Under the Crimson Sun Options

[Lady Door]

Hukenna - The Elven Market

"Yes, I've had the ill fortune to run into them already. A trio of Half Moon claiming the Elven Bridge as theirs." She lets her eyes wander the avenue, noting the tribal markings of those close by. Turning her attention back to Hallin, she gives him a half-hearted smile. "I should probably get moving. I'd hate to become one of those elves that gets too much attention. Be well, my friend, and may your waterskins always be full and your customers generous."

With a wave and a wink, Hukenna heads back into the fray.

Well, I suppose its time to go and find Lord Fancy Pants. See what kind of trouble he's managed to get himself into this time.

[Ol' Scratch]

Jace and the Waylayer Part 2: An Ironclad Offer

Jace's polite smile turns to an ever so subtle look of disappointment, but not surprise. "Yes, I'm aware of the iron trade. Or, I suppose I should say, the lack thereof. T'is why Urik prepares for war to the North, is it not?" When the young woman comes by to deliver the drinks, he casually pulls a few coins seemingly out of nowhere and hands them to her, all the while never breaking eye contact with the half-elf. Once she was a suitable distance away, he continued quietly. At first he considered dismissing the obvious conman as did the various nobles before him, but he could use a diversion from the boredom. "Regardless, please continue."

[ Spoiler ]

Naturally, wary as Jace is about... well, everything, he's not going to be taking the half-elf at his words. Going to roll a few times in case they're needed during the conversation.
Sense Motive: d20 (13) + skill (11) + favored environment (2) = 26
Sense Motive: d20 (19) + skill (11) + favored environment (2) = 32
Sense Motive: d20 (7) + skill (11) + favored environment (2) = 20

[fistandantilus4....]

Aust - The Estate

The secretary nods hurridly, pouring through his papers until drawing out one with a broken red seal.
Apologies my Lord. The missive comes from Templar Kurris. He seek some 'assistance' in "recovering what is mine." The details are not listed in the letter, but he proposes a meeting, place and time of your choosing, although he requests sooner rather than later.

I know the templar somewhat. He is shrewd, but not cruel as many templar are known to be. Not even .... before. Shall I send a reply?

[SinN]

[Color=salmon] Yes, ill atleast speal with the templar. Send a reply, is there anything else we need to discuss??[\color]

[fistandantilus4....]

Jace - The Golden Inix
The man enjoys the drink for a moment, then continues.
The war is at full rage. My news tells me the Crimson Legion is in the north, near a dwarf village. But yes .... not the point. You are familiar with some of the local politics? House Wavir perhaps, of Urik? One of the great trade houses.

I was a guard for Wavir, not originally of Urik of course! He adds in the last hastily, casting a furtive look around. We bore weapons the House had meant to bring to use in the war, although which side isn't for me to know. The master traders, they keep things close to their vest.

The caravan went off the main paths. Better to avoid the armies and wars of course. Not such a great idea for avoiding desert predators. It was attacked. A so-ut, big as a wagon, mean as a sand storm, tore into the wagons, eating up men left an' right. Not a lot left. We shot it with crossbows, cut it, beat it, everything. Tore down men like you woulnd't believe. Were a couple of guards though carrying steel blades, cut into the beast deep. Fight went both ways for a while, 'til they finally cut the thing down.

Wasn't nothing left of the men 'cept me and a few others. Wagons were torn apart. We were closer to Tyr than Urik, which is how I ended up here. Four days walk out, mabye more we thought, not wasting strength on steel when we could be carrying water. I was the only one who made it. I'm not stupid mind. There were a few steel daggers. Was how I filled this purse with silver. And I brought somethin' else.

The half-elf reaches down into his boot, pulling out a wrapped parcel. He holds it close, unwrapping just enough to reveal a steel bladed dagger, the edge still keen and metal still shining and new.

I know this sounds like the oldest line, but it's true! There's wagons out there, gettin' eatin' by the sand every day, with steel in 'em. I already lost men, a lot of men out there. No way I'm goin' back alone. And there's plenty o' wealth to share.

[ Spoiler ]

Sense Motive:
Guardsman - definitely a lie about what his role was

The so-ut - definitely not a lie. He seems genuinely terrified at the memory of the monster he describes. Jace doesn't catch anything suspiscious (besides the story it's self) as he describes the mess of the attack.

