Nikita simply agrees with Faila and (she thinks?) Nick Nack that the next step is to go to Prospect. She thinks that involves going after Sedgewick and crew there to try to free Esther Freyn and perhaps Asha Hawkes if they can investigate the planar rift. But only after they've shared all info they are willing to share (Nikita shares everything she knows). And heard what Lady Isolde has to say.
She remains quiet otherwise, having gathered over the course of the day that, each for their own reasons, Nick Nack, Ermasnietszand Meresaa at least haven't thought particularly highly of her approach. She will have to reflect on their criticisms, direct or indirect, just as she had recognized that Boyd had correctly set her straight on how best to find information from common folk at The Ruddy Tankard (which she should have known but apparently had forgotten). Regardless, Nikita is, for now, unless further information arises, determined to go to Prospect, hopefully with all of them as a group, but without them if they would prefer not to go. Alone if absolutely necessary.
Chiming in when she can offer insight or information, Meresaa mostly listens to the others share their wild stories of traversing the town and meeting with the locals.
After several mentions of going to Prospect, she quietly clears her throat and interjects, "It seems to me that there are still quite a few factors at play here and a frontal assault on this Sanguine Cabal might be ill-advised as we don't know their level of connection throughout the town and the region. Even if we were somehow able to get into the house safely and rescue those kept inside, we don't know what sort of danger we'd be putting the Carnival in. This isn't a simple matter of raiding a decrepit tomb or storming a tower to defeat a dark wizard or some such. There are complexities and elements at play, the surface of which we've barely scratched today." She looks around the group to gauge reactions.
"It sounds like our Reggie has had quite the strange experience that doesn't line up with what Nathaniel knows of Dr. Cavendish. It may be a leap, but if that one's tied to Sedgewick and installed in the temple, there's a lot more potential for harm than we may have suspected. I think it would behoove us to pull the thread until we're comfortable with the level of risk before we try storming the gates at Prospect."
Looking down to the jar at her side, the lithe, blue woman rests a hand on it and says, "I propose we make use our friends here as a means of gaining admittance to the temple's facilities under the pretense of continuing their study. That would also give us a chance to gauge Cavendish's reaction to seeing them in case there's a glimmer of recognition in her eyes. I believe we'd be better served continuing to work these other angles before confronting the problem head-on, but if it's hijinks and mayhem you all want, I suppose I'll have to accompany you as someone should try to keep you all out of trouble." She smiles broadly and winks one large, violet eye at Kick Knack.
“These people are willing to let innocents die as part of their plan…thus I am sure there will be bloodshed and fighting ahead… so better to know now who will buckle in the face of danger…” Nick mumbles under his breath.l looking about the group.
”either to prospect first, or to the local forest and hills for a hunt, or even the local graveyard for all I care, but let us as a group point our interests into 1 direction, and be singular in our focus.. this will be the safest course forward.”
…
”which of you are the more insistent and still believe they know best and would lead the lives of others insistently to follow their opinion? Do step forward and Propose a next course of action: 1 action! A group action! 5 fingers separated are weak but together a fist is strong!”
“let us follow each lead one at a time. Vote if we must, elect a leader if we must, I care not… but we cannot be disparate and survive the challenges ahead, of this i am sure, for our enemies are powerful and more organized than we are currently.”
…
Nick is tired from giving his speech, besieged by memories of town elders arrogantly insisting spiking things their way, not acting to solve the problems but discussing ever more detailed minutia… he remembers seeing their dead bodies strewn about, these once erudite leaders now but food for worms covered in blood, endtrails indistinguishable from the maggots that fed on them… “please, you guys are the only family I have”… he says more quietly, looks up at those who had spent any time speaking to him this first day together. He is worried some will think he will be taken wrong, and begins to slump to sit and play in the dirt.
"My vote is still Prospect. No one has suggested 'full frontal assault' or 'storming the gates' to this point. My thought was either sneak in to rescue Esther Freyn, who is plausibly still captive there. Which is why time is of the essence. That or ambush and capture someone outside who is going in or out first to find more information. Won't be easy either way, of course. And rescuing Asha Hawkes may be even more difficult, as will unravelling the conspiracy."
