Round 1
If nobody needs him as a wingperson, he approaches Dame Parthena Crabbe.
Good evening Dane Crabbe, it is so nice to have a chance for refined conversation. I am afraid that these last few weeks have been dreadfully stressful with all the turmoil. Hopefully times will be more fruitful from now on.
Picking up on the dislike Bartleby holds for her, Liraela makes her way over to where Dame Crabbe mingles and attempts to make conversation. Unfortunately, her much smaller knowledge of the area compared to the capital is quite evident and she is reduced to discussing her art and not making any progress on discovering anything about her chosen target.
"Just making pleasant conversation", Trevor pivoted. "So you are Count Lotheed's cousin! Did you two grow up side-by-side, or mainly see each other at functions?" The aasimar asked.
Titus looks annoyed. ”No, actually. I’m a cousin by marriage. After the Exaltation Massacre and a subsequent argument with my father, I found myself booted from my home in Oppara and decided to avail myself of my cousin, Count Lotheed here. What good is family if not to leech off of? Hey, do I know you from somewhere?”
Before Trevor can reply, two hangers-on approach Titus: Dame Carodd Hellebore and Syras Cockleburr, Esquire; two more stuck up nobles of similar temperament.
Dame Carodd pulls Titus away. ”Titus, what you doing speaking with someone from the Betony Estate? How gauche.”
Syras asks Trevor. ”Are you going to participate in the tournament? We could use a few laughs. Although with that dainty frame, you're probably more of a trucco player.”
"Don't be silly, Syras." says Carodd. "Trucco requires balls, and he clearly didn't bring any."
The three nobles laugh and walk away.
Good evening Dane Crabbe, it is so nice to have a chance for refined conversation. I am afraid that these last few weeks have been dreadfully stressful with all the turmoil. Hopefully times will be more fruitful from now on.
”Oh have they? I do love some good gossip. We certainly are fortunate that such troubles rarely reach this far out in the country. The only thing I have to worry about at the moment is finding the right suitor for my beautiful daughter Sepsinia. If you know of anyone, do be a dear and send them our way.”
Picking up on the dislike Bartleby holds for her, Liraela makes her way over to where Dame Crabbe mingles and attempts to make conversation. Unfortunately, her much smaller knowledge of the area compared to the capital is quite evident and she is reduced to discussing her art and not making any progress on discovering anything about her chosen target.
Liraela’s lack of sophistication doesn’t actually hurt her chances of speaking with Dame Crabbe but it doesn’t help either. And as a woman and a vishkanya, Parthena rules her out as a prospective match for Sepsinia. Parthena and Liraela share some polite small talk but she isn’t able to steer the conversation towards Count Lotheed as she hoped.
Social Round 2 of 3
You can make another Discovery check. Or if for those who you’ve learned an Influence skill (Bartleby Lotheed and Onora Piscum), you can attempt to influence them now.
Henrika, Liraela, Trevor, and Xallis can no longer discover or influence Bartleby Lotheed until the next event. Icabhod or Tychus can if they want to.
Icabhod makes sure to inform the others of Dame's Crabbe's particular interests.
Social Round 2
Undeterred, Trevor decides to walk to the jousting field to greet the Honorary Tribune and his bar manager. The aasimar notices a sern looking woman walking around front fountain. Trevor nods his head and he passes toward the jousting fields.
"I'm beginning to see where your opinion on nobility is based, Madam Piscum", the cleric says as he walks up to the busy half-elf. "May I be of some assistance? And do you know if we can place wagers on the jousting tournament?"
Onora turns to Tychus. ”Oh, it’s you. You’re right. I am a fan of jousting. Although I’ve never participated. Generally, it’s a sport for knights and nobles. The only time I’ve been able to watch a real joust is here at the jubilee each year. However, like most people in Stachys, I know how to ride a horse and the Lotheeds have some of the finest horses in Meratt. I enjoy watching the animals more than the people seated atop them. I’m sorry to hear about your father. Losing a loved one is never easy.” Onora turns back to the list field. ”Are you going to participate?”"This should certainly be something. By the look on your face, I take it you are a fan?"
He pauses for a beat to let her answer as he watches the joust preparations.
"I've never actually seen a jousting match before. Growing up poor in the Narrows of Oppara, the only sport that exists is staying alive. Once things started to look up for us, my father promised to bring me to one. That is until the fire took him..."
Tychus seems slightly taken aback at the question.
"I... hadn't really thought about the possibility of joining. I'm afraid I don't particularly have the knack for horse-riding..."
