This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
OOC: Hello Rigor. We absolutely understand. Real life always wins, doubly so in medical care during COVID. You have access to unlimited grace on this front.
OOC: With all init rolls in, Rigor is first and he is wisely sizing up the action. After Rigor is Casta. I have Casta's action drafted and prepared but am waiting on an adjudication before posting. Traditionally, those seem to come around 0200 - 0300 Eastern.
OOC: And because my die finger is itching, here is a D20 roll for exactly no reason. 19
OOC: Public Declaration - Oyez, Oyez, Oyez. Should Sir_Galahad_Reborn be unavailable for an extended duration, I hereby nominate SynAckuL to be my Second. That is all.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
The uprising under the looming shadow of the Basilisk Gate surges forward in desperate earnest, driven on by two among the angry mob of apparent Baldurian commoners - the first of them at the rear of the masses and the second at the riot's center of mass, which Captain Zodge and his guard of elite Flaming Fist mercenaries force penetrate with their charge, forcing a deep splint mail-armored wedge into the midst of the rioters with their bloody steel-gauntleted fists, while more than two dozen other Flaming Fist soldiers in chain mail and shield form a defensive wall on either of Zodge's flanks, protecting the sealed Basilisk Gate. Thus far, though hands stray to hilts, they hold their discipline with long swords sheathed as they brace for the riot's press. The rioters that fall to Zodge's brutal assault, meanwhile, are immediately held to the ground and efficiently stripped of their belt pouches by the Captain's third rank of enforcers, who throw the pouches back towards the gate over the shield wall, and force the wedge mercilessly onward towards one of the instigators.
Rigor reacts seemingly faster than thought in the swiftness of his response, looking once at Sorore and flowing into a defensive stance between the roiling mob and the Cleric of Ilmater, ready to oppose any violence that approaches them.
In an anger and fear-driven rush, then, the rioting mass breaks against the Flaming Fist defense, easily outnumbering the mercenaries thrice over, their hoarse shouts rising into the late morning chill while innocent bystanders on the periphery move frantically to distance themselves from the growing fray, the mob wavering under Zodge's attack at center, while crushing their own masses against the mercenaries' shield wall.
Fear strikes deep into the mob instigator now caught up in the midst of the riot, overwhelming the anger used to compel the uprising to violence, even before Zodge's bloodstained fists reach him. Ahead of him on either flank, the riot has little success against the Flaming Fist defenses, although their crushing numbers manage to bludgeon a gap, breaking open near the shield wall's southernmost section of flank protecting the gate.
OOC: I do not yet perceive the need to break out the tactical map for visualization, but the near-term course of the fray will soon dictate the need; best of luck!
Casta is unsure what to do, exactly, but she knows she must decisively act. The time for reason and debate has passed. Action. But what?
The Paladin climbs onto a nearby wagon, elevating herself over the din of mail, man and panic. She takes in the situation from the new vantage point, but it is the same as before.
Cannot side with the Fist. They are oppressing the weak and fearful.
Cannot side with the Civilians. The Fist is within the law, (except for thievery) ... and also right. Too early to open the gate.
No good option. Inaction? Abstinence? Not an option. Culpability. Situation accelerating. What can I do? What can we do?
Fear is the real enemy. Different responses. Both are victims. Overcome the fear. I am afraid myself. I am decided, but what if I fail?
Helm has not yet given me the power to dispel fear. Maybe today I will earn it.
HELM give me strength!
The rich smell of roses fills the air around Casta Lapsu. Singularly of purpose and decision yields an olfactory reward and encourages her to continue on the Right track.
I beat my gauntlet on my decorated shield. Eye as large a man’s head. I cry out at the top of my lungs, that short phrase that many of the watch use themselves to get their attention. Glowing amulet swinging wildly from my neck as I leap upon the back of the wagon. If Tymora be favorable, many in this very posse live with the same phrase on their tongue as well.
BY HELM!!! (I need but a moment pause to lessen the pressure. Then call them to account.)
By Helm, You are WATCHED, Fist! Carry yourselves honorable as the gods themselves watch. The eye of Helm is upon you even now. See here, I stand witness to his witness. Helm himself teaches “Evil will always fall against courage and honor.” Give not Bane his glee this day. Ilmater’s voice now grows. The Vigilant One and the Watchful Shield calls you to protect. Will you ask Helm to answer your prayers after this? Your mailed gauntlet is better adorned with the unblinking eye than drenched in the blood of the fearful.
