It has been 100 years since House Thrune, together with Asmodeus, cast down Aroden and took her rightful place as absolute ruler of Cheliax. 100 years since Westcrown was the capital of Cheliax. 100 years since the grand Arodennama statue in Westcrown cracked asunder and lost its divine luster.
While House Thrune rules Cheliax from her mighty Citadel, she allows her loyal vassals to manage the year-to-year affairs of the old city. House Arvanxi is most loyal to Thrune and therefore currently has the right to administer Westcrown through her patriarch, Grand-Count Aberian Arvanxi, the Lord Mayor.
Four other Noble Houses in Westcrown have also shown great loyalty to Thrune, and have therefore been rewarded with additional management responsibilities over the old city. Should Arvanxi show any disloyalty, one of these shall be ready to wear the mantle of responsibility for Westcrown: (alphabetically)
House Drovenge,
House Oberigo,
House Phandros,
House Salisfer,
Westcrown, The City of Nine Stars, has long suffered from a nighttime curse of Shadows. For nearly 100 years the formerly glorious port-town has been much more aptly nicknamed, 'The City of Twilight.' In Westcrown all the days are short and overcast, for 100 years. And at nightfall ephemeral Shadow Creatures appear in the streets and parks, alleys and squares, claiming living souls for blackness and death.
Three Lord Mayors have been appointed in this century of twilight; at least the first two strove to improve Westcrown. But for the past twenty-odd years, current Lord Mayor and GrandCount, Aberian Arvanxi, has allowed the city to fall deeper and deeper into disrepair and despair.
Crime is up.
Trade is down.
A curfew that the second mayor (Dargentu Vheed) instituted temporarily at the nascence of his tenure has now lasted for generations -- with no new dawn seeming on the horizon.
1) The Lord Mayor, Grand-Count Aberian Arvanxi, has recently promoted Lord Iltus Mhartis as ‘Duxotar’ of Westcrown’s Wardens, The Dottari, for being his favored nephew (either unaware or uncaring of Lord Iltus’ alcoholism and ineptitude – or both). Lord Iltus Mhartis’ incompetence as Duxotar of the Westcrown Dottari (‘Wardens of Westcrown’) has meant that street crime is on the rise, and also that subordinate Dottari officers run the city guard instead of the beer-bellied dilettante.
2) The Lord Mayor, Grand-Count Aberian Arvanxi’s latest waste of money on local theater by using vast amounts of city revenue, has been to rebuild The Nightshade Theater -- and another large chunk of the city’s money to pay producer Robahl Nonan a gross fee in order to put on a grand show at The Nightshade’s opening. (In the past Aberian Arvanxi has paid several producers and players for operas – and has in the not-too distant past paid to build Robahl Nonan’s private theater, The Limehouse.)
3) The Bastards of Erebus
The past several weeks has seen a gang of thugs, thieves and murderers start a string of violent crimes: The Bastards of Erebus. At first it was just break-ins and street robberies. It has escalated quickly. Five nights ago saw The Bastards of Erebus commit their first murder. They leave poorly constructed wooden coins (or chips or tokens) with the Symbol of Mammon on site as their calling card. The local Dottari have been grossly inept at stopping them so far.
4) A Vigilante calling ‘herself’ “Bluehood” is newly hunting and killing the Shadow Creatures that stalk the streets after dusk. Bluehood is quickly gaining celebrity from Westcrown’s common citizens.
5) A chaotic Xvart named King Whitechin lords over his Raxivort-worshipping kobolds, goblins and xvarts, has established himself in the sewers underneath Westcrown. As his Abyssal patron is the god of freed slaves (of vile Graz’zt), King Whitechin is becoming a nuisance to the lawful slave-owning nobility of Westcrown.
6) Westcrown’s Children have selectively revealed their existence and intentions to various citizens, doing good deeds, in order to grow support.
7)(Secret): Many members of House Arvanxi are currently out of Westcrown these days. For a variety of individual reasons: Lady Dressarosa is in Korvosa promoting House Arvanxi after their recent upheaval; Lord Magnius is in Macini guarding Mister Garriden Hemlock, esquire, as he studies legal precedent to support a power-play for House Arvanxi; Lady Lillith`a Arvanxi is in the House Thrune Royal Court working with The Devil Nuns; and at least a few members just wanted to put distance between themselves and their ineffectual, incompetent House Patriarch (perhaps to allow Aberian’s enemies to bring him down!). In any case, recently, Aberian Arvanxi has fewer House allies close to him.
