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Kaseem, your drovers were all cheats! Well, I think they were cheats, anyway the cards didn't work for me this time at all... the elf complains, adjusting his new finery. Gone is the well-wrought chainshirt adorned with bracelets, and now is a russet and grey courtier's outfit, accented with arm circlets, and a bronze torc with carved peridot heads in the shape of ravens. A pair of well-made short swords still hand from the elf's belt as he lounges with confidence and style.
The captain's quarters aboard the Hornet's Nest sits in uncomfortable silence. The normally composed Zarta Dralneen awkwardlyu shifts in her chair, repeatedly glancing across the room at a stocky halfling with short salt-and-pepper hair and practical black clothing. Between them stands Venture-Captain Dennel Hamshanks, the ship's captain, who seems relieved to have other visitors.
"Welcome, agents," Hamshanks announces. "My other guests have already skipped the social niceties, so I don't see why we need to start now. Zefiro Balinger, a Corentyn museum curator and ally of the Society, has been abducted by agents of House Thrune on charges of 'treasonous misinformation' - which is to say the heretical preservation of unedited Chelish histories. The Decemvirate cannot afford to lose such a valuable asset, not can it allow these documents to be thrown into a 'clarity pyre,' but Cheliax would love nothing more than to do exactly that.". Hamshanks pauses as if waiting for someone else to pick up the conversation, then clears his throat at the distracted Zarta.
Zarta snaps to attention. "Pathfinders You discovered that Zefiro has been taken to Ostenso. His prison is called the Bloody Nail, a facility where political enemies disappear for interrogation and punishment. Trying to spring a captive from a high-profile prison in the heart of a major Chelish city would normally be suicide, yet that is our only remaining option.". Zarta's expression sours slightly, and she glances at the halfling again before muttering, "Fortunately, I know someone who specializes in such suicide missions, yet curiously always seems to come back alive."
The halfling smirks at Zarta, hopping to his feet. "Please, Zarta, the pleasure is all mine. The name's Tamrin Credence, longtime Bellflower and master of coming back alive. The lovely paracountess laid out your situation for me. Luckily enough, liberating Chelish prisoners is a favorite hobby of mine, so it looks like we'll be working together on this project.
"Infiltrating the Bloody Nail won't be a picnic, but it seems my luck hasn't deserted me yet. Turns out tomorrow is Loyalty Day, a national holiday celebrating House Thrune's oppressive regime and those who willingly agree to be oppressed by it. Citizens are required to attend the festivities, and since Ostensons aren't exactly known for their docility, that means lots of guards in the streets keeping order. Those extra guards have to come from somewhere, meaning we're looking at a short-staffed prison detail stuck working a holiday.
"So here's the plan: we march up to the Bloody Nail looking intimidating. I've still got some clout with Ostenso's guards from back when I worked for the Consortium, so I'll convince the lead interrogator to bring some of his guards with me to deal with a Loyalty Day 'emergency'. Fortunately for him, I've brought some of my own agents - that's you! - to cover for him and his soldiers while we're away. Knowing Chelish prison administration, he'll agree as long as one of his lackeys can supervise you. I'll keep the interrogator distracted long enough for you to get the lay of the land, ditch your babysitter, break in, get what we came for, and get out before anyone smells a rat. We'll meet back at the southernmost docks of the Custodisce Break and sail for Andoran. Easy enough?"
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Andrelis has changed out of his finery, yet his clothing still bears the marks of a man of taste and culture, he is still adorned with wealth, just now it carries a bit of menace with it rather than ostentatiousness. And the guards? How would you like us to handle them once we're inside. Last time we had an encounter with Chelish law we did wind up slaying a Hellknight... he locks eyes with the Paracountess on the last statement, Any preferences M'lady? he asks, resting his hands on his blades.
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The halfling smirks at Zarta, hopping to his feet. "Please, Zarta, the pleasure is all mine. The name's Tamrin Credence, longtime Bellflower and master of coming back alive. The lovely paracountess laid out your situation for me. Luckily enough, liberating Chelish prisoners is a favorite hobby of mine, so it looks like like we'll be working together on this project.
