story thread The Island at the Axis of the World | Act One: The Coaltongue

Hades-666 · September 5, 2022

Major Edwyrd Trakand (Retd.)

(Old Human Fighter) application

Watching the approaching figure with keen eyes, Edwyrd notices the way the man carries himself with purpose. ‘Hmm, a powerful man indeed, I wonder if his magic abilities or items help to keep him youthful’.

“Ah, Assistant Chief Inspector, as I’m sure you are starting to notice, while age makes you grey it brings wisdom and intelligence.” Looking back to the Principal Minister, Edwyrd pushes down an awed and slightly giddy feeling at meeting such an important figure. “Sir” snapping a quick military salute, Edwyrd then eases his straight-backed stance with a wolf-ish smile and extends his hand in a firm handshake “Good afternoon Principal Minister, it’s an honour to meet you. Retired Major Edwyrd Trakand at your service.”

Mechanics

Main Hand: Hawk-headed Sword Cane
Off Hand: Empty

Action: Your action goes here.
Bonus Action: Your bonus action goes here.
Move: Your movement goes here.
Manipulate: Your one free object interaction goes here.

AvalonR · September 6, 2022

Marianna (Deva Cleric)

"Principal Minister." Marianna curtsied, as best she could in her uniform, before raising back straight. She was... almost stiff in his presence. Not that she was particularly non-stiff outside it. "I have the pleasure of being Marianna, of the Ravissant Wolf Cell."

She did not look around yet, knowing that this person was considered highly by the very government she had now chosen to serve.

Mechanics

Main Hand: Morningstar
Off Hand: Shield

Action: Your action goes here.
Bonus Action: Your bonus action goes here.
Move: Your movement goes here.
Manipulate: Your one free object interaction goes here.

ariel · September 6, 2022

Josephine Stevenson application

AC: 15 | HP: 35/35 | Initiative: +2 | Passive Perception: 10 | Rages: 3/3

Before leaving the hotel room, Josephine responds to Marguerite. Arranging her uniform unnecessarily on a table, "Ah, my husband. He is no longer with me. He passed while I was in the coma. As for me, I am perhaps more an "Annie-angel" than I was before. In his memory, I am trying... trying very hard."

At that moment, the Major asked Josephine to examine his confiscated flask of alchemist fire. "Certainly, Major Trakand." She turned to the task with some enthusiasm even if it had been a while since she'd exercised those skils. She pulled a kit from the pack she'd brought and set to examining the flask. After a spell of time, she reported efficiently and succinctly, her findings back to him.

Chemical science, an island of calm reason. I should visit it more often.

Later, being introduced to the Minister, Mage and King Aodhan's bodyguard, her refined politeness was in full force. She stepped forward. "Inspector Josephine Stevenson, Sir. At your service." She curtseyed, which seemed only slightly off, now that she was wearing the formal RHC uniform. Her curly red hair was pinned straight and back into a tight and unyielding bun, much like her personality.

Mechanics

Main Hand: Walking stick
Off Hand: Empty

Action: Your action goes here.
Bonus Action: Your bonus action goes here.
Move: Your movement goes here.
Manipulate: Your one free object interaction goes here.

BobtheWizard · September 6, 2022

Valentine Wollstonecraft - Half-elf Sorcerer application

Val continues his conversation with Albert, intrigued by the docker's background. While he might know some of the men that helped Albert, he doesn't push the issue, instead moving on to current conditions in the factories.

“Yes. It is a shame. It seems workers' conditions have deteriorated across the city. Without Wollstonecraft offering better work, the other industries have lowered their standards as well. Hopefully, working here, we can help shape things a little. Or at least do our part."

When Assistant Chief Inspector Stover Delft arrives, Val stands, ready to meet the Minister. He goes to tip his top hat, but it is not a part of his dress uniform. He recovers with a smile that keeps his social faux pas it from being awkward. He uses the Minister's full name and title as is appropriate for addressing a much superior officer.

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Principal Minister Harkover Lee. Inspector Valentine Wollstonecraft. At your service, sir.”

Mechanics

Main Hand: Empty
Off Hand: Empty

Action: Intimidation of Coulton
Bonus Action: none
Move: to Quadrant A
Manipulate: none

Notes

Stover Delft, Asst. Chief Inspector, Royal Homeland Constabulary, Flint branch
Margaret Saxby, Lady Inspectress, RHC, Flint branch
Ravissant Wolf Cell "The Wolves"

Skyseer Wrethu saw the wolf, while a symbolically dubious character, bringing the helpless lamb to succor in the only manner it could

Minister Harkover Lee. Most powerful mage in Risur

Geoff Masserde. Danoran Tiefling helping us build ships. Likes to drink.

