Aurelius claims a potion of cure light, a potion of remove disease, the pillory key, a light crossbow, a leather armor, the pornographic materials, which he scours for any possible Nocticulan infiltration, and
2 skull shaped onyx.
Octavionus, can you ID the wand? If you plan on hitting things, and dont have a sap, get one.
Amala looks at Guillaume when he leaves and although she doesn’t say anything, that’s already a sign for itself.
She looks the others when they find the loot.
She takes 2 light crossbows and 40 bolts, a longsword, the pouch of the Halfling, and a sap. She also takes the masterwork bronze scizore decorated with a sculpted skeletal lion and the key with the word “pillory”.
She then looks at Cimri. “you said ‘So that is what happened to it!’ What did you mean with that?!“ she asks.
Fellzir readies an action to run back to the front if they confront him, but says with a nod, "You'll have no trouble from me."
Octavonius raises a furred eyebrow when Aurelius produces the wand. He would never share this with his new companions, but he hadn't identified such magics in many years and only then it was while under the watchful gaze of his tormentors. He wondered in that moment if such things had given him a complex. Only one way to find out.
"Very well, give it here," the old wizard says, holding out a gnarled hand. Once he does, he begins to mutter dark words as his eyes bulge and dance across the slender item.
"Stick!" Ohd declares.
"Oh no, it is much more than that you silly bird," Octavonius says with a smile.
He also nods at Aurelius' suggestion and snatches up one of the saps. Better to have one and not need it than need it and not have one.
|
Cimri gives the other woman a defiant look, "I lost it when I was...doing a job. Satisfied?"
After plundering to your heart's content, you hurry yourselves out of the jail and rejoining Fellzir (who discovers the deputies have no stomach for confronation), you quickly leave Longacre behind and back to the Ash House where your prospective employer awaits. Your benefactor awaits in his 'office' as before, his shadowy silhouette illuminated by the bright light. Once you and Cimri have filled him in on the details of your tasks, his tone is very pleased. "Well done! Do not worry yourselves about the local's actions in response to this decree...they will be dealt with soon enough. I am very impressed with your diligence and your dedication to your tasks...although one of you apparently feels differently." His voice pauses briefly, "No matter...I have a special reward for you: I have increased your reward amount by one half, and, should you be interested, I have invited all of you to meet me at the Scarlet Crown, the manor of Archbaron Darellus Fex, at the crack of dawn the next day. I wish to introduce you to the Archbaron, who has a proposal for you."
After returning to the parlor you see the now-familiar chest in the parlor holds several crimson pouches, one for each of you and Cimri, each containing 150 gp.
Amala is pleasantly surprised.
“Of course I want to meet the archbaron!“ she responds.
“Oh but I haven’t seen a nice longbow for me, yet! You promised!“ she says almost accusingly.
But then she smiles and says with a honey tongue… “Please, please Mr. Razelago!“
I look forward to making the archbarons acquaintance
In any situation, it is best to divide and conquer, and to approach a target simultaneously from multiple flanks. A spearwall, and a mass of reticient townsfolk are of little difference in this regard. He gives an approving glance to Amala
We have plenty of fury and intimidation, I meanwhile am the exemplar for "you concerns shall receive a hearing" and "trust in the archbarons officer". To specifically reference the good town alchemist well, she is one of the towns most politically important citizens, and could be a node of resistance if mistreated for no reason. Now alas she holds a letter in infernal in her hands, elevating her above her fellow peers. Turning her into a collaborator in the suspicious eyes of the Iomedeans. Even funnier is that neither she nor the Iomedeans can probably read Infernal. Come two or three days, I shall perhaps approach her with some perhaps not even faked evidence that the Iomedeans want to murder her for collaboration.
And well, who doesnt love a good show trial?
Hal does his best not to react too much when mention is made of increasing their earnings. Indeed, this will give him more gold than he’s ever had to his own name before. However, he balks at the idea of being introduced to the Archbaron. ”Oh… in front of people, and all? Can’t he just… tell you what he’s got in mind?” Hallidan pulls his hood over the ruined side of his face at just the thought of being presented to a noble.
