12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Hey therealthom, I think I will be dropping out of the game. I picked up quite a few games, and when they are all moving, I find myself being the one who holds them up. I know that hasn't been true lately, but in my effort to stay on top of every Pbp, I have been wearing myself a little too thin. Sorry to call it quits, but since this game is still fairly early, I know you will be able to replace me easily enough without it being too much a strain lore-wise for the story.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Thenji (and most likely Syrus) will probably need to return home to the Cross Ranch for their travel gear and GM-gifted horses, but unless I'm crazy, it looks like there may be some logistical RP that should happen first, unless we just want to hash it out n the discussion thread.
Dreamer of the Host:
Do you want to address Thenji's attempt to return the donkey? Meta-wise, I know Daisy isn't at her dairy farm/business, but Thenji is currently unaware of this.
Thenji looks up from feeding the donkey in response to Linokashtai. With his other hand, he pushes a hand up his forehead causing the hat to tilt back.
"Eh, I guess this going to happen then.," he says acknowledging the psion's information.
"Have you ever met Lydia Wolfheart, Regol?" Thenji says with a strange look on his face. "She's definitely...not someone who tolerates nonsense. You'll want to mind your manners and keep that constant joking nature of yours under wraps."
Ironically, Thenji's comment sounds more appropriate to his usual behavior than it does Syrus'.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Thenji gives Syrus a sidelong glance as if the man just told him the prisoner having three heads was normal.
Then the rogue sighs and squeezes his eyes shut. He pinches the bridge of his nose and rubs.
"Gods, you're probably right, Regol," he says sounding tired. "I did this kind of work so long...it changes you, ya know? That war...you could never trust anyone."
Opening his eyes and lowering his hand, he looks around until he spots Brawny and the cart.
"We really should get this ass to his master. Let's head on over to her place with him."
Thenji heads towards the donkey and the attached cart. He fishes out a sack of barley hay from the back and holds a handful out to the mighty donkey.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Dreamer of the Host:
Allow me to be a bit clearer on why Thenji immediately found Mayhew's vague response so suspicious. A person could provide data such as:
"We traveled over the mountains to the east for about a day or two. We raided a caravan we came across then traveled south along the road for a day before reaching the blah-blah river. We stayed there and ambushed travelers for a few days then crossed and moved south again for two days. We were surprised by one of the region's militia patrols and had a bit of a skirmish before they ran off. We gave chase for a day, but they reached a fort so we turned back and rode hard west for three days to shake off pursuit. We came across some merchants with wagons heading up here to Breland, so then Our leader came up with this plan. We headed up foe another day or so, and got to town this morning."
While not a direct route or even estimation of direct travel, using a map anyone with Survival or knowledge of war tactics should be able to triangulate the position and then provide a pretty decent guess for land travel based on what is known of the terrain between Point A and what would probably be Point G (Breland) after following all the steps provided.
Thenji feels that since Mayhew declined to be in any way specific that he was dissembling and trying to avoid the question. After all, getting this kind of information out of people was Thenji and Vex's specialty when they infiltrated occupied civilized regions or military encampments.
Hope that helps clear up my thinking. :-)
Thenji chuckles at Mayhew's response.
"I can understand that," the changeling says sagely. "I'm exactly the same way about my wartime name."
Sense Motive DC (no chance of failure):
Thenji has spoken pure truth. :P
As he exits the temple, Thenji's face turns grim. Stepping out of line sight of the doorway, Thenji approaches any militia or armed citizens helping to stand watch or guard at the Temple.
"The prisoner may be more than he seems. Treat him well, but don't let your guard down."
Lady Lino...I'm concerned he refused to tell his nickname. His secrecy could mean he's playing us. For all we know, he's the very Count of whom he was warning us.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Thenji nods as if nothing Mayhew said could possibly be subject to scrutiny.
"I 'preciate the honestness, friend. My thanks."
Thenji profs his hat and stands.
Lady Linokashtai, I'm pretty sure our friend Mayhew isn't going to tell us any more. He claims not have any discernment of the time it takes to get here which means he's not likely to give up the information through friendly conversation. He shouldn't have balked at telling me at least how long it took them to get down here, but either he's onto my little act, and he's more clever than he seems, or is more afraid of this Count than us. If you have any way of checking the truth of it using your...abilities, this would be the time. The only other method...well, that's not really a pleasant topic of conversation for polite society.