"Temple of Procan and investigating Dr. Cavendish first would be fine too. Not my first choice, but I don't propose to be the leader. I nominate Boyd, actually. Regardless, let's choose what and when, and then go do it. Sooner the better - we and the Carnival are already in danger, unless I miss my guess. I do agree with Nick that we would be better served staying together if we all are willing."
“ok! So Nikita is 1 vote for Prospect then Temple of Procan… and so everyone feels better I’ll even promise not to shoot first, maybe sneaky or deceptive tactics are in order…” nick winks at the group with his hand in his heart. “…But if someone attacks us…” Nick does a let-me-at-‘em boxing stance.
“…andto keep the voting fair since I proposed it, I’ll refrain from voting, but I must confess to having a request… I have to stop by the smithy in the morning for my armor before whichever place we choose!” Nick smiles like a kid getting caught for not doing their homework.
The party draws Isolde into a private conversation, Tindal is more than happy to make himself scarce. "Theodore Sedgewick?"Isolde says curiously, "I must admit that it is only a name I have heard in passing. I wonder what he could possibly stand to gain by unleashing this sickness - the Sagacitas - on the Carnival? Does he seek to turn us into social pariahs? To what end?"
"I didn't want to believe that this was targeted but the evidence you provide seems irrefutable," she fumes. "Do you believe this Sedgewick has some connection to this other plane? If this mysterious species comes from another plane of existence,"Isolde attempts to comprehend the implications, "could it be that other creatures have entered this world? What would this mean for Saltmarsh?"
She nods at Ermasnietsz, "true enough. I would ask that you further investigate this Prospect you mention and bring Sedgewick to justice. Though I understand that it is not your fight." Isolde waves Hermos over. "Hermos, these fine people have accomplished both of the tasks I asked of them. Please see that they are paid the money I promised them." The giant simply grunts and walks off to retrieve the reward promised - a further 1,700 gold pieces each.
"Should you not wish to pursue the matter any further, I would ask that you report your findings to the Town Council. They should be made aware of this Sedgewick's operations,"she says sombrely.
investigate this Prospect… and bring Sedgewick to justice…
…and make sure the town council doesn’t end up out of balance for the security of Saltmarsh!
Nick thinks to himself as he listens to Issie, Condensing the matters into a to-do list in him mind.
“We have such good investigators in this group you bamphed from various corners of the planes, I’m sure we can get the job done!” He winks to their Lady Matron…
turning back to the group, “council first or prospect? My only worry that if we go to the council first and there is a spy, Sedgewick and his Lackie may know we are coming, if they don’t already…”
The reluctance of Erma and the disagreement about the next course of action at first surprises Faila. She is new here and has nothing, and up until now has seen no course but to do as she is asked. But of course, it is a tricky task they have been assigned, and there are many ways that it could be accomplished. Such a strange and different group is certain to disagree on the best course.
"I would like to help Lady Isolde and the Carnival," Faila tells the others. The warm patchwork quilt she's wearing makes her recall the hot cups of spiced wine and the hospitality of the skurra. If we need a family, she thinks, after Nick's comment, surely the Carnival has acted most like one to us. More quietly, she adds, "but I would also like to stay with all of you, Nick, and Nikita, Boyd, Meresaa, and Erma, whatever we do. We've all come from farther away even than the Carnival has."
She nods in agreement with Nick and Nikita. "I would like to go to Prospect, at least we can see what is going on there, quietly, and get a little information."
"I just wanted to hear it from you... letting us exploit the condition of the deal is hospitable, but not a good idea, my lady"- Ermasnietsz blinks twice, then continues to do so as if she's re-discovered the humane features.
"Yes, I'm willing to pursue a law-enforcing task, but not without additional demand. Firstly, I need more people. The presence of Toska and Claude will increase the chance of success. Secondly, if there's some sort of casualties, you'll grant me immunity."
The sorcerer removes her top-hat and holds it near her chest... a creepy smile remains plastered on her face when she examines everyones' expression.
"I, for one, prefer not to leave a job half finished. I'm happy to continue in our efforts to resolve the trouble." Meresaa bites her lip in thought. "Ermasnietsz makes a good point, though. I'm not sure how Claude might assist, but anyone who would willingly assist us would be most welcome, I think. If we're expecting a fight, Hermos would likely be quite helpful."
