lostsole31
  
      
THE PLAY'S THE THING!  
    
   To banish the monstrous shadows that stalk  Westcrown   by night, the PCs go undercover, joining the city's chaotic theatrical  community in an elaborate plot to infiltrate the estate of the decadent  lord-mayor. Yet theater life turns deadly when they become players in a  spectacle no actor has ever survived.

Can the PCs endure their debut  performance in a city where an actor's first big hit is often his last?
    
     DRAMATIS PERSONAE     
     Character
[Player]
  
  Speech
Color  
  AL
  
  Faith  
  Race [Ethnicity]
(Gender ID)
  
  Side #1
  
  Side #2
  
  Campaign Trait  
 
    Bason Sova
[Moriar]
   
   Saddle Brown 
  
 LN 
 Asmodeus 
 Halfling (m) 
 Cleric 4
[Asmodean Acolyte] 
 Slayer 4
[Stygian Slayer 
 Diabolist Raised 
 
    Krasava Nighthaven
[Kikimora]
 
  
   Golden Rod 
  
 CN 
 Calistria 
 Elf (f)
[Forlorn] 
 Cleric 4 
 Ranger 4 
 Black Sheep
[Apothecary] 
 
    Mnementh Perlynn
[Silphael]
   
   Gray
   
 CG 
 Kurgess 
 Elf (m) 
 Arcanist 4
[Blade Adept] 
 Swashbuckler 4
[Inspired Blade] 
 Westcrown Firebrand 
 
    Naomi Swifttail
[digiman619] 
  
   Dark Orange 
  
 NG 
 Neshen 
 Kitsune (f)
[Keen, Taldan] 
 Promethean 4 
 Witch 4
[Hedge Witch] 
 Conspiracy Hunter 
 
    Quinn
[NPC]
   
   Blue
   
 LG 
 Abadar 
 Human (m)
[Garundi] 
 Investigator 4 
 ??? 
 -- 
 
    Reverend Wolf-Dog
[Diavolo/ Danath]
   
   Dark Green
   
 NG 
 Agnostic 
 Half-Orc (m)
[Chelaxian] 
 Bard 4 
 Fighter 4 
 Black Sheep
[Bitter Nobleman] 
 
    Zanah
[EspeanAuraGirl55]
   
   Purple
   
 CG 
 Sivanah 
 Tiefling (f)
[Shackleborn, Taldan] 
 Bard 4
[Magician] 
 Magus 4
[Puppetmaster] 
 Child of Infamy 
 
    Lilith,
Bason's Viper
[NPC]
   
   Violet
   
 LE 
 Asmodeus 
 Viper (f) 
 Familiar 
 -- 
 -- 
 
  
lostsole31
  
 
 


The PCs are contacted by Radovan Holt, the valet and bodyguard to the current leader of the Children of Westcrown, Count Varian Jeggare, himself a recent exile from Egorian and rumored to be a "mobile" Venture-Captain of the Pathfinder Society.  Radovan invites the PC via runner to meet with him at the shrine of Aroden the group has been using as a safe house. If asked why, the runner excitedly whispers,    “We may have found a way to take back our nights!”   

At the safe house, Radovan and Count Jeggare wait to greet the PCs, along with a beautiful woman dressed in well-worn armor. Count Jeggare introduces this woman to the PCs as Ailyn Ghontasavos, a member of the Pathfinder Society.
 
 Spoiler: Each of You (Individually) 
You recall that the Pathfinders are not that welcome these days in Westcrown, and that the presence of one here, even under cover, indicates something big is building.
 

After she’s introduced, Ailyn explains to the PCs that she has come to Westcrown secretly and under cover of a common mercenary, and hopes to recover several treasures lost when the city’s Pathfinder lodge was forcibly closed decades ago by agents of the House of Thrune. Called Delvehaven, the lodge has been locked down tight for over 30 years, and even before then no Pathfinder has set foot inside since Aroden’s death. The fact that the shadow beasts came to plague Westcrown’s streets so soon after the lodge was sealed by the House of Thrune seems to indicate a connection between the two events, and Ailyn believes she has discovered proof while researching Delvehaven in the libraries of Skyreach at the Great Lodge in Absalom. She goes on to explain that, as much as she would want to explore Delvehaven, she cannot—she’s not officially here on Pathfinder business, and if the society were to find out that she had taken the exploration of Delvehaven into her own hands, she would be in a lot of trouble. Yet if, perchance, another group not directly affiliated with the Pathfinders were to enter the old ruin—say, a group of heroes eager to combat the shadow beast legacy—Ailyn would be able to make a formal request to have Delvehaven investigated again.

Unfortunately, one cannot just simply walk into Delvehaven. While the House of Thrune no longer actively guards the site, they transferred that responsibility to Westcrown’s mayoral office. Worse, the fact that the House of Thrune has been engaged in an act of rewriting history (either by destroying existing documents or changing them to suit Thrune’s preferences) means that reliable information about Delvehaven has become incredibly scarce. Ailyn knows that there are several powerful magical locks and wards on the lodge placed there by the House of Thrune to prevent entry, and her research has shown her that keys to the locks and documentation relating to those wards exists in only one place—Aberian’s Folly. Further, the House of Thrune’s devotion to order and tradition all but ensures that these keys and documents are kept in a complex, twelve-sided puzzle-box container known as a Chelish Crux, and that if it has been secured anywhere in Aberian’s Folly, it is likely to lie within the manor’s vault—a place known as the Asmodean Knot. Unfortunately, her research in the significantly sized libraries at the Grand Lodge in Absalom hit a dead end after that, and so she has come to Westcrown to continue her investigations.

At this point in the conversation, both Count Jeggare and Radovan observe that the banishing of the shadow beasts from the city’s nights would be one of the greatest accomplishments the Children of Westcrown could do to earn the love and support of the city. If a method to achieve this goal, or even just clues that might point to such a method, are hidden in Delvehaven, an expedition to the old Pathfinder Lodge is very tempting indeed. And who better to mount such an expedition than the cream of the Children of Westcrown, who do to Count Jeggare's and Radovan's recent exploits in defeating the Bastards of Erebus, are already well on their way as a group to becoming the city’s darlings?

While the urge to simply walk over to Delvehaven and start poking around and exploring might be tempting, such a plan is foolhardy. Not only are the wards and guardians left by Thrune likely potent and deadly, but without doing the proper research on those protections, it’s very likely that a blind exploration of the site would trigger one of many alarms that would alert the Chelish government, resulting in a swift reprisal that neither the Children of Westcrown nor the Pathfinders would appreciate. A better plan, and the plan Count Jeggare, Radovan, and Ailyn put to the PCs, is to find a way to infiltrate Aberian’s Folly and secure access to the Chelish Crux and thus the keys and documents hidden within. With these, an investigation of Delvehaven can be made with greater safety and efficiency. Ailyn admits that the Pathfinders have long been curious about the exact details of the House of Thrune’s interest in the lodge (as well as the nature of the wards they placed on it), and if the PCs can secure the contents of the Chelish Crux, the Society will pay them handsomely for the service.

As for how the PCs can infiltrate the home of one of Westcrown’s most powerful government officials and have a good excuse to spend a fair amount of time searching it, a bold, unorthodox, and brilliant plan was formulated by another person who is brought forward and introduced to the party, a person who used to be a member of the Pathfinder Society but like Jeggare and Radovan, has had to lie low and officially off the books as an active member of the Pathfinder Society.  A man named "Quinn" is called into the room. He is a middle-aged Garundi man of about 6' height and middle build but broad shoulders, gray-white hair that is close to the scalp (what remains of his hair) and wearing a stylish jacket and walking with a fancy cane.

  "All you have to do,"   Quinn says with a voice that has a hoarse quality to it,   "is become actors."  
digiman619
Naomi brought her hand to her chin while she thought. At 5'3" and 150 lbs, she was of average height and weight, and her orange hair was shoulder length. She was currently in a fancy blue dress fit for a minor noblewoman, complete with the jewelry one might expect. She looked up at the group, her blue eyes not exactly projecting confidence.   "I mean, I'm more of an effects and make-up girl than actor per se..."  
Kikimora
Krasava stands tall and listens attentively to what is being said.  She is tall 6'2'', slim beautiful elven physique, navy blue eyes and deep purple hair with 3 white streaks. She is wearing a dark form fitted studded leather with a discrete yellow trim. She takes a bit longer look at Radovan before turning to Quinn and says:

  "Oh , how appropriate , we were just talking about performing.  I guess I could do some singing..."  
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog stands up excitedly, his frighteningly ugly features and his 240lb mass making his 6'1" height appear even more overbearing, and says   "Yeah!  A mission?  A play? Acting? In tha Mayor's mansion? Ta stop tha night curses? Is there any downside at all?  I be in!!!! HAR HAR har har.!"    Although he is bold and enthusiastic, and speaks with a rough street vernacular, his vocabulary is actually quite rich, and he makes a visible effort to remain well-groomed, polite and considerate to those around him. He wears chain shirt of fine silvery links beneath a clean adventurer's outfit.
Moriar
Bason looks to be a tough customer wielding a mighty sword...though the intimidation factor is somewhat reduced by his 3' 6" stature.  While moving he is surprisingly quiet for wearing such heavy armor.  A small viper is often seen moving over him and seemingly judging those around.  With his helmet currently off, his brown hair and eyes are apparent.

  "I possess a foundational understanding of acting and stage management, complemented by the ability to conduct thorough research and make informed legal inquiries as needed."  
silphael
Slim and tall, Mnementh is notably more athletic than most elves. With short, dirty blonde hair, and a few scars on their face, which took a light dirty grey color over the years, the color of chelaxian cities. With long arms, and a practical outfit befitting of an artisan - which they are -, they seem to be past their youth.

"  Performing ? I don't really have any issue with it. I'm not a professional actor, of course. That might be the harder part, to be honest.  "
Espeon55
Zanah stands at 5'8'' and weighs 205lbs. She is of Taldan descent so her skin is more tanned in tone and her medium-length hair is raven coloured. Whilst in disguise as a human her eyes are normal cerulean blue whilst also wearing black eyeliner, navy blue eyes shadow and read lipstick on her lips. She wears Black quilted suit jacket with light purple buttons, over her frilly black and purple bodice. Around her neck is a fancy purple bowtie, she also wears a pair of simple black and purple pants and stylish purple leather boots. And carries her purple backpack filled with her supplies.

  "Actors you say? Well I am a showwoman myself but my specialty is in magic shows. Though I suppose the two do go hand-in-hand. After all how hard can it be to transfer my knowledge from performing a magic show to being an actor?"
   
lostsole31
A little overwhelmed, Quinn steps back, looking at the leadership, and Count Jeggare casually holds up a hand, and that small movement is enough for everyone to settle down. In a bit of a bored drawl, and it seems Count Jeggare might be nursing a headache, he says,   "Quinn, please proceed with the details of your brainchild."  

Quinn begins with his infiltration plan.   "Mayor Arvanxi is a lover of the theater, and in particular, the Theater Mortrescci—plays where not only the cast’s reputations, but their very lives, are on the line during each performance. A cross between a play and a bloodsport, the Theater Mortrescci—more vulgarly referred to as the 'murderplay'—has become one of Cheliax’s fastest-growing forms of entertainment. Mayor Arvanxi’s favorite play in this genre is a notorious work known as  The Six Trials of Larazod , and as luck would have it, a prominent director is preparing to cast and direct this play with aims to perform the full and uncut version for the first time in years as part of the celebration of the newly reconstructed Nightshade Theater in Westcrown’s Parego Regicon—the central island where the city’s nobility and the traditional seat of government are located. If tradition holds true, and if the performance of the play pleases the mayor, he’ll invite the cast and crew to his home for a banquet and party—a gala event that would give undercover agents of the Children of Westcrown a singularly perfect opportunity to explore the manor."  

Quinn runs down the attractions of this plan, ticking each one off on a finger as he goes:
 
 As guests invited to the mayor’s home, the heroes-as-actors don’t need to worry about hiding from his guards or sneaking into the house. 
 Mayor Arvanxi’s obsession with and respect for the theatrical world would grant the heroes-as-actors a huge advantage in squeezing information from him. 
 The mayor’s parties have a well-known reputation for running long—sometimes over the course of days—so the agents should have an excuse to remain in his home for more than enough time necessary to get the job done. 
 The mayor will doubtless require the PCs to come in full costume from their performance, and since they’ll be playing adventurers and the like in the play, that essentially means they’ll be able to walk right in to his manor fully armed and armored, no questions asked. 
 The mayor and his staff celebrate hard—it shouldn’t be long before he and the majority of his guards are so drunk and distracted that they’ll be in no condition to ask questions if the PCs slip away for several hours to look around. 
 
  "The only real disadvantage of the plan,"   Quinn admits,   "is the nature of  The Six Trials of Larazod . The play is notorious and was banned for many decades for a reason—the combats and torments the actors endure in the play are not faked, but real. And to date, no cast has survived a production of the full, uncut version of the play—the version the director, a man named Robahl Nonon, has promised to Westcrown and its mayor. But certainly, surviving a play should be a cinch for a group of heroes like you lot. Even better, if you become the first to survive the uncut version, the mayor’s delight and the subsequent invitation to his home will be all but guaranteed."  
digiman619
Naomi scoffed   "Oh, why didn't you just say so? Should be a piece of cake"  , she said sarcastically. She then exhaled.   "Well, if there's a script, at least we can make preparations knowing what's coming, which is better than most situations I've been stuck in."  
Espeon55
Zanah was bit nervous for once. Whilst she had heard of Muderplays she knew Gilvar The Magnificent had been against them, so she in turn was not thrilled about this plan.   "Those Muderplays are not art. And I honestly don't like the idea of getting involved in one. My shows are meant to bring smiles and wonder and awe not blood and death...."   Zanah then shakes her head at how many things could go wrong.   "Not only that but there are far too many ifs about this plan. If we get casted for the roles. If we manage to survive the play itself.... No offense but this is very risky and beyond dangerous. I am optimist however so I do try to hope for the best....and I believe that's the most I can do in this situation."   
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog says:    "Like I said, I be 'IN'!.  When do we start?  Where do we go to audition?"  
Moriar
 " Do you have any samples of the previously utilized contracts?  " Bason asks.  "  It would be helpful to peruse them for possible loopholes  ."
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by digiman619 
 Naomi scoffed   "Oh, why didn't you just say so? Should be a piece of cake"  , she said sarcastically. She then exhaled.   "Well, if there's a script, at least we can make preparations knowing what's coming, which is better than most situations I've been stuck in."   
 

   "I"m sure you'll get scripts from Noson if you get cast,"   says Quinn.

 
 Originally Posted by Espeon55 
 Zanah was bit nervous for once. Whilst she had heard of Muderplays she knew Gilvar The Magnificent had been against them, so she in turn was not thrilled about this plan.   "Those Muderplays are not art. And I honestly don't like the idea of getting involved in one. My shows are meant to bring smiles and wonder and awe not blood and death...."   Zanah then shakes her head at how many things could go wrong.   "Not only that but there are far too many ifs about this plan. If we get casted for the roles. If we manage to survive the play itself.... No offense but this is very risky and beyond dangerous. I am optimist however so I do try to hope for the best....and I believe that's the most I can do in this situation."    
 

Count Jeggare says,   "You're not required to take on this mission, it just seems like you were the most competent members of the current roster of the Children of Westcrown. Oh, and it is 'cast,' Ms. Zanah ... present and past tense ... not 'casted.'"  

 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Reverend Wolf Dog says:    "Like I said, I be 'IN'!.  When do we start?  Where do we go to audition?"   
 

  "I'll go over that next, once everyone is in,"   says Quinn, before looking at Zanah, curiously,   "or out?"  

 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
  " Do you have any samples of the previously utilized contracts?  " Bason asks.  "  It would be helpful to peruse them for possible loopholes  ." 
 

