"Oh no!" Vee says, "Maybe that snake business was just a diversion so that they could do something terrible to poor Larur!"
Kewyn can't hold her tongue any longer, "What snake and who is Larur!" As she realizes that she is no longer blending into the kitchen she smacks her hand to her mouth in an attempt to stop the words that have already escaped.
Looking down to Kewyn, Violant says in an aside, "A snake got into the kitchen, it was escorted out. Larur is an employee of the Goblin who may have been mugged."
Charsis leads the little man a short distance away, hand on his shoulder and looks down at him. "So what's all this about cheating then. I looked and I can't see a thing." "Although since I have no idea what I'm looking for that's not a big surprise," he thinks to himself.
"Who's cheating and how badly? 'I need to have a polite chat to them' kind of cheating, or 'I need to pick them up by their collar and throw them through the door' kind of cheating?"
Clifford whispers
" The well-dressed man next to the dealer there is running a version of the dealer's deal . He has put a well-polished silver snuff box next to the dealer at an angle where he can see the cards the dealer give everyone. It's a good cheat because he can deny everything as a coincidence of course. If I may ask , you don't have someone used to this kind of practices at the Goblin ? "
"We had a recent run of bad luck and lost a lot of staff," he says as he thinks.
"That is a tricky one. Maybe I should go with polite chat. I throw too many people out in one week and it'll start to look bad."
He waves Clifford to follow him as he makes his way back to the table and places his hand firmly on the cheating man's shoulder. "Excuse me sir, but the house would like to have a little word wwith you. We wish to congratulate you on your run of good luck and offer you some of our V.I.P. priveleges."
He steps to the side, not taking his hand off the man's shoulder but allowing him enough room to stand and be led away.
Diplomacy Check. (1d20+3=10)
Tvaliss takes in the flood of words in the chaos that follows in the kitchen. Not one for sudden action, the wizardly elf remains calm and seems to be thinking as the ohter, shorter lived people head off to various tasks. At the mention of the snake being a diversion, Tvaliss responds, "It is entirely possible that that was the point. I do no know who this Zilcher fellow is, but I assume there is some bad blood between him and Saul though if he would go so far as to kidnap his right-hand man, I can't be so sure."
Berggren listens to the newly awakened Elf explain there might be some bad blood that caused his fellow dwarf to be kidnapped, or worse. Blood begins to boil with the Elf telling it so calmly. So what are you going to do about it? he asks to those surrounding him.
Zaranae wanders over to Charsis and the odd little man.
"Everything ok?"
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In the gambling hall
After a brief chat between Clifford and Charsis, they move over to the table and politely ask to speak with the guilty man in private. Caught off guard the man nods but his eyes light up at the prospect of special privileges and follows eagerly Charsis and Clifford. Out of ear shot of most of the room the man asks, So what kind of special treatment are we talking about? You got other higher stakes games hidden somewhere else in the Goblin, if so I am IN! I had only heard rumors but if it is true, oh boy am I in! He waits for the good news as Zee wanders over and asks if everything is ok here?
In the kitchen
Saul looks around the room at all those who are gathered as he ponders the situation. As he is about to speak, Bojask comes down the steps from the second floor. Boss, Larur's room has been tossed and he is not in the Goblin anywhere. Wasn't he supposed to go over to Smeed's place today? Saul silently nods to his body man his face thoughtful for a few minutes before speaking, his head shaking back and forth, this is not good, Larur was the one of the best floor managers in Riddleport and really good with money. He looks around the room again to each of you, Smeed is a moneylender who I owed coins too, coins I borrowed to open this place up and refurbish it! Larur was sent to pay some of the debt I owed to him this morning. I have been barely able to pay him back and was hoping to pay the who sum after the big opening but that fell through as you know. And if the rumors be true, Smeed works for Zincher, this might be another warning from Zincher! He shakes his head again pondering all of the information, Gather your group together Vee and Tvaliss and go over to Lymas Smeed's home and see what you can find out! He lives in a flat on Rat Street, Bojask go take care of the cheater will you to free up the others! Kewyn and the good dwarf, if you'd like to go along and help I would be most grateful! I got a headache and need to lie down for a spell, once you find out anything come back here and report back to me first thing! Without further word Saul heads up the stairs to his office.......
Violant passes on Saul's instructions to Charsis and Zarenrae (making sure that Bojask has the 'lucky winner' in hand, first), and waits to check that Berggren, Kewyn and Tvaliss are in tow before heading out to Rat Street, to find out what this Smeed person had to do with Larur's disappearance.
Not having any specific instruction involving Clifford, she invites him to tag along, if he wishes.
"oooh an adventure. I am in. Are we gonna get physical? Can I be the bad cop? I am so glad I got this job."
Violant tries valiantly but can't help but laugh at Kewyn's enthusiasm to be 'the bad guard.'
"I'm pretty sure Charsis and Zarenrae will have that role covered, sweetie." Privately, she frets that this particular group might be lacking in a 'good cop...'
Zaranae chuckles and winks at Charsis.
