Tim will move up behind Akos, weapon and shield drawn, but both hanging downward, casually, a result of Tim's relaxed posture, loose shoulders, and becoming smile. He says, nothing, but as Lowenan notices him, he nods in polite acknowledgement. Tim wants his opponents to see that he is totally at ease, and quite confident. He also hopes that news of his exploits has reached Lowenan's ears; the more wary Lowenan is of Tim, the more protected Akos shall be, simply by the implication that one as formidable as Tim has taken on the task of ensuring Akos' safety.
Tim will take note of the two guards, and of the DMK, trying to see if he recognizes anything about them, whether it be physical descriptions (of the two missing guards) or heraldry (of the DMK.)
OOC:
Do the two "former-elites" match the description of the two guards who recently went missing?
Is the DMK wearing any sort of heraldry that Tim might recognize?
I know that the position that I have indicated on the map for Tim looks a bit off, but I am assuming that since we're not in combat, Tim would be able to stand close enough to Akos to see the contents of the room, without interfering with Vinny.
Breva breaths out and quietly sheaths his sword and begins a prayer to call the blessing of the purifier on his companions. All the while he listens for clues as to what is happening beyond the doorway. His eagerness to see wars with his desire to be ready for whatever they face. He forces himself to resist the urge to peek and works quietly to get ready.
OOC: Bless fills your allies with courage. Each ally gains a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects. Bless counters and dispels bane. Duration 3 min.
Taking his cue from the Loremaster's words he will forgo a listen check and just plan on getting his bow ready. I intended that comment from the OOC thread. Sorry.
OOC: Bless fills your allies with courage. Each ally gains a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects. Bless counters and dispels bane. Duration 3 min.
Vincenzo is standing half in the hall, half out and while watching Akos headed toward the throne he whispers to Tim, "Something wicked this way comes. Ambush, maybe?" using his sword, he points to the metal doors where he hears a commotion.
"Akos! get back out of there! Now! This is all a trap!!"
Akos bows slightly. "You will forgive us if we are cautious. Not the best track record from both of our sides. I promise I will not try to influence anyone here with anything but the truth. I reserve the right to correct that boy's wrong assumption since it is based on a lie of your master. Sorry, mentor."
He walks inside slowly, looking at everything, trying to fit it in his history lessons, and once the man mentions the boy was already here, he tries to recognize any heraldry on him. Walking slowly, non-threateningly, he nods with a deeper bow to the youth guarding the woman and continues toward the table.
"Oh, I completely understand your caution, and I cannot promise that there won't be violence if you don't seriously consider my mentor's offer," Lowenan replies. The man is not put off by Akos use of the word 'master', or if he is, he doesn't show it. "What will be, will be. I know not to underestimate you and I expect you will do the same."
Neurotic said:
"I believe my companions will remain on the other side of the room, except for an actual elite guard. Sergeant Custodio Vecchi, please." he motions for the Elite to join him.
Custodio raises an eyebrow and looks at the others. He had not expected to be summoned. He sighs and moves into the room with his weapon ready but held low, as not to be threatening. Then he sees the outsider in the magic circle and his training makes him raise his blade.
The Deaf Knight instinctively moves to draw his blade, but Lowenan holds up his hand. The knight pauses. Then, the ex-Elite commander makes several hand gestures towards the young knight, which the man seems to understand. He nods and takes his hands away from his blade.
"I would advise you not to make any more sudden moves like that, Mr. Vecchi. He is like a cat ready to strike," Lowenan says. "Although it pleases me to see that your training is as good as my men. I had wondered if your divided loyalties would have made you complacent."
"I assure you, my training is beyond that of a normal guard. I am a Vanquisher of the Purifier and will not explain my loyalties to you,"Custodio says. He looks at the man and shakes his head. "I know you, don't I? You once taught master classes at the Elite Training Ground. When I heard you speak your name, I had assumed you were an imposter using it, but it is you. How can you align with the Renegade? He is vile and has brought terror to the people of this city!"
Lowenan's face betrays an inner anger. "Do not refer my mentor by that stupid attempt to belittle his powers," he says through gritted teeth. He grasps the hilt of his sheathed rapier and slowly pulls it half way out of the scabbard to show Akos and Custodio the blade. "Phelix had this commissioned for me, personally, after learning of Akos and his heritage. I will use it if you insult him again!"
Akos can see that the blade is made of cold iron.
Lowenan sheaths the blade again and then looks at Custodio. "Control your temper, d'Elite, lest I be forced to cut out the Loremaster's tongue."
Neurotic said:
"But as you know, we're not a military company, I don't give them orders. Most of them are higher social status than I am except obviously I'm a priest so we're kind of equals."
"The rest I'm sure you know, Sir Breva Sciarra, a purifier, Sir Tymbeck Valencia, a knight from another world, signor Vinccenzo d'Lucio recently joined our group. And some of the elite and regulars assigned to watch over us and spy on us. Ignorable."
Akos pours himself some wine but doesn't drink yet.
OOC:
No one specified where to sit and this is not 'influencing' as such
I don't have a way to communicate with the deaf/mute - sign language isn't something commonly known, especially a historical one.
Tuck listens to Akos and the one calling himself Lowenan talking, and is grateful the Loremaster does not mention him. Not daring to order Mutt after Akos to guard him, the kobold instead inches closer and closer to the door, hoping to remain undetected.