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Razelago's form shifts slightly behind the screen and his voice grows just a mite testy as he responds to Amala, "Why do you believe I have not been generous enough with my gifts? Perhaps you need to demonstrate your competence further?"
His voice shifts to address Hallidan, now with a sense of amusement. "Trust me Hallidan, I have made a full report to the Archbaron already and he insists that you ALL meet him on the morrow." Cimri pulls Hallidan to one side of the room hissing fiercely into his ear, "C'mon Halli-MAN! This is the Arch-FREAKING-Baron we are talking about here! He is our ticket out of this dump, plus he can - and WILL - make our lives very difficult (and short) should we cross him here!"
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Cimri rouses all of you from your pleasant dreams at the crack of dawn and you hurriedly dress yourselves and have a quick breakfast before you head off to the Scarlet Crown, the manorial home of Archbaron Darellus Fex. Scarlet Crown lies southeast of Longacre on the outskirts of town. A pair of rampant iron stags watches over the gate on the road leading up to the manor. Red glass shimmers upon the stags’ horns, suggesting the source of the manor’s name. Beneath the stags, a pair of grim guards keeps watch. As you approach the guards one of them looks down to a parchment roll and then looks up giving all of you the once over. It is not long before he responds in a curt voice, full of command, "You are expected. You may proceed." and you are then admitted onto the manor grounds.
Sharp gables and tall, narrow windows lend the archbaron’s manor an abbeylike quality, as though this were more a place for study and solemnity than leisure and laughter. A motif of rampant stags with antlers bloody from battle repeats among iron rooftop finials and on a crest above the stone entrance. Curiously although Razelago indicated he would meet he would meet you at the Scarlet Crown, there is no sign of him. When Cimri asks about this, the guards shake their head in denial. "We know nothing about him."
Several guards patrol the grounds and stroll atop the rooftop terrace, crossbows in hand, and halfling slaves scurry about the grounds. At the manor’s door,you are greeted by a male halfling butler and he escorts you to the archbaron’s office on the second floor. The archbaron’s office is appointed in midnight ebony and crimson satin. Towering bookshelves, glassy-eyed taxidermic creatures, and curtained alcoves line the walls. At the far end of the room, a large desk and throne-like chair sit beneath a coat of arms displaying battling, bloody-horned stags. Behind the desk, a wide window overlooks the manor grounds. A spare-looking man with slick salt-and-pepper hair stands up from behind the desk as you enter his office.
He looks you all over briefly before nodding, "So you’re the agents Razelago has recommended? I can’t say you’re what I expected — but that might be a boon in the days to come. I am Darellus Fex, Archbaron of Longacre. Razelago tells me you’re the ones who reported our local priestess’s... lack of patriotism. As such, I thought you might be well suited putting an end to the threats to Longacre and the rule of law — my rule. If you’re amenable, of course.”
My Lord Archbaron, you can consider me at your disposal.
Aurelius gives well practiced a courtiers bow.
And speaks with an uncharacteristic lack of wordiness.
Superior, status concsious, sees me as a disposable and upgradable asset. Lets not waste his time, and give away nothing I do not have to. He thinks as he speaks.
Amala let's the others do the talking.
Razelago was not as forthcoming as expected but the gold is incredible.
She raises her eyebrow and hopes for more of an explanation.
"My Lord," Octavonius says. Being unable to bow his crippled body, he settles for a simple lowering of the head. "It is an honor to be in your presence, and it would be an even greater one to serve you."
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The ArchBaron nods at your willingness to pledge yourselves to his service. "It seems Razelago has judged your character truly. Very well, my proposal is for you to to enter into my service directly, which would make you de facto representatives of the imperial government. In return, you each shall receive a salary of 150 gp per week. Now before you ask," his eyes stray to Amala here, "that is non-negotiable. However you will be entitled to merit-based increases once you have proven yourselves. Plus you are granted rights to whatever salvage or loot you might come across while in my service, as well as discretionary bonuses as I see fit. Any questions?"
Amala is in turmoil as all this orderly behavior is making her sick but she tries to hide it.
“What does this guy think?!? I’m disgusted … but I embrace whatever forces help me achieve my own agenda and glory … so I’m just borrowing power!!! Ha ha … “ she thinks.
“Yeah … “ she just says.
