"Hmm..." Agin initialy looks a bit puzzled by the seemingly unrelated question asked by Graxx. "House Brokengulf is a more recent addition to the book," he replies nonetheless. "They are originally from Waterdeep, and are a wealthy mercantile house that has been a part of that city's nobility for over a hundred years. Here in Phaln, an offshoot of the house was only established a few years ago. They are renowned explorers and hunters who are known for tracking and capturing wild beasts, though they are perhaps better known for their multi-generational conflict with an especially sadistic green dragon, Claugiyliamatar. Their chief representative here in Phlan, Lord Valero Brokengulf, was recently assassinated in a plot orchestrated by one of his own advisors. His son has taken over, although the house's affairs are currently being administrated by a regent, Lord Ekmong."He pauses for a moment and then asks: "These names probably don't mean anything to you anyhow... Should I go on?"
Neya's comment interrupts that discussion. Agin replies to her questions quite curtly: "No! No one!" He then changes the subject, pivoting on her mention of the book's ugliness: "And its lack of beauty is an objective matter. The book is a full foot thick and is two feet wide and just as long. It was bound in the tanned hide of a manticore, such a rude beast. It is anyone’s guess how the thief managed to carry it around Phlan without raising suspicion. It is simply too aesthetically challenged not to catch anyone's attention." Not liking how abruptly Agin has changed subjects, Neya reads the man's facial expressions and mannerisms:
@Neya:
Agin is clearly hiding something, and your question about someone being put into jeopardy based on the contents of the book has clearly struck a nerve. Whatever this secret is, you deduce that the theft may bring it to light.
Taking Utar's words as a chance to change subjects again, Agin reiterates his earlier statement, albeit sarcastically: "No, the book was only one of many things taken and I was lying to you a moment ago."Likely getting already tired of the overuse of sarcarm, Utar keeps an eye on the man.
@Utar:
It is obvious that Lamarck is anything but excited to be a part of this. Lamarck is a cynical man, and wields sarcasm like a master warrior does a blade; with precision and intent. He isn’t a bad person, but the whole ordeal has clearly put him at unease.
"Sure, sure." Agin finally responds to Obsben while waving his hands toward the desk in question (investigation check). He ignores her question about the spell being dedicated to the desk alone.
Utar fixes Agin with a particularly hard stare. "I'd be a little less uppity with the folk who are looking to return your stolen property for you. Tends not to motivate them to try that hard on your behalf. We could always leave you to take your chances with the Black Fist, that sounds pretty good to me right now."
Neya catches something with Agin's response, "Hold on... You only described cover of the book, but not its contents. Is there something about what it says that may reveal something damaging? If there is anything about the current nobility, it may cause instability in the city."
Obsben looked to Utar with a raised brow, yet without a word simply gave him a subtle thumbs up just for his eye prior to quietly shuffling off towards the desk. Her hope being to avoid catching any backlash should things sour a touch, and maybe get something out of their trip. After studying it only for a bit there's a click of the tongue from the halfling in remembering all the little tools once in her possession, but long since pawned off for her trip to Phlan.
Yet after a quiet sigh she redoubled her efforts to investigate the desk starting with drawer pointed.... did he ever point out the drawer? No matter! She'd start with the drawers in search of any scratches from a carelessly employed thieves' tools or other staining, as well as anything of potential note about the immediate area of the desk.
Agin sighs as Utar shows a not so patient side of himself and Neya fishes for a revelation. The good-guard-bad-guard routine not only works, but it yields dividends. Agin not only becomes more ready to share, but he also assumes CRAP already knew what he is about to reveal. "I have spent years at court, and would consider myself adept at concealing my feelings. However, I venture you were selected as investigators for your ability to read past people's words, among other things."Utar can see a bit of fear behind Agin's eyes now, the type of fear which always accompanies a coward. Perhaps Obsben's wink helped sharpen the half-orc's senses (Bardic Inspiration)."There is no need for threats or coy insinuations that you do not understand what is happening here. You have clearly done your homework. That said, I shall put it all in the open so that you can move on with your investigation and bring the book back to its appropriate place."
