Varisian Superstars Second Darkness IC

[SecondRevan]

Strange shadows blot the sky above Riddleport. Whatever it is, it is obviously supernatural, both because of the large number of scholars who now crowd the streets in their attempts to study it and the unsettling fact that it often moving at odds with the wind. Seemingly the only source of information on this event is from rumour and gossip.

But that isn't what is important to you. At least, not tonight. The Gold Goblin, once one of the finest gambling halls in Riddleport, is reopening, with the massive 'Cheat the Devil and Take his Gold' event. Throngs of participants are entering the casino, overseen, naturally, by a larger-than-life statue of a goblin, which at the very least appears to be cast in gold.

As gamblers enter, they are met by two beautiful women dressed as seductive succubi, cheerfully registering the approaching gamblers and taking both the single gold coin that serves as an entry fee and the many tips, while armed guards protect both the girls and the treasure chest that is quickly filling with coin.

As you reach the entrance for the Gold Goblin, each for your own reasons, one of the succubi alluringly offers you one of the contracts that serves as registration.

I, __________, do hereby sacrifice my immortal soul and the worldly sum of 10 pieces of silver to the Devil to hold in escrow against his own stake of 10,000 silver coins in the gambling tournament being held at the Gold Goblin Gambling Hall of Riddleport on this Oathday, 14th day of Arodus, 4708 AR. I understand that my soul will be placed on deposit in the Hells’ deepest pit of Nessus. Furthermore, I understand that all winnings shall be catalogued in concordance of souls, to be represented by teeth, eyes, and hearts of the damned. By participating in the gambling tournament and beginning in the first
pit of Avernus, my winnings shall earn my way deeper through the Hells on the following schedule:
Dis—1 gold eye
Erebus—3 gold eyes and a Badge of Dis
Phlegethon—5 gold eyes and a Badge of Erebus
Stygia—10 gold eyes and a Badge of Phlegethon
Malebolge—25 gold eyes and a Badge of Stygia
Cocytus—50 gold eyes and a Badge of Malbolge
Caina—75 gold eyes and a Badge of Cocytus
Nessus—100 gold eyes and a Badge of Caina
I understand that if I should lose my stake in the tournament I shall receive the Devil’s Mark and my soul shall be cast upon the rocks on the shore of the River Styx. I understand that if I elect to cash in my winnings before reaching the pit of Nessus I shall forfeit my soul and 50% of the cash value of my winnings for said early departure. If I am the first player to reach Nessus, then I am granted the redemption of my soul and the right to Cheat the Devil and Take his Gold in addition to collecting my winnings. In such a circumstance, all other players shall receive the Devil’s Mark and forfeit their souls.
This is I do swear.
Witnessed by: Old Scratch

[Wargor]

So this was the Golden Goblin? A gaudy place Varg thought as he surveyed the crowds queueing outside of the gambling hall. Nevertheless he queued impatiently with the rest, waiting for his turn to talk to one of the Succubi look-a-likes.

Glancing over the contract he is given, Varg skims it briefly before dismissing it with a snort. "I am not here to gamble girl, I am here looking for a job. I was told there was work to be found here for those with certain... skills. And if these are the best security you have," He snorts, gesturing to the armed men with a dismissive wave, "then I'd say I got here just in time!"

[Archpaladin Zousha]

René smiles at the girls and signs the paper with a flourish and drops 10 silvers into their hands.

"Gambling with Hell? Such a great risk, but ze priiiiiize..."

[Othniel Edden]

"Just looking for my friend, Centius. Has he already joined the event?" When the succubus tries to further persaude him to enter he replies, "Sorry, but I don't qualify. My soul is in the possesion of another current, so I'm not eligible to bet it. If you wish to further persue it though you can talk with... what is the word you people use for them... Hawk. Yes you may talk with my partner Hawk here." He extends his arm with the perched bird forward who gazes at the succubus.

[Daisuke1133]

Morain is barely able to contain his contempt for this whole affair, seeing these two lasses in such ridiculous attire. The wording of the registration terms poses an even further threat to his stoicism. But, keeping his mind on the mission, he signs his name on the paper and fishes a single gold coin from the pouch tied to his belt.

Handing the parchment and the coin to the girl in front of him and continues into the gambling hall.

[Kira_the_5th]

"Neat." Atsuki says as he strolls into the Gold Goblin. "Swanky, too by the looks of it. I'm sure they'll be someone here interested in purchasing a commission." Walking over to the cheerful succubi and giving a flirtatious wink, Atsuki signs up for the tournament. "Well, got to spend money to make money, and I'm sure the Dragon's Lance here will make an excellent conversation piece during the games."

Also, Atsuki, unless I mention otherwise, defaults to his human form when he's wandering around human civilizations. He tends to only reveal his true form when he suspects danger, and a need to use his teeth.

[stack]

Galen enters the event quietly, standing back and letting others by as he watches the room. Certainly a good crowd. The have a bit of security already....but there are other jobs, perhaps.

He takes a look at the contract. No, no thank you. I've seen enough things from other planes, I won't be signing my soul over, even in jest.

Bypassing the crowd around the faux-succubi, he taps the shoulder of someone who looks like an employee. "So, who do we talk to about work here? Seems like you could use a hand."

[Thattaman]

Centius strolls in and signs the contract wihout even reading it. But when he sees all the half-naked women around him, his eyes practically pop out on stalks. But he's looking for his friend, and when he sees him he walks up to him. "So there you are. I thought we were going to be meting upo before the gold goblin. But have you seen these women, I swear I've "seen" them at the temple. Anyway what is it you want, I'm going to go talk to one to see if they can get me a job.

[SecondRevan]

The succubi dutifully register each participant, each attempting to be more seductive than the other in their attempt for tips. As Varg and Galen approach and inquire about work, the succubi direct them inside to talk to Saul Vankaskerkin, the owner of the establishment, notably refusing to give them gambling chips. As Scarring Flame and Centius hold up the line as they see each other, one of the succubi attempts to move them inside, but not before trying to get them to register first.

As you enter, you see the hall's large game floor, packed with other gamblers playing a variety of different games as they surround a dealer busy shuffling cards, rolling dice and spinning wheels. Moving through the crowd are the waitresses, dressed just as provocatively in their succubus costumes as the girls outside and serving drinks as flirtatiousness as they can. Bouncer patrol the crowd seeking potential trouble, and you can see one in the process of throwing out a very unruly gambler. In the centre of a room is a gaudy podium, where an equally gaudy chest sits, fixed to the floor with chains. The chest is flanked by two bouncers, barechested and dressed in foreign clothes, and each wielding a scimitar with purpose.

High above lies a bird cage, where imprisoned inside is a small, bat-winged, pointy-tailed devilish creature that crouches inside is small confines, sulking and on occasion rattling the bars menacingly.

Shortly after everyone enters, a short man, dressed in a formal suit and with his thinning black hair slicked back, flanked by two succubi climb onto the central podium. Most noticeably, though, his left arm ends in a stump, where a bronze cap from which protrudes an oddly shaped key is affixed. He bows before the audience, and as he start speaking, those particularly slow on the uptake realise that he is Saul Vankaskerkin, the owner of the establishment.