He pauses for a few moments, taking in all the sights.
"They certainly are magnificent creatures. Doing most of the work while some posh men ride atop them and take all the glory. Not unlike the people of Taldor, who toil under the yoke of the noble class..." he finishes in a hushed tone, almost seeming lost in thought. He turns back to her and tries to give her a reassuring look.
Round 2
Henrika tires of watching Bartleby, feeling her sword-hand itch at every arrogant word he speaks. Based on Ichabod's intelligence, she also thinks her efforts at charm would be wasted on Dame Crabbe. So, she decides to seek out Baron Nicolaus Okerra, who she recalls watching Xallis speak to at the Gala. "Greetings, milord," she addresses him with a bow. "I am glad to see that you escaped the night of the Grand Day of Exultation. What a horrible tragedy, despite the senate's just and considered revocation of primogeniture, and just in time it would seem. You may remember me? I am Dame Henrika Karthis, recently knighted by the princess herself for heroic acts in service to her cause, and if I may be of any service to you, well, I hope only that you will ask. My friend Xallis Livara has recently inherited the Betony estate."
"I'm beginning to see where your opinion on nobility is based, Madam Piscum", the cleric says as he walks up to the busy half-elf. "May I be of some assistance? And do you know if we can place wagers on the jousting tournament?"
Onora grins. ”I have some choice words for Bartleby and the rest of the self-serving asses at the jubilee but I have to restrain myself. As much as I hate to admit it, Stachys relies on what little aid Lotheedar gives it. I don’t need any assistance right now but you are welcome to watch the tournament with me. Bets are not placed on the participants. However, there is a significant prize for the jousters who come in first and second place. In addition, simply participating in the joust gives you a measure of prestige and guests will look favorably upon you.”
"I... hadn't really thought about the possibility of joining. I'm afraid I don't particularly have the knack for horse-riding..."
He pauses for a few moments, taking in all the sights.
"They certainly are magnificent creatures. Doing most of the work while some posh men ride atop them and take all the glory. Not unlike the people of Taldor, who toil under the yoke of the noble class..." he finishes in a hushed tone, almost seeming lost in thought. He turns back to her and tries to give her a reassuring look.
”That’s too bad.” says Onora. ”In that case, you could place Trucco with Dame Crabbe or just socialize with the other guests.” Onora looks surprised at Tychus’ comparison. ”I hadn’t thought about it like that but it is an apt simile.”
"Greetings, milord," she addresses him with a bow. "I am glad to see that you escaped the night of the Grand Day of Exultation. What a horrible tragedy, despite the senate's just and considered revocation of primogeniture, and just in time it would seem. You may remember me? I am Dame Henrika Karthis, recently knighted by the princess herself for heroic acts in service to her cause, and if I may be of any service to you, well, I hope only that you will ask. My friend Xallis Livara has recently inherited the Betony estate."
”Ah, Dame Henrika!” Nicolaus greets Henrika warmly and offers his hand to shake. ”Of course I remember you. I must admit that when we met at the gala I wasn’t expecting to become neighbors. Fortunately for us, the County of Meratt could use some more caretakers willing to improve the region. I have high hopes for you. Come visit me at my hometown, Pensaris, any time you like. And I’m glad that you and your allies made it out of the Exaltation Massacre alive as well. I had to fight my way out, one bloody step at a time. This old soldier still has some fight in him yet. To think that the Grand Prince was capable of such a betrayal of his country. Although its well known that he sanity was failing even before the event. It could have been possible that his actions were manipulated. I’m just glad that Princess Eutropia wasn’t involved and she will continue to have my support.”
Icabhod, Liraela, and Xallis can still take Round 2 actions.
Round 2
Liraela, feeling a bit sheepish about her lack of awareness when it comes to Dame Crabbe’s true motives, excuses herself alter a bit of discussing the merits of differing art forms (including the one she practices). She makes her way naturally through the crowd until coming up next to Henrika having her conversation with the Baron.
”Lady Liraela.” she says as a way of introduction, imagining the Baron most certainly remembers the vishkanya from the senate. A small curtsy accompanies her introduction, the golden snakes shaking and clanking together slightly.
”Speaking of caretakers and allies, I’m glad to see that one of our neighbors is one so…hands-on as you are. It is a shame what happened at the senate, but I consider our grand nation lucky to have you still kicking.”