I turn my eyes to the ringleaders. (Defuse. Dismantle. Redirect.) I allow judgement and withering scorn to come into my face. I look straight at the two ringleaders. It doesn’t matter if they think they are doing it for the right reasons or not. They are going to get people killed today. Give them the eye.
Her bouquet shifts to the rotting meat smell of the Dragon Lily as she turns on the ringleaders who probably thought she was their ally. In truth, she is, but not in the way they believe.
And YYYyyou. Fearful. Lawless cowards. [Pointing liberally with her decorated glove.] I mean you [pointing to the ringleader in center] and you, [casting wide to the second ringleader in the rear] Yes both of you. Shame upon both your houses. You pull these people into your panic and your cowardice. Flee. Flee. Flee. Run like a blind rat. Protect yourself. My city needs me, but I run and dig for safety.
You greatest of fools. You already ARE in the safest place for leagues in any direction. The Outer City and Tumbledown break inward against these very gates. They are giving their spleens even now to find the safety you already have by birthright. They die to gain the very protection you squeal to throw away.
Hear me, Friends! You don’t want to flee. You want walls! You want strength! You want allies! You want angry men to stand by your side and array against whatever has smote Elturgard. I am here. My family is here. My own children remain safe within these walls. Find your courage. Regain your manhood. Turn your fear into zeal.
Whatever foe is to the East paid dearly by the Order of the Companion and the Hellriders. It is now wounded and will find these gates stronger and better defended than the Companion. Go back to your homes. Steel your souls. Join a band and protect this city. Your City. Your home. Stand beside me. Whatever evil is out there will not find Baldur’s Gate an easy a mark.
Baldur’s Gate has withstood the Spellplague and the Second Sundering. With you, she will overcome once again.
OOC: Correction. A Cuspide Corona member kindly pointed out an admin error on my part. I incorrectly added only my CHA to that roll, not Persuasion skill. I neglected to add my proficiency modifier of +2.
The check is actually Persuasion 24.
(Super happy about that roll! Really sets up the narrative I want to tell.)
Casta's words ring out clear and true through the morning chill and last tatters of fog across the roiling melee surrounding the Basilisk Gate, even through the escalating roar of the riot. The anger seething through the uprising begins to fade in the light of those truths, turning to uncertainty, shame, and for those facing the bloody gauntlets of Captain Zodge and his grim wedge of Flaming Fist veterans, or pressed against the mercenaries' shield wall by the crush of the mob at their backs...outright fear.
The desperate riot at the Gate devolves into a rout, but not soon enough for the one instigator at the angry mob's center, whom is at last reached by the brutal Captain Zodge. Still, even the one-eyed Flaming Fist Captain seems affected by the Paladin of Helm's impassioned entreaty, as the steel-encased fists that felled no less than three rioters in the first seconds of conflict merely send the large, disheveled man staggering instead, without Zodge's wicked strength behind it, or the expected robbery for his troubles. The Fist Captain's other gauntlet rises swiftly into the air, in a closed fist followed immediately by an forward-thrusting palm, at which Zodge's bodyguard of veterans ends its merciless assault around him, and the mercenaries' shield wall closes ranks again and steps forward, reinforcing its defensive stance with a low grunt echoing down the line on either side, but advancing no further nor arresting the fleeing rioters.
As his gauntlet comes down, Captain Zodge's one dark, baleful eye rises to Casta standing on the back of a merchant's low wagon, and he nods his head once in prospective acknowledgement before his gaze shifts and widens to take in her gathered companions.
"Captain Zodge,"he speaks, in a deep forthright voice, "of the Flaming Fist, in command of this gate. Which ones are you?"
OOC: Adventurers, that could have turned out quite differently. As matters stood, no morale or other reaction check by either of the two sides involved was going to counter a 24 Persuasion result - even with a natural 20 on the die! As it was, this senseless conflict was ended without any fatalities.
OOC: Casta, exceptionally well-done for all concerned. You hereby receive the first Inspiration Point of the campaign!
