"Mmhmm, that's wut I'm sayin'." Robin gestures to Darius then starts stuffing her shirt with table cloth to imitate a pregnant belly to try to visualize this volume. She knew the Doctor said it was light, she was listening. But he hit the nail on the head, she was comparing the chick to the hen. Banks was referring to proportions the Doctor had gestured about for a potential smuggling tactic. It was an idea to add to the brains' arsenal of plans.
Early slaps Robin's hand with a grin on his face. But then looks to the side, a slight furrow on his face, as he puzzles on "Egg-specting".....mouthing it over and over with a frown. He glances up at Robin, and smiles at her, grinning at their 'inside' joke...and then goes back to his furrowed puzzlement.
Early then looks up, "So like...we should probably go figure out who is serving the stuff at this place and try to jump 'em and impersonate 'em....right? Maybe we can steal their clothes too so we ain't gotta get any. But...maybe you two..." he motions to Uril and Lorsan, "...should go and maybe get some clothes. If ya gotta buy some fancy clothes, you might gotta rob someone to get the money...or just...stick up the clothes place maybe."
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
This group was amusing, there is no doubt there, but Uril could easily see why they'd each been invited here by the Golden Vault (except for himself, impostor's syndrome and all.) "I must have missed that tidbit too," the scribe nods at Early and Lorsan. He thinks about raising a hand to get in with the cool kids' high fives but mentally shakes his head. Instead, he meets Robin's hazy gaze and admits: "Plan E has its merits. May I suggest a change of wardrobe should we implement it? Surely the house staff would remember hiring a pregnant lady, so you may have to pretend to be a staff member during the party and a separate lady after you become eight months pregnant."
The one-sixteenth-elf then turns to face Early again and says: "Something akin to Plan Z was what I initially had in mind, and Lorsan has developed a Plan A that indeed uses the gala as a learning opportunity, so Plan A and Plan Z might be one in the same here. Lorsan's Plan B, the plan of opportunity, may manifest itself during the gala. At that point, I could try taking the egg as I study it, or Robin could adopt her pregnant persona, or Early makes a distraction while we make a run for it, or some other impromptu maneuver."
When Early speaks up again, Uril adds some comments: "Wait, don't go off running just yet. You and Robin should carry fake invites with you, the ones Lorsan will prepare. Should they not recognize you at the door and bar your entrance in spite of your staff attire, you could use the invites as a back-up. As for my and Lorsan's wardrobe, I believe our new friend Darius here has offered to help. Perhaps he can also provide Robin's costume for after she becomes a pregnant lady."
Lorsan sits quietly thinking to himself for a while, eventually shaking his head and saying: As for disguising the removal of a three-foot-tall egg... I'm not sure any amount of pregnancy or obesity could disguise that.... He then slaps his knees, stands and says: Perhaps more ideas will come to us after we take a look at the building. Shall we?
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How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Darius laughed finally understanding the idea. "So, four costumes plus one for a very pregnant lady." He chuckled again. "Scholar's robes for Lorsan and Uril and something more along the lines of noble attires for Robyn and Early, am I right? I think I can arrange something like that. Where would I find you later? You can use this room today if you so wish (there is a back door at the end of the corridor, I suggest you use it rather than going through the general room). But if you prefer to meet outside, please, say where and when."
"I think the second bell is about to sound. The building is not far, as Dr. Dannell said - up Rainrun Street to the end, you can't miss it. I'll see you in an hour."
(OOC: Did Lorsan and Uril create a new set of tickets during the conversation or are they going to do it now? To be completely sure of the quality: if they did it during the conversation - roll for quality (proficiency with tools+Dex) for too much distraction, or spend another half an hour to make it perfect without any checks)
"My wife wus the one who wanted teh have the baby. Hic." Swaying a little, Robin rubs her padded belly while the brains finalize their detailing before the scout. "She goes to me... She said... You know what she said?" She wasn't talking to anyone in particular. Maybe the pretend baby, maybe those at the table, maybe any one who'd listen. "She says, 'Nini, one last job.' Hic! 'One less job an' that's it! This one's all we need, an', an' we can go straight!'." Not like straight, straight, but she wouldn't of had to steal any more. She could have gotten a real job to provide for a family... "It's always 'one last job', hic! Innit?" Robin deflates, grabs her glass and holds it up to cheers to the air as she stares at the ceiling.
Noticing the odd 'Karen' staring at her, Robin lazily flops her head to the side to address one, "I'm aloud one glass o' wine wit mah meal!" She mocks. Cheersing them, she brings the cup to her lips and chugs it back. When the elf finishes she smacks her lips and pets her belly. "D'ya believe 'em? Pfft. Hic!" Banks then proceeds to try filling up a wineskin, or two, for the road.
When Lorsen initiates the knee slapper and gets up, Robin looks for a glass to take with her. "Coming!" There's a mostly full one. Yoink! Now for the fun part, standing. Oh ho ho ho, she felt it. That warm hazzy glow. Banks wobbles and goes to follow, the table cloth unravelling and trailing behind. Of course she finishes downing her to go glass before they leave the establishment, returning it to one of the waitresses before exiting the door. The pocket snacks she kept. Maybe a fork.