As the weather effect manifests over your head you begin to feel a soft icy touch; it appears to be light snow. You get a sense that the weather is likely to get a lot colder but stay dry.
Nick Nack - The Carnival Mistress smiles at you. "I must admit that the idea did originally come from the Illuminated Man. How he and Claude managed to gather you all from far and wide I'll never know," she says jovially. "It seems like our trust was not misplaced."
Ermasnietsz - Isolde contemplates your words. "Contrary to how it may seem, I would not ask either Claude or Toska to accompany you unless they are willing,"she states. "However, I shall ask that they do so. It has only been a day yet I sense you have already found many a willing ally within the Carnival; especially among the Skurra." Isolde shifts a little uncomfortably. "Toska..."she bites at her lip before cutting herself short ((you sense that she is withholding information)). "I am sure they will not refuse your request."
"As for your second request," Isolde starts, "I shall not hold you culpable should anything out of your control." She glares at you. "Should happen to either of the members of the troupe. That having been said, both Toska and Claude are vital to the Carnival... know that losing either of them would be felt throughout."
Meresaa - "Hermos stays with me," Isolde says shortly. "He is loyal to the core but would likely refuse any command I gave him to accompany you."
"That's a kind gesture that can only be expected from a... a queen!"- Ermasnietsz covers her mouth with the palm of her hand to suppress the force of a dry cough. "Don't worry about them. I'm certain of the fact that they won't refuse the proposal when I offer both of them a portion of my earning. Who doesn't love to make extra money?"
After the exchange of words, she will join her teammates and ask for further explanation of various types of course of action suggested by Nick Nack and Nikita. "Would you like to repeat the suggestions? I didn't quite follow most of the ideas." She will pull out the pair of Sending Stones from her pockets and place it before the group of friends(?). She blurts out the mechanism of the stones while adding details of the encounter with the fortune teller woman.
Nick imagines buying a mansion and each of them having a room… “I’m still a bit flustered by all this gold… never in my life have I seen such quantities! If I had had this in my last life, maybe my tribe wouldn’t have…” Nick back stops talking for a time; eyes looking down toward his feet.
hearing erma’s question, “I think Izzie wants us to investigate this Prospect place.. … for the goal of bringing Sedgewick to justice…. She mentioned telling the council, but I suggest we don’t do that until we’ve looked into it first. What do you think?” Nick thinks for a second about the possibility of danger at the house…
”you know, with so much gold; there is a consideration to see if anyone in town sells some decent potions before we head to the prospect too.:.” Nick keeps thinking of tactical ways to confront an investigation with possible confrontations, and the group and each of their skillsets and worries.
Ermasnietsz eagerly listens to everyone, she raises an eyebrow when Faila addresses her with a nickname and seems amused at the discovery that Nick has given Lady Isolde a pet name too. She drops face-up on the ground as if she's been hit by a bolt from the blue, then restricts her movement as much as possible. She's preparing to take a long rest.
"We can just kill the possible target (Sedgewick) on sight since we're not going to face any consequences"- she suggests another choice that emphasizes on the extent of immunity from justice.
"I don't want to go to the local market. I fear that some of the townsfolk may recognize me. You're free to decide for yourself, Nick."
Boyd's been fairly quiet since he came out of the fortune teller's wagon, and refuses any food for the moment, perhaps still convinced that he'll catch the worms from it. Over dinner he expresses his view on Prospect, "Well, way I see it is: everything's pointing that way. Maybe we still got some loose ends in town and all, but I think we know enough to go our ourselves a look at this old house... see what we can drum up. Maybe we can find a way to work this portal thing they's got going on and you lot can make your ways back home, eh?"
"Anyroads, I'm happy to keep this investigation up. May be none of my business, but I ain't too pleased about strange folk kidnapping children and putting killer worms in 'em."
“Hope those that want a potion find a merchant… sometimes A potion’s a second chance, and coin isn’t easily spent by the dead.” Nick wonders how others will utilize their coin, what their secret priorities all are. He says goodnight to everyone after dinner and heads to sleep, wondering what strange dream will haunt him.