  "Of course not,"   says Quinn,   "why on earth ... and how ... would we have gotten ahold of previous contracts? I don't know how companies do it, if they even utilize contracts."  

He then looks to the party, and with a consoling tone, including to Zanah,   "Traditionally only wretched, half-starved convicts or truly desperate actors with no real talent have attempted to perform the play before, and thus it’s no small wonder that no one has yet survived the performance. Certainly a well-armed and  successful group of adventurers can do the play justice!"  
Kikimora
Krasava got a bit tense at the word "murderplay", after a brief moment she says:

  "Not a fan of being murdered, but if there is a chance to get out of it alive, and with a prize... I am IN. Would love to get to know the plot and rules of the game, to adequately prepare... but something tells me you wouldn't know the details."  
lostsole31
Quinn shrugs with hands up and smiles.
silphael
Mnementh ponders.

"  Count me in. Though, I do wonder : if the play was already attempted, it is likely we can find out what at least killed each of the previous performers, and thus know what to expect, at least somewhat, before getting the script.  "
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog, visibly struggling to contain his excitement, says:    "Are ye kiddin? Of course we be the most competent fer this challenge, Mr. Count/Yer Lordship/ Sir Jeggare!  Juss look at us!  We be perfect fer this! Come on Zanah!  This will be FUN!  When else do we get a shot at bein' entertained at tha Mayor's own digs! And as guests, no less! Not party-crashers!  I never been an actual 'guest' before! And don't worry yerselves about tha play, we are gonna prepare, an' we are gonna rock it! Them Ladies and Lords are gonna love us!"  

He starts doing a high-kneed jog around the group, while pumping his fists in the air and chanting rythmically:    "Let's do it!  Let's do it! Let's do it! Let's do it!"  
Espeon55
  "You seem to have much confidence in my abilities, I suppose that is why you recruited me to your cause."   Zanah states as she mulls over how this ordeal could benefit her if they are able to make it into the mansion of mayor.   "Well what kind of magician would I be if I were to turn down a challenge to test my abilities. Very well I shall help you all in this mission."    ​ 
Moriar
  "Very well, I acquiesce to joining this murderplay,  " Bason says.  "  We will endeavor to help our clients here as best we are able."  
Kikimora
Krasava steps out of Wolf Dog's way while he does his exciting dance and addresses her question to Quinn:

  " Perhaps we can  also get in touch with previous spectators,  to get an idea what we will be subjected to? Any knowledge of who these lucky spectators might have been?"   
lostsole31
He shrugs.   "Sorry, I don't have that information."  
Kikimora
Krasava to Quinn:

  "I see... Well, you must know something about Robahl Nonon. What kind of man he is? what he likes? where he likes to spend his free time ? and if there is a chance to get some inside information on the play: 1. In order to get selected 2. In order to see what his brilliant mind has in store for us."  
lostsole31
  "Sister Nighthaven, please,"   says Count Jeggare, with his head facing upwards and a towel on his forehead and one hand out waving in an up and down motion as to try and quiet the room,   "it is clear that Quinn doesn't have that information, so chattering here isn't going to get you anything else. He only got enough information about a casting call to hatch this plot as quickly as he has. If you don't like it and are too worried, don't go. Now, with the information we have, not the information we wished we had ... Sister Nighthaven, will you go with your other fellow Children at this hour that Westcrown calls for you, or do you wish to hem and haw your way out of this mission?"  
 Krasava , what do you say?
Kikimora
Krasava says

  " I am game! Looking forward to the casting!"  
Diavolo
Wolf Dog says   "He he he. Great play on words there, Krasava.  'Casting call' or casting spells?  HAR HAR HAR HA HA HA!"  
lostsole31
  
 
 


Once Quinn outlines her plan, he tells the PCs that there’s little time to waste—director Robahl Nonon is starting to cast parts for the play the very next day at his own venue, a small theater called the Limehouse. He’s already made the announcement that he’s looking for “authentic adventurers and legitimate risk-takers” over the use of established actors for most of the roles in the play—a move that has caused some discord among the performer’s circuit. In fact, apart from using  regulars from his own acting troupe, he has made clear his hopes that all of the roles in this production will be filled by experienced “heroes.”

Does anyone do anything else for tonight? (Please leave general RP in the RP channel on Discord.)
silphael
Mnementh notices a spelling mistake in their notebook and takes a part of the evening to correct it.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Replacing Mirror Image with Urban Grace.
 
Moriar
Bason will go over possible contracts they might see and lingo they may encounter tomorrow.   Then will prepare what they can for counteroffer before praying about this upcoming play before getting some sleep.
Diavolo
Wolf Dog nods.
Espeon55
Zanah spends an hour studying her spellbook to prepare her Puppetmaster spells.

 
 Spoiler: Spells 
Spells Prepared: Set up stays the same no changes
 
lostsole31
    Fireday, 8 Lamashan 4707 AR (Waning Crescent) 
70 / 50 F. Medium humidity.   

Everyone does their morning regimen, and a very simple poor breakfast in the old Aroden cathedral. Then its immediately time to head out.

The Limehouse Theater is owned by Robahl Nonon, a relatively infamous director known for his temper and his knack for getting emotional performances out of his actors—at least out of those who don’t run in shameful tears from his stage. The theater itself is rather small, and for larger productions (like Robahl’s upcoming one), the Limehouse serves more as a headquarters and a place for dress rehearsals than an actual venue. The locals actually prefer this, as they find the dress rehearsals to be much more entertaining with their more-frequent errors, and Robahl himself has made a tradition of forcing his players to perform to this audience. Not only do the public dress rehearsals allow for additional income (he generally charges half price for such shows), but according to Robahl, “an actor who can remain focused before an audience as unruly and caustic as this one can perform anywhere!” Those who can’t handle the heckling are replaced.

Word of Robahl’s casting call for the uncut  Six Trials of Larazod  has spread throughout Westcrown, and while he’s cast a few of the supporting roles already, he has yet to settle on a Larazod and many of his companions. By the time the PCs arrive, the director is at his wits’ end—his call has brought only desperate actors who can’t fight or desperate adventurers who can’t act. He’s lowered his expectations, is ready to cancel the production—thus, even if none of the PCs can act, as long as they’re competent, they’ve got the parts.

Each of the PCs are brought up to read various sides. There is no meet-and-greet, and Robahl entertains zero conversation, pointing to you, the side, and the stage.

Everyone, here is how to conduct your readings ... 
 Spoiler: Reading the Sides for Robahl 

If you don't have Perform (act), roll a single CHA check.

If you have Perform (act), you may roll Perform (act) twice.
 
digiman619
Naomi reads her line as instructed.
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 (1d20+3)[ 12 ] 
 
silphael
Not a performer, but kinda used to social situations, Mnementh tries to do their best.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
  Cha  - (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
 
Espeon55
Zanah reads her lines with enthusiasm and flair.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Perform Act 1:  (1d20+10)[ 27 ] 
Perform Act 2:  (1d20+10)[ 26 ] 
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog is visibly struggling to contain his excitement.  He reads his lines with tremendous passion and gusto!

 
 Spoiler: Readings 
Perform (Act) #1  (d20+10)[ 30 ] 
Perform (Act) #2  (d20+10)[ 14 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava reads in a singing soothing voice

 
 Spoiler: Reading 
Cha-  (1d20+1)[ 14 ] 
 
Moriar
Bason does his best to read his line without resulting to lawyer cadence of speech.

 
 Spoiler: acting! 


Acting:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
 
lostsole31
Robahl points to Quinn to read, shoving a side in his hand and all but throwing him up on stage despite your man's meager protestations.  For obviously having no actual acting skill, Quinn surprises even himself when his rough voice provides some dark inflection in the side he reads. 
 Spoiler: Quinn's Result 
Rolled a nat '20' despite having a mediocre CHA
 

Robahl then gives direction to  Bason  &amp;  Mnementh , and asks them each to try again.
Moriar
Bason clears his throat and reads again.

 
 Spoiler: with feeling 


Acting:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
 
silphael
Hoping to do better, Mnementh only reads line to line this time.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
  Cha  - (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
 
lostsole31
Robahl takes time to confer with a few of the others on his production team.

In the tense interregnum between reading lines and his announcement of roles, the PCs may talk amongst themselves, if desired.
Moriar
  "That was not easy,"   Bason begins. "  I do hope it was enough.  So odd how it is rather different than simply talking; which I'm normally rather trained in. "  
Espeon55
  "I could give you some coaching if you would like?"   Zanah suggests to Bason.   "It's not so much the words themselves but  how  you say them. For example. I could say, 'This flower is beautiful'."   She states in a normal voice.   "Or I could say it like this. 'This, Flower is  beautiful!' "   Putting much more emotion and passion into her voice.   "Simple but a big difference yes?"  
Diavolo
Wolf Dog says:   "Well, that were kind o' fun. But I'm sure it would be a lot more fun if we be all on stage doin' it in front of an audience and actually interacting with one another.  I hope we all get picked!"  
Kikimora
Krasava walks calmly towards the group and says:

  " Well,  this was and interesting casting. I hope we make it. I am usually a good singer, more than I am an actor.   If anyone has any acting tips , I will be delighted to exchange them for singing lessons."  
Moriar
  "Thank you Zanah,  " Bason says.    "If this endeavor continues to put me on the stage instead of behind it, than I will surely need assistance.   "
silphael
"  It is rather disconcerting, indeed : even if I am quite the duellist, I'm usually more... tactically inclined, if that makes sense ? And yes, if we are to keep acting for longer, at least with expectations of true act, I might need your teachings.  "

They nod at Zanah.

"  Though I might lean more toward the more practical applications of that kind of skill.  "
lostsole31
Robahl finally comes to the PCs and says,   "We now move to the callback portion of auditions. Please join me and the rest of the cast and crew in the theater. This way. I can make use of all of you, even if you aren't in an onstage capacity."
  
And he leads you into the theater, he explains.   "I am sorry if you thought that was all you needed for specific roles, but that was actually just a test if you will even work for me in any capacity. I have six onstage roles I need to fill. The role of chorus-narrator, Henderthaan, and Ilsandra have already been cast."
  
Once he brings you into the theater and has you sit up front with a handful of other people, he says,   "Larazod is one of the play's two starring roles ... the other, of course, being Montigny Haanderthan, who is being played by our own Thesing Umbero Ulvauno."  

There is applause from company members (and from any polite PCs) as a handsome fellow in extravagant garb stands. His chiseled good looks are brutal rather than delicate, and he obviously basks in the adulation he feels is due to him as the leading actor.

  "As I was saying,"   continues Robahl after the applause dies down,   "Larazod is the 'people's hero,' whereas Haanderthan is the juicy villain role.

"Mr. Wolf-Dog, I would like you to read Larazod's first (and lengthiest) line from the play, the soliloquy that begins Larazod knows no lies, great magistrate…,'"   he says, handing RWD a side to read.
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog had become uncharacteristically quiet as he watched the other actors audition.

When singled out to read first, he quietly accepts the line sheet and reads it silently first. He looks up solemnly at Robahl, and then back at the sheet. He licks his lips, clears his throat, takes a deep breath and begins in an almost perfect Taldan, with only a slight hint of his usual street drawl:

  “Larazod knows no lies, great magistrate, and no slanderer’s tongue caresses my dignity.”  

He pauses and continues:

  “The accusations you speak are as true as Asmodeus’s sword. They cleave clean through. Let the witnesses suffer no more lash. To burn their innards with pokers and steal their eyes is simply to waste precious toil better spent in Asmodeus’ s service.”  

He glances up… then back to his sheet and continues:

  “There is but one point misaligned in this dark constellation – I seek not yer death, though the secrets you harbour in yer feeble heart deserve a gruesome demise.”  

He looks around at the group, and continues in a louder, more assured voice:

  “I carry no assassin’s blade, nor breath-stealing spell to rob yer mortality.  To end you I need only know you, and to cast you in an honest shade.  I pierce yer “shadows of truth”  and show you for what I know – a false knave, a demon-supping wag-tail, a balor’s bawd, a pus-leaking cataract in the eye of Asmodeus’s justice, and subject to the multi-handed ministrations of a marilith whore, dretch-loving plunderer, and TRAITOR TO OUR GREAT DARK LORD!!!”  

He finishes, almost shouting the last lines and thrusting his right fist into the air as he clenches the line sheet in his left paw.

Finished, he pauses, looks at Robahl, then glances quickly at the crowd, then almost bashfully back at Robahl, and asks in and uncharacteristically subdued voice :
  “Were that O.K. by ye?”
“This Larazod character be seemin ta feel mighty strong about his principles. I think I be likin' the character o' this character.”

  Wolf dog then shuffles a bit, apparently unsure what he should be doing with the line sheet still in his hands.


 
 Spoiler: Skill check.  
Acting:  (d20+10)[ 27 ] 
Acting:  (d20+10)[ 25 ] 
 
lostsole31
Some of those present are very nearly moved to tears and all NPCs clap enthusiastically.

Robahl comes up to take the side from RWD and asks him,   "Reverend will you be our Larazod, our leading role?"  
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog's eyes grow wide and he says:

  "Well, of COURSE, Mr. Robahl, Sir!  "

He then smiles and says   "I guess I don't got much choice..."   
He looks at his friends and announces :   "Tha lead-role always goes ta tha most handsomest fellers!  HAR HAR HAR HA HA HA!!!!"  
Kikimora
Krasava rolls her eyes, but cheers him on

  "Great performance! It must be Naomi's skills that helped you look and feel your best!"  
Espeon55
Zanah flashes him a smile.   "Brilliant absolutely brilliant. Are you sure that the only performing you have done before now is puppet shows?"   
digiman619
Naomi clapped politely, but otherwise held her tongue.
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog responds to Zanah:    "Well, nah, I guess, if ye consider this sort o' thing performing, then I guess I did quite a bit. Mrs. Meredith at the  House of the Happy Halfling,  me first orphanage, tried real hard ta teach us ta talk good. So she had us stand in front o' the other kids and do readings just like this.  We read poetry, and short stories, and historical speeches. Eventually we had ta write our own material, or just stand up an' she would choose a topic an' we had ta talk about it .... ex-tem-po-ray-nee-usly.  She 'ad a real challenge with me 'cause I spent so many years living alone in tha woods with me Mum and me dog Trisha an' never learnt ta talk so good. But Mrs. Meredith, she never gave up on me, nor any of us. She were real great to us, Mrs. Meredith."  

He pauses, then adds:   "She also tried ta teach us ta dance, and ta play musical instruments, and ta be real polite little gentlemen and gentle-ladies.  I liked tha flute.  It reminded me o' me former home in the woods, when Trisha and me we would sit together by tha stream and listen ta tha wind and that sound o' tha water flowin' around the rocks.  I weren't no good at tha flute, but I really liked it. An' I still got one!  If ya like and it ain't too painful fer your ears, maybe I can play somethin' fer you some day?"  

Wolf Dog looks at her and smiles eagerly.
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Reverend Wolf Dog responds to Zanah:    "Well, nah, I guess, if ye consider this sort o' thing performing, then I guess.....   
 

And that is ALL that he gets to say of the intended speech as Robahl says,   "THANK you, Mr. Wolf-Dog."  

He shoos RWD off the stage and says,   "Now, admittedly, that was a pearl-in-the-rough and even I am surprised that the most ragged parts of our society can produce something like that. I would like to offer the role of the hero Larazod to Mr. Wolf-Dog BUT .... if there is anyone here who thinks they can contest that please come up and let us see what you have."  

Does anyone try to read for Larazod, or accept that Reverend Wolf-Dog has scored the lead?
silphael
Mnementh claps, mentally cringing at the idea of a "hero of the people" harboring asmodean ideals.
Kikimora
Krasava politely bows and visually shows that RWD is indeed the best performer for the part.

  " He is a pearl indeed!"  
lostsole31
With that, Reverend Wolf-Dog is officially the hero Larazod!

