"Well, you can ask them yourself." Uril replies to Lorsan, pointing at Robin who is just rejoining them as he speaks. In truth, the elf-lady had rejoining the group a moment ago, but Uril never noticed it. He wondered if she had been there the whole time, but figure she'd clarify that herself, if not by explicitly admitting it, then by sharing whatever intel she collected.
Once Robin finishes sharing, Uril reveals just how much of an adventurer or criminal he isn't: "Why would I walk around with a length of rope?"
Turning to the other (not that Robin's idea isn't awesome, Uril just doesn't get it), he then asks: "What shall we do with the additional two hours we still have. We should collect out costumes from Darius, at least."
Lorsan jumps a little at Robin's sudden reappearance, and he listens perplexedly as she slurs incomprehensibly. But it seems Uril can understand her, and would probably glean any useful information from the green-haired elf's ramblings. To Uril's final question, Lorsan replies: Yes, we might need the better part of two hours to don the costumes and practice our impersonations, whatever they may be. We should be off as soon as Early returns, unless he gains us some new avenue of inquiry...
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Early thanks the captain for his mention of the guards, and asks how to find the guard place and so on. Who knows, maybe he should actually do that. Long con. Six months in he could be getting jobs all over the place. Anyway, he wanders back to the others, making sure they're far enough away and out of sight of anyone from the mansion. The group chats about their plans in the quiet of an alley...he listens, a frown on his face as he tries to take it all in.
"Oh...uh....he said that might hire folk at 8th bell to help with clean up. So, after doors closed, there should be a bunch of folk bout cleanin and stuff. If we need another way in, could hope for a job then. Yeah, lets get some costumes. I love fancy costumes!"
As they walk back, he mutters, "Say we get this egg thing, but, say the guards are hot on our tail, it might be good to have a get away plan. Maybe some distraction, some like, foolin them stuff. Like, 100 pregnant ladies all wearing the same stuff all of a sudden fill the street. Or you know....whatever. At least a wagon or a path with some obstacles we can take on the way to the box."
Darius greeted the group with his usual smile, a glass of red wine in his hand. "Ah, there you are. How was the walk? I hope you got everything you needed. Now, onto my part." He gestured towards the surprisingly small bag on the table. "Your new costumes - well, they might not be brand new, but they should serve the occasion."
He stood up, opened the bag and began pulling out five attires. Lorsan and Uril each received a burgundy scholar's robe, with a complex symbol on the left side reminiscent of Baldur's Gate's emblem. Early and Robin were handed finely crafted noble attires made of silk and velvet, displaying just enough wealth to avoid suspicion. The last item to emerge from the bag was a special dress. Daruis definitely did his best here - no one would doubt the condition of a lady wearing this thing.
With a grin, Darius suggested that the group try on their new outfits to get used to them. "Now, if I may... These clothes will help you blend in seamlessly with the nobles and scholars at the gala. But it's not just about the clothes - you need to learn to act the part as well," he even became serious. "A few big words or a touch of haughty manners wouldn't hurt. Confidence is key. Act like you belong there, and no one will question you."
Lorsan makes mental note of Early's observations. Cleanup sounds promising. Perhaps we may get the opportunity to take the valuables out with the trash. He thinks a bit more then adds: Maybe during the gala we should look for opportunities for someone to stay hidden within the museum - ideally within the gemstone room itself.
Once they arrive back at the Sleepy Sylph, Lorsan engages himself in the costume arrangements - not only his own, but offering suggestions and extra props from his collection to supplement the others' also. For himself he adds a monocle, a pair of white gloves, and changes his hair to a more upper-class high coiffure. I shall be Associate Professor Thor McTurjey, of the... er... oh, Uril, what kind of academic establishments would be attending this shindig?
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
"Not a bad idea, Early..." Uril nodded. "The wagon or cart, I mean, not the century of pregnant ladies; I am not sure how we'd pull that off. Maybe we could bribe a street vendor or two to be unconventionally placed for a a few hours after the 7th or 8th bell? I am sure your handsome face would help persuade them, Early."
Uril then looks around for Robin again, wondering if she has disappeared once more and, if so, if she is on the roof of the building now...
AT THE TAVERN:
"These costumes are impressive," Uril uttered. "Are they roomy enought to allow our heavier padding and armored bits to be worn covertly?" Wagging a finger he then adds: "The acting though.... can't I just be my know-it-all self? I am no scholar but know a bit about many a subject. There is no need to deceive there..." Uril hoped.
Turning to Lorsan, he answers: "I have a bit of interest in all thing related to natural history, so I would prefer to keep our fake affiliation to that topic so that I can rely on my actual knowledge of the matter. Darius, pray tell, what would be an obscure but official-enough sounding natural history society in Baldur's Gate?" Relatedly: "Lorsan, would you also change my hair and pick a name for me. I feel like you have a natural talent for such things."