Thenji turns to walk out of the Temple but suddenly swivels back to face Mayhew. "Oh...one last thing. What's the name your friends called you? The one you don't like?"
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Lol, I think that's mostly due to everyone kind of assuming that was what you had planned. I'm perfectly fine with taking a step back from certain death if you had another path that deserves our attention. :-P
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Sense Motive:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14
Thenji nods at Mayhew's announcement of the number while stroking his chin in thought. He winces internally as Karl gives away that the town probably didn't have the capability of supplying that size of an encampment thereby admitting that the town couldn't mount a true opposition to such a force. He's careful not to let any of this show on his face and hopes Mayhew isn't canny enough to understand the implication.
"Right then, I think Karl's more concerned with how to get the goods from here to there. More than one run at it would prob'ly be called fer, I reckon. Then there's the need for solid accounting for what you boys would be doing fer us to make the trip and goods all worth it."
Thenji pauses and looks at Woodbead. "Seeing as we need to plan all things good and tight, how long would it take us to get..." Thenji shakes his head and waves his head as if striking the question from his listeners ears."Lemme start again...how long does it take for your boys to go from there to here. I'll let the merchants figger what the translation from horses to wagons means in days. They got better sense fer all that than you and me, eh? Us soldiers didn't get paid to keep track of all those numbers, am I right."
Thenji grins and winks, the lie rolling off his tongue easily. He gingerly reaches for the wineskin and takes a swallow.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
"'Like any army'?" Thenji says cocking his head. "Are you still at war? Are we still at war?"
He grunts. "Damn...and here I thought my service tour was over."
"Funny thing about all this, I dun't recall ever hearing about your boys coming around to ask for trade or work to barter services for goods. And trust me," Thenji winks, "I would've heard. If'n that's all your Count needs, he don't be haffin to send you and your fellows to take it and get killed by us. We'd be glad to sell or trade."
Hearing Linokastai in his head, Thenji nods slowly as if something just came to mind. "Tell ya what, Mayhew. You tell me just how many men we're talking about needing a change of undershorts and a slick of whiskey, and I'll see if we can't get a few of the merchants like good ole Karl here to put together a caravan; and we can get heading on out to where your Count is trying to keep you boys outfitted."
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Thenji accepts the skin from Karl. Eyeing the container, he raises an eyebrow in askance. When Karl confirms the contents, Thenji grins and unstoppers it. He gives it a sniff to be sure then takes a small swig. The warm wine burns a little through his sinuses, but the acrid taste of alcohol is always appreciated.
He holds the skin towards Mayhew. "In your own words, what do you think your friends need to feel secure up there? Maybe we can help."
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Thenji nods his head in thanks to Aljohar as she hands him the flask, his eyes flicking to the side to acknowledge her only briefly as otherwise they stay on Mayhew as steadily as the rogue's easy smile.
"Mayhew, is it? Good solid name. Definitely not the name of a knave. I'm sure there's no reason to assume you're anything but a man who's trying to survive." Thenji passes the water to Mayhew. "I want to make sure you do survive, Mayhew Woodbean. In fact, if you help me get in front of this before hotter heads prevail, you and I (and my fine friends here) may just be able to find an arrangement that will work to help your comrades and our town help each other so no one else has to die."
Thenji scrunches up his face. "Death is just so messy. Better to work out something everyone can like, and then move from there."
Diplomacy:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15
Thenji's face kind of freezes in his smile briefly as he notices Linokashtai's mental knocking. Tremulously, his mental voice allows her access. He does his best to calm his nerves about her being in his mind and performs any mental obfuscation of his thoughts regarding himself that he is able.
As long as you don't go poking around...I am fine with this arrangement, Lady Linokashtai. Tell me whatever you can.
Thenji tries to cover his small falter with a wink to Woodbean.
"Karl here happens to know how to get his hands on wine and ale. Maybe he could get us a skin?" Thenji licks his lips and tosses a grin Karl's way.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
@Dreamer of the Host: I think probably should have asked if that Disguise check had an impact when I made the roll. My idea was maybe to create a possible rapport wherein Thenji could then flow right into Bluff/Diplomacy, but I was looking for confirmation the Disguise v. the prisoner's life experience was a successful venture. Thenji is likely to change his angle if the prisoner doesn't seem to respond.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Dreamer of the Host wrote:
"Stilts, sir. I was proud to stand beside you. Awful brave to take three by yourself."