"Infiltrating the Bloody Nail won't be a picnic, but it seems my luck hasn't deserted me yet. Turns out tomorrow is Loyalty Day, a national holiday celebrating House Thrune's oppressive regime and those who willingly agree to be oppressed by it. Citizens are required to attend the festivities, and since Ostensons aren't exactly known for their docility, that means lots of guards in the streets keeping order. Those extra guards have to come from somewhere, meaning we're looking at a short-staffed prison detail stuck working a holiday.
"So here's the plan: we march up to the Bloody Nail looking intimidating. I've still got some clout with Ostenso's guards from back when I worked for the Consortium, so I'll convince the lead interrogator to bring some of his guards with me to deal with a Loyalty Day 'emergency'. Fortunately for him, I've brought some of my own agents - that's you! - to cover for him and his soldiers while we're away. Knowing Chelish prison administration, he'll agree as long as one of his lackeys can supervise you. I'll keep the interrogator distracted long enough for you to get the lay of the land, ditch your babysitter, break in, get what we came for, and get out before anyone smells a rat. We'll meet back at the southernmost docks of the Custodisce Break and sail for Andoran. Easy enough?"...
"Your plan sounds more like an ambition than an actual plan to keep us from being the next suicide mission that doesn't return with you. Yuzu is correct: We don't look Chelish and certainly don't look anything like a guard or a Hellknight. As for your "clout" I was under the assumption that halflings were looked down upon in Cheliax? And what is our alternative if our "babysitter" isn't easily ditched? We're not a group of rogues - no offense Andrelis - and some of us are decidedly not stealthy. Add in the fact that we are undoubtedly wanted criminals in Cheliax and I question the wisdom of sending us on this mission."
"Yes, we know you killed Iluvia. If you think violence is an option, do what you have to do. But if the interrogator returns to a charnel house, he'll mobilize the guards faster than you can wipe the blood off your swords. If that happens, better hope you can beat feet to the docks faster than all of Ostenso's law enforcement on high alert.". Zarta sighs.
Tamrin chimes in. "We have some outfits you will wear - you will blend right in. When you're inside, try dropping a hint to Krima. She's a Bellflower plant at the Nail, so if you can tip her off and get her to switch jobs with your supervisor, you'll have free run of the joint. If that doesn't fly, charm him, drug him, knock him on the head - whatever works.".
Tamrin continues. "I worked for the Aspis Consortium, in a past life. They stick their fingers into everything, and that's how I got connected with Cheliax. But I soon found out they were funding the slave trade as rigorously as they were my Bellflower activities. "
He hands over two gifts for you: a bag of equipment to help bypass the Nail's guards: two doses of oil of taggit, two elixirs of hiding, an elixir of love, a scroll of silence, and a potion of eagle's splendor. He also hands over a lesser circlet of persuasion (
"If any one who is hesitant to go" he realizes there are no paladins here, but anyone who is truth bound, "I can coach you on some half-truths and canned responses you can use to dodge common questions."
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Andrelis smiles widely, Well, see now that's a plan. Supplies, Uniforms, a contact person. Now we're getting somewhere! Just in case things do take a turn for the worse, can anyone recommend some smuggler's tunnels out of Ostenso? his gaze pans between Tamrin and Zarta at the last.
Kaseem, does that better satisfy you? We'll have uniforms and some magic to blend in. Heck, with that circlet we can probably convince them we're supposed to be there! The elf smiles, returning his gaze to Tamrin, Yes, some cover story would be great to make everyone at ease; thank you!
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"Yes, we know you killed Iluvia. If you think violence is an option, do what you have to do. But if the interrogator returns to a charnel house, he'll mobilize the guards faster than you can wipe the blood off your swords. If that happens, better hope you can beat feet to the docks faster than all of Ostenso's law enforcement on high alert.". Zarta sighs.
