Hooded Man

Nameless GM's page

36 posts. Alias of Nameless.


RSS


Hey guys,

I apologize profusely for this, but I just can't continue to run this PbP in the new year. My work schedule has grown too much and I just can't deal with it. I underestimated how much work running a PbP would be, and for that I apologize.

As for this game, I'd be sad to see it die, what with all the cool characters and such. Warforged Gardener, would you still be willing to take over for me? I know it's a lot to ask, but I do hope you guys can keep this one going, hopefully with a trustworthy GM who can actually keep things runny.

Once again, sorry everyone.
Nameless


Sorry guys, I'm leaving town for the holidays. I'll try to make a post when I get home tomorrow, but after that, I can't promise anything.

And Ben, the darkness fires back. You die. ;)

Spoiler:
Jokes!


Tenzekila Brushketel wrote:
Abandoning any attempt at stealth (mainly because she kept rolling 1s, Tenze leaps away from the door. She pauses by Camris. "Come on, Camris, we have to hurry!" She turns to the boy. "Boy, do you think you can manage without help?"

The boy puts on a brave face and grimaces in pain when he puts weight on his bad foot, but he nods slowly and limps towards the trap-door.

Rolling ones isn't so bad when you have a +19 mod, though. ;)


Camris:

Spoiler:
The boy appears to be fine aside from a broken ankle. You quickly tend the wound, wrapping it tightly, allowing the boy to limp. He'll still be slowed down, however.

The boy catches his breath, and continues: "Arael was taken by the dottari just an hour ago. The hellknights are trying to convince them to hand him over." He looks sheepishly at Benicio. "Yes, I think I might have been followed..."

Benicio:

Spoiler:
You hear the sound of clanking armor emanating from outside the tavern, as though a group of humanoids in full armor are running full-tilt here.

Janiven sees Grachius looking for another exit, and addresses him. "Unfortunately, this old tavern's exits are all boarded up. The only open windows lead out into the street, where the hellknights are fast approaching."

Janiven runs forward and bars the door to the tavern. Responding to Tenze's question, she replies, "I apologize, but I've no more idea than you. All I know is that the last thing I want is to be captured by a group of over-zealous devil worshipers."

At Zareth's question, she brightens. "There's no back door, but there is a passage in the cellar that leads into the city sewers. I think that's our best chance."

She begins moving towards a trapdoor located behind the bar. She opens it, and gestures. "Come! We need to get out of here!"


Loba

Spoiler:
Supporting the boy, it doesn't take you long for him to start that the both of you move faster, and soon enough, you arrive at an old tavern, clearly not seeing much use these days. The boy bursts through the door and yells... see below

Loba, please describe your character to the rest of the players in your first post.

In the tavern, Janiven grows more and more tense as no news arrives, and finally begins clearing the table. Not long after, the door bursts open, revealing a teenage boy being supported by a tiefling woman. Janiven looks immediately concerned, and the boy yells "They've got Arael!"

Out of breath as he is, he begins coughing and trying to regain his breath.

Loba, make a Perception check. Everyone else can try as well, but you get a -4 penalty for being inside the tavern.

And now, we begin in earnest! :)


Loba wrote:
** spoiler omitted **

Loba:

Spoiler:
The stats look fine!

Sense Motive Result: As far as you can tell, he is not faking the injury, he seems to be in severe pain.

Perception Result: You hear faint clanking, as though someone wearing armour is running. You're not sure how far away it is, however.

The boy continues to plead: "Please help me, it's just down this alley, not far at all!"


Kobold Cleaver wrote:
Nameless DM, I just got the latest KQ. I was wondering whether it would make sense for me to change my class to the Spellless Ranger, since it fits more with the character concept (given that Tenze isn't actually devoted to nature or anything).

Sounds fine to me, can you elaborate on the major changes? It's not like we've even had combat yet... It won't be long now, though! ;)


Loba:

Spoiler:
While performing your day's errands, you've lost track of time, and now the sun is setting and Westcrown's curfew bells are about to strike. Just as you are quickening your pace, you see a young boy, no older than twelve, round the bend up ahead, running as fast as he can. Unfortunately for him, he steps onto a cobblestone at the wrong angle and you hear a very audible snap as his foot turns in an incorrect direction.

