Non_Player Character's page

Calseinica

.

The opera singer squints at Cassynder in confusion. "I don't know what you mean. ... If we all join the opera we would be appreciated all over the Spera and maybe even into the Regicona. We could become celebrities. The Lord Mayor himself is pouring half the city treasury into Opera. Nightshade Theater, just two blocks away, has been completely rebuilt and refurnished to open new plays. Sanchia's practically Opera-royalty already because of her parents and I've been understudy to Baroness Delour Aulamaxa." She pats Cassynder on the shoulder in a friendly gesture of playful camaraderie, "And as much as the audience may disparage Tieflings outside of the Opera House, on stage, when there's a real Tiefling playing a villain or antagonist!, well, the House always cheers more when it's not a person with a Masque."

It is apparent Calseinica lives in a very different Westcrown than the one of Cassynder and Whisper, even a different Westcrown than Everett Radcliffe and Nita Cobbles. She hasn't said more than a few words at all until now, and then gushes and praises for Opera.

Her logic is obviously flawed, if not foolish -- but it is what she knows. The world in which she lives.

Janiven Keyes

.

The bartender's eyes open when Aidonis says that food and water on The Shadow Plane may not sustain them. 'Always learning something new.' Four days of waiting is clearly not an option.

"I support a group vote, but perhaps a few of us should stay up front by the big door, and the rest can go explore this long structure. Um,..." Janiven Keyes looks at the group superficially, "Perhaps I can stay guard at the door with Aidonis, Calseinica and young Quirri. And you four can search the place. ...Oh," Janiven Keyes turns to Sanchia Corvus, "Do you want to stay with us at the main door or go search?"

Janiven Keyes looks to everyone to see if splitting up sounds good. While normally it would be foolhardy, she clearly likes the idea of at least a few people holding back to guard the entrance.

Quirry

.

The violet-skinned Tiefling looks up at Cassynder as she slinks cautiously into the long building. "Yeah, Palaveen has been calling his gang 'The Bastards of Erebus' for almost a year now, and has been getting Nikrus (my Boss) to get more aggressive in the Spera. And I'd like to get out from under Palaveen's thumb; Nikrus is," and Quirry shudders in revulsion, "a dirty old creep." Her tone and words are of the uncomfortable greasiness that makes one want to kill Nikrus *First.*

Feeling perhaps a little too confident and foolhardy, she looks around the massive Great Room of the empty, long building, "This place is cool! Let's explore!" Unlike the opera singer Calseinica, Quirri is obviously streetwise enough to have not raised her voice at all. And she does not stray off on her own, excited as she is to explore.

Calseinica

.

The opera singer, clearly out of her depth and frightened, huddles close to Sanchia Corvus, but goes eyes-wide at Everett Radcliffe's earlier question about 'What to do even if we *do* escape the Shadow Plane'; when he mentions living "on the run" from Armigers or the Temple of Asmodeus, she is visibly disturbed. "We have to clear our names; we can't be outlaws!" For a moment her voice raises to a decibel somewhat louder than anyone feels safe with, but the actor covers her mouth instantly, as if she could take back her loud noise, and whispers, "We have to join a play or opera or something and redeem ourselves."

She clearly has missed Whisper's point about the authorities having no clues or any information about the individuals here -- other than Janiven Keyes.

Aidonas

.

Nita Cobbles' mysterious customer, who gave her a missive to meet at Vizio's Tavern, enters the conversation. He nods a smile to Cassynder at the Tiefling's 'will get along really well with the captured Half-Elf Arael, who worships Iomdedae and is more of a rabble-rouser than Janiven Keyes' remark. "Well that's all well and good, but if this Arael has been captured and is being held by some Armigers and whoever this "Shanwen" guy is, fact is, we may never even get a chance to meet him." And the look on Aidonas' face reveals the feeling, 'What a shame.'

He gestures to Nita Cobbles and answers the group, "Well, I'm not a Pathfinder anymore, exactly, but I did lead you to meet Janiven Keyes. I arrived recently in Westcrown from Absalom where I used to know Bobbles (of 'Cobbles, Bobbles & Bows') through the Pathfinder Society.

"And I'm in agreement with Nita, I don't think we can last four days without food and water -- I've only studied the Shadow Plane, never been her, but as I understand it, food and water here is as much likely to be nothing as it is to be something. I can't really explain it, it would be almost like having illusory dinner: Consuming Shadow and Fog may make you feel sated, but it's not real.

"I think we have to find a way back to The Prime Material Westcrown, our Westcrown."

Janiven Keyes

.

After poking her head into the massive, creepy front door for a moment's look around, Janiven Keyes returns to the quiet conversation of introductions. "Well, it looks completely empty; I think our Gnome cartographer was right about this place." She turns to Nita and responds, "I certainly like the idea of looking around, and was also going to vote to try to find another way back -- the four days is less of a concern to me than is the going right back to Vizio's Tavern. A Spellcrafting of the Portal may actually clue them to how long it takes before we can return, though I honestly don't know."

Janiven Keyes takes a few steps into the structure, presumably to continue to see if it can be a safe-house of some kind until everyone gets their bearings in Shadow Westcrown.

Next she turns back to Cassynder, "Sorry, I missed something a minute ago, what were you asking?" She pauses to concentrate on your words from a moment ago, "Oh, yes, my 'tricks' and a few other questions. Yes, I think if this place turns out to be a good hideout I think we all have questions. As for tricks, I'm just a common gish with some Roguish talents, and who only knows a couple spells. And as long as we keep our wits about us, I think I can answer your questions as we search this place."

Quirry

.

