Tales of Neutral Ground IC

[CozJa]

The tension is still high in the room, and where the burning fires of Fernia were raging madly, now a cold, unconfortable uneasiness reigns.
When the Half-Orc in Lycia Velancor's payroll surrenders, Arimart starts considering his options.

Everything looks suspended, as if the fires were ready to start again after a single spark; nonetheless, even as first exchanges are made, nobody seem eager to be the one starting again. Drake moves to "pay his respects to the dead", but Arimart suspects that his real intentions may be quite different, especially considering how the Orrery disappeared; surely the Dwarf demonstrated an unexpected resourcefulness and he could become a valuable ally, possibly before he becomes a capable enemy.

The same could be said of ir'Sencriss. While he seems honestly worried for his daughter, the paladin cannot ignore how he bears the responsibility of summoning the creatures who killed a lot of people.

As Gryphon tries to reduce the hostility, the prosecutor seize the opportunity to address the Thranish Ambassador.

"As sir Gryphon Kellson said, we acted, in concert with Kett Collier, an ally who helped in the arrest of sir Maugrim Nameless, in order to undertake our plan to capture the Phiarlan fugitive Arano, with whom my associate shared a relationship. I am very curious to hear what Arano has to say about his actions, and I will make sure to investigate on each of them. As of now, I can only theorize what intentions guided his hand, but we are not here to act against other's intentions. Unless you want me to punctuate, as my companions already did, how your 'intentions' brought about the end of countless lives. And they could have been many more if we haven't been present at this party, unless your plan was that of controlling fire elementals with harsh words and a haughty demeanor."
Arimart let this last punctualization on Daniloss reckless behavior stand in the air for a moment, then speaks again.

"We can speak how much you want about Arano, but we have more pressing matters right now. The Orrery caused the death of a lot of people today, included a Magistrate of the Tribunal of Thronehold. That means it is now considered a murder weapon, therefore, according to the laws of our city and its most high Tribunal, it is now a property to be confiscated for further investigations.
Considering how all this madness started when the parties, here represented by Drake Shardstone, the Knight who graciously and legally surrendered her weapons and you yourself, sir Daniloss ir'Sencriss, entered in conflict to dispute the rightfulness of this auction, this means that every investigation will have to include the entire procedure under which the Orrery was bought, with the consequence of freezing every economic asset tied to this transaction."

Arimart pauses again, and looks at ir'Sencriss directly in the eyes, just to make clear how he intends to follow every single legal procedure he described, and some more too boring to even think about describing.

"Such procedures will require a lot of time, especially considering that we still have to discover where the Orrery is located. Surely, if you show some eagerness to collaborate, I'm sure we can try to give a better timing to all those legal procedures."

[Starbin]

Professor Drake Shardstone

Drake took his time as he went, walking slowly with the faint tapping of his cane. He motioned to one of the maids, smiling at her tenuous approach. When he spoke, it was soft and friendly, with all the musical lilt of a lowborn. ”Oi, lass, beggin’ yer pardon, but Ah’m needin’ yer help. No no, put tha’ in yer pocket quick... none oh tha’ lot’ll miss a ring or two, and we all knows you’ll git more out of it than they will. Now, kin ye bring me a mess o’sheets, fer tha’ fallen? Ah don’t wanna leave ‘em layin’ uncovered on their way to the Lands Beyond.”

He then lit a small stick of incense and proceed to the first body, kneeling down to administer the Rites of Transition. When the made return with sheets, he would cover each body after he finished. It was slow work, but important, both for the souls and for the scene he was setting.

He could hear two of the remaining ‘heroes’ engaged in more ‘discussions’ with the Ambassador. They obviously want this Arano, but do they all have the same motivations? Wait ... did he just suggest tying up the sale into administrative red tape? The Tribunal will either overturn my claim, seize the asset, or lose it. And the longer Lady Lycia has to plan, the faster the orrery will find its way into her hands ...

His timeline appeared to be shrinking the more this lot talked, and he needed to make progress on his investigation. Arriving at the body of the third bard, he dropped to one knee, incanting softly as he did. The incense he set down and slowed laid a sheet halfway over the body. As he pulled it up to mask her mouth from the stairs, he focused on her as her spirit animated the corpse once more. He whispered to her, Welcome back, Milady. I apologize for the circumstances of our conversation and that of your passing, but I have a few questions for you, if I am to be able to help your sister avoid a tragic death. First off, who are you getting the orrery for?”

---

OOC - Casting speak with dead to question the bard. Figure we can work the other questions in Dischord.

Spoiler: Status

Show

AC: 14 HP: 40/52 Init +2 Move 30’
Saves: Str +0 Dex +2 Con +2 Int +2 Wis +6 Cha +0
Skills: Arcana/Religion +8; Insight +5; Perception +9;
Warder’s inspiration (+1d4): Investigate, History, Thieves tools
Weapons: shortsword (+5 / 1d8+2); shortbow (+5 / 1d8+2)
Channel divinity 0/3 (Turn undead, destroy CR 1/2, Knowledge o/t Ages, Read thoughts)

Spoiler: Spells

Show

Prepare 9 spells, DC 15, 4-1st / 3-2nd / 3-3rd
0: guidance, thaumatugy, toll the dead, mending
1st (x4): command, identity, alarm, armor of Agnatha, cure light wounds, healing word, guiding bolt
2nd (x0): augury, arcane lock, knock, suggestion, silence, blindness/ deafness, locate object
3rd (x3): non-detection, speak with dead, glyph of warding, magic circle, clairvoyance, meld into stone, dispel magic
Wards & seals (1/long): alarm, arcane lock, mage armor,

Effects: climb proficiency (10 min); 60’ darkvision

[3SecondCultist]

The moments stretch on as ir'Sencriss looks down at all of you, saying nothing. But when Gryphon approaches with the girl, the man descends the stairs to meet the wizard halfway, kneeling down to what might seem like a weak position only to embrace the shaking Layla. In that moment, you might as well all be statues - his daughter is the whole sum of his attention. Jaunt lets out a little yelp as Danilos squeezes her tight, disappearing to pop back out at their feet with a triumphant bark. For the first time since you've seen him, the ambassador has let go of some of the rancor as the haughty facade cracks and falls away. In its place is a father relieved to see his child in one piece.

