Good Guys Always Win...don't they...? (DM Donna) d20=10 d20=7 d20=16 d20=13 d20=18 d20+2=10 d20+2=18 d20+4=5 Monday October 15th, 2001 7:10:58 AM
Once more, the resourceful Bill T's tactics prove to be effective, as the group of mercenaries go tumbling to the ground like a group of bowling pins. The other Hamleteers take advantage of their foes' inferior (or should I say "posterior"?) positions and whack away at them as Draax once more whirls his trusty grappling hook overhead and snags one end of the Soul Forge. Draax calls out to the party to help him topple the horrible machine, and so the Hamleteers' attention turns to bashing the artifact to bits before it can do anymore harm.
All around the heroes, the Sons of Dread are in thrall to the energies being directed into and through them, the vanquished mercenaries are in no position to oppose the destruction of the machine--but also there are dozens of people falling off balconies and dying from having all of their lifeforce drained off by the diabolic device. The Hamleteers begin doing their utmost to bash the Soul Forge into inoperation.
Meanwhile, the battle between Good Versus Evil continues:
With a mighty roar of defiance, Marteaus rushes Domi, grappling with the older deity and getting in several blows that send Domi reeling. However, Domi's obvious experience keeps Marteaus from finding the one hold that would clinch the victory for the would-be god, and the match continues.
"Even as you combat me, old friend, you break your word..." Domi grunts, writhing in a bearhug that would pulverize a mountain, "...you...have not...stopped your machine..."
"What do I care...if these chattel give their lives for me..?" pants the Dark Lord, "...it's the least...they can do...for their new...god..." Domi twists out of the grip and reverses the hold, causing the distinct crackling sound of ribs breaking.
"You will never...be accepted...even if you...win...nobody will ever...trust a liar..!"
"Who...wants trust??? I...will have...power..!" Marteaus once more breaks the hold, managing to throw Domi off from him.
"Now, Hamleteers--NOW!!!" Rond screams as he continues to bring his weapon down upon the Soul Forge, inspiring the rest of the party to redouble their efforts and break the machine.
And--under the determined assault--the machine breaks. The Hamleteers pant tiredly, utterly exhausted, but justifiably proud. They have destroyed the Soul Forge. The Sons of Dread all fall to the ground. Members of the audience slowly begin to recover their senses.
Domi shouts, “WELL DONE!” Then he pounces across the arena to land on Marteaus and finish this battle. He yells, “GET TO KNOW ME! I AM DOMI!” As he falls on Marteaus, however--something cracks.
Domi gets up one arm hanging uselessly at a horrible angle. Marteaus also gets up, staggering. They begin to fight again, each pushing the other to new heights of pain and suffering and heroism.
After what seems an eternity, Domi seems to be tiring. Marteaus’ greater strength is winning the battle. Marteaus eggs him on.
“GET TO KNOW DOMI! LOSER! THE GOD THAT DIED IN FRONT OF HIS PEOPLE! GET TO KNOW HIM LIKE I KNOW HIM! LOSER!!!”
Domi tries to rise again. The god of courage looks upon the crowd--his people. His trust. His breathing is ragged. He is beaten. The crowd falls silent, except for the moans of the injured and dying. A little girl falls from a third level balcony.
Domi struggles to his feet, his bones cracking. He catches her. The crowd cheers faintly and then grows quiet again. Marteaus circles behind him, preparing for his death stroke.
Domi sits on the dirty arena floor and holds the little girl to him in a tender hug. He whispers a final thought.
“Have courage...” A pale blue light flows from him into her. Through her the blue light continues to flow. It fills the arena healing everyone from their injuries, removing their charmed states, curing all manner of illness and disease...even extending to the Hamleteers and completely replenishing them of all the energy they have expended this night. Domi puts the child down on the ground.
"As long as his children live, a father does not truly die...HAVE COURAGE..!"
Then Marteaus quickly lays his two hands to the neck of Domi and flicks his wrists. Domi collapses to the floor dead.
Domi...dead..?
Silence reigns over the entire arena. Then Marteaus raises his clenched, bloody fists to the two moons above him and laughs maniacally, his terrible mirth booming across the city like malevolent thunder!
"MwuhahahahaHAHAHA!!!" Marteaus becomes bathed once more in arcs of mystical blue energy, and the moons in the sky suddenly become red, as though with blood. “COME... JOIN ME, MY FRIENDS... THERE IS NO GOD TO OPPOSE US THIS NIGHT. DOMI IS DEAD! WORSHIP THE CULT GODS!!!”
Renik Monday October 15th, 2001 9:03:42 AM
"Oh no... this can't be..." Renik's blade falls unnoticed to the arena floor. "How can Domi be dead? This isn't right, it isn't right..."
His gaze is drawn like a magnet to the terrifying spectacle of Marteaus, jubilant in victory. Tears spring to the young man's eyes as the enormity of what has happened begins to sink in.
He turns to look at Rond, with an expression that says "What in the Wold do we do now?"
Rond Monday October 15th, 2001 9:08:30 AM
Rond meets Renik's gaze, then turns away, his mind in turmoil. What can they do? The altar lies destroyed, they thought they had won... and instead great Domi lies dead in the arena! How is such a thing possible?
And as for what to do next... he feels the eyes of his companions turn to him for leadership, but he has none to offer. He stands, frozen in horror, as the Dark Lord revels in his victory.
Draax Monday October 15th, 2001 2:20:54 PM
Draax begins to celebrate the destruction of the altar. He turns to his companions ready to beat back the SoDs to follow up Domi's victory over Marteaus. He looks to Domi seeing Marteaus has the upper hand, but Draax is still sure that Domi will win, having unwavering faith in the god. His faith that good will always defeat evil in the end is something that has been with him since he was a child. Draax holds to his faith in Domi’s victory even as the god speaks his last words. So when Domi actually dies its takes a moment for Draax's mind to register the truth. The reality of the situation shakes Draax to his core. "This cannot be!! How can this be?" Draax looks from Domi’s body to Marteaus standing triumphantly over it, trying to will himself to wake up, thinking that this must be some type of Nightmare that he is sleeping though.
Coming to the understanding that it's all real, Draax looks angrily at the SoDs gathered. He puts his hand to his sword and begins to pull it slowly. "Let's see how long you last as a god if you have no followers." Draax begins to slowly advance on the SoDs trying to get his anger under control.
Bill Troublefinder Monday October 15th, 2001 8:38:35 PM
Bill recalls the patient waiting for the inevitable that Marteaus exhibited not that long ago back in Windhorn Hamlet, as he waited to have the adventurers give him the Water Ring of Ascension - or die, so he could take it. Marteaus took his time to get it 'legally' in one sense. Ask, offer an exchange, appear reasonable. Offer lives in exchange for what he hopes to gain. Which, as his own lips just said, is power. Well, through his machinations and corrupt promises, it looks as though he has attained a measure of that.
He repeated the exchange-of-lives offer tonight to Domi. And Domi gave his life -- when it was clear Marteaus reneged on his promise -- so that the people might yet live.
Bill wonders that he and his friends were not as affected by the Soul Forge. When Marteaus moved them to the side of the stage - perhaps it was Domi who extended his protection over them. Or perhaps someone else. Maybe he'll never know.
Bill thinks briefly of some last act of defiance toward this megalomaniac. But under the circumstances, he thinks the greatest act of defiance is to live - and to help as many as they can to live, as well.
The little girl whom Domi held - Bill must see her. "Draax, maybe you're right ... but let's get that little girl and as many people safely outta here as we can. C'mon, friends, let us leave this place with as many of those for whom Domi gave his life as we can. I have a wand that can help us get many out without getting trampled. Maybe different ones of us can take an exit, and help keep people from trampling each other. Let us have courage - and be wise." If any want to be able to levitate, he will quickly take care of that for them.
Unless Rond or someone direct him otherwise, Bill runs over to get the little girl next to Domi's fallen form, and to take her up the stairs. "Little girl, I can float us down. The exits are too crowded. Are you all right? My name is Bill. What's yours?" If she doesn't want to exit over the wall, Bill will cast levitate on her, and instruct her how to float above the heads of the crowd. This girl whom Domi saved must get out safely.
And Bill briefly wonders who is the greatest of the gods. Is it Alemi? Or The Jericho? Or ... who? Then those thoughts disappear for the time being as he works to help people leave this debacle in a way that does not kill more of them. His emotions about tonight's matters will have to wait for a more convenient time.
Arien Monday October 15th, 2001 11:07:08 PM
Arien walks over to the fallen god and crouches beside him. "Worry not, and rest in peace." He whispers in Domi's ear, "We few will carry the courage you demand from us. Should we fall more will come and come until this great wrong is righted. The Wold will not rest until this is put to right. One by one we will strip Marteaus of his followers and he will weep for eternity for he shall live, and die, alone."
Then Arien turns from the body and rejoins his companions. Then, after placing a restraining hand on Draax, Arien speaks to him quietly. "Come friend we should get these people out of here. Their safety should be of greater concern to us for the moment, let us plot our revenge at a more suiting time."
Aftershock (DM Donna) Tuesday October 16th, 2001 6:33:52 AM
A great wind comes swirling down into the Arena. Suddenly various forms appear and surround Marteaus, laughing and cavorting and sending lightning bolts into the audience to fry the random worshipper.
“RUN!” Marteaus screams. “RUN! WE DON’T WANT YOUR LOVE AND DEVOTION! WE WANT YOUR FEAR AND RESPECT! GET TO KNOW US! WE ARE THE CULT GODS AND I, MARTEAUS, AM THEIR LEADER!”
By now the captive audience is operating under their own free will--and their first choice of action is to run away, as fast and as far as they possibly can! Pandemonium breaks out as the panicked populace becomes a screaming, clawing stampede for the exits, a blood-chilling sight that only serves to amuse Marteaus all the more.
The party will have to make a Fortitude check versus DC10 to fight the crush of the crowd to get to that little girl Bill is interested in. Those failing the save will get swept up in the opposite direction. Whether or not you make that save, you then roll a Dexterity check versus DC15 each post you make within the perimeter of the Arena. Failing this check means your character suffers 1-4hp buffetting damage because of the mindless mass of people doing anything in their power to get OUT of the Arena.
One thing is for certain, though--in spite of Domi's attention to the child before he died, the little girl will be crushed flatter than a pancake if the Hamleteers don't try to do something about it!
Ferrak d20+9=26 d20+3=10 d4=4 d20+8=17 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 7:56:35 AM
Stunned by the tremendous shift in the balance of good and evil, Ferrak nearly falls from his brother's back. This shakes him out of it though, and he lets out a long and mournful howl for the fallen God.
Sensing that the natural balance of the Wold has just taken a great plunge towards the side of evil, Ferrak silently vows to avenge the brave God's death and try to help set things right.
As the crowd runs past the wolven brothers (Fort save-26) Ferrak sees that the little girl saved by the courageous God is now in danger of being trampled.