"Yes, I have been briefed on your strengths and weaknesses," Lowenan replies. "And, I'm sure your kobold friend is sneaking around out there somewhere." He smiles. "I'm not surprised that Oakfirst continues to have Mr. Vecchi watch your back. It is prudent to keep an eye on powerful adventurers even when they are working for The Five and the Regulars." His smile becomes a wide grin. "I doubt you will have to worry about the young arcanus with you reporting on you to Riftwatch. She is an unimportant cog in that wheel."
Castellana had been standing next to Mutt and trying to keep him calm by petting him and scratching the big dog's ear. When she hears the ex-commander refer to her, she turns to look at the others standing by the doorway. She is shocked that his is aware of her presence with them. "How could he know about me already?" she whispers to Breva.
Lowenan looks at Akos slyly. "I watched your fight against the golem from here," he motions to the portal. He gestures to the Deaf Knight again and the man moves towards the portal and lays his hands on the altar. He makes a motion with his hands over the altar but nothing happens. He seems puzzled for a moment. He tries again and this time the portal shifts to face towards Akos and Custodio. An image of the room with the gargoyle golem comes into view for a few moments, then the portals shifts back to a swirling mass of darkness.
The Deaf Knight coughs and seems dazed for a few seconds.
"You see," the man laughs. "I already know you numbers and your tactics. The fight was quite useful. You may keep the magical collar, of course. It is the spoils of war, after all." He pauses then glares menacingly at Akos. "And I assure you we at war, Loremaster. However, Phelix would like to broker a peace between us and you all. Well, I doubt Mr. Vecchi will agree to anything offered, but we'll worry about that later."
Neurotic said:
Once there he ignores the chairs and calmly sits on the throne.
Lowenan raises an eyebrow as Akos moves towards the chair. There is a moment where he looks like he's going to say something, but then Vinny shouts out his warning.
"Well done, Mr. d'Lucio! I see Sectarian training has improved since my last visit to the Wizard District. You are a credit to your teachers," Lowenan motions for Akos to step back. "Your ally is quite right, Loremaster. While it would love for you to sit on it, I would prefer you not too. The creature can be quite ferocious when angered. It will not attack unless I order it to do so, or you get to close."
Akos watches as the creature's eyes open and a wide mouth with razor sharp teeth forms on the back of the throne. The creature shifts and the arms of the chair become appendages. A long tongue licks at the air and it rattles back and forth on its four legs.
"Do not eat anyone," Lowenan says. "We will feed you later."
Tim will move up behind Akos, weapon and shield drawn, but both hanging downward, casually, a result of Tim's relaxed posture, loose shoulders, and becoming smile. He says, nothing, but as Lowenan notices him, he nods in polite acknowledgement. Tim wants his opponents to see that he is totally at ease, and quite confident. He also hopes that news of his exploits has reached Lowenan's ears; the more wary Lowenan is of Tim, the more protected Akos shall be, simply by the implication that one as formidable as Tim has taken on the task of ensuring Akos' safety.
Tim will take note of the two guards, and of the DMK, trying to see if he recognizes anything about them, whether it be physical descriptions (of the two missing guards) or heraldry (of the DMK.)
Breva breaths out and quietly sheaths his sword and begins a prayer to call the blessing of the purifier on his companions. All the while he listens for clues as to what is happening beyond the doorway. His eagerness to see wars with his desire to be ready for whatever they face. He forces himself to resist the urge to peek and works quietly to get ready.
Vincenzo is standing half in the hall, half out and while watching Akos headed toward the throne he whispers to Tim, "Something wicked this way comes. Ambush, maybe?" he points to the metal doors where he hears a commotion.
"Akos! get back out of there! Now! This is all a trap!!"
"Calm down, Mr. d'Lucio!" Lowenan demands as he stands and draws his blades. "I see your other instincts are as good as your knowledge of magic, but it seems your teachers did not teach you diplomacy! They will have to be schooled, it seems!"
The Deaf Knight draws his weapon and looks at Vinny with a look that dares the Sectarian Guard to attack. Lowenan holds up his hand again and the man stands at attention, but he does not sheath his bastard sword.
"But, you are quite right," he says. "I do have other eyes watching you." He motions to the ex-guard standing near him. "Signal the others to stand down and join us."
The man nods and pulls a whistle out from under his tunic. He blows into the whistle three times to make three shrill blasts. Mutt whines.
Vinny expects the iron door to open, but, instead, a section of the wall near Big Tim slides down into the floor to reveal a reinforced wooden door. It opens inward and Tim can see two more ex-guards standing in a small room with a wooden floor. He can see two beds against the far wall with two wooden chests next to them, as well as large table with two small stools that don't look very comfortable.
Standing in the doorway is a tall statuesque woman still wearing the colors of a Bluffside Elite. She is wearing a fine breastplate and wielding a short sword of good quality. A composite longbow is strapped to her back and a full quiver of arrows is at her hip. Standing behind her is a man wearing the trappings of a Tower Wizard. He already has his hands up ready to cast if Tim makes a deadly move.
"Excuse us, please, you are in the way, Sir Tim," the woman says politely. "I will not attack you unless you force me too."
