Ekmong senses the doubt in Utar's voice and choice of words. The tiefling tries to explain his point of view a little more plainly: "Although I disapprove of the methods you employed in that fateful night, I have seen first hand what your group is capable of doing in a pinch. As I mentioned a moment ago, I suspect there is much more to this story than a couple of street smart junior scholars. Should this hunch be true and the thread lead to something more... nefarious... I would want the investigators to be able to hold their own and still come out on top. I trust you to be that kind of group. Rough around the edges, sure, but true in intent and steadfast in morality. Please do not prove me wrong." He walks closer to an armoire of sorts but pauses and turns back to face CRAP. He adds another point: "Additionally, as I mentioned to you in the past, and despite of how we came to know and work together, I do hope one day we may be able to fully rely on each other. Trustworthy allies are hard to come by. I am sure I don't have to explain to you how beneficial it would be to have House Brokengulf at your side."
@Utar:
This is not the first time Ekmong has mentioned wanting to build this relationship with CRAP further. You sense a hint of doubt on the tiefling's words too, but you gather he wants to be proven right on "betting on CRAP" sorta speak. From his point of view, he is taking on a risk here, a risk that CRAP messes up again, but he is willing to take this risk. He believes you can succeed and wants you to do so. Nonetheless, you gather that at this stage of the relationship between house Brokengulf and CRAP, there is still a level of plausible deniability from his end should you fail. It is a risky bet on CRAP that has a small layer of insurance beneath it, but it is still a bet on CRAP (as opposed to against the party).
Turning back to the subject of helpful gear, Obby runs down a list of potential favorite picks. Ekmong responds with a smile: "I can see why you brought her." He opens a drawer next to him and pulls out four bulbous vials of red liquid. "Should you find yourselves in a scrap," he explains. You all recognize it as potions of greater healing. He then turns to Graxx as he puts another vial on the table, this one containing a transparent liquid which has floating in it a sliver of fingernail from a hill giant:"In the rare occasion you may find your natural strength not being enough." Next, he turns to Neya with yet another vial, this one housing a a strange fog that moves and pours like water:"This may suit your covert approach to problem-solving." Ekmong reaches into a cabinet next and brings something to Utar, a spell scroll of Zone of Truth. "To save you the trouble of asking Torm for this spell next time you commune with your deity, or perhaps for when you have exhausted your number of chosen miracles for the day." Finally, he turns to Obsben: "You'll have to forgive me, as I do not yet know what your expertise is. Nonetheless, you seemed keen on asking for items of a magical nature, so perhaps this will prove suitable. It doesn't protect against poison, but I trust you'll find a good use for it." He offers another spell scroll, this one covering the spell Protection from Energy. "I was going to give this to the group's previous halfling member, but I guess it is yours now."
Once again addressing the group overall, he concludes his display of generosity and/or sponsorship by placing four small pouches on the table: "This should help you buy anything else you find a need for." Ekmong would consider it crass to state the exact amount in each pouch, but CRAP would eventually find 30 platinum pieces inside each one.
"Please do not hesitate in beginning your investigation right away," he states with a smile on his face that is meant to put a certain finality to this conversation.
Ekmong's response soothes Utar's concerns over exactly why CRAP have been chosen for this job. Hoping to rise to the challenge, he takes the offered scroll and pouch of coins.
"My thanks for your candour, Ekmong. I hope we can serve House Brokengulf well in this endeavour."
Turing back to CRAP, Utar asks which lead the group would prefer to follow first. "As I see it, we have two leads at present. The forger who is being held by the Black Fist and the forgeries themselves. Which thread do we tug on first?"
(OOC - Am I right in thinking that the Stowjanow Gate is close to the library?)
Obsben simply shrugs, took up and packed away the offered scroll, and then adds, "Mn. You are forgiven. This is all rather short notice after all."Her gaze than goes to the other various potions on the table to stare into them as one might a lava lamp. If not end up scooping up the potion of greater healing, she'd take it upon herself to do so in the end. But otherwise, there's little hurrying for the halfling. Which on the subject of which...
"Suppose that depends on if either are seeing visitors this evening. Which given the circumstances, an exception can maybe be made with this house backing. From what I hear, the Black Fist aren't a kindly lot. So if we're... I hate to use the word fortunate 'cause of a certain '*****'." She says nonchalantly. "But suffice to say, the prisoner would probably be in just the tender state we need for easier questioning in the evening before alloted rest. Either way, I'll differ to the judgement of the party."
