X looked at Torment with a steely gaze as she explained the situation, the gears turning in his head as he took it all in before his eyes turned a bit red and then he nods "sounds a plan"he said before suddenly being pulled towards the door, X not being used this wasn't exactly turn what to do as she suddenly lifted her legs up off the ground, he thought for a second before remembering what captain brightheard would do whenever that one girl came and catch her legs before they hit the ground carrying her a bit "where are we going"he asked
Of all the luck! That he'd get to spend time on this mission with an attractive half-elf was something Elwin hadn't anticipated, but he smiled coyly--if a little more innocently than he'd intended--as Tam took his hand.
As they left the pub, the young man started steering them to the Grand Market Plaza almost without thinking. His memories of this section of town didn't seem to have dimmed much, even with the changes made to various shops and all.
It took a minute before he realized his companion actually was singing him a song... and it did indeed involve counting money. He couldn't hold in a laugh as he realized it involved gamblers--apparently the shady, thieving sort--eyeing each other and their winnings enviously. He'd never gambled in any official capacity, and the scene just struck him as amusing for some reason.
As she finished, Elwin smiled at the ballad. "Well, Tam, that was certainly... fitting." He looked around as they continued, making sure to note when they reached the plaza. "So, does this mean you're a bard? I'd pegged you for more of an outdoors type, but I've not been adventuring long; I hadn't wanted to bank on that entirely." He actually hoped she was a bard. He'd heard tales of their stories and performances, and would have been eager to hear more from Tam. But even if not, the company was enjoyable enough.
Of all the luck! Tamlynn choked so badly on her own spit she had to end up just dramatically speaking the words at him. He graciously acted like he wasn't paying attention at first, but then got with the program around the first chorus. His skeptical face told her she was going to have to be more direct.
As she finished, he was kind enough to ask if she was a bard. He had pegged her as a more "outdoor-type", which was true, and she nodded.
Clearing her now rough throat, "You can definitely read people, DB." Going on, "Now, did you at least get the point? You can't count your gold in the thieve's den, tavern, or whatnot, all out in the open. People will try and steal from a (looks him up and down) pious soul like yours." Adding with a cheek pinch, "They'll think your easy pickings. You hopefully aren't, but you look it." She then smacks his behind for good measure. "Good talk!"
When they had stopped just short of the entrance, "Now that we're here, let's chat about strategy."
"I'm inclined to not make assumptions about this carnival troop. Places like this tend to be hubs of information no matter where you are in the world. They also make good allies in a pinch." Lowering her voice and leaning in, "However, if they are a part of this scheme, we have to be very careful as to not give our position away. We can't mention the Knights and our new employment arrangement. Ya, get me?"
Tamlynn hoped he wasn't going to go in all head strong and ruin their chances, but then again, she had done something similar when she was first learning. He's so impressionable right now. The impulse to sully him up a bit, make him a bit more rough around the edges, was strong. He needed some street cred. *signing* This project may take a bit, she thought. Bless him.
Slightly shaking her head at him, "So what are your thoughts?"
X looked at Torment with a steely gaze as she explained the situation, the gears turning in his head as he took it all in before his eyes turned a bit red and then he nods "sounds a plan"he said before suddenly being pulled towards the door, X not being used this wasn't exactly turn what to do as she suddenly lifted her legs up off the ground, he thought for a second before remembering what captain brightheard would do whenever that one girl came and catch her legs before they hit the ground carrying her a bit "where are we going"he asked
A bit surprised by the impromptu pick-up, but taking it in stride, Tori leans back against X's cool arm as he cradles her against his metal chest.He's surprisingly gentle,she thinks, pressing her ear against him to try and hear his gears turn.
She crosses her legs, puts her arms behind her head and cranes her neck to look up at his unfamiliar features. "We, my Metal Macho, are going to the Rusty Axe, which I believe should be right around here somewhere if Gavin gave us the correct directions..." She leans out from his arm and looks around, her eyes rolling at the sight of a large, rusty axe hanging above the archway to a building a couple of hundred feet away.
"Let's go in reeeeeeal casual-like, OK?" she laughs a bit at the ridiculousness of the thought of the two of them being able to do anything without being noticed.
"How do you want to do this? You could block the door and we just take the entire place down until they beg for mercy, ooo-or we could listen quietly hoping that someone is dumb enough to let some useful information slip in the presence of two obvious spies."
"It might be best to pay the Barkeep off and just assert ourselves into a few dark corners and have some one-on-one conversations with a few ratty patrons until we find some clues... I have some coin to loosen their lips one way or another. Want to follow my lead?"
Elwin couldn't help but chuckle. She thought he was pious?! Oh, if only he could have her testify on his behalf to the old temple priestesses! He knew that between his smallish stature and more wiry frame he didn't look terribly intimidating, although that had come in handy a number of times, but pious--that was new. Brushing the comment aside, he was about to calm her concern about his coin-handling, right when she smacked him on the rear.
His eyes widened as he tried to suppress the red growing in his cheeks. This one was... far more forward than he was used to. Which would have been one thing had she been one of the dancing girls somewhere like the Peachy Beaver, but she clearly wasn't. The temporary mental seizure caused by the seeming incongruity meant it took a few seconds for him to catch up as Tam went into discussing strategy.
Elwin coughed, then put on his best "just-go-with-the-flow" smile. "I agree, we need to be discreet." Confident that he had maintained a semblance of composure, he turned his attention to the situation.
Deception roll to appear nonchalant and composed (+3): 14
He furrowed his brow for a second in thought. "Gavin said that this Florence was a knife-thrower. If we don't just run across his show, maybe we can pose as possible students and start asking around for him?" It would actually be a useful skill, Elwin thought to himself.
"Of course, we won't bring up Gavin's favor until we're alone with him."
