Hey look who's back! Rails! Pffftttttt!
(mercifully, Devinn LeMont is merely a sideline NPC in this slightly-different-reality that is Zeitgeist)
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Belated congratulations on your Superstar Top 4 Robert. I thought your Round 4 entry was the strongest of the four honestly. You had a lot going on in On Fertile Ground but it demonstrated your ability to write and design an adventure that was able to carry through the story arc and themes consistently - someone without your talent trying to pull that off would have just ended up with a jumbled mess of people/places/things/threads/etc. You definitely did not shy away from swinging for the fences with that adventure pitch, so definite kudos to you.
Yeah. I've been rolling so crappy I don't think it can get much worse. You know "Gunslinger" as soon as you have to draw your axe and go melee you're going to crit with the axe for max damage right? :P
Talyssa, Alastair, 2 more not selected yet:
Devinn has allied with you to have Docker’s Jank. A lesser but faster form of Aid Another in combat, usable once per combat by each member. Swift Action maneuver, must be in melee range with foe that is also threatening Docker’s Jank ally you wish to help, hit an AC10 to grant the Docker’s Jank ally either +1 Hit on their next attack or +1 AC vs. foe’s next attack, Aid Another Jank effects are stackable.
As Devinn begins to move down the dark and foreboding stairwell, he thinks he feels some sort of slight reverberation on the stairs and a warm wash of air moving past his face and hair. Did I imagine that or was that real? Rethinking again that he had something more substantial than a dagger, Devinn deftly moves down the stairwell to the second deck. The landing seems abandoned to him, but he thinks he hears the familiar sound of Alastair's voice somewhere to his left, and decides to cautiously move in that direction. With a hand on the hilt of a dagger and another near his side, he angles himself to where he thinks he can peek around and see the Duchess's stateroom cabin at the bow of the ship. To his surprise he sees both Alastair and Rhegalion struggling with...something...that looks to be powdery and yet non-existent, though the pressure exuded by Alastair's arms suggests that it is quite real. Amusingly, Rhegalion himself seems to be covered in a sheen of sparkling dust which only adds to Devinn's early impressions of him. "Easy! Heavens! Whatcha got there? I came to offer a hand, though two might be more necessary in this case eh?"
Errrrrr....Sorkana is up! ;)
Talyssa, your up! Ditto! C'mon Jet, knock that murderous-but-grappled butler out with a meaty smack or somethin' (well unless you're heading down the ladder that is)! In other news, I saw this week in Isaac's Skull & Shackles game (which Celeador also plays in) that one of the players tried to rock this avatar, but couldn't pull it off and decided (wisely) to change it after a couple of days. Some said it was bit too smarmy, too mustache-y for his nice-guy character. All I have to say to that is --- thaaaaaat's right! Mitts off my smarmy avatar! The guy doesn't even have a proper rapier to present with! After all, there's not too many that can pull off the sheer awesomeness of the Devinn look ;)
So...Talyssa, Alastair and Filby all need Round 35 actions to finish out, correct? Invisible but powdered Illyan is commanded to come back to Rhegalion on the Second Deck on his Round 34 action, but is full health otherwise. Anya is alive and stable but only barely so. No fire sprites left at this moment on any decks, and Skimmer is on the Gunnery (third) Deck. Ifris and Ian are both down on the Engineering (bottom) Deck.
So..I found the map, boss. Now I am trying to understand it so I know what Filby's options are. Can I climb or otherwise move down to the powder rooms to help against the fire sprite? If not, can I see through the smoke enough to help Ifris? Just an FYI as I was chatting about this with Ian earlier - the firesprite I think is not really there, as it took a header out the porthole window. So besides the Ilyian butler threat, I think all the action is down at the very bottom now.
Talyssa, Alastair, 2 more not selected yet:
Devinn has allied with you to have Docker’s Jank. A lesser but faster form of Aid Another in combat, usable once per combat by each member. Swift Action maneuver, must be in melee range with foe that is also threatening Docker’s Jank ally you wish to help, hit an AC10 to grant the Docker’s Jank ally either +1 Hit on their next attack or +1 AC vs. foe’s next attack, Aid Another Jank effects are stackable.