“Welcome, one and all, to the Gold Goblin Gambling Hall and your chance to cheat the Devil and win back not only your soul but all of his gold as well.” He says as he pats the large chest before which he stands. “I hope you found your reception by the Devil’s lovely temptresses suitably entertaining.”

This comment is naturally followed by catcalls and lecherous comments, and Saul waits for them to die down before continuing.

“Let’s take this moment to thank Old Scratch himself for attending this event. Not only did he loan us these lovely, dark angels, but he also emptied the deepest vaults of Hell itself to provide the gold for this tournament.” As he says this, his points up to the cage at the ceiling, where the creature rattles his cage for the audience to see.

He then proceeds to explain the rules of the tournament, including the exact mechanics of how the 'Cheat the Devil and Take his Gold'. "...The first player to win a game after reaching Nessus not only keeps his winnings for that game, but also earns back his soul and the ten thousand silver coins that the Devil put up for this tournament. You can, of course, decide to cash out your winnings at any time you want, but if you do, or if you run out of money entirely… well, that means Old Scratch gets you.” He grins evilly and the caged imp cuts loose with a profane tirade. “And that earns you the Devil’s Mark and an escort out of the game hall until the tournament is over. What, you ask, exactly is this Devil’s Mark? Well, it’s something too utterly horrible to even contemplate. The forfeiture of your very soul, it is. But I suppose I can show you what it is—gods know I more than deserve the Devil’s Mark. In fact, better make it two, girls!”

With that, the two succubi lean over and firmly plant a kiss on Saul's cheek. As they pull away, both of his cheeks are left with a firm print of each of the succubi's lips, painted on by their lip rouge. This once again elicts lecherous comments from the audience, including several who state their desire to play to lose. “Now, let’s cheat the Devil and take his gold!” Saul announces, before bowing again and leaving the stage, to mingle with his guests and prompt more dangerous bets.

[Wargor]

"Hmpf." Varg mutters, staring about him at the sea of half dressed women. "Maybe I should have entered to play!" He says chuckling to whoever stands next to him, giving them a playful elbow.

Keeping an eye on Saul Vankaskerkin, he makes his way through the crowds, often simply ploughing steadily through people as he makes a beeline for the establishments owner. When he finally reaches him, he calls out in a friendly tone.

"Greetings Saul Vankaskerkin! I hear you are looking to hire. I, Varg Olafson, wish to be hired. A perfect situartion eh?" Varg lets out a hearty laugh, extending his hand to the man.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

René smiles as Saul introduces the event, and begins looking for a relatively easy game to increase his cash pool before moving on to the more expensive and dangerous games.

[Othniel Edden]

"Centius, why did you ask for me to come to this?" He spreads his hands out and indiciates the casino and the gamblers."You know I dislike the city."

[Kira_the_5th]

"Well, I must say it's a novel way of running a tournament. Looks like I'm going to have to get a bit theatrical as well if I want to stand out." Atsuki weaves through the crowd, searching for a good game to sit in on, gamble, and strike up conversation.

[Daisuke1133]

Morain glances up at the cage, a grim smile gracing his face at the little fiend's displeasure. Whether the imp was here by choice or not, it would make no difference in his judgement of Saul Vankaskerkin, that it is here at all is an offense worthy of punishment.

Knowledge Check to identify what sort of fiend 'Old Scratch' is.
[roll0]

Sense Motive Check to see if its displeasure is genuine
[roll1]

[stack]

know planes [roll0] regarding the imp

Galen eyes the imp warily, uncomfortable with the all too familiar sight from his time in Korvosa. Maybe this isn't a good idea. But I'm here, may as well at least talk to the man.

He works his way over, reaching Vankaskerkin in time to here another ask his own question. He waits to here the response to judge the worth of his own inquiry.

[Othniel Edden]

Scarring Flame goes to find a table to watch the event, snacking as he watched the event. The event, he admited to himself was interesting to observe.

[SecondRevan]

As Varg asks Saul for a job, Saul says "Certainly, I just need to get my books and see what is available. Wait here". With this, he turns and leaves the hall to go to his office. Meanwhile, the rest of the games continue, with the others either just about to play or watch from the sidelines.

@Galen, Morain, Atsuki, and Centius
However, even though everything seems to be going fine, you notice that something suspicious is happening, though you don't know what.

@Scarring Flame
You notice a woman playing a game near the podium as she drops some of her chips on the floor, and notice that as she does this, she and four figures near her all close their eyes. You realise they know something is about to happen.

Suddenly, noticed by nobody, a man leaving the privy has managed to cast a spell with a scroll he has in his hand, and a blinding light spreads across the room.

Initiative
Thieves: 12
Galen: 19
Morain: 10
Atsuki: 22
Rene: 5
Scarring Flame: 2
Cantius: 9
Varg: 6

Everyone except Scarring Flame must make a DC13 Will save to avoid being blinded for 1d4+1 rounds. This round is a surprise round, and therefore only Galen, Morain, Atsuki, Centius and Scarring Flame can act.

The same initiative values will be used for each round and we are using block initiative, which means everyone who beat the thieves initiative roll can act in any order. Because of technical difficulties, I will not be able to get a map up, sadly, but everyone, except those who are next to another person, are spread out around the room, but are both within 30ft of the podium and the spellcaster, to keep things simple.

Therefore Galen and Atsuki are up

[stack]

will save [roll0] or blind [roll1] rounds

Gale's hands move too slow to cover his eyes. Cursing an rubbing at them with his hands, he collects himself enough to get a bit of help. Trying to remember where he saw the caster just before the flash, he reaches into the outer darkness and calls forth an eagle, the beak and feathers surging forward, bursting from a cloud of darkness to attack the man. Likely thieves...so a more orderly creature is in order.

summon a resolute eagle eagle, charge w/ smite chaos, attack roll in OOC
(1d20+6)[15]
damage (1d4)[1]

[Kira_the_5th]

First thing's first; Will Save to see if I'm not blinded:
or blind for [roll1] rounds.

Acting on instinct, Atsuki manages to shut his eyes just as the blinding flash erupts throughout the room. Drawing his pistol from its holster, Atsuki dashes behind cover and goes to fire a shot at the man to launched the spell.

Ok, not sure how much I can do, given surprise, but here's the general gist; Move Action to get behind whatever cover's available, preferably close to the guy who used the scroll, drawing a weapon as part of the move. Standard action to fire a shot at the guy, if able.

Rolls: (Scratch that, forgot about editing in rolls.)

Attack: 1d20+5
Damage: [roll]1d8
Crit Confirm: 1d20+5
Crit Damage: 2d8

[Archpaladin Zousha]

René's hands fly to the pair of swords at his hips as he squeezes his eyes shut.

"Qu'est-ce que c'est?!"

He opens his eyes far too early and soon is stumbling to where he heard people shouting.

Will save: [roll0]

[Thattaman]

Centius sees the explosion and quickly shuts his eyes in attempt to block out the blinding light.
[roll0] for [roll1] rounds

[Thattaman]

Can I take my go? I'm not next in initiative, but I'm just after Morain. There's only one between us. If so.

