(OOC: Some of this is based on our OOC conversation.)
@MB: Please remove 550gp from your inventory. During the next Downtime session you'll be able to collect your new plate armor but will have to surrender your existing splint armor.
@Ori: Please add 90gp to your inventory for selling back the studded leather barding. Then, go ahead and add 10 silver-tipped crossbow bolts to your inventory and remove 100gp to cover the cost (as per PHB 148.) You will also need a separate case, crossbow bolt to keep them, so make sure to pay an extra 1gp for that. (Net gold removed from your inventory: 11gp.) We'll deal with Biscuit-related transactions during Downtime.
@Drache: Please remove 7 longbows, 8 longswords, 9 shields, and 8 chain shirts from your inventory and/or bag of holding. Then, add a total of 476gp to your inventory for selling all of that. On behalf of Utar, please also remove the Garbul's plate armor from the bag of holding. Next, go ahead and add 10 silver-tipped arrows to your inventory and remove 100gp to cover the cost (as per PHB 148.) You will also need a separate quiver to keep them, so make sure to pay 2gpextra for that. (Net gold added to your inventory: 374gp.)
The transactions have been completed. CRAP says their goodbyes to the blacksmithing trio for now and departs. The party notes that it is about time to start heading to the Tea Kettle, but there is no need to rush.
"Who said anything about not bringing our weapons now? Worst case scenario, we'll need to stash them into Neya's bag, and be very mindful of her position during it all. But unless to plain to pry mines from my cold dead fingers, it weren't happening one or another with me." Doozey states frankly, displaying an uncannily high level bravery even by halfling standards. "That said. Best we don't look too twitchy about them once we get there. Not at first, at least. Alright?" He looks to everyone on that note.
Whether or not he receive some signs of agreement, the stoutling soon does an about face and carries on marching for the Tea Kettle at a fair pace. Though nothing is said to betray any inner thoughts, he had ever intent to try and get there at least slightly early for some scouting around with Taters.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"Let us reserve our judgment. There is a fine line between caution and watching shadows. One will better prepare us for true danger. The other will have danger prepare us." Neya gives her input.
"Regardless, we do know little about the nobles other than what they have told us and despite fighting alongside them. I, personally will trust them, but be alert to what is not spoken."
(OOC: Again, some of this is based on the OOC Chat. I'll assume Graxx does not show up semi-naked. Any of you should feel free to correct me if I misunderstood anything.)
The group discusses how to best approach the upcoming meeting and agree to take their weapons. Hoping that their choice can help attenuate any potential embarrassment on behalf of the party, Neya, Graxx, and Utar head back to the Laughing Goblin for a quick change.
Neya puts on her recently purchased elegant outfit and other trinkets as she sees fit. She leaves her weapons behind, trusting her nimbleness and fists to the the job should the need arise.
Utar slips his delicate robes on top of his full set of armor. It feels uncomfortable, and it makes it look like Utar gained several stone worth of weight, but the effort to look more presentable will surely be noticed. He also makes sure to fit his old warhammer somewhere under the skirt of the robes.
Graxx puts on his pants and jacket but, unlike the others, makes no effort to hide his weapons. He is still a walking arsenal, although a well-dressed one this evening.
Much like he did the first time around, Doozey skips the fineries and separates from the group. He heads toward the Tea Kettle's vicinity and takes a look around. He easily spots both Captain Aleyd Burral and Villonah, both dressed up in the same elegant attires as they did the night before. They are walking toward Doozey now, which gives him a few moments to look over the general area.
The rest of the party arrives a few minutes later, joining Doozey, Villonah, and AHB just outside the inn. The same band is playing just outside the Tea Kettle, drowning out whatever sounds may be coming from within the tavern.
(@Lerus: Not sure if it would affect anything, but Taters would be doing a fly over as well, looking for anything suspicious or out of the ordinary. And if he sees anything, he'll return to Doozey and Doozey will cast his 1 free Speak with Animals to find out what.)
(Also, would it be alright to say he got the Tiamat contract out of the bag of holding, or whoever had it last before splitting from the party?)
Doozey at least tries to be discreet initially in his paranoia. But between loosing Taters to flying about the perimeter and his own looking around in full view of the approaching duo, not much traction is there to be gained in the effort.
Doozey Perception: 12. (adv. for if Hearing or Smell applies)
Heightened Senses. Starting when you choose this archetype at 3rd level, you begin to adopt the improved abilities of a natural predator. You gain advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell.