Captain Rutger Smith. Captain of RNS Impossible. Likes philosophy.

Duchess Ethelyn of Shale. King's sister. Dislikes industry and supports Unseen Court.

Flint Governor Roland Stanfield. 5 centuries old after reincarnation.

King Aodhan. Old warrior. Has magic since he's king.

bwatford · September 7, 2022

The Island at the Axis of the World
Act One: The Coaltongue

Harkover Lee - Risur's Principal Minister, the King's bodyguard

The Minister took the time to shake hands as the introductions began, making sure to remove a heavy glove before doing so, a man that knew his way around the formalities of office and preformed them as one would expect from such a seasoned official. Nodding as he shook the hand of Major Edwyrd, and smiling a huge smile when he took and lightly kissed the hand of Marguerite. Then bowing slightly as he grasped the hand of Valentine and then shook the hand of Albert as the man was introduced. Then taking the hand and kissing them gently of both Marianna and Josephine.

Then addressing the cell as a whole, making sure to make and maintain eye contact with the inspectors as well as the assistant chief "I have finished checking the warship for magical threats, and I have the utmost confidence that security is in order.", he then grabs a passing glass of wine off a servers tray, "Still, it is nice to know that we have all of you, representatives of the esteemed RHC aboard this evening.", he takes a sip from the glass before pulling a handkerchief from his pocket to wipe his mouth.

"After the fireworks and banquet, the king is planning a major announcement. So having the extra eyes and ears to help gauge how the crowd reacts is of much benefit." he continues.

"Plus", he adds, "there are a few recalcitrant guests who might need corralling." When he says this, he looks in the direction of one of the checkpoints, where a guest and her handmaiden are disembarking from a horse-drawn carriage.

Though this is likely the first time most of you have seen her, from your briefings and preparation you easily recognize the person who has elicited such distaste from Minister Lee. This is the king’s sister, Duchess Ethelyn of Shale, escorted by an elven handmaiden.

As the conversation carries on Inspector Valentine stepped away to float around the room to see if he could put together anymore faces with names from their preparations. Guest kept arriving and the crowd was swelling. All told, the hundred-person crowd consists of about one-quarter dignitaries (nobles, wealthy merchants, and prestigious military folks), one-half retinues and personal servants, and one-quarter local staff, some of whom Valentine recognized as plains-clothes police. He also noted the following....

Tiefling Engineer. The person who stands out the most is Geoff Massarde, the Danoran tiefling who helped Risur design the Coaltongue. A few industrialists and military officers hang near him, he also has two burly bodyguards standing by him at all times.

Captain Impossible. Also in attendance is Captain Rutger Smith, commander of the distinguished R.N.S. Impossible, a swift clipper ship which occasionally assists the RHC on missions. He’s discussing something with a black-bearded dwarf. Both men smoke thick cigars.

Charming Industrialist. Eccentric and genteel industrialist Benedict Pemberton hobnobs and gazes admiringly at the Coaltongue. While regaling some other guests with a joke about cooking pigs on his mama’s farm when he was a kid, when he notices Valentine, he waves for him to come over.

The Coaltongue. No one is allowed aboard the ship now. A gangplank leads to main deck, guarded by sailors. Stairs lead up from a pier to a scaffolding beside the ship’s bow; it is here that the king will smash a bottle of champagne on the ship’s iron hull to officially name it and enter it into the Risuri navy.

Duchess Ethelyn of Shale
The king's sister.

Long Night Ahead Scene Notes

1807 local - Moonday, April the 1st, 501 AOV

Show Instructions

Long Night Ahead
Social. Real-Time
The PCs are invited to join this evening’s party aboard the warship.

Instructions: Feel free to make introductions and mingle with the guest if you like. This is a open social encounter so you may do whatever you like.

Show Active Maps

No Maps Currently Active!!

Show Bookkeeping

PASSIVE PERCEPTION SCORES

INITIATIVE

Not in Use!!

MECHANICS

Not in Use!!

CONDITIONS

Not in Use!!

DESCRIPTIONS

Not in Use!!