…before rest he settles his mental to do list… need for picking up armor at the smithy… perhaps catching some gossip on the way… then off to prospect.
Nick suspects they will have to all go through town to get to prospect, or those wanting to avoid it will have to take the long way around. “Goodnight new sky, good night and good morning soon.”
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(See below): Perception for Thumbtack on a circuit around the Carnival looking for interlopers, oddities or black carriages, at advantage due to Keen Hearing and Sight for the Owl: 7
Having recounted her experiences fully to the group and to Lady Isolde as needed privately, Nikita sits back and listens. Prospect tomorrow, then - did it sound like the group is agreeing on that? She emphatically agrees with Boyd about the rescuing kidnapped children bit. And maybe he's right about the other part too - any planar gate at Prospect might be the key to getting some of these others home. Lady Isolde had made a solid point, though. Why was Theodore Sedgewick doing all this, other than to feed on the life force of others through the Sagacitas as Reggie had described? If the Sanguine Cabal is an arm of the Scarlet Brotherhood, the entire party is likely already marked for death, regardless of what they do. But the why of targeting the Carnival still did not fully make sense to her.
She agrees with Nick Nack about a quick trip into town in the morning for him to pick up his equipment. And hers as well, though she'd need more practice before she could cast spells in even Studded Leather. Potions to help heal make plenty of sense as well, given their new windfall of gold.
Not sure what the sleeping arrangements are, but Nikita has lain down under the stars on the hard ground on her bedroll for several months now on the run, so she's not fussy. She makes sure that the jar of Sagacitas, covered and enclosed in ice from Shape Water are still secure with her, well covered and hidden. She adds plenty more ice, making a thick coating over a foot deep around it to make sure it doesn't melt.
Before the evening ends, though, she does want to check on Reggie Clover. Just to make sure he is still there and not snuck back off to Prospect or Tymora knows where. She invites anyone that wants to come with her. And she sends Thumbtack on a quick circuit around the Carnival site to see if she spies any interlopers or other things that don't belong. Such as, say, black carriages. See Perception roll above.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
I don't know if I've ever had a potion. Faila thinks it sounds like a good idea, though. The handfuls of gold coins she puts into the leather money pouch are awfully heavy, but she realizes she doesn't have any idea what she needs. When she gets scared, the wild in her just takes over, and it's always kept her alive. Thinking, planning ahead for danger, oddly enough, it's something she's not exactly sure how to do. The beast does it for me. Faila shivers. I don't want it to be that way. I'll buy what Nick and Nikita recommend, and keep it carefully. Maybe if I'm prepared, I won't go wild.
Faila accompanies Nikita back to the medical tent to check on Reggie before settling down to sleep.
During the long rest, Ermasnietsz pretends to sleep for the first four hours while trying to mimic the way living people remain motionless and keep their eyes closed, oftentimes snoring faintly to make the act more realistic. After four hours of long rest, she will guard the area around the bonfire.
"Hermos stays with me," Isolde says shortly. "He is loyal to the core but would likely refuse any command I gave him to accompany you."
Meresaa smiles and nods appreciatively. "If this is true, you are both most fortunate to have each other. Companions whose trust and commitment run that deep are rare and to be cherished. I'll be sure to speak with Toska tonight so she can consider our invitation to help her fellows."
She stands back to her full height and smooths her robe. "Thank you once again for your hospitality and generosity under these troubling circumstances. The gold will be put to good use, likely in the service of continuing this pursuit. The food and shelter are also most welcome. If I can't be in my own home, it's a comfort to be invited into someone else's. I'll take my leave and check on Nathaniel with Reggie and the others. He may need some relief during the night to keep an eye on the patients should any take a turn for the worse." Looking to the rest of the gathering she bows and says, "Goodnight to you all. I'll see you in the morning."
@DM, not sure if you want to RP through an interaction with Toska and then back to the medical tent or not. I'm happy to do that or just head straight to the long rest.
Nikita simply agrees with Faila and (she thinks?) Nick Nack that the next step is to go to Prospect. She thinks that involves going after Sedgewick and crew there to try to free Esther Freyn and perhaps Asha Hawkes if they can investigate the planar rift. But only after they've shared all info they are willing to share (Nikita shares everything she knows). And heard what Lady Isolde has to say.