OOC: Initiative can now proceed with Yokai, at his discretion, or the companions can transition into an engagement with Captain Zodge. Look forward to your thoughts!
Yokai remains hidden as he listens to the flowing words of Casta. He stands ready to assist if needed, should she be required to make any further rolls. He sees no need for further bloodshed.
OOC: Help action on any further checks to work the crowd or guards, if necessary. Description to follow if the action takes place.
Sorore herself finds some inspiration in Casta's words, and nods appreciatively at her mention of Ilmater's growing voice.
"Let us bring that peace to others you have spoken of, Brother Rigor,"she says intently. Sorore then sets off amidst the dispersing mob toward the south flank of the Flaming Fist's defensive perimeter, to assess any injuries among the mercenaries where the shield wall was bludgeoned and broken open during the short-lived uprising. She smiles slightly and waves a pale-gloved hand at Captain Zodge as she passes, letting others better-suited speak for the company while she answers the Broken God's calling.
OOC: This will be my action in initiative, whether initiative is ended soon or not. I'll just leave that for Murdoch to decide since he's next. Hoping Rigor can come with me in his readiness!
"Oh?! Wow, that actually worked." Feldinor realized that he also was mesmerized by the rousing speech. So much so that he forgot to even act during the melee. [ooc]role-play his really crappy initiative check[/ooc] Seeing as he never even really drew his weapons, he marches up along side Murdoch to hear what the negotiations for the missions will entail. This whole company would go broke if I wasn't here during negotiations. One can only do "missions for the greater good" for so long before one has to eat....and buy new things.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Fimrold exhales a sigh of relief, his posture relaxing.
Wow, that went surprisingly well, we’re lucky to have such an impressively persuasive force on our side.
Fimrold advances to Feldinor and Murdoch, watching the mob instigator to make sure he’s finished stirring trouble. Insight 17 At the mention of A Cupside Carona, Fimrold nods a silent greeting to his Companions and Zodge, then replies.
”We had sought your company this day, though the circumstances of this chance meeting seems to have hastened that process.”
I can’t believe that worked. Hoped they would listen. Didn’t expect it. Surprised beyond words.
The air around Casta takes on the sweet texture of Edelweiss.
Keep it together. Master the shock.
Of course Helm could do it. I knew HE could. Didn’t know he would. I’ve been blessed today. Favored. I walk the Righteous Path!
This is a small but great moment. Many of these also revere Helm, or depend on his protection on the late watch. That is why they hear. Not my glory.
Still, didn’t really expect that to work. Had to try. No other choice. Walk the righteous path.
Praise be Helm. Et in toril pax hominibus bonae voluntatis.
Close your mouth, Lapsu. Keep face. Recover. Not over.
An exuding of elation both clings to and effervesces from her very blood. She poorly contains herself. She hops down off the trade wagon and tries to walk with dignity toward the overly zealous Captain, but she cannot entirely suppress the grin. Oh the evil that she has stopped just now. Glory to Helm. She is a vehicle.
Just one battle settled. Many more to follow today. Don't revel.
She walks with a subtle skip over to the Captain, also quickly giving a touch of encouragement to those remaining on the ground she happens to pass by.
She looks on the new situation with her heart. One more sin to confront. The first battle of the day is resolved. Fear is suppressed. The next battle is against pride and greed. Counter with hope and charity, even if it has to be painted as self-serving.
As Casta closes with the Capt, she unconsciously starts to exude the confident smell of Amaryllis
Capt Zodge of the Flaming Fist. Well met on this adverse morning here at the Basilisk gate. We are honored to make your acquaint. As the inestimable Murdoch says, we are indeed Cuspide Corona. Adventurers true and righteous. I am Casta Lapsu, Paladin of the Vigilant One. Together, we represent many roads of the Right. Reporting as requested to meet the needs of the Gate and look to your contracts worthy of the skills we bring.
As she comes close, Casta dismisses the Light cantrip on the necklace. Turning off the light makes the one-on-one conversation less “in your face” but also serves to call attention to the holy symbol once again.
Fog is clearing this morn. Getting easier to see with regular eyes. You and your troops are to be commended for the compassion and restraint shown this morning. Helm thanks you. I don’t speak for Illmater as the lovely Sorore here does, but I’m sure Illmater thanks you just the same.