The boy cries out in pain and crumbles to the ground. As tears begin to form at the corners of his eyes and he visiby tries to fight them back, he notices you walking the street, not difficult since you're the only one around.

"Please, ma'am. You gotta to help me! I need to be gettin' home before it's too late! Can you help me?" At this point, he tries to support his own weight, but shudders visibly from the pain and returns to the ground, grimacing.


Grachius Alazario wrote:
Whoops, wrong character.

Yeah, I noticed that. :)

Loba, is your character almost ready? I want to bring her in before the main plot begins.


Camris Findlespur wrote:
Oh, dear. I thought you were the leader of the organization. Can you tell us a little about him?

"Ah, yes. I apologize for not speaking of him sooner, but we thought it was best to keep all our harrows close to the chest, as they say, at least until we were sure about you all. Our leader's name is Arael, and though I do not wish to spend too much time describing a man you are soon to meet, suffice it to say that he is a wise man, and his elven blood has allowed him to know Westcrown more intimately than any of we ever could. He was alive when this city thrived under Aroden's deific rule, and he's seen what it has become."

"If any of you need any more convincing, I am absolutely certain that he will provide it."

Sense Motive DC 20

Spoiler:
You notice that Janiven speaks almost longingly of Arael, as though she worships him; certainly, a strong connection between the two is clear.


Loba:

Spoiler:
I'm fine with using a Tiefling, and you definitely don't have to pay anything more, I feel that Tieflings are already pretty balanced, and even though they do have a few extra abilities, I don't think it's anything unbalancing. I'm fine with this. The variant you chose sounds cool and thematic to me, so I'm fine with it. As for physical appearance, I'm not going to limit you in any way. Feel free to write what you wish, you're not even limited to that chart as long as it makes sense!

As for the Hamatulatsu, I agree that the original feat is a bit too powerful, but splitting it into three feats makes it seem too costly. I like the middle ground option, where the feat progresses as you level. Seems reasonable to me.

As for how to integrate your character... All I need is for you to explain why she would be walking the street in the late evening, near Westcrown's curfew. Perhaps she's late coming home from work, or 'temple.' Also, if you could provide me a quick background summary and her alignment, that would be much obliged! I should be able to tie you in over the weekend if you can provide me with this.


As Grachius' outburst ends, Janiven's face reddens considerably, though whether this is from blushing or anger, you cannot tell. "What is this foolishness? I did not invite you here to proposition me! In case you had not realize, this is not one of your productions, Grachius, this is an important discussion, and I hoped you would take this more seriously."

Janiven calms down noticeably. "But I do hope that your offer was sincere, barring the... other things. We can use all the help we can get."

Responding to the others' agreements: "I am honoured that you are all willing to help me - us, through this terrible time. There is nothing I can say except that this is truly a time where heroes are needed and I am pleased to see that they have arisen to meet the challenge." She smiles at each of you.

"Now then, my organization's leader is a tad late, he will speak more about our next objective, but while we wait, feel free to ask me any questions you might have."

Zareth:

Spoiler:
House Thrune (often referred to as the Thrice-Damned House of Thrune) is the noble house that currently rules the nation of Cheliax. Taking control during the anarchy that followed the death of Aroden, Cheliax's previous deific patron, they quickly asserted their power and instated diabolism as the state religion of Cheliax.

Of particular concern to your current affairs, House Thrune has targeted Westcrown many times, aiming to make en example from it. They moved the capital to Egorian, and placed the Hellknights to control the city, no longer trusting the city to govern itself. Many academics consider this to be a means to assert their dominance over the nation, by destroying old traditions and removing any semblance of influence from Aroden's old city.

Nice roll!

Loba, how soon can your character be ready? I need to weave you into the adventure, and I know just the way. Also, if you have another long entry like the one above, please use spoiler tags around it so as not to disrupt the flow of the game. Thanks!


Grachius Alazario wrote:
Still room?

Yes!


Janiven, having taken a considerable long time to formulate her response, finally begins to speak again.