It's with a slightly open hanging mouth that Early watches Robin's .... situation.... as she finishes her drinks, stands, and wobbles out, trailing a table cloth and sporting a fork sticking out of her back pocket. He blinks a couple of times, and then shrugs, and follows after her. As he reaches the door he turns to Darius, "Oh...uh...we'll be back here at 3:30, k? To grab the fancy clothes, and get our tickets. Cool? See ya'll then." He steps on the table cloth to keep it from trailing away, and then sorta of nudges it to one side with his foot, then hurries after Robin.
He pulls up next to her on the street, glancing at the fork in her back pocket absently....and then smiles at her, "So...I gotta admit, I mentioned Plan Z, but then I forgot about Plan A and B, and sorta didn't get plan Egg...so....I think we're just going to ask around and see if we can figure out who is making food for the party, right? Let's see if we can sweet talk some bakers...." Guiding Robin through the city streets, taking short cuts and alley's like a person born to each nook and cranny, he heads for a bakery in relatively the same area as the location of the party.
One of Early's talents around "getting around":
Feature: City Secrets
You know the secret patterns and flow to cities and can find passages through the urban sprawl that others would miss. When you are not in combat, you (and companions you lead) can travel between any two locations in the city twice as fast as your speed would normally allow.
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
If we do it during the conversation: Lorsan's quiet thinking moments are spent with the invitations spread out on the table, along with the contents of his small kit. He sizes and cuts the parchment, passes them to Uril for the calligraphy, then completes the embellishments, occasionally holding both the original and the copy up to the light, or peering at them with his face mere inches from the tickets... all while listening along to the conversation, and jumping in with his comments...
((If I get it right, Early and Robin go one way to search for Duke's suppliers while Lorsan and Uril want to see the building. If you all go to the bakery, ignore the building description))
Early and Robin
Of course, Robin was able to freely take some wine with her and Darius even seemed not to mind the pocketed fork. He watched "pregnant" Robin and Early walking away with the same amused curiosity, then chuckled again and returned to the table.
Finding "a" bakery in this part of the city was not a problem. The City Watch barracks and several taverns around made the place a great spot for such a lively business as baking. And Early knew just the right one. Practically around the corner on a street with a very suitable name - Cook Street - "Chocolate Buttercup Bakery" greeted its visitors with the aroma of freshly baked goods. As soon as you step into the bakery, the smell of vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate - and only bakers know what else filled your nostrils, enticing your senses with the promise of sweetness. The display case is filled with a tempting array of treats, like cupcakes, cakes, cookies, macarons, and other mouth-watering pastries. Should you not be choked full after the early dinner, it would be hard to concentrate on the mission. A couple of girls - as sweet and fresh looking as the goods they were selling - are busy wrapping and packing sweets for the numerous customers. The door behind them opens regularly as the fresh batches are brought in, allowing visitors to pick into the inners of the establishment.
Lorsan and Uril
Darius looked at the freshly created tickets from different angles not touching them though. "Amazing! If I would not see you crafting them, I would swear you simply got your own from Duke's hands. Incredible job!" He clapped his hands again (he seemed to do it a lot) and added. "Well, I am off to get you something more suitable for the Gala. Will be back by 3:30." He walked out leaving Lorsan and Uril to decide the next move.
The "Varkenbluff's Museum" (a touch mocking name for the ever-closed collection for very select few allowed to see) was not far from the tavern not to check out. Lorsan and Uril could be there in less than a quarter of an hour and see for themselves the enormous columns and elegant archways of the building, hewn from marble and creating a grand and imposing impression from the moment one approaches it. The structure itself is a work of art, with intricate carvings and detailed sculptures adorning every surface.
The grand double doors of the entrance are closed with no one wandering around. But the back doors seem more lively. Some people - in uniforms or in liveries with Varkenbluff's colours - are walking in and out, carrying pieces of furniture and baskets usually used for holding food.
Early waits until one of the girls have a moment for him. He was a direct sort of guy, when it came to his sneakiness. He smiles a winning smile at the serving girl and leans in, with a familiar way about it, and says, "Wow....you guys are working hard, it smells amazing in here. And...." glances at the girl with a glint in his eyes "...things in here certainly look great too. I heard you guys were making some of the treats for the Varkenbluff gala tonight. Is that true? That's some high brow fancy stuff!"
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
(OOC: I am assuming Uril and Lorsan are indeed going to make good use of their time and walk by the building after finishing the fake invites.)
Who knew writing was such an essential skill in the world of crime?! Uril had been noticed and recruited on account of his mischievous penmanship and now, only a mere hour after joining a real team of miscreants, here he was again putting it to good use (or is it bad use?) Sure, the questionable portion of the job had been done by Lorsan, the professional. All Uril did was to copy the calligraphy style and font from the original invitations. Even then, hearing Mr. Golden Vault's praise felt strangely rewarding. Uril doubted he would get tired of hearing such complements, should he deserve them in this newfound career.
Later, near the museum, Uril is sure to dedicate some of his time to appreciating the architecture. The columns, relief carvings, decorations, and stonework were all commendable in his eyes. Surely, there are many more impressive buildings out there but this one was one of those that screamed "I have gold..." without necessarily adding a common follow-up clause in these instances "... but I lack taste." This realization pleased Uril.