@Doozey: You don't notice much more than the approaching ladies and the strategically placed band playing their music nearby. Although they are masking any sounds from the tavern quite well, they are not doing much against the smells. That said, you get a sense that you and you alone can parse out the different smells in the air (Heightened Senses.) You smell the distinct spices and aromas associated with halfling home-cooking. You begin to involuntarily salivate, but your food dreams are interrupted by a returning Taters, who looks like he has some info to share. You magically alter the shape of your vocal chords and eardrums to better communicate with your winged companion, and learn that Taters spotted three soldiers guarding the Tea Kettle's back door. You know that CRAP is expected to use the back door when arriving at this secret meeting, just like last time.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
As Doozey tried to recall if such an occurance had happened the last time, or at least the guard's position being so blatant, Taters could only stay perched and still for so long before simply shaking his head, giving up on the Hunter. Rather instead, he flew over and about the pair of approaching pair, seeming wanting to show off his new wings and flight capability up until get within easy speaking distance of Doozey at least.
From there, unless the two say something, he remained off in his own world again until a fed up Taters flies over to start poking him in the cheek. "Ack! Aight, aight! Enough of that you feathered fo--Oh hey! Uh, uhm... There others went to get a little fancied up again, and should be shortly. Would've been here sooner, but, uh... we've had a bit of an exciting , uh.... just lots to do." He flashes what he hoped was an assuaging smile, but it comes off awkward as usual on his face.
"And, uh... oh! Uhm... very nice, uh... clothing.. eheh... uh... Ah--What am I doing, there's so much important things we need clear air on before going inside. And seeing my friends might be a wee late, I guess that leaves me." From there during the intervening time, Doozey motions the pair in close to at least speak of the assassination attempt on Utar, the group's and subsequent suspicions. Though being the somewhat paranoid stoutling that he was, he regards them closely to try and get a general feel for their reactions to the story.
After which in halfling, assuming by then he knew Villonah spoke it, he'd ask now would be a good time to also pass along the proof the group recovered regarding the other job. If not, he tries to elude to it as best he could without tipping Aleyd off in case the Lord's Alliance business was meant to be more private.
Failing to get his robes to sit comfortably over his armour, Utar curses himself for picking his fanciest robes for this. The work robes he wore earlier at least were baggy and less likely to rip or tear.
Picking up on Graxx's concerns, Utar tries to add to Neya's point.
"We don't necessarily know Senetir is involved or if anyone else at the meeting is either. Yalek feels like someone who might well serve more than one master."
Mulling things over for a moment, Utar comes to a realisation.
"His attack felt opportunistic. At the time, I thought he was keen to stick with us because we knew he wasn't part of the cult and could vouch for him. Maybe he stuck close to me because I'm half-orc too. Looking back on it now, I think it was because I dropped into his lap and he wasn't going to pass up the chance for what was likely to be a decent payday."
”I grew too trusting to these strangers. Someone’s got to know something about Yalek. I want to know where he is and then Yalek will give us the truth before he passes into the next realm.”
Graxx looks down at his fine clothes and gives a smirk as he thinks that others may think him a prime target being without armor. If only they would try.
Graxx looks to Utar and the others before approaching Aleyed and Villonah.
”Seeing those two gives me some comfort. I don’t think they would be part of some trap.”
"If that's the case, then that could mean that a broad hit list, of sorts, has been circulating in shadier parts of society for a while," Neya says, responding to Utar's mention of an opportunistic attack. "If that's the case, then we may have another lead in the form of a rumor trail. Something as major as murder-for-hire would very likely have had at least one person overhearing something like this, even if only in passing."
Aleyd and Villonah approach Doozey, noticing that he is lost in thought. They allow him time to snap out of it himself, and he eventually does, awkwardly. After the greetings and small talk are completed, the halfling begins sharing the events of the previous evening, as well as his suspicions, with the two ladies. While he talks, he keeps a close eye on their reaction. Villonah seems surprised and, a moment later, vengeful. Aleyd looks like she was expecting something like this to happen, and then switches to a look of relief once she sees Utar and the others approaching from the distance.
While they walk, Utar shares some concerns with Graxx and Neya, who begin to wonder if Yalek was simply an assassin for hire, much like Neya's compatriot. While Utar and Neya wonder about potential motives, Graxx plans his revenge against Yalek. Nonetheless, the barbarian's last few words before joining the others are those of comfort.
