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Sorry to all. Have been working nights and tonight is the last night. I haven't even looked at anything because I have been working 12 hours and driving one hour each way. It was definitely better than unemployment, but it took everything from me all month. I didn't even see my family for Christmas. Will be posting a real post probably Friday after I recover. And thanks Graek. Holidays have been rough. Happy holidays to all.
Grau leads you into Midtown, to his small, one-room apartment. He quickly gives himself a once-over and washes his face and some of the grime, as well as Tawni's cuts up. About this time, there is another riot flare up, and Grau is in full uniform. The crowd is chanting "down with the guard. Down with the Sable Company. Down with the Queen!". What do you do?
Sorry all, adjusting to a new job. Switching from days to nights. I may be having a bit of trouble this week, but I am still here! Second job interview on Thursday for something that is Days is coming, too. So this may be short term.
I believe Crowler can see through that, as can Grau. Grau nods, as if understanding. He raises his glass has a sip and is ready to go. I believe that getting cleaned up before facing the Field Marshall is probably a good idea. Outside of that, let's get moving between rioters. We have enough trouble with them, let alone the AWOL guardsmen doing harm.. He says wistfully.
Grau looks to Maria, rubs his eyes. Looks back to Tawni, and then looks downtrodden. "Then I guess she's still lost to me, too." He sort of half-mumbles. He perks up a moment. "I'm going to have to get cleaned up for duty anyways. I believe I owe you all a drink for the road. Then let's go by my place for a proper uniform and cleaning up, and I'll go see the Field Marshall. Sound good? They make an excellent Spicy Mariner, Tawni!" Grau smiles at Tawni.
"Bravo, young knight. You have more promise than many. Let it not be said that I am not a man of my word... *hic* Even drunk."[b] Grau says, grinning and wiping the sweat from his brow. [b]"You won fair and square, and I believe I owe you a drink for that. After that, I believe I have to go to Kroft, as you requested. As to Rolth, he hasn't been in town in a few years, I can confirm that. He went to another town. I can get that info for you personally once the rioting dies down." He sheathes his longsword, which, if you note the rest of his rather boring clothing, is a much finer blade than any guardsman would normally be issued. It appears to be a personal blade.
Just making sure this post is real. Disregard if the above post actually shows.
Spoiler:
"So, you're a local boy done good, eh? Saving your brother. You're not here to butcher anyone?" DC 11
Seeing the two dancing with their blades flashing. The two are now locked in a turn of endurance. Sure, Reynotto's got a couple of cuts, but he seems to have the upper hand on Grau in the endurance category right now. Further, Grau seems to be hesitating as he swings now, added to that, his swings are sluggish, almost predictable.. He's genuinely surprised at the approach you have taken with him. All:
Spoiler:
"Now, now, pretty dwarf woman, I asked Neffi for a kiss. No need to getjealous. My apologies if I seem upfront. Neffi and I go way back to Sandpoint.". He takes a small bow towards Ernhild. "I am sorry, but I don't remember new names when I am not sober. What was your name again? You have good friends. I'm a bit jealous. "
Grau continues his attempts at witty banter and swordlplay.
Good news, he is fatigued on the next set. He will not have any hits on you this trio, but he has a heck of a defense. Please give me a DC 17 Fortitude Save. "Inheritor, eh. And you got rid of Lamm. An' your working with the temple of Asmodeus? Strange bedfellows, but I like it. You haven't killed each other. Lamm's son was rumored to be the Key Lock Killer. No evidence ever popped up, so the elder guards had to let it go. You find the scumbag, you have my blessings."
You had it right, use your BAB plus dex. Grau goes into the same pattern.
Third round won't be needed. Grau, not using any of his skills, chooses the same opening pattern. Tawni sees it and dances around it, getting two clean slashes in on the sergeant. At this point, Grau stops his advance, stumbling back and then tripping and falling on his backside. "Magic, curses and magic!". He exclaims. He picks himself up, sheathing his sword. "All is fair. I lost. I will go to Kroft. One can't say, even drunk, I don't play by the rules." He turns to Maria, and smiles that drunken, yet charming smile, "So, Neffi, any chance I can get a consolation prize and a kiss, just for old times sake?"
Such is life, including the end. My aunt and I are splitting the duty. Until I start my temporary job at the post office next week.
Reynotto
Spoiler:
The extra damage really won't matter in this case, but works for theatrics.
"So, you're not just a fop. You've been practicing with other decently trained Chels?" Grau says as they go back and forth. Grau rounds 3-6
DC 16 Fortitude save please. Grau is sweating. He is having fun.