"What would you have me do?" Danilos still isn't looking at Gryphon, Arimart, or any other member of your party. Instead he gently brushes a strand of stray hair out of Layla's face, muttering words of comfort under his breath and hearing words returned. It's with some obvious reluctance that he lets her go as Ghastor comes up beside him, the steward offering to take Layla up to her chambers to get her into bed. With a snap of his fingers, he makes sure no less than three guards accompany the pair, leaving himself undefended and alone on the landing. Layla tugs on Ghastor's sleeve, forcing the man to stop so that she can say goodbye. In lieu of more words spoken, she rushes forward and wraps Gryphon in a tight hug, all the while staring at Kett with uncomprehending eyes.

The flitting emotion that crosses ir'Sencriss' face is one that only the two would-be kidnappers know: the happy anticipation of knowing that the person you care most about in the world will be safe. It's only present for an instant before it slides away like water, leaving only a cool mask in its place. If all of what came before - or even any of it - was an act, it is one performed flawlessly by father and daughter both. "I do want justice. But that word is multifaceted, worlds of vagary in its meaning and always matchless in its irony. My justice is not yours, or hers, or his. In pursuing the concept, we create a thousand little antitheses. The laws of Thrane may be clear on the matter, yet there is no comfort in them. I could choose to fight this, to be flexible and go around the law, go around you... but I think not." He lets out a deep breath.

"Compromise is the first lesson of my station, and tonight it may be what is needed." He waves forward the guards that accompany Draci and Arano, both now in irons, to leave both prisoners at Arimart's side. "I will forego my claim to retribution, and formally pass them into your keeping under Throneport's authority without contest. Though I realize that I cannot compel any of you to action, I strongly request that Miss Kett also be taken into custody as well, as an accomplice, and will be passing that request through the courts. By tomorrow, the city will know what she did." He matches the prosecutor's earlier pause perfectly. "The sale of the orrery, however, is an unrelated incident and should be treated as such. A legal trade was conducted tonight, with signed documentation notified by House Sivis to the exchange of goods between two private individuals: Scercyll Ghastor, my steward, and Drake Shardstone. You will find only their names on the written record.

As to its use... an accident, a foolish noble trying to show off and getting too drunk to turn off the control mechanism in time to prevent casualties. Regrettable, but an accident, and no murder inquest is needed in its wake. The details and proceeds of the sale will remain under this roof. Professor Shardstone gets to keep his orrery, which legally now belongs to him, and my people keep the dividends of the auction. Should you give me your word now, in writing, that such a course of action will be upheld, then my testimony regarding Kett Collier may prove far more favorable."


Drake

The maid, sheepish enough at being caught in the act, sees to your request quickly enough. Before long, you have enough sheets - which you realize are actually snow-coloured linen tablecloths you don't even want to guess the price of - to shroud the visages of the departed. The incense burns slowly, masking the worst of the sizzling red-black aroma in something a bit more pleasing to the nose. The first of the ceremonies - over one of the Knights of Thrane - you perform on your own, calling out to the Host to shepherd a soul over Dolurrh's gray threshold and into peace.

In the window of opportunity that you have, you are alone with the cooling Phiarlan. Focusing the energies of your myriad godhead is simple enough, and as the incense burns away the blood-red lips of the elf crack open. "What is it... what do you want? Ask your questions..."

[Amnestic]

Kett Collier Human Shadow Monk/Rogue AC: 19 HP: 35/52 PP: 19 PIv: 13 PIs: 13 Conditions: Darkvision (~6 hours), 4/6 Ki Remaining, Eldritch Maul (3/10 turns remaining) Concentrating: -- Kett's focuses slips off the conversation as Arano is escorted to 'their' side, though she's aware of it enough to mentally note that if the property is Drake's at the time of use, surely he'd have some way to pursue restorative justice for its misuse and subsequent loss against ir'Sencriss? Not really her problem though. The orrery was in phiarlan hands, and perhaps her assisting in the chaos would go some way to keeping Lia's neck safe, for now. Though how much the one remaining phiarlan had noted her involvement...another matter. Siora's beheadedness did make things awkward. Questions, as always, for later. She hooks an arm into Arano's still-shackled elbow and tugs. "I need a word with my husband privately, please continue, we'll just be over here for a moment." She makes sure they don't turn out of line of sight, no reason to provoke concerns, but are out of clear listening distance, especially when she drops her voice. "Now I'm the one who doesn't have long. I don't know what Kleris' deal is but the others are a throneport prosecutor and the would-be Droaam ambassador. I've been reading a terrible romance novel lately," she slips into coded speech effortlessly, though decides against going into elven. Even if she were being overheard or had their lips read, they'd need a decent grasp of phiarlan linguisitics to discern their meaning. "The kissing scenes are completely unbelievable, even if the descriptions are vivid. Characterwise it's quite interesting at least, but it's bogged down with purple prose and the pacing is awful. The garden's doing well, but I've struggled with the jade lotuses of late, they don't seem to grow in right. I think it's the fertilizer."

Spoiler: Thieves Cant Translation, roughly

Show

"Not our best work ever, tight spot but we're still fine - for now. The team seems 'good' but too many open questions about them to be sure, especially the first one. Still fine with the plan but need to understand why in case of alternatives."