The violet-skinned Tiefling with deep black hair, silver eyes, and something odd about her hands, looks more afraid of her surroundings than everyone else. Eighteen years old and usually far more cynical and unimpressed, the girl looks out of her depth. Perhaps seeing a bit of a kinship in Whisper, she lets out a little of an answer to the other Tiefling woman's question, "What lives here,?-- my guess is "nothing Good." Quirri looks toward Cassynder for guidance, almost the way a younger sister looks up to an older brother.

Janiven Keyes

.

Pressing her ear to the massive door of the building for a moment, Janiven Keyes attempts to gently, quietly open the 20-foot tall door for everyone to enter.

Still in sotto voce she answers about the 'other owner' who is apparently captured. "His name is Arael, a Half-Elf. I'm uncomfortable going into too many details but, perhaps even more than I, Arael is passionate about trying to help the common people of Westcrown by affecting change: The Shadow Creatures of the night, the corruptible Dottari -- who seem have tainted their "Wardens of Westcrown" moniker, the lazy Lord Mayor who seems to have made 'Nepotism' the principle of his reign, and of course violent and petty crime: "The Bastards of Erebus" are just the latest example of a gang with more power than the Dottari, heh, our 'wardens' of Westcrown."

Janiven Keyes peaks into the long building for a moment before taking a cautious step forward and answering Cassynder's remark, "Don't be mislead, this 'trick'," she points to the enchanted Rod that opened the Portal, "really is just a trick for emergencies. It only works once every 101 hours and can only open the Portal to the point of entry. In other words, in four days we can use it to go back to the exact spot in the secret tunnel under Vizio's Tavern -- even if there's a patrol of HellKnights waiting for us."

Janiven Keyes

.

The common tavern-hostess / turned Gatewalker smiles mildly, she speaks in sotto voce, "It was quite a feat just to learn about you all and, bluntly, risk so much opening up to you. Honestly, though I have some ideas, they're generic, non-specific. I was hoping that you would be open to discussing plans and specific gambits. This was as far as I got: Learn about potential allies and get them safely to me. Obviously, the 'safely' part didn't succeed. I spent a while weighing the pros and cons of bringing you in individually, for more assured safety. But truthfully, I was never going to be perfectly assured of a safe meeting. And though I know a little of each of you, I don't know you all well enough to have made plans based on your particular strengths. Besides, as a group, whatever we can propose and discuss will be better than a gambit I came up with by myself."

GAMEPLAY LOGISTICS:

Right now all PCs are in The Shadow Plane reflection of Westcrown.

Four NPCs are present as well -- and are ready to roleplay -- answering what they are able to answer, asking whatever questions they may have of you, and reacting according to their character to what just happened: Getting chased by HellKnight initiates through a Portal to The Shadow Plane.

It's important to note that not everyone in the group is yet privy to all this information -- though it has been posted in Gameplay for all to see if you looked at other PC's Gameplay material.

1) Janiven Keyes -- this woman runs Vizio's Tavern where each of you were advised to go. She brought you to the private room; she voiced her concerns about the current state of affairs in Westcrown -- and when the Armigers burst into Vizio's Tavern, she immediately led you through a secret door and with 'Rod' opened a Portal to Shadow Westcrown.

2) Aidonis -- this well-dressed pale human gentleman, clad in a fine, soft brocade doublet with images of golden flowers woven into the sleeves, brown pantaloons and brown boots. Judging from the greying hair and well-groomed beard, you'd guess he's in his mid-sixties -- entered Cobbles, Bobbles & Bows to buy a map, then things got odd in the backroom of Nita's place and when she came back he was gone. He did leave her a note & 20 gold saying to meet him at Vizio's Tavern.

3) Quirri -- a young Tiefling who apparently is part of the gang called The Bastards of Erebus. She knew Cassynder years and years ago before he left Westcrown -- and he is under the impression that she'd love to escape the Bastards.

4) Calseinica -- this young actor / opera singer is actually a face some may recognize if they're interested in Westcrown's opera scene. Not famous or anything, but if you went to see a play in Westcrown this past year, you might recognize her as a background singer / actor on stage, behind stars (such as the legendary Baroness Delour Aulamaxa). Calseinica came to Vizio's with Sanchia Corvus.

All four are looking around with uncertainty, just like you -- especially at the long, two-story building with the crenelated Shelyn heads and the massive door and arch-statue of Zon Kuthon.

Any questions for any of them?

Janiven Key

.

First to react, Janiven Key opens the private room door and, after looking back at Arrus Volso with whom she was talking, races into the main room of Vizio's Tavern.

She immediately rushes to the bar and yells out in sorrow, fear and anger, "Vizio, Nooo, not Vizio!" And you can hear tears and chokes as though Vizio's Tavern no longer has an owner.

Janiven Key

.

In that moment when Arrus Volso's discussion was interrupted by the abrupt and conspicuous silence from Vizio's Tavern, his first thought may likely have been one of regret that he had worded his question to the young bar-maid a bit too bluntly, without the subtlety or guile so often necessary for Chelaxian-style intrigue or conspiracy. A non-Noble talking to another non-Noble about an aristocratic family member, a Lady of the Nobility, is something perhaps best done with more diplomacy, more innuendo and craft. He instinctually feels his question was poorly worded, or poorly intoned with the wrong emotion. Perhaps, indeed, Arrus Volso feels a bit of relief as Janiven Key sharply turns her head to the main-room and steps to swing open the door to discern what is happening. Could he get away with his diplomatic blunder?

But as she opens the door to see what's going on, she also turns her head toward Arrus Volso, a queer look on her face. Is she intrigued? Interested? It is not a look of one offended. Nervous? Hopeful?!

Stiglor

.