  "The next role is for Dentris. Dentris is a sharp-tongued wizard who has a knack for biting insults and a quick wit, and who acts almost as a father figure to Larazod. So for anyone who wants to try the role of Dentris, I want each of you to insult and berate me, and to do so as wittily and cruelly as possible."
  
Bason, Krasava, Mnementh, Naomi, and Zanah .... you may each give one cutting insult as above, or pass if the part of the wizard doesn't interest you. 
 Spoiler: For Those Who Dare... 
Roll an Intimidate check.
 
Kikimora
Krasava slowly steps forward

  " I would like to give it a try!"  

And looking at him like a cat would look at a little mouse says in her singing voice:

  "Ah, Robahl, master of emotional manipulation and amateur of art! I see you've dragged another flock of unfortunates to tremble beneath your delusions of grandeur. It must be exhausting for a talentless tyrant to keep up the charade of artistry while wading knee-deep in their own theatrical failures..."  
 
 Spoiler: Intimidate 
Intimidate -  (1d20+2)[ 13 ] 
 


And she steps back while maintaining eye contact with Robahl.
silphael
Even if wits and wizardry are their thing, Mnementh stay silent. They could likely fake cruelty, but not to the point of being able to really impress as this role should.
Espeon55
Zanah is not particularly interested in this role so she decides to stay silent and let the others have a shot.
Diavolo
Upon hearing Krasava insult the director, Wolf Dog's eyes go wide in astonishment and he takes a step backwards, subconsciously reaching for the handle of the Great Axe strapped to his back. He whispers over his right shoulder, to where the head of his Great Axe is located and says in a stunned tone:    "Did you hear that, Bertha?  That Elf... she is either tha most courageous creature we have ever seen, or she be having absolutely no sense o' self-preservation!"

  He then calls out loudly:    "Hey Krasava! Ye can't act with us on stage in that murder-play if ye go and get yerself murdered during tha casting-call!"
  
 
 Spoiler: Wolf Dog's Jibe 

Perform comedy:   (d20+7)[ 17 ] 
 
lostsole31
Robahl shakes his head at Krasava, completely unimpressed.   "Brevity is the soul of wit, and your bloated delivery is neither brief, not witty."  

He looks around at those assembled and points to Mnementh.   "You, boy ... tom-boy? ... or just boy? Can't tell. Elves are always believably haughty and wizardly. Let's see what you have."  
 Mnementh , you have been specifically requested. What do you do?
silphael
They chuckle, and answer in a sizzling tune

"  My mind is as sharp as my blade, youngling, but I am more skilled at feints than insults. As for what I am, I'm not sure if it's age or something else that keeps you from fathoming it, but I'll let you figure it out. It forges character, after all.  "

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Well, let's roll then !

  Intimidate  - (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
 
Diavolo
Wolf Dog looks at Basiron, Naomi and Zanah, then at Mnemeth and Krasava, then back at the other three and asks   "So, who knew that Elves be so sharp-tounged?  Or did we just get lucky in teaming-up with these two?"  
Moriar
"  In my experience  , " Bason says. "  All species seem to have the capabilities of being sharp tongued.

I am learning a great deal about our cast."   
lostsole31
  "Well, we have our Dentris, don't we,"   says Robahl, guiding Mnementh with his arms to sit down.

  "Next,"   he continues,   "Tybain is the comic relief of the play, a bumbling paladin whose devotion to Aroden is even more comical in this age, due to the deity’s death. Traditionally, Tybain is the character who dies first in the play, but the longer he can survive, often the better the play is received. Thus, the actor portraying Tybain must be able to deliver his performance while being constantly on the defensive.  This means when you give Tybain's first line in the play ... 'Hurl this arrogance..." everyone else here - your friends included - will be sitting in the audience hurling little stones and rotten fruit your way.

"So, anyone remaining can try this out, but I am especially interested in Bason and Krasava for this part. So, who is first?"   he asks, holding up what is ostensibly the side for Tybain.
Kikimora
Krasava signals with her look for Bason to go ahead and adds with a whisper:

  "If you say Ladies first, I will ask Naomi to transform you into one"  

And gives a shy smile to the public
digiman619
Naomi rolled her eyes and whispers back.   "Don't promise another craftsman's work, it's rude."  
Espeon55
Zanah looks to Bason and whispers.   "This might be a good role for you sorry to say that I find playing a buffoon beneath me. I do actually have some fame to my name and I'd rather not have my fans see me in a role like this. A-and I am not saying that because I think you will die or anything on the contrary I just think this might fit your acting skill talent until you can get more practice."  
Moriar
"   Though Krasavas talents might fit this,  "  Bason says with a confused look at those whispering. "  I will go first, what do you wish me to do in order to audition for this portion of the performance?"  
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog says:    "Won't be any of us a dying in this particular production o' the play!  You got this Bason!  
lostsole31
  "Just go up there with this side,"   which Robahl hands to Bason,   "and deal with what comes your way.  The rest of us, lie I said, will pelt you with fruit and small stones while you read."  
Moriar
Bason begins to bob and weave as he begins his reading.

"  Turn his arrogance upon him, Lazarod, and let his accusations collapse beneath their own weight.  He demands golden yoked truth?"   Bason pauses and moment as a stone connects with his temple.

Then continues, "  Give him more than he can swallow.  For under the unyielding light of Arodens once watchful eye, or in the searing glow of your Dark Lord's judgment, a man bound to hollow faith and empty honor stands revealed as a traitor to all."    

Several tomatoes connect as a pivot dodges a head of lettuce. "  Let he who judges falsely find himself ensured by spectral hands; let him be filled by his own unjust...brand  ."

He finishes with a grunt as a sizable stone takes the wind out of him briefly when it connects to his stomach.
lostsole31
It turns out that Bason actually really took quite a beating, having taken  11 damage  total through the reading. 
 Spoiler: Bason's Ref Save 
 (Scored a  15  Ref save.)
 

  "Krasava, come up and try your hand at dodging and entertaining us,"   says Robahl.
Kikimora
  Krasava glances with regret at Bason and heads up onto the stage. She starts off cheerfully, dodging left, right and center, trying to evade what is coming her way.    
  
   "Hurl his arrogance and accusations back at him, Lazarod.  He wants precious golden-yoked truth?”      
Eventually, some kind of a rotten fruit find its way in her area and lands in her hair.  A small stone, scratches her outfit. Krasava starts to speed up in her reading and sends mean glances into the crowd.

  "Give him more than he can choke down. For whether revealed by the brilliance of Aroden’s eye, or the long red shadows cast by your Dark Lord’s fiery gaze, a man false at heart and shrouded in hollow faith is nothing more than a traitor to all."  

Krasava is visibly irritated and looks with vengeance at the folks in the crowd throwing stones and produce at her. A bunch tomatos fly towards her , she doesn’t have the time to dodge- she got them right in the chest , spreading the mushy red substance all over her outfit.

   “ Let him that judges false be judged by wraiths- smote by his own brand shall he fall.”    
  With that, she dodges the last couple of stones, however a piece of cantaloup lands right next to her as she finishes the last words. A bit startled -  Krasava is furious.   
  
   
 Spoiler: Ref save 
Ref save:  (1d20+10)[ 27 ] 
 
Espeon55
 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
   Krasava glances with regret at Bason and heads up onto the stage. She starts off cheerfully, dodging left, right and center, trying to evade what is coming her way.    
  
   "Hurl his arrogance and accusations back at him, Lazarod.  He wants precious golden-yoked truth?”      
Eventually, some kind of a rotten fruit find its way in her area and lands in her hair.  A small stone, scratches her outfit. Krasava starts to speed up in her reading and sends mean glances into the crowd.

  "Give him more than he can choke down. For whether revealed by the brilliance of Aroden’s eye, or the long red shadows cast by your Dark Lord’s fiery gaze, a man false at heart and shrouded in hollow faith is nothing more than a traitor to all."  

Krasava is visibly irritated and looks with vengeance at the folks in the crowd throwing stones and produce at her. A bunch tomatos fly towards her , she doesn’t have the time to dodge- she got them right in the chest , spreading the mushy red substance all over her outfit.

   “ Let him that judges false be judged by wraiths- smote by his own brand shall he fall.”    
  With that, she dodges the last couple of stones, however a piece of cantaloup lands right next to her as she finishes the last words. A bit startled -  Krasava is furious.   
  
   
 Spoiler: Ref save 
Ref save: [roll0]
 
 
 

Zanah cheers at Krasava's performance.   "Woo way to go girl!"
  
lostsole31
Krasava still takes  7  from the withering assault, but overall she does well enough with her brilliant dodging that there is tremendous applause for her efforts.

As Robahl guides her off of the stage.   "Ladies and gentlemen and those of neither persuasion or both ... to my knowledge this will be the first telling of the  Six Trials of Larazod... "   and here he turns to Krasava,   "... again, 'Larazod,' not 'Lazarod...'"   before facing all again,   "...wherein we shall be like ancient Taldan theaters which did not allow women ... and a woman shall play a man where once only men played men and women. Let us hear it for our gender-bending comic Tybain!"  

[Interlude for cheers and applause...]

  "Next,"   says Robahl with expert timing just past the "hump" of applause and cheers,   "I need to cast Drovalid. Drovalid, as the torturer who has a change of heart and joins Larazod’s side to protect him, is the toughest character in the play—he often ends up being the star combatant of the performance, and thus, the actor portraying him must be able to speak his lines while being on the offensive.

"As I call you up, you can take whatever your weapon of choice is and read the short side beginning 'Magistrate Maleficarum...'. At some point unknown to you as that line is delivered, Millech the Hump - or stage master - will swing in a metal bucket partly filled with red sand. Try to get out of the way while still delivering your line and stabbing, or bashing, or poking the bucket as it goes by."  

He looks around.   "And just to let you know, this is the last major part, though there are two minor parts we will fill. So I will want everyone remaining to try this. Who will be first?"  
Espeon55
Zanah steps forward.   "I shall try for this role."  
lostsole31
Robahl hands the side to Zanah, gesturing to the stage.
Espeon55
Zanah takes the stage and begins to read with a sinister smile and projects her voice for all to hear as she wields her Quarterstaff.   "Magistrate Maleficarum!"   

Zanah readies her stance ready to strike.   "I come before you a simple hand, whose lash is guided by the greater glory of Asmodeous!!"   she strikes the bucket of red sand with all her might.   "May my scourge do him and this devoted tribunal proud."   Zanah stands taller to do a proud pose for the audience. Hitting the stage with the bottom of her Quarterstaff.   "With your permission I shall begin our first trial!"
   
  
 Spoiler: Attack! 
Attack roll:  (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
 
Kikimora
 
 Originally Posted by Espeon55 
 Zanah takes the stage and begins to read with a sinister smile and projects her voice for all to hear as she wields her Quarterstaff.   "Magistrate Maleficarum!"   

Zanah readies her stance ready to strike.   "I come before you a simple hand, whose lash is guided by the greater glory of Asmodeous!!"   she strikes the bucket of red sand with all her might.   "May my scourge do him and this devoted tribunal proud."   Zanah stands taller to do a proud pose for the audience. Hitting the stage with the bottom of her Quarterstaff.   "With your permission I shall begin our first trial!"
   
  
 Spoiler: Attack! 
Attack roll: [roll0]
 
 
 

Krasava looks at Zanah with respect

  " Way to go sister!"  
lostsole31
The sand and such is reset as Robahl nods his head in respect.    "Who is next?"  
digiman619
Naomi shrugs and steps forward.   "I'll go next"  
lostsole31
Robahl hands Naomi the side as she steps up onto the stage ...
digiman619
Naomi takes a second to gather herself before drawing her dagger. She takes a look at the bit of script handed to her before placing it down. She takes a deep breath and exhales, and thus she begins.

  "Hurl his arrogance and accusations back at him, Larazod. He wants precious golden-yoken truth?"   She sneered in disdain, chin held high as she continued.

   "Give him more than he can choke down. For whether revealed by the brilliance of Aroden's eye, or the long red shadows cast by your Dark Lord's fiery gaze, a man false at heart and shrouded in hallow faiths is nothing more than a traitor to all!"   She then pointed outwards towards the audience.   "Let him that judges false be judged with wraiths - smote by his own brand shall he fall."

   
 Spoiler: OOC 
SwA: move 2 points of essence from Gorget of the Wyrm into Goggle of the Archivist, use it to memorize the words in the aside. I was really tempted to use the gorget's line attack here, but a) it's not an attack roll, and b) that's not the instructions she was given, and I'm sure the director has had far too many actors decide to improv rather than stick to the script.
Attack roll:  (1d20+5)[ 20 ] 
 
lostsole31
Robahl says to Naomi,   "You didn't verify the side I handed you when I gave it to you, having told you what you would be reading. Here, take this proper side and go again."  
digiman619
Naomi simply nodded, hiding her irritation. She then made sure she got the side right before again putting it down.

  "Magistrate Maleficarum,"   she says, pointing at the crowd once more,   "I come before you as a simple hand, whose lash is guided by the greater glory of Asmodeus, may my scourge do him and this devoted tribunal proud. With your permission , I shall begin our first trial."  
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Again, memorizing the words via my veil.
 (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
 
lostsole31
Naomi's irritation worked in her favor, as she angrily stabbed the hell out of the bucket.

  "Perfect!"   Robahl applauds,   "That's the aggression I wanted to see."  

As Naomi exits the stage, Robahl takes the side from her and then hands it to Bason.   "Here, little one. Give it a try."  
Moriar
   "Magistrate Maleficarum   ," Bason growls as he draws his sword and grips it tightly in both hands and carefully watches the buckets path.

  "I stand before you as a humble instrument, my hand wielded by the greater glory of the mighty Asmodeus!"   

With a flourish of the sword he strikes the bucket and turns to regard the crowd once more.

  "It is my intention that actions reflect honor upon his name and this esteemed tribunal.  With your esteemed permission, I hereby request to initiate our first trial."  

Bason concludes by sheathing his sword and angrily stomping off stage.


 
 Spoiler: strike 


Use ma to study target.  Slayer studied target ability would give an additional +1 to hit can apply to objects.  (Not yet included below)

 (1d20+9)[ 23 ] 
 
lostsole31
  "Very nice showing, counselor,"   says Robahl while walking over to Quinn who looks and blinks at him.
 
 "Ms. Swifttail, you had the best precision, but I am afraid you don't quite have the physicality I'm looking forward to. Mr. Sovra, on the other hand, overcomes his height with great ferocity, and he is hereby awarded the coveted role of the torturer-turned-hero Drovalid."   
 
Diavolo
Wolf Dog approaches Krasava and Bason and says:   "Hey, ye both did real good with yer readings.  And while having stuff thrown at ye, no less! Not ta impose or nothin' but I got me a spell I could use ta clean some o' that vegetable juice off of ye, if ye like."   

He pauses, and adds:
  "Also, ye both took a bit of a beating. I know yer both real strong and all, but if ye be needin' some healing, I can do a bit o' that kind o' magic fer ye too.  As well.  If ye like, that is."


  
Kikimora
 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Wolf Dog approaches Krasava and Bason and says:   "Hey, ye both did real good with yer readings.  And while having stuff thrown at ye, no less! Not ta impose or nothin' but I got me a spell I could use ta clean some o' that vegetable juice off of ye, if ye like."   

He pauses, and adds:
  "Also, ye both took a bit of a beating. I know yer both real strong and all, but if ye be needin' some healing, I can do a bit o' that kind o' magic fer ye too.  As well.  If ye like, that is."


   
 

 Krasava looks with appreciation at Wolf Dog and says:

  "That would be much appreciated. The red from tomatoes doesn't quite fit with my outfit and make my skin looks pale.  Thank you Wofl Dog. "  
lostsole31
  "See? A cast that comes together. You'll need that in the play,"   says Robahl.

