ASSASSINS VERSUS BODYGUARDS: "Grace"

[The Watchman]

You and the bard are standing in front of a modestly-sized manse, surrounded by a well-trimmed garden. In this city, it appears decidedly out of place, nestled as it is between two equally impressive but less green domiciles.
"After you, m'lady," says your companion.

[sum1won]

"Well, this looks nice."

With that, 'Grace' heads inside.
RE: Knowledge checks from page 4 of the City streets? I got a 30 local and a 25 nobility/royalty, because this game is awesome.

[planswalker]

since the watchman hasn't posted here for 3 days, rizban has given me permission to take over for now, until the watchman shows back up. give me a bit to get up to speed on what is happening.

[sum1won]

I met the bard that everyone was talking to at the beginning, and got an obscene diplomacy check. He has just escorted me to his friend and former adventuring companion, Count Wolfhart Thelen, who is apparently hiring. Since I specified that the character I am playing is an intelligence/counter intelligence sort more than heavy combat, I assume that is the role I am getting hired for (esp. as the bard said that was the sort he had in mind)

[planswalker]

so count Thelen is apparently looking for a spy? i'll coordinate with rizban and then start it going.

[sum1won]

Bodyguard in a spy role. I try to help him identify and eliminate threats, I assume.

[planswalker]

k, ic time.

You approach the house and knock on the door. A half-orc in servant's garb answers the door and asks, "what do you want?" he seems rather surprised to see visitors.

[sum1won]

Grace smiles easily at the half-orc.

"Well, I'm looking for a bit of work. Ludger Poll here said His Grace might be in a hiring sort of mood for a woman of my talents, so here I am!"

Ludger is the bard's name, he knows the Count.
[roll0]Diplo check, if its even needed.

[planswalker]

"Well, come in." he opens the door for you and indicates for you to go inside.

Inside the door is a neat anteroom with furnishings that are well made but not overtly luxurious. The half-orc says, "The master is in his study, the second door to your right."

[sum1won]

Thank you, miss.

With that, Grace comes up to the door, knocks, and slips inside.


The bard was originally going to give the introduction, but its fine if he doesn't. I'll take it either way.

[planswalker]

You walk into Count Thelen's study, which seems to be more of a private library than a typical study. An elderly man with more than a few scars on his face is sitting in a padded chair and has a book propped open in one hand. "Welcome, lass. I take it since Gruno let you in through the door that you are here with something of possible interest to me. Please, tell me why you have come to the home of an old man?"

with a half-dozen different threads going on, i'm trying to limit the number of characters involved that aren't really necessary to the plot. i guess we can assume that the guard saw the bard and figured that was good enough.

[sum1won]

Well, sir, your friend Ludger brought me here. I need a bit of work, and he said you were looking for someone with my talents. He did say I fit your need perfectly, though he hasn't yet said what that is.

[planswalker]

"Please, indulge an old man and be blunt about what your talents are. I understand that you young folks love being all mysterious and not saying your talents and all, i even did it myself at your age, but i'm old and tired now. Just be blunt. What can you do?"

[sum1won]

I'm good with people, and that means I'm good at getting information. If you need to know something, I can obtain info on it. Or on someone. And knowledge will make your life easy, as well as mine, and that knowledge can be used to set up your opponents and their minions. At court, on the street, wherever. I'm assuming that a nobleman like you has other resources he can call on for muscle, and if you don't have that muscle yet- I can find it for you. That information lets us put the muscle exactly where it is needed, when it is needed. Also, I can do this which lets me get into places I oughtn't.
With that sales-job, she turns back into her usual self.
So. What is the job opening that our mutual friend mentioned?


Disguise check [roll0]
The last few words are spoken as his friend the bard. Yeah, changelings! Although he probably gets a few bonus points to his spot roll since he does know the bard.

[planswalker]

"Why, i am looking for someone who can be supremely discreet in her dealings with others. Ultimately, i feel that Duke Elkso Deitrich would be the best person on the throne, but i am a minor noble and can do little directly to influence such things. Besides which, i could not afford the tarnish to my reputation that i would get working with that man. What i need is someone who can spy for me and discover what the other two candidates have planned. When i debrief you after each mission, I may also ask you to do something about it or make arragements on my behalf. I will of course pay you a retainer as well as all costs associated with your work. Be sure to itemize all expenses and get receipts when you can. If you impress me with your work, i may even give you a bonus for a job well done. So, you are clearly qualified. Do you want the job?"

[sum1won]

You know, it sounds just up my alley, and an expense account is excellent. I even brew my own little helpers so that'll cut down on costs. Two questions- what's the pay like, and what, exactly, is my first job? Or should I just go out looking for leads?
PMing you the character sheet.
[roll0] Diplo check. Juicy

[planswalker]

"Well, what say we start you out at 50 gp per day that you aren't on assignment, include all expenses when you are, but don't abuse that or i will limit that. Plus a bonus upon completion based on your skill at completing it discreetly and promptly."

"Your first assignment is to infiltrate the house of one Julian Eichel, the younger brother of the Marquis Albrecht Eichel. Julian is the current heir and is an independently wealthy investor. He also is vocal in his support of Archduke Rocholl, one of the three candidates for the throne. Please discover if this support extends to more than just words. If so, report back to me and inform me of his actions."

"Now then, as to your disguise, you will be much more effective as my spy if you do not attract suspicion coming in and out of my place at all hours of the day and night. Why don't we say that you are my apothecary and i am prone to send for you at any time. I will "pay a retainer" for the apothecary service, which of course will be a part of what i am already paying for your retainer. You may want to see about actually getting registered as an apothecary at the merchant's guild, so no one will get suspicious."
"you will want to appear human to infiltrate the place, all the nobility are and they mostly only hire human servants. I will leave the means that you use to infiltrate the estate up to you."

He gives you a kindly, grandfatherly smile and says, "Any questions?"

[sum1won]

Mmmmm.... 50 gp is a fair starting rate, although I would of course expect to see significant upward adjustment with successful missions What 'ailment' would you like to be treated for? It would be embarassing if I were to be treating something out of character.

Once he answers, Grace leaves, disguising herself as a tall, oliveskinned woman, and heads for the merchant's guild.


[roll0] Knowledge: Local on Julian Eichel (one inspiration point)
[roll1] Knowledge: Nobility on Julian Eichel (one inspiration point)
[roll2] Knowledge: Local on Albercht Eichel
[roll3] Knowledge: Nobility on Albercht Eichel
[roll4] Where is the merchant's guild, and what do I need to become an apothecary?

Sorry for all the checks. The last is just so I get to where I'm going, the other four are me trying to get a lot of dirt on Julian and Albercht so I can plot my infiltration.

Oh, ow. That'll be easy. I don't know very much at all, about either of them, is the answer.

[planswalker]

"Well, i am an old man who saw a lot of wear and tear in my youth. my joints could act up, as well as my stomach give me problems from time to time. oh, and my heart could be faint." Looking at him, he is perfectly healthy and all of these are clearly blatant lies.

[planswalker]

i'll get that to you tomorrow morning. it's too late at night for me to adjucate that right now.

[sum1won]

Grace continues walking to the Merchant's guild, although she stops briefly to ask for directions.