He begins to pace around the room. "The Lamarck family has long been considered to be well-respected scholars in the field of documenting familial lineages. Indeed, the book holds the key to quite a damaging revelation... perhaps not to the city but certainly to me. Despite my family’s long-standing claim to nobility, we are of no actual relation to House Lamarck. In truth, the last surviving members of the Lamarck line died nearly two hundred years ago. My great, great grandfather made a couple clever forgeries in the book in question, Lords and Lineages of Phlan, which allowed his family to claim descent from the then-dead Lamarck line. With no one to contest the claim, there was no doubt as to its legitimacy. The book has been in the my family for these last two centuries, for obvious reasons."
Agin grabs a heavy coin pouch. "It is needless to say that I am terrified of the prospects of the truth coming out. I would lose a lifestyle I have grown quite accustomed to. This... old lie harms no one. It's coming to light would destroy the lives of all who call themselves part of the current House Lamarck. There is no gain in reveling the truth, but there might be some in hiding it. If you agree to return the book to me without revealing my secret, I will agree to double whatever Scribe Master Cassra’s reward for the return of Lords and Lineages of Phlan was, upon its return, of course. Surely, destroying the book would definitely safeguard my secret, but I am dedicated to the duties of my position and the reputation the new House Lamarck has built for itself. Doing such a thing would be simply unconscionable. So, what do you say? Complete your current task by returning the book to me, add to it the small constraint of making sure to keep your mouths shut regarding my little secret and, just like that, you are twice as rich as you thought you were going to be just a moment ago."
While this was happening, Obsben approached the desk and examined it carefully. It is an easy-enough-task to find the drawer in question, especially considering the actual lack of any spell casting on the piece of furniture. Obsben's expert eyes find what, for her, are the remnants of a laughably simple trap that did nothing more than ring a tiny bell concealed inside of the desk.
Agin continues: "Now, I must ask: how did you find my secret out before even entering my shop? Perhaps the thief did the same. I don't imagine anyone would have a vendetta against me, but I had assumed that the destruction of House Lamarck was likely the thief's motive for stealing the ugly tome."
(OOC: Everyone may roll a history check. Feel free to postpone your responses to Agin until you get the result from these checks.)
Although Agin is trying to minimize his family's forgery crime, you are well-studied and fully understand that impersonating a noble is considered to be a high crime throughout the land. Should this secret become known, the entirety of the current House Lamarck is likely to be stripped of their titles and possessions and made an example of. The two centuries they have been able to maintain this intrigue is likely to weigh heavily on the sentencing. There might also be a hefty reward for exposing such treachery, with appropriate proof, of course.
@Neya & @Graxx:
You have noticed that one of the rings in Agin's fingers bears the sigil of the Lords’ Alliance, the faction that Dornal Whitebeard belongs to. Agin’s claim to nobility is false, and you understand that impersonating a noble is a crime that faction does not take lightly. Bringing this to the attention of the Lords’ Alliance would be greatly appreciated by the faction, as they do not brook imposters.
@Utar:
You are sure that impersonating nobility is some kind of crime, if not an outright injustice.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Although a touch taken aback at so simple an alarm, once the revelation is made about the Agin's origins, Obsben bobbed her head in understanding and snorted quietly behind the desk. However, as her thoughts continued sift through the new intel, she stepped back into view looking ponderous for a moment or two, before giving a soft headshake in dismissal of some thought.
"That sounds like quite the fix and a big ask. But seeing as you came forward with this -- not that you had much choice admittedly -- I'm sure I speak for us all when I say that we will certainly keep your request and offer well in mind during the rest of our investigation. And you can rest easy knowing that your little thief will be surely seen to justice." She says to Again, then looks to the others. "It also wouldn't hurt to have another House in our favor for future ventures these days, wouldn't you say?" She said, giving the group a wide smile, though one devoid of any real feeling or warmth.
"As an aside tho', I'm afraid I wasn't able to discern anything of note at the desk, so I'll be checking the door next. Do feel free to continue any inquires, as even a small nugget of information can prove quite invaluable." And with that, Obsben carried on her way with her hands folded behind her back, only to promptly make use of them again examining the door's locking mechanism much like she had the desk, confirming at least the use of tools put to them, if not magic in the lack of signs.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Neya gives a thousand-yard stare for a moment from the sheer audacity of this VERY long con, before snapping back to reality. A tome of magical theses, a book of folktales and ledger that has a generations-old lie. There is still no common ground among these thefts. While these thoughts are going on, she takes out her notebook and looks through the coded words to see if the Lamarck line exists within its pages. She hopes, someone may have seen through the deception and removed them from the list of clients.