Hiding the ruined side of his face and wanting to avoid notice as much as he can, Hallidan only shakes his head that no, he has no questions about this arrangement. But inwardly he’s elated. Real gold every week, huh? And a bona fide to boot. Not bad for a “useless dropout.”
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Nodding in satisfaction to your replies (even Amala, though his gaze lingers on her a mite longer than is comfortable) the ArchBaron adds, “Excellent. I am well pleased to hear your willingness to serve our Queen. As for what I wish now, word of this Angel Knight certainly is concerning. I want her revealed and dealt with, along with whatever treacherous souls are stirring up rebellion in Longacre. I am not in need of a new sheriff — my guards can deal with the mundane policing of the town — but I do know things are at a dangerous time so I am willing to grant you emergency authority to do whatever must be done, though I would prefer Longacre to remain intact. I suggest you stay close to town, using the jail and sheriff’s office as a headquarters to keep an eye on things, though you may continue to sleep at the Ash House if they wish."
After you have digested this information he adds, "There is one other matter to attend to. Queen Abrogail has decreed that in this time of national crisis, all agents of the crown must reaffirm their loyalty to their lord, House Thrune, and Cheliax by swearing the Hellfire Compact. If you’re to serve in the queen’s name, I insist.”
Amala nods and repeats or reads whatever text they are supposed to say.
"Okay, now let us talk about what needs to be done. There are some people in town that are openly resisting the decrees. Can we kill them or maim them or do whatever we think is necessary?" she asks openly and with little emotion.
Fellzir spent some more time mending walls and floors of Ash House before cleaning himself up and heading to the Scarlet Crown. He will probably do some shopping afterwards.
He listens intently to the offer and agrees to serve Fex. "What does the Compact entail?" he asks.
"I'll swear to the Compact," Hallidan says, speaking to the archbaron for the first time. Whatever it says, I can always ignore it if I need to. What's the worst that could happen?
May I enquire the exact terms and conditions? I was preparing to swear it anyway to join the Imperial officer corps as a Lieutenant, before some issues concerning my ancestry surfaced, but I do wish to see if any of the conditions have been altered since then.
He turns to Amala:
We would be endowed with the emergency authority to do what needs to be done, that would include appropriate dosings of killing and maiming. Of course, such things must be done at the right time, the right places and in the right dosage.
Is there anything specific we know about this Angel Knight? Is it mortal or an outsider? Have any of your leal soldiers seen them and can give a detailed discription? Fighting an actual angel can be done, but requires different resources.
"Hellfire Compact?" Octavonius thinks to himself. He could swear he had heard the term before. Hearing the words from the Archbaron's mouth sends a chill down his spine. Was if fear, anticipation, or both?
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Fex addresses your questions readily here, "You will have a great deal of leeway in dealing with the townsfolk, but may I remind you that cold-blooded murder is still against the law and you do represent the law of the land. Just something to keep in mind." He then walks over to a nearby alcove and pulls back the thick curtains, revealing a golden stand gripping a chunk of black crystal that smolders like a gigantic, hellish ember, filling the room with a crimson glow the color of blood. You all recognize this stone is actually an ember drawn from the forges of Phlegethon — one of the layers of Hell — that burns with hellfire. "You must touch the crystal while swearing the Hellfire Compact," Fex instructs, "Yes, there is pain associated with the vow, but it is not lasting. If you would like to prepare in some manner — such as by casting spells — you may take a moment to do so. The vow is legally binding, but has no spiritual ramifications — despite the name, no clergy, deity, or devil is involved. It is little more than a formality, but one that the queen has commanded must be observed. Indeed, I myself has sworn the Hellfire Compact to reaffirm my own loyalty."
Amala does what is asked.
Aurelius nods and makes the vow.
Touching the crystal and accepting the pain.
Whether he learns anything more or not, Octavonius readily performs the Compact. Pain is nothing new to him.
Fellzir will go last, in case he has to heal anyone who is overwhelmed by the process.