[planswalker]

pm coming shortly with all your check answers.

[sum1won]

Grace recalls Ezekiel's shop near the Mermaid, and heads there, looking for the owner. With a great big store like that, he'd surely know who was in charge of licensing.

[planswalker]

She walks into the shop and sees a woman behind the sales desk. She asks, "Can i help you?"

[sum1won]

Yes, I'm looking for Ezekiel. I understand he is a prominent member of the Merchant's guild. So, I was hoping that someone here would know enough to direct me to whoever is in charge of licensing apothecaries?

She shrugs

I'm new in town, you see. I'd be glad to return the favor- maybe providing whoever could help me with discount rates if they are ever in need?


[roll0] Lets be friends!

OOC: Honestly, I have no intention of diplomancing all hostiles into friends, or anything absurd like that. Its just a way to get people to be helpful- establishing a network.

[planswalker]

Well, then you will want to speak with Christolf, the head apothecary. He's over on Scale street. You can't miss him.

[sum1won]

My thanks, miss.

With that, Grace leaves the shop and heads to Scale street. Once there, she enters the shop and asks to speak to Cristoff.

[planswalker]

"Christolf Reich: Surgeon and Apothecary" proclaims the sign outside the door. A young man, no older than 16, sits in a desk surrounded by various bottles and vials filled with odd-looking liquids. Upon you entering, he says, "Can i help you, miss?"

[sum1won]

Yes, I've arrived in town, and have was trained in draughts and elixirs by my master at home. I was told I could get an apothecaries license here, so that I may legally practice my art?


This is, broadly speaking, true. I can roll bluff check all the same, though.

[planswalker]

our convention is that we don't require bluff checks unless you are directly speaking an untruth. As long as you speak only things which are strictly true, no check required.


"Yes, you can. Where were you trained in the arts of healing?"

[sum1won]

I received my training in Rallan, to the north. I learned the art from Master Yonaton there, though he never taught me to sing like he did.



Trueish. Didn't say which art, and yonaton would have been known publicly as someone who peddled tonics, and a few less legal substances as well.

[planswalker]

"How far did he go in your training? What was the most advanced healing draught you have made? How many paitents did you help treat?"

[sum1won]

I mostly made sleeping draughts and such, but my most powerful elixir I learned from the a lizardfolk tome he had. It kept patients still in extreme cases, such as when they needed to go under the knife. You know how surgery is. Sometimes a bone needs to be set, or an infection removed, and the poor fellow can't afford a powerful cleric.

I also know how to make a variety of salves and tonics that helped patients with cold and frostbite, though you likely don't get as much call for that down here. And, there are the classic remedies to help against poisons, disease, or patients who are especially fearful. I've assisted my master with several score patients over the past few years, and perhaps a fifth as many on my own.

Taking ten on bluff using social intuition, and adding 2 to it using cunning knowledge... He needs to beat a 29 on his sense motive check.

[planswalker]

Very well, then. All i really need you to do now is to make me an elixer with medicinal value of some sort, tell me what it will do, and demostrate its effect on a patient. Then i will be more than pleased to give you a license. We don't have nearly enough apothecaries in town. Heck, we don't even have enough to form our own guild, we're shunted off into the merchant's guild." He seems rather pleased with your story, if rather annoyed not to be his own guildmaster.

[sum1won]

May I use your ingredients and equipment?

Assuming he says yes, Grace brews sannish and miner's milk.

This is a combination I prefer to use together. The sannish prevents the patient from feeling pain, and this whiskey looking stuff makes them fall asleep. I would be wary, though, as Sannish can be addictive if you let a patient overuse it. Thankfully, the whiskey has some anti-toxic properties that can prevent that.

Who would you like to try it on?


Thankfully, they only have DC20 crafts, so I can meet that with cunning knowledge. Also, no pain + sleeping would mean that stabbing them might not wake them up! And it only costs 20 gp, though they need to roll only a 15 or so to not fall asleep. Maybe I should just specialize in alchemy... Sannish has some nice potential.

[planswalker]

"Hmm... I have a patient of mine who suffers from joint pains at night. She'll be coming by in a few hours for her sleeping aid. Why don't you whip this up for me? If the medication works as you advertise, i will give you your license. After she is given the medicine, i will check up on her tomorrow morning. If she reports pain relief and a good night's rest, i'll sign your license. Come by and pick it up anytime tomorrow after about 9 in the morning."

[sum1won]

That sounds fair to me. Now, if you'll just give me a minute...
...
...
Here you go. One dose should be fairly effective. I hope to see you in the morning. Is there a fee I should bring?


With that, Grace leaves the shop. She's looking for a room to rent, and once she gets that she'll head to the maid and mermaid to start her investigation.
I assume we'll be handwaving the odd time rules for craft for now? Either way, taking ten on the check means I make it without trouble.

[roll0] Knowledge:local check. Looking for someplace to rent, with a street-side connection for clients.

Also, once in the room, she changes to her 'cover' of Lotierre (see spymaster description) before heading out to look for rumors and such at the 'maid.

[planswalker]

As you step outside, you see a man fleeing, pursued by a silver warforged wreathed in flames. You can hear the man cursing.

i have another pc on Scale street who is running for his life. can you help him out? if he gets just a moment without the 'forged harassing him, he can do some stuff to him. it's just that psi-slayer is far too potent against him.

[sum1won]

Grace looks out, assess the situation, strikes what she thinks of as a wizardly looking pose and shouts!

HALT, you walking scrapyard! Your raucous behavior is disturbing my focus, and has disrupted my summoning! Now come here! I demand an apology!

Warforged are immune to poison and difficult to sneak attack. But I'll see what I can do. This sounds amusing, though.
[roll0]Initiative
bluff: [roll1]. I'm pretending to be a wizard.
Intimidate: [roll2] A scary wizard.
[roll3] Sleight of hand checks opposed by his spot check to see my disguised dagger.

Taking the total defense action apart from that. AC:21. Ugh. Hoping the intimidate keeps him from attacking. I'll be using the sudden blade skill trick next round.

[planswalker]

The 'forged pauses his pursuit, and says, "I am merely proving myself to be a better bodyguard than this fool over here." He says, pointing to the man he is pursuing.
The man takes the break in the 'forged's pursuit to manifest a power aginst him. After an instant of struggle, the 'forget stops moving and just stands there listless.

you are 10ft away from the 'forged, who is 40 away from the man. your turn.

[sum1won]

Grace goes up the warforged and knocks him over to smother the fire. She then takes out some rope and prepares to bind him with a length of it.

Right. You- psychic or whatever- come here. What's all this, then? He said you were having a body guard-off, or something equally absurd? And then you set him on fire?



I'm considering popping/mugging the PC, too, and then leaving them both with the city guard. Or would you prefer I didn't?

Are subdual coup de gras (to knock someone out) allowed, assuming I use a weapon that deals nonlethal damage only?

I'm assuming that I have since changed my face and clothing to not look like the herbalist, btw. If I haven't, I'm worried I've blown my cover.