Tamrin chimes in. "We have some outfits you will wear - you will blend right in. When you're inside, try dropping a hint to Krima. She's a Bellflower plant at the Nail, so if you can tip her off and get her to switch jobs with your supervisor, you'll have free run of the joint. If that doesn't fly, charm him, drug him, knock him on the head - whatever works.".
Tamrin continues. "I worked for the Aspis Consortium, in a past life. They stick their fingers into everything, and that's how I got connected with Cheliax. But I soon found out they were funding the slave trade as rigorously as they were my Bellflower activities. "
He hands over two gifts for you: a bag of equipment to help bypass the Nail's guards: two doses of oil of taggit, two elixirs of hiding, an elixir of love, a scroll of silence, and a potion of eagle's splendor. He also hands over a lesser circlet of persuasion (
"If any one who is hesitant to go" he realizes there are no paladins here, but anyone who is truth bound, "I can coach you on some half-truths and canned responses you can use to dodge common questions."
"By the Pharaoh's beard that's the kind of details I wanted to hear! You've mentioned 'Bellflower' before but I am unfamiliar with the term. What does it mean or refer to? And a description of Krima would assist us in identifying her. Yes...knock on the head rather than killing...definitely preferable. I don't know about the others but I would greatly appreciate the 'half-truths and canned responses' to make our mission easier."
"Oil of taggit... it's a poison. Consume it and it'll knock you out!"
"The Bellflower Network...well Cheliax loves keeping halfling slaves because they're cheap to feed, work hard, and are easy on the eyes. Bellflowers believe that we halflings can do all that and more if we're free, and the Network helps smuggle the enslaved to better, freer lands." Tamrin proudly smiles as he describes the Bellflower Network.
Then he pulls Kaseem aside. "They may ask how working for the Consortium is. A good answer would be something like: 'pay's good and our boss has a reputation in Cheliax so we can get into places we aren't normally allowed.'"
Tamrin continues, "They may also ask about Loyalty Day. A good response would be: 'we planned to see some parades and hear some of the speeches before moving on to our next assignment. You have to love how House Thrune takes care of the people on days like today.'"
"Lastly, they could ask about Asmodeus and if you worship him. I always say something like: 'it's hard not to in this country; plus you have to admire how the Archfiend runs such a tight ship.'"
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Parrameleh has been sat silently, listening to the plans being hatched.
She extends then withdraws her claws, muttering to herself, "I can easily appear unarmed. That may be useful."
Finally, she stands from the stool where she was perched, she grins like a cheshire cat, "A plan to poke the devil in the eye. Very good."
Parrameleh seems eager to get back at Cheliax for everything they did.
After outfitting the Pathfinders with bronze Aspis Consortium badges, Tamrin leads the group aboard the Queen Gale, a merchant vessel that sometimes assists the Bellflower Network in transporting both people and goods. The Queen Gale smuggles the Pathfinders into Ostenso Harbor the next day where Tamrin hastily leads them through Dockside's winding streets. Dozens of guards oversee the construction of stages, the hanging of banners, and the steering of extravagantly decorated floats in preparation for the upcoming Loyalty Day events.
Despite the spectacle, Tamrin wastes no time bringing you to a rectangular stone building capped with an octagonal pyramid. Each side of the pyramid bears the painted image of a red nail, through rain has made the paint run, so rivulets of red stain the roof and make the image appear to be bleeding. As is common with many state buildings, Asmodean symbols are common here. However, there is a symbol of a red-crowned spike piercing a golden ring is noticable.
Tamrin turns to the Pathfinders. "Wait here outside. I'll be back soon.". He turns and goes inside.
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Unless instructed otherwise, Yuzu will keep her admittedly-quite-identifiable equipment.
If she is instructed otherwise, she'll wear the closest thing possible.
As they're led through the streets, she takes care to take in the sights-- almost more for the show of looking like an eagle-eyed prison guard than anything.
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"Oil of taggit... it's a poison. Consume it and it'll knock you out!"