The warforged held the tiefling in his arms without much problems his strong and metallic arms wrapped around and help her in his grasp as he slowly walked towards the Rusty Axe, the gears in chest made there usual soft turning sounds they clashed together spiring the warforged movements and actions as he looked down at her causing a bit of sound of come from the partly wooden neck"I would be more then happy to follow your lead" he said almost happily as he looked at her "it would likely be best if we used my large size for something like intimidation, but it would also be best to avoid trouble, perhaps you should let me scan the crowds and see if we could find someone who would be easy to get information from"he suggested as he moved closer and closer to the building "does this plan please you"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Marvarax andSora (Dragonborn) The retired fighter and WIP scholar - Glory
Brythel(Dwarf), The dwarf with a gun - survival at sea
Jaylin(Human), Paladin of Lathander's Ancient ways - The Seven Saints (Azura Claw)
Urselles(Goblin), Cleric of Eldath- The Wizard's challenge
Viclas Tyrin(Half Elf), Student of the Elven arts- Indrafatmoko's Defiance in Phlan
His eyes widened as he tried to suppress the red growing in his cheeks. This one was... far more forward than he was used to. Which would have been one thing had she been one of the dancing girls somewhere like the Peachy Beaver, but she clearly wasn't. The temporary mental seizure caused by the seeming incongruity meant it took a few seconds for him to catch up as Tam went into discussing strategy.
Elwin coughed, then put on his best "just-go-with-the-flow" smile. "I agree, we need to be discreet." Confident that he had maintained a semblance of composure, he turned his attention to the situation.
Tam's eye locked onto DB. "Yah, yah...I agree about the Gavin favor thing... did you just blush in the cutest way and ask me to be discreet?"*smiling at him*"Oh, May the Gods favor you. Tori is gonna love this..."
Raising her right hand with mirth, "I promise to not slap that tush from here on out. We are professionals, after all. Yes...sir..." Tamlynn freezes, "Oh crap...I didn't mean that, not really. I'm so sorry! No, promises..holy planes above. I DID NOT MEAN THAT!"
"Damnit, damnit!" Tam looks around feverishly and takes in a gulp of air. Trying to calm herself, she continues...
"Let's go with your idea...," still looking around, "I'm sure it's better than the one I had in mind, anyways."
She begins absentmindedly scratching at her left arm, near her wrist. Then, grabs for the necklace pendant on her chest and begins to rub. "Lady Selune protect me," she whispers. Tam closes her eyes for a few moments and mutters the words, "I can see you," in Elvish.
After a few moments, her eyes fling open wide, but they are not her usual green.
Still not entirely focused on Elwin, she clears her throat and says, "Umm, where shall we start? Food area? Member of his audience perhaps?"
Wiping her brow, she looks directly at him with eyes not her own, "****. Can we go now?"
Religion Check (protection prayer) = 23
Primal Awareness (1 min duration): As an action, expend one ranger spell slot (1 minute per level of spell slot) to sense whether any aberrations, celestials, dragons, elementals, fey, fiends, or undead are present within 1 mile of you. This feature doesn’t reveal the creatures’ location or number.
"Oh crap...I didn't mean that, not really. I'm so sorry! No, promises..holy planes above. I DID NOT MEAN THAT!"
The young man raised an eyebrow. While he had enough street smarts, Elwin wasn't exactly the most insightful or scholarly sort. Still, every now and then he was able to put things together that one wouldn't normally expect. Slow-grinding gears in his mind started to churn as he silently watched Tam twist through her ministrations.
"Is that... a spell?" he thought as she prayed in a different language--Elvish?--then suddenly opened her eyes. They had changed. And while she seemed... more composed, she still was clearly a bit anxious.
Arcana check (+2) to identify the feature Tam used... or at least recognize it as not a spell: 4
"Umm, where shall we start? Food area? Member of his audience perhaps?"
"****. Can we go now?"
A nod was his only response as Elwin quickly began looking around for anything resembling a circus act. He didn't know what exactly was going on, but clearly Tam wanted to get a move on--so finding Florence right NOW seemed the best course of action. He thought of casting a spell of his own, but decided against it for the moment.
OOC: Perception check (+0) to look for any sort of circus act, but particularly knife-throwing: 15
On seeing anything that looks close, Elwin will immediately lead Tam that way to start chatting with the audience.
On NOT seeing anything that looks close, he'll immediately head toward wherever "backstage" appears to be.
The warforged held the tiefling in his arms without much problems his strong and metallic arms wrapped around and help her in his grasp as he slowly walked towards the Rusty Axe, the gears in chest made there usual soft turning sounds they clashed together spiring the warforged movements and actions as he looked down at her causing a bit of sound of come from the partly wooden neck"I would be more then happy to follow your lead" he said almost happily as he looked at her "it would likely be best if we used my large size for something like intimidation, but it would also be best to avoid trouble, perhaps you should let me scan the crowds and see if we could find someone who would be easy to get information from"he suggested as he moved closer and closer to the building "does this plan please you"
Tori, still looking the direction of their destination, rolls onto her stomach, still enjoying the ride thoroughly. She squints over at the pub, trying to make out any details that would be pertinent to the situation. As she does, she absentmindedly taps her tail against X's shoulder, in a rhythm with some of his gears she hears turning as he moves along.
"Let's just play it by ear. We should probably start with having a drink and seeing what kind of staff are about the place... for all we know, they work for King Gingerdough himself."
She tucks her tail and rolls to her back and gives him a look - "Wait... do you even drink? They might have some oil for your gears, if that's more up your alley"she gives a low chuckle and her eyes burn silver for a second with mirth. "I'm not sure how I'm supposed to get you tipsy if you don't drink."she gives him a pouty lower lip before grinning and rolling backwards off of his arms smoothly, using his arm to swoop around and land on her feet.
"Let's hang back for a second and do some surveillance. You mentioned scanning the crowd - what can you pick up before we go in?"she grabs X41 by the arm and tugs him toward the shade of an awning a couple of blocks from the Rusty Axe. "Let's take a look. I'll be right back, we'll share info then."
Running her hand down X’s forearm, she leaves a glowing hand-print, sparkling golden-green. A soft patch of moss blooms on his metal skin where he hand had been.“That should help you focus, my friend.”