"What I am asking," she begins, "is not that you consider yourselves rebels or revolutionaries, but more as liberators. The people of Westcrown have been oppressed for far too long; there are curfews to keep our families in hiding, shadow beasts to prey on those who dare disobey, and the Order of the Nail to make sure that no-one even sneezes in the direction of a House Thrune representative. Our own city guard are all but powerless in front of them. I ask, is this freedom?"

"As always, it comes down to a group of people who have the will, inclination and power to change things, and I believe that the group I've gathered here has the strength to do just that. Will we need strength of arms? Perhaps. But a city is not won with swords and battles, it is won with by gaining the trust of its people and fostering hope in their hearts and their minds. This is what I have collected you for."

"And this, is what I believe we have to do to save this city from the darkness that swallows it every night."


Loba, the Tiefling is fine, but I'd prefer it if you just used the Tiefling article from PF25 as a resource, I don't have the Cheliax book, so I'd rather avoid using it. Also, please list your Tiefling trait that you randomly rolled... Which benefit does it provide? I know some of them can be pretty broken, so I just want to make sure...

That said, this PbP is officially restarted, folks! So keep OoC comments properly coloured and any rules/character creation question under spoiler tags, please! I will be posting Janiven's response this afternoon.


Warforged Gardener wrote:

I was just about to start tomorrow, now that I had enough money to afford the book. I'm still getting over the stomach flu, but everyone else in the house is better and that takes a lot of the pressure off me.

If Nameless is back and ready to go, I don't have to drop Rakless. I'm sure we'd all rather continue on with the game as it was started than transition a new DM.

As you say, I'm definitely willing to return to my GM duties, but if you were all ready to transition over to another game, I don't want to get in the way. Please, do what you want most. If we need another recruitment for this game, that's fine by me, too. I'll just wait a day or so to see what the rest of the players think.


Hey everybody,

This is an apology for my terrible behaviour in the past couple of months. Real life got crazy for a while (what with me getting H1N1 and beginning substitute teaching all over the place), but that's not an excuse for disappearing without leaving you all a message about it.

I remembered this thread today, and I saw that you had continued posting in my absence, which was really awesome of you guys considering my jerkiness. So, if you're still willing, and if you can forgive my breaking of the GM/player trust, I'd be willing to start this back up if you are.

If you're still interested, please let me know by posting in this thread, and we can keep this PbP from dying after all. For those of you that have already moved on to other threads, I totally understand, but hope you will still accept my apology.

Once again, I'm sorry about my crapulence.

Cheers,
Nameless


Sorry about my absence guys, I've had a really crazy week with work. The good news is that those hours are going to start to diminish, and I'll be returning to my old office job, where I can access Paizo at work, which will make my posting MUCH more regular. Unless, of course, you're my boss, in which case I'm working SUPER HARD!

Anyway, I'll get caught up this weekend, and I apologize for not moving as quickly as I'd liked. If it's worth anything, though, I think all your characters are awesome! Can't wait to see how they react to what comes next! ;)


Rakless wrote:
"Dear Lady," Rakless said, "I am a proud Wiscrani, like anyone here..." He cocked his head, beady black eyes studying her for signs of madness or deception. "But I am no assassin. And all appearances to the contrary, I am neither mad...nor a fool." The Tengu placed his napkin on the table and stood, very slowly. "I thank you for the lovely meal and even lovelier mealworms, but if we're to sit incriminating ourselves while you wait for the Hellknights to come take us away, you'd best tell us now. Some of us have shorter legs than others and deserve a running start."

Janiven softens visibly upon hearing these words, her fervor disappeared (for the moment at least).

"You are absolutely correct. Assassination is not the way. But it is also not the only way. But winning over the hearts and minds of a people in torment can often be much more effective than sliding a blade between someone's ribs."

"The people of Westcrown seem to have almost lost hope for a better lot in life, but I refuse to let that happen. Everyone should have the right to freely walk the streets of their own city, free of oppression, from dark beasts, or even the Hellknights that strike first and ask questions later."

"I will not hold you here; I would never ask anyone to join me who did not willingly believe that there is a better way. Leave if you wish, and if you do so, I wish you all the best of luck in your travels... But I do hope you'll stay."