Thenji waves a hand and shakes his head vigorously. "No, no. You misunderstood. I had to protect Mistress Sally's donkey and cart. Those blokes just tripped over their feet running away, and one landed on my sword. That dagger? I just dropped that right as Brawny came to a stop. All coincidence I did anything that helped really."
More general info on the Breland Regulars -- Know(local) DC 2 v. 1d20+5 = Auto success Know(local) DC 2, Black Cap v. 1d20+5 = Auto success Know(local) DC 12, Black Cap:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25
@Dreamer of the Host: Any chance Thenji or Vex would have visited Black Pit during their time in the army as infiltrators or reconnaissance?
Thenji squints at the prisoner. "Aye, mate. What's your handle? Your outfit gave you one, eh? Or you named yerself what's yours proper, I reckon." Thenji's accent and cadence seems to lapse into something else....something not his normal self but more rough and unrefined. Something that may resonate with what Thenji presumes might be more familiar to the prisoner. He sits on his heels close to the man his voice going a tad more husky as it softens giving the impression his words are meant to be more private than the rest of the interrogators.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Seemingly in a daze with half-lidded eyes, Thenji suddenly lets out a small snore showing that in fact during this time of tumult and hard choices, he's been asleep! As Syrus jumps out of the wagon to assist with moving the wounded bandit, he nudges the sleeping rogue with his foot. With a snort the completely healed Thenji bursts awake, his arms and legs stiffening and lifting off the ground briefly at the sudden motion. Bleary-eyed, he looks up at his renter.
"We make it to town?" He clutches his head briefly. "I had the most cocked up dream..."
His eyes dart to one side and sees another recovering wounded townsfolk. They move rapidly around absorbing all of his acquaintances standing close and armed.
"Ah, so that's the way of it then," he sighs. He stands and stretches. He feels the holes in his better clothes and sees the blood soaked into them. "Natch."
Making assumptions, Thenji gives a sloppy salute to Attus who is still tending folks nearby. "My thanks, sir."
Syrus elbows him and gestures to the prisoner and mutters something about the temple. Between the two of them they move the man with something less than a nursing touch into the temple.
Glancing at Aljohar, Thenji says, "By that gleam in your eye, 'AL' just 'JO' on and assume we 'HAR' about to go on a little hide 'n' seek 'n' destroy party."
@ Dreamer of the Host:
He sees the man who was fighting with him up the road hanging around. "Remind me again? What do you prefer to be called?"
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
As the excitement of battle begins to wear off, the rush of adrenaline keeping Thenji moving drains like water down a large drain. He sags visibly only to wince as his wounds roar to life demanding attention. As Linokashtai offers to help support him, Thenji nods gratefully.
"Thanks for that, Lady Lino," he gasps out. Thenji takes the offered shoulder, but tries to still hold some of his wait.
"Help me into the cart. Come, you and Syrus can help me use Brawny to help transport other wounded."
He looks around then sighs. "Where did Aljohar run off to now?"
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
No problem, therealthom! Being no stranger to absenteeism myself, I certainly won't begrudge you. That Treppa though...she's just so cantankerous and easily angered. She may /ragequit at any minute. ;-D
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
I think I also missed Round 11 in my endeavor to to not go twice in Round 10! I may be assuming too much, but between their previous attacks and Syrus and Lino's Round 11 strikes, at least one of the three bandits have to have fallen.
As one of the bandits suddenly drops his spear and begins to fall over from his wounds, Thenji seizes the moment to kick the falling weapon back in the faces of his attackers. In the momentary distraction he dives and rolls forward in an attempt to flank his foes using his sudden new allies' positions.
Acrobatics:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23
Hoping the move will now split his enemies' attentions he strikes aiming for an exposed vital area.
"Strike now!" he calls to the townsfolk. He hopes the bandits will stay focused on the newcomers. As he withdraws his steel from the bandit's innards, he feels a touch of dizziness hiding behind the adrenaline. He knows he's hurt badly, and a soft prayer escapes his lips to the gods that he can keep his wits while danger remains before he passes out.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Just to make sure, Thenji has already done his Round 10 action. You're calling for him to go again, but the baddies haven't attacked since Thenji dropped the one. Don't they get another go first? I'll probably regret asking this...
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Pierced by two spears, Thenji finds himself regretting getting out of bed this morning. He'd always thought he'd die alone somewhere after finally being hunted down. He pictured a grove of cherry trees shedding their blossoms on him. He was pretty sure he'd heard that was a romantic way to die somewhere...?