Guidance - The target can roll a d4and add the number rolled to one ability check of its choice. It can roll the die before or after making the ability check. The spell then ends.
Torment gives him a quick smile, and she begins rapidly shrinking. Her equipment dissolves into a thick coat of tawny feathers of gold and silver. She raises her arms high and large, sturdy feathers spring from beneath them, across her back and down her tail. Her legs still long and red, she springs toward X and grabs his shoulder, leaping high into the air above him. As she soars over his head, her form solidifies and a shimmering golden eagle appears above the street, wings flapping heavily. She lets out a high pitched call as she takes flight above the buildings of the town and veers towards the Rusty Axe, her raptorial eyes locked onto the doors, windows, roof, alleys and patrons that are visible from the air.
Perception Check on Rusty Axe for Surveillance - 19
Eagle rolls @ Advantage for Perception involving sight - Second Roll 14
X didn't know why but he enjoyed the small tapping of the teiflings tail against his solid metallic chest,and his head slowly went along with the beat of it ever so slightly before the tiefling looked at him and began to ask him some questions "I could use something like oil, however I think people would find it strange to see something like me drink, as for getting tispy is it probably best I don't so I can watch our guard" he replied with a voice that sounded almost a bit concerned, before suddenly noticing that the teifling had swung out of his arms and back onto the ground infront of him
X listened in to the plan that was given to him slowly nodding his head before noticing that Torment had placed a hand on his chest that moss had began to sprout from his chest, the warforged couldn't really understand why but, it gave him a nice feeling so he left it there and then slowly (and loudly) crept for a window to look threw before finding one and slowly moving his head so he could get a good scan of the people who where inside
As the Party exits the Hanging Chicken, they split in two opposite directions, both groups having to cross the Ginormous stone bridge connecting the Lower and Middle Peaks, full of buildings and people actually living on it. The City Bridges are considered their own districts, due to their sheer size.
Tam and Elwyn both make their way to the Lower Peak, and the Grand Marketplace. For 1sp each, they may actually zipline down to the Lower Peak within less than a minute. There is a zipline cable going straight through the Tavern, and small carts big enough for two people to sit. A lever in the cart can be pulled to brake. Tam detects the ever slightest presence of an Aberration within 1 mile...
As they reach the Marketplace, they quickly realize they are truly at the heart of the City. Market stands everywhere, with Merchants shouting nonstop, peddling their infinite variety of wears, cramped around the Central Plaza, where a huge stage serves mainly for Public Anouncements, Performances, and Executions. Dozens of Carnival Performers (many of them Halflings) dot the Marketplace and Central Plaza, drawing crowds of passerbys: Jugglers, Firebreathers, Acrobats, Bear Tamers, Illusionists, Fortune Tellers, Jesters, sword swallowers...and Knife Throwers. A Gnomish anouncer with a thick accent is wrangling a crowd of roughly 20 people around a big wooden rotating Target board, to which a beautiful Gypsie Halfling girl is tied, smiling.
"Ladies and Gentledwarves, come and see the show of a lifetime! Florence Quickblade himself will now demonstrate his Knife Skills, with the help of his lovely assistant!"
A Middle Aged male Halfling, with slicked back dark hair and a handlebar mustache steps up to the board, and bows to the crowd...as he bows, he throws a knife from behind his back that lands right above the Girl's head. The crowd claps. Then comes a hurricane of blades, thomping against the rotating board, and forming an outline around the girl, who laughs every time a knife lands. Then comes the blindfold, and the drum roll...he aims his last knife, and throws it right into the girl's mouth! The crowd gasps in horror, but then errupts in cheers, as the Girl catches it with her teeth, then frees herself from the board with a cartwheel, landing right next to Florence, then both of them bow in synchrony, as the anouncer passes through the crowd, taking off his hat and collecting coins.
Meanwhile, Tori and X make their way to the Middle Peak, and the Tavern District, past the Ancestral Cemetery, and the City Garrison, right at the intersection of the Guild District and the Granit Clan Forges. Tori wildshapes into a bird, getting a stunning panoramic view of the City as she flies over, with all three bridges, people zip lining between the Peaks, the High Peak, with the imposing Granit Palace, the Grand Observatory and the Temple of Moradin. In the distance, she can see Alliance Eagle riders practicing flyby drills between the mountaintops. And in between the buildings, thousands of random people scuttling around the crowded streets like ants.
As she flies over the Tavern district, the thick fog and chimney smoke above the rooftops forces her to land across the Rusty Axe, perched on top of a dingy house facing the even dingier Tavern. Loud drunken noises emanate from the place, and within a minute of observing, she notices a man get literally thrown out by two burly looking Half-Orcs with scarred faces, who proceed to kick the living crap out of him. One of the Half Orcs spits on the man, while the other one bends down toward him and quietly says "This is what happens when you don't pay the Gingerbread Man...this is just a warning. We won't be so nice next time." They then casually walk back into the Rusty Axe...
Shortly after, X arrives, with everyone in the streets giving him all kinds of weird looks...
Tam and Elwyn both make their way to the Lower Peak, and the Grand Marketplace. For 1sp each, they may actually zipline down to the Lower Peak within less than a minute. There is a zipline cable going straight through the Tavern, and small carts big enough for two people to sit. A lever in the cart can be pulled to brake. Tam detects the ever slightest presence of an Aberration within 1 mile...
(OOC: Rod - Shall we zipline? I'm down for cart time, if you are? )
Tamlynn is visibly relieved she didn't detect anything more and pulls her shit together. That was close...she has got to do better moving forward.
Sending a thank you prayer up to the Lady while regrouping, Tam makes a mental note about the Aberration, in case it becomes important later.
Poor Elwin, he looks like he's a bit perplexed about her unplanned freak out and is trying to get us back on track. He's such a good lad, she thinks. Tam resists the urge to rough his edges up once again - it would be just too easy.
Pulling her glasses up to hide her eyes for the remainder of her vision, she allows herself to be led along by her companion.
