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Risdin stands around thoroughly confused and undecided on his course of action. A large sheet lays bunched at his feet after an attempt to "cloak" himself while hiding behind a crate. It was a little bit too uncomfortable to be sitting there crouched with all his gear, just waiting. Shortly after he got up, fighting erupted. Una skewered her targets and in an attempt to replicate her performance, Risdin drew his bow. Immediately afterwards Risdin saw Ashe run up the gangplank. Realising Ashe needed backup, he called to Shakhan. "You take that side, I'll take this one. Meet on the main deck."
Some attacks: Attack:
Attack:
Risdin leans against a wooden post with his axe in one hand, and an arrow in another. He is fiddling with the axe and arrowhead. "Damnit! I think i've chipped my axe. And to make matters worse, I have this piece of bamboo stuck in it." He looks up to the rest of the group, "When were we even close to anything with bamboo growing? Please tell me I'm just imagining this?" With a deep sigh, he tosses the arrow and puts the axe back in it's resting place. "I'm ready to move out when you are!"
Risdin shakes his head,"Shakhan, I disagree. There is a difference between doing evil and defending somebody who happens to be evil. We could run in to hired swords who know nothing of The Spiders affairs, or who simply don't care and are doing their jobs. An assault would jeopardize people that step up, and I'm not really comfortable with that." "We need to call him out. Make sure everyone knows we are only there for him. At the very least we should give them a choice."
On the way to the Inn, Risdin stops and says,"Friends. I need to part with you for a while. I've been neglecting my duties to the church as of late, and would like to spend what's left of the day there." "If something does come up please wait for me. Our path has been enjoyable thus far, and I would hate to miss out on some good-doing." With that Risdin waves goodbye and absently walks back to the Church of Abadar. Once there he helps out where he can, asking the clergy for any odd jobs or errands that need to be done. If the night passes uneventfully, he returns to the group in the morning, post-prayer.
Risdin shrugs as he asks Asherick,"So what do you suggest we do now? --Kroft will just sit on this. If we want something done, we have to do it ourselves, and personally I don't feel we have close to enough to go on. So we can tell her when we see her, but I suggest we continue on our way for now."
Risdin steps out of earshot and gestures for everyone except Una to do the same. He then whispers,"This is certainly an unexpected lead. If Vimanda Arkona is involved, we can't continue to be cavalier about our investigation. It will be easier for us to handle this in a subtle manner." "His story is hardly conclusive, but we would be wise to take it in to consideration.", he then looks to the group members one by one,"Any suggestions on where our path should lead next?"
Risdin stands square next to Paladin Whiteplume, staring straight at Vankaskerkin. He doesn't move a muscle, save for his slow breathing. He listens intently as the Paladin speaks, but his eyes do not leave their target for a second, nor does his expression change.
Risdin stands still once he realizes there will be more delays, puts his sword upright on the ground and his forehead on the hilt."What's wrong with you people. Don't you know of a thing called a ration? I wouldn't want to be stranded on an island with the lot of you. All the chickens would be killed on the first day, and all the fruit eaten."
Risdin nods, "Una is right. Evil does not sit around and eat snacks, so we shouldn't either. Now is not the time to pause.", he says as he slams his right hand down on the table.
Risdin gives the Bishop a quick once over: Sense Motive: 10 + 2 = 12
He says,"The dagger was found in All the World's Meat. At the time it was occupied by a group of guards that had deserted their posts. Ashe was actually the one that found it", he turns to his fellow paladin.
Risdin stands motionless in shock at the possibility of a dagger coming to life. A single "Uhmm" is all he can muster. He hears Asherick's command and rushes out of the door, brushing past any remaining party members on his way. Once outside he shouts "Hello! Accolytes! The bishop needs healing!", and he frantically starts to open doors until he finds somebody that can lead him to a priest or medicine cabinet.
Seeing Ashe bow, Risdin does the same. He stands next to Ashe, listening to him describe the details of the item. Afterwards he casts detect evil and examines the box, checking to see if only the item radiates at this stage. He then looks up to Ashe while holding his hand on top of the box, awaiting confirmation that it can be opened.