ONCE ALL ARE REUNITED
Utar greets the ladies on behalf of the three late arrivals but wastes no time in pulling Aleyd to one side. Doozey sees his opportunity and does the same with Villonah. Graxx and Neya are left to talk by themselves for a couple of minutes.
Aleyd to Utar: "Yes, they have. Litta got word that some nobles might be involved in this Tormite hunt. Moneus mentioned he would ask about the Zhentarim after you mentioned it to him. We should reconvene with them soon. Also... I'm glad you are alive. You look like crap and that's not taking into account this robe-armor combination outfit."
Villonah to Doozey (in Halfling, after he gives her the infernal contract they collected): "This is as damning a piece of evidence can get. Thank you, Doozey. You have greatly helped the Order of the Gauntlet... and me." She smiles and reaches into a side bag. She places a scroll case into Doozey's hands and adds: "Look at it only later, you promise? I want you and the rest of CRAP to stop struggling to find a place to sleep. It will need some repairs, but you should make it yours now. Just make sure you save me a spot, alright?" She keeps looking at Doozey, making sure he is not peeking at the "payment" right now.
Tucking his fingers through the neck of his robes and under the lip of his armour, Utar hunches his shoulders and exposes part of his scar to Aleyd.
"There's a reason I look like this and why we're looking into the Zhentarim now too. I feel like wearing armour is the only reasonable call right now, so which look is least likely to cause offense?"
”Neya, sometimes I envy the skills you have. The ability to attack and defend yourself so well using only your hands. No matter where you are or what you have you can fight your way out.”
Graxx looks toward the building.
”My stomach feels sick. I don’t think anything is going to happen to us in this here but I fear enemies are among us plotting their next move. I just hope we can find out who they are before they strike against us.”
Doozey replied (in halfling) as Villonah reached into a bag. "Oh? Well that's good. I mean, uh.. It wasn't just me of course, though. But.. yea." He shrugs and looked away awkwardly until the scroll case gets passed over to him. Though confused, he thankfully catches himself mid-motion towards opening it immediately following Villonah's request, and instead nodded curtly, anticipating the contents to be something of grave importance. That is until the last question, which left him visibly taken aback and perhaps even faintly red in the cheeks if one looks close enough.
"Ah... uhm... what?" He stammered, before the implications finally sank into mind. "O-oh! Uh... Yeah, of course.I am, uh... Yea. I'm sure some arrangements can of course be made for our benefactor. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if, uh, you weren't already considered already an honorary member after that last mission. Eheh.. mn..." Following some furtive looking between her eyes and the ground, Doozey suddenly startles, and then after motioning Villonah to follow along, joins the others side, "That reminds me. Not sure if either of you-..." He loosely gestures between Aleyd and Villonah. "Already noticed. But, it seems they've up security a bit at the door. Made it more obvious, they did. Not... sure how to take it, but uh... mn... perhaps I'm just being paranoid?" He looks about everyone wondering and gauge their reactions. If in the end the goal to enter remains unchanged, he puts forth no resistance.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Neya, slightly embarrassed replies to Graxx, not used to hearing praise too often, "H-honestly, most of what I can do is well within anyone could be capable of given the time and dedication. Quite frankly, until fighting alongside you, I had never heard of holy light stemming from raw emotion."
"As for what is to come... Yes, it seems our roles are mainly reactionary. But, Dornal did say something to the effect of us becoming more proactive as we grow."
Aleyd to Utar: "Don't worry. I know my comedic timing has never been one of my virtues. I doubt anyone inside will say anything out loud, although you may earn a few looks. Perhaps I am being too careless in not wearing my armor. Anyhow, we should be getting inside soon. The sooner we are done with this, the sooner we can meet the others."
Villonah to Doozey in regards to being an honorary member: "Well, I better be." She laughs.
Graxx and Neya share some appreciation for each other's battle prowess and ponder on their overall role in this strange chapter in Phlan's history.
The group reunites and Captain Aleyd makes a suggestion while gesturing to the back of the tavern: "The dragon survived. More security is likely a good thing. Shall we enter?" She leads the group around the back and is stopped by the three soldiers standing watch. They slowly look each of the six approaching individuals (CRAP + the two ladies.) One of them finally speaks: "All of you are being expect. You may enter." Another soldier holds the door open and the group goes inside.