[planswalker]

do what you like, but there are repercussions to your actions. You may want to hear the other guy's side first before you decide to attack him.

you can't do a non-lethal coup de gras (which literally means cutting off the head) the 3.5 rules specifically forbid it.

your cover is safe. you said you changed faces as soon as you walked out of the shop (i thought).

oh, btw, trying to knock the 'forged over is a str check, and a ref save to avoid catching on fire yourself. He is dazed, not disabled.

[planswalker]

You try to knock him over, but he is too massive. You do manage to avoid catching on fire, fortunately

i did your rolls for you, the other player is waiting.

[sum1won]

Well, psychic? Explain. You have him stopped. Continuing the fire would be murder, you know.

[planswalker]

give him a chance to respond first.

[sum1won]

Ah, sorry. My mistake.

[planswalker]

i'm sorry it's taking so long. the other pc is gone for now.

[planswalker]

Unnoticed before now, a young man just out of his teens yells at the three of you:"Fools! You dare disturb the peace in my neighborhood?! This is the turf of the Shocking Sentinel, and evil scum such as you must be punished!"

He holds up his right fist. Three bolts of electricity race forth from his upheld hand, one targeting each of the three.

The 'forged manages to dodge the bolt entirely, somehow. The other 2, unfortunately, take approximately 2000 volts of electricity

21 damage to you. I promise, this is not my fault. another pc just stuck his nose in, and the dice hated on you, and spared my darned npc i'm trying to kill off.

[sum1won]

Grace collapses to the ground in agony, in obvious pain.

No Reflex save? Ugh. Uncanny dodge and evasion count for nothin' these days. Gonna have to find a way out quickly, then. Or did you roll for me?

[roll0]Bluff check. Playing possum. Pretending to be dyin' and being in 'cover' grants +2 to bluff. He can try to beat that roll with his sense motive, if he wants.

[planswalker]

well, i did roll it. you failed.

[sum1won]

"Grace" is pissed off, and fantasizing about revenge. Hopefully she got a good look at this kid's face.

Okay, thats an enormous relief. Sheet updated to show current health, btw.

[planswalker]

you did, don't worry

[planswalker]

the other human has fallen unconscious from the shock. Seeing both opponents "proven" the 'forged puts out his flames and contentedly walk off, his reason for coming here forgotten.

[planswalker]

A middle-aged man peaks out around the corner, sees the humans fallen and the 'forged stalking off down the street. He walks up to them and says, "Ugh, are you okay? Hello?" you feel some sort of healing thing transfer between him and you

healed by 5

[planswalker]

Kanteis approaches the man and the woman, cautious, but not hostile, and says to the man:
"Were you the one who healed me?"

[planswalker]

"Yeah, you looked like you needed the help. That's me, Mr. Helpful..."

[planswalker]

"Thank you, do you require any pay? Also what happened to the attacker and the warforged?"

[sum1won]

Some ninny blasted us with lightning while I was trying to keep the forged and the psychic fellow from murderin' one other.
They were apparently having a bodyguard contest.

My thanks for whatever you did, though. That lightning hurt like the devil. I'll get you a drink sometime. As for that damn fool kid...

Did you see him? Do you know who he is or what happened to him?


Did I see where the kid went? Since I wasn't actually asleep, I mean.
Anyway.
[roll0] Sense motive check. Used First point of inspiration to boost modifier to 10. According to the player's handbook, sense motive can be used to 'avoid being bluffed', which is opposed by the opponent's bluff check, and to get a 'sense of the social situation' in which case the DC is 20 to get a general idea of whether something is wrong or if they are trustworthy. I'm using it with the second purpose in mind. If he does lie, I trust you'll roll the sense motive checks to save time/keep me from knowing something's up.

[planswalker]

"Yeah, the kid blasted me earlier for my prices being 'too high' or some fool thing like that. Stole some stuff from me while I was down too. It's a good thing I had these magical healing tattoos, or more someone might not have made it.

You don't need to pay me anything, sir, but I'll gladly take that drink sometime, my lady.
__________________

[sum1won]

If I run into you at the mermaid, It'll be my pleasure. I didn't catch your name, though?

[Rizban]

I didn't read your thread except from the Shocking Sentinel bit forward, because I try not to take advantage of information my character doesn't have. It makes it easier not to do that if I don't even know about it.

Anyway, my character is trying to make contact with yours now, and I thought it would be easier if speak directly than to have planswalker convey everything we say. To that end, I made an IC thread that's for a private discussion between the two characters.

"My name is, Punchinello, proprietor of Punchinello's Charms and Incantations. A fair lady such as yourself is certain to get a discount on anything she needs when she shops with me."

He bids farewell to the two, giving the other man a card to look him up sometime. He hands you a card as well, a note written on the back asking Grace to meet him at a semi-nebulous not at all certain private location of which Grace knows and knows to be safe.

Link to said location: http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=8680058#post8680058

[sum1won]

Grace thanks him, sees that the other fellow is alright, and goes to a temple to get healing, getting a receipt while there. Once she receives healing, she heads to a tavern to start gathering info on her target. She is particularly interested in finding out what it is he does that made him wealthy, who works for him and where they can be found.

Brief post in Rizban's thread.

[planswalker]

that'll be a gather information check, please

[sum1won]

While asking about town, Grace, disguised as Lotierre, tries to give the impression she's investigating what it is Julian does.

[roll0] +14 modifier, +2 for being undercover as Lotierre, a recently arrived mercenary. Can only have one established (bonus giving) cover at a time at this level of spymaster. Because of social intuition, the gather info check takes only [roll1]X10 minutes. I can probably make a few more if the first doesn't get any info. Actually, I'll also make one about the other supporters of Archduke Rocholl are, for now. They might have a measure of how helpful Julian is.
[roll2] [roll3]X10 minutes

[planswalker]

you'll have to give me a bit to organize the rather specific answer you earned.

[sum1won]

While she is making the inquiries, Grace discreetly makes a few purchases, as well as healing at a local temple.


Lesser vigor (level 1 caster:10 gp) should heal me an additional 11 points, and with that and the rest I intend to take later tonight, should bring me up to full. Also purchasing a lead-lined drop sheath (35 gp, lead lining screens magic detection, and adds 10 gp to total cost, and drop/wrist sheath boosts sleight of hand by +5 to hide weapons, while still allowing them to be drawn easily. I believe they are from complete scoundrel.) and a dagger (2 gp). 47 gp total.

Changes made to character sheet. She applies Sssartiss to her disguised dagger, which she puts in the lead lined drop sheath. The other dagger goes in her original wrist sheath, and she applies drow knockout poison to it. Her rapier is currently unpoisoned.

EDIT: Oh, and potion of nerveskitter in the waterskin, if that is acceptable.

[planswalker]

your information gathering has revealed several interesting things. First of all, Julain does not make any direct transactions anymore. He now invests in others' ventures. In fact, he even withdrew his membership from the guild, which regulates commercial trade and investing. Rumors abound that he did it because of pressure from within the guild to have him taken out of the political picture. However, this only enabled him to conduct the black market investments without raising suspicions. He still does no actual trade, but he does back many underground elements. He also is primarily involved in "funding" certain factions within the merchants' guild. The talk of the town is that his funding will hopefully get him his membership back. Still others say he is doing it because his chosen faction has promised to look the other way in his dealings.
No one is sure why he supports Rocholl so vocally. Everyone agrees that the smart money for the ascension is on Rocholl, but he is unpopular enough with the criminal element that such open support doesn't make much sense.