As she does, she finally replies to Agin, "That's an easy question to answer: we didn't. Judging by what else the thief took in their crime spree, I'm beginning to doubt they had any idea either. If that's the case, we're either chasing a novice or a fool."
Utar slowly shakes his head in disbelief. Crimes upon crimes. Focusing on the ones he's supposed to be looking into for now, there's one that pretty much anyone could have committed and two that require a thief with a detailed knowledge of magical lore and spellcraft.
Maybe a trip to the docks to speak to a certain dragonborn shopkeeper, warn her about some stolen property that might be brought in would be worthwhile?
Graxx mouths drop a bit at first but he keeps his composure.
Graxx thinks on his own past. This person was not responsible for a choice that was made years ago... But they kept it going.
Graxx does not want to give his opinion in front of Agin but he makes a mental note to share with Obsben that he shares the sentiment of having another house's favor.
Agin looks at Neya first, his own face splattered with disbelief. "Are you telling me I was duped into willingly revealing my most guarded secret? I feel thoroughly outplayed. I feel... stupid. Though I guess this means the thief may not know the truth either... Could they have stolen the book for another, unrelated reason? Which family would they be interested in?"
After Obsben rejoins the conversation, Agin nods along, his poise clearly not as stable: "I... I appreciate that. House Lamarck is but a minor house but should you indeed resolve this matter discreetly, we shall lend you our favor."
Utar and Graxx remain in silence, which prompts Agin to the the same. It becomes a little awkward as no words are exchanged for several minutes. Neya uses this time to confirm, to her dismay, that her book still includes House Lamarck as a legitimate noble contact in Phlan. Obsben uses the silence to properly focus on examining the door and confirming the use of simple lockpicks on its lock. She found similar markings in the drawer a moment ago.
-> Those with passive perception of 12 or higher notice that Agin flips one of his rings so that the jewel on it faces his palm.
@Neya & @Graxx:
You recognize the ring in question to be the one with the Lords' Alliance emblem on it.
Neya closes the notebook with a weary, embarrassed sigh while rubbing her forehead to soothe the headache that's slowly creeping in. How the hell did this con get even that far?
She regains her composure and says, "Hard to say without knowing who stole book."
"This might be unrelated, but... Lord Agin? Did you hear or see any records about a family interested in legends in the area? Particularly about supposed fonts of power perhaps or even a fascination with dragons perhaps? As you mentioned before, the Brokengulfs have their own... issues with one in particular. But have there been others you can think of?" Obsben asks upon her return to the group.
Once she had her answers(or lackthereof), she nods and mumbles an, "I see..."before slipping into contemplative silence for a moment or two. "... Well, whoever our thief was for this particular caper, they weren't of a mind this go around to use more extraordinare means to accomplish their goal. Which could mean that they've been observing this place for some time, or fairly adaptable."She comments. "Regardless, the lack of a 'calling card' or clear signature approaches at least rules out the capers having been done simply out of personal amusement or to seek fame... Outside of course the time frame between each caper of course."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Agin has no answer to give Neya, in case she was expecting one.
Turning to Obsben, the eloquent, sarcastic persona of the nobleman seems now deflated. "Houses... Dragons... Well, House Silmerhelve has some similarities with House Brokengulf in that they are also based in Waterdeep, have also expanded into Phlan in recent decades, and have joined in the fight against Claugiyliamatar... I don't see any relations with our case here, however."
"Could we look at where the book was previously kept?"
Utar was despatched for some kind of lead. So far, some books had gone missing and ummm... That's it. He offers a silent prayer to Torm for a clue, and guidance on what to do on the matter of House Lamarck.