Renzio Arvanxi is not alone in knowing the name, Stiglor. A bear of a man who has earned a near-legendary reputation in Cheliax's military campaigns out east in the Aspodell Mountains fighting Andoran rebels and freedom fighters.

Stiglor was a Hero well before he moved to Westcrown and joined the Dottari -- joining as a Durotas rather than rank-and-file Dottari.

Renzio also knows that Stiglor is known for fighting two Favored Enemies: Halflings and Humans, and is well versed in Survival skills, including being renowned for his Swift Tracking abilities. Stiglor is especially comfortable in both Mountainous and Forest Terrains, and in his time in Westcrown has started to train as a more urban-based Fighter, learning Feats of combat more suited to city guard duty.

Sadly, Stiglor's tale in Westcrown has met its end, as the new Dottari 'Duxotar,' Lord Iltus Mhartis, has publicly shamed and dismissed Stiglor from the Dottari, making it clear that, in Lord Iltus' opinion, Stiglor does not belong among civilized people -- and is better suited to life in the wilds.

Savois Tiri

.

Renzio Arvanxi has never heard the name Savois Tiri. Most likely she is a young, inexperienced member of Westcrown's 'Dottari' who very likely has not earned promotion, um, the traditional way. But as of now, she has been promoted from standard 'Dottari' city guard to 'Durotas': Officer in the Dottari.

Janiven Key

.

As cordially as she can, Janiven Key feigns her shock at being asked about a Noble's illegal sacrifices, and even pretends to ignore that blunt of a question. Instead, she shakes her head and answers Arrus Volso's inquiry with what she does know.

"Lady Felina Imvius has come to Vizio's Tavern a few times recently. I think she's like most Nobles, ambitious -- and trying to find an 'in' with those Nobles more powerful than she. For example, I think she's trying to get The Lord Mayor's attention, looking for a way to make him notice her. Only a few nights ago, here in this very room, I mentioned the obvious, that Grand-Count Aberian loves the opera, and Lady Imvius looked as though she had just been inspired. Perhaps she will try to ingratiate herself to him by showing a love for opera."

Lady Felina Imvius

.

Talia and Renzio spend one or two minutes putting together pieces of rumor and innuendo, vocalizing them and jumping to conclusions.

Like most scions in House Imvius, Lady Felina is a strong supporter of the greater House Drovenge. Also like most in House Imvius, she is beginning to show a real political talent for ruthlessness and ambition. The past year-and-a-half of activity from the House have really shown this.

Her private affairs are understandably relatively unknown as she is still a bit shy (perhaps a month?) of leaving her teenage years. But this is what you believe you know:

A year-and-a-half ago, aged 18ish, Lady Felina began spending more and more time deep in study and sanctuary in Westcrown's Temple to Asmodeus -- under the tutelage of, among others, High Priest Vestus Savaska. It is unknown from which ArchDevil or Prince of Hell she has been receiving Divine powers, perhaps Asmodeus (like Vestus Savaska), perhaps another such as Mephistopheles, Lilith, or Baalzebub.
.... Learning the details of her Infernal devotions could be valuable.

In the past four months, Lady Felina has perhaps started a secret affair, or maybe just begun her first love interest, with an as-yet-unknown Lord -- likely in House Drovenge, Lorialn or Xerysis (but perhaps another House). Considering House Imvius' position under House Drovenge, this is likely an accepted love affair, although it could be against her House Patriarch's plans.
.... Learning of which Noble she is having this secret relationship would be very valuable information.

Eight nights ago Lady Felina had a private audience with Lord Mayor Aberian Arvanxi, over one hour in duration -- unusual for a young scion
from a non-associated House and the patriarch of a powerful House.
.... Learning the details of this meeting could be critical information.

A rumor that seems to have been completely debunked four days ago -- and very likely maliciously started by a rival -- is that Lady Felina has been participating in illegal blood-sacrifices (illegal because neither her House nor The Church have sanctioned them.)
.... Learning either the origin of the malicious rumor -- or perhaps the facts of what she has been doing (even if not specifically illegal blood sacrificing), could be valuable information.

Janiven Key

.

Smiling politely and respectfully and playfully declining the offered gold piece, Janiven Key tells Lord Renzio not to worry about it at all.

Her declining of the gold could certainly just be as professional and courteous a gesture as it seems -- or, perhaps there is a chance that the young bartender misinterpreted your own gesture not as sincere, but as way to plant a seed of manipulation.

Lady Sascar Tilernos

.

After having been treated badly by House Arvanxi, you know that repairing a rift with Lady Sascar would involve creating a respectful, or at least courteous, rapport. Buying a drink or a meal, especially among Nobles who don't usually count the few Silver pieces it costs to enjoy such a luxury could be either the beginning of an apology, or a gambit at guile or manipulation.

Lord Duxotar Iltus Mhartis

.

Another Dottari enters Vizio's Tavern, a young woman in her early 20s, a beauty by the look of her hair and eyes, and the Duxotar whoops in her introduction.

Janiven Key politely points the Noble and his Dottari to the private room she has set aside for them, only to be rebuffed. The newly appointed Duxotar loudly declines the room, remarking about how the Dottari should be open and transparent to the citizens of Westcrown and not sequestered in private rooms behind closed doors.

Janiven Key excuses herself from his presence and comes to your table, indicating that, indeed, the private room is open afterall, and apologies for the miscommunication.

And even over the party Baroness Delour Aulamaxa is throwing, it is easily overheard both the glowing praises of the young Dottari woman who has just arrived, and the brash berating of Durotas Stiglor.

Lord Lodros Mhartis

.