If Lorsan wants to get closer to the back door, Uril will let him take the lead, lest the scribe be roped into coming up with lies on the spot. He could use the practice, but why risk the whole plan going awry so early? Uril stayed a few steps behind Lorsan and used his time to instead inspect the building further. Perhaps he'd be able to spot an interesting point of ingress or egress which they could use later, or even see beyond the window panes and catch a glimpse of what was going on inside should curtains not be drawn.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Lorsan watches admiringly as the adept amanuensis completes his handiwork. What would have taken Lorsan hours - and probably several failed attempts - to painstakingly copy, Sir Scribe manages to perform effortlessly in one go, duplicating the spacing and slope, the thickness and font, as though it were his very own. Not one for excessive verbal praise, nevertheless Lorsan spends the time during the walk to the museum making sincere inquiries of Uril as to his background and expertise, trying to discern what other knowledge and talents the man possesses, and to what uses they can be put.
Lorsan takes little notice of the museum building itself, other than to observe that it clearly housed yet another of the very many wealthy inhabitants of Waterdeep, albeit one whom Lorsan had not previously attempted to extort. The business at the back doors looked mundane enough, but Lorsan itched for a closer look inside. After all, the map didn't definitively determine where the basement stairs led to. And perhaps some other useful intel could be gained by even a perfunctory glance.
Taking Uril back out of sight of the back entrance, Lorsan whispers: A closer look would be helpful, don't you think? I have an idea. Then before Uril can interject, he adds: Don't worry, this is certain to work. Whether or not Uril can see through this lie, Lorsan doesn't seem to care. He takes a few items from his satchel and goes to work on himself - some boot polish on the face to mimic grime, a set of false buck teeth, a large pair of spectacles - after which he tousles his hair, removes his outer cloak, and ruffles up his remaining clothing... It takes barely a minute, but where Lorsan previously stood there now slouches a convincing approximation of an unkempt gangly elven adolescent - low-born but hard-working and eager to please. How do I look? he asks Uril.
The girl's green eyes widened in surprise. "How did you know? Madam Trushen did not even tell us until this morning!" She immediately realized her mistake and added far more pridefully. "Of course, the Duke made an order. Our Chocolate Dream won last year's prize for a reason, you know. Everyone wants some for important events now. Duke Varkenbluff ordered a wedding-size cake." Her cute turned-up nose could not possibly point any higher. But curiosity won in the end and green eyes flashed with burning curiosity. "You said the Duke has a gala? Is it about his "museum"? There are rumours he found something spectacular but nobody knows what exactly!"
The other girl moved closer to better listen to the conversation, while not forgetting to serve the customers. You could tell Varkenbluff's museum was a hot topic among the Castle Ward's inhabitants, and the two girls were no exception.
Uril
There are some windows - narrow and tall, with stained glass fragments, obscuring the vision, created as part of the design, rather than traditional sources of daylight and fresh air. One would question if they can be opened at all. As for potential hiding spots... Uril has a feeling it would take some time for a proper assessment. There are many niches and statues but you really would have to get closer and (quite possibly) know something about the patrol's schedule should such things exist.
Robin helps herself to hooking an arm through Early’s elbow on the walk through the streets. Surprisingly enough, Robin’s navigation through these back alleys were equivalent to his own, she practically fell in step with him through it. “Plans? Oh yous were serious… hic?” She chuckles.Mind you, her walk wasn’t the straightest, or the most efficient, however if someone could make drunken stumbling look almost graceful, the woman was pulling it off. “Food for the party? Heck ya!” At least she wasn’t hanging on him or bumping into anything, just simply meandering through like she was on a mission for the next available street food.
The moment Banks’ nose smells fresh baking, she peels off from Early and practically smooshes her face against the glass. When she realizes Early’s already in there, she eventually finds the door and lets herself in. With those sweet girls at the counter, he was like a fly on… “You butter them biscuits… I’mma browse.” With him busy, and keeping the girls busy, Robin slinks off to snoop around. She spends time eyeing the flow of the establishment, its back room each time the door opens, pays curious attention to their dress, how they conduct themselves, what they value most, what sells the most/fastest, how they package up their goodies and how they ship them etc. Usually there’s a head chef, a sous chef, some preps etc. in most kitchens, so she was pondering that make up while investigating. Did they have security, attentive staff, administration checks, or redundancy measures? Back doors, restricted areas, secret rooms? Essentially old habits die hard, Banks was scoping things out to gather intel on their logistics, how hard it would be to rob/steal from the place, and/or impersonate them.
There is a general knowledge in the city that one does not mess with Baker's Guild - an extremely wealthy and influential guild of Waterdeep. "Chocolate Buttercup Bakery" is certainly part of the crowd, you could see the symbol right on the signboard if the general look of the establishment was not a clue itself. it's not like no one ever tried to rob a bakery, of course, but those who dare could expect to face all kinds of security measures.
Specifically here, two girls were not alone on the main floor. There were a couple of boys (probably more than a couple but they come and go) helping customers to transport the goods. There was a man by the door, seemingly busy with opening and closing it, but definitely keeping an eye on the visitors as well.