Determined like others of the party not to let the girl come to harm, Ferrak urges Darkfang towards her in a dead run.
As the two of them move into a blur of motion Ferrak is battered by the crowd. (Ref save-10) (Do I roll dmg? If so, there's a big 4 for my trouble. O.K. though, Ride-17)
"Make speed brother." Ferrak growls through a bloodied lip, holding fast to the back of Darkfang. "She may soon need the healing powers of Mother Nature!" he snarls, his face a mask of determination as they run.
Renik d20+5=16 d20+4=9 d4=3 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 7:58:42 AM
Renik snaps out of his funk when he spots the danger to the innocent child. Pausing only to hand the communication coin back to Rond he fights his way through the crowd towards her, getting battered by the crowd (suffers 3 HP damage). "I'm with you Bill!" he calls over the screams of panic from the crowd.
Rond d20+8=27 d20+5=18 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 8:08:48 AM
"Save the child!" yells Rond as he grabs the coin from Renik. Calling into the coin he yells "Marcus! All units! Protect the innocents! Get the injured to safety!"
Then he plunges headlong into the crowd (Fort 27) and steams towards the child, the panicked mob parting around him (Dex 18).
Bill Troublefinder d20+9=26 d20+3=19 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 11:14:44 AM
[Fort 26; Dex 19.] The hobbit's little legs are a blur as he races towards the threatened girl. With his boots giving him the ability to travel up to 160 feet in six seconds, he quickly erases the distance. His wand out, he brakes himself as he reaches her, and casts levitate on the girl. "Hey, sweetie, Domi saved you, and we're gonna make sure you get out safely. Take my hand - My friends and I'll help you stay above the crowd. I'm Bill. Are your mommy and daddy here?" If she does not take his hand, he asks Rond to pick her up. If she does take his hand, he will take a few steps forward to accelerate toward an exit, then lift them both up into the air, perhaps six or eight feet above the buffeting crowd.
Arien d20+1=10 d20+8=24 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 4:30:40 PM
Though he lithely darts in between the panicked people the rush of the mob prevents Arien from moving with any speed. He does however manage to keep up with Renik and the others heading towards the small girl.
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] d20+3=5 d20+1=2 d4=4 d20+4=14 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 6:16:01 PM
Sontra watches as Domi dies. He watches as the death of a god inspires and he watches as chaos begins. Looking around, he barely notices the crowds running aimlessly. He falls to the ground, shocked and amazed. As he gets up he gets hit over and over again, he cannot get back to the group and is taken along with the crowd to the outside of the arena. He screams, loud and piercing, as his sword attempts to strike any that move (Fourteen on attack roll, I don't have Sunblaze's sheet with me now, so I don't know what the bonuses or negatives are).
"STOP!!!!!!!!"
Draax d20+7=19 d20+3=8 d4=4 Tuesday October 16th, 2001 8:16:19 PM
Draax brings his anger under control as he listens to Bill's suggestion about saving the crowd, especially the young girl that Domi took an interest in. "You are right Bill, the welfare of these people comes first."
Just as Draax starts to make his way to the little girl he hears the words that Marteaus scream. Turning his head in direction of the god Draax tries to project his hatred of the god with all his might. "I may loathe and wish I had the ability to kill you, but I will never fear you."
So caught up in his show of defiance that Draax only barely feels the first person that bumps into to him. The next couple of people that hit him with their bodies as they try to exit the arena shows Draax how dangerous it is remaining where he is. He starts to force his way to his comrades suffering visible damage as he goes against the flow of the panicking people.
Good News...and Bad News (DM Donna) Wednesday October 17th, 2001 6:27:00 AM
The little girl--a fair-haired elf--looks at Bill with wide blue eyes, then smiles at the halfling.
"I knew you'd save me." she says in a placid voice. "My mommy is...is..." The girl looks around then points to a blonde elven woman who is barely managing to stand against the rush of fleeing people. "...over there!" Bill sees the woman pause by Sontra/Sunblaze, who is on the ground trying to fend off the more panicked stampeders with his sword.
"Take my hand--stand UP!" the woman urges the disguised Hamleteer. (OOC: Sontra/Sunblaze, make another Fortitude save at DC15, but add 10 to your roll because of the elf woman's help.)
Just as the Hamleteers come together and return the child to her mother, the woman screams and runs away with her daughter. Turning to look at whatever frightened the elven female, the party sees a horrible sight: a ghastly figure with the head of a bird and wings made of shadow sprouting from its back. Though it has a human torso with human arms and legs (wearing black pants), a black mist with swirling feathers in it surrounds its lower legs so that one cannot be 100% sure that its feet are also human...or not.
"Hahahahaha!" cackles the apparition. "Come, come--Dathil is hungry after years of starvation--who will be the honor of being Dathil's first meal...?" Eyes of flame turn towards a dark-haired human man whose gangly build marks him as being less than athletic. Indeed, as soon as the poor man realizes that Dathil's outstretched, clawlike hands are reaching for him, the skinny guy trips and falls, attempting to scramble away. While the fella is doing reasonably well avoiding the trampling of the fleeing audience, it's clear that Dathil's first meal will be this poor sap if the Hamleteers do nothing.
Rond d20+9=12 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 7:59:01 AM
Part of him cannot believe what he is doing; thwarting Gods? Are they insane? But outwardly Rond is all action. His moment of indecision has passed, and he is back in control.
"Draax, Sunblaze, move to the left flank and hit it with whatever ranged attacks you have. Ferrak, you're with me, on the right flank, ranged attacks.
"Bill, Arien, Renik, get that guy out of there! We'll provide a diversion!"
Dashing over to the right of the bizarre monstrosity he prays this doesn't get them all killed...
He nocks an arrow and fires, but his tension shows clearly; the arrow flies wide (AC 12).
Ferrak d20+3=8 d4=2 d20+8=17 d20+5=7 d20+8=15 d4+3=6 d3=2 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 9:56:06 AM
As the crowd within the perimeter of the Arena continues to buffet Ferrak (Ref sv-8 dmg-2), tenacity of will keeps him in the seat however, as he halts Darkfang's dead run to face this new threat. (Ride 17)
Hearing the call of the Alpha, Ferrak goes to pull one of the well made darts given to him by his mentor out of his pack. (Will Check for viscious spear to use another weapon? Failure-7 if I do need to roll for that.) (If I don't, 15 for attack 6 for damage.) If I can't throw the dart I'll try to start casting a spell.
A vicious smile comes to Ferrak's bloodied lips as he thinks of a good distraction. Calling for allies of mother nature, he howls up into the stadium as he makes complicated designs and symbols into the dirt whilst simultaneously smashing mistletoe into the soft earth.
(Summon Nature's Ally II, Full round action as he tries to send a few hawks into this guy's face. d3 hawks=2 for three rounds.)
Bill Troublefinder d20+8=20 d20+8=20 d20+3=20 d20+9=13 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 11:36:16 AM
As the girl joins her mother, he memorizes their features [Autohypnosis 20], and again asks her name. But the panic in the mother's face precludes an answer.
He listens to Rond's directions, and asks, "Anybody got a net?" as he reaches into his knapsack, withdrawing a half-pound bag. He takes a running start, so that his leap will take him over the shadow-winged beast, and bring him to where the fleeing man is running. As he goes over the top, he shakes the contents of the bag into Dathil's eyes (20). A small cloud of finely ground hot pepper swirls around the bird-godling's head. [Oh, and rolled a dex check vs. crowd buffeting, DC 20.] Once he is near the man, he levitates down to him. He says nothing, but points off in a different direction than the man had been going, and motions for him to follow. [Fort check for movement, DC 13 (need DC 10+).] [Three adjusted 20's. Funny roller.]
Draax d20+3=4 d4=3 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 4:57:22 PM
Hearing Dathil's laughter, Draax turns to look at the creature. "Now whhaaatt?" Draax stares at the creature for a moment, caught completely by surprise at what he sees.
He listens to Rond's directions and gladly complies, happy that someone has taken charge of the situation. Or it should be said that Draax intended to comply, but as he moves to get into position a child scurries directly in his path. Adjusting his weight onto one leg to avoid stepping on the child, Draax is knocked off his feet by the panicking crowd that has taken their desire to leave the arena to a new level at the sight of the creature (rolled natural 1). The half-elf is being trampled by the crowd as he attempts to get to his feet again (3dmg).
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] d20+12=24 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 8:36:21 PM
Sontra grabs the woman's hand and thanks her profusely. Then bounding up, he runs to the rest of the Hamleteers.
"Hurry! After my spells are finished I'm running in!" His sword is thrown into his bag. His wand, which is still out fires off a charge, sending a hawk towards the being.
Arien d20+1=20 d20+6=20 d20+1=8 Wednesday October 17th, 2001 11:26:56 PM
Seeing Draax fall under the crush of the mob and the Bill was already taking care of the girl Arien decides to help out his comrade. Darting through the mob Arien grabs Draax's hand and pulls, trying to help Draax to his feet. (Last number is a voluntary strength check)
Renik Thursday October 18th, 2001 4:12:24 AM
Renik hares after Bill as best he is able, attempting to assist in any way he can with the rescue of the hapless man.
Combat Round 1 (DM Donna) d20+4=21 Thursday October 18th, 2001 7:11:18 AM
(OOC: I rolled for Renik's Dex check versus the pull of the stampeding crowd {DC10}, and he isn't buffeted. Please remember to roll for that at the beginning of each turn that you stay inside the Arena.)
Neither the arrow nor the dart fired at Dathil seem to come anywhere near the avatar (OOC: if you are going to cast the Summon Nature's Ally, Ferrak, that cannot happen until next round), though Bill's pepper-in-the-eyes maneuver appears to be a specTACular success, causing the unholy creature to grab at its eyes and caw its displeasure.
The sound of the caw, however, causes Sunblaze's summoned hawk to abruptly veer off and fly away as fast as its little wings can carry it.
~I--I CAN'T attack the Raven God, big brother!!!~ Darkfang whines, obviously spooked by the sound Dathil is making. The wolf stops in his tracks and doesn't come any closer to the blinded avatar.
Bill and Renik are close enough to help the still-prone intended meal to his feet, while Arien helps Draax to his feet.
"Caaaaaaaaw-ses!" Dathil screeches, rubbing his eyes. "Cawses upon you all! I shall feast on all of YOUR eyes...this I swear..!"
Rond d20+4=23 d20+9=16 Thursday October 18th, 2001 12:01:16 PM
Well, they may have saved that fellow, but now they themselves are the targets. Not good...
"Everybody, stick to your teams and pull back! Anyone has a web spell or anything similar, cast it now! We need to delay this 'thing' long enough for the crowd to clear!"
Rond deftly avoids the stampeding mob around him (Dex 23), and backing up as far as he is able lets fly with another arrow, (AC16) though against a foe of such incredible power he knows this is probably useless. Well, if they must die protecting the innocent, Rond can think of worse ways to go.