"Arnona, this is a bad idea," the young male wizard says.
"Oh be quiet," the woman snaps. "Sir Tim is gentlemen. I'm sure he will not behave rudely during a negotiation. Now calm yourself and put your hands down."
Tim can tell the woman has the bearing of noble.
The portal flickers to life once again and the rotund face of a gnomish man with a very big nose and large round spectacles appears in the portal. His image is distorted as if he is standing too close to opening on the other side. "Commander Wearne, can you hear me?"
"Yes Musummaar, it took you long enough," Lowenan replies.
"Sorry, the master is quite agitated about the workings of the ancient portal," the gnome scribe says. "He can get it to focus on Sigil and many other planar locations, but he can't get it to stay focused on the Far Realm. We did manage to bring another test subject through. Quite interesting."
"Musummaar, please do not give away all of Phelix's great achievements. I was hoping to surprise them with the good news."
"Sorry, but it is just so fascinating..." He smiles and then looks at Akos. "I see they finally found there way to you. That's good. I am Musummaar Nabbneg Zevallbest Pevas, but you may simply call me Musummaar or Mr. Pevas. Master Phelix has asked me to open up negotiations with you with an initial offering of 10,000 gold." The gnome pauses and looks down at something. Akos can hear papers rustling. "Sorry, 10,000 gold each, as long as you stop interfering with his plans and agree to leave Bluffside and never return." He looks up. "He would offer you employment, but he doesn't believe you would be interested. If by some chance you are interested, he would be willing to offer you many incentives. His resources are vast, now."
He holds up one piece of paper to the portal but it is unreadable. "He's offering a special incentive to Sir Tim, in particular. With the master's portal, he offers to send the knight back to his world. He's managed to focus it on Vrocia several times already, although he hasn't sent any Loyalists through, yet. He realizes that Sir Tim would consider than an invasion of his homeland."
He steps back from the portal and calls out for someone to 'refocus'. Tim watches as the capital city of Vrocia, Ilfrey, come into view in the portal. He recognizes it immediately.
Then, the image is gone and the gnome's face appears again. He has a big grin on his face. "I must admit that your world is fascinating, Sir Tim. It's so massive and most of it is sweltering, yet life thrives there. Very large life too. I'm surprised there are any smaller species at all on such a massive earth body. Very interesting, but no pseudonaturals, so Master Phelix isn't willing to expend too many resources to explore it. Plus, the portal's connection will have to be strengthened to ensure travel, without significant risk."
He looks through the portal and adjusts his glasses. He finally is able to focus on Tim. "Ah, there you are. What say you, Sir Tim. Would you like to go home?"
Tim smiles, "Of course. I will make no hostile moves until dictated by necessity of force."
Tim politely steps aside, but keeps a close eye upon them, especially the nervous-looking wizard.
Gnomish Man said:
He looks through the portal and adjusts his glasses. He finally is able to focus on Tim. "Ah, there you are. What say you, Sir Tim. Would you like to go home?"
Tim smiles, "Your master must have a very low opinion of me, and a blatant disregard for the powers that be. I was brought here by divine provenance, and for a purpose that I have yet to discover. I shall not leave here before that purpose has been fulfilled. I serve Syvatagor's will wherever I go. Home is where honor dictates that it is. Therefore, I must politely decline your offer."
Tim winks knowingly at Lowenan. Just to poke the bear a tiny bit, while still within the confines of decorum.
The two ex-guards carefully move past Tim and Vinny and into the portal room. They leave the door to the room open. Arnona moves to stand close to the man who signaled them. She does not sheath her blade but stands in a relaxed posed. While the young tower wizard stands across from her near to the other ex-guard. He is less nervous being away from Tim, but he keeps one hand near his spell component pouch and the other near his sheathed dagger.
Tellerian Hawke said:
Tim smiles, "Your master must have a very low opinion of me, and a blatant disregard for the powers that be. I was brought here by divine provenance, and for a purpose that I have yet to discover. I shall not leave here before that purpose has been fulfilled. I serve Syvatagor's will wherever I go. Home is where honor dictates that it is. Therefore, I must politely decline your offer."
Tim winks knowingly at Lowenan. Just to poke the bear a tiny bit, while still within the confines of decorum.
"I would hardly call what Mirella did to you divine provenance, but gods tend to think only of themselves and sometime those that feed them power," the gnome says. "And Master Phelix has watched you carefully and thinks very highly of your skills. It is you and the Loremaster, in particular, that he'd like to be able to employ. My job was to present the opportunity to you to see what your reaction would be. I'm sure he'll be quite interested with the results."
The gnome shuffles more paper and then looks though the portal again. "Hmm, I see the Sectarian is standing next to you. But I don't see the others. The golem didn't kill them, did it?"
"Certainly not," Lowenan says with a laugh. "They managed to defeat it and even claimed its magical collar. I didn't watch them bypass the trap, but I'm Mr. Tuck found a way. I think he and others are a bit shy or are preparing themselves for a fight."
"Oh dear," Musummaar says. "I hope you can avoid bloodshed. There has been enough of that already and it is costing the master a lot of coin to keep hiring new soldiers and buying off the local undertakers."
"Again, Musummaar, you say too much," Lowenan chastises the gnome.