"Hmm..." Agin initialy looks a bit puzzled by the seemingly unrelated question asked by Graxx. "House Brokengulf is a more recent addition to the book," he replies nonetheless. "They are originally from Waterdeep, and are a wealthy mercantile house that has been a part of that city's nobility for over a hundred years. Here in Phaln, an offshoot of the house was only established a few years ago. They are renowned explorers and hunters who are known for tracking and capturing wild beasts, though they are perhaps better known for their multi-generational conflict with an especially sadistic green dragon, Claugiyliamatar. Their chief representative here in Phlan, Lord Valero Brokengulf, was recently assassinated in a plot orchestrated by one of his own advisors. His son has taken over, although the house's affairs are currently being administrated by a regent, Lord Ekmong." He pauses for a moment and then asks: "These names probably don't mean anything to you anyhow... Should I go on?"
Neya's comment interrupts that discussion. Agin replies to her questions quite curtly: "No! No one!" He then changes the subject, pivoting on her mention of the book's ugliness: "And its lack of beauty is an objective matter. The book is a full foot thick and is two feet wide and just as long. It was bound in the tanned hide of a manticore, such a rude beast. It is anyone’s guess how the thief managed to carry it around Phlan without raising suspicion. It is simply too aesthetically challenged not to catch anyone's attention." Not liking how abruptly Agin has changed subjects, Neya reads the man's facial expressions and mannerisms:
@Neya:
Agin is clearly hiding something, and your question about someone being put into jeopardy based on the contents of the book has clearly struck a nerve. Whatever this secret is, you deduce that the theft may bring it to light.
Taking Utar's words as a chance to change subjects again, Agin reiterates his earlier statement, albeit sarcastically: "No, the book was only one of many things taken and I was lying to you a moment ago." Likely getting already tired of the overuse of sarcarm, Utar keeps an eye on the man.
@Utar:
It is obvious that Lamarck is anything but excited to be a part of this. Lamarck is a cynical man, and wields sarcasm like a master warrior does a blade; with precision and intent. He isn’t a bad person, but the whole ordeal has clearly put him at unease.
"Sure, sure." Agin finally responds to Obsben while waving his hands toward the desk in question (investigation check). He ignores her question about the spell being dedicated to the desk alone.
Utar fixes Agin with a particularly hard stare. "I'd be a little less uppity with the folk who are looking to return your stolen property for you. Tends not to motivate them to try that hard on your behalf. We could always leave you to take your chances with the Black Fist, that sounds pretty good to me right now."
Intimidation - 14 (14)
Neya catches something with Agin's response, "Hold on... You only described cover of the book, but not its contents. Is there something about what it says that may reveal something damaging? If there is anything about the current nobility, it may cause instability in the city."
Persuasion: 19
Extended Signature
Obsben looked to Utar with a raised brow, yet without a word simply gave him a subtle thumbs up just for his eye prior to quietly shuffling off towards the desk. Her hope being to avoid catching any backlash should things sour a touch, and maybe get something out of their trip. After studying it only for a bit there's a click of the tongue from the halfling in remembering all the little tools once in her possession, but long since pawned off for her trip to Phlan.
Yet after a quiet sigh she redoubled her efforts to investigate the desk starting with drawer pointed.... did he ever point out the drawer? No matter! She'd start with the drawers in search of any scratches from a carelessly employed thieves' tools or other staining, as well as anything of potential note about the immediate area of the desk.
-Investigation: 28.
-Bardic Inspiration(D8) to Utar(for future checks)
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Agin sighs as Utar shows a not so patient side of himself and Neya fishes for a revelation. The good-guard-bad-guard routine not only works, but it yields dividends. Agin not only becomes more ready to share, but he also assumes CRAP already knew what he is about to reveal. "I have spent years at court, and would consider myself adept at concealing my feelings. However, I venture you were selected as investigators for your ability to read past people's words, among other things." Utar can see a bit of fear behind Agin's eyes now, the type of fear which always accompanies a coward. Perhaps Obsben's wink helped sharpen the half-orc's senses (Bardic Inspiration). "There is no need for threats or coy insinuations that you do not understand what is happening here. You have clearly done your homework. That said, I shall put it all in the open so that you can move on with your investigation and bring the book back to its appropriate place."
