Sunlight peaked through the clouds, thin rays that brightened the dockside. Herr Johannes could feel droplets of water from the bay on his face as waves collided with the pier. Across the Bay of Andor they could see the Lower District of Herrod, a thick mass of thousands of buildings, their details barely discernible from this distance. "The merchant streets should be this way," Jacqueline said. They had lost sight of the others behind them, who didn't have any need for supplies. This part of the pier was lined with ships and merchants. Many of the traders sold their goods out of sheltered stalls facing the water, thin frames of wood and fabric.

Herr Johannes walked up to a fruit stall. Different colors and shapes piled high in baskets arranged on a counter, many of which he didn't recognize. Next to him, an elf purchased some odd looking assortment of vibrant purple berries. "What are those?" Johannes politely asked. The elf smiled, "They're called cranberries. They grow in plenty where I come from." "Strange," Johannes said, curious. Jacqueline spoke with the merchant woman who ended up handing her a free apple. She walked away happily biting into the crisp red fruit, followed by Johannes and the elf who continued chatting together. The elf said his name was Mikael as they continued speaking of foreign fruits and nostalgia.

Then there was sobbing. Wandering the pier, nearly hysterical, a man trudged down the walkway. Seeing the adventurers he lurched forward, falling onto his knees. "Please!" he cried, desperate. "Help me. . ." Johannes' face grew resolute, recognizing a person in need, "We'll help you sir." "As will I," Mikael volunteered. Johannes gained an immediate respect for the elf. Jacqueline compassionately asked, "What's the matter?" "They- They took my daughter," he sobbed. "Who's all I have. . ." They could barely understand him, between his accent and tears. He was black of hair and had a short beard to match; from the sand-brown color of his skin, they tell he was once from the isle of Olseen.

He continued, "I'm just a poor merchant. I had debt, debt I couldn't pay, to the Pirates. When I couldn't pay, they took my daughter! She's only fifteen. Please, they'll sell her as a slave! I haven't any money, but please help. . ." Johannes responded firmly, "Don't worry. We'll help you." The Olseen merchant looked up almost in disbelief, afraid to hope. "But you must tell us where there went." He stuttered, "I- I show you." Barely able to stand under the weight of his grief, the merchant led them a little further down the pier, until he pointed toward an ordinary stall. The stall he pointed at sold fabrics, set up against the side of a building; it was made of white sheets, apparently from old sails. There was nothing particularly unusual about it except for the seller, who wore a dull reddish cloak, matching leather armor, and his face was masked by white wrappings – an odd appearance for a trader of fabrics.

"That's the doorman," the Olseeni merchant said, controlling his emotions. "Behind him is a door to the Serpent Galleon, an establishment of gambling, harlots, and drink. It's not for the common sailor; only the wealthy and vile can go in there – rich pirates, prosperous thieves, and cruel merchants. Please. She was taken by a wealthy local pirate named Lox. He has a long braided goatee. My daughter, Aisha, is only fifteen with hair black as night. Please save her!"
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:32, Mon 15 Dec 2014.

Lady Jacqueline nods once and glares around them, keeping a steady eye and ear out. She then turns to Johannes and asks, "What's the first step, you think?" Her hair spills over her shoulders as she looks at him. "I'm going to quick gather some stuff before we go." She quickly beelines for the bazaar and purchases a few items.

(x40 arrows, 5 bags of marbles, x5 pitons, and rope to replace the other rope that was lost.

Cody helped with this list; no idea how much it costs, but I know I have plenty of gold to get it, I'm sure.)

{19:38, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 21 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
19:38, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.}
This message was last edited by the player at 04:50, Mon 15 Dec 2014.

A serious tone takes hold of my voice as I speak forth proclaiming our goals and objectives, with intensity. "We will do our best to help you sir. With the help of Almighty God, we WILL see your daughter rescued and well. If possible, we will also see to it that these pirates never hurt you or anyone else ever again. These wicked men will pay for their deeds. The innocent shall suffer no longer." I speak it forth, looking directly at the man at first, then looking to my friends, and finally looking toward heaven, accepting my call.

Speaking to all I continue, responding to Lady Jacquelines question, (which was actually very important she asked).
"Now, to how we shall do this.

The 'pre-first' step (step 0) is pray. 'Lord, we seek to rely on you wholly and completely, our abilities and strengths we recognize came only from you. We, once again, look to you for our wisdom and ability in this time of need. You are our victory and success. Thank you that you let us be the instruments to carry out your will upon this Earth. You teach our hands to war. In Jesus name, Amen.'

Now, the first step is to gather as much information as possible to determine a clear objective and way to go about it as soon as possible. {I speak to Mikael and Jacqueline this separately: "This may be the most difficult part of the mission actually"}."

I turn and speak to the merchant specifically.
     "I know it may be difficult to answer some of these questions, but it is for the best that you answer them to the best of your ability so that we may better carry out your daughters rescue.
     What is your name? How large was your debt? How long ago did they take your daughter? Do you remember how many men came to take her? Can you describe what happened when they took her? Do you know how many men work for Vox (approximately)? Do you know anything about the layout of this place (inside and out), the Serpent Galleon? Were you ever taken inside? Can anyone enter? Is there a password? Do you have any idea where this Lox would be inside this building? Does he have a ship -is he a captain (of one ship?) or an admiral (of many ships)? Do you know how many approximately are inside it? Do you know if there are other entrances/exits? Is there any other distinguishing features about your daughter we should be aware of?

I then turn and speak to my team seperately.
     "I know we just met, but it is important now that we speak about each of our abilities in combat so that we may best deploy our team. I want to first confirm that you are fully committed to this objective. I know we only just met... Mikael? Was that what I heard you called?. {I assume you answer yes, by being in this side quest ;) }
     My name is Herr Johannes, I specialize in melee combat, polearms and 2 handed weapons are my specialty (reach and melee). Doing a lot of Damage with them as well. I also often find fire a useful tool in the execution of war. I have a decent amount of flaming oil flasks prepared.
     Lady Jacqueline, you may introduce yourself and explain your specialties.
{After she introduces herself} Oh and you picked up those marbles like I mentioned to you, right? If not, quick go buy some in the market, they usually are not more than a few silver at worst I believe. You may want 5 bags even. You may also want to buy more arrows, pitons, and rope. I can pay you back for the cost of the loss due to our last quest.
     Mikael, you may introduce yourself now. Do you specialize in ranged, reach, or close quarters combat? Also, what armour are you wearing? Do you have much agility and dodging ability in a fight? Know any tricks? Is your gear/kit all set?"

[Private to GM: {23:19, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 4 using 1d20+1. Knowledge Adventure, Mikael, SQ.
23:38, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 15 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Mikael's equipment, SQ. To see what armour, equipment, and weapons he has.
}]

"Now, our final issue at this time will be how to proceed from here. Shall we attempt to infiltrate to gather more information by using the front door? or do we need disguises? or do we find another way in -like on the roof? Each has its bonuses and drawbacks. One allows us to sneak in undetected and find infor easily, but poses the risk of if we are exposed. The other gets us in, but information is harder to come by. After we hear the answers to the questions we will have a much better idea of how to proceed."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:00, Mon 15 Dec 2014.

Lady Jacqueline bows her head as Johannes prayed. Later, she then nods at his list of items that she purchased a few moments before he'd asked. After he was finished, she turned to the Elfin man and introduced herself. "I am Lady Jacqueline," she curtsies respectfully. "And I specialize in long-distance combat. How about you?"

"Lady Jacqueline, don't forget your abilities in sneaking, infiltrating, and sniping. They will be most useful in this situation." I say with a smile.

Giving them both a very practiced half bow, "Yes, I am Mikeal Vaeltaja." Pulling my light spear from my back in a quick, but graceful, flurry of spins. "I prefer the spear, and to be close and personal with my opponent. So that they may see the face of the one who bested them. Although, I will take advantage of the shadows and the unexpected when the opportunity presents itself. You could say I am a bit of an opportunist when it comes to combat." With a very quick motion my hand springing out from within my robes with a dagger. "And I never find myself truly unarmed." I am wearing what looks like mere robes that look to be fit for court. "I don't weigh myself down with heavy metal armor. I rely more on my speed and reflex and this leather padded robe does just the trick. It also allows me to move with great silence. And I am in this with you. I have a deep hatred for the pirates and I would enjoy nothing more than to send a few more from this world."

I then also turn to the merchant {After the merchant has responded to Herr Johannes}
"And what is your name? What are you a merchant of?"

Back to the team
"I think we will be better off with stealthier approach. We know very little of our enemy and of the circumstances. It sounds like this Lox has quite the reputation. I doubt the merchant's daughter will be simply left unattended and the place seems like it will have quite the force inside. We must tread carefully. In the matter of equipment, I travel rather lightly and I seem to have spent most of what I brought with me on food and wine" With a mild chuckle. "But I shall make due."

"That is an impressive display of martial skill. {Short spear, correct?}

Yes, equipment would be my next question. Do you have any equipment other than your weapons and clothes? Like rope, bandages etc. Does your cloak have a hood? Are you experienced or practiced at being undercover?" I make a short reply to Mikael {I will more fully reply a reaction to your skills later}
This message was last edited by the player at 06:02, Tue 16 Dec 2014.

In reply to Herr Johannes (msg # 7):

"Yes my cloak does have a hood and I do have experience going undercover and undetected. What I have is what I carry at the moment, just my clothes and my weapons. Once we have gotten what information we can from the merchant I will take the time to acquire what I can with only 12 gold pieces that I seem to have left."

{Given the appropriate opportunity I buy some more gear}

(I come back with rope, bandages, piton(x10), and a pitcher of wine)

Upon returning to the group. "Anything else we may need?"

Lady Jacqueline switches her gaze from Mikael to Johannes. "Sir?"

"I need to quickly buy a few things as well." I run off and buy a few items from stand I just walked by.

{I purchase 3 bags of marbles, oil to replace the amount I lost (2? or 1? pints of oil), bandages (5x), a scrap of fabric (for fuses... this I ask for, for free from a merchant with the oil... wicks for lamps would work), and 1 loaf of bread (for the parrot- or some other food he/she would like), and 2 bandanas, 3 if they are cheap (to cover my face partially ;) ) and 1 spare sling and 1 bag of sling bullets (10).}

The Olseeni merchant covered his face with his hands before managing to speak, his accent thickened by grief, "My name Shareef. I move to Herrod with daughter and started business, selling goods from my country, whatever trade ships brought and was profitable. But my store was robbed by rogue adventurers one year. Had to take loans to replenish stock. But city is bad now, and people don't buy such things in bad times. I couldn't make money back!" He was on the brink of tears again. The party patiently listened, though he was difficult to understand at times. "Had to come here once," Shareef pointed to The Serpent Galleon, "To beg for more time. You just pay guard and go inside. It's like tavern inside, but only the wealthy in there. There's a bar, and- and gambling. Lox a big gambler. Then I begged, but they said no. And then this morning they come, ask for money, and I have none. . . and then they took her. They took my daughter. . . f- for my debt!"

He was starting to break down again, switching from the common language to the Olseeni tongue, then remembering to switch back. It was becoming difficult to watch him speak, "Please- Please save her. Don't know anything else. I fear they sell her if she not saved soon, then I never see again!" As Shareef emotionally crumbled, Herr Johannes said, "We WILL save your daughter." Turning to the party he continued, "Grab what you need and meet back here." The party scattered among the merchant stalls and picked out supplies before returning to their spot. "Everyone have everything?" Mikael asked. They nodded. "Well then, let's do this." Johannes' parrot squawked, stretching its wings, "Do this. Do this."

[Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: The sound of crates and and goods hulled to and fro from ships echoed around the pier, as well as sounds from the merchant stalls. The house behind the doorman didn't look at all special, blending right in. The doorman himself leaned silently against a tall stool, looking actually rather bored.

Shopping:
Arrows (40) – 2gp
Bag of Marbles, Clay (5) – 1gp 1sp
Pitons (5) – 5sp
Rope, Hemp (25 ft.) – 4sp

Total: 4 gold pieces]

[Private to Mikael Vaeltaja:
Rope, Hemp (50 ft.) – 8sp
Bandage (1) – 1gp 2sp
Pitons (10) – 1gp
Wine (Pitcher) - 1sp

Total: 3 gold pieces, 1 silver piece]

[Private to Herr Johannes:
Bag of Marbles, Clay (3) – 7sp
Oil Pint (1) – 8cp
Bandages (5) – 6gp
Fabric (Scrap) – 1cp
Bread (Loaf) – 2cp
Bandannas (2) – 5cp
Sling (1) – 1cp
Bullets (10) – 9cp

Total: 6 gold pieces, 9 silver pieces, 6 copper pieces]

[Private to GM: HJ 28.91?+42.5(SQ)-6.96, LJ 36.40-4, MV 9.8?X 12-3.1, Total]
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:50, Tue 16 Dec 2014.

"Wait.." Lady Jacqueline says quickly. She checks about herself quickly. "...Do we really have everything?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:16, Wed 17 Dec 2014.

In reply to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde (msg # 12):

I feel the sharpness of the end of my spear and sheath my dagger. "Nothing else I am in need of." I take a large gulp of wine. "It seems that we should be able to get in without anyone taking notice of us. Time is of the essence however." I steal a quick glance at the surroundings and then shift my gaze back to the group. "We should be going if we are ready."