Renik d20+4=23 d20+3=8 Thursday October 18th, 2001 12:07:53 PM
Renik has no problem weaving his way through the crowd (Dex 23: Sorry Donna, last round was a bit of a rush job!), his arm linked with the hapless would-be victim's. He attempts to drag him to safety (Str check 8), but struggles somewhat. "Come on, man, MOVE!" he yells, trying to get the fellow clear of the bird-headed monstrosity behind them.
Draax d20+3=17 Thursday October 18th, 2001 1:47:18 PM
With Arien's help Draax gets to his feet and finally avoids the crowd enough not to take any damage. "Thanks Arien, I was taking a beating trying to maneuver in this crowd." He takes aim at the creature with his bow ready to add a distraction to keep the beast away from the crowd.
He thinks to himself, 'The next time I stop at the Catacombs, magic arrows will be on my list of much needed items.'
Bill Troublefinder d20+8=27 Thursday October 18th, 2001 3:59:45 PM
The one who lives up to his family name casts levitate via his wand on the clumsy would-be victim. "He'll float now," he tells Renik. "Carry him." Bill wonders why his friends didn't pick up on the hint to use a net. He thought Rond, or maybe Arien, had a magic net of snaring, or some sort of magic net, among his gear. He takes the time to look for the elf girl and her mother, bouncing up in the air toward the direction they ran, just a little above the crowd to increase his field of vision. [With the time that has gone by, have the crowds thinned at all yet?]
Ferrak (Sorry, no net.) d20+3=9 d4=2 d20+8=25 d20+8=16 Thursday October 18th, 2001 7:39:32 PM
Bashed in the face yet again, Ferrak is getting frustrated fast. (Ref-9 dmg-2)
"Darkfang...!" Ferrak yells "Great, just GRRRRreat!" as he leaps from the back of his skittish brother. (Ride-25)
Moving in a fluid motion to the side of Alpha/Rond, as he pulls a well made dart from his pack, he lets it fly... (Att-16)
Unsure as to whether his darts are having any effect, Ferrak is moving in as far as possible with that throw, hoping to use his spear soon.
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] d20+3=8 d4=4 Friday October 19th, 2001 12:43:30 AM
Sontra, seeing that the bird can't attack it, glares. His hands shaking slightly, it's disturbing and scary and more.
"Away from the Arena! We are no help if we die! The other groups have either already ran or died! We are no-" Sontra sees that Darkfang and the animals won't attack, and wonders if they can't directly attack the god, but perhaps they can attempt to grab the meat from it. He throws in, then attempts to run out of the arena, as fast as possible.
Loss of Snack..? (DM Donna) Friday October 19th, 2001 7:18:08 AM
Dathil the Raven God's eyes of fire flare up, burning away the pepper that blinds him. The avian head swivels about, not even flinching at the oncoming missiles launched at him.
(OOC: roll Spot check versus DC13; those who make the check notice that the dart & arrows aren't so much missing Dathil as simply seeming to hit an invisible barrier and falling down.)
"Heyyyy! That's my lunch, you little pipsqueaks..!" screeches the avatar at Renik and Bill as they push the floating thin man away from Dathil's reach. Then the Raven God's flaming eyes blaze with interest at the sight of the fleeing Sontra.
"OOOOOO...never mind--THIS one has more meat on its bones..!" Dathil's claw-like fingers wiggle in the disguised bard/wizard's direction--and Sontra finds himself surrounded by tendrils of freezing darkness (make a Reflex save versus DC15. If you fail, you are grabbed by the darkforce fingers and have to make both a Fortitude save or have 5hp sucked out of you, and a Willpower save or faint from the sheer horror of what's happening [a Fear effect]. Both DCs are also 15.)
Bill Troublefinder d20+13=14 Friday October 19th, 2001 2:37:22 PM
Seeing his friend Sunblaze being attacked, Bill does not hesitate to retaliate. Using far hand (minor telekinesis) on a thunderstone, he hauls back with it in hand, and with psionic energy augmenting the accuracy of his throw (added a +4 circumstance to his 'to hit' roll), the stone heads towards the raven-headed beak. Nevertheless, his efforts are for naught - and he realizes he needs to practice more on his hand-eye-mind coordination [Natural 1 - whiff!]. Still exercising far hand on the errant stone, he works on lifting into the air, hoping to bring it back to his hand, so that next round he can try again [unless something happened to the stone due to the natural 1].
[OOC: Nets, blankets, rope anyone? Let's figure out a way to take this guy. Be creative!]
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] d20+6=25 d20+10=14 Friday October 19th, 2001 4:33:20 PM
Sunblaze dodges away, seeing the attack before it happened. Her feet nimbly move aside. Looking at Bill she quickly attempts to sing her bardic song (Fascinate the God thing). She attempts to make it up on the spot.(Performance Check: 14)
"Domi fought to save our life. To stop Marteaus' eternal strife. To end it all, without blood on knife.
Marteaus with strength as he may, Did not become a god this day, Nor ever with the sun's bright ray.
We are those of Windhorn Hamlet and mighty more! Domi's wish is what we shall right for! Marteaus is a great big w___(rude word)!"
Ferrak (Polly wanna cracker?) d20+3=4 d4=1 d20+5=22 Friday October 19th, 2001 11:56:44 PM
(Are there still effects from the crowd? If so...)
Ferrak just can't seem to avoid the press of the crowd as he catches yet another elbow to the chin. (Natural 1 for 1 damage)
Rushing over to get in between this bird god and Sontra in case his/her fascinate attempt fails.
Ferrak then sets his spear for a charge, as he tries his best to insult this guy in an avian way. (Animal Empathy +5=22)
As the feral gnome scratches at the ground, and wiggles his posterior, in what he hopes is a supreme insult to this thing, he grips his vicious spear with grim determination.
"Grrr..."
Arien Saturday October 20th, 2001 12:52:10 AM
Arien pulls his rope out his pack and ties one end to the nearest object that looks like it could actually hold the Bird thingy, at least long enough to let everyone concerned a good headstart. Then he ties the other end into a loop with a slip knot and passes it off to Bill. "Jump over him and try to drop this over his head so we can get out of here." He says to Bill quietly so that the bird/god thing can't hear.
Rond d20+9=15 Saturday October 20th, 2001 5:24:10 AM
Rond takes in the scene quickly. Sunblaze looks in pretty bad shape; they need to protect her. Arien seems to have the right idea; "Everyone, we need that thing slowed down! Any entanglement you can think of, do it NOW!"
He fires again, more out of frustration than an expectation of causing any damage (AC 15).
Renik d20+4=22 d20+22=38 d20+9=27 d20+9=12 d6+5=8 2d6(2+2)=4 Saturday October 20th, 2001 5:49:12 AM
Slowed down? Renik can't see what he can do to manage that. The only thing he could try is too near to suicidal for his liking... but if they don't do something quickly this thing is going to kill Sunblaze, then them, then the crowd. Looks like he's going to have to do something stupid. Renik promises himself that if (by some miracle) he lives through the next couple of minutes, he's going to retire from spying and take up a safer profession. Gargoyle wrestling. Dragon baiting. Rogue Demon Hunter. Anything but going toe to toe with one of the Cult Gods.
He fights down his growing panic. Darting through the fleeing citizens once more (Dex 22) Renik flips up the hood of his cloak of Elvenkind, attempting to blindside the creature (Hide 38). Hopefully arriving unnoticed behind it, he plunges his blade into the creature's back. (hit AC 27 (Crit threat, then AC12. Phooey!) for 8 + 4 sneak attack=12 HP.)
Draax d20+3=13 d20+8=15 d20+8=13 d20+1=17 Saturday October 20th, 2001 11:02:37 AM
As he avoids what is left of the fleeing crowd, Draax takes aim at the creature and lets two arrows fly in its direction. After witnessing the other missiles hit some type of invisible shield (spot check 17) he is sure that his arrows will do no harm, but they might get the thing's attention. Changing his appearance to be a taller and much heavier human warrior, Draax hopes that the creature cannot see through the illusion. "Hey birdman or manbird or whatever you are, why don't you pick on someone your own size? Or at least with a little more meat on them. And you call yourself a god? It is almost feeding time at the zoo, if you hurry I am sure that they will give you some seeds."
To himself Draax thinks, 'What in the wold am I doing? I cannot believe that I am taunting a godlike creature.' Draax takes a step closer and aims his bow again. Hoping that he gets the creature's attention away from Sunblaze, but also fearing that he will actually get the thing's attention.
Feeling Peckish (DM Donna) d100=10 d20+9=12 d20+5=18 d20=13 d20+10=21 d20+10=13 d20+5=20 d8+4=6 d20+5=10 d20+5=6 Monday October 22nd, 2001 6:22:41 AM
(OOC: the crowd is still numerous [there were a LOT of people there!], but it IS beginning to thin out--stray lightning bolts and carnivorous avatars tend to do that, you know! ;D Anyhow, the next few Dex checks must be made versus DC5 or suffer 1-2hp buffeting damage.)
Bill fumbles his well-intentioned throw of his handy-dandy thunderstone, so that it lands on the ground at his own feet rather than in Dathil's area. The blast affects Bill, Renik and the skinny guy--of the three, only Renik makes his saving throw (he got the 18). Bill and the skinny guy are deafened for the time being.
This being the case, Arien cannot get Bill's attention because now the halfling cannot hear him. If Arien wants to lasso the Raven God, he'll have to try to do it himself...or try to hand the rope off to somebody else.
"RrrrrrAAAAK!" caws Dathil scathingly at Sontra/Sunblaze. "Silly man--you think YOUR pathetic music can fascinate ME???" (OOC: his Will save is 22 versus Sunblaze's Performance check of 14. Nice try, though.) Once more the black spectral fingers of the hungry cult god reach out hungrily towards the disguised Hamleteer--
"RAWWWWWRRRRK???" Dathil screeches angrily, his attention arrested by the insulting behavior of Ferrak. Unable to resist his angry impulse, the Raven God rushes at the physically-demonstrating ferral gnome--and obligingly impales himself on Ferrak's spear! (OOC: 6hp damage) Darkfang whimpers and crouches behind his big brother.
Neither Rond's nor Draax's arrows affect the avatar at all--but Renik takes immediate advantage of Dathil's distraction and manages to strike the birdman from behind (OOC: 12hp damage)! Between having Ferrak's Vicious Half-Spear in him and the shock of some upstart mortal dare to strike at his back, Dathil's only attempts at attack fall far short of their targets, his taloned hands clawing only empty air.