"Master Phelix knows that they've probably guessed that he has allies in the city," the gnome scribe says. "Of course, not all all of them have been reliable. Others have dared to defy him." He squints through the portal. "Hmm, no, I don't see him, but the one named Falen knows what I mean. You and your allies are quite slippery, half-hob. We were sure we'd trapped you in Tânger, but you gave my master the slip with the help of those pirates." He scribbles a note. "Yes, that ship and its captain will have to be taken into consideration. We can't have pirates interfering with the master's plans. Hopefully the Dusk will be up to the challenge."
Castellana turns to look at Falen with a raised eyebrow. She mouths the words... what is he talking about?
"So, that is true," Custodio remarks. "Your master conspires with them, as well as the Rising Swords."
"Conspires, hmm, I don't like that word," he rubs his chin thoughtfully. "Can we simply say they are paid well for their services?"
Custodio fumes but nods.
"He really is an angry fellow," the gnome adds.
"It is not surprising considering what those damn mercs did to him and his friends when they raided the guard post looking for Yukgnath's body, as well as the cleric and wizard Phelix hired to watch over his house with his kin, Vigfus." Lowenan looks at Custodio and bows. "I am deeply sorry they behaved in that way. They were not supposed to slaughter anyone needlessly. My mentor is more than willing to pay restitution to you and their families for the pain the Rising Swords caused that day. I can assure you, Phelix was not happy and demanded a refund of the fee he paid for their services. The leaders of that company did pay back what was owed, eventually. It took a bit of iron-fisted diplomacy to convince them."
"While I appreciate the gesture, I do not accept your apology. I'm sure you understand why."
"I do."
"Well, that could be considered a bit of progress," the gnome says happily. "I'd hate to have to send the creature through to make Master Phelix's point. It is quite dangerous and hard to control." He orders an unseen person to 'refocus' again and the image of the portal shifts to frightening fire creature that looks like it stepped out of a bard's tale meant to scare little children. "It is some sort of fire demon from the Far Realm. It is simply gorgeous don't you think?"
"Ah, that's how it will be. You actually start from position of treachery and think everyone just wants money? After this attack on my person, I withdraw my limitation on influencing anyone.
Sir Valencia already refused. I have no doubts paladins will too, although I will not speak for them. Maybe I would entertain the idea, but this is my adopted city now, you did nothing but attack, terrorize, cheat and lie. Wven if I accept, you would simply send someone afrer me or at least use the opportunity if I return.
I am a scholar and instead of offering me knowledge you offer me money? The renegade is as pathetic negotiator as he is a mentor. He is at least good as a master since good dogs obey force."
Akos is livid even if he controls his voice and behaviour as a trained orator should, he is out for blood now. He moves back toward his companions and keeps the rhythm of the speech.
Motioning toward the trapped creature to get the attention of the guard, he motions toward the elite traitor and very clearly and slowly mimes the word TRAITORS
"You use this poor creature somehow. Sentients should never be reduced to a gear drive. Can we speed up this talks to the logical conclusion where you betray your word, your obviously noble and sensible companion and everything you once stood for for a short ego-power trip before you end up in hell?"
He bows shortly to the lady as he speaks of her, but keeps moving.
"Now we talk with someone with deeper understanding of the goal and not with a lapdog with illusions of grandeur."
Ooc:
ready action Sanctuary spell or anklet teleport (need to check spells prepared)
Akos is very aware that cold iron fey bane weapon could end him in a single strike he wants to make some distance from the wearer, but at the same time he wants to provoke rush action that may upstage whatever careful plan they have.
If Lowenan responds with violence, great, if not, he adds "Good dog, sit now" and turns to the lady
EDIT: missed the last response, hopefully you can work this into the narrative. And I'm rolling planar and dungeoneering to see if Akos knows something about the cresture. In addition, if he can cobble together the sentence "we are allies of the ancients" using their terms/language he will say that toward the DMK Dungeoneering; Planar lore: 1D20+8 = [11]+8 = 19 1D20+11 = [3]+11 = 14
still useless
Also, ancient language on the list for next level assuming we survive
Vinny has been mostly quiet, and the use of shapechangers and shape-changing monsters like the chair monster that tried to eat Akos is starting to make him edgy. He needs every one to back down and regroup. fast.
"Excuse me, everyone. If I may have the floor here? I would like to move the motion to have the two sides adjourn for a day or so so we can discuss our newly presented options. Yes?" He uses his free hand to waive his two other friends out of the room.
"Tim, will you help the other two out of the room so we can meet elsewhere and talk?"
Falen:
Falen has been listening to the exchange, but he stays relatively obscure until the statuesque beauty mentions him.
He says nothing to her taunt. She’s making a point, and it appears wholly lost on all of them: Phelix appears to know pretty well everything about them. He surmises that it must be magical. They are being scryed, either individually or as a group. He is unwilling to provide any color commentary nor confirmation to his comrades nor these people. These enemies appear outnumber them and are in possession of too much information.
Aside from his assessment of their advisaries, he is exceedingly curious of the portal, this woman, and her wizard comrade. The fellow and the chair/creature are threats, but the woman speaking to them has most of his attention. Does he recognize her? Or the Wizard?
"They expect a swordsman, soooo..." Breva readies his bow and moves forward so that he can fire into the room with but a step. "As my companion already noted, Paladin's don't take such deals," he responds confidently.