"Thank you for this opportunity and the support." Neya says to Ekmong
"Considering that forging books almost certainly takes more resources than merely taking them, let's see if we can leverage some information from the forger." She agrees with the other members of CRAP.
Ekmong chuckles at Obsben's choice of words and raises a finger in the air as if rememberign something. From an internal pocket in his robe, he removes a hand-drawn portrait of a human male, though it looks more like a caricature. He appears to have protruding, rat-like ears and beady eyes. How much of this is attributable to artistic liberty is unknown: "The Lord Sage shared this drawing with me. It is supposed to depict the fugitive. It is yours to keep." He hands the drawing over to Neya.
With that last bit of business completed, Ekmong bows politely to Utar and the others and leads the group to the exit. "Keep that summons close, it is your invitation to talk to the Lord Sage as well. Good luck." CRAP traverses the Brokengulf grounds until they reach the main gate, where retainers let them out in a professional manner. Next stop: Stojanow Gate.
It is still early evening in Phlan. The avenues and byways are packed with townsfolk returning home from work or heading to taverns for the night. Lamps are just now being set alight, bathing the streets in dim, soft orange warmth. You hear the familiar name of a few establishments in town as folks discuss where they should get their drink tonight. Some of these you have visited, others you have not: The Cracked Crown, Nat Wyler's Bell, The Bitter Blade, The Velvet Doublet, and, of course, The Laughing Goblin. The omission of Madame Freona's Tea Kettle delivers a chilly reminder to you that this specific watering hole has now been closed for a very long time, at least to the general public.
The Stojanow Gate is the headquarters of the Black Fist, and also a structure that houses the few prisoners that last more than a couple days before being sent to larger prisons or being hanged. Graxx is glad that his fellow tribesmen were fortunate to fall in the former category after pulling some strings with the officer who made their arrest, Captain Aleyd H. Burral. He hopes that this time around the outcome is not too different.
The massive walls of Valjevo Castle tower above you. The heavy iron-bound doors of Stojanow Gate are spread wide open as they have been for over one hundred years. From the top of the wall, bodies hang from thick rope, twisting slowly in the breeze while ravens peck away at the tastier morsels. You know that these hangings have become commonplace in Phlan ever since martial law was instituted. The gallows are always busy, and the most unfortunate of convicts have to serve their postmortem sentence by hanging from the great gate itself, as to deter other criminals.
It's been a while since you have visited the Stojanow Gate. When working directly with Aleyd, you were permitted to pass through the open gates during daytime and reach her quarters or the smithies beyond. However, you are not working with Aleyd this time, and neither is it daytime. The gate is open but no one is being allowed to freely pass. A long line of people are lined up at a desk where two bored-looking guards thumbs through an enormous ledger.
"Hm... Not the most sanitary decorations. But to each their own I suppose."Obsben commented upon seeing the hanging dead, not seeming to understand their meaning. "Oh my oh my~ It looks as if we'll be testing that fancy piece of paper far sooner than expected. At least if we're to see our new friend before the morning."She then looks up to the other party members. "If you're nervous, I can always give one of you good pep talk. I've been told they tend to help a lot. Or, I can just ask them to let us in with the thing. Though I might need to be picked up, as they may be too bored to notice me."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx shakes his arms out as he is getting pumped up.
Graxx looks to Utar.
”How do you want to do this? You can take that summons and do it your way or you can give it to me and I’ll shout that we are here at the Lord Sage’s behest. Or you can do it another way.” says Graxx.
Graxx looks to Obsben.
”I think whoever is going to talk to these guards could use a good pep talk.” says Graxx.
Taking the crisply folded summons from his hand and handing it to Graxx, Utar nods.
"We'll try taking first, hopefully House Brokengulf and the Lord Sage carry weight with these guards. If not,"
Utar jiggles his coin pouch, although not the one that Ekmong just have them, "I've around fifty gold in here. Seemed to move things forward the last time we needed entry."
(OOC: @Ori probably meant something else, but in case that by 'pep talk' he meant the Inspiring Leader feature, let me remind everyone that this was already accomplished while CRAP was waiting for Ekmong. Everyone should have 13 temp HP already.)
Obsben encourages one of her new companions to step forward and open the way for the party. Graxx begins to psych himself up and Utar produces the Brokengulf summons when prompted. Favoring a peaceful approach at least initially, the party waits for their turn in line. While waiting, they keep looking at the two guards sitting at a table who are slowly making their way through a long line of frustrated people standing before them. Most of the townsfolk here appear to be petitioning the Black Fist for their aid in freeing loved ones. They are not getting very far.