[CozJa]

Typical of people like ir'Sencriss, so used to think themselves above the law to be incapable of recognizing when they are deep low under the ground. However, the sincere show of affection for his daughter put Arimart in a more forgiving mood than he was a minute before. At least regarding Daniloss actions.

The paladin quietly ponders for a moment the Ambassador's words about justice. They may come from the wrong mouth, but do not fail to ring true in Arimart's mind.
He looks at the Ambassador and, answering to his last words, he raises his left Hand moving it from left to right, expressing a sense of slight disapproval.
"Forget about having anything written: the less we let out about what happened today, the better for all. You will have to take my word for what it is, and I'd say that it already proven to be quite much in this city.
So... you want to talk about miss Kett Collier? That's fine by me. What I'll need you to do is to tell, to cthe ourts, the city and whoever you want, the tale of how she, aiding the here present sir Gryphon Kellson, acted heroically to save countless lives from the fury of the flame. You want your story to pass? Well, that's my story, and I will support yours only if you support mine."

Tha Paladin turns to Draci, who now stands beside him. "As for the Orrery, I think it may be unwise to rule it out as an 'accident'. Do I have to remind you that too many notables died here? Nobody should know better than you that people like them often wants to search for enemies to blame. Also, our knight here will have to report something to her mistress, aren't you?"

The paladin looks around the room, as if considering his options. "I can start an investigation on the Orrery's theft, saying that, due to a rogue elven agent infiltrated at your party, it caused the death of many nobles. It's... partially true, after all. In that way the transaction won't need to be investigated, and every 'casualty' can be considered the consequence of an attack against your person."

He turns again to Draci, knowing well that she's not going to stay a prisoner for long. "You can support this, right? After all, lady Velancor needs only to know who got the Orrery and where she's headed, leaving out the part about how you all killed each other may be a wise choice."

He then turns again to look at Daniloss ir'Sencriss

"What then, ambassador? Your daughter is safe, you get to keep your money, and I may even help you by not letting lady Velancor discover your responsibility in the Orrery's loss today. That's my offer."

[(Un)Inspired]

Lady Layla’s hug catches Gryphon completely by surprise and the look of serene superiority is knocked completely off his face. He gives her a squeeze back and waves goodnight to her as Ghastor leads her off. He clears his throat and rearranges himself emotionally, with Spritz’s death, Hetrion’s comments, and now the friendship of this child, tonight had been an emotional rollercoaster for the young wizard.

Turning back to more vital matters, he watches the back and forth between the ambassador and the prosecutor. As I suspected, our dear Prosecutor’s allegiances lie more with moral justice, rather than legal.

[Starbin]

Professor Drake Shardstone

Drake thought for a moment, then asked his first question in elven.

Spoiler: In elvish

Show

”Welcome back, Milady. I apologize for the circumstances of our conversation and that of your passing, but I have a few questions for you, if I am to be able to help your sister avoid a tragic death. First off, who are you getting the orrery for?”

"Not for. Keeping... safe... from Thuranni."

Drake mulled on that for a moment. Of course ... this is House politics. How could I miss the obvious?

”Where were you taking the orrery?”

"Taking back... to counted shadows."

Counted shadows? By the Host, but I feel I should know this. Colorful alliteration, encoded phrase or plainly spoken name?

Uncertain for a moment, Drake continued. ” Where is the first meeting place you were to rally at.”

""I already told you...""

What? The Six take me, but that was an obvious misstep. Your mind is as slow as your pace, boy-o. Stop wasting your questions ...

With a sigh, he asked his next question. ” Who were you to deliver the orrery to?”

"Delivering it to... our leading lady."

An answer as useful as teets on a bull ... but I suppose that narrows down the list to House leadership vice the rank and file.

He paused for a long moment, thinking on his last question. Finally, he spoke. ” I hope to bring you and your sisters peace. After this question, rest.

When is the exchange of the orrery to your leading lady to occur?”

"Tomorrow night..."

Leaning back, Drake stroked his beard for a moment, his mind racing. So there’s still time. Not much, but I can still win this and complete my mission. Or at least part of it ...

Unfortunately, this is not my city ... I still need a stall, shade and duke. That means local allies ... or gulls.

Blinking, he bowed his head and whispered, ”Sleep well, Milady. I’ll do what I can to keep your sister alive ...”

As the spirit leaves the body, Drake pulled the sheet up over the woman’s upper half, his hands slipping what few items he had found of interest on her form. Rising slowly, he limped over to the next body’s to repeat his efforts, his mind ablaze with plans and propositions.

The game was fully a-foot ... and his turn was coming soon.

---

OOC - Posting the results from Dischord. And gathering any key items for ‘safekeeping.’

Spoiler: Status

Show

AC: 14 HP: 40/52 Init +2 Move 30’
Saves: Str +0 Dex +2 Con +2 Int +2 Wis +6 Cha +0
Skills: Arcana/Religion +8; Insight +5; Perception +9;
Warder’s inspiration (+1d4): Investigate, History, Thieves tools
Weapons: shortsword (+5 / 1d8+2); shortbow (+5 / 1d8+2)
Channel divinity 0/3 (Turn undead, destroy CR 1/2, Knowledge o/t Ages, Read thoughts)

Spoiler: Spells

Show

Prepare 9 spells, DC 15, 4-1st / 3-2nd / 3-3rd
0: guidance, thaumatugy, toll the dead, mending
1st (x4): command, identity, alarm, armor of Agnatha, cure light wounds, healing word, guiding bolt
2nd (x0): augury, arcane lock, knock, suggestion, silence, blindness/ deafness, locate object
3rd (x2): non-detection, speak with dead, glyph of warding, magic circle, clairvoyance, meld into stone, dispel magic
Wards & seals (1/long): alarm, arcane lock, mage armor,

Effects: climb proficiency (10 min); 60’ darkvision

[GameOfChampions]

Kleris watches the servants slowly rob what little reward they hoped to gain from the bodies and turned away, no helping it now. He would have to stop by the magic shop later to see what the wand he picked up was and possibly sell it off. He watches as the others push Danilos, and keep pushing the ambassador. He eyes the couple off to the side and then saunters over to where the others are discussing with the Ambassador, keeping his eye on the the couple all the while.