He begins to pace around the room. "The Lamarck family has long been considered to be well-respected scholars in the field of documenting familial lineages. Indeed, the book holds the key to quite a damaging revelation... perhaps not to the city but certainly to me. Despite my family’s long-standing claim to nobility, we are of no actual relation to House Lamarck. In truth, the last surviving members of the Lamarck line died nearly two hundred years ago. My great, great grandfather made a couple clever forgeries in the book in question, Lords and Lineages of Phlan, which allowed his family to claim descent from the then-dead Lamarck line. With no one to contest the claim, there was no doubt as to its legitimacy. The book has been in the my family for these last two centuries, for obvious reasons."
Agin grabs a heavy coin pouch. "It is needless to say that I am terrified of the prospects of the truth coming out. I would lose a lifestyle I have grown quite accustomed to. This... old lie harms no one. It's coming to light would destroy the lives of all who call themselves part of the current House Lamarck. There is no gain in reveling the truth, but there might be some in hiding it. If you agree to return the book to me without revealing my secret, I will agree to double whatever Scribe Master Cassra’s reward for the return of Lords and Lineages of Phlan was, upon its return, of course. Surely, destroying the book would definitely safeguard my secret, but I am dedicated to the duties of my position and the reputation the new House Lamarck has built for itself. Doing such a thing would be simply unconscionable. So, what do you say? Complete your current task by returning the book to me, add to it the small constraint of making sure to keep your mouths shut regarding my little secret and, just like that, you are twice as rich as you thought you were going to be just a moment ago."
While this was happening, Obsben approached the desk and examined it carefully. It is an easy-enough-task to find the drawer in question, especially considering the actual lack of any spell casting on the piece of furniture. Obsben's expert eyes find what, for her, are the remnants of a laughably simple trap that did nothing more than ring a tiny bell concealed inside of the desk.
Agin continues: "Now, I must ask: how did you find my secret out before even entering my shop? Perhaps the thief did the same. I don't imagine anyone would have a vendetta against me, but I had assumed that the destruction of House Lamarck was likely the thief's motive for stealing the ugly tome."
(OOC: Everyone may roll a history check. Feel free to postpone your responses to Agin until you get the result from these checks.)
-Obsben's History: 27.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Utar's history check - 11
Neya history: 17
Extended Signature
Graxx History: 3
@Obsben:
Although Agin is trying to minimize his family's forgery crime, you are well-studied and fully understand that impersonating a noble is considered to be a high crime throughout the land. Should this secret become known, the entirety of the current House Lamarck is likely to be stripped of their titles and possessions and made an example of. The two centuries they have been able to maintain this intrigue is likely to weigh heavily on the sentencing. There might also be a hefty reward for exposing such treachery, with appropriate proof, of course.
@Neya & @Graxx:
You have noticed that one of the rings in Agin's fingers bears the sigil of the Lords’ Alliance, the faction that Dornal Whitebeard belongs to. Agin’s claim to nobility is false, and you understand that impersonating a noble is a crime that faction does not take lightly. Bringing this to the attention of the Lords’ Alliance would be greatly appreciated by the faction, as they do not brook imposters.
@Utar:
You are sure that impersonating nobility is some kind of crime, if not an outright injustice.
Although a touch taken aback at so simple an alarm, once the revelation is made about the Agin's origins, Obsben bobbed her head in understanding and snorted quietly behind the desk. However, as her thoughts continued sift through the new intel, she stepped back into view looking ponderous for a moment or two, before giving a soft headshake in dismissal of some thought.
"That sounds like quite the fix and a big ask. But seeing as you came forward with this -- not that you had much choice admittedly -- I'm sure I speak for us all when I say that we will certainly keep your request and offer well in mind during the rest of our investigation. And you can rest easy knowing that your little thief will be surely seen to justice." She says to Again, then looks to the others. "It also wouldn't hurt to have another House in our favor for future ventures these days, wouldn't you say?" She said, giving the group a wide smile, though one devoid of any real feeling or warmth.
"As an aside tho', I'm afraid I wasn't able to discern anything of note at the desk, so I'll be checking the door next. Do feel free to continue any inquires, as even a small nugget of information can prove quite invaluable." And with that, Obsben carried on her way with her hands folded behind her back, only to promptly make use of them again examining the door's locking mechanism much like she had the desk, confirming at least the use of tools put to them, if not magic in the lack of signs.