Either because he is perfunctory as usual and, having delivered his directive to the Westcrown Harbormaster, Casarus Vitallain, is curtly leaving -- or because he just doesn't want to be around his father when the House Patriarch makes an ass of himself -- the younger Mhartis Scion also looks ready to depart Vizio's Tavern. He nods to the bartender, Janiven Key, and turns to leave.

As though she heard you over the cacophony of applause for "The Six Trials of Larazod" -- or perhaps a professional sense of being a good hostess (not to mention wanting to keep away from Duxotar Iltus Mhartis, Janiven Key is quick to fill Arrus Volso's mug with more wine.

"Sorry again we couldn't get you guys in the private room, but you understand-- Our mighty Duxotar!" And she smiles in what looks as sincere as any loyal citizen can muster for the drunken Noble.

Vizio's Tavern, Parego Spera

.

It is about this time when the new Duxotar of Westcrown’s wardens arrive at Vizio’s Tavern, Lord Iltus Mhartis: Patriarch of his House, Lord Lodros’ father, beholden to House Arvanxi, and already obviously a little drunk. With him are two Durotas officers and three rank-and-file Dottari wardens. Unlike his son Lord Lodros, Lord Iltus does not give a nod to Baroness Delour, higher-Noble to lower-Noble, and barely notices his son’s presence either. Duxotar Mhartis’ rudeness in this is as unmistakable as his inebriation.

One of the officers trailing him is Durotas Saria Roccin, a cold woman with a reputation among the Dottari for becoming hot with rage when she needs.

The other Durotas trailing the new Duxotar is none other than Stiglor, a bear of a man whose exploits in the Cheliax army in The Aspodell Mountains is near legendary.

Janiven Key, having just left Lord Lodros and the Harbormaster, hurriedly attends to the Lord Duxotar. Unlike his son, Lord Iltus orders a pitcher of wine for himself and reminds his two Durotas and three Dottari that they are still on duty – but that no one will mind if he refreshes his thirst. A perk of being the boss warden of Westcrown.

He further dishonors himself by making a crude remark at Janiven Key as she hurries to get his pitcher of wine, which she quite skillfully and with obvious experience, cleverly ripostes in a manner that makes him laugh and every one else smile in appreciation of Janiven’s ability to take care of herself and still earn a tip from obnoxious customers.

Vizio's Tavern, Parego Spera

.

Nearer to your table with his men is none other than Mister Casarus Vitallain, Harbormaster of Westcrown. The shrewd war-veteran may have lost a few of his audience to the Baroness opera star but there are still a few Condottari Officers accepting ales from their boss after their work shifts.

Their tone changes significantly, though, when Lord Lodros Mhartis, the eldest son and pride of the future for House Mhartis, enters Vizio’s tavern specifically to meet with the Harbormaster. Lord Lodros nods to Baroness Delour at the bar, lower-Noble to higher-Noble, and apparently does not notice any other Nobles on-site. Janiven Key is quick to excuse herself from getting drinks for Amaya and Tarvi and take Lord Lodros’ order.

The Mhartis scion curtly and courteously declines alcohol or any service, and begins speaking to, rather than with, Casarus Vitallain. Even with the raucous of Baroness Delour’s party at the bar, it is easy to overhear what Lord Lodros is saying to the Harbormaster, should you choose to listen.

Vizio's Tavern, Parego Spera

.

At a table somewhat near to Rolan the Dwarf are two more well known artisans, apparently sharing a drink and each other’s company in a private manner not unlike the watch-maker, by themselves. Amaya the expert glass-blower is half-Chelaxian, her father being Tian, and her skill at creating beautiful stained-glass is respected all over Westcrown. As always, she tries to subdue her astounding natural beauty by wearing dumpy and drab clothing. But as always, it’s obvious how gorgeous the young glass-blower is.

Her drinking companion is Tarvi, Westcrown’s jewelry-maker’s now-adult daughter. While Tarvi may not have the jewelry-crafting skills of her successful father, her work is good and her beauty obvious. The two young women are likely pleased at all the attention Baroness Delour is getting at the bar so they can enjoy their own drinks without bother.

Vizio's Tavern, Parego Spera

.

Quietly at the other corner of Vizio’s Tavern, publicly acknowledging and appreciative of his free glass of red from the famous Baroness, but then quickly relaxing down into his chair alone, sits the fastidiously clean Dwarf tinkerer and watch-maker, Rolan. His upscale shop is nearly adjacent to Vizio’s Tavern and apparently business was good enough today for him to close an hour or so early, and stop in for a while for a quiet drink by himself.

Vizio's Tavern, Parego Spera

.

Loudly crowding the bar, and with the ever-present fans and hangers-on, Baroness Delour Aulamaxa is smiling and laughing above her sycophants. She feigns humility, not well, at the praise for her recent operatic performances – and even at her earlier plays, which garner less enthusiastic appreciation. Not too surprisingly, Baroness Delour is less than happy at a reminder that she is growing older and older with each new opera; her make-up and wig and dress a bit more ostentatious than from her younger years, to hide her growing plumpness, thinning hair, and crow’s-feet eyes. Even still, Baroness Delour is nonetheless the most famous of Westcrown’s opera singers with crowding, fawning fans, and she apparently truly believes that her buying everyone at Vizio’s Tavern a glass of the house wine, a deep red, is an act of largesse that makes everyone love her even more than superficially with shallow smiles.

Vizio's Tavern, Parego Spera

.

Lady Sascar Tilernos, obviously living in Westcrown to promote her House’s agenda in The City of Nine Stars, is still relatively new in Westcrown (nearly a 7 year resident) and she has finally learned that the Parego Regicona can offer only so much insight into the city, and is thus expanding her horizons out of the islet and into Parego Spera, where she is meeting Mister Rance Lucca.