He looks to Naomi, Zanah, and Quinn.    "Two more traditional (non-speaking) roles for other companions to accompany Larazod are sometimes included, but more often then not are excluded.

"The first is Farus the Traveled. A self-styled gypsy king, Farus is a smiling tower of joy. He is a dancing clown who speaks in riddles. His role is comedic—generally it was felt that one clown was enough for the play, and so his character is dropped in many versions of the trial.

"The second is Monris Blaksward. A fiendish dwarf with blood-red eyes and a shock of ginger hair, Monris appears in many early versions of the play as the strong arm to help Larazod. He sings in a deep voice and carries bagpipes, which he frequently blows tunes from. An addition to some productions of the play, most omit this character, as his bagpipes often annoy the audience. I, however, wish to resurrect this play with all traditional roles of the genders they are .... even if played by alternate genders."  

He looks mainly at Zanah and Naomi (and only vaguely at Quinn).   "So, decide between yourselves - the three of you, not your wild yammering friends - who is going to play what role."  
digiman619
Naomi pulls her compatriots into a huddle, and addresses them in a whisper.   "Okay, so we need someone short and someone tall here. I can adjust height by about a half foot either way, so I can do the Dwarf. Which of you wants to be the gypsy king?"  
Espeon55
Zanah gives a sigh.   "I suppose that will be me. Honestly looking like a clown is not a role I wanted to play but I did my best for Drovalid and didn't succeed. So I will make the due with what roles are left."   
digiman619
Naomi turns to Quinn.   "Any objections to that?"  
lostsole31
   "I want no part of being on stage,"    says Quinn.    "It's between the two of you. I will offer my services as 'special effects' with my alchemy, but I want to stay 'hands off' of the in-character process to supervise the overall mission."   
digiman619
Naomi nodded before turning back to the director.    "After discussing it, we have come the conclusion that Miss Zanah should go for the role of Farus, and I should take the role of Monris."  
lostsole31
Robahl turns to everyone with wide, sweeping arms and announces,   "Ladies, Gentleman, and Everyone! We have a play!"  

Lots of cheering and applause.
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog lets out some joyful wolf-howls as his contribution to the 'cheering and applause'    "AAAWWWOOOOooooooo!   AAAAWWWOOOooooooo!   AAAAAWWWWWOOOoooooo!!!  

Whenever he has a chance, he make good on his offer to Bason and Kasavra, first casting a minor cantrip with which to clean up Kasavra's clothes, then Bason's.  As he is cleaning up Bason, He chuckles to himself and tells him without hint of remorse:    "Heh, Heh, I really got ya with that tomato!  Ye can see exactly tha splatter pattern where it exploded on yer shoulder!  Heh heh heh!"  

He then adds in a more solemn tone: "  I can't believe some o' tha folks were a throwin'  rocks, though. That's pretty serious. I guess it helps us ta know what ta expect when a whole audience is goin' at it.  Are ye sure yer up ta this?"    He asks Kasavra.

He then moves on to cast some minor curative spells starting with Kasavra.  He again chuckles and looks at Bason and winks as he says.   "Heh, heh, heh!  I guess fer this sort a' thing, she don't mind it being 'ladies first'!  HAR, HAR, Har, har, ha, ha!"   He finishes with a full laugh, then adds one more howl for good measure:     "AAAWWWWOOOOooooooooooooooo!"
  
 
 Spoiler: Spells 
Cantrip:  Prestidigitation to clean up the duo.

Cure Light wounds on Kasavra:    (d8+4)[ 8 ] 
Cure light wounds on Bason:   (d8+8)[ 15 ] 
 
Espeon55
  "Easy on the enthusiasm Wolfy."   Zanah states as holding her ears from the howling.   "Do try to remember this is not the time to celebrate we still have to survive this play."   
Moriar
  "Thank you Mr. Wolf for the cleaning and healing,  " Bason says.    "If this was the audition, I imagine the real play to much more strenuous."  
lostsole31
Reverend Wolf-Dog's joyful magic heals both of his friends fully.
Kikimora
 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Reverend Wolf Dog lets out some joyful wolf-howls as his contribution to the 'cheering and applause'    "AAAWWWOOOOooooooo!   AAAAWWWOOOooooooo!   AAAAAWWWWWOOOoooooo!!!  

Whenever he has a chance, he make good on his offer to Bason and Kasavra, first casting a minor cantrip with which to clean up Kasavra's clothes, then Bason's.  As he is cleaning up Bason, He chuckles to himself and tells him without hint of remorse:    "Heh, Heh, I really got ya with that tomato!  Ye can see exactly tha splatter pattern where it exploded on yer shoulder!  Heh heh heh!"  

He then adds in a more solemn tone: "  I can't believe some o' tha folks were a throwin'  rocks, though. That's pretty serious. I guess it helps us ta know what ta expect when a whole audience is goin' at it.  Are ye sure yer up ta this?"    He asks Kasavra.

He then moves on to cast some minor curative spells starting with Kasavra.  He again chuckles and looks at Bason and winks as he says.   "Heh, heh, heh!  I guess fer this sort a' thing, she don't mind it being 'ladies first'!  HAR, HAR, Har, har, ha, ha!"   He finishes with a full laugh, then adds one more howl for good measure:     "AAAWWWWOOOOooooooooooooooo!"
  
 
 Spoiler: Spells 
Cantrip:  Prestidigitation to clean up the duo.

Cure Light wounds on Kasavra:   [roll0]
Cure light wounds on Bason:  [roll1]
 
 
 


Krasava looks at Wolf Dog and says with a smile:

  " Much appreciate the gesture Mr Wolf Dog! Given that, I had no say in who you attend to, the situation suggest YOUR preference who to treat first- I am certainly glad it's "Ladies first" in your books! I will be happy to return the favour when the time comes, although I don't have a specific gender preference. I will be guided by "whoever looks worse" "  

Krasava turns to Bason, assessing the damage to his outfit and says:

  "The stones were particularly unpleasant, but  I guess I was right for the part since the very start. Let me know if you need more healing physical or moral. I know after getting the part, I will need a whole lots of wine to heal my bruised ego. We are doing it for the right cause, aren't we?"  

Krasava is celebrating with others the announcement of the play, clapping with no enthusiasm.
silphael
Mnementh smiles and chuckles.

"  For the sake of art, of course ! The best cause there is !  "
Espeon55
  "I still refuse to call these sorts of plays art but whatever...."     Zanah mutters under her breath after hearing Mnementh's comment as she also claps politely.   
digiman619
Naomi also gave a polite clap, though she seemed genuinely happy for the other entertainers. It was just a cover for her, but the legitimate actors seemed happy, so she figured she should congratulate them if nothing else.
Diavolo
Wolf Dog looks at Krasava with an enthusiastic grin and says with delight:    "What's that?  Yer' gonna give priority ta 'whoever looks worse'?   HA ha!  Well, I'm a gonna be winning that contest every time!  With a face like this, I ALWAYS look the worse!!! HAAAR HAR HAR HA HA AHA !!!"  

As he laughs he notices Zanah again who had just a moment ago been blocking her ears.  He smiles and says   "Come'on Sweet-Heart! Go ahead and give it a try.  Jest let it all out!"   And he sends a soft, encouraging howl in her direction:    "Awwwwoooo!!!!!!  Ha ha ha ha!"

  He looks around at the others and says:     "What?  Not even a sweet, little wolf-cub howl?  Come on!  All of ye!  It be fun!  Ye can start soft like, even under yer breath if yer' shy, and as ye feel more comfortable, slowly put a little more lung into it:  Awoo........... Awooooo.........     AWWwwwooooooo...........   AAAWWWWOOOOOOOooooooo!!!!!!     Wolf Dog throws his head back and howls joyfully upward on the last and the loudest one.
silphael
Hearing Zanah's muttering, Mnementh gives her an approving nod, clearly showing they are playing a role by calling it art.
lostsole31
The last matter to cover before rehearsals can begin in earnest is the matter of payment—Robahl informs the PCs and the NPCs that all of them will be paid a percentage of the house’s take from the performance. Thus, it is in the interest of everyone involved to make the performance as great as possible, and to spend the next several days promoting the production. Until the performance is over, the exact amount of each character’s payment is unknown, but Robahl does tell each of the PCs, in private, that they’ll be paid 5% of the house’s total take after the performance, with a possible bonus (at his discretion) for jobs well done.

A brief conference among the PCs (mainly due to the knowledge of Wolf-Dog, Zanah, and Mnementh), is that this rate is relatively aggressive and respectable for such a production.

The actual amount the PCs earn from the production depends on their final popularity.
Diavolo
Wolf Dog says:    "This be too great!  I am so excited! We can spread the word around town.  EVERYONE will be wantin' to come ta THIS production!"  
Espeon55
  "Hmm, if we put my name out there my fans and my father's fans will probably show up."   Zanah states as she ponders this.   "Otherwise I could probably do a magic show to draw in a crowd and advertise that way."   
Kikimora
Krasava joins on the conversation:

   " I will use the contacts in  my family business and spread the word of the show. I am sure many people would like to attend! How long the rehearsal and practice will take us to set the date for the show?"  

Krasava turns to Naomi:

  " I may be in need of your services for more drastic alterations. I don't want people to associate this pretty face with the buffoon in the show , once we are over. Let's discuss few options and the price for this service.
Funny , After what I said to Bason , I am the one considering turning into a different gender"  

and she smirks .
Moriar
  "As my race is often overlooked  , " Bason says.  "I may be able to get areas of high ranking and low.  Typically I am good at guiding others towards a conclusion that I wish.

In this instance I shall endeavor to guide their interest towards attending our play. Perhaps some positive noble infatuation would draw others." 
silphael
"  Overlooked wouldn't be how I describe it, but I get what you mean.  "

They look at Krasava.

"  Indeed, such a talent will definitely be very invaluable. Regarding which friends to invite here, sadly I don't have a lot of those I can bring : most of those I can call friends are either far away, or far too introvert for such a public event.  "
digiman619
Naomi nodded.   "I don't exactly have a huge following here, and Kintargo is almost 600 miles that away,"   she points vaguely northwest,   "so it's a bit of a stretch to get any of them to come, but hey, I got folks interested in my talents there, I can get them to be interested here."  
lostsole31
Once the PCs are cast, Robahl doesn’t want to delay. He explains that the performance for the mayor at the Nightshade Theater is scheduled to occur in 1 week, leaving the cast only 7 days to get to know their parts. The night before the performance, the group is scheduled to do a public dress rehearsal at the Limehouse, although this dress rehearsal will exclude the actual onstage combats and trials, instead being the shorter, “false” version of the play. It’s mostly just a chance to make sure everyone knows his lines and role, and to make sure the PCs can handle performing before one of the rowdiest audiences in Westcrown. If they can pull off their roles at the Limehouse, they should have no problem with the Nightshade, Robahl explains. What he won’t reveal to anyone, though, is the exact particulars of what to expect on the final play—the nature of the combats and trials the PCs will need to endure are being kept as secret as possible to avoid spoiling the surprise, and that means only Robahl and a few “specialists” hired by the mayor himself to bring in the dangerous elements know the precise details. Robahl ensures the PCs over and over that there’s nothing they won’t be able to handle.

As the 7 days pass, the PCs are expected to be available for rehearsals, costume fittings, and the like from sunup to sundown, every day. This essentially means they’ll be spending about 12 hours a day at the Limehouse. The PCs will have a chance to roleplay and interact with the NPCs in the production as they all work towards the final production of  The Six Trials of Larazod .

This is  Day One . Like I said, Robahl doesn't wait.

The PCs get their parts, then spend much of the remainder of the day being fitted for costumes. A mix of practical makeup, complex material costumes, and magic, these costumes are quite intricate and must be customized to each PC. The times of fittings vary and will take up the remainder of the day. Robahl encourages the PCs to bring all of their favorite gear, armor, and weapons to these fittings, explaining that when the final play is performed, they’ll need all the help they can get to endure and survive the spectacle. The bulk of the costume design is handled by Millech—the characters’ costumes are all already completed, but adjustments for each PC’s size, gender preference, and gear must be made by a small army of tailors he contracts to work overnight to make the costumes fit perfectly, and all of the PCs’ gear will be incorporated tastefully and skillfully.

It is assumed that the PCs do just this (collect anything they might need, if they don't have it), and return to the Limehouse.

During this time, you may attempt to interact with ONE NPC to gain friendship during the course of the day. Several PCs attempting to gain favor from the same will be competing with fellow PCs. Note that this is an organic individual process based one whatever opportunities arise during the day, so you may NOT "strategize" as as a group (neither in nor out of character) as to whom you'll "work." Note that friendship gained by one character does NOT assume that it extends to the group ... just that character.

Whom do you each wish to befriend  if anyone  on Day One?
silphael
Mnementh Perlynn approaches Millech the Hump.
digiman619
Naomi tries to influence Visbaronetess Delour Aulamaxa.
Moriar
Bason tries to influence Calseinica Nymmis.
Kikimora
Krasava tries to influence Robahl
Espeon55
Zanah approaches Thesing.
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by silphael 
 Mnementh Perlynn approaches Millech the Hump. 
 

Which isn't hard to do, though they do have to be careful not to impact his work too much, as today he's ... humping ... to get all the costuming measurements and the like on this first day, and Mnementh's clumsiness and lack of knowledge about what is expected  completely  turns Millech off, and now he is quite unfriendly towards Mnementh.

 
 Originally Posted by digiman619 
 Naomi tries to influence Visbaronetess Delour Aulamaxa. 
 

 Naomi , do you try to sway her with a gift. If so, of what and what value?

 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
 Bason tries to influence Calseinica Nymmis. 
 

Calseinica is a welcoming soul and easy to befriend. You have gained Calseinca's friendship to the point that she gushes over little Bason as one would over a helpful urchin. In turn, Bason finds her mere presence inspiring.

 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
 Krasava tries to influence Robahl 
 

Robahl is a right bastard, and doesn't have time as he works on other things, either brushing off Krasava or yelling at her for other things, as today is a day to focus on being of service to Millech.

 
 Originally Posted by Espeon55 
 Zanah approaches Thesing. 
 

  Zanah , do you make any romantic overtures to Thesing?

Awaiting Naomi and Zanah's answers to the above.
Espeon55
Zanah flips her midnight black hair and gives a smile to Thesing.   "My, my, I must say you are probably the most handsome one in this building. And I can tell from just a glance that you are talented as well. How would you feel to have a drink with me whilst we go over our lines?"   She bats her beautiful cerulean blue eyes at him.
digiman619
Naomi went to the merchants to buy a necklace as a gift for the Visbaronetess. When she meets up with her at the Limehouse, she will approach her.   "Forgive me, but I've never worked with someone so esteemed as yourself, so I don't know the proper protocol. Please, accept this token of my regard, to help ease over any mistakes I might make."   
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Spend 100 go on a necklace to butter up the Visbaronetess, use Diplo
 
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Espeon55 
 Zanah flips her midnight black hair and gives a smile to Thesing.   "My, my, I must say you are probably the most handsome one in this building. And I can tell from just a glance that you are talented as well. How would you feel to have a drink with me whilst we go over our lines?"   She bats her beautiful cerulean blue eyes at him. 
 

GAH! Once he sees you up close, you bat your cerulean blues, but he focuses on your hideous horns and he is disgusted, wanting nothing to do with you!

 
 Originally Posted by digiman619 
 Naomi went to the merchants to buy a necklace as a gift for the Visbaronetess. When she meets up with her at the Limehouse, she will approach her.   "Forgive me, but I've never worked with someone so esteemed as yourself, so I don't know the proper protocol. Please, accept this token of my regard, to help ease over any mistakes I might make."    
 

She is gracious while being dismissive, thanking the young actress for the gift and making Naomi feel better while not giving any assurances of friendship.