Round 2
Icabhod wanders over to where Trevor is standing with Onara and nods to him. Ah! Glad I could catch you for a moment Trevor, it is hard to keep track when there are so many people here. He nods to Onara. Pleased to make your acquaintance. I am a comrade of Trevor here, Icabhod's the name.
We've both been quite busy these past few days trying to settle in, a bit of a shame that things are getting a bit crumbly at the estates. I hope to be able to improve anything that needs to be tended to. Rebuilding walls, digging wells and so on.
Xallis walks away from his previous conversation feeling quite pleased with himself. Not only did he make a fine first impression, but he may have found the rare and valuable fellow practitioner of the arcane amongst the local nobles!
Round 2
The sight of Baron Okerra is enough to prove that fortunes compound upon fortunes. Xallis approaches the man with a polite bow and a very genuine smile. "Baron Nicolaus Okerra. It tills me with no small amount of joy to see that you've made it out of that bloody mess. After all, who else can serve as a fitting opponent in matters of discussing state? Once I finish cleaning up around the estate, I'll be sure to invite you over for tea."
”Speaking of caretakers and allies, I’m glad to see that one of our neighbors is one so…hands-on as you are. It is a shame what happened at the senate, but I consider our grand nation lucky to have you still kicking.”
”Greetings, Dame Liraela. It’s good to see you too. Your compliments are too kind. As a former military officer, I have a strict loyalty to law and order. I hope to inspire my lackadaisical neighbors to action by showing them the benefits of hard work and organizing charity for their peasants in lean times. But despite my actions, I worry I’ll never match the organizational abilities and human insights of my late wife, Nirvenna, who ruled the barony in my stead during my military career. There are some tricks an old dog can’t learn.”
"Baron Nicolaus Okerra. It tills me with no small amount of joy to see that you've made it out of that bloody mess. After all, who else can serve as a fitting opponent in matters of discussing state? Once I finish cleaning up around the estate, I'll be sure to invite you over for tea."
”Ah, Sir Xallis. So you were related to Lady Allis Betony? I never would have guessed. I understand that the Betony Estate was left to disrepair after her passing. Perhaps I can send some assistance. After the jubilee, I’ll send Stachys some lumber and building supplies and loan you a few artisans to give you a head start on fixing up your town.”
Ah! Glad I could catch you for a moment Trevor, it is hard to keep track when there are so many people here. He nods to Onara. Pleased to make your acquaintance. I am a comrade of Trevor here, Icabhod's the name.
We've both been quite busy these past few days trying to settle in, a bit of a shame that things are getting a bit crumbly at the estates. I hope to be able to improve anything that needs to be tended to. Rebuilding walls, digging wells and so on.
”Greetings, Icabhod. It’s true that there are many improvements that need to be made. Stachys simply doesn’t have the funds or the manpower to make them on its own. But I’m starting to believe you and your friends when you make these claims that you’ll help.”
Social Round 3 out of 3
Purple Finch seeks out each of you carrying a fresh platter of food and wine. ”You should really try some of these hors d'oeuvres. All the guests are raven about them. The Tournament and Trucco will be starting soon. Have any of you put any thought into participating? Don’t worry, you don’t have to sign up until right before it begins. I can explain the rules to you to help you make a decision.”
The joust is open to any guest willing to participate. Competitors all go up against each other in pairs determined by Count Lotheed, accumulating points over the course of 5 rounds, at which point the top two challengers face off against one another in a final pass. The use of magical augmentation in a joust—except to compensate for a disability—is considered a gauche violation of the rules.
Scoring: Each round, contestants ride to opposite ends of the tilt, turn, salute, and then charge on horseback at one another with lances, hoping to strike their opponent and, ideally, knock them from their horses. Each participant attempts an opposed Ride check and an attack roll. The character with the higher Ride check result gains a +2 circumstance bonus on her attack and damage rolls for that pass. A character struck must succeed at a Ride check (DC equal to the amount of damage dealt) or be unseated from his mount. Characters with the Unseat feat can apply this feat if the initial charge doesn’t unseat an opponent. In the interest of safety and thanks to the blunted lances, the attacks deal nonlethal damage.
Connecting with a lance scores 1 point, while unseating an opponent instead scores 2 points. A wielder who shatters her lance (which happens automatically if a single blow deals 20 or more points of damage) adds 1 additional point for the spectacle and the skill required.
