Ozymandias smiles as Fata morphs "Ah, you must be one of Sivanah's faithful then. I met a wizard of your kind. Vaarsuvius her name was. Not much was known about her other than the fact that she thought herself the sister of Asmodeus and best friend of Sivanah, not to mention a Goddess in her own right. She ran with the society for some time before I retired her character for being far too brokenly powerful she went on a power trip and disappeared not long after."
Ozymandias turns to Henderthane and gives a bow. "It is a pleasure to be in good company once again. How fairs good Glorymane in your company? Well, I am certainly sure. The old sport was an excellent conversationalist when we first met, but I think since his time in his new form he has been rather... silent, no?"
As the servant arrives with a tray of the Chelish red, Ozymandias gratefully accepts his goblet and holds it up for his servant to view. "Slip, I need this examined." The servant casts a spell and stares intently at the goblet. After making a brief remark about it being clean, Ozymandias smiles and takes a sip. "Forgive me Henderthane, he was merely attempting to detect any poison within the drink. While I most certainly trust yourself, knowing that anyone else may have tampered with the wine is enough to make me worry. I have had uh... complications back on my private island. First there was contact poison spotted on the beds within my two ships and then as it turns out the entire supply of rice within my storage rooms had traces of wyvern venom. As it seems, I have stepped on the Aspis Consortium's toes once too many times for their liking."
He sits in an appropriately sized chair and shakes his head wearily. "That is part of the reason I can afford to put on public displays of power. The Lion Blades had a breach and now my name is exposed along with countless other agents. Though we can still operate under normal circumstances, I know a few allies who have already been picked off. The more public I am, the less attention is drawn to the other burned agents... and I can handle myself far better than they could."
A well dressed* halfling nobleman walks up to the conversation in process, followed by another halfling who seemed to be wearing a butler's outfit. "Why would you want to show up for a dual? Because you have mastered the art of being untouchable perhaps? Through a mastery of martial training and clarity of the mind?"
The noble halfling pulls out a Chelaxian cigar and sticks one end in his mouth. "Slip, I need a light." With that the servant begins to cast a spell to which the cigar lights up. "Of course, this whole conversation is important. Why, some time ago, I suggested a... Constitution of sorts for our organization. It was folly of course, but I didn't know that at the time. The Court is far too fluid an organization for such strict rules amongst its members. Besides, certain people, like myself, must get their hands far too dirty with certain essential missions to be worried about petty morality and ethics. The shadows we must stick to, until the time is right..."
The halfling exhales, letting a cloud of smoke pour from his mouth. "I've always had a weakness for Chellish goods. Slip, take this." With that, the noble shoves the cigar into his servant's hand. "But of course, where are my manners? I am Marquis Ozymandias... pleasure."
DC 15 Perception:
The emblem of the Lion Blades is embroidered into the halfling's silk jacket.
All this talk about improvised weapons has me thinking. Is it possible for one to acquire the right traits/feats to use folding chairs, folding tables, ladders, et cetera as well as grapple and do things like suplex someone through said table/ladder/chair? I'm not looking to do an incredible amount of damage here, but I think it'd be fun to have as an aside like an encounter with an NPC or the like.
How would one assess the proper roll for attacking with a ladder/chair/barbed-wire wrapped 2x4/trash can? Or putting someone through a table? Would all of this have to be home brewed or are there charts I can't find?
You DO understand that depite appearances, WWF wrestlers aren't really trying to kill or maim each other?
What they are essentially, is battling bards using Performance Combat.
Ozymandias looks up from his notes and coughs. "Which doesn't address the problem that the overwhelming majority of slave owners are not exorbitantly wealthy, and in fact, rely on slave labor for their well beings. You take away slavery in one fell swoop, and you are not taking away power from the upper classes (of which we are all a member of), but the middle and lower middle, forcing them into poverty, without really proposing anything that would make life better for former slaves. Need I remind you of indentured servitude, which is in fact, completely legal everywhere, unlike slavery."
Whew. I return from the weekened to quite a few interesting responses. :3 This is great!