It would not be too hard to imitate the girl's dresses (aside from colours - pure white highlighted with a light blue chevron on the left shoulder) it was nothing special, and the girls themselves were just ordinary humans if young and fresh. But to seriously assess the establishment for a robbery, Robin would need to work here for some time. Glimpses in the door were giving only so much information and mostly about the shelves with ready-to-deliver goods, the kitchen itself was deeper in the building. Robin got the feeling, the bakery is more of the higher-end kind. The visitors are mostly well-dressed and there are quite a few guardsmen among them (no surprises here, considering the position of the shop).
Eventually, a tipsy green-haired shabby customer, eyeing the shop and the visitors, began to attract more intense attention. No one said anything yet, the eyes of the doormen stopped more and more often on her.
Early grins as the girl engages him in the conversation, "You guys can make a wedding cake in just one day. Woaaah. I always thought it took like a long time to make things like cakes. Sorta like booze, don't you have to let the bread sit a long time and get all sweet?" He smooths right past his total ignorance of baking and any confusion he causes, "Well, ya, I dunno about any Museum. I think that word means boring..am I right? All I know is the word "gala" means work. I could really use some honest coin. Any chance you guys could use an extra hand or muscle today? My mom has been super sick and course, my dad left long ago, and I got three little sibling that need food in their snotty little mouths....so it's all on me this week....and I'm a little desperate...BUT....I'm a hard worker...and I do what I'm told....." He grins and winks at the girl a bit suggestively.
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What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
The blond green-eyed girl blinked a few times lost in the depths of Early's utterances. But before she could react, a man's voice interrupted the lively conversation. "Can you give me some water because I am so hungry, I have no place to sleep." The voice behind Early and Robin was oozing sarcasm like a well-made biscuit rum. The doorman left his post and now was towering over the couple. "Are you two here to buy anything? Because if not, I suggest you leave the shop now. If you want a job at the gala - go to the gala, we do not work there."
He turned his heavy gaze to the girls. "And you girls are paid for selling stuff, not for talking off customers' ears. Get back to it." The girl looked sheepishly at the doorman, sent Early an apologetic smile and immediately moved to help some old lady struggling to choose the "right cake".
Despite the (surely understandable) coldness and suspicion, the part about the gala did not sound like a simple wish to get rid of sketchy visitors. Well could be that the role of the bakers ended with the delivery of the cake.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"Talents? Well, that is the main one: calligraphy; or more precisely, just... writing. A close second would be curiosity. I have a penchant for learning, and decades of exposure to various texts have given me the chance to absorb more than just a few bits of knowledge." Uril taps the thick tome chained to his waist: "I have made copies of the best bits and carry them right here." Smiling because of the compliment received, Uril adds modestly: "I don't know all, of course, and not nearly as much as I aspire to, but Deneir watches over me and grants me the chance to always pick up another lesson."
Given a chance to compliment Lorsan right back, Uril amends it to a request/warning: "I am not much of a charismatic person though, which is clearly one of your many skills. Please be at the ready to swoop in and save me from a social pickle or inevitable faux-pas. And please avoid setting me up for a acting bit... my plan for this evening is still to rely on actual tidbits of information I have accumulated over the years. I'll leave the deceitful embellishment of our credentials to you."
As if taken as a challenge, Uril's words lead Lorsan to usher the scribe to a corner down the street. Lorsan knows what he is doing. He certainly looks like he does... when doesn't he, really? A minute later, Uril is asked to judge the elf's theatrical make-up: "Hmm... It would likely do a better job of fooling me if I hadn't met you earlier today. Luckily, I am guessing the folks over there have not had the same pleasure as I have." He then gives his new performer friend a thumbs up.
Then, failing to gather much that is useful from looking at the windows from afar, Uril uses the time granted to him by Lorsan to keep an eye open for security patrols.
-> Investigation (?) check: 16 (if you prefer perception, add +1 to that.)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
So Sir Scribe was more than just a scribe - he was a walking encyclopedia. That could come in handy. Lorsan was well aware that his 'confidence' was only an act -- looking like you belonged where you actually didn't, or knew what to do when you actually didn't -- but that pretending to be knowledgeable could only get you so far. There was no substitute for education, something that Lorsan lacked, despite his brains.
The elf shrugs at Uril's mention of some obscure human deity. Never heard of him, he says dismissively, but maybe you can persuade him to help us pull this job off.
As for keeping Uril out of the deceitful roles, Lorsan slaps him reassuringly on the back, winks and says Sure, sure!somewhat unreassuringly.
Having received some kind of approval from Uril on the disguise, Lorsan prepares to leave him alone. Settling into the persona of the scruffy youth, he turns to his companion and says with a pitched-up stutter: I-I'll be right back, sir.Turning to walk away, the elven youth pauses briefly, looks back at the scribe and says: M-maybe your Dinear - or whatever his n-name is - will w-watch over me too? He looks pointedly at Uril to see if the scribe actually does have any divine leverage to offer, before ambling back around the corner to make his incursion.
Lorsan tries to keep out of sight as much as possible while approaching the back doors. Once he has gone as far as he dares without risking detection, he casts a simple cantrip to cause the sound of breaking glass to be heard loudly from the far side of the cart, or whatever is being unloaded. Hoping this is sufficient to get heads to turn, Lorsan then tries to slip into the back door, and glance around what he assumes will be the basement.