Arien d20+4=24 d4+3=6 d6=4 d20+8=17 Monday October 22nd, 2001 2:50:20 PM
Seeing the raven avatar actually taking damage from Renik and Ferrak, Arien drops the lasso and charges the at the avatar. With his dagger held low Arien searches for a vital spot and lunges at it with his weapon leading the way. (Nat 20 on a sneak attack, 10 damage. Reflex save = 17)
Rond d20+4=19 Monday October 22nd, 2001 3:26:27 PM
Having seen Bill move pretty fast Rond tries to get his attention. When Rond notices that the thunderstone seems awfully close to Bill, he makes the guess that Bill cannot hear anything. Grabbing the rope that Arien had, Rond runs over to Bill and grabs him, to get his attention. Using his fingers to indicate a circling motion, Rond indicates that Bill should circle around the DuckBill (Dathil ;) ) a couple of times, and then pull the rope tight, as he and others in the group will anchor it. If Bill gets the idea of what Rond is trying to convey, Rond pipes up, "Look sharp people, everyone on this rope, so that we can try to trip this being up"
In the back of Rond's mind, the enormity of what they're trying to do seems to linger at the edge of his conscious mind.
But remembering Domi's words, Rond plucks up his courage, and hopes beyond all hopes, that Domi is somehow smarter than Marteaus. Hoping that Wardd is with everyone today, Rond continues on.
Draax d20+3=20 Monday October 22nd, 2001 6:49:15 PM
Seeing that his arrows are not getting the creature's attention, Draax holds his breath as the creature rushes Ferrak and is pleasantly surprised as the creature is hurt. He drops his bow and gets ready to charge the creature, when he hears Rond's call for assistance with the rope. Draax changes direction, runs over to Rond and take hold of the rope.
Ferrak d20+3=17 d20+9=20 d8+5=6 d20+5=24 Monday October 22nd, 2001 7:34:07 PM
The one advantage to being attacked by a giant bird god, is that it seems to help Ferrak finally avoid the batterings of the thinning crowd. (Ref-17)
In the thick of it now, Ferrak holds firm to his spear as the birdlike creature impales himself upon it.
Though the impact of Dathil's attack is tremendous, Ferrak maintains his grip and attempts to jab his spear once again up into the thing's soft underbelly. (Attack-20 dmg-6)
Still trying to keep the thing's attention, Ferrak quacks like a duck, then does a little shimmy with his behind, as he starts making a clucking noise like a chicken. (Animal Empathy-24)
"You fight more like a chicken, than a duck!" Ferrak yells at the enraged god, too wrapped up in the thick of battle to understand the danger of his position.
Bill Troublefinder d20+3=18 d20+3=19 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 5:42:12 AM
[Dex check 18; Use rope skill 20 (should have used 20+4, instead rolled 20+3. 19 adjusts to 20)] Deaf Bill clues in to Rond's idea. He takes said rope, and begins to race about Dathil's legs and wings, threading the rope about him, bouncing into the air - up and around and down and around (well, as much of that as he can in one round), seeking to gift-wrap the ravenous raven god.
Truss Me (DM Donna) d20+9=26 d20+5=23 d20+5=11 d20+9=10 d8+7=10 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 6:29:49 AM
The flaming eyes of the Raven God blaze up in anger--but then subside into their usual size.
"Oh, ho--I see through YOUR tactic now, you mongrel twerp!!!" Dathil cackles, reaching down and removing the Vicious Half-spear from himself, and turning it on Ferrak, jamming it straight at Ferrak...but the sentience of the spear works against the avatar--and Dathil ends up spearing himself with the weapon! (OOC: rolled a 23 to strike at Ferrak, but the Willpower save that is required is a natural 1--a failure! So the spear speared the birdman instead! LOL)
Dathil is rapidly finding himself trussed up like a Thanksgiving turkey, and is suffering damage...and is clearly flabbergasted that a band of mortals (mortals!!!) is defeating a Cult God!
"I've never seen such...such..." gasps the all-but-forgotten skinny would-be victim, who is now standing a bit away from the action, but close enough for Renik to hear him speak in an awestruck voice, "...foolishness? Bravery..? Suicidal insanity..?"
Renik must make an Intelligence check versus DC20.
Renik d20+6=22 d20+4=22 d20+2=18 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 3:12:15 PM
Renik delves into his belt pouch, empties the entire bagfull of caltrops (24) at the Birdman's feet, then dives away from the avatar, weaving and bobbing (Tumble 22) towards that damned foolish skinny guy (Dex check 22, Int check 18, failed). "Hey, stupid!" he yells, waving his arms, "I thought I told you to get out of here! So RUN!!!" If the skinny guy does not make a move, Renik will try to drag him clear (I assume he's still floating?).
Bill Troublefinder d20+6=26 d20+6=24 d6+3=5 d6+3=8 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 7:00:49 PM
Bill, trussing completed, ends up with the end of the rope around Dathil's shoulder and neck. In a "ride 'em cowboy" maneuver, he holds on behind the neck with his left hand, and with his +2 short sword in the right, aims to slice the carotid artery [called shot] of this nasty lived-too-long immortal.
[Crit threat AC26, crit hit if AC24 hits. Dam 5+8=13.] [Am embarrassed to say that I don't recall the called shot rule: Is it a -4 on the roll 'to hit' for a called shot? Am away from my books at the moment. And if the victim is inhibited - like tied up by ropes, would that be +2 or +4 to hit, or some other number? IWICRTSR*. I'll let you make the calls on this, Donna**. BTW, the carotid artery supplies the blood to the brain. Damaged artery (but not completely severed) can cause instant blindness, dizziness. Severed artery leads to unconsciousness and brain death.)]
* I Wish I Could Recall The Specific Rules ** As if you wouldn't go ahead and do so anyway! :-)
Bill T d20+4=23 d20+4=13 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 7:26:59 PM
[Part the Second - forgot two rolls. Ride skill check and Intelligence check.]
Bill looks like he was born to ride. He just won't be able to hear the roar of the crowd for a bit.
Ferrak d100=76 d20+3=23 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 7:38:11 PM
"Hey, my speaggrr!" Ferrak growls as Dathil takes away his only effective weapon.
Then as Dathil succeeds only in stabbing himself with it, Ferrak cheers. "Good spear, smart spear, hit him again in the ear spear!"
Pausing in his mirth long enough to realize that he is standing in front of a pissed off cult god without an effective weapon, Ferrak goes into motion.
Noticing the spikey things on the ground, and the rope tactics of the rest of this pack, Ferrak decides the best thing for him to do is try and keep the birdgod's attention.
Going down on all fours barking loudly at the birdgod, Ferrak snarls and bares his teeth, whilst arcing his back to make himself look bigger. Meanwhile, reaching into his belt pouch with his right hand Ferrak pulls out a pinch of Illusion dust.
All of a sudden the feral gnome resembles the biggest, most ferocious wolf imaginable. Growling and biting in the face of Dathil, as if trying to bite it off, Ferrak is truely a wild sight.
(If possible I'd like to augment this illusion with the ghost sound of incredibly loud barking. Armor check-76)
(Ref-23)
Draax d20+3=22 Tuesday October 23rd, 2001 9:12:43 PM
Draax avoids what remains of the crowd (Dex check 22) as he continues to hold and pull on the rope. He watches Bill as he jumps on the creature's back. "Yee Haw, ride him Bill!"
He almost wants to laugh at the sight of Bill riding Dathil, but he is still aware that the situation is nothing to laugh about.
Draax unconsciously takes a step back at Ferrak's transformation. “This day is full of surprises.”
Rond d20+4=9 Wednesday October 24th, 2001 2:10:32 AM
Having no problems from the thinning crowd, Rond waits for Bill to finish his task. Once Bill begins the riding scence on Dathil's shoulder, Rond assumes it's time to tighten up security.
With that said and done, Rond motions, and says to the group, "Everyone available pull on this Rope, Ferrak continue with what you are doing." Doing their best to bring the rope tight and trip up the raging god, Rond holds his breath awaiting to see what happens.
Just Call Me "Buck"..! (DM Donna) d20+5=6 d20+6=21 Wednesday October 24th, 2001 7:00:00 AM
"Who are YOU calling stupid, you--" the skinny guy snaps at Renik, then shakes his head ruefully. "Never mind--I'm OUT of here..!" And the man runs away into the last of the escaping crowd, chuckling.
The raven-headed Cult God is NOT amused. He strains against the constricting rope--and does NOT break it! He stomps about, trampling on those caltrops and obviously hurts himself on them, screeching even MORE loudly than before. And--to top it all off--a mortal the size of a child is hacking into his neck! The indignity of it all!
There are tendrils of darkforce whipping around--everyone except Bill has to make at least two rolls: the Dexterity check versus DC5 to keep the last of the panicking populace from slamming into you; then you have to roll make a Reflex save versus DC15. If you fail, you are grabbed by the darkforce fingers and have to make both a Fortitude save or have 5hp sucked out of you, and a Willpower save or faint from the sheer horror of what's happening [a Fear effect]. The Fort and Will DCs are both 15. Feel free to use a Hero Point if you have to.
Ferrak d20+3=16 d20+3=19 Wednesday October 24th, 2001 9:03:14 AM
"WOOf, WOOf, WOOF!"
Grr...
Renik d20+4=17 d20+7=10 d20+5=14 d20+5=18 d20+1=14 Wednesday October 24th, 2001 9:52:35 AM
Renik, intent upon that curious skinny fellow, is able to avoid the crowd (Dex 17) but not the dark tendrils (Reflex 10). He feels his very essence being sucked from him (Fort 14, loses 5HP), and the Wold about him fades to black as sheer terror overwhelms him (Will 14). Renik's struggles cease, and he is enveloped by the eldritch power of the fingers of darkforce.
Bill Troublefinder d20+6=25 d20+6=7 d6+3=8 Wednesday October 24th, 2001 10:48:56 AM
Bill again goes for the neck. He *almost* says, "Yee haw!" himself, but checks himself. Gotta find those carotid arteries. Sure is quiet around here. [AC 25, threat, not crit. 8 hp damage.]
Draax d20+3=23 d20+3=15 Wednesday October 24th, 2001 4:42:25 PM
Draax keeps a firm hold onto the rope, easily avoiding what is left of the crowd (23), but just barely getting out of the way of the tendrils of darkforce (15). He thinks, 'Hey, we might actually win this fight.' A brief smile comes to his face, but it is quickly wiped away when he looks over at Renik.
Realizing that a long fight would only favor the creature, the half-elf pulls the rope even harder hoping to bring the creature off of its feet.
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Kim filling in for Steve] d20+3=6 d20+6=16 d8=7 Thursday October 25th, 2001 2:21:02 AM [Note to Steven: Sunblaze has 5 more hit points than you think. Should have 21 total hp (before accrued damage). You did not add in the bonus from constitution.]
Sunblaze avoids further being bumped. In her guise as Sontra, she just manages to dance away from the dark tendrils. And downs the potion of healing that Bill gave her in the pyramid, regaining 7 hp lost to the bumping crowds.
[Okay, Steve, your turn tomorrow.]