Ozymandias looks to Lady Violetta and Dorain nodding every so often at their speeches. "You two do bring up an interesting point, in more ways than one. Perhaps, in my haste, I forgot the ruling bodies above us have not seen this document, will not see this document -for the time being- and cannot know about this organization until the time is right. We also lost focus quite a bit from the original purpose of why this organization was founded by Lady Morilla, and indeed, why I gathered you here. And for that.." Ozymandias promptly tears up the proposed "Bill of Rights". "I apologize to you all.
"However, I do believe there is merit in this Register of Duties of ours. What I have left unscathed could be considered a... legal contract, and to my knowledge, contracts are respected by law in all nations across the Inner Sea Region. This 'contract' should list the duties of those who agree to it, and yet also be sure that those duties stay within the laws of each land. We should not overstep our bounds by granting 'rights' to ourselves, some of which, I must agree were arbitrary in nature. Therefore I move to strike any speak of a sall called Bill of Rights, and focus on what is important... our goals. Let us continue with the Register of Duties that we all have set out. Lady Violetta, perhaps you have something to add to this perfectly legal, border permeable, proposed contract?"
Current Register of Duties:
Article I: The Register of Duties
In the undertaking of the burdens of leadership, the Sovereign Court recognizes that the members of the aristocracy have certain duties which must be performed in order to maintain legitimate leadership. Each member shall hereby swear that she shall attempt to perform these duties to the best of her ability.
1. We shall attempt to preserve peace for as long as it remains viably possible, especially in instances in which conflict is unnecessary or easily avoided. Violence breeds unrest, and unrest breeds instability and chaos, which is counterproductive to the ultimate goal of the Court.
2. We shall not tolerate lawlessness or crime within our purview. To do so would be to invite anarchy and rebellion into our domains of influence. That being said, we will remain fair and unbiased in all matters of the courts as to retain justice and order in our holds.
3. Just as our servants are bound to the laws and regulations we place upon them, we too are bound to the laws and regulations placed upon us by those of higher social standing. As members of the ruling class we must always remember the hierarchy that binds us to our positions.
4. We shall not seize or imprison, or strip of her rights or possessions, or outlaw or exile, or deprive of her standing in any other way, nor will we proceed with force against her, or send others to do so, any woman, except by the lawful judgment of her equals, betters, or by the law of the land. In that respect, to no one shall we deny or delay right or justice.
5. We shall not deny our servants the basic rights guaranteed to all living creatures, be they servile or free. To do so would be an encroachment of our power. This is to say; we will not deny them of life (without just cause or legal precedent) or religion (as long as this does not hinder their ability to work). We shall also provide the basic necessities for our servants as to ensure their survival: access to food, water, and shelter.
6. We shall attempt to always impress any influential member of society, whether their position of power comes from appointment, birth, election, or earned. By impressing those that we come across, our own influence shall grow.
7. When possible and when our goals align, we shall cooperate with those who the other factions which are scattered across Golarion. To do so is no shame; rather, it encompasses control and strategic planning on our part.
He then turns to Solail and casts message once again.
To Solail:
"Ma- I mean Solail. I am not a perfect person, nor do I think I ever will be... but I could try to do what is right and within my power. Everything I am attempting here is done because I believe it to be the best course of action for everyone. Sometimes, however, as you could see, I need to be reminded of that fact."
Ozymandias is at a loss of words right now, but is too polite to whip out a scroll of comprehend languages... And I am not even going to attempt that Sense Motive DC
Still waiting a response from the other members concerning his newest bit of writing, Ozymandias shifts uncomfortably as a conversation is stricken in a language other than one he speaks. "Master Solail?" he finally gets out, trying his best (yet failing to) hide a look of awe. "You... Do indeed have quite a reputation sir- I mean Master. Or is it Grandmaster now?"
Looking slightly flushed at a man whom he based much of his early training after, Oz finally manages to stutter out, "So what brings a man your your prestige and demigod levels of ability here?"
I used a different scriptlike font that is far more readable. I'll post a new version for you all to look at tomorrow perhaps
Ozymandias scratches out certain things from his parchment and looks deep in thought. "Hm... Perhaps something like this?"