Frankly he didn't view Danilos as the problem here, there was no reason to force him to bend and keep bending. All that would do is make another enemy. He was just as much a victim as any of them.

Kleris claps a hand onto Arimarts shoulder and addresses all three, "My friends, you don't need to be so aggressive with the ambassador is. We are in the wrong just as much as he possibly is. He may have turned on the machine but let us not forget that until several other factions turned the situation into chaos it was harmless. You can bring a caged manticore to show off to your guests but you don't only blame the owner when some other idiot opens the cage."

He gestures to Kett "Maybe you two didn't see but the ladies first action was to blind the ambassador, he couldn't see anything that was happening. Those bard agents who hypnotized everyone to stop them from safely fleeing and living or the ass who set the firewall. The ambassador did neither of those things and was unaware because he was being blinded by the women we brought and attacked by her compatriot who stole the controls so he couldn’t turn it off anyway. You may not have heard but when I stopped the kidnapper he called to Kett and he handed the girl off to him for her to keep running. She literally aided in the kidnapping of this mans daughter and aided in the assault on him, he has the right to be upset and ask us to look into it.”

Kleris shrugs and nods his head towards them ”I don’t know about you two but I think we all deserve to know what happened here tonight. The lord ambassador's deal he offered is fair and you know it, he is compromising already so let us meet him in the middle. Arimart why don’t we head to your office and start to sort this out.”

He turns and gives a small bow to the ambassador ”Sir if you join us I’m sure we can have everything sorted out to everyone's partial satisfaction. Please, my first action was to discern the blackguarded actions by the man over there and move to save your daughter. You can trust me. We have a history with the women and she has proven to be a stalwart companion in the past, all we ask is if you may revisit your claim against her after we hear everything.”

[3SecondCultist]

Danilos frowns when Kett takes a moment with Arano, and the guard watching him stays nearby to make sure that there's no subsequent escape attempt in the middle of negotiations. He stands less than ten feet away, staring at the disguised elf with one hand near his weapon. Arano himself has adopted a passive face, features slack and without expression. It has the effect of making him resemble one half-dead, but Kett knows that he's recalling to mind training that both of them have shared. It says more than anything about comes next about her husband's state of mind.

"I'm glad you have allies that you can trust... even if the 'first one' did swear to hunt me down wherever I ran." He gives Arimart and Gryphon looks askance, but absolutely refuses to meet Kleris' eyeline from across the room. "Your novel might run into some surprise twists - don't put it down until you've finished it cover to cover, but I'm sorry to say it doesn't end well. When planting flowers, make sure you are humming the right songs. I find the lotuses work best when accompanied in the minor key." The guard clears his throat noisily, as though to signal an end to the brief and cryptic conversation.

Evidently confident enough that Kett is not about to stage an ambush - though it seems more likely to stem from the collective will to see this through than any strength of arms - the ambassador from Thrane takes a few seconds to consider Arimart's counter-proposal. He runs his left hand through his hair in deep thought, shaking free the few locks that weren't already mussed up from being caught at the edge of a melee. "I'm sure that House Phiarlan won't much approve of our pinning the blame on their people, but they were the first to strike out to subvert this evening. I can have letters prepared to be sent to the Demesne of Music back in Flamekeep; Viceroy Tialen will want to know about the untimely demise of a troupe of their finest."

Draci barely even acknowledges the prosecutor, not bothering to hide the boredom on her face as she listens to the back and forth. The warrior lets out a cavernous sigh as you all wait for your soon-to-be former host to make up his mind.

Wheels turning, the ambassador begins to pace slightly as he speaks, one hand resting on the balustrade of his overlook. That he is warming to the prospect of all of this would be obvious even if his sentences hadn't started to speed up. "The elves aside, your plan has merit. If you look into the 'theft' of the orrery, while laying the blame privately where it belongs, then I am satisfied. I can be sure to laud your criminal friend for you, if you wish." He smiles with just enough teeth that you know there is nothing natural about it. "If needs be, I can turn you all into the talk of the town. I can see it now: 'the Heroes of the Burning Birthday!' Your names will be spread across the city as the ones who heroically saved the people of my darling daughter's party from a fiery doom. The Sivis broadsheets are very malleable, when you know the right people; I should be able to get that onto tomorrow's post, or perhaps the day after."

When Kleris interjects on his behalf, Danilos is graceful enough to raise a hand. "Peace, friend. You're right of course - I only held the controller for a few seconds before being blinded and having it ripped from my grasp - but I think your companions and I are finally seeing common reason. Still, I thank you for your kind words, and more importantly everything you've done tonight." The ambassador actually descends the stairs as he speaks, alighting before Kleris and putting one hand out to shake.

"If it wasn't for your actions, I don't think my daughter would be getting tucked into bed right now. For that, you in particular have my gratitude. I'll be somewhat busy for the rest of the evening - burned house to clean, corpses to submit to House Deneith and innumerable questions to answer - but once this business is taken care of, I will be in your debt. Call on me then, and if it is within my power to aid, then I will help you."

