Nikita - Dolan nods, "You need not explain any more than that Nikita. Saltmarsh is as close a thing I've had to a home and you are most welcome here."
As you see him mention Isolde you notice a coy smile reach his lips. "I can, of course, spare a moment to speak with a friend of Isolde's and the Carnival's,"he says earnestly, "I shall try and answer any questions you may have. No one has been bothering them have they." You feel the sense of concern come over him.
Boyd - The woman looks in your direction with red blotchy eyes, "Yes sir? How can I help?"
After you introduce yourself she looks a little relieved. "What's going on around the circus? Do you mean about my Essie's disappearance?"she asks quickly.
Maureen follows you to the quieter spot in the street, she walks with a naturally graceful air. When you ask about Billy and her daughter she sighs, "I suspect she snuck out last night to see this Billy. He is probably the reason why she has seemed awfully eager to visit the Carnival in recent days. If her father was still alive she would not take such liberties."
"Please Mr Nilsson, Esther is my life. If I should lose her..." you notice tears starting to form in Maureen's eyes. "O'Toole?" she says, collecting herself, "I would trust the man with my life. He was one of the only ones that still respected my family, even after what happened with Charles."
Nikita has a mental chuckle at Lady Isolde and Thomas Dolan. At least they are both flustered by each other. But then...
Seems the joke is on me as I am a bit flustered by them both.
She looks Thomas Dolan in the eyes. "Speaking plainly, yes. I think someone has been bothering them. Perhaps more than one someone. But the who and how is mysterious, to me at least. Let alone the why."
"But before I get to that, I apologize in advance for asking you a seemingly unrelated question: how long ago did you settle in Saltmarsh?"
Nikita - Dolan's face darkens when you mention the Carnival's plight. "I had feared that local politics might be played out with the Carnival's visit,"he says, shaking his head.
You get the feeling that Dolan is holding back on who he feels might be responsible for any ill fortune falling on the Carnival. But he definitely has his suspicions.
"How long ago did I settle? Tough question really," he explains, "I've had property in Saltmarsh for what must be at least 10 years. But I have only really been more active in the community, or settled, for the last couple of years. As said, I used to travel a lot more," you notice a pang of regret creep into his voice, "but now I am more land-based, running things from Saltmarsh. I have a few captains, good loyal employees, that ferry goods for me now."
“Come on Faila, let’s go find the others, or if not, then check out the market before it closes up for the night.”
Nick drags Faila out into the streets. He hopes he picked well whom to trust, he doesn’t wanna have to come back and do anything nasty to the seemingly to him, friendly local craftman family for taking his gold without completing the task.
“I wonder if Nikita has made any progress!” Nick looks out upon the bridge market specifically looking for Nikita or Dolan.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Persuasion check on Dolan: 20 2nd Persuasion roll for advantage if applicable if Nick Nack or Failahelp her: 22
If Nikita sees Nick Nack and Faila emerge from The Dwarven Anvil, she motions them over to join her conversation with Dolan and introduces them to the half-elf. She doesn't (yet) point out Boyd who is talking with Maureen and perhaps O'Toole next.
"These are my associates, also working on Lady Isolde's behalf. We seem a mis-matched group but, I hope, a strangely effective one."
Nikita does not push any further (yet) on Dolan's captains and ferried goods though she would suspect smuggling may be involved. She focuses instead on the Carnival and those "bothering" it, trying to get as much as she can out of Dolan. Persuasion check above, with second roll for advantage in case Nick Nack or Faila are able to help. She decides to trust Dolan with more information, hoping for an exchange, like-for-like.
"In truth, there seem to be multiple effects and intrusions affecting the Carnival, from disease to kidnapping. And from what we've found thus far, it's not harassment of the direct, mundane sort. At least some of it is magical in nature, perhaps even extraplanar, which sounds like madness, I know. The little we've heard about the Council, and indeed other town institutions such as the Guard and the Temple of Procan, is not so much that they are the perpetrators, though we can't rule anyone out. It's more that they have turned a cold shoulder on the Carnival and have chosen not to help in any way. An apparent cruelty of omission, not commission, if you will. Well, there may be one exception among the guards at least, in terms of seeking to help. An honest exception." (Nikita conspicuously glances at O'Toole nearby if he is still visible).