Proposed Bill of Rights WIP:
And indeed with these noble duties comes a certain list of freedoms that are given to those of the ruling class. A certain luxury of lifestyle is after all, expected in reward for competency in one's duties. This Bill of Rights states out the powers and liberties granted to the persons within the Court, and no woman who claims such a position shall be stripped of these liberties for as long as she lives.
1. The nobility, are gifted by the divine and affirmed by the gods with certain unalienable rights, most notably yet not limited to: property, servants, good wine, and fine horses. These rights are granted in return for the protection of the populace under her command.
2. As the Sovereign Court does not endorse nor condemn any religion, it is up to each individual member to responsibly worship any divine beings that she would like.
3. All matters of interstate trade amongst members of the Sovereign Court or even outside organizations shall be left to the purview of the parties involved within the dealings.
4. The right to yield in combat must be adhered to strictly, unless an accident happens, especially so in regards to nobles on either side of the conflict.
5. The right to a trial by combat is given only to those landed nobles accused of a crime. The realm shall choose a champion, the noble may choose a champion if the field is muddy.
6. A noble has the right to a trial by a jury of her peers or betters, as matters of crime and punishment should be left to those who understand the intricacies of such important affairs.
7. The Sovereign Court hereby deems all powers not covered by this document to be held in trust to the local nobles, who may by their affirmation grant limited powers upon others. That trust is of course temporary and the powers shall be returned when the noble returns to her position.
8. If any additional powers need be granted to the Sovereign Court as an organization, the specifics shall be discussed and decided by a simple majority vote.
Once done writing, he reaches into a small pouch and pulls out a small copper wire, crushing it in his hand before pointing at the Trade Princess.
Message Spell for Katarina, Perception DC 25 to listen in:
"You see, I do sympathize with the former Sczarni faction members... though perhaps with the aid of the more liberal minded members of the Court, such as myself, we may be able to turn a blind eye to piracy committed against... the less favorable elements of society. In fact, some of us might be willing to pay for such a service, calling it 'privateering' instead of piracy. Then, not only would the privateers have full legal status, and be able to keep whatever loot they obtain from said enterprise, but they could also get paid for the work. It may not appease all, but in my humble opinion, it is a good way for keeping things cordial."
Ozymandias feigns mock annoyance with the intrusion of the secret meeting, but it is easy to see through his ruse. "I suppose that's for the best... It's not like we were going to keep this organization a secret from our allies in the Pathfinder Society anyways. We interact with them on far too consistent basis to keep anything hidden from them for too long."
He turns to his servant once more. "Would you kindly get the Varisian tea that I bought yesterday? Thank you, you're such a dear." As his servant steps out the room, he turns to The Trade Princess. "Too much time is spent focusing on the past in my own opinion. As you suggested, things that happened many years ago should be of no concern, which is why so many of us in this Court are able to now get together peacefully. We recognize that we are the future and should reflect that, instead of lingering on days gone by."
He then turns back to Lady d'Apcher. "If only it were that simple, someone far more intelligent than I would have done so long ago. Unfortunately there are always enemies slinking in the shadows, looking to sabotage such ideals."
He then goes back to writing:
More Proposed Duties:
8. In case of an attack by an outside force, be they mortal, outsiders, or undead, each member of the Court has an obligation to protect those under her charge, if not by leading a force herself to fend off the attack and punish the perpetrators, at least by organizing a movement and leaving the task to a trusted advisory, warrior, or volunteer. Attacks on innocents will not be tolerated, and thus those heathens that would dare commit such a crime must be punished appropriately.
9. Should she be absent from her duties as a ruler, for whatever reason, a member of the Court will leave an appropriate temporary replacement in her stead, as to ensure order remains in her sphere of influence.
It's looking good. You might want to consider a slightly easier to read font mind, cause there are parts of that I cannot make out in that font. Maybe leave a little more room at the bottom too, especially if you're wanting to put signatures in.
Oh don't worry about there not being room, this is only page one of about... When we all agree on the final text, I am not going to use one imgur page; rather, I'll probably set up MULTIPLE imgur pages, and send the word document to anyone who wants it... unless there's an easier way to do this that I'm not thinking of. I'll see about the font though.