In a nicer section of Westcrown's Parego Spera district (wherein 80%--90% of today's Wiscrani live and work) proudly stands the three-story Vizio's Tavern -- the most popular bar for Nobles outside of the Parego Regicona district, and a drinking hole for upper-class merchants and Dottari officers.
Only a few blocks away from the colossal statue of Aroden, The Arodennama (cracked from shoulder to hip after Aroden's cataclysmic disappearance 100 years ago) -- Vizio's Tavern also gives a commanding view of the Adivian River mouth and the Noble's islet, the Parego Regicona -- and Citadel Arvanxi at the islet's southern tip.
Here, barely three hours before the city gong announces nightfall -- and the curfew -- a small group of Wiscrani have come together to plot and plan and scheme, for they have found that they have a common goal, and common complaint.
"No, no Donatello, I must be leaving. It's a family obligation. I won't bore you with the details." It felt strange to have the nightlife take place in the middle of the afternoon, but these days were definitely odd. It took a few more minutes of convincing to make her leave. Her latest toy was a bit stubborn, but generous of purse. Nothing worthy of a long-term commitment, but useful for the moment. I'm leaving his affiliations open if you feel the need.
if this is stretching things, I can undo this. But it sounds perfect for the start.
She slipped out of Vizio's tavern and around the block. Back to Vizio's Tavern. It was known that there were more subtle entrances leading directly to certain meeting rooms. Very useful for meeting in private when people dared not be seen in public. Talia knew of several through her mother's reports.
She had turned her cloak inside out and pulled up the hood along the way. Into a switchback alley and to a wall panel. Checking for followers, she knocked three times, then once, then twice. The wall swung open to reveal a broad-shouldered man. "The sixth sent me." and he stepped back so that she could ascent the narrow staircase.
Being first, she poured herself wine from the sideboard nd waited to see who would show up next.
Janiven Key arrives in the room a moment later with her apologies. "Please excuse the inconvenience, the new Duxotar is arriving shortly and he's demanded the room for a meeting with his Dottari officers. I put a table for you and your friends in the corner of the common room, furthest away from the bar and the exterior windows. Hopefully that's acceptable?"
Male Medium Human Gestalt Brawler (Snakebite Striker)/Unchained Rogue 1 | HP 12/12 | AC 17, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 16 | F+4 R+7 W+0 | Init +6 | Perc +4 (+5 vs traps) | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: None.
Arrus frowns as he approaches Vizio's.
Not my first choice... but meeting them halfway.
He self-consciously tugs his hood tighter around his head to conceal his face as best he can. This is one of the few times he appreciates having a plain, easily-mistakable face. Just as he rounds the corner he sees his target door slamming a final inch.
Hmm, I'm not the first one here.
Stepping up to the discrete panel he knocks in the familiar, shared sequence: 3-1-2. It feels silly. The panel slides open and he irreverently recites The sixth sent me with an embarrassed, withering look.
Arriving at the room he sees Talia getting up from her seat.
Talia, we're not staying here to talk in private? Where is Renzio?
Pulling back his hood, you see a young but gruff face that looks like it's been aged a little much for his age. His chin-length hair frames the plain face.
He notes the server, nodding and flashing a quick, polite smile to her.
Male Medium Human Gestalt Brawler (Snakebite Striker)/Unchained Rogue 1 | HP 12/12 | AC 17, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 16 | F+4 R+7 W+0 | Init +6 | Perc +4 (+5 vs traps) | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: None.
He gives her a smirk as he turns to follow them, remarking Ah. Rank. I thought I was with you and Renzio to get "rank."
He habitually rubs his calloused hands together as they go.
Tiknesr enters, head down, hoping–despite his notable appearance–for the 'invisibility' granted by default to those assumed to be slaves or servants.
He orders some cheese and bread, and a glass of his own, and sits down on a high stool beside the bigger ones. He spreads a generous slab of cheese onto the crusty bread, rapidly devours it (his teeth merrily chattering the whole while) and then licks his lips. He hands a crust of bread to a small rat that sticks his head out from Tik's broad sleeve.