She remains quiet otherwise, having gathered over the course of the day that, each for their own reasons, Nick Nack, Ermasnietsz and Meresaa at least haven't thought particularly highly of her approach. She will have to reflect on their criticisms, direct or indirect, just as she had recognized that Boyd had correctly set her straight on how best to find information from common folk at The Ruddy Tankard (which she should have known but apparently had forgotten). Regardless, Nikita is, for now, unless further information arises, determined to go to Prospect, hopefully with all of them as a group, but without them if they would prefer not to go. Alone if absolutely necessary.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Chiming in when she can offer insight or information, Meresaa mostly listens to the others share their wild stories of traversing the town and meeting with the locals.
After several mentions of going to Prospect, she quietly clears her throat and interjects, "It seems to me that there are still quite a few factors at play here and a frontal assault on this Sanguine Cabal might be ill-advised as we don't know their level of connection throughout the town and the region. Even if we were somehow able to get into the house safely and rescue those kept inside, we don't know what sort of danger we'd be putting the Carnival in. This isn't a simple matter of raiding a decrepit tomb or storming a tower to defeat a dark wizard or some such. There are complexities and elements at play, the surface of which we've barely scratched today." She looks around the group to gauge reactions.
"It sounds like our Reggie has had quite the strange experience that doesn't line up with what Nathaniel knows of Dr. Cavendish. It may be a leap, but if that one's tied to Sedgewick and installed in the temple, there's a lot more potential for harm than we may have suspected. I think it would behoove us to pull the thread until we're comfortable with the level of risk before we try storming the gates at Prospect."
Looking down to the jar at her side, the lithe, blue woman rests a hand on it and says, "I propose we make use our friends here as a means of gaining admittance to the temple's facilities under the pretense of continuing their study. That would also give us a chance to gauge Cavendish's reaction to seeing them in case there's a glimmer of recognition in her eyes. I believe we'd be better served continuing to work these other angles before confronting the problem head-on, but if it's hijinks and mayhem you all want, I suppose I'll have to accompany you as someone should try to keep you all out of trouble." She smiles broadly and winks one large, violet eye at Kick Knack.
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Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age
“These people are willing to let innocents die as part of their plan…thus I am sure there will be bloodshed and fighting ahead… so better to know now who will buckle in the face of danger…” Nick mumbles under his breath.l looking about the group.
”either to prospect first, or to the local forest and hills for a hunt, or even the local graveyard for all I care, but let us as a group point our interests into 1 direction, and be singular in our focus.. this will be the safest course forward.”
…
”which of you are the more insistent and still believe they know best and would lead the lives of others insistently to follow their opinion? Do step forward and Propose a next course of action: 1 action! A group action! 5 fingers separated are weak but together a fist is strong!”
“let us follow each lead one at a time. Vote if we must, elect a leader if we must, I care not… but we cannot be disparate and survive the challenges ahead, of this i am sure, for our enemies are powerful and more organized than we are currently.”
…
Nick is tired from giving his speech, besieged by memories of town elders arrogantly insisting spiking things their way, not acting to solve the problems but discussing ever more detailed minutia… he remembers seeing their dead bodies strewn about, these once erudite leaders now but food for worms covered in blood, endtrails indistinguishable from the maggots that fed on them… “please, you guys are the only family I have”… he says more quietly, looks up at those who had spent any time speaking to him this first day together. He is worried some will think he will be taken wrong, and begins to slump to sit and play in the dirt.
….
Nikita nods at both Nick Nack and Meresaa.
"My vote is still Prospect. No one has suggested 'full frontal assault' or 'storming the gates' to this point. My thought was either sneak in to rescue Esther Freyn, who is plausibly still captive there. Which is why time is of the essence. That or ambush and capture someone outside who is going in or out first to find more information. Won't be easy either way, of course. And rescuing Asha Hawkes may be even more difficult, as will unravelling the conspiracy."
"Temple of Procan and investigating Dr. Cavendish first would be fine too. Not my first choice, but I don't propose to be the leader. I nominate Boyd, actually. Regardless, let's choose what and when, and then go do it. Sooner the better - we and the Carnival are already in danger, unless I miss my guess. I do agree with Nick that we would be better served staying together if we all are willing."