Takes everyone outside. He makes a special point of handing Maria "Neffi" her drink. The two set paces at fifteen, and then circle inward. It is worth noting that several Varisian men come near, eyeing your group suspiciously. Swords clash back and forth with Grau swinging in with a powerful blow, one that should be reserved for real combat, taking Tawni off-guard. While Tawni expects that later, the two miss each other completely with attack and defense. It is when Grau tries to close in and begin using the hilt of his blade to wear Tawni down that Tawni's sobriety helps him the most. He cleanly dances around the maneuver, slashing at Grau. At the end of it Grau is smiling, if not panting a bit. "You've been practicing, I see." He then launches into a similar pattern of attacks.
Grau smiles, finishing his drink. He steps outside, where one of the Scarzni you had been speaking with was waiting, as if he were a bouncer. Grau waves the man off. "A matter of Honor Rikard" At which point, the man eases his stance. Grau, holding his stance easily, offers the draw at fifteen paces, "to allow time to get used to true fencing." He smiles, passing his sword between his hands. You see he is moving with the alcohol, but he still has a good deal of Grace about him. Grau rounds one through three.
Reynotto, with the wear down, please make a Fortitude save, DC 14 failure indicates after round three you are fatigued. [(19-10)/2+10 round down. ] Pendleton follows the group outside. He sees the setup, and Reynotto's bravado. He also sees Grau's calm confidence, even very drunk. But Grau I not fighting like a true fencer.
Nope, real life broke me. Been a busy week with hospice. I am sorry to you all. You all deserve better. Tawni, you won't use your grit, that's three rounds, which will work beautifully. My grandfather is fading, his kidneys are failing. And picking him up to help is hard. My grandmother is in denial, and I haven't had my book with me. Argh.
I am so sorry Alexio. I have no kind words for this year.
The Barkeep addresses Pendleton. "Since the riots started. His men turned on him. Tried to murder Innocents here in the camp. Grau stopped them. He started drowning his sorrows. Losing a 'Neffi' and then some other girl here in town. Then his men. He was helped by a couple of local toughs. You probably met them if you didn't come right in. They're working like the guard" Elsewhere, poor Inquisitor Crowler and Reynotto are having less luck. Grau sits and listens to their imperatives and, after that doesn't work, the smattering of insults from Reynotto. He then finishes his very strong drink in one pull. "So, let me get this straight. A Hellknight wannabe, and his fop of a minion, who doesn't look at all like Hellknight material, want me to go back to the same guards who tried to murder people who didn't break any laws. All because the king is dead? What, the queen that bad?." As he listens more to Reynotto and his vial of "so bring up," he chuckles, "Alright junior Hellknight, how about this. I will go with you if you can win at the sword duel with me. Now, to be fair, I have studied at Orisini Academy. Simple fencing rules, three strikes, you're out." Fencing Rules:
Spoiler: Declare an action based on the following: Lunge: simple strength based attack. Feint: Charisma (bluff skill) used to trick the opponent. Riposte: Dexterity based defense and counterattack (used against attack) Defense: constitution based defense Wear down:. Constitution based attack, forcing the other to become fatigued, then exhausted. Damage is simple, A single point per strike, as this is a non-lethal test of skill.
I am on hospice duty for my grandfather this week. Yes, I have three terminal family members currently. And I love that I have wonderful gamers keeping me sane. Thank you all so much for your patience and being awesome.
Grau sits there. Staring at Tawni, incredulous at his words. He waves down Dennvyn. "Having to cut down your own men because they think it's cute to murder the poor dancers here. Orisini Academy taught me better. I may have lost my girl, but you can't just let that happen.". He growls. He stands up. Maintaining a piercing eye contact with Tawni. "You fancy yourself a swordsman. I am happy to go back with a better swordsman. First fencer to three blows is the winner. Unless, you are afraid of losing in front of Neffi, Tawni." Fencing Rules
Spoiler:
Good luck and good gaming Juliet. Good to have you while you were here. I fully understand. I am on hospice duty for my grandfather this week. Yes, I have three terminal family members currently. And I love that I have wonderful gamers keeping me sane. Thank you all so much for your patience and being awesome.