Ozymandias dips his quill in the ink once more before looking up at the rest of you. "Come on now, let's get more voices into this. I could write the entire document myself, but then that would harldy be a group effort, eh? if you have ideas for the Register of Duties, speak up! Or if you wish to speak of the Bill of Rights for us nobles, then I will make notes on the side to add once we have finished this section."
Ozymandias scribbles down Henderthane's suggestion at first opportunity. "Yes, I am putting down your suggestion down with he others. Forgive me for not doing so sooner, I was just too disturbed by that awful man's presence. I do love how he was presumptuous enough to believe we were all Taldan, even though we have already proven to have members from Cheliax, Taldor, Andoran, Nirmathis, and a host the other nations I am sure we represent."
He then turns his attention to Greymore's suggestion thinking carefully about how to phrase it before writing this down:
7. When possible and when our goals align, we shall cooperate with those who the other factions which are scattered across Golarion. To do so is no shame, rather, it encompasses control and strategic planning on our part.
He looks back up to Greymore. "Is this how you would like it phrased, or were you thinking something a bit different?"
@Ardisen Greymore: "Indeed, we should spend time recruiting other nobles to our cause... but not actively, rather, indirectly. I recently impressed Lady Darchana, whom you know is the Archdean of the Arcanamirium. In this line of action, I found that best way to gain support is to impress with feats of skill and loyalty of our own. Therefore, I encourage all of us to complete our faction missions do our best to show our strength in every scenario we play in at every opportunity."
@Lord Deacon: "Again, I absolutely agree with this proposition. However, let us not forget to give respect to LAdy Morilla who is indeed the founder of this organization."
@Lady Gabrielle d'Apcher: "You are correct. Political discussion is indeed advisable and necessary when it comes to moving this organization forward, and we must be careful not to fall into the trap of asserting so much influence here that it overwhelms the rest of us, while still being able to have a civil discussion and express our opinions."
Ozymandias nods in accordance with Lady d'Apcher's statement. "I am inclined to agree with the esteemed d'Apcher. Actions do indeed speak louder than mere words... however I believe that words should pave the way towards actions, hence the necessity of this document. Do we have any more suggestions?"
Oz raises an eyebrow. "Asmodeus himself has allowed us to remain on this material plane with a certain degree of autonomy. After The Prince of Darkness murdered his brother Ihys for introducing the concept of freedom to mortals (remember that Ihys was the creator of the first mortals), Asmodeus allowed his fallen brother's vision to stand and created Hell as a reminder of the perfect vision of order. Asmodeus did not have to do so and instead could have enveloped our world in his iron fisted rule, but choose not to. Between the fact that his brother, the creator of mortal beings, decided to grant us free will and Asmodeus allowing the vision to stand, would you not say that we have an inherent right to certain things on this plane of existence? Certainly not in Hell, but here, on the Material Plane."
If thisin character debate on the nature of rights (which is hopefully resolved soon) goes on, I encourage everyone to continue proposing duties, or suggesting changes to those already proposed. I am actually totally serious about having. Complete constitution for the Sovereign Court by the time this thread comes to an end. Hell, I'll even write iit out on old parchment and sign each one of our characters' names. Failing that, there's always computer programs which could do the same...
Ozymandias lays down his papers, writing a brief note that only his servant could see. If this man proves to be nothing more than a spy, you are to wipe is memory of this meeting."You see, the problem that you are noting is of particular interest. Though we nobles do indeed have the right to pass laws that fit our needs, we are also in the unusual position of being bound to the ultimate law of the land: Chelaxians must obey the laws set foward by Queen Abrogail, Taldans must obey those made by Grand Prince Stavian, and so on. The fact of the matter is that as we come from a variety of different countries, the treatment of our servants and retainers will naturally be different due to the differences in customs.
"We here in the Sovereign Court are mid to low level nobles in the grand scheme of things and as such, we cannot pass laws that are contrary to the laws of the land; to do so would be an act of rebellion and invite chaos... which is exactly why this document must be specific enough to be understood, yet broad enough to allow for differences."