ALBERT MONTILLA

Hit Points: 24/24

Hit Dice: 3/3
DM Inspiration: 1/1

JOSEPHINE STEVENSON

Hit Points: 35/35

Hit Dice: 3/3
Rage: 3/3 *L

DM Inspiration: 1/1

MARIANNA

Hit Points: 24/24

Resistances: necrotic, radiant (cannot be blinded by bright light)

Hit Dice: 3/3

Channel Divinity: 1/1 *S

Eyes of Night: 1/1 *L

Hand of Retribution: 6/6 *L

Memory of Past Lifetimes: 1/1 *L

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 4/4
2nd Level: 2/2

DM Inspiration: 1/1

MAJOR EDWYRD TRAKAND

Hit Points: 31/31

Hit Dice: 3/3

Action Surge: 1/1 *S
Second Wind: 1/1 *S

Superiority Dice: 4/4 *S
DM Inspiration: 1/1

MARGUERITE FLETCHER

Hit Points: 28/28

Hit Dice: 3/3

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 3/3

DM Inspiration: 1/1

VALENTINE WOLLSTONECRAFT

Hit Points: 20/20

Resistances: charmed (magic can't put you to sleep)
Hit Dice: 3/3
Sorcery Points: 3/3 *L

Unfinished: 1/1 *L

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 4/4
2nd Level: 2/2

DM Inspiration: 1/1

Landid · September 7, 2022

Albert Montilla (Human Rogue)

AC: 14 | HP: 24/24 | Initiative: +6 | Passive Perception: 15 |

Albert is used to the bustling of crowds out on the street but this was a different sort of situation. There were people moving from place to place like you would expect but also people standing still in groups chatting amongst themselves. A little too formal for his taste. After being introduced to the Minister they were left to their own devices to mingle with the crowd. Having been just in conversation with Val before the Minister's arrival, he follows the man through the crowd chatting about various businesses and their practices in regards to their workers. It was nice to find a kindred spirit within an industrialist even if they were not actively in such a roll. A man in the crowd with his eyes glued to the Coaltongue pries them away to scan the crowd and seems to wave them over. "Hello! The name is Albert Montilla and this here is Valentine Wollstonecraft, representatives of the RHC." He smiles as he offers his hand to the man to shake. His eyes drift over to the Coaltongue, "Isn't she a beaut? Sometimes I wish I had the inclination to work on such things but alas my calling is elsewhere." Albert figured the man recognized Val more than Albert himself but there only was one chance at a good first impression.

Mechanics

Main Hand: Empty
Off Hand: Empty

Action: Your action goes here.
Bonus Action: Your bonus action goes here.
Move: Your movement goes here.
Manipulate: Your one free object interaction goes here.

Edited September 7, 2022 by Landid (see edit history)

BobtheWizard · September 7, 2022

Valentine Wollstonecraft - Half-elf Sorcerer application

Val follows Albert over to the man waving at them. He smiles a little as Albert introduces them. Val had grown up in the same neighborhood as Mr. Pemberton. They weren't close, but he had been to the Pemberton estate before a few times. He, of course, hadn't seen the man since his parents were killed and Val was disowned by his brother. Val isn't sure, but he thinks Mr. Pemberton was friends with his parents.

“Hello, Mr. Pemberton. Valentine Wollstonecraft. This is my friend, Albert. You were friends with my parents. It's good to see you again. It's been years. I haven't seen you since I was a child, but I remember hearing about those pig roasts once at a party at your house. How is your family these days? Is there anything I can help you with, sir?"

Mechanics

Main Hand: Empty
Off Hand: Empty

Action: Intimidation of Coulton
Bonus Action: none
Move: to Quadrant A
Manipulate: none

Notes

Stover Delft, Asst. Chief Inspector, Royal Homeland Constabulary, Flint branch
Margaret Saxby, Lady Inspectress, RHC, Flint branch
Ravissant Wolf Cell "The Wolves"

Skyseer Wrethu saw the wolf, while a symbolically dubious character, bringing the helpless lamb to succor in the only manner it could

Minister Harkover Lee. Most powerful mage in Risur

Geoff Masserde. Danoran Tiefling helping us build ships. Likes to drink.

Captain Rutger Smith. Captain of RNS Impossible. Likes philosophy.

Duchess Ethelyn of Shale. King's sister. Dislikes industry and supports Unseen Court.

Flint Governor Roland Stanfield. 5 centuries old after reincarnation.