"Mmhmm, that's wut I'm sayin'." Robin gestures to Darius then starts stuffing her shirt with table cloth to imitate a pregnant belly to try to visualize this volume. She knew the Doctor said it was light, she was listening. But he hit the nail on the head, she was comparing the chick to the hen. Banks was referring to proportions the Doctor had gestured about for a potential smuggling tactic. It was an idea to add to the brains' arsenal of plans.
just an unstable unicorn.
Early slaps Robin's hand with a grin on his face. But then looks to the side, a slight furrow on his face, as he puzzles on "Egg-specting".....mouthing it over and over with a frown. He glances up at Robin, and smiles at her, grinning at their 'inside' joke...and then goes back to his furrowed puzzlement.
Early then looks up, "So like...we should probably go figure out who is serving the stuff at this place and try to jump 'em and impersonate 'em....right? Maybe we can steal their clothes too so we ain't gotta get any. But...maybe you two..." he motions to Uril and Lorsan, "...should go and maybe get some clothes. If ya gotta buy some fancy clothes, you might gotta rob someone to get the money...or just...stick up the clothes place maybe."
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
This group was amusing, there is no doubt there, but Uril could easily see why they'd each been invited here by the Golden Vault (except for himself, impostor's syndrome and all.) "I must have missed that tidbit too," the scribe nods at Early and Lorsan. He thinks about raising a hand to get in with the cool kids' high fives but mentally shakes his head. Instead, he meets Robin's hazy gaze and admits: "Plan E has its merits. May I suggest a change of wardrobe should we implement it? Surely the house staff would remember hiring a pregnant lady, so you may have to pretend to be a staff member during the party and a separate lady after you become eight months pregnant."
The one-sixteenth-elf then turns to face Early again and says: "Something akin to Plan Z was what I initially had in mind, and Lorsan has developed a Plan A that indeed uses the gala as a learning opportunity, so Plan A and Plan Z might be one in the same here. Lorsan's Plan B, the plan of opportunity, may manifest itself during the gala. At that point, I could try taking the egg as I study it, or Robin could adopt her pregnant persona, or Early makes a distraction while we make a run for it, or some other impromptu maneuver."
When Early speaks up again, Uril adds some comments: "Wait, don't go off running just yet. You and Robin should carry fake invites with you, the ones Lorsan will prepare. Should they not recognize you at the door and bar your entrance in spite of your staff attire, you could use the invites as a back-up. As for my and Lorsan's wardrobe, I believe our new friend Darius here has offered to help. Perhaps he can also provide Robin's costume for after she becomes a pregnant lady."
Lorsan sits quietly thinking to himself for a while, eventually shaking his head and saying: As for disguising the removal of a three-foot-tall egg... I'm not sure any amount of pregnancy or obesity could disguise that.... He then slaps his knees, stands and says: Perhaps more ideas will come to us after we take a look at the building. Shall we?
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Darius laughed finally understanding the idea. "So, four costumes plus one for a very pregnant lady." He chuckled again. "Scholar's robes for Lorsan and Uril and something more along the lines of noble attires for Robyn and Early, am I right? I think I can arrange something like that. Where would I find you later? You can use this room today if you so wish (there is a back door at the end of the corridor, I suggest you use it rather than going through the general room). But if you prefer to meet outside, please, say where and when."
"I think the second bell is about to sound. The building is not far, as Dr. Dannell said - up Rainrun Street to the end, you can't miss it. I'll see you in an hour."
(OOC: Did Lorsan and Uril create a new set of tickets during the conversation or are they going to do it now? To be completely sure of the quality: if they did it during the conversation - roll for quality (proficiency with tools+Dex) for too much distraction, or spend another half an hour to make it perfect without any checks)
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
"My wife wus the one who wanted teh have the baby. Hic." Swaying a little, Robin rubs her padded belly while the brains finalize their detailing before the scout. "She goes to me... She said... You know what she said?" She wasn't talking to anyone in particular. Maybe the pretend baby, maybe those at the table, maybe any one who'd listen. "She says, 'Nini, one last job.' Hic! 'One less job an' that's it! This one's all we need, an', an' we can go straight!'." Not like straight, straight, but she wouldn't of had to steal any more. She could have gotten a real job to provide for a family... "It's always 'one last job', hic! Innit?" Robin deflates, grabs her glass and holds it up to cheers to the air as she stares at the ceiling.
Noticing the odd 'Karen' staring at her, Robin lazily flops her head to the side to address one, "I'm aloud one glass o' wine wit mah meal!" She mocks. Cheersing them, she brings the cup to her lips and chugs it back. When the elf finishes she smacks her lips and pets her belly. "D'ya believe 'em? Pfft. Hic!" Banks then proceeds to try filling up a wineskin, or two, for the road.
When Lorsen initiates the knee slapper and gets up, Robin looks for a glass to take with her. "Coming!" There's a mostly full one. Yoink! Now for the fun part, standing. Oh ho ho ho, she felt it. That warm hazzy glow. Banks wobbles and goes to follow, the table cloth unravelling and trailing behind. Of course she finishes downing her to go glass before they leave the establishment, returning it to one of the waitresses before exiting the door. The pocket snacks she kept. Maybe a fork.
just an unstable unicorn.
(OOC: If Lorsan is rolling, Uril would provide his penmanship as assistance.)