Rance Lucca looks more like a pirate or swashbuckler than the owner of The Devildrome arena a few blocks away. Apparently, he and Lady Sascar have been discussing profit and patronage between House Tilernos and The Devildrome. It seems to you, knowledgeable in the who’s who of Westcrown, that it is a marriage that will not come off, as the House Tilernos of Kantaria & Egorian has a strict reputation for obeying House Thrune and the Laws of Asmodeus, while Rance Lucca – though he’s popular and successful, has the reputation for being far too chaotic, greedy, and almost heretical. Certainly he runs The Devildrome to a beat of a different infernal drumline.

Their meeting looks as though it is coming to completion once they finish their current glasses of wine.

Janiven Key
.

Janiven Key arrives in the room a moment later with her apologies. "Please excuse the inconvenience, the new Duxotar is arriving shortly and he's demanded the room for a meeting with his Dottari officers. I put a table for you and your friends in the corner of the common room, furthest away from the bar and the exterior windows. Hopefully that's acceptable?"

"Oh, and Donatello left only a moment after you."

Commander Jute, Korvosan Guard

.

Perhaps it was the thick accent, perhaps it was K'Tak's lack of maintaining social space (One does not usually loom over someone and go nose-to-nose with him in a gesture of friendship), but whatever the case, the Korvosan Guard Commander is not understanding of the Dineh's social skills.

For his own part, Cmdr Jute maintains his own professionalism and chooses to accept the words K'Tak speaks rather than the manner in which K'Tak presents himself. And the officer listens to the rest of you as you explain what has already been told him by Sheila Heidmarch.

"As I told your Venture Captain, the Korvosan Guard has a policy of accepting help in certain special situations such as these; it's something that my Field Marshal, Cressida Kroft, has always supported. I also know that you -- and the other interested parties -- are less interested in safeguarding the lives of my citizens than you are in finding your powerful magical item. Don't get me wrong, I know the exact feeling you do about getting a new magical item that makes you a greater force for Good than you are -- I'm sure you've noticed some of my own adornments. And in this case, well we're all trying to find Jarme Loveage before he kills again.

"My second-in-command, Captain Cora Crandon, is on duty now following the clues she got from Breakwater Pier. And you, Mister Par, you made a very astute point: In Korvosa 'information' is the real power -- ammunition, you named it. It is what makes this city tick. Be careful.

"Breakwater Pier is at the western edge of Endrin Isle at the far point of The Saint Alika Narrows. It's been in ruins since the tidal wave; most of the structure is sundered and in the water, helping close the entrance into the Narrows. Once you start crossing "Flotsam" -- the virulent mudflat that covered the western fourth of Bridgefront under The Alchemists' Quarter, stay on the boardwalks. If you start wading into that foul mud, chances are it will not end well for you."

Commander Jute, Korvosan Guard

.

Atop Garrison Hill is the manmade plateau of Fort Korvosa, mostly empty now, but a few structures remain. Among them is the functional, three-story stone hall, City Garrison. It houses a large contingent of Korvosan Guard, those assigned to The Styes, and Commander Jute.

In a gleaming Mithral breastplate and wielding an enchanted greatsword, the Korvosan Guard officer stands just over six feet tall and is adorned with a variety of other magical items.

He has already spoken at length with Sheila Heidmarch (last night upon y'alls' arrival) and his commanding officer, Korvosan Guard Field Marshal, Cressida Kroft. His executive officer, Captain Cora Crandon, is leading the investigation, but the more he hears the more concerned he is and is very close to personally searching for Jarme Loveage.

His immediate concern is for the protection of the poor people of The Styes, citizens who, despite their inability to make enough income to get out of Bridgefront and into the city, are still mostly hard-working, reasonably honest and mostly innocent citizens. Thus, as much as he is willing to consider that Jarme Loveage is possessed by some magical Relic, if it means killing the poor man rather than him escaping, he will do so. Of course he'd rather capture the murderer alive -- even without the chance that he's possessed (and thus innocent) -- but the safety of Korvosa must be his first priority.

He freely is open about his apathy to The Pathfinder Society -- he's more comfortable with The Darklight Sisterhood (who have also contacted him).

And he has no preference as to who finds Jarme Loveage first, or even who claims ownership of the Relic once its found. Maybe when he was a younger marine in Korvosa's Sable Company he didn't want outsiders helping or influencing investigations such as this -- but now that he's older, more experienced -- and charged with the impossible task of trying to make The Styes a better place -- he has no animosity toward any of the factions hunting Jarme Loveage. The Pathfinder Society, The Darklight Sisterhood, The Aspis Consortium, or even Xenoxanthus at The Truth and Light. If one of them find Jarme Loveage before his Korvosan Guard does, so be it.

As a gesture of openness, Cmdr Jute informs you that two more murders from The Lantern Man should be added to your list: 12 days ago a child in Bridgefront was hacked to death by The Lantern Man. It was not considered a Lantern Man slaying until yesterday when Cmdr Jute paid for some divination magic to discern some truths. Finally, yesterday morning, probably about the time you were being contacted by Sheila Heidmarch, a man named Raif was found on Breakwater Pier.

Cmdr Jute offers to reimburse you for whatever cost is involved in taking the Wights and Cadaver Lord to The Mortuary for cremation, and thanks you for destroying the Undead. He also offers to reimburse you for the cost of staying in Whitecaps (or wherever) as further appreciation for services in protection of The Styes.

For his sharing of information, are you willing to reciprocate by sharing information that you have discovered?

