Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn sighs as the two ruffians emerge with weapons in hand, but nonetheless advances to the laughing woman, knowing that no joke is truly hilarious for eternity.
He looks over his shoulder towards his allies.
"Gentlemen, may I have your assistance in detailing this, uh, lady?"
Is she armed in any way? Spell component pouch? Holy symbol? I know she's not helpless, but Renn could attempt a steal maneuver of anything of note that she could use.
If he sees something useful to her, either in escape or hostility, he'll grab it.
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Perception (new check):1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20
@Varian: You watched a woman unstopper a vial and dump the contents on a bunch of fruit, then walk away... suspect no?
I think we're assuming Varian shared that (since nobody else saw it), and we've played out at least Renn approaching the Qadiran woman? I'll wait for full confirmation before continuing to post off that assumption...
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
I see Varian's 32 got him the Qadiran woman and the vial. Renn got 26 on his check, which I'll assume beats the DC24 spoiler? That or Varian informed Renn so he can RP appropriately with that info...
Renn swallows, wondering why someone would "season the fruit" and then walk away. Keeping his eye trained on the Qadiran woman, Renn doesn't let her walk away with ease and instead approaches her.
"Ah! Excuse me miss! I couldn't help but notice your fabulous handkerchief! Qadiran, no?"
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn smirks at the man, taking a step forward and putting an arm around his shoulders before swiftly grabbing a free rag from the kitchen and dabbing at the man's temple.
"Look, friend. It's not that hot in here. I'd like to remind you that we're asking nicely. The dragon's aren't likely to be so accommodating. How about their eggs, now?"
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn whistles for a moment, recalling some of tawdry bar songs he's heard in his time, searching the cook's face for the usual tells of a man who's a long forgotten relative of the truth.
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn shrugs.
"Seems an easy solution to fix. Shall we, gentlemen?"
As Renn gives the little dragons his closest approximation of a sincere smile (one can never be too sure with Renn), he wonders aloud when they are a safe distance.
"So they have rumors that one of those little guys is an actual full-sized dragon. Perhaps that's our angle? Suggest to the cook that our, uhh, expertise has confirmed such, and he's known to have been the instigator?"
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Perform Sing (aka Sense Motive):1d20 + 9 ⇒ (12) + 9 = 21
Renn recalls a couple songs from his time spent in the odd Varisian caravan rolling through the wandering hills connecting Magnimar to Korvosa, and inhales sharply.
"I've... heard songs of a 'griff like this. It's just looking for some fun and intends no harm."
Renn looks to Peter, an expectation clear on his face, that the ranger should be able to something with the beast before its claws get a little too friendly.
I've forgotten if Handle Animal can be done untrained, but if it can be done in an aid other action, here's a roll and an actual use of Renn's standard action. Otherwise if its not possible, Renn goes into delay waiting on Peter.
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn thinks back to the earlier Harrowing that led them to the Unicorn in the first place.
The Unicorn promises rewards from a friend -- but some friends are false, and some prizes are poison.
Shrugging, he makes little of it given the limited insight he has into the potentially forged Green Market cards and the news that some pseudodragons require "coaxing".
Smiling, he nods.
"Massaging egos is one of my specialties, dear sir. Do you have anything special I can offer them for their... ahhh, loyalty? Some sort of retention incentive perhaps? Are they fond of a particular dish?"
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Do folks need wand charges, including the actors? If so, Renn will part with those for "considerations" in the future if he needs to sneak a date backstage.
Renn rubs his chin.
"Hmmm.. have you had any dealings with the Green Market or its proprietor, bychance? Or, alternatively... anyone who would wish you harm and perhaps coax these bugs to this location? We seem to be chasing a fortune tellers somewhat accurate predictions of misfortune."
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Posting now just so GMTrex can advance the full round on his next post after Peter's... I can only imagine the enemies change this if someone (like Renn) ends up near death in their actions.
Renn leaps back in surprise as the insects crash through the stage, but quickly holds up both hands.
"Company! And not company that we brought -- I see you thinking that, Sir Gnome!"
As he appears about ready to join the theatrical performance himself, Renn catches himself as he recognizes Khellek has beaten him to the punch.
"A fitting choice, Sir Khellek!"
Returning his bow to his hand, Renn swiftly draws an arrow and aims it at the blinded bug.
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Perception:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8
Renn had begun closing distance to the injured "swordsman", intent on quieting the shouting gnome with a little restorative magic for whatever irreparable injury the man had sustained.