It's with a slightly open hanging mouth that Early watches Robin's .... situation.... as she finishes her drinks, stands, and wobbles out, trailing a table cloth and sporting a fork sticking out of her back pocket. He blinks a couple of times, and then shrugs, and follows after her. As he reaches the door he turns to Darius, "Oh...uh...we'll be back here at 3:30, k? To grab the fancy clothes, and get our tickets. Cool? See ya'll then." He steps on the table cloth to keep it from trailing away, and then sorta of nudges it to one side with his foot, then hurries after Robin.
He pulls up next to her on the street, glancing at the fork in her back pocket absently....and then smiles at her, "So...I gotta admit, I mentioned Plan Z, but then I forgot about Plan A and B, and sorta didn't get plan Egg...so....I think we're just going to ask around and see if we can figure out who is making food for the party, right? Let's see if we can sweet talk some bakers...." Guiding Robin through the city streets, taking short cuts and alley's like a person born to each nook and cranny, he heads for a bakery in relatively the same area as the location of the party.
One of Early's talents around "getting around":
You know the secret patterns and flow to cities and can find passages through the urban sprawl that others would miss. When you are not in combat, you (and companions you lead) can travel between any two locations in the city twice as fast as your speed would normally allow.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
If we do it during the conversation: Lorsan's quiet thinking moments are spent with the invitations spread out on the table, along with the contents of his small kit. He sizes and cuts the parchment, passes them to Uril for the calligraphy, then completes the embellishments, occasionally holding both the original and the copy up to the light, or peering at them with his face mere inches from the tickets... all while listening along to the conversation, and jumping in with his comments...
Forgery Kit: 7
Advantage roll: 8
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
((If I get it right, Early and Robin go one way to search for Duke's suppliers while Lorsan and Uril want to see the building. If you all go to the bakery, ignore the building description))
Early and Robin
Of course, Robin was able to freely take some wine with her and Darius even seemed not to mind the pocketed fork. He watched "pregnant" Robin and Early walking away with the same amused curiosity, then chuckled again and returned to the table.
Finding "a" bakery in this part of the city was not a problem. The City Watch barracks and several taverns around made the place a great spot for such a lively business as baking. And Early knew just the right one. Practically around the corner on a street with a very suitable name - Cook Street - "Chocolate Buttercup Bakery" greeted its visitors with the aroma of freshly baked goods. As soon as you step into the bakery, the smell of vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate - and only bakers know what else filled your nostrils, enticing your senses with the promise of sweetness. The display case is filled with a tempting array of treats, like cupcakes, cakes, cookies, macarons, and other mouth-watering pastries. Should you not be choked full after the early dinner, it would be hard to concentrate on the mission. A couple of girls - as sweet and fresh looking as the goods they were selling - are busy wrapping and packing sweets for the numerous customers. The door behind them opens regularly as the fresh batches are brought in, allowing visitors to pick into the inners of the establishment.
Lorsan and Uril
Darius looked at the freshly created tickets from different angles not touching them though. "Amazing! If I would not see you crafting them, I would swear you simply got your own from Duke's hands. Incredible job!" He clapped his hands again (he seemed to do it a lot) and added. "Well, I am off to get you something more suitable for the Gala. Will be back by 3:30." He walked out leaving Lorsan and Uril to decide the next move.
The "Varkenbluff's Museum" (a touch mocking name for the ever-closed collection for very select few allowed to see) was not far from the tavern not to check out. Lorsan and Uril could be there in less than a quarter of an hour and see for themselves the enormous columns and elegant archways of the building, hewn from marble and creating a grand and imposing impression from the moment one approaches it. The structure itself is a work of art, with intricate carvings and detailed sculptures adorning every surface.
The grand double doors of the entrance are closed with no one wandering around. But the back doors seem more lively. Some people - in uniforms or in liveries with Varkenbluff's colours - are walking in and out, carrying pieces of furniture and baskets usually used for holding food.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Early waits until one of the girls have a moment for him. He was a direct sort of guy, when it came to his sneakiness. He smiles a winning smile at the serving girl and leans in, with a familiar way about it, and says, "Wow....you guys are working hard, it smells amazing in here. And...." glances at the girl with a glint in his eyes "...things in here certainly look great too. I heard you guys were making some of the treats for the Varkenbluff gala tonight. Is that true? That's some high brow fancy stuff!"
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
(OOC: I am assuming Uril and Lorsan are indeed going to make good use of their time and walk by the building after finishing the fake invites.)
Who knew writing was such an essential skill in the world of crime?! Uril had been noticed and recruited on account of his mischievous penmanship and now, only a mere hour after joining a real team of miscreants, here he was again putting it to good use (or is it bad use?) Sure, the questionable portion of the job had been done by Lorsan, the professional. All Uril did was to copy the calligraphy style and font from the original invitations. Even then, hearing Mr. Golden Vault's praise felt strangely rewarding. Uril doubted he would get tired of hearing such complements, should he deserve them in this newfound career.
Later, near the museum, Uril is sure to dedicate some of his time to appreciating the architecture. The columns, relief carvings, decorations, and stonework were all commendable in his eyes. Surely, there are many more impressive buildings out there but this one was one of those that screamed "I have gold..." without necessarily adding a common follow-up clause in these instances "... but I lack taste." This realization pleased Uril.