Passing through the kitchen, you notice that the same halfling family, Madame Freona and her five daughters, are busy at work. They are cooking meals, preparing drinks, serving dishes, and going back and forth between the kitchen and the tavern floor. The matriarch invites everyone inside, warmly: "Welcome, welcome, mon chéri."
Once on the tavern floor, you immediately notice that there are fewer recognizable faces in here than you anticipated. Dornal, Zern, Seranolla, Olisara, Harper, Lord Valero Brokengulf, and Lady Dala Silmerhelve are all here. Apart from them, most of the other individuals in here are a half-dozen soldiers who are sticking quite close to the two nobles. The only other person in the room is a male tiefling of bright red skin and sleek purplish-black hair. He is whispering into Lord Valero's ear. Upon noticing your arrival, Lord Valero says: "Our illustrious strategists have arrived. Please come in and mingle. We'll start shortly."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
As Doozey hadn't quite forgotten the last encounter with the Madame, the stoutling -- who despite earlier outspoken paranoia -- is subdue during the brief exchange, and quick to move on after. Event Taters picks up on this, and refrains from trying to sneak into the kitchen for an early snack.
When they arrive on the tavern floor proper, and though liably a long shot, if it wasn't too late, Doozey strains to use heightened senses to catch the whispered exchange.
And failing that, he narrowed his eyes further at the tiefling, hoping to trying discern any noteworthy details besides skin and hair that might denote something of their character. Yet, at least for the immediate moment, the announcement by Lord Valero isn't one he capitalize on by beelining it for the tiefling. Rather, he looks up to the others and whispers, "I'm gonna speak to Ms. Seranolla. See if she's seen or heard from Caah on the off chance. But do let me know if any of you've come up with a plan or what have you." He said just loud enough for hopefully only the group's ears, then hustle on away,
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
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Neya will sell seven of the long bows, eight longswords, and all shields, and chain shirts.
She will then purchase a quiver of silvered arrows and will pay to silver the remaining long sword she didn't sell.
edit: changed what she's not selling.
(OCC Perhaps Graxx would like strength-based range weapons?)
Extended Signature
(OOC: Some of this is based on our OOC conversation.)
@MB: Please remove 550gp from your inventory. During the next Downtime session you'll be able to collect your new plate armor but will have to surrender your existing splint armor.
@Grx: Please remove 2gp from your inventory. Please add 20 crossbow bolts and one case, crossbow bolt to your inventory.
@Ori: Please add 90gp to your inventory for selling back the studded leather barding. Then, go ahead and add 10 silver-tipped crossbow bolts to your inventory and remove 100gp to cover the cost (as per PHB 148.) You will also need a separate case, crossbow bolt to keep them, so make sure to pay an extra 1gp for that. (Net gold removed from your inventory: 11gp.) We'll deal with Biscuit-related transactions during Downtime.
@Drache: Please remove 7 longbows, 8 longswords, 9 shields, and 8 chain shirts from your inventory and/or bag of holding. Then, add a total of 476gp to your inventory for selling all of that. On behalf of Utar, please also remove the Garbul's plate armor from the bag of holding. Next, go ahead and add 10 silver-tipped arrows to your inventory and remove 100gp to cover the cost (as per PHB 148.) You will also need a separate quiver to keep them, so make sure to pay 2gp extra for that. (Net gold added to your inventory: 374gp.)
The transactions have been completed. CRAP says their goodbyes to the blacksmithing trio for now and departs. The party notes that it is about time to start heading to the Tea Kettle, but there is no need to rush.
Graxx looks troubled.
”What if Senetir isn’t acting alone... What if the lords are in on this attempted assassination.”
Graxx puts his hand behind his back on his Pike for comfort.
”I’m not comfortable going the Tea Kettle unarmed again. I don’t know who to trust. I’m going fully armed just in case anything happens.”
"Who said anything about not bringing our weapons now? Worst case scenario, we'll need to stash them into Neya's bag, and be very mindful of her position during it all. But unless to plain to pry mines from my cold dead fingers, it weren't happening one or another with me." Doozey states frankly, displaying an uncannily high level bravery even by halfling standards. "That said. Best we don't look too twitchy about them once we get there. Not at first, at least. Alright?" He looks to everyone on that note.