When you tried to inquire further about who he does business with, everyone warned you that you "don't want to know. The cost for that information is your life." in fact, oddly enough, most of them used almost that exact wording.

[planswalker]

EDIT: Oh, and potion of nerveskitter in the waterskin, if that is acceptable.

of course. just be careful not to mix 2 potions in the same container. not a pretty combo.

[sum1won]

With this fascinating information in mind, Grace finds somewhere to sleep. When she wakes up in the morning, she heads down to Scale Street to pick up her license.

There are a few more things I'd like grace to do before her meeting with Punchinillo et al., but we can retcon those in later, as Rizban seems eager to get going with his 'engagement'. For now, should I rejoin him on the group aside thread?

[planswalker]

well, you could join rizban AND do the other stuff at the same time. that's one of the strengths of pbp. you can actually do non-linear storytelling.

[sum1won]

Ok. BTW, did I gain any experience from that awful encounter previously, despite getting zapped?

[planswalker]

100. you hadn't really done much, but it was something.
however, your apothecarie's license did come with a coupon for a free 400 bonus xp.

[sum1won]

Appearing in her apothecary form, Grace looks for a room to rent to live in and run her 'apothecary business' out of. Preferably a very, very cheap one. After she does so, she returns to the Count's manse to give him an update.

[roll0]Knowledge: local.

I've got a bit of a plan. The apothecary business is potentially a great cover for talking to people and getting information, so I may expand on that role somewhat.

[planswalker]

as long as you itemize the expenses, the boss will pay up to 1 gold for your housing. When you assess him of the situation, he exclaims, "Very impressive. You must be quite convincing. How is it coming? Have you learned anything yet?"

[sum1won]

The license wasn't difficult. The individual in charge of licensing was glad to find anyone who claimed any skill. The kid I met complained about the lack of a separate apothecaries guild. I suspect they may be trying to increase the size of their organization so they can split off. If you were to sponsor them somehow, it might increase your influence considerably, and could be lucrative at the same time.

As far as Julian... I haven't tried his household yet, but I learned a few things of interest. I'm sure you know he earns his income through investment. He actually left the merchant's guild over a dispute with some of his investment, but he remains involved in their politics and is financing one of the major factions in their leadership dispute.

I mentioned his investment- he's deeply rooted in the underworld, and I gathered that was with the nastiest parts of the criminal element. In fact, nobody I talked to about it seemed willing to divulge any information about his partners. They all said "The cost for that information is your life". Those exact words- I don't know if they mean anything to you, specifically, but they make me nervous. He's a dangerous man, sir.

As for his support- its confusing. He's loud about it, sure, but it doesn't fit with his other actions. The underworld despises Rocholl, and the feeling is probably mutual. So it may be talk. Still, Julian appears to be trying to ingratiate himself with a faction of the Merchant's guild. He may be trying to do the same with Archduke Rocholl, although I haven't caught wind of any donations of the same kind. Still, I haven't solid proof one way or another yet.

Anyways, that's what I've learned so far, sir. Where would you like me to go from here?

[planswalker]

Well, this is most interesting, to say the least. I always suspected that he was a scoundrel. I want you to infiltrate his house and learn more from the inside. Luckily, he doesn't live in the noble's quarter, even though he could. I think i know why now. I don't care how you go about it, but i want to know what he actually does. Heck, if this turns into a cheezy quest, i may come out of retirement and help you clean this out if some cultists are behind this, or a monster from the deep, or a bodysnatcher, or a crime boss, or a demon pact. or a.... " he has worked himself up quite a bit and realizes he is babbling. With a jolt, he stops. "I'm sorry, I just miss the good old days. Infiltrate his household, and learn more. I want to know exactly what's going on before i act. I lost an arm once because i attacked a hydra before i learned it was a pyrohydra. tried to sear its stumps with fire. Luckily, my party's sorceror knew ice knife, so we managed to kill it anyways, but not before it ate my arm."

You notice that he is gesturing with both hands when he tells you this, hands that are attached to flesh and blood arms.

[sum1won]

Grace looks pointedly at both of his obviously intact arms. Hmmm... You wouldn't happen to have any papers or declarations from the City Guard lying about, would you? I could use them for the infiltration. And, pardon me, but did you say your arm was eaten?

[planswalker]

"well, yes, but i got better. It's amazing what modern magic can do." He rolls up his sleeve to show a rather thick and puckered scar just below the shoulder. "Fortunately, the group Band-Aid had a ring of healing. Growing it back hurt worse than losing it did in the first place."

"As to illicit papers to help you infiltrate the city guard or somewhere else, I'm afraid that you are my first, last, and only line of proactive espionage. You'll have to acquire that for yourself. I'm sorry that i can't be too helpful, but i never was much of a person for stealth back in the old days. I am learning how to do this as we go too. I just know that i can't simply kick down the doof and bust everyone up until they submit. That's just exactly the sort of behavior which tears cities apart."

[sum1won]

Fair enough. Where do I pick up my pay? Oh, and I'm setting up a small apothecary shop as part of the cover- it'll be around 1 gold a day rent. Here's the information.

With that, Grace leaves for the maid and mermaid to pin up a notice advertising her apothecary. She then buys a dagger and tucks it into her boot. Once this purchase is complete, she goes to stake out the shop, disguised as a barely pubescent urchin who is sweeping the street Julian's house is on.

Urchin's age- 14 or 15.
What street shall I say I am on/my lodgings are on? Any street will probably do, but probably not in the merchant's quarter.

disguise check:[roll0] Using 1/10 uses of my disguise kit for this.

[planswalker]

"Very nice. and as to your stipend, you pick that up directly from me. jhere is your first day's wage." He gives you 50 gold.

[sum1won]

Grace continues to julian's house in the aforementioned disguise.

[planswalker]

Juilan's estate within the city is a rather large stone affair. A neatly manicured lawn garden and a pair of gardeners are in the front. One of them pauses in his work to ask, "What brings you out here?"

[sum1won]

Grace is ambling down the street disguised as a street sweeper, not trying to enter the house. See 06-13-2010 12:37 AM

[planswalker]

ah. sorry. well then, what sort of reaction to the situation can i give?

[sum1won]

Fair enough. I'll pretend like they're just callin' out from boredom.


Sweepin, mister. I gets a ha'silver a day fer it. What do yew get, workin' fer a toff like that?

[planswalker]

"Two silver a day." he says smugly.

[sum1won]

Cor, two silver a day! Who do I gotta talk to to get a job like that? I dunno how to cut grass all fancy like that, but I could mebbe work in the house?

[roll0]DiplomacyCheck! Trying to get him to help me out a little with hiring.

[planswalker]

"Well'n, i can take ya to the butler. He hires the house staff."

[sum1won]

That'd be right bully, that would. Thankee. Can i jest set this here, then? Wouldn't do to be jest totin' me stuff into a house like this.