Centius approaches the thieves and casts Charm person to confuse and force one to join him in the battle. DC 14 will save.

[Wargor]

Shutting his eyes tight, Varg avoids the worst of the bright searing light, and with a shake of his head takes in the situation.

[SecondRevan]

Galen's eagle dives down at the mage, but is deflected by an orb of force that surrounds the mage. However, Atsuki, hiding behind one of the many tables for cover, manages pierce the mage's defences with his pistol rips into the mage's flesh.

At this, the other thieves reveal themselves from their place near the podium, with a woman's voice calling out “All right, folks! Drop to the ground and don’t try anything stupid and we might let you live!” as she tries to get control of the situation after Atsuki's attack.

Her four thugs then start to move out. Two of them pinpoint Galen and Atsuki and each attack one, while the others attack the guards who can still see.

The first thug fumbles his attack and completely misses Galen. The other's attack fares better, but Atsuki is too quick and the blade easily misses. The guards aren't so lucky, and the thugs easily incapacitate them.

Both Galen and Atsuki take no damage

Everyone is now up, except Centius as he has already gone and his actions will be included in the next post. However, Centius, I want a target for your Charm Person, now that you know what the situation is.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

René now has his blades out as he staggers towards the sound of the woman's voice.

"But mon petit chou-fleur, I make a living out trying stupid things! You're spoiling the good time everyone here was having, and that, that is just rude!"

Forgot to roll the rounds of René's blindness. Doing so now:

[roll0]

[Othniel Edden]

Readied action to use enlarge person on an ally engagingly in melee. We'll target by whoever is in the heaviest armor and isn't acting like they are blind.

[Wargor]

With a growl, Varg un-slings his hammer and heads for the nearest thief to him. "Let us live? We'll see who might be letting who live you sow!" He shouts angrily as he take a swing at the man, his good humour evaporated.

To Hit: [roll0]]
Damage: [roll1]

[Othniel Edden]

Varg triggered the readied action, Scarring Flame casts Enlarge Person (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/enlargePerson.html#_enlarge-person) on him

Varg, as he heads towards the thieves, feels his body start to grow, as the words and motions of Scaring Flame's spell complete. Standing in the middle of them he stands as tall as a giant, and as veracious as a wolf.

[Daisuke1133]

Taking a 5-foot step toward the mage, then drawing the crossbow and casting Ear-Piercing Scream on the mage.

The mage must take a DC 15 Fortitude save or take [roll0] Sonic Damage and be Dazed for one round. A successful save halves damage and negates Daze.

As the arcane energies are released from the scroll, they pass harmlessly across Morain as he grabs the crossbow from his girdle in one hand and takes his holy symbol in the other. Stepping toward the offending arcanist, he raises the icon of Iomedae above his head, he suddenly bellows a shout audible to none but the mage, for whom the volume is ungodly loud.

[Kira_the_5th]

As the tournament erupts into combat, Atsuki takes a second, as his enemy is distracted by the suddenly large man wielding a hammer, to step back a few steps. Popping a small white parcel into the barrel of his gun, Atsuki takes aim at the thug in front of him.

"I haven't finished testing these yet. You're the lucky test subject!" he says as he pulls the trigger.

Actions:
Swift Action to 5 ft step out of the thug's threat range, Free Action to load my gun with an alchemical cartridge (Misfire increases by 1), and Standard Action to shoot, popping a Grit Point for Focused Aim, which adds my Charisma modifier to damage this turn.

Rolls:
Attack: [roll0] vs. Touch AC
Damage: [roll1]
Crit Confirm: [roll2]
Crit Damage: [roll3]

[Thattaman]

Centius cast it on the thug attacking Galen. So he can make him attack the guy attacking Atsuki.

[stack]

Galen steps back, blindly summoning another eagle between him and his assailant.

first eagle:
talon [roll0]
[roll1]

talon [roll2]
[roll3]

bite [roll4]
[roll5]

second eagle (attacking nearest hostile that isn't charmed if possible)
bite [roll6]
[roll7]

[Archpaladin Zousha]

With a growl, Varg un-slings his hammer and heads for the nearest thief to him. "Let us live? We'll see who might be letting who live you sow!" He shouts angrily as he take a swing at the man, his good humour evaporated.

To Hit: [roll0]]
Damage: [roll1]
"Ho there! That's NO way to speak to a lady!"

[SecondRevan]

René moves towards the voice and, not risking moving at full speed without the aid of his eyesight, only gets half the distance towards her.

Meanwhile, Varg, helped by Scarring Flame's magic, obliterates one of the thieves who was standing over one of the unconscious guards. Morain screams at the mage and, unable to withstand the blast, the mage collapses to the ground unconscious and bleeding.

Atsuki attempts another shot, but in his narrow attempt to avoid a misfire the shot goes wide and misses the thug. Centius' words manage to hold Galen's assailant under his sway, but his will is not powerful enough to convince the thug to attack his friend, and the thug instead stands there, motionless. Galen, meanwhile, has his summons dive down to attack, but both miss any of the thugs.

Atsuki's thug, with a confident leer over his face after Atsuki's miss, approaches and makes another attack with his sap, yet proves once again unable to hit. The other thug attempts to attack Varg, yet somehow manages to miss to hulking figure.

The woman, however, has another idea of how to get Varg out of the battle, and attempts to cloud Varg's mind.

DC12 Will Save or Varg is dazed.

Everyone is up, and these thieves aren't getting flash rolls which is a nice confidence boost for everyone

[stack]

Galen keeps a defensive posture as his sight slowly returns, letting his 'friends' do the work for him.

Not much to say when you can't see the fight. No additional summons yet.

bad rolls fixed in OOC
first eagle:
talon
[roll1]

talon (1d20+4 11


bite (1d20+4 8



Second eagle:
talon [roll4]
[roll5]

talon (1d20+4 20


bite (1d20+4 6
[roll7]

[Othniel Edden]

Spellcraft on the Daze spell
[roll0]

Seeing that woman is targeting Varg with a daze spell, Scarring Flames runs up and touches the now giant man augmenting him with the power to resist (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/spells/resistance.html#_resistance).

[Thattaman]

Centius sees his chance when his charmed person stands motionlously and stabs at him with his rapier.
I'm assuming it's flat-footed AC seen as he's "motionless"
So [roll0]
[roll1]

[Archpaladin Zousha]

Has René recovered the use of his eyes by now?

[Wargor]

The spell washes over Varg, clouding his mind completely. He stands stock still, his face showing an expression of bewilderment.

Rolled 11 dammit! :smalltongue:

[Kira_the_5th]

"Hmm..." Atsuki notes, watching the bullet go wide. "Less powder, bigger bullet next time, got it." Dropping his empty pistol to the floor, Atsuki draws the ornate sword from his belt. "Oh well, back to the standards." He quips, slicing toward the thug.

Actions:
Free Action to drop my pistol, Move Action to draw my Nine Ring Broadsword, and Standard Action to attack.