"Aaaah, you must be Arrus. Renzo mentioned you. Tiknesr Th'th'th'th'slifp, at your service." The little rat-man holds out a small, soft hand to shake. "Time to begin planning some revenge eh? Let's begin then! Heeheeheheeheehee."
Male Human Rogue(Phantom Thief)/Inquisitor(Urban Infiltrator) 1
Prior to the meet up:
1d20 + 14 ⇒ (18) + 14 = 32 Disguise to look like an older, homeless beggar, just to mess with Talia.
Sitting at the table Janiven takes them to is an old man who is seemingly rather drunk.1d20 + 14 ⇒ (14) + 14 = 28 Bluff to appear drunk "This seat's taken, tramp. Get lost, before I get cross. You wouldn't like me when I was cross." He says, his speech very slurred.
Moments later, he breaks into a grin, and a full belly laugh. "Sorry sis, I couldn't resist. How was Donatello?" Somehow, despite her best efforts, Renzio seemed to almost always know who Talia was currently entertaining. If he wasn't her brother, it would be rather unnerving. As it was, some of the things he knew surprised her. Even at his young age, he had already developed a small web of contacts, allies and informants. Ie, his solid bonus to Investigate.
perception:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10 bluff:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19Or is it a total of 20?
She doesn't react, as she expected some sort of stunt from Renzio. He's gotten better, but letting him see her as being impressed would let him sit on his laurels. "Oh, he's tolerable. I suspect he'll want to move on in a couple of months so I'll have to play at being inconsolable for a while."
She looks around, "But we're not here to talk about my arrangements."
Male Medium Human Gestalt Brawler (Snakebite Striker)/Unchained Rogue 1 | HP 12/12 | AC 17, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 16 | F+4 R+7 W+0 | Init +6 | Perc +4 (+5 vs traps) | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: None.
Before...
Arrus declines any food at their new table but orders a whiskey neat.
Tiknesr Th'th'th'th'slifp wrote:
"Aaaah, you must be Arrus. Renzo mentioned you. Tiknesr Th'th'th'th'slifp, at your service." The little rat-man holds out a small, soft hand to shake. "Time to begin planning some revenge eh? Let's begin then! Heeheeheheeheehee."
Arrus seems stunned for a moment, then recovers quickly. I... will try to pronounce that correctly in time. Huh. He didn't mention you. But then... we just started this little venture.
Talia Fireskin wrote:
She looks around, "But we're not here to talk about my arrangements."
Right down to it. Excellent. You do want to really get this guy after all. Focusing on goals doesn't hurt.
Lady Sascar Tilernos, obviously living in Westcrown to promote her House’s agenda in The City of Nine Stars, is still relatively new in Westcrown (nearly a 7 year resident) and she has finally learned that the Parego Regicona can offer only so much insight into the city, and is thus expanding her horizons out of the islet and into Parego Spera, where she is meeting Mister Rance Lucca.
Rance Lucca looks more like a pirate or swashbuckler than the owner of The Devildrome arena a few blocks away. Apparently, he and Lady Sascar have been discussing profit and patronage between House Tilernos and The Devildrome. It seems to you, knowledgeable in the who’s who of Westcrown, that it is a marriage that will not come off, as the House Tilernos of Kantaria & Egorian has a strict reputation for obeying House Thrune and the Laws of Asmodeus, while Rance Lucca – though he’s popular and successful, has the reputation for being far too chaotic, greedy, and almost heretical. Certainly he runs The Devildrome to a beat of a different infernal drumline.
Their meeting looks as though it is coming to completion once they finish their current glasses of wine.
Loudly crowding the bar, and with the ever-present fans and hangers-on, Baroness Delour Aulamaxa is smiling and laughing above her sycophants. She feigns humility, not well, at the praise for her recent operatic performances – and even at her earlier plays, which garner less enthusiastic appreciation. Not too surprisingly, Baroness Delour is less than happy at a reminder that she is growing older and older with each new opera; her make-up and wig and dress a bit more ostentatious than from her younger years, to hide her growing plumpness, thinning hair, and crow’s-feet eyes. Even still, Baroness Delour is nonetheless the most famous of Westcrown’s opera singers with crowding, fawning fans, and she apparently truly believes that her buying everyone at Vizio’s Tavern a glass of the house wine, a deep red, is an act of largesse that makes everyone love her even more than superficially with shallow smiles.