Is this the way it ends? Here? Everyone will know...
Grunting, the rogue pushes one spear aside with the hand clutching the dagger and then pulls his wounded shoulder back from the other's point. Feeling their tips tear his skin is nauseating, his blood begins to leak out and soak into the tunic the widow had said made him look more reputable than some of his other clothes,
"That hurt, you buggers!" he growls through gritted teeth. Over their shoulders he sees four more of their ilk come running out of the alley. "This day just keeps getting better."
Seeing them turn and run in the opposite direction, he lets out a huff of relief which immediately makes him wince.
Dammit...
He looks for an opening to strike one of the pair attacking him.
Following his apparently devastating counterattack, Thenji twirls the blade to remove some of the blood. He steps diagonally away from his attackers with the intention of moving closer to the cart he had just abandoned. If those other spearmen decided to double back and join the fight, Thenji had no illusions how he, Lino, and Syrus would fare.
Thenji takes a 5 ft step back diagonally away towards the cart if that's possible based on his position.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Round 8 action
Having completed his armor cinching with Aljohar's assistance, Thenji tries to keep as low as possible in the wagon. He draws a dagger from the brace of such knives he carries once again.
"You'll be fine, Brawny. Just fine. I'll see nothing happens to a big strong ass like you." The rogue tries to help Syrus keep the animal calm as the horse stampede approaches. He mutters other soothing words and simple instructions the donkey has likely heard many times before.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
I apologize for my complete lack of communication. These last few weeks I have been struggling creatively. I haven't been "hearing" my character's voice. I keep thinking "tomorrow" will be different, and so I talk myself out of posting even a comment in discussion.
I intend to get back into the mix and be regular. Sorry for the delay...
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
It has been brought to my attention that you had, in fact, provided us with free riding mounts and all the trappings to use such fine animals. I have a sneaking suspicion these free horses were a part of your initial planning for this encounter scene which could explain the long distances involved.
As I myself completely forgot about the free horse, I rather colorfully created my own locomotion for the purposes of RP blissfully unaware that I was leading this imaginary creation into a potentially dangerous circumstance when a regular riding mount would have been much more appropriate. I would like to apologize for that oversight, as I can happily assure you that I would have had Thenji on his dapple grey horse Doppel (yeah, that's, uh...that's what I'm calling it. >_>) riding into town.
If this is in fact what you had planned for us, would it be possible to have the stable near by the parallel road? Maybe we can grab our mounts and get ready for the Indiana Jones style chase?
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Dreamer of the Host wrote:
Thenji, how long to don that armor?
Presumably it will take Thenji ten rounds to don his leather armor. The PRD seems to indicate he can't actually get help putting on leather armor, which seems bizarre to me as taking it off can receive help cutting the time in half.
Thenji shoves a leg through a loop and tries to get the piece tightened properly with Aljohar's help. He turns his head around and speaks to the donkey Brawny as he does this hoping the sound of his more familiar voice may assist Syrus in his cajoling for more speed.
"Come now, Brawny. Don't you want to get back to the stable and get that lovely dinner Daisy always has for ya? Hop to it, you handsome ass, you."
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Still unsure of driving, so +2 if Handle Animal and +3 if Ride.
Charisma driving:1d20 ⇒ 10
Knowing Brawny is just a donkey used to pulling the little cart and occasionally carrying grain sacks, Thenji doesn't try anything fancy, just get the cart moving down the alley/side street to avoid any collateral damage to Brawny and the cart.
As the donkey and cart were just an invention of mine to have a little RP fun, I'm pretty much assuming I'm (we're) moving at normal speed for medium creatures double moving. If you have any caveats to the use of a figment of my imagination, please let me know. Running on that assumption should place the cart at the end of the alley and now turning onto the parallel street now heading towards the Grange.
"Regol! Hop up here!" Thenji indicates the driver's bench. "I need to get all dolled up for the ball." The rogue points to the sack full of his leather armor stashed in the back next to the cowled man.
Turning his eyes back to the street, Thenji mutters, "Gah! I guess I should be happy these damn instincts to always be ready they pounded into me aren't just twitchy paranoia."