Whether or not he receive some signs of agreement, the stoutling soon does an about face and carries on marching for the Tea Kettle at a fair pace. Though nothing is said to betray any inner thoughts, he had ever intent to try and get there at least slightly early for some scouting around with Taters.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"Let us reserve our judgment. There is a fine line between caution and watching shadows. One will better prepare us for true danger. The other will have danger prepare us." Neya gives her input.
"Regardless, we do know little about the nobles other than what they have told us and despite fighting alongside them. I, personally will trust them, but be alert to what is not spoken."
Extended Signature
(OOC: Again, some of this is based on the OOC Chat. I'll assume Graxx does not show up semi-naked. Any of you should feel free to correct me if I misunderstood anything.)
The group discusses how to best approach the upcoming meeting and agree to take their weapons. Hoping that their choice can help attenuate any potential embarrassment on behalf of the party, Neya, Graxx, and Utar head back to the Laughing Goblin for a quick change.
Much like he did the first time around, Doozey skips the fineries and separates from the group. He heads toward the Tea Kettle's vicinity and takes a look around. He easily spots both Captain Aleyd Burral and Villonah, both dressed up in the same elegant attires as they did the night before. They are walking toward Doozey now, which gives him a few moments to look over the general area.
The rest of the party arrives a few minutes later, joining Doozey, Villonah, and AHB just outside the inn. The same band is playing just outside the Tea Kettle, drowning out whatever sounds may be coming from within the tavern.
(@Ori: Please roll a perception check.)
(@Lerus: Not sure if it would affect anything, but Taters would be doing a fly over as well, looking for anything suspicious or out of the ordinary. And if he sees anything, he'll return to Doozey and Doozey will cast his 1 free Speak with Animals to find out what.)
(Also, would it be alright to say he got the Tiamat contract out of the bag of holding, or whoever had it last before splitting from the party?)
Doozey at least tries to be discreet initially in his paranoia. But between loosing Taters to flying about the perimeter and his own looking around in full view of the approaching duo, not much traction is there to be gained in the effort.
Doozey Perception: 12. (adv. for if Hearing or Smell applies)
Heightened Senses. Starting when you choose this archetype at 3rd level, you begin to adopt the improved abilities of a natural predator. You gain advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell.
Tater Perception: 18. (if applicable)
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
(@Ori: What is Doozey's spell casting focus?)
@Doozey: You don't notice much more than the approaching ladies and the strategically placed band playing their music nearby. Although they are masking any sounds from the tavern quite well, they are not doing much against the smells. That said, you get a sense that you and you alone can parse out the different smells in the air (Heightened Senses.) You smell the distinct spices and aromas associated with halfling home-cooking. You begin to involuntarily salivate, but your food dreams are interrupted by a returning Taters, who looks like he has some info to share. You magically alter the shape of your vocal chords and eardrums to better communicate with your winged companion, and learn that Taters spotted three soldiers guarding the Tea Kettle's back door. You know that CRAP is expected to use the back door when arriving at this secret meeting, just like last time.
As Doozey tried to recall if such an occurance had happened the last time, or at least the guard's position being so blatant, Taters could only stay perched and still for so long before simply shaking his head, giving up on the Hunter. Rather instead, he flew over and about the pair of approaching pair, seeming wanting to show off his new wings and flight capability up until get within easy speaking distance of Doozey at least.
From there, unless the two say something, he remained off in his own world again until a fed up Taters flies over to start poking him in the cheek. "Ack! Aight, aight! Enough of that you feathered fo--Oh hey! Uh, uhm... There others went to get a little fancied up again, and should be shortly. Would've been here sooner, but, uh... we've had a bit of an exciting , uh.... just lots to do." He flashes what he hoped was an assuaging smile, but it comes off awkward as usual on his face.
"And, uh... oh! Uhm... very nice, uh... clothing.. eheh... uh... Ah--What am I doing, there's so much important things we need clear air on before going inside. And seeing my friends might be a wee late, I guess that leaves me." From there during the intervening time, Doozey motions the pair in close to at least speak of the assassination attempt on Utar, the group's and subsequent suspicions. Though being the somewhat paranoid stoutling that he was, he regards them closely to try and get a general feel for their reactions to the story.
Insight: 21.
After which in halfling, assuming by then he knew Villonah spoke it, he'd ask now would be a good time to also pass along the proof the group recovered regarding the other job. If not, he tries to elude to it as best he could without tipping Aleyd off in case the Lord's Alliance business was meant to be more private.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Failing to get his robes to sit comfortably over his armour, Utar curses himself for picking his fanciest robes for this. The work robes he wore earlier at least were baggy and less likely to rip or tear.