Eventually you hear a "Next!" call and move forward. Graxx hands over the summons Utar had given him and waits a moment as one of the guards reads it silently and passes it to his companion so he can do the same. The second guard slaps the first's hand and reminds him: "What are you handing that over for? You know I ain't good at reading." They bicker for a moment before the first guard hands over the summons back to Graxx: "You have the wrong 'house' visitor. The Brokengulf Estate is over at the Nobles' Quarter," he points in the direction CRAP came from. "This is the Stojanow Gate. There are no Brokengulfs here." He then waves you away, fully expecting you to move over so they can hear, and surely deny, the next petitioner.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Realising that the Black Fist on the gate aren't the shiniest buttons in Aleyd's sewing box, Utar turns his body to hide the emblem of Torm engraved upon his pauldron and casts guidance. Every little will help.
Walking towards Graxx he pats his regular coin pouch letting the sound of the jingling coins carry. His voice when he speaks is calm and measured, hopeful that the guards will realise their mistake and the potential payday that might be coming their way.
"We are on urgent business on behalf of House Brokengulf and the Lord Sage. You hold a prisoner we are here to question."
Just to put a bow it, he drops his voice and adds, "I'd also hate to keep Captain Burrall waiting."
Seeing Utar on the move, Obsben meant to grab his belt to arrest his movement for just a moment. Long enough for her to whisper up to him, "Though this perhaps goes without saying, remember to keep your chin up and meet try to meet their gaze, kay? Otherwise, you totally got this."She then pats him on the side and steps side, leaving him to do as he wished.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"To clarify, the prisoner we wish to question is the one involved in the incident at the library." Neya adds, in an effort to make the guard a degree less difficult.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Let me roll here the Bardic Inspiration die that Obsben is providing Utar with. Should Utar choose not to use, we can ignore this roll, but the outcome may be different.
Graxx collects the summons back from one of the guards and waits for Utar to approach. The half-orc is delayed just momentarily, as Obby gives him a brief pep talk. The Tormite pivots the Tempus faithful's request into an offer, with the aid of some jiggling coins and name dropping. The former tactic fares better than the latter as Utar remembers that Aleyd has more critics than allies within the Black Fist. Nonetheless, the prospects of a pay day are persuasive enough.
The guards look at the purse being tapped and exchange a look between themselves. Neya gets their attention with a more specific request, which elicits another gaze exchange from the guards. One shrugs and the other tells him: "Go get the Lieutenant." As the first guard leaves, the one that remains explains: "You bought your audience with the arresting officer. That's as much as we can do for you. Pass through the gate and wait by that signpost over there. The lieutenant will come to you soon." He then extends his arm and shamelessly accepts the coin purse.
Assuming that Utar pays up a satisfactory amount and follows the given instructions, CRAP enters the area beyond the Stojanow Gate and waits. (Let me know if this assumption is incorrect. If not, let me know how much you are giving to the guard.)
The group does not have to wait long for the other guard to return with company. The arresting officer in question is one who most of you recognize: Knight Lieutenant Cron Bolver, one of Aleyd staunchest adversaries and the man who happened to be in the Brokengulf Estate when Lord Valero was murdered. CRAP recalls that part of the plot was to have a Black Fist officer inside the house so that he could catch CRAP red-handed, a plot that backfired at the Zhentarim perpetrators.
He approaches: "Hmm. We meet again. I had a feeling this would happen sooner or later." It is obvious that the man wields a lot of power in this town, perhaps even more than Captain Aleyd despite being of a lower rank than she is. Anyone who knows what’s good for them respects that, as evidenced by the nearby guards' silent obedience and the voluntary quieting down from the many citizens on the other side of the massive gate. Though he might have his faults, the man is good at his job. "I am told you are here to see one of my prisoners. Care to elaborate?"
Dipping his hand into his coin pouch, Utar drops twenty gold pieces onto the ledger that the guards had been pouring over. Ten apiece seemed more than fair especially as each had just been doing what they were employed to do. At least it was likely to flow back into the coffers of the city's taverns in short order.
Passing through the gate, Utar keeps his eyes focused on the Lieutenant and sharpens his posture as if standing to attention although stops short of a salute. Old habits die hard, but a little respect for a commissioned officer usually went a long way.