It is at that precise moment that Drake returns to the fold, having made his rounds of the dead to administer last rites and oversee some private matters. The more canny observers among you note the presence of the same curved blade that the Phiarlan bard was wearing on the dwarf, and though ir'Sencriss raises an eyebrow he does not comment on it. "Well then, I think we have ourselves a deal. Professor Shardstone, welcome back. Please don't be concerned, we have reached an efficacious arrangement that will see you able to keep that controller as is your right. It might behove you to accompany the fine prosecutor for the time being, as he has just volunteered his services to spearhead the investigation into your missing artifact."

He gestures towards the double doors, a clear indication that you have been dismissed. "Take care now, friends of Throneport. Don't forget to bring the knight and the kidnapper in officially! I look forward to seeing them both behind bars, where they belong."

Spoiler: Thieves' Cant

Show

"Mission unsuccessful. If we don't get the girl, we don't get the weapon. I don't want to talk about it here - too many ears - but we'll need access to her sooner rather than later."

[Amnestic]

Kett Collier Human Shadow Monk/Rogue AC: 19 HP: 35/52 PP: 19 PIv: 13 PIs: 13 Conditions: Darkvision (~6 hours), 4/6 Ki Remaining Concentrating: -- So there was a weapon now. He'd have used a different word if he meant the information Kasimir supposedly had. It was beginning to seem like she'd been given a false set of instructions, which meant Lia was in worse trouble. Wonderful, great. When the guard coughs, she uses the last vestiges of her tattoo powers to make an obscene gesture in his direction. "Yeah yeah, keep wagging your tail for a guy who'd let you die without a second thought." She waves him off with her actual arm now that the inky dragon claws have receded, for now. It was frustrating that she couldn't get the details now, she didn't like fumbling in the dark when others had a light on, but waiting seemed inevitable at this point. With Arano set on saying no more, she walks him back to the group, just in time to hear Kleris try to sell Arano up the river. Kett exhales a quiet sigh. Late night chat it was then. She looks to Arimart expectantly. It seemed that for now they - Kett and Arano both, for they were a package deal - were in his hands.

[CozJa]

As Kleris seems able to seal the deal with Danilos, and Kett brings her husband with them, Arimart is more than glad to take leave.

"It is settled then, Ambassador, and apart for the last few minutes, your party was definitely well organized. Farewell!"

Then, he turns to his nearest companions, and says: "I've had enough of this place, let's go back to the castle..."

He escort the Half-Orc knight while Kett walks with her husband, stopping only in front of Drake.

"Professor Shardstone, I think we have mutual interests. I'm bringing these people to Thronehold, would you like to join us? We have... matters to discuss."

[(Un)Inspired]

Gryphon puts his hands in his pockets and the briefest whisper of being perturbed wrinkles across his forehead; only for him to quickly smooth it out into his typical placidity.

He keeps his eyes on the team’s new half-orc and elf prisoners but otherwise keeps his ears perked to listen to the conversation between Arimart and Professor Shardstone.

[GameOfChampions]

Kleris smiles at the ambassador, nodding his head to the man again at a slightly deeper incline "Thank you lord ambassador for your thought of me in this time. I hope this is the start of a friendship not just a partnership."


He then nods to the Professor as Arimart invites him along to sort out the aftermath. He was a curious man, possibly another contact worth cultivating. Though tonight had been a record night for contacts made.

[Starbin]

Professor Drake Shardstone

Drake wandered back to the rest of the group, pausing to hear ir'Sencriss speak. He looked at Arimart, soaring a glance to the Prosecutor’s companions, then back to the manor Lord. He bowed in proportion to the man’s station, smiling faintly. ”Thank you for your hospitality, generosity, and patience, Lord Ambassador. I hope that the coin offered for the orrery may serve to assist your efforts to compensate the fallen and their families.

And if I may offer an observation - despite the tragedies and tribulations we have shared here, we also all bore witness to the unification of a group of diverse personalities against the perfidy of sworn allies. May the sorrows of this evening serve to spark a flame to light the way for all of us, that we may work together to realize the promise of peace that is Throneport.”

Turning to Arimart, Drake considered the man’s offer before nodding. ”Aye, Sir, I’ll join you. Tis in our best interests to work together, given the potential for mischief the orrery represents. Please, lead on, milord.”

---

OOC - To the Batcave!’

Spoiler: Status

Show

AC: 14 HP: 40/52 Init +2 Move 30’
Saves: Str +0 Dex +2 Con +2 Int +2 Wis +6 Cha +0
Skills: Arcana/Religion +8; Insight +5; Perception +9;
Warder’s inspiration (+1d4): Investigate, History, Thieves tools
Weapons: shortsword (+5 / 1d8+2); shortbow (+5 / 1d8+2)
Channel divinity 0/3 (Turn undead, destroy CR 1/2, Knowledge o/t Ages, Read thoughts)

Spoiler: Spells

Show

Prepare 9 spells, DC 15, 4-1st / 3-2nd / 3-3rd
0: guidance, thaumatugy, toll the dead, mending
1st (x4): command, identity, alarm, armor of Agnatha, cure light wounds, healing word, guiding bolt
2nd (x0): augury, arcane lock, knock, suggestion, silence, blindness/ deafness, locate object
3rd (x2): non-detection, speak with dead, glyph of warding, magic circle, clairvoyance, meld into stone, dispel magic
Wards & seals (1/long): alarm, arcane lock, mage armor,

Effects: climb proficiency (10 min); 60’ darkvision

[3SecondCultist]

Revelations

Your exit blessed, you set off from Solstice House. The guards open the doors for you, servants hastening to gather any outerwear that you checked and seeing out with cursory, muted goodbyes. There are no more ceremonies to stand on tonight, no appearances to maintain. Whatever crowd of peacocks that gathered under these glittering, rarefied lights have either scattered or been cut down before their time. You have the free run of the courtyard, and find to your surprise that you have your choice of vehicle: one particular carriage has been left abandoned, a slender sleek thing with a teak frame and gold-leaf embossing along the outside. By the looks of the plush leather interior, it can fit most of you comfortably.