"So please, Mr. Dolan, if you care for Lady Isolde," (and I think that you do, Nikita sighs), "tell us everything you know about the town and the powers that be. Of the Council? Of the Temple or the Guard? Back at the western gate, we saw a large man who looked to be a leader among guard - who is he? What of your rival candidates for the open Council seat?"
Meresaa shakes her head to clear it and focuses her eyes back on the Illuminated Man's face, away from his entrancing tattoos.
"So much of this is concerning and confusing. Perhaps we need to take our investigation further from the Carnival." She looks to Ermasnietsz. "Should we see what the others have uncovered at the medical tent? Maybe they'll wish to explore the town and track down some persons of interest..."
Meresaa sniffs exasperatedly, thanks the Illuminated Man for his time, and turns to leave, hoping to reconnect with the others in hopes that their searches have been more fruitful.
If all of this is concurrent, she'll sigh heavily at finding that everyone else has already gone to town and begin the trek to find them.
“Nikita! And… this must be the infamous Mr. Dolan!” Nick looking him up and down, comparing to his previous mental image, then fixing his own posture in order to show he won’t be impressed by any charm or intellect.
Hearing Nikita go straight into details about the carnival, and knowing how the town folk feel about it, he instantly starts making a wall of noise to drown out the details for anyone not in the immediate circle to catch:
“HA AH HA” He looks around to make sure no one hears them.
“WHY REALLY NOW!”? Pushing the two away from passer bys.
“SIMPLY MARVELOUS, A JOLLY GOOD TIME YES”! Leaning them into a tighter encircling
“COULDN’T HEAR A WORD, IM SURE IT WAS NOTHING”! Making sure once more no one is puttinght wides of carnival and sickness as a confirmed fact together.
.YES QUITE RIGHT A COUGH IS WHAT IT WAS! I’LL HAVE TO GET SOME REST”, Turning to the crowd and laughing in a grotesque pantomime, preferring people think he crazy than them admiting there are deadly issues at the carnival.
………
“yes please keep the talk to council seats and other town politics that don’t bring anyone more scrutiny…” let’s not shoot ourselves in the foot before we begin making friends by feeding into their fears.” Nick says quietly to the group.
Boyd nods at Maureen, "That's right, she has me looking into their disappearances. Can you tell me, had Esther and Billy known each other long? Or did they meet when the carnival came into town?"
This talk of her late husband sounds like it could be a lead... he tries to follow his own advice and be obtuse. "What do you mean 'liberties'?"
After that, he says, "Thank you for your time, Ms. Freyn. You'll be the first to know if I discover anything. Would you feel most comfortable if I left any information with O'Toole, or would you like to tell me how I can contact you?"
He begins heading to where he last saw O'Toole on the bridge. He passes O'Toole and stands facing a different direction, so it doesn't look like he's talking to him. "I'm here to help with Billy and Esther. When and where can we talk?"
((To expedite things I will rule that everyone is able to locate each other simply enough - sticking out like sore thumbs and all! - and have reconvened near the Council Hall in a quieter side street. Any NPCs being more than happy to walk and talk.))
Nikita, NickNack & Faila - As Nikita introduces the other party members Dolan will, if they permit, shake each person's hand by way of greeting. Straight from the off, you get the sense that in spite of his fancy clothing, he appears to lack the typical grace of a noble and has likely led a rougher life.
"Pleased to meet you all,"he says smiling broadly. "I've led many a mismatched group in my time! Perhaps I best take you onboard one of my vessels - then you would truly see a mismatched group!" he comments, letting out a laugh.
As Nikita relays the information regarding the Carnival to Dolan his eyes widen, you get the sense that if he was currently drinking the contents of his mouth might well have been spat out in disbelief. "Kidnapping? Murder? Extraterrestrials? Little Green Men? This all sounds quite fantastical, Nikita,"he starts. "Though, in all seriousness, I have..."he beckons for you all to lean in and he lowers his voice.
