[Game Thread] Shinoa's Game (Part 1)

[Spazztick]

House Radoc: Dinner and a Request. All of the immediate family members that still resided in the house, sat at a large table in the main dining hall within House Radoc's keep. The lord of the house had not yet made his appearance, but the food and drink was already set out. Simon Brightwall, second in line to the throne, wastes no time pouring a glass of wine, while his younger brother Hal, refrains from making any move to do so. Two sisters sit at the table, Jean and Shinoa, despite being twins they hardly even looked alike. Jean far more pampered and less hardened than her more experienced sister. While one took to the blade like a natural, besting even her brothers in combat, whether they admitted it or not. The other took to the needle, becoming a master seamstress like her mother. Despite the bountiful feast in front of them, none make a move to eat, as that would be disrespectful to their father. After a few minutes of waiting in silence, the younger brother Hal speaks up, his voice a bit raspy as he does. It's apparent to all, that their trouble maker of a brother, has spent another night drinking himself into a stupor, which could explain why he hasn't touched the wine, but instead opted for water. "So... what's the dinner about anyways? I was trying to sleep." He says with a begrudging look on his face. Simon giving him a look and shaking his head, not even justifying his question with a response. Jean however, is in a far more chipper mood. "I don't know, I imagine if I did we'd all know by now... father likes to do this sometimes, I just hope it's not to announce another child." She says with a faint laugh, which even Simon can't help but chuckle at the thought. Lord Aaron had ten children, the first six were all males form one mother, while the other four was a mix of two pairs of twins from another woman. Simon and Hal's mother passed at a pivotal time in their lives, still young enough to take it hard, but old enough to understand what was going on. Their father spent a year grieving, before he ended up remarrying their head seamstress, who would first give birth to twins around their third year together. "Hah. Oh yeah. Funny, Now that'd be a treat. I'm sure your mother can spit out another child no proble..." Hal's words were cold, but they were also quickly interrupted as an empty glass pelted him upside the head. Simon glares at him, before he speaks up. "Show some respect Hal, father would have you flogged for that. Sarena is a wonderful lady, and she has made our father happy again, it's not her fault our mother passed before her time." It is obvious that the younger brother Hal, had never truly recovered from losing his mother at his age, while Simon and Albus were old enough to recover from the loss. "Whatever the reason for the meeting, father will be here soon and we shall find out then." Simon gives an apologetic look to Jean and Shinoa, though Shinoa is certain when his eyes meet hers, that he was sizing up whether or not she was going to whoop his brother later for his comment. Serena Brightwall, and her youngest twins were visiting family in the north and were not due to return for another two weeks. Hal knew not to speak up again, sitting there in silence glaring back at his brother. The family sat together, waiting, tonight without the aid of servants to pour their drinks. They waited.

 

Handle interacting with your family as you see fit, general responses and thoughts you can handle yourself, I will write up whatever the rest of your family does in response to any actions or words, if you choose to do little but sit in silence, I will write up your father's entrance and further stuff soon.

[Abyssion]

Shinoa joined her siblings at the table, sitting next to her twin sister, Jean. The two were very different in their lifestyles, but Shinoa greatly appreciated Jean's help in choosing clothes and making costumes so that she could avoid embarrassing the family reputation. In turn, she likes to stay close to Jean in case anything goes wrong, though she can be a bit overbearing, even compared to the other young men in the family who think of Jean as a precious flower. As far as she could tell, Jean didn't seem to mind, the two sisters sharing most everything with each other.

Hal was looking awful from yet another night of drinking.

"Hah. Oh yeah. Funny, Now that'd be a treat. I'm sure your mother can spit out another child no proble--"

Shinoa gave him a grave look, one of mixed pity and condemnation. Was he thinking about his mother while drinking last night? Perhaps I should invite him to the next witch hunt. Hal wasn't too confident in his abilities, but maybe Shinoa could set him up to be heroic this time. She didn't think too much of how to actually execute this plan, and moved to change the subject.

"Could be worse. Maybe he has arranged marriages to present."

Shinoa shutters as she remembers the last husband to be. A frilly, fragile lad who ran in fear when she showed him her prized long sword.