Quietly at the other corner of Vizio’s Tavern, publicly acknowledging and appreciative of his free glass of red from the famous Baroness, but then quickly relaxing down into his chair alone, sits the fastidiously clean Dwarf tinkerer and watch-maker, Rolan. His upscale shop is nearly adjacent to Vizio’s Tavern and apparently business was good enough today for him to close an hour or so early, and stop in for a while for a quiet drink by himself.
At a table somewhat near to Rolan the Dwarf are two more well known artisans, apparently sharing a drink and each other’s company in a private manner not unlike the watch-maker, by themselves. Amaya the expert glass-blower is half-Chelaxian, her father being Tian, and her skill at creating beautiful stained-glass is respected all over Westcrown. As always, she tries to subdue her astounding natural beauty by wearing dumpy and drab clothing. But as always, it’s obvious how gorgeous the young glass-blower is.
Her drinking companion is Tarvi, Westcrown’s jewelry-maker’s now-adult daughter. While Tarvi may not have the jewelry-crafting skills of her successful father, her work is good and her beauty obvious. The two young women are likely pleased at all the attention Baroness Delour is getting at the bar so they can enjoy their own drinks without bother.
Nearer to your table with his men is none other than Mister Casarus Vitallain, Harbormaster of Westcrown. The shrewd war-veteran may have lost a few of his audience to the Baroness opera star but there are still a few Condottari Officers accepting ales from their boss after their work shifts.
Their tone changes significantly, though, when Lord Lodros Mhartis, the eldest son and pride of the future for House Mhartis, enters Vizio’s tavern specifically to meet with the Harbormaster. Lord Lodros nods to Baroness Delour at the bar, lower-Noble to higher-Noble, and apparently does not notice any other Nobles on-site. Janiven Key is quick to excuse herself from getting drinks for Amaya and Tarvi and take Lord Lodros’ order.
The Mhartis scion curtly and courteously declines alcohol or any service, and begins speaking to, rather than with, Casarus Vitallain. Even with the raucous of Baroness Delour’s party at the bar, it is easy to overhear what Lord Lodros is saying to the Harbormaster, should you choose to listen.
”Hunt the cannibal Witch – seek-and-destroy the insane serial killer, before she feeds again!”
It’s a squeaky child’s voice, and it's from just outside the window near your table. Turning your head outside you indeed see a few kids playing at ’Hide-and-Hunt Irimeian,’ the Witch from decades ago. Sure enough, next to you all a small boy appears from his hiding spot, apparently behind your table, and conspicuously pokes his head out of the window to see if his playmates see him. They do.
The boy, like most children, is completely oblivious to the adult world, and you specifically, even though you are practically sharing the same few feet of space next to the window. ”Hey, you can’t hide inside, it’s out-of-bounds!” And the boy next to you quickly ducks under your table to hide again. He finally looks at one of you, ”Shhh, don’t tell ‘em I’m here; I’m the Witch, Irimeian.” But the other children now poke their heads into Vizio’s Tavern, looking not at you and your table but rather their friend under your table. ”Found you, Irimeian! You cheated; you hid inside!”
And the boy, rudely ignoring your very existence again, darts out from under your table to begin gracelessly climbing out the window to join his friends. ”It’s only cheating if you get caught!” ”Yeah, and you got caught.” ”I don’t want to be Irimeian The Witch, again, I want to be Gorthoklek this time.” ”No, *I’m* Gorthoklek – my dad met him once so I get to be Gorthoklek!” ”Your dad never met Gorthoklek!” ”Yes he did!”
And the children’s play continues out of hearing down the street as they get ready for one more round of Hide-and-Hunt Irimeian the cannibal Witch before curfew.
It is about this time when the new Duxotar of Westcrown’s wardens arrive at Vizio’s Tavern, Lord Iltus Mhartis: Patriarch of his House, Lord Lodros’ father, beholden to House Arvanxi, and already obviously a little drunk. With him are two Durotas officers and three rank-and-file Dottari wardens. Unlike his son Lord Lodros, Lord Iltus does not give a nod to Baroness Delour, higher-Noble to lower-Noble, and barely notices his son’s presence either. Duxotar Mhartis’ rudeness in this is as unmistakable as his inebriation.
