DDR: Dungeons, Dragons, Romance! [IC]

[JNAProductions]

Spoiler: Magic Item Brokers, History DC 21

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Cresthaven doesn't have a thriving trade in magical items. Minor knick-knacks aren't too uncommon, but anything of power is. Your best bet, if you want anything practical, is to deal with the Eagles-they've got plenty of outside connections, and know where the more destructive things are.

Common magical items-shiftweave, capes of billowing, maybe a Ruby of the Warmage-could be gotten without too much trouble.
Beyond that, though, it'd take time-time you don't have at this exact moment.

[Illven]

I would love to accompany you to the bakery. My treat? Phyrra offers, also offering her arm.

[Escheton]

Fendwaith the Architect Changeling Lorebard//Fey Ranger AC: 14 HP: 39/39 PP: 20 PIv: 14 PIs: 17 Conditions: Concentrating: -- "That sounds delightful!", the currently bluehaired Fen answers before locking arms and skipping into the sunset together and heading towards the Castle.

Spoiler: OOC

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[JNAProductions]

You make your way towards Flint's. It's not quite on the way (you're on the west side of the city, and it's a little south of the central palace) but it's a smart place to go. Once you're in roughly the right area, you ask around a bit for directions, and soon enough, you're in front of a small building with a green sign, labeled "Flint's Bakery".

Inside, there's a few people milling around, waiting for orders to be filled or sitting and munching at one of the three tables. Phyrra takes the lead, asking the man behind the counter, a rotund halfling, for a good selection of baked goods.

"Hrm... Just a general variety?" he asks. "Nothing in particular? Well, there's three pies coming soon-two are for others, but the last one is for sale generally. And some cookies... Doughnuts... Honey, do we have any scone?"

"Yes sweetie!" a woman's voice comes from the back.

"Scones! Always good. Erm, to do it in short order, there will be a little extra fee, so... Call it ten gold pieces?" he says. Phyrra takes the coins out, and the halfling quickly counts them. "Mm, all good. Let me get some packaging ready!"

You wait for about five minutes-it sounds like there's a small urgent situation in the back, but before long, you're presented with a few packages of goodies. "Come back any time!" he says.

Spoiler: OOC

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I'd like to get to the palace soon, and it SEEMS like we're ready, but I'll have a brief pause here in case anyone isn't.

If y'all are good, just make a post here or in the OOC indicating so. :)

[JNAProductions]

With the baked goods gotten, you make the short trek to the palace. There are guards posted at the front, two tritons. The near one sees your approach, and calls out "What business do you have here?"

You briefly explain the situation and show him the letter. He looks it over with great care, and then hands it back. "Seems to be well enough in order. And what's in the packages?" Phyrra tells him that you all stopped by Flint's to get some treats, just to be nice. The guard grins a little as he peeks inside. "You guys are pretty smart. Go on in, and make sure the princess gets back safely."

Stepping inside, you realize you don't know exactly where to go in the palace. One of you steps back, and asks the guard for directions to where the queen and princess are. He gives you directions, and armed with knowledge, you make your way to the throne room. When you reach the antechamber, there's a servant there, who asks for your names, and then ushers you in once he looks over the letter. "To your majesties, Queen Morna and Princess Otari, I present the requested company of the adventuring party."

Queen Morna smiles. "Thank you. You may return to your post." The servant nods, bows, and leaves for the antechamber. "Good day to you, friends," she adds towards you all. "I hope that Cresthaven has found you all well. I have heard some tales of your daring journeys, and I must say I am impressed. I know you've read the letter I sent, but I do not expect it to have answered everything. So, please-ask what you need to know."

[Xav]

Owen Voldrevol Half-Elf Arcane Trickster Bladesinger AC: 18 HP: 53/53 PP: 17 PIv: 15 PIs: 17 Conditions: Concentrating: -- - Quite a nice place you have here, - says Owen, inhaling the odors, - They say, your bakery is the most well-known, and the goods are the tastiest? And is it true, that Her Majesty Queen Moira and her daughter are fond of tasty goods?

Spoiler: OOC

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I use Persuasion to possibly know something else about the royal family, and after that - yes, to the palace.
(1d20+7)[24]

[JNAProductions]

Back At Flint's
"Oh, of course! We get orders from the palace every week, and occasionally more!" the halfling replies. "I look forward to when I get to deliver them myself-they tip well, and the palace grounds are so beautiful."