Neither of the two spies seem particularly intimidated by the Paladin of Shelyn. Nonetheless, they are acutely aware that they are well and truly captured and are at the mercy of either you or the Korvosan Guard. One of the two becomes closed lipped and says nothing. The other, having overheard one of you earlier mention 'Aspis,' assures you that they are absolutely not members of the Aspis Consortium. He denies it vehemently.

Bluff that he's not a local member of the Aspis Consortium and has never even heard of them: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18

Having understood the implication of the man vigorously insisting he's not a local member of the Aspis Consortium, you allow Mishanter to escort the bound men up Garrison Hill to Fort Korvosa where Cmdr. Jute of the Korvosan Guard can handle the situation lawfully.

Pythoness House

Mistress Maquent seems drawn to Mishanter, or she's bluffing it, but she interrupts herself to nod to him. "It looks a rat from Rodenthome; you're not from here so you don't know. It's okay to kill it, but if it lures you to its neighborhood in Bridgefront, you probably won't make it out. Free fortune telling, Sir Handsome. You know that free first one."

The Lamplighter

In wider alleyways, veritable thoroughfares through Bridgefront, you witness confident older children with long torch-sticks, lighting lamps in order to keep a modicum of light present in The Styes. ”No monster dares violate any of them; they are paid by ‘The Lamplighter’ a few coins each night, and it is believed that The Lamplighter can scry through the flames at any who harm these children. The Lamplighter is funded by one of the most powerful Nobles in all of Korvosa, the honorable Lord Glorio Arkona – who spends his own money to provide a small measure of comfort here for those who The Magistrate of Expenditures has forgotten and forsaken.

”I suggest that perhaps interviewing The Lamplighter tomorrow when the day begins be an option you consider. It is possible he witnessed something through the flames of the night, and perhaps could provide information.”

Mister Refrum

Mister Refrum is appreciative of Par Joakimson's friendship and easily agrees to mild Divination magic as you allow him to catch his breath for a moment in North Point..

A well-tied and protected pack radiates moderate Conjuration magic, an obvious extradimensional purse of some sort.

Additionally, a monocle hanging from a fine silver chain radiates moderate Divination magic. It appears to be Use Activated. It's not difficult to guess what Divination magic would have been imbued into the lens, though one would need to handle it to do a proper Spellcraft and make sure. Finally, a high quality, silver dagger on his hip does not radiate any magic, and neither are any spells or supernatural effects on his person right now.

.

After initially being a bit nervous of K'tak, Mister Refrum becomes more at ease as he shows off Korvosa to you all. "I don't make Tracking Powder except for special order. But Silas Ledbetter will certainly have some. His shop has everything and is very close to mine. Normally I would warn a customer to be wary of his products as he will water them down or fill them with placebo. But from the looks of you guys, well, Silas Ledbetter wouldn't risk making an enemy of such obviously powerful adventurers. He will charge full price, though, over two dozen coins of gold."

Mister Refrum

Mister Refrum slowly calms a little as you begin talking to Atoka, as well as asking about his own illness. He first answers what to him at least seems the most pressing of your questions.

"Pythoness House is a fortune-telling boutique managed by some Chelaxian ladies. Instead of reading your palm or tealeaves, they read your fortune by, um, doing what one does in a brothel. The most recent murder took place there. Actually just outside where a client was leaving after having his, er, fortune told." Witnesses saw The Lantern Man and it was based on their description that Commander Jute was able to finally discern that The Lantern Man was Jarme Loveage. This was four nights ago."

He clearly appreciates your offer of healing, but dismisses it. "Oh, everyone in The Styes contracts Red Face. I am actually an Alchemical healer myself, selling potions such as Lesser Restoration (among others) to the sad people there. And I try to teach those interested in healing Alchemy.

"I don't have a map of The Styes but there are two print shops in The Styes where you could purchase one. I recommend that only one or two go shopping, and to attempt a more subtle look, as it is now, prices will raise higher than Celestia when people see you all." He points to beyond the sky as to how much more you will pay once they know you're rich.

"But I can be your guide; I live in The Styes and am very devoted to finding Jarme Loveage quickly.

"Finally, if you need, I can provide Alchemical healing at cost -- I will not take any profit if you need some of my magical curatives. It is not much of a reward, but it is what I can offer; whatever it cost me to make, that is all I will charge." ....You get the sense from his tone that Mister Refrum is both proud of his ability at making healing potions (and other Alchemical products) and that he likely too often offers his potions and oils and salves at a discounted price out of the kindness of his heart.

ATOKA

Atoka replies to Lady Valeria's courtesy compliment, "Thank you, is it 'Dame Valeria'; I am less interested in the beautification of this place than I am in restoring a following of Lissala. Almost all of the goddess' devotees in our time have turned to wickedness; I have made it my mission to restore her worship to her original, more benevolent dogma, and a pursuit of lore. Perhaps some more appealing artworks would interest more passersby," he looks around at the spartan central chamber and outside to the empty facade, "or, really anything."

He notices your Holy Symbol, "you are a Paladin of Shelyn, Dame; there is a Sanctuary of Shelyn here in East Shore, in case you didn't know."

.

Atoka turns to the Dwarf wizard, admiring Muziel Moreau's top hat and demeanor, I understood Jarme Loveage to be about aged thirty, his sister just near to thirty." Atoka whispers more conspiratorially, "Sometimes older teachers misunderstand their adult-student's appreciation for learning, misinterpret it. My impression is that Refrum just developed a little innocent crush and she saw him as just more of a father figure but liked the attention."

.

The Paladin answers Artemisia, "I advise going with Mister Refrum to The Styes; he can better help than I can with your questions -- though I suspect he's quite tired now with anxiety. If you need anything of me, though, I will be here. My status in Korvosa is such that I'm more likely to be able to help with any more powerful or wealthy figures that you may need to contact, whereas he can help you with the people of The Styes. I wish I could accompany you as well; had I not a political emergency here, I would continue helping to find Jarme Loveage."