Tuck is considering coming into the room when he hears his name, because somehow they already know he's here. But he quickly changes his mind when Vincenzo calls out.
Vinny expects the iron door to open, but, instead, a section of the wall near Big Tim slides down into the floor to reveal a reinforced wooden door. It opens inward and Tim can see two more ex-guards standing in a small room with a wooden floor. He can see two beds against the far wall with two wooden chests next to them, as well as large table with two small stools that don't look very comfortable.
As he watches the two ex-guards move into the larger room, Tuck realizes they have not closed the door behind them. And he is pretty sure they have not noticed him, either. So despite the fact that Lowenan says he knows the kobold is there, Tuck guesses that they don't know exactly where he is.
They will need a place to fall back to, probably, when the situation inevitably escalates into violence.
Slowly he moves forward, then quickly enters the barracks that the two soldiers just came out of. Once he is sure they cannot see him from across the hall, Tuck starts checking the room for hostilities and defensive tools. If he gets the chance, he'll also checks the chests and any other containers he might find.
"Ah, that's how it will be. You actually start from position of treachery and think everyone just wants money? After this attack on my person, I withdraw my limitation on influencing anyone.
Sir Valencia already refused. I have no doubts paladins will too, although I will not speak for them. Maybe I would entertain the idea, but this is my adopted city now, you did nothing but attack, terrorize, cheat and lie. Wven if I accept, you would simply send someone afrer me or at least use the opportunity if I return.
I am a scholar and instead of offering me knowledge you offer me money? The renegade is as pathetic negotiator as he is a mentor. He is at least good as a master since good dogs obey force."
Akos is livid even if he controls his voice and behaviour as a trained orator should, he is out for blood now. He moves back toward his companions and keeps the rhythm of the speech.
Tuck is considering coming into the room when he hears his name, because somehow they already know he's here. But he quickly changes his mind when Vincenzo calls out.
The kobold tenses. He knew it! And the man called Lowenan does not even deny it.
The ex-commander shakes his head. "While I'm not surprised at your reaction, I would think you'd see the idea of preparing for anything on the field of battle. What you call treachery, I call good battle tactics," Lowenan says calmly. He sighs. "It seems you've spent too many years cloistered in a dusty room and not enough time standing toe to toe against foes. I guess with your upbringing, it isn't surprising, but if I can give you some advice Loremaster." He pauses. "You must learn to see three steps ahead of your enemies if you are to survive in this world. Keeping Arnona and Silagord out of sight to attack from rear if violence erupts was a sound battlefield tactic, but they would not have attacked you from behind unless you used your magic or Sir Tim swung the first strike."
Lowenan looks at Tim. "You are a knight of your people. You have fought on the field of battle, yes? So, you understand that good tactics are the key to victory and that when fighting against magical foes you have to be doubly prepared. Yes, we are enemies, but as a good soldier, you know how to prepare for war."
He turns to look at Akos again. "Yes, I have this blade, but I also have my orders. I am here to keep the peace, if possible. My mentor has ordered me not to be the aggressor. We haven't taken any hostile action, but I will not hold back if you strike first. Yes, it puts me at a disadvantage, which is why I kept Arnona and Silagord out of sight." He sighs again and takes another swig of wine. "I should have warned you about the mimic up front, but I never thought that you'd go and try to sit on it. It's a mistake I don't often make and I apologize." He looks at Akos. "But, ask yourself this, if the throne wasn't an unknown factor in this room, then why wouldn't I have been sitting there? It would be a position of strength. This place wasn't built by Phelix, and I think you know that already, so there could be dangers here that even my mentor hasn't deciphered yet."
He walks over to the table and places his rapier on it. He takes a chunk of meat from one of the plates and dabs it into something in a bowl before eating it. Then he walks back to the chair and sits down. He leaves the rapier on the table. "I hope that will prove to you that I will not attack first. If I was to do so, Phelix would be very upset with me. He knows that eventually you'll come for him, and he would like to broker some sort of agreement to prevent it." He takes a deep breath. "Yet, it may not be possible to avoid more bloodshed. He has his plans and he isn't going to change them without some sort of incentive from your masters, and it is doubtful The Five will agree to anything that Musummaar can offer on Phelix's behalf. But, he wants to try to keep you from invading the enclave."
He motions to the portal. "There are things contained in that place that you should not disturb. Creatures he's brought in from the Far Realms and monsters trapped in magical circles that were placed there long before Phelix discovered its existence. Some of those ancient circles were close to failing before he arrived. Yet, he will not give up the demiplane without a fight an he knows the Wizard Council will take it from him, if they can. But, also ask yourself... would they destroy it or would they do what Phelix has done and use its power, study it? Hmm? Don't be so sure you know the answer Loremaster."
Neurotic said:
Motioning toward the trapped creature to get the attention of the guard, he motions toward the elite traitor and very clearly and slowly mimes the word TRAITORS
"You use this poor creature somehow. Sentients should never be reduced to a gear drive. Can we speed up this talks to the logical conclusion where you betray your word, your obviously noble and sensible companion and everything you once stood for for a short ego-power trip before you end up in hell?"