King Aodhan. Old warrior. Has magic since he's king.

Benedict Pemberton. Eccentric Industrialist.

ariel · September 7, 2022

Josephine Stevenson application

AC: 15 | HP: 35/35 | Initiative: +2 | Passive Perception: 10 | Rages: 3/3

Josephine tried not to flinch as the Principal Minister kissed her hand, but the tension in her jaw took a full minute to dispel. She needed a moment alone, but had little hope of finding it in this new crowd.

As soon as they were dismissed to mingle, Jospehine withdrew on her own to the edge of the pier and walked along it to the stairs leading up to the scaffolding. She inspected it, as best she could, partly on the pretense that if someone wanted to cause mischief, the scaffolding upon which the king would stand might be a target. And partly, so she wouldn't have to talk to anyone, at least not yet.

She glanced across the crowd, wondering if anyone from her old life as a Master Alchemist might be here. Happy to not recognize anyone yet, she turned back to the scaffolding. She would take her time. She would linger.

Just breathe, Josie, breathe. This is the job.

Mechanics

Main Hand: Walking stick
Off Hand: Empty

Action: Your action goes here.
Bonus Action: Your bonus action goes here.
Move: Your movement goes here.
Manipulate: Your one free object interaction goes here.

Mourning Star · September 8, 2022

Marguerite Fletcher (Human Ranger)

Before leaving the hotel room, Josephine responds to Marguerite. Arranging her uniform unnecessarily on a table, "Ah, my husband. He is no longer with me. He passed while I was in the coma. As for me, I am perhaps more an "Annie-angel" than I was before. In his memory, I am trying... trying very hard."

Marguerite paused and looked towards Josephine, as if to speak—but she didn't. Instead, a few tense moments hung in the air, and she returned to busying herself with preparing for the evening's duties. Without looking up she replied, "I'm mighty sorrowful 'bout your loss, Josephine. I'm shore-an'-certain you be doin' his memory right-proud."

Later, after the dock-side introductions with Minister Lee, Marguerite falls in beside Edwyrd and leans in close. "Y'done should-a told him he was pretty," she quips. "You might well've got yourself a kiss as well." She glances sidelong at Edwyrd, a bemused look of sarcasm spread across her face.

"Well now." She nods towards Duchess Ethelyn, her voice still a near-whisper. "You figure there be any stock in them-there rumors? Bout her an' the Unseen Court? I mean, she do got herself an elf servant in tow."

Mechanics

Main Hand: Empty
Off Hand: Empty

Action: n/a

Bonus Action: n/a

Reaction: n/a

Move: n/a

Interact: n/a

bwatford · September 8, 2022

The Island at the Axis of the World
Act One: The Coaltongue

Benedict Pemberton - Eccentric and genteel industrialist

As Inspectors Valentine and Albert made their way over to the charming Industrialist, without explaining himself Benedict Pemberton draws a short folding knife, flicks it open, and snips a loose thread dangling from Valentine's sleeve. Then he smiles and finishes his joke with the other men.

Pemberton smiles and nods at Inspector Albert and his comment but is otherwise innocuous, though he occasionally glares smugly at Harkover Lee.

Turning to the Inspectors while placing his hand on Valentine's shoulder "Family's good, old, but good, but tell me son, what in the tarnation is all this security about? You would think they were launching a warship or something." he says with a laugh.

Try as he might, Valentine could not recall Pemberton's name being on the guest list that they researched.

Stover Deft - Assistant Chief Inspector RHC Flint Branch

After the small talk and seeing Josephine being uncomfortable with her surroundings, the assistant chief walks over near her by the scaffolding but not getting too close to upset her further and shakes his head ruefully and gives Josephine a sly wink, Stover Delft then looks at Josephine in the eye. Despite the limp and the way that Delft leans on his cane, the man has an energy about him. He then whispered quietly to the woman "I don't care how powerful Lee is, or that he has the kings ear. You couldn't pay me enough to do that job. Now then, remember what I say about bothering me unless it's important. You have the badges after all. Use your best judgement." Turning away Delft starts to mingle with the crowd before he stops and turns back. "Unless it will cause an international incident Miss Josephine. Then I definitely want to know. Have fun!"

Meanwhile Marguerite was paying attention to the Duchess and her Handmaiden...