Reward: The second-place competitor is awarded a silver chalice emblazoned with the Lotheed family’s rampant owl heraldry (worth 100 gp). The winner of the joust is awarded a silver ferret (worth 1,000 gp), as well as a bouquet of hyacinths to give to a “spiritual companion” who inspired her in the trials. (Giving the hyacinth bouquet to certain NPCs automatically improves that NPC’s attitude toward the PCs by one step.)
Social Rounds: As the joust takes the whole afternoon, entrants do not have a chance to interact with or influence any NPCs (but PCs who choose not to participate can do so). However, the general prestige and assumed bravery that accompanies the joust grants participating PCs a +2 circumstance bonus on skill checks to influence NPCs during the rest of the day and evening.
For those of a more genteel persuasion, a field is set aside for trucco a short distance from the jousting list, complete with sandwiches and tea. The game—essentially a combination of billiards and golf—involves skill and control, using long-handled spoons to knock hardwood balls around a field, through various rings, and into opponents’ balls.
Players take turns attempting Dexterity checks. Characters proficient with light hammers gain a +2 bonus on this check, and characters with Weapon Focus (light hammers) gain an additional +1 bonus. A character scores 1 point with a successful DC 15 Dexterity check, and 1 additional point for every 5 by which her Dexterity check result exceeds 15. The first player to reach 7 points wins the round.
There is enough time to play 5 rounds. There is no monetary reward for playing trucco but there may be a bonus or penalty to influencing Dame Crabbe depending on how many rounds you win.
Social Rounds: The PCs have 4 social rounds in which to influence NPCs if they choose to play trucco. Baron Okerra is participating in the joust, and Tribune Onora is too consumed watching the event; neither can be influenced during these rounds.
You can decide on your Round Three social actions now. After this round, the tournament will begin.
Icabhod or Tychus can still influence Bartleby if they wish.
Social Round 3
Trevor bows his head, pleased to see a more positive response from Onara, and lets the honorary tribune get ready for the joust.
The cleric then seeks an introduction with the nearby Baron Okerra.
"Good day, Lord Okerra. I am Sir Trevor Kastner. I live with my family in Betony Estate. My cousin, Lord Livara and I hope to make some improvements to the surrounding area. Madam Piscum has been a font of knowledge, but we would appreciate any input you have, due to your long association with the area."
Getting a flashback on another entertainer who turned out to be murderous, Icabhod us suspicious of Finch will be attempting to discern if she really is just hired help
Xallis decides that Dame Crabbe might be worth his time.
"Dame Crabbe, what a pleasure." Xallis says as he approaches. "I do't believe we've been formally introduced. I am Sir Xallis Livara. I've recently moved into the Betony estate. A lot of potential, in that place..."
He'll start a bit of idle chitchat, all while Navia stands close and carefully observes her reactions to various topics.
”That’s too bad.” says Onora. ”In that case, you could place Trucco with Dame Crabbe or just socialize with the other guests.” Onora looks surprised at Tychus’ comparison. ”I hadn’t thought about it like that but it is an apt simile.”
Social Round 3
"I might, trucco seems a bit more my speed."
Tychus nods to her and begins to walk away, but halts suddenly and turns back to Onora.
"Oh, and Onora, if there is ever anything I can do to aid you in running the town, please let me know. I have a few skills that might come in handy, and nothing would make me happier."
After a bit of an awkward smile, he finally walks away.
Social Round 3
"Good day, Lord Okerra. I am Sir Trevor Kastner. I live with my family in Betony Estate. My cousin, Lord Livara and I hope to make some improvements to the surrounding area. Madam Piscum has been a font of knowledge, but we would appreciate any input you have, due to your long association with the area."
”Well met, Sir Kastner. I can’t say I’m familiar with the particulars of the repairs needed. I do not visit Stachys often. But I understand that the hamlet could use a complete overhaul. One of the problems is hefty taxes that the Lotheeds levy from the towns in Meratt but as he runs the County, it is his right to do so.”
"Dame Crabbe, what a pleasure." Xallis says as he approaches. "I do't believe we've been formally introduced. I am Sir Xallis Livara. I've recently moved into the Betony estate. A lot of potential, in that place..."
”Greeting, Sir Livara. I heard that you recently inherited the Betony fortune. How interesting. And who is this woman with you? A consort? If you are interested in a more traditional pairing, my daughter Sepsinia would be perfect for you. She’s a little under the weather today but I assure you that she has her charms. Did you know that the Crabbes run a conservatory for young musicians and dancers? Maybe Sepsinia will show off her talents later. Go on, Sepsinia, greet the man.” Parthena practically shoves her daughter towards Xallis.