[Spazztick]

Discussion. Simon stands up from his seat, moving further down the table to grab an empty glass, before returning to fill it. He grins at Shinoa's comment, the older brother always found her presence enjoyable, being that she was not as dreary as most of the noble host. "I somehow doubt that father will ever consider another arranged marriage, well especially for you Shinoa. Less you request it of course, though... I think we all know that's not happening. Either way, you're to the only stubborn one in the family, right? At least you didn't run off to marry a commoner, like Albus did. ....and to live in the freezing north no less." He obviously missed having his brother around, the two were thick as thieves for most of their lives. Though he would never say it, Simon considered moving up to Whitewall as well, but was far to responsible to leave the city. He'd ranked himself highly as house guard, with many troops under his belt to command. "And what of your endeavors today Shinoa?" A bit more small talk goes underway, both Jean and Hal keeping their input into a minimum. Jean because she was concerned of the reason for the meeting and Hal because he did not want to incur his brother, or sisters wrath. "I think it's almost time we take a trip up to visit Albus, now that I think of it... the city has been mostly quiet and with the renovations on our new work-house, I suspect we'll have a bit of free time. Would you like to join me Shin..." His words were interrupted as cherry-wood double doors pushed open, their father walking in alone, a grim look across his face. The man was older, black hair lined with grey, clean shaven face and emotion filled emerald eyes. He wears the finest grey and white clothes, though the colors are not as vibrant and gaudy as many lords, the quality is obvious superb. The faint links of a chain shirt can be seen at the base of his neck, a elegant gold and silver scabbard on his hip and a flowing thick cloak on his back. High-top fur lined boots tap as he steps towards the table. All of his children stand up when he enters, a sign of respect and common court-side manner. Lord Aaron Brightwall stops at the head of the table, standing in silence for a moment as he looks over his children. His eyes rest on Hal and the stare eats through the younger lad, and he noticeably shrinks down a notch. In Hal's mind, he's certain that his father knows everything he's done or said. After a moment, he takes a seat and turns his attention back forward. "Please, eat." The Lord serves himself a small portion of food, fills his own glass and starts to gingerly nip at the food. His mind obviously troubled by something. After a few moments of eating, the question of the purpose of the meeting burning on the back of all of their minds, Lord Brightwall begins to speak of it, his look resting on Jean and Shinoa. "Your mother has fallen ill, word got to me of this a few hours ago and no the physicians do not know what the problem is. I will be leaving within the hour, Jean and Hal you will both be accompanying me. Hal I want you to get The House Physician.Mordacai, pack your things and meet me at the gate." Hal gets up from the table immediately and leaves the chamber. Jean begins to protest, demanding to know what's wrong with mother, but is silenced by a raised hand. "We will discuss it on the way my dear. Now, Simon, in my stead you will be keeping the house in order. I do not know how long I will be gone, but I will return as soon as I'm able. There is parchments detailing the plans for the next couple of weeks on your desk in your chambers. You will need to take my seat for me at the council meeting three days from now, you know how it works, listen and judge accordingly." He steps up from the table, turning his gaze finally to Shinoa. "Shinoa, I know that you want to come with but you have a guest from House Varil waiting in the front room. They have a job that they're requesting your aid on, far be it from me to deny one of the upper houses our aid. Finish with this work as quickly as you're able, then make your way up north to Lunaria Valley." He gets up from the table, moving over to Simon and placing a hand on his shoulder, exchanging a few hushed words between the two of them, then does the same with Shinoa. "Be careful out there my daughter, I've a bad feeling about this one. Your mother will be fine, I know it must be so." He squeezes her shoulder and kisses her on the forehead, before taking his leave.

[Abyssion]

 

Threading in some of Shinoa's responses to things said...

"At least you didn't run off to marry a commoner, like Albus did. ....and to live in the freezing north no less."

"I know he's happy, but it's a real shame he's in such a cold, far away place, or I'd visit him every day."

"And what of your endeavors today Shinoa?"

"Not a whole lot happened today. The streets had some jugglers today, I suppose, but no action since the witch hunt the other day."

"...I will be leaving within the hour, Jean and Hal you will both be accompanying me..."

"Wait, I'm not coming with you?"

"Shinoa, I know that you want to come with but you have a guest from House Varil waiting in the front room. They have a job that they're requesting your aid on, far be it from me to deny one of the upper houses our aid. Finish with this work as quickly as you're able, then make your way up north to Lunaria Valley..."