"I would also like to concur with what Henderthane's point. The chain does indeed bind both ways. You see, we are like the brain or the heart of society while our servants are the hand or the foot. Both need to be taken care of, else we cannot perform to our highest standards. If the mind is week, poor decisions will follow, but if the physical body is weak, then the entire operation is useless. That is why we treat our servants with a degree of fairness. To avoid the body from weakening."
Ozymandias looks around, confused. "Who in the seven hells let... I thought this was a secret meeting, and now we have people just walking in? Whoever is in charge of security ought to be hung.
"Now does someone of actual import have anything to add?"
Ozymandias scribbles down notes furiously on a piece of parchment. "Yes, yes, okay, I think we may be getting somewhere. Tell me, what do you all think of this? Please feel free to point out anything that needs changing or could be omitted."
Proposed Register of Duties WIP:
In the undertaking of the burdens of leadership, the Sovereign Court recognizes that the members of the aristocracy have certain duties which must be performed in order to maintain legitimate leadership. Each member shall hereby swear that she shall attempt to perform these duties to the best of her ability.
1. We shall attempt to preserve peace for as long as it remains viably possible, especially in instances in which conflict is unnecessary or easily avoided. Violence breeds unrest, and unrest breeds instability and chaos, which is counterproductive to the ultimate goal of the Court.
2. We shall not tolerate lawlessness or crime within our purview. To do so would be to invite anarchy and rebellion into our domains of influence. That being said, we will remains fair and unbiased in all matters of the courts as to retain justice and order in our holds.
3. Just as our servants are bound to the laws and regulations we place upon them, we too are bound to the laws and regulations placed upon us by those of higher social standing. As members of the ruling class we must always remember the hierarchy that binds us to our positions.
4. We shall not seize or imprison, or strip of her rights or possessions, or outlaw or exile, or deprive of her standing in any other way, nor will we proceed with force against her, or send others to do so, any woman, except by the lawful judgement of her equals, betters, or by the law of the land. In that respect, to no one shall we deny or delay right or justice.
5. We shall NOT deny our servants the basic rights guaranteed to all living creatures, be they servile or free. To do so would be an encroachment of our power. This is to say, we will not deny them of life (without just cause or legal precedent) or religion (as long as this does not hinder their ability to work). We shall also provide the basic necessities for our servants as to ensure their survival: access to food, water, and shelter.
Oz frowns. "Surely more could be added. Suggestions for new duties or changes for the ones listed are welcome."
Ozymandias nods once more in approval, noticing the shield Glorymane and giving it a salute before picking up his cigar and taking one more puff. "It's good to see that he was able to find a companion with a noble and not some mere common rabble.
"I do agree that we should not put ourselves past the law, and so believe that our constitution should reflect that, allowing the intent of the wording to be clear, yet allowing for alternative interpretations to allow for differences in our respective ideologies, cultures, and religions. For example, instead of "indentured slavery" we can state "indentured servitude". That way, those morally opposed to the institution may have their own interpretation of the wording, while those of us who are indeed slave owners would feel no obligation to free theirs or even pay them wages." He gives a slight bow towards Henderthane "I noticed you are a member of the Order of the Chain. Know, that though I am a halfling -one of the most commonly enslaved races- I am in no way an abolitionist. No, no, that would simply be terrible for the world economy and cause a whole slew of related problems... which is why I think each member should be able to choose between slaves and hired servants.
"As for the matter of being secretive, that was not my decision, but that of Lady Morilla, this organization's founder. Perhaps once we gain the support of more members, we can safely enter the public eye."
Finally finishing his cigar, he hands the remains to one of his servants. "Be a dear and throw that away, won't you? Alright, back to the state of affairs. If we believe that the Preamble is sufficient for now, we should get onto the Bill of Rights amongst us nobleman, unless we wish to focus on our Register of Duties first?"
I'm thinking that we should model some of this after the Magna Carta. What say the rest of you?
Ozymandias takes the draft under consideration, nodding appreciatively at the Baron.