”Um, nice to meet you, Sir Livara.” says Sepsinia while staring at her feet.
When Xallis tries to talk about his responsibilities in Stachys, she grows bored and tries to change the subject. She points to Lady Marthane standing away from the other guests. ”Just look at that harlot. She claims she is a cousin from Cassomir, but I think Bartleby invited her here for a tawdry affair. How scandalous.”
"I might, trucco seems a bit more my speed."
Onora shrugs. ”Okay.” It appears that Onora doesn’t hear his parting words; her attention is already back on the jousting preparations.
Getting a flashback on another entertainer who turned out to be murderous, Icabhod us suspicious of Finch will be attempting to discern if she really is just hired help.
Having working in the service industry, Icabhod observes that her mannerisms are that of a common servant. And her form-fitting outfit would be difficult to hide a weapon underneath. It is likely that she is just hired help. If she is an assassin, she is a talented performer.
Still trying to get the scope of the situation, Henrika decides to saunter into the garden and observe Adella Voinum. She recognizes the woman is not receptive to conversation, but she tries her best to engineer a polite encounter where she apologizes for getting in the way of the other woman's view and briefly introduces herself.
When he passes by any of his comrades, Icabhod passes along his opinions. Dame Crabbe seems to be just as she appears, a idle noble who is more interested in tea parties and status then being useful. We can no doubt safely ignore her.
Adella Voinum turns to Henrika and regards her with a critical scowl. Age has hunched her back but she still stands six feet tall. A long scar cuts across the bridge of her nose. She takes a sip of wine and engages Henrika in conversation without introducing herself. ”Tell me young lady, what do you see when you look at this spectacle Count Lotheed has arranged? I see the social decay of Taldor. The Voinum family has been part of the county for a thousand years and proudly upholds Taldan ideals. With today’s youth's lack of discipline and respect for tradition, this is what we get.” She gestures to the outlandish entertainment performing on the lawn.
Icabhod and Liraela still can act.
Round 3
Keep in mind that assassins can kill with their bare hands and in one instance, their hair.
Looking around, it seems that a number of people are heading for some games. Having so skill with riding, Icabhod looks around for other party-goers he could scope out and his gaze falls upon Lady Marthane. She certainly likes to hover around the edges and so he decides to head over, but first he gets a glass of water and sprinkles one of his extracts in it before quaffing, getting an edge.
Good evening Lady Marthane! Glad to meet you, I am Icabhod and recently arrived with my fellows at the Betony estate. I hope you have been able to enjoy yourself with what end up with a lot of fighting and find these lands to your liking. Perhaps we could join people on the lawn and push some balls around?
Good evening Lady Marthane! Glad to meet you, I am Icabhod and recently arrived with my fellows at the Betony estate. I hope you have been able to enjoy yourself with what end up with a lot of fighting and find these lands to your liking. Perhaps we could join people on the lawn and push some balls around?
Icabhod carefully approaches Lady Lucretzia Marthane. She is suspiciously studying the windows around the banquet hall. She starts when Icabhod calls out to her and looks surprised by Icabhod's invitation. ”Oh, hello. Oh...thank you for the kind offer but I wasn’t… I was not planning on participating. I’m a cousin from Cassomir. I’m just here for the food.”
Long way for food, Hmmm... Ah, a cousin! of course a relative our most generous host? He certainly is quite the formidable fellow.
Social Round 3
"Yes, Bartleby. He’s a gracious host, if you are of noble blood. If you'll excuse me, I have to visit the restroom."
Liraela continues some small talk with Baron Okerra before the tournament begins.
Event: The Tournament
Finally it is time for the tournament to being. The count’s servants have erected a list, a tilt, and stands for a joust, complete with colorful flags and banners. The joust is open to any guest willing to participate.
Purple Finch joyfully takes Trevor and Henrika’s hands and leads them to the preparation area. ”We have two new competitors right here! Please help them suit up if it’s not too much of a birden.” Another servant happily supplies both of them heavy horse mounts, jousting armor (a breastplate, helm, and padding), and a small metal shield. They also provide blunted jousting lances fitted with metal sheaths (which inflict nonlethal damage). The stands slowly fill with spectators, many bribed with food to come from nearby Lotheedar.