Everyone goes home tired, too tired to do much else other than glaze around listlessly before getting to bed early .... to wake up early for the next day. Tomorrow scripts are scheduled to be handed out and to begin blocking (which will be explained for the non-actors.

 
   
 Starday, 9 Lamashan 4707 AR (Waning Crescent) 
65/ 45 F. Moderate rain (3/4"). Winds WNW SW 10 mph. Medium humidity.   

Day Two .... you had to go to bed a lot earlier so that when you wake up earlier and everyone does their morning routine, you still make it to the theater on time.

NOTE: You do not have time to do anything that isn't intrinsically part of your daily 30 min/ class preparations for yourself. No mutagens, no fleshcrafting maintenance, no medium seances. Etc. You also will not have time to do those things during today.

Does anyone intend to change their daily lineup today?
Moriar
Bason makes one minor adjustment in his daily prayers.  Then prepares for another grueling day.


 
 Spoiler: prayers 



Replace silence with lesser restoration in 2nd level slot
 
Diavolo
Reverand Wolf Dog's morning routine remains unchanged:

Bardic 30 min:
He pulls the blanket over his eyes, complaining about it being too bright. He then lays around under his blanket, tossing and turning and complaining about everybody bustling about and making so much noise.  He makes up dirty limericks about his team-mates and some of the other cast members. He sings little songs to himself, of which only a few words are audible to those around.  Every once in a while he laughs to himself as a particularly funny joke occurs to him, and he files it away in his mind for possible future use.

Fighter 30 min:
Eventually he pushes himself into a sitting position and takes his whet-stone out of his back-pack and pulls his Great Axe, 'Big Bertha' over to him and starts sharpening her, all the while talking to her about all sorts of nonsense.  He will chide her for for having gained weight recently, and that's no good because he's the one stuck carrying her around all day.  He'll then talk about a new dance routine he came up with for them, that starts with a side swing to distract the opponents, then finishes with a surprisingly powerful overhead chop, etc.  He'll then sharpen the little hand-axes, warning them that they had better not be naughty today like they were yesterday.  He will then fuss with his armour, cleaning the links and oiling the straps and apologizing if 'he' feels under-appreciated because the axes get all the attention.

Eventually he notices that everyone else is almost ready, so he jumps up, splashes some water in his face, swirls some in his mouth and swallows, puts on his boots and equipment, checks that everything is in place in his backpack and pouches and spell pouch, and then invariably looks at everyone who is standing there ready and looking at him and says:    "What?  Let's get going!  I can't be waitin' around for you lot all day!"  
silphael
While memorizing their spells, Mnementh prepares Liberating Command instead of their former Urban Grace.
Espeon55
Zanah reads her Puppetmaster Spellbook for an hour to memorize her spells.

 
 Spoiler: Spells prepared  
Spells Prepared:
0-Level
- Ray of Frost
- Read Magic
- Prestidigitation
- Ghost Sounds

1st Level Spells
- Charm Person
- Shield
- Darting Duplicate
- Vanish

2nd level
- Greater Detect Magic
- Allegro
 
Kikimora
Krasava spends her mornings preparing her spells, consulting her books and sending messages to the different Nighthavens to spread the word about the play.
Every day Krasava makes sure to say to Naomi:
  " T     hank you for your skillful mastery! I much appreciate your work. Saving this face,"   and she points to her face,   "is rather important for me!"  
lostsole31
 Day Two 

Most of this day consists of the PCs learning their lines and the blocking of motions and actions during the play. Robahl spends most of his time working with Millech to get all of the lighting and effects under control, giving the PCs a chance to practice their lines and spend time with Calseinica, Delour, and Thesing if they wish.

 Everyone , those three are the only three that you can spend time with.  Unlike yesterday, each of the three NPCs can have up to two "suitors" as it takes about 4 hours of interface. Who do you each seek to spend time with (on a FCFS basis)?
Kikimora
Krasava would like to spend time with Delour.
Espeon55
Zanah will spend some time with Calseinica.
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
 Krasava would like to spend time with Delour. 
 

Do you try to win her over with any gifts? If yes, how much would you spend?
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog tries to get to know Calseinica.
silphael
Mnementh tries to get closer to Delour.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
No specific gift planned "You are one of the stars of this city, an hastily bought, if expensive, gift, would just be a tarnish".
 
Kikimora
 
 Originally Posted by lostsole31 
 Do you try to win her over with any gifts? If yes, how much would you spend? 
 

Yes, I would offer her a small token of my appreciation for her talent in the form of a broach or hand made jewelry . I would spend 1 GP
Moriar
Bason will try to get to know Delour
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
 Krasava would like to spend time with Delour. ... es, I would offer her a small token of my appreciation for her talent in  the form of a broach or hand made jewelry. I would spend 1 GP 
 

Visbaronetess Delour graciously accepts the (very cheap) bauble, but it seems that she generally friendly towards Krasava.

 
 Originally Posted by silphael 
 Mnementh tries to get closer to Delour. No specific gift planned:   "You are one of the stars of this  city, and a hastily bought - if expensive - gift, would just be a  tarnish".   
 

That doesn't go over well with Delour, and treats Mnementh as a pariah.

 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
 Bason will try to get to know Delour 
 

Unfortunately, for better or worse, Krasava and Mnementh take up too much of Visbaronetess' time. She is a popular on today, but her attentions are usually sought out.


 

 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Reverend Wolf Dog tries to get to know Calseinica. 
 

Reverend Wolf-Dog's infectious enthusiasm is enough to make friends with his co-lead, and she rather swoons over the unconventional man.

 
 Originally Posted by Espeon55 
 Zanah will spend some time with Calseinica. 
 

Zanah makes no headway, as Calseinica's attentions seem focused on "her" Larazod.


 
As a member of the production crew, Quinn has plenty of time to study and work with Robahl and Millech, though for today - with all of the more technical things - Quinn tries to make himself invaluable to Millech the Hump, succeeding.
 

Naomi spends a fair amount of her backstage time trying to get to know Thesing, and she plays at flirting back with him, and making friends with him!

 

It is a tiring day, with no more room for anything else.

 

    Sunday, 10 Lamashan 4707 AR (Waning Crescent) 
50/ 30 F. Heavy rain (1-1/2"). Winds N SW 20 mph. Saturated humidity. Wind Chill: 25/ 5 F.   

Sunday means nothing to the theater ... day of work as always.

Today is scheduled to be dry runs for the play.

Does anyone change any part of their setup?
Moriar
Bason will prepare for the day as normal with no changes.
lostsole31
 Day 3 ... 

Robahl starts doing full dry runs of the entire play during the day. Robahl spends much of his time with Calseinica and Reverend Wolf-Dog (Larazod), but the other NPCs should be available for other PCs to interact with.

Everyone, please do the following:
 
 Roll a Perform (act) check, or a CHA check if you are untrained. 
 If you want to interact with anyone, tell me which NPC you wish to interact with. Only Reverend Wolf-Dog may choose Caleinica or Robahl, and all other PCs must choose another NPC. (Please see the treasure channel for current "standings.")  You are not required to make any interaction checks if you think you are a liability, because you can see how attitudes have gone from neutral to negative for some. 
 
Espeon55
Zanah rehearses for her role before chatting with Millech.

 
 Spoiler: rehearsal 
Preform Act:  (1d20+10)[ 15 ] 
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog listens attentively to instructions and works hard to live up to Robahl's expectations.

 
 Spoiler: Ability check 
Perform - Act  (d20+10)[ 22 ] 
 
Moriar
Bason will try to help or at least get to know Millech.


 
 Spoiler: ability check 


Charisma check:  (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava spends the day rehearsing and would like to get to know  Thesing
 
 Spoiler: Ability check 

Charisma check:
 (1d20+1)[ 16 ] 
 
 
silphael
Mnementh focuses on rehearsing, having been kind of a liability so far.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Cha roll it is then.

 (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
 
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Espeon55 
 Zanah rehearses for her role before chatting with Millech. 
 

 Zanah works really hard, and is just barely competent enough to not get lambasted by Robhahl for the mistakes she makes. She annoys Millech while he is busy, pestering him until he says something unkind, showing that he is now unfriendly towards her.

 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Reverend Wolf Dog listens attentively to instructions and works hard to live up to Robahl's expectations. 
 

He does a great job, and while Robahl can be a taskmaster, RWD is still impressive. Unfortunately, RWD's acting skills and friendship making skills are not the same. He starts out great as an actor, but his constant scheming to make Robahl more friendly rather than professional backfires (unfriendly).

 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
 Bason will try to help or at least get to know Millech. 
 

Bason does a terrible job at acting, and doesn't even really get to interact with Millech because Zanah is there annoying the stage hand constantly.

 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
 Krasava spends the day rehearsing and would like to get to know  Thesing.  
 

Krasava does only a fair hair better than Zanah. Since she doesn't make any specific attempt to flirt with him offends him, and he is now hostile towards her.

 
 Originally Posted by silphael 
 Mnementh focuses on rehearsing, having been kind of a liability so far. 
 

Mnementh is standoffish, and in trying to be "tactically aloof" it hurts his acting as well, and he gets lambasted many times by Robahl.

Naomi doesn't do that well, either, and just keeps her head down to focus on her job rather than annoying someone. Quinn doesn't have the pressures of performance and tries to ingratiate himself to the Visbaronetess, making no headway.

Folks go home tired, moving with the borrowed staff-torches and as a group to ward away any attacks from shadow beasts.


 

    Moonday, 11 Lamashan 4707 AR (New Moon) - HARVEST FEAST! 
35/ 15 F. Heavy snow (4"). Winds N 20 mph. Saturated humidity. Wind Chill: 10 / -10 F.   

Temperatures drop precipitously, promising a lousy  Harvest Feat  (link) for the rest of the city ... a festival you won't get to enjoy as the Machine of Theater stops for no holiday.

Because it is so bitterly cold, do any of you do anything differently for morning setup? Remember that you leave before first light (again, carrying borrowed torches on poles to ward away shadow beasts), so you don't have time to go shopping. That said, if you do anything different for morning setup, or have different clothes, let me know.
Moriar
Bason alters prayers for the morning.

After casting an spell upon Lilith, he grabs a spare blanket to help get him and Lilith to the theater.



 
 Spoiler: swap 



Swap out cause fear for Endure Elements.

Then cast it on Lilith and she goes with him to theater
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog goes through his usual morning routine, but focuses his first 30 minute on complaints and limericks to come up with a very nice, complementary poem about the Visbaronetess Delour Aulamaxa.  Once up and on his feet, he maintains prestidigitation on a constant basis, renewing it hourly and practicing at using it to enhance various keynote moments throughout the day.

He brings his bedroll to work, wearing it doubled-up over his shoulders as an extra thick cloak during their walk through the crisp morning air. If anybody else looks to be shivering, he'll unfold it further and cheerfully invite them to come under and share.
lostsole31
The first 10 minutes of walking, Mnementh suffers from the cold, as does RWD despite the bedroll.

It is a bit longer to get to the Limehouse due to the heavy snowfall. Mnementh still suffers from the cold the last bit, even being under the bedroll with RWD. Naomi feels the bite the last few blocks, but had the forethought to leave Boots at home in a little (warm) wet play area with turtle kibble.

 Day 4 Begins ... 

This day goes much like Day Three, but by this point, the PCs should start to notice anticipation building in the city.

Does anyone go out for lunch in the crazy, freezing cold? or stay indoors? (I'll ask for interactions later, not now.) By the time lunch rolls around, everyone has recovered from whatever bit they suffered in the morning walk.

Naomi and Quinn have no intention of going out into the freeze.
silphael
Mnementh stays inside.
Moriar
Bason stays inside.
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog stays indoors as much as possible, and uses Prestidigitation to dry out his boots more quickly.
Kikimora
Kasha stays indoors
lostsole31
The rest of Day Four's work continues. Robahl continues doing full dry runs of the entire play during the afternoon. As before, Robahl spends much of his time with Calseinica and Reverend Wolf-Dog  (Larazod), but the other NPCs should be available for other PCs to  interact with.

Everyone, please do the following:

 
 Roll a Perform (act) check, or a CHA check if you are untrained. 
 If  you want to interact with anyone, tell me which NPC you wish to  interact with. Only Reverend Wolf-Dog may choose Caleinica or Robahl,  and all other PCs must choose NPCs other than those two. (Please see the treasure  channel for current "standings.")  You are not required to make any  interaction checks if you think you are a liability, because you can see  how attitudes have gone from neutral to negative for some. 
 
Espeon55
Zanah will focus on performing and rehearsing her part for today.

 
 Spoiler: Performance  
Perform Act:  (1d20+10)[ 19 ] 
 
Diavolo
Wolf Dog works hard at mastering his lines and stops trying to win over Robhal.
He does, however, approach Visbaronetess Delour Aulamaxa.

 
 Spoiler: Perform check 
Perform Act:   (d20+10)[ 20 ] 
 
silphael
Mnementh attempts to memorize their lines, but also approaches Thesing.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Let's roll cha then !

  Cha  - (1d20+2)[ 4 ] 
 
Moriar
Bason will work hard st his lines, with Lilith occasionally whispering what his lines are.

Then will always get to know Millech


 
 Spoiler: It's Acting! 



Cha roll:  (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava is trying to perform well her part


 
 Spoiler: Perform check 
Charisma check  (1d20+1)[ 19 ] 
 


if Millech is available she would like to interact with him.
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Wolf Dog works hard at mastering his lines and stops trying to win over Robhal. He does, however, approach Visbaronetess Delour Aulamaxa. 
 

He doesn't spend enough time with her today, though ... with being with Robahl and Calseinica ... to make any headway.

 
 Originally Posted by silphael 
 Mnementh attempts to memorize their lines, but also approaches Thesing. 
 

Thesing shows his open disdain for the elf.

 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
 Bason ... get to know Millech. 
 

Millech ... oft-looked down for his hump ... makes a solid friend in Bason!

 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
 Krasava would like to interact with him. [Millech] 
 

Unfortunately for Krasava, that damned Asmodean slip lawyer is taking up Millech's time!

Meanwhile, Quinn becomes indispensable to Calseinica. Naomi continues to flatter the visbaronetess and gains a solid friend there with her!

It's another bitter cold trek back to the safe house, though it isn't worth tracking if anyone failed their save or not.


 

    Toilday, 12 Lamashan 4707 AR (New Moon)  
40/ 20 F. Light snow (1"). Snow Cover (1"). Winds WNW 10 mph. High humidity. Wind Chill:  25 / 5 F.   

Still freezing cold in the morning, but lesser wind and not as bad with the snow not dropping not quite as badly.

The assumption is there will be no change to daily setups and the group makes it to the Limehouse.

Today is Day Five. As said, the play is running pretty smoothly.

ALCON, please make your normal Perform (act) checks as Perform (Act) Check #1.

Then, Robahl isolates a particular problem with each of you. So, you will need to make a Perform (Act) Check #2 for that private session with Robahl.

Because Robahl is working so many isolated segments so often, nobody has time to try to butter him up (so nobody may choose Robahl). However, there is plenty of dead time for others. So today, a single NPC may be chosen up to 2x (singularly for any given PC, but may be chosen by two different PCs). If you don't want to interact, that is fine. That said, please take careful note of how NPCs have reacted previously (not just result, but the RP).

Side note: If you want to interact with Thesing, let me know if you want to laugh or make fun of any other NPC (not PC) with such interaction.
Espeon55
Zanah will do her best with rehearsal today and her private session with Robahl before seeking to converse with Calseinica.