Camris Findlespur wrote:
"Lady Janiver, are you expecting someone else to join us? I hope they have a good reason for being late. My mother, bless her soul, always impressed upon me the need for good manners."

She refocuses at the table as Camris addresses her, replying "Hmm? Oh, no. It's nothing. I'm just worrying about making sure that we're done here before those... things begin to prowl."

She says 'things' with such disgust that it is almost palpable.

Sense Motive DC 20

Spoiler:
From the way she reacts to Camris' question, you realize that Camris' suggestion that she might be waiting for someone could be accurate after all.

Camris Findlespur wrote:

"Well, Master Grachius, that is a tragedy of sorts. I am hoping Lady Janiver will shed some light on what we have in common, but she seems distracted at the moment."

Janiven responds, smiling, "Hmm. In common. We are all citizens of Westcrown, are we not?" She winks at Camris. "Enjoy the dinner for now, we will have much to discuss at the end of the meal."

-----

As the dinner wraps up and the table is cleared, Janiven becomes more serious. "I suppose it is time we talk about why we are all here, though I do hope you've enjoyed your dinner. If nothing else, I am pleased to serve some of Westcrown's finest citizens." She says that last part with a smile.

"Now, why did I choose you to meet me tonight? This is a good question. And aside from the fact that you are all clearly capable individuals, there is a great reason: suffering. We have all suffered, even if we might not even realize it. We are, in fact, suffering now. Suffering from fear."

She looks towards the window again. "After all, who knows what beasts will await us if we go on too late? Who knows what tragedy," (her eyes shift to Grachius as she pronounces this word), "will befall us if we step outside in the darkness, even on a beautiful autumn evening?"

She slams her fist on the table, clearly becoming impassioned as she speaks. "It's hard to believe that other places in the world do not suffer from the same fear that we do. That they can go out at night and gaze at the heavens. See the moon rise and set, much like the sun."

"Westcrown used to be like that. My parents told me about it as a child. And I always hoped to see it returned to the city it once was. Not a city of Twilight, but once again a city of Stars, of Beauty, of Greatness!"

"This is why I have gathered you all here. We have the ability to save the city of Westcrown. Not the buildings, not the canals, or the cobblestones, but the people. The Wiscrani. We, who suffer every day. And what is the source of our suffering?"

"The Thrice-Damned House of Thrune!"

Her face flushes as she finishes, and, with a look of pure conviction on her face, she looks to each of you to gauge your reactions.


As the conversation finally seems to get going, the door to the kitchen opens, revealing the woman that you each encountered in the past few days, carrying a tray of roast mutton and another tray containing local vegetables.

She lays them down at the table and smiles at everyone. "Well, then, I'm glad that most of you came. I believe formal introductions are in order. I am called Janiven, and I openly admit that I invited each of you here for business. But for now, I hope you will indulge me and allow me to serve you dinner before we get into any serious discussion. It is the least that I can do for those of you that decided to come."

She gestures towards the seats. "Please, make yourselves at home."

Afterwards, she goes behind the bar and emerges with two bottles of local wines, and sits down for dinner.

Everyone make a Sense Motive check. Any character that achieves the DC knows what is hidden in the spoiler below.

Sense Motive DC 15

Spoiler:
Over the course of the dinner, it becomes apparent that Janiven is anxious or nervous about something. In addition, it seems that every few minutes or so, she looks out the windows.


Grachius:

Spoiler:
As for what it takes to be considered an 'expert', there's no hard and fast definition, but I would say it takes somewhere around 10 ranks in the appropriate skill to demonstrate enough knowledge to be considered an expert in the field.

When Grachius kisses her hand, the woman blushes, but quickly turns away.

Later, when Grachius insists on walking her home, however, she quickly declines, saying that "she has errands yet to run."

As for her spoken Common, make a Linguistics check, please.


For those entering the tavern...

As the group enters the main room, you immediately notice the large table dominating the chamber. The room lucks much like a repurposed tavern, except instead of containing many small tables, there is only one large table that seats up to 16. The room looks a little worn, as though it hasn't seen the maintenance that it requires in some time.