Clifford bows to the young lady
" It is most kind of you to include me in your expedition. Might I ask how you intend to proceed ? "
Replying to Clifford's question, "Our man, Larur, was last tasked to bring payment to the man we are going to question, who may be working for a rival who just left a venomous serpent in our kitchen." Violant says as they exit the Goblin. "I intend to ask nicely, but I rather suspect things will get violent..."
" My Dear Lady , you are stating your intents there not any sort of plan. May I assume that if the sum of money was consequent , your friend Larur was not unaccompanied ? Also how is the moneylender defended ? Where does he live exactly ? Do yo intend the old "bash in the door and shakes down everyone in sight " or a less visible tactic ? "
Violant smiles, "We know the answers to none of these questions. And so any attempt at a plan could prove fruitless. When we arrive at Smeed's home, we shall see what we are up against, and make the appropriate decisions at that time."
"Operating under the assumption that the man was in some way responsible for Larur's... tardiness," Violant seems hesitant to say 'disappearance,' as it sounds terribly final, "then he won't let us in, and we may have to bash the door in and force answers from him."
" If he is a normal moneylender , he won't permit all of you to enter his house armed anyway ... Someone and his bodyguard might be a possibility but more than this , I doubt . Might I suggest a discreet foray by myself and this lovely example of my race which are not known as members of your team yet could be a good idea ? . I'm also knowledgeable of the means by which criminals gain furtive entrance in houses if this can be of help "
"That might indeed be an option, as it would be best to enter quietly, and not risk interference from the gendarmes." Violant says. "Although, if the man did indeed bring harm to dear Larur, it could be dangerous..."
"It might be safest to find a way to sneak in through a back door, or window, if your skills would lend themselves to that sort of scenario, then admitting the rest of us, if necessary. As a moneylender, I expect Smeed would have guards of some sort."
Clifford looks at the others waiting for their reactions especially the ones of Kewyn ...
Kewyn suddenly realizes Clifford was talking about her, nearly chokes on the bread she was eating and turns bright red. "I can be sneaky although my strength lies in song. If charm is what you need, I think I just may be useful", she says batting an eye a Clifford
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Following Saul's orders the group leaves the Gold Goblin and heads out to find information about Larur from the man named Lymas Smeed rumored to be under the influence of Clegg Zincher. Its a short walk over to his place on Rat Street, a rundown section of Riddleport. Saul's directions are easy and you find the place with little problem. Smeed occupies a townhouse crammed in among the tenements on Rat Street. The townhouse from the outside fits in with the rest of the buildings on the street, little care can be seen, paint worn and peeling, overgrown shrubs and weeds, a muddy pathway to the front door with a side path shooting off between Smeed's and the neighbour's leading to the rear of the building. The front door has a sign on it which says, "Rat Street Loans-by appointment only." The door also sports a small metal slat about five and a half feet up that looks to be opened from the inside only for the occupant to see who is calling behind the saftey of his closed door. On the second floor is a very small window facing the street is covered by somekind of black cloth giving no hints whats inside or if Smeed is even home. The street is full of towns folk heading about their business, most notice your group as you pause to check out Smeed's home but quickly move on to more important matter to them. The townhouse seems quiet, no sounds or movement catches any of your eyes or ears......
"We do this diplomatically, or the fun way?"
"Diplomacy to get the door open, then rush in as a group." Violant says decisively. "Stand to the sides of the door, so that he can't see anyone but the person we have 'asking for a loan.'"
Violant mutters an arcane invocation, and as she runs her fingers through her hair, it becomes messy and lank. Her left eye sports a black shiner, her black eyeliner has tracks, as if she has been crying, and her clothing looks distinctly less 'new' than it did mere seconds before, as if indifferently cleaned, and with colors faded, as if washed and worn too many times. The faint peach scent that accompanies her linen scarves grows no less fragrant, but noticeably less fresh.
"Shall I tell Master Smeed that my no-good pimp is shaking us girls down for extra money, and we just need 250 golden duckies to give him the last kiss he's ever gonna get?" She pouts and thrusts a hip out. "We'll be able to pay him back in two weeks, easy, once we don't gotta give half our take to Razor. Sooner, if he wants some of his take in trade. Us girls'll be real grateful..."
"Or do you have something better in mind?" she says to Kewyn and Clifford, all of the street-girl gutter-talk gone in an instant.
Zee laughs.
"That'll work"
Let's try your way first
Violant ushers the others to the sides of the building, so that they won't be visible through Smeed's little peephole, and then raps firmly on the door, thrusting her hip back out and drawing a scarf over her hair, as if in some truly lame attempt to conceal her features.
If there isn't an immediate response, she'll pound again, somewhat louder.
"Mister Smeed? Are you home?" she calls out. "I got business for you."
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The group moves off to the side so Smeed will not spot them as Vee approaches the door and knocks on it. The first time a normal knock but when she hears no response she pounds a little louder asking for Smeed attention as she has business for him! The peek hole opens and two beady eyes look at Vee with suspicion, his eyes move from head to toe and finally says, What do you want? in a loud annoied tone. I know you, your one of those persons working for Saul arn't you? Saul finally paying off his debt he owes, if not go away?