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
“ok! So Nikita is 1 vote for Prospect then Temple of Procan… and so everyone feels better I’ll even promise not to shoot first, maybe sneaky or deceptive tactics are in order…” nick winks at the group with his hand in his heart. “…But if someone attacks us…” Nick does a let-me-at-‘em boxing stance.
“…and to keep the voting fair since I proposed it, I’ll refrain from voting, but I must confess to having a request… I have to stop by the smithy in the morning for my armor before whichever place we choose!” Nick smiles like a kid getting caught for not doing their homework.
Carnival - Skurra Wagons
Lady Isolde
The party draws Isolde into a private conversation, Tindal is more than happy to make himself scarce. "Theodore Sedgewick?" Isolde says curiously, "I must admit that it is only a name I have heard in passing. I wonder what he could possibly stand to gain by unleashing this sickness - the Sagacitas - on the Carnival? Does he seek to turn us into social pariahs? To what end?"
"I didn't want to believe that this was targeted but the evidence you provide seems irrefutable," she fumes. "Do you believe this Sedgewick has some connection to this other plane? If this mysterious species comes from another plane of existence," Isolde attempts to comprehend the implications, "could it be that other creatures have entered this world? What would this mean for Saltmarsh?"
She nods at Ermasnietsz, "true enough. I would ask that you further investigate this Prospect you mention and bring Sedgewick to justice. Though I understand that it is not your fight." Isolde waves Hermos over. "Hermos, these fine people have accomplished both of the tasks I asked of them. Please see that they are paid the money I promised them." The giant simply grunts and walks off to retrieve the reward promised - a further 1,700 gold pieces each.
"Should you not wish to pursue the matter any further, I would ask that you report your findings to the Town Council. They should be made aware of this Sedgewick's operations," she says sombrely.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
investigate this Prospect… and bring Sedgewick to justice…
…and make sure the town council doesn’t end up out of balance for the security of Saltmarsh!
Nick thinks to himself as he listens to Issie, Condensing the matters into a to-do list in him mind.
“We have such good investigators in this group you bamphed from various corners of the planes, I’m sure we can get the job done!” He winks to their Lady Matron…
turning back to the group, “council first or prospect? My only worry that if we go to the council first and there is a spy, Sedgewick and his Lackie may know we are coming, if they don’t already…”
The reluctance of Erma and the disagreement about the next course of action at first surprises Faila. She is new here and has nothing, and up until now has seen no course but to do as she is asked. But of course, it is a tricky task they have been assigned, and there are many ways that it could be accomplished. Such a strange and different group is certain to disagree on the best course.
"I would like to help Lady Isolde and the Carnival," Faila tells the others. The warm patchwork quilt she's wearing makes her recall the hot cups of spiced wine and the hospitality of the skurra. If we need a family, she thinks, after Nick's comment, surely the Carnival has acted most like one to us. More quietly, she adds, "but I would also like to stay with all of you, Nick, and Nikita, Boyd, Meresaa, and Erma, whatever we do. We've all come from farther away even than the Carnival has."
She nods in agreement with Nick and Nikita. "I would like to go to Prospect, at least we can see what is going on there, quietly, and get a little information."
"I just wanted to hear it from you... letting us exploit the condition of the deal is hospitable, but not a good idea, my lady"- Ermasnietsz blinks twice, then continues to do so as if she's re-discovered the humane features.
"Yes, I'm willing to pursue a law-enforcing task, but not without additional demand. Firstly, I need more people. The presence of Toska and Claude will increase the chance of success. Secondly, if there's some sort of casualties, you'll grant me immunity."
The sorcerer removes her top-hat and holds it near her chest... a creepy smile remains plastered on her face when she examines everyones' expression.
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
"I, for one, prefer not to leave a job half finished. I'm happy to continue in our efforts to resolve the trouble." Meresaa bites her lip in thought. "Ermasnietsz makes a good point, though. I'm not sure how Claude might assist, but anyone who would willingly assist us would be most welcome, I think. If we're expecting a fight, Hermos would likely be quite helpful."
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Faila's Druidcraft check:
As the weather effect manifests over your head you begin to feel a soft icy touch; it appears to be light snow. You get a sense that the weather is likely to get a lot colder but stay dry.