Danor eh? Well then…righty-o…ahh…luck to you then! Devinn gives a last nod and moves away from the King and Principal Minister who now is receiving a series of final congratulations from the assembled nobles and notables of Risur. Unlike Lanvaldan, he has no intention of barreling through patrons and servants to get to the main wheelhouse and attracting undue attention to himself. The game has taken on an added twist, and in an odd way has placed a welcome challenge to the young Docker-turned-agent to excel in maintaining the illusion of bland civility to those topside while potential danger lurks below decks. After all, old King Aodhan didn’t just cut and run with Lee at the first sign of danger to his person. Nor was he blind to the potential danger to himself or others onboard. Devinn thought it was odd that Aodhan had no stronger reaction to the abduction of his sister, not anymore, though admittedly he couldn’t say that his sister was that close to him either, even if he knew where she had gone off to those years ago or even if she was still alive. Perhaps blood doesn’t hold true as much as my old great-aunty crone said it should…wait can they hear…blast! Focus! Devinn sees that the oval hatch door to the wheelhouse is ajar from where Lanvaldan ran through, and deftly steps over the metal hatch base and inside. He can hear the thrumming of the ship’s engines below him and some faint murmurings of naval officers up above him in the closed pilot house, but apparently the rest of the naval officers and contingent of marines are on out on deck. He is alone. The area leading to the stairwell down is darker than he expected, and suddenly Devinn gets an uneasy chill up his back as he realizes the game has taken a turn into something that could end his life. He pats himself down quickly to realize what he has on him. Where…no rapier…damn I left it with my bags…just daggers and leather and magic for me. Steady now…
For the purposes of getting through this combat encounter I'm fine with it. I'm not sure I'd love an averaging of our initiative rolls for all combats though, or at least for critical BBEG combats. Instead, it would be helpful to have a running Initiative section (ooc but not spoilered out) on your recap post and any NPC mid-round posts that simply shows the list of names and their initiatives in order (no need to see the d20 rolls), with the players that can take actions in bold. I would think that's eye-catching enough for players to know its their turn to post. That would be my suggestion.
I don't want us to lose too much steam. A clever pun Clockwork Shadow?
Thanks Ian! Filby, what do you think of the Investigator? Awesome class! Wow. Proficient with the sword cane even! Man that must be rigged ;) Truly, that's almost the Coup de Grace to straight-class rogues right there.
Talyssa, Alastair, 2 more not selected yet:
Devinn has allied with you to have Docker’s Jank. A lesser but faster form of Aid Another in combat, usable once per combat by each member. Swift Action maneuver, must be in melee range with foe that is also threatening Docker’s Jank ally you wish to help, hit an AC10 to grant the Docker’s Jank ally either +1 Hit on their next attack or +1 AC vs. foe’s next attack, Aid Another Jank effects are stackable.
Before tonight, Devinn had never really thought much of 'old' King Aodhan - he assumed the King was just another fool who thought too much of himself and his privileged lot in life, bound up in arrogance, greed and petty politics that marked so many of his sycophants such as those Devinn himself marked from the North Shore. That the King was some "war hero" of a bygone age and had supposedly come up from meaner streets meant little to Devinn; just some bit of embellishment or even outright fiction to give him pseudo-status with the masses of Risuri that he ruled. While Devinn had his own reasons for joining the R.H.C. and subjecting himself to its endless array of pompous boredoms and rules-mongering, serving at the King's whim was not one of them. Reciting the required Risuri anthem and pronouncing platitudes of allegiance was just one more game to play to pass the time. Yet, both earlier tonight when he overheard Aodhan's heavy words to his admirals, and now in the moment when those piercing eyes bored into his own, Devinn realized there was something more to this old man he called King, more than just the title and robes at least. Perhaps that was enough. Devinn gives a slight eyebrow shrug of his own and gives his liege a rare glimpse of honesty, free from the trappings of words thanks to Minster Lee's spell. I just have to think this...back...wondrous! Well Aod...aaa my King Sire sir...I don't know for certain...I'm not sure what would be bold enough to take the risk of death to threaten you or your sister this way. My mates could be dead already...but... Devinn genuinely smiles to the King and takes a step back from him and from Principal Minister Lee, bowing with all sincerity to give them full attention of the audience. ...well Sire, I'm a believer that the show must shine on even under duress or difficulty. So let's give your show a go, and I'll do whatever I can to see it through for you. As long as you have Lee close by, I'll go below and find out what's happening. Deal? "HIP HIP, HUZZAH! HIP HIP, HUZZAH!" Devinn's voice clearly rings out as he claps and starts the cheer for the Principal Minister, even as he slides back some more to dash off for the wheelhouse's stairwell as soon as the moment allows it. Something catches him short, however, as he realizes something that would put an end to his hasty plan. Ahhh Minister Lee sir, can you hear me if I go below decks with all this metal? And if I get down there and find out we're about to go down in mere moments, can you get the King off in time?