One of the officers trailing him is Durotas Saria Roccin, a cold woman with a reputation among the Dottari for becoming hot with rage when she needs.
The other Durotas trailing the new Duxotar is none other than Stiglor, a bear of a man whose exploits in the Cheliax army in The Aspodell Mountains is near legendary.
Janiven Key, having just left Lord Lodros and the Harbormaster, hurriedly attends to the Lord Duxotar. Unlike his son, Lord Iltus orders a pitcher of wine for himself and reminds his two Durotas and three Dottari that they are still on duty – but that no one will mind if he refreshes his thirst. A perk of being the boss warden of Westcrown.
He further dishonors himself by making a crude remark at Janiven Key as she hurries to get his pitcher of wine, which she quite skillfully and with obvious experience, cleverly ripostes in a manner that makes him laugh and every one else smile in appreciation of Janiven’s ability to take care of herself and still earn a tip from obnoxious customers.
But Baroness Delour, ever the charismatic performer despite being several years beyond the prime of her attractiveness, draws all the attention of Vizio’s Tavern to herself again by boisterously making an announcement for all to hear:
”I’m pleased to announce that our magnanimous Lord Mayor, GrandCount Aberian Arvanxi, is once again funding the great director, Robahl Nonan, in the production of a new performance – ”The Trials of Larazod!” at the newly rebuilt Nightshade Theater.”
Male Medium Human Gestalt Brawler (Snakebite Striker)/Unchained Rogue 1 | HP 12/12 | AC 17, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 16 | F+4 R+7 W+0 | Init +6 | Perc +4 (+5 vs traps) | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: None.
Arrus watches the various goings on with vague amusement. Some of the noble interactions have to be pointed out to him. To him, they all held some damnable self-entitlement in his mind.
Sometimes to pass the time he'll ask Renzio why a noble did something strange. When the Baroness bellows out her announcement he flashes a private, sarcastic look to the rest of the table (facing away from her) that says oh, well then.
I need another mug of "culture" he mutters under his breath.
Talia will take notes of the room. Perhaps a little divination later to clarify some of the things. Amaya and Tarvi are interesting, perhaps they might be becoming a couple.
But while she is here, she will sit near the table of Lodros and Vitallain. While personal gossip may be fun, this might be something more useful.
stealth:1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28to approach within earshot without bein noticed doing so
A moment or two after the whole tavern erupts in cheer for the famous diva's announcement, Talia pays attention to what Lord Lodros Mhartis is telling Harbormaster Casarus Vitallain.
"I intend to personally lead a team into the wretched sewers underneath Westcrown and eradicate this chaotic Xvart menace and his little sewer-worms. What does it call himself "King Whitechin"; his little blue scalp needs a public execution -- and I know the people would be happy at the stringing-up of ears from his little Xvart, Gremlin and Kobold sycophants.
"The Dottari are overwhelmed with the changes my Lord Father is administering as Duxotar, so as the Harbormaster of Westcrown, I want you to select competent members from among your 'Condottari' to follow me in the sewers. Acceptable Condottari will be individuals who are familiar with the sewer system and have fighting experience -- especially against stunted little Xvarts, Kobolds and Gremlins.
"You have twelve days in which to select a team for my approval."
As though she heard you over the cacophony of applause for "The Six Trials of Larazod" -- or perhaps a professional sense of being a good hostess (not to mention wanting to keep away from Duxotar Iltus Mhartis, Janiven Key is quick to fill Arrus Volso's mug with more wine.
"Sorry again we couldn't get you guys in the private room, but you understand-- Our mighty Duxotar!" And she smiles in what looks as sincere as any loyal citizen can muster for the drunken Noble.
Arrus seems stunned for a moment, then recovers quickly. I... will try to pronounce that correctly in time. Huh. He didn't mention you. But then... we just started this little venture.
Tiknesr nods. "It's a fairly common surname, really. Among ysoki. Just click your tongue against your teeth a few times–like so–and then, well, for humans it's a bit of a slurping sound. Like sucking a wide noodle into your mouth."
Westcrown: City of Nine Stars wrote:
”Hunt the cannibal Witch – seek-and-destroy the insane serial killer, before she feeds again!”
As he hears the voice outside the window, Tik gets a brief look of terror on his face, scanning the room anxiously for foes and exits.