"Sir. We have been engaged by House Brokengulf and the Lord Sage to look further into matters regarding a forgery discovered at Mantor's Library. We are given to understand that you hold a prisoner involved in the crime. We would appreciate being given access to them to undertake a further questioning and would be happy to share any pertinent information they disclose to the Black Fist. We have a summons which should prove sufficient to show our engagement, Sir."
(OOC - Have made the deduction on Utar's character sheet.)
Obsben for her part went wide-eyed at the lieutenant's initial assertion, only to squint at him a moment later. "Hmm... Hm? Oh, he doesn't have the sight? I dunno. This time line has already been a touch weird as-is." She whispered off to empty space with a hand covering her lips. She then went back to smiling absently and just observing the exchange, silently noting Utar's behavior especially in the process. If her little motion garners the attention of the officer, Obsben's just waggles her fingers in a wave, playing things off with her usual nonchalance.
(OOC: Yes, 10gp to each guard is a satisfactory amount.)
Knight Lieutenant Cron Bolver responds well to the show of respect coming from Utar. The others' silence, apart from Obby's brief comment, seems to support the half-orc's approach. This gives the impression of leadership to the Black Fist Officer, another trait he responds well to. Nonetheless, his initial response is one of surprise: "Contracted by the Lord Sage via an indirect link, you say? I take it to mean the good scholar has lost faith on the Knights of the Black Fist, hmm? It matters not. Whatever they are paying you is money ill spent. There is nothing else to be found regarding this case, at least not in Phlan. I am sure of it."
Cron turns a bit so that his cape waves by his side momentarily. "In fact, I am so sure of it I had no further use for this... Tibeem, I believe he was called." He chuckles in a somewhat insensitive manner. "Yes, yes, we arrested one of the perpetrators." He points upward, in the direction of one of the bodies hanging from the tall gate. "Justice has been served." He proudly places his hands on his waist: "We interrogated this Tibeem for a whole day and a whole night. He divulged no secrets. I trust my methods well enough to know that this mean he had no secrets to divulge to begin with."
He then looks at Utar intently for a moment, trying to gauge how the cleric is taking this information.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Suspecting that Knight Lt. Bolver is looking to get a rise out of him following events at Brokengulf Manor, Utar visually gives nothing away. His face is set like the stone which forms the walls of the Stowjanow Gate. Mentally, he promises himself the last of the remaining chamomile tea that he has stashed from the Tea Kettle and sets another black mark against the Lieutenant's name. He hopes that the help that Aleyd mentioned she would need during their recent exchange of messages includes kicking the arse of that stuck-up, overly officious, petty, mean-spirited, black-hearted...
"Very good, Sir. Well within your remit."
Shifting his posture to a more at-ease stance, Utar furrows his brow as if a tiny fire has suddenly sparked to life within his brain, leaning in to suggest that he is about to speak candidly, Utar continues,
"Sir, given the interest of the Lord Sage, despite how, misguided their intentions, might I suggest that maintaining courteous relationships between the Black Fist, the Lord Sage and House Brokengulf would be an advantage? When our inevitable report is passed back to our betters, it would be best if we were able to confirm to them, that, while our investigations were inconclusive, that no stone was left unturned by the Black Fist and in particular, the officer leading it and that the concerns of the Lord Sage were fully looked into? I only ask, Sir, as it may be that I am able to conduct a more thorough questioning of the prisoner, even in their current state? I also wonder, whether the prisoner's effects have also been disposed of? They might shed some light on how the crime was committed that the Lord Sage would likely gratefully receive."
Insight - 19 to determine whether Bolver is looking to goad CRAP here and his end goal is to pick a fight here in order to get the outcome he missed out on back at Brokengulf Manor?
If a persuasion check is called for, Utar will for sure use guidance, angling the pauldron away from Bolver's face and coughing over the sound of the verbal component in an attempt to hide the casting. 14 plus 1.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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Ekmong senses the doubt in Utar's voice and choice of words. The tiefling tries to explain his point of view a little more plainly: "Although I disapprove of the methods you employed in that fateful night, I have seen first hand what your group is capable of doing in a pinch. As I mentioned a moment ago, I suspect there is much more to this story than a couple of street smart junior scholars. Should this hunch be true and the thread lead to something more... nefarious... I would want the investigators to be able to hold their own and still come out on top. I trust you to be that kind of group. Rough around the edges, sure, but true in intent and steadfast in morality. Please do not prove me wrong." He walks closer to an armoire of sorts but pauses and turns back to face CRAP. He adds another point: "Additionally, as I mentioned to you in the past, and despite of how we came to know and work together, I do hope one day we may be able to fully rely on each other. Trustworthy allies are hard to come by. I am sure I don't have to explain to you how beneficial it would be to have House Brokengulf at your side."