Well congrats on your Hawaii vacation there! One island or several? My mother lives in Kona on the big island and back in January I was able to bring myself and my two daughters out for a visit.
I think it's safe to say that for this current Round 36, Talyssa, Alastair and Ifris can all post their actions with what Rhegalion posted today. Since both Illyan and Sorkana have gone at the top of the round (21 and 19 respectively), and fire sprites aren't until Init 14. Going to hold posting for Devinn's Round 36/Init 14 action until I see if there's any more feedback on his shenanigans up on the Top Deck.
I'm looking forward to the Wolves getting into their stride and figuring this all out! Now that all the players have been through a couple of combat rounds, hopefully it will be a bit easier to get the future rounds going (with combat stat blocs, flow of how initiative works and rolling dmg & saves for the foes, etc.).
In terms of what I read from a game standpoint Alastair absolutely saved her life, as he stabilized her at -10 with his Heal check. By the way - (belated) nice 20 on the Heal check roll!
Just for clarification...Alastair and Talyssa are waiting for Filby's Round 38/Init 4 before going in their Round 37 before the sprites?
Talyssa, Alastair, 2 more not selected yet:
Devinn has allied with you to have Docker’s Jank. A lesser but faster form of Aid Another in combat, usable once per combat by each member. Swift Action maneuver, must be in melee range with foe that is also threatening Docker’s Jank ally you wish to help, hit an AC10 to grant the Docker’s Jank ally either +1 Hit on their next attack or +1 AC vs. foe’s next attack, Aid Another Jank effects are stackable.
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”…FOR HE’S A JOLLY GOOD FELLOW, AND SO SAY ALL OF US…”
As the discordant chorus of voices grows louder and more confident with the unannounced and unexpected birthday tidings, following along to the words of the last stanza, a perspiring Devinn leans over to the King even as his arms wave along to the cadence of the tune and whispers to him while keeping that faux smile fixed upon his face. ”You're in danger, Your Majesty. Your sister was just taken by some beast or creature of the sea mere moments ago, and if something can do that then you’re either next or the ship itself is. My team’s below right now, but I had to get you off that podium. Now nod like I’m saying something you approve and draw eyes over to you if you please...” With the band finishing the song in a rousing finish that starts a round of cheers and applause for the Principal Minister, Devinn nods in fake acknowledgment of the King’s pretend praise to him, clapping his hands over his head in encouragement and taking a step slightly away from His Majesty to give him more room. Shifting his stance to show the front of his body directly towards Lee and not towards Aodhan, Devinn spins his whisperspeak incantation while the cheers and applause covers his words. Please please please see what I’m casting Lee and don’t blast me to cinders…I was having such a good day today too!
I'm looking to get Devinn's Round 37 post off (on the top deck) later tonight (EST), though I know that really doesn't interfere with the current combat.
Uh oh, Ifris burns the HP early! Be careful down there you two!
EDIT: Nevermind, looks like the butler's decision has already been made for him. Heh. Owned! But not before he nearly took out one of the main characters. The round still hangs in the balance if our group can't capitalize on it with some necessary violence to eliminate the threats. Meanwhile, imagine a rousing tune of "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow" being heard from the deck above while you all are fighting for your lives. Weird!
Nice 1-2 combo there Rhegalion on the butler! That definitely gives Anya a fighting chance as well as a good round on the group trying to take out the fire sprites. Is it safe to assume that with Sorkana already performing her action in the deck below that everyone with an Initiative >= 14 can take their Round 37 action before the sprites (plus Reginald putting in his Round 38 Init 4 action)?
Woot! Look at you with your portrait up there in lights!
Well I will put myself out there to act as an understudy GM if it comes down to it for the next hiatus. That being said, it seems for this past month that all the players were good with holding fast and not having it affect momentum or interest, so perhaps not necessary. Part of that might be if the next interim period allows for some player-driven back-and-forth posts organically, something that is harder to pull off in the throes of a combat session.