Once everyone is seated, Count Bartleby Lotheed takes the center of the field. ”Welcome! Welcome, Lords and Ladies! The event that you’ve all been waiting for, the Tanager Jubilee Jousting Tournament is about to begin. Thank you all for coming. This year, the grand prize is the coveted Silver Ferret Trophy. I’m happy to announce that last year’s champion, Baron Nicolaus Okerra has returned to defend his title and we also have some newcomers from the Betony Estate. Let’s give them a round of applause. Good luck to everyone. I’m sure you’ll all put on a wonderful show. And with that, let the tournament begin!”
Count Bartleby walks off the field and the crowd cheers loudly as the competitors line up for the first round.
A short distance from the jousting list, a field is set aside for trucco for those not interested in participating or watching the tournament. Servants walk around carrying sandwiches and tea. The game—essentially a combination of billiards and golf—involves skill and control, using long-handled spoons to knock hardwood balls around a field, through various rings, and into opponents’ balls. Dame Crabbe is already at the trucco field with a hammer in hand. None of the other guests you’ve met are participating, but a few other nobles, merchants, and family friends fill the roster.
Joust Round 1
Competitors all go up against each other in pairs determined by Count Lotheed, accumulating points over the course of 5 rounds, at which point the top two challengers face off against one another in a final pass. The use of magical augmentation in a joust—except to compensate for a disability—is considered a gauche violation of the rules.
For the first round Trevor is paired with young noble named Baronet Fi Paben. And Henrika is paired with a female noble named Lady Mona Sittas.
Contestants ride to opposite ends of the tilt, turn, salute, and then charge on horseback at one another with lances, hoping to strike their opponent and, ideally, knock them from their horses.
Connecting with a lance scores 1 point, while unseating an opponent instead scores 2 points. A wielder who shatters her lance (which happens automatically if a single blow deals 20 or more points of damage) adds 1 additional point for the spectacle and the skill required.
Roll a Ride check. Then roll an attack and damage roll with a lance. If you beat your opponent's Ride check, add +2 to your attack roll and damage. A lance is a one-handed weapon that deals 2d8 damage (x3 critical). You can wear your own armor, but you need to carry the masterwork light steel shield they give you. This makes Henrika’s AC 18 and Trevor’s AC 20. Since a masterwork light steel shield has an armor check penalty of 0, it does not affect your attack roll or ride skill check regardless of proficiency.
Baronet Fi Paben (AC 15)
Lady Mona Sittas (AC 17)
Trucco Round 1
There is enough time to play 5 rounds of trucco. We'll do one round at a time.
Instead of going back and forth, keep rolling Dexterity checks until you get 7 or more points and determine how many turns it takes you. (+1 point for beating a DC 15 Dex check, +1 point for every 5 points above that. Tychus is the only one with proficiency with light hammers and gets a +1 bonus to his rolls.)
Dame Crabbe completes round 1 in 4 turns.
Social Round 1
In addition to joust or trucco, those not jousting also get a Social Round to interact with guests. There will be 4 Social Rounds in all before the next event. Baron Okerra and Tribune Piscum cannot be influenced during these rounds.
Joust Round 1
Henrika opts not to change her armor, imagining she is already at a disadvantage mounted on a horse. I am only here to put on a show for the nobles, to give my friends something to talk about, she thinks ruefully. Hopefully I do not embarrass myself so much that I lose all credibility!
She steadies herself and levels the lance against her opponent.
She feels the lance crash into her shield, and begins to slide off of the horse!
She manages to keep her seat, though only barely.
It takes Liraela an embarrassingly long amount of time to achieve the seven points as she slowly acclimates to the unfamiliar game.
"Didn't have this game where I came from." she says weakly as an excuse.
Icabhod winces as his comrades stumble about the field and is thankful that he didn't try any of the games. Feeling bold, he decides to poke the bear and address Count Lotheed.
Good evening Baron. Your gathering has been splendid, I must say that your cousin Lady Marthane is a splendid conversationist as well. He casts an eye at the field. Hmm..seems my friends are having a bit of difficulty.
Joust Round 1
On the jousting list, Sir Kaster and Baronet Paben charge headlong towards each other. At first it appears that Baronet Paben has the upper hand but when the two pass, it is Sir Kastner’s lance that connects with the opponent.
Next, Dame Karthis and Lady Sittas take the field. Henrika struggles with her horse and before she can recover, Lady Sittas slams into her shield. Dame Karthis is nearly knocked from her seat with only a fortunate bounce keeping her mounted.
Trucco Round 1
Xallis doesn't manage to score a single point until round 9 and when he sees Liraela finish, he gives up.
Dame Crabbe fails to hide her mirth at Liraela and Xallis' scores and looks very proud of herself with her score of 4 turns.