I swear, sometimes it's like people don't realize we live in a world of magic...
Renn hesitated, not wanting to actually "touch" the actor to administer the aid.
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn watches with mild interest from a few steps away, arms crossed and an expression that seems to indicate he's still trying to measure up the likelihood that a Harrowing might actually foretell the future.
Musing on matters for a moment, he wonders if there's a long con at play, and adds his own question to the mix.
"And I wonder... do you have any dealings with the Foxgloves or the Green Market? Or... perhaps any relations with socio-political organizations that scavenge the world for rare and hidden relics?"
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn holds up his hands, quickly stowing his bow. He smiles, hoping his smile will disarm the man of his angst.
"Hey, hey! The name's Renn, and we come with something better than food.. we come offering our camaraderie and friendship!"
As Peter offers to also provide food, Renn nods, quickly revising his offer.
"... and food too, of course. My friend Pete here can pick the freshest plums from the cart. What do you folks say to a little field trip out in the sun?"
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
With his card in one hand, he snaps the fingers of his free hand, gesturing at the card he drew.
"Ah ha! Of course! How appropriate... and literal! One would expect the ghostly spirits about to be a little more crafty, but no matter!"
Leaning forward for something more than just a formal handshake, Renn pats Zeeva and smiles his million goldpiece grin.
"Do not worry, my lady! Our investi-- ahem, wanderings will surely turn up something in no time at all. I'm certain we'll be back for dinner, even..."
Leaning forward conspiratorially, he wonders.
"... and if that were the case, does my lady have a favorite wine? I've always found cat-lovers prefer a good red with subtle undertones, yes?"
**
Upon reaching the rundown shack, Renn effectively shrugs but unstraps his bow and holds it in a hand while gesturing to the others to head in before him.
"Ahead, my friends! Zeeva waits for her heroes' bravery, and we shall not disappoint!"
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Agreed. Folks were busy this weekend kicking this off!
Renn has properly bowed to Zeeva, taken her hand and smiled again as he rose.
A whole market to herself... not nobility, but wealth!
Maintaining a modicum of small talk while his companions examining the cards, Renn made various inquiries into Zeeva's business. How was it faring? How much time did it afford her for life's pleasures? Were there other rewards at hand for their aid, perhaps such as her future favor?
"I simply find it fascinating that our follow-up will be taking the card's meanings or origins literally? I don't suppose everyone who draws the unicorn from this deck merits a visit to any and all locales in Korvosa with 'unicorn' in their name?"
Nonetheless, Renn will accompany the others, having little else by way of a lead to pursue at this time to secure Zeeva's favors and affections.
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn untied his hair, smoothed it, and re-tied it again.
"Mmm, Mrs Heidmarch. She's married you know? Such a dry old chap given how well the dame's held up. Dreadful lack of attractive maids in Heidmarch Manor, I must say - I wonder if she's thinning the competition?"
Renn smiles, musing about what favors he could secure for a nice trip to Varisia.
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn nodded, seeming to agree with Seiran despite his own internal thoughts.
Paladins. Of course we'd be turning the documents over!
Renn almost pressed his palm to his face but instead maintained an easy smile as the decision was made.
He almost stepped forward to give the major a friendly nudge.
"Don't worry major. Many of us have family we're not proud of and are working to distance ourselves from. Do what the rest of us do... bury yourself in your work or a bottle."
With a bow, Renn whistled as he followed the others to the Grand Lodge, eagerly looking forward to collecting his stipend and subsequently spending it.
Are either of these possible with J this scenario?
Faction Card:
Recruit a named NPC aristocrat, noble, ambassador, or similar figure to cooperate with the faction with a successful Diplomacy or Knowledge (nobility) check (DC = 14 + your character level + 3 for each of this goal’s checked boxes).
Recruit a servant of a named NPC aristocrat, noble, ambassador, or similar figure who is not a member of the Sovereign Court. Doing so requires a successful Diplomacy or Knowledge (local) check with a DC equal to 15 plus your character level.
If either is...
Diplomacy:1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25
Renn has no boxes checked yet for the first, if that was the possible one (thus a DC 14+2+0=DC16).
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn kept his eyes firmly fixed on J, working to gauge what she'd think about the Society and the fact the noble politics were thrust into the forefront of her first dealings with any of them.
Who's favor do you want today Renn?
Renn was clearly lost in thought as he processed Silgil's statements in parallel.
The elder Lady Dacilane? There's some good dirt on her indiscretions in there. She'd clearly have a *favor* to give if those were kept down low...