Lady Jacqueline nods, but then quickly shuffles to a shop and buys a matted cloak. She places her fascinator inside of her bags. "Johannes," she calls back, "Do we have headgear to use?" Her hair was still twisted up into her large pins. For a moment, her hair was tidy; in the next, it freely spills over her shoulders and loftily dances in the breeze. "Here.." she murmurs, half pulling some of her hair up into a different style. The scar above her eye is revealed in its eerie, silver spiral.

[Private to DM Ryan: 22:23, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 9 using 1d20. Sense Motive of the guy who has a missing daughter.]
This message was last edited by the player at 03:50, Thu 18 Dec 2014.

I offer a drink of wine to Shareef. "Here. You look like you could use some." In a sympathetic tone, "Is there anything else that you haven't told us yet that could be of any help at all? The more information you can tell us now, the faster we can find Aisha."

[Private to DM Ryan: 22:33, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 19 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Merchant; SQ.}]
This message was last edited by the player at 23:41, Thu 18 Dec 2014.

"Sir Merchant?" she calls after a gentleman in a shop. "A gold pouch, please," Jacqueline says quietly. She hands over four golden coins in exchange for it. "Thank you." Lifting up her small bustle, she places the belt under the skirts. Her bag was pressed firmly under her arm.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:51, Thu 18 Dec 2014.

Before I rush headlong into a quest with danger, to save a daughter of a man I do not know I consider his authenticity and ulterior motives.

{22:26, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 18 using 1d20. Sense Motive of Merchant; SQ.}

I bring us (all 4 of us) to a corner less observed for us to talk. "Here we should not talk and prepare in such an open area, we need to be out of sight of that establishment. I tip my head toward the Serpent Galleon

I try to be understanding, yet firm about a few other important details. I ask the Merchant further:
"I know this may be difficult for you sir, but I need you to answer these questions:

How much is your debt for?
Do you remember the number of men that took came to take your daughter?
Do many men work for Vox? Does he have a ship?"

Then I ask in the same rhythm as my other questions looking for a out of place response.
"Are you a pirate?"

{22:49, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 9 using 1d20. Sense Motive of Merchant; SQ2.
-you both could me a check for this question as well (are you a pirate??)}

Realizing there was one other thing in the market that could help, I run back and purchase   money belt at the local thieving emporium.
{(book price: 4gp; arms and equipment guide; Money Belt: This cloth pouch is designed to be worn under clothing and can hold up to 50 coins. The Pick Pocket check DC to take something from a money belt is +5 higher than normal.)}

I then prepare accordingly.
     I return to our more hidden location (a corner less observed) for us to talk and dress {assuming I find the merchants actions veritable}. I bring our party a little away from the party and speak just amongst ourselves about plans, tactic and strategies.
     I put all my gold in the money belt and my valuables (gem, brooch), then I put the silver I can fit in the left over space. I put my shield on my back over my pack covering my pack. I put my cloak on over all of this and put my hood up. I then tie one bandana across my face and offer the other to any other party member who would like it. If no one wants it, I tie it around my neck. "Lady Jacqueline, you could use or fascinator to help hide your face and Mikael, you could use a bandana if you like. I would suggest, if not the fascinator, a hood, face wrapping and veil. Stay covered. I like the idea of a cloak for you, good buy. Lady Jacqueline, you walk behind us and keep an eye out the most for thieves. Keep an eye on your things and an eye out for thieves, especially children, do not let them distract you or get too close- like run under your cloak. Remember, keep the mindset, 'We are supposed to be here.' Keep your items closely guarded and your weapons ready to be drawn" I draw my cloak to hide my pouches and body. I keep my hands checking or guarding pouches and one hand on my guisarme, which I use as a staff.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:20, Thu 18 Dec 2014.

Lady Jacqueline nods and pulls out her fascinator again, placing it neatly on her head; meanwhile she glances around, eyes dilated like a cat.

[23:38, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
23:38, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 24 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.

Don't mind me. I'll just be like: O_____O]

I speak to my companions. "Here, help me look this building over to know its exterior, that we may better know its interior."

{I do a 2 minute spot check of the Serpent Galleon or the structure it is a part of (21) and look over its exterior lay out: how many floors, how big are the windows, where are exits, where are the windows located.}

We will make this look natural, look over the building more as we approach it, map it out in your minds, look for the door to enter.

{Ryan: shall I do another spot check for this?}

Once everyone is prepared, and if we do not have doubts about the veracity of this man's statements, claims, and needs I ask us to join hands and pray with me again. "I always confess this before combat and danger if I have the time, I invite you to join and pray with me. I will speak in the common tongue so you understand, believe this for yourself as we pray. My God is faithful."



We then move toward the Serpent Galleon. We casually walk up to the merchant stalls preceding the Serpent Gallion's stall. We browse the wares a little while we make our way to the fabric stall with the door man. When we reach the stall of the Serpent Galleon we look over some of the fabrics at the Serpent Galleon, before I lean into to the doorman and ask quietly, "We would like to enter the Serpent Galleon." I then lean in and ask him quietly one more thing. "We are looking for a man named Vox, he has a certain good for sale that we wished to purchase, do you know where we might find him? We were told we could meet him here."

{I do a spot and listen check while we are there to be aware of our surroundings.

23:39, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 15 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.
23:39, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 6 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.}

{I also do a spot check of the door man and his equipment and a knowledge adventure check to size him up.

{23:41, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 18 using 1d20+1. Knowledge Adventure, Door Man; SQ.
23:40, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 8 using 1d20+1. Spot Check of Door Man and his equipment; SQ2.}

{I weigh the veracity of the doormans statements in case he is trying to swindle us out of money

23:56, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 2 using 1d20. Sense Motive of Door man; SQ. ...hmm only a 2? i look to my companions for their assessment}
This message was last edited by the player at 05:04, Thu 18 Dec 2014.

I pull my hood over my head and it draws a large shadow over my face, making it almost impossible to distinguish out of direct sunlight. While Herr Johannes approaches the door man I take a look around to see if anyone is paying us any mind.

I do a spot and listen check to see if we have could the attention of anyone.
{00:01, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 16 using 1d20+7. Listen Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.
00:01, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 10 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.}

After the door man responds to Herr Johannes I do a sense motive check
{00:10, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 16 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Door man; SQ.}

Herr Johannes and Jacqueline returned from the stalls again with money belts, looking with admiration at the all the coin pockets inside. Jacqueline held up her new cloak as well, which wasn't the nicest looking garment, but it was the best she could find among the dockside traders. "Now we have everything I believe." She began restyling her lengthy auburn hair. [Private to Herr Johannes: Money Belt: 4 gold pieces.] [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: Money Belt & Matted Cloak: 4 gold pieces, 5 silver pieces.]

They turned to the merchant and Johannes asked, "So how much was your debt?" With a look of despair beneath his short black beard and aging sand-colored skin, Shareef said, "Two hundred gold pieces. My business once very prosperous years ago. Everything gone bad since then." Johannes continued his inquiries though Shareef struggled to answer through his emotional duress, shaking his head with uncertainty, "Four? Five came? Don't know how many work for him. Many they say." "Are you a pirate?" "Huh?" Shareef responded. He looked pathetically confused, uncertain if his common tongue had failed. "No- I never," he finally understood to say. [Private to Herr Johannes: Between the inquires and grief, the merchant looked perplexed, lost and in agony, struggling to handle rational thought.] [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: Between the inquires and grief, the merchant looked perplexed, lost and in agony, struggling to handle rational thought.] [Private to Mikael Vaeltaja: Between the inquires and grief, the merchant looked perplexed, lost and in agony, struggling to handle rational thought. His sorrow could not be more authentic.]

"Ok, I just needed to ask," Johannes said with a comforting tone. Then Mikael added, "Is there anything else that you haven't told us yet that could be of any help at all?" "No, I not think so." Mikael put up his hood, along with the others, "Alright, let's go."

The party began walking toward the house. As ordinary looking as any of its neighbors, the building stood two stories tall, perhaps three if counting the lower level. Windows spotted the sides of the house and some right on level with the ground, suggesting a floor partially below; notably, the windows were completely opaque, allowing a mere diffused light through with no ability to see inside (or out). From this angle of the house there were no visible doors, but this was unsurprising, for the dockside face was hidden by the line of merchant stalls. The party felt a calm breeze from the bay at their backs, scented of the sea.[Private to Herr Johannes: Business was fairly calm at this hour of the day, not as busy as the Bazaar in Lower Herrod for certain. Traders hid from the sun in their stalls, watching customers pass by or trying to call over some. Nothing appeared threatening.] [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: Business was fairly calm at this hour of the day, not as busy as the Bazaar in Lower Herrod for certain. Traders hid from the sun in their stalls, watching customers pass by or trying to call over some. Nothing appeared threatening.] [Private to Mikael Vaeltaja: Business was fairly calm at this hour of the day, not as busy as the Bazaar in Lower Herrod for certain. Traders hid from the sun in their stalls, watching customers pass by or trying to call over some. Nothing appeared threatening.]

Approaching the fabric stall, the doorman watched them patiently and with little interest. An awning overhead shaded him and his wares from the sun, and old white tarps on both sides afforded some privacy. Rolls of colorful fabrics, plain and patterned, laid across a wooden counter, and more were stacked behind. Johannes placed his hand on the counter and leaned in, "We are looking for a man named Vox, he has a certain good for sale that we wished to purchase, do you know where we might find him? We were told we could meet him here." The doorman looked perplexed before he suddenly comprehended and laughed, "Your accent is shit. You mean Lox." He eased off his stool, his dull burgundy cloak trailing. "Fine. Fine." The doorman pulled back the rear white tarp, unveiling a door on the other side; he seemed rather bored with the mundane duties of a bouncer. Opening the door, the smell of food and the sound of noisy chatter drifted out, and a gently sloped stair lead down to a lower level partially underground. He held out his hand, "That's five gold pieces a head." [Private to Mikael Vaeltaja: He seemed fairly uninterested, feeling his talents were being wasted as a mere guard, though he certainly didn't look a fool. ]



[Private to Herr Johannes: His leather armor and vambraces matched the color of his cloak, rather stylishly, and a short sword was sheathed at his side. He looked strong, a fighter with perhaps a mix of something more subtle. Johannes then realized why perhaps the doorman was so bored, for he seemed quite overqualified – a very difficult fight to be sure.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:15, Thu 18 Dec 2014.

I speak calmly and in an almost friendly tone, disgruntled but not with the guard. I direct the calm displeasure toward Lox and compliment the guard instead. "He said nothing about a cover charge to us either, is this truely the price? If it is you must excuse me a moment to retrieve some funds. Actually now that I think about it, do you know if Lox is even here yet and if so where we might find him? I am a busy man and I do not want him to waste my time. Is he your boss? Because I get the sense you are much more qualified than they give you credit for. If he wastes time, I thought he might be wasting talent as well. Nice armor by the way." I re-pronounce the name more slowly and deliberately this time. {I am probing him for his opinion of Lox, so I subtly watch for a reaction from him about my comments. Do I need a gather information check/spot check for this? DM Ryan - You may do a gather information check to augment your speech, but nothing replaces good writing. 15:11, Sat 20 Dec: Herr Johannes rolled 20 using 1d20+2. Gather Information Check, doorman, SQ2 TG.}

{00:53, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 4 using 1d20. Sense Motive of Door man (veracity of cover charge); SQ.
01:39, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 3 using 1d20+1. Sense Motive of Door man (reaction to insult of Lox); SQ.
01:39, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20+1. Sense Motive of Door man (reaction to compliment); SQ.
01:38, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 6 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, of the Door mans's reaction.
Ryan: would we need more than one sense motive or spot for this- 1 for his statement of the cover charge, 2 for his attitude toward Lox, 3 for his reaction to my notice of his talent?I know even with a bad check, i am looking so I see something, I just do not necessarily get an extra benefit, right? DM Ryan - You could do it both ways, one check for everything or three checks for each things - just make sure you specify in the Dice Log.}

After his answer, "If you will excuse me a moment, I must discuss this with my compatriots." I take a step back and motion for the rest to follow. We speak privately. After another moment I mention to them, "I must retrieve my funds." I step aside to the stall over, behind the tarpaulin and when I am out of view I crouch and remove my pack and lift my tunic to get 10 gold pieces from my money belt and put them in my belt pouch. [Private to GM: While my pack is between me and the street I lower my hands behind it. I then pray and stretch my hands toward the door man from behind the tarpaulin. I lift only my forearms, while my upper arms remain at my side. I pray to the Lord, "Abba Father, give us direction on what to do, show me this man's heart whether he would be willing to help or if he is bent upon evil gain or if he is uninterested in helping the innocent. Show us what to do." I whisper the words to myself and then meditate on the Lord for a moment, clearing my mind of the concern, abiding in his presence and resting in Him and his peace. I close my eyes to receive insight from the Lord, seeing with my spirit, As God does into mens' hearts (but in a shadow of that true depth, one that my mortal frame can understand and handle.)]

I also think for a moment about the Serpent Galleon, Lox, and the Doorman (like his armour). If any of them have anything to do with Royalty - this place is pretty expensive after all.