Picking up on Graxx's concerns, Utar tries to add to Neya's point.
"We don't necessarily know Senetir is involved or if anyone else at the meeting is either. Yalek feels like someone who might well serve more than one master."
Mulling things over for a moment, Utar comes to a realisation.
"His attack felt opportunistic. At the time, I thought he was keen to stick with us because we knew he wasn't part of the cult and could vouch for him. Maybe he stuck close to me because I'm half-orc too. Looking back on it now, I think it was because I dropped into his lap and he wasn't going to pass up the chance for what was likely to be a decent payday."
Greeting the others outside the Tea Kettle, Utar motions Aleyd off to one side.
"Be nice to meet in a more social setting soon. Old friends sharing a story or two?"
Graxx grunts at Utars comments about Senetir.
”I grew too trusting to these strangers. Someone’s got to know something about Yalek. I want to know where he is and then Yalek will give us the truth before he passes into the next realm.”
Graxx looks down at his fine clothes and gives a smirk as he thinks that others may think him a prime target being without armor. If only they would try.
Graxx looks to Utar and the others before approaching Aleyed and Villonah.
”Seeing those two gives me some comfort. I don’t think they would be part of some trap.”
"If that's the case, then that could mean that a broad hit list, of sorts, has been circulating in shadier parts of society for a while," Neya says, responding to Utar's mention of an opportunistic attack. "If that's the case, then we may have another lead in the form of a rumor trail. Something as major as murder-for-hire would very likely have had at least one person overhearing something like this, even if only in passing."
Extended Signature
BEFORE THE REST OF THE GROUP ARRIVES
Aleyd and Villonah approach Doozey, noticing that he is lost in thought. They allow him time to snap out of it himself, and he eventually does, awkwardly. After the greetings and small talk are completed, the halfling begins sharing the events of the previous evening, as well as his suspicions, with the two ladies. While he talks, he keeps a close eye on their reaction. Villonah seems surprised and, a moment later, vengeful. Aleyd looks like she was expecting something like this to happen, and then switches to a look of relief once she sees Utar and the others approaching from the distance.
While they walk, Utar shares some concerns with Graxx and Neya, who begin to wonder if Yalek was simply an assassin for hire, much like Neya's compatriot. While Utar and Neya wonder about potential motives, Graxx plans his revenge against Yalek. Nonetheless, the barbarian's last few words before joining the others are those of comfort.
ONCE ALL ARE REUNITED
Utar greets the ladies on behalf of the three late arrivals but wastes no time in pulling Aleyd to one side. Doozey sees his opportunity and does the same with Villonah. Graxx and Neya are left to talk by themselves for a couple of minutes.
Aleyd to Utar: "Yes, they have. Litta got word that some nobles might be involved in this Tormite hunt. Moneus mentioned he would ask about the Zhentarim after you mentioned it to him. We should reconvene with them soon. Also... I'm glad you are alive. You look like crap and that's not taking into account this robe-armor combination outfit."
Villonah to Doozey (in Halfling, after he gives her the infernal contract they collected): "This is as damning a piece of evidence can get. Thank you, Doozey. You have greatly helped the Order of the Gauntlet... and me." She smiles and reaches into a side bag. She places a scroll case into Doozey's hands and adds: "Look at it only later, you promise? I want you and the rest of CRAP to stop struggling to find a place to sleep. It will need some repairs, but you should make it yours now. Just make sure you save me a spot, alright?" She keeps looking at Doozey, making sure he is not peeking at the "payment" right now.
Utar winces at how early his disguise is rumbled.
"That obvious, huh?"
Tucking his fingers through the neck of his robes and under the lip of his armour, Utar hunches his shoulders and exposes part of his scar to Aleyd.
"There's a reason I look like this and why we're looking into the Zhentarim now too. I feel like wearing armour is the only reasonable call right now, so which look is least likely to cause offense?"
Graxx looks to Neya and lightly says.
”Neya, sometimes I envy the skills you have. The ability to attack and defend yourself so well using only your hands. No matter where you are or what you have you can fight your way out.”
Graxx looks toward the building.
”My stomach feels sick. I don’t think anything is going to happen to us in this here but I fear enemies are among us plotting their next move. I just hope we can find out who they are before they strike against us.”