Lowenan fumes but keeps his temper in check. "Yes, I admit that we use him as a guardian, but he wouldn't have left this place without fighting to the death. Phelix found it more useful to convince him that we meant him and his charge no harm." He shakes his head. "It unfortunate that the power of the portal drains the genie's life force, but Phelix refuses to give up this room or the power it has that connects it to the Ancients. We do not always agree, but I have accepted his choice and will not question him. It is not my place.
"You think me a traitor to my oath and my city, and if you look at it from the point of view of the city's unyielding laws over its citizens, then you are right," Lowenan says bitterly. He lowers his head and stares at the floor. "I am no longer loyal to a bunch of preening merchant lords who rule over Bluffside like it is their personal property, and who push out anyone who challenges their power. The Wizard Council is just as bad, but at least they contain their most of their machinations to the Wizard District. Still, it was the council that convinced The Five that sorcerers like my mentor have no place in Bluffside. They care not about his ethics or his interest in the Far Realms. They only see a sorcerer who threatens the status quo. If he was a wizard, they would accept him into their circle. He would have a position of importance and not be trying to live off scraps." He looks up at Akos. "They will come for you at some point, Loremaster Akos. Be prepared for their treachery if you become too powerful, feykin. Be glad that the people of Old City have come to admire you, but be careful how popular you become. It could be a death sentence."
He stands and points at Vinccenzo. "That is what they did to my mother and when they discovered her powers did not come from texts but was innate in her soul, they used it as an excuse to execute her as a renegade! She was a good woman, but they did not care!" he rages. "Nonwizards live in fear in this city," he snaps. "I know this because I am a sorcerer in addition to being a soldier! I have had to hide my abilities or risk being branded a traitor and a renegade! I have watched good men die because I could not use my magic to save them! So, you'll forgive me if I care not what you think of me!"
Neurotic, I can't quite remember which House you choose for Akos. I think you went with the House of Enchantment, but I know we also talked about the House of Evocation. I think that was my suggestion, but you chose Enchantment instead.
Lowenan revealing that he is a sorcerer is major risk to his life. Both Akos and vinny know this without any sort of check. Sorcerers are forbidden in Bluffside. While there is a law that allows foreign countries and city-sates to post sorcerers at embassies as ambassadors or attendants, it is rarely done due to the risk to the sorcerer's life. Such an character is only protected as long as he or she remains in the embassy. if they leave it, for any reason, they can be arrested and either kicked out of Bluffside or executed depending on the magistrates they get when brought to the tribunal.
Learning that Lowenan is a sorcerer puts Vinny in a very bad situation. It is a standing order among the Sectarian Guards to report any known sorcerers to their commanders and the Wizard Council. If Vinny doesn't do so, he could lose his place among the Sectarians and could be banned from ever entering the Wizard District again, at the very least. It's unlikely he'd be executed, but he could end up in prison or be ostracized from the city.
At this point, his superiors would expect him to take Lowenan into custody, if possible, but since the PCs are in serious danger if they attack, his commanders will not hold it against him if he retreats.
Neurotic said:
He bows shortly to the lady as he speaks of her, but keeps moving.
"Now we talk with someone with deeper understanding of the goal and not with a lapdog with illusions of grandeur."
Arnona is surprised by Akos's words. It's clear as a bright summer day. She gives him a sly smile before glancing at Lowenan. "Sir, what do what to do?"
"If he feels he must converse with you instead of me, so be it. But don't promise him anything that Phelix would not offer. Neither you or I can them any such guarantee," Lowenan says more calmly. He sits down in the chair and crosses his feet. "This could be interesting, but remember what I told you about his abilities. If you sense any sort of magical guile on his part, don't hesitate."
Arnona nods and takes a step away from Tim, so she can see Akos better. "While I have some diplomatic training, I'm the youngest in my family and was not given the same opportunities as my older sister and brother. She will inherit my father's holdings and my brother is now a cleric of one of the Twelve Gods. If I hadn't joined the Regulars, I would have been forced to marry a decrepit old nobleman from Pertan. No, I wasn't going to let that happen, so I became and guard and a soldier but soon came to realize I had traded a bastard of a husband for an uncaring group of dictators."
She sheathes her blade and then crosses her arms. "Commander Wearne has taught me how to survive and that rulers and leaders don't always have the peoples best interest at heart. I realize that Phelix is not a moral man, but he is more accepting of who I, no, we are as people. Yes, he does not like betrayal, but who does." She pauses. "And I will not tell you my family name. I will not have the Sectarian," she points at Vinny. "Disgrace my family because I stand with my commander and Phelix, despite the arcane power in their soul and the horrible restrictions on sorcerers. It is archaic."
She looks solemnly at Tim. "I respect your abilities knight, but you are not on the right side. Mirella has nothing against sorcerers, but the Five do. The World Goddess is simply dispassionate about the lives of mortals."
Neurotic said:
Ooc:
ready action Sanctuary spell or anklet teleport (need to check spells prepared)
Akos is very aware that cold iron fey bane weapon could end him in a single strike he wants to make some distance from the wearer, but at the same time he wants to provoke rush action that may upstage whatever careful plan they have.