"Yes, this could serve as an outline, but could definitely use additions and changes, though of course, you did mention it is a rough draft. We should not forget that this Sovereign Court was created when Lady Morilla splintered off from Taldor, as the overwhelming majority of the aristocracy there we content to sit and do nothing in world events, rather than lead comfortable and cushy lives. We do not want to fall into the same miserable state, and our constitution should reflect that; perhaps not only a bill of rights for ourselves, but a list of duties we must undertake as members of the privileged class?"
I will continue the tradition Paizo has set forth in their rulebooks, and solely use feminine pronouns from hereon.
Proposed Preamble:
In recognition of those of the privileged class; be she an Empress, Queen, Princess, Duchess, Marchioness, Countess, Viscountess, Baroness, or a Lady of any similar rank or title, we have gathered here today to form a coalition of these members of the aristocracy hereby known as the Sovereign Court. We of this privileged class have recognized our duties as the protectors of those who claim servitude to us, as they have recognized the benefits of our rule. We shall not lay down the heavy burden of leadership so long as our goal remains to form a better and more civilized Golarion.
Ozymandias reads aloud the proposed revised Preamble, and once finished looks up. "What say you all to this? Once we have completed an introduction that is to our liking, we can work on revising the Bill of Rights that Baron Francisco de La Scaramanga has set out, as well as setting out a... Register of Duties that we are all accountable for undertaking. Perhaps once that section is complete, we may set about a section dedicated to laying out our responsibilities in interacting with one another?"
EDIT in response to Randulf:
"While I agree we should not leave a paper trail Oz is a Lion Blade after all I believe that a single document should be left in the care of Lady Morilla. That way, once our organization gains momentum and is discovered -as all secret societies in the history of Golarion inevitably were- we have a structure that binds us even then!"
Ozymandias shakes his head. "Believe me, I am sympathetic to the plights of slaves, as I have a personal stake in the matter as well. Those who call for immediate action without thought for how delicate the system is, will destroythe economy altogether witht heir shortsidedness!
"Let us take your talk of the Pathfinder Society. You are under the assumption that there are many former slaves who have the abilities required to undergo the training and dedication to become explorers or adventurers. Surely you cannot be blind to the fact that we current Pathfinders have abilities that the average person does not! I doubt even 90% of them could survive even the confirmation, let alone the adventures we see on a day by day basis. Yes, there is wealth in the business, but it is reserved for the few who could survive it, such as ourselves.
"And you are again generalizing with your talk that slave owners aren't interested in the conditions of slaves. You are forgetting that while the vast majority of slaves are owned by a relatively small number of owners, while the vast majority of owners, would be ravaged by the abolition of the institution. Again, I have freed slaves through various means, more questionable that others, but I have always targetted the cruel and the wealthy, not the poor who need slave labor to feed themselves!"
"Ah, but therein lies the problem. Adding a mass of new workers into the economy all at once would empower some of those former slaves... But cause mass competition for jobs in the lower classes. Those who currently hold the lowest positions in society would then have to fear that their jobs would be taken by a former slave, who let us be quite honest, is willing to work for far less than someone who had been working that position for years. Labor is a practically unlimited resource, while current positions are not.
"As for the current slave owners, while I have no sympathy for those in the wealthier classes -indeed I may or may not target their slaves for liberation frequently- we must think about the poorest slave owners, or those with one or maybe two slaves, and whose livelihoods come from those slaves. Not the rich and pmpus slave owners, but the people who work side by side with their slaves performing the very same jobs. While the source of their labor is indeed immoral, they are so adjusted to the system, that it would be unfair to one day tell them, they either have to pay their former slave wages -wages, mind you, that they cannot afford to pay- or simply be with less manpower."
The halfling looks around. "The majority of you here are adventurers now. Some may even be former slaves. I would be willing to bet that none of you ever saw the effects of what happens to a slave who is given their freedom through legal means. They tend to not travel, instead, working in the same town or city as they formerly did while enslaved. In fact in the case of slaves that had once been owned by the wealthiest families, they tend to seek employment from those families... As indentured servants.