Handmaiden Sokana Rell

Handmaiden of Duchess Ethelyn of Shale

Long Night Ahead Scene Notes

1810 local - Moonday, April the 1st, 501 AOV

Show Instructions

Long Night Ahead
Social. Real-Time
The PCs are invited to join this evening’s party aboard the warship.

Instructions: Feel free to make introductions and mingle with the guest if you like. This is a open social encounter so you may do whatever you like.

Show Active Maps

No Maps Currently Active!!

Show Bookkeeping

PASSIVE PERCEPTION SCORES

INITIATIVE

Not in Use!!

MECHANICS

Not in Use!!

CONDITIONS

Not in Use!!

DESCRIPTIONS

Not in Use!!

ALBERT MONTILLA

Hit Points: 24/24

Hit Dice: 3/3
DM Inspiration: 1/1

JOSEPHINE STEVENSON

Hit Points: 35/35

Hit Dice: 3/3
Rage: 3/3 *L

DM Inspiration: 1/1

MARIANNA

Hit Points: 24/24

Resistances: necrotic, radiant (cannot be blinded by bright light)

Hit Dice: 3/3

Channel Divinity: 1/1 *S

Eyes of Night: 1/1 *L

Hand of Retribution: 6/6 *L

Memory of Past Lifetimes: 1/1 *L

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 4/4
2nd Level: 2/2

DM Inspiration: 1/1

MAJOR EDWYRD TRAKAND

Hit Points: 31/31

Hit Dice: 3/3

Action Surge: 1/1 *S
Second Wind: 1/1 *S

Superiority Dice: 4/4 *S
DM Inspiration: 1/1

MARGUERITE FLETCHER

Hit Points: 28/28

Hit Dice: 3/3

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 3/3

DM Inspiration: 1/1

VALENTINE WOLLSTONECRAFT

Hit Points: 20/20

Resistances: charmed (magic can't put you to sleep)
Hit Dice: 3/3
Sorcery Points: 3/3 *L

Unfinished: 1/1 *L

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 4/4
2nd Level: 2/2

DM Inspiration: 1/1

Hades-666 · September 8, 2022

Major Edwyrd Trakand (Retd.)

(Old Human Fighter) application

Moving on from the introductions with Principal Minister Lee, Edwyrd surveys the scene like a battlefield. Indeed it was going to be an internal fight, having to make small talk with all these suits. Just then Marguerite saunters up and leans in close “Y'done should-a told him he was pretty," she quips. "You might well've got yourself a kiss as well." She whispers with laughter in her eyes.

Breaking his chain of thought, it reminds him of the good old banter he had with Hawk Squad, making him feel more at ease. “Ha, you never know he might have preferred that” he replies with a wink and a grin, before quipping, “at least I didn’t ‘preen all-up like a fancy-pants cat giv’n som tasty snappr’ soup” jovially trying yet failing comically to imitate Fletch’s accent.

“Well now." She nods towards Duchess Ethelyn, her voice still a near-whisper. "You figure there be any stock in them-there rumors? Bout her an' the Unseen Court? I mean, she do got herself an elf servant in tow."

“Yes those are my thoughts exactly, sometimes it’s those closest we have a blind spot for. Maybe we should circle them like sharks with blood in the water and earwig in to what’s being said?” Seeing Captain Smith nearby the Kings Sister talking to the black bearded dwarf, Edwyrd nods in their direction. “Come let’s talk to this sea dog over here, I don’t know him personally but we should at least be able to talk honest brass with him and get us close to the Duchess”

Smartly saluting, “Captain Smith, pleasant greetings sir, Major Edwyrd Trakand retired, and gents may I introduce this delicate sea jewel, Marguerite Fletcher” he says with a twinkle of mirth in his eye as he looks at Fletch. Edwryd had positioned themselves so they could overhear the Duchess’ conversation and a closer look at her handmaiden while making small talk with the Captain.

Unfortunately the Captain kept moving slightly and holding his eye so he couldn’t get a good clear view of the handmaiden. Hopefully Fletch would have better luck.

Mechanics

Main Hand: Hawk-headed Sword Cane
Off Hand: Empty

Action: Your action goes here.
Bonus Action: Your bonus action goes here.
Move: Your movement goes here.
Manipulate: Your one free object interaction goes here.

Edited September 8, 2022 by Hades-666
Adding text (see edit history)

BobtheWizard · September 9, 2022

Valentine Wollstonecraft - Half-elf Sorcerer application

Val allows the older man to remove the loose thread on his uniform sleeve. I should have checked that more closely before putting this on. That is unacceptable, Val. But he just smiles and continues the conversation with the industrialist.