Certainly, Sir Scribe, Lorsan says with a smile.You have little need for subterfuge to pass as a scholar, I assure you. However, if it makes you more comfortable, let's keep your first name the same, shall we? The crafty elf adjusts Uril's hair with a much less-fashionable but more austere middle parting. You don't mind going by Doctor, though do you? He rummages around in his disguise kit and comes out with a couple of small items. Can you manage a moustache? And how about a tobacco pipe? he suggests, holding out a small furry adhesive and a wooden hawkbill. I think this should just about do you, Doctor Uril Itterat.
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
"Do not think it will work." Darius looked skeptically at Urils attempts to combine the robes with the armour. The standard armour and weapons that most adventurers wore simply wouldn't fit underneath them. One could try stretching the fabric over the gear, but it would only emphasize the bulk and weight of the protection.
But he did try to help with the bigger question. "A natural history society..." he muttered, stroking his chin. "Baldur's Gate isn't exactly known for its magic schools. Still, there are plenty of scholars working there in one facility or another." He looked up at the wooden ceiling. "Briel's School of Arcane...yes, they might work. And the Hall of Wonders could be a good place as well. It's a museum that showcases the mechanical and technological marvels of the Gondar church."
He nodded energetically and added. "And the natural history angle is a good one. Varkenbluff's collection has some fascinating displays if you believe the rumours. Like an undead dinosaur from Chult that apparently decimated several villages in just two days. The Duke calls it his 'natural history objects' - a bit of a twisted interpretation but can be a good talking point for a specialist."
"Doctor Il..literate?" Uril asks of Lorsan "Ha! Now that's the biggest lie of the day!"The scribe enjoys the play on words a bit too much, laughing a bit through the application of the mustache and having to postpone the practicing with the pipe for a few minutes so he can regain his composure. "Oh, if Ol'man Quillsworth could have heard that jest... He'd be livid!"
With a smile still on his face, Uril doffed his armor and completed his transition into full scholarship. "Well, Darius, would you then keep my armor and shield safe? This mace too... I took them from my ol'man's house when I went on the run," Uril thoroughly exaggerates his characterization of being a fugitive. "I wouldn't want to lose them." He then thinks for a second or two and adds: "I'll keep my own tome and letter opener, though... Can't go about without those, at least."
"Briel's School of the Arcane..." Uril tries the words in his lips. "Not ideal, but it could work. I think the mechanical marvels of Gond might be a harder connection to make with, you know, nature... Or maybe not... My character could serve as the Hall's naturalist consultant, making sure the constructs and other creations the church puts together are true to the beasts that inspired them."
Ignored, and not for the first time, Robin takes the hint. While her ideas may not be presented eloquently or clear enough, she knows when she’s not considered equal. Left behind, Banks stares at her wine skin for a while. Perhaps her own doing for not being worth taking seriously or providing anything of value. Just a liability. Eyes look solemnly to the sky.
With nothing to lose, nor anything worth fighting for… **** it. Alcohol is brought to Robin’s lips and she chugs. And chugs. A job was a job. And whether she contributed or not, she was committed. They had their plan. She’d do as she’s told for the gold. And besides, she knew how to fade into the background.
When one would look for Robin they could find her right there, in her seat. Having swiped a hat from a patron’s seat while walking to her own, she had it resting on her face as she sat back in her assigned attire with her arms crossed and feet propped up.
Act like you belong, and no one will question you.
Either one, whichever you prefer, Lorsan replies, leaving the choice to Uril, but smiling contentedly at the scribe's enthusiasm. Despite the man's initial reluctance, he was really taking to this disguise operation. And of course they could count on Early's natural ability to blend in. And Robin was ... where was that girl?
Lorsan looks around the room once, twice... and then sees her right there at the table in front of him, with her face covered by a hat. Wow, she really is easy to overlook, he thought, then with some dismay: And already passed out from too much grog, by the looks...Still conversing with the excited Uril, nevertheless Lorsan's thoughts are on Robin. Why is she even here? What did this Darius have on her? His thoughts race back over the events of the day so far... Robin's slurred and random comments in the alley... their earlier interactions in the tavern... his initial appraisal...
... a sharp eye... ...with a steely glint too... ...assessing every opportunity and threat... ...knows how to handle herself... ...Nimble. She could get into places others ---
Suddenly, realisation dawns, and Lorsan pieces together Robin's nonsense from the alley. She had seen an opportunity... something neither he nor any of these other two would have been able to... and had been overlooked because he'd discounted her as simply an incoherent drunk. Lorsan continues smiling at Uril's suggestions, but only half-heartedly as his eyes continue to glance over at the reclining Robin. Had he misjudged her? Discounted her prematurely? She was probably used to that. Was the drinking part of some act? Was it an escape? a wall? Could he leverage her skills better if he saw past the slur and the swagger, just as he had learned to see past Early's mental dimness to the charm and wit hidden behind?
He sighs, still smiling at Uril. He wasn't used to this - working with others, understanding how to operate as a team. Lorsan was used to working alone, and if he admitted it, was proud of what he was capable of on his own. Too proud to recognise the talents in others perhaps, even as he made a living recognising weaknesses that could be exploited.