Risdin interjects,"I agree with Una, the magic doesn't look like it is of the type used by the Acadamae, though they should still be able to help with the identification. It would be interesting to see what they find, but I also think we should be cautious with the piece.", he then looks and points to where the dagger is held,"That thing, on the other hand, needs to be looked at. Ashe, I am sure you know your role and responsibilities concerning the weapon?"
Risdin locks eye with Cressida, "Well I don't think we will need to officially terminate him. Ha!" "Scum like him always incite people to violence. I'm sure he will give us one eventually. It's immoral to assassinate people, but I sure as hell won't lose sleep over the loss of his life. "Anyway. Lady, if that is all you wish of us at this stage, I think we should get going", he looks to the party, "right?"
Risdin has a quiet night at the church of Abadar. He rids himself mentally of all he has seen tonight, and has a peaceful dinner with the clergy, and then goes to bed. After morning prayer, he leaves for the Citadel "I like this weather, especially in the morning when it is still dark. It keeps the streets empty and quiet. People aren't up to no good in the rain. What say you, champ?
"No, not bad at all", he whispers to Shakhan. Then, speaking up,"These letters will go far in destroying the man's name. Spider King, you have indeed been generous tonight, in company and gifts." "M'lady, if it is possible, could we see those letters once you are done with them?
Grinning, Risdin sits back in his chair and listens to the discourse. He flattens his grin when Una addresses him. "Well, this is certainly something we are interested in, as you well know." "So you know we want what you have, Spider King, but what do you want?" "On the one hand we could follow through with the plan we proposed in our previous discussion. The monetary gain from that little endeavour would far outweigh what coin we could give you right now." "...and with a quick feel of my purse, I'm not sure we could offer you as much as the Lady. "So it really comes down to how desperately you need money, and how much your time is worth." Diplomacy:
After seeming excited about leaving with Shakhan to the Cloud, Risdin parts ways once out of sight. He finds a quiet area overlooking the water, and spends some time taking in the air. He keeps an eye on the cloud for the reemergence of his fighter. Once Shakhan is back on his way to the Eel, he quickly steps in behind him. Inside, he is momentarily surprised by the silverware, only to quickly realize the Spider King had not specifically purchased these items. Fenced goods, more than likely. Regardless, he sits down. Waiting for the others to become their loud selves, and knowing his lip is not as sly as he wishes in a place like this.
Risdin stops and turns to Shakhan,"It's up to you, victor. I don't mind staying a while if we are not unwelcome."
Risdin nods at the Spider King. "Very well. We will be here." He walks over to Shakhan to see if he is still in one piece, then signals for him to come with. "Let's move out"
Risdin stands behind Shakhan, puts his hands on his shoulders, then quietly says into his ear,"Don't mind me, I'm just pretending to be your manager or whatever. I suppose words of encouragement are expected and all of that. Uhm...Maybe I should size him up for you." Risdin moves to Shakhan's right. He puts his left arm loosely around Shakhan's neck and points at Yacoub with his other hand. While making sure everyone can see but not hear him, he says,"Ok big guy. You've done this before. No pep talk is needed. I don't think this guy can match your strength either way. Just make sure you connect with every hit and you'll be fine. Oh, and try to put on a show if you can." He lets go of Shakhan's neck, gives him an encouraging slap in the ribs, then steps out of the ring.
"Yes, we can continue this conversation later. Now is a great time to display his abilities." Risdin nods subtly and steps back.
Ashe! Yelp! What do I say now? it's not like we can take pictures of him in the act. What should I propose to the Spider King, or should I just leave it up to his imagination?