"I have long suspected that there were individuals, or an organisation, operating within Saltmarsh that has established influence over a number of key figures here. The Town Council, the Town Guard, a number of local businesses, possibly even the Weekly Wail and the Temple of Procan." Dolan whispers. You note that, as you leant in closer, he wears a small broach fashioned with Procan's holy symbol (a gold and coral trident above or piercing a cresting wave).
As Nick interrupts him, quite sensibly, and attempts to make it seem like a standard meeting of friends, Dolan plays along. "Ahh, uhhh, yes Mr Nack! Have I not always said that Saltmarsh has the best fish in all the Azure Sea!"his voice booms. "Please, if you would care to visit MY fishmongers'," he says with a wink, "I'm afraid it is a little tucked away but you'll be able to sample Saltmarsh's delights there!"
"We can speak safely there," Dolan hisses under his breath, "I own the place." He proceeds to lead you back the way you came, past the market, to a large warehouse opposite the Dwarven Anvil.
Dolan opens the warehouses massive iron doors and lets you all in. Instantly the stench of fish fills your lungs. You see a number of people at work in the warehouse; salting and brining fish, ready for storage. "Pay them no heed," Dolan shouts over the general din, "they're loyal, each and every one." He leads you up some stairs to a small office, after everyone enters he closes the door, shutting out some of the noise.
"Now, where were we?"he asks.
Boyd - Maureen sighs, "I'm afraid I really have next to no idea about whoever Billy is. I can only imagine that my Essie met him whilst visiting the Carnival, so within the last few days. By liberties, I mean leaving the family home without informing me. She has only seen 13 summers Mr Nilssen, hardly old enough to go hobnobbing it off with some Carnival boy!"
She seems a little flustered, "Y-yes, with Sergeant O'Toole will be fine." Maureen smiles at you, "And thank you. If you were able to locate my Essie then it would mean the world to me."
You head off towards O'Toole who gives you a suspicious glance. "Certainly sir, if you know anything pertinent relating to the Freyn case I would like to know. We can talk at the Snapping Line,"he points to a nearby tavern. The tavern is built from the planks and hulls of half a dozen decommissioned fishing ships. Its interior is nautical in theme; netting everywhere, with oars hanging on the walls, and a number of sea-themed paintings. It seems to be popular, yet there are a number of quiet booths in which to sit.
"Alright Hanna," O'Toole barks as he enters the establishment.
"Ahh Eamon, good to see you," a young lady with golden hair says in return, "feel free to take your usual table, I'll be right over."
"Tha's Hanna," O'Toole explains, "Hanna Rist. Known her family for years, famous 'round here for lobster catching. Been doin' it going back generations. We can speak here, Hanna'll make sure we get some privacy."
"Now, regarding Esther, you have information?" he asks.
The Illuminated Man definitely appears to be downplaying his ability! Your new tattoo not only serves as a fantastic piece of art but appears to be instilled with magic itself.
((Mechanically, it infers a +2 to Wisdom Saving Throws made when you are the target of abilities that would cause you to become Charmed or Frightened))
Scales, fins, bulging eyes - it definitely looked like a fish. Could be one based on those swimming in the nearby river as far as you are aware.
Was it flying? Perhaps they were just extra fins.
Carnival Entrance
Ermasnietsz and Meresaa make their way towards town. The tension between them is as cold and frosty as the ground they tread. It is approaching mid-afternoon now and the sun is at its fullest. You wonder whether the others have had much luck in their investigations, perhaps they might have proven more fruitful.
You leave the Carnival behind; the noise, the frivolity, the laughter, many of the patrons unaware of events that had unfolded there over the last number of days. A young lad, in his teens, walks down the road towards the Carnival. "Another eager local ready to make the most of the Carnival", you think, "the joys of youth". Only the boy is not walking right. He clutches desperately at his stomach and his movement is slow and forced. It is then that you notice the boys arms and legs are scratched and bloody, his clothes torn, and his eyes open wide in fear.