Nick Nack - The Carnival Mistress smiles at you. "I must admit that the idea did originally come from the Illuminated Man. How he and Claude managed to gather you all from far and wide I'll never know," she says jovially. "It seems like our trust was not misplaced."
Ermasnietsz - Isolde contemplates your words. "Contrary to how it may seem, I would not ask either Claude or Toska to accompany you unless they are willing," she states. "However, I shall ask that they do so. It has only been a day yet I sense you have already found many a willing ally within the Carnival; especially among the Skurra." Isolde shifts a little uncomfortably. "Toska..." she bites at her lip before cutting herself short ((you sense that she is withholding information)). "I am sure they will not refuse your request."
"As for your second request," Isolde starts, "I shall not hold you culpable should anything out of your control." She glares at you. "Should happen to either of the members of the troupe. That having been said, both Toska and Claude are vital to the Carnival... know that losing either of them would be felt throughout."
Meresaa - "Hermos stays with me," Isolde says shortly. "He is loyal to the core but would likely refuse any command I gave him to accompany you."
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
"That's a kind gesture that can only be expected from a... a queen!"- Ermasnietsz covers her mouth with the palm of her hand to suppress the force of a dry cough. "Don't worry about them. I'm certain of the fact that they won't refuse the proposal when I offer both of them a portion of my earning. Who doesn't love to make extra money?"
After the exchange of words, she will join her teammates and ask for further explanation of various types of course of action suggested by Nick Nack and Nikita. "Would you like to repeat the suggestions? I didn't quite follow most of the ideas." She will pull out the pair of Sending Stones from her pockets and place it before the group of friends(?). She blurts out the mechanism of the stones while adding details of the encounter with the fortune teller woman.
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
Nick imagines buying a mansion and each of them having a room…
“I’m still a bit flustered by all this gold… never in my life have I seen such quantities! If I had had this in my last life, maybe my tribe wouldn’t have…” Nick back stops talking for a time; eyes looking down toward his feet.
hearing erma’s question, “I think Izzie wants us to investigate this Prospect place.. … for the goal of bringing Sedgewick to justice…. She mentioned telling the council, but I suggest we don’t do that until we’ve looked into it first. What do you think?” Nick thinks for a second about the possibility of danger at the house…
”you know, with so much gold; there is a consideration to see if anyone in town sells some decent potions before we head to the prospect too.:.” Nick keeps thinking of tactical ways to confront an investigation with possible confrontations, and the group and each of their skillsets and worries.
Ermasnietsz eagerly listens to everyone, she raises an eyebrow when Faila addresses her with a nickname and seems amused at the discovery that Nick has given Lady Isolde a pet name too. She drops face-up on the ground as if she's been hit by a bolt from the blue, then restricts her movement as much as possible. She's preparing to take a long rest.
"We can just kill the possible target (Sedgewick) on sight since we're not going to face any consequences"- she suggests another choice that emphasizes on the extent of immunity from justice.
"I don't want to go to the local market. I fear that some of the townsfolk may recognize me. You're free to decide for yourself, Nick."
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
Boyd's been fairly quiet since he came out of the fortune teller's wagon, and refuses any food for the moment, perhaps still convinced that he'll catch the worms from it. Over dinner he expresses his view on Prospect, "Well, way I see it is: everything's pointing that way. Maybe we still got some loose ends in town and all, but I think we know enough to go our ourselves a look at this old house... see what we can drum up. Maybe we can find a way to work this portal thing they's got going on and you lot can make your ways back home, eh?"
"Anyroads, I'm happy to keep this investigation up. May be none of my business, but I ain't too pleased about strange folk kidnapping children and putting killer worms in 'em."
“Hope those that want a potion find a merchant… sometimes A potion’s a second chance, and coin isn’t easily spent by the dead.” Nick wonders how others will utilize their coin, what their secret priorities all are. He says goodnight to everyone after dinner and heads to sleep, wondering what strange dream will haunt him.
…before rest he settles his mental to do list… need for picking up armor at the smithy… perhaps catching some gossip on the way… then off to prospect.