-Investigation: 19.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Neya gives a thousand-yard stare for a moment from the sheer audacity of this VERY long con, before snapping back to reality. A tome of magical theses, a book of folktales and ledger that has a generations-old lie. There is still no common ground among these thefts. While these thoughts are going on, she takes out her notebook and looks through the coded words to see if the Lamarck line exists within its pages. She hopes, someone may have seen through the deception and removed them from the list of clients.
As she does, she finally replies to Agin, "That's an easy question to answer: we didn't. Judging by what else the thief took in their crime spree, I'm beginning to doubt they had any idea either. If that's the case, we're either chasing a novice or a fool."
History check: 20
Extended Signature
Utar slowly shakes his head in disbelief. Crimes upon crimes. Focusing on the ones he's supposed to be looking into for now, there's one that pretty much anyone could have committed and two that require a thief with a detailed knowledge of magical lore and spellcraft.
Maybe a trip to the docks to speak to a certain dragonborn shopkeeper, warn her about some stolen property that might be brought in would be worthwhile?
Graxx mouths drop a bit at first but he keeps his composure.
Graxx thinks on his own past. This person was not responsible for a choice that was made years ago... But they kept it going.
Graxx does not want to give his opinion in front of Agin but he makes a mental note to share with Obsben that he shares the sentiment of having another house's favor.
Agin looks at Neya first, his own face splattered with disbelief. "Are you telling me I was duped into willingly revealing my most guarded secret? I feel thoroughly outplayed. I feel... stupid. Though I guess this means the thief may not know the truth either... Could they have stolen the book for another, unrelated reason? Which family would they be interested in?"
After Obsben rejoins the conversation, Agin nods along, his poise clearly not as stable: "I... I appreciate that. House Lamarck is but a minor house but should you indeed resolve this matter discreetly, we shall lend you our favor."
Utar and Graxx remain in silence, which prompts Agin to the the same. It becomes a little awkward as no words are exchanged for several minutes. Neya uses this time to confirm, to her dismay, that her book still includes House Lamarck as a legitimate noble contact in Phlan. Obsben uses the silence to properly focus on examining the door and confirming the use of simple lockpicks on its lock. She found similar markings in the drawer a moment ago.
-> Those with passive perception of 12 or higher notice that Agin flips one of his rings so that the jewel on it faces his palm.
@Neya & @Graxx:
You recognize the ring in question to be the one with the Lords' Alliance emblem on it.
Neya closes the notebook with a weary, embarrassed sigh while rubbing her forehead to soothe the headache that's slowly creeping in. How the hell did this con get even that far?
She regains her composure and says, "Hard to say without knowing who stole book."
Extended Signature
"This might be unrelated, but... Lord Agin? Did you hear or see any records about a family interested in legends in the area? Particularly about supposed fonts of power perhaps or even a fascination with dragons perhaps? As you mentioned before, the Brokengulfs have their own... issues with one in particular. But have there been others you can think of?" Obsben asks upon her return to the group.
Once she had her answers(or lackthereof), she nods and mumbles an, "I see..." before slipping into contemplative silence for a moment or two. "... Well, whoever our thief was for this particular caper, they weren't of a mind this go around to use more extraordinare means to accomplish their goal. Which could mean that they've been observing this place for some time, or fairly adaptable." She comments. "Regardless, the lack of a 'calling card' or clear signature approaches at least rules out the capers having been done simply out of personal amusement or to seek fame... Outside of course the time frame between each caper of course."
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Agin has no answer to give Neya, in case she was expecting one.
Turning to Obsben, the eloquent, sarcastic persona of the nobleman seems now deflated. "Houses... Dragons... Well, House Silmerhelve has some similarities with House Brokengulf in that they are also based in Waterdeep, have also expanded into Phlan in recent decades, and have joined in the fight against Claugiyliamatar... I don't see any relations with our case here, however."
"Could we look at where the book was previously kept?"
Utar was despatched for some kind of lead. So far, some books had gone missing and ummm... That's it. He offers a silent prayer to Torm for a clue, and guidance on what to do on the matter of House Lamarck.
Graxx ponders on the current situation and is drawing a complete blank for how this book is connected to the others.
Graxx will remain silent again as he has nothing of value to add.
(OOC: Will try to brainstorm best I can in the OOC a chat. Sorry I’m not more help at the moment. I just have no idea)