"Indentured servitude is oh too common a method of employment used to catch former slaves in a new, legal system of servitude. The conditions are actually quite similar to slavery, if not more devious. The indentured servants sign contracts that guarantee wages... But he who signs the contract is legally giving away a whole host of other liberties. They must live on their contractor's land, buy their food from the contractor, buy their tools from their owner... I mean contractor, and rely on their contractor for a whole slew of other this, because they signed a contract they couldn't fully understand, due to a lack of education! It is true that they speak common, but the lack of knowledge of how to read is a serious problem that we cannot avoid.
"That is why I call to phase out slavery. Make it mandatory to educate slaves, make conditions better, outlaw the slave trade itself, but not the institution... Yet. In time this vile thing we call slavery will be gone, but not all at once. The moral arguments for abolition today are strong, but the fact of the matter is, it would do far more harm then good. Is being an indentured servant, a person who unknowingly signed their rights off, be so much better off than an individual in slavery? Is mass unemployment for both poor slave owners, slaves, and those in the lower dregs of our society truly beneficial? I think not."
Gah. I have examples of this happening throughout our history but can't prove it in character because well... It hasn't happened yet XD
Speaking of the gameday... can any one of you be convinced to join a tier 6-7 (season 3) game of Storming the Diamond Gate? Please? ^_^ One of my players went missing, and the group kind of wants to be on the safe side...
It's a part of the Game Day too, so that's a plus! Characters from 4-6 can play (thought I'd suggest a level 5 or level 6 to be honest).
A halfling dressed in the finest Taldan silks crosses his legs, looking about the round table. He brings a cigar to his mouth and snaps his fingers, magically lighting it before inhaling.
"My my, the Chels certainly know how to roll a good bit of tobacco. I am Ozymandias, a Marquis of Taldan descent, but that is of no matter. Onto business! The Sovereign Court is made up of what many would call the 'lesser nobility'. Many, if not all of us have titles, land, or wealth in some capacity or another. The one thing we are missing is political power." The halfling puts the cigar off to the side.
"Are you not frustrated with your lack of control over world events? As individuals, we are nothing! We have no sway, no influence, nothing of note besides an empty title... but together we can change this! Together we hold influence!
I propose that we begin taking our power by discussing what laws and policies we wish to alter, dismantle, or propose to our respective governments. Once we have agreed on those, then we can focus our attentions and divert our full strength to enacting those decisions. So... I leave the floor open."
EDIT: Ozy's eyes brighten as he adds, "How could I forget? Perhaps our first order of business to craft a constitution of sorts, that binds us together, and holds the rules and structure for the Sovereign Court?"
As far as I know, there is no such document yet, other than Lady Morilla's word. It would be nice for us player's to come up with something on our own.
A nobly dressed halfling waves a bit of hair from his eyes. Smiling, he gives a bow to those present. "Now, while I would love to sign this proposed bill, and have been known to free slaves by both legal and illegal means, I'm not sure you understand the implications of simply freeing all the slaves in Absalom at once. Do you know how horribly the economy would be ravaged? Businesses will fall apart, depression will strike, and we will have an uprising from those in the lower classes, who will find themselves having more competition than before!
"No, we need to slowly phase it out, as to avoid making a shock on the economy. Make it illegal to take new slaves, and have the children of slaves be born free. Incentive former slave owners with government subsidies. Anything but a shock to the system."
At this rate I'll have more Sylph boons than I know what to do with XD and it's not like I could trade them as they are filled out completely and sent online. Maybe I should just go to a con in person...
That was my plan with this character and season 6. Unfortunately, all the scenarios so far for Dark Archive have gotten really poor reviews...
Thats unfortunate. Cheliax was such a great 'Bad Guy' faction with pretty good scenarios dedicated to it. I'm just crossing my fingers for the return of the Shadow Lodge, as Ozymandias here wants to shake Torch's hand...
EDIT: *sigh* You'd think I am used to NPCs my character supports and is trying to help being jerks. You would think that and would be wrong...