Spoiler: OOC

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That's a great check! Unfortunately, he's got no particular info for you. He could get you specifics on what sorts of baked goods they usually order, but they aren't necessarily gonna have them available.

[MagneticDragon]

... Oh. Fend didn’t ask for their thoughts.

Ferrous didn’t mind. Fend was a very intelligent person and a master of social networking and manipulation, and was very skilled at using her followers for information gathering across the settlement each time they came into the town. It made much more sense for them to be busy considering the situation and the potential benefits it would bring them to remember to ask Ferrous’ thoughts. Besides, it wasn’t like Ferrous would have a considerable amount to add to the discussion anyway. They had a decent head for magic and how it worked, helping set up the carriage with inventive uses of Magic Mouth to make it easier to bring attention to the carriage and those within it. But Ferrous had nowhere near the knowledge of society, politics and kingdoms like Fend did. So what would he have to add to the discussion?

Instead. Ferrous simply stayed quiet while the rest made plans, as was usual. They were all so much smarter and more knowledgeable than him, so why shouldn’t they make the plans? He was fine with quiet. Really. Best let others do the talking.

Indeed. Once they arrived at the Palace and were brought before the Queen and the Princess, Ferrous did not know what to do. Should he bow? Should he bend a knee? Or was it fine for him to just stand here, silently, as he normally did? Ferrous made sure to keep an eye on the others, especially Fend, as stood a little behind the rest. If they bowed, he would bow, if not, he would not. Simple plan and the questions they needed to ask were simple really. Why did the Queen want them to escort the Princess specifically? It did make Ferrous quite curious, especially as the Queen made it sound like they had been following the adventures of the group for some time now. But again, best stay silent, and let others do the talking.

They would likely bring up important questions that Ferrous would forget, as always.

[Xav]

Owen Voldrevol Half-Elf Arcane Trickster Bladesinger AC: 18 HP: 53/53 PP: 17 PIv: 15 PIs: 17 Conditions: Concentrating: -- Owen bows not too low, - just as much as befits an aristocrat of another state, - and speaks: - Greetings, Your Majesty, Your Highness. Great honor and no less pleasure to meet you. Cresthaven is indeed a wonderful city, and I hope it will continue to prosper under your wise guidance. Unfortunately, we hadn't spend enough time here to fully explore the sights... Speaking about our journeys, I don't usually listen to what people tell about them, but they surely mention the dangers of these adventures. Does Your Highness imagine, what she might have to face on the way to Arnhollow and back?

[JNAProductions]

"In theory? No dangers beyond the normal travails of the road. The point of sending an unaffiliated group is to avoid any... Diplomatic issues," the queen says. "In practice, of course, it's never that simple."

Princess Otari adds to her mother's words. "While I've not made overtly public my intentions, rumours always slip out. Enemies of Cresthaven, or simple opportunists, will look to take advantage of the situation. Obviously we can't be divulging too much information before you are with us-but we have knowledge on who and what might seek to stop this mission of peace."

[Illven]

Can you give us information about our enemies capabilities. If we were all archmages, I'd be more hesistant to accept a mission in a dead magic zone. Phyrra explains

[Escheton]

Fendwaith the Architect Changeling Lorebard//Fey Ranger AC: 14 HP: 39/39 PP: 20 PIv: 14 PIs: 17 Conditions: Concentrating: -- At the Bakery At Flint's Fen subtly fishes for details while deft-fully weaving in compliments to make the inquiry seem natural. Taking good note of details and mannerisms of whomever has contact with the castle. Guards at the Front "You guys are pretty smart. Go on in, and make sure the princess gets back safely.", the Triton Guard says. Seemingly put on comfort from Phyrra's thoughtfulness. But it triggers a worry and raised eyebrow for Fen. Who decides to dig a little deeper on that statement. "This is a rather telling letter instead of being a non-descript summons. Are the two of you often privvy to such information? And if so, how often do you encounter attempts to bribe, or simply snatch and torture you, for such privilege?" In the Castle Proper Not given initial precise instructions, Fen uses the opportunity to...wander. Willfully heading towards deeper and more off limits sections of the castle. Both to explore and memorize, and to test security. When one of their own does think it enough and inquires, they quickly fall in line. But not after prodding the guard to make sure that alternate routes weren't an option in leading to the throne-room, in case they make a wrong turn anyways. In the throne room Fen keeps part of their attention on Ferrous throughout. They are now further away from their anchor, and in unfamiliar social settings. So Fen is careful to apply the right amount of push-and-pull. Leading by example while giving them a short knowing reassuring side-glance. To then leave them on their own again and seemingly ignore the anxious automaton. The changeling waits for the elven noble to take point, following up with some more pressing questions "Before we get to who might foil your plans, I must ask; What drew your eminence's attention to our humble band, what exactly is known of us, in general, but especially given the information gathering resources of your station. And what ultimately made the choice final?" Finishing with "Now, incognito traveling is obviously the prudent option. Has our fair and clever princess chosen a role or guise yet? Or is that yet to be determined?" after listening careful to the answers given.