"The Bellflower Network...well Cheliax loves keeping halfling slaves because they're cheap to feed, work hard, and are easy on the eyes. Bellflowers believe that we halflings can do all that and more if we're free, and the Network helps smuggle the enslaved to better, freer lands." Tamrin proudly smiles as he describes the Bellflower Network.
Then he pulls Kaseem aside. "They may ask how working for the Consortium is. A good answer would be something like: 'pay's good and our boss has a reputation in Cheliax so we can get into places we aren't normally allowed.'"
Tamrin continues, "They may also ask about Loyalty Day. A good response would be: 'we planned to see some parades and hear some of the speeches before moving on to our next assignment. You have to love how House Thrune takes care of the people on days like today.'"
"Lastly, they could ask about Asmodeus and if you worship him. I always say something like: 'it's hard not to in this country; plus you have to admire how the Archfiend runs such a tight ship.'"
"Denying my faith in Ra will be difficult; I will have to consider carefully how I respond to such an inquiry."
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Tuck fishes a spare clock out of his bag and offers it to Yuzu.
"You might want to cover up your armour. Much as I like your look I think you might draw a little attention."
Before we leave Tuck buys a holy symbol of Asmodeus and a small holy book of his.
He looks visibly disgusted as he flicks through to get an idea of what the proper greetings and common phrases before hang the symbol from his belt.
"I don't like this much but I'll drink a few extra to apologise when we get back."
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Andrelis will pick up a sap to incapacitate guards as they head through the jail.
This is all quite lovely, if you are into that sort of thing. Don't worry Kaseem, just defer your questions to one of the rest of us, and we'll jump right in should anyone question you directly. You have to love a government where they celebrate a 'loyalty day'... the elf remains outwardly calm, looking sharp and casual as they loiter on the streets of Ostenso.
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Tuck fishes a spare clock out of his bag and offers it to Yuzu.
"You might want to cover up your armour. Much as I like your look I think you might draw a little attention."
Yuzu gets herself a nice tabard to wear over her armor in the Chelish colors. It's still oddly-shaped, but at least her own personal colors aren't broadcasting her presence to anyone who knows to keep an eye out for them.
She hopes that ravens are colorblind, just in case.
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Gareleth, oblivious to a lot of what's actually going on, is simply enjoying the festival atmosphere. "Does anyone see any vendors who might be selling something cool I could get for Hallin? Oh! And does anyone see a vendor selling sweet rolls? I could really go for a sweet roll right now!"
Gareleth dresses as instructed to blend in, though also has his long scarf and some other random trinkets from his usual garb. And not being overly religious himself, Gareleth has no trouble smiling and offering a greeting of, "Asmodeus bless you!" to passersby.
"Denying my faith in Ra will be difficult; I will have to consider carefully how I respond to such an inquiry."
"If they ask, just deflect the question. Again, something like 'it's hard not to worship Asmodeus in a country like this.' You aren't denying your devotion to Ra nor are you confirming you worship Asmodeus."
As the group navigates the city streets, Gareleth gets distracted by the vendors. Most of the shops aren't open yet though so he finds nothing. And Tamrin tugs hard on Gareleth's shirt. "Do not dilly dally. We cannot afford to spend any time here. You will be noticed and will be captured if we do not hurry.". He looks over his shoulder before hurrying away.
After nearly half an hour of waiting in the shadows of the building, Tamrin returns accompanied by a retinue of soldiers, led by a lanky interrogator with manacles at his belt. Tamrin gestures to the Pathfinders, prompting the interrogator to size them up before beckoning one of his guards over. "These... people will help watch the facility while we tend to Tamrin's emergency. Galvar, you are in charge in my absence.". Galvar being the guard he summoned. "You are not to go anywhere or touch anything without Galvar's permission and supervision. Tamrin gives a subtle wink before leading the interrogator and his soldiers into the city.
Once the interrogator departs, Galvar visibly relaxes. [b]"Come inside. I'm confident you are unhappy about having to 'play security guard' on a holiday. I'll admit, most guards are keeping their heads down until we can go enjoy the festivities in town."