I am most impressed that your men went as far as to take up an offering for the poor from the shield wall. She gestures to where Sorore and Rigor are tending to the wounded crushed underfoot. The timing is surprising, of course, and with your fair wages from the city contracts such as they are, so honorable that you would think to raise money to minster to the suffering around you, such as these very suffering ones trod now on the ground. By the gods, if you are willing to entrust your morning’s collection to the church of Helm or Ilmater, (pointing to Sorore) even the church of Mystra, (pointing to adjacent Fimrold and his holy symbol) or even Cuspide Corona’s precise purser here, Master Blackfoot, I will personally say a prayer of Helm’s Protection over each and every one of your men for the dark day ahead. Sorore and Rigor will see that these funds make their way to those that most need them. (She subtly looks again at the crushed and bruised recovering trampled rioters) Within minutes, the funds will meet immediate needs of the Gate’s people and Honor rules the day on all sides.
After that is settled, we can talk which open contract is best suited to a team of our skill. Belmort there, (indicating our hulking dragonborn) can eat as much as a horse in a day. Ha. Poor word choice, sorry. I don’t mean he eats that much grain and hay. I mean he can eat an entire horse. He is a veritable titan.
OOC but in game clarification – Subtext is so hard with just text: The subtext is clearly intended to allow Capt Zodge to not only save face but look like a hero after being caught red handed in thuggish robbery and allow Sorore and Rigor to return the heisted belts back to the original owners, who are generally still scattered about on the ground, receiving ministrations from the Tiefling and the Monk. Everybody wins. The crime is reversed and all it costs is heightening the name of Helm. Justice over Law. Not the time for Legal but Stupid. Let no evil go unaddressed, but pick your committed battles.
OOC: Yokai was looking for an opportunity to use the Help action. I’ll see if he wants to apply it to this coming persuasion check before I make another persuasion roll. (I really don't expect my outrageous good luck to continue!!) Of course, that offer is open to others who may also want to help get the robbed belts back.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Belmort stows his battle axe and lets his shield lower to a low carry position, as he walks toward the group of his companions.
Belmort laughs and says “And our fair Casta speaks more than I can eat. Lucky for all of us that Helm has blessed her with such amazing linguistic skill. I myself and not bless with the same eloquence. That being said Captain Zodge what do you have in mind for our group?”
Belmort pays attention to the surrounding area as well as Capt Zodge’s demeanor to sense any impending danger.
or even Cuspide Corona’s precise purser here, Master Blackfoot, I will personally say a prayer of Helm’s Protection over each and every one of your men for the dark day ahead.
At the mention by Casta for Feldinor to get control of the offering, he steps up closer and extends his hand ready to receive. "Absolutely. I, in my humble role or distributing wealth to the people that truly need this offering, will gladly offer my services to assist the Flaiming Fist's collection to those suffering." Persuasion4 [aiding Casta]
[OOC]ahem...I'm a 5e noob. Apparently there isn't an aide action DC10 and I should have said "I am helping Casta"via the Help...didn't delete the roll above because I didn't want the dreaded "THIS POST HAS ROLLS THAT HAVE BEEN EDITED" Scarlet letter.
Perception18 [to see if the good Captain will actually allow us to distribute his offerings]
Once the determination of the funds has been adjudicated, Feldinor perks up at the mention of next missions. "Perhaps some sort of scouting mission to collect information and provide a summary reporting back? I'm sure you are aware that we ---Cuspide Corona--have unique skills in this area which will be worth the extra cost for hiring such an elite scouting force."
[ooc]Feldinor is attempting to continue promoting the idea that we are publicly trying to keep our name in the spotlight ... Plus let any hitman in the crowd believe that we are elite (and therefore a harder target
OOC: Hello Rigor. We absolutely understand. Real life always wins, doubly so in medical care during COVID. You have access to unlimited grace on this front.
OOC: With all init rolls in, Rigor is first and he is wisely sizing up the action. After Rigor is Casta. I have Casta's action drafted and prepared but am waiting on an adjudication before posting. Traditionally, those seem to come around 0200 - 0300 Eastern.
OOC: And because my die finger is itching, here is a D20 roll for exactly no reason. 19
OOC: Public Declaration - Oyez, Oyez, Oyez. Should Sir_Galahad_Reborn be unavailable for an extended duration, I hereby nominate SynAckuL to be my Second. That is all.