...And still too proud to say anything to her now, that might reveal his own weakness
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Early examines the fancy clothes. They felt so....expensive. He wasn't quite sure what this bit was for, did it go over or under...or...sideways? He struggled with the clothes for a short time before asking for help from....glancing around he spots a sleeping drunk and two guys laughing about something he could make no sense of...and Darius, so he asked him a bit about the clothes. "Right, so...what's my name then. How about Earl Eugene Riser. Or....Earl E. Riser for short." He grins and sits back next to Robin and kicks his feet up, and starts thinking about Eugene's back story. He has experience with this. He pulled from a few other personalities until he felt ready.
He smacks Robin's leg to get her attention, "Hey, hey, you should try these clothes on, it's time to get movin soon. And...are you going to do a fake personality...we're friends ya, maybe brother and sister?"
After he gets Robin at least going to the clothes, he goes to a mirror with a disguise kit. He faces the small mirror, away from the others, trying on various fakes face bits and wigs. Eventually though, he turns around, and....looks convincingly like someone who could be Robin's brother, and convincingly almost nothing like early. He smiles. He raises his voice a bit and says, "Well then, I say, snooty snooty snooty and a lovely champagne. Hahaha...wouldn't you say my good sis?" He snorts. "I'm ready!"
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Uril opens up his tome-to-go and revises some of the notes that might be relevant in a setting that calls for knowledge on natural history. The least he needs to rely on playing a role or deceiving, the better! While doing this, Uril is focused, meaning he pays little attention to the others for now.
The one who enjoyed himself the most in the room was definitely Darius. The man clearly loved his job allowing all the thrill of preparation and no danger to his life. He was useful, though. "I arranged for a carriage to bring in our "nobles". Let's assume those two esteemed scholars are your friends or guest or whatever and I think all can arrive together. Unless, of course, they do not mind walking to the museum." He raised a brow questioningly and looked at everyone. "Also... Not sure if you find it useful, but this little bag," he pointed at the ornated bag which held before the costumes you are wearing now, "is quite spacious. Your armour and weapon should fit in. The only problem is, I have no doubt you will be asked to leave it in some room once inside the building. So, you will not have direct access to your gear anyway. You decide."
The elegant carriage, pulled by a pair of well-groomed horses indeed waited outside. Two slender noble green-haired elves and two no less noble (in their craft) scholars could sit comfortably in it on velvet cushions and enjoy the short ride. At this hour - very late afternoon or very early evening - there is still too much sun for any house to light the lamps, yet, through the double doors of the main entrance you can see a well-lit foyer. Two guards stand at the entrance, dressed in their finest uniforms and standing at attention to welcome the guests. Someone in Varkenbluff's livery and looking both very important and appropriately welcoming collects tickets right in the doors. There are not that many guests - either some decided to be fashionably late or (most likely) there were not that many invitations, to begin with. Your tickets were accepted with the head bow from the important ticket collector and without any hint of suspicion. He stepped aside and you were allowed to enter the vast lobby of the museum.
The display had to be somewhere deeper in the building. The foyer looks both busy and empty: the space is broken by a marble column in the center and pedestals here and there but the only thing resembling objects of art is two statues depicting robed human women flanking the sides of this mingling space. To the north is a grand staircase draped in the rich carpet. There are a few display racks with something small along the north walls, three closed (and guarded by the red velvet ropes) doors on the east side and three open passages on the west.
A couple of guests are slowly walking towards the stairs. The already familiar guard captain and some tall, thin middle-aged man of a sharp and angular appearance, wearing the robe with Varkenbluff's sigil, greet everyone. If the woman manages some sort of smile, the man looks quite uninviting and cold. Nevertheless, the words are polite and repeated phrases about refreshments waiting upstairs are welcoming.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Uril clicks his tongue and wags a finger. "A carriage sounds both pleasant and smart, lest we ourselves get mugged in the streets walking in these fancier-than-normal clothes." The scribe then places a good amount of his "borrowed" gear into the magical bag that Darius provided and asks a question of the group: "Who wants to carry this thing?"
Once led outside, Uril cannot resist patting the horses and letting them get used to his scent:
After being admitted into the museum, Urils whispers: "Let us hope the limited number of invitations wasn't too limited, otherwise they might have a specific number of people in mind and would be able to spot two extras without some simple counting..." Fearing that any move in here might trigger some uncomfortable social interaction where he might be required to start lying sooner than he wished, Uril remained otherwise quiet for now, giving the social space to the other members of the party, who were clearly more capable on that front. In the meantime, the scribe wondered if the robed statues had any obvious historical or artistic meaning he could share with the party.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
When stirred, Robin would grunt. “Sounds good, bro.” She gives Early a thumbs up. “Tell the ‘kids’ Aunt Flo’s in town. They’ll love it.” She blurts seemingly randomly. Visibly uncomfortable in her fancy new to her attire, the woman would scratch and itch from the fabric, pick it out of crevices, tug at it to try to make it looser in some spots and consistently check on her range of motion. “Florence, or Flo, Riser at yer service. Or whatever.” They felt stiff and restrictive compared to her usual clothing that hugged her body and moved with her.