"Ah...I understand, Father. Do make sure Mother is well enough to give me a big hug by the time I get there."

Things quickly settled down as all but Simon and Shinoa left the room. Shinoa walked next to Simon, putting a hand on his shoulder. "Guess visiting Albus together will have to wait, Simon. Duty calls, and all that. Have fun with your papers!" Shinoa tried to stay optimistic, but knew how well "a visitor from House Varil" usually went. She double-checked that her gold embroidered dress and fine silver necklace were in good order and headed to the front room.

[Spazztick]

Older Brother Simon looks up to Shinoa, listens to her words and lets out a faint chuckle at the mention of paperwork. His laugh fades quickly as he gives her a concerned look. "Yes I guess we will Shinoa. The time will come though, and I'm sorry about your mother. I wish the very best for Sarena, finish your work quickly so that you can get up there sooner. Take Donavon if you'd like, he's faster than your dainty mare by a long shot." He stays sitting at the table, sipping at his glass of wine, as Shinoa leaves the chamber.

Radoc Keep and Waiting Guests Pushing through the double doors, Shinoa moves to head down the hall. Tapestries that were made in house line the walls, unique furniture and decorations adorning them are strategically placed. Serena had an eye for decorating, seeing to put things in the best places, to make sure the rooms flowed with ease. She passes Hal's room, just before the staires, seeing the boy frantically packing his bag and mumbling to himself. Down the steps, through another hall and pair of redwood doors and she arrives at the front chamber. A tall form, standing over six-feet in height wearing a gaudy looking alabaster mask with a long nose with an upward curve, stands with two armed guards. The masked person wears white and blue robes, with faint gold embroideries around the wrists and base. His hands wear a few silver and gold rings on each hand. Shinoa recognizes the garb instantly, though few actually knew who hid behind masks, she was aware of this one's identity. It was Meno Car, a trusted messenger of noble blood, one who is often sent out with work from the Upper Houses. He holds his hands out in a greeting pose, speaking with a soothing but irritating voice. "Shinoa Brightwall, it is good to see you. It has been awhile has it not? I think perhaps because it has been quiet for the past while, I have not had the pleasure. Far to quiet... wouldn't you say?" He asks, despite it being an obvious rhetorical question. Meno always liked to drag out his work, often pushing clients to the point of frustration. Today seemed to be no different. "How is the family?... Mother doing well?" This time he waits for a response, a lackluster smile apparent on his face below his mask. It was not uncommon for him to inquire on the well being of Shinoa, a rather annoying game of back and forth before getting to business and all that.

 

You may add a light horse to your sheet, she is combat trained so her hooves are considered a primary attack. She was a gift from your father when you came of age.
Look, breed and name are all up to you, it just has to be a mare.

[Abyssion]

"Good to see you, too, Meno Car."

Shinoa did her best to remain as polite as possible, but her facade broke for a moment when Meno said, "How is the family?... Mother doing well?"

Was he told about Mother's condition? Maybe he even knows about any foul play that resulted in her condition.

 

testing dice

Dice Roll:

1d20+1

(13)+1

Total = 14

 

Dice Roll:

1d20+10

(5)+10

Total = 15

Shinoa quickly changed her expression to that of worry. "Mother is in poor health, and I will be going to see her once I am done with the business you've come to present. So if we could get right to the point, good sir, I would appreciate it."

[Spazztick]

Meno Carr "Oh no, I'm terribly sorry to hear that. She has always been so kind with her interactions, I wish her the very best." The tall man says, giving a graceful bow of sympathy. He is so clear and certain with his words, compassion almost beyond real, that Shinoa can feel his sympathy deep inside, his concern must be quite real. If he knew anything about her condition before hand, there is absolutely no sign of it. He then stands up straight and continues to speak. "Now then, let us speak of business so that you may make your way to your families needs... The work is nothing far outside of normal, though a coven may be involved, we can speak of it on the the way." Meno turns and starts heading out the door, talking as he walks. "A half days march from Tul'cadré, there is Rumri Village, heard of it I'm sure? My source has informed me that there is a high possibility of a coven forming, perhaps as many as six witches, worshiping some form of moon goddess. Two claim to have witnessed strange lights on the second floor, from behind boarded up windows. Another man reported seeing a young boy in white robes dancing in the moonlight, chanting some form of dark worship I'm sure." Meno gets out into the courtyard, walking down the steps into the keep where his horse is waiting. The two armored guards mount up as well. "House Varil will of course pay your regular price per head, doubled if we can have this cleared by sunset. There is a mob forming already, they want to witness decisive action, we will be waiting at the front gate for your arrival." With that said, Meno dips his head and the three of them ride out of the area, leaving House Radoc's territory.