Captain Zodge and the Flaming Fist Soldiers Initiative: 18
Angry Mob Initiative: 16
Initiative Order:
23: Rigor
20: Angry Mob
19: Casta
18: Captain Zodge & the Flaming Fist
15: Yokai
14: Sorore
12: Murdoch
8: Fimrold
6: Feldinor
3: Belmort
The uprising under the looming shadow of the Basilisk Gate surges forward in desperate earnest, driven on by two among the angry mob of apparent Baldurian commoners - the first of them at the rear of the masses and the second at the riot's center of mass, which Captain Zodge and his guard of elite Flaming Fist mercenaries force penetrate with their charge, forcing a deep splint mail-armored wedge into the midst of the rioters with their bloody steel-gauntleted fists, while more than two dozen other Flaming Fist soldiers in chain mail and shield form a defensive wall on either of Zodge's flanks, protecting the sealed Basilisk Gate. Thus far, though hands stray to hilts, they hold their discipline with long swords sheathed as they brace for the riot's press. The rioters that fall to Zodge's brutal assault, meanwhile, are immediately held to the ground and efficiently stripped of their belt pouches by the Captain's third rank of enforcers, who throw the pouches back towards the gate over the shield wall, and force the wedge mercilessly onward towards one of the instigators.
Rigor reacts seemingly faster than thought in the swiftness of his response, looking once at Sorore and flowing into a defensive stance between the roiling mob and the Cleric of Ilmater, ready to oppose any violence that approaches them.
In an anger and fear-driven rush, then, the rioting mass breaks against the Flaming Fist defense, easily outnumbering the mercenaries thrice over, their hoarse shouts rising into the late morning chill while innocent bystanders on the periphery move frantically to distance themselves from the growing fray, the mob wavering under Zodge's attack at center, while crushing their own masses against the mercenaries' shield wall.
Morale (Wisdom) Saving Throw for Mob Leader 2 (Zodge's Target): 14
Mob Attacks ("Unit" Rolls, Unarmed): 6 3 5 14 5 17
Fear strikes deep into the mob instigator now caught up in the midst of the riot, overwhelming the anger used to compel the uprising to violence, even before Zodge's bloodstained fists reach him. Ahead of him on either flank, the riot has little success against the Flaming Fist defenses, although their crushing numbers manage to bludgeon a gap, breaking open near the shield wall's southernmost section of flank protecting the gate.
OOC: I do not yet perceive the need to break out the tactical map for visualization, but the near-term course of the fray will soon dictate the need; best of luck!
OOC: Casta, Initiative is yours!
Casta is unsure what to do, exactly, but she knows she must decisively act. The time for reason and debate has passed. Action. But what?
The Paladin climbs onto a nearby wagon, elevating herself over the din of mail, man and panic. She takes in the situation from the new vantage point, but it is the same as before.
Cannot side with the Fist. They are oppressing the weak and fearful.
Cannot side with the Civilians. The Fist is within the law, (except for thievery) ... and also right. Too early to open the gate.
No good option. Inaction? Abstinence? Not an option. Culpability. Situation accelerating. What can I do? What can we do?
Fear is the real enemy. Different responses. Both are victims. Overcome the fear. I am afraid myself. I am decided, but what if I fail?
Helm has not yet given me the power to dispel fear. Maybe today I will earn it.
HELM give me strength!
The rich smell of roses fills the air around Casta Lapsu. Singularly of purpose and decision yields an olfactory reward and encourages her to continue on the Right track.
I beat my gauntlet on my decorated shield. Eye as large a man’s head. I cry out at the top of my lungs, that short phrase that many of the watch use themselves to get their attention. Glowing amulet swinging wildly from my neck as I leap upon the back of the wagon. If Tymora be favorable, many in this very posse live with the same phrase on their tongue as well.
BY HELM!!! (I need but a moment pause to lessen the pressure. Then call them to account.)
By Helm, You are WATCHED, Fist! Carry yourselves honorable as the gods themselves watch. The eye of Helm is upon you even now. See here, I stand witness to his witness. Helm himself teaches “Evil will always fall against courage and honor.” Give not Bane his glee this day. Ilmater’s voice now grows. The Vigilant One and the Watchful Shield calls you to protect. Will you ask Helm to answer your prayers after this? Your mailed gauntlet is better adorned with the unblinking eye than drenched in the blood of the fearful.