Doozey replied (in halfling) as Villonah reached into a bag. "Oh? Well that's good. I mean, uh.. It wasn't just me of course, though. But.. yea." He shrugs and looked away awkwardly until the scroll case gets passed over to him. Though confused, he thankfully catches himself mid-motion towards opening it immediately following Villonah's request, and instead nodded curtly, anticipating the contents to be something of grave importance. That is until the last question, which left him visibly taken aback and perhaps even faintly red in the cheeks if one looks close enough.
"Ah... uhm... what?" He stammered, before the implications finally sank into mind. "O-oh! Uh... Yeah, of course.I am, uh... Yea. I'm sure some arrangements can of course be made for our benefactor. In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if, uh, you weren't already considered already an honorary member after that last mission. Eheh.. mn..." Following some furtive looking between her eyes and the ground, Doozey suddenly startles, and then after motioning Villonah to follow along, joins the others side, "That reminds me. Not sure if either of you-..." He loosely gestures between Aleyd and Villonah. "Already noticed. But, it seems they've up security a bit at the door. Made it more obvious, they did. Not... sure how to take it, but uh... mn... perhaps I'm just being paranoid?" He looks about everyone wondering and gauge their reactions. If in the end the goal to enter remains unchanged, he puts forth no resistance.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Neya, slightly embarrassed replies to Graxx, not used to hearing praise too often, "H-honestly, most of what I can do is well within anyone could be capable of given the time and dedication. Quite frankly, until fighting alongside you, I had never heard of holy light stemming from raw emotion."
"As for what is to come... Yes, it seems our roles are mainly reactionary. But, Dornal did say something to the effect of us becoming more proactive as we grow."
Extended Signature
Aleyd to Utar: "Don't worry. I know my comedic timing has never been one of my virtues. I doubt anyone inside will say anything out loud, although you may earn a few looks. Perhaps I am being too careless in not wearing my armor. Anyhow, we should be getting inside soon. The sooner we are done with this, the sooner we can meet the others."
Villonah to Doozey in regards to being an honorary member: "Well, I better be." She laughs.
Graxx and Neya share some appreciation for each other's battle prowess and ponder on their overall role in this strange chapter in Phlan's history.
The group reunites and Captain Aleyd makes a suggestion while gesturing to the back of the tavern: "The dragon survived. More security is likely a good thing. Shall we enter?" She leads the group around the back and is stopped by the three soldiers standing watch. They slowly look each of the six approaching individuals (CRAP + the two ladies.) One of them finally speaks: "All of you are being expect. You may enter." Another soldier holds the door open and the group goes inside.
Passing through the kitchen, you notice that the same halfling family, Madame Freona and her five daughters, are busy at work. They are cooking meals, preparing drinks, serving dishes, and going back and forth between the kitchen and the tavern floor. The matriarch invites everyone inside, warmly: "Welcome, welcome, mon chéri."
Once on the tavern floor, you immediately notice that there are fewer recognizable faces in here than you anticipated. Dornal, Zern, Seranolla, Olisara, Harper, Lord Valero Brokengulf, and Lady Dala Silmerhelve are all here. Apart from them, most of the other individuals in here are a half-dozen soldiers who are sticking quite close to the two nobles. The only other person in the room is a male tiefling of bright red skin and sleek purplish-black hair. He is whispering into Lord Valero's ear. Upon noticing your arrival, Lord Valero says: "Our illustrious strategists have arrived. Please come in and mingle. We'll start shortly."
As Doozey hadn't quite forgotten the last encounter with the Madame, the stoutling -- who despite earlier outspoken paranoia -- is subdue during the brief exchange, and quick to move on after. Event Taters picks up on this, and refrains from trying to sneak into the kitchen for an early snack.
When they arrive on the tavern floor proper, and though liably a long shot, if it wasn't too late, Doozey strains to use heightened senses to catch the whispered exchange.
Perception: 25.
And failing that, he narrowed his eyes further at the tiefling, hoping to trying discern any noteworthy details besides skin and hair that might denote something of their character. Yet, at least for the immediate moment, the announcement by Lord Valero isn't one he capitalize on by beelining it for the tiefling. Rather, he looks up to the others and whispers, "I'm gonna speak to Ms. Seranolla. See if she's seen or heard from Caah on the off chance. But do let me know if any of you've come up with a plan or what have you." He said just loud enough for hopefully only the group's ears, then hustle on away,
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.