Considering how long it will take us to get down the street, I figured it would make sense to get in armor since I already described Thenji as just being in his regular town clothes... >_>
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
If it is the point, we'll have to come up with something else. I literally RP'd a donkey and cart into existence that Thenji doesn't technically own. That means we're all on foot canonically. So that means we're not catching them. Well, maybe Lydia. Not sure if Shifting gives her any bonus to movement. Otherwise, we need to focus on something else like the wounded.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Not all work that well, so who can say? Besides, once their wagon starts rolling this becomes a chase not a fight. Odds are good they will be outpacing us quickly.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
It is definitely going to be a lot of rounds before we're even close. And the enemy is gearing up to get their own wagon up and running. Poor arcane/divine/psionic users, activating their armor powers so soon when action is like five rounds away.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Thenji's eyebrow twitches as the expert archer sniper speaks gruffly yet with civil enough phrasing. He wonders how the pair will respond, but his eyes come up and forward as a man...Pensive? stumbles out of Butterfield's down the road. Several men loading a wagon suddenly arm themselves and one pokes the pointy end of a spear into the man blowing the horn.
Syrus Regol wrote:
"Oh gods. Don't look now," Syrus says to Thenji, ducking down in the cart again.
"Too late," he replies flatly. The urge to respond as Syrus had and simply ignore what he was seeing was strong. But as the confident archer called out to his fellows in the cobbler that something was wrong, he felt himself irked and a desire not to be shown up by the rude and arrogant men began to blossom.
First things first however. Brawny definitely didn't need to be a casualty. If nothing else, Thenji was going to see to it that Sally got her donkey back alive and well. Thenji snaps the reins and steers Brawny and the cart down the nearest alley or side street capable of allowing the cart to pass.
Charisma:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10I'm uncertain if this is considered a Ride or Handle Animal check. If Ride it's +3 otherwise just +2 for Cha.
Thenji gives a low whistle in an effort to attract Linokashtai and Aljohar's attention. He pulls the hat off his head to shield his other hand from view down the street and makes the hand gestures they all learned during their time in combat to indicate going around and flanking the enemy from a direction they were not overwatching. He gestures to the cart then encouraging the pair to hurry up and get on before the donkey gets moving too quickly.
Not sure if this is allowed, but I've seen so many military and war movies where they do this. If you don't want to allow this, Dreamer of the Host, treat Thenji's action as just a whistle and a gesture directed at Linokashtai and Aljohar to get in the cart.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Knowledge (local):1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18
Seeing the young woman who had known him as a child, Thenji acknowledges Aljohar's wave. He keeps the motion rather short as he sees she walks with the psion Linokashtai. While he's pretty sure the woman and he had an understanding, he generally tried to keep from drawing her attention too often. Thankfully, she seemed to preoccupied with following the armed men into the cobbler's to really notice his casual greeting to the cleric.
Keeping the corner of his eyes on the armed men, Thenji can't imagine why someone would want to get mixed up with their ilk, especially if they have the kind of coin to spend on a mount like that. Not unless they needed trifling with that is. He hope Aljohar won't regret following Linokashtai.
Thenji clucks at the donkey...Brawny wasn't it?...and tugs the reins in the direction he agreed to drop off Sally's cart. Of course, Brawny didn't really pay much attention seeing as the animal was already headed that way, making Thenji's action more for show than anything else.
Just a driver giving someone a ride into town for the festivities. Nothing to see here.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Perception:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19
Thenji does not make any move, but he feels the itch at the back of his neck as one of the men eyeballs the steel on his hip.
"Must be an outsider," Thenji mumbles seemingly to himself, but surely intended for Syrus. "Only someone not from around here wouldn't know that the local militiaman wants his veteran's armed and ready."
Thenji launches a gob of road dusted phlegm into the path in the direction of the riders once they've all turned their attention away. I don't like the look of these men. Especially, not in light of the Big Man coming into town today. Either they're his goons scouting the town for trouble, or they are the trouble.
For those who passed the Perception DC 18 (free for Thenji/Syrus:
The horse's unusual size definitely catches Thenji's eye. No doubt about something being strange here. Some inquiries to someone who knows horseflesh might clear it up. Surely there was a reasonable and non-spooky answer to this abnormality.
Yeah, sure there is. Cause nothing spooky ever came out of the war's aftermath. Thenji's mouth twists wryly.
For those who passed the Perception DC 25:
Thenji takes note of the clearly personalized bow. Only a man who takes pride in his weapon does that. And one who takes pride...believes in his ability to use it. Thenji's face remains neutral. Best be wary of remaining in the open if the man puts hand to his quiver.