Should no one take the bag after Uril’s prompt, Robin wouldn’t leave it there unattended, she’d swipe it so it wouldn’t be left behind. Assuming they were still going forward with a pregnant lady eggscape plan, they’ll need that other dress/outfit. And if the bag was even more spacious than she eggspected, maybe it could be a back up way of transporting. If one of the others preferred to carry the bag, along with their own possessions, she’d hand it over without question. She has no need to store gear for example.
Robin wouldn’t be excited to walk, or build up a sweat, in this type of material, therefore if there were no issues, concerns, or preference by Early to take the long way, she’d stuff herself into the carriage with the others. The velvet on the cushions were more welcoming to Banks because it wasn’t hugging her bare flesh, and she could pet it. Distracting herself, the blonde would play with the fabric, ‘drawing’ doodles and writing things before ‘wiping it clean’ and starting again.
Upon arrival, Robin wasn’t eager to rush out of the carriage to join the anticipated throng of people. Her preference was slinking around in the shadows, not mingling out in plane sight, but she’d eventually pull herself together to put on a happy face and exit to join the others. However, old habits do die hard and she’d try to blend in ‘seamlessly’ to try to ‘disappear’ into the environment for freedom of movement.
Stealth: 16 (Don’t think there’d be adv, but maybe if we ‘look like we belong’, perhaps?: 11 )
‘Flo Riser’ scans as she goes. Keeping an eye out on the guards, she watches for any change in demeanour (to learn/know when they’re ‘relaxed’, attentive, and/or alerted) and any patterns in their paths and/or ‘shift change’. She watches the flow of people, the places in which they come and go, and how they conduct themselves. Maybe she might learn a thing or two, or even notice that maybe there’s other people like them that might not actually belong either (any one else sus? We the only ‘shady’ ones?).
Statues have no captions but Uril's was knowledge allowed him (at least he thinks he is right here) to recognize familiar shapes. The statue on the left with a pair of golden dice in one hand, while the other hand is raised in a gesture of welcome seems to depict Tymora, the goddess of luck and good fortune. The statue on the right side, which looks like a voluptuous woman wearing flowing silk robes, with long hair and a playful expression, has to depict Sharess, the goddess of pleasure, indulgence, and sensuality.
Hard to say if the owner of the museum hinted at something in this choice of sculptures, but together the statues create a striking and unforgettable impression.
It would be challenging for a well-dressed young lady accompanied by three other people to arrive at the doorstep of a building, standing in the open, and disappear unnoticed. Robin realized the difficulty of the task, once she stepped out of the carriage. The guards and the "ticket collector" could not help but watch arriving guests. Robin could be sure they will not follow her, should she decide to go another way, rather than enter the building, but hanging around in the shadows would look... strange. She also had to admit, that the "noble lady dress" was not designed for proper hiding.
If any of the other guests were not who they claimed they are, it was not obvious. While Robin was contemplating entering, another noble couple (human, looking more like a married couple) entered the museum. Then a single scholar. It was not exactly a "flow", but people did come. The nobles carried an expression of polite disinterest, the scholar a look of focused curiosity, as they all made their way into the museum.
The guards did not change, it was clear they are here until the gala begins - a bit less than an hour from now. They look as dedicated as a guard can. Well can be it has something to do with their captain watching them from inside.
If Robin were to enter the museum, she would soon notice that no one seemed to be exploring the left passages and instead were heading straight upstairs. By the way, Darius had been proven right about the bag, which had been politely taken (from whoever was carrying it) and transported to an office behind the first door on the right for the guest's convenience.
After sharing his interpretation of the welcoming statues with the others, Uril turns to provide some encouragement to at least one of his companions. Robin had already made her move by then, so Uril looks at Early instead. With a quick recital of his favorite childhood verses, he hopes Early is ready to "Go get'em, tiger!"
Uril then makes a mental note to not leave Darius' bag behind at the reception area by the time they leave the gala. All of his combat gear was inside!
Early strolls out of the carriage, a ridiculous swagger to his step as he wanders away. At some point, he glances back for his 'sister'...and seeing her delaying, makes a "tsk tsk tsk" followed by saying, "Come along sis". He passes his ticket in, as if he were discarding a piece of trash to a beggar, and strolls up to the thin man and the guard and just sort of waves his hand at them as he wanders past. At the brief mention of refreshments his eyes alight, "Ahhh, goodness yes, this day has been nothing but dreadful. You won't BELIEVE it. My bath water was tepid, my lunch steak was overcooked, and the carriage felt like it was driving across a blasted mountain. Oooh, my butt is just ...well.....refreshments you said...thank all that is good in the world."
He looks back, "Sis, come along, let us turn this horrid day right round!"
He looks specifically at the room where the bag was taken from Robin...and casually, with a bored look on his face, watches the process and who goes in and out, before moving along.