“We're just here to protect distinguished guests like yourself, sir." He returns to small talk while he tries to figure out if Benedict is a threat. "Do you make it back to your place in the Ayres much these days?" Then he catches Mr. Pemberton glaring at Harkover Lee. "So, is the Minister someone I should be careful of, sir?"

Meanwhile, with another part of his brain, he opens a mental connection with Albert, much like he would with someone who was recently killed. "Hi Albert, this is Val. Yes, this is just a thing I can do. I'll explain later. You can respond with just your mind. Keep a straight face." He smiles at Albert and continues. "I don't remember Mr. Pemberton on the guest list, do you?"

Mechanics

Main Hand: Empty
Off Hand: Empty

Action: none
Bonus Action: telepathic speech
Move: none
Manipulate: none

Notes

Stover Delft, Asst. Chief Inspector, Royal Homeland Constabulary, Flint branch
Margaret Saxby, Lady Inspectress, RHC, Flint branch
Ravissant Wolf Cell "The Wolves"

Skyseer Wrethu saw the wolf, while a symbolically dubious character, bringing the helpless lamb to succor in the only manner it could

Minister Harkover Lee. Most powerful mage in Risur

Geoff Masserde. Danoran Tiefling helping us build ships. Likes to drink.

Captain Rutger Smith. Captain of RNS Impossible. Likes philosophy.

Duchess Ethelyn of Shale. King's sister. Dislikes industry and supports Unseen Court.

Flint Governor Roland Stanfield. 5 centuries old after reincarnation.

King Aodhan. Old warrior. Has magic since he's king.

Benedict Pemberton. Eccentric Industrialist.

Mourning Star · September 9, 2022

Marguerite Fletcher (Human Ranger)

Smartly saluting, “Captain Smith, pleasant greetings sir, Major Edwyrd Trakand retired, and gents may I introduce this delicate sea jewel, Marguerite Fletcher” he says with a twinkle of mirth in his eye as he looks at Fletch.

Marguerite glowers at Edwyrd with an I-swear-I'm-going-to-kill-you look before turning to their new guests. She smiles politely, gives both Smith and his dwarven companion firm handshakes, and gamely says a few kind words.

After the pleasantries are over, and Edwyrd, unable to pry himself from Smith's attention, gets bogged down in proper conversation, Marguerite lays her hand firmly on his shoulder. "If ya'll be kind enough ta pardon me, Major, I do believe I'll let you boys talk brass. I fancy myself a little swim with da sharks-proper." Turning back to the other two men, she says, "It was a right pleasure, now, Captain Smith.”

Grabbing a drink from a passing tray, Marguerite sidles in beside Duchess Ethelyn, and nods a greeting to her hand-servant. "Mmm-mmm-mmm! Ai ulban úra!"^* she exclaims in Elvish, raising her glass in the air, towards the R.N.S. Coaltongue.

“It shore is a right metal monster, ain’t it?” she continues in Common, only something is off: Marguerite seems to be having a problem pronouncing her R's. “Ya'll can say what ya feel ‘bout da old ways a-sailin', but I’d rather fuss with ropes an' rusty marlinespikes any ol' rotten day than I'd spend a skinny week on that-there barren desert of a deck.”

It's clear to anyone nearby that Marguerite's dialect, though still reckless and provencial in structure, has taken on a distinctly Sylvan accent.

* Ai ulban úra!

What a giant!

AvalonR · September 9, 2022

Marianna (Deva Cleric)

A lot of people, so many unable to keep straight their eyes as they glanced around. It was a area and flow of natural civilisation, messy and chaotic but also orderly. Marianna enjoyed watching it a moment before she headed towards the Tiefling engineer. He was the one she was most familiar with, despite the almost clashing nature of their own personal work and likely beliefs. Still, she'd been part of the research crew, even if it was a posting to posit on people too interested in the magic capacitor, and had some passing knowledge of the Tiefling. Would be better to start there than on the unknown after all.

"Greetings." Marianna's simple words were accompanied by a small smile as she moved up, keeping a careful enough distance that he needn't worry about her being inside the protective area created by the presence of bodyguards. "Marianna. It is a pleasure to meet you."