Oooohhh...it's little humans, playing some stupid game.
He glowers at the child under his table, and still seems a touch ruffled after he's gone.
. . .
His ratty ears perk up at word of an attempt to clear the xvarts, gremlins, and kobolds from the sewers.
He tilts his head toward that conversation, and says, "Pssst. Hear that? Might be a way to get a bit of coin, and also a bit of prestige, eh? And I certainly have no love for that damned Whitechin; he's the reason we ysoki have never been able to establish ourselves in these sewers ourselves."
Lore?:
Lore (humanoids):1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16 Lore (society):1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16 Wondering what Tik knows of King Whitechin, and the undercity
Male Medium Human Gestalt Brawler (Snakebite Striker)/Unchained Rogue 1 | HP 12/12 | AC 17, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 16 | F+4 R+7 W+0 | Init +6 | Perc +4 (+5 vs traps) | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: None.
Arrus frowns and leans into the table, attempting the block out all of the surrounding noble-noise. He turns to Tiknesr.
Have ysoki representatives tried to broker peace with him? Has this been rejected? What I imagine would not be good, is if it turns into a back-and-forth power struggle in that realm while the entitled nobles back here take advantage of the local in-fighting. No, what you need is a way to keep Whitechin focused on surfacers as his real foe. The ysoki should make him see he needs an ally badly.
Hearing Lord Lodros Mhartis discussing a strike against 'King' Whitechin with Harbormaster Casarus Vitallain, and considering Arrus Volso's intriguing question about brokering a peace accord with the sewer-Xvart, Tiknesr perhaps doesn't regret spending so much of his time tinkering with Constructs and gears and mechanics, but does wish he had learned a little more about the going-on in the sewers.
Um, he remembers that Xharts are dark-blue skinned, little humanoids, very like Gremlins and Kobolds, that congregate in the sewers and sometimes on the surface in the mostly abandoned Parego Dospera -- they have dark orange hair sometimes. .... And Xvarts have a peculiar Religion with some minor Demon Lord of the Abyss.
Tiknesr remembers seeing one in Parego Dospera a couple years ago, but it fled quickly back down to the sewers.
Tik shrugs, scratches a dandruffy patch on his throat, and takes another large bite of cheese and bread.
"It's a fair question...and a clever idea. Though I'd have to leave the negotiations to someone else. Still, if it's 'Lord Lodros Mhartis'–he says in a mocking voice–that's leading the charge, that serves the goal of getting the sewer Xvarts focused on the surface, and possibly in need for some alliess."
Male Human Rogue(Phantom Thief)/Inquisitor(Urban Infiltrator) 1
Sense Motive:
1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
Renzio feigns being hurt at his sister showing no appreciation. "Wow Tali, I put some serious effort into that guise." He says in a slightly whiny voice, before sticking his tongue out at her.
He surveys the room, observing several interesting people and interactions. He makes some mental notes, particularly regarding Lady Sascar, who he knew had originally tried to form an alliance with his family. He wonders if offering to pay for her meal would be uncouth in an attempt to start to repair that rift.
Society:
1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22
1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27 Westcrown nobility
Is it in fact a breach of etiquette to pay for Lady Sascar's meal?
The young nobleman practically spits in disgust as the Duxotar enters the tavern visibly drunk. What an absolute disgrace he was to House Mhartis, which in turn made him a disgrace to Renzio's own House.
When Janiven returns to fill Arrus's mug, Ren slides her a gold piece. "I deeply apologize for Iltus' vile behavior" He says quietly by way of explanation.
Finally, he turns his attention to his companions. "If Lodros is putting together this expedition, I will gladly lend him my services. Unlike his walking cesspool of a father, the younger Mhartis is a decently upstanding person. What say you Talia?"
At his tongue, she simply says, "Try harder next time.". But it's said with a smile. It's obviously an old routine with the two trying to challenge each other.
She pauses, mulling over the problem of the sewers. "If the Xvarts are taken out, then that opens up a space for the ysoki to move in. If they assisted in the operation and presented themselves as a group willing to defend the sewers and keep everything moving smoothly, then Lodros might see that as a win. I doubt he wants to take care of it himself. I think it would be a more stable situation than trying to ally with the xvarts."