{02:54, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20+1. Knowledge Nobility/Royalty, Door Man (and his appearance), SQ.
02:54, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 10 using 1d20+1. Knowledge Nobility/Royalty, Lox, SQ.
02:54, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 3 using 1d20+1. Knowledge Nobility/Royalty, Serpent Galleon, SQ.}

{01:06, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 20 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness, SQ.
01:06, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 2 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness, SQ.}
This message was last edited by the player at 02:52, Tue 23 Dec 2014.

Lady Jacqueline glances at the doorman, gritting her teeth at his manner, but she kept calm. There's always a time to react, but she simply stands there, ready with coins in her hand. "Five did he say?" she murmurs to Herr Johannes.

[23:43, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 24 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
23:43, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 20 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.
01:19, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 10 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local Check. Doorman information.
01:21, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 21 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local Check. Serpent Galleon information.
01:20, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 7 using 1d20. Sense Motive Check. Doorman information.]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:22, Sat 20 Dec 2014.

I keep my spear in my hand, but I hold it in a much more relaxed position and rest against it, using it more as walking stick. I face the doorman in a open stance as to not appear defensive. As Herr Johannes speaks to the doorman I keep my attention to the surroundings to be sure we are not caught off guard by anything.

{02:34, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 9 using 1d20+7. Listen Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.
02:34, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 22 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.}
I also pay close attention to the doorman while he answers all of the questions posed to him to ensure he is being honest.

{02:38, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 19 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Doorman (Cover charge); SQ.
02:38, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 11 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Door man (reaction to insult of Lox); SQ.
02:38, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 22 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Door man (reaction to compliment); SQ.}

As Herr Johannes steps aside I continue to converse with the guard. As I begin speaking to him I do a sense motive check to gauge his attitude on further conversation in general.

{02:48, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 20 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Door man (Attitude of conversation); SQ.}

"What is your opinion of Lox? Do you really think he is as impressive of a pirate as he makes everyone believe? He seems to have quite the reputation."

[If the doorman is annoyed with the conversation I stop there. If he seems to not mind the conversation I go on.]

"You seem rather over-qualified to be used as a guard. You seem like you could really handle yourself and you're prepared for much more than just the occasional difficult patron. Why settle for such an uninteresting position?" Not to anyone directly. "We better get in there, I don't want to miss out on an opportunity like this!"

I put in my hand the amount of gold the doorman asks only waiting on Herr Johannes make the first move to go inside.

{03:05, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 25 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Doorman (Opinion of Lox); SQ. [Checking if he is giving me his true opinion]
03:07, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 22 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Doorman (Reaction to questioning is ability/position); SQ.
03:08, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 16 using 1d20+2. Knowledge (local) [of Doorman]; SQ.
03:08, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 4 using 1d20+2. Knowledge (local) [of Serpent Gallion]; SQ.
03:07, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 5 using 1d20+2. Knowledge (local) [of Lox]; SQ.}

Herr Johannes spoke, "He said nothing about a cover charge to us either, is this truly the price?" The doorman raised an eyebrow. A tuft of blonde hair peaked out of his hood; he was likely handsome in his youth, but scars and experience gave him a worn look, though he couldn't be past forty. He replied, "If you bat an eye at that, you don't belong here." Johannes and Mikael tried to asked questions about Lox, but the doorman simply replied, "Ain't my business. He's somewhere in there, but customers are customers."

Sunlight beat down on the docks. The stall would have been stifling hot if it wasn't for the cool, ocean wind constantly sweeping in. Wares of fabric hanging on a nearby rack fluttered in the breeze, but the sound was a light echo of the sails of docked ships, rippling with each gust. Mikael said, "You seem rather over-qualified to be used as a guard. You seem like you could really handle yourself and you're prepared for much more than just the occasional difficult patron. Why settle for such an uninteresting position?" Johannes spoke to a similar effect. The doorman chuckled, "I know, right? Dull thing, but good pay. Though I get a decent fight every now and then." He patted the hilt of his shortsword, just hidden beneath the edge of his cloak, sheathed at the side of his burgundy leather armor. "Nice armor by the way,"Johannes added. "Thanks, it's new. Had to kill a few to get it." Leaning beside the open door, the doorman continued, "Appreciate the compliments. You can have a gold piece off, so four each."

Johannes stepped behind the tarp a moment while he gathered funds from the hidden corners of his belt. After a few seconds he returned. Jaqueline, as well as Mikael, each counted up their coins, ready to have a night on the town. [Private to Herr Johannes: While Johannes walked behind the tarp, he prayed. There wasn't any lights, flare, or spectacle, but in the recesses of his mind, the answer arose – simply provided. He knew, then and there, the doorman was without compassion, godless, and tainted by greed. He simply knew, for he had asked to know, and so he received.]

[Private to Herr Johannes: The doorman spoke the cover charge flatly, with little interest, and he reacted similar to the sound of Lox's name. Likely, he doesn't know him closely. His interest perked at the compliments however. Whatever this guard was, he was undoubtedly vain and concerned with his appearance.

Johannes searched his memory for anything on Lox or the Serpent Galleon, but came up empty handed. These things were as far from nobility as could be found. But the doorman's armor struck a chord. The dull burgundy color and trim were reminiscent of a noble House from Solpras Peninsula, but it was clear the doorman was no noble – the armor was certainly 'borrowed.' Muffled chatter from numerous patrons carried from the Serpent Galleon through the door.]

[Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: Muffled chatter drifted through the door, the talk of numerous patrons. Jacqueline could see a glimpse of the floor at the base of the stairs – a worker passed by carrying a tray of drinks. She remembered hearing about this place. The Serpent Galleon was the most expensive place a thief could hope to go, a tavern to drink, gamble, and whore in, at the highest of the lowest class. A scoundrel knew he made it to the top when he spent his time at the Serpent Galleon. Everyone here was a somebody, at least in the underworld of Herrod.

On the other hand, the doorman was a mystery to her. Likely some outside talent, with no affiliation to anyone save for the largest paycheck.]

[Private to Mikael Vaeltaja: The doorman spoke the cover charge flatly, with little interest, putting in no effort to lie. Likely, five gold pieces was the standard charge at a place like this, if just to keep the common scum out. He reacted similar to the sound of Lox's name; he didn't seem to know him too well. His interest perked at the compliments however. Whatever this guard was, he was undoubtedly vain and concerned with his image. Based on the nice outfit and unfamiliar face, the doorman was probably outside talent from Solpras Peninsula. The area around the Capital of Perdane, on Solpras Peninsula, had throngs of skillful mercenaries and muscle loyal only to one thing – the coin.

But Mikael had never heard of Lox nor the Serpent Galleon before, and thankfully so. Seemed like a bad crowd to be familiar with.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:03, Sat 20 Dec 2014.

A sweet gentility about Jacqueline blossoms in her smile. "Thank you, sir," she says, bowing her head politely. "Would you like us to spot you a drink for later? I know they're expensive here." She is sincere, holding the one gold from the five she took out before. Four gold coins rest on her other hand, extended out to the doorman.

[22:12, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local Check. Lox information.
23:42, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 13 using 1d20+8. Search Check for sidequest.]
This message was last edited by the player at 04:43, Tue 23 Dec 2014.

I draw 4 gold coins from my pouch and keep them in my hand. I rise from kneeling and gird my loins (I actually pull up my tunic and gird it below my cloak). I remove my quarterstaff from my pack before I then return my pack to my back and don my cloak. I pick up again my guisarme and step out from behind the tarpaulin and walk back into the market stall.

I offer then my staff to Lady Jacqueline, "Here, I think this will help."

I give a slight nod, controlled and slow, to the doorman as I begin to speak.
     "Well, I appreciate your favor, Mr." {pauses} "I did not catch your name actually?"
     "Perhaps we will see you later," I say with a chuckle, "unless there is some other exit to this establishment?
     Along that same line, would you be able to direct us toward the gambling tables? Lox is a man fond of gambling, I was told."

I then hold out my leather clad hand with the 4 coins in hand to give to the doorman, as I proceed to enter.
     "Well thank you very much. Even if they gave you a boring job, they still choose well the best looking man available." I grin with the last words, though my face cannot be fully seen, one could observe it in my eyes.

I then descend down the steps into the Serpent Galleon. 'Descend', I think on that word. It reminds me of a Psalm I have quoted likely a thousand times before this. It brings comfort to my heart as I enter a place like this, you could say it even makes me joyful. It is like there is a separation from me and the surroundings. If I  could describe a visual representation of this manifestation in the spirit realm, it would likely be something like that I was surrounded by light in a den of darkness, much like a performer is in a cone of light while on stage. Unable to see the audience because of the light, the actor remains conscious of the performance and not the audience. So to I remain conscious of this... favor. I can feel my emotions reflect it in the material realm. I feel relaxed and at ease... "...Where the Lord of the Spirit is, there is freedom..." Such a contrast to the surroundings, or so I would guess. To ask me now to compare this feeling -or rather reality- to the surroundings, would be like asking a man to tell you the temperature of water while he stands in it, yet is kept from being wet somehow. I recite the psalm to myself silently in my mind... my lips may move and speak, yet I am unaware of that. It is a very familiar place my mind has walked many, many times...



{I love writing stuff like this that comes to mind :)}
[Private to GM: {I am leaving it in English because I am allowing people to see my thoughts, for writing and characterization. I am not putting it in German at this time, lest I reveal too much to Mikael at one time. That information he can find out later :)}]

I smoothly, slowly, calmly look around me for the layout of this place, specifically mapping out every detail of its lay out.
{23:06, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 18 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, of Serpent Galleon Layout; SQ2:TG.}

I also look about for Lox. Likely near a gambling table, a man seated? perhaps, with a 'long braided goatee.'
{23:07, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 12 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, for Lox; SQ2:TG.}

I also stay aware of my surroundings, on the look out for attacks and thieves. ...And unseen Blessings...
{23:05, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 7 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
23:04, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 11 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.}

{As a note to the party: I have been keeping all my checks visible for you to see. I think it would behove us to keep them visible for each other because we are working so closely together on this. We also have no doubt about each other's loyalty.}
This message was last edited by the player at 23:47, Thu 25 Dec 2014.

Lady Jacqueline takes the quarter staff offered to her, and keeps a steady eye out.

[07:18, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
07:18, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 19 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.
07:18, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 11 using 1d20+8. Search Check for sidequest; searching for Lox.]

I follow Herr Johannes and take out the four gold, but I keep an eye on the guard and staying on the cautious side. I keep my spear in my hand and use ti as a walking stick as we enter so I am not caught off guard by anything.  I pay attention to my surroundings the whole time.

[07:50, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 20 using 1d20+7. Listen Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.
07:50, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 9 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.]
After entering the building I look for Lox on the description the merchant gave us along with the daughter if she happens to be here.

[07:53, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 5 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, daughter, SQ2.
07:53, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 11 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, Lox, SQ2.]

I keep silent to keep my mind clear as we do not know what we are walking into and to put more effort into keeping my senses sharp. I take note of the room inside the Serpent Galleon, its layout and the other people here.

[07:56, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 21 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, Serpent Galleon, SQ2.]
This message was last edited by the player at 12:56, Tue 23 Dec 2014.

Teal eyes gazed from beneath the doorman's hood, though their brightness was darkened by scars, age, and past deeds. Nonetheless, Lady Jacqueline offered to buy him a drink. He gave a single, light chuckle, "Sure." Herr Johannes asked further questions, yet the doorman merely responded, "This is the only way, and you'd have to be blind not to find the table." He ceased there. While Jacqueline lingered at the entrance, Johannes paid the doorman and walked into the Serpent Galleon, followed by Mikael. [Private to Herr Johannes: Reflecting to himself, Johannes indeed felt separate from the place around him, stepping into a sea of sinful hearts. Yet, like a leaf in the rain, their taint dripped off harmlessly, unable to pierce the heart and mind. Darkness always yields to the light {Johannes casts Virtue; you gain 1 temporary HP, 1 minute}.]

The stairs did not descend very deep, three or four feet at the most. As Johannes took the first steps downward, he heard a roaring laughter from below amidst numerous voices; it sounded crowded to say the least. Holding strong in the stronghold of sin, his senses were immediately overwhelmed by the scene. Indeed, it was crowded. To his left, on the very side they entered from extended a bar; the wall behind it was lined with more kinds of liquor than Johannes had ever seen, and his eyes were instantly drawn to some of Vaterland's own brands.

Johannes and Mikael stepped onto the smooth stone floor, waiting for their last companion above. Circular tables filled the center of the room, all of them occupied by the most unique looking patrons, not one looking similar to another. Closest along the bar was a fellow with the sides of his head shaved and tattoos across his face, angrily staring into his glass {5}. Further down was a man from the jungle isles, his skin almost black in color; Johannes envied his plate armor, a blue as dark as the ocean depths with a silver trim {3}. At a nearby table stood a tan-skinned orc with black dreadlocks spilling down his shoulders {1}. He must've told a joke, for the two goblins at his table began laughing hysterically in shrill voices, nearly knocking aside their drinks in the process. And there were more, so many more – each person a character all their own.

Soft, feminine voices hailed them from ahead. On a vibrant red couch pressed against the wall laid several courtesans. Although they wore colorful silk pants, the only clothing above the waist was a thin, silk garment across the breasts, but being see-thru, it amounted to little. Johannes darted his eyes away. Behind them was another stair leading to the upper floor, wherever that might lead.