The rest of the group hears the exchange which does not sound promising standing at the side of the building. The pathway to the back of the building is overgrown as no one has taken care of it for a long while leaving the group with not much room to move and stay quiet. A trash can can be seen through the branches at the back corner of the building filled to the brim......
"Yessir, Mr. Smeed," Violant says, smiling and pushing her chest forward as she speaks, leaning closer to the door as if she doesn't want to be overheard in this neighborhood, "I got money right here, from Mr. Vancasterskinsinstin." She stumbles a bit over the name, and then snaps her fingers as if she's just remembered something, "But he said I needed to get a note from you, that you received the payment." She looks over her shoulder again, with an expression of concern, "Could I wait in there, sir? I don't like the look of the people around here, with this pouch of gold..."
Charsis stands off to the side, his hands wrapped tightly around his Earthbreaker and standing protectively close to Zaranae. He tenses as the man identifies Violant, but smiles when she is quick enough to roll with the situation, something he knows he'd never be able to do. He gently places a hand on Zaranae's shoulder and gives her the the thumbs up, motioning for her to take the left once inside and he'll take the right.
Clifford move to the back of the house trying to see if there is a window he could open while Smeed is talking
Zaranae returns Charsis' guesture with a wink and a smile, unlatching the wicked chain at her hip.
Violant is heartened to note that Charsis and Zarenrae at least seem ready to charge in, if her previous attempt at persuasion convinces Smeed to open the door.
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The situation seems at a stalemate as the door remains closed for the moment as the eyes of Smeed peer deep into Vee's trying to decide wheather this girl at his door is telling the truth. While she waits for Smeed to open up, Clifford moves to the back of the building through the tangles of foliage. She finds a pile of barrels and old crates containing rufuse and garbage. A top one of the crates a green cloak with slashes and bloodstains catches Clifford's eye. Right next to the garbage is a door into Smeed's place and the only windows are on the second level of the building which are covered just like the ones seen earlier in the front of Smeed's flat. Out front the eye slit slams shut and the door slowly opens to let the girl into Smeed's home. Bring the money in girl I'll write a note of payment but this is out of the ordinary, Saul's never asked for one before, your not trying to pull one on me are you? You better not, we don't want Otsk to have to take care of you..... His voice trails off as Vee steps in and he quickly moves to close the door........
Violant steps into the doorway, but leaves her leg in the way so that if he slams the door, it will hurt like the dickens, but not actually be able to close (the old 'foot in the door' trick!). Since she will be standing next to the door, on the inside, hopefully there will be enough room for Zee and Charsis (etc.) to rush in.
She will also make an attempt to grab his arm, to prevent him from slamming the door on her leg in the first place.
Clifford will try to open the back door
Zees chain shoots out at the man's legs but fails to gain purchase
Once he sees the door start to close and Zaranae's failed attempt with the chain, Charsis puts his shoulder into the door and attempts to barge his way inside.
Kewyn is excited and cant really decide which way to go. She looks at Violant and then sees a chain flying around and decide the best place for a small person may be in the back with Clifford. She walks toward him stopping to notice the trash can covered in blood and naively opens it.
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Violant saunters in like she owns the place, slowly moving into Smeed's home so the rest will be able to rush in before Smeed closes the door. He gives her a look of impatience as she moves slowly through the door into the small greeting chamber. Her delay works as the rest of the group makes it to the door in time, Zee's chain whips out and tries to grab ahold of Smeed trying to quickly bring him to the ground but ends up slamming into the closing door and nearly hitting Vee's leg as she tries to prevent the door from closing but luckly for her Charsis's shoulders the door wide open with a loud boom as it slams into the wall it is connected too. Smeed yells, What treachery is this! as he races out of the small room's doorway further into his town home and turns out of site of the group assaulting the front door. You all can hear Smeed heading up a set of rickety stairs taking two at a time, again yelling and cursing at the same time making it hard to tell what he is saying but for two wordsOtsk! Attack! A medium sized primate appears from the back room and is racing towards the greeting room.
At the same time as Charsis hits the door, Clifford, in the back of the town home enters easily picking the lock and letting himself into Smeed's domain and sees the man race up stairs to the second level of this town house. As he steps into the back room she sees a medium sized primate race from the room he just entered and into the next room towards Vee and the rest.
Thinking it would be best to follow Clifford's lead she makes her way to the back of the town home. As she turns the corner Kewyn watches Clifford let himself into the home and begins to follow but halts as her eye spots blood on a coat hanging out of a trash barrel next to the back door. She lifts the lid and sees a green cloak trimmed in sable, the damage to the once fine garment is obvious as there are large slashes in the coat and fresh blood splotches can be seen.
Initiative
Violant steps to the right, to get clear of the others entering the room, and attempts to call upon the authority of the goddess to beguile the man into reversing course and returning to her. "Approach, and face judgement!"
Clifford move towards Smeed but try to avoid the bodyguard
Init
Initiative
Zee sees the oncoming simmian and starts her chain whirling waiting for it to come close enough she whips her weapon out with near unbelievable speed striking the oncoming creature.