"I'm afraid our motives do not end there." "Shakhan is willing to throw three big fights in your favor. These will be done at the most opportune times to rake in the most profit. He's been a fan favorite for most of his career so this shouldn't draw much suspicion. After the three fights his career will end as easily as it started, the only difference being the wealth of his sponsor." Risdin lets the message sink in for a bit before he continues. "What, might you ask, do we want in return?" "Well, we need your assistance in a matter." "Shakhan's previous manager, the late Gaedren Lamm, came in to possession of some very incriminating evidence that implicates House Endrin in either a crime or scandal. Rumor has it he was originally tasked to dispose of this evidence by House Endrin, but not only had he kept it, but he blackmailed them with it. Lamm used it mostly during his run-ins with the Guard. The House can pull some strings and this is how he remained untouched for so long." "When Shakhan started hunting Lamm down he was contacted by agents of the House. They proposed a trade. They would give him the location of Lamm, but in return they wanted something on Cheliax Ambassador - Darvayne Gios Amprei. The Ambassador plans to ruin trade concerns with Westcrown. His intention is to disparage all ties with Korvosa to dry up all the trade with the city, stopping the vital influx of supplies and gold in to the city all to his advantage." "No man could slip away from House Endrin. So to satisfy their need we have come here. We gathered that the Ambassador likes the whores in 'House of Clouds', and we know nothing takes place at 'Eel's End' that does not get noticed by The Spider King." "So in essence, we are willing to throw three lucrative fights in your favor, if you would assist us in this matter. Do you think these terms are agreeable, Spider King?"
That was kind of an intro. Will spill the more interesting stuff next. Wouldn't it be enough to ask him about helping with the throwing of the fights. I know we need a reason to be needing him, but we can say we need his underground contacts and some capital, like for bookies and bouncer etc.
Risdin clears his throat and takes a step forward,"If I may." He takes a deep breath then says,"I am Kren Kolebrok, and this here is my fighter Shakhan. We have taken our time to seek an ally in a venture we are pursuing, and our path has led us to you, Spider-King." "Shakhan here should be known to you. He is one of the most feared gladiators and cage fighters in Varisia. His spree of victories are more vast than the Streaming Sea itself, and yet he has more to give." "After killing the wretched Gaedren Lamm and sating his vengeance, his heart now burns for combat. He has but one goal, and that is to once again become the best." "Which brings us to you, King of Spiders. We propose a mutually beneficial agreement where you set up cage fights and gather the crowds, while Shakhan takes on anyone or anything willing to step inside with him." "He's already known throughout the land by any that will wager money, so returning to center stage will be seamless for him. With your backing we can both make a tidy sum." Bluff:
Risdin lifts his hand in front of Shakhan ,"Hold on a second. We're here now so let's talk." Addressing the guard he says,"No, we don't have an appointment with the King of Spiders. We bring something else... something he might find more lucrative.", Risdin says as he looks to Shakhan, and back at the guard. "We want to talk to your boss about striking up a deal. I'm sure you recognise my friend here, the famous Shakhan --a fierce warrior 'nd ring fighter"
"We have a plan to build him back up to his former glory, and in the process we will make the King as well as ourselves a sizable amount of coin." "So, what say you? Can we have a word with your boss?" Bluff: (+2 from aid if possible)
Risdin hasn't taken much pain in looking less civilized. A lack of shaving and washing does that to him. He also doesn't display his new armor, fearing the value might draw attention from the locals. Instead he wears a simple robe over it, and only has his bow on his back visible. He makes his way up with "his fighter" to the lone ship, and they attempt to board by using a gangplank. If nobody confronts them he will lead Shakhan further down in to Devargo's den.
Risdin turns to Shakhan and answers,"I'm from the South-East. I hail from Tephu, in Osirion. I guess that makes me a Tephuan or Tephite? Normally I would point in the direction of my homeland, but I seem to have lost my bearing a bit. I've been on the road for quite some time now, and can't really place myself without looking at the sun or stars."
Turning to Shakhan,"Even though I condone the profession, I don't make use of it. I think you will be best served by going at it alone, my friend." "Are the pretty boys just men or are they men that look like woman? I get confused with the terminology sometimes..."
Risdin laughs and addresses Ashe,"I think you will find that many ladies of the night are actually woman of character and self-respect. The profession might seem unsavory to outsiders, but some of them take pride in their work." "Of course, some are just in it for the money. They won't last very long in a busy city like this." "You're pretty intimidating when you want to be, you've certainly convinced me!"