 
 Spoiler: Spotlight! 
Perform Act 1:  (1d20+10)[ 23 ] 
Perform Act 2:  (1d20+10)[ 25 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava continues with rehearsing her lines

 
 Spoiler: Perform (Act) Checks 

 Perform (Act) Check #1  (1d20+1)[ 19 ] 
  Perform (Act) Check #2  (1d20+1)[ 2 ] 
 
 

 Krasava tries to spend time with Millech and express her gratitude for his work.

 
digiman619
 
 Spoiler: Acting checks 
 (1d20+3)[ 7 ]  (1d20+3)[ 23 ] 
 


Naomi then seeks out Thesig, noting how hard Millech is on the eyes, unlike him.
Moriar
 
 Spoiler: Acting checks 


Acting #1:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 

Acting #2:  (1d20+2)[ 22 ] 
 



Then Bason seeks out Visabaronetess

 
 Spoiler: present 


Bason will elegantly prepare and notarize the following in the form of a gift for the actress.


"Whereas Visabaronetess Delour Aulumaxa, through her unwavering dedication and exceptional talent, has significantly contributed to the arts and entertainment industry over the course of her distinguished career; and whereas her performances have not only captivated audiences but also inspired countless individuals in the field, we hereby recognize and commend her invaluable contributions. Her enduring legacy, marked by professionalism and artistic excellence, continues to set a standard of achievement for future generations. This acknowledgment reflects the profound respect and high regard in which she is held by peers and audiences alike."
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog does his best at acting.

He tries to approach the Visbaronnettess Delour Aulamaxa, being very sincerely friendly and courteous.

He tries to approach Millech, as a kindred soul who has nothing handed to him based on his good looks, but rather has to earn everyone's esteem.


 
 Spoiler: Acting Checks 
First Roll:  Performance Act -  (d20+10)[ 22 ] 

Second Roll:  Performance Act -  (d20+10)[ 30 ] 
 
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Espeon55 
 Zanah will do her best with rehearsal today and her private session with Robahl before seeking to converse with Calseinica. 
 

Zanah has a great day, proving that there are no small roles, and Robahl works with her but only briefly and still doing well. This conversation parleys well as she makes quite a friend in Calseinica.

 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
  Krasava tries to spend time with Millech and express her gratitude for his work.  
 

Krasava does well in the run-through, but falls apart when it comes to working with Robahl, who lays into her with a wave of insults. She is consoled by Millech, who takes pity on her, and seeks to help her.

 
 Originally Posted by digiman619 
 Naomi then seeks out Thesing, noting how hard Millech is on the eyes, unlike him. 
 

Naomi fumbles about in the run-through, but after working with Robahl, he does a great job of helping her understand her character better.

Naomi and Thesing mock and torment Millech, and that makes Thesing much more friendly to her.

 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
 ...Bason seeks out Visbaronetess. 
 

Like Naomi, Bason does poorly in the run-through, but Robahl's expert direction helps him understand the nature of his comic role in relation to the structure of the play, not just the character in it. He brilliant gains Visbaronetess Aulamaxa's ear, despite his friendship with Calseinica. This is likely because Bason surely made honest friends with the ingenue, rather than a taller humanoid fawning over the younger beauty.

 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Reverend Wolf Dog does his best at acting.

He tries to approach the Visbaronetess Delour Aulamaxa, being very sincerely friendly and courteous.

He tries to approach Millech, as a kindred soul who has nothing handed to him based on his good looks, but rather has to earn everyone's esteem. 
 

As the star of the show, Reverend Wolf-Dog does a great job all day. He approaches the visbaronetess towards the afternoon, after Bason's time. Despite his courtesy, she claims to see through Reverend Wolf-Dog's charms for his wooing the ingenue, and she snaps at him, not giving him the time of day! He doesn't have time to ply Millech.

Overall, Robahl praises everyone, but to Krasava he brings a wave of insults, eventually accepting her performance, muttering how it is a waste of time to expect anything but mediocrity from mediocrity.

More of the same expected tomorrow. and the party returns to the safe house.
lostsole31
    Wealday, 13 Lamashan 4707 AR (Waxing Crescent)  
60/ 40 F. Medium humidity.    

Much warmer today, and again the assumption is there will be no change to daily setups and the group makes it to the Limehouse.

Today is Day Six. As said, the play is running pretty smoothly.

ALCON, please make your normal Perform (act) checks ... but only one as before this time.

You will be able to interact (once) with any of the NPCs, with the normal rule of FCFS, and that no NPC can have more than two PCs trying to persuade them that day. Also, as yesterday, let me know if you try to interact with Thesing by trying to make fun of another NPC.
Moriar
Bason will try to get on the good side of Robahl


 
 Spoiler: acting? 

 (1d20+2)[ 17 ] 
 
silphael
 
 Spoiler: Yesterday 
Mnementh tries to approach Calseinica during their offtime.

  Acting  - (1d20+2)[ 3 ] 
  Acting  - (1d20+2)[ 16 ] 
 


On Wealday, Mnementh also tries to get on Calseinica's good side.

 
 Spoiler: Wealday 
  Acting  - (1d20+2)[ 18 ] 
 
Espeon55
After Zanah is done rehearsing her role she will approach Millech to apologize for annoying him before and see if he wants her help for getting even with Thesing. She still has a grudge against him and hopes to find friend by having a common enemy persay.

 
 Spoiler: Acting 
Perform Act:  (1d20+10)[ 19 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava tries today to be very diligent with her lines

 
 Spoiler: Perform check 
Perform (Act) check  (1d20+1)[ 7 ] 
 


If the time and circumstances permit she will spend some time with Calseinica.
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog gives up on the Visbaronetess.
 He tries to approach Millech, as a kindred soul who has nothing handed to him based on his good looks, but rather has to earn everyone's esteem.

And he continues to put his full effort into his acting.

 
 Spoiler: Perform check 
Perform Acting  (d20+10)[ 16 ] 
 
 
digiman619
Naomi keeps working on her acting, but afterwards tries to talk to Robahl, as she hadn't really had the chance yet.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
I keep forgetting, but I am hereby announcing that starting tomorrow, she will add the +1 to CHA checks fleshsculpting to herself.
 (1d20+3)[ 20 ] 
 
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
 Bason will try to get on the good side of Robahl. 
 

Bason does a phenomenal job with Robahl.

 
 Originally Posted by silphael 
 On Wealday, Mnementh also tries to get on Calseinica's good side. 
 

Mnementh did so well previously, he can't make Calseinica any more of a friend.

 
 Originally Posted by Espeon55 
 After Zanah is done rehearsing her role she will approach Millech to apologize for annoying him before and see if he wants her help for getting even with Thesing. She still has a grudge against him and hopes to find friend by having a common enemy persay. 
 

Millech doesn't want anything to do with Zanah.

 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
 If the time and circumstances permit she will spend some time with Calseinica. 
 

Krasava makes a friend of Calseinica, though has to work hard to do so, but doing so means the Visbaronetess is instantly unfriendly towards Krasava.

 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
  He [Reverend Wolf-Dog] tries to approach Millech, as a kindred soul who has nothing handed to him based on his good looks, but rather has to earn everyone's esteem.  
 

Millech is indifferent to Reverend Wolf-Dog.

 
 Originally Posted by digiman619 
 Naomi keeps working on her acting, but afterwards tries to talk to Robahl, as she hadn't really had the chance yet. 
 

Robahl is indifferent to Naomi personally.

 

Robahl is frustrated and angry. As rehearsal ends in the evening, he approaches Krasava and says,   “It’s unfortunately too late to fire you and find a better actor, or to hire a second illusionist to replace you with an effect. We’re all stuck with you, is what I’m saying, so to soften the blow of your dulcet tones, I think you should wear this during the play.”   At this point, he hands her a slim, attractive headband to wear.   "This is a loan for tomorrow's rehearsal, dress rehearsal, and the show. Immediately following the show, this is to be returned to me."  

Tomorrow is Day Seven ... the last day of rehearsal. It is to begin with tightening up any last minute issues with scenes and logistics, and the public dress rehearsal is to begin at 1600 in the afternoon.

Home to bed!


 

    Oathday, 14 Lamashan 4707 AR (Waxing Crescent)  
50/ 30 F. Light rain (1/2"). Winds WNW 10 mph. Medium humidity. Wind Chill: 35/ 15 F.   

Day of Final Work &amp; Dress Rehearsal!

 ALCON , do you make any changes to your dailies?

 Krasava , do you wear the headband Robahl lent to you?
Moriar
Bason will prepare everything the same and keep Lilith comfortable with the Endure spell.
digiman619
Naomi offers her services to the party (free of charge) to help them be more charismatic.
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Use my fleshscultping ability to give a bonus to CHA based checks for myself and any party member who takes her up on the offer
 
Espeon55
Zanah will read her spellbook and change her spells for the day before they head out and before they start the dress-rehearsal she will take out her  Wand of Mage Armour , and use it upon herself before asking if any of the others would like Mage Armour as well just in case.

 
 Spoiler: Spells Prepared  
Puppet Master Spells Prepared
0-Level
- Acid Splash
- Detect Fiendish Presence
- Flare
- Ray of Frost

1st Level
- Darting Duplicate
- Dazzling Blade
- Lucky Number
- Magic Missile

2nd Level spells stay the same
 
Kikimora
Krasava comes home visibly defeated and sad. Holding the headband given to her by Robahl.
She asks her party members:
  " My fellow co-actors, could you please help me figure out what this headband does and how it will impact  my performing abilities?"  
 and she will try to approach Naomi to ask her about the flesh-sculpting feature.
  "Naomi, Do you know if it will interfere with your flesh-sculpting ? Will it stack with what the headband offers?"  
Diavolo
Wolf Dog says:    "I think it'll  look good on ye!  Juss give'er a try!"  
Moriar
Assuming he is able to hold the headband, Bason will cast a spell and see what he can figure out about it.

Afterwards will say to Naomi,   "This sculpting sounds intriguing.  I would like to take advantage of this free trial that you offered. Thank you."  
 
 Spoiler: headband 


Casts detect magic and then use his skills to try and figure out the headband properties assuming it is magical.  Then will voice whatever he figure out.
 
Kikimora
Krasava puts on the headband and says

  "I am going to put that thing on and try to recite few lines, lets see if you can figure out what it does"  

Krasava collaborates with Bason to help him determine what the headband does.
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog says in an obviously overdone tone:   "Oooohhhh!  That headband really brings out the natural shade of her eyes!  Definitely a good choice fer tha play!"  
lostsole31
Bason notes a faint aura of magic, but doesn't know the school of magic. And that is where that identification ends.
Espeon55
  "Allow me to try, Magic is my specialty after all."   Zanah states as she casts  Greater Detect Magic on the headband.   "And I am still curious about if anyone would like some mage armour."   
 
 Spoiler: Spell casting  
STA: casting  Greater Detect Magic  

using her expertise in the Arcane to figure out what the Headband can do before telling the group.
 
Moriar
Bason assists as best he can with the headband and during which speaks to Zanah:    "If you discern that I might be without my armor then perhaps that spell of your would be helpful indeed."  
silphael
Sticking to their usual spells, Mnementh joins the analytic party, granting their help to analyse the headband.
lostsole31
The party fails to identify the headband's magic aura or properties.
Kikimora
Krasava looks as Bason and says:

  "Thank you for trying Bason- I much appreciate it. While acting is not really my thing, I will use the headband as instructed. Afterall, I think Robahl is interested in the success of the play as well. I do however would like to discuss with you a possible arrangement for the play: There is a spell I know "Shield Other", surely Asmodeus offers you same power. What do you think about both of us taking it , so that we can help out our comrades. I suspect I will need such help while they are pelting rocks at me."  
She then looks at Zanah

  "Zanah, Thank you for trying to assist! I am a bit nervous of what this headband may do, but lets hope that I have an opportunity to dramatically take it off , if I find it is not serving me. Thank you , dear!  

 Krasava then winks at RWD

  "Color of my eyes, you say?! Thank you darling!"  
Moriar
Bason looks at Krasava and says, "  That is an interesting proposition and could help us a cast survive this play.  My question is about the components required to activate the connection of beings.  Do you have access to these platinum rings?"  
Kikimora
Krasava looks ashamed to the side

  "Oops,  Forgot about the rings... Anyone has 2 spare 50gp platinum rings to spare?
Well, It was a good idea, but I missed a few details. Is it too late to go shopping?"  
digiman619
Naomi frowned at their collective inability to identify the headband.   "Well, we only detected a faint aura, right? So whatever it is, it can't be too powerful. I don't  think  it'll be dangerous. And I'm almost certain that it won't interfere with my sculpting techniques."   She looked up at the sun through the tiny gaps in her finger in order to intuit the time.   "Ehh, I don't think we have enough time to do it before rehearsal, but meet with me after we're done, I can make us all a skotch more charismatic for 24 hours."  
lostsole31
 Day 7 (Morning) ... 

The first part of this day is spent tightening up any last minute issues with scenes or other logistics.

There are no rolls for the morning's work.

Meanwhile, does anyone continue to attempt any interactions?
Moriar
While working on his lines, Bason will attempt to improve relations with Thesing.
Espeon55
Zanah will focus on her role and lines.
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog tries again to approach Millech the Hump.

He also says to Krasava   "Well, if it only radiates mild magic, that headband probably won't be powerful enough ta turn ye into a swan or somethin'.  An' if that most it can do is ta somehow dull yer wit so that after tha play is done Robhal can try ta sell you in some Katapeshi flesh-market, I'm sure the rest of us can all chip in an' buy ya back!  HAR HAR HAR har har ha ha ha ha!!!!"  
silphael
Mnementh already has enough enemies, and sticks to last minute touches.
Kikimora
Krasava will try and approach Robahl and interact with him .
  " Thank you for giving me an opportunity to participate in your great production. I have taken your advise in consideration and I practiced yesterday with the headband on. I also took few pointers from the team and I am ready to make your work shine and let it be recognized for the true art piece that it is!"
 
  
 Spoiler: Cha based skill checks bonus 
+Charisma based skills are affected by flesh sculpting.
 
digiman619
Naomi focused on her lines rather than socializing
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
 While working on his lines, Bason will attempt to improve relations with Thesing. 
 

Bason does an INCREDIBLE job with Thesing. Since Bason isn't a threat to him in anyway ... not with women and not as an actor.

 
 Originally Posted by Diavolo 
 Reverend Wolf Dog tries again to approach Millech the Hump. 
 

Reverend Wolf-Dog still makes no headway with Millech, but he is so busy right now.

 
 Originally Posted by Kikimora 
 Krasava will try and approach Robahl and interact with him... 
 

Krasava times it badly, and Robahl gives her a major, public chewing out!


 

 THE DRESS REHEARSAL 

The Limehouse fills quickly as the time for the dress rehearsal draws near—by 4:00, the theater is packed with nearly a hundred excited, noisy theater patrons eager to see flubbed lines, missed cues, and not-quite-special effects. The din of the crowd should be intimidating—this is not an audience interested in remaining quiet and respectful during a performance. Just before the dress rehearsal begins, Robahl offers some last advice:   “Do your job. Ignore the rabble. If they throw something, take it and move on. Anything less than them actually starting a fire is not cause to stop the performance.”  

ALCON, so the way this is going to happen is a succession of Perform (act) checks over the course of seven acts.

Larazod (Reverend Wolf-Dog) is going to take the lead, aided by Dentris (Mnementh), Tybain (Krasava), and Drovalid (Bason) at various times. Farus the Traveled (Zanah) and Monris Blaksward (Naomi) are more "set dressing" than proper characters and will not be aiding the principals.

 Act 1: Condemnation 

Larazod, Dentris, and Tybain (not Drovalid) ... please roll Perform (act) checks. The first is the main, and as with all other acts, everyone else is to aid.
silphael
Dentris tries their best.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Let's roll then !

  Perform  - (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog tried to encourage everyone individually, and then as they are about begin says, to himself and to the group:   "All right, here goes....."  
 