Ooooo--LUNCH! No, wait--I mean LAUNCH! (DM Donna) d20+4=15 d20+5=16 d20+3=23 d6+1=6 d20+3=9 d20+10=11 Thursday October 25th, 2001 6:37:24 AM
In spite of the fact that Bill has landed some telling blows, and that Draax has practically given himself a hernia trying to yank the evil Dathil off his unseen feet, the Cult God is still going strong.
"Bark all you want, you fleabag!" cackles Dathil to Ferrak as he throws down the Vicious Half-Spear onto the ground. "I have sustenance now!!!" Screeching in defiant triumph, the avatar inhales deeply--and everyone sees the darkforce appendages wrapped tightly around Renik swell up and pulse...and Dathil himself seems to get a little larger.
Renik--though still unconscious--moans as his life is starting to drain away before your eyes! (OOC: Renik must roll another Fortitude saving throw vs. DC20 or suffer 10hp damage--make the save for half damage.)
Ferrak's continued defiance and aggression in the literal face of the Raven God, however, seems to have abated Darkfang's natural instinct to avoid Dathil. Even though a large part of him still wants to put his tail between his legs and just RUN from the immortal, Renik's being killed by inches just doesn't sit well with the wolf's "protect the pack" mentality, and so the animal crouches low, then launches himself at Dathil's throat while the newly-returned deity is gloating, catching Dathil completely off-guard. (OOC: rolled a natural 20 for Darkfang, though no crit was made...however Dathil's Dex check is a natural 1. Heh.)
Between Draax's yanking on the rope and the wolf's unexpected attack, the Cult God is toppled over. Bill must make a Tumble check versus DC15 or suffer 3hp damage from the fall.
Ferrak d20+9=13 d8+5=8 Thursday October 25th, 2001 7:18:19 AM
"Yes brother, YES!" yells Ferrak as he rushes to pick up his fallen spear.
Then with a feral snarl he jumps on top of the fallen cult god, hoping that killing Dathil is the best way to help Renik, Ferrak stabbs down with all of his might. (13+4 for being prone - dex = ? Dmg=8)
(OOC-What is Darkforce? Can you attack it?)
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=17 d20+6=23 3d4(3+3+4)=10 Thursday October 25th, 2001 10:52:44 AM
[Oops. Tumble is d20+3, not +5. 'S OK, though as it just makes the DC 15.]
Whoa! The halfling tries to decide whether to ride the bird down, or let go. He compromises by hanging on to the rope, but uses his levitation to pull the other way, and ends up floating just above the godling's head. Bill perceives that his meager sword slices are not touching the carotid arteries. Anger wells up in him as he notes the dark tendrils extending to his new friend Renik who lies upon the ground.
Something clicks in his brain, and he focuses the power of his mind directly downward into the head of the gloating, wicked beast god. Those looking on see waves of energy in a small conical area below Bill enveloping Dathil's head. [Mind blast - save vs. Will DC 23 or be stunned for 10 rounds if nonpsionic, 3 rounds if psionic. Dathil gets +4 to save if nonpsionic.] ======== [Addendum: If Dathil is psionic, Bill is toast. Well, he's probably toast, anyway...]
Rond d20+4=19 d20+7=24 d20+4=6 Thursday October 25th, 2001 11:47:25 AM
Rond dances around the various people as they flee the scene. With Dathil's dark force wandering around, Rond keeps a wary eye, and dodges the tendrils as they move around. Once Renik is captured in the Cult God's tendril, Rond's concern for his teammate heightens his worry about what is going on. Just as Rond is about to shout a command, DarkFang pounces upon the Cult God. Raising a defiant cry Rond cries out, "Though Domi may be down, his spirit continues on. Everyone that has a piece a rope, let's hog tie him up, quickly, NOW! GET THAT DISPEL MAGIC CAST, AND SEE IF THAT CAN AID RENIK." After seeing that his commands are followed out, Rond concentrates on attempting to tie up Dathil. As he works Rond begins to chant loudly, as if it is his mantra, "Though Domi is down, he has charged the Wold to have courage. Just as Domi has given his life to do the right thing, I will have courage, and lay my life down, to do the right thing."
Renik d20+5=24 Thursday October 25th, 2001 11:58:11 AM
Renik, despite the feeling that he is floating in a cold and endless darkness, is not finished yet. Something within him cries "Survive!" and he struggles against the blackness (Will 24, 5HP damage).
(OOC: Donna, I have Renik on 12 HP damage, have I missed any, or does that match you?)
Sontra[Sunblaze](Steven) Thursday October 25th, 2001 1:28:35 PM
[Sorry all, I've been feeling under the weather, and then much homework has kept me from the computer. Thanks Kim!]
Sontra, seeing Bill is still holding onto the Bird God, realizes that speed is needed. Throwing his bag off onto the ground, he empties it and then shouts to the crazy halfling.
"Shove it over his head!" He runs and tries to give Bill the bag. His mind, still stuck about Domi's disappearance.
==== [Bill can't hear Sunblaze. He is momentarily deaf. She might do the work herself. Or, can she cast dispel magic, as Rond requested? -Kim]
Draax d20+3=20 d20+3=13 d20+6=21 Thursday October 25th, 2001 10:07:45 PM
Draax is thrilled at the sight of Dathil being taken off of his feet. He rushes to obey Rond's orders as his side steps one of the slow exiting populace. He moves next to the creature and in his excitement to help to secure it he steps directly into a tendril of darkforce. Draax feel a chill begin to run up his body, but he fight off the draining effect(fort 21). He takes a second to compose himself before going back to work.
Arien d20+8=12 d20+8=27 d20+6=25 2d4(3+3)=6 Friday October 26th, 2001 3:44:28 AM
Dancing lithely about both terror driven spectators and deadly dark-energy appendages, Arien backs off a bit and blasts the avatar with a magical arrow of acid. (6 damage, lasts 1 more round)
POOF--Gone! (DM Donna) Friday October 26th, 2001 6:47:01 AM
The Hamleteers struggle mightily to contain a force that they all well know can likely flick a feather and consign their souls to eternal torment for this umbrage--but Domi's will and last words hold sway over the heroes and they fight on with enough courage to bring tears of pride to Domi's eyes...were they not now closed forever.
"...feast...on...all...your...eeeeeEEEEEEEEEEYESSSSSSSSSSSS...!!!" screeches Dathil as the concerted efforts of the party do more and more damage: Ferrak's spear, Darkfang's bite and Bill's psionic attack batter the birdman--but it's the final application of Arien's well-aimed Acid Arrow that finally causes the large avatar to shudder and quiver violently.
"Awwwwwwk! I'm melting...melting..." Dathil squawks miserably, the tendrils of darkforce receding away from Draax and Renik, forming a swirling effect around the suddenly-smoldering Raven God. "...what a Wold..! What a Woooooooooold...!" The darkforce energy intensifies so that all can feel the utter iciness of it--then there's a whirling, swirling mass of feathers that get violently sucked up and around and into itself...
POOF!
All that is left are the Hamleteers, the odd straggling escapee from the Arena, and a single raven feather floating, floating down to the ground.
Renik manages to wake up, feeling utterly exhausted, but lucky to be alive.
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] Friday October 26th, 2001 9:54:52 AM
Sontra, seeing the god melt, laughs. It seems 'mere' mortals could beat the unbeatable. Utterly amazing. As the feather touched the ground, he walked up to it. Grabbing it, he places it in his bag, gathering up the items he dropped out of it.
"Good show!"
Bill Troublefinder d20+3=16 d8=1 d8=3 Friday October 26th, 2001 10:08:57 AM
Bill shoves off as Dathil diminishes. Quickly he pulls a little hand net out of a pouch at his belt, and tries to catch the falling raven feather (dex check, 16). He carries it over to Ferrak. "Here." And, since he can't hear himself too well, his voice increases in intensity. "YOU INSPIRED ME. I THINK THIS SHOULD BE YOURS." He gives him a serious nod of the head, and, if DarkFang allows such, scratches the valiant wolf under the chin. "GOOD BOY!"
Bill then speaks with Sunblaze. "READ A SCROLL OF CURING FOR WHO NEEDS IT." She might recall he gave her two scrolls of Cure Light Wounds - which a bard should be able to read. (Would do 1d8+1.) He gives Renik a potion of CLW (1d8 only, reroll 1's. Renik gets back 3 hp.), then looks around to see who else might be injured. He offers two more potions should anyone need one. "Gotta Find Somebody," he says in what he takes for a whisper. "LET'S GO." His eyes look to see if there is any evidence of Domi's little girl, or her mother. Then, remembering the chain of command, he looks to Rond to see if his suggestion is acceptible.
Bill / Kim Friday October 26th, 2001 10:16:24 AM
[OOC: Uh - this is a case of simultaneous posting. I began posting when only Donna's post was there. By the time I got done and hit 'Submit', I saw Sunblaze's post concerning the feather. Donna? So, what happens with the feather? I suppose if Bill had seen Sunblaze get the feather, he would have politely (though LOUDLY, at the moment) suggested awarding it to Ferrak, the newest party member, who clearly showed his valor and his worth.]
Renik Friday October 26th, 2001 12:31:25 PM
Renik sits up, rubbing his eyes. "Gods, but I never want to feel that again! Is it gone? What happened?" He gratefully gulps down the potion Bill offers him, and begins to feel marginally better. "Well, Rond, what now?" he enquired, clambering unsteadily to his feet.
Ferrak d4=1 d4=4 d8+3=7 d8+3=11 Friday October 26th, 2001 11:01:13 PM
Still breathing hard, and holding tight to his spear, the wild gnome finally notices that the battle is over. Rushing over to Darkfang he grips his brother in a powerful bearhug, then playfully cuffing him on the ears, he sits down exhausted.
At a loss for words, Ferrak stands up as Bill comes over and quietly nods back to the formidable halfling.
Standing a little taller now, as Bill scratches Darkfang under the chin, Ferrak reaches into a belt pouch for some mistletoe. Reaching to the ground, the feral gnome takes a hand full of earth and starts mashing the mistletoe together with the cool black loam, chanting. When he finishes the chant, five tasty looking berries appear in his outstretched palms. (Goodberries +1 hitpoint and refreshing like eating a full meal.) "These are 'good' berries," he says while passing one each to Arien, Bill, Draax, & Rond. Then eating one himself, the feral gnome begins chanting again.
Given the time, Ferrak will administer to Renik & Sunblaze a Cure Light Wounds spell each. (+7 & +11 hitpoints respectively. Cool, I rolled an 8!)
With this finished, Ferrak takes Darkfang aside and says to him in wolven. "Looks like we've found a new pack." Scratching his brother behind the ears. "I can't help but like them, despite the way they all walk on two legs," he says grinning to himself.
(OOC I've got these spider walking slippers and I don't think that Ferrak would ever use them. I'll trade you Steve, I think a bard or a rogue would do better with them, also I would kind of like a momento of this, my first real battle.)
P.S. This is lots of fun.