Rolls:

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Crit: [roll2]
Crit Damage: [roll3]

[Archpaladin Zousha]

Shaking the last few sparks from his eyes, René begins dashing towards the woman.

"Let's make your attempt at robbery a challenge, shall we?" he says with a confident smile on his face as he spins his blades around in his hands.

[Daisuke1133]

Moving 10 feet toward the lady mage and casting a second Ear-Piercing Scream spell upon her.

Fortitude Save DC: 15
Damage: [roll0]
Dazed for 1 round.

Successful save will negate Daze and halve Damage.

"Another! Another that abuses the gift of magic the gods gave us!"

The hairs of Morain's beard almost bristle with his anger as he marches toward the woman who used magic to confound the newest guard. When he comes into range for his own spell, he looses another magical bellow in her direction.

[SecondRevan]

Since Stack is leaving, I will NPC him until I can write him out, then we can continue. Luckily, with this large cast the disruption will be minimal.

Galen's first eagle dives down at one of the thugs, but leaves his dive to early and instead narrowly miss when the thug quickly ducks underneath the eagle's path. The thug dealing with Galen's other summon was less lucky, too distracted with the now dazed Varg. The bird's talons dug into his back and he screams in pain before falling to the ground.

This luckily kept Scarring Flame safe as he ran to try and help Varg, but even with magical aid, Varg was unable to overcome the mage's spell. Instead, he stood still, unable to contribute.

Centius and Atsuki attack their thug, and the thug regains control of his body just long enough to see the two of them attack him with their blades, and he too hits the ground. Only the woman remains, looking panicked and looking at the other mage, bleeding on the ground. The distraction prevents her from properly preparing for Morain's shout, and leaves her ironically as dazed as Varg - a dangerous situation as Rene approaches her menacingly.

Everyone is up.

[Othniel Edden]

evil eye hex dc 13 will save to only have 1 round instead of [roll0] ofng -2 to AC

Scarring Flamestares at the woman, assaulting her mind to prevent her from defending herself from physical attacks as well.

[Thattaman]

Centius sheathes his rapier and approaches this woman. He looks at her closely to see what sort of state she's in. He then speaks. "Hello, why have you tried to attack this gambling hall. It is probably the worst mistake you've ever made. Anyway, your thugs are all dead and you are bleeding, so tell us why you came here and I'll heal you up and we'll think nothing more of it.

Bluff roll [roll0]
and Sense Motive to see if I can interpret her intent.[roll1]

[Wargor]

Shaking himself like a dog, Varg reassess the situation. "Heal her? We should crush her like the rest of her dogs!" He shouts thunderously, the song of battles still loud in his head. He steps forward menacingly, gripping his hammer tightly.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"Now now! That's no way to speak to a lady, mon ami!"

René stands between Varg and the woman, keeping a blade pointed at her in case she tries something funny.

"Kill her and you don't know who put her up to this. What do you say, milady? I'd hate to see that beautiful face marred by a sword-strike, especially from one of my swords. Make it easy on yourself, oui?"

Diplomacy check: [roll0]

[Thattaman]

"I agree with him. Women are not to be treated like that, even in war. I personally believe women should be kept for fun rather than war, if you know what I mean. Call me sexist, but if you look at the women down at the temple, then you'd get what I mean. Anyway, sweetheart, what were you saying about your boss. If you want to tell me over a glass of fine wine, I wouldn't mind spending the night with you. He winks at her a tries to pull her up.

Diplomacy: [roll0]

[Kira_the_5th]

"Thanks for the backup." Atsuki says to Centius as he picks his pistol up from the floor. Carefully packing it full of powder, he steps over to join the others, loaded gun at the ready. "These fine gentlemen here are correct. You put a lot of people in danger here tonight, and I'd hate to have to put a bullet in you too. There's been enough bloodshed. Why don't you just surrender, and tell us what you and these men were planning"

Diplomacy:
[roll0]

[Wargor]

"Bah! Women can be just as dangerous and treacherous as any man. To treat them differently would be foolish." Varg mutters darkly, eyes never leaving their captive.

[Daisuke1133]

"I agree with you," Morain says to the Ulfen, "but we would be remiss if we did not find out what they were doing here. There are conspiracies behind every action, we need to find out how deep this one runs. We can hand her over to whatever passes for the law around here after that."

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"Bah! Women can be just as dangerous and treacherous as any man. To treat them differently would be foolish." Varg mutters darkly, eyes never leaving their captive.

I'm not saying they aren't. I'm just saying that a gentleman treats women with respect regardless of profession or standing. And I'd hate to hack up a beautiful face. I'm not in the business of ruining art."

[SecondRevan]

The woman surrenders, knowing that her magic is too weak to to provide her the chance needed to escape and not wishing to test her skills with the rapier in her hand against so many. However, she is far from happy, and Centius' comment elicits a spit from her, and she stares at Morain with her one good eye, the other lost long ago, with a stare filled with hatred.

"Angvar and I should never and accepted this damn job." she muttered, as her eye briefly flicks to the other mage, still alive but only by the thinnest of margins. "You want to know who hired us?" she snarled. "Some guy on the docks recruited us a month ago. We were supposed to meet him afterwards"

With this, Saul returned into the casino floor, flanked by a recently awaken bodyguard whose breathe still stank of alcohol. Some of the guards lucky enough to have been blinded, and therefore weren't knocked unconscious by the thieves, went behind the woman and grabbed her, while a couple of others dealt with the other mage. Those thugs that were still alive were also restrained, while the corpses were left to lie there.

Saul begins bargaining with the customers, desperate to attempt to somehow not hurt his casino. After several rounds of barter, he finds himself promising to cash out the customers chips for an extra coin for every ten chips. Further tragedy struck as a majority of his employees also decide to use this opportunity to announce their resignation. For a brief moment, he looks disappointed, before a spark returns to his eyes and he approaches the seven heroes. "Please, let me thank you for stopping the thieves. Join me for a drink and what I believe should be a mutually beneficial business proposition."

Galen, who, despite his wishes for a job, refuses. It seems that employment for a business that has a mysterious figure attacking it is not in his interests. Instead, he says his goodbyes and leaves. To the rest, though, Saul says "Before we talk, feel free to make your choice of the thieves gear. They won't be needing them. Then meet me by the bar."

Loot:
Wand of Shocking Grasp (9 charges)
Scroll of SHrink Item
Bracers of Armour +1
Angvar's Spellbook
Masterwork Leather Armour
Rapier
Light Crossbow with 10 bolts
50 gold

In addition, everyone gets 200xp

[Thattaman]

When the woman spits in his face, Centius wipes it off and grins even broader. Not your type, am I darling? Oh well, I've got girls who are chasing me, well when I have enough money. He winks at her. At the mention of a drink, Centius smiles, and it gets bigger at the mention of a job. He sticks his hand out to Saul. I'm Centius Thalladix, former minor noble, former paladin of Iomedae and current ladykiller and cleric of Cayden Cailean. I'd like to be a barkeep and possibly attract a few ladies to start gambling. It'd be a pleasure to work here. With that he grabs a drink and downs it almost in one, then grabs another.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"Be gentle with her, garcons!" René tells the security as they take the woman away.