"Hi Tawni! Come here for one of these 'Pale Devils'? Dey's really tasty! Oh wait, is that Neffi with you? Hi Neffi! Grau is obviously drunk and is addressing Maria as 'Neffi.'. He appears to be referencing his drink as a pale devil. Upon hearing Field Marshall Croft's name... "I dun wanna go back to Citadel Volshyenek. King's dead. People are going crazy. She left me. My only friend is right here... Grau finishes his nearly full drink. "Barkeep, I could use another of these lovely Pale Devils. An' Neffi would like a fancy drink with an umbrella in it. The Barkeep and the dancer are quite efficient, and have everything out before anyone can really protest, with Grau paying. So, Tawni, how'd you get Neffi away from Sandpoint? And Neffi, that a really good dishguisze
Grau looks up at Aleziella over his copper cup. His red nose and very dilated pupils show that he is not sober. He looks at Aleziella and smiles.
He Pat's the bench next to him. He then finishes his drink. Right afterwards, he shouts to the bartender. "Barkeep. May furiend Neffi wants a drink with a fancy umbrella in it. Her friends will have what I am having. An' I need another of these 'Pale Devils'." The dancer and Barkeep efficiently comply, with Grau paying. I paid first, you pay next round, Neffi.
Please note the GM messed up, the drinking man is Varisian, not Chelish, and he is wearing a Korvosan Guard's uniform.
Grau is Varisian. I put in Chelish by accident. My apologies.
Happy Birthday, enjoy your day!
The Varisians are sad to see you go. They thank you for your time and look forward to seeing you again soon. They wish you peace, as you brought peace with you. Leaving and walking into the Broken Tails Tavern feels odd, especially after being outside for a bit and seeing the cultural differences between Chels and Dancers. But, as you enter... The Broken Tails Tavern feels like you're in a Dancer's caravan. The walls are bright green and gold, with red cloth streamers on the ceiling and along some of the walls. The bartender is a rather strong looking Varisian man, and several Varisian women man the tables. It's quite easy to see the Chelish man drinking, alone, at a booth further down in the corner. A Varisian girl brings him a drink in a copper cup. He pays and smiles, and she leaves him be. The room is otherwise fairly quiet. There are two other Varisian men here nursing their drinks, as well as a dancer drinking wine. There isn't much smoke in here, a blessing in disguise, as it would have made this place almost foglike in an instant.
The Broken Tails Tavern feels like you're in a Dancer's caravan. The walls are bright green and gold, with red cloth streamers on the ceiling and along some of the walls. The bartender is a rather strong looking Varisian man, and several Varisian women man the tables. It's quite easy to see the Chelish man drinking, alone, at a booth further down in the corner. A Varisian girl brings him a drink in a copper cup. He pays and smiles, and she leaves him be. The room is otherwise fairly quiet. There are two other Varisian men here nursing their drinks, as well as a dancer drinking wine. There isn't much smoke in here, a blessing in disguise, as it would have made this place almost foglike in an instant.
You're fine, I thought we had lost you! Everything okay?
Getting to the east side of the Jeggare proves easier than expected. Although above, there is a cloud of imps in the sky anove hundreds and hundreds of imps. Your Pseudodragon friend squeaks and hides. Walking into what's locally known as the Thieves' Camp, the group gets a number of odd looks. There are a couple of structures in the area, a tavern and a store, as well as many Varisian wagons. It could be very interesting to explore any of them, although some of the Varisian women are shooing their children into their wagons. Some of the men are sharpening swords in obvious manners. Where to?
Thank you. On another note, who is remaining. I see Crowler, Pendleton, Reynotto, and Alexio posting. It looks as if the others have disappeared.
[b]Excellent, thank you all for looking for him. If you need somewhere safe to store anything, we have a few spare lockers, with locks, that you can use while you are out. While, miss... Maria, I understand the wish to bring quick order, Korvosa has had longer periods of unrest after such attempts. My hope is that isn't used, or at least it's used sparingly. I have no wish to see the tyranny that befell earlier generations of Korvosa's rulers.[/ooc]
Alexio, Vivia giggles. "That flirt is in the tavern, over yonder. Good luck drinking him under the table!"
Tawni, give me an intelligence based diplomacy check DC 15 (it isn't easy trying to use a skill system to replicate "jogging a memory"). Spoiler: If you remember correctly, Grau was quite fond of Dancers. He may be found in the Thieves Camp just east of the Jeggare River. It's not much, but it is a lead.
Field Marshall Croft looks at each of you. Given each of you the ten mile stare. "Honestly, I believe you. And, right now, I need the help of one of the best Sergeants out there. Grau Soldado. He'd clean up the... defenestrating... problem... Her voice cracks at that. She looks down, then regains her composure. "Quickly. We do have members of a cult of Lamashtu in the city, causing problems, and impersonating guards. A cult of Groetus is out there, and we have Vigilantes in the streets. Saving for Blackjack, most of them do more harm than good."