Though you were four to arrive and seven leaving, you feel somehow less than you were when you passed through this threshold a mere hour past. Arimart leads the way on his steed, armoured profile tall as he clears a path. The rest of you are sheltered from the worst of it all, yet you find to some disappointment that even fine carriages must trudge through the same muddy lanes and are equally beset by buffeting winds and the promised rain. More than a little of both come through the crevices and windows, leaking onto the wooden floor and lapping at the blood on your clothes and skin.

Those within the vehicle have not yet found voice to breach the silence. On one side in the middle sit Arano and Kett, reunited. Though neither betrays their thoughts, their proximity might as well be a fortress. Draci sits opposite them, equally content to say nothing at all and staring directly ahead. The only movement she makes is an occasional twitch in her right hand, the tell-tale symbol of a soldier too long on the battlefield, or perhaps one that never left. Near one of the doors, Drake sits and looks out over what little he can see of the Throneport skyline. The storm is coming in strong now, with no end in sight, yet the glow of the spires and statues by mage-light is ever visible. By the opposite door, Kleris watches over both prisoners with no attempt to disguise the focus of his attention.

Whoever you are on your way to becoming, whatever bonds will be forged or broken in truth's fires, you aren't those people yet. Who knows what you will be before the night is through?

Your makeshift caravan is eventually stopped at a familiar place: the outer ramparts of Thronehold Castle, the site of your victory. Here the shadows lengthen beneath the gatehouse, as the wheels come to rest beneath mortared authority. The palisades are long gone, as are any signs of a Karrnathi ground defence save for the perfunctory patrol. However, the sight of that towering bastion with the closed doors you know all too well, as you do the call from down atop the crenellations from the men and women in the chimeric yellow-and-green of House Deneith.

"Halt there! The castle is temporarily closed - turn around now, or be fired upon!"

[Amnestic]

Kett Collier Human Shadow Monk/Rogue AC: 19 HP: 35/52 PP: 19 PIv: 13 PIs: 13 Conditions: Darkvision (~5 hours), 4/6 Ki Remaining Concentrating: -- The rain was nice. Soothing. The heavy drumbeat of it on the carriage walls and ceiling a calming rhythm, alike to her tapping fingers or the gentle sloshing of waves. It was surrounding, and yet not all encompassing as on the open ocean. Her hand clasps Arano's without hesitation, reproach or shame, for she feels none, and he returns the gesture in kind. She's content to let the quiet rest, but when the shout comes down that they're unable to enter, she can't help but break the silence. "Didn't we do this already?"

[CozJa]

Riding in the rain was no new sensation for Arimart, but one he was accustomed since his days in Sharn. Cruel and senseless as it might seem, the world seem to always be able to punctuate important moments with drops of rain.

Not wanting to speak until they are back to Thronehold caste, the paladin keeps his thoughts for himself, thoughts on trust and justice, about the meaning of their actions today, and the consequences of what happened. But for now, musings have to wait, since a familiar outline is in sight.

As they approach, a heavy voice tries his best to cover the sounds of wind and rain. Then Kett breaks their long sileince.

Immediately, Arimart's mind goes back to the party, and those strange voices about an attack on Maugrim. what it...?
But asking questions to oneself brings nowhere, thinks the paladin, before showing the symbol of the Tribunal.

"I am sir Arimart Kaessal, and I'm here with my team to bring back two captives. What is happening? Can I be of help?"

[3SecondCultist]

The reply comes just as quickly, called down by the same voice. Flickering circles of arcane lanterns reveal the rank and file, though the exact identity of the speaker is impossible to tell in the howling dark.

"We are under full lockdown! There is to be nobody in or out until the morning - absolutely no exceptions. Find a place to stash your prisoners and come back tomorrow."

[(Un)Inspired]

Stepping out into the deluge, Gryphon shakes his head. A torrent of fire, and torrent of water; that tornado and landslide should be along any minute now.

Using both hands he pantomimes opening an umbrella and the nearby water gets syphoned into the shape of an aquatic bumbershoot, which he raises above his head. Deferring to Arimart’s possible desire to speak further with Drake, he steps into the passenger compartment of their newly appropriated carriage, leaving shotgun available for the Dwarven Professor.

He wiggles his finger in a circle and his umbrella transforms into little hoods for the carriage’s windows, snapping to freeze them in place, hoping to keep as much moisture off the vehicle’s occupants. The lugubrious wizard stares out into the darkness as the team rolls through the night. In the 7 years since he’d first conjured the fey spirit into the form of Spirtz, this was the first time he had ever been bodily destroyed. While Gryphon had an academic understanding of how to reincorporate his otherworldly friend, he’d never before put it into practice. Make a friend, lose a friend. Progress stymied by regression. Madam Kett has her husband back, but we don’t know why he tries to steal Layla. Questions breed only questions; never to have a point of terminus est.

The halting of the carriage jolts him out of his thoughts. He opens his mouth to respond to Kett. Perhaps the Karnathi desire to donate more magic items to us.

Listening to the guard’s shouted response to Arimart, a cold revelation shudders through the Khorovar’s body. God’s alive, I’m gonna, have to host another sleepover!

[Amnestic]

Kett Collier Human Shadow Monk/Rogue AC: 19 HP: 35/52 PP: 19 PIv: 13 PIs: 13 Conditions: Darkvision (~5 hours), 4/6 Ki Remaining Concentrating: -- "We should be so lucky," Kett matches Gryphon's joke in kind. "I'm guessing this is something else. My money's on the shapeshifter assassins, but does anyone want to take a bet on the rakshasa? Five gold buys you in." Arano's look makes her lean over and whisper loud enough for everyone to hear clearly even over the pouring rain. "Arimart's boss is allegedly a rakshasa demon. And some shapeshifters are going to kill Maugrim tonight. Allegedly." It's delivered with the offhand casual delivery of someone utterly uninvested in that outcome. Arimart didn't seem the type to leave things well enough alone, but she had no reason to help with that. Yet.