Rond Sunday October 28th, 2001 11:39:12 AM
Rond is caught flat-footed as he stares at where Dathil use to be. Coming to his senses, Rond pulls out the communication coin, "Team A reporting in. Dathil, Cult god, defeated and out of picture. Raven feather all that remains. Team A intact, awaiting further instructions."
When Rond is offered a berry he says, "Thank you for this. You and your companion's aid have made a big difference."
Responding to Renik, "Let's help out where we can here, and scout around to see if we can find, or learn something new, until we get further instructions."
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=13 d20+5=7 Sunday October 28th, 2001 7:56:38 PM
"THANK YOU," the halfling says to Ferrak. He eats the berry (back to full hp, I think). Using the Read Lips skill (DC 13) he is able to tell approximately what Ferrak says. Trying to talk quietly, his voice ratchets down a few decibels. "A Friend Used To Give Us Some Of These, Too. Tasty."
Bill massages his temples as he looks around to see what else is happening in the Golden Arena. Since he is not looking at Rond, he doesn't know what he has said to Renik (Read Lips 7 - I figure he wasn't even looking at Rond. And doesn't Rond still wear that mask, anyhow?). He looks over to the body of Domi. After the fevered actions of the past few minutes, now for the first time he allows his heart to feel a measure of sorrow. "Shall We See If We Can Bury Him?" he asks his friends. Bill is concerned about what the followers of Marteaus may do to Domi's now mortal remains. And where now is Marteaus, and where are the other cult gods? And where is the little girl? Domi's little girl? Despite the well-being engendered by the goodberry, the hobbit feels a headache coming on. He has never mind blasted anybody before - he's just practiced it in training. He wipes the blood of Dathil off his sword onto a rag, which rag he then folds over to keep the blood in the center, and places it into a bag. With no sign of the girl around, he takes a step toward Domi's body.
Draax Sunday October 28th, 2001 11:14:53 PM
Draax shakes off the remnants of the tendril of darkness. “That felt creepy.” He looks down at the spot where Dathil body would be if there was a body. Smiling, Draax says as if he was just thinking out loud. “What do you know, survived another one.”
He takes the good berry from Ferrak. “Thanks, if I haven’t said it before, welcome to the group.” Draax eats the good berry. “Nice, just what I needed.”
To Rond he says, “I think Bill is right about burying the body, but I would rather do it someplace else. It does not feel right burying him in this place.”
Arien Sunday October 28th, 2001 11:47:54 PM
"Aye let us take Domi's body from this place and to a more suitable resting place for him. We should move quickly however, lest one of the other Cult Gods take interest in us. I don't know that we could withstand another attack of that sort." Arien wipes the avatar's blood off of his dagger on a rag and glancing at the rag in disgust and drops the bloody thing to the ground.
NoD: When Bad Things Happen to Good People
Neverending Night..? (DM Donna) Monday October 29th, 2001 6:46:02 AM
The Golden Arena is all but empty now...the formerly-mesmerized audience has fled. The newly-reappeared Cult Gods are nowhere in sight. When the Hamleteers have gathered their senses back together again, they see that there is no body for them to bury--no physical evidence of Domi's passing remains in the Wold.
Except for the two blood-red moons in the preternaturally-black sky. Looking up at the moons, suddenly everyone is struck by the fact that not only are both moons red, but there are NO stars to be seen in the rest of the heavens! It is as though even the celestial sphere itself mourns the death of Domi.
Marcus is finally raised over the Coin of Communication. He directs the party to go to the cave that Ferrak was installed at--his people have secured that area and confirm that the Sons of Dread--those few who may still be alive, that is--don't know about it. A Team is to rest there until contacted.
(OOC: This is an in-game rest period--nothing happens to the party on the way to and during their stay at Ferrak's hideout. All wounds are healed up via Cure spells and all spells and abilities are recovered.
Experience points will be awarded; please nominate PCs for Hero Points and/or RP Bonuses via email.)
The Hamleteers, after barely getting enough sleep to recharge themselves, are awakened by Marcus' croaking voice over that magic Coin of Communication: he's reporting that a group of paladins--once respected Chapel of Domi guards--are rampaging near the site of the crater that once was their headquarters. Reports say the insane holy warriors are now slaying citizens while ranting that the people are actually demons in disguise. The Hamleteers are holed up closest to where the paladins are, and are urged to stop the madmen as soon as possible. Marcus gives the directions to the reported site and signs off.
Bill Troublefinder Monday October 29th, 2001 1:10:04 PM
Before going to sleep, Bill takes a little time with Ferrak and Renik, and whoever else wants to listen, to fill them in on some of the background of the Windhorn Hamleteers. He invites some of the group's old timers to add their recollections. He especially details their earlier encounter with Marteaus, as well as their dealings with the Sons of Dread. While he is talking, the little multitasker jots down some notes in a little journal about the evening's events. He promises to give them more of the group's history later, when "things are not so crazy, and if we all live through this," then, about to nod off to sleep, asks Sunblaze if she would be willing to read him a few lines from the Alemic book of wisdom. He falls asleep as she gets a few paragraphs into it. The halfling does not snore.
------ Morning comes...
Upon learning of the rampaging paladins, Bill thinks of the noble Bolderhusk, and hopes he is not among those who have gone bonkers. But no, he was not a guard for the Chapel of Domi. "Anybody got nets?" he asks. He organizes some of the items in his knapsack for easy access. "Maybe we can take some of these blankets." He takes two blankets, ties short sections of rope to each corner, then asks, "Rond, should we get going now? Should we take a mattress, too?"
Bill goes along with the group, thinking about the nature of godhood as the team approaches the area where the paladins wreak havoc.
Ferrak Monday October 29th, 2001 6:15:11 PM
Listening intently to what Bill has to say about the Hamleteers, Ferrak marvels at all of their various adventures.
When the halfling is finished Ferrak takes the time to more formally introduce himself. Also telling any that are interested, tales of his and Darkfang's various adventures in the forest near where his gnomish village was destroyed.
When he talks of Koror Shwanger, his Druid mentor, he is extremely reverent almost to the point of prayer. Mostly though he tells of him fighting goblinoid brigands with his brother Darkfang. Ah the good old days.
Waking up early in the morning the next day, to spend some time outside of the cave under the open sky, Ferrak & Darkfang are back and ready to go when the rest of the pack are.
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] d20+10=26 Monday October 29th, 2001 9:25:23 PM
Sontra, finally getting a chance to rest his tired feet, takes the time to sit. Then he changes back into Sunblaze. When Bill asks she gladly reads parts of the book to him.
"The innocent may be in need of help, but make sure it's really help you give them."
"Remember the tale of the Cleric who, having little training, was throw into combat. Foolishly she tried to call an evil being to smite her foes. Yet when she brought it to the Prime plane, it turned on her... All around were slaughtered, including the Cleric."
As Bill begins to sleep, she continues reading. When she goes to her bag for parchment and a pen she realizes she needs to buy some. Perhaps tomorrow.
-~-~- Early morning -~-~-
Sunblaze, waking only two hours after she passed out (Ring of Sustenance). As she wakes she goes to her spellbook, memorizing her spells. As Bill cracks up, she wonders if he's troubled at something or another. Hoping to help him, she grins and attempts to sing a song to raise his spirits (Performance Check: 1d20+10: 26).
"Windhorn bravely fought the bird god's might, Trying to win, and impossible fight, Striving to do they saw right, Sending every thing they had, to win.
The battle was hard and trying, Yet still their disguises the god was buying, When Bill attacked while flying, The beast ended up dead on the ground."
--- Towards another quest ---
On the way to the Paladins, Sontra looks for shops, which either have been broken into or are open and goes into them. Stealing or buying nets and ropes (3 nets, 2 100 feet long silk (preferred) ropes: If I have to buy, let me know... I'll check the costs).
Rond Monday October 29th, 2001 10:02:51 PM
As Bill tells the tale of the Hamleteers to Ferrak, Rond interjects his point of view occasionally. He adds his own comments, "It seems to me that the only good Son of Dread, is a Dead Son of Dread." He also occasionally asks Draax to comment, knowing that Draax will stay tight lipped, given a chance.
In the morning, after hearing the summons. Rond listens to what Bill suggests. "I like the net and ropes idea. Renik, see what you can acquire as we work our way there. We may send someone to look for blankets after we see what's going on with the Paladins."
Renik d20+2=12 d20+8=24 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 4:07:32 AM
"Nets and ropes? Well, I'll do what I can, but I can't see too many shops being open for business just now... anyone got any problems with a spot of looting?"
Renik checks out local shops (using any prior knowledge of the area that might help him (Int 12) to see if he find the requisite equipment, breaking in if neccessary (Open lock 24).
The Horror..! (DM Donna) Tuesday October 30th, 2001 7:55:57 AM
Actually--although the shop is not initially open when the party comes upon it--there is a shop called "ArenaWares" that has all types of gladiatorial equipment within it for sale to the public. The Hamleteers' pounding on the door of the shop persuades the owner to open up and offer them (after a suitable explanation by the group) a total of 10 battle nets for 25gp each. Please list who is buying the nets and--more importantly--who is CARRYING how many nets per person.
The party arrives at the site Marcus has ordered them to--and it's a terrible scene to behold: it is pitifully obvious that all of the dead bodies are those of average city dwellers...most of them unarmed. The sounds of hammering/battering come from around a corner. The party looks to see a squadron of seven or eight blood-and-gore-bespattered paladins of Domi using their maces, morning-stars and great axes in an effort to break through a door that has stuff piled up on it. The screams of people from within the baker's shop the mad paladins are trying to gain access to make it clear that there are NO demons within--only people trying to survive this horrible swirl of chaos consuming just about everyone connected to Domi.
No matter how the Hamleteers maneuver, there is no one spell that will effect all eight of the mad paladins at once--the most any one "area of effect" spell will effect is the three paladins chopping at the door. Another pair of paladins is pounding at a shuttered window on one side of the door, while yet another pair is mindlessly tearing at the coverings on another window on the other side of the door. One other paladin stands a bit away from his fellows, ranting about not resting until "evil blights the Wold no more! On--onward for DOMI!!!!"
Renik d20+12=17 d20+22=31 d20+3=14 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 10:10:24 AM
(OOC: 2 nets, 50GP)
Renik sneaks up on the two paladins pounding at the window, (Move silent 17, hide 31 (Cloak of Elvenkind) and attempts to ensnare them both (or only one if both is impossible) (Hit AC 14, BAB of +7, -4 for untrained weapon? Not sure about that...I don't have details with me of how nets work...)
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] Tuesday October 30th, 2001 10:47:22 AM
Sontra, when seeing the shop open, enters and buys the group the nets. (8 nets: 200 gp) Then he hands one to each group member, if they don't take she puts them in her havernsack. Just as Renik leaves and idea springs into his head, yet it is too late. They will know the group is here now.