In a sense, I would suggest playing scenarios in order of seasons, following a certain faction. Like I decided to play a Taldor character, and so simply followed the tracks of all the missions I heard followed that specific faction, and it totally makes sense overall! I will continue doing so for Sovereign Court, filling out the level gaps with adventures that continue the overall plot of the season, but are not necessarily faction specific. (Now if only I could find the time to play Assult on the Wound! With all the boons I got from season 5, the Army of Exploration I am supposed to be able to control should be awesome!)
All the while, Ozy is mumbling to himself, just like he was when he first stepped into this office. "Damned pirates... Chelaxians weren't so bad after all... Pay that slaver a visit after this... Where is Lady Morilla?" Those of you who see this might hear grudging bits of praise, concerning this team that's as formed.
Before we enter Skyreach, Oz would like to pull Darchana aside, where we could speak in private. He slips into his cloak and pulls out the document that she sent him to destroy. He opens it up so that she could see it. "I just thought you ought to know that I was able to do what you asked. If you want the document for yourself, you can take it, however, if you truly want it destroyed, consider it done." If she expresses a wish for it to be destroyed, Oz will cast spark and let it go up in flames.
He will let the others deal with the Venture Captain ^_^.
Though now I'm thinking back to my time in The Hellknight's Feast. Have I forgotten about something in that module that related to this one? :/ It's going to bug me now.
Hehehe. Sewer Dragons of Absolom. I played that with a different character, so I could safely roll my eyes, though Ozy here has heard NOTHING of that tale and so is impressed.
Hm... Mark, how does one become a sanctified priest in one of your scenarios? I don't necessarily want to cast spells, but I want the title of priest to appear on a chronicle in the near future. XD Trust me, I swear it isn't to further Ozy's vanity in the least ^_^
You know... that comment makes me want to stab her. If only I were playing a Chaotic Neutral character... if only... can anyone else make a knowledge local check to see who that is?
"Give me all the information you can on that name."
Ozymandias shakes his head when she speaks to Kyra. "No, Sarenrae doesn't work in such a manner. I believe that if you truly wish to be redeemed, you can choose your own path. Look at me, I used to be an assassin for the Aspis Consortium. Now I work to dispense Sarenrae's justice. You too can choose such a path, if you are interested. I would be glad to guide you to the Temple and spend some time working with you after my current mission is over."
Ozymandias looks blankly at his fellow Sarenrite. "Well, I suppose if need be, I could. I've done very similar work for the Aspis Consprtium when I was still a member, and unfortunately find it necessary to perform time to time in my work as a Lion..." He stops himself, remembering that he wasn't supposed to brag about being a member of such a secretive organization... That was going to be difficult. "Anyways, what questions do we actually need answered? Did you try the subtle approach? I'd like more information before I do something as extreme as what you are suggesting. Will this information save lives?"
Because if the answer to that question is no, then it is a no can do with the interrogation torture. A good character simply cannot do it, and a neutral one can only do it if it is for a truly good motivation (otherwise they will find themselves detecting as evil, very quickly, and will likely need an atonement no matter what the motivation.)
I'm thinking that the two foot tall halfling is also going to walk stumble over to where the Captain is, avoiding the legs of the party, and the... oversized feet of Thad. When he gets to the door, he is going to try and acrobatics past her and avoid getting hit while doing so.
Acro:1d20 + 12 - 1 ⇒ (10) + 12 - 1 = 21
Once beside her, he is going to take a lazy swing with his scimitar, obviously tired out.
Attack Defensively:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14Probably a miss, but at least I get my AC bonus.
Do you think the halfling worshipper of Sarenrae is going to suffer them sitting in chains one second longer? I'll free them now, and ask them questions later.
Not trying to be a jerk OOC (I just realized that the first statement sounded blunt). It's just someone my character would do without thinking IN character.
Ozymandias quickly stops raging and dancing, and this is quite noticeable as he... stumbles around for a bit, as if he is drunk. "Thad..." he says suddenly, looking over at the man. "You're not dead... you're alive!"Whew. Two rounds of rage and two rounds of dancing left. Now I'm fatigued for about 12 rounds
EDIT in response to Thad's next post.
Ozy looks at Thad, wide eyed and mutters, "What sorcery is this, that makes giants?" It probably doesn't help that the 2 foot tall halfling feels even shorter now.