The young man stumbles then. Falling first onto his knees, then facedown, hitting the frozen ground. There appears to be no one else around.
Ermasnietsz has been inspecting a poorly wrought map of Oerth that depicts the current location of the party while holding the pocket-watch in other hand to keep track of the time. She doesn't pay any heed to the words of the teenager since she's busy and walks away. But she stands still whenever she will hear the thudding noise of the fall and turns her head backwards.
Once inside the warehouse office, Nikita patiently repeats her questions, leaving out the initial bit that seems to have spooked everyone. (OOC: copy/paste, she feels she was fairly persuasive given the results of her previous Persuasion checks, even more so if the others helped as she was hoping they would to give her advantage):
"The little we've heard about the Council, and indeed other town institutions such as the Guard and the Temple of Procan, is not so much that they are the perpetrators, though we can't rule anyone out. It's more that they have turned a cold shoulder on the Carnival and have chosen not to help in any way. An apparent cruelty of omission, not commission, if you will. Well, there may be one exception among the guards at least, in terms of seeking to help. An honest exception." (Nikita would have glanced at O'Toole nearby if he were still visible back outside, now she'll just say his name directly).
"So please, Mr. Dolan, if you care for Lady Isolde," (and I think that you do, Nikita sighs), "tell us everything you know about the town and the powers that be. Of the Council? Of the Temple or the Guard? Back at the western gate, we saw a large man who looked to be a leader among guard - who is he? What of your rival candidates for the open Council seat?"
(At this point, I think it might be fair for Nikita to try another Insight check, both on what Dolan says in response but also whether he himself is over-trusting of his employees as he seemed to be a bit).
“Yah, I wanna know who on the council has personal desires not aligned with the best interests of saltmarsh! That’s who we should get rid of, and I bet the problem would be solved.” Nick makes finger guns and pretends to shoot blasts.
“also, is there any strong mages or sorcerers in town? Known to the public or to yourself?” Nick considers for the first time none of the politics matter, but instead we should just follow themagic… or where they intersect more probably like.
“I heard there’s a fellow named o‘toole who’s a bit of a tool, but I suspect at most he’s a mechanics and not our main issue right now”. (As long as he doesn’t mess up nick’s armor purchase)
Boyd decides to trust his gut on O'Toole - everything is pointing toward him being an upstanding guard - a beacon of duty in a town of strange and dubious occurrences. Just to make sure, he looks around the room they're in, checking for any indications that Hannah or anyone else might be spying through the walls. Assuming he has no reason to believe that, he opens up to the guard.
"Maybe a little," He sniffs, "I was hoping to compare notes a bit. Just got hired this morning to look for Billy, a boy in the carnival. It looks like they were last seen together by one of the carnival women yesterday evening. She said three people jumped out of a black carriage and grabbed them and took off. That was in the evening. Some carriage tracks outside her tent make me believe she wasn't lying." He pauses and gives the guard an appraising glance, then continues on.
"Last night, Tony Brodie of the Ruddy Tankard had a black carriage smash his sign as it sped off through the western gate. He said it was going pretty fast. Question is - who are they, what did they want with 2 kids, and why didn't the guards at the gate stop them?" He looks the sergeant dead in the eyes and asks, "Got any ideas about the last one?"
((To be clear, Boyd is holding back some information about exactly what he's doing (learning about the disease and how he got in the carnival) but he's turning over all the information he has on Billy and Esther so far)).
Nikita - Dolan nods, "You need not explain any more than that Nikita. Saltmarsh is as close a thing I've had to a home and you are most welcome here."
As you see him mention Isolde you notice a coy smile reach his lips. "I can, of course, spare a moment to speak with a friend of Isolde's and the Carnival's," he says earnestly, "I shall try and answer any questions you may have. No one has been bothering them have they." You feel the sense of concern come over him.
Nikita's Insight check:
You get the vibe that Dolan is interested in the young, beautiful Carnival Mistress. He seems a little flustered when you mention her name.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Boyd - The woman looks in your direction with red blotchy eyes, "Yes sir? How can I help?"