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Amala 12/12 hp none
Aurelius 10/10 hp 1 hp
Fellzir 10/10 hp 3 hp
Hallidan 11/11 hp 1 hp
Octavonius 6/6 hp 3 hp
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Cimri ?/? hp 2 hp
Once you have indicated your readiness Fex instructs you, one at a time, to lay your hands upon the stone and recite the following: “I swear my absolute allegiance to Archbaron Darellus Fex, Her Infernal Majestrix Queen Abrogail II of the Thrice-Damned House of Thrune, and the Empire of Cheliax.” The moment you grasp the stone you discover the hellfire does indeed burn your flesh, yet not as much as was feared...indeed Amala shrugs off the effects, no doubt due to her heritage...yet leaves a scar shaped like the symbol of Cheliax upon each of your flesh on a prominent area.
Current Status:
Amala 12/12 hp
Aurelius 9/10 hp
Fellzir 7/10 hp
Hallidan 10/11 hp
Octavonius 3/6 hp
----------
Cimri -2/? hp
Once Fellzir has helped you recover from your experience here you all hear a familiar voice — Razelago’s — drifts from behind a curtain on the opposite side of the room. “I told you they’d be up to the vow, And eager to get to work, I suspect. Which is good, considering what I’ve just uncovered.”
Archbaron Fex impatiently crosses to the alcove, pulling back the curtain. “There’s no need for your dramatics any longer, Razelago,” he says. Inside the alcove sits a stool and writing desk heaped with pages. Clinging to the desk, almost unbalancing it, is a bloated fly’s abdomen of monstrous proportions from which sprouts the chubby upper body of a human infant. A neck hidden by fatty folds swivels and a pair of black, compound eyes squint against the light. Insectile mouthparts flex enthusiastically between pudgy lips and Razelago’s voice issues forth: “As you say, My Lord”
"I swear my absolute allegiance to Archbaron Darellus Fex, Her Infernal Majestrix Queen Abrogail II of the Thrice-Damned House of Thrune, and the Empire of Cheliax," Hal repeats, thinking little of such an oath except how it will benefit him personally. The searing pain causes him to jump, however, and he puts a hand to his cheek to discover that the green scales on his face now sport a bright Chelaxian scar. Lovely. Somehow even less subtle than what I had before.
His unease turns to revulsion, however, upon seeing the creature speaking with Razelago's voice. He looks from one to the other of his allies-- particularly Amala-- hoping to gauge their reactions. Is this... normal among rich folks?
I swear my absolute allegiance to Archbaron Darellus Fex, Her Infernal Majestrix Queen Abrogail II of the Thrice-Damned House of Thrune, and the Empire of Cheliax. Aurelius speaks, taking no damage on account of his own fiendish heritage, just as Amala.
His Scar appears on the base of his throat, as if prefering to be at a vital point, to increase control perhaps?
Amala looks at the devil like an idiot as the surprise is hard to hide and then locks her eyes with Hal in a “What the hell is going on here?!” expression.
“You look like this?!“ she bursts out and her facial expression turns to disgust at the sight of this obese monstrosity.
“Ahh, whatever!!“ she says and looks at the scar symbol on her arm with puzzlement.
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Seeing the looks ranging from surprise to barely concealed disgust on your face Razelago gazes at you each with an amused look on its face. "I am a zebub, what you mortals refer to as an accuser devil, and a native of Hel, currently working for Archbaron Fex. I see to many covert needs necessary to the efficient management of the Archbarony of Longacre." Archbaron Fex nods in reply to Razelago's words, "I can vouch for the devil Razelago is a loyal servant."
Once you have acknowledged this Razelago continues in a brisk tone. “This Angel Knight doesn’t appear to be just some fiction concocted by an overzealous priestess. A talentless local minstrel named Riley Kels claims to have met her, and has even composed a series of ballads in her honor. While the amateur’s singing is crime enough, he performed these songs at The Last Stand Tavern last night — which incidentally broke the new curfew and sanctions against gathering. If it pleases Your Lordship, our friends here should arrest The Last Stand’s owner, Bolgart Caggan, for defying the new law. I suggest pillorying him in front of the jail as an example to others. Additionally, see what you can find out about the Angel Knight from Kels.”
”I am ready for this … “ Amala says.
„I will not ask for permission and definitely won’t need forgiveness…“
Fellzir looks over the wounds as they take shape. "Hmm... not too bad... Octavonious has it worst. Impressive, Aurelius. I'd love to learn that trick."