I turn my eyes to the ringleaders. (Defuse. Dismantle. Redirect.) I allow judgement and withering scorn to come into my face. I look straight at the two ringleaders. It doesn’t matter if they think they are doing it for the right reasons or not. They are going to get people killed today. Give them the eye.
Her bouquet shifts to the rotting meat smell of the Dragon Lily as she turns on the ringleaders who probably thought she was their ally. In truth, she is, but not in the way they believe.
And YYYyyou. Fearful. Lawless cowards. [Pointing liberally with her decorated glove.] I mean you [pointing to the ringleader in center] and you, [casting wide to the second ringleader in the rear] Yes both of you. Shame upon both your houses. You pull these people into your panic and your cowardice. Flee. Flee. Flee. Run like a blind rat. Protect yourself. My city needs me, but I run and dig for safety.
You greatest of fools. You already ARE in the safest place for leagues in any direction. The Outer City and Tumbledown break inward against these very gates. They are giving their spleens even now to find the safety you already have by birthright. They die to gain the very protection you squeal to throw away.
Hear me, Friends! You don’t want to flee. You want walls! You want strength! You want allies! You want angry men to stand by your side and array against whatever has smote Elturgard. I am here. My family is here. My own children remain safe within these walls. Find your courage. Regain your manhood. Turn your fear into zeal.
Whatever foe is to the East paid dearly by the Order of the Companion and the Hellriders. It is now wounded and will find these gates stronger and better defended than the Companion. Go back to your homes. Steel your souls. Join a band and protect this city. Your City. Your home. Stand beside me. Whatever evil is out there will not find Baldur’s Gate an easy a mark.
Baldur’s Gate has withstood the Spellplague and the Second Sundering. With you, she will overcome once again.
Roll Persuasion 22
OOC: Correction. A Cuspide Corona member kindly pointed out an admin error on my part. I incorrectly added only my CHA to that roll, not Persuasion skill. I neglected to add my proficiency modifier of +2.
The check is actually Persuasion 24.
(Super happy about that roll! Really sets up the narrative I want to tell.)
[ooc]Whew!!! I guess we know what Casta's action for the next 10 rounds are. "deliver a rousing speech!" :)
OOC: Read RREEEEALL fast and you can get through it in six seconds. Helps if you read silently. And skim.
Casta's words ring out clear and true through the morning chill and last tatters of fog across the roiling melee surrounding the Basilisk Gate, even through the escalating roar of the riot. The anger seething through the uprising begins to fade in the light of those truths, turning to uncertainty, shame, and for those facing the bloody gauntlets of Captain Zodge and his grim wedge of Flaming Fist veterans, or pressed against the mercenaries' shield wall by the crush of the mob at their backs...outright fear.
The desperate riot at the Gate devolves into a rout, but not soon enough for the one instigator at the angry mob's center, whom is at last reached by the brutal Captain Zodge. Still, even the one-eyed Flaming Fist Captain seems affected by the Paladin of Helm's impassioned entreaty, as the steel-encased fists that felled no less than three rioters in the first seconds of conflict merely send the large, disheveled man staggering instead, without Zodge's wicked strength behind it, or the expected robbery for his troubles. The Fist Captain's other gauntlet rises swiftly into the air, in a closed fist followed immediately by an forward-thrusting palm, at which Zodge's bodyguard of veterans ends its merciless assault around him, and the mercenaries' shield wall closes ranks again and steps forward, reinforcing its defensive stance with a low grunt echoing down the line on either side, but advancing no further nor arresting the fleeing rioters.
As his gauntlet comes down, Captain Zodge's one dark, baleful eye rises to Casta standing on the back of a merchant's low wagon, and he nods his head once in prospective acknowledgement before his gaze shifts and widens to take in her gathered companions.
"Captain Zodge," he speaks, in a deep forthright voice, "of the Flaming Fist, in command of this gate. Which ones are you?"
OOC: Adventurers, that could have turned out quite differently. As matters stood, no morale or other reaction check by either of the two sides involved was going to counter a 24 Persuasion result - even with a natural 20 on the die! As it was, this senseless conflict was ended without any fatalities.