Making it back - there's more to the story there.

[fistandantilus4....]

Aust- the Estate
No my Lord. I'll send the reply. I'll find some suitable place for your meeting then? Someplace ... discreet.

I've taken the liberty at having your clothes laid out for you for you rendezvous with Lord Agis my Lord. They hsould be freshly scented and waiting for you above.

[fistandantilus4....]

Huukena - The Estate

Half an hour in the market, some spiced meets, and three pick pockets remind her of the pros and cons of spending tiem in close proximity of elves not of one's own tribe. After getting a word of where she might find other Jae'redai, she heads out of the city walls, stretching her legs (finally!) , taking the run to the Estate the elf Aust was given as his own by the late King.

The sight of the place is mixed. It still stands, with farmers out in the field late in the day, as the heat burns off. The disorganization is clear however. The neighboring lands of the half-giant Urgoss are worst.

[Ol' Scratch]

Jace and the Waylayer Part 3: So-Ut Comes Down to This...

"I see," Jace replies in equally hushed tones. Unlike his conversation partner, however, he was not hunched over the table, but sitting comfortably in his seat. "And I suppose you're trying to hire a few people to try and smuggle these weapons past the beast, hmm?"

The bard reaches up and grooms the light hair of his chin with his fingers, feigning deep thought. This whole story had 'con' written all over it. Jace considered being more poignant and direct with his accusations, but he was enjoying the diversion to much to cut it short. Besides, there was clearly more to his little story, and he did love a good story.

"Intriguing as the implication of your would-be offer is, I can't help but feel you're leaving out a few details." The Gulgan takes a moment to glance at the door when it swings open. Not seeing anyone matching the description his contact gave him, he returns his attention to the bastardly elf. "What became of these other associates of yours? And why are you approaching such soft and intoxicated nobles with your offer? Surely in a city such as this, sturdier and more desperate people could be had for your recovery efforts..."

[ Spoiler ]

The knowledge test is to try and learn more (as a player) about the various politics he was talking and obvious lying about earlier in the conversation. The Gather Information roll is to try to ooze a bit more information about his little endeavor, and the Diplomacy is to try and get the deal/offer out of him (and haggle if necessary) should one be forthcoming.

Knowledge (Local): d20 (8) + skill (15) + favored environment (2) = 25
Gather Information: d20 (18) + skill (15) + favored enviroment (2) = 35
Diplomacy: d20 (18) + skill (12) = 30

Also, can I get a name for that contact of mine? Maybe in a PM or something if it's particularly sensitive?

[SinN]

Yes, tell him ill meet with him tommorow. Mid-day would be best. Once you've sent the replies youfree to do what you wish for the rest of the day. He places a hand on his shoulder. Good work today. I'm grateful for your service..

Aust walks outside and prepares to get to work on the feilds.
He had a few hours before he needed to meet with Agis. He prefered to make himself useful until then.

[Lady Door]

Hukenna - The Estate

Surveying the field with a saddened eye, Hukenna shakes her head. Never should have left them to try their hands at it alone. Neither one of them was a farmer. These fields fail... blame for it lies partly at my feet. She makes her way over the sun-baked clay, stopping to say hello to a few of the farmhands she recognizes.

She stops, surprised when she spots Aust actually tilling the ground. Well, well... looks like Lord Fancy Pants actually knows his way around a rake. Will wonders never cease. She smiles to take some of the sting from the barb.

[SinN]

Aust looks up and wipes the sweat from his brow.
He smiles at the sight of his friend.


Well look who decided to drop by. Its good to see you again.

He looks around.

I suppose the ides of impressing you with lush feilds was only that, An idea.

[Lady Door]

She looks around and nods. "Lush fields is not something Tyr is known for, Aust. Still... I should have stayed longer. Helped you more. For that, I'm ... sorry." The apology is not easy to make. Especially to Aust. But, still... it needed to be said. Hukenna kneels down and presses her fingers into the dirt, testing. The substrate is dry and thin, little more then the sand that covers the rest of Athas.
"Still, this can be saved. It's just going to take a lot of effort and no little amount of patience." Is this what Korgunard wanted me to see? Is this why I'm here? She stood, brushing the dirt from her hands. "What else has been happening in my absence? I see you've managed to hold onto the estate at least. How is Urrgos?"