Out loud, Thenji mutters for Syrus' ears. "Among our newest and hopefully temporary neighbors, there's one with a stringed instrument who believes himself to be talented at making it sing. If you know he's in the crowd, take heed you look for when he's about to play. Best not to be in the front of the audience when that happens."
@therealthom:
1) If Thenji can see the one man peel off, does he know if it is the man who was eyeing him and the cart?
2) Would Thenji have any immediate knowledge regarding the Per DC 18 (Thenji free) spoiler or just what you have already written?
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Dreamer of the Host wrote:
As your cart trundles past the tent-raisers, a man waves one hand in brief greeting then sets it back on the rope and begins hauling.
Thenji takes the rare gesture of manners towards a Cross clan as a sign the man doesn't really recognize him on account of his hat. This also gives him a chance to make a similar gesture of manners with the hat on account he does not usually wear the accessories. Thenji doffs the hat to the man and smiles. Turning his head to make the gesture as the cart trundles past causes something coming up behind Sally's cart to catch his eye.
Dreamer of the Host wrote:
A knot of hard-looking well-armed horsemen push past your cart. Once past, their horses walk slowly north down the main street.
As soon as it's clear they don't plan to share the road, Thenji steers the reins to coax the donkey to shift slightly allowing the well-armed riders plenty of space. The act of doffing the hat also allows Thenji to now pull it low over his face and eyes. No need for any interest from that kind.
"That floor board is coming up again, partner," the rogue mumbles out of the side of his mouth to his cart's passenger.
Thenji seems to be suggesting ducking down low as if to inspect the board to help avoid attention from the 'cavalry'. Also, he avoided using names to prevent any recognition.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
There was no doubt about it, Thenji Cross was certain he was going to die today.
Worn coat unbuttoned and the top of his tunic unlaced, the roguish fellow was sweating profusely. He had never envied Jamorin anything before, but in this heat, Thenji wished he could pull off the "monkish" look so he would have an excuse to wear light, loose clothes. But no, rakishly good-looking blokes always had their coats, tunics, breeches (with a stylish belt no less), and don't forget the boots. As the sun continued to beat down on him, he fanned himself with the old hat one of his remaining kin back on the ranch had insisted he wear to block this accursed sunlight.
His hand was barely on the reins of the donkey pulling the cart he had borrowed to take the monthly supplies out to the Cross Clan's ranch. Why didn't he just buy his own? Because any time he got the chance to flirt with Sally was just too much fun to pass up. The widow hadn't known Thenji very well before the war except in passing and by the rumors that had always followed him during his youth in Haltwhistle. Upon his return, he was determined that he would live up to everything she had been told. It wasn't always easy, and the lady was frequently skeptical. But if admitting to the many ridiculous exploits for which he was infamously accused coaxed a smile from the lass, Thenji would take it. After all, everyone else was rather short with him. Sally at least didn't treat him like "Cross trash" the way many others had.
Placing the hat back on his head (despite the fact it didn't match his coat or boots), Thenji croaked at his passenger crouched down in the cart's bed.
"Hey, Regol, we're almost to town, wake up."
How the man could sleep in this heat—and so bundled up!—was a mystery. Like so many other things about him...
Whatever. None of my business, Thenji thought with a shrug. He reached over and grabbed the clear jar of golden brown liquid sitting next to him. Taking a swig, he exclaims, "Man, this is good tea!"
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Amanda would be an interesting problem for Vex. Especially as a sister versus a cousin or niece. I would anticipate Amanda would have a good reason for sticking around the Cross family lands, or maybe she was sent to live with one of the Crosses who married into a townie family upon the mother's death? I would presume she cannot be anything more than a half-sister if we go the sibling route since Thenji's father departed probably before he was born.
The question of course is if you as the GM would want to have to deal with what would be a very non-standard relationship whether sister, niece, or cousin. As such, if anyone else thinks Amanda would be better as their relation, I'm willing to concede the race. :-)
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
The following are points of time in which people could possibly have encountered or known Thenji. Feel free to review those points which you think would be likely and let me know if you think there are places we would have common ground.
Childhood:
For all people who grew up in town, Thenji was always the lovable scamp who just couldn't help getting into trouble. He gravitated towards being a lackey of whichever child was the current bully and displayed somewhat of a more malicious quality when within their influence. Otherwise, he floated easily between other groups. His family was rather backwater and conservative, leading to much veneration of the town's prominent deities and "belief" though everyone in town knew what terrible examples of the religious tenets most of the Cross Clan truly were. This would have lead to Thenji being a part of the young religious study groups, probably where he may have first encountered Aljohar Sines and formed a friendship.