Then from across the room, Johannes and Mikael saw what they were looking for. At the furthest table, a group of men watched a live cobra battle a scorpion on the table – a dangerous game to be sure. Coins were stacked along the edges, people betting furiously. At the far side was a tall man, partially Shan-tai at least, with a courtesan clinging to his arm. From the long black goatee almost touching his chest, they knew he could only be one person. And beside the gambling table, nestled in the corner, was another red couch against the wall; there were indeed women upon it, but certainly not harlots. Unmistakably, they were slaves, three of them collared and tied to the couch with a cord, and in front of them stood a large, very large man. Possibly the largest either Johannes or Mikael had ever seen, he was shirtless, highly muscled, with skin nearly solid black; a scimitar hung in his sash. One of the slaves behind him stood out from the rest. Whereas two were matured women, in their thirties each, there was only one in the middle who was young, quite young. Holding her knees, collared, lengthy black hair fell across her golden brown skin. Aisha.


This message was last edited by the GM at 17:00, Tue 23 Dec 2014.

"I'll remember that," she nodded at the doorman. "See you soon." Lady Jacqueline entered the stairwell and followed after Johannes, her mind focused on finding a nice drink. Upon taking in her surroundings, her face seemed to meld in with the looks of others here; not vanity like the courtisans, but the willingness to get something of interest: and that was to help Aisha. Lady Jacqueline tucked past Johannes a moment to turn left towards the bar, keeping a wary eye out.

Lady Jacqueline peers over the bar at the bartender. "What's the best of whatcha have here?" she asks.


[23:50, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 12+2=14 using 1d20+5+2 (circumstance bonus). Knowledge Local Check on anyone in the same room. -correction, on the Black guard.
22:12, Mon 22 Dec: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local Check. Lox information. (check from before)

01:06, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 16 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 1; (SQ2:TG).
01:06, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 17 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 2; (SQ2:TG).
01:06, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 3; (SQ2:TG).
01:06, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 8 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 4; (SQ2:TG).
01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 5; (SQ2:TG).
01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 6 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 6; (SQ2:TG).
01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 25 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 7; (SQ2:TG).
01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 16 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 8; (SQ2:TG).
01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 16 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 9; (SQ2:TG).
01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 25 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 10; (SQ2:TG).
01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 15 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 11; (SQ2:TG).
01:04, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 8 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 12; (SQ2:TG).
01:04, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 10 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 13; (SQ2:TG).
01:04, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 22 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Patron 14; (SQ2:TG).

01:08, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 11 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Courtesans; (SQ2:TG).
01:08, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 24 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Aisha; (SQ2:TG).
01:08, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 7 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Women Slaves of Lox; (SQ2:TG).
01:07, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Waitresses; (SQ2:TG).
01:07, Today: Secret Roll: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 25 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local, Barkeep; (SQ2:TG).

Taking a 20 on spot (26), listen (26), and search (28) checks of all the patrons. I look at their equipment and what they are wearing. I listen for interesting conversations relevant to us. I search for hidden things, like hidden doors or even traps. I also look at the game Lox is playing and the chains the slaves are chained with (26).

I also roll for Situational Awareness.
23:49, Yesterday: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 20 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
23:48, Yesterday: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 18 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.
23:48, Yesterday: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20+8. Search Check for sidequest
]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:10, Fri 26 Dec 2014.

I smoothly step to the side as Mikael follows me down the stairs, moving without interrupting my scanning at all. I look scan slowly across the room, taking in all the different faces and appearances of the patrons. I look at each to get an idea of who or what they are and what they are wearing. {I take a 10 (11) looking at every single patron. this only takes about 2 minutes maximum.}

     After I stand for a moment looking around, I lean over and whisper to Mikael as he comes up on my side from the stairs, my lips still covered by the bandana. "Make sure Jacqueline gets down here safely, and feel free to get yourself a drink while you look around at all the new faces with her. Keep an ear out as well. I am going to go find the bathroom after I get a better look at that interesting game they are playing. Lets find ourselves a table perhaps." After I notice each table is occupied I correct my suggestion. "Or actually make that the bar." I turn and look at the bar, searching for an open space big enough for the 3 of us. "Would you like to move to a table later perhaps, if one opens up? I think it might not be such a bad idea. I guess I will wait here with you and motion over Jacqueline before I go to the bathroom." I motion for Mikael to take a seat while I wait for Jacqueline. Now realizing she reached the floor while I was speaking to Mikael I lean and mention to her, reiterating to her what I said to Mikael. "I think we can sit at the bar, every table is taken (amazing at this time of day), I think we may order a drink while we have a look around. Later I am going to find the bathroom." I wink at her before turning to sit at the bar. I lean my back against the bar, facing the crowd, relaxed. I take time to look each person over.
      {If the barman offers me a drink, I ask him what he has. I consider some of the drinks from Vaterland. I am interested to know the price, I ask him if it is not shown or volunteered information. I will only buy a small drink and only if it is less than a gold. Otherwise I will choose some other drink, appetiser, or meal which is less than or equal to a gold.}

I pray quietly to myself, my lips barely moving, my voice barely making a sound, "Lord, give us favor, give me discernment. Help me discern who is a threat and who would run. Help me know who is a trained fighter and who is a noncombatant. Help me know who is an enemy and who is a friend, who would be willing to help us and who would seek to hurt us. Help me know how trained the fighters are. Help us know who deserves death and who deserves life. Reveal to me what is in their hearts. Your eyes see men's hearts and you give me '...an unction from the holy one and I know all things.' Christ, you are my wisdom. Christ, I remind myself that you watch over us." I pray slowly as I look intently at each of the patrons. [Private to GM: {I covertly do a detect evil on every person here if possible... if it is more of a group understanding I would take the information similar to the original books, the amount of auras of evil and their strength and location.}]

{
00:28, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 23 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Courtesans; SQ2:TG.
00:27, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 6 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Aisha; SQ2:TG.
00:27, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 22 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Women Slaves of Lox; SQ2:TG.
00:27, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 6 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Waitresses; SQ2:TG.
00:27, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 13 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Barkeep; SQ2:TG.
00:22, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 7 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 1; SQ2:TG.
00:22, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 9 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 2; SQ2:TG.
00:22, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 3; SQ2:TG.
00:22, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 6 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 5; SQ2:TG.
00:21, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 9 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 6; SQ2:TG.
00:21, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 21 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 7; SQ2:TG.
00:21, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 18 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 8; SQ2:TG.
00:21, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 11 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 9; SQ2:TG.
00:21, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 11 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 10; SQ2:TG.
00:21, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 7 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 11; SQ2:TG.
00:20, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 15 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 12; SQ2:TG.
00:20, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 4 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 13; SQ2:TG.
00:19, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 12 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 14; SQ2:TG.
00:22, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 16 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Patron 4; SQ2:TG.
00:18, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 21 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, Lox; SQ2:TG.
00:17, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Adventure, Black Guard of Lox; SQ2:TG.

*I make these checks in the opposite order they appear, the dice log makes them come out like this.
}

I am cautious to not stare at a patron if they look back at me and look me in the eye. I also make a point to not look at the courtesans except what is necessary to search for weapons/equipment/signs of fighting, from their lower clothed portions. "Lord, guard my eyes. In Jesus name." I add to my prayer quietly.

I watch the game Lox is playing, taking note of when a round finishes; who celebrates and who groans? How do they react? Controlled? Greatly angered? Groan? {I take a 20 (21) on watching them and listening to them}

After a long time of watching I speak to my compatriots.
"Well, While you both finish your <pause> drinks, I need to use the bathroom." At this I stand and walk toward the far stairway.

I make my way toward the stairs, purposefully looking at Lox's and the black guard's equipment.

{00:44, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 9 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Black guard equipment; SQ2:TG.
00:44, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 10 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Lox Equipment; SQ2:TG.}

I watch their game as well for a moment, interested, leaning on my guisarme, before I go up the stairs. I then go up the stairs and open the door. {If there is a sign or guard in front of the door I ask him where the bathroom is before entering.}

{00:16, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 17 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
00:16, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 6 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.}
This message was last updated by the player at 05:51, Fri 26 Dec 2014.

I enter the room and glide down the stairs after Herr Johannes. I say in reply to him, "Good idea. Let's just take a moment to take everything in."

I move to the bar with him and something to drink we a reasonable price {under one gold}. I stay with Herr Johannes and Lady Jacqueline just appearing to keep conversation with them while I observe everyone in the room.

I first take a look at the black guard
{07:18, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 22 using 1d20+2+2(CB). Knowledge (local) [BlackGaurde]; SQ.}

I continue to take my time to observe each other patron in the bar.
{I take a 20 on spot(22) and listen(27) checks for everyone in the room excepct Herr Johannes and Lady Jaqueline}

I then try to identify everyone as well.
{Just to make it a little simplier these checks are all local knowledge and in the same order as Herr Johannes}
{07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 10 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 19 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 18 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 7 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 13 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 17 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 10 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 19 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 11 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 20 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 12 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 19 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 11 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 6 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 20 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 17 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 3 using 1d20+2.
07:24, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 16 using 1d20+2.
07:23, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 15 using 1d20+2.
07:23, Today: Secret Roll: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 17 using 1d20+2. Knowledge (local): SQ.}

One man burst out of his chair and backed away from the gambling table, laughing and cursing. Losing to the scorpion, the cobra thrashed toward his edge of the table. Onlookers cheered them on. The two creatures wrestled, twisting around each other in a tangle of fangs, claws, and poisonous things. The scorpion's tail was a blur, stabbing again and again and again. At last, the cobra finally fell limp, shaking with its death throes, and they declared the winner. His owner swiftly slammed a vase down on the scorpion and trapped it, smiling {14}. Most of the table gave a resigned laugh as they pushed coin stacks his way, but one had a deep frown, clearly losing more than he would've liked {11}. Lox had a taut, wide grin as a pile of gold came his way, one of the few winners. Apparently, it pays to know that Jahieran Scorpions have exoskeletons so thick, they're impervious to snake bites!

Lady Jacqueline was enthralled by the excitement as she sat. After the cobra's body was disposed, and blood and venom wiped from the table, they finally brought out the dice, and things settled down over there. Seated in a polished wooden stool by the bar, Jacqueline asked the bartender {B}, "What's the best of whatcha have here?" Older with a balding head and two tufts of gray hair on both sides, he replied, "Best is a Saarian Parakappa Royal-Vintage Wine, 200 gold pieces." He chuckled and smirked, "But you don't seem in the market for that." Herr Johannes took a seat next to her and tossed the bartender five silver pieces, "Yea, perhaps something a little less than what she's having." Johannes was met with a glass of Vaterlandic Red Ale. The color made him smile, for he knew the reddening was from a special kind of root that grew in the mountains, not far from his old home.

"Here, take my seat," Johannes said to Mikael when he was finished. "I need to use the bathroom." Standing, feeling the satisfying tingle of a Vaterlandic brew, he meandered across the room. Courtesans waved toward him as he walked by; they laid nearly on top of each other upon a lush red couch, likely high on some kind of opium. Johannes ignored them and continued up the stairs, passing by a drunk patron stumbling his way down {4}. He tried to open the door, but was disappointed to find it locked. Coming back downstairs, Johannes then realized there was another door beneath the steps, shadowed by the wooden supports – and based on the conflicting smells of something pungent and strong fragrances, it was definitely the bathroom. Johannes chuckled at having missed it and took a moment to watch the gambling table from here. Rolling two dice, it looked like they were playing Over-Under Sevens; this much Johannes recognized, but he didn't know how to play. Coins were stacked high around the table. Whatever they were doing, it was high stakes. [Private to Herr Johannes: Johannes prayed to know the hearts of those around him, but his thoughts were overburdened. There were too many, too close, unable to discern one from the other. Few were free from hatred and despicable deeds of their past, though some were clearer than others, yet they blurred together in Johannes' mind, inseparable from one to another. But a common taint stood out among them, among many if not all - avarice.]


Black Guard: Towering over others, this hulking man stood quiet and diligent. Jacqueline knew at first glance he wasn't local – likely from the tropical isles based on his dark skin. The Olseeni famously used men like this, often slave-born, castrating them at an early age and trained as harem guards from the day they can walk. They're highly prized both as palace guards and bodyguards, especially the latter by some noblewomen of Perdane. They're famous for both discipline and skill with numerous weapons. He looked like a very difficult fight.

Lox: Hair in a tight black bun, the same color as his long braided goatee, he gambled gleefully. Dull green shirt over leather armor, he had a rapier at his side, and it looked like he could use it. . . and well. Despite some Shan-tai heritage, he was Herrod-born, mixed. Jacqueline could only remember he was a successful pirate, one of many. Successful people often know what they're doing.

Barkeep: Although he was aging and gray, patrons treated the bartender with respect, almost reverence. Suddenly, Jacqueline realized he was the famous pirate Hugo Hawkins! Long retired of course. Decades ago, Hugo Hawkins was best known for his daring, if not insane, raid on a Galian warship, using treebark, a barrel, and storing the chemicals to a Fire Bomb in his stomach. The plunder was said to make him wealthy to the end of his days – Jacqueline supposed opening a high-end bar wasn't a bad way to retire!

Waiters: Both men, one was a halfing and the other a young man. At first Johannes was perplexed by the halfling, but then he saw him dash under three patrons with perfect agility, not spilling a drop. He'd be a useful server when the place got crowded.