 Spoiler: Perform Act 
Perform Act  (d20+10)[ 13 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava is focused on nailing her lines, while stuff is flying left , right and center

 
 Spoiler: Perform Act check 
Perform (Act) roll
 (1d20+1)[ 17 ] 

Additional possible effects:
Headband from Robahl
Flesh-sculpting from Naomi
 
lostsole31
Act One was rough, and the merciless Limehouse patrons unleash a round of heckling and abuse. It gets to be so bad that a pair of terrified sheep are led up on stage and suggested as replacements for the actors—the sheep run amok and foul the stage in their panic and continue to be distracting for the duration.

 Act Two: Trial by Torture ... 

As before, Larazod needs to roll a Perform (act) check, aided by Drovalid (Bason), Dentris (Mnementh), &amp; Tybain (Krasava).
silphael
After the calamitous first act, Dentris/Mnementh tries to do better.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Aid another then !

  Perform  - (1d20+2)[ 12 ] 
 
Moriar
Bason does his best to motivate his fellow acting clients.

 
 Spoiler: helping? 



Perform acting:  (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava adjusts her headband from falling and recites her lines to help Larazod/RWD

 
 Spoiler: Perform (Act) check 
 (1d20+1)[ 8 ] 

Potential impact to the roll:
 
 Headband 
 Flesh sculpting 
 
 
Diavolo
Undeterred, and himself mildly entertained by the sheep, Wolf Dog forges on with his lines....

 
 Spoiler: Perform check 
Perform Acting  (d20+10)[ 30 ] 
 
lostsole31
Reverend Wolf-Dog does a great job turning it around in Act 2!

 Act 3: Trial by Pleasure 

All four of the principals need to roll again as before!
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog tries to pet the sheep whenever he has a chance. Before going back on stage for Act III, he says encouragingly to the team "  Ye hear them a' clamourin' out there? They LOVE us!  They can't get enough of us! Let's give 'em a show they will never forget!"
  
 
 Spoiler: Skill Check 
Perform Act  (d20+10)[ 28 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava looks at RWD with disbelief, as she is passing the sheep and tries not to step in their little "surprises" left on the floor:

"  You are one cheerful fella', Onwards with the third Act, it is...   "

 
 Spoiler: Perform check (Act) 
Perform check
 (1d20+1)[ 11 ] 

Additional things that may impact the final roll count:
- Headband
- Naomi flesh0sculting
 
silphael
Mnementh hopes to keep helping with their meager skills.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Perform check !
  Perform  - (1d20+2)[ 9 ] 
 
Moriar
Bason does what he can to help and also backstage if able.


 
 Spoiler: assistance  


Perform act:  (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 
 
lostsole31
Stunning success again!

 Act 4: Trial in the Belly of the Beast 

As before, Perform (act) checks from Larazod, Dentris, Drovalid, &amp; Tybain, please.
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog says:    "We've got this, we've got this , we've got this..."   And he tries to pet one of the sheep one more time for good luck before going on stage for Act IV.


 
 Spoiler: Skill check 
Perform Act  (d20+10)[ 24 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava says to RWD
  "You really rocked it out there ! You are on a roll!"  
 
 Spoiler: Perform (Act) check 
Perform (Act )check
 (1d20+1)[ 13 ] 
 


Additional items that may impact the final roll number:
- Headband
- Naomi's flesh sculpting
Moriar
Bason  continues to support the best he can on and off stage.


 
 Spoiler: acting! 




Perform acting:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
 
silphael
Mnementh keeps acting, hoping to be of help.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Perform check !

  Perform  - (1d20+2)[ 8 ] 
 
lostsole31
Mnementh and Bason don't do well, but don't detract, either. Tybain (Krasava) hits their stride, and Reverend Wolf Dog continues to excel enough to entrance the audience!

 Act 5: The Birthing Trial 

To the lead and three principals, more checks as before, please!
Moriar
Bason tries to add on a bit of a boost before supporting the play.


 
 Spoiler: boost? 


If possible will cast Guidance on himself and anyone else.  Will not risk interrupting the play if it's not possible.

Acting roll without guidance:  (1d20+2)[ 7 ] 
 
silphael
Mnementh pets one of the sheeps for good luck too as they pass around.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Perform !

  Perform  - (1d20+2)[ 6 ] 
 
Kikimora
Krasava looks in disbelief at RWG at how successful he is with the crowd:

  " You are something else! Such a talent!"  
 
 Spoiler: Perform Check 
Perform Check (Cha)
 (1d20+1)[ 10 ] 

Additional considerations:
-Headband
- Fleshsculpting
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog sees his fellow actors struggling and says :   "Hey, ye folks aren't just good, yer great! Yer BRILLIANT!!!  I see what ye be doin:  settin' low expectations so as ye can really !!!WOW!!! them in the final act, making all that much more of an impression! That audience will really be a talking about his play afterwards!  I am truly blessed ta be surrounded by such an amazing team!  So here goes me last effort before I throw it all in for the final act!"  
 
 Spoiler: Skill Check 
Perform Act  (d20+10)[ 30 ] 
 
lostsole31
Despite a subpar run by Mnementh and Bason practically tanking the show when he slips on sheep poo and causes at least 90 seconds of laughing distraction as he slides around and knocks scenery over, all laughing stops (except when it is desired and part of the show and beneficial to do so) when Reverend Wolf-Dog hits his mark and speaks, with the crowd cheering yet again at act's end.

 Act 6: Trial by Combat &amp; Love 

Last act! More of the same Perform (act) checks, please!
Kikimora
Krasava rolls her eyes at RWD's performance and smiles

 
 Spoiler: Perform (Act) check 
Perform check
 (1d20+1)[ 4 ] 

Additional considerations:
- headband
-flesh sculpting
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog says:    "Alright team, ye all know what ta do. This be tha final act.  So hug yer sheep and then give it all ye got!"

   
 Spoiler: Skill check 
Performance Act:  (d20+10)[ 29 ] 
 
Moriar
Bason attempts to buckle down and commit to the role.


 
 Spoiler: acting 



Perforam acting:  (1d20+2)[ 19 ] 
 
silphael
Mnementh tries their best to finish the play in an... acceptable way.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Perform !

  Perform  - (1d20+2)[ 20 ] 
 
lostsole31
Except for Krasava, who doubts herself and flubs, everyone finishes strong, and again Reverend Wolf-Dog carries the play through to a triumphant end, and a wildly cheering house that got packed over the course of the evening, and even the sheep are hopping about in excitement!

After the performance, Robahl has no words of encouragement—he merely tells the actors to go home and get some rest, for the big day is tomorrow!

The group makes their way to the safe house and flop down in exhaustion.

 
  
 
 
    Fireday, 15 Lamashan 4707 AR (Waxing Crescent) 
40/ 20 F. Light snow (1"). Wind WNW 20 mph. Medium humidity. Wind Chill: 15/ -5 F.
   
People wake up at 0600, with morning cleanliness, etc. taking to 0700. Morning routine from 0700 to 0800 for everyone (except Quinn, who always seems to take an extra half hour).

Does anyone change anything for dailies today, the day of the ACTUAL performance .... which means not only acting, but also any combat surprises?
silphael
Mnementh prepares the same spells, with one exception : Alter Self is prepared instead of Cat's Grace.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Level 2 spell prepared is Alter Self instead of Cat's Grace.
 
Kikimora
Krasava makes a couple of changes to her prepared spells.

 
 Spoiler: Changed spells prepared 


0-level :“Guidance” instead of “Detect Poison”
1-level: “Protection from evil” instead of “Magic Weapon”
2-level: “Bear’s endurance” instead of “Delay poison”, “Aide” instead of “Lesser restoration”
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog goes through his usual morning routine without any changes.
lostsole31
Call with Robahl is at noon at the Limehouse Theater. Since it is a 20-minute walk from the safe house, you want to leave no later than 1130. Morning routine ended at 0800 for all (except Quinn, who finished at 0830), though that time also includes Naomi's maintenance of Reverend Wolf-Dog and Krasava's previous surgeries by Naomi.

All of this means that you are on your own to do whatever you want from 0830 to 1130.

So, does anyone have any special way they wish to fill this time? 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Please keep all answers here in the IC, and  in  IC, i.e. "in character." Do not step outside of character to "explain that that means in game terms." Not here in spoiler; not in the OOC. Doing so is metagaming and cheating, as I have not asked for that, and if I do ... it will be via DM.
 
Kikimora
Krasava approaches Naomi and says:

  "Thank you dear, for providing me with the somewhat changed identify for this play. God is a witness Acting is not my forte. I am much better in singing... I am very grateful for your work! If it wasn't for your skills, I am not sure if I would be still in my role."  

Krasava then tries to find the time to approach RWG and at an opportune moment she says:

  " Hey there Rockstar! What is your secret? You are shinning on stage like the 1st star in the evening sky! Improvising with the sheep, flirting with the crowd. Where did you learn all these skills? I could really use some pointers from you - as I am barely making it through the acts, the boo's are getting louder every time. Any acting tips to share? "  
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog smiles and says:   "Watchya talkin' about, Krasava?  I thought ye were awesome out there! I enjoyed every minute!!! So what if ye ain't go not experience? That made it all the more interestin' fer us. Right Folks?"     He looks around to solicit agreement from the rest of the team.

Then he continues:   "And please, go easy on the compliments. Ye might make me blush. I already got this ugly green skin. If ye add a red flush to it, I might to turn a sickly shade o' dark olive brown, an' goodness knows I can't afford ta get any uglier!  HAR HAR HAR HA HA HA HA ha ha ha!"    

When done laughing and chuckling, he adds in a serious tone.   "Whatever ye do, please don't be comparing yerself ta others.  We all got our own individual strengths. I happen ta have been real lucky and got some experience with acting when I were younger.     I guess I did quite a bit. Mrs. Meredith at the  House of the Happy Halfling,  me first orphanage, tried real hard ta teach us ta talk and ta act good. So she had us stand in front o' the other kids and do readings and such. We read poetry, and short stories, and historical speeches. We even wrote and acted out our own plays. Eventually we had ta write our own material, or just stand up an' she would choose a topic an' we had ta talk about it .... ex-tem-po-ray-nee-usly. She 'ad a real challenge with me 'cause I spent so many years living alone in tha woods with me Mum and me dog Trisha an' never learnt ta talk ta act so good before comin' to that orphanage. But Mrs. Meredith, she never gave up on me, nor any of us. She were real great to us, Mrs. Meredith." 
 He then takes on a more serious tone and tries to bring the others into the discussion:   "There do be somethin' that be botherin' me, though. That Robhal and Milech, they got some surprises up their sleeves. I don't trust them none. This is supposed to be a 'murder play'.  I think they might really try ta kill us, jess fer tha crowd's entertainment. I really want us all ta survive. I think it would be good if we discussed what kind o' things we could do ta help out one another if were ever isolated up there and gettin' weaker from the abuse.  Fer example, I be really worried about when tha crowd will be throwin' vegetables and stones at ya.  I don't got much in that way o' spells that I can help ya with, but I can cure some o' the lighter wounds if ye survive, and I can shout encouragement in a real-encouragin manner that can really encourage ye ta succeed, but I can only do that for about a minute or so before I run out o' good ideas that can really be makin' a difference."
  
He looks around at whichever of the others who are paying attention and adds:    "What about ye' all?  We got a couple o' hours. Maybe we can spend a few minutes sharin' what we can do ta help one another?"  
silphael
Mnementh approaches Naomi, after leaving their adventuring gear where they are resting.

"  Is there any surgery you can practice that would make me better at acting or improve my fighting skills ?  "

As Wolf-Dog asks, Mnementh answers.

"  I am mostly an self-sufficient battle mage, if that makes sense ? If needed, I can, however, help getting one of us out of the grasps of dangerous creatures, but in general I make myself better at combat and stab my opponents with Shadowfeather. I definitely can hold my own in a fight, do not worry : my magic simply amplify my skills, for now.  "

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Gear wise, I'll leave at our resting place :
-4 torches
-all rations
-tools
-bedroll
That should be enough to keep me at light load.
 
Moriar
"I   agree with Mr. Dogs assessment of our director,"   Bason agrees.  "  Remember how they insisted on direction harm to our physical forms?  This live performance will be all the more 'real'.


Ms. Naomi, if possible it would benefit us all if you have the time to increase my acting ability through your craft."  
lostsole31
 
 Originally Posted by silphael 
 Mnementh approaches Naomi, after leaving their adventuring gear where they are resting. "  Is there any surgery you can practice that would make me better at acting or improve my fighting skills ?  " 
 


 
 Originally Posted by Moriar 
 Bason ...   Ms. Naomi, if possible it would benefit us all if you have the time to increase my acting ability through your craft."   
 

 Naomi , you have two requests for surgical expertise. Mnementh's insurance is covered. But, as a halfling in Cheliax, Bason is self-insured.
digiman619
Naomi nodded. "  I can improve your acting or your combat expertise, but not both. Just tell me which you want and I'll be able to handle the rest."  . She smiled at the party.   "Don't worry about the cost, I'll just do it."   She then waved her hand dismissively, as she was also waiving the cost.
silphael
"  I doubt acting will get us better through whatever is planned for the play, but it will at least help getting the public out of our way. Let's go for acting.  "
lostsole31
 Naomi , elective surgeries have been requested ... help to acting for Bason and Mnementh!
digiman619
Naomi nods. Turning to Mnementh, she says simply   "You're up first. I'll let you know when it's you're turn, but I need to not be interrupted."  . She then takes him to a spare room in the hideout and begins the process.

An hour later, the two return and she turns to Bason.   "Your turn, little one. I'll get you spruced up as quick as I can"  
lostsole31
The two hours worth of surgery are conducted. After that, the troupe and Quinn make their way to the Limehouse to make sure they are at call on time.

The play itself is scheduled to begin, as with the dress rehearsal, at 4:00 in the afternoon—Robahl gathers his troupe at noon and leads them on a procession from the Limehouse to the Nightshade intended to show off the actors in their full costumes as they wind their way through the streets to the west, board a large barge, sail across the river, debark on Rego Aerum, and then proceed to the imposing facade of the Nightshade itself. Once there, Robahl bundles the PCs into the theater through a side entrance, sequestering them in the green room with enough food and drink to keep them happy until the play begins.

The stage has a false floor, and various stagehands rush about moving props and preparing scenes between acts, all overseen with expert precision by Millech (and assisted by Quinn), who takes position on the wooden catwalk that runs across the back 15 feet of the stage (above the area set apart by the back curtains). These stagehands are employees of the Nightshade (and thus employees of the mayor), but are quite nervous—even terrified—at the rumors of what will be coming out on stage. The majority of the play’s deadlier aspects are wrangled by none other than  Vestus Savaska , a high-ranking member of the church of Asmodeus who, after Mayor Arvanxi made a sizable donation, agreed not only to bless the construction of the Nightshade but to also provide the deadly props and creatures needed for this evening’s performance of  The Six Trials of Larazod .

While the PCs are unlikely to meet Vestus (the cleric spends the entire play backstage in his office, sipping wine and enjoying a plate of sweets during the performance, emerging only between acts into the prop room to prepare the next act’s torments), the cleric does spend some time speaking with Robahl, informing the director of what he plans to use and working out with him how best to integrate things into the play. Intimidated by the cleric, Robahl says little during their meeting, and emerges only a few minutes before the play is set to begin, appearing before the PCs white-faced and sweating. Asked what the PCs are about to face, Robahl feigns a smile and says only,   “You’ll do fine… you’ll do fine… hit your marks and remember your lines, and you’ll do fine…”  

As 4:00 rolls around, the sound of bells in a nearby tower pealing out the hour, the growing rush and din in the auditorium calms. Robahl takes a deep breath, then steps onstage to greet the audience and give the following short speech.   “Welcome, ladies and gentlemen, to the premiere event at this wondrous new theater! Let me begin by extending my humblest thanks to the Church for providing the—how shall I say?—punch in tonight’s spectacle. And also my sincere gratitude and thanks to our illustrious and benevolent lord-mayor, Aberian Arvanxi."  