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
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"Well, you can ask them yourself." Uril replies to Lorsan, pointing at Robin who is just rejoining them as he speaks. In truth, the elf-lady had rejoining the group a moment ago, but Uril never noticed it. He wondered if she had been there the whole time, but figure she'd clarify that herself, if not by explicitly admitting it, then by sharing whatever intel she collected.
Once Robin finishes sharing, Uril reveals just how much of an adventurer or criminal he isn't: "Why would I walk around with a length of rope?"
Turning to the other (not that Robin's idea isn't awesome, Uril just doesn't get it), he then asks: "What shall we do with the additional two hours we still have. We should collect out costumes from Darius, at least."
Lorsan jumps a little at Robin's sudden reappearance, and he listens perplexedly as she slurs incomprehensibly. But it seems Uril can understand her, and would probably glean any useful information from the green-haired elf's ramblings. To Uril's final question, Lorsan replies: Yes, we might need the better part of two hours to don the costumes and practice our impersonations, whatever they may be. We should be off as soon as Early returns, unless he gains us some new avenue of inquiry...
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Early thanks the captain for his mention of the guards, and asks how to find the guard place and so on. Who knows, maybe he should actually do that. Long con. Six months in he could be getting jobs all over the place. Anyway, he wanders back to the others, making sure they're far enough away and out of sight of anyone from the mansion. The group chats about their plans in the quiet of an alley...he listens, a frown on his face as he tries to take it all in.
"Oh...uh....he said that might hire folk at 8th bell to help with clean up. So, after doors closed, there should be a bunch of folk bout cleanin and stuff. If we need another way in, could hope for a job then. Yeah, lets get some costumes. I love fancy costumes!"
As they walk back, he mutters, "Say we get this egg thing, but, say the guards are hot on our tail, it might be good to have a get away plan. Maybe some distraction, some like, foolin them stuff. Like, 100 pregnant ladies all wearing the same stuff all of a sudden fill the street. Or you know....whatever. At least a wagon or a path with some obstacles we can take on the way to the box."
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Darius greeted the group with his usual smile, a glass of red wine in his hand. "Ah, there you are. How was the walk? I hope you got everything you needed. Now, onto my part." He gestured towards the surprisingly small bag on the table. "Your new costumes - well, they might not be brand new, but they should serve the occasion."
He stood up, opened the bag and began pulling out five attires. Lorsan and Uril each received a burgundy scholar's robe, with a complex symbol on the left side reminiscent of Baldur's Gate's emblem. Early and Robin were handed finely crafted noble attires made of silk and velvet, displaying just enough wealth to avoid suspicion. The last item to emerge from the bag was a special dress. Daruis definitely did his best here - no one would doubt the condition of a lady wearing this thing.
With a grin, Darius suggested that the group try on their new outfits to get used to them. "Now, if I may... These clothes will help you blend in seamlessly with the nobles and scholars at the gala. But it's not just about the clothes - you need to learn to act the part as well," he even became serious. "A few big words or a touch of haughty manners wouldn't hurt. Confidence is key. Act like you belong there, and no one will question you."
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Lorsan makes mental note of Early's observations. Cleanup sounds promising. Perhaps we may get the opportunity to take the valuables out with the trash. He thinks a bit more then adds: Maybe during the gala we should look for opportunities for someone to stay hidden within the museum - ideally within the gemstone room itself.
Once they arrive back at the Sleepy Sylph, Lorsan engages himself in the costume arrangements - not only his own, but offering suggestions and extra props from his collection to supplement the others' also. For himself he adds a monocle, a pair of white gloves, and changes his hair to a more upper-class high coiffure. I shall be Associate Professor Thor McTurjey, of the... er... oh, Uril, what kind of academic establishments would be attending this shindig?
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
BEFORE REACHING THE TAVERN:
"Not a bad idea, Early..." Uril nodded. "The wagon or cart, I mean, not the century of pregnant ladies; I am not sure how we'd pull that off. Maybe we could bribe a street vendor or two to be unconventionally placed for a a few hours after the 7th or 8th bell? I am sure your handsome face would help persuade them, Early."
Uril then looks around for Robin again, wondering if she has disappeared once more and, if so, if she is on the roof of the building now...
AT THE TAVERN:
"These costumes are impressive," Uril uttered. "Are they roomy enought to allow our heavier padding and armored bits to be worn covertly?" Wagging a finger he then adds: "The acting though.... can't I just be my know-it-all self? I am no scholar but know a bit about many a subject. There is no need to deceive there..." Uril hoped.
Turning to Lorsan, he answers: "I have a bit of interest in all thing related to natural history, so I would prefer to keep our fake affiliation to that topic so that I can rely on my actual knowledge of the matter. Darius, pray tell, what would be an obscure but official-enough sounding natural history society in Baldur's Gate?" Relatedly: "Lorsan, would you also change my hair and pick a name for me. I feel like you have a natural talent for such things."