Slaves: Two woman in their thirties, they were either Herrod-born or Kabariyan. By the worn expressions, they'd been slaves for a long time; clad in roughspun garb, they'd been brought here either to be sold, traded, or gambled away - common folk.

Aisha: Hair black as night, it fell over her clasped knees. She silently stared at the ground. Unlike the other slaves, she was in a white cotton dress which probably wasn't her own. She was dressed up to be sold, and at age fifteen, undoubtedly for a high price. Collared, she was tied like the others to the couch by a cord rope.

Courtesans: In their transparent silks, they were the finest the city had to offer, for only the most attractive were employed by the Serpent Galleon.

Patrons 1, 8, & 7: An orc {1} and his goblin companions {8 & 7} drank heavily and conversed. All looked to be sailors, a blade of some kind at their belts, but Jacqueline could tell by the small details of their garb and accent they weren't natives of Herrod. Likely, they were just passing through. Moderates at a guess.

Patrons 2, 9, & 10: Speaking with two dwarves, a man tugged at his blonde beard {2}. With the amount of facial hear he had, he almost looked like a dwarf himself, albeit a tall & thin one. His stylish tunic contrasted with rough pants, as though he'd only put on a nice shirt for the occasion. A business meeting? He laid out a paper in front of the two dwarves who examined it without a hint of joy, stoic. The man nervously laughed and spoke, but the stone-faced dwarves just glared at him. Jacqueline recognized one of the dwarves {10}, a local, for he was Ithor the Shipbuilder! He made ships for both states and pirates alike, and those who didn't pay for them always, always, met an unfortunate end.

Patron 3 & 6: One man was in cobalt-blue platemail, and the other, a woman {6}, wore a dull grey breast plate; their skin was dark – almost black - likely from the jungle isles. Longswords at their side, they looked like experienced adventures. Alternating between the Common tongue and a strange clicking language, they spoke pleasantly. The party couldn't name them, for the were foreigners, but they looked like a challenging fight.

Patron 4: Some sailor or thief, he drunkenly stumbled down the steps, ragged shoulder-length hair getting messed. More likely than not, he'd come into a large payday only recently and was eager to spend it on the luxuries this place had to offer. Mikael suspected he belonged here less than they did! He'd be effortless to put down.

Patron 5: Tattoos across his face, sides of his head shaved, this man stared angrily into his glass. Mikael had never met him, but he recognized the tattoos by someone's description. If he remembered correctly, this man was Nidvik, a cutt-throat known for his direct and brutal approach. He was messy, and that was the very reason he received so much business – for his employers knew that word of his work was a better deterrent than any threat. Judging by his expression and the heavily stained battleaxe, he'd be as likely to kill someone as talk to them. A challenging opponent to be sure.

Patrons 11, 12, 13, & 14: Most at the gambling table were either wealthy pirates, merchants, or perhaps an odd mixture of both. One had a large hat and mustache, and he was clad in expensive clothing {11}. He looked fairly displeased, apparently having lost quite a bit of money today. Likely some kind of merchant, he looked relatively harmless on his own, but that didn't mean he couldn't hire people to harm others for him. Next to him was another Herrod-born man in leather armor; hair tied up in a bandana, he gave full attention to the gambling at hand {13}. A shortsword was slung at his side. Across from them was a woman – not a slave, but an equal among them! Lengthy black hair flowed out of a rimmed hat with a red ribbon stylishly tied around it. Rapier at her side, she looked very confident, Mikael couldn't remember a thing about her save that her name was Unaylen {12}. Lastly was another unmistakable pirate; large hat with an equally large feather sticking out, he smoked a pipe while gambling away {14}. Next to him was a vase containing his prize-winning scorpion, and a little closer than that, a very ornate longsword. He'd clearly made quite a bit of money in his lifetime, and Jacqueline knew exactly who he was: Buddy. Despite the friendly sounding name, Buddy was an expert thief and pirate, who'd robbed more ships, towns, and homes in a few years than most thieves do in a lifetime. Jacqueline could say this much – he was ambitious. Thus, concluded the assortment of scallywags.

After I take the last gulp of my drink I ask the bartender, "So Lox is quite the character, huh? Does he always win all of his games and bets? Looks like you just managed to win quite the coin from that little fight between the creatures. So what goes on upstairs in this place? I'm a traveler and I finally had the chance to be in the city and I've heard that this is quite the place."

After speaking to the bartender I walk over to the stairs and proceed up them to gain more information on our surroundings. {Assuming there is nothing preventing me from going upstairs.}
I check my surroundings while I walk across the room and as I enter the next floor. Doing a spot and listen check for both locations. I take note of how many doors, what the walls are made of, how many windows there are, and if any doors appear locked. I make a silent approach in both locations as well. I also check for any escapes on the 2nd floor. I do a local Knowledge check on anyone I find upstairs.
19:46, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 18 using 1d20+7. Listen check; 2nd floor {TG}.
19:46, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 21 using 1d20+7. Listen check; Walking across the room {TG}.
19:45, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 14 using 1d20+2. Spot check 2nd floor {TG}.
19:45, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 3 using 1d20+2. Spot check walking across the room {TG}.
03:10, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 3 using 1d20+2. Knowledge (local) Upstairs {TG}.
03:08, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 3 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, Escapes {TG}.
[Private to DM Ryan: Not sure if I really needed these checks. Thought they wouldn't hurt and it wouldn't be a bad idea to draw as little attention as possible.]
19:48, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 6 using 1d20+3. Move silently; 2nd floor {TG}.
19:48, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 16 using 1d20+3. Move silently; Across the room {TG}.

{Again if there is nothing hindering me}
After I take a look upstairs I return down them and walk to Johannes and Lady Jacqueline to tell him what I have learned of the place. I say hushed to them, "So what do you think we do about the girl and Lox? This place had quite the crowd."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:10, Sun 28 Dec 2014.

I enter the bathroom, as uninviting as it smells and I close the door behind me. I lock it if I can.

[Private to GM: I untie my loins and take a leak. I then look around the room a moment. I search for the light-source: Is there any windows in the bathroom? Is the room lit by a lamp? Is there a window in the door? I then regird my loins and prepare to leave. I think to myself a moment, taking in the weight of what we may need to do in order to save this girl. Considering who is the victims and who are the aggressors. I feel my guisarme that I barely fit in the bathroom with me. I test the blade for sharpness. Good, still sharp. My heart begins to beat loudly, at the mere consideration of combat. Who knows if it is only moments before using it again. Do these here deserve death? Am I the one to decide? I realize it is too great a question for me to decide. The stress of the decision drives me to prayer. I speak quietly aloud as I fold my hands in front of me. "Lord, Lead me in this. You are my strength, You are my ability to fight, 'You teacheth mine hands to war.' Do these people who advance evil deserve death? I know You desire mercy, but you have called me to War. May the innocent not suffer for the sake of the wicked. I know you give me success, You 'bless the work of mine hands.' You are my victory, You are my courage, You are my support, You 'command your angels concerning me lest I dash my foot against a stone.' You are my might. May your will be done oh merciful Father. My one hand calls me to destroy these wicked who daily advance the suffering and will of the enemy, in my other hand I, even now, wish to see them saved, to turn to the light. You have given me the ability to lead Lord, because You lead me. Lead me now in this. I cast this burden onto You, 'for you careth for me.' In Jesus name, amen."]

I breath a sigh of relief and step out from the bathroom after a glance in the mirror. (I unlock the door if necessary.) I stand near the bottom of the stairs and look around the room. I take notice of each window on this floor and where they lead- just incase we might have to leap out of one. {I take a 10 (11) on spot to look. I would assume I could see them at this DC.}
     I catch Mikael by the arm, as he passes by and I ask him quietly, "Do you know how to play that game?" I nod toward the table at which Lox sits. "Let me know if you do. Going upstairs? Make sure to let me know what you see." I wink at him. You know, guards, exits, innocents, get a good look for me. How much was it by the way?" While I talk to Mikael I pull him close, like 2 friends talking quietly of an inside joke. If Jacqueline walks by I talk to her at the same time. "If you could, please stay and watch the game with me a moment, I think I may want to join. If it works as teams, you may want to join as well." {Do the same spot check of the game, taking a 10 would likely be enough...}

     I then turn to the gambling table and stare at their game, interested to see if I can learn how to play. I motion a waiter over, unless one is nearby and ask him how to play quietly. "That looks like an interesting game, how does one play? Could you explain the rules?"
     I take a close note of how many coins they are putting in each round. Also, how many coins do they begin the game each round with.

{00:32, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 5 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Watching the game table and bets placed; SQ2:TG.}

I wait a moment for them to ask me to join.

{I request that we could do this portion of conversation with a chat room... I have a lot of simple questions that depend on their answers. The choices are affected by each answer.
If they do not invite me to join, I may ask if they have room for one more... see chat room.}

{00:31, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 12 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
00:31, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 8 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.}
This message was last edited by the player at 05:56, Sun 28 Dec 2014.

Lady Jacqueline's eyes flicker between Lox and the girls chained up behind him. Her face has an uncanny calm about her, knowing that the cogs in her mind were turning. She then glances around her, curious about any threat about them. Bravely, she asks Johannes quietly, "How much do you think we'd have to wager and bet for them?" When she locks eye contact with both Johannes and then Mikael when it was his turn, she looks at them seriously. Guys, we shouldn't fight in this round, if we can help it. There's quite a bit of people in here... Though, she doesn't actually say this aloud. After he walks up to Lox's table and asks about the rules, she also approaches the table and folds her arms over her chest. "I'd like to play, too, thanks."


[00:42, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 11 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
00:42, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 22 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.

Those were general checks.

01:00, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 19 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local Check. For the game being played.
01:03, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+8. Search Check for sidequest. Searching for traps/escapes.]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:04, Sun 28 Dec 2014.

Cheers roared out from the far table as someone won a big pot. Despite the crowded establishment, the air had a fairly pleasant scent, for it was heavily fragranced with something foreign and flowery; whatever it was, it worked well to mask the less pleasant odor of patrons. Mikael sipped from his Galian River Beer {five silver} and spoke with the barkeep, who replied, "Heh – you have to be a character to make it in the world kid." The halfling waiter climbed onto a small step attached to the bar (likely built there just for halflings) and slid an empty tray on the counter. The barkeep swiftly filled it with drinks and continued, "People win and lose. Can't cheat here though, unlike the slum taverns." He chuckled, "Folks here are too sharp for that – you'd get your throat cut in an instant." Taking away a laden tray, Mikael watched the halfing hop down from the step and dash across the room; it was almost an artform how he dodged all the large, clumsy legs. "Upstairs is for the girls, them and the customer. If you want a key and girl, pay here! It's 25 gold for Jenette, 26 for Gloria, and 30 for Lilac. Lilac used to be an acrobat you know; you'd never suspect humans could be that flexible!" Acting interested, Mikael stood and crossed the floor. Smoke from pipes twisting and dancing through the air stung his eyes as he walked through. Briefly, he climbed the steps and tried the upstairs door, but as the barkeep had mentioned, it was indeed locked – he returned to the base of the steps where he ran into Herr Johannes, stepping out of the bathroom. [Private to Herr Johannes: Stretching the width of the building the bathroom had an open trough along the north end, draining into the Aqueducts below (Johannes immediately recognized the familiar smell of victory latent beneath the spiced and scented air). On both the east and west ends were partial rooms, only a thin, shutter-like door in separating them from the trough; inside were toilets with a single window above, built exactly the same as those in the rest of the building (see below). A ceiling lantern helped with light in the middle room. When Johannes finished his business, he prayed; not the cleanest spot for doing so, but he prayed nonetheless. If the answer arose, it was hard to see, for even those who've sinned can perform great deeds.]

Sunlight seeped through windows in the Serpent Galleon, but the glass was so heavily fogged, not a single shape could be discerned on the other side. They were criss-crossed with thin metal rods, and would take a couple good hits of the sword to break through; in subtle ways, they built this place like a fortress. Johannes took this in, counting three windows on the east and west sides of the floor. No doubt the base of the windows were level with the ground, so that one climbing out would crawl right into the wide alleyways. Johannes then leaned on the stairs with Mikael, watching the gambling at play. "Do you know how to play that game?" "Perhaps," Mikael replied. "Galian dice games are much more complicated; this one looks pretty simple." The halfling waiter passed by, his tray empty once more, and Johannes flagged him over, asking him of the game. Both Johannes and Mikael had to crouch to hear what he was saying, but the small waiter replied, "Oh that? That's Over-Under Sevens. Two dice rolled, and you bet it'll be either be over seven, under seven, or seven. If you're right that it's over or under, you double your money. If you're right that it's seven, you get four times your money. Looks like Lox is playing as the house right now." Back to work, the halfling darted off beneath another pair of legs.

Meanwhile, Lady Jacqueline approached the table, feeling gutsy. Standing at the edge of the table, Lox and the others glanced upward, studying her from behind a thin haze of smoke. She knew the game, for it was often played in the underground rings of Herrod. Jacqueline folded her arms across her chest, "I'd like to play." There was a brief pause. . . until Lox laughed and said, "Take a seat!" gesturing to the only open space. The woman to Jacqueline's right {12}, with long black hair and a beauty mark on her cheek, held out a seat for her, smirking. "Hi," she cheerfully said as Jacqueline sat. The men returned to their current round of gambling. Next to his seat on the ground, Buddy's vase started rattling, but he casually rested a foot on it, keeping the scorpion inside from knocking it over. Lox was seated directly across from Jacqueline, studying her in between dice rolls, as one would a gambling opponent or new face. Jacqueline suddenly realized she was trembling and did her best to hide it; then, a soft hand touched her arm. It belonged to the woman with black hair, flowing out of a rimmed hat. "Relax," she whispered and smiled, as though it were from one best friend to another. "I'm Unaylen. It's five gold minimum bet. Goodluck hun!"