[SinN]

Aust pauses for a second longer then a glance.

No apology neccessary, Hukena. You had obligations. Besides its not like I made easy for you to stay.

He looks over to Urgos's estate.

Oh, Urgos is fine. Happy as ever. Clueless to our situation ofcourse. But he is a great help, on or off the our estate. But I'm glad you're here. You are certainly needed here. A lot of the farmhands have been asking about you. We've all... Missed you, Hukena. Aust clears his throat in hopes to smooth over this awkward moment.

[SinN]

But other than that, its been quieter then usual considering. I have a meeting with Agis in a few hours. It was a bit sudden. I think something is about to happen.

[Lady Door]

Hukenna blushes slightly, there is something to Aust's tone... something in his words that tells of a shift in their dynamic. She speaks quickly, eager to cover up a silence that seems to stretch out too long.

"A meeting with Agis? What does he want?" Hukenna could never quite understand the nobleman called Agis. He was a galling example of hypocrisy. One of those nobles always talking about how he was "of the people" without ever actually spending any time with "the people"... yet, he had fought hard in the wars. Fought for the city and the freedom of Tyr. Either way, there was no way she was going to let Aust be the only one he spoke with.

"I'm coming along." She didn't ask. She rarely ever did.

[SinN]

Aust sighs I was afraid you might say that.

He's never been able to tell Hukena no without a fight insuing. But he could never keep a secret from her either. So either she came with him and heard what Agis had to say for herself, or he just told her later. Either way she was going to find out.

Alright. Fine. We could use some catching up anyway.

[fistandantilus4....]

Jace - The Golden Inix

[ Spoiler ]

House Wavir is a major trading house, based in Urik. They're tied to the city pretty strongly, so Wavir bringing weapons to (smaller numbered forces of )Tyr could only do one thing: prolong the war and reek of war profiteering.

The weathered man leans in even more, something like a grin "gracing" is face.
See, way I see it is, these blue bloods, they'd be more int'rested in getting proof of the caravan, somethin' they can use to lever Wavir. Leave me with as much steel as possible. Gotta watch for my cut too, ya know?
Seems like Tyr's nobles are gettin' a soft underbelly now though, without their King around to keep 'em fightin' for the scraps. The real king that is, the one what gave the templars spells.

The others ... desert took 'em. Beasties in the night, wounds from the battle, and the heat of the sun. But I'm a veteran, no doubt. I know my way, and the desert. She's a mean bitch, but you can get by, if you're meaner. Need numbers in the desert though. These softies, they aren't up for a little risk, so I figure, better a smaller share of somethin', than a bigger of nothin'

[Ol' Scratch]

Jace and the Waylayer Part 4: Just Deserts

In an extraordinary show of generosity, Jace allows a hint of his true mood to express itself in the form of a bored sigh. "I see," he replied, his attention turning towards the door more and more as the conversation progresses. With interest waning and boredom returning, the younger man decides to put aside the charade of pleasantries for now. If there was any sign of aggression or aggravation in his voice, however, it was nowhere to be found. "Let's cut to the chase, shall we? I know you're not being completely honest with me, and it's clear you have no idea who I am. So why don't you tell me exactly what your plan is, then convince me why I should believe this to be anything more than a ruse to rid me of both coin and life. In exchange, should I believe you, we can discuss this business further and perhaps refine your plan for both our benefits. Otherwise, I'm afraid, you may learn just what kind of a man I truly am. Deal?"

[ Spoiler ]

I feel like a douche with all the tests, but they seem appropriate. I think this counts as an attempt at Intimidation if not simply a more aggressive form of Gather Information, so I'll lean towards the weaker skill.
Intimidate: d20 (16) + skill (10) = 26

[fistandantilus4....]

Jace - The golden Inix

[ Spoiler ]

Definitely Intimidate.
The tests are handy. It's nice to not have to ask for them, then wait for you to post, etc. Makes it a lot easier on me.