Social Round 1
Good evening Baron. Your gathering has been splendid, I must say that your cousin Lady Marthane is a splendid conversationist as well. He casts an eye at the field. Hmm..seems my friends are having a bit of difficulty.
”Cousin Marthane?” Bartleby looks confused. ”Well at your friends’ skill levels, their showing is probably the best that could be expected. The crowd looks entertained.”
Maybe we'll find why this guy doesn't like Lir after all!
Dejected by his gameplay, Xallis wanders over to Count Lotheed to discuss the finer details of summoning and the nature of various outsiders; subjects which Count Lotheed is very receptive to.
Hmm..Lady Lucretzia Marthane, said she was a cousin.. Icabhod casts an eye over to where she vanished through. I think you might have a party crasher.
After the first round, Liraela approaches Dame Crabbe and ask for pointers on how to play trucco better.
”That was some of the best trucco I’ve ever seen, you must teach me your secrets!” she loud-whispers, conspiratorially.
Trucco Round 1
At the end of the first round, Tychus surprisingly sneaks in a win. Dame Crabbe approaches him and congratulates him. ”Well done, Sir Marcaius. It’s a pleasure to play against a real challenger.”
Social Round 1
”That was some of the best trucco I’ve ever seen, you must teach me your secrets!” she loud-whispers, conspiratorially.
Bluff: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (9) + 12 = 21
”Oh really? Do flatter me more.” Parthena Crabbe practices with Liraela between games and gives her a few pointers.
I think you might have a party crasher.
Joust Round 2
In Round 2 of the Joust, Trevor’s match is with Lady Mona Sittas, who Herika went up against in the first round. Henrika’s opponent is a Lieutenant Marina Gortius, a female Taldan soldier.
Since Trevor scored in the first match, a small number of people in the crowd start cheering his name when he lines up.
Lady Mona Sittas (AC 17)
Lieutenant Marina Gortius (AC 20)
Trucco Round 2
Social Round 2 of 4
Joust Round 2
At the end of the first round, Tychus surprisingly sneaks in a win. Dame Crabbe approaches him and congratulates him. ”Well done, Sir Marcaius. It’s a pleasure to play against a real challenger.”
Tychus blushes a bit but maintains his composure. He straigthens out and tries to rub some of the creases out of his shirt.
"Oh, I'm sure it's nothing but beginner's luck. You seem to be quite the athlete as well. I don't have high hopes when up against an opponent such as yourself."
It takes Liraela significantly less time to finish her round of trucco this time, a fact she definitely attributes to Dame Crabbe's help and not to her own skill improving over time.
"See? You were such a good teacher! I knew asking you for tips would help." she says to the lady, working hard to make sure no hint of sarcasm enters her voice.
Joust Round 2
Sir Kastner and Lady Sittas pass by each other with neither hitting the other which causes the crowd to boo in disappointment.
Trucco Round 2
Tychus and Liraela both finish trucco in a respectable 6 turns. Xallis gives trucco one more try. He plays for 10 turns and scores only 2 points with a lucky hit. Afterwards he decides trucco is not for him.
Dame Crabbe wins the second round of trucco with another score of 4 turns.
Social Round 2
I hope it's ok for me to do both Social Rounds in one sitting.
"Oh, I'm sure it's nothing but beginner's luck. You seem to be quite the athlete as well. I don't have high hopes when up against an opponent such as yourself."
”It’s true.” Dame Crabbe isn’t ashamed to boast. ”You got lucky that first time. But I can tell you are a novice. I’ve been playing trucco since I was a child and in my unbiased opinion, I’m probably the best player in Meratt. It was so much nicer when my husband Opilio was around and I didn’t have any responsibilities. I could just play games and eat sweet treats all day. Managing Moost is such a chore.”
"See? You were such a good teacher! I knew asking you for tips would help."
Dame Crabbe beams. ”Well you asked the right person, dear. I tutor young women in Moost all the time. I can see the improvement already. Maybe you’ll get a win by the end of the day.”
Xallis continues to work on influencing Bartleby since he has Bartleby’s favor. The two have a long conversation about the Astral Plane that few others would understand.
Henrika and Icabhod can still take their turns.
Icabhod addresses the Baron. I believe I shall have a look for this most rude intruder, Hopefully they just came to stuff their face but I shall be wary. Icabhod leaves through the door the 'cousin' went through and drinks his Extract of Barksin
Then an extract of Keen Senses He then gets on the trail of a mystery!