This message was last edited by the GM at 15:43, Sun 28 Dec 2014.

Lady Jacqueline clenches her jaw ever so slightly, but places 5 gold on the table. "Thanks, Unaylen. I'm Jackie." Her street name from years ago. Ha. Fitting, but in case anyone had ideas of trying to figure out who she was, she wanted none of it. But at least someone had kind manners in here. Her eyes lift her gaze from Unaylen, and look up expectantly at Lox, waiting patiently.

[21:14, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 12 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
21:14, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 19 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.
21:53, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 18 using 1d20. Sense Motive. Unaylen.
06:26, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 9 using 1d20. Sense Motive. Patron 14.
06:25, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20. Sense Motive. Patron 13.
06:25, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 19 using 1d20. Sense Motive. Patron 12.
06:25, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 10 using 1d20. Sense Motive. Patron 11.
06:25, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 13 using 1d20. Sense Motive. Lox.]

"Over.. for me," she states firmly, locking her gaze with Lox. Her eyes were not threatening-- more, child-like than anything.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:26, Tue 30 Dec 2014.

I walk over to the gambling table stand off to Jacqueline's left to observe the game that's going on. To Jacqueline, acting more impaired than I am, "I already spent most of my coin on all these drinks. You'll have to get a bet in for me as well!"
{23:06, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 14 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive of Guard; SQ.
23:05, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 11 using 1d20+7. Listen Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.
23:05, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 15 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.}
I observe and talk to the others at the table and try to get sense of their attitudes and loyalties to Lox
{
03:05, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 10 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive, Patron 11 (Merchant); SQ2:TG.
03:05, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 22 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive, Patron 12 (Unaylen); SQ2:TG.
03:05, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 8 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive, Patron 13 (Man focused on Game); SQ2:TG.
03:05, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 11 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive, Patron 14 (Buddy); SQ2:TG.}

I watch Unaylen closely, she seems to be just a little too friendly. I wonder what her true motives are...
{
03:08, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 13 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive, Patron 12 (Unaylen); SQ2:TG.}
This message was last edited by the player at 08:10, Tue 30 Dec 2014.

I approach the table after the noticed acceptance of Jacqueline to their game and new found confidence because of it. I ask to join, but am declined, at least for now. While they set up the game I decide to ask the waiter a few questions. When I see he does not seem to know, I turn to engage in conversation with the various players. It is not difficult to be agreeable and friendly in my conversation toward them, which I make a point to be. They are including enough to, sort of, 'join in' on their jokes. They seem like a friendly enough sort -except that Lox. He is... less than polite, shall we say. I ask one more question before the game begins. "In that case, what about the guard. Does he work for the inn or one of you? Is he for sale?"

     I notice to myself how nonchalant they are, in the midst of their laughter and joviality, about the fact that those women are people, not possessions. They seem to ignore the fact that they are not only gambling for gold, but also people as a if they were just a possession to be had. They ignore the humanity of those women. They ignore the pains and hurts and soul of that -person- there. I remember that as I engage in conversation. Reminding myself why I am here.

     As we converse I do a series of considerations as we speak.

     How loyal to Lox do the rest of these people seem?

{01:45, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 18 using 1d20. Sense Motive, Patron 14 (Buddy); SQ2:TG.
01:46, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 16 using 1d20. Sense Motive, Patron 13 (Man focused on Game); SQ2:TG.
01:47, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 9 using 1d20. Sense Motive, Patron 12 (Unaylen); SQ2:TG.
01:48, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 8 using 1d20. Sense Motive, Patron 11 (Merchant); SQ2:TG.}

     Why is Unaylen being so friendly?

{01:50, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 8 using 1d20. Sense Motive, Patron 12 (Unaylen); SQ2:TG.}

     [Private to GM: In all these sense motive checks I look inwardly as well for to listen to God's spirit, what is He saying about all this. "Lord, you are my wisdom," I pray inwardly, as I look withing about these questions. ]
     [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde: I pray to myself nearly silently, "Lord, I think you for direction about this. I thank you for favor. You have God's favor because of Christ." I move up and I place my hand on Jacqueline's shoulder as I look intently at the roll about to be made on the table. I crouch over so my lips are near her ear when I pray this, so she hears it barely.]

     I as usual, keep my guard up, even if it does not look it, and I keep a look out for attacks and other aggressive action. I stay aware of my surroundings.

{01:29, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 11 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
01:28, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 20 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.}
This message was last edited by the player at 07:01, Tue 30 Dec 2014.

After some conversation {See Sub-Character Chat}.

Herr Johannes asked, ". . .what about the guard. Does he work for the inn or one of you? Is he for sale?" "Not for sale," Lox curtly responded. "Ah, drinks!" The halfling waiter placed a tray full of glasses on the table, and players swiftly leaned forward to grab a glass. Buddy lifted his and swirled it around with an expression of mock disgust, "Ugh – who ordered us Viander's Whiskey?" "I did," Lox replied. "Don't tell me your stomach is too soft for that!?" "Heh – had a bad experience once. Ask Hugo, he'll tell you." "Actually, I think I remember that," chimed Unaylen, taking a sip of her own. "Was that the night with the flaming donkey? And we tied that guy who tried to cheat at cards on it?" Buddy chuckled with a wistful expression, "I had forgotten it was a donkey! That was a fun night." "Well for god's sake, give it to the girl. She'll make a wimp out of you," said Lox. Buddy passed his glass to Lady Jacqueline, who glanced at the strong-smelling liquor with some apprehension. Unaylen leaned toward her and whispered, "Don't let it touch the tongue." Unaylen raised her own glass to her lips and emptied half of it in a heartbeat. She gave Jacqueline a wink.

Lox rolled up his sleeves and placed two dice in a cup, "Kris, you in?" Kris {13} was counting in his head, considering a decision, until he replied, "How much did you say your unsold slave was, 65?" "That's right." He assembled a stack of coins, "16 gold, 3 silver. I'll put this against your slave on sevens!" People at the table smiled, laughed, and echoed with their support, wanting to see some excitement. Growing a wide grin, Lox said, "Now we have a game. I accept!" Dice shook vigorously in the cup, creating a clangor for several suspenseful seconds before releasing its contents onto the table. Two wooden dice frantically rolled toward the center; the first stopped right away on a 6. The last die spun on its corner like a top for a moment before slamming down on 4. "10, Over." "Yes!" Jacqueline shouted, some excitement escaping her. Cheers, roars, and a groan from Kris, the table was elated. Unaylen gently touched Jacqueline's shoulder, "Nice job!" Heart fluttering at the win, Jacqueline watched Lox push a lovely stack of 10 gold pieces her way, doubling her money. Not that he minded, for he received an even bigger stack from Kris who simply laughed in resignation.

07:46, Today: DM Ryan rolled 4 using 1d6. The Gambit, Dice Roll 2.
07:44, Today: DM Ryan rolled 6 using 1d6. The Gambit, Dice Roll 1.


Lox: He thoroughly enjoyed the game at hand, the risk, dice, and danger. Not to mention the drinks. Despite having a temper, he seemed most cheerful and agreeable when at the gambling table. Jacqueline wondered how unpleasant he would be outside of it. . .

Unaylen: In her mid-twenties, Unaylen was the most mysterious of them all, unquestioningly accepted by their company. 'She's practically the same age as me,' Jacqueline thought to herself. She seemed to have a measure of goodwill toward Jacqueline, happy to have another woman to bond with amidst a sea of male scoundrels. Suddenly, Jacqueline sympathized with her outgoing friendship completely. Unaylen seemed to regard Lox in a very casual way, indicating they'd known each other a long time.

Black Guard: Mikael watched the guard, but he stood there attentively, his face more still and emotionless than rock.

Buddy {14}: Puffing a pipe with some foreign kind of weed inside, Buddy was physically relaxed. But Johannes could see the sharp eyes beneath his large feathered hat, catching every tell in his opponents, contemplative. He'd be a difficult person to slip something past or trick. However, he never replied to Lox's sharp tongue with a retort, indicating a sign of respect or fear.

Kris {13}: He was disappointed at the loss of gold, but he chuckled about it nonetheless, clearly nothing he couldn't handle. In his chuckle, the party caught sight of two silver teeth near the front of his smile. Expensive replacements indeed. But despite his bandanna and outward appearance, he seemed very down to earth, far from eccentric. A businessman of sorts. He treated Lox as a friend, and vice versa.

Mitch {11}: Perhaps the least 'tough' among them, he was still welcome among their number – a trader of some kind. He couldn't hide some perturbation about his losses. Between his expensive garb and concern, money was certainly at the top of his priorities. Toward Lox, he never replied with an insult of his own; though he was accepted among them, he was certainly a lower standing.

Spot & Listen: People moved about the Serpent Galleon as usual, discussing and drinking and being rather pleasant. At first, the party considered this surprising, being a establishment of scoundrels, but then the party remembered these weren't low-brow folks, idiots, or brawlers. These were the most intelligent and experienced of scoundrels; the fools were filtered out long ago. For the same reasons, the gambling at the table was surprisingly honest. No doubt any cheating by one would be caught by another – and none were so foolish to risk death for an amount they could steal for within a week.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:25, Tue 30 Dec 2014.

I straighten my posture and say with confidence, "It looks like there's enough luck to go around and I still got a some gold left for the night. I got 8 gold, over." I relax my stance and lean against my spear that I still have in my hand. I keep a close eye on Lox to see his reaction and pay attention to his attitude during the situation.

{17:25, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 15 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive, Lox; SQ2:TG.}

While I seem to have my full attention to the game and the table I keep myself aware of area around me.

{7:27, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 13 using 1d20+7. Listen Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.
17:27, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 21 using 1d20+2. Spot Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.}

I also check around the room and at floors where I can see to look for any traps or hidden doors.

{17:31, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 9 using 1d20+4. Search Check, room for traps and hidden doors, SQ2.}

I turn to Herr Johannes. In a friendly, but joking manner, "Alright I know you can top a small bet like that. Let's see what you have, heh?"

Lady Jacqueline's lip curled a little in boldness. That drink is for the man outside, she thought to herself, not even wanting to touch it, based on its smell. "I'm ...calling seven," she called out confidently. She pulled out her gem from her bag and tenderly twisted it in her fingertips. "I happen to be looking for a few recruits, Lox..." She glances at the slaves and particularly to Aisha. "And I'd have a good use for them, over there. Would you be willing to place their worth on a bid," she adds a little weight to her charm, "...Lox?"

[00:51, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 22 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
00:51, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.

00:54, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 10 using 1d20. Sense Motive. Lox. Why is he trying to hide?
00:53, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 6 using 1d20. Sense Motive. Lox. What's he trying to hide?

This is in regards to the buyer of Aisha.]
This message was last edited by the player at 05:56, Thu 01 Jan 2015.

I consider to myself What Lox could be hiding about the buyer of Aisha? and Also, Why he was hiding the identity of the buyer (of Aisha)?

{01:25, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 12 using 1d20. Sense Motive on Lox, Why is he hiding the buyer of Aisha?; SQ2:TG.
01:25, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 12 using 1d20. Sense Motive on Lox, What is he hiding about the buyer of Aisha?; SQ2:TG.}

Pleased with Lady Jacqueline's recent win, I pat her on the shoulder, and smile beneath my bandana.

I pray and look to God's direction.
I hear God speak to my heart, "You are my son, your have the same favor Jesus does, you have the blessing of Abraham because of Christ, NOW ACT LIKE IT!"
FAITH rises in my heart. Supernatural boldness overtakes me.

Emboldened by God's Word spoken to my heart, I move to the square south of Jaqueline next to the table. I draw 14 gold coins while I walk there and slam them on the table. "I offer this 14 gold on 7's for your slave, Mitch."
{If they tell me that is not how the rules work I will offer it as a bet against the house, if they still do not allow me to do that I will add that gold to the gem, Lady Jaqueline is betting for, that amount of gold x4 (14gp x 4 = 56gp), If they still have a problem with that I give her the gold to bet for that amount of gold back (56gp).}

"Here, Mikael, add that 8 gold to Lady Jaqueline's bet. They wanted to see a game? Lets show them one!" I look slyly at Mikael about this, raising an eyebrow. I speak to Mikael, but loud enough others can hear, so as to begin to get their mouth's watering.

"You all want to see a game?! Get ready then! Time for some real money, eh!?" I raise an eyebrow as I say the statement, with a slight chuckle and a smirk- indicating I see this is more than the last game but still something we can keep a light aire about. I draw out 50 more gold coins from under my cloak. I place it on the table as a pile. Letting the coins jingle and and shimmer as they come to rest.

"This is part of Jacqueline's bet. Lox, you have 200 coins you can bet against it? on ... 7s?" I pause for effect before speaking "7's" reminding them of the stakes.