Grace sets down 'his' sack and broom under a bush. The magic items are in the sack. (bag of holding)

[roll0]Sleight of hand to conceal bag especially under the bush.

[planswalker]

"Right this way, lass" He escorts you inside the house. The butler is a middle-aged man who has seen many good years, as his rather protruding gut indicates. "What are your skills? Why should i hire riff-raff like you?"

[sum1won]

Well, me mum taught me 'rithmatic and readin' afore she died. An I can clean, an remember stuff wot I'm told an I kin use a knife. Vinny taught me that, but i dunno how useful it'll be. An I'm smarter 'n I look, too. Won't cost much, either, 'long as you pay me more than that miserly toad down at the muncipal office did.

'He' makes a face at mentioning the miserly toad.
Note- she is currently disguised as a boy. The disguise check earlier was 44, btw. Shooting for a household page position here. Basically do light household work, run errands and messages. [roll0] Diplo check.

[planswalker]

"Well, if you can read and remember what you're told, i could use an errand boy. You will sleep in the servant's quarters and get 2 meals a day, plus 1 silver a day. You will also get a set of livery you are expected to wear anytime the master might see you. Keep it cleaned regularly. Do you want it?"

[sum1won]

Cor, yes! I'll take it. S'long as I get time to visit my ma, leastways. I gotta return me broom, but after that, when can I start workin?

[planswalker]

"Tomorrow. We will have your livery ready for you by then."

and that's bedtime for me.

[sum1won]

Right, then. I'll be back tommorow.

With that, Grace leaves, does her thing at Broad Chase, and then hits up the mermaid to see if she can find any small jobs to get in on. She's also seeing if she can find any contacts in the criminal underworld.


Grace is basically trying to find random jobs to take care of- possibly involving other players- to keep her character's primary cover working and develop a reputation in the city as a skilled jobber.
[roll0] Gather info check to see any odd jobs- or things players might be hiring for again.
[roll1]Gather info check to learn about crime in the city, and who she might find to talk to about that.

[sum1won]

[roll0]*10 minutes total for the two checks.

[planswalker]

well, you are curently posing as an apothecary and a messenger. It'll be hard enough for you to keep those two both going AND work on learning about the underbelly of crime in this town. You have 2 covers for yourself already, i doubt you have time for much else. just trying to be realistic. the messenger boy is going to be kept very busy running errands.

You hear that the crime in this city is rather well organized, but that there is no one faction in control. All sorts of ne'er do wells run syndicates in the city, each warring with each other and with the law. You found out from a mermaid at the Maid that there is an innkeeper who is friends with a kobold, who works out arms deals for quite a few of the groups. The mermaid said that the innkeeper might be willing to introduce you, if you can convince him to make it worth his while.

[sum1won]

Yeah, this is about the limit for her. Early morning- herbalist, making her report. Most of the day- errand boy. Evening- Grace, her about-town face.
Grace passes the mermaid 5 gold as she thanks her.
Thanks, miss. I've got a hunch that could be useful. Say, let me know if you hear anything else interesting. I'm sure you learn plenty o' stuff, working here.
With that, she leaves, looking for the innkeeper. Hopefully, she can find a way to contact the kobold fairly soon. Its getting late.

[planswalker]

You find him at his inn. "What can i do for you, missy?"

[sum1won]

A pint of shandy an' a question. I hear you're quite the man about town- a fella who knows fellas who are worth knowin.

[planswalker]

He smiles innocently and says, "Well, i am an innkeeper. Many people stop by my inn. My winning personality has won me many friends from among my customers. I am a really lucky man to have so many friends." He smiles innocently and spreads his hands indifferently. "What is it to you?"

[sum1won]

Well, among your friends is an 'honest' businessman of the scaly persuasion. I've just come into town from up north, and would like to meet this friend of yours.

Without touching her shandy, she continues.

Say, this shandy is mighty good. How much did you say it was for me to get better acquainted with it?

[sum1won]

[roll0]Diplo check. Bargaining/gaining his trust

[planswalker]

he smiles knowingly. "Why, 5 gold for the best shandy. of course, that particular glass is free. First glass is free for the lady. Next one will be 5 gold."

[sum1won]

5 gold? 'tis a saintly service you run here.

Grace pushes 5 gold coins to him.
Eh. I didn't really want to roll diplomacy anyways.:smallannoyed:

[planswalker]

"Well, i do believe that the best shipments of shandy is shipped here every friday about 9:00 at the evening. IF you should happen to be here tomorrow at that time, I am sure you could talk with the man who gives me the best 'shandy'. I look forward to seeing you then."

[sum1won]

Right, then. Tomorrow at 9.

Grace returns to her room to rest, and early the next morning visits Punchinello's new place to move in, before leaving for a 'house call' with the Count.

[planswalker]

The butler has you running errands all over town, having you pick up various orders for household things. He does not seem to trust you yet to carry out sensitive tasks. you may need to build his trust. your boss gives you your day's wages for today, and the butler gives you 1 silver.

btw, i'm awarding you 250 story xp for getting yourself into the whole "undercover spy" role very effectively. congrats :smallsmile: i promise, phat lewt is coming soon

[planswalker]

When you arrive at the count's house with his "medicines", he greets you warmly. "Ah, my dear apothecary, thank you for visiting me. Please tell me, what is the local gossip? I'm afraid that i just simply don't get out like i used to."

[sum1won]

I've found a position in Julian's household as a message runner. I'm new, so I've not delivered any messages of note so far. But its just a matter of time, now. Still, I'm looking for other angles at the same time. I reckon the infiltration goal has more or less been achieved just now.

[planswalker]

"Very good. Keep me informed."

he pays you your wages for today.

[sum1won]

Of course, sir. With that, Grace heads to her appointment with a scaly someone.

[planswalker]

She enters the inn about 5 minutes early. The inkeeper says to her, "Well, miss, the 'shandy' dealer should be here in a moment. he knows to meet with you and i have a back room reserved where the two of you can speak privately."

[sum1won]

My thanks, sir. Another sample of the shandy, if you will?

Grace passes him a coin and enters the room.
Sensing motive. Is he up to no good?

[sum1won]

[roll0]Sense motive. I can't roll today...

[planswalker]

He seems very honest and friendly. A few moments later, a kobold enters the back room with you and says, "What you want from me?"

[sum1won]

I understand that you are a deal-broker of sorts who can put me in contact with the right sort of people. I'm looking for expertise in selling and distributing goods, and I'm also looking for a source of funding for my little venture. Think you could help me with that?


[roll0] Diplo check
Grace is looking at using her crafting abilities illicitly, while at the same time, looking for someone to bankroll those activities- and she knows that julian bankrolls activities like that already.

Anyways, would it be a problem if I added a few drugs from BoVD or champions of ruin to the illeagel potpourri you've got going on here? If not, she can always add poisons. Either way, the end purpose is to develop her own criminal network

If she can, does grace know what is already on the market? I assume sannish isn't, since the apothecary didn't raise any concerns when she made some for him. [roll1]Knowledge Check

[planswalker]

"Well, i know someone. meet him here at this time." he says these words as he scribbles something on a piece of parchment. he gives it to you. "Want something else?"