When not with the more dangerous and cruel children, Thenji displayed a gentle if sometimes mocking attitude. An inquisitive mind often at odds with the prankster image lead to a clever boy often assumed to be too foolish to know better. A predisposition towards his bloodline as a hick Cross generally caused most adults to assume he was probably not bright enough or was too indoctrinated to be worth their time, Thenji received little mentoring from his elders and more from his peers. While his relationships may have become estranged from those them as they aged and developed stronger feelings of right and wrong, Thenji would certainly have been known, and it would be unlikely that his personality wouldn't have engendered a strong feeling of one kind or another. Very few people would have been indifferent to him...except say those whose concerns were never of the material, say someone more bookish or concerned with their own spiritual. (example: theoretical scholar or a monk)
It would be fairly well known, the Cross Clan's elders especially the patriarch are notorious for keeping their blood in line with fear and abuse, that's just the way they always have been. Thenji seems to always be in good spirits...when he's not around any of the older Crosses. Around the family, he would be sullen, quiet, and keep his eyes lowered as showing disrespect or sass was a sure fire way to get your ears boxed.
Adolescence:
Thenji had made his way to the big city close by, so another possible method of meeting him whether from the same hometown or not. Maybe he was not someone they would have spent time with while growing up, but running into a familiar face in a large bustling city can sometimes foster camaraderie not otherwise realized.
Also, if anyone ran the underworld and gang currents, your character could have met Thenji and even Vex prior to the war.
Wartime:
Thenji and Vex would have been present occasionally, but often missing during musters and sometimes days at a time. To a more dedicated soldier, they would have appeared sloppier, less disciplined, and certainly a touch more insubordinate. However, they would have probably not have been punished except by maybe a more type A officer, but anything more severe than some extra duty would probably be quietly countermanded by the company's commanding officer. Vex would have been quieter, and seemed more like Thenji's sidekick. Thenji himself still affable, but more of a cruel edge to his jokes, and sometimes his barbs would stick harder than someone just poking fun.
Secret battle/military action/etc...death of Thenji:
Anyone wanting to be a part of Vex's deception would be welcome. I am planning that Thenji and Vex would have been sent on a scouting/spying/infiltrating mission which would have uncovered something very deadly about the enemy's attack. Presumably, the weapon or magic or summoned entity which runs amok could have occurred either prior to official battle leading to Thenji's company coming upon an already devastated scene or becoming a part of it possibly with their own forbidden secret to then hide. It's my notion that this final mission was probably one in which the commander wasn't expecting either one to survive, but either the company's HQ was wiped out in the event, or if any of those privy to the battle plans lived they are currently unaware that either of the two spies survived.
The choice would be to either have come across Thenji with Vex as he dies and Vex chooses to assume his form, or to come upon Vex as Thenji burying "Vex."
Postwar:
Thenjivex returns and claims the mostly empty Cross familial lands. Certainly nothing that provides a lot income especially without the hands to maintain things, but nonetheless Vex begins to eke out a living renting some space to other vets. He uses the money to begin renovating the buildings and orchard areas with the goal of self-sustainment. The remaining Cross family members are those who are meeker and more likely to keep things quiet. Thenji seems different, but they all know his reputation. If he's nicer and is taking care of things, what does it matter that he seems to have forgotten things and seems brooding and dangerous if asked about it? Better to let those things go, so he will keep smiling and keep to himself like he seems to want.
Collaboration: I haven't finished reading everyone's back stories yet, but I will, so I can make suggestions of possible crossover points where Thenji and/or Vex would be at this point in their lives.
12/12 HP | AC 15, T 13, FF 12 | Init +4 | Per +6 | F:+0, R:+6, W:+1 (+2 v. sleep/charm)
Here's Thenji with the basic statblock output from HL. I will clean it up since their format leaves a lot to be desired, but it will have to wait until I've slept. I haven't figured out what bonus skill points he gets and all that yet based on your homebrew extras, therealthom. I will work on that later.
Let me know if you have any questions or feedback.
P.S. HeroLab seems to have no way to turn off the default setting to maximize 1st level HP. I had to use a manual adjustment to lower my HP for my two levels worth of rolls (1st: 2, 2nd: 5) + 1 = 8 total. Anyone using HL who does not know how to do this and needs to, I can advise the steps.