The central table has eight dinner places prepared, along with some bread and butter. No one else is in the room, but you hear the sounds of someone moving around coming from what you can only assume is the kitchen.

Grachius:

Spoiler:
I will answer your questions and finish up your scene tomorrow, I just had enough time to post this now before leaving. Sorry about that.


Vizio's Tavern

As you approach the tavern, you realize that this is a quiet side-street a little bit off the beaten path in central Westcrown, traffic doesn't seem to be common in this area, and you quickly realize that this is most likely due to the fact that most of the shops and businesses in the area are boarded up and closed.

In fact, Vizio's Tavern is itself clearly out of business, but there do seem to be signs of activity within. Smoke emerges from the chimney and the sounds of movement within are clear to those standing outside.

The building is a common two-story building built in the Wiscrani style. The old tavern's sign looks a bit battered as though it hasn't been maintained in some time, but otherwise, the building looks to be in good condition.

Alright everyone, feel free to meet up outside or inside the tavern if you so choose. Now is the time to (hopefully) have the characters introduce themselves. When posting your first actions upon arriving at the Tavern, please describe your character for the rest of the group.


Rakless:

Spoiler:
The woman gives a mirthful smile at Tenze's beak-tapping motion, and replies, "I have no doubt that you are one whose instincts are to be trusted. You are right that there is something wrong with this city."

Her expression stiffens. "I am looking for a group of competent folk to help return this city to its once-great stature. Thus, I have come to ask for your help, as a competent... er, bird." She laughs at herself at that.

"Sorry, I'm not exactly good at this. Please, if you're interested in helping Westcrown and its citizens, come meet me and other like-minded folk tomorrow night for an early dinner a few hours before evening. We will be at Vizio's Tavern, found in Central Wescrown."

She picks up a mealworm and swallows it before your eyes. "I promise, we'll have a specially made meal for you." She winks.

With that, she gets up and leaves the bar.

Benicio:

Spoiler:
"Yes, a more private place." She nods, and continues, "Please, if you truly wish to help the Wiscrani, meet me at Vizio's Tavern a few hours before sunset. We shall have an early dinner and discuss more of this subject."

She finishes her drink and stands up. "I hope you will come," she says with a slight smile on her lips.

With that, she leaves the establishment.

Grachius:

Spoiler:
Sense Motive Result: You're getting a sense of calmness from the woman, she does not seem particularly jumpy or excitable, which leads you to believe that she is either not looking for a major confrontation, or she's a very good liar.

As Grachius attempts to nuzzle the woman, she pushes you away and an angry look flares across her face, but it quickly softens. "Please, I'm sorry to have contacted you in such a way, but I needed to talk to you and I do not have much time."

"I have heard through my contacts that you have connections to the Pathfinder Society, which is why I contacted you. I know you Pathfinders are not popular here in Cheliax, which is why I didn't want to jeopardize you by speaking of it out loud." She looks you right in the eyes.

"Though, to be honest, I didn't expect such a bold reaction, even from a singer like yourself."

"My contact told me that you would be a reliable contact to speak with about... Well, I am trying to return this city to its former glory, but for that I need able bodies. And this is where you come in. I was hoping you would help us re-organize and even play a role as an unofficial emissary from the Pathfinders. We need everyone we can get."

"Now, I know this is a lot to take in all at once, but if you're willing to hear us out, meet me this evening a few hours before sundown at Vizio's Tavern in the centre of town."

"Now, you will unhand me, yes?" while she is trying to keep an angry expression on her face as she says this you realize that there are some playful undertones.

Note: She did not seem to understand your word spoken in Infernal.

Tenze:

Spoiler:
"I represent a group that is trying to right the wrongs that are enclosing on this town. For this, I need able bodies, and through recommendation, I have come to speak to you. I don't want to force your hand, but it would please me greatly if you would agree to join us for an early dinner this this evening a few hours before sunset. We're located at Vizio's Tavern in Central Westcrown."

"Now, I should leave you before people start noticing us. I do hope to see you tonight."