[sum1won]

Thats about it. My thanks. Is there a customary fee, or a favor I can do for you?

[planswalker]

"I will ask you for a favor in return one day. be prepared to give it."

currently there is no drug trade, although it would quickly become illegal if it begam being sold. feel free to become the first drug lord, or lady, as the case may be.

[sum1won]

Very well.

Grace exits the room to read the note before she gets ready for her next day.

[planswalker]

it says simply "elf at the docks, sundown tomorrow."

[sum1won]

Grace leaves the room, returning to the room Punchinello provided her 'friend'. Before going to sleep, she brews up a few samples to take with her tomorrow to the meeting.

Brewing up two doses of Oruighen, 4 of Tekkil, both from lords of darkness.

[planswalker]

they are brewed.

[sum1won]

Grace leaves the following morning. Time to work as an errand boy, and see if she could get a little more trusted.

If she doesn't have the trust later today, she has a Plan for the next time she has to send a message somewhere well away from the mansion.

[planswalker]

The butler sends his new errand boy on several trivial tasks throughout the morning. Just at midday, he calls you into his office.

[sum1won]

Grace sidles into his office. You wanted me, sir?

[planswalker]

"You have been very diligent these past two days, and i want to know something: do you think you are ready to meet the master of this house? He needs a personal runner, but his old messenger took lame yesterday. Will you fill in until he recovers? If so, you will need to be at his beck and call day and night. Can you handle that?"

[sum1won]

I reckon I can do that, sir. About how long till his usual is mended?

[planswalker]

"Possibly as long as a week. Now go get yourself clean and report back to my office tomorrow morning. I will assign you new temporary quarters near to the master's. you will remain there unless he calls for you. You will be given three meals a day of leftover food from the lord's table itself, and will be paid 5 silver for your services."

[sum1won]

5 silver? I reckon I'll be able to afford a whole bath to get clean in!

[sum1won]

With that, Grace leaves. Its time to take a bath Let the count know of this latest development, and that she might not be around much the next couple of days.

[planswalker]

The count's "apothecary" is quickly ushered inside.

[sum1won]

So, I thought I should let you know that I'll be out of contact for a few days- I'll, be running errands and messages for Julian personally, so we should get the information you need, soon.

[planswalker]

he seems positively delighted at this news. "Well, my dear, this is the best news I've heard in a long time."

[sum1won]

Grace exclaims, jokingly

That eager to be rid of me for a week? No matter. I'll be off, then.

She smiles again, and leaves, looking for her friend the bard to see if she can't convince him to cast Nystul's to hide the magic aura on her bag of holding and armor.

[planswalker]

"Before you go, please take your week's pay in advance. this is exactly the reason why i hired you."

[sum1won]

Grace does just that, and leaves again to find the bard.

[planswalker]

you find him strumming idly just outside the Maid and the mermaid.

[sum1won]

Hey, Ludger! Thanks for the tip- I've been working for your friend for a few days now. If you've time for a quick drink, I'll let you in on a few pieces of gossip. I do have a favor to ask, though...

[planswalker]

"Why, certainly! buy me a round of drinks and you can ask whatever you want."

[sum1won]

Grace takes him into the Maid and Mermaid and orders a glass of ale for each. When they finish that, she orders another, just because.

Well, I've been asked to monitor and infiltrate a household for Wolfhart- he's certain that they're up to no good. I'm inclined to agree, and really don't want to be caught. Mind hiding the magical aura of my bag, bracers and shirt?
Assuming he complies, she continues with the gossip for some time.
Anyways, Wolfhart seems to have gotten a bit of an itch for adventure again. Oh, and theres a new up-and-comer in the merchants guild- Punchinello. I helped him secure a contract recently, you know... Maybe you've heard of him?

[planswalker]

"That old coot is getting restless again? I can't say i'm all too surprised. He came here to retire because it was quiet and at peace with all its neighbors. He thought he could avoid temptation here. Then this whole succession thing hits and he feels the call again. Please do your best to try to convince him to keep from donning his old armor and doing something stupid.He is not a young man anymore."

"As for hiding your gears' auras, sure i can help. just promise me that you'll keep me updated with all your gossip from time to time. Now that punchinello fella is quite the man of rumor. he just blew into town last week and already has a guild license. Someone high up is giving him a boost."

[sum1won]

Grace chats with him a little more before leaving for her appointment at the docks.

OOC:

Bedtime.

[planswalker]

for me too

[planswalker]

a rumor you heard is that humans aren't particularly welcome at the docks. Stories of humans disappearing there and turning up piece by piece the next today are rather too frequent to ignore. Nonetheless, you go to meet the elf at the docks at sundown, having made an excuse with Lord Eichel to be relieved of duties for just tonight, saying that your mother has come down sick. When you get there, a humanoid in a cowl greets you and says, "You the one that 'shandy' sent?"

[sum1won]

Grace grins, revealing a mouthful of what appear to be razor sharp teeth.

Yeah, I'm that one. I'm told you're useful to my potential enterprise. How so?

Hinting very obviously at a nonhuman heritage. [roll0] Disguise check to appear some sort of tiefling or some such.

[planswalker]

"The how depends on what you need and what you want."

[sum1won]

I'm capable of supplying certain illicit substances. Some have certain recreational uses, which can be habit forming. Others are more offensive in nature.

I need someone who is capable of running distribution and sales. Discreetly.

Some funding will allow the business to expand, once it gets going.

Interested?

[roll0] Diployadda

[planswalker]

"I myself am just a facilitator, but i do believe that i know just the person for the job. There is a person with both the wealth and the contacts to get this done. He is a human, however, so he does have enemies. He has a ruthless streak, though, which has endeared him to a lot of scumbags. Tell me a name i can leave with him, and I'll have an answer for you in a week. Would you happen to have a sample that I can share with him?"

[sum1won]

Olive will do as a name. Here are my samples.

These four are Tekkil, a compound that numbs one to pain. It is not as potent a euphoric as Sannish, but is more affordable and as habit forming. I submit that this be the recreational compound of choice before the operation is significantly expanded.

As for offensive means...

I have here a sample each of sleep smoke and Oruighen. The first produces a cloud of smoke that can cause unconsciousness. The second may be cast into a pursuer's face to temporarily blind and otherwise discourage them. I am capable of producing other toxins for weapons and foodstuffs, but did not bring samples as of yet.

[planswalker]

"These will do for now. I will see you again here in a week at sunset."

[sum1won]

Very good.

With that, Grace leaves for bed. She gets up early, to ensure she has time to clean and still arrive early at julian's mansion the next day.

[planswalker]

You arrive at Julian's mansion before he awakens. When the butler sees you, he asks, "How was your mother? Is she recovering?"

[sum1won]

She'll be as fine as she ever is. I tol' her I'd be busy fer a few days, though. She's right proud, she is. A real job and all.


Blufftastic time? [roll0]

[planswalker]

"What was wrong with her, again?" he asks innocently.

[sum1won]

Uh, sir. I gotta confession. Being sick wasn't 'zactly true. She weren't sick so much as...hungover.

[roll0] Bluff check. Gonna see if I can cover for the lie he obviously saw through.