[Abyssion]

"Oh no, I'm terribly sorry to hear that. She has always been so kind with her interactions, I wish her the very best."
"Now then, let us speak of business so that you may make your way to your families needs... The work is nothing far outside of normal, though a coven may be involved, we can speak of it on the the way."

He seemed sincere enough, though insufferable, but Shinoa decided that perhaps it was best to keep her mother's condition a secret from then on.

"...House Varil will of course pay your regular price per head, doubled if we can have this cleared by sunset. There is a mob forming already, they want to witness decisive action, we will be waiting at the front gate for your arrival."

"Rumri Village. Coven of up to six witches, possibly involving children. Do it by Sunset. Got it." Shinoa spoke with a fiery determination, as if she wasn't looking at Meno Car, but at the coven she was going to bring to their knees.

Accidental intimidate (for flavor):

Dice Roll:

1d20+7

(3)+7

Total = 10

With Meno gone, Shinoa hustled back to her room and pulled out an inconspicuous chest from under her bed. In it, her "White Reaper" costume complete with her white, fur adorned robe, a wig with eight-inch white hair, and some black cloth and leather clothes. She also picked up her breastplate, sword, shield, longbow, and quivers from her armor and weapon stands. Her backpack sat at the foot of her bed all ready to go, but she opened it to check on the condition of her manacles.

Only 4 manacle sets....If I had the time, I'd get another two, but this will have to do.

Shinoa, fully adorned in her costume and silver mask, headed straight for the stable where her mare, Sypha, waited for her. She made sure to leave a message with a servant before she left, or with Simon himself if she could find him without going too far out of her way, that she'd be back at nightfall.

"Sypha, we must finish this job quickly. Mother awaits."

 

Let's go a-witch huntin!

[Spazztick]

Out the gate, and towards the mob. Free from that troublesome Meno, the daughter of House Radoc makes her way to her chambers. Shinoa doesn't take long to get ready, adorning her costume with a boding confidence. Weapons and armor on, she marches out of the main keep towards the stables. She passes Simon on the way, the exchange brief words and he thanks her for keeping him informed. With that she moves to the stables and prepares her mare. She hops on Sypha's back, grabs the reins and leads her out the city. The route she takes is her usual one, away from prying eyes and out the side gate. It took time and practice, but in all these years the White Reaper's connection to house Radoc, was still not public knowledge. Those who worked for the house, that did chance upon seeing her in costume there, liked their employer enough to keep their mouths shut. The ride out of the gate took her just over an hour, passing various buildings, crowds and scattered people. She takes the smart route, circling around the market district, saving herself some time. She pushes for the east gate, she passes numerous peasants, city guard and her eyes quickly drift to a young farmhand that watches her ride by with what looks to be awe on his face. She doesn't push her mare hard, but continues to ride at a steady pace and out the front gate, unopposed by the guards that were spread about there. She stops to ask one of the guards on her way out, where the group from house Varil was. The man seems to fidget nervously around her, but responds quickly saying they started their march east. She then takes off along the road, her mount making easy work of the trek. The road is worn well down from travel, as it cuts through the forest of various trees, oaks, pines, madrone being some of the more common ones. The weather was still cloudy and cold, but at least the rain had let up for a bit. It took about another twenty minutes, before she caught up to the mob that was to be witness to the acts of witchery. There were roughly thirty men and women, most of them poorly armed and seven on horse back leading the group. She recognized Meno instantly, and six of his personal guard from house Varil. There's talking back and forth in the crowd, mixed feelings of excitement and fear as they all march for a purpose they hardly even know. At the front of the line, Meno is rambling on about something or another, to the guard next to him. Probably spouting more of his dreary words about purpose and the protection the upper houses offer, or more down talking witches and other evil doers.

