick for emphasis and "accidentally" swinging it towards Lady Trant.
Aoo with a quarterstaff walking stick
"Did you see that?!?!?! She nearly knocked my cane out from beneath me! And me, nearly as old as your good granny! " she calls out once again to Lord Arthur's Good Soul.
Round 3, Init 16+
"I'm gonna die, I'm gonna die!"
"Oh hush, no you're not."
for
Elen clutches her pencil and drops her notepad just as green narrowly avoids running into her knee.
Round 3, Init 21
Anselm steps back, smirking. "I hate to cause injury to a noblewoman. But, then, you look more like your father's horse than his daughter."
He waves his hand and a celestial eagle appears, scratching at the woman's face.
Round 3, Init 7
AC = 15
HP = 11/11
Weapon Equipped = Quarterstaff(Shepherd's Crook)
Condition(s) = None
"Defend the senator!"
Muri watches as things become hostile, and takes Kamari's call to arms as the true mandate of the room. He tugs on Underfoot's collar, the direction of the junior Senator the sheepdog's command.
Underfoot slithers behind the old woman cuffing the dame with her cane, padding along the eastern wall, until she reaches the Senator's side, preventing Green's easy access to another jab in the face.
When Muri is sure of Underfoot's understanding of the situation, the halfling turns to Dame Trant, and chastises her.
"You're tarnishing your name, Malphene. When word gets out, hopefully you'll feel some shame for what you've done tonight."
The halfling remains in the doorway, debating whether or not he'll need to reach for his crook.
Mama D manages to connect with her quarterstaff, though it’s more of a soft touch than a solid hit. Kamari shouts as she attacks, but overswings and misses. Anselm summons an eagle! The eagle proceeds to beak her and rake her with a talon (though she’s not evil). Elen almost knees her opponent, but reflexes keep him from running into it. Major Kort too has trouble connecting, though he has more opportunities than most. Muri’s Underfoot pads quickly and directly to the Senator so as to properly defend him, and though she provokes from Trant, as you’re not sending her at her, she doesn’t take a swing. Muri then piles on and sows doubt in her boisterous mind.
Miss Trant frowns at Anselm, legitimately surprised, ”The guards shall hear of your blasphemy, and violation of Senate Rules. I shall see to it you’re thrown out of the Gala, along with your rabble!” She turns to her friends, ”Now we’re just defending ourselves men, Walter, go summon the guard!”
With that she noiselessly draws her well oiled and expensive looking blade, though little used, and attacks the bird! And yes, she drew that awfully fast… (move action)
Blue continues on with his attacks on Major Kort, and though facing a cane, he leaves his rod in his belt (provoking)
Green steps out of flank (and away from the dog) and attacks Elen, still with his fists.
Red (apparently Walter) disengages from Elen and Kamari (AoO’s if you’ve weapons readied), passes Mama D (AoO) and ends in front of Muri and Anselm, blocking his departure. He bellows for the guards through the open door as he tries to touch up to try and get by.
The Senator looks on with horror as the attacks become lethal. Sure now that his death is imminent, he wets himself as he wails, clutching his hands as he tries to back into the wall to escape the onslaught.
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Kamari considers unbinding her rapier, but figures the group has already broken enough rules for now. She steps behind the flunky facing the Major and punches him in the kidney.
Round 4, Init 16
Kort lashes at blue with his cane:
to hit;
damage.
Kort shakes his head and clubs Trant with his cane, not trying to do serious injury, but hoping Mama D will distract her enough.
to hit;
non lethal damage.
hp: 10/10
AC: 15/13/12
Saves: F1/R4/W5 +2 vs. enchantmentLowlight. PBS.
Aroden's Verve: 0/3 used
GlitterBomb: 0/0 used
Extend GammaRadiation: 0/0 used
Quantum Leaps used:
Pathfinder Carry: 0/0
Staff of Courage: 0/0
0: (create water, detect magic, light, stabilize)1: 0/2 used
to hit; damage.
to hit; (+PBS)
damage;
Under his disguise, Anselm blushes at his rash action. The bird pays his redness no mind, continuing its assault, this time with the benefit of a flank.
Anselm stands his ground, ready to dismiss the bird should he hear guards approaching. "Spells? Whatever do you mean? How did that bird get in here, anyway?"
Round 4, Init 7
AC = 15
HP = 11/11 -3hpNL
Weapon Equipped = None (Peacebonded Shepherd's Crook)
Condition(s) = None
Muri is unused to being manhandled. Mostly out of reflex, the halfling swats at Walter's leg, not interested in hurting the man. He just wants to bring him down a notch.
He realizes that Underfoot's ears are at full mast, her eyes set firmly on the doorway where her halfling is engaging in fisticuffs. Muri tries to calm her from where he stands, and hopefully Walter lays.
Round 3, Init 16+
Elen frowns in empathy at the Senator wetting himself. Still clutching her pencil, she punches Green in the face as hard as she can.
for
"STOP." Elen scowls at Green.
AC: 14
Hits: 9/11
"Artie, really!?!? One does NOT hit someone smaller than One's Self!Nor Bellow in the Halls of Law like a banshee at Midnight!" Mama D admonishes Walter Artie like a spoiled child, and aims a quick reminder to his backside. (he is not smaller than her, so it's ok.)
(or Plus 2 if there's flank.)
(at 1/2 please)
Turning her attention back to Trant, she continues"And you!Put that thing away! Don't you know you're in the sacred halls of the Senate!?"
Mama D scolds Walter as he passes by with a thump to his ribs to remind him before turning her attentions to Miss Trant and providing her a thump as well! Kamari takes advantage of blue’s focus on Major Kort to tap him from behind in the kidney - ouch! Anselm considers his bird, even as it flounders, badly, while attacking Trant though no guards, as yet, arrive (it is an isolated room). Elen plants one on green, even as she tries to reason with him, using simple terms he should be able to understand. Major Kort baffles his opponents with the swift, but ultimately very non lethal, cane work. Muri successfully trips his opponent putting him flat on his back even as he looks for a way out.
Dam Malphene Trant pulls herself up to her full height, emboldened by the lack of bird assault last round. She strikes at the winged beast, trying to carve it out of the sky as she moves out of flank with Mama D.
Blue 5’ steps away from the angry Kamari, and continues to try and down the old man, now with flank!
Green, a bit bloody now, continues to spar with Elen, though he moves away from the window for fear of being thrown out.
Red continues to try and get Muri out of the way, after he stands back up (provokes from Mama D, Anslem, Muri, and the bird)
The Senator cries softly in his corner, hoping the end will come swiftly, mumbling ”…and I never told her I loved her…”
Kamari evaluates the evolving scene and awaits an opportunity for another kidney punch that doesn't involve putting herself between two of their opponents.