"There is a reports of the 'Green Hatted Man' back in town. This man was responsible for a number of violent killings in the past. He recruited followers of Groetus, who then took up his mantle, but it was brutal manipulation. I have a group of specialists on this case, he was back before the king's death." She sits back in her chair, and the weariness becomes obvious. For a moment the concealed exhaustion lets go, and she shows how tired she really is. "Frankly, I've only got about half of my guard stations up and running. The high Marshall is missing, I've got a rumor that the Seneschal of Castle Korvosa is missing if not dead himself. So, yes, I could use the help. If you can get Grau back, he knows a few places that I don't, he can drag the guards out of the places they are afraid to come out of, so that they may do their job. Hopefully before the Hellknights are called in, as at least one Hellknight has been killed in town I'm aware of, per the Church of Asmodeus."
The children don't know of a Rolth, but the Scarzni speaking to Crowler and Reynotto beckons Aleziella to you. "Children, time for adult talk. You listen well. And they seemink to be goot peeple." To the trio of you, the Scarzni says. "We at the Camp know Rolth Lamm. We know Lamm's Lambs. You find Rolth, we help Kill Rolth. He's bad peeple. Unnerstand? Rolth killed my sister. Did twisted magic things to her. Shambled around as some unliving monster. He has not been in Korvosa for a time. We are lookink. We help if you help. Bring us his head, and we brink you reward."
With Alexio and Pendleton, a dancer named Vivia starts speaking with him. "You're certainly not like the other Chels who came here. TSome of the Chels came into the camplooking for trouble. The guards turned the other way, except for Grau. The Chels nearly skinned him alive, even his underlings. The others in this part of town are doing some protection, too, making sure no one coming in is causing trouble. You seem nice. She says, smiling quite pleasantly towards him. DM Rolls
Spoiler:
Crowler and Reynotto:
Spoiler:
The Scarzni smiles widely at Crowler. "So you are errand boy for Korvosan Guard? HAH!" He smiles a great big smile and claps you on the shoulders. He turns to Reynotto. "Apologies young man, I mistook you for one of the Temple. You both seem too dour. You should go drink with Alexio. He's smart boy you know. This is good place. You lookink for Grau? Grau loves the Varisisan drink. He loves the firewine with some arcwhisky set on fire on top. Good stuff. Don't know how Sergei does it, but it makes the wine stronger. Sergei serves at the Broken Tails. Should still be servink. Grau drink like the devilfish. Fight like one, too." You can make a percaption check while he speaks. Pendleton, Aleziella, And Alexio:
Spoiler:
You are having a wonderful time and enjoying yourselves. This entire situation is such an odd juxtaposition next to the city outside. All of you should make a perception check. Perception DC 25:
Spoiler: There are other Varisians, dressed similarly to the ones speaking to Crowler and Reynotto. They only seem to be observing you, but they are watching with interest.
The guards are shocked that you're actually pleasant. They ease down their weapons, except one of the crossbowmen (he's a tough cookie), but they let you into the main waiting room. A short while later, a constable brings you up the stairs and into an office. The office is in disarray, with obvious reports all over every surface, and a few of them have fallen onto the floor. At a resolute desk, sits a woman in red armor, darker skinned than a traditional Chelish woman, but most certainly of Chelish descent. "I'm told you wish to see me. The guards stated you were extremely polite. As you see, the city is in flames, and I'm trying to get what few guards I do have to the worst of it, so please, be as quick as you can. The woman is obviously stressed, but, given her poise, she is definitely battle tested. She stands up to shake each of your hands, without fear. You can see that her armor has seen use, although the lacquer has been replaced over some of the scratches, a couple are recent.
From there, the group moves on, and eventually reaches the main city barracks and guardpost. There are four guards out front, using the slight brick wall as cover, they halt you, with the two in front holding Spears, while two in back hold Crossbows. "State yer Business. We ain't got all day." the first guard says. Looking at their uniforms, it is easy to see that they have been attacked, as the normal overtunic and tabard they wear is torn and the chainmail underneath is showing. Some level of defensive behavior may be warranted here.
While Alexio is invited to dance, a much rougher looking Varisian sits next to Crowler and Reynotto. He wears a blue and red tunic, with puffy sleeves in the style of the dancers, and a short fencer's cloak. His rapier is well-used, and he has a few daggers going down his bright red trousers in custom sheaths. "So, what brings Asmodeus here this evenink. We break no law, keep out of City business." The children, however are fascinated by Aleziellla and Eviryss. They ask many questions, sitting down as if waiting for story time on the ground. All the while the rest of the Varisian are being wonderful hosts, providing wine and roasted meats, as well as a bread and cheese platter. It's almost as if the entire carnival suddenly appeared from four wagons, but you were sure there were three...