She then turns to Renzio, her eyes drilling into him, "However, if you intend to drag me down there, then you are buying me appropriate boots and a scarf thick enough to filter out the smell."
Lady Sascar Tilernos, as the atmosphere in Vizio’s Tavern gets a little louder and her own meeting less fruitful than she had apparently hoped, reveals a façade of obvious disappointment as she finishes her wine and gets up to leave with barely a nod to Rance Lucca, owner of The Devildrome arena, as a departing gesture. For his part, the man apparently intends to finish his own wine more slowly and watch the other customers for a minute before he leaves.
.
Baroness Delour Aulamaxa still enjoys her hangers-on and is obviously getting a little tipsy. But everyone seems pleased, especially the widowed Noble, about the upcoming show at the Nightshade Theater, "The Trials of Larazod."
.
Meanwhile, the well-to-do merchants, the Dwarf tinkerer Rolan and the two young women, Amaya and Tarvi, each also seem less enthused about the louder atmosphere – Baroness Delour Aulamaxa and Duxotar Iltus Mhartis – growing into a cacophony. Each may leave soon.
Either because he is perfunctory as usual and, having delivered his directive to the Westcrown Harbormaster, Casarus Vitallain, is curtly leaving -- or because he just doesn't want to be around his father when the House Patriarch makes an ass of himself -- the younger Mhartis Scion also looks ready to depart Vizio's Tavern. He nods to the bartender, Janiven Key, and turns to leave.
Another Dottari enters Vizio's Tavern, a young woman in her early 20s, a beauty by the look of her hair and eyes, and the Duxotar whoops in her introduction.
Janiven Key politely points the Noble and his Dottari to the private room she has set aside for them, only to be rebuffed. The newly appointed Duxotar loudly declines the room, remarking about how the Dottari should be open and transparent to the citizens of Westcrown and not sequestered in private rooms behind closed doors.
Janiven Key excuses herself from his presence and comes to your table, indicating that, indeed, the private room is open afterall, and apologies for the miscommunication.
And even over the party Baroness Delour Aulamaxa is throwing, it is easily overheard both the glowing praises of the young Dottari woman who has just arrived, and the brash berating of Durotas Stiglor.
After having been treated badly by House Arvanxi, you know that repairing a rift with Lady Sascar would involve creating a respectful, or at least courteous, rapport. Buying a drink or a meal, especially among Nobles who don't usually count the few Silver pieces it costs to enjoy such a luxury could be either the beginning of an apology, or a gambit at guile or manipulation.
Smiling politely and respectfully and playfully declining the offered gold piece, Janiven Key tells Lord Renzio not to worry about it at all.
Her declining of the gold could certainly just be as professional and courteous a gesture as it seems -- or, perhaps there is a chance that the young bartender misinterpreted your own gesture not as sincere, but as way to plant a seed of manipulation.
Male Medium Human Gestalt Brawler (Snakebite Striker)/Unchained Rogue 1 | HP 12/12 | AC 17, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 16 | F+4 R+7 W+0 | Init +6 | Perc +4 (+5 vs traps) | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: None.
Arrus withers when Janiven tells them the private room is open.
Can we please escape this throng of social theatre and get back there where we can think?
Tiknesr considers some of the ramifications of joining Lord Lodros Mhartis in his foray into the sewers to strike against 'King' Whitechin the Xvart, not as much from the perspective of helping the young Mhartis scion improve his standing in his House, but what it could mean for the handful of 'free' Ysoki scattered in the Parego Dospera -- and the handful of Ysoki slaves in the Parego Regicona -- on whether they could perhaps come together in at least a bit of a society (or leave Westcrown the way many freed Ysoki do).
.
Meanwhile, it is obvious Arrus is ready to move to a more private room in Vizio's Tavern to discuss your collective objectives.
.
For his part, Renzio Arvanxi -- still in his disguise -- turns his head at the arrival of the young Dottari woman, trying to identify her. Based on the Duxotar's reaction to her entrance, she ought to be well known, but she does not look at all familiar to him.
The young Dottari just looks like any other Dottari that one may see throughout the Parego Spera, keeping the Queen's peace on patrol.
But by the tone of the gathering of Dottari, she is about to be praised, or even promoted.
The four of you make your way to the private room just out of the main room which has gotten rather loud. Janiven Key lets you know that she will bring in more drinks as soon as she tends to Baroness Delour Aulamaxa's most recent request for drinks, shouldn't be even a minute longer.