If Lorsan wants to get closer to the back door, Uril will let him take the lead, lest the scribe be roped into coming up with lies on the spot. He could use the practice, but why risk the whole plan going awry so early? Uril stayed a few steps behind Lorsan and used his time to instead inspect the building further. Perhaps he'd be able to spot an interesting point of ingress or egress which they could use later, or even see beyond the window panes and catch a glimpse of what was going on inside should curtains not be drawn.
-> Perception check: 12
Lorsan watches admiringly as the adept amanuensis completes his handiwork. What would have taken Lorsan hours - and probably several failed attempts - to painstakingly copy, Sir Scribe manages to perform effortlessly in one go, duplicating the spacing and slope, the thickness and font, as though it were his very own. Not one for excessive verbal praise, nevertheless Lorsan spends the time during the walk to the museum making sincere inquiries of Uril as to his background and expertise, trying to discern what other knowledge and talents the man possesses, and to what uses they can be put.
Lorsan takes little notice of the museum building itself, other than to observe that it clearly housed yet another of the very many wealthy inhabitants of Waterdeep, albeit one whom Lorsan had not previously attempted to extort. The business at the back doors looked mundane enough, but Lorsan itched for a closer look inside. After all, the map didn't definitively determine where the basement stairs led to. And perhaps some other useful intel could be gained by even a perfunctory glance.
Taking Uril back out of sight of the back entrance, Lorsan whispers: A closer look would be helpful, don't you think? I have an idea. Then before Uril can interject, he adds: Don't worry, this is certain to work. Whether or not Uril can see through this lie, Lorsan doesn't seem to care. He takes a few items from his satchel and goes to work on himself - some boot polish on the face to mimic grime, a set of false buck teeth, a large pair of spectacles - after which he tousles his hair, removes his outer cloak, and ruffles up his remaining clothing... It takes barely a minute, but where Lorsan previously stood there now slouches a convincing approximation of an unkempt gangly elven adolescent - low-born but hard-working and eager to please. How do I look? he asks Uril.
Disguise Kit: 26
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?
Early
The girl's green eyes widened in surprise. "How did you know? Madam Trushen did not even tell us until this morning!" She immediately realized her mistake and added far more pridefully. "Of course, the Duke made an order. Our Chocolate Dream won last year's prize for a reason, you know. Everyone wants some for important events now. Duke Varkenbluff ordered a wedding-size cake." Her cute turned-up nose could not possibly point any higher. But curiosity won in the end and green eyes flashed with burning curiosity. "You said the Duke has a gala? Is it about his "museum"? There are rumours he found something spectacular but nobody knows what exactly!"
The other girl moved closer to better listen to the conversation, while not forgetting to serve the customers. You could tell Varkenbluff's museum was a hot topic among the Castle Ward's inhabitants, and the two girls were no exception.
Uril
There are some windows - narrow and tall, with stained glass fragments, obscuring the vision, created as part of the design, rather than traditional sources of daylight and fresh air. One would question if they can be opened at all.
As for potential hiding spots... Uril has a feeling it would take some time for a proper assessment. There are many niches and statues but you really would have to get closer and (quite possibly) know something about the patrol's schedule should such things exist.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Robin helps herself to hooking an arm through Early’s elbow on the walk through the streets. Surprisingly enough, Robin’s navigation through these back alleys were equivalent to his own, she practically fell in step with him through it. “Plans? Oh yous were serious… hic?” She chuckles. Mind you, her walk wasn’t the straightest, or the most efficient, however if someone could make drunken stumbling look almost graceful, the woman was pulling it off. “Food for the party? Heck ya!” At least she wasn’t hanging on him or bumping into anything, just simply meandering through like she was on a mission for the next available street food.
The moment Banks’ nose smells fresh baking, she peels off from Early and practically smooshes her face against the glass. When she realizes Early’s already in there, she eventually finds the door and lets herself in. With those sweet girls at the counter, he was like a fly on… “You butter them biscuits… I’mma browse.” With him busy, and keeping the girls busy, Robin slinks off to snoop around. She spends time eyeing the flow of the establishment, its back room each time the door opens, pays curious attention to their dress, how they conduct themselves, what they value most, what sells the most/fastest, how they package up their goodies and how they ship them etc. Usually there’s a head chef, a sous chef, some preps etc. in most kitchens, so she was pondering that make up while investigating. Did they have security, attentive staff, administration checks, or redundancy measures? Back doors, restricted areas, secret rooms? Essentially old habits die hard, Banks was scoping things out to gather intel on their logistics, how hard it would be to rob/steal from the place, and/or impersonate them.
just an unstable unicorn.
Robin
There is a general knowledge in the city that one does not mess with Baker's Guild - an extremely wealthy and influential guild of Waterdeep. "Chocolate Buttercup Bakery" is certainly part of the crowd, you could see the symbol right on the signboard if the general look of the establishment was not a clue itself. it's not like no one ever tried to rob a bakery, of course, but those who dare could expect to face all kinds of security measures.
Specifically here, two girls were not alone on the main floor. There were a couple of boys (probably more than a couple but they come and go) helping customers to transport the goods. There was a man by the door, seemingly busy with opening and closing it, but definitely keeping an eye on the visitors as well.