Zareth:

Spoiler:
The woman gives a delighted smirk as she says, "What this damsel needs now are people to help her in an organization to return our fair city to its once greatest point. This is why I come to you this evening. I am hoping you would acquiesce to meeting me tomorrow night for a light dinner and some more discussion on this subject at Vizio's Tavern, a few hours before sunset."

"For now, I must go, as there is much to be done, but I do thank you for the walk, and I hope that you decide to come tomorrow."

She smiles, almost seductively. "I would be disappointed if I couldn't see you again."

Camris:

Spoiler:
"This is fantastic news!" She claps her hands together.

"We will be meeting tomorrow evening at Vizio's Tavern just in the centre of Westcrown to discuss further details. I hope you will join us."

She makes to leave and says, "As for now, however, I should get going. There is still much to organize."

"I hope to see you tomorrow, friend!"

Mossi:

Spoiler:
"You are right to ask about the practical aspects. I cannot guarantee you much right now, but I can promise you a well-cooked meal if you come to hear what my organization has to say tomorrow evening at Vizio's Tavern."

"I do hope to see you there, and perhaps you can show me a thing or two in combat." She winks as she walks away.


Alright guys, I'm really liking the characters so far, but I'm realizing that you guys probably want to interact with each other and not just with me, so I'm going to fast-track this part of the story (which has done well as a character introduction for me, at least), into the next section. I'll have a big post tomorrow detailing the beginning of the next part!


Benicio

Spoiler:
Sense Motive result: She guards her emotions well, and you can't get a feel on anything underneath what she's telling you.

"I am pleased you say this. Suppose I were to tell you that there are many who share our opinions. Would you be interested in meeting them?"

She smiles, almost seductively, as she asks.

Mossi

Spoiler:
"So, if there is one thing I have always gathered from those who hone and train themselves to near perfection, it's that there is always a need to prove that this training is worthwhile. Like myself, I am guessing that you like to use your skills in real-life situations."

She smiles. [b]"Suppose I were to tell you that I can offer you a chance to prove yourself, while at the same time helping this city return to its past glory?"

She winks at Mossi, coyly. "Would you listen to my offer?"

Zareth

Spoiler:
"Indeed it does, my powerful friend. I say 'powerful' as it is quite clear that you are a mage of some skill. But what is power without honing it with real experiences, I ask?"

"If I have learned anything in my life, it is that untempered steel is as useful as a club. To achieve true mastery, one must temper one's power with experience, as well as study and practice. This is why I come to you today."

"There is no small amount of desperation in me when I ask you to help me. You must feel the dark times about in our city as well as I. Would you be able to help a damsel in distress?"

She grins coyly at those last few words.

Grachius

Spoiler:
About taking 10/20: Noted!

From your studies of the note (which is written on plain parchment available at any shop), you learn that it was written by a woman (or a man with particularly dainty handwriting), and the style seems reminiscent of Chelish writing, though, of course, an expert might be more accurate at pinpointing the actual region of Cheliax.

As you approach the alley, you only see one figure waiting. A lithe figure, cloaked in shadows. As you approach, you realize that it is in fact, a woman. A beautiful woman, at that. She keeps a longsword at her hip, but otherwise seems to be open to meeting you, as indicated by the smile on your face.

"I am glad you came. I was the most bold with you, and worried you would not appear."

Tenze

Spoiler:
The woman laughs before she replies. "Worry not, little one, I have not been spying on you. It was overheard by friends in this very tavern, and word does travel fast around this city these days."

Her expression becomes more serious, [b]"... but we should get to the heart of the matter. If you truly do wish to help our city, I ask that you listen to what I have to say. But what we discuss must remain between us. Do I have your word?"

Rakless

Spoiler:
"Yes, the organized crime has been dreadful, and it seems as though the dottari and the Hellknights do nothing about it!" She is clearly getting upset, but calms herself before continuing.

"I have been looking for like-minded individuals and those who have potential for greatness to recruit to our cause of returning this city to its greatness. In you, I have found both of these qualities, but first, I ask you: what can you tell me of this Tenze that you speak of?"