As they reach the Marketplace, they quickly realize they are truly at the heart of the City. Market stands everywhere, with Merchants shouting nonstop, peddling their infinite variety of wears, cramped around the Central Plaza, where a huge stage serves mainly for Public Anouncements, Performances, and Executions. Dozens of Carnival Performers (many of them Halflings) dot the Marketplace and Central Plaza, drawing crowds of passerbys: Jugglers, Firebreathers, Acrobats, Bear Tamers, Illusionists, Fortune Tellers, Jesters, sword swallowers...and Knife Throwers. A Gnomish anouncer with a thick accent is wrangling a crowd of roughly 20 people around a big wooden rotating Target board, to which a beautiful Gypsie Halfling girl is tied, smiling.
"Ladies and Gentledwarves, come and see the show of a lifetime! Florence Quickblade himself will now demonstrate his Knife Skills, with the help of his lovely assistant!"
A Middle Aged male Halfling, with slicked back dark hair and a handlebar mustache steps up to the board, and bows to the crowd...as he bows, he throws a knife from behind his back that lands right above the Girl's head. The crowd claps. Then comes a hurricane of blades, thomping against the rotating board, and forming an outline around the girl, who laughs every time a knife lands. Then comes the blindfold, and the drum roll...he aims his last knife, and throws it right into the girl's mouth! The crowd gasps in horror, but then errupts in cheers, as the Girl catches it with her teeth, then frees herself from the board with a cartwheel, landing right next to Florence, then both of them bow in synchrony, as the anouncer passes through the crowd, taking off his hat and collecting coins.
She is awed by the spectacle of it all. So many being of all kinds with such freedom and in such happy moods. She takes it all in for a moment, as they walk closer to the stage. This further calms her, and she says to DB with a wink, "I bet they do that with her naked after hours."
Continuing, "Ooo, let's get your fortune told later. I'd love to know where all this (motioning with her hand at his head and torso) is headed.": Grinning at him, "How many hearts will you break, how many foes will you vanquish?" Becoming more serious, "Now, though, let's get down to business, shall we?"
Looking to Elwin, Tamlynn pulls out a few gold coins to put into the hat, "You want to take point or shall I?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Elwin noticed Tam relaxing as they approached the carnival atmosphere. Gears continued to turn in his mind as he re-focused on the task at hand. Finally, they spot the well-groomed Halfling on a stage, bowing at his grand introduction before turning to throw blades at his assistant (of course.)
The young man and his companion watch along with the crowd, as Tam calms enough to resume her... usual banter. She definitely had a quick wit, and had already moved on to more serious matters before he could respond:
"Now, though, let's get down to business, shall we?"
Looking to Elwin, Tamlynn pulls out a few gold coins to put into the hat, "You want to take point or shall I?
"You should probably go ahead," Elwin nodded while following suit and pulling out a couple of gold coins himself. Tam seemed a bit more talkative and experienced in... undercover work? That wasn't really what they were doing, but it still seemed to fit. "I'll keep watch."
It seemed a bit silly, even as he kept his eyes open for any sudden movements or other signs of trouble. Elwin had loved this sort of fun and chaos as a kid, but now, for some reason, while trying to focus on a specific task, he found the noise and flow of bodies to be a distraction... almost a concern. The kind of situation where someone might easily take advantage of the crowds to strike a malevolent blow before fading back into the morass. And while there was no overt sign of trouble brewing, the former street urchin couldn't help but feel that the extra vigilance was warranted.
Perception Check (+0) to keep an eye out on everything around, but especially around Florence: 20
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Subtly was not Tam's strong suit, but she decided to give it a try anyways. Taking his gold, she sidles up to the announcer and presses the pieces into his hand.
"Well met, Sir. Is there any way my companion and I could get a private lesson or two from your talented performer?" Adding, "We're very keen to increase our skills, and Sir Quickblade would make the perfect mentor."
Pressing the gold a bit more for emphasis, "I'm sure we can make it worth his time."*flashes her most dazzling smile*
"Is he able to meet with us, now, between sets?", she asks.
X looked at Torment with a steely gaze as she explained the situation, the gears turning in his head as he took it all in before his eyes turned a bit red and then he nods "sounds a plan" he said before suddenly being pulled towards the door, X not being used this wasn't exactly turn what to do as she suddenly lifted her legs up off the ground, he thought for a second before remembering what captain brightheard would do whenever that one girl came and catch her legs before they hit the ground carrying her a bit "where are we going" he asked
Marvarax and Sora (Dragonborn) The retired fighter and WIP scholar - Glory
Brythel(Dwarf), The dwarf with a gun - survival at sea
Jaylin(Human), Paladin of Lathander's Ancient ways - The Seven Saints (Azura Claw)
Urselles(Goblin), Cleric of Eldath- The Wizard's challenge
Viclas Tyrin(Half Elf), Student of the Elven arts- Indrafatmoko's Defiance in Phlan
(OCC: Gwyllen is not in this game, Torment/Tori is though. Kaddock can't keep his women straight. *all the eye rolls*)
Tamlynn [Pic] | Half-Elf | Ranger, Horizon Walker - Lvl 6 | Talaveroth (sub-campaign 3)
Hadar Ilkin [Pic] | Half-Orc | Ranger, Gloom Stalker - Lvl 4 | Bane of Kerakys
Mistress of Game | Death Inspectors
Mistress of Game | Into the Werewoods
(OOC, if Gwyllen was in this game, that would just be one more person in the sharing rotation. Count your blessings.)
Gwyllen Øyvund - Level 4 / Human Variant / Warlock, Fey Touched Archanist of the Raven Queen - Death Inspectors
Torment Malichar - Level 8 / Tiefling / Druid of the Underdark, Cleric of Mielikki - Knights of the Hanging Chicken (Team 3)
Master Shovel of the Sandbox - Bane of Kerakys
(OCC: No.)