It would not be too hard to imitate the girl's dresses (aside from colours - pure white highlighted with a light blue chevron on the left shoulder) it was nothing special, and the girls themselves were just ordinary humans if young and fresh. But to seriously assess the establishment for a robbery, Robin would need to work here for some time. Glimpses in the door were giving only so much information and mostly about the shelves with ready-to-deliver goods, the kitchen itself was deeper in the building. Robin got the feeling, the bakery is more of the higher-end kind. The visitors are mostly well-dressed and there are quite a few guardsmen among them (no surprises here, considering the position of the shop).
Eventually, a tipsy green-haired shabby customer, eyeing the shop and the visitors, began to attract more intense attention. No one said anything yet, the eyes of the doormen stopped more and more often on her.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Early grins as the girl engages him in the conversation, "You guys can make a wedding cake in just one day. Woaaah. I always thought it took like a long time to make things like cakes. Sorta like booze, don't you have to let the bread sit a long time and get all sweet?" He smooths right past his total ignorance of baking and any confusion he causes, "Well, ya, I dunno about any Museum. I think that word means boring..am I right? All I know is the word "gala" means work. I could really use some honest coin. Any chance you guys could use an extra hand or muscle today? My mom has been super sick and course, my dad left long ago, and I got three little sibling that need food in their snotty little mouths....so it's all on me this week....and I'm a little desperate...BUT....I'm a hard worker...and I do what I'm told....." He grins and winks at the girl a bit suggestively.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Early and Robin
The blond green-eyed girl blinked a few times lost in the depths of Early's utterances. But before she could react, a man's voice interrupted the lively conversation. "Can you give me some water because I am so hungry, I have no place to sleep." The voice behind Early and Robin was oozing sarcasm like a well-made biscuit rum. The doorman left his post and now was towering over the couple. "Are you two here to buy anything? Because if not, I suggest you leave the shop now. If you want a job at the gala - go to the gala, we do not work there."
He turned his heavy gaze to the girls. "And you girls are paid for selling stuff, not for talking off customers' ears. Get back to it." The girl looked sheepishly at the doorman, sent Early an apologetic smile and immediately moved to help some old lady struggling to choose the "right cake".
Despite the (surely understandable) coldness and suspicion, the part about the gala did not sound like a simple wish to get rid of sketchy visitors. Well could be that the role of the bakers ended with the delivery of the cake.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
"Talents? Well, that is the main one: calligraphy; or more precisely, just... writing. A close second would be curiosity. I have a penchant for learning, and decades of exposure to various texts have given me the chance to absorb more than just a few bits of knowledge." Uril taps the thick tome chained to his waist: "I have made copies of the best bits and carry them right here." Smiling because of the compliment received, Uril adds modestly: "I don't know all, of course, and not nearly as much as I aspire to, but Deneir watches over me and grants me the chance to always pick up another lesson."
Given a chance to compliment Lorsan right back, Uril amends it to a request/warning: "I am not much of a charismatic person though, which is clearly one of your many skills. Please be at the ready to swoop in and save me from a social pickle or inevitable faux-pas. And please avoid setting me up for a acting bit... my plan for this evening is still to rely on actual tidbits of information I have accumulated over the years. I'll leave the deceitful embellishment of our credentials to you."
As if taken as a challenge, Uril's words lead Lorsan to usher the scribe to a corner down the street. Lorsan knows what he is doing. He certainly looks like he does... when doesn't he, really? A minute later, Uril is asked to judge the elf's theatrical make-up: "Hmm... It would likely do a better job of fooling me if I hadn't met you earlier today. Luckily, I am guessing the folks over there have not had the same pleasure as I have." He then gives his new performer friend a thumbs up.
Then, failing to gather much that is useful from looking at the windows from afar, Uril uses the time granted to him by Lorsan to keep an eye open for security patrols.
-> Investigation (?) check: 16 (if you prefer perception, add +1 to that.)
So Sir Scribe was more than just a scribe - he was a walking encyclopedia. That could come in handy. Lorsan was well aware that his 'confidence' was only an act -- looking like you belonged where you actually didn't, or knew what to do when you actually didn't -- but that pretending to be knowledgeable could only get you so far. There was no substitute for education, something that Lorsan lacked, despite his brains.
The elf shrugs at Uril's mention of some obscure human deity. Never heard of him, he says dismissively, but maybe you can persuade him to help us pull this job off.
As for keeping Uril out of the deceitful roles, Lorsan slaps him reassuringly on the back, winks and says Sure, sure! somewhat unreassuringly.
Having received some kind of approval from Uril on the disguise, Lorsan prepares to leave him alone. Settling into the persona of the scruffy youth, he turns to his companion and says with a pitched-up stutter: I-I'll be right back, sir. Turning to walk away, the elven youth pauses briefly, looks back at the scribe and says: M-maybe your Dinear - or whatever his n-name is - will w-watch over me too? He looks pointedly at Uril to see if the scribe actually does have any divine leverage to offer, before ambling back around the corner to make his incursion.
Lorsan tries to keep out of sight as much as possible while approaching the back doors. Once he has gone as far as he dares without risking detection, he casts a simple cantrip to cause the sound of breaking glass to be heard loudly from the far side of the cart, or whatever is being unloaded. Hoping this is sufficient to get heads to turn, Lorsan then tries to slip into the back door, and glance around what he assumes will be the basement.
Minor Illusion to create the sound. Stealth to avoid detection: 19
How does a red dragon blow out the candles on its birthday cake?