Spoiler: OOC

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Gather Information at Flint: (1d20+15)[22]
Casing out the Castle (1d20+10)[23]
Diplomacy to get an honest answer in the throne room (1d20+15)[21]

[JNAProductions]

"You've proven yourselves competent, while still remaining... Not exactly unknown, but not affiliated with anyone. Furthermore, you have a habit of wandering the world-going to Arnhollow from Cresthaven is not something that would raise eyebrows from anyone who follows your movements-it's simply your normal movements." But then, Queen Morna sighs and steeples her fingers when the disguise is brought up. "My daughter has indeed settled on a disguise, for when she is not performing her official duties."

Princess Otari grins. "Given how modest all of our ceremonial and official outfits are, I figured it would make sense to do the opposite of that to travel incognito. With how your group operates, I figured I could tag along as an eager fan, trying to get into the good graces of the company."

Spoiler: Insight DC 8

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Queen Morna is clearly NOT happy with her daughter's decision. She is, as you know, the more traditional type, so her daughter playing the part of a groupie does NOT sit well with her.

Spoiler: DC 13

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Princess Otari is probably using this as a way to get out from her mother's protection. She's sincere in her desire to make peace-but it's also a chance to live for herself a little.

Spoiler: DC 18

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Otari is also a little conflicted on this-she loves her mom, and wants to make her happy. But not at the cost of her own way of living.

[Drakeburn]

Betha Stormwind (Human Fighter/Artificer) - Character Sheet AC: 14 | HP: 49/49 | Initiative: +2 | Passive Perception: 14 Betha was out of her element here. Etiquette and manners, especially around nobility, wasn't something she learned from years of piracy. She simply followed the other's leads and kept her mouth shut so she doesn't blow the opportunity for her and the group. But from what she heard and observed, she could tell that there was a bit of conflict between the Queen and the Princess about the Princesses' disguise. But she found what Princess Otari said about being a fan to tag along to get on their good graces hilarious, but she keeps herself from chuckling.

[Illven]

Have you already decided on your uniform? Phyrra asks with a grin.

[JNAProductions]

"I've got some ideas," the princess says, "but I don't know quite enough to figure out which is the best look, for general usage."

The queen sighs, mostly at her daughter. "I'm sure they'll be quite willing to help you decide which outfit is best. I take it, from all this, that you're willing to escort her? Although we should go over payment, before you agree. Doma!" she calls.

A blue-skinned gnomish woman virtually appears from... Somewhere. You're not really sure where. "Yes, your majesty?"

"Can you fetch the contracts?" Morna asks.

"At once, your majesty!" Doma replies. She vanishes, seeming without so much as taking a step.

Otari tells you "That's Doma-she's the head of the servants here. Really puts her heart and soul into this stuff."

Doma returns, bearing a bundle of parchment. She takes it towards your group, and lays one out. "This is the general overview. It states that, should you agree, you will act in Cresthaven's best interest while on this mission, to the best of your ability-above all, keeping the princess safe. Beyond that, it includes some amount of benefits-free lodging at any diplomatic hostel in or associated with Cresthaven, the ability to deputize guards within Cresthaven for assistance should it be needed, and a few other tidbits. Given your methods of transportation, it's expected to take somewhere around three weeks to reach Arnhollow. The diplomatic mission itself shouldn't take more than two weeks-we hope-and then three weeks travel back. You'll be paid for a minimum of two months of service, though should this last longer, you will be paid more. We've decided on an 8,000 GP payment to each of you five, as well as covering expenses occurred in relation to this task. Note that that's in relation to this task-no getting drunk on our dollar, unless that's expected by Arnhollow! Depending on the services rendered, Princess Otari has permission to increase the rewards you will receive, to a certain extent. So that 8,000 is the minimum, really."