[Abyssion]

They went on without me? If they're so enthusiastic, then this might be really fun, or a huge nuisance.

She stops to ask one of the guards on her way out, where the group from house Varil was. The man seems to fidget nervously around her, but responds quickly saying they started their march east.

Is he just afraid of my persona, or is there something more?

Taking 10 on Sense Motive for a 20, which grants me a hunch.Sense Motive

It took about another twenty minutes before she caught up to the mob that was to be witness to the acts of witchery. After examining the group, Shinoa rode near the group, but kept her eyes forward, so as to be a model of courage to inspire the crowd much better than Meno's ramblings could.

 

Intimidate roll to invoke the feelings of "I'm sure glad she's on our side!" among the crowd.

Dice Roll:

1d20+7

(2)+7

Total = 9

Add +1 from the battle mask if you want, though RAW, it's only for demoralizing.

Apparently Shinoa comes off as aloof and unsociable.

[Spazztick]

(ooc: lol, your intimidate rolls are not doing your style justice! Don't worry about it though.) Most of the mob are all peasants without class levels, so your 10 still has them glad you're on their side, but your reputation holds a far more intimidating presence. You may just come off not as serious today. )

Marching On. At the gate Shinoa gives a look over the man who gave her directions, she's confident enough to tell he's just a bit daunted by her presence and reputation, especially knowing that the White Reaper is said to be a tool of the upper houses, and since he's a guard under one of those houses, a bad word from her could likely send him packing. She suspects nothing ill natured about the man. Once to the group there's a few shouts of excitement, seeing who they have on their side. She over hears a couple men stating random things excitedly, the one she notes most prominently was from a man with a full beard and a flannel winter-shirt. "That's the White Reaper, can you believe it! Oh this must be quite serious..." An atypical lumber jack, as he's got his ax resting on his shoulder while he marches. Meno glances back across the group, seeing Shinoa's arrival and then turns back forward. There was apparently nothing to talk about at this time, so they continue to march. A few hours later, they stop for a short break, after the request of one of the overweight merchants that thought it would be a good idea to tag along. At this time Meno and his guardsmen dismount, letting their horses graze on the wet grass. He takes his long strides over to Shinoa, stopping within her presence, his gaudy mask looking as ridiculous as ever. "I hope it was to much trouble catching up, I figured with the pace this lot was going to move at, I best get them going before we lost to much time. Go figure, we're not even halfway there and they need rest. Despicable." There's obvious disdain toward the general populace, but that was nothing new from the nobles of most houses. "I see you came prepared, you will of course be the first one to head into their hobble when we arrive, as per the usual. Ideally we want at least one of them alive, though the more the better." As Shinoa listens to him talk, she takes note of a few scattered forms in the crowds. There are three others wearing masks, one a blued steel mask, with ears that perk up and backwards, downward angled eyes, vaguely looking like a great cat of some sort. The next is a polished metal mask, that reflects everything like a mirror, thick wide eye holes upon it and punctured holes around the mouth. The last is a mask with unique feathers adorning the top, hanging down behind the head like a bundle of hair. The face is also made of metal, though it looks as if it's been burned in a number of places. She can tell they're all well armed, the posture alone showing they know how to handle themselves. The masks in the presence of other nobles is a sign of disrespect for the populace, which leads her to assume they are also nobles. They stand in a group, talking back and forth in casual speak, though they do not whisper. It reminds her of something her father once said. "If you are going to try and be discreet, often whispering will only draw more attention... talk in a low casual voice and your words will drift with the wind."

Make any checks you wish to.

[Abyssion]

Quickly rolling...

Dice Roll:

1d20+2

(6)+2

Total = 8

Knowledge Local

Dice Roll:

1d20+9

(18)+9

Total = 27

Perception


"I hope it was to much trouble catching up, I figured with the pace this lot was going to move at, I best get them going before we lost to much time. Go figure, we're not even halfway there and they need rest. Despicable."

"You had me a bit worried when I didn't see you at the gate like you said. Good thinking, though. Saved us some time."

"I see you came prepared, you will of course be the first one to head into their hobble when we arrive, as per the usual. Ideally we want at least one of them alive, though the more the better."

"Right. I brought enough bindings to get four of them out safely, though we can carry more if we knock them out first."