Camris

Spoiler:
"To be honest with you my friend, it is a very simple proposal. I represent concern Wiscrani citizens, and I am hoping that you will grant us the honour of your presence at a meeting about what we can do to rebuild the tarnished reputation of our once-great city. I am not asking you to commit to our cause, but simply to see for yourself whether or not it seems worth pursuing."

A hopeful expression rolls over her face as she says, "What do you say?"


For Benicio

Spoiler:
"'My lady' will do for now." She sits down, grabbing an ale from a passing server as she does so, leaving a few copper in its place.

"Well, then, Ben. Let us cut straight to brass tacks, shall we?" She smiles as she takes a long sip from her drink.

"I've heard rumour tell of your... beliefs. Particularly that you feel there should be something done about the problems in the city of Westcrown. Now, of course, it's impolite to speak politics on our first meeting, but I hope you'll spare me this one indecency." She winks.

Lowering her voice to a whisper, "Were the rumours correct?"

For Tenze

Spoiler:
As Tenze arrives at the booth, she notices that a blonde, quite striking (for a human) woman is sitting there already, looking expectant.

"Hello, my gnomish friend," she says with mirth in her voice.

"Shall we convene to break our fast and discuss some business?"

For Zareth

Spoiler:
As you exit the building, the woman turns to Zareth and speaks, "I apologize for the sudden appearance and request to leave, but you know as well as I how far we can trust the nobles in this city."

She smiles, knowingly. "And yet, I hear you are different. That their ways are not quite yours."

"What can you tell me about yourself?"

For Grachius

Spoiler:
The boy looks even more sheepish, which seemed impossible moments before, but simply hands you a note and runs off.

The note reads: I know who you are. Please meet me in the alley behind the Dead Bear as soon as you receive this. We have much to discuss.

For Camris

Spoiler:
She smiles at Camris' response. "I could not have hoped for a better answer. I have learned through previous experience that lying to one of your persuasion is foolish, so I will dispense with the usual games."

"My name is Janiven, and I am here to request your aid in fighting the corruption that wracks our once-great city."

For Mossi

Spoiler:
Sense Motive Result: The woman seems to be genuinely interested in your art, but there is some other motive behind her introduction. She does not seem threatening, as far as you can tell.

"Indeed, it is a tragedy that these skills are necessary to survive." She gestures to her own blade. "I too have been trained to survive."

"In fact, survival is at the crux of what I wish to speak to you about. Would you be willing to walk with me and enjoy this beautiful day?"

For Rakless

Spoiler:
"Perhaps some other time, my friend. I have already broken my fast this morning. In reality, I am here to speak to you about your eyes. I hear the Tengu see more than the rest of us. I was hoping to speak to someone of your talents."

She quiets her voice: "Have you seen anything... strange... going on in our fair city?"


For Rakless

Spoiler:

12th of Rova, 4709AR, Dawn

Rakless awakes in his roost as the sun rises, as is the usual, and the wafting smell of the sea air helps raise him to alertness. Out of the ordinary, this morning, however, is a woman standing outside The Sacred Goose, on the ground looking up, watching his movements.

She points towards the entrance to the inn, with a questioning expression on her face, and then enters the building.


For Grachius

Spoiler:

13th of Rova, 4709AR, Late Morning

Grachius is enjoying a late breakfast as the dogs in the Dead Bear Tavern all around him snore due to a lazy morning. They awake with a start when the door suddenly bursts open to reveal a young boy who runs into the room with a piece of parchment in his hand.

Of course, the sudden movement draws the barking of the dogs as they get up. The half-orc bartender yells at the dogs and they calm down, and turns to the boy. "What'cha doin', boy? You lookin' to get your face ett off?"

The boy turns pale as he replies: "Sorry, sir! I 'us just deliverin' this here note to that there singer!" He gestures towards Grachius.

The half-orc waves the boy away and he appraoches Grachius. "Are you Grachius?", he asks, sheepishly.


For Camris

Spoiler:

12th of Rova, 4709AR, Noon

As Camris is returning to the stable from a good long ride on his favourite mount, he sees something out of place in the stables: a human woman. She stands there face-to-face with Camris as he is still mounted, smiling. "Greetings, Camris. I have heard much about you. I have heard you are someone to trust when there is justice to be sought. Is this true?"