"I swear my absolute allegiance to Archbaron Darellus Fex, Her Infernal Majestrix Queen Abrogail II of the Thrice-Damned House of Thrune, and the Empire of Cheliax. Ow."
"I'll take care of the wounds but not the scars when we leave."
When everyone is outside and away from Raz and Fex, he will channel:
Aurelius does not even bat an eyebrow as Razelagos form is revealed.
A Zebub? Good, that one can probably kill me 1 vs 1 but not trivially, which makes things far more manageble. The Erinye I met was terrifying in contrast.
Not really a trick I can teach, comes with my extraplanar heritage.
Aurelius remarks to Fellizir
Sir Razelago, were you able, from the information collected so far, to divine wether this Angel knight is an Angel or a Mortal pretending to be one? I would assume the second, as a full blown angel would give our foes many tactical and strategic capabilities they have not utilized, which means they dont have them.
Also, is there a written recording of these ballads? I am pretty good at propaganda and can perhaps create a superior mockery version of them.
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"Unfortunately we know little more than what we have told you Aurelius," Razelago replies, "As for the means to...gather this information I leave it to your discretion," Fex interjects, "But...I would remind you against killing or permanently maiming townsfolk out of hand — after all, I do wish a town to rule, and if you are too heavyhanded, you risk turning public opinion completely against MY rule. I do trust you to exercise good judgement here."
Once you have acknowledged this, the Archbaron continues, "Should you need to reach me, do so via Razelago, who will continue to reside at the Ash House. Also please wear the sashes Razelago provided you as badges of your new, official authority."
With business concluded, Fex nods as he users you out, "Good luck." then rings for a slave to see you out.
As Fellzir heals all your wounds, you realize your task awaits you though it is still early in the day...
Amala puts on the sash and is ready to confront the pub owner and whoever else wants to resist.
“Let us go!“
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Deciding not to waste any more time here you all proceed to make your way down to the Last Stand Tavern to carry out your instructions. As you display the sashes proclaiming your allegiance to the ArchBaron you get several glances and a few suspicious looks from the various towns folk that you pass by, but none of you are accosted.
It is late afternoon by the time you arrive at the tavern. As you enter the main room battered shields and dull polearms decorate the walls of the taproom, overlooking the tavern’s bar and tables. A small stage rises to the left of the bar, in full view of the room, where you see a young human male with long blonde hair sitting on the stage strumming a cherry wood lute and crooning an awkward ballad. He does not seem to notice your arrival, as neither does Bolgart Caggan who stands at the end of the bar, wearing a heavily stained apron.
When you all enter the main tap room you count at least a dozen folk in here, including a couple of barmaids rushing around to fulfill drink orders and cleaning up the tables here. Many of the patrons look at your group muttering to themselves and shooting you nasty glares, especially focused on Amala.
_____________________
Status:
Amala 21/21 hp
Aurelius 17/17 hp
Fellzir 13/13 hp
Hallidan 16/16 hp
Octavonius 10/10 hp
=========
Cimri ?/? hp
_____________________
Current Effects: NONE
_____________________
.
Before entering, Aurelius casts guidance upon himself, as well as Divine favor.
I will do something very distractive and focus attention on me. I suggest that you conduct your own preparation in terms of supportive spells. I distract them, goad the Bard into approaching, and you nab him when you see an opportunity! The inkeep will likely fight, so he is less of a flight risk.
He definitly waits for others to make their own preparations, buff spell wise.
Well well well Aurelius strides into the tavern, looking incredibly smug.
I am sure, absolutely sure, that there was absolutely no gambling or curfew breaking going on here. And that there is thus, absolutely no need to imprison the usual suspects, right? Right? Maybe wrong? I would suggest to the less usual suspects to be elsewhere, about now. Unless you fancy getting the crap beaten out of you by Mrs. Amala. If you do, it is technically free, you would even get some fun at the pillory on top of it. He speaks, clearly seeking to induce Patrons and barmaids to scram.
On the subject of Bardic songs, I do fancy myself some singing as well as such
Aurelius starts using his breastplate as an improvised drum, and uses his Sap as a Drumstick.