[CozJa]

With the rain intensifying and the Deneith guard reminding hims why their house makes for the best ushers in all Khorvaire, Arimart turns to his friends, looking at Kett with a dissatisfied expression.

"No need to swim in the mud, unless you haven't had enough of the lot you're already in... I guess this ride was for nothing. We may go back to the Speck... Jhory's Reprieve. I'm sorry but it looks we will have to abuse of your hospitality, master Kleris."

As they make their move, Arimart approaches Gryphon "Whenever you're able I need your arcane powers to communicate with a couple of people."

[Amnestic]

Kett Collier Human Shadow Monk/Rogue AC: 19 HP: 35/52 PP: 19 PIv: 13 PIs: 13 Conditions: Darkvision (~5 hours), 4/6 Ki Remaining Concentrating: -- "Mmm, I wouldn't." Kett slides her reply back coolly. "Kleris went above and beyond to threaten Arano in a way that comes off as a personal grudge - one he's chosen not to elaborate on before or now. I'm not trusting his safety to Kleris' goodwill, and while he's officially in your custody neither should you. Strange times that I'd trust Gryphon over...well, anyone, honestly, but at least I can be assured he's not got a personal stake in the matter. If his home is free for use, of course." The handgrip the married couple share tenses slightly, the wavelength being carried through it all too clear.

[GameOfChampions]

Kleris rolla his eyes at Ketts remarks and answers Arimart first "The Reprieve is available and it does have a lot more rooms then Gryphons apartments."

Then cattily returns Ketts remarks "As for Arano and his safety maybe that should have been a consideration before you attempted to aid him in kidnapping, assault of a diplomatic figure, and then attempted extortion of said figure. Your enabling that six dammed attempt was what put him in danger. I wouldn't throw stones either for not elaborating miss 'riot'. I have some questions for the man of a pressing nature, it's simple as that."

Then he sinks a little further into seat and mutters "Besides I wouldn't murder anyone in my inn. There been to many damn murders there already."

[Amnestic]

Kett Collier Human Shadow Monk/Rogue AC: 19 HP: 35/52 PP: 19 PIv: 13 PIs: 13 Conditions: Darkvision (~5 hours), 4/6 Ki Remaining Concentrating: -- "I see I've touched a nerve," she mocks surprise, placing her free hand to her heart in faux-shock. "Don't think I'm judging you for keeping secrets, keep as many as you'd like! But if I'm to fall under suspicion for my secrets it seems only fair that we share that around. You could've disclosed your investment in our mission when I told you all about Arano but chose to keep that little lip zipped. Disappeared during the party only to come back with information from who knows where. A bit too eager to get on the mass murdering host's good side, while not warning him about the riot I gently tipped you all off about." She casts her eyes around, though skips over Drake and the orc. They, at least, were exempt from her scorn. "I'm not blind to our situation," her head tilt acknowledging her husband, and once again cementing the couple's pairing. "Just try not to forget that when you got told about the imminent violence, that all three of you sat on your hands and did bugger all until it was too late, heroes." The last word is laced with venom. Let it sting. She at least had a good reason for it. What was their excuse?

[(Un)Inspired]

Replying to Arimart, Gryphon frowns. With the magic I used up in that battle, I won’t be able to send a message out magically till 7am. I’m happy to do so, but that is the earliest I will have the arcane control to cast such a spell.

He lets his head slump back and massages the bridge of his nose for a moment while letting out a laugh born half of mirth and half of resignation when he listens to Kett’s declaration of faith in him. Oh gods, is this where we’ve come to? I must confess, none would be happier than I to make our way to The Speckled Reprieve. Kleris’ hospitality has been nothing but sublime, and besides, it’s where the alcohol lives. But I can imagine Madam Kett is feeling a great deal of trepidation at letting him host her young lover after she saw what he did to the last Mark of Shadows elf he came across. So... He struggles to suppress a defeated sigh.

So I am, as ever, at your and the tribunal’s services. I’m happy to offer my apartment as a makeshift jail cell for the evening. I, however, have a sensible proposal. To which I have a feeling you’re going to have an initial negative reaction to, Prosecutor, so please consider what I’m about to say careful before making a judgement.

My apartment currently lacks containment cells, my closets are not exactly Dreadhold; you, Kleris, Professor Shardstone, and I must all get a full night sleep to replenish our magical energies. Madam Kett and our two prisoners do not. Therefore I propose we temporarily hobble both young master Arano and Lady Draci here to prevent the possibility of flight in the night. Simply breaking all their fingers and toes should suffice. In the morning, as I send off your messages, Professor Shardstone can administer Lesser Restoration to them to mend their infirmities, an action for which we will handily reward him, and we can plan out our next day.

[CozJa]

As his companions start to discuss even on the location of their next stay, Gryphon explains his inability to help him contact his colleagues and the rain intensifies, Arimart's patience grows thin, and he starts pondering the pros and cons of falling in a deadly Fernian pit.

"I'd very much prefer if we discussed everything under a roof!"

When Gryphon proposes to break their prisoners' fingers, Arimart can't resist anymore: he unmounts from the horse, reaches for one of his pockets and takes a couple of mancles with finely engraved dwarven runes on them, probably a work of house Kundarak.

"Enough of this! We don't need to break anything, at least anything that hasn't already been broken by this unending loss of time!"

As he says this, the paladin shackles Arano's Right arm and Darci left one.