ATOKA

Atoka immediately begins to answer K'tah.

"I never met Jarme Loveage or his little sister but Mister Refrum described him as big and muscular, as befitting a fisherman -- though I doubt he's as big as any of you three," nodding to the remarkable size of K'tah, Par and Mishanter, all near to seven feet. "Notably, he has a bit of reddish tint to an otherwise dark-blonde hair, obviously descended at least in part from Kellid or Ulfen Blood. That would be his remarkable feature in The Styes.

"Mister Refrum and I share a dear friend who, coincidentally, is the son of the Magistrate of Piscary and Fishmongers. When Refrum came to me with his, er, 'girlfriend's' concern, I spoke to the Magistrate and learned that Jarme had recently been bragging about an outstanding statuette he had dragged up from his fishnet. He had shown it to The Magistrate of Piscary to try to sell, but after Magistrate Nayseeker got back to Jarme with an offer from a buyer, Jarme refused to sell, refused to even show it to the Magistrate again.

"Mister Refrum will be a better guide for you to The Styes than I; he lives there now, on Garrison Hill in The Alchemists' Quarter. I do know that the last place Jarme was seen was the other side of Garrison Hill, at Pythoness House."

Mister Refrum

After a mere six seconds of looking superficially at Refrum's disturbing appearance, K'tak'ktah'hal doesn't *think it's either life-threatening, or contagious. But the Dineh is also acutely aware that a mere superficial glance from one of his skill isn't able to adequately diagnose such a disease.

Mister Refrum

By this time a middle-aged man has also entered the Temple foyer to meet you all as well. Frail and suffering from a mild shaking disorder, the man squints at you all in an effort to be polite. From each of the orifices of his head: eyes, mouth, nose, and ears, a swollen red rash inflames his otherwise pale skin. His hair is mousy and disheveled and thinning.

He is soft spoken, and nervous around such obviously powerful adventurers. His voice is scratched, damaged, and weak. But he speaks hurriedly, urgently, as if every six seconds were critical. ”Thank you, thank you. My girlfriend. She was an alchemy student of mine, my girlfriend. She was afraid for her brother Jarme, you understand. He wasn’t acting normally. Amnesia. Or something. He stopped going into Conqueror’s Bay for fish. It didn’t occur to her that The Lantern Man murders started around the same time. Now she’s dead. He did it. But it’s not his fault. Atoka says. And Commander Jute knows it’s Jarme now. Cmdr. Jute is a great man, a good man, but if he finds Jarme it’ll be too late. They’ll execute him. And whatever this thing is will be taken by the Temple of Asmodeus. Or worse. I just—“

Sheila Heidmarch interrupts him. Tells him to slow down so he and Atoka can answer questions. Mister Refrum is visibly upset.

It will be dusk in 45 minutes, nightfall an hour after.

ATOKA

Determinedly following Sheila Heidmarch's pace, you see that East Shore district is obviously mostly residential, mostly apartments. Apparently though, as the population of East Shore got too large for the confining walls, tenants decided to erect small shanties and lean-tos on the roofs. It seems that all the apartments and homes here have at least one or two patched-together rooms on their roofs. Two non-residential structures stand out as you approach them, adjacent to each other, and certainly among the largest structures on this side of The Jeggare River.

It is to one of these that you go. The other is Theumanexus College, or so a billboard sign proclaims of it. The building you enter is a Temple, in this case, a Temple to Lissala. A light-blue/green-robed high priest immediately welcomes you in and embraces Sheila Heidmarch and Canayven in warm welcome and renewed friendship. Under his robes are obviously powerfully enchanted arms and armor, as an amulet, headband and rings of eldritch energy adorn him like ornaments on a ‘Winter-Solstice Celebration-Tree.’

To the rest of you he introduces himself. ”I am Atoka, a former Pathfinder, and a Paladin of the Thassilonian goddess of Runes and Lore, Lissala. I’m the one who learned of a Cursed Item that has possessed one of the fisherman of The Styes. I briefly tried to find him but quickly realized I couldn’t do it by myself and needed help. (Plus, some politicking from one of the Magistrates has endangered the legality of my Temple here, requiring my immediate attention.) I knew I had to contact Sheila Heidmarch and ask for help.”

Vicension Tatai, an officer of the Korvosa Guard on Gate Duty, bravely makes eye contact with Mishanter, despite being more than a head shorter than the massive, lanky Tiefling. A quizzical look briefly passes over his face at Mishanter's question but he holds his reaction. "Oi, The Academae is on Citadel Crest."

The look on his face is not one of suspicion or curiosity; he merely looks as though he's mildly surprised ones such as yourselves, especially with an appointment at The Academae, wouldn't know where it is.

Nonetheless, he points to the northern summit of Korvosa where a inner-city wall encircles a massive stone structure.

Magnius Arvanxi
Investigator / Inquisitor of the Godclaw

.

"Oh, my apologies Lady Yaos, I neglected to mention I also found the little mundane key that unlocks those Witch's Bridles when I was cataloging the contents of Winnow's Portable Hole. Here is the key.

"As to the intelligence, yes. I will go to my uncle the Lord Mayor to see what he may have to say about House Oberigo, agents of The Midnight Lord, and their alliance (or the breaking of such alliance) through the selling of slaves.

"So, shall Milady, The Red Widow talk to her contact, Kylian Phandros about Winnow, while Azlain talks with House Phandros' GrandCount regarding the Bellflower Network assassins, while The Bogeyman attempts intelligence gathering on Countess Tanith, all while I speak to the Arvanxi Lord Mayor my uncle? ....We can meet back at our temporary lodging in a few days when we've had time enough for that and spending the bit of wealth we have summed up?