He struts over to the bar to meet with Saul.

"Thank you for the drink, Monsieur Vancaskerkin. I am René Desrosiers, of the Korvosa Desrosiers, though I'm not on the best terms with my family. I had intended to use my winnings here to pay back the money I took from my family when I ran away, in preparation to return home, but it looks like those plans shall be put on hold for now, oui?"

He smiles a bit as Centius describes himself.

"It's a plaisir to meet you, Father. It appears we have a lot in common."

[Othniel Edden]

Scarring Flame laughs at Centius's antics. "As worldly as ever my friend."

He turns toward Varg "Most warriors seem to dislike magic, but they've never minded towering over their opponents. I hope my spell was not too much of an intrusion true warrior." Scarring Flame stares up and the now even bigger man hoping that he had made an ally.

[Wargor]

"Magic is a tool like any other, if it helps me to crush an enemy? Well, there there can be no reason not to utilise it. Feel free to do this again any time, the sense of power is incredible!" Varg says grinning as he follows the others to the bar. "I am Varg Olafson, mercenary and hired sword, well, hammer." He chuckles, patting his enormous weapon. "Any worthy man I fight beside is a brother in my eyes, well met all of you."

[Daisuke1133]

"Morain Gemaxe. And I'd be quite interested in this little quest." the Dwarf replies, scooping up seven of the glittering coins into his belt pouch and placing the discarded light crossbow and quiver of bolts into his pack.

After making his way to the bar, Morain orders a mug of Dwarven Stout and awaits elaboration from Saul.

[Thattaman]

He smiles a bit as Centius describes himself.

"It's a plaisir to meet you, Father. It appears we have a lot in common."

At the word father, Centius laughs out loud. "Father is not really the correct term I think, I just spend a lot of time at the temple, and have picked up a few spells from my old friend. You ran away from home, so did I. Well, I was disowned for using prostitutes, but still, I was going to run away. I'll buy you a drink and we can talk about our pasts and our possible future as co-workers.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"Huh. I waited until AFTER I was disowned before visiting the Calistrians."

[Kira_the_5th]

"Giants, clerics of the Lucky Drunk, my, this city has a diverse bunch. I don't believe I got the chance to rightly introduce myself." Atsuki says, removing his hat and giving a small bow. "The name's Atuski, best gunsmith outside of Alkenstar. For now, anyways. I'd love to hear this business proposal, and a a chance to share a drink with such skilled warriors as yourselves would be lovely."

Reaching down to pick up a few of the coins in the pile, Atsuki looks to the others. "I think I'll just take a few of these coins, so I can recoup my losses. Wonderful things, these are," he says as he motions toward his pistol. [COLOR="red"]"But a fellow could beggar himself using one."[/spoiler]

[Othniel Edden]

"Tutor, we might be able to learn from this tome." Scarring Flame says to his Hawk. The accented common makes his Hawk's name sound like Tudor. He follows the others to speak business with Saul.

[SecondRevan]

Othniel, I've had a look at the rules and since I don't believe a spellbook counts as a scroll, you can't use the spells. However, there is likely to be much more spell books in this game than familiars to talk to, I have no problem with you learning whatever spell you find in them that is also on the witch's spell list. Therefore, you can learn Identify, the only spell of Angvar's that a witch can cast.

As everyone gathers round, Saul firsts responds to Centius' comment. "If that is your desire, I have no problem. But first, I wish you to hear my whole proposal. THe last thing I wish to do is sign you up for something you do not wish to do. That does no one any good." He quickly gets one of his remaining employees to start the fire, as he goes behind the bar and starts inspecting the wine bottles, before selecting one of particularly fine vintage and pouring himself a glass, before offering it to the others. "Firstly, I would like to offer you a reward, merely as a gesture of good will. Whether you take my offer or not, I wish you to understand how much I appreciate your help. In fact, I will make it my duty to track down the other and offer him the courtesy." As he says this, he quickly prepares several small pouches full of coin, and hands one out to each person.

Everyone gets 100 gold

"Now, I will admit to a... less than legal past. At first, I felt it was lucrative, but it left me nearly broke and, let's just say in poor health"he said, raising his left arm, with the key where his hand was supposed to be. "I lost my family. My wife is dead and my sons are in exile. I wanted to turn my life around. I leaned on a couple of debts, found some investors in close friends and took a loan out to gather the necessary finance, but I purchased the Gold Goblin. I like to think we are a lot alike, this place and I. Both slithers of what we used to be, and wishing to be more again"

My hope was to make the Goblin profitable again, and to avoid having to return to the life that nearly destroyed me. I am trying... I really am trying to turn my life around." He looks out to the casino floor, still a mess after the fight, with chips littering the floor and several tables overturned. "But I still have demons from my past. This... This may have been an act of retribution from one of my enemies. I recognised the mage, the guy. His name is Angvar. The band he leads usually hire themselves out to some thug or the other. They rarely act on their own initiative. The last thing I want to do is go to another gang for protection. I want to escape my past."

I'm hoping you can help me do that. I want to make you all junior partners. You will each have a normal job to do around here, but I will also like to request your services in other aspects as well. Basically, to make sure the events of tonight or something similar don't happen again. I"ll provide free room and board, of course, and your wage will be 10gp a week and a cut of the profits. I do believe that is a fair deal for everyone, isn't it?"

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"You are too kind, Saul. Count me in! The reward alone will be a great help towards paying some of my own debts, and a man like you deserves some happiness in his life."

René extends his hand to shake, switching the one offered when he realizes he's extending towards Saul's prosthetic with a sheepish grin.

[Othniel Edden]

"I'll have to think this over. Fiscal Security is nice and all, but I'm not sure of what job I could do for you, and I'm definitely not comfortable living in the city. Still I see a kindred soul in need of help.... and I learned that such deals are profitable for those that venerate change."

Scarring Flame lifts his arm, revealing burn scars all the way down it to match the one on his face.

[Kira_the_5th]

"I like it." Atsuki says, taking a sip of the wine offered to him. "I don't suppose I could interest you or any of your men in commissioning some added protection. I'm a bit of a weaponsmith, myself, and in a day or two of good work, I can make more like this fine firearm I carry. It's not cheap, let me tell you, but at close range, it will punch straight through platemail, and it carries plenty of exotic shock and awe."

[Daisuke1133]

Morain takes a swig of his drink as Saul finishes his tale. Seeing a chance to do some real good instead of merely meting out punishment he speaks up.

"My decision to offer aid has not changed. But in light of your offer of partnership I must make a stipulation. I cannot associate with one who will continue to truck with dark and fiendish forces. Are you amenable to this, Mr. Vankaskerkin?"

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"Truck with dark and fiendish forces? Good sir, clearly you could tell the fiendish motif here was in jest to attract gamblers?"

[Daisuke1133]

"And the Imp?" Morain asks with a raised eyebrow.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"...That thing's real?" René says with a surprised look on his face.