I haven't heard anything yet from Celeador, but it's very possible the same thing that has taken him out from the Paizo forum has done the same for social media. Given Celeador's circumstances, my idea sent to him last week was to offer to GM the adventure in a temporary way until he gets back. It means I'd download the first AP module and force Devinn into DMPC mode - I'd have to keep things pretty close to script, as I wouldn't want to know any of the special side elements Celeador may have planned for the various characters and their storylines. While I've DM'd a long time now, I've never GM'd a PbP game before, so I couldn't say that I'd have it all worked out, including running maps in a virtual environment. That being said, I'd be willing to put myself out there for the group if that keeps things moving along in the interim...with Celeador's agreement of course. Certainly if any of the players think that's not a good idea it's no hard feelings from my end, and we can just hold on until Celeador eventually gets back to us, but I like what we have here so far to keep some momentum going.
Just as an FYI - I had an idea on the game this week which I've pitched to our GM, but currently waiting on whether that would be desirable or not from his perspective.
Really solid flashback for Ifris there. I've got a couple rolling around in my head and would love to see more for the other characters! Alastair doesn't have to wait for Talyssa correct? It's just Reginald that technically has to wait until after the fire sprites go?
Well even though Ifris and Devinn may be oil and water for a time there, at least it's known that he takes her seriously when there's serious business to be had! Of course this means those two are going to get teamed up on all future assignments...
I was hoping that "casting a spell" wouldn't trigger his stated readied action of "not one step." But I suppose it did. At least he can't attack her twice now. Yeah that's a tough one there, and to me it looks like there were no "good" options with the butler on top of initiative and readied. At least there's a chance to save Anya if you guys can take out the sprites and get to her while beating on the halted butler next round! So looks like Talyssa gets an action in just as Rhegalion Commands Illyan, then Sorkana gets to run her gambit, then Alastair, then nasty fire sprites, then Reginald closes the round eh?
Well, so much for not interrupting the party =p This will be cool. HA! "uh... everything's perfectly all right now. We're fine. We're all fine here now, thank you. How are you?"
Talyssa, Alastair, 2 more not selected yet:
Devinn has allied with you to have Docker’s Jank. A lesser but faster form of Aid Another in combat, usable once per combat by each member. Swift Action maneuver, must be in melee range with foe that is also threatening Docker’s Jank ally you wish to help, hit an AC10 to grant the Docker’s Jank ally either +1 Hit on their next attack or +1 AC vs. foe’s next attack, Aid Another Jank effects are stackable.
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Of course, that paled in comparison to the threat of a sea creature kidnapping the Duchess and potentially moments away from attacking the ship. Mercifully, Lanvaldan’s steamroll to the ladder well from the railing caused those who noticed her to look away from the water and towards her departure from the deck. Thankfully, she only raised her shout of alarm in his whisperspeak and not aloud, for that surely would have put the entire assembly into a blind panic – possibly giving the King’s attackers the perfect cover to strike. But what to do? Secure the King! rang in his mind as a persistent echo, even as another part of his head furiously tried to work out the shambles of an ad-hoc plan that would not send the assembly to flight. The band was halfway through its lead-in that normally heralded the joining of voices for the anthem’s first stanza when Devinn moved forward towards the podium. Secure the King…need to warn…no panic…ready to counter… Devinn knows if he tries to actually reach King Aodhan he will probably be gang-tackled by his personal bodyguards, so he picks a spot about ten feet in front of the podium, just past the first line of prominent dignitaries and Flint’s most prominent patrons. He considers drawing his R.H.C. badge for emphasis but stops as he realizes it might be considered a weapon from anyone watching. No time to foul up now…damn that woman! But she wouldn’t do this if she didn’t believe…where is Delft? Probably near the good Minister…Lee yes that’s my cue! Devinn shoulders past a burly man in a naval uniform and clears the front row, taking three more brisk steps forward with a rueful glance up at the King before him before he abruptly pivots his right foot and turns around to address the entire crowd, raising both hands in the air above him. ”LADIES, LORDS AND GENTLEPERSONS! AN ANNOUNCEMENT IF YOU PLEASE!” The conductor of the band off towards his right snaps his head up in confusion even as several band members are startled and stop dead in their tracks or go off-key with the anthem, even as others continue forward as if nothing has happened. Hundreds of eyes suddenly stare at him in shock and surprise, though Devinn feels the heat of what must be King Aodhan’s stare at the square of his back. Hmm I guess this is what being accused of treason is like – maybe they’ll grant me a pen to write it all down later on the prison island… ”MY LORDS AND LADIES! PARDONS ALL, BUT THE KING HAS INSTRUCTED ME TO NOT FORGET A MOST SPECIAL OCCASION BEFORE HIS FINE SPEECH!” Devinn waves a furious “cut” motion at the conductor who blinks twice and then curtly gestures for the band to come to a halt. ”THAT’S…ahh yes that’s better! Now then, before His Majesty’s pronouncements to you all, he has asked for me to ANNOUNCE a most special BIRTHDAY! One that is much too modest, but we have not forgotten.” With a hearty but locked smile and eyes wide in disbelief that he is actually doing this, Devinn nevertheless continues. ”PRINCIPAL MINISTER LEE, COME FORTH AND BE HAILED! WE have not forgotten that today is your birthday, you sly old…ahh…principal minster you! C’mon up here!” Devinn nods enthusiastically to the crowd even as he waves with his left hand for the minister to approach, while with his right hand he gestures for the band conductor to start up an impromptu celebratory song marking the occasion.