For Mossi

Spoiler:

12th of Rova, 4709AR, Noon

As the sun reaches its apex of the day, so too does the training of Mossi Durren. The public park on the southern tip of the central island is the perfect place for Mossi to train her skills, but at the end of her routine, she sees an unexpected guest watching from a distance: a blonde human woman, who carries herself like a warrior.

She approaches Mossi and asks: "I am impressed. It is rare to see such artistry and deadliness at the same time. Where did you learn such styles?"


For Tenze

Spoiler:

13th of Rova, 4709AR, Dawn

The first light of the sun appears in Tenze's room window, lighting another day in the city. The sounds of the city awakening are clear as the people of Wescrown head towards their places of work for the day.

As Tenze looks around the room though, something stands out. There appears to be a note that was slid under the door at some point during the night.

It seems to be simply written: 'I have heard your mumblings that all is not right in the city of Westcrown. I feel it's time something should be done. Meet me in the corner booth of The Sacred Goose at sunrise.'


For Zareth

Spoiler:

12th of Rova, 4709 AR, Early Evening

The Cliffside Inn has one of the nicer selections when it comes to restaurants in Westcrown, but its atmosphere is none other than exquisite. A harp-player arpeggiates in the background, providing a pleasant sound to accompany the posh interior welcoming the nobles looking for a decent evening meal.

As Zareth is finishing his dinner of roast pheasant and sipping at his glass of wine, he sees a woman standing near his table. The beauty of her blonde hair is accentuated by her bright red dress, and while she does seem slightly uncomfortable in it, her beauty is not lessened.

She smiles at Zareth and asks quietly: "Good sir, I was hoping to speak with you about something of some import. Would you walk with me?"

She gestures towards the door, with a hopeful smile.


For Benicio

Spoiler:

The 12th of Rova, 4709AR, Sundown

The smell of humanoid sweat and the moisture emanating from the nearby sea permeate this tavern, creating an unmistakable aroma that seems abhorrent to newcomers. Yet even with the smell and the ale-soaked walls and tables, the Rusty Anchor Tavern makes good business from regulars. As Benicio enjoys a very stout ale alone at his table, he, along with many others, notice something unusual at this tavern:

A woman enters through the main doors. A striking woman. A woman wearing rough local clothing and a blade at her hip, but these do nothing to reduce her beauty.

And even more surprisingly, she moves towards Benicio's table, and asks curtly: "May I sit here, sir?"

The other patrons seem incredibly envious, but return to their drinks quickly.


Bastards of Erebus PbP - We All Want To Change The World

---

13th of Rova, 4709 AR

We set our scene on the southern coast of Cheliax, in the City of Twilight, Westcrown. The sun rises over the city, its light reflecting off omnipresent canals and rivers located throughout. From a distance, the city looks as though it is shining, as it has for hundreds of years. But the shining exterior belies a city whose heart is now dark.

The past century has been difficult for Westcrown. Losing its status as the home of a God and the capital of a nation in the span of just a few short years was devastating, but the adoption of devil worship by the Chelish nobles poured salt into the city's wounds. Today, the city has a difficult time maintaining a cultural identity, though it remains an economic powerhouse on the world stage.

Of course, this only makes the rampant organized crime (and the rumours that the criminals control many of the nobles and maybe even the Lord Mayor) that much worse. Add to these frustrations the dark prowlers that haunt the streets at night ravaging citizens foolish enough to ignore the curfew and the Hellknights of the Order of the Nail who are always seemingly abusing their power on Westscrown citizens (and the local constabulatory, the dottari, can do nothing about it), the city's spirits are low, and it seems as though the long-term outlook for the city is grim.

Let us begin our tale of adventure!

---

Dramatis Personae

Dave Young 992 – Benicio Del Espada
Davi the Eccentric – Zareth Edemont
Kobold Cleaver – Tenzekila Brushketel
seekerofshadowlight – Mossi Durren
taig – Camris Findlespur
thrikreed – Grachius Alazario
Warforged Gardener – Rakless