[Spazztick]

Character Knowledge At first you don't recognize any of the masks, but then you look closer to the reflective one, and notice a brand on about where the temple would be. You recognize it because the symbol is faintly branded at the base of your own blade. It's the symbol of House Nesko, one of the lower houses with a seat on the council. You know their reputation for raising up in power over the last few years, the steel weapons they make are said to be on a complete different level than anything you can could get ahold elsewhere in all of the northlands. Even the bows they make are only matched by the bowyers of whitewall. In fact you know for certain your father received a gift from House Nesko's lord Mekinos, a longsword with a silver scabbard and beautifully bound hilt. After that revelation, you realize that the only likely conclusion is that the masked individuals are a few of the adopted Lords of House Nesko. Who they are specifically you do not know, nor can you even recall half of their names off the top of your head, as you've had very few interactions with them.

[Abyssion]

House Nesko, eh? And they sure look like they can fight. I should at least say hello, and see if I can count on them should things go south.

Shinoa hopped off her horse and approached the three masked ones, giving a simple wave greeting. "So, how are you feeling? Been on many witch hunts before?

How do they feel about Shinoa? Taking 10, of course.Sense Motive

[Spazztick]

Unusual Nobles The chatter from the group of three, reduces substantial as soon as Shinoa stats making her way towards them, all but the one in the feathered mask turn to watch her as she advances. She can feel instantly they're sense of awareness is not for lacking, and when she stops to greet them there's a moment of silence as the lot of them seem to be sizing her up as well. As she gets closer she see's more clearly just how well armored they are, the one in the lynx mask has a handful of short spears lining the base of her back and two long one's on he back crossing over her shoulder. From under her open cloak, she counts an almost ridiculous number of knives, lining her belt and packs. The one in the feathered mask has a crossbow at his hip, dagger on his boot and a various packs. The one in the reflective mask, has two beautiful looking scabbards on his waist, both with house Nesko branding on the sides, plated in silver. The short swords with intricate handles must have been made by their master smith, which Shinoa knows is one of the lords of the house. They all wear fine but practical clothing, gear that would make traveling both comfortable and smooth. She can hear clearly a faint giggle from the one with the lynx mask, when Shinoa speaks, the one in the reflective mask turns to the white reaper and prepares to speak, but not before being interrupted by the woman in the lynx mask. "If it isn't the White Reaper in the flesh, House Varil's most reliable hired hand... striking fear in all witches and would be's... and out in the day no less. Striking fear in witches and would be's across the land, rejoice this day should be without incident."[/color] It's obvious that she's smiling as she speaks, holding back either excitement or something else, Shinoa is not sure. The other one in the reflective mask, turns to her shakes his head and quickly remarks. "Oh Shut up Mia." He turns to Shinoa. "Pardon my sister, she's a bit of a smart ass. We are feeling fine and confident, we were just discussing how we were surprised to see one of your renown coming out to something we assumed would not amount to much more than a typical purging. The fact that you were recruited makes us think house Varil actually may be expecting a fight. It has been awhile since we've been out on a witch hunt, but I don't expect it'll be any more challenging than that Wyvern's nest we cleared out in Greystone." The man speaks with a confidence in his voice and a charisma she can understand, taking a lead role in communication is certainly something he's comfortable with. Shinoa had heard about the boast he mentions as almost a side comment, even heard one of the beasts heads were displayed at the towns gate as a trophy for a time, until it began to rot and they were forced to throw it out. He extends a hand out for her to shake. "I am Lord Gannon Nesko, and that is my sister Mia and brother Olstead. We look forward to working with you." The man in the feathered mask, gives a nod as a greeting but does not speak. Mia claps her hands together and speaks back. "A pleasure, though of course we don't expect you to reveal your identity and all, certain you must keep your persona. This is exciting isn't it, I'll finally get to see the White Reaper in action." She steps forward, reaching her hand out to offer a shake as well.

ooc It's hard to tell exactly how they all feel about you, you gather there's mixed feelings about her. Gannon is the hardest to read, even with him being the one who speaks the most. She gathers there's something in the way that Mia spoke about "Finally getting to see the white reaper in action." as if perhaps she has already seen her in action before? If she had, it was something you were not aware of. Overall the presence you get is not hostile in the slightest, more curious than anything.