This just means Devinn will come up with an especially annoying nickname for you now...
Hmmmm...maybe I didn't think this one all the way through like I should have...
@Devinn: I avg the rolls, so your initive would be at 14. I'll do better next time on rolling for you. Yeah but it would be much more fun if we had twelve Devinns running around the ship...think of the scene in the second Matrix movie with Agent Smith. Only all of the Devinns would be talking and carrying on.
Well, I rushed that post out because I am unsure of the net. Sorry its not to my usual quality. I'll go into more depth with the recap now that we are hitting a combat. It's looks good actually in terms of a recap, so no worries there BUT I noticed that you have cloned Devinn with four separate initiatives! MUWHAHAHAHA! FOUR Devinns! Now what could I do with four Devinns running around the ship? Let's see...send all four to surround and bug Ifris? No no she's doing real stuff. Hmmm...how about a 4-Devinn quartet and Docker's Jank? Release the Devinns! ;)
Well I think everyone has acted for Round 39 except Anya, but yeah...Anya...
Ya truly. I'm assuming we have to get a Round 39 Recap and then get into Round 38, with GM Initiative rolls being part of all that.
Hehe I was thinking of having Devinn try to do some damage control on that front (or at least obfuscate it to avoid a panic), but alas that's in Round 38 for him ;) I love the fact that Ifris made the assumption that it was a kidnapping - makes perfect sense based on the visuals on the top deck!
Devinn shifts his position a few steps to the side towards the railing, even though he finds the view of the water churning against the side of the massive ship disconcerting to say the least. With his steps he now has the approaches to the King's podium in better view, as well as a glance of Lanvaldan on the other approach side. For the moment he ignores all exterior distractions and mentally counts the distance to the podium on his side if a V.I.P. suddenly drew a knife and tried to go for him, moving forward a step to be ready to cut off the angle... ...and to get in another comment on Lanvaldan, of course. Message to Ifris: "You know Rails I've got to hand it to you. That first reply back to Tuvuere and Captain Stodgeydodger was priceless - I thought you might as well had hauled off and slapped them by their first looks! But they actually seemed to like what you had to say. Who knew? Then again it's like my uncle would say - even a cracked timepiece still tells time twice in a full-span."
"Oh and if you just whisper to yourself I can hear you - much more interesting than frowning and furrowing your eyebrows..."
Yeah I'm biased as Cromlich is a RL friend of mine and has been part of my monthly tabletop game for years now, but I think you would find his posts of good quality...and also like myself he favors a strong posting frequency. Like Ifris, I'm holding on Round 39 a bit to defer to the action below decks...as Devinn mainly just has more snarky messages to throw her way for the time being. What's with the attitude towards Ifris you ask (okay you probably didn't ask)? Well that will be revealed in a FLASHBACK at some point...though probably best to let that simmer until after our combat challenge!
Hey michaelane great to see ya! And very cool portrait! Devinn is a big fan of Talyssa (Jet) of course, so I'm looking forward to getting into collective trouble with her on these missions. I'm guessing it's from a 3PP, but your fusion of Talyssa's magic with metal tech is really unique, and it will be interesting to see how that plays out in post...perhaps sooner rather than later with whatever is going on behind the door there. Hehe you and Steven probably passed by each other at Gen Con and didn't know it. I need to plan a trek up to Indy next year and see what all the hooplah is about...though with it being the weekend before my kids start school I'd have to earn up a lot of good husband points before I pitched that idea :)
Good luck to the four of you down below! Can't wait to see some Perception and Sense Motive checks -- I'm holding firm on my honor and haven't looked at any of those spoilers. Who's going to get things rolling at the Door of the Duchess, hmm?