As she speaks, she points out the various bits she mentions on there. She covers most of it-there may be some minor, legalese details for them to cover their butts, but it's all in order.

[Drakeburn]

Betha Stormwind (Human Fighter/Artificer) - Character Sheet AC: 14 | HP: 49/49 | Initiative: +2 | Passive Perception: 14 Betha gave a huge grin at the mention of 8,000 gold pieces per person, but frowned when Doma said that they can't essentially be drunk while on the job. But when Doma said that the 8,000 gold pieces was only the minimum of what they would be paid, that was enough to put a smile back on Betha's face. Spoiler: OOC Show History check for what Betha knows about Arnhollow: (1d20+5)[24]

[Xav]

Owen Voldrevol Half-Elf Arcane Trickster Bladesinger AC: 18 HP: 53/53 PP: 17 PIv: 15 PIs: 17 Conditions: Concentrating: -- Owen thoroughly looks over the parchment: - Acting on behalf and in Cresthaven's interest... That's useful, but we won't use except in extreme cases. More attention not always means more risk, but mentioning the royal house is not the attention we need. Now the question is - who knows about the upcoming trip?

[JNAProductions]

Spoiler: DC 24 History On Arnhollow

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Arnhollow is a relatively new (still generations old, but newer than most others) city, founded by a coalition of what's generally considered the more warlike and less civilized species. Orcs, goblinoids, and other such. There was, as one might expect, a great deal of conflict early on as the more established cities viewed Arnhollow as unfit, but they were proven wrong by the first great Arnhollow leader-Orzdrak the Mediator. An orcish man, he had a silver tongue and a knack for resolving conflicts without any bloodshed, or even really any kind of violence or offense. Orzdrak was middle-aged by the time Arnhollow was established, but he persevered through his life enough to leave Arnhollow as a peer of the other cities by the time he died.

Since then, Arnhollow has been ruled by an oligarchy of the various races, houses, and peoples of the city. While none are so dear in memory as Orzdrak, they've had their fair share of good leaders. Not every leader was perfect, but they've avoided any civil wars or anything major.

Queen Morna says "Myself and my daughter, of course. Doma. The generals have been told, and that's about it officially. Of course, word can spread-whoever let you in is sure to know now. Furthermore, Otari commonly makes appearances alongside myself-usually once a week or so. One week missed might simply be her feeling under the weather-two weeks and many would assume she is gone, for some purpose."

[Xav]

Owen Voldrevol Half-Elf Arcane Trickster Bladesinger AC: 18 HP: 53/53 PP: 17 PIv: 15 PIs: 17 Conditions: Concentrating: -- Owen frowns: - That's much. Any chances, that anyone from the courtiers is against reconciliation? If yes, the consequences might be sad.

[MagneticDragon]

Okay, okay. Owen bowed, but Fen didn’t... Fen had acted as a noble before, so they would know best how to act right? Plus, no one else seemed to bow or do anything of the sort. So, Ferrous decided it was best to stay upright and at the back. Like he normally did.

Still. Ferrous, Ferrous did not miss the fact that Fen gave them a reassuring side-glance, then seemed to ignore them. Fendwaith, so skilled and comfortable in social settings, able to take on different faces and personalities at the drop of a hat. Was quite often trying to encourage Ferrous to be more active from time to time. Fen did not expect Ferrous to become as skilled at conversation or charismatic as they were. But they hoped that Ferrous would be able to be more confident and comfortable in speaking their mind, even in situations like this. Even when Fen was not directly asking for Ferrous’ own opinion.

This did not mean that Ferrous would start speaking right away, of course. They still needed a subject to discuss, and that was difficult, at first. The idea of the Princess coming with them in disguise as a fan, meaning that they would most likely be interacting with them on a very much casual level, most certainly made Ferrous uncomfortable. Especially as he had no idea how they could accommodate someone who was a Princess, yet was also disguising herself as a fan. They had to avoid treating her special to avoid suspicion, right? But, she was also a Princess, and weren’t you meant to treat them special in the first place? Oh, Ferrous hoped he could avoid her for most of the journey. He had no idea how to act around people at the best of times, this situation was just insane!