Tamlynn [Pic] | Half-Elf | Ranger, Horizon Walker - Lvl 6 | Talaveroth (sub-campaign 3)
Hadar Ilkin [Pic] | Half-Orc | Ranger, Gloom Stalker - Lvl 4 | Bane of Kerakys
Mistress of Game | Death Inspectors
Mistress of Game | Into the Werewoods
OOC:sits back and eats popcorn)
Marvarax and Sora (Dragonborn) The retired fighter and WIP scholar - Glory
Brythel(Dwarf), The dwarf with a gun - survival at sea
Jaylin(Human), Paladin of Lathander's Ancient ways - The Seven Saints (Azura Claw)
Urselles(Goblin), Cleric of Eldath- The Wizard's challenge
Viclas Tyrin(Half Elf), Student of the Elven arts- Indrafatmoko's Defiance in Phlan
Of all the luck! That he'd get to spend time on this mission with an attractive half-elf was something Elwin hadn't anticipated, but he smiled coyly--if a little more innocently than he'd intended--as Tam took his hand.
As they left the pub, the young man started steering them to the Grand Market Plaza almost without thinking. His memories of this section of town didn't seem to have dimmed much, even with the changes made to various shops and all.
It took a minute before he realized his companion actually was singing him a song... and it did indeed involve counting money. He couldn't hold in a laugh as he realized it involved gamblers--apparently the shady, thieving sort--eyeing each other and their winnings enviously. He'd never gambled in any official capacity, and the scene just struck him as amusing for some reason.
As she finished, Elwin smiled at the ballad. "Well, Tam, that was certainly... fitting." He looked around as they continued, making sure to note when they reached the plaza. "So, does this mean you're a bard? I'd pegged you for more of an outdoors type, but I've not been adventuring long; I hadn't wanted to bank on that entirely." He actually hoped she was a bard. He'd heard tales of their stories and performances, and would have been eager to hear more from Tam. But even if not, the company was enjoyable enough.
Whistler
Titus - V. Human Battle Master Fighter 3 - [Pic] - [Pic2] - [Traits] - in Shadowglass
Locke - V. Human Shadow Monk 3 / Undead Warlock 2 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in FOW - DMless West Marches
Flèche - V. Human Swords Bard 10 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in The Scarlet Mist
Sterling - V. Human Bard 1 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in Bards: Dragon Heist
>> New FOW threat & treasure tables: fow-advanced-threat-tables.pdf fow-advanced-treasure-table.pdf
Performance (+0) = 1
Of all the luck! Tamlynn choked so badly on her own spit she had to end up just dramatically speaking the words at him. He graciously acted like he wasn't paying attention at first, but then got with the program around the first chorus. His skeptical face told her she was going to have to be more direct.
As she finished, he was kind enough to ask if she was a bard. He had pegged her as a more "outdoor-type", which was true, and she nodded.
Clearing her now rough throat, "You can definitely read people, DB." Going on, "Now, did you at least get the point? You can't count your gold in the thieve's den, tavern, or whatnot, all out in the open. People will try and steal from a (looks him up and down) pious soul like yours." Adding with a cheek pinch, "They'll think your easy pickings. You hopefully aren't, but you look it." She then smacks his behind for good measure. "Good talk!"
When they had stopped just short of the entrance, "Now that we're here, let's chat about strategy."
"I'm inclined to not make assumptions about this carnival troop. Places like this tend to be hubs of information no matter where you are in the world. They also make good allies in a pinch." Lowering her voice and leaning in, "However, if they are a part of this scheme, we have to be very careful as to not give our position away. We can't mention the Knights and our new employment arrangement. Ya, get me?"
Tamlynn hoped he wasn't going to go in all head strong and ruin their chances, but then again, she had done something similar when she was first learning. He's so impressionable right now. The impulse to sully him up a bit, make him a bit more rough around the edges, was strong. He needed some street cred. *signing* This project may take a bit, she thought. Bless him.
Slightly shaking her head at him, "So what are your thoughts?"
Tamlynn [Pic] | Half-Elf | Ranger, Horizon Walker - Lvl 6 | Talaveroth (sub-campaign 3)
Hadar Ilkin [Pic] | Half-Orc | Ranger, Gloom Stalker - Lvl 4 | Bane of Kerakys
Mistress of Game | Death Inspectors
Mistress of Game | Into the Werewoods
A bit surprised by the impromptu pick-up, but taking it in stride, Tori leans back against X's cool arm as he cradles her against his metal chest. He's surprisingly gentle, she thinks, pressing her ear against him to try and hear his gears turn.
She crosses her legs, puts her arms behind her head and cranes her neck to look up at his unfamiliar features. "We, my Metal Macho, are going to the Rusty Axe, which I believe should be right around here somewhere if Gavin gave us the correct directions..." She leans out from his arm and looks around, her eyes rolling at the sight of a large, rusty axe hanging above the archway to a building a couple of hundred feet away.
"Let's go in reeeeeeal casual-like, OK?" she laughs a bit at the ridiculousness of the thought of the two of them being able to do anything without being noticed.
"How do you want to do this? You could block the door and we just take the entire place down until they beg for mercy, ooo-or we could listen quietly hoping that someone is dumb enough to let some useful information slip in the presence of two obvious spies."
"It might be best to pay the Barkeep off and just assert ourselves into a few dark corners and have some one-on-one conversations with a few ratty patrons until we find some clues... I have some coin to loosen their lips one way or another. Want to follow my lead?"
Gwyllen Øyvund - Level 4 / Human Variant / Warlock, Fey Touched Archanist of the Raven Queen - Death Inspectors
Torment Malichar - Level 8 / Tiefling / Druid of the Underdark, Cleric of Mielikki - Knights of the Hanging Chicken (Team 3)
Master Shovel of the Sandbox - Bane of Kerakys
(OCC: Tam is such an all or nothing sorta character with her rolls. Combat might be more hilarious/disastrous, then productive. Ugh! 😉)
Tamlynn [Pic] | Half-Elf | Ranger, Horizon Walker - Lvl 6 | Talaveroth (sub-campaign 3)
Hadar Ilkin [Pic] | Half-Orc | Ranger, Gloom Stalker - Lvl 4 | Bane of Kerakys
Mistress of Game | Death Inspectors
Mistress of Game | Into the Werewoods
Elwin couldn't help but chuckle. She thought he was pious?! Oh, if only he could have her testify on his behalf to the old temple priestesses! He knew that between his smallish stature and more wiry frame he didn't look terribly intimidating, although that had come in handy a number of times, but pious--that was new. Brushing the comment aside, he was about to calm her concern about his coin-handling, right when she smacked him on the rear.