He leads you inside the entryway. Four statues of snarling hounds stand in the corners of the Nail's entrance hall. A red rug covers much of the floor, although stone peeks through the holes worn in the severely trodden carpet.
A male guard stands watch here. He is cordial but otherwise keeps to himself.
().
Straven, the guard, smiles, "Happy Loyalty Day. But no drink for me right now. Thank you though."
Galvar leads the Pathfinders totally authentic Chelish prison guards north. Iron bars separate the Nail's southern hallways from the northern ones. Basic lanterns hang from the ceiling in each corner surrounding the central prison, lighting the hall.
Four guards here () stand watch here, eyeing you curiously at first. Once the novelty fades, they go back to their conversation - Loyalty Day.
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Gareleth walks up to the four actual guards and join the conversation with a, "Happy Loyalty Day! Asmodeus be praised! Shame we're all stuck in here while the fun's going on out there. The walls do most of the work for us," he says, gesturing around at the prison, "so it seems a shame to have so many of us sitting around not enjoying the fun. Bare minimum, a few of us could maybe run out and grab some food from the vendors. I'm fairly positive there are sweet rolls out there somewhere, if we just look hard enough."
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Andrelis silently preens himself for a moment, playing up the person of importance air that he's assumed in Cheliax while wearing the uniform. Gareleth, always thinking of sweetrolls, and I'm sure Tuck didn't pack that this time with him. It would make relieving guard duty more bearable however if anyone wants to fly, I'll buy... the elf says, digging two gold coins from his pouch...
The guards laugh. "Good one! Run out and grab food from the vendors? HAHAH". Then the other Pathfinders start supporting Gareleth and the guards stop laughing.
"Oh he's serious! If you're so hungry, you go get them!"/b]. They all do a belly laugh. [b]"Newbies are required to go get food for us. Speaking of... Thrick is making a rabbit stew in the lounge. Go grab us some and maybe we wont tell the boss you wanted to leave to go enjoy the festivities!". More belly laughs. They point to the door just to the east indicating that's likely where the staff lounge is.
One of them, Asma, stops laughing and winks at the group. "We can't leave our post to go to the festival. If we do..." she points behind her. "We'll end up there."
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Andrelis chuckles with the guards, Hey didn't hurt to ask, We'll be right back with the rabbit stew... he says, motioning his cohort into the next room. Looking wide-eyed at the prison block, Andrelis asks Asma, Is that, is that the detention block? he shudders at the thought of winding up there, and wistfully goes about looking for Krima.
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Gareleth laughs along with the guards, not entirely understanding what is so funny, but remembering from Yuzu's lessons with Hallin that being polite is...good...or something...
As they start heading to the other room, Gareleth whispers to his "brother," "That gal winked at me. Sometimes it's just inconvenient to be so irresistible. Oh look, stew!"
The Pathfinders are lead into the staff lounge by Galvar. The cozy chamber features wooden chairs arranged casually around two tables. Two blazing fireplaces warm the room - a western one facing in toward an open door and a southern one furnished with kitchen utensils and cook pots. Playing cards, dice, and other diversions litter the table. A gamey smell wafts through the room.
There are five guards in this room (). They are very talkative while playing a game of dice. Though they should be on duty, they are taking a much-needed break. Thrick () is the one making the stew in the south.
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Andrelis walks into the break room as if everyone there should stand and salute him, Afternoon all, smells delicious! Damn shame it’s loyalty day and we’re all stuck in here together. Reminds me of that time Gareleth and I missed out on the Royal Magicians putting on a show to drag some criminals off to jail.. he shakes his head sadly, drawing Garleth into his tale, but omitting Yuzu for now.
Scanning the room, he smirks, Hey is one of you Krima? he turns to Yuzu with the question, isn’t that the name your sister gave us? Served with them a few years back and wanted us to pass on some words for a comrade in arms.
Andrelis almost believes his own lies and takes that he’s spun as quickly as they come out of his mouth.