After you introduce yourself she looks a little relieved. "What's going on around the circus? Do you mean about my Essie's disappearance?" she asks quickly.
Maureen follows you to the quieter spot in the street, she walks with a naturally graceful air. When you ask about Billy and her daughter she sighs, "I suspect she snuck out last night to see this Billy. He is probably the reason why she has seemed awfully eager to visit the Carnival in recent days. If her father was still alive she would not take such liberties."
"Please Mr Nilsson, Esther is my life. If I should lose her..." you notice tears starting to form in Maureen's eyes. "O'Toole?" she says, collecting herself, "I would trust the man with my life. He was one of the only ones that still respected my family, even after what happened with Charles."
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Nikita has a mental chuckle at Lady Isolde and Thomas Dolan. At least they are both flustered by each other. But then...
Seems the joke is on me as I am a bit flustered by them both.
She looks Thomas Dolan in the eyes. "Speaking plainly, yes. I think someone has been bothering them. Perhaps more than one someone. But the who and how is mysterious, to me at least. Let alone the why."
"But before I get to that, I apologize in advance for asking you a seemingly unrelated question: how long ago did you settle in Saltmarsh?"
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
Nikita - Dolan's face darkens when you mention the Carnival's plight. "I had feared that local politics might be played out with the Carnival's visit," he says, shaking his head.
Insight:
You get the feeling that Dolan is holding back on who he feels might be responsible for any ill fortune falling on the Carnival. But he definitely has his suspicions.
"How long ago did I settle? Tough question really," he explains, "I've had property in Saltmarsh for what must be at least 10 years. But I have only really been more active in the community, or settled, for the last couple of years. As said, I used to travel a lot more," you notice a pang of regret creep into his voice, "but now I am more land-based, running things from Saltmarsh. I have a few captains, good loyal employees, that ferry goods for me now."
Further Insight:
You get the sense that there is more he is not telling you about his 'employees'.
Nikita - Please make Persuasion checks if you wish to push him on either of the topics mentioned.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
“Come on Faila, let’s go find the others, or if not, then check out the market before it closes up for the night.”
Nick drags Faila out into the streets. He hopes he picked well whom to trust, he doesn’t wanna have to come back and do anything nasty to the seemingly to him, friendly local craftman family for taking his gold without completing the task.
“I wonder if Nikita has made any progress!” Nick looks out upon the bridge market specifically looking for Nikita or Dolan.
Arcana 9
Nature 2
(Rolled in gamelog)
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
Persuasion check on Dolan: 20
2nd Persuasion roll for advantage if applicable if Nick Nack or Faila help her: 22
If Nikita sees Nick Nack and Faila emerge from The Dwarven Anvil, she motions them over to join her conversation with Dolan and introduces them to the half-elf. She doesn't (yet) point out Boyd who is talking with Maureen and perhaps O'Toole next.
"These are my associates, also working on Lady Isolde's behalf. We seem a mis-matched group but, I hope, a strangely effective one."
Nikita does not push any further (yet) on Dolan's captains and ferried goods though she would suspect smuggling may be involved. She focuses instead on the Carnival and those "bothering" it, trying to get as much as she can out of Dolan. Persuasion check above, with second roll for advantage in case Nick Nack or Faila are able to help. She decides to trust Dolan with more information, hoping for an exchange, like-for-like.
"In truth, there seem to be multiple effects and intrusions affecting the Carnival, from disease to kidnapping. And from what we've found thus far, it's not harassment of the direct, mundane sort. At least some of it is magical in nature, perhaps even extraplanar, which sounds like madness, I know. The little we've heard about the Council, and indeed other town institutions such as the Guard and the Temple of Procan, is not so much that they are the perpetrators, though we can't rule anyone out. It's more that they have turned a cold shoulder on the Carnival and have chosen not to help in any way. An apparent cruelty of omission, not commission, if you will. Well, there may be one exception among the guards at least, in terms of seeking to help. An honest exception." (Nikita conspicuously glances at O'Toole nearby if he is still visible).