The incident with the musician and his mad tuning fork caper was neatly brushed aside in Devinn's mind, giving him desire to satiate his growing appetite. He had already finished off a marzipan dragonfly and a sizable bite of succulent boar from a servant's refilling platter, and was just about to put his full attention to filching a silken kerchief from a rather attractive courtier on the pretext of handing it back to her as if "dropped" on the deck, when Devinn overheard the words of King Aodhan to his military advisers. Prior to that moment, he never really thought much about the King. Oh, His Majesty was his King and all; despite Devinn's feelings against the Fourth War and the way many Risuri were treated in general, Devinn still felt loyalty to the monarch. Yet up until then he figured the royal had turned into most other high nobles he had watched and marked, oblivious to real troubles, caught up in their own laughable gossip and pretend struggles, deserving of mockery, satire and ridicule behind their backs. What did nobles know of hunger, or random violence outside their own doorstep? What did it matter if his old boring sister failed to attend her older boring brother's boring old speech? It fed the circles of the gossip-mongers, of the rich to keep tabs on their rich friends and enemies, and little else besides. Those words though by Aodhan, the troubles with the Fey and the Unseen Court, the dreams put into his head beyond his control, they had the ring of truth, of trouble that was real and spoke of a man powerless to escape a dark fate consigned to him. Perhaps the crown was heavier than he had ever thought before. The Fey and the servants of the Old Faith were not to be trifled with, with many of their "boons" carrying a price and a threat not far behind. The most recent glass of fine spirits close to his lips, Devinn abruptly looks at the glass critically, and then with a barely noticeable sigh he sets it down on a nearby side table. As the applause grows with the anticipated start to the Risuri Anthem, Devinn moves into a position to where he can see King Aodhan clearly, and more importantly the movement of others towards Aodhan's podium from two different directions. It is not surprising then that he spies out Ifris Landvaldan in her uniform, doing much the same from the other side of the deck. She admittedly had a good line-of-sight from her vantage point, but her presence soured his previously good mood further. Foul woman - why is it that I have to keep playing minder with her? That's twice, three times now today? Bad enough she's been placed with the Wolves as a constant reminder of that combat training humiliation! Oh I'm not finished with our game yet though Rails. No, not by a long shot. Still, business is business and better to coordinate working eyes on this crowd. Devinn conjures his whisperspeak to Ifris Landvaldan just as the anthem begins to play. Message to Ifris: Try not to belt out all the words at full attention there Rails, tempting as that may be to show off your duty to His Majesty and lead a double-quick march or something. Now stop swiveling your head about - I'm over here by that large group of tables left of the fat woman in the overly orange gown that makes her look like a pumpkin...no the other left...the beastly woman with the too-tall white wig...
"Don't let know...not all together...which means we want them to..." Devinn ponders the statement in his mind and finally shrugs and smilingly says, "Okay Mast, sure bet on that. I'll prowl the stern and keep one eye on things here, if not both!" He winks and then taps his chin in consideration of a thought. "If you have Jet with you - that's Miss Dane of course - and you need me, just have her send whirlygig bird up and I'll head on down to meet you. I'd keep my whisperspeak up with you but I can't sustain it once you head below deck." Before they head off he gives them a quick jaunty salute, nodding in particular to Alastair Rayne. Before Rhegalion gets completely out of earshot he hears LeMont call out after him. "Not so rushed now to see that fine elvish filly there Heavens! You don't even have a proper flower to offer as a keepsake!" Chuckling to himself, he turns to view the deck and the party-goers, bringing his hand up to his mouth as if to cough, concealing the amused expression on his face as he composes himself once again as Constable Kentworth. With a flick he removes a steel-plated timepiece from a vest pocket and marks the time, briefly noting the fine craftsmanship of his uncle's gift to him before returning it back to its place. Bestowing proper gravity to his bearing and demeanor, Constable Kentworth is back amongst the V.I.P.'s as they dine and drink across the deck. He is the epitome of decorum and etiquette as a R.H.C. constable should be. Well almost. Another glass of wine disappears from a passing tray as he moves into a crowd of onlookers looking at the stars peeking out from an ever darkening sky.
So looks like Ifris and Devinn on topside and then Rhegalion, Reginald, Talyssa and Alastair are down to the room?