Icabhod follows Lucretzia Marthane’s trail. He leaves the garden and heads into the gallery. From there he finds some guest restrooms to the west but no sign of Lady Marthane in any of them. The only clue he finds is a single black feather in a stall. Icabhod backtracks a little in search of more clues. What he finds is concerning. He notices a tripwire has been laid across the stairs of the veranda. Following the line, he sees the wire is connected to a concealed crossbow placed beneath a window ledge from the second floor observatory. Asking around with the servants, Icabhod finds out that Count Bartelby traditionally delivers a speech from the top of the stairs before calling the guests inside for dinner after the joust.
Joust Round 2
Henrika
Dame Karthis and Lieutenant Gortius also both pass each other with neither one hitting.
Joust Round 3
The joust tournament enters the halfway point. Henrika’s opponent is the young Baronet Fi Paben who shouldn’t be too much of a challenge. Unfortunately for Trevor, his next opponent is Baron Nicolaus Okerra. Baron Okerra salutes Trevor on the tilt. ”Well met, Sir Kastner. Let’s give the crowd a good show. Know that my honor demands that I do not go easy on you.”
Connecting with a lance scores 1 point, while unseating an opponent instead scores 2 points. A wielder who shatters her lance (which happens automatically if a single blow deals 20 or more points of damage) adds 1 additional point for the spectacle and the skill required.
Baron Nicolaus Okerra (AC 18)
Baronet Fi Paben (AC 15)
Trucco Round 3
Social Round 3
Icabhod see this as an opportunity to gain influence with the Baron. Foe he may be, but nothing builds trust like saving him from a trap. He gets out his tools and sets to work on attempting to disable it.
Amateur hour here. Come along, Time to suck up. Icabhod takes the feather, he isn't sure what it could mean but perhaps the Baron does.
Joust Round 3
Thanks Henrika. Trevor, you still get to make an attack roll against Okerra to see if you hit him too.
Tychus hefts his mallet after a few stretches, ready for another round of Trucco.
Round 3
Icabhod strolls back to wear the Baron is with the crossbow and black feather. Baron, I was unable to find the 'cousin' but have discovered something much more disturbing. He produced the crossbow and the feather. It seems very likely she was an assassin since this crossbow was aimed at where you often give your speeches. This feather was nearby as well.
Sir Livara lets out a light chuckle as he finishes his conversation of the astral plane. He even ends his theory with a humorous story about an inventor who attempted to create an arcane explosive device out of a portable hole and a bag of holding
Then, he pauses. It hits him. He glances around at every guest at the party that isn't a member of his coterie.
Oh no. He's the only one around here I respect.
The shared thought provokes a fit of seemingly spontaneous laughter from Navia. Xallis quickly composes himself in an attempt to explain, leading to...
Round 3
Taking it in stride, he smirks at his eidolon before turning back to Bartleby. "Ah, pardon me. Dear Navia and I sometimes share idle humor. In this case at the expensive of the less educated." Technically correct. "I'm sure you've seen examples of eidilons before. Bound fae, contracted devils, what have you. But Navia, here, is a wholly unique creation. How familiar are you with the creation involved in a First Summoning? Of the artistry, and craftsmanship?"
Navia's expression lights up at the potential opportunity to show off.
He produced the crossbow and the feather. It seems very likely she was an assassin since this crossbow was aimed at where you often give your speeches. This feather was nearby as well.
Xallis raises an eyebrow. "A what? What kind of...."
Then, another thought hits him Every tragedy, an opportunity. "My dear baron, if I may? Navia has been crafted with an alarmingly good sense of smell. With your blessing, she could attemt to track the scent of the assailant. They're likely going to remain at the occasion long enough to ensure their trap worked."
Xallis quietly hopes that his initiative will be seen as more quick-thinking detective work and less suspicious opportunistic coincidence.
Liraela tries her hand once more at trucco, hoping to finally squeeze out a win. She is so competitive, after all.
Whether or not she wins the round, she makes her way over to her new-found "friend" to attempt to make more of an impact.
"Did you see, Dame Crabbe? I performed so much better after your teachings! Couldn't have done it without you."
Henrika shakes off the damage from her failed bouts and proceeds to get back on the horse. If anything, I hope Okerra's opinion of me improves because I participated in this farce, she smirks to herself, as she rides against Baronet Fi.
CRASH! Again, poor Henrika takes another lance right in the shield, gasping as the wind is knocked out of her.
Fortunately, she keeps her seat.