[Daisuke1133]

"That is what I would like to confirm. Whether it is genuine or just one more part of the show that has gone on here." Morain gives his attention to Saul and continues, "My apologies for being rude in my suspicions, but advertisements for this event had me worried about the patrons. As a follower of Iomedae, I could not stand idle if there was danger of these people losing more than just their gold."

Sense Motive Check for Saul's answer.
[roll0]

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"You follow Iomedae? By any chance, you haven't been in Korvosa lately, have you?"

[Daisuke1133]

"Nay lad I've not. Why d'ye ask? Is there trouble about?"

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"I thought you might know my brother, Aleamme. He was about to be ordained when he was framed for murder. Last I'd heard, the Iomedeans there still have him barred from obtaining his knighthood, forcing him to squat in the Old part of town."

[SecondRevan]

Saul butted into their conversation about Iomedae to answer Morain's question. "I admit that Old Scratch is an imp. He owes me several months of servitude, but I assure you I do not wish to use him with ill intentions. I only had him there as part of the theme. If you think about it, what can I earn by selling my customers' souls to demons? I'll leave all the magic to... Scarring Flame, wasn't it? Look, if you truly have a problem with Old Scratch, I will free him from his debt and send him back to where he belongs. Is that alright?"

@Morain
You sense no deceit from Saul

[Daisuke1133]

"It would very much put my mind at ease if you would. Such creatures are tricky, and have ways of turning their debts to their own advantage." Morain says, relieved to have put this matter to rest peacefully, rather than by burning anything.

[Wargor]

After listening to the conversation and mulling it over in his head, Varg interrupts. "I accept your offer, I had been hoping to find work and this is a better offer than I had hoped to receive. If you need someone beaten or killed, well, I'm your man I suppose. Those are all I'm particularly skilled at though." He says casually.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"It would very much put my mind at ease if you would. Such creatures are tricky, and have ways of turning their debts to their own advantage." Morain says, relieved to have put this matter to rest peacefully, rather than by burning anything.

"He's probably lonely anyway, what with all his buddies hanging out in Korvosa. You can't swing a pseudodragon without hitting one there."

[Thattaman]

At the mention of Morain following Iomedae, Centius looks at him. "I don't know what anyone sees in that god. He's all work and no fun. I worshipped him for the best part of twenty years, and I can see no appeal in his worship whatsoever. Centius then looks to Saul. A hundered gold! I haven't had that much money in aages. That's enough to afford a prostitute and a few nice beers. Anyone want to come with me to the temple tommorow to celebrate?

[Othniel Edden]

"You must of been drunk the entire time then Centius. Even I know he's a woman!" Scarring Flame winks and jibs with his friend.

[Daisuke1133]

Morain gives Centius a sour look and says, "I follow Iomedae because it is my calling. It is not so burdensome to know your place in the world and to embrace it."

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"Aleamme probably would have said the exact same thing."

René takes a swig of his drink with a wistful look on his face. It's very different from the cheerful grin he was sporting naught but a minute ago.

[Kira_the_5th]

"I never really understood these Avastinian gods of yours." Atsuki says as he finishes his drink. "I've heard that in these lands, one can become a god by touching a rock. Tell me, are these legends true?"

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"I don't truck much with churches, but yes, it's true. My own god, Cayden Cailean, was the first of them. He went after the rock one night on a drunken dare, and the next morning he was a god. Apparently he still has no memory or clue of how he survived the trap-filled dungeon it's kept in."

[Thattaman]

Cenius just smiles at the man who he had peturbed. He then goes again to speak Rene. "I don't know much about gods anymore. I used to know everything about Iomedae, but I haven't studied her in a few years, and I never really learnt much about Cayden Cailean.

[SecondRevan]

"Now, while I have no issues with discussions on theology, would you mind if we quickly finish everything? We still need to decide your roles when you are in the Goblin, considering the more we earn, the larger your paycheck." At this, Saul called out to one of his remaining employees, a dwarf with a bald head and an overly large beard. "Meet Larur Feldin. He's my floor manager and will sort you out with roles. Meanwhile,as you can imagine, I have a whole set of tasks to complete." Before he left, he quickly refilled his glass with the elven wine. "Feel free to finish the bottle. A wine of that good should not be wasted."

With Saul now gone, Larur greeted each person warmly. "Now, word of warning. Saul may have offered you free board, but please note, he is a business man, so don't try and take advantage of his hospitality. He maybe be generous with the wine tonight but tomorrow he will probably want me to hire a guard just to keep the drink away from us greedy employees. Instead, come talk to me and I'll take advantage of his hospitality for you. Perks of being indispensable and all."

Now, onto business. If you can think of something that would help the Goblin, chances are we have a vacancy. We need dealers, spotters, people to run the bar, people to advertise... Basically, the only thing you can't do is waitress, since sadly none of you possess the necessary... assets to maximise tips. There's a reason they were all dressed up as succubi tonight."

[Wargor]

"I can hit things. Very hard. Have a job for me?" Varg states straight faced, before breaking out into a chuckle. "I suppose I could also pour a drink, Gorum knows I've drunk enough of them. Mostly mead though, none of those fancy cocktail things, women's drinks the lot of them!"

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"I don't know, I'd probably make a pretty dashing incubus," René says, his charming smile returning.

"I'm joking, of course. My greatest attribute is probably that I'm fleet of foot and wrist. I can be charming when I need to, but I'm nowhere near as charismatic as a bard. I suppose that could serve me well as a dealer? Or perhaps a spotter, keeping hidden among the crowd and watching for cheaters?

[Othniel Edden]

"What can I do to help a casino? I'm a lone Shoanti nomad that knows magic and travels with a hawk. I'm not exactly used to being an entertainer. I've got a pretty good mind on me however, if you'd like to run over some needs with me I could research some solutions for you."

[Thattaman]

Cenius puts on his best smile and says. You don't need to be a bard to be charming, I could get a few customers to come here in my spare time. I could also work on the bar most of my work time, I can also deal. But I'd preffer to be at the bar. You know a bit of free drink.

[SecondRevan]

"If you want to dress up as an incubus, feel free. I believe there is at least one person who will appreciate you dressing up like that. Word of warning, though. He likes to touch" Larur said, before laughing.

"In all honesty, Rene, another dealer would be great. And Centius, you can either go outside and advertise or work in the bar, your choice. We do have a surplus of roles available. How about you, Morain? What role do you think you will be best suited at?"

[Daisuke1133]

"I believe the best use of my abilities would be as a spotter." Morain says, and finishes his ale in one final gulp.

[Kira_the_5th]

"Well," Atsuki says. My talents lie mostly in forging these weapons, but I know a bit of alchemy, and my dashing looks are pretty dashing. I think I can deal a hand or two for the house pretty well.

[SecondRevan]

"Perfect. THen you can start tomorrow, and hopefully reopen the Goblin by next week."

A week goes by as you prepare the Gold Goblin to reopen, both recruiting replacement staff and advertising the reopening. Saul has drenched the streets in rumours of your prowess and assurances that nobody would be foolish enough to attack the Gold Goblin while such mighty heroes are protecting it.