As they moved on however, discussing payment - and wow that was a lot of gold - on top of the ability to deputise guards if necessary for the protection of the Princess. And well, Ferrous found he had a question. When Owen asked if there might be any ‘courtiers’ who would be against the reconciliation, Ferrous found himself speaking up. “Ummm, should we, not be more concerned with Arnhollow, more? Cresthaven is at war, technically, right? And if this meeting is a secret. Is it not possible they might not believe it's the Princess? Isn’t it like, illegal to impersonate royalty? Or even if they do believe us, might they not, arrest us, anyway, if they don’t know?” Chances were that he was worried over nothing again. But how was the Princess meant to identify herself, and when was she meant to do so? And would Arnhollow be open to discussion when they don’t know Cresthaven is?

[Illven]

I think I have ideas on how to protect the princess. Phyrra muses outloud. So worst comes to worst we'll escort her back.

[JNAProductions]

The princess nods. "A good concern," she says, "but we have communicated a bit with Arnhollow. Magic makes things easier, but they're not willing to call for a proper peace without an in-person visit. While we've not secured a guarantee of peaceful resolution, we do have a guarantee of safe passage. Arnhollow will not disrupt us-not unless they wish to turn this technical war into a real one."

[Illven]

The princess nods. "A good concern," she says, "but we have communicated a bit with Arnhollow. Magic makes things easier, but they're not willing to call for a proper peace without an in-person visit. While we've not secured a guarantee of peaceful resolution, we do have a guarantee of safe passage. Arnhollow will not disrupt us-not unless they wish to turn this technical war into a real one."

We should be prepared for all possibilities, including the possibility of a radical attacking the princess.

[JNAProductions]

Queen Morna nods. "That's why you're being hired. In theory, Otari should be able to go on her own and be perfectly safe. In practice..."

Spoiler: OOC

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Anything more to accomplish in this scene? Or should I move us on?

[Xav]

Owen Voldrevol Half-Elf Arcane Trickster Bladesinger AC: 18 HP: 53/53 PP: 17 PIv: 15 PIs: 17 Conditions: Concentrating: -- - I think we can settle on the fact that we agree to accompany Her Highness. And I'd like to discuss few more important matters. Is there a travel time limit? By what time should we arrive at Arnhollow? Will it be our duty to escort and provide protection for Her Highness at diplomatic meetings? And, what's not less important, does Her Highness agree to follow our instructions for the duration of the escort? Because our lifes and the success of the event may depend on it.

[JNAProductions]

"There is no strict time limit, but it is expected for you to proceed with reasonable urgency. As mentioned, you're being paid for two months-if it needs to be longer, you will be paid more. If you dally and that's why it takes longer, you won't be getting anything more. You should be part of diplomatic meetings, but as peacekeepers. I don't expect any of you to know enough of our diplomatic procedures to engage in the discussions themselves," Queen Morna tells you.

The princess says "They're pretty dull, generally speaking. And I will follow your instructions-I understand the necessity of listening to people who are wiser than I am in their areas of expertise. When it comes to fighting and surviving, I've had some basic training, as befitting my station, but... I've no experience. I trust you to keep me safe."

[Xav]

Owen Voldrevol Half-Elf Arcane Trickster Bladesinger AC: 18 HP: 53/53 PP: 17 PIv: 15 PIs: 17 Conditions: Concentrating: -- Owen stays quiet when Queen mentions diplomatic procedures - after all, she doesn't have to know, that he was prepared as a diplomat and emissary, - and speaks after Princess: - Then, I guess, we can proceed to preparations.

[JNAProductions]

Doma nods. Otari stands from her position, and walks towards you all. "I look forward to spending some time with you all. Doma, get them whatever they need from here-I will meet you at the side gate in half an hour."

The princess leaves the room, and Doma ushers you all out. "Anything you'd like? Refreshments, change of clothes?" she asks. "The princess does take a bit of time to get ready, so it really will be that long."

[Illven]

Doma nods. Otari stands from her position, and walks towards you all. "I look forward to spending some time with you all. Doma, get them whatever they need from here-I will meet you at the side gate in half an hour."

The princess leaves the room, and Doma ushers you all out. "Anything you'd like? Refreshments, change of clothes?" she asks. "The princess does take a bit of time to get ready, so it really will be that long."

May I speak to the princess in private? Phyrra asks hopefully.