@Utar:
This is not the first time Ekmong has mentioned wanting to build this relationship with CRAP further. You sense a hint of doubt on the tiefling's words too, but you gather he wants to be proven right on "betting on CRAP" sorta speak. From his point of view, he is taking on a risk here, a risk that CRAP messes up again, but he is willing to take this risk. He believes you can succeed and wants you to do so. Nonetheless, you gather that at this stage of the relationship between house Brokengulf and CRAP, there is still a level of plausible deniability from his end should you fail. It is a risky bet on CRAP that has a small layer of insurance beneath it, but it is still a bet on CRAP (as opposed to against the party).
Turning back to the subject of helpful gear, Obby runs down a list of potential favorite picks. Ekmong responds with a smile: "I can see why you brought her." He opens a drawer next to him and pulls out four bulbous vials of red liquid. "Should you find yourselves in a scrap," he explains. You all recognize it as potions of greater healing. He then turns to Graxx as he puts another vial on the table, this one containing a transparent liquid which has floating in it a sliver of fingernail from a hill giant: "In the rare occasion you may find your natural strength not being enough." Next, he turns to Neya with yet another vial, this one housing a a strange fog that moves and pours like water: "This may suit your covert approach to problem-solving." Ekmong reaches into a cabinet next and brings something to Utar, a spell scroll of Zone of Truth. "To save you the trouble of asking Torm for this spell next time you commune with your deity, or perhaps for when you have exhausted your number of chosen miracles for the day." Finally, he turns to Obsben: "You'll have to forgive me, as I do not yet know what your expertise is. Nonetheless, you seemed keen on asking for items of a magical nature, so perhaps this will prove suitable. It doesn't protect against poison, but I trust you'll find a good use for it." He offers another spell scroll, this one covering the spell Protection from Energy. "I was going to give this to the group's previous halfling member, but I guess it is yours now."
Once again addressing the group overall, he concludes his display of generosity and/or sponsorship by placing four small pouches on the table: "This should help you buy anything else you find a need for." Ekmong would consider it crass to state the exact amount in each pouch, but CRAP would eventually find 30 platinum pieces inside each one.
"Please do not hesitate in beginning your investigation right away," he states with a smile on his face that is meant to put a certain finality to this conversation.
Ekmong's response soothes Utar's concerns over exactly why CRAP have been chosen for this job. Hoping to rise to the challenge, he takes the offered scroll and pouch of coins.
"My thanks for your candour, Ekmong. I hope we can serve House Brokengulf well in this endeavour."
Turing back to CRAP, Utar asks which lead the group would prefer to follow first. "As I see it, we have two leads at present. The forger who is being held by the Black Fist and the forgeries themselves. Which thread do we tug on first?"
(OOC - Am I right in thinking that the Stowjanow Gate is close to the library?)
Obsben simply shrugs, took up and packed away the offered scroll, and then adds, "Mn. You are forgiven. This is all rather short notice after all." Her gaze than goes to the other various potions on the table to stare into them as one might a lava lamp. If not end up scooping up the potion of greater healing, she'd take it upon herself to do so in the end. But otherwise, there's little hurrying for the halfling. Which on the subject of which...
"Suppose that depends on if either are seeing visitors this evening. Which given the circumstances, an exception can maybe be made with this house backing. From what I hear, the Black Fist aren't a kindly lot. So if we're... I hate to use the word fortunate 'cause of a certain '*****'." She says nonchalantly. "But suffice to say, the prisoner would probably be in just the tender state we need for easier questioning in the evening before alloted rest. Either way, I'll differ to the judgement of the party."
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx strokes his beard.
”I say we go see if we can see the prisoner first.” says Graxx.
Graxx thinks of the corrupt Blackfist.
”These pouches may come in handy with getting us a visit quickly if they are not willing.” says Graxx.
Graxx looks to Ekmong and smiles.
”Thank you for the magic potions. They will come in handy for sure.” says Graxx.
"Thank you for this opportunity and the support." Neya says to Ekmong
"Considering that forging books almost certainly takes more resources than merely taking them, let's see if we can leverage some information from the forger." She agrees with the other members of CRAP.