Certainly, Sir Scribe, Lorsan says with a smile. You have little need for subterfuge to pass as a scholar, I assure you. However, if it makes you more comfortable, let's keep your first name the same, shall we? The crafty elf adjusts Uril's hair with a much less-fashionable but more austere middle parting. You don't mind going by Doctor, though do you? He rummages around in his disguise kit and comes out with a couple of small items. Can you manage a moustache? And how about a tobacco pipe? he suggests, holding out a small furry adhesive and a wooden hawkbill. I think this should just about do you, Doctor Uril Itterat.
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
"Do not think it will work." Darius looked skeptically at Urils attempts to combine the robes with the armour. The standard armour and weapons that most adventurers wore simply wouldn't fit underneath them. One could try stretching the fabric over the gear, but it would only emphasize the bulk and weight of the protection.
But he did try to help with the bigger question. "A natural history society..." he muttered, stroking his chin. "Baldur's Gate isn't exactly known for its magic schools. Still, there are plenty of scholars working there in one facility or another." He looked up at the wooden ceiling. "Briel's School of Arcane...yes, they might work. And the Hall of Wonders could be a good place as well. It's a museum that showcases the mechanical and technological marvels of the Gondar church."
He nodded energetically and added. "And the natural history angle is a good one. Varkenbluff's collection has some fascinating displays if you believe the rumours. Like an undead dinosaur from Chult that apparently decimated several villages in just two days. The Duke calls it his 'natural history objects' - a bit of a twisted interpretation but can be a good talking point for a specialist."
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
"Doctor Il..literate?" Uril asks of Lorsan "Ha! Now that's the biggest lie of the day!" The scribe enjoys the play on words a bit too much, laughing a bit through the application of the mustache and having to postpone the practicing with the pipe for a few minutes so he can regain his composure. "Oh, if Ol'man Quillsworth could have heard that jest... He'd be livid!"
With a smile still on his face, Uril doffed his armor and completed his transition into full scholarship. "Well, Darius, would you then keep my armor and shield safe? This mace too... I took them from my ol'man's house when I went on the run," Uril thoroughly exaggerates his characterization of being a fugitive. "I wouldn't want to lose them." He then thinks for a second or two and adds: "I'll keep my own tome and letter opener, though... Can't go about without those, at least."
"Briel's School of the Arcane..." Uril tries the words in his lips. "Not ideal, but it could work. I think the mechanical marvels of Gond might be a harder connection to make with, you know, nature... Or maybe not... My character could serve as the Hall's naturalist consultant, making sure the constructs and other creations the church puts together are true to the beasts that inspired them."
Ignored, and not for the first time, Robin takes the hint. While her ideas may not be presented eloquently or clear enough, she knows when she’s not considered equal. Left behind, Banks stares at her wine skin for a while. Perhaps her own doing for not being worth taking seriously or providing anything of value. Just a liability. Eyes look solemnly to the sky.
With nothing to lose, nor anything worth fighting for… **** it. Alcohol is brought to Robin’s lips and she chugs. And chugs. A job was a job. And whether she contributed or not, she was committed. They had their plan. She’d do as she’s told for the gold. And besides, she knew how to fade into the background.
When one would look for Robin they could find her right there, in her seat. Having swiped a hat from a patron’s seat while walking to her own, she had it resting on her face as she sat back in her assigned attire with her arms crossed and feet propped up.
Act like you belong, and no one will question you.
just an unstable unicorn.
Either one, whichever you prefer, Lorsan replies, leaving the choice to Uril, but smiling contentedly at the scribe's enthusiasm. Despite the man's initial reluctance, he was really taking to this disguise operation. And of course they could count on Early's natural ability to blend in. And Robin was ... where was that girl?
Lorsan looks around the room once, twice... and then sees her right there at the table in front of him, with her face covered by a hat. Wow, she really is easy to overlook, he thought, then with some dismay: And already passed out from too much grog, by the looks... Still conversing with the excited Uril, nevertheless Lorsan's thoughts are on Robin. Why is she even here? What did this Darius have on her? His thoughts race back over the events of the day so far... Robin's slurred and random comments in the alley... their earlier interactions in the tavern... his initial appraisal...
... a sharp eye... ...with a steely glint too... ...assessing every opportunity and threat... ...knows how to handle herself... ...Nimble. She could get into places others ---
Suddenly, realisation dawns, and Lorsan pieces together Robin's nonsense from the alley. She had seen an opportunity... something neither he nor any of these other two would have been able to... and had been overlooked because he'd discounted her as simply an incoherent drunk. Lorsan continues smiling at Uril's suggestions, but only half-heartedly as his eyes continue to glance over at the reclining Robin. Had he misjudged her? Discounted her prematurely? She was probably used to that. Was the drinking part of some act? Was it an escape? a wall? Could he leverage her skills better if he saw past the slur and the swagger, just as he had learned to see past Early's mental dimness to the charm and wit hidden behind?
He sighs, still smiling at Uril. He wasn't used to this - working with others, understanding how to operate as a team. Lorsan was used to working alone, and if he admitted it, was proud of what he was capable of on his own. Too proud to recognise the talents in others perhaps, even as he made a living recognising weaknesses that could be exploited.