The weathered man looks taken aback and a little shaken. He looks furtively about the room for a second, perhaps making sure no one else overheard.
I...well... there was a rampager! There was! Happened just like I said! Big beastie attacked the caravan! Bunch o' steel weapons, just the kind of thing the so-ut hates. Anyone in Tyr will tell you, Rampagers hate metal. Thing tore right into the caravan! It killed the guards, but they killed it. You're younger than me, you're stronger, I should be more worried of gettin' stabbed in the back by you, but I'm takin' a chance! it won't last long out there 'fore the sands cover it up. then a fortune's lost!

[ Spoiler ]

Roll Sense Motive

[Ol' Scratch]

Jace and the Waylayer Part 5: WTF? PMSing Rust-Monsters?

[ Spoiler ]

Sense Motive (Requested): d20 (20) + skill (11) + favored environment (2) = 33

Jace's generous expression fades at once, returning to his telltale straight -- and deadly serious -- face. "Calm your voice and find your center, brother." He mimes a soothing breathing technique in an attempt to subconsciously influence the half-elf to do the same. After a moment, the bard continues. "I understand your urgency. But you must understand the trepidation one feels about such an offer of instant wealth. I'm a cautious man by nature; panicked exasperation will not speed up your attempt to convince me, as this conversation has already proven. So just relax and answer my questions directly. No attempts at subterfuge nor misidrection, just the sand's honest truth. If I believe what you have to say, I will most certainly consider helping you and we can begin planning a better means of reacquiring your steel." The assassin's use of 'your' is very deliberate and subtly emphasized.

Once satisfied that the thug has calmed down, Jace restates his previous questions. "What exactly is your plan and why are you not approaching any of the myriad former gladiators and slaves who would jump at the chance? Afterall, you claim that you need muscle to defeat this rampager and so-ut, yes? Why not go to the source rather than risk having to share more of your wealth than is needed with the nobility?"

Throughout the discussion, Jace never once shifted his position, nor has he failed to keep an eye on the door for his would-be patron.

[fistandantilus4....]

Jace- The Golden Inix

[ Spoiler ]

No lies in his last statement. He seems to be gonig for "desperate;y honest"

Well the thing is dead! I mean ....*whispers* it's dead. And how do I know I can trust a gladiator, not that there's any left in the city, what with the war. Thing is though, say I go out there with a gladiator , or some other big warrior type or an elf, or what have you? Where am I then? I ask ya', how am I s'posed to watch out for my end? Only way to really be safe is ... well.. someoen more in my league.

[fistandantilus4....]

Aust/Huukena - Estate Fields
The sun glows low in the sky as the two look over the fields, realizing that they must move on, or be late for their meeting with the Senator. At the wine house. Inside. Where it's cool. And there's wine. And waiters to wait on them with sweet meats. And wine.

[SinN]

Aust cleans up, and changes into his traditional white and red cloak and tunic. Once ready he returns in front of the estate meeting Huukena and ready to leave.

Shall we?

[Ol' Scratch]

Jace and the Waylayer Part 6: What the Hell...

Jace turns his direction fully upon the half-elf and studies him for a long moment.

"I believe you," he begins, his voice remaining ever calm. "As it so happens, I have a meeting set up with just the type of person you're interested in. If things go well, I might be able to convince him to consider helping you. Unfortunately, it won't be until later this evening and it would be best for me to discuss things with him first before proper introductions are had."

"I realize that you're on a time table, but if you would consider waiting until the morrow, we can talk again and get things under way if and when everything works out. Which I'm sure will be the case. In the meantime, you should ponder upon exactly how much of the wagon's contents you will be surrendering as payment and how we will be transporting the cargo once it's retrieved. Fair?"

Jace pauses for a moment, then adds an afterthought. "Would you mind if I kept the dagger with me until then? It would make my argument on your behalf all the more convincing, and I would be more than willing to return it to you when next we meet."

[ Spoiler ]

Not sure which skill fits the best, but I'm leaning towards Bluff to conceal my minor lying and to con him into leaving the dagger with me. (I wish I was as much a smooth talker as my character is. I dunno why I always make such social characters!)

Bluff: d20 (17) + skill (14) = 31

[fistandantilus4....]

Jace - the Golden Inix
The weathered man nods slowly as he digests Jace's proposal. very hesitantly, he surrenders the steel knife blade.
I'll be ... wantin' that back. There's more to take o' course but ... that one's special.

Make you some arrangements. We'll meet tomorrow, just before sun up to beat the heat. Say by the braxat fountain in Shadow Square?