However, that is not all that is happening in Riddleport. The waters are fresh with the carcasses of seagulls after a strange event a day ago when flocks of the birds took flight and encircled Riddleport in a cacophonous spiral. Eventually, their erratic flight pattern led them to the Cyphergate, where hundreds crashed into it violently, leaving few survivors. None know what caused this event.

But just like a week ago, the tonight is not about the strange activities surrounding Riddleport. Tonight is about the Gold Goblin, reopening once again. While everyone is working in their cover jobs, Saul has made certain that everyone except Centius, trapped working the bar, were working close to the entrance at the start, in case of a problem. Centius has even been told that if it ever looks like he is needed, to leave the bar to one of the other new employees and help out.

Four men, the smell of cheap beer obvious in their breathes, approached the entrance, where Varg was currently guarding. "Hey... Give us our... our money" the leader said, swinging a short sword without care and nearly slicing into another customer. "We want our money"

[Wargor]

Varg glares menacingly at the men, fingering the handle of his hammer. "You are drunk, so I will give you a chance. Put your weapon away and leave, now, and this won't get ugly."

Intimidate check
[roll0]

[SecondRevan]

"You wanted it to happen, didn't you?" the leader asked, wobbling a bit but still managing to remain upright. "You wanted the thieves to attack so we couldn't win our money back". Despite Varg's attempt at scaring them, they are still confident, in their alcohol muddled minds, that they can get what they want

[Wargor]

"No, we didn't want them to attack. We wanted you to stay here and lose your money. Now leave!" Varg snarls, stepping forward menacingly.

I'll try another intimidate just for kicks.
[roll0]

[Thattaman]

Centius is having the time of his life at the bar. He can getfree drinks and he can flirt with any good-looking women nearby. When he hears the trouble outside he gives a loud sigh. Remembering his orders, he gets his rapier off the wall and leaves the bar empty. When he gets outside looks at the fight. "I was brought outside for THIS?! This is just a small bar brawl. Do you need my help or can I go back?

[Archpaladin Zousha]

Noticing the potential fracas, René tosses a few more cards to the gamblers and asks them to wait while he assists in a security matter.

Approaching Centius and Varg, he rolls his eyes a bit.

"Oh, great. We're fighting the drunks, are we? Man, do they stink."

[Thattaman]

Centius smiles at Rene. "I preffer drunks when they're women and they're willing to do anything for you. Anyway drunks are easier to fight because they fall over anyway. But I'm slightly drunk so I probably won't be the best at fighting right now. Do you want a drink, on me?

[Kira_the_5th]

Atsuki flicks the hammer of his pistol back as he deals another hand to his table of gamblers, watching the ruckus unfold from his dealer's position. "Don't worry, everyone. We've got this under control." he says to his patrons as he checks his cards. "Now, what will you be betting this round?"

[Archpaladin Zousha]

Centius smiles at Rene. "I preffer drunks when they're women and they're willing to do anything for you. Anyway drunks are easier to fight because they fall over anyway. But I'm slightly drunk so I probably won't be the best at fighting right now. Do you want a drink, on me?
"Not while I'm working, Centius."

[Thattaman]

"Not while I'm working, Centius."

"Suit yourself. I personally think that drink can help you in a battle, but maybe that's just me. Anyway, am I needed here?

[Othniel Edden]

"It actually sounds like this gentlemen have a legitment grievence. While I agree that their way is uncivil prehaps it would be for the best for them to have a chance to win back their lost fees. They put those fine swords towards on the table this wager and I will put my reward money from the thieves's fight. What do you think Centius, and Rene? You could easily beat them at a game of poker, yes Rene? Especially in that drunken state?", Scarred Flame whispers this to his companions.

[Thattaman]

"It actually sounds like this gentlemen have a legitment grievence. While I agree that their way is uncivil prehaps it would be for the best for them to have a chance to win back their lost fees. They put those fine swords towards on the table this wager and I will put my reward money from the thieves's fight. What do you think Centius, and Rene? You could easily beat them at a game of poker, yes Rene? Especially in that drunken state?", Scarred Flame whispers this to his companions.

Centius answers to this giddily. "I'd love to play a game of poker, especially if I'm not going to lose any money. I can trick them and I'm very good at cheating, if you allow magic.

Could I use a bluff check instead of proffesion gambler check for the game of poker?

[Wargor]

"I'd rather just throw them out." Varg growls, eyes blazing. "Let them play when they are sober."

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"Great idea, Varg. Maybe they'll learn some manners too. Need a hand?"

[Daisuke1133]

Reluctant as he is to take his eyes away from the gambling tables, Morain moves closer to the commotion at the entrance and asks Is there a problem here?"

[Wargor]

"No killing." Varg says, unslinging his hammer. "Just leave some bruises."

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"May need to hang back, then. Swords aren't really good at leaving bruises."

[Othniel Edden]

if any of them show another act of aggression I'm going to use the Evil eye hex on them one by one until they are all marked for a -2 AC. DC 13 Will save.


Scarring Flame prepares to turn to his spells.

[SecondRevan]

The drunks, hearing the threats, prepare to attack. They drop into stances, and it is clear that, despite their drink, they can still fight.

Initiative:
Drunks: [roll0]
Morain: [roll1]
Atsuki: [roll2]
Rene: [roll3]
Scarring Flame: [roll4]
Centius: [roll5]
Varg: [roll6]

[SecondRevan]

Surprisingly, the drunks are faster than any of you, and the leader quickly attacks Varg. However, the drink has obviously dulled his skills as he wildly misses.
Attack Roll: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

The second attempts to strike Centius with his sword, having overheard some of what Centius' comments. He strikes much closer than the first, but Centius manages to avoid the blade
Attack Roll: [roll2]
Damage: [roll3]

THe third briefly looks for an open target before assaulting Rene, who easily avoids the attack
Attack Roll: [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]

The fourth goes for the only target left, except the understanding Scarring Flame, and launches an attack at Morain.Only he manages to hit, dealing an impressive wound to the inquisitor.
Morain takes 5 damage

[Wargor]

Varg lets out a roar and swings his hammer down, careful to try and target only the non-fatal areas of the drunks body.

Non-lethal attack - [roll0]
Damage - [roll1]

[Kira_the_5th]

Atuski draws his gun and aims it at the drunkards, before shouting. "Everyone, that's enough! Gentlemen, please put down your weapons and exit the premises before someone winds up wit a bullet in their skull!"

Intimidate Check to, at the very least, demoralize.
[roll0]

[Archpaladin Zousha]

René pulls out his blades and spins them in his hands, then attacks the nearest drunk, pulling his attacks, though he knows that will significantly hamper his ability to hit them at all.

Non-Lethal Attack: [roll0] [roll1]
Subdual Damage: [roll2] [roll3]

[Othniel Edden]

Evil Eye (-2 AC) at the one attacking Morain. DC 13 will save. It will at least impact them until this turn.

[Thattaman]

When Centius only just dodges the blade, he shouts at the man and then tries to hit him eith his rapier is a sideways movement, that is impractical but also non-fatal.
[roll0]
Damage [roll1]
Crit confirm: [roll2]

[Daisuke1133]

"Iomedae sustains me in times of peril" Morain declares as he puts himself into a more defensive stance

Invoking the Judgement of Healing and taking a Full Defense action.