OOC: Casta, exceptionally well-done for all concerned. You hereby receive the first Inspiration Point of the campaign!
OOC: Initiative can now proceed with Yokai, at his discretion, or the companions can transition into an engagement with Captain Zodge. Look forward to your thoughts!
Yokai remains hidden as he listens to the flowing words of Casta. He stands ready to assist if needed, should she be required to make any further rolls. He sees no need for further bloodshed.
OOC: Help action on any further checks to work the crowd or guards, if necessary. Description to follow if the action takes place.
Sorore herself finds some inspiration in Casta's words, and nods appreciatively at her mention of Ilmater's growing voice.
"Let us bring that peace to others you have spoken of, Brother Rigor," she says intently. Sorore then sets off amidst the dispersing mob toward the south flank of the Flaming Fist's defensive perimeter, to assess any injuries among the mercenaries where the shield wall was bludgeoned and broken open during the short-lived uprising. She smiles slightly and waves a pale-gloved hand at Captain Zodge as she passes, letting others better-suited speak for the company while she answers the Broken God's calling.
OOC: This will be my action in initiative, whether initiative is ended soon or not. I'll just leave that for Murdoch to decide since he's next. Hoping Rigor can come with me in his readiness!
Murdoch walks towards the bloody-handed Captain, keeping his own hands far away from his weapons.
"Hail, Captain!" Murdoch says, keeping a wary eye on the routed crowd Perception 9. "We are A Cuspide Corona; glad to be of service."
OOC: If Murdoch's Perception check reveals anything worrisome, he'll call out to the rest of the party and alert them of the possible threat.
OOC: Not that a 9 is likely to turn anything up. Oh well.
"Oh?! Wow, that actually worked." Feldinor realized that he also was mesmerized by the rousing speech. So much so that he forgot to even act during the melee. [ooc]role-play his really crappy initiative check[/ooc] Seeing as he never even really drew his weapons, he marches up along side Murdoch to hear what the negotiations for the missions will entail. This whole company would go broke if I wasn't here during negotiations. One can only do "missions for the greater good" for so long before one has to eat....and buy new things.
Fimrold exhales a sigh of relief, his posture relaxing.
Wow, that went surprisingly well, we’re lucky to have such an impressively persuasive force on our side.
Fimrold advances to Feldinor and Murdoch, watching the mob instigator to make sure he’s finished stirring trouble. Insight 17
At the mention of A Cupside Carona, Fimrold nods a silent greeting to his Companions and Zodge, then replies.
”We had sought your company this day, though the circumstances of this chance meeting seems to have hastened that process.”
I can’t believe that worked. Hoped they would listen. Didn’t expect it. Surprised beyond words.
The air around Casta takes on the sweet texture of Edelweiss.
Keep it together. Master the shock.
Of course Helm could do it. I knew HE could. Didn’t know he would. I’ve been blessed today. Favored. I walk the Righteous Path!
This is a small but great moment. Many of these also revere Helm, or depend on his protection on the late watch. That is why they hear. Not my glory.
Still, didn’t really expect that to work. Had to try. No other choice. Walk the righteous path.
Praise be Helm. Et in toril pax hominibus bonae voluntatis.
Close your mouth, Lapsu. Keep face. Recover. Not over.
An exuding of elation both clings to and effervesces from her very blood. She poorly contains herself. She hops down off the trade wagon and tries to walk with dignity toward the overly zealous Captain, but she cannot entirely suppress the grin. Oh the evil that she has stopped just now. Glory to Helm. She is a vehicle.
Just one battle settled. Many more to follow today. Don't revel.
She walks with a subtle skip over to the Captain, also quickly giving a touch of encouragement to those remaining on the ground she happens to pass by.
She looks on the new situation with her heart. One more sin to confront. The first battle of the day is resolved. Fear is suppressed. The next battle is against pride and greed. Counter with hope and charity, even if it has to be painted as self-serving.