The Varisians look Alexio up and down, then look at his companions quizzically. They seem to be ready to turn the group the other way before Pendleton interjects. You Chels want entertainment? The crazy king dies and city goes mad, and you want entertainment? The trio look at each other, as if they can't believe what they have just heard. They all then burst out laughing. Visna, bring the kids, we dance and entertain these fine crazy people tonight!. They put down their weapons and instead pick up accordions, tambourines, recorders, and a lute. One of the younger, nice looking Varisian girls even asks Alexio to dance.
Majenko introduces himself as his most majestic Majesty of all Dragon kind, and those imps were trying to assassinate him! He happily takes the meat from Ernhild, and he knights all of you. He merely asked for an escort while he rests for a bit. He makes himself comfortable on Dennvyn's shoulder initially but, after offering food, he leaps at the chance to lounge on Ernhild's slightly broader (dwarven) shoulders. The group continues to the near guard station (it's on the way), and the scene there is one of the dismay. The doors are barred by the citizens themselves! Watch Captain Morgan has gone mad! you hear some of them shouting. The guard post has three floors, and, as you look up, you see a Korvosan guard member dangling a citizen from a window. Rioting and looting and arson are your charges citizen! How do you please?! The Watch Captain shouts in a booming voice loud enough for the crowd to hear. The poor soul up there appears to be sobbing. The Verdict is Guilty as Asmodeus sees fit!. And the Captain drops the man, headfirst, on to the cobblestone road below. A hollow splat and bounce, and the man stops moving moments later. Shortly after, the man disappears for a moment. He appears a few moments later. Asmodeus has determined that there are no more trials today! Since the citizens have barred the station closed we will resume normal operations after the riots. At this point, the crowd maintains a few guards, including a couple of actual Korvosan Guard members, who just seem disgusted with the situation.
To Dennvyn, "I am really tired. I don't think I can fly yet. My wings will work, but I need to rest. Can you please have someone carry me? I don't weigh much.". The little Pseudodragon flexes and tries to stretch, but falls, almost as if it has been weakened by some force.
The pair of imps do as they are told, leaving their foul stench behind. Most surprising that they listened, but, as Dennvyn will point out, they will likely find more and come back to this spot. You probably have ten minutes or so. The little Pseudodragon flexes his wings, which no longer have bone jutting out. He certainly looks bruised and has many wounds, but he isn't bleeding now. Looking to Riren, he squeaks happily. "Thanks! Those bullies! I will show them. Probably after a nap. I'm Majenko! Who are you? Riren hears in her head.
The imps appear to he awaiting instructions from Tawni. This is most certainly odd behavior for them.
Loudest music is actually fairly quiet. You find a small trio of Varisian Wagons here, and all of the men stand up as you arrive, the furthest back brandishing a heavy crossbow. Ve dinnae cause any of the troubles. Vwat brings you to our humble home? So, Alexio, feel free to chime in with a diplomacy or bluff check, intimidate if you are up for trouble. This is Alexio's check, anyone else can assist.
Two Imps pop in from the skies, flying down towards the injured pseudodragon. Maria's acidic dart hits, only barely, and even Dennvyn seems to be unable to damage the hellish creatures. As close as Dennvyn got, however, he can identify the creatures as Imps quite easily, and knows all their weaknesses and strengths (per the PRD). Juliet has difficulty striking the agile flyers, but they stop when Tawni calls them Moths. In fact they both look at him fearfully. What't'cha need, boss? The pair say in unison. DM Rolls
Spoiler:
Juliet, I get it and I am sorry. Hopefully your interview turned into something good. Seriously, I can't make this stuff up. We're going to add my father to the list of terminal patients. Sorry for no warning. He also has a condition that will force him to suffer. I found out last week and spent the end of the week and weekend advocating for him and helping my mother at distance (they live a couple state's away). I will be going there, hopefully, in a week to discuss any options he has (unlikely, but hey, root for the snowball). I swear Joss Whedon is writing my life.
I can't make this stuff up. We're going to add my father to the list of terminal patients. Sorry for no warning. He also has a condition that will force him to suffer. I found out last week and spent the end of the week and weekend advocating for him and helping my mother at distance (they live a couple state's away). I will be going there, hopefully, in a week to discuss any options he has (unlikely, but hey, root for the snowball). I swear Joss Whedon is writing my life.
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