Extended Signature
Ekmong chuckles at Obsben's choice of words and raises a finger in the air as if rememberign something. From an internal pocket in his robe, he removes a hand-drawn portrait of a human male, though it looks more like a caricature. He appears to have protruding, rat-like ears and beady eyes. How much of this is attributable to artistic liberty is unknown: "The Lord Sage shared this drawing with me. It is supposed to depict the fugitive. It is yours to keep." He hands the drawing over to Neya.
With that last bit of business completed, Ekmong bows politely to Utar and the others and leads the group to the exit. "Keep that summons close, it is your invitation to talk to the Lord Sage as well. Good luck." CRAP traverses the Brokengulf grounds until they reach the main gate, where retainers let them out in a professional manner. Next stop: Stojanow Gate.
It is still early evening in Phlan. The avenues and byways are packed with townsfolk returning home from work or heading to taverns for the night. Lamps are just now being set alight, bathing the streets in dim, soft orange warmth. You hear the familiar name of a few establishments in town as folks discuss where they should get their drink tonight. Some of these you have visited, others you have not: The Cracked Crown, Nat Wyler's Bell, The Bitter Blade, The Velvet Doublet, and, of course, The Laughing Goblin. The omission of Madame Freona's Tea Kettle delivers a chilly reminder to you that this specific watering hole has now been closed for a very long time, at least to the general public.
The Stojanow Gate is the headquarters of the Black Fist, and also a structure that houses the few prisoners that last more than a couple days before being sent to larger prisons or being hanged. Graxx is glad that his fellow tribesmen were fortunate to fall in the former category after pulling some strings with the officer who made their arrest, Captain Aleyd H. Burral. He hopes that this time around the outcome is not too different.
The massive walls of Valjevo Castle tower above you. The heavy iron-bound doors of Stojanow Gate are spread wide open as they have been for over one hundred years. From the top of the wall, bodies hang from thick rope, twisting slowly in the breeze while ravens peck away at the tastier morsels. You know that these hangings have become commonplace in Phlan ever since martial law was instituted. The gallows are always busy, and the most unfortunate of convicts have to serve their postmortem sentence by hanging from the great gate itself, as to deter other criminals.
It's been a while since you have visited the Stojanow Gate. When working directly with Aleyd, you were permitted to pass through the open gates during daytime and reach her quarters or the smithies beyond. However, you are not working with Aleyd this time, and neither is it daytime. The gate is open but no one is being allowed to freely pass. A long line of people are lined up at a desk where two bored-looking guards thumbs through an enormous ledger.
"Hm... Not the most sanitary decorations. But to each their own I suppose." Obsben commented upon seeing the hanging dead, not seeming to understand their meaning. "Oh my oh my~ It looks as if we'll be testing that fancy piece of paper far sooner than expected. At least if we're to see our new friend before the morning." She then looks up to the other party members. "If you're nervous, I can always give one of you good pep talk. I've been told they tend to help a lot. Or, I can just ask them to let us in with the thing. Though I might need to be picked up, as they may be too bored to notice me."
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx makes a few brief little hops.
Graxx cracks his neck to the the left and right.
Graxx shakes his arms out as he is getting pumped up.
Graxx looks to Utar.
”How do you want to do this? You can take that summons and do it your way or you can give it to me and I’ll shout that we are here at the Lord Sage’s behest. Or you can do it another way.” says Graxx.
Graxx looks to Obsben.
”I think whoever is going to talk to these guards could use a good pep talk.” says Graxx.
Taking the crisply folded summons from his hand and handing it to Graxx, Utar nods.
"We'll try taking first, hopefully House Brokengulf and the Lord Sage carry weight with these guards. If not,"
Utar jiggles his coin pouch, although not the one that Ekmong just have them, "I've around fifty gold in here. Seemed to move things forward the last time we needed entry."
(OOC: @Ori probably meant something else, but in case that by 'pep talk' he meant the Inspiring Leader feature, let me remind everyone that this was already accomplished while CRAP was waiting for Ekmong. Everyone should have 13 temp HP already.)
Obsben encourages one of her new companions to step forward and open the way for the party. Graxx begins to psych himself up and Utar produces the Brokengulf summons when prompted. Favoring a peaceful approach at least initially, the party waits for their turn in line. While waiting, they keep looking at the two guards sitting at a table who are slowly making their way through a long line of frustrated people standing before them. Most of the townsfolk here appear to be petitioning the Black Fist for their aid in freeing loved ones. They are not getting very far.