As Casta closes with the Capt, she unconsciously starts to exude the confident smell of Amaryllis
Capt Zodge of the Flaming Fist. Well met on this adverse morning here at the Basilisk gate. We are honored to make your acquaint. As the inestimable Murdoch says, we are indeed Cuspide Corona. Adventurers true and righteous. I am Casta Lapsu, Paladin of the Vigilant One. Together, we represent many roads of the Right. Reporting as requested to meet the needs of the Gate and look to your contracts worthy of the skills we bring.
As she comes close, Casta dismisses the Light cantrip on the necklace. Turning off the light makes the one-on-one conversation less “in your face” but also serves to call attention to the holy symbol once again.
Fog is clearing this morn. Getting easier to see with regular eyes. You and your troops are to be commended for the compassion and restraint shown this morning. Helm thanks you. I don’t speak for Illmater as the lovely Sorore here does, but I’m sure Illmater thanks you just the same.
I am most impressed that your men went as far as to take up an offering for the poor from the shield wall. She gestures to where Sorore and Rigor are tending to the wounded crushed underfoot. The timing is surprising, of course, and with your fair wages from the city contracts such as they are, so honorable that you would think to raise money to minster to the suffering around you, such as these very suffering ones trod now on the ground. By the gods, if you are willing to entrust your morning’s collection to the church of Helm or Ilmater, (pointing to Sorore) even the church of Mystra, (pointing to adjacent Fimrold and his holy symbol) or even Cuspide Corona’s precise purser here, Master Blackfoot, I will personally say a prayer of Helm’s Protection over each and every one of your men for the dark day ahead. Sorore and Rigor will see that these funds make their way to those that most need them. (She subtly looks again at the crushed and bruised recovering trampled rioters) Within minutes, the funds will meet immediate needs of the Gate’s people and Honor rules the day on all sides.
After that is settled, we can talk which open contract is best suited to a team of our skill. Belmort there, (indicating our hulking dragonborn) can eat as much as a horse in a day. Ha. Poor word choice, sorry. I don’t mean he eats that much grain and hay. I mean he can eat an entire horse. He is a veritable titan.
OOC but in game clarification – Subtext is so hard with just text: The subtext is clearly intended to allow Capt Zodge to not only save face but look like a hero after being caught red handed in thuggish robbery and allow Sorore and Rigor to return the heisted belts back to the original owners, who are generally still scattered about on the ground, receiving ministrations from the Tiefling and the Monk. Everybody wins. The crime is reversed and all it costs is heightening the name of Helm. Justice over Law. Not the time for Legal but Stupid. Let no evil go unaddressed, but pick your committed battles.
OOC: Yokai was looking for an opportunity to use the Help action. I’ll see if he wants to apply it to this coming persuasion check before I make another persuasion roll. (I really don't expect my outrageous good luck to continue!!) Of course, that offer is open to others who may also want to help get the robbed belts back.
Belmort stows his battle axe and lets his shield lower to a low carry position, as he walks toward the group of his companions.
Belmort laughs and says “And our fair Casta speaks more than I can eat. Lucky for all of us that Helm has blessed her with such amazing linguistic skill. I myself and not bless with the same eloquence. That being said Captain Zodge what do you have in mind for our group?”
Belmort pays attention to the surrounding area as well as Capt Zodge’s demeanor to sense any impending danger.
Perception 15
At the mention by Casta for Feldinor to get control of the offering, he steps up closer and extends his hand ready to receive. "Absolutely. I, in my humble role or distributing wealth to the people that truly need this offering, will gladly offer my services to assist the Flaiming Fist's collection to those suffering." Persuasion 4 [aiding Casta]
[OOC]ahem...I'm a 5e noob. Apparently there isn't an aide action DC10 and I should have said "I am helping Casta"via the Help...didn't delete the roll above because I didn't want the dreaded "THIS POST HAS ROLLS THAT HAVE BEEN EDITED" Scarlet letter.
Perception 18 [to see if the good Captain will actually allow us to distribute his offerings]
Once the determination of the funds has been adjudicated, Feldinor perks up at the mention of next missions. "Perhaps some sort of scouting mission to collect information and provide a summary reporting back? I'm sure you are aware that we ---Cuspide Corona--have unique skills in this area which will be worth the extra cost for hiring such an elite scouting force."
[ooc]Feldinor is attempting to continue promoting the idea that we are publicly trying to keep our name in the spotlight ... Plus let any hitman in the crowd believe that we are elite (and therefore a harder target