"So please, Mr. Dolan, if you care for Lady Isolde," (and I think that you do, Nikita sighs), "tell us everything you know about the town and the powers that be. Of the Council? Of the Temple or the Guard? Back at the western gate, we saw a large man who looked to be a leader among guard - who is he? What of your rival candidates for the open Council seat?"
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
Meresaa shakes her head to clear it and focuses her eyes back on the Illuminated Man's face, away from his entrancing tattoos.
"So much of this is concerning and confusing. Perhaps we need to take our investigation further from the Carnival." She looks to Ermasnietsz. "Should we see what the others have uncovered at the medical tent? Maybe they'll wish to explore the town and track down some persons of interest..."
Serious FOMO over here. 😅
Characters currently being ruined on this forum:
Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age
Ermasnietsz shrugs her shoulder. She doesn't seem concerned about other things.
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 sniffs exasperatedly, thanks the Illuminated Man for his time, and turns to leave, hoping to reconnect with the others in hopes that their searches have been more fruitful.
If all of this is concurrent, she'll sigh heavily at finding that everyone else has already gone to town and begin the trek to find them.
Characters currently being ruined on this forum:
Neria Tallfellow (Halfling Rogue) - Curse of the Crimson Throne with Ashen_Age
“Nikita! And… this must be the infamous Mr. Dolan!” Nick looking him up and down, comparing to his previous mental image, then fixing his own posture in order to show he won’t be impressed by any charm or intellect.
Hearing Nikita go straight into details about the carnival, and knowing how the town folk feel about it, he instantly starts making a wall of noise to drown out the details for anyone not in the immediate circle to catch:
“HA AH HA” He looks around to make sure no one hears them.
“WHY REALLY NOW!”? Pushing the two away from passer bys.
“SIMPLY MARVELOUS, A JOLLY GOOD TIME YES”! Leaning them into a tighter encircling
“COULDN’T HEAR A WORD, IM SURE IT WAS NOTHING”! Making sure once more no one is puttinght wides of carnival and sickness as a confirmed fact together.
.YES QUITE RIGHT A COUGH IS WHAT IT WAS! I’LL HAVE TO GET SOME REST”, Turning to the crowd and laughing in a grotesque pantomime, preferring people think he crazy than them admiting there are deadly issues at the carnival.
………
“yes please keep the talk to council seats and other town politics that don’t bring anyone more scrutiny…” let’s not shoot ourselves in the foot before we begin making friends by feeding into their fears.” Nick says quietly to the group.
Boyd nods at Maureen, "That's right, she has me looking into their disappearances. Can you tell me, had Esther and Billy known each other long? Or did they meet when the carnival came into town?"
This talk of her late husband sounds like it could be a lead... he tries to follow his own advice and be obtuse. "What do you mean 'liberties'?"
After that, he says, "Thank you for your time, Ms. Freyn. You'll be the first to know if I discover anything. Would you feel most comfortable if I left any information with O'Toole, or would you like to tell me how I can contact you?"
He begins heading to where he last saw O'Toole on the bridge. He passes O'Toole and stands facing a different direction, so it doesn't look like he's talking to him. "I'm here to help with Billy and Esther. When and where can we talk?"
Saltmarsh Town
((To expedite things I will rule that everyone is able to locate each other simply enough - sticking out like sore thumbs and all! - and have reconvened near the Council Hall in a quieter side street. Any NPCs being more than happy to walk and talk.))
Nikita, Nick Nack & Faila - As Nikita introduces the other party members Dolan will, if they permit, shake each person's hand by way of greeting. Straight from the off, you get the sense that in spite of his fancy clothing, he appears to lack the typical grace of a noble and has likely led a rougher life.
"Pleased to meet you all," he says smiling broadly. "I've led many a mismatched group in my time! Perhaps I best take you onboard one of my vessels - then you would truly see a mismatched group!" he comments, letting out a laugh.