Mechanics

Main Hand: Morningstar
Off Hand: Shield

Action: Your action goes here.
Bonus Action: Your bonus action goes here.
Move: Your movement goes here.
Manipulate: Your one free object interaction goes here.

Edited September 9, 2022 by AvalonR (see edit history)

bwatford · September 9, 2022

The Island at the Axis of the World
Act One: The Coaltongue

Benedict Pemberton - Eccentric and genteel industrialist

As Val continued to talk to the industrialist he was cut off in mid-sentence "You forgot your title son." Pemberton said "Got to throw that in there..... Inspector Valentine Wollstonecraft." he laughs.

"I mean you are in uniform son." he continued.

As Valentine continued to try to make serious conversation Pembleton added in "I have already had to alter yours son, you really should watch those lose threads. Even if it is a uniform. I mean who does the R.H.C. think they are going to catch with everyone running around in parade dress like this."

"I mean they could have at least got you a better tailor. No offense, just those uniforms are a bit..... spartan." he continued.

Realizing his words might be taken too seriously the industrialist changed the subject. "I do spend a lot of time on the go these days, rarely home much, the worlds a changing so fast son." Pembleton said as he pointed toward the Coaltongue "I can tell you that the sheer amount of work that went into the Coaltongue was no small feat. It was based on an early Danoran design, but the implementation of the magical capacitor was purely Risuri innovation."

"As far as the Minister, I just don't care for the politician's son, they get in the way of advancements, with all their regulations and red tape." he added with a laugh at the end.

"Will you be coming aboard once the king christens her Inspector?" he asked.

Rutger Smith - Captain of the R.N.S. Impossible

As Edwyrd and Marguerite walked over toward the captain, he listened to the conversation between the man and the black-bearded dwarf, they seem to be discussing philosophy and political theory. Smith apparently endorses the post-Malice writings of the old monk William Miller, who said all conflicts could be avoided by sufficient understanding between opposing groups. The dwarf counters with standard Heid Eschatol theory that any ordered system will inevitably be ruined by some random accident, so a single misunderstanding would doom Millerite theories of peace.

Major Edwyrd then remembered their research into the man....

The bold and idealistic captain of the R.N.S. Impossible, Captain Smith earned his first command five years ago. Now 37, he has never led his ship into battle. That, combined with his fondness for the Malice-era philosophical writings of the monk William Miller, has made him the target of mockery by more established naval officers. Smith seems content to just drill his crew twice as hard, encouraging them with philosophical aphorisms between puffs on a cigar.

...and with that Major Edwyrd made his introduction....

Shaking his head again, Smith begins to argue another point before his eyes alight on the Major and his companion. "Ah Inspector Edwyrd" The Captain says at once as he reads the name tag on the Major's lapel, reaching into his breast coat and withdrawing two cigars. "Mr Tuvuere and I were just discussing the merits of Eschatolgy vs. Millerism. Tell me, what do you think? Can conflict be avoided through understanding, or will chaos eventually reign?"

Ethelyn of Shale - Duchess and Sister to the King

As Marguerite made her way over toward the duchess, she recalled what she knew about the woman....

This dark-skinned, distinguished woman of her 60s speaks with a poet’s precision, always pausing to consider her words before speaking, which helps those she’s speaking to feel like she’s giving them her full attention. She dislikes industry and wears extravagant diamond cluster earrings—representing the stars of the night sky—to show her allegiance to the old ways. Accounts tell of her possessing many different types of magic, though many of these could be exaggerated.

The handmaiden however was a mystery as she was not part of their research, the handmaiden was an elven woman that looked to be in her 20's.

With that Inspector Marguerite sidles beside the Duchess.....

The Duchess smiles at Marguerite's words "Yes, Inspector, we must all remember the old ways of the Skyseers and the fey, and not be tricked into thinking Danor's industry is good for Risur just because my brother uses the term 'progress' a lot." she says as she looks over the party with a frown.

After a few moments Duchess Ethelyn formally introduces herself to you, then says, “It is my understanding Inspector that you have some sway over the arrangements of this event. If you could do an old lady a kindness, the air here leaves me winded, and the company is beginning to give me a headache. I know my brother’s party is going to run late, so I need a room I can nap in. I’d be very grateful if you’d arrange this for me.”

Geoff Massarde - Engineer for the Risuri militray.

Meanwhile Marianna moved through the crowd watching before eventually moving into a position that was close to the 40 something tiefling, trying to remember what she had read about the man in his files....