Eventually you hear a "Next!" call and move forward. Graxx hands over the summons Utar had given him and waits a moment as one of the guards reads it silently and passes it to his companion so he can do the same. The second guard slaps the first's hand and reminds him: "What are you handing that over for? You know I ain't good at reading." They bicker for a moment before the first guard hands over the summons back to Graxx: "You have the wrong 'house' visitor. The Brokengulf Estate is over at the Nobles' Quarter," he points in the direction CRAP came from. "This is the Stojanow Gate. There are no Brokengulfs here." He then waves you away, fully expecting you to move over so they can hear, and surely deny, the next petitioner.
Realising that the Black Fist on the gate aren't the shiniest buttons in Aleyd's sewing box, Utar turns his body to hide the emblem of Torm engraved upon his pauldron and casts guidance. Every little will help.
Walking towards Graxx he pats his regular coin pouch letting the sound of the jingling coins carry. His voice when he speaks is calm and measured, hopeful that the guards will realise their mistake and the potential payday that might be coming their way.
"We are on urgent business on behalf of House Brokengulf and the Lord Sage. You hold a prisoner we are here to question."
Just to put a bow it, he drops his voice and adds, "I'd also hate to keep Captain Burrall waiting."
Persuasion - 21 plus 1
(OOC Spending some of the goodwill Utar accumulated in his downtime for advantage on this roll, unless the guardsmen are secretly green dragons?)
Seeing Utar on the move, Obsben meant to grab his belt to arrest his movement for just a moment. Long enough for her to whisper up to him, "Though this perhaps goes without saying, remember to keep your chin up and meet try to meet their gaze, kay? Otherwise, you totally got this." She then pats him on the side and steps side, leaving him to do as he wished.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx follows Utar’s and lead and keeps his mouth shut and his body still for now.
Graxx is a little irritated but the guards were not disrespectful so he is not enraged.
At hearing Utar’s mention of Aleyd Graxx reminds himself he wants to meet with Aleyd at some point for more guidance on how a Paladin should act.
Graxx mind comes back to the present as he watches the guards.
"To clarify, the prisoner we wish to question is the one involved in the incident at the library." Neya adds, in an effort to make the guard a degree less difficult.
Extended Signature
Let me roll here the Bardic Inspiration die that Obsben is providing Utar with. Should Utar choose not to use, we can ignore this roll, but the outcome may be different.
-> Bardic Inspiration die: 4
Graxx collects the summons back from one of the guards and waits for Utar to approach. The half-orc is delayed just momentarily, as Obby gives him a brief pep talk. The Tormite pivots the Tempus faithful's request into an offer, with the aid of some jiggling coins and name dropping. The former tactic fares better than the latter as Utar remembers that Aleyd has more critics than allies within the Black Fist. Nonetheless, the prospects of a pay day are persuasive enough.
The guards look at the purse being tapped and exchange a look between themselves. Neya gets their attention with a more specific request, which elicits another gaze exchange from the guards. One shrugs and the other tells him: "Go get the Lieutenant." As the first guard leaves, the one that remains explains: "You bought your audience with the arresting officer. That's as much as we can do for you. Pass through the gate and wait by that signpost over there. The lieutenant will come to you soon." He then extends his arm and shamelessly accepts the coin purse.
Assuming that Utar pays up a satisfactory amount and follows the given instructions, CRAP enters the area beyond the Stojanow Gate and waits. (Let me know if this assumption is incorrect. If not, let me know how much you are giving to the guard.)
The group does not have to wait long for the other guard to return with company. The arresting officer in question is one who most of you recognize: Knight Lieutenant Cron Bolver, one of Aleyd staunchest adversaries and the man who happened to be in the Brokengulf Estate when Lord Valero was murdered. CRAP recalls that part of the plot was to have a Black Fist officer inside the house so that he could catch CRAP red-handed, a plot that backfired at the Zhentarim perpetrators.
He approaches: "Hmm. We meet again. I had a feeling this would happen sooner or later." It is obvious that the man wields a lot of power in this town, perhaps even more than Captain Aleyd despite being of a lower rank than she is. Anyone who knows what’s good for them respects that, as evidenced by the nearby guards' silent obedience and the voluntary quieting down from the many citizens on the other side of the massive gate. Though he might have his faults, the man is good at his job. "I am told you are here to see one of my prisoners. Care to elaborate?"