"There, are you fine now? Those are magical, only I can remove them. Therefore they are not going to escape anywhere. Now, can we please fine a place where we can talk?"

[GameOfChampions]

Kleris rolls his eyes again at Ketts attempt to bait him, and instead turns to Arimart "I will once again offer the inn. ITs free, it has food and drink, it has beds, and most importantly its dry. I'll send the staff and any customers home. It will just be us. There is nothing I could do there alone that I couldn't do anywhere else for all Kett is implying I somehow have it filled with hidden assassins and deadly traps or whatever."

[Starbin]

Professor Drake Shardstone

Drake had spent most of the trip staring out the window. From his peripheral vision, he could see the others were introspective, but even amidst the tension he could see small acts of normalcy - the wizard’s cantrips, the soldier flexing her sword hand, the couple holding hands. He was busy considering how much he could trust the group, and what he might share with them when they finally arrived at the castle ... only to find out it was closed.

Like a glyph exploding, the news turned the silent carriage into a den of bickering children. He smirked to himself at the first few verbal thrusts and parries, wondering how they planned to resolve the brewing conflict and safety concerns. However, his eyes did snap to Gryphon when the man suggested crippling the prisoners in order to get some sleep. Before the dwarf could respond, Arimart snapped and pulled out a mystical set of cuffs with an exasperated outburst.

Drake eyed the members of this bizarre expedition while stroking his beard before finally speaking. ”You are quite the intriguing group - confident, informed, effective, and well-connected. But perhaps not as close as you originally appeared to be. I humbly request a cease fire until lodging has been secured and we are all out of this nasty weather, least one say something they later regret.

I always feel a sense of vulnerability while I am traveling ...”

He spoke smoothly, but his eyes lingered in the orc soldier, reminding the youngsters there were unfriendly ears in the carriage. And they were a juicy target for any number of interested parties just sitting here.

---

OOC - just a little post to catch up

Spoiler: Status

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AC: 14 HP: 40/52 Init +2 Move 30’
Saves: Str +0 Dex +2 Con +2 Int +2 Wis +6 Cha +0
Skills: Arcana/Religion +8; Insight +5; Perception +9;
Warder’s inspiration (+1d4): Investigate, History, Thieves tools
Weapons: shortsword (+5 / 1d8+2); shortbow (+5 / 1d8+2)
Channel divinity 0/3 (Turn undead, destroy CR 1/2, Knowledge o/t Ages, Read thoughts)

Spoiler: Spells

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Prepare 9 spells, DC 15, 4-1st / 3-2nd / 3-3rd
0: guidance, thaumatugy, toll the dead, mending
1st (x4): command, identity, alarm, armor of Agnatha, cure light wounds, healing word, guiding bolt
2nd (x0): augury, arcane lock, knock, suggestion, silence, blindness/ deafness, locate object
3rd (x2): non-detection, speak with dead, glyph of warding, magic circle, clairvoyance, meld into stone, dispel magic
Wards & seals (1/long): alarm, arcane lock, mage armor,

Effects: 60’ darkvision

[3SecondCultist]

It takes you nearly as long again to make your way out of the deluge on Thronehold's doorstep as it did to arrive there. Along the way, the rhythms of the rain rattle peacefully against Gryphon's new awnings of ice; you can see the water forming slow serpentine channels through the opaque surface, sliding away from the carriage to join the miniature waterways among the cobblestones. You can barely hear the clatter of horseshoes on the street, though those of you looking out at the city note the lights and shapes of its citizens turning in for the evening. There are few in your way as you pass beneath the looming tower of the Triptych and back into the Port District, the buildings growing shorter and squatter as your group reaches the warehouses and low rising tenements that surround the city's harbour.

The Reprieve is more or less how you left it: refurbished sign left over smoky windows, a decor of tar-pitch boards and stuffed cushions that leave a bit to be desired, and the faint smell of brine wafting in from the sea. The workers have gone home for the day, the bar not having yet been opened at Kleris' instruction. By the light of the half-shuttered lanterns, the still-stained bar shines with half-imagined scenes written in its well-worn grooves. The many ship's plaques gleam down at you, the brass work only marginally more polished than it was on the first night you arrived here. The glasses have been cleaned and well-placed and the floors swept and tidied, but the Reprieve never hints at elegance.

Then again, there has never been any need to. This is not a Ghallanda Golden Dragon, not some gussied up hotel that dresses up for company or turns people away at the door. The Reprieve doesn't try to pretend it's anything other than what it is. The place might have seen more fights and deaths than most other waterside establishments in the city, but there's no denying its character.

Home sweet home. At the very least, it's a conveniently empty space for you all to perpetuate the storm.

[GameOfChampions]

Kleris sighs happily as he unlocks and enters the inn, shaking off water from the brief moment outside. It had been a long night and he had his plans and goals that still needed to be seen through tonight but for now he needed a quick breather. As he enters he walks around, unshuttering the lanterns to reveal more light and totally by chance eliminating more shadows. A quick check confirms the employees had gone home so he was all good on that front and he calls behind him "Come on in everyone. We have the inn all to ourselves so make yourselves at home."

As everyone troops in he walks behind the bar, pulling a couple drink options onto the bar top. He then walks in the back and grabs some easy food leftover from the last few days; thick slices of bread, a few hunks of cheese, quickly chopped salt pork, a few shriveled apples, and a few dry sausages. After that's done he goes back to the office room and shuts the door before changing his clothes back to his more standard outfit. More comfortable and dry and goes back out to the main room.

With everything on the bar top for everyone he grabs a small meal for himself and a large mug of cider. He heads over to the closest table, collapsing onto the chair with a slouch and kicking his booted shoes onto the next closest chair. Mouth a little full of bread he grumbles "How bout we take a quick break before getting it not he thick of it?"