His eyes widened as he tried to suppress the red growing in his cheeks. This one was... far more forward than he was used to. Which would have been one thing had she been one of the dancing girls somewhere like the Peachy Beaver, but she clearly wasn't. The temporary mental seizure caused by the seeming incongruity meant it took a few seconds for him to catch up as Tam went into discussing strategy.
Elwin coughed, then put on his best "just-go-with-the-flow" smile. "I agree, we need to be discreet." Confident that he had maintained a semblance of composure, he turned his attention to the situation.
Deception roll to appear nonchalant and composed (+3): 14
He furrowed his brow for a second in thought. "Gavin said that this Florence was a knife-thrower. If we don't just run across his show, maybe we can pose as possible students and start asking around for him?" It would actually be a useful skill, Elwin thought to himself.
"Of course, we won't bring up Gavin's favor until we're alone with him."
Whistler
Titus - V. Human Battle Master Fighter 3 - [Pic] - [Pic2] - [Traits] - in Shadowglass
Locke - V. Human Shadow Monk 3 / Undead Warlock 2 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in FOW - DMless West Marches
Flèche - V. Human Swords Bard 10 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in The Scarlet Mist
Sterling - V. Human Bard 1 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in Bards: Dragon Heist
>> New FOW threat & treasure tables: fow-advanced-threat-tables.pdf fow-advanced-treasure-table.pdf
The warforged held the tiefling in his arms without much problems his strong and metallic arms wrapped around and help her in his grasp as he slowly walked towards the Rusty Axe, the gears in chest made there usual soft turning sounds they clashed together spiring the warforged movements and actions as he looked down at her causing a bit of sound of come from the partly wooden neck "I would be more then happy to follow your lead" he said almost happily as he looked at her "it would likely be best if we used my large size for something like intimidation, but it would also be best to avoid trouble, perhaps you should let me scan the crowds and see if we could find someone who would be easy to get information from" he suggested as he moved closer and closer to the building "does this plan please you"
Marvarax and Sora (Dragonborn) The retired fighter and WIP scholar - Glory
Brythel(Dwarf), The dwarf with a gun - survival at sea
Jaylin(Human), Paladin of Lathander's Ancient ways - The Seven Saints (Azura Claw)
Urselles(Goblin), Cleric of Eldath- The Wizard's challenge
Viclas Tyrin(Half Elf), Student of the Elven arts- Indrafatmoko's Defiance in Phlan
Perception Check (+4) to see his reaction = 19
Tam's eye locked onto DB. "Yah, yah...I agree about the Gavin favor thing... did you just blush in the cutest way and ask me to be discreet?" *smiling at him* "Oh, May the Gods favor you. Tori is gonna love this..."
Raising her right hand with mirth, "I promise to not slap that tush from here on out. We are professionals, after all. Yes...sir..." Tamlynn freezes, "Oh crap...I didn't mean that, not really. I'm so sorry! No, promises..holy planes above. I DID NOT MEAN THAT!"
"Damnit, damnit!" Tam looks around feverishly and takes in a gulp of air. Trying to calm herself, she continues...
"Let's go with your idea...," still looking around, "I'm sure it's better than the one I had in mind, anyways."
She begins absentmindedly scratching at her left arm, near her wrist. Then, grabs for the necklace pendant on her chest and begins to rub. "Lady Selune protect me," she whispers. Tam closes her eyes for a few moments and mutters the words, "I can see you," in Elvish.
After a few moments, her eyes fling open wide, but they are not her usual green.
Still not entirely focused on Elwin, she clears her throat and says, "Umm, where shall we start? Food area? Member of his audience perhaps?"
Wiping her brow, she looks directly at him with eyes not her own, "****. Can we go now?"
Religion Check (protection prayer) = 23
Primal Awareness (1 min duration): As an action, expend one ranger spell slot (1 minute per level of spell slot) to sense whether any aberrations, celestials, dragons, elementals, fey, fiends, or undead are present within 1 mile of you. This feature doesn’t reveal the creatures’ location or number.
Tamlynn [Pic] | Half-Elf | Ranger, Horizon Walker - Lvl 6 | Talaveroth (sub-campaign 3)
Hadar Ilkin [Pic] | Half-Orc | Ranger, Gloom Stalker - Lvl 4 | Bane of Kerakys
Mistress of Game | Death Inspectors
Mistress of Game | Into the Werewoods
Elwin coughed again. Had he actually blushed?! He quickly tried to think of something to say as she continued. Then...
The young man raised an eyebrow. While he had enough street smarts, Elwin wasn't exactly the most insightful or scholarly sort. Still, every now and then he was able to put things together that one wouldn't normally expect. Slow-grinding gears in his mind started to churn as he silently watched Tam twist through her ministrations.
"Is that... a spell?" he thought as she prayed in a different language--Elvish?--then suddenly opened her eyes. They had changed. And while she seemed... more composed, she still was clearly a bit anxious.
A nod was his only response as Elwin quickly began looking around for anything resembling a circus act. He didn't know what exactly was going on, but clearly Tam wanted to get a move on--so finding Florence right NOW seemed the best course of action. He thought of casting a spell of his own, but decided against it for the moment.