Running forward, hoping the group will protect him, he tries to get to the raving paladin (The lone one). Behind him (Presuming he's facing towards the shop), he begins her spell (Charm Person: DC: 14[That's the spell level and my intell bonus. I think i'm missing something from that...But I don't know what.])
"I command you, in the name of Domi to go forth and protect the innocent! To save those who cannot save themselves!" His voice wavers slightly, yet it holds hope.
Draax Tuesday October 30th, 2001 11:03:55 AM
Draax comments about Rond's statement 'only good SoD is a Dead SoD'. "Yeah, I agree with Rond about killing Dread members. The only problem is that our side has so many spies working within the Dread organization that the 'kill first and ask questions later' approach is hard to do." He looks over at Bill, "Our first meeting with Bill was while he was working as a double agent. It was a good thing that one of our members knew Bill and that made it easier to believe that he was a friend."
At the shop, Draax accepts the net from Sunblaze. "Thanks."
Upon seeing the crazed paladins, Draax is shocked. Even with the warning from Marcus he had no idea that the loss of Domi would cause his followers to act this way. He has always looked at paladins as bothersome, self-righteous, opinionated, and self-appointed savior of souls. He has also known them to be honorary and protectors of the innocent. To see this unnecessary destruction of life just does not fit into the image, no matter what the reason.
Realizing that to stop the paladin may mean actually hurting or killing some or all of them, Draax looks to his comrades for a more non-fatal solution. "I would rather take them alive and see if Marcus can help them." Draax looks around at the dead bodies, "But, if we have to kill them to stop them, so be it."
Draax gives Renik a head start and moves in for support just as Renik starts his attack. Draax will use his sword and shield to keep the other paladins away from Renik or help subdue the two if none of the others threatens him.
Bill Troublefinder d20+6=26 d20+3=16 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 3:13:52 PM
At Sunblaze's song, Bill is pensive. "I thought we were dead last night. Just wanted us to do what we could before we died. Thank - whoever - we made it."
Since Sunblaze paid for eight of the nets, Bill buys the other two (50 gp). "Thank you for opening the door, sir." One net he folds neatly, and tucks in into his knapsack. He tucks another in his belt. The one that the mage/bard gave him he carries in hand. He casts levitate upon himself with his wand just before leaving the shop.
At the scene before them, Bill suggests to Ferrak, "Cover the guys to the right after I stomp."
He then stomps, knocking down the three paladins who batter at the door (and perhaps catching a few of the citizens who stand behind the assaulted doors). [Save vs DC 26! or fall down.] He leaps into the air above their heads, covering one or two of them with his net (AC 16), aiming to catch the noble fighter on the left and, possibly, the one in the center (dependent on size of net, proximity of paladins -- am assuming they are close together, seeing they work together to bash in the door).
(DM's OOC: Bill doesn't buy any other nets--there are only ten in the shop; Renik purchased the first two, and then Sunblaze paid for the rest. However, only Renik, Draax and Sunblaze posted about keeping any of the nets, so Bill can take 3 nets--leaving a total of 6 in Sunblaze's possession. Oh, and a battle net is listed as an Exotic Ranged Weapon, so unless your PC has the Battle Net chosen as an Exotic Weapon Feat, everyone attempting to throw the net suffers that -4 penalty Renik's post mentioned.)
[Kim's OOC response: Thanks, Donna. I overlooked that snippet at the start of Renik's post. I think that Sunblaze would be left with five nets, not six.]
Ferrak d20+7=11 Tuesday October 30th, 2001 6:30:57 PM
Taking the net that is given to him, Ferrak seems nervous and out of sorts on this day.
The balance of nature is too far gone for it not to bother him on some primal level. The way the sky is, the way these paladins are acting, all of the madness from before is finally catching up to the feral gnome.
When Bill stomps the paladins to the ground, Ferrak sends his net over them, (11) but it isn't enough for the wild gnome somehow. Throwing his spear aside, Ferrak clenches his fists snarling, ready to pound some sense into any paladins not covered by the poor throw.
"This wrong, oh so wrong, Darkfang." He calls to his brother. "Fight to trip them, they know not what they do."
Arien Wednesday October 31st, 2001 1:32:41 AM
Arien, trying to disable the paladins that weren't knocked over by Bill, activates the power in his cloak and casts a web at the standing paladins, trying to pin them against the building.
Net Worth (DM Donna) d20+1=17 d20-1=13 d20+2=20 d20=8 d20+2=18 d20+2=20 d20+4=6 d20+3=21 d20+1=12 d6+1=3 d20+5=11 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 6:58:45 AM (OOC: you should refer to the entry about Nets in your 3e PHB--it's in Chapter 7: Equipment, listed first under the "Exotic Weapons--Ranged" section and then alphabetically in the list of Weapons descriptions {pages 99 and 102 respectively in my edition of the book.} As I see it, a battle net is meant to entangle one medium-sized target.)
Renik's inexperience at tossing the battle net is compensated by the single-mindedness of his target's attempts to bash the rightside window's shutters open--the net settles over one of the paladins! The mad warrior attempts to Escape the net, but its barbs hold him fast!
His buddy turns to face the warrior-rogue--just in time to have Draax's own net settle squarely over the crazed woman! She attempts to strike through her net at Draax, but the exotic weapon entangles her too much, and her mace falls quite short of its target.
The ranting paladin that Sunblaze is trying to charm turns and stares with wide eyes at the singing elf. (OOC: his 20 save beats the Charm DC.)
"Foul creature from the depths..!" he denounces, lifting high his longsword. "It will be my honor and pleasure to dispatch ye back to the Pit..!!!" His swing of the sword, however, seems to be...less than steady--as though perhaps the paladin--though in the grip of madness--is, even now, attempting to battle his way out from its deceptive clutches.
Bill's Stomping tactic once more proves true, as all three paladins trying to bust down the door tumble to the ground--the rightmost paladin screeching as she realizes she's also entangled in the halfling's hastily-thrown battle-net!
Ferrak's throw, however, falls to the left of the leftmost paladin. Darkfang, however, growls his agreement with his big brother's assessment of the Wold today, and leaps at one of the paladins to the left of the door--one of the two paladins trying to tear open the left window. That paladin is tripped and falls down on his little dwarven keister, suffering 3hp of subdual damage because of it.
Unfortunately, both of the left-window paladins AND Darkfang become caught in Arien's Web spell.
Sontra(Sunblaze)[Steven] d20+3=20 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 10:39:29 AM
Sontra, seeing the paladin is fighting itself he leaves him, charging towards Darkfang. He jumps(Jump Skill: Untrained: +3 to Dex: 20) over the bits and pieces of web, right beside Darkfang. Then he attempts to pull the wolf free(I believe he's a wolf).
His voice cries out in elven, as to keep the paladins unknowing of their plans. "Try and get those people out of the building. Darkfang and I are fine here! Get Greener to Levitate me AND Darkfang when I say!" If he still can move, he tries to get Darkfang out of the Web, pulling him out.
"NOW!"
Ferrak d20+8=10 Wednesday October 31st, 2001 5:10:38 PM
Seeing that Darkfang is in trouble drives the wild gnome into a rage. He notices that Sontra/Sunblaze has gone to help his brother but his anger is not so easily stopped.
Charging the nearest paladin that is not yet pinned, Ferrak flings himself bodily at the mad knight. (Trying to initiate a grapple. Touch attack. I rolled a two, dag blast it.)
"GRRRRRRRRRR!"
Bill Troublefinder d20+7=18 d20+5=23 Thursday November 1st, 2001 2:30:41 AM
Bill takes the net he had tucked in to his belt, and drapes it over the next grounded paladin [AC 18: to hit +9 for thrown weapon, -4 for untrained weapon, +2 for opponent prone]. As he does so, Bill calls out, "Good lords and ladies. You are deluded. Neither we nor those whom you persecute are demons. We are people. Domi died in an act of valor and sacrifice. He saved the lives of many. Do not pile guilt upon yourselves. Have courage. But forsake this foolishness. Fight against the Cult Gods and their followers, if you must, but, in Domi's name, leave these poor people alone." [Diplomacy check DC 23] Bill hovers about twenty feet in the air. He pulls something else out of his bag.
Rond d20+4=8 d20+2=22 d20+2=20 Thursday November 1st, 2001 5:19:18 AM
Rond looks about and decides to toss his net on one of the clerics (if he can, if not, he holds action). Tossing the net, it arcs slowly, and unerringly for the underside of the bridge. Rond sighs. Filling his lungs with air Rond barks, "HAVE COURAGE. These were the last things that Domi said to the crowd in the arena. He did not say kill any who do not follow Domi. He did not say seek revenge for me. Even his last act was to save a little girls life, not to worry about what Marteaus was about to do to him. These acts are UNBECOMING of followers of DOMI. CEASE AND DESIST, STAND DOWN and LOWER YOUR WEAPONS, NOW! (Intimidate =22) (ooc thinking of others, but they may not be needed. ie diplomacy 20, was thinking of leadership, but I gotta have that. :) Also, I'm not at home, character sheet not available. Tried to do this from memory. Apologize if anything wrong.)
Combat Round 2 d20+3=8 d20+3=17 d20+3=8 d8+3=6 d20+3=11 d20=10 d20=13 d20+1=14 d20+1=6 d20+2=19 d20+2=15 d20+3=6 d20+3=11 d20=6 d20=12 d20+1=19 d20+1=13 d20+2=16 d20+2=10 d20+3=5 d20+3=16 d20-1=10 d20-1=16 d20+5=11 d20-2=10 d20-2=10 Thursday November 1st, 2001 7:15:29 AM
Sontra foolishly attempts to jump to Darkfang's side to help the wolf rather than making sure that the mad paladin--still VERY much in the grip of the mass insanity that plagues him and the rest of the guards attacking innocents--cannot attack anybody... thus does Sontra become the target of the ranting paladin's three attacks of opportunity. One of the three crazed attacks hits Sontra for 6hp of damage.
However, Sontra does manage to wrench Darkfang free of the Web. Ferrak's attack on the ranting paladin misses, but the paladin turns and aims his regular attack at the fiesty warrior druid. (OOC: it misses at 11.)
Both Bill's and Rond's words are good enough to give all the paladins pause--there is a moment or two when the Hamleteers think that the paladins might just come to their senses... but the mad glint returns to their eyes and they attempt to strike at the people they perceive as evil enemies trying to save demons from the righteous wrath of Domi..!
The entangled paladin closest to Renik misses (got a 10); the one closest to Draax also misses.
None of the paladins by the door (two of whom are now in nets, too) can act as Bill's Stomp has them momentarily Dazed (but that won't last long!)
The ranting paladin is facing Ferrak, so the newly-freed Darkfang snaps at that one's leg, but misses.
The two paladins that are in the Web are entangled, but close enough to Sontra to try to strike at the disguised Hamleteer... both blows miss, however.