Geoff Massarde. A 40-something tiefling with an airy voice and a fondness for wine that outmatches his ability to handle his alcohol, Massarde is one of a handful of Danoran tieflings working for the Risuri military to help construct warships and other weapons. He has few kind words for his homeland. He is fascinated with ice, and carries a wand given him as a gift by a Drakran train engineer, which can chill small objects with a touch. Mostly he just uses it as a novelty to cool beverages.

As Inspector Marianna watched the tiefling he noticed that the man's two bodyguards watched him as well, raising his glass in a motion of a toast toward the two.

As Marianna pushed on toward the tiefling the two bodyguards stepped in front to block her path until Geoff waved them off and let Marianna approach "Can't be too careful Inspector, not everyone in Risur is... shall we say... friendly to my race." he says as he offers a glass of wine to the woman, "What do I owe the honor?"

Continuing to answer the barrage of questions from those around him, everything from how the ship will hold up in combat to the thickness of the exterior armor is asked and the engineer seems to answer each question with a bit of satisfied aplomb. In the middle of explaining the pros of magically propelled steam power, Geoff stops as his eye catches Talyssa's before he wavers her towards him. "Gentleman, with an airy voice. Meet Miss Dane, one of my principal assistants during the construction."

The tiefling engineer Massarde takes another sip of his wine. "Technology is well and good. It improves the lives of many, but until machines can think, they are nothing but tools that need to be guided by a skilled hand. Why the Coaltongue for all of its might is nothing more than a tool. An impressive one if I do say so, considering I built her, but a tool nonetheless." Pointing with the glass towards a man named Alastair Rayne, the engineer nods at the man's question about technology outstripping such things as close combat. "At the end of the day Mr. Rayne, the technology we have will only take us so far. It will be the men that fought and died risking their lives to bring peace to this nation that will be the deciding factor." As Massarde finishes his impromptu speech several industrialists and officers raise their glasses with grunts of "here here!".

Long Night Ahead Scene Notes

1814 local - Moonday, April the 1st, 501 AOV

Show Instructions

Long Night Ahead
Social. Real-Time
The PCs are invited to join this evening’s party aboard the warship.

Instructions: Feel free to make introductions and mingle with the guest if you like. This is an open social encounter so you may do whatever you like.

Show Active Maps

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Show Bookkeeping

PASSIVE PERCEPTION SCORES

INITIATIVE

Not in Use!!

MECHANICS

Not in Use!!

CONDITIONS

Not in Use!!

DESCRIPTIONS

Not in Use!!

ALBERT MONTILLA

Hit Points: 24/24

Hit Dice: 3/3
DM Inspiration: 1/1

JOSEPHINE STEVENSON

Hit Points: 35/35

Hit Dice: 3/3
Rage: 3/3 *L

DM Inspiration: 1/1

MARIANNA

Hit Points: 24/24

Resistances: necrotic, radiant (cannot be blinded by bright light)

Hit Dice: 3/3

Channel Divinity: 1/1 *S

Eyes of Night: 1/1 *L

Hand of Retribution: 6/6 *L

Memory of Past Lifetimes: 1/1 *L

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 4/4
2nd Level: 2/2

DM Inspiration: 1/1

MAJOR EDWYRD TRAKAND

Hit Points: 31/31

Hit Dice: 3/3

Action Surge: 1/1 *S
Second Wind: 1/1 *S

Superiority Dice: 4/4 *S
DM Inspiration: 1/1

MARGUERITE FLETCHER

Hit Points: 28/28

Hit Dice: 3/3

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 3/3

DM Inspiration: 1/1

VALENTINE WOLLSTONECRAFT

Hit Points: 20/20

Resistances: charmed (magic can't put you to sleep)
Hit Dice: 3/3
Sorcery Points: 3/3 *L

Unfinished: 1/1 *L

Spell Slots (ATK +5, DC 13) *L

1st Level: 4/4
2nd Level: 2/2

DM Inspiration: 1/1

Text_1	Text_2	Text_3	Bold_1	Accent_1	Mood_1
Warm_1	Warm_2	Warm_3	Bold_2	Accent_2	Mood_2
Cool_1	Cool_2	Cool_3	Bold_3	Accent_3	Mood_3
Bright_1	Bright_2	Bright_3	Bold_4	Accent_4	Mood_4

story thread The Island at the Axis of the World | Act One: The Coaltongue

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