I then see Jacqueline draw the gem from her pouch. Nearly flabbergasted, I exclaim,
     "I guess it REALLY is time for a real game! That gem is worth over 500 gold coins! You could not turn an offer down like that?! ...On 7's?! Lox, do you have 2000 gold coins to wager on this... no wait, 1750 Gold, plus the 2 slaves! Like she said! the 2 slaves plus the gold!" I really get excited about this, looking for the other players to follow my energy and get excited, especially after a little drink. I would even welcome everyone in the bar who overhears my exuberant talk. If Lox is hesitant, I am pushing him (emotionally) in front of everyone. His reputation depends on this. If he still resists, I will ask him, "You are not a coward? ... are you?" Questioning him like this in front of everyone would really push his reputation. {I will have my glave ready to respond with force if he tries to attack me. I would respond with a trip attack on Lox, if he tries to attack me.}

[Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja:
I speak quietly to my 2 companions, "Those dice will roll to add up to 7 in Jesus name! God gives us favor! Amen? (As in "you agree! Right?")"]

{01:26, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 5 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
01:26, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 8 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.}
This message was last edited by the player at 08:06, Thu 01 Jan 2015.

Nodding, Lady Jacqueline teeters the gem back and forth gingerly. "Seven..." she says, taking in the build-up of Johannes' speech. "And this is my bid." She places the gem on the table, not lifting a finger off of it. "And it will only be a bid... in exchange for those slaves, and this guy's gold." She jabs a thumb to point at Johannes behind her, purses her lips, and raises her eyebrows expectantly. "That makes it out to be... a whole two slaves and 2,000 gold, versus this here pretty gem and 72 [DM Ryan - 64] gold coins..."

[02:11, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 8 using 1d20+6. Listen Check for sidequest.
02:11, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 21 using 1d20+6. Spot Check for sidequest.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:41, Thu 01 Jan 2015.

He dropped a sack of gold coins on the table, several spilling out of the top and landing with a clink. Herr Johannes, hooded with a bandanna masking his lower face, let go of the sack and called out the bet. Next to Jacqueline's gem, it made for a lavish pile of loot. Most conversation in the room died down as their attention was drawn to the gamble, for people knew entertainment when it came. The scoundrels at the table chimed, "Now these folks know how to play!" Lady Jacqueline gave a momentary glance at Unaylen who tipped her hat in response, a gesture that said respect.

When Johannes brought attention to Jacqueline's gem, Lox replied with an unnerving smirk, as though he knew something they didn't. "Obvious bullshit," he uttered. "If you thought your gem was actually worth 500 gold piece, you wouldn't be betting for slaves – you'd be out buying three or four of your own. You probably don't even realize yet your damn gem is made of glass, but I don't blame you for trying." He gave a rather unpleasant chuckle. Patrons drifted over toward the table, standing a respectable distance while they spectated; an orc whispered a comment into the ear of one goblin who began giggling.

Buddy, Kris, and the others watched Lox with curiosity, earnestly wondering what he was going to do next. Lox felt his goatee from chin to tip, calculating, "Your glass rock and 50 gold piece on sevens is enough for both my slaves." Unaylen cut in, "Are you sure you want to accept that Lox? The Olseeni girl is already sold; if the buyer's upset with you, you're on your own." Lox started laughing heartily, "Eh, what's he going to do? Besides, this right here is what I live for! You guys got yourselves a game!" The crowd cheered and echoed their support, primed to see one hell of a dice roll.

But Johannes wasn't quite finished. He dropped another pile of 14 gold piece, offering a simultaneous bet against Mitch for his own slave. Lox looked at Mitch, "That's your call." Mitch hungrily eyed the coins, "Alright, I'll accept." Slowly, Lox rolled up both sleeves, arms held outward for all to see. Placing two wooden dice in a cup, he lifted and started to shake; the rattling filled the Serpent Galleon with suspense. "64 gold piece and a glass gem, sevens. If you win, you get all three slaves. Are you ready? . ."


Spot, Listen, & Sense Motive: Arms bare and exposed, Lox did everything transparently, as was customary among such crowds. There didn't appear to be any cheating. But Mikael noticed something much more surprising: Lox's laughter had the slightest stuttering, a difficult thing to catch. It only seemed to arise after Unaylen's warning. If Mikael didn't know any better, he'd say Lox might be afraid of his buyer. . .

Search Check: Mikael briefly wandered the room. He didn't find any secret doors, but he did find an unattended drink! Hmm. . . to swipe or not to swipe?

Whispers: Lady Jacqueline listened and caught the orc whispering,
Orc: Those are some ugly-looking slaves.
Goblin: They're humans. They're all ugly!
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:31, Thu 01 Jan 2015.

I look at the gem on the table to see what it's really worth. I also observe what Lox is saying about the gem to determine if he's genuine about believing it is worth 50 gold.

{18:17, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 9 using 1d20+5. Sense Motive, Lox on the value of the gem; SQ2:TG.
18:16, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 17 using 1d20+3. Appraise check; gem's value; {SQ2:TG}.}

After all the bets are placed I pay close attention to the dice and the other players to make sure no one is cheating or doing anything to get an unfair advantage.

{18:18, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 21 using 1d20+3. Spot Check, cheating, SQ2.}

Confidently to the table. "That gem is worth way more than 50 gold! You can't pull that over on us. It's not our first time with a little bit of treasure. You said so yourself, this is what you live for. We could just take the gem and buy what we want ourselves. You see Lox, after more than 200 years somethings just tend to get a little stale. If we wanted to do things the easy and boring way we wouldn't have stepped foot in here. Now where's the fun in that?"

Bluff check for convincing Lox of the value of the gem and our intentions.
{20:49, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 12 using 1d20+9. Bluff check; against Lox for the gem's value. SQ2.}
This message was last edited by the player at 01:49, Fri 02 Jan 2015.

I watch the game closely for cheating or slight of hand. I watch that the dice do not seem rigged or weighted. (part of my last post I rolled, but now I am posting it here, as part 2 of the post)
{03:16, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 21 (NAT 20!) using 1d20+1. Spot Check, for cheating; SQ2 TG.}

Upon Lox's disbelief in the gems worth and effort to devalue it, I ask for the gem. I take a close look at it to get a better idea of its true value.
{18:16, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 18 using 1d20+1. Appraise Check, on Gem of Jacqueline; SQ2:TG.}

I also consider what else I may know about this gem.
{18:52, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 17+3 (20) using 1d20+1+(+3). Knowledge (Religion), on Gem of Jacqueline; SQ2:TG.
18:52, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 13 using 1d20+1. Knowledge (Nobility and Royalty), on Gem of Jacqueline; SQ2:TG.
18:51, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 4 using 1d20+1. Knowledge History, on Gem of Jacqueline; SQ2:TG.
18:49, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 4 using 1d20+1. Knowledge Arcana, on Gem of Jacqueline; SQ2:TG.
18:48, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 9 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Adventure, on Gem of Jacqueline; SQ2:TG.}

I hear Lox response and I am incredulous! Who does he think he is!? I observe him closely in regards to his devaluing of the gem.
{18:35, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 20 (NAT 20!) using 1d20. Sense Motive, of Lox's response to the gem; SQ2:TG.}

[Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja: I whisper to my party members, "If the gem is so valueless, lets trade it for gold instead then!"]

I also consider Unaylen's caution to lox about the buyer. What are they trying to hide!?
{18:44, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 12 using 1d20. Sense Motive, of Unaylen's caution to Lox; SQ2:TG.}

As always I keep my eyes and ears open, on guard for information and the threat of an attack or theft.
{18:25, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 19 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
18:25, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 13 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.}

{I ready an action to attack Lox if he tries to attack us. 3 power attack.}
This message was last edited by the player at 02:27, Fri 02 Jan 2015.

[20:51, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 16 using 1d20+3. Sense Motive. Unaylen's response to Lox.
20:50, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+3. Sense Motive. Lox's response to the gem.
20:49, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 21 using 1d20+7. Spot check for sidequest. Anyone cheating?
20:49, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 26 using 1d20+7. Spot check for sidequest. General awareness.
20:47, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 22 using 1d20+7. Listen Check for sidequest.
20:45, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20+5. Knowledge Local on gem.
20:45, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 14 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Nature  on gem.
20:45, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 18 using 1d20+3. Knowledge Nobility/Royalty on gem.
20:44, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 20 using 1d20+3. Knowledge History on gem.
20:43, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 20 using 1d20+3. Bluff check about gem.
20:43, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 5 using 1d20+3. Appraise check the gem.
21:36, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 23 using 1d20+10. Slight of hand. Pulling out her dagger (in her sleeve) in the event of danger.

I have to get to the details of how much gold I have, but I know I have above 50.]

Lady Jacqueline smoothly drew back the gem and half-shrugged. "Weeeeeell, if you find this so valueless, I could just put this away and put down 10 gold..." She pulls out a small pouch that chitters a metalic whisper. "10 gold coins in place of my gem." A little entertained by his response, she smirks and simply adds more to the weight of the game. "Just for kicks and giggles--" her hand sets down a stack of ten more gold coins from the last round, "-- we'll add this to the pot for the reward of forty more gold in addition to the slaves." In the back of her mind, she readies to throw a dagger in a sneak attack (or attack if sneak attack is unavailable) against any of the party surrounding them who would attampt to attack her-- and/or her comrades, for that matter. Her dagger is safe within her sleeve.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:47, Fri 02 Jan 2015.

"I still got some gold left. How abut we make this just a little more interesting. My last 8 gold I got with me 7's!" After I lay my gold down on the table a take a step back to where I was standing. I move my spear into my left hand to look non-threatening, but I have the palm of my right hand resting in my dagger beneath my robe to be ready for anything.

"For an elf, you're fuckin' stupid," Lox said to Mikael. "Take that shit bauble off the table." With a confident smirk, Lady Jacqueline picked up the gem and played with it in her fingers. She briefly watched the green and orange colors dance around eachother. It was only now she noticed the colors slightly moving inside, slowly, barely noticable. But what bothered her the most was that she had no idea what it was, or what it was for. Jacqueline handed the gem to Herr Johannes who stood over her shoulder. Turning it over in his hands, he realized – to some grief – Lox was right; the gem was indeed made of glass. However, the edges were cut so sharply, so exact, that it was no surprise they took it for a gemstone. The colors gently moved around one another, like watching a cloud move on a windless day. 'Is this thing hollow? Are those colors. . . gases?' Herr Johannes thought to himself. A puzzle for another day. He placed it back in Jacqueline's bag.

Jacqueline placed a stack of coins on the table, "This should suffice." Lox had been stiff in his seat, angered that they'd attempt to persist in their ruse, thinking they were trying to bluff him. He grimly nodded, "That'll do." "And this," Mikael added, dropping some gold pieces of his own on the table. "Sevens. Just a little something for myself." Breaking his darkened expression with a chuckle, Lox said, "You fools got a lot riding on sevens! If that roll doesn't turn up, you're in for one hell of a loss." "We'll see," Herr Johannes declared with his unbroken confidence. "8 gold piece for the elf. 60 against my two slaves. 14 against Mitch's slave. . . All on sevens." The crowd watched in silent anxiety, an unnerving eagerness to see the result; this was real excitement.

Sleeves rolled up to his shoulders, Lox picked up the two wooden dice once more. As was the custom, he held out his arms extended, for all to see (a Shan-tai tradition), and placed the dice in the cup. It was clean of cheating, pure chance. He began to shake the dice. Jacqueline shivered in her chair and grasped the edge to steady herself. Despite keeping his countenance composed, Johannes could feel a cry in his stomach beckoning for it to be done with. Lox released the dice onto the table, and each bounce seemed to go in slow motion.

Wooden dice danced on the center of the table. Spectators were breathless. The first landed on a -2- {22:13, Today: DM Ryan rolled 2 using 1d6. The Gambit, Dice Roll 1.}.

The second bounced rapidly, flipping between numbers in a fury, before falling on. . . -6- {22:16, Today: DM Ryan rolled 6 using 1d6. The Gambit, Dice Roll 2.}.

Amidst cheers, cries, groans, and laughter, Lox gazed up at the adventurers with the most unpleasant smile of satisfaction on his face. "Over. You Lose. . ."


Sense Motive: Not appreciating a glass jewel being put off as a gemstone, Lox appeared adamant in his fury. Unaylen's warning seemed casual on the surface, but it was earnest, some concern for his well-being. Apparently, this buyer was no person to screw over.

"Loaded dice," she murmurs to Mikael. Jacqueline smirks, and politely laughs, catching a glance of the girl in the corner. "What's their burden anyway? An unpaid debt to someone?" The question was pointed to no one in particular, but she thought she'd ask out of curiosity.

Part I:

In frustration I slam my leather, gauntlet, covered fist on the table. "GAAAA!" I point to Mikael, "Check those dice for being weighted!"

I wait to hear the result and ask for a reroll if he says they are. I ask for a new pair of dice then. If the results are still unfavorable or are anything other than winning back our gold and the slaves I proceed with my specified actions and speech (with my whole post).

"And I will have you know Lox, we were not trying to cheat you with the gem." I speak with restrained anger. "I have to use the water closet!" I speak to my party a moment hushed in my anger, "I think it is about time we leave, unless you really had enough left to go upstairs." [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja: "If you have to use the can before we go, now would be a good time," I say quietly with a dead serious look in my eye.]
     I turn to leave to the bathroom, before I reach it however, I walk past Unaylen and whisper to her harshly, "Just what is your buyer planning on doing to that girl anyways?! Who is this buyer, I would like to know..." I walk away in a huff.