Whistler
Titus - V. Human Battle Master Fighter 3 - [Pic] - [Pic2] - [Traits] - in Shadowglass
Locke - V. Human Shadow Monk 3 / Undead Warlock 2 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in FOW - DMless West Marches
Flèche - V. Human Swords Bard 10 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in The Scarlet Mist
Sterling - V. Human Bard 1 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in Bards: Dragon Heist
>> New FOW threat & treasure tables: fow-advanced-threat-tables.pdf fow-advanced-treasure-table.pdf
Tori, still looking the direction of their destination, rolls onto her stomach, still enjoying the ride thoroughly. She squints over at the pub, trying to make out any details that would be pertinent to the situation. As she does, she absentmindedly taps her tail against X's shoulder, in a rhythm with some of his gears she hears turning as he moves along.
"Let's just play it by ear. We should probably start with having a drink and seeing what kind of staff are about the place... for all we know, they work for King Gingerdough himself."
She tucks her tail and rolls to her back and gives him a look - "Wait... do you even drink? They might have some oil for your gears, if that's more up your alley" she gives a low chuckle and her eyes burn silver for a second with mirth. "I'm not sure how I'm supposed to get you tipsy if you don't drink." she gives him a pouty lower lip before grinning and rolling backwards off of his arms smoothly, using his arm to swoop around and land on her feet.
"Let's hang back for a second and do some surveillance. You mentioned scanning the crowd - what can you pick up before we go in?" she grabs X41 by the arm and tugs him toward the shade of an awning a couple of blocks from the Rusty Axe. "Let's take a look. I'll be right back, we'll share info then."
Running her hand down X’s forearm, she leaves a glowing hand-print, sparkling golden-green. A soft patch of moss blooms on his metal skin where he hand had been. “That should help you focus, my friend.”
Guidance - The target can roll a d4 and add the number rolled to one ability check of its choice. It can roll the die before or after making the ability check. The spell then ends.
Torment gives him a quick smile, and she begins rapidly shrinking. Her equipment dissolves into a thick coat of tawny feathers of gold and silver. She raises her arms high and large, sturdy feathers spring from beneath them, across her back and down her tail. Her legs still long and red, she springs toward X and grabs his shoulder, leaping high into the air above him. As she soars over his head, her form solidifies and a shimmering golden eagle appears above the street, wings flapping heavily. She lets out a high pitched call as she takes flight above the buildings of the town and veers towards the Rusty Axe, her raptorial eyes locked onto the doors, windows, roof, alleys and patrons that are visible from the air.
Perception Check on Rusty Axe for Surveillance - 19
Eagle rolls @ Advantage for Perception involving sight - Second Roll 14
Gwyllen Øyvund - Level 4 / Human Variant / Warlock, Fey Touched Archanist of the Raven Queen - Death Inspectors
Torment Malichar - Level 8 / Tiefling / Druid of the Underdark, Cleric of Mielikki - Knights of the Hanging Chicken (Team 3)
Master Shovel of the Sandbox - Bane of Kerakys
X didn't know why but he enjoyed the small tapping of the teiflings tail against his solid metallic chest, and his head slowly went along with the beat of it ever so slightly before the tiefling looked at him and began to ask him some questions "I could use something like oil, however I think people would find it strange to see something like me drink, as for getting tispy is it probably best I don't so I can watch our guard" he replied with a voice that sounded almost a bit concerned, before suddenly noticing that the teifling had swung out of his arms and back onto the ground infront of him
X listened in to the plan that was given to him slowly nodding his head before noticing that Torment had placed a hand on his chest that moss had began to sprout from his chest, the warforged couldn't really understand why but, it gave him a nice feeling so he left it there and then slowly (and loudly) crept for a window to look threw before finding one and slowly moving his head so he could get a good scan of the people who where inside
Marvarax and Sora (Dragonborn) The retired fighter and WIP scholar - Glory
Brythel(Dwarf), The dwarf with a gun - survival at sea
Jaylin(Human), Paladin of Lathander's Ancient ways - The Seven Saints (Azura Claw)
Urselles(Goblin), Cleric of Eldath- The Wizard's challenge
Viclas Tyrin(Half Elf), Student of the Elven arts- Indrafatmoko's Defiance in Phlan
As the Party exits the Hanging Chicken, they split in two opposite directions, both groups having to cross the Ginormous stone bridge connecting the Lower and Middle Peaks, full of buildings and people actually living on it. The City Bridges are considered their own districts, due to their sheer size.
Tam and Elwyn both make their way to the Lower Peak, and the Grand Marketplace. For 1sp each, they may actually zipline down to the Lower Peak within less than a minute. There is a zipline cable going straight through the Tavern, and small carts big enough for two people to sit. A lever in the cart can be pulled to brake. Tam detects the ever slightest presence of an Aberration within 1 mile...
As they reach the Marketplace, they quickly realize they are truly at the heart of the City. Market stands everywhere, with Merchants shouting nonstop, peddling their infinite variety of wears, cramped around the Central Plaza, where a huge stage serves mainly for Public Anouncements, Performances, and Executions. Dozens of Carnival Performers (many of them Halflings) dot the Marketplace and Central Plaza, drawing crowds of passerbys: Jugglers, Firebreathers, Acrobats, Bear Tamers, Illusionists, Fortune Tellers, Jesters, sword swallowers...and Knife Throwers. A Gnomish anouncer with a thick accent is wrangling a crowd of roughly 20 people around a big wooden rotating Target board, to which a beautiful Gypsie Halfling girl is tied, smiling.
"Ladies and Gentledwarves, come and see the show of a lifetime! Florence Quickblade himself will now demonstrate his Knife Skills, with the help of his lovely assistant!"
A Middle Aged male Halfling, with slicked back dark hair and a handlebar mustache steps up to the board, and bows to the crowd...as he bows, he throws a knife from behind his back that lands right above the Girl's head. The crowd claps. Then comes a hurricane of blades, thomping against the rotating board, and forming an outline around the girl, who laughs every time a knife lands. Then comes the blindfold, and the drum roll...he aims his last knife, and throws it right into the girl's mouth! The crowd gasps in horror, but then errupts in cheers, as the Girl catches it with her teeth, then frees herself from the board with a cartwheel, landing right next to Florence, then both of them bow in synchrony, as the anouncer passes through the crowd, taking off his hat and collecting coins.