[planswalker]

"Well, i suspected as much. That was unacceptable of you to lie to us. Since i managed to get a confession from you quickly, i will let it slide this time. Next time, if your mother isn't truly sick, you will not only be fired, but i will sue your family for lost labor time in court. Hurry now. Your lord wants you to start running errands for him immediately."

[sum1won]

Yessir. Sorry sir. Won't 'appen again.

You're on my list.

With that, Grace goes to find the 'master'.

Italics are thought. Hopefully, he isn't a mind reader. Also, if I don't know where the master is, I just ask him. And, he is definitely LE. Although i think Grace might be swinging towards the CE end of C

[planswalker]

i like the italics thing. yes, the butler is. He works for a crime lord, after all. and yeah, if grace wants to remain non-evil she needs to do something nice next. not that evil will penalize you or anything.

You report back to the chambers where your "master" awaits you. He calls you in almost immediately. "Boy, i have a special task for you today, but i want to know first that i can trust you. What can you do to prove your loyalty to me?"

[sum1won]

Grace scrunches up 'his' face.

Dunno wot I can do, sir. I mean... I work fer you, so it aint like I'd be doin the task fer free. I guess I could tell you a secret or summat. Somethin' yer butler dont know.

[planswalker]

He perks up at the word "secret". "Oh? you know something my butler doesn't? Please enlighten me."

[sum1won]

Well, I gotta place on burl street, so I knows a nasty piece o' work when I sees one. Somebody around 'ere, and I couldn't tell ya who, was carryin' this'n around. Now, it jest looks like a pen, but its really a knife. An' that greasy blob on the tip means its bin poisoned. I found it outside yer place, right around when I was gettin' hired. I been carryin' it fer protection, coz I gotta place on Burl street, but I figure that whoever had it fore that was up to no good.

Grace takes out her 'Disguised dagger' to show him, putting it down on the table carefully.

[roll0] Intimidate check. Presumably, a report- even a couple days old- of an assassins knife being found outside would be worrisome. Still, ignore if needed.

[planswalker]

"Indeed. that is quite worrisome." He doesn't seem particularly worried but you have earned his respect. "Very well, you have earned my trust. I need you to give this message to a certain tiefling in the docks, down at pier 7. he will be waiting for you. Do not read this note. What it says is not your business. Just deliver it for me and see that the seal isn't broken."

[sum1won]

Yes, sir.

With that, Grace leaves the house, stowing her dagger in her sleeve again. She ducks down an alley or two to make sure noone follows, and then takes a moment to buy an oil of mending (25 gp) and then run on to her room in burl street to carefully open up the paper around the seal.

She looks over the text before reading to check for any odd sigils that would signify a trap. Assuming there are none, she then reads the note.

There won't be any problems with using an oil of mending to repair the paper after she tears it around the seal, will there? If there are, she can use sleight of hand or disguise to hide/repair the tear instead.

[planswalker]

after reading the note that says: These new "recreation" chemicals seem most satisfactory. please see what kind of volume the dealer can produce for us. you use the oil of mending to repair the damage. It is flawlessly repaired.

[sum1won]

Grace delivers the note to the tiefling, as instructed.

awesome

[planswalker]

He inspects the seal and finds it intact. "Good boy. Now run off with this token to signify that the message was delivered as required." he hands you a small wooden figurine. it looks like a tiny demon crossed with an aboleth.

[sum1won]

Grace thanks him and runs back with the figurine.

[planswalker]

He accepts the token. "Very good. Now then, go fetch thee eggs from the cook. i want a snack. Oh, and tell the laundress not to use so much starch. I want my pants sharp, not stiff. And be sure that the dogboy tends to Bruno's leg. He injured it in a fight last week. And also be sure that ...."

After receiving a very long list of chores to fill the rest of the day with fetching various things and relaying messages to different parts of the household, you are exhausted with all the work you have done.

[sum1won]

Grace collapses. She's pretty damn tired. She gets up the next morning, wondering what new list of chores that will bring.

[planswalker]

The rest of the week goes by uneventfully while you are kept busy running all sorts of chores. You are eating well, however. Better than you can afford even as "grace". Overall, your character finally lost those last three pounds that have been bugging her and making her self-conscious about her image. :smallwink:

At the end of the week, Wolfhart eagerly wishes to hear from what you have managed to accomplish.

[sum1won]

Well, sir. He only sent me on one thing that was especially odd. He sent me on a mission to the docks, to deliver a note to a tiefling at the docks. He had received some shipment of recreational chemicals, and was ordering more. The thing that stood out was the token that I returned to signify a successful delivery- it looked like a demon-aboleth hybrid, carved out of wood. That shape sound familiar? If not, I can investigate.

As far as support for the Archduke... he never mentioned anything. It appears to be just words so far, sir.

[planswalker]

"Hmm.... a demon-aboleth hybrid? Surely he is not so foolish as to do business with them?" He seems rather concerned by this news.

[sum1won]

You mean, actual taanari- aboleth hybrids? I mean, it was only a model! Surely you don't have actual hybrids in this city!

Grace looks, and feels, rather alarmed.

Yeah, she has a loooow wisdom score.

[planswalker]

He chuckles slightly, but his mood quickly blackens again as he speaks. "No, not literal hybrids in the city, but there is a fanatical cult that worship fiendish aboleths which has a rather large organization whose overall goal is to make the world ripe for the day that their masters enter the world bodily. They look to support any sort of business venture which will weaken the moral or ethical fabric of society. Furthermore, they are known in the wrong circles to facilitate the worst and blackest of trafficking, slavery, poisons, cursed items, necromancy, you name it. If they are supporting the use of 'recreational' chemicals, i do not trust the character of the person who is supplying them. Those chemicals are likely to be something which can destroy a person's life, then. They will likely soon take the money made off of this venture and use it to fund a chance to organize the various street gangs under their wing and form a real criminal syndicate in this town. One the city guards will be unable to stop."

[sum1won]

Well, he certainly is involved with 'em. Given his reputation about town, its a pretty deep inolvement. Besides, that token is the little toy the Tiefling told me to give him, and he accepted it as routine, so he's had other dealings with them...

You know who might know more? That tiefling. He's likely the contact for the cult, at the very least. I know where he'll be soon, too. With your permission, I can get a few likely lads and nab 'em real quick-like.

[planswalker]

"That would be wise. Please do so. We must find out what all that cult is doing here. This suddenly became much bigger than which petty noble wears the crown. The very soul of the city is at stake."

[sum1won]

Alright, then. He'll be around the docks, so I'll be looking at hiring nonhumans so as to attract less attention.
Mind if I enter the city streets and hire one or two other players? Likely non-humans.

[planswalker]

feel free. that's part of why it's there. if i need to, i'll look at nudging some of the pc's who aren't currently doing much in their private threads your direction.

[sum1won]

The tiefling having been captured, Grace hurries to her room on Burl street. He'd be waking up soon, and she wanted to work him over with the sap first beforehand.

Taking him out and hitting him with enough nonlethal damage so he stays unconscious longer.