As Nikita relays the information regarding the Carnival to Dolan his eyes widen, you get the sense that if he was currently drinking the contents of his mouth might well have been spat out in disbelief. "Kidnapping? Murder? Extraterrestrials? Little Green Men? This all sounds quite fantastical, Nikita," he starts. "Though, in all seriousness, I have..." he beckons for you all to lean in and he lowers his voice.
"I have long suspected that there were individuals, or an organisation, operating within Saltmarsh that has established influence over a number of key figures here. The Town Council, the Town Guard, a number of local businesses, possibly even the Weekly Wail and the Temple of Procan." Dolan whispers. You note that, as you leant in closer, he wears a small broach fashioned with Procan's holy symbol (a gold and coral trident above or piercing a cresting wave).
As Nick interrupts him, quite sensibly, and attempts to make it seem like a standard meeting of friends, Dolan plays along. "Ahh, uhhh, yes Mr Nack! Have I not always said that Saltmarsh has the best fish in all the Azure Sea!" his voice booms. "Please, if you would care to visit MY fishmongers'," he says with a wink, "I'm afraid it is a little tucked away but you'll be able to sample Saltmarsh's delights there!"
"We can speak safely there," Dolan hisses under his breath, "I own the place." He proceeds to lead you back the way you came, past the market, to a large warehouse opposite the Dwarven Anvil.
Dolan opens the warehouses massive iron doors and lets you all in. Instantly the stench of fish fills your lungs. You see a number of people at work in the warehouse; salting and brining fish, ready for storage. "Pay them no heed," Dolan shouts over the general din, "they're loyal, each and every one." He leads you up some stairs to a small office, after everyone enters he closes the door, shutting out some of the noise.
"Now, where were we?" he asks.
Boyd - Maureen sighs, "I'm afraid I really have next to no idea about whoever Billy is. I can only imagine that my Essie met him whilst visiting the Carnival, so within the last few days. By liberties, I mean leaving the family home without informing me. She has only seen 13 summers Mr Nilssen, hardly old enough to go hobnobbing it off with some Carnival boy!"
She seems a little flustered, "Y-yes, with Sergeant O'Toole will be fine." Maureen smiles at you, "And thank you. If you were able to locate my Essie then it would mean the world to me."
You head off towards O'Toole who gives you a suspicious glance. "Certainly sir, if you know anything pertinent relating to the Freyn case I would like to know. We can talk at the Snapping Line," he points to a nearby tavern. The tavern is built from the planks and hulls of half a dozen decommissioned fishing ships. Its interior is nautical in theme; netting everywhere, with oars hanging on the walls, and a number of sea-themed paintings. It seems to be popular, yet there are a number of quiet booths in which to sit.
"Alright Hanna," O'Toole barks as he enters the establishment.
"Ahh Eamon, good to see you," a young lady with golden hair says in return, "feel free to take your usual table, I'll be right over."
"Tha's Hanna," O'Toole explains, "Hanna Rist. Known her family for years, famous 'round here for lobster catching. Been doin' it going back generations. We can speak here, Hanna'll make sure we get some privacy."
"Now, regarding Esther, you have information?" he asks.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
The Illuminated Man (Ermasnietsz & Meresaa)
Ermasnietsz's Arcana check (on your tattoo):
The Illuminated Man definitely appears to be downplaying his ability! Your new tattoo not only serves as a fantastic piece of art but appears to be instilled with magic itself.
((Mechanically, it infers a +2 to Wisdom Saving Throws made when you are the target of abilities that would cause you to become Charmed or Frightened))
Ermasnietsz's Nature check (on the fish tattoo):
Scales, fins, bulging eyes - it definitely looked like a fish. Could be one based on those swimming in the nearby river as far as you are aware.
Was it flying? Perhaps they were just extra fins.
Carnival Entrance
Ermasnietsz and Meresaa make their way towards town. The tension between them is as cold and frosty as the ground they tread. It is approaching mid-afternoon now and the sun is at its fullest. You wonder whether the others have had much luck in their investigations, perhaps they might have proven more fruitful.