Meanwhile, Tori and X make their way to the Middle Peak, and the Tavern District, past the Ancestral Cemetery, and the City Garrison, right at the intersection of the Guild District and the Granit Clan Forges. Tori wildshapes into a bird, getting a stunning panoramic view of the City as she flies over, with all three bridges, people zip lining between the Peaks, the High Peak, with the imposing Granit Palace, the Grand Observatory and the Temple of Moradin. In the distance, she can see Alliance Eagle riders practicing flyby drills between the mountaintops. And in between the buildings, thousands of random people scuttling around the crowded streets like ants.
As she flies over the Tavern district, the thick fog and chimney smoke above the rooftops forces her to land across the Rusty Axe, perched on top of a dingy house facing the even dingier Tavern. Loud drunken noises emanate from the place, and within a minute of observing, she notices a man get literally thrown out by two burly looking Half-Orcs with scarred faces, who proceed to kick the living crap out of him. One of the Half Orcs spits on the man, while the other one bends down toward him and quietly says "This is what happens when you don't pay the Gingerbread Man...this is just a warning. We won't be so nice next time." They then casually walk back into the Rusty Axe...
Shortly after, X arrives, with everyone in the streets giving him all kinds of weird looks...
(OOC: Rod - Shall we zipline? I'm down for cart time, if you are? )
Tamlynn [Pic] | Half-Elf | Ranger, Horizon Walker - Lvl 6 | Talaveroth (sub-campaign 3)
Hadar Ilkin [Pic] | Half-Orc | Ranger, Gloom Stalker - Lvl 4 | Bane of Kerakys
Mistress of Game | Death Inspectors
Mistress of Game | Into the Werewoods
Tamlynn is visibly relieved she didn't detect anything more and pulls her shit together. That was close...she has got to do better moving forward.
Sending a thank you prayer up to the Lady while regrouping, Tam makes a mental note about the Aberration, in case it becomes important later.
Poor Elwin, he looks like he's a bit perplexed about her unplanned freak out and is trying to get us back on track. He's such a good lad, she thinks. Tam resists the urge to rough his edges up once again - it would be just too easy.
Pulling her glasses up to hide her eyes for the remainder of her vision, she allows herself to be led along by her companion.
She is awed by the spectacle of it all. So many being of all kinds with such freedom and in such happy moods. She takes it all in for a moment, as they walk closer to the stage. This further calms her, and she says to DB with a wink, "I bet they do that with her naked after hours."
Continuing, "Ooo, let's get your fortune told later. I'd love to know where all this (motioning with her hand at his head and torso) is headed.": Grinning at him, "How many hearts will you break, how many foes will you vanquish?" Becoming more serious, "Now, though, let's get down to business, shall we?"
Looking to Elwin, Tamlynn pulls out a few gold coins to put into the hat, "You want to take point or shall I?
Tamlynn [Pic] | Half-Elf | Ranger, Horizon Walker - Lvl 6 | Talaveroth (sub-campaign 3)
Hadar Ilkin [Pic] | Half-Orc | Ranger, Gloom Stalker - Lvl 4 | Bane of Kerakys
Mistress of Game | Death Inspectors
Mistress of Game | Into the Werewoods
Elwin noticed Tam relaxing as they approached the carnival atmosphere. Gears continued to turn in his mind as he re-focused on the task at hand. Finally, they spot the well-groomed Halfling on a stage, bowing at his grand introduction before turning to throw blades at his assistant (of course.)
The young man and his companion watch along with the crowd, as Tam calms enough to resume her... usual banter. She definitely had a quick wit, and had already moved on to more serious matters before he could respond:
"You should probably go ahead," Elwin nodded while following suit and pulling out a couple of gold coins himself. Tam seemed a bit more talkative and experienced in... undercover work? That wasn't really what they were doing, but it still seemed to fit. "I'll keep watch."
It seemed a bit silly, even as he kept his eyes open for any sudden movements or other signs of trouble. Elwin had loved this sort of fun and chaos as a kid, but now, for some reason, while trying to focus on a specific task, he found the noise and flow of bodies to be a distraction... almost a concern. The kind of situation where someone might easily take advantage of the crowds to strike a malevolent blow before fading back into the morass. And while there was no overt sign of trouble brewing, the former street urchin couldn't help but feel that the extra vigilance was warranted.
Perception Check (+0) to keep an eye out on everything around, but especially around Florence: 20
Whistler
Titus - V. Human Battle Master Fighter 3 - [Pic] - [Pic2] - [Traits] - in Shadowglass
Locke - V. Human Shadow Monk 3 / Undead Warlock 2 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in FOW - DMless West Marches
Flèche - V. Human Swords Bard 10 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in The Scarlet Mist
Sterling - V. Human Bard 1 - [Pic] - [Traits] - in Bards: Dragon Heist
>> New FOW threat & treasure tables: fow-advanced-threat-tables.pdf fow-advanced-treasure-table.pdf
Subtly was not Tam's strong suit, but she decided to give it a try anyways. Taking his gold, she sidles up to the announcer and presses the pieces into his hand.
"Well met, Sir. Is there any way my companion and I could get a private lesson or two from your talented performer?" Adding, "We're very keen to increase our skills, and Sir Quickblade would make the perfect mentor."
Pressing the gold a bit more for emphasis, "I'm sure we can make it worth his time." *flashes her most dazzling smile*
"Is he able to meet with us, now, between sets?", she asks.
Persuasion (+0) for him to see it our way = 10
(OOC: muhahha yas!)
Tamlynn [Pic] | Half-Elf | Ranger, Horizon Walker - Lvl 6 | Talaveroth (sub-campaign 3)
Hadar Ilkin [Pic] | Half-Orc | Ranger, Gloom Stalker - Lvl 4 | Bane of Kerakys
Mistress of Game | Death Inspectors
Mistress of Game | Into the Werewoods