[SecondRevan]

OOC: Sorry I've taken so long to post, but I have been really busy lately

Varg's attack strikes true, and the first thief quickly drops unconscious. However, despite this show of strength, the drunks do not heed Atsuki's threat, especially after all the others miss their attacks. However, one of the thugs finds doubts creep into his mind as Scarring Flame hexes him, and his defensive stance is uneven.

These doubts do not stop him, or his two remaining compatriots, from attacking. The one who attacked Centius, now the closest thing the band has to a leader, manages to make yet another well placed attack, this time seriously hurting the cleric.

5 damage

The one who attacked Rene makes yet another horrible miss, his alcohol muddled mind trying to work out where exactly Rene is.

The last one's doubts seem to creep into his attack as well as his stance, as his attempt to attack Morain misses the dwarf.

Everyone's up

[Othniel Edden]

previous guy has 5 rounds left. The guy attacking René also has his Attack Rolls hexed for 6 rounds unless he passes unless he passes a will save, at which point its only till the end of my next turn.

[Wargor]

Varg lets out a great roar of victory and turns to the next thug, swinging his hammer hard at the man.

Power attack (if I can with non-lethal, taking into account Furious Focus negating the penalty).

Attack - [roll0]
Subdual Damage - [roll1]

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"For pity's sake, will you just leave?! We have actual paying customers inside waiting for our services!" René barks, swinging the flats his blades at the thug he missed earlier.

Attack: [roll0] [roll1]
Subdual Damage: [roll2] [roll3]

[Thattaman]

Centius clutches at his side that is openly bleeding. He uses the energy of his god to turn his spell sheild of faith into cure light wounds.

[Thattaman]

Cure light wounds roll [roll0]

[Daisuke1133]

With his wound stitching itself together, Morain lashes out at the thug in front of him with his cestus covered fist.

Subdual attack with the cestus.
[roll0]
[roll1]

[SecondRevan]

Varg's attack is once again successful, and the yet another drunk is knocked unconscious. This time, Rene, too, is successful, and managed to knock his attacker unconscious. Only Morain is unsuccessful, but the thug is sober enough to understand that he has been beaten, and sprints away.

Everyone gets 600xp. Also, due to me being stupid, you get 400 bonus xp from the first fight I forgot to give you

The commotion was recognised by everyone in the room, which Saul quickly uses to get to this podium and make an announcement."Excuse me, everyone. I will let you get back to your games shortly, but I would like to announce a new rule that will come into effect as soon as possible. As you have just heard what has happened outside, I believe I am not unreasonable in banning weapons in this establishment, for the safety of everyone here from people like those my employees have just dealt with" Some of the crowd clap appreciatively, while others grumble. However, none, having heard Saul's exaggerated rumours about your prowess, decide to make a display. Instead, everyone starts playing their games again. Saul then quickly talks to Larur, before retreating upstairs.

Before you can all return to your posts, Larur grabs each of you. "Boss wants you all upstairs. He has something he needs tot alk to you about."

[Archpaladin Zousha]

"I hope it is not in regards to our decision to scuffle. Those brutes were asking for it."

René closes up his card table and heads upstairs.

[Thattaman]

Centius, now healed puts his rapier away and walks up to where Saul is waiting, wondering why he needs their attention so often.

[Kira_the_5th]

"Sorry for the interruption, folks. I'll be right back." Atsuki says as he puts away his pistol. Hopefully the boss won't be too angry, he thinks, scanning the walls for any stray bullet holes.

[Othniel Edden]

Before going up Scarring Flame cures those with physical damage.

[Wargor]

"Coward." Varg growls after the retreating man. Sheathing his hammer, he strides up to Saul's office, stretching his arms after the sudden exertion.

[Othniel Edden]

"Ease up Ulfen. We got what we wanted." He points another employee to confisicate the weapons and to hold them in the safe. "Sell those and give 1/2 it to the families to those that got inuried tonight. Keep a quater for ourselves and give the remainder to he drunks and tell them that their damage has been compensated."

[Daisuke1133]

Morain follows the others without a word. He winces a bit as he walks from the soreness of his freshly healed wound.

[Othniel Edden]

Scarring Flame goes up and settle into Saul's office. He holds his Hawk gentlely, scratching under his beak.

[SecondRevan]

As everyone enters Saul's office, Saul is busy writing something on several pieces of parchment. As soon as the door closes, he looks up from his work and starts yelling. "What were you thinking? The last thing we need on the opening night is yet another fight." However, as he says this, he raises the first parchment, saying in large letters 'WELL DONE'. He then grabs a second sheet, which warns 'THE WALLS HAVE EARS'.

Saul continues his reprimands, threatening to cut the wages of everyone. However, he once again raised a sign, showing a rough image of a man labelled 'CLEGG ZINCHER'

http://cdn.obsidianportal.com/images/242180/cleggzincher.JPG

He then shows the next few signs, saying 'CRIME LORD', 'THREAT' and 'NOT GAMBLER''. He then shows one last sign saying 'BE CAUTIOUS'.

"...You're lucky I'm not firing you on the spot. Get out"

[Archpaladin Zousha]

René saunters out of the office, trying not to look smug.

"Well, it seems I was right and I was wrong," he mutters as he returns to the card tables.

[Kira_the_5th]

"That could have gone worse." Atsuki says cheerfully to the others as he walks back to his table. Turning back to his players, he picks up the deck and shuffles. "Sorry for the delay, folks! This game's buy-in is... he continues on as he chats with his players and deals another hand.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

René begins shuffling the cards once more, a congenial smile on his face.

[Thattaman]

Centius resumes his position on the bar, flirting and serving. He rests his rapier by the wall, slightly wary of any danger nearby.

[Othniel Edden]

Troubled by the events of the evening Scarring Flame looks for a secluded place to commune with the spirit of transformation that had been effecting his life since the fire burned his flesh.

[Daisuke1133]

Morain returns to his post overlooking the gambling tables, making sure to keep watch for the man Saul warned them about.

[Wargor]

Varg returns to the entrance to the hall, a mean glower settling over his face.

[SecondRevan]

In the hall, you all see Clegg Zincher innocently playing a game of golem at one of the other tables. None of you can see anything suspicious happening, and he doesn't even have a weapon on him, despite the fact that the no weapons rule only came into effect tonight. Combined witht eh fact that he keeps finding himself having to purchase more chips, it seems that despite Saul's warnings, he is currently the perfect customer.

[Archpaladin Zousha]

René continues flipping cards and smiling. No sense raising a panic if he was behaving himself.

[Thattaman]

Centius remembers what Saul said about Clegg and offers him a drink. Hoping to get him drunk into saying something that could be used against him. "You seem to be needing to collect a lot of chips and losing them. I remember when that happened to me, I needed a drink and it seems like you might need one as well. On me. So what brings you to this gambling hall?" Centius hands him the strongest alchohol he can find and hopes to get him really drunk.

[Wargor]

Varg tries his best to watch the criminal subtly, so as not to give the game away, or abandon his post as doorman.