If Lowenan responds with violence, great, if not, he adds "Good dog, sit now" and turns to the lady
EDIT: missed the last response, hopefully you can work this into the narrative. And I'm rolling planar and dungeoneering to see if Akos knows something about the gesture. In addition, if he can cobble together the sentence "we are allies of the ancients" using their terms/language he will say that toward the DMK Dungeoneering; Planar lore: 1D20+8 = [11]+8 = 19 1D20+11 = [3]+11 = 14
still useless
Also, ancient language on the list for next level assuming we survive
The Dungeoneering roll isn't useless. Once the mimic begins to move and its mouth becomes visible, Akos knows that it is a mimic. While he doesn't know all its abilities, he knows it can be dangerous but it doesn't move very fast. Being able to surprise its prey is its biggest advantage and that is gone now. It is an aberration and can crush foes that it grabs, but its reach is limited to 10 feet around its body.
That is the second roll you've made for The Planes (the first one was a 13), unless it is a special ability to the Loremaster prestige class. I'll look at your PC sheet to refresh my memory regarding Akos extensive knowledge-based abilities.
If it is another Knowledge (The Planes) roll, Akos doesn't know anything else about the genie besides what I've posted in OOC thread. If you want that roll to be for the creature on the other side of the portal, then Akos is certain that it is alien being from the Far Realm. That means it will be extremely dangerous and could overpower the group.
Akos suspects that if the creature comes through and the spells trapping the genie are dispelled afterwards (as part of your Arcana roll of 30), then the alien creature will likely be forced back to the Far Realm. Removing the portal from the equation, by freeing the genie is the group's best option if they're going to stand and fight. It would likely save their lives, the genie's life, and the Deaf Mute Knight's life.
While v.3.5 doesn't have a Linguistics skill, you can roll an Intelligence check and add a +1 bonus for each language that Akos speaks (+4) to try to learn what the gestures mean and how to interpret them. The DC is 20.
Vinny has been mostly quiet, and the use of shapechangers and shape-changing monsters like the chair monster that tried to eat Akos is starting to make him edgy. He needs every one to back down and regroup. fast.
Hearing Lowenan rant about the Wizard Council and the Sectarian Guard is troubling. But, him revealing he is a sorcerer makes him an even greater threat to the city. Vinny knows that when the council find out, Lowenan will be branded a renegade and being hunted down just like Phelix.
It's the law. It might not always be a fair law, but it is the way it is in Bluffside. Vinny knows he should try to arrest the man, but he and the others are facing too many foes and if the pseudo-natural fire creature comes through the portal, it could go very badly for them. Retreat is the best option in Vinny's mind.
ScottDeWar_jr said:
"Excuse me, everyone. If I may have the floor here? I would like to move the motion to have the two sides adjourn for a day or so so we can discuss our newly presented options. Yes?" He uses his free hand to waive his two other friends out of the room.
"Tim, will you help the other two out of the room so we can meet elsewhere and talk?"
"You can't be serious!" Custodio says. "I don't care what he says, they are not just going to let us walk out of here!"
"You are mistaken, Vanquisher," Lowenan replies. "If you feel you all must retreat and report to your masters, then so be it. We will not be the aggressors here, and we will not ambush you as you leave. You have my word and if that's not good enough, I'm sure Arnona will give you her word."
"I will... I do," She nods. "But please do not say my name to Oakfirst. He knows me and my family. If he learns what I have done, he will go to The Five, and they will strip my family of their titles and have them all either thrown in prison or ostracized from Bluffside. I now I can't keep you from telling him, but I'm begging you not to... they don't deserve to be punished for my choices."
Lowenan adds. "Phelix cares not for the mercenaries you've captured. They failed to capture the doppelganger, and they didn't do what they were told. There leader didn't even try to bluff you. Pathetic. The Rising Swords think they are good tacticians, but they tend to attack first and negotiate only when their backs are against the wall." He pauses "Phelix will want to get Solomon back, I think, but I know that Lord Commander Oakfirst won't release him under any circumstances. The man is too dangerous to let go, or live. He will probably not survive his first night in prison."
He gets up from the chair and orders his men to stand down. The three other ex-guards all move away from Akos and the others. The young wizard moves to stand against the wall next to other man on that side of the room. Arnona moves to stand next to Lowenan. There is a strong connection there but it isn't romantic. She looks at him more like a daughter would at her father.
Falen:
Falen has been listening to the exchange, but he stays relatively obscure until the statuesque beauty mentions him.
He says nothing to her taunt. She’s making a point, and it appears wholly lost on all of them: Phelix appears to know pretty well everything about them. He surmises that it must be magical. They are being scryed, either individually or as a group. He is unwilling to provide any color commentary nor confirmation to his comrades nor these people. These enemies appear outnumber them and are in possession of too much information.
Aside from his assessment of their adversaries, he is exceedingly curious of the portal, this woman, and her wizard comrade. The fellow and the chair/creature are threats, but the woman speaking to them has most of his attention. Does he recognize her? Or the Wizard?
Falen doesn't seem to know Arnona or the young wizard, at first glance. He hasn't been back in Bluffside for very long and tends to be on missions for Lord Max elsewhere in the Northwest. It could come to him in time. Maybe Lord Max will know her, if not the young wizard.
Falen notices that Castellana tenses when Lowenan reveals he's a sorcerer.