      I reach the bathroom and turn to use a toilet. [Private to Lady Jacqueline Raynelde; Mikael Vaeltaja: I take the glass of whiskey from Jacqueline when she enters the bathroom. I speak quietly to Jacqueline, "Use the bathroom then wait for us in this entry way here. Warn us if anyone comes in." I enter the men's bathroom on the left and go in a stall. Once I am in the stall, I sit and act like I am taking a crap. But while I do that, I get my pack out and get out 2 torches, and the bottle of oil I had in there without a fuse, and 3 other bottles of oil with fuses. I remove one of the pouches from my belt containing 4 wicked oils. I pour my bottle of oil with no fuse into the drink Jacqueline brought into the bathroom and gave me. I get up from the toilet and put my gear back on. I light the torch. I then get the 3 bottles of oil with the wicks in them and light them. I exit the stall and I motion to Jacqueline to come over. "Watch for anyone to walk in, we need to act like these are lamps if someone comes in... set them on a windowsill or sink like a candle." {Listen check? Sleight of hand check? or Bluff here?} I hand 1 bottle with a fuse to Jacqueline and 2 to Mikael. "Hand me 2 bags of your marbles please, Jacqueline." "Mikael, here take this torch, 2 oils, and put this pouch on your belt as well." I hand Mikael the lit torch and stuff the other unlit torch in my belt. I take the 2 bags of marbles and put them on my belt where the oil pouch had been. We chat about our plans {see our seperate chat} I whisper quietly into their ears. "Jacqueline, sneak that lit oil up to the top of the stairs and set it on the edge. Have your bow slung on your shoulder inconspicuously. Shoot when we are in position." "Mikael, sneak that oil and torch out after I spill the 2nd bag of marbles." "I am going to make a distraction."] I then leave the bathroom with the drink in hand.

{Checks for the bathroom:
Hide
Move Silently
Spot
Listen

01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 3 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
01:05, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 5 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
01:08, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 7 using 1d20. Hide Check, in Bathroom; SQ2:TG.
01:08, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 10 using 1d20. Move Silently Check, in Bathroom; SQ2:TG.}
This message was last edited by the player at 06:08, Sat 03 Jan 2015.

Jacqueline casually waits for Mikael's bluff, only half-curious to see Lox's response. She then hastily takes up the whiskey offered to her earlier and then slowly walks towards the bathroom, weight bearing down in each step. When out of sight of the other spectators, she swaps her things (marbles, drink, and flaming oil) all in order. Her quiver of arrows is readied for a new round, her dagger is away, and her bow neatly draped around her shoulders and ready for a swift grab if necessary. When the oil is lit, she walks silently, unnoticed, to the edge of the top of the stairs (G9) to their exit. She then waits for Johannes' signal.

[00:34, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 9 using 1d20+8. Hide Check for sidequest.
00:35, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 10 using 1d20+7. Listen Check for sidequest.
00:35, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 25 using 1d20+7. Spot Check for sidequest.
00:35, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 24 using 1d20+8. Move Silently Check for sidequest.
01:13, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 17 using 1d20+10. Slight of Hand Check. Hiding the lamp.]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:27, Sat 03 Jan 2015.

Part II

I then walk out the bathroom to check if I left anything at the table. "Here, I need to check if I left anything under the table near where Jacqueline was sitting." I set my drink on the table. I look far under the table, nearly climbing underneath it. "Where did I leave that pouch..." I get out 2 bags of marbles while I am under the table. "Aha, here it is! Opps!" I spill 1 bag of marbles 'accidentally' under Lox's chair {A7} while I search down there for my stuff. While I climb out to help clean them up I reach up onto the table from below and spill my drink 'accidentally' all over the table as I climb out (causing further distraction for Jacqueline as she ascends the stairs). "Oh no! So much for that whiskey. What a mess!" I growl. I then walk out around the table to help clean up after Jacqueline has ascended the stairs. I then bump into the stairs trying to avoid Unaylen and 'spill' the second bag of marbles at the base of the stairs {C8}. "Arg! This game seemed to get me all shaken up with adrenaline!" I cautiously, {at half speed} walk to the other side of them, up the stairs after Mikeal passes me, providing cover for him from view. I walk up to D9, passing by Mikael. Mikael walked out of the bathroom, after I spilled the second bag of marbles, with the lit torch and 2 lit flaming oil pints (spear and torch in one hand, 2 oils in the other).

At this moment Jacqueline's arrow sails past me aiming for Lox's heart. At the same time I attack with my guisarme. I stab at the guard with both hands firmly grasping my guisarme from my position of high ground upon the stairs {D9}.

{02:26, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 10 using 2d4+7. DMG on Black Guard, 2 PWR ATK; SQ2:TG.
02:25, Today: Herr Johannes rolled 10 using 1d20+5. AR against Black Guard, 2 PWR ATK; SQ2:TG.}

I, now having everyone's attention, use my elevated position to provide them with an eloquent speech.
"Attention everyone, our only quarrel here is with LOX. We have no quarrel with you unless you make us, feel free to ignore this dispute or leave to avoid the bloodshed. But stay at YOUR OWN RISK! {If Mitch tries to leave with his slave and my gold I speak directly to him "LEAVE THE SLAVE! AND THE GOLD!"}

"Unaylen, Mitch, Kris, Buddy, You all are really quite fun people to play with, however certain events have occurred which cause our dispute with Lox. If you would kindly step out of the way we can resolve this matter quickly and simply. I would not want any of you to be hit by the crossfire. Thank You."

"Mr. Barkeep!, Hugo Hawkins is is? Listen to me well. We will not hesitate to burn this place to the ground, unless you do what we say. Make Lox give us the gold back we lost and the slaves. Then we leave and you do not have to deal with us again. You try to call someone on us or stop us, and we set this place on fire and burn it to ash. You have a nice place here, do not make us destroy it. I had hoped it would not come to this, but it did.

REMEMBER ALL! IF THIS PLACE BURNS TO THE GROUND WITH YOU IN IT, YOU WILL DIE. YOU KNOW YOUR WICKED DEEDS BETTER THAN ANYONE, DO NOT THINK YOU ARE BLAMELESS. ARE YOU WILLING TO BET YOUR LIFE YOU WILL NOT GO TO HELL? YOU THINK IT HURTS TO BURN YOUR HAND? THINK OF YOUR WHOLE BODY BEING CONSUMED BY FIRE DAY AND NIGHT! for all eternity!

THAT OIL YOU JUST TASTED LOX WAS ONLY A FORETASTE OF THINGS TO COME IF YOU DO NOT YIELD.

LEAVE OUR GOLD ON THE TABLE AND THE SLAVES OR WE WILL MAKE SURE YOU DIE THIS DAY! CALL OFF YOUR GUARD. Are you sure hell does not exist? Are you sure you would not go there? Think about it!

Unaylen, I did want to say, I am amazed that you would so freely participate in a slave trade like this. I am sure you grew up on the streets, You know what it is like, yet you send this girl to her doom anyways? To be raped day after day? Would you really wish that life on anyone? Do you want to die knowing you perpetuated that suffering? You are better than this. Look at them, where is the hope? Would you really wish a life like that on someone else? Do not steal their hope, do you want their blood on your hands? Day after day, you can remember the suffering you could have stopped. The pain. So much pain..."

Acutely aware from my senses being increased by my sympathetic nervous system my body is flooded with adrenaline and I make an effort to stay aware.
{22:03, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 3 using 1d20+1. Listen Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.
22:03, Today: Secret Roll: Herr Johannes rolled 7 using 1d20+1. Spot Check, Situational Awareness; SQ2:TG.}
This message was last edited by the player at 07:34, Sat 03 Jan 2015.

Without a word I quickly snatch the dice in my hand and look at them closely, paying attention to how they feel.

I proclaim loud enough for those away from the table, "I knew it! Weighted dice!" I lower my voice so just those at the table can hear. "Lox has been cheating the whole night! First with the scorpion. How many of you knew that the scorpion had a shell thick enough that the snake would never be able to bite through? And now he cheats with his dice."

{01:02, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 29 using 1d20+9. Bluff check; accusing Lox of weighted dice. SQ2.
01:18, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 20 using 1d20+3. Appraise check; check if dice are fair. SQ2.}

More directed at Lox and with less anger in my voice. "I think we can look past those dice if you just give a reroll... a fair, roll this time."

{If we don't get a reroll}
"I have had enough of this place too. Just a little too much excitement for one night. We've got a little bit of a walk out of town. I'll get hit the can as well."
I follow Johannes to the bathroom. I take the item and equipment from Johannes and I wait in the bathroom while he leaves.

Once I hear Johannes spill the marbles I make my way out of the bathroom and up the stairs to Johannes at half speed. I move silently try to remain unnoticed while concealing the torch and oil pot. I stay aware as I exit.

{01:22, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 17 using 1d20+7. Listen Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.
01:21, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 16 using 1d20+3. Spot Check, Situational Awareness, SQ2.}

{01:13, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 13 using 1d20+3. Move Silently; Exiting the bathroom and walking up the stairs. SQ2.
01:13, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 26 using 1d20+8. Slight of Hand; Concealing equipment. SQ2.}
I take position on the stairs {C9} and I throw my oil pot at Lox.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:33, Sat 03 Jan 2015.

This message was deleted by the player at 06:16, Sat 03 Jan 2015.

Upon Johannes' signal, she shoots an arrow at Lox.

[01:39, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 11 using 1d20+6. Attack roll.
01:40, Today: Lady Jacqueline Raynelde rolled 2 using 1d6+1. damage (if it hits).]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:46, Sat 03 Jan 2015.

Flying past Herr Johannes' shoulder like a small bird, a crossbow bolt shot into the wall. Johannes glanced at the feathered end several inches from his ear. And then he said to Mikael, "It's a shame they didn't buy that bluff earlier." Mikael replied, "Yea. When they had Hugo check and show it was fine, I thought I was done for." From the stairs, the party had a decent view of the entire tavern; of course that also meant the tavern had a decent view of them. The wooden balustrade was only waist high, and that was all that separated them from the incoming swords, that and height from the stairs. After Jacqueline released an arrow at Lox, it didn't take long for the tavern to come alive with weapons, all eyes pointed unnervingly toward the party. Although there was much shouting, mostly obscenities, the words 'Kill them' and 'A slave to whoever guts 'em' were prominent.

Johannes continued speaking with Mikael having just missed a swing with his guisarme, "I'll admit, I think I judged Unaylen wrong. Didn't expect her to reply my questions with a dagger pointed at me." "Women," muttered Mikael, his eyes following the brawny black guard as he twirled a scimitar over his head. "And you got Lox with that oil flask, but unfortunately, it didn't ignite." "Yea, at least the marbles are in place." Mikael twirled his spear in a mocking display. If it wasn't for his elven height and the stairs, the black guard would tower over him. Jacqueline watched the courtesans beneath her fleeing from the couch toward the bar. "Enough chit chat boys. Something tells me this won't be easy." Lox was standing across the table, along with everyone else; his glare could frighten down a charging bull. Some black oil stains marred his dull green shirt. But he had blood on his mind.

Whistling a song as it cut through the air, the black guard swung his sword in a wide and flat arc above the railing. It left a deep, ugly gash in Mikael's abdomen {Hit ~ Critical: 11 Dmg.}. Unaylen pushed her chair aside and almost casually walked toward the steps with her rapier in hand. She took one look at the marbles, smirked, and stepped into them; her small and graceful feet walked through with considerable ease. Pointed at the elf, Unaylen held her thin and narrow sword outstretched, light on her feet, as would a fencer. "You know you're going to die now, right?" She donned a confident smirk but only held her sword at the ready, inviting him to make the first move.

Buddy ran across the breadth of the room. Johannes looked for a chance to take a jab at him with his polearm, but it never came {Tumbled}. Stepping on the lavish red couch which the courtesans had just fled from, he placed one foot the wall. The other foot stepped on a wooden support beneath the stairs, not wasting a moment. In a remarkable feat of acrobatics, still using the momentum he'd gained from running, he bounced his weight from one vertical to the other, nearly reaching the ceiling in a few short hops. Hardly a couple seconds later, he adeptly leaped over the railing and nearly fell into Jacqueline at the top of the stairs – to her surprise. His sword was sheathed for that demanding stunt. Buddy held his arms wide as if to give Jacqueline a hug. "Hey babe. You aren't leaving without a kiss are ya?" He didn't even lose his feather hat. Jacqueline had to admit she was impressed.

{In Combat Rounds}

[Mikael Vaeltaja holding spear, torch, and two lit oil flasks in hands. Error: this is not possible. Torch and one lit oil flask automatically dropped in the bathroom.]




DM's Note – You guys definitely covered all your bases. But I want to point out that Mikael's Bluff (success or failure) and Herr Johanne's lengthy series of distractive actions both may well have had consequences that'd interrupt the chain of actions up to that interval. I took the lenient route and let things play out for multiple reasons (not the least of which was curiosity lol). This isn't a warning, but I just want you to be 'aware' when making those far reaching posts.

{13:06, Today: Mikael Vaeltaja rolled 5 using 1d3+2. Oil pot damage.}