Nick suspects they will have to all go through town to get to prospect, or those wanting to avoid it will have to take the long way around. “Goodnight new sky, good night and good morning soon.”
(See below): Perception for Thumbtack on a circuit around the Carnival looking for interlopers, oddities or black carriages, at advantage due to Keen Hearing and Sight for the Owl: 7
Having recounted her experiences fully to the group and to Lady Isolde as needed privately, Nikita sits back and listens. Prospect tomorrow, then - did it sound like the group is agreeing on that? She emphatically agrees with Boyd about the rescuing kidnapped children bit. And maybe he's right about the other part too - any planar gate at Prospect might be the key to getting some of these others home. Lady Isolde had made a solid point, though. Why was Theodore Sedgewick doing all this, other than to feed on the life force of others through the Sagacitas as Reggie had described? If the Sanguine Cabal is an arm of the Scarlet Brotherhood, the entire party is likely already marked for death, regardless of what they do. But the why of targeting the Carnival still did not fully make sense to her.
She agrees with Nick Nack about a quick trip into town in the morning for him to pick up his equipment. And hers as well, though she'd need more practice before she could cast spells in even Studded Leather. Potions to help heal make plenty of sense as well, given their new windfall of gold.
Not sure what the sleeping arrangements are, but Nikita has lain down under the stars on the hard ground on her bedroll for several months now on the run, so she's not fussy. She makes sure that the jar of Sagacitas, covered and enclosed in ice from Shape Water are still secure with her, well covered and hidden. She adds plenty more ice, making a thick coating over a foot deep around it to make sure it doesn't melt.
Before the evening ends, though, she does want to check on Reggie Clover. Just to make sure he is still there and not snuck back off to Prospect or Tymora knows where. She invites anyone that wants to come with her. And she sends Thumbtack on a quick circuit around the Carnival site to see if she spies any interlopers or other things that don't belong. Such as, say, black carriages. See Perception roll above.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Xarian(Fighter2): NioNSwiper's Tyranny of Dragons
Dyson/Eleo(TwilightCleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(ShepherdDruid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(WildMagicSorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(EchoKnightFighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(MercyMonk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(NatureCleric3/DivineSoulSorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
I don't know if I've ever had a potion. Faila thinks it sounds like a good idea, though. The handfuls of gold coins she puts into the leather money pouch are awfully heavy, but she realizes she doesn't have any idea what she needs. When she gets scared, the wild in her just takes over, and it's always kept her alive. Thinking, planning ahead for danger, oddly enough, it's something she's not exactly sure how to do. The beast does it for me. Faila shivers. I don't want it to be that way. I'll buy what Nick and Nikita recommend, and keep it carefully. Maybe if I'm prepared, I won't go wild.
Faila accompanies Nikita back to the medical tent to check on Reggie before settling down to sleep.
Medicine: 19
During the long rest, Ermasnietsz pretends to sleep for the first four hours while trying to mimic the way living people remain motionless and keep their eyes closed, oftentimes snoring faintly to make the act more realistic. After four hours of long rest, she will guard the area around the bonfire.
InkedBee (Undead_Analyst)
Covetous, Dragonish Thoughts - Jenviel Tsumara: Fallen Aasimar- Monk|Crimson Sands of Time - Navarra Iltazyara: Human- Druid/Warlock| Bleak Prospect - Ermasnietsz: Reborn- Clockwork Soul Sorcerer
Meresaa smiles and nods appreciatively. "If this is true, you are both most fortunate to have each other. Companions whose trust and commitment run that deep are rare and to be cherished. I'll be sure to speak with Toska tonight so she can consider our invitation to help her fellows."
She stands back to her full height and smooths her robe. "Thank you once again for your hospitality and generosity under these troubling circumstances. The gold will be put to good use, likely in the service of continuing this pursuit. The food and shelter are also most welcome. If I can't be in my own home, it's a comfort to be invited into someone else's. I'll take my leave and check on Nathaniel with Reggie and the others. He may need some relief during the night to keep an eye on the patients should any take a turn for the worse." Looking to the rest of the gathering she bows and says, "Goodnight to you all. I'll see you in the morning."
@DM, not sure if you want to RP through an interaction with Toska and then back to the medical tent or not. I'm happy to do that or just head straight to the long rest.
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