Draax d20+7=27 d20+7=26 d8+7=15 d8+7=9 Thursday November 1st, 2001 10:20:34 AM
Draax strikes at the paladin with magical longsword using the flat side of his blade to try to cause nonlethal damage (-4). He hits his target firmly on the side of the pally's head (natural 20 and 26 on crit roll) (subdual dmg 24).
Draax takes a step back to see if the pally is able to continue and hoping that the damage was enough to subdue the paladin without hurting him too bad.
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] d20+4=11 d8+2=8 Thursday November 1st, 2001 10:44:19 AM
Sontra, lets out a cry of triumph that he freed Darkfang, knowing the paladin's attack on him was well worth the wolf's attack as opposed to his own.
As he now attempts to attack the Paladin closest him. He wants to let him live, yet the paladins will take much convincing. Perhaps the sharp blade of his sword will be good enough. If not, he can always attempt to knock him out. (Attack Roll 11: 8 damage if that baaaaaaaaaad roll hits)
Bill Troublefinder d20+9=27 d20+5=18 Thursday November 1st, 2001 11:11:42 AM
The halfling throws a tanglefoot bag down at the unnetted paladin. (AC 27) "Your madness shames the memory of Domi. Take self-control, good paladins, or rue the day." (Yet another diplomacy attempt, DC 18.)
Bill pulls something else from his bag.
Ferrak d20+8=26 d20+3=19 d2+3=4 Thursday November 1st, 2001 6:33:52 PM
"We arggr not demons!" yells Ferrak as he attempts to tackle the ranting paladin once again.
"We killed a cult ggod as proof..." as he plows into the midsection of the mad paladin. "Show them, Sontra!"
Grapple-Base attack+4 Str+3 Size-4= a net of +3 4 dmg if success.
(Maybe not a good idea as my size is not helping, but all he can do to me now is subdual damage.)
Arien Thursday November 1st, 2001 9:35:36 PM
Arien holds back from leaping into the general fray or from doing much else for the moment, since he could do little to the paladins that did not involve doing something permanant to them.
Combat Round 3 d20-2=0 d20-2=9 d20+2=19 d20+5=6 d20+1=19 d20=13 d20+1=16 Friday November 2nd, 2001 6:59:29 AM
Ka-THWAK! Where Bill's urgent words and Rond's insistent intimidation fail to snap this group of holy warriors out of their delusion, the flat of Draax's sword makes for a convincing argument as it smacks solidly up against the side of her head--knocking her out cold!
Too bad Sontra's attack misses by a mile--but the Web entangling the pair of paladins once more fouls their respective aims at him, saving the bard/wizard from some nasty wounds.
Bill's well-aimed tanglefoot bag entangles the third paladin that had been chopping at the barricaded door, but the half-elf manages to roll with the bag so that that he isn't glued in place. (OOC: made a Reflex save.) This time, the halfling's words seem to fall on deaf ears as the paladin lurches forward, apparently intent upon engaging either Arien or Rond. (Being entangled, however, this ax-wielder won't reach either one until the next post.)
The other two paladins by the door attempt to struggle out of their nets, but neither manage to escape.
Ferrak literally throws himself at his opponent, providing some comic relief as the incongruous image of the wild little gnome grappling with the big, tall, strapping human man unfolds before the eyes of whatever witnesses are in the area. Unfortunately, however, as the paladins viewing it are insane, the innocents completely terrorized, and the Hamleteers fighting for the lives of both the paladins AND the innocents...nobody laughs.
However paradoxic the scene, however--Ferrak's aggression DOES manage to put the paladin on the defensive, and the ranting warrior's blade goes flying. Darkfang backs up his brother by once more nipping at the armored guard's heels. However, with an attack roll of 6 (ouch!) the wolf's jaws snap at air.
The paladin closest to Renik tries to stab at the rogue, but Renik is simply too nimble to be struck.
Rond d20+2=8 d20+2=7 Friday November 2nd, 2001 10:01:43 AM
Continuing with his Rant, "CHOSEN OF DOMI. STOP THIS DISGRACEFUL ACT. WHAT YOU DO HARMS THE POPULATION THAT WE ARE CHARGED WITH PROTECTING. DO NOT PLACE YOURSELVES UNDER THIS MANTEL OF AGGRESSION THAT YOU DISPLAY. THROW OFF THE YOKE THAT IS BURDENING YOUR SHOULDERS. DO LOSE YOURSELVES TO DESPAIR. CHOOSE THE PATH OF LIFE, THAT YOUR LORD MAY RETURN." If Rond can do it, he'll maneuver around the tanglefooted paladin, and try protect the door that the others were beating on. (Intimidate=8 Diplomacy=7 (sigh) ;) )
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] d20+4=18 d8+2=10 Friday November 2nd, 2001 10:43:02 AM
Since staying here will be certain death, Sontra lets his sword 'Dance' and attack without him (18, 10 damage if hit). While the sword moves around, Sontra backs off. He knows he should be safe, the sword will hopefully cover his exit.
Quickly he opens his Haversack and right there on the top is his potion. He downs it, and in doing so, begins to levitate (Potion of Levitation) out of the weapons range of the Paladins.
Bill Troublefinder d20+7=25 d20=3 d20=7 Friday November 2nd, 2001 11:36:42 AM
Bill lifts over his head a sack. Inside said sack is a gallon jar of water. He hurls it down on the head of the first paladin he netted. It hits squarely [AC 25], with the sound of breaking glass [item save of 3 for glass] and of water whooshing out of the no longer waterproof bag [item save 7], pierced by shards of the glass jar. He hopes that this knockout strike will not prove fatal. "Rest easy," he counsels.
Arien Friday November 2nd, 2001 2:27:37 PM
Looking at the mad half-elf with some pity and instead of attacking him Arien drops a grease spell directly on the paladin's weapon.
Ferrak (The bigger they are?) d20+3=17 Friday November 2nd, 2001 7:56:28 PM
A flurry of elbows and knees, the feral gnome continues his assault on the rampaging paladin.
Ferrak tries to stay entangled in the knight's legs, as he uses every trick he's ever learned wrestling his four legged brother, attempting to bring the knight down in a pin. (Grapple+3=17)
"Grr."
Draax d20+7=15 d8+7=10 Sunday November 4th, 2001 11:21:48 AM
Seeing that the paladin he was facing is no longer a threat, Draax moves over to the pally facing Renik and attempts to hit him with the flat side of his long sword (hit AC 15 for 10 subdual dmg if hit).
Combat Round 4 (DM Donna) d20-1=9 d20-1=10 d20-1=19 d8=1 d20+2=13 d20=8 d20+2=14 d20+5=18 d20=15 d20+3=10 d6+1=4 d20-1=7 d20-4=8 Monday November 5th, 2001 7:23:53 AM
Rond's solilioquy, though true, still falls upon deaf ears.
Sontra's sword covers the disguised elf's retreat from the pair of Webbed paladins--but only partially. One of the paladins gets struck by the weapon, but the other one is relatively free to attempt an attack of opportunity on Sontra.
While the extra attack misses, the paladin's regular attack does not, striking the retreating Hamleteer. Though only a mere scratch, the sudden pain is enough to cause Sunblaze to have to make a Fortitude save against instinctively dropping her potion bottle...which, fortunately, she manages to hang onto.
Bill's missile lands squarely on the head of the paladin he had just recently netted just as the warrior was trying to escape the net. The paladin fails his Fortitude save and slumps to the ground, out cold.
The half-elf that Arien cast the Grease spell upon (or, rather, his axe) raises his weapon violently, madness gleaming in his eyes as he seeks to slay the "demon" in front of him--but the Greased haft of the axe slips out of his grip, and the weapon goes clattering to the ground! (OOC: definitely rolled too low on the Reflex save.)
Ferrak's bravura seems ill-advised as the much-larger human raises a mailed fist to bring it down on the head of the imp he perceives is latched onto his leg--but before the fist can descend, Darkfang sinks his teeth into the paladin's calf and yanks the misguided crusader off-balance enough to have the paladin flub the blow. The human paladin suffers 4hp from the wolf's bite.
Draax's attempt to "sedate" the paladin striking out at Renik just barely misses, but the warrior--in flinching away from the incoming blow--misses the nimble Renik once more.
"Rally, Chosen of Domi!" yells the paladin Ferrak is wrestling. "Let not these hellspawn sway us from our righteous course!!!" It's a very inspirational speech, for all that he's foaming at the mouth now. The remaining paladin by the door--who is no longer dazed by Bill's stomping--works furiously to free herself from the net, but remains trapped within it.
Bill Troublefinder d20+7=8 Monday November 5th, 2001 7:50:43 AM
Bill plans to drop a pound sack of flour on the struggling paladin's head, but as he raises it over his own head, the bottom tears open, and the levitating halfling is quickly coated with a layer of white flour. Fine white dust drifts down upon the paladin below, while Bill starts sneezing and coughing. A little mound of flour rests on his head, and his shoulders are particularly white.
Sontra (Sunblaze) [Steven] Monday November 5th, 2001 11:00:46 AM
(OOC: This is all assuming that I'm at my level 5/1 now. If not, just delete this post)
Sontra, quickly forming a plan within his mind, he moves himself towards the way them came, as fast as possible (20 feet). He attempts to pull himself along -- anything to speed up the process.
Once there, and hidden, he casts a spell, which forms in his mind instantly. A horse appears, for him to ride upon. Once it is fully summoned, he uses his ring's ability (Change self, twice per day) to look like Domi, who had fallen just days ago.
Draax d20+7=22 d8+7=15 Monday November 5th, 2001 6:52:37 PM
Draax smiles as he gets the paladin's attention enough to make him miss Renik. He feels awkward fighting with the intent of not seriously hurting his opponents. Using the flat side of the blade goes against everything that he was taught during his training sessions with the sword. With each swing he has to fight against the natural instinct of using the sharp side of the blade.
He swings again at the paladin that was attacking Renik using the flat side of his blade (hit AC22, 15 subdual dmg), reminding himself of the success he had with putting down the other paladin and the fact that they know not what they do. Looking around at the innocent bodies lying around he wonders if it is actually worth saving them.
Renik d20=7 Monday November 5th, 2001 7:55:43 PM
Glad for Draax's help while the heat is on, Renik relies on some fancy foot work to narrowly avoid being gutted by a mad paladin.
When the flat of Draax's blade connects with the Paladin that is most recently attacking him, Renik cocks his sword arm back.
Hopefully once again distracted by Draax's attack, Renik steps towards the Paladin and tries to punch him with the pommel of his rapier. (7+9-4=12)
Ferrak d20+3=16 d2+3=5 Monday November 5th, 2001 7:59:49 PM
Thankful for his brother's help against this big bad bi-ped, Ferrak goes for a few shots below the belt. (Att+3=16 Dmg=5)
Combat Round 5 (DM Donna) d20+9=19 d20=9 d20=1 d20=20 d20+2=9 d20+2=15 d20+5=14 d20+4=5 Tuesday November 6th, 2001 7:41:02 AM
Bill's effort to blind