Dipping his hand into his coin pouch, Utar drops twenty gold pieces onto the ledger that the guards had been pouring over. Ten apiece seemed more than fair especially as each had just been doing what they were employed to do. At least it was likely to flow back into the coffers of the city's taverns in short order.
Passing through the gate, Utar keeps his eyes focused on the Lieutenant and sharpens his posture as if standing to attention although stops short of a salute. Old habits die hard, but a little respect for a commissioned officer usually went a long way.
"Sir. We have been engaged by House Brokengulf and the Lord Sage to look further into matters regarding a forgery discovered at Mantor's Library. We are given to understand that you hold a prisoner involved in the crime. We would appreciate being given access to them to undertake a further questioning and would be happy to share any pertinent information they disclose to the Black Fist. We have a summons which should prove sufficient to show our engagement, Sir."
(OOC - Have made the deduction on Utar's character sheet.)
Obsben for her part went wide-eyed at the lieutenant's initial assertion, only to squint at him a moment later. "Hmm... Hm? Oh, he doesn't have the sight? I dunno. This time line has already been a touch weird as-is." She whispered off to empty space with a hand covering her lips. She then went back to smiling absently and just observing the exchange, silently noting Utar's behavior especially in the process. If her little motion garners the attention of the officer, Obsben's just waggles her fingers in a wave, playing things off with her usual nonchalance.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
(OOC: Yes, 10gp to each guard is a satisfactory amount.)
Knight Lieutenant Cron Bolver responds well to the show of respect coming from Utar. The others' silence, apart from Obby's brief comment, seems to support the half-orc's approach. This gives the impression of leadership to the Black Fist Officer, another trait he responds well to. Nonetheless, his initial response is one of surprise: "Contracted by the Lord Sage via an indirect link, you say? I take it to mean the good scholar has lost faith on the Knights of the Black Fist, hmm? It matters not. Whatever they are paying you is money ill spent. There is nothing else to be found regarding this case, at least not in Phlan. I am sure of it."
Cron turns a bit so that his cape waves by his side momentarily. "In fact, I am so sure of it I had no further use for this... Tibeem, I believe he was called." He chuckles in a somewhat insensitive manner. "Yes, yes, we arrested one of the perpetrators." He points upward, in the direction of one of the bodies hanging from the tall gate. "Justice has been served." He proudly places his hands on his waist: "We interrogated this Tibeem for a whole day and a whole night. He divulged no secrets. I trust my methods well enough to know that this mean he had no secrets to divulge to begin with."
He then looks at Utar intently for a moment, trying to gauge how the cleric is taking this information.
-> Knight Lieutenant Cron Bolver's insight check: 3
(@MB: Please share what you think Cron would have noticed from his roll above. Feel free to roll a skill check before making a decision.)
Suspecting that Knight Lt. Bolver is looking to get a rise out of him following events at Brokengulf Manor, Utar visually gives nothing away. His face is set like the stone which forms the walls of the Stowjanow Gate. Mentally, he promises himself the last of the remaining chamomile tea that he has stashed from the Tea Kettle and sets another black mark against the Lieutenant's name. He hopes that the help that Aleyd mentioned she would need during their recent exchange of messages includes kicking the arse of that stuck-up, overly officious, petty, mean-spirited, black-hearted...
"Very good, Sir. Well within your remit."
Shifting his posture to a more at-ease stance, Utar furrows his brow as if a tiny fire has suddenly sparked to life within his brain, leaning in to suggest that he is about to speak candidly, Utar continues,
"Sir, given the interest of the Lord Sage, despite how, misguided their intentions, might I suggest that maintaining courteous relationships between the Black Fist, the Lord Sage and House Brokengulf would be an advantage? When our inevitable report is passed back to our betters, it would be best if we were able to confirm to them, that, while our investigations were inconclusive, that no stone was left unturned by the Black Fist and in particular, the officer leading it and that the concerns of the Lord Sage were fully looked into? I only ask, Sir, as it may be that I am able to conduct a more thorough questioning of the prisoner, even in their current state? I also wonder, whether the prisoner's effects have also been disposed of? They might shed some light on how the crime was committed that the Lord Sage would likely gratefully receive."
Insight - 19 to determine whether Bolver is looking to goad CRAP here and his end goal is to pick a fight here in order to get the outcome he missed out on back at Brokengulf Manor?
If a persuasion check is called for, Utar will for sure use guidance, angling the pauldron away from Bolver's face and coughing over the sound of the verbal component in an attempt to hide the casting. 14 plus 1.