You leave the Carnival behind; the noise, the frivolity, the laughter, many of the patrons unaware of events that had unfolded there over the last number of days. A young lad, in his teens, walks down the road towards the Carnival. "Another eager local ready to make the most of the Carnival", you think, "the joys of youth". Only the boy is not walking right. He clutches desperately at his stomach and his movement is slow and forced. It is then that you notice the boys arms and legs are scratched and bloody, his clothes torn, and his eyes open wide in fear.
The young man stumbles then. Falling first onto his knees, then facedown, hitting the frozen ground. There appears to be no one else around.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Does Ermasnietsz get further details about her tattoo?
Arcana+ Knowledge from a Past Life= 9+5 (Rolled in gamelog)
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
Ermasnietsz has been inspecting a poorly wrought map of Oerth that depicts the current location of the party while holding the pocket-watch in other hand to keep track of the time. She doesn't pay any heed to the words of the teenager since she's busy and walks away. But she stands still whenever she will hear the thudding noise of the fall and turns her head backwards.
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
Insight check described below (bottom): 18
Once inside the warehouse office, Nikita patiently repeats her questions, leaving out the initial bit that seems to have spooked everyone. (OOC: copy/paste, she feels she was fairly persuasive given the results of her previous Persuasion checks, even more so if the others helped as she was hoping they would to give her advantage):
"The little we've heard about the Council, and indeed other town institutions such as the Guard and the Temple of Procan, is not so much that they are the perpetrators, though we can't rule anyone out. It's more that they have turned a cold shoulder on the Carnival and have chosen not to help in any way. An apparent cruelty of omission, not commission, if you will. Well, there may be one exception among the guards at least, in terms of seeking to help. An honest exception." (Nikita would have glanced at O'Toole nearby if he were still visible back outside, now she'll just say his name directly).
"So please, Mr. Dolan, if you care for Lady Isolde," (and I think that you do, Nikita sighs), "tell us everything you know about the town and the powers that be. Of the Council? Of the Temple or the Guard? Back at the western gate, we saw a large man who looked to be a leader among guard - who is he? What of your rival candidates for the open Council seat?"
(At this point, I think it might be fair for Nikita to try another Insight check, both on what Dolan says in response but also whether he himself is over-trusting of his employees as he seemed to be a bit).
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
“Yah, I wanna know who on the council has personal desires not aligned with the best interests of saltmarsh! That’s who we should get rid of, and I bet the problem would be solved.” Nick makes finger guns and pretends to shoot blasts.
“also, is there any strong mages or sorcerers in town? Known to the public or to yourself?” Nick considers for the first time none of the politics matter, but instead we should just follow the magic… or where they intersect more probably like.
“I heard there’s a fellow named o‘toole who’s a bit of a tool, but I suspect at most he’s a mechanics and not our main issue right now”. (As long as he doesn’t mess up nick’s armor purchase)
Boyd decides to trust his gut on O'Toole - everything is pointing toward him being an upstanding guard - a beacon of duty in a town of strange and dubious occurrences. Just to make sure, he looks around the room they're in, checking for any indications that Hannah or anyone else might be spying through the walls. Assuming he has no reason to believe that, he opens up to the guard.
"Maybe a little," He sniffs, "I was hoping to compare notes a bit. Just got hired this morning to look for Billy, a boy in the carnival. It looks like they were last seen together by one of the carnival women yesterday evening. She said three people jumped out of a black carriage and grabbed them and took off. That was in the evening. Some carriage tracks outside her tent make me believe she wasn't lying." He pauses and gives the guard an appraising glance, then continues on.
"Last night, Tony Brodie of the Ruddy Tankard had a black carriage smash his sign as it sped off through the western gate. He said it was going pretty fast. Question is - who are they, what did they want with 2 kids, and why didn't the guards at the gate stop them?" He looks the sergeant dead in the eyes and asks, "Got any ideas about the last one?"
((To be clear, Boyd is holding back some information about exactly what he's doing (learning about the disease and how he got in the carnival) but he's turning over all the information he has on Billy and Esther so far)).
Nikita's additional die for advantage on Insight after rolling 11 already on the first roll: 24
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