You close the door so you can have some privacy, though you can still overhear ambient tavern-noise through the walls. It sounds like Duxotar Iltus Mhartis is publicly berating the Dottari officer, Stiglor.
Male Medium Human Gestalt Brawler (Snakebite Striker)/Unchained Rogue 1 | HP 12/12 | AC 17, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 16 | F+4 R+7 W+0 | Init +6 | Perc +4 (+5 vs traps) | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: None.
Arrus quickly enters the room. He's fairly happy to be out of the common room.
Wow... that was a lot of noise. I've never seen so many competing performances at one time...
Relaxed in this new place, he casually pulls out a chair and sits down, setting his head in his hands for a moment.
Okay, so to business. Rezio, Talia, I just need a name and a few key details for this noble that you want to get at. From there I can do some legwork and come up with a reasonable opportunity.
Male Medium Human Gestalt Brawler (Snakebite Striker)/Unchained Rogue 1 | HP 12/12 | AC 17, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 16 | F+4 R+7 W+0 | Init +6 | Perc +4 (+5 vs traps) | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: None.
As Talia rattles off details Arrus leans over, looks down at the table, and taps his fingers rhythmically as he processes them.
Hmm. The times she's alone would be good. How much should this hurt?
He looks up at Talia, and then Renzio as he asks this.
"A clean escape and a final result are more important than making it painful." She clarifies, "I'm not against suffering, so long as it doesn't expose us."
"Teeheeheeheeheehee. Clever. Results, as ever, are what matters. Though if there happens to be a little suffering...well...what's the harm in enjoying it, eh? It would be a shame to let the poor thing's suffering go to waste, don't you think? Who does that benefit?"
Tik's rat familiar comes crawling out of his sleeve, and Tik feeds it a hunk of bread crust.
Talia and Renzio spend one or two minutes putting together pieces of rumor and innuendo, vocalizing them and jumping to conclusions.
Like most scions in House Imvius, Lady Felina is a strong supporter of the greater House Drovenge. Also like most in House Imvius, she is beginning to show a real political talent for ruthlessness and ambition. The past year-and-a-half of activity from the House have really shown this.
Her private affairs are understandably relatively unknown as she is still a bit shy (perhaps a month?) of leaving her teenage years. But this is what you believe you know:
A year-and-a-half ago, aged 18ish, Lady Felina began spending more and more time deep in study and sanctuary in Westcrown's Temple to Asmodeus -- under the tutelage of, among others, High Priest Vestus Savaska. It is unknown from which ArchDevil or Prince of Hell she has been receiving Divine powers, perhaps Asmodeus (like Vestus Savaska), perhaps another such as Mephistopheles, Lilith, or Baalzebub.
.... Learning the details of her Infernal devotions could be valuable.
In the past four months, Lady Felina has perhaps started a secret affair, or maybe just begun her first love interest, with an as-yet-unknown Lord -- likely in House Drovenge, Lorialn or Xerysis (but perhaps another House). Considering House Imvius' position under House Drovenge, this is likely an accepted love affair, although it could be against her House Patriarch's plans.
.... Learning of which Noble she is having this secret relationship would be very valuable information.
Eight nights ago Lady Felina had a private audience with Lord Mayor Aberian Arvanxi, over one hour in duration -- unusual for a young scion
from a non-associated House and the patriarch of a powerful House.
.... Learning the details of this meeting could be critical information.
A rumor that seems to have been completely debunked four days ago -- and very likely maliciously started by a rival -- is that Lady Felina has been participating in illegal blood-sacrifices (illegal because neither her House nor The Church have sanctioned them.)
.... Learning either the origin of the malicious rumor -- or perhaps the facts of what she has been doing (even if not specifically illegal blood sacrificing), could be valuable information.
Male Human Rogue(Phantom Thief)/Inquisitor(Urban Infiltrator) 1
Renzio, being the protective older brother, is a bit more vicious in his desire for revenge. He subtly motions his silent thoughts on the matter to Arrus.
Bluff:
1d20 + 14 ⇒ (1) + 14 = 15 to pass a secret message, DC 15
"Make her suffer."
He then turns his attention to trying to overhear more of the Duxotar's rant.