"Who will take the child now?"

Magnius Arvanxi
Investigator / Inquisitor of the Godclaw

.

"I can ask the Lord Mayor, my uncle, about House Oberigo and if he knows of any legal entanglements with Lord Tiam, why he might have sold his sixth child to the Umbral Court."

But there is a hesitation in his voice, something that makes the minor noble not necessarily want to take such an action. ....Seeing your curious glances he answers, "Aberian Arvanxi would prefer it if I weren't so, 'independent' -- if I were instead promoting House Arvanxi's influence. Part of me wonders if he'll exert his influence over me and command I leave this foray into the politics of such a little House as Spartaco and its rural little Gheradescci County. ....But I do think we could get some answers, if you think it's worth the risk."

Baby Girl of House Oberigo

.

The two little children stand quietly watching the exchange. They are exhausted. The boy, more pragmatic, sits. The girl had noticed The Bogeyman exit the empty house but she does not see him now. Perhaps he is invisible like the Lady who is talking to that Wizard, the one who tricked the smiley-monster into the black disk. It was not from Hell, like Our Father, Asmodeus and the Oberigo patron Mephistopheles. She thinks.

Neither know what to do next. What will happen. The boy, with more a sense of street-wise vulnerability, averts his eyes. Tries to be invisible like the Halfling Alchemist he knew. But not the Oberigo girl. She remains precocious. She looks at the Wizard and his Imp slave. She tries to find the invisible Lady that talked to her and the Wizard. She tries to see the scary man who came out of the empty house, and the man with the same color eyes as Lady Dressarosa Arvanxi has.

But she is not clever enough to say something. No words of question come to her tiny mind. She stands there, naked, looking but not moaning or whimpering. A diminutive line of blood trickles from her mouth from the spike on the witch's bridle.

A moment later, the adrenaline of the night's events calming down, her fatigue begins to slow to exhaustion. Her eyes become heavy. The Wizard and the invisible Lady and the scary man and the man that has the same eyes as Lady Dressarosa Arvanxi are talking. And the little girl wants nothing more now than to sleep.

Magnius Arvanxi
Investigator / Inquisitor of the Godclaw

.

Swiftly enacting his Judgement from The Godclaw of Hell to inflict even more profane damage, Magnius lashes out with the 'Star of Asmodeus'.
Flanking w/ Corrosive Morningstar: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14

Damage w/ Judgement: 1d8 + 4 + 1d6 ⇒ (3) + 4 + (4) = 11

Surrounded by Magnius Arvanxi and a host of Conjured enemies, and still Shaken by the The Bogeyman's visage, Winnow desperately attempts his escape from the Material Plane wherein he shall surely die at the hands of these thrice-damned Chelaxians.

Mustering his courage against the torture and terror one' final' time' Winnow draws from deep within himself any Heroism left and Concentrates through the coming assault, attempting to Plane Shift to The Shadow Plane.

Concentration Check w/ Hero Point: 1d20 + 31 ⇒ (17) + 31 = 48

And Hell's fury is unleashed upon this Summoner/Priest slave of The Midnight Lord.

.

Winnow's adjustments for Concentration are Shaken (-2) and a Hero Point (+8). .... His DC to cast Plane Shift is 15 plus the Damage you all do with your AoOs, plus half the damage from Rd 5 of The Bogeyman's Twisting Fear ongoing damage. ....Frankly, his Concentration check may be moot as the damage may be sufficient to kill him whether he successfully Concentrates or not.

Magnius Arvanxi
Investigator / Inquisitor of the Godclaw

.

Noticing Mendacius struggling to not look into the Nightglass as she flies back, Magnius is alert to try to help the little Imp should she need it.

Yaos knows that while an Ormyr is often a Voice on behalf of The Midnight Lord in negotiation, ultimatum, or dogma, and serves the dark god of torture and shadow typically in non-combative venues -- you all interrupted a deeply sacred ritual to Zon Kuthon, one whereupon the Ormyr was to test and probe two initiates as new slaves, to measure their worthiness to become future agents like Winnow.

Yaos knows that it is extraordinarily difficult, if nigh impossible, to placate such an extraplanar creature now -- but may theoretically be done with an extraordinarily dark offering.

Baby Girl of House Oberigo

.

A safe distance from the angry Ormyr inside the crumbling house, and held fast by her 'witch's bridle,' the little girl -- barely of age for formal schooling -- appears in equal measure fearful and defiant and uncertain at the disembodied voice of Yaos The Red Widow. And while the steel spike in her tiny mouth (still bruising the bloody palate around a loose baby-tooth) prevents her speech, she erects her face rigidly in response. She is a precocious girl for certain. Not crying. Not whimpering. But still frightened. Still proud but uncertain.

There is a clear note of both recognition and panic at the name "Oberigo" -- and her blue eyes and white complexion are a certainty of that House's bloodline -- as is her noble posture even in witness of such horror and in reaction to such violence. She is only six.

Winnow's HD is 11 and his WIS modifier is +7.

I double-checked just in case but no, Winnow does not take any damage while he's fused with his Synthesized Eidolon. He can not be targeted by anything separately from the Eidolon.

....However, Winnow will still be able to take his Actions in the upcoming Rounds as the Ormyr punishes him. Winnow will try to do something to get out of taking additional damage from The Bogeyman's Twisting Fear. He'll have to roll Knowledge: Local to see whether he knows what's damaging him, and then I'll have to see if there's anything he can actually do. (He still has one Swift Action Blessing left for the day; maybe Winnow can figure something out.)