With that, Robahl bows and returns backstage. The lights go down, the seven-piece orchestra plays a short introduction, and then Visbaronetess Aulamaxa takes the stage and sings for a few minutes to introduce the play. She finishes to a round of tremendous applause, the orchestra falls silent, and with a strangely uncharacteristic whisper of encouragement from Robahl—the play begins!
lostsole31
  
 
 
   A high-backed obsidian bench stands up center. As the curtain rises, HAANDERTHAN himself perches there, an awesome figure of power looming above the shackled forms of LARAZOD, TYBAIN, and DENTRIS. The other members of the COUNCIL, including the sultry ILSANDRA, flank out stage right and left of HAANDERTHAN’S tribunal bench. The hulking bearded devil BAILIFF stands over them, spiked truncheon in his scabrous red, leather-like hands. 
  
    BAILIFF  (A walk-on played by Quinn)
       Order in the Tribunal. The Court of His Honor Paraduke Montigny Haanderthan, Black Tongue of Asmodeus, Magistrate Maleficarum, now holds session. All rise.
  
  
    HAANDERTHAN 
     Be seated, members of the Court. Today this court seeks truth, or at least shadows thereof, from one Larazod Rilsane, honored veteran of the Shadestar War, member of a once gloried house, of recent fallen in Asmodeus’ regard. The accused stands on several counts of failed conspiracy, evidenced thereof by the industrious interrogations of the court’s own Seeker, Drovalid Vorclune, administered with his usual diligence and severity. In these interviews Vorclune gathered from notable sources, only a few of whom survived their conversations with the lash, that Larazod of the Rilsane held audience with undesirables—the topic of their whispered covenant the activities of none other than myself. A most serious affair. Service to Asmodeus’ ever-darkening glory is never without risk of menace, betrayal, and threat of doom. My family and I have long suffered the bumbling attempts of assassins who would tear at our dark lord’s visage as casually as they befoul their mothers’ beds. What they lack in cunning they bolster with sheer desperation, evidenced by consorting with all manner of Aroden-suckling knaves, and aged wiz-worms who trust in mystic secrets over the Dark One’s love. You hereby stand accused, Larazod, along with your ill-seeming compatriots, of conspiracy to undertake grievous harm to the institution of this tribunal, namely myself, Paraduke Montigny Haanderthan. How answer thee these charges, Larazod of House Rilsane? Be thou maligned by a scandal-brewer’s wagging tongue, or dost thou cleave to my comings and goings as a bloat fly to a fresh cadaver? Speak! And know that lies are my closest friends. They’ll betray you before I. Speak the truth or do worse than die!

  
    DENTRIS (Mnementh) 
       Hold your tongue, boy, and we’ll escape the firebrand yet. Your father was the model of a devil’s squire. Summon his wiles now, and keep shut that Abyss you call mouth, before we all tumble down into its darkness. Had you been born deaf and dumb, this loyal servant would yet live to see another midnight.
  
  
    TYBAIN (Krasava) 
       Hurl his arrogance and accusations back at him, Larazod. He wants precious golden-yoked truth? Give him more than he can choke down. For whether revealed by the brilliance of Aroden’s eye, or the long red shadows cast by your Dark Lord’s fiery gaze, a man false at heart and shrouded in hollow faiths is nothing more than a traitor to all. Let him that judges false be judged by wraiths—smote by his own brand shall he fall.
  
  
    LARAZOD (Reverend Wolf-Dog) 
       Larazod knows no lies, great magistrate, and no slanderer’s tongue caresses my dignity. The accusations you speak are as true as Asmodeus’ sword. They cleave clean through. Let the witnesses suffer no more lash. To burn their innards with pokers and steal their eyes is simply to waste precious toil better spent in Asmodeus’ service. There is but one point misaligned in this dark constellation—I seek not your death, though the secrets you harbor in your feeble heart deserve a gruesome demise. I carry no assassin’s blade, nor breath-stealing spell to rob your mortality. To end you I need only know you, and to cast you in an honest shade. I pierce your “shadows of truth” and show you for what I know—a false knave, a demon-supping wag-tail, a balor’s bawd, a pus-leaking cataract in the eye of Asmodeus’ justice, and subject to the multi-handed ministrations of a marilith whore, dretch-loving plunderer, and traitor to our great Dark Lord. There is much commotion among the council.
  
  
    ILSANDRA 
     ( Aside ) And to think I almost spent this session in the orgy-baths of Kalrath. None of their fleshy delights could compare to the ecstasy this half-breed’s words stroke within me! See his fierce aspect burn in fury, even below the tribunal’s culling justice. But how shall Haanderthan answer?

  
    HAANDERTHAN 
     Heavy words for a forked tongue to manage, boy. You juggle them well enough, but like a poor fool, offer jest and jape. I assume this glib outrage, obviously a threadbare attempt to throw off the keening blade of justice, is backed by the testimony of a thousand law-loving fiends? Perhaps the ancient augurer at your side, ever your father’s faithful lap-lizard, probed the ancient secrets of the cosmos and uncovered my blasphemous treachery? Or have you a soul-bonded scroll of bone-white parchment upon which my scrawled hand appears next to some Abyssal conspirator? You amuse me, half-breed, and it is the only reason your sniveling soul is not yet blasted away in hellfire and borne on a river of sorrow to some ignominious corner of the Nine. Whereof comes this lunacy? What disease vexes your broken mind? From what mystery of psychosis do you draw your lies?

  
    TYBAIN 
       You mewl lies like a sullied maid on her wedding night, O Great One. Even a lord may be smote in darkness as Asmodeus sees the truth of you—a base and lowly thing, sniveling in crimson robes. These devil-bowing citizens about us are affront enough to Aroden’s divine will, but ye, whose left hand clasps devil’s claws, and right reaches out for demonic boon—oh double-dealing fiend-lover, who allies with the Abyss. Infernal oaths and Abyssal blasphemy spew in one breath from your twisting lips.
  
  
    HAANDERTHAN 
     Does your Aroden arse-kissing pall-a-dine put you up to such resounding blasphemy? Have you no tongue of your own, half-breed, to answer my charge?

  
    LARAZOD 
       Truth is spoken freely in many tongues, false magistrate, and by agents of light and dark. You know what you are.
  
  
    HAANDERTHAN 
     You persist in this foolishness? It shall go hard for you and yours. Recant and your deaths shall be swift, your souls consigned to diligent service in Hell. Refuse, and enlist in agony’s service, consign your soul to wallow in the most ignominious corner of the Nine, and take eternal suffering as your bedmate.

  
    ILSANDRA 
     ( Aside ) He’s to have a much more interesting bedmate, if I’ve anything to say. The fire that one shows at tribunal, will no doubt burn even stronger between my sheets.

  
    
     
  
    DENTRIS 
      (Aside)    That one grows hot betwixt her infernal thighs. Hope beyond hope. One voice of dissent on the council and the slenderest chance of salvation is ours to clutch. Let this waxen sliver of hope not melt until she does—let her find her tongue.  
  
    HAANDERTHAN 
     Speak, boy. Do you still baffle with false charges, or have your battered wits returned? Speak.

  
    LARAZOD 
       I recant nothing. You, accuser, so stand accused. How do you answer?  
  
    HAANDERTHAN 
     Innocent, of course. And so judgment is passed. My right as magistrate puts you to the flames on my command. My word is law.

  
    DENTRIS 
       Respectfully, my lord, when I was a barrister of the tribunal, it was common practice to ask Consular Consent in any judgement of a matter involving the Magistrate personally in the case. Has the ancient code of Asmodeus’ court, scorched on the Tablets of Law by our Great Lord’s own fiery talon, so fallen as to warrant its complete disregard in this tribunal?
  
  
    HAANDERTHAN 
     Of course, you are correct, old man. I’ve no intention of affronting our Great Lord. Council, what say ye on this matter? Do you concur with my judgment? These heinous slanders cast upon my great name warrant utter annihilation. So sayeth I, Magistrate of this Gloried Tribunal. Do you agree?

 Councillors mutter and call “Aye.” (The councillors are played by a collection of very nervous, terrified day players.) 
  
    ILSANDRA 
     Nay.

  
    HAANDERTHAN 
     My ears deceive me. Do you, august erinyes, daughter of Hell, speak against our cause?

  
    ILSANDRA 
     I speak against your judgment. Our cause is yet undetermined by my mark. According to our oldest codes, truth can be drawn from an offender, as pus from a wound. Asmodeus’ Trials show the true heart from the false. Why, simply put the half-breed to the flames. Let us try him properly in accordance with the old ways.    
  DENTRIS     
       Well done, lad. Your pretty infernal face is good for something, even if your tongue offends all who hear. We may live yet.
  
      HAANDERTHAN 
     Tut, the business of the tribunal heaps higher day by day. We’ve cases waiting in the wings by the thousands. Penitent souls singing out for justice. Shall we delay their flight to Asmodeus’ waiting embrace to engage in infantile contests? Nay, expediency is our charge when matters so lacking in evidence are brought before our bench.

       ILSANDRA 
     Come, come, sweet magistrate. The spectacle of a few trials would do my poor heart well. I wane at these tiresome sessions. Let the trials commence. ’Twould arouse me. ’Twould tickle me. ’Twould drive me to distraction.

       HAANDERTHAN 
     Trials you say? How now? If it is to be so, let us sweeten the pot. A price I would exact for trials as you insist. If this half-breed fails, not only is my name cleared of all preposterous charges, but you shall compact to me for a full moon’s service, to do my bidding and satisfy all my unwholesome needs.

       ILSANDRA 
     Let it be so agreed. I hunger so for trials, I happily wager my body to your whim. We shall see if this half-breed’s words strike true or false.

       HAANDERTHAN 
     So be it. Larazod, you stand in trial. By my discretion you shall face six of Asmodeus’ fell tests. You stand alone in the face of terrors over which no mortal has prevailed.
       TYBAIN 
       Not alone, my lord. I stand with him.
         HAANDERTHAN 
     You are under no obligation to do so, Arodenite. Back down and be discharged, to keep at your slobbering benedictions for a few more years at least.

       TYBAIN 
       I am true to Aroden, my lord, but I am also true in loyalty and kinship. This man, though half-fiend his blood may turn, is bound to me in brotherhood, as I stand bound to him. Our blades both matched the enemies of Cheliax, and what faith divides, common cause unites. You cannot sunder me from his destiny. I stand trial at his side, as is my right, if I so beclaim it. Is it not so, Dentris?

         DENTRIS 
       ’Tis true, my lord. If the half-brained, light-blinded knight wishes to perish alongside my good master, he is within his lawful right.

         HAANDERTHAN 
     Very well. Burn with him, fool. Dentris Maltrada, you are hereby discharged.

       DENTRIS 
       Nay sir, though I wish nothing more. This boy, as wayward as his fancies take him, is in my care. I never waivered from his father’s service, and I shall not turn my back on the son.

         HAANDERTHAN 
     Surely, you’ve no wish to die?

       DENTRIS 
       There are worse fates, magistrate, than even can be promised on the deepest level of your Hell. To walk alive in a world, my duty undone, my sworn oath broken, is to walk through fires more smolderous than any Asmodeus keeps below. Though he be a fool, and possessed of a diseased wit, Larazod is my master, and I shall stand by him. Do your worst, magistrate. I’ve rolled bones with demons, and gazed in dragons’ hearts. Let us have these trials and be done with my life, if the lords of darkness so command.

         HAANDERTHAN 
     Doddering old sack of bones. No demon’s dice, nor dragon’s musings await you—only torment beyond the stars’ most infinite imaginings. When you mewl out for merciful death, I shall look on in pleasure, as your soul’s wake burns from a withered old corpse. Make ready, supplicants. The trials begin anon. May Asmodeus take pity on your blighted souls.
  
    ( Exeunt. The day players, their job complete, bolt as soon as the curtain drops, not able to leave fast enough from whatever carnage is to come, but also to make it home before the shadows come. )    
 
  
  ALCON, please roll a Perform (act) check!

   Between each act is a 5-minute break for the PCs—during this time, Visbaronetess Aulamaxa is on stage performing an aria while the stagehands scramble to prepare the stage for the next act. These 5-minute breaks should give the PCs a chance to heal wounds, recover from conditions, or cast preparatory spells for the next act—as long as they’re relatively quiet about it, that is. Regular spellcasting is fine, but loud explosions or flashing lights are noticeable by the audience, and each time something like this occurs, the group's popularity might be impacted. Also, acting out of character of the core character may also lose popularity for the group .... your characters in the play are NOT the classes you actually have.  See this message for guidance . 
Kikimora
Krasava performs her lines diligently and stands tall by RWD, occasionally glancing at Ilsandra with curiosity.


 
 Spoiler: Perform (Act) 
Perform Act Check
 (1d20+2)[ 11 ] 

+ effects of the headband
 
Moriar
Bason does his best to remember his role and listens to Lillith to help do corrections.


 
 Spoiler: Acting 


Perform act:  (1d20+5)[ 24 ] 
 
silphael
Mnementh does their best to act properly, especially with those perfect lines.

 
 Spoiler: OOC 
Perform !

  Perform  - (1d20+5)[ 8 ] 
 
Espeon55
Zanah performs her role as Farus the Traveled to support the main actors.

 
 Spoiler: Performance 
Perform Act:  (1d20+10)[ 28 ] 
 
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog breathes deeply and throws himself into his role.

 
 Spoiler: Skill check 
Performance Act  (d20+10)[ 13 ] 
 
digiman619
Naomi makes sure to hit her marks as she waits for her lines.
 
 Spoiler: OOC 
 (1d20+3)[ 22 ] 
 
lostsole31
Does anyone do anything in the five-minute break before heading back on for the prison season of Act 2?
Kikimora
Krasava looks worried and is concerned about her Acting. She tries to cast Guidance discretely:

  " I hope Guidance helps me get better at this whole Acting thing"  
Espeon55
Zanah looks to Krasava and Mnemeth and sighs.   "I could do something to help you but I can only help one of you. I am able to inspire competence in your acting skills but I cannot do this for more than one person at a time."   
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog looks at Zanah and says   "Really? Only one person at at time? When I start shouting encouragement to me friends, every one o'them that as can hear me gets inspired.  Maybe yer not yellin' loud enough?

Anyway, that be O.K..  You and me can team up on this. We 'ave been rehearsing long enough. I think we pretty much know where the sticky parts are fer our friends. So how about this:  If it be just one who is gonna be doin' a solo, and the crowd is making some noise, than at the right moment, ye go ahead and shout in a few words ta help reassure that performer. And if it's several o'them perfomin' at once, then I'll do it.

The only thing is, I don't wanna do it when I me-self am on stage.  I gotta concentrate on me own marks and lines. Whadda ya think, Zanah?
  
He adds:   "I know that I been worrying about Tybain when it comes time fer that monlogue and tha crowd starts thowin' stuff at 'im. "  He looks at Karasava and says, "  Or 'her', as tha case me be.  So I definitely think one of should be shoutin' some encouragement fer Krasave then, at that time. And since she would be alone fer that part, perhaps it should be ye who do it, Zanah."  
Espeon55
Zanah looks incredulously at Wolfy and shakes her head.   "Perhaps it works differently for you but my understanding is that I can only affect one person at a time for this particular skill. But I do also have a spell known as Lucky Number I could use to help you as well if you are interested."   
Diavolo
Reverend Wolf Dog says:    "LUCKY NUMBER!?!  That sounds AWESOME!"   

He howls:    "Awwrroooooo!!!!  I would love it if you would cast such a spell on me!  I don't care what it does!   I totally trust ye to know when be tha best time ta cast it!   Awwrroooooooooooooooooo!!!!"  
Espeon55
  "For now I shall offer this spell to those who need it."   Looking to Mnemeth.   "Would you like me to cast this spell upon you to help?"   
silphael
Mnementh nods.

"  That will be welcome, indeed.  "

As the end of the pause grows near, Mnementh casts shield on themselves.