Renn continued to observe J.
How does she feel about these? Is Lady Dacilane set for a fall? Is J like all the other young aristocrats, wishing to flee as far away from mommy as possible?
Renn almost smacked his own forehead.
Of course he is, you fool! She's dressed the part of an Eagle Knight and is *this close* to joining the Society.
Renn then sized up the major.
What kind of meal ticket can you punch with a favor owed by this one? If he's pulling any strings for you, it's sending you to some Cayden-be-damned backwater locale to free some slaves or prisoners, not to a banquet with Zarta or Lady Gloriana or anyone who really matters...
Renn kept his eyes on J. She was next in line. She was attractive. If we let the dirt spill on one family, surely Dacilane would be next to fall.
Renn's kind of a bastard. He likes leverage. I think he'd expect J to want to keep these notes safe for now, since they incriminate Dacilane and Maldris alike, and she'd probably feel as much of a stain on her name as Colson would - people not looking past the reputation of a parent and letting it cloud their initial impression of the child. So right now, Renn probably would suggest keeping these "safe" but not turning them over to anyone. Heck, he might even trust J with them, trusting his growing "roguish talents" to acquire them back later if needed. He also probably suspects J to be still young and foolish enough to go with whatever her "heroes" push (that's if she's still thinking like an 18-yo not a 28-yo). Sorry about the wall of text!
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Wha--? Cassiel doesn't have some obscure task we need to do to give her "release"?
Renn takes a bow and winks at Silgil's helpful words.
He then offers his arm to J.
"So, about this group of us nobles called the Sovereign Court..."
Renn hesitates as Grishan speaks up.
"Major Colson?"
Despite not being a member of the Andoran Liberty's Edge faction, Renn's hand reflexively moves towards a salute. He shakes his head as he fights to force his hand back to a casual position at his side.
"Sure, we can pay Major Col--"
Once again, Renn exhibits frustration as his limbs seem to think standing and saluting is appropriate when the name is uttered, but luckily he cuts the major's surname just short enough to prevent the reflex.
"... a visit."
(Local joke, perhaps one elsewhere as well. If anyone is heard to say "Major Colson" aloud, all players at all tables must stand and salute.)
Renn flushes a bit, more from nervous energy than any actual embarrassment on his behalf or any other. He takes the smallest of steps forward, smiling.
"My dear Cassiel... such a beautiful name really. I could see naming my daughter that, it flows and has such connotations..."
Or daughters? I really should follow up on some of those. Or a dog... perhaps a Taldan Dane?
Renn shakes his head, trying to focus again.
"Junia here has to head out into the world for the both of you now... she's bearing a heavy burden as such. What things would you wish her, and well... all of us really, to take care of for you?"
Diplomacy:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27
Renn gets +3 more when he "makes a request" of a creature... I suppose in this case, it could be viewed that way, as he's requesting Cassiel sort of forgive Junia, and give her tasks to do so her spirit could rest. At any rate, I didn't include that bonus just to be safe..
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
The suppression of the imminent haunting seems to really fire Renn up.
"Oh yeah! That's how it's done!"
Pumping his arm in the air, he twirls the wand and tucks it back into his belt like an Alkenstar gunslinger after winning a draw against a tobacco-chewing nemesis. He then goes in for a high-five with Peter.
Smiling at J, hoping to build up energy towards his recruitment effort, he bows. After reveling in the moment, he follows Peter and Seiran deeper in.
Spotting the trio of corpses, he squints.
"Is that our handiwork from a few years back when we saved J?"
Safely behind the front line of Seiran and Peter, he follows until the bodies are close enough to inspect and ensure they aren't ghasts or ghouls rising up for a mid-afternoon bardsnack.
After straightening the chalkboard, Renn takes a few steps towards the memorials, examining them before finally stopping and allowing his hand to rest on the one emblazoned Maldris.
Max HP 35 | AC 16 (T12/FF14) | F: +5 R: +7 W: +5* | Perc +7 | Init +2
Renn shakes his hand, declining the offer of any of the items grown here.
"No, thanks. This outfit is brand new, and well, cherries are known to stain..."
He glances to J, wondering how much effort it would take to get her out...
She's eighteen! No -- she's twenty-eight!
Rather, how much effort it would take to get a cherry stain out of her uniform.
He gestures to the sign.
"Keep your eyes open. My experience, and well... sense of self preservation tells me that the mandragora won't be the last plant that wants our blood that we meet today."