...And still too proud to say anything to her now, that might reveal his own weakness
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Early examines the fancy clothes. They felt so....expensive. He wasn't quite sure what this bit was for, did it go over or under...or...sideways? He struggled with the clothes for a short time before asking for help from....glancing around he spots a sleeping drunk and two guys laughing about something he could make no sense of...and Darius, so he asked him a bit about the clothes. "Right, so...what's my name then. How about Earl Eugene Riser. Or....Earl E. Riser for short." He grins and sits back next to Robin and kicks his feet up, and starts thinking about Eugene's back story. He has experience with this. He pulled from a few other personalities until he felt ready.
He smacks Robin's leg to get her attention, "Hey, hey, you should try these clothes on, it's time to get movin soon. And...are you going to do a fake personality...we're friends ya, maybe brother and sister?"
After he gets Robin at least going to the clothes, he goes to a mirror with a disguise kit. He faces the small mirror, away from the others, trying on various fakes face bits and wigs. Eventually though, he turns around, and....looks convincingly like someone who could be Robin's brother, and convincingly almost nothing like early. He smiles. He raises his voice a bit and says, "Well then, I say, snooty snooty snooty and a lovely champagne. Hahaha...wouldn't you say my good sis?" He snorts. "I'm ready!"
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Uril opens up his tome-to-go and revises some of the notes that might be relevant in a setting that calls for knowledge on natural history. The least he needs to rely on playing a role or deceiving, the better! While doing this, Uril is focused, meaning he pays little attention to the others for now.
-> Armor, shield, and mace unequipped.
The one who enjoyed himself the most in the room was definitely Darius. The man clearly loved his job allowing all the thrill of preparation and no danger to his life. He was useful, though. "I arranged for a carriage to bring in our "nobles". Let's assume those two esteemed scholars are your friends or guest or whatever and I think all can arrive together. Unless, of course, they do not mind walking to the museum." He raised a brow questioningly and looked at everyone. "Also... Not sure if you find it useful, but this little bag," he pointed at the ornated bag which held before the costumes you are wearing now, "is quite spacious. Your armour and weapon should fit in. The only problem is, I have no doubt you will be asked to leave it in some room once inside the building. So, you will not have direct access to your gear anyway. You decide."
The elegant carriage, pulled by a pair of well-groomed horses indeed waited outside. Two slender noble green-haired elves and two no less noble (in their craft) scholars could sit comfortably in it on velvet cushions and enjoy the short ride.
At this hour - very late afternoon or very early evening - there is still too much sun for any house to light the lamps, yet, through the double doors of the main entrance you can see a well-lit foyer. Two guards stand at the entrance, dressed in their finest uniforms and standing at attention to welcome the guests. Someone in Varkenbluff's livery and looking both very important and appropriately welcoming collects tickets right in the doors.
There are not that many guests - either some decided to be fashionably late or (most likely) there were not that many invitations, to begin with. Your tickets were accepted with the head bow from the important ticket collector and without any hint of suspicion. He stepped aside and you were allowed to enter the vast lobby of the museum.
The display had to be somewhere deeper in the building. The foyer looks both busy and empty: the space is broken by a marble column in the center and pedestals here and there but the only thing resembling objects of art is two statues depicting robed human women flanking the sides of this mingling space. To the north is a grand staircase draped in the rich carpet. There are a few display racks with something small along the north walls, three closed (and guarded by the red velvet ropes) doors on the east side and three open passages on the west.
A couple of guests are slowly walking towards the stairs. The already familiar guard captain and some tall, thin middle-aged man of a sharp and angular appearance, wearing the robe with Varkenbluff's sigil, greet everyone. If the woman manages some sort of smile, the man looks quite uninviting and cold. Nevertheless, the words are polite and repeated phrases about refreshments waiting upstairs are welcoming.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Uril clicks his tongue and wags a finger. "A carriage sounds both pleasant and smart, lest we ourselves get mugged in the streets walking in these fancier-than-normal clothes." The scribe then places a good amount of his "borrowed" gear into the magical bag that Darius provided and asks a question of the group: "Who wants to carry this thing?"
Once led outside, Uril cannot resist patting the horses and letting them get used to his scent:
-> Animal handling check: 8
After being admitted into the museum, Urils whispers: "Let us hope the limited number of invitations wasn't too limited, otherwise they might have a specific number of people in mind and would be able to spot two extras without some simple counting..." Fearing that any move in here might trigger some uncomfortable social interaction where he might be required to start lying sooner than he wished, Uril remained otherwise quiet for now, giving the social space to the other members of the party, who were clearly more capable on that front. In the meantime, the scribe wondered if the robed statues had any obvious historical or artistic meaning he could share with the party.
-> History check: 18
When stirred, Robin would grunt. “Sounds good, bro.” She gives Early a thumbs up. “Tell the ‘kids’ Aunt Flo’s in town. They’ll love it.” She blurts seemingly randomly. Visibly uncomfortable in her fancy new to her attire, the woman would scratch and itch from the fabric, pick it out of crevices, tug at it to try to make it looser in some spots and consistently check on her range of motion. “Florence, or Flo, Riser at yer service. Or whatever.” They felt stiff and restrictive compared to her usual clothing that hugged her body and moved with her.