When Arnona tells of her family and her fears, Falen can understand her hesitancy to reveal her family name. The half-hobgoblin knows that she is correct. Her family would be disgraced for her actions. That's often the way of nobles and rulers, in any city with nobility. It would be tragic for them to be sent for prison for her allegiance to the Renegade, but after seeing the reward broadsheets for Phelix's capture, he can surmise that The Five will not show mercy to those who ally with the sorcerer, or their families.
"They expect a swordsman, soooo..." Breva readies his bow and moves forward so that he can fire into the room with but a step. "As my companion already noted, Paladin's don't take such deals," he responds confidently.
"Wealth can be used for many things, paladin," Arnona says to Breva politely. "But I am not surprised that none of you will take gold, although I think Musummaar has been ordered to go much higher." She looks at the portal with the gnome's face still in it. He's been listening intently and quietly all this time.
"As much as 25,000 gold each," he says. "Although it will take more time to acquire such funds. Several months, at minimum. Master Phelix is not a bank, but he does have funds in foreign banks that could be brought to Bluffside." He pauses. "He'd be willing to pay each member of The Five, including the dead Lord Mayor's estate, as much as 50,000 gold to bring this conflict to an end. That will take even more time, however.
"The Five must give up the idea of sending you, or anyone else, into the demiplane, and in return he will agree to pay to keep the Rising Sword out of Bluffside, but he will not give up the room you are standing in nor any of his other arcane holdings in Old City. However, he no longer cares about the Growers' Tower, as the portal there was a failed experiment. Seal it up or tear it down if you wish. But, don't try to open the portal within the tower itself. That would end badly. Tearing down the tower most likely will not activate the portal.
"The other portal near the gardens could bring you or another force here, but please know that he knows you are coming and that he will be prepared to fight to the death if you do so. He has many Loyalists in Bluffside. You have not rooted them all out. He would prefer the rulers of the city to see reason and allow him to continue his work, so that he can return home t-"
"Quiet Musummaar!" Lowenan yells. "Do not say another word!"
The gnome snaps his mouth shut, as the ex-commander glares at him.
JustinCase said:
As he watches the two ex-guards move into the larger room, Tuck realizes they have not closed the door behind them. And he is pretty sure they have not noticed him, either. So despite the fact that Lowenan says he knows the kobold is there, Tuck guesses that they don't know exactly where he is.
They will need a place to fall back to, probably, when the situation inevitably escalates into violence.
Slowly he moves forward, then quickly enters the barracks that the two soldiers just came out of. Once he is sure they cannot see him from across the hall, Tuck starts checking the room for hostilities and defensive tools. If he gets the chance, he'll also checks the chests and any other containers he might find.
Once in the room, Tuck quickly discovers that the iron door out in the corridor doesn't open up into the room. (More than likely, it is a fake door. Hopefully, it doesn't lead to... elsewhere.) The room is laid out like a small barracks. There are two beds, more like firm cots; a circular table made from sort unknown dark wood, two stools that look like they might be sized for him more than the others; and, of course, the two wooden chests.
Both of the chests are locked but Tuck can tell the locks aren't the best. They shouldn't be too hard to open, as long as they aren't trapped. As he is inspecting the one on the left, he freezes. There is a sleeping cat on the bed! The young wizard's familiar, most likely. So far, it hasn't woken up.
Outside in the corridor, Castellana turns to Falen and motions that she's going to go back to the entrance to get help. She moves quietly back down the corridor past the golem. She hopes the sorcerer isn't scrying her. Shadows shift as she moves away from the doorway and her foot scraps the metal floor as she passes the gargoyle, but the ex-guards don't notice her leaving.
She passes back into the small damp room with the rope still dangling from above. She begins climbing up the rope to get to the guard post above in hopes of warning Sergeant Herleva and the other Regulars there of the treachery of Lowenan Wearne and the other ex-Elites.
OOC:
The two chest have simple locks on them. The DC to open them is only 20. Make a Move Silently check and two Open Lock checks to open the chests without waking the cat.
While she isn't sure who Arnona is, she immediately recognized the tower wizard, Silagord. He was in one of her classes at the Academy. He will likely face the worse punishment that the Wizard Council can inflict on a wizard who goes rogue, banishment from the Material Plane. Lowenan will be put on trial and executed as a Renegade if he is caught, but if he gives up Phelix, he might only be ostracized from Bluffside.
The laws of the city are clear, and she knows her duty. Any hardships the ex-guards might have endured in life do not matter.
The two chest have simple locks on them. The DC to open them is only 20. Make a Move Silently check and two Open Lock checks to open the chests without waking the cat.
Well, technically I'm untrained in Open Lock. Can I still try? (Although that DC is very high without skill points... Perhaps I need to do something about the cat first.)
Well, technically I'm untrained in Open Lock. Can I still try? (Although that DC is very high without skill points... Perhaps I need to do something about the cat first.)
OOC: No, you have to be trained to use Open Lock. I hadn't realized that you hadn't allocated cc-skill points to it. I keep forgetting Tuck is an urban ranger and not a rogue and that there are some roguish skills that aren't class skills for him.
Just before Tuck enters the room, he looks back to see that Castellana has disappeared from the corridor. Falen seems to be looking at something back toward the gargoyle golem, but Tuck doesn't see anything. He does manage to here her moving away from the group back towards where the group entered this underground complex.