"Good idea. A potion of disguise might work well to re-brand me as a scruffier thug." "I don't think we should be too worried about the auras we project. They would only see it if they had some way of detecting the good or evil within us. Not many men have this ability, and we would also recognize the casting of such spells."
. "Shakhan, I think you will look more natural with your two friends than without!"
"So just to make sure that we are all on the same page. Shakhan is going as a pitfighter. I am going as his manager. Una is going as a noblewoman and Hytogg her priest follower. Ashe is also going with them as a Chellish knight? "I don't know about the rest of you, but I am pretty bad at disguises. I should be able to convince them of my purpose or reasons for being there though. I just hope we don't attract too much attention for the wrong reasons. Also, what do we do about weapons. I don't pack "light", exactly."
Risdin clears his throat then says,"I'm not so sure if his aura will change from touching a dagger. A man's character is generally unmoved, even by cursed items. If it were to happen, then the curse would be from a very powerful magic user." Risdin casts detect evil, then not only studies the dagger, but also his company.
After leaning against a door frame for a while and listening to the chaotic exchange, Risdin dozes off in to dreamland. He finally wakes up to find that the hosts have arranged themselves neatly with ropes and that the guests are now barking orders. Risdin looks up, eyes still blurry, and speaks to the general group. "Salt? Do we need to preserve some food?", he sighs,"I don't understand what the holdup is. Let's get all of these guys on their feet and in the streets. Justice and all of that - et cetera, et cetera." He almost coughs as he gasps for air to complete a yawn.
After returning downstairs, Risdin addresses Shakhan,"Please learn to control your anger. It is of no use to us when we are not in danger. These men cannot hurt us, so we should not hurt then. I hope I don't have to assert myself any further" He turns from the barbarian as Ashe reminds him of the hand. The paladin starts to look around the main room for the remaining person or corpse, whole or in pieces. Perception:
Risdin freezes in place on the bloodied hand. He looks over to Una. "Need a hand there?" --- "get it?" He smiles as he flicks the body part away with his boot. Risdin then moves up after Ashe.
'Arramack' turns to Ashe while keeping his weapon drawn ahead, "I would bind this fool if I could, but I don't carry rope or shackles around while in the city." He turns his blade up, ready to strike the man in front of him. "Move and die."
Risdin steps up slightly ahead of Una to thwart any charges with his greataxe. He turns to her and quickly whispers, "I was about to pipe up, but the lot of you are pretty scary. These men would be fools to do anything but run or surrender." He turns back to the men while dropping into an aggressive stance, ready to eviscerate any man wishing it upon himself.
"I think he likes you Una!" Risdin turns and takes a deep breath of the cleanest air he can find. He then turns back to the door, opens it, and steps in.
With a slush Risdin lands in the muddy cattle pen. "Yip. This explains the smell." "Let's take the door over there, to the left", he says as he points to the northern-most door of the pen. He then move towards the door, trying not to startle the animals any more than they are already. Risdin feels the door to see if it is locked, while readying his blade for any slimy scum to slip it into.
Risdin crouches down a bit then jumps up to grap Una's hand. He then pulls himself up while trying to find a foot hold. Climb Check: (aid) "Pull! Pull!"
Risdin follows Una to the back door. "No, we don't have the strength. Hopefully it's open." He slides along the west wall towards the door and feels its handle.
Risdin opens the door with bow drawn and steps into the room.
Risdin tries to bash the door open with a kick below the handle.
Risdin is the third to arrive. "Una. Ash. Where are the others? By the way have you seen my new armor? Had it custom fitted ya know. Strong enough to take a heavy blow, but not too tight or heavy..." He rambles on for a while about the importance of quality arms and armor.
After purchasing his chain shirt and new bow, Risdin will accompany Una (and possibly Hytogg) to the Dragon of the Guard. Eager to show off his new gear, he will approach anyone he can find that needs healing, Be it from paper cut or sore throat. "Good evening fine sirs, might I interest you in some healing? - I am a Paladin you know, and a well dressed one at that!" - he says to his targets with chest pronounced.
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