Should no one take the bag after Uril’s prompt, Robin wouldn’t leave it there unattended, she’d swipe it so it wouldn’t be left behind. Assuming they were still going forward with a pregnant lady eggscape plan, they’ll need that other dress/outfit. And if the bag was even more spacious than she eggspected, maybe it could be a back up way of transporting. If one of the others preferred to carry the bag, along with their own possessions, she’d hand it over without question. She has no need to store gear for example.
Robin wouldn’t be excited to walk, or build up a sweat, in this type of material, therefore if there were no issues, concerns, or preference by Early to take the long way, she’d stuff herself into the carriage with the others. The velvet on the cushions were more welcoming to Banks because it wasn’t hugging her bare flesh, and she could pet it. Distracting herself, the blonde would play with the fabric, ‘drawing’ doodles and writing things before ‘wiping it clean’ and starting again.
Upon arrival, Robin wasn’t eager to rush out of the carriage to join the anticipated throng of people. Her preference was slinking around in the shadows, not mingling out in plane sight, but she’d eventually pull herself together to put on a happy face and exit to join the others. However, old habits do die hard and she’d try to blend in ‘seamlessly’ to try to ‘disappear’ into the environment for freedom of movement.
Stealth: 16
(Don’t think there’d be adv, but maybe if we ‘look like we belong’, perhaps?: 11 )
‘Flo Riser’ scans as she goes. Keeping an eye out on the guards, she watches for any change in demeanour (to learn/know when they’re ‘relaxed’, attentive, and/or alerted) and any patterns in their paths and/or ‘shift change’. She watches the flow of people, the places in which they come and go, and how they conduct themselves. Maybe she might learn a thing or two, or even notice that maybe there’s other people like them that might not actually belong either (any one else sus? We the only ‘shady’ ones?).
Perception: 22
just an unstable unicorn.
Statues have no captions but Uril's was knowledge allowed him (at least he thinks he is right here) to recognize familiar shapes. The statue on the left with a pair of golden dice in one hand, while the other hand is raised in a gesture of welcome seems to depict Tymora, the goddess of luck and good fortune. The statue on the right side, which looks like a voluptuous woman wearing flowing silk robes, with long hair and a playful expression, has to depict Sharess, the goddess of pleasure, indulgence, and sensuality.
Hard to say if the owner of the museum hinted at something in this choice of sculptures, but together the statues create a striking and unforgettable impression.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
It would be challenging for a well-dressed young lady accompanied by three other people to arrive at the doorstep of a building, standing in the open, and disappear unnoticed. Robin realized the difficulty of the task, once she stepped out of the carriage. The guards and the "ticket collector" could not help but watch arriving guests. Robin could be sure they will not follow her, should she decide to go another way, rather than enter the building, but hanging around in the shadows would look... strange. She also had to admit, that the "noble lady dress" was not designed for proper hiding.
If any of the other guests were not who they claimed they are, it was not obvious. While Robin was contemplating entering, another noble couple (human, looking more like a married couple) entered the museum. Then a single scholar. It was not exactly a "flow", but people did come. The nobles carried an expression of polite disinterest, the scholar a look of focused curiosity, as they all made their way into the museum.
The guards did not change, it was clear they are here until the gala begins - a bit less than an hour from now. They look as dedicated as a guard can. Well can be it has something to do with their captain watching them from inside.
If Robin were to enter the museum, she would soon notice that no one seemed to be exploring the left passages and instead were heading straight upstairs. By the way, Darius had been proven right about the bag, which had been politely taken (from whoever was carrying it) and transported to an office behind the first door on the right for the guest's convenience.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
After sharing his interpretation of the welcoming statues with the others, Uril turns to provide some encouragement to at least one of his companions. Robin had already made her move by then, so Uril looks at Early instead. With a quick recital of his favorite childhood verses, he hopes Early is ready to "Go get'em, tiger!"
Uril then makes a mental note to not leave Darius' bag behind at the reception area by the time they leave the gala. All of his combat gear was inside!
Early strolls out of the carriage, a ridiculous swagger to his step as he wanders away. At some point, he glances back for his 'sister'...and seeing her delaying, makes a "tsk tsk tsk" followed by saying, "Come along sis". He passes his ticket in, as if he were discarding a piece of trash to a beggar, and strolls up to the thin man and the guard and just sort of waves his hand at them as he wanders past. At the brief mention of refreshments his eyes alight, "Ahhh, goodness yes, this day has been nothing but dreadful. You won't BELIEVE it. My bath water was tepid, my lunch steak was overcooked, and the carriage felt like it was driving across a blasted mountain. Oooh, my butt is just ...well.....refreshments you said...thank all that is good in the world."
He looks back, "Sis, come along, let us turn this horrid day right round!"
He looks specifically at the room where the bag was taken from Robin...and casually, with a bored look on his face, watches the process and who goes in and out, before moving along.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.