While he intones aiming to provoke the bard into a rebuttal
Who doeth ride around, in nightly wood
its the Angel knight oh what a hoot
Firmly she does grip the sword of hers
A sight which gives rise to thoughts perverse
In the wide, open mental space
of the third rate bard known as Riley Keys
Accentuating his performance with appropriate movements.
Alas, no purchase found the bard
even thought his member got hard
And waylead was his lustfull heart
By his most inopportune wet fart
His previous supper of Caggan's beans
Spelt doom for his erotic dreams
And know, bereft of her visage hidden
He plays his lute, to some cats smitten
Producing a many a mediocre kitten
Thinking of his romance gross
And understanding his bad loss
He thinks "Mayhap she is a Succuboss"
What does the Bard thus do to refute
His obvious lack of repute?
Does he hide, or run, or flee?
Does he wail or plead or kneel?
Or does he cunningly retreat
Behind Old Caggans arse indeed
Aurelius pauses, as if waiting for the Bards rebuttal.
Amala nods at Aurelius and looks at the guests in the tavern.
“Move out. You are not following the decrees of the archbaron. This is going to be ugly. You don’t have to see this and don’t have to get involved… so out please!“ she says with a stern look but calm voice.
Seemingly not yet noticed by either of their two targets, Hallidan pulls his hood a bit farther forward and slips into the crowd. He can't simply disappear, but hopes to at least avoid notice by the bard and the tavern owner.
Following Aurelius' suggestion, Octavonius casts Mage Armor on himself with a few words and gestures before stepping in. He keeps quiet, but with the aid of Ohd attempts to scan the interior for anything strange or out of place during the commotion. If he has the time he will also be casting Detect Magic throughout the interior.
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As Aurelius breaks into his own song it draws the attention of nearly all the patrons who stop their various activies to listen...including the minstrel Kels who looks up at the other performer, a look of surprise on his face when he hears his name mentioned.
Amala's words break the spell here as the patrons, judging the mood of the room, decide that discretion is indeed the better part of valor. They quickly exit the tap room, squeezing past you without causing any further trouble. Kels, for the most part, nods slowly at Aurelius, "Your rhymes...needs some work, but you do have talent."
Caggan however has other ideas here, as he looks up from where he was studiously wiping off one corner of his bar. "I am warning you just this once...get out of my bar...NOW!' A couple of the barmaids scurry over to the bar nodding in agreement, "Do as he says. We don't want any trouble but we won't allow you to do this." One speaks up in a defiant tone.
Amala moves forward and grins at Caggan.
"You weakling showed last time that you have no bone in your body. Kneel before me and you will be bound and escorted to the prison! Then we will see what happens with you after you have told us what you are up to! And you musician! You will come with us for questioning! I would like to hear your story of what happened here as well! And the bar workers come with us to. All of you kneel! Now!" she says and looks at Caggan to stare him down.
Is this something you wish to get injured over? Or imprisoned? Does he pay you enough for violence? Like, seriously, my profession is mercenary bastard, if Craggan way paying you enough to fight the likes of me you wouldnt be here anymore.
The other bard did not react as expected, interesting
Hallidan lowers the hood of his cloak, making sure he's in full view of the barman and serving maids. "Do I really look like I listen to warnings? There's only one way we're leaving here: with you."
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Amala advances further into the taproom focusing her glare on the man who gravely insulted her so... while the man seems to wilt measurably, but he does not back down here, even when Aurelius and Hallidan join in. Bolgart reaches underneath the bar readying for trouble here, joined by the barmaids, while Kels begins a song...
_____________________
Round 1 Status:
Amala 21/21 hp
Aurelius 17/17 hp
Fellzir 13/13 hp
Hallidan 16/16 hp
Octavonius 10/10 hp
=========
Cimri ?/? hp
_____________________
Bolgart Caggan ?/? hp
Barmaid #1 ?/? hp
Barmaid #2 ?/? hp
Riley Kels ?/? hp
Current Effects:
Caggan: Shaken
_____________________
.
"Be wary, Caggan has some magic on his side," Octavonius warns. He will continue to concentrate on the magic he is detecting and will try to identify the school of magic if possible.
Fellzir walks in and loads the crossbow "menacingly."