[planswalker]

you manage to beat his unconscious body until it is "knocked out" but still breathing

[sum1won]

Grace searches him quickly before returning him to the bag. She disguises herself as a sailor with some orc heritage and heads towards mainstreet, keeping an eye out for any extra movement. She tries to lose any followers she might have in the winding alleys and busier parts of town, before ducking into an abandoned alley near Broad Chase and coming out the apothecary on the other end. She makes her way from there to the Count's place.



The whole while she periodically opens the bag a touch to let air in.
[roll0] Disguise check.
[roll1] Knowledge local check to lose anyone following her, if there are any. Don't know what would work best here, but I figure this is as good a choice as any. Used a point of inspiration for this.

[sum1won]

Oh, wow. Natural one. Good thing disguise checks are opposed, so 1s aren't autofail. I need to start taking 10 where I can.

[planswalker]

The count wonders why it is that an orcblood is coming to visit him.

[sum1won]

Ah. Coming out the apothecary was meant to say coming out as the apothecary. My bad. I can still roll with this, if you'd like.

[planswalker]

pleasem do. it won't be hard to fix and i thnk it will be rather fun to rp.

[sum1won]

Oi gots a speshul delivry fer a Mr. Wolfhart? Curt'sy o' his 'pocethary, o' course.

[planswalker]

He eyes you rather cannily. "So, what is this delivery?"

[sum1won]

Oh, its about your size and shape, but from an entirely different religion, as I understand it. Summat to do with calamari. She'd a brought the delivery her own self, but 'tis an odd time o' night for a 'pothecary to show up at yer door, aint it?

[planswalker]

"Why, i suppose it is. The current word on the street is that i am in good health." He smiles knowingly, assuming that you are taking a different form rather than trust such a delicate assignment to some hired flunky.

[sum1won]

If I could come in, sir? Tis heavy.

Grace winks.

[planswalker]

"Of course. Come in." He winks back knowingly.

[sum1won]

Grace enters.

Is there a room, perhaps in your root cellar, without distinguishing features and relative silence? I picked up a naughty fellow on the way here.

She shakes the bag slightly.

[planswalker]

"I might have just the thing." He leads you down to his basement, where he seems to have a room set up just for interrogation. You realize just how convenient it is to work for someone who used to do almost the exact same thing you are now doing for him.

[sum1won]

Now, will we be turning him over to the city guard after we get what we need from him? If so, I will be disguising us.

She waits for his answer before she takes out the unconscious cultist.


Also... when I searched him earlier, what did I find?

[planswalker]

"Probably wise to do so. They can take care of him after that. do be sure to not make us look like grace, myself, or any of grace's acquaintances."

[Rizban]

A terrible explosion suddenly rocks the entire city, and the ground shakes as if an earthquake were tearing the city apart. The sky lights up from a blast many times the brightness of the sun, and you are certain that certain death has at last come to claim you. As the brightness fades, you look toward the Mages' Quarter and see the last remnants of the horror burning directly towards the sky in a seemingly endless stream of raw, burning mana which threatens to tear reality asunder. What seems like an eternity passes as you stare, though it is likely only a few seconds, and at last the blast fades away. In the distance, you hear a building collapse, and you are certain that something horrible has been unleashed upon the city.

[sum1won]

Grace disguises herself as the halfdrow she worked with, and him in back, looking like some random human off the street. She wakes their guest and asks him a few basic questions about his influence, what jobs he is currently involved in, his current level of involvement with the marquis (or whatever, I forget his exact title) and with other organizations around the city.

[roll0] Intimidate
[roll1] Intimidate
[roll2] Intimidate
[roll3] Intimidate
[roll4] Intimidate
[roll5] Intimidate
[roll6] Intimidate
[roll7] Intimidate
[roll8] Intimidate


When the interrogation draws to a close, she clips him again, ties him up, and leaves as the orcblood when the explosion goes off...

[planswalker]

Well, sir. He only sent me on one thing that was especially odd. He sent me on a mission to the docks, to deliver a note to a tiefling at the docks. He had received some shipment of recreational chemicals, and was ordering more. The thing that stood out was the token that I returned to signify a successful delivery- it looked like a demon-aboleth hybrid, carved out of wood. That shape sound familiar? If not, I can investigate.

As far as support for the Archduke... he never mentioned anything. It appears to be just words so far, sir.


"Hmm.... a demon-aboleth hybrid? Surely he is not so foolish as to do business with them?" He seems rather concerned by this news.


He chuckles slightly, but his mood quickly blackens again as he speaks. "No, not literal hybrids in the city, but there is a fanatical cult that worship fiendish aboleths which has a rather large organization whose overall goal is to make the world ripe for the day that their masters enter the world bodily. They look to support any sort of business venture which will weaken the moral or ethical fabric of society. Furthermore, they are known in the wrong circles to facilitate the worst and blackest of trafficking, slavery, poisons, cursed items, necromancy, you name it. If they are supporting the use of 'recreational' chemicals, i do not trust the character of the person who is supplying them. Those chemicals are likely to be something which can destroy a person's life, then. They will likely soon take the money made off of this venture and use it to fund a chance to organize the various street gangs under their wing and form a real criminal syndicate in this town. One the city guards will be unable to stop."


Well, he certainly is involved with 'em. Given his reputation about town, its a pretty deep inolvement. Besides, that token is the little toy the Tiefling told me to give him, and he accepted it as routine, so he's had other dealings with them...

You know who might know more? That tiefling. He's likely the contact for the cult, at the very least. I know where he'll be soon, too. With your permission, I can get a few likely lads and nab 'em real quick-like.


"That would be wise. Please do so. We must find out what all that cult is doing here. This suddenly became much bigger than which petty noble wears the crown. The very soul of the city is at stake."


The tiefling having been captured, Grace hurries to her room on Burl street. He'd be waking up soon, and she wanted to work him over with the sap first beforehand.

Taking him out and hitting him with enough nonlethal damage so he stays unconscious longer.


Oh, its about your size and shape, but from an entirely different religion, as I understand it. Summat to do with calamari. She'd a brought the delivery her own self, but 'tis an odd time o' night for a 'pothecary to show up at yer door, aint it?


"I might have just the thing." He leads you down to his basement, where he seems to have a room set up just for interrogation. You realize just how convenient it is to work for someone who used to do almost the exact same thing you are now doing for him.


Grace disguises herself as the halfdrow she worked with, and him in back, looking like some random human off the street. She wakes their guest and asks him a few basic questions about his influence, what jobs he is currently involved in, his current level of involvement with the marquis (or whatever, I forget his exact title) and with other organizations around the city.

[roll0] Intimidate
[roll1] Intimidate
[roll2] Intimidate
[roll3] Intimidate
[roll4] Intimidate
[roll5] Intimidate
[roll6] Intimidate
[roll7] Intimidate
[roll8] Intimidate


When the interrogation draws to a close, she clips him again, ties him up, and leaves as the orcblood when the explosion goes off...

he does not reveal too much, even though you did break his will. He seems to be under a compulsion which is preventing him from speaking his darkest secrets. He does reveal that the Cthyklids are indeed beginning an inroad into the city. The Marquis' rich younger brother Julian is their primary contact in the city. he is their representative to the city. Exactly how he is so, he cannot say. When he began to try, his flesh began to bubble and you had him back off before he turned into a goo.