As an aside, the Coaltongue was actually named after a powerful warlord from ancient history... That's even better! It calls up a distinct connotation from one class and a different connotation from another. I figured the Dockers have that irreverence to take existing expressions and turn them upside-down or use them to their own purposes, have different twists on history and common stories, etc. Particularly in Flint where the size of the city and the massive changes have produced new 'slang' and such for the commoners. Over time I'm looking to come up with a repository of Docker street jargon and turns-of-phrase that sound good but aren't exactly the same as Earth-speak.
Devinn “Kevin” nods and bows a second time. ”More than fair, Governor, and at least worth the attempt. I am no expert on the Dockers…” Ha! ”…but I will expend the effort to see if there is a true opportunity here.” He smiles genuinely with a slight look of relief upon his face, downing the rest of his glass. Well Grims I’ve done my part for it, now to get you to do yours with our folk and to know how to impress. A fair and decent one this Governor…I see now many of the slights and stories are against the title and not the ‘man’ himself… Seeing a large group being entertained by the King’s stories at the bow of His Majesty’s grand new warship, a grin grows across the young constable’s face. Perhaps due to his good fortune this day so far, or perhaps because he has had four or so glasses since being on the ship, Devinn impetuously decides to ‘dance on the rope’ and ask Stanfield something he has wanted to ask for over a year now when it was first revealed – any reticence is thrown aside as Devinn sees “Smedley” the adviser about to start up with some boring topic of conversation, no doubt political and likely propaganda…and boring. Devinn cuts “Smedley” off in mid-intake of breath, his voice more lively than before and somewhat breaking character. ”I must say Governor Stanfield, in my brief time to study the Dockers, I have come to learn some of their lyrics and prose, as well as their colloquialisms and jargon. Surely you have heard the mountain of jests over the embarrassment that His Majesty gave what otherwise is such a fine ship! How did you let that one pass uncontested?” He gestures to the three other men with his empty glass in an enthusiastic manner. ”A great pity that his council didn’t heed your protests, knowing the endless mockery here in Flint to ensure! Ahhh, such a shame! Truly Aodhan should sack every last one on his naming committee, but I'm sure you had done all that you could do to wave this off…” Smedley cuts him off in a perplexed and irritated huff. ”Constable, whatever in all of Lanjyr are you going on about?” Devinn stops short when he sees confusion evident on the Governor’s face as well as his adviser, baffled that they are also unaware. ”Wait…you mean you don’t know? Surely you jest…the graffiti across all the districts but Central and North?” Devinn looks to each incredulously as they shake their head. ”No? The mock salutes today by many a worker at the parade with their thumb and first finger making a ‘C’ for…not that either eh? The near nightly songs at any tavern or inn from…” Devinn clucks his tongue and shakes his head. ”Governor Stanfield, you really need to get your people out more on the streets of your own city!” ”Kentworth, what is wrong with the R.N.S. Coaltongue?” Devinn sighs in disbelief, then looks from side-to-side to ensure there are no other nobles close by to overhear; he leans forward slightly in a conspiratorial manner, causing the other three to lean in themselves to hear the revealed explanation. Devinn whispers intently the sordid details, his hands at one point making a brief gesture for emphasis. After a few long seconds, all four of them draw back. The bard cannot see Arbalistre’s face as he is standing next to him, but Stanfield’s eyes are slightly wider than usual, shaking his head slightly. Naturally, “Smedley” is the first to respond. ”Why, that’s filthy!” ”Ahhhaha, good one man! Yes yes, that’s what she said, right?” Devinn chuckles and points at the adviser in camaraderie, only to realize he was not making a pun after all, an appalled look upon his face. ”Oh. I see, you meant my explanation, didn’t you?” Sighing grandly, he adds, ”Well I am sorry to be the bearer of this ill news to you gentlemen, but there you are. There are probably over a thousand songs and stories on this, and you’ll see it in the graffiti and street plays more and more now that His Majesty has made it official. You know,” says Devinn, gesturing as if swinging something, ”now that he smashed the bottle on it and all.” He shrugs. ”If it’s any consolation, the term is probably localized to Flint and our factories. Still, it surpasses all the older songs. Why, I’m afraid it’s even more popular than the ballads on Old King Mellandi, and that’s saying something!” Smiling and turning to look first at adviser Smedley, then Governor Stanfield, then Rhegalion Arbalistre, Devinn’s grin falters when he realizes they don’t know that reference either. ”You know, Old King Mellandi? The Folly of King Mellandi and the Tribute?” Devinn looks around at each of them again, and nearly throws up his hands in exasperation. ”Oh COME now, gentlemen! That story is known by every tavern-goer in every city and village from here to Slate and even down to Bole!” Docker Slang for Coaltongue:
A Docker slang term at least ten years old, localized to Flint. Describes the cheapest prostitute of the lowest means and skills that ply his or her trade with the poor laborers of the factories, steel foundries and coal mines - laborers who are often stained with dirt and soot from their work shifts. The Folly of King Mellandi: A popular Risuri commoner's tale or song about King Mellandi, ancestor to King Dukain in the century before the Great Malice. Said to have either spurned or failed the Fey Court with part of their Tribute demands from him that year, the Fey charmed him with a powerful enchantment to believe he had no need to wear pants for a full year and a day.
Docker versions of the story often add (some explicitly so) that King Mellandi could not satisfy his youthful Queen in the royal bedchambers, and so had actually demanded a boon from the Seelie Court to accomplish such, which gave the Fey Princes the idea. All of these versions are, of course, contested with the Crown's royal sages and historians. However, it has been revealed that the first additions of walled royal balconies on the Torfield Palace were made around King Mellandi's time, coinciding with the reception of the citizenry from the balcony and not directly in front of the palace doors as was previous custom from King Kelland. Further, it has been claimed that Slate processions in closed carriages and not from horseback also began in King Mellandi's time, though this claim has not been fully substantiated...
Devinn nods slightly to Rhegalion but with a look of respectful appreciation, for he well knows the aasimar did not have to provide such an introduction. "Yes, well, Constable Arbalistre is too modest, for he himself diffused the situation with one of the assailant's cadre. As is the case with many worthwhile endeavors, collaboration and teamwork are key." He steps forward two paces and bows a stiff and formal constable-type bow with a snap to his boots that he considers in-character, drawing a bit of his voice from Filby's mannerisms. "Constable Kevin Kentworth at your service, sir. Pleased to make your acquaintance." Given how well Rhegalion painted the picture, Devinn decided to launch straight into his pitch. "As it so happens, we were fortunate to have received a timely alert from a spokesman of the dockers, who also has proven to be a loyal and true Risuri. I would be remiss if I did not convey this to you, Governor Stanfield, for how many citizens stand by and do nothing, especially if it could mean them harm? This man has concerns that should be heard on behalf of many good poor folk in your fine city, yet could also be a man that can gain their ear if negotiated with in good faith. I have here a brief letter..." Devinn pulls forth a parchment from the inner pocket of his grey vest, something he somewhat hastily scribbled down on behalf of Grims after he had first gotten onboard the ship and taken a few minutes to freshen up his looks. As he does so he sees another middle-aged man join them who was just a few paces away, looking at Devinn with some level of angst and at the parchment he holds in his hand. "...which references this loyal man and identifies some concerns of the citizens of your laboring class..." Devinn pauses as he tries to determine if the well-dressed middle-aged man is either a political aide or a bodyguard, or both. The pushy ponce seems soft, but soft aides can still be deadly accurate with a hidden pistols these days! He holds the letter out slightly and waits to see if the Governor will answer his people's concerns directly by taking the letter, or if he will relegate it to his staffers. "...and if agreeable I can assist in making introductions next week, if and as you so desire." The adviser or whatever he is - Devinn decides he is to be called Smedley Sniffleswort - appears to want to snatch the paper from his hand, but pauses and defers to his master for a reaction.
After a brief but rather unmemorable conversation with Inspector Filby, the good Constable Kevin Kentworth excuses himself, moving over towards the direction to where he sees Arbalistre and Governor Stanfield talking. Ahh poor Mast, so disappointingly preoccupied in his thoughts. I never figured him to be one poleaxed by meeting royalty but I suppose the Duchess really put one on him. Too bad. Let's see, now if I can just make good on my promise to Grims and maybe better the lot for a few here...hmm can't initiate to be rude...let's see if Heavens will oblige... Devinn "Kevin" moves nonchalantly over towards to his right as if taking a ridiculously brief stroll on the deck, putting himself away from the Governor's view but in the line of sight of Arbalistre, posturing himself slightly to see if the other Wolf will provide introduction. From what Devinn can make out, the conversation seems like one of two friends talking, but of somber and perhaps unpleasant matters. Like two war veterans speaking of those they lost in a tavern before both get completely under-the-table drunk. Perhaps they need to speak more in private and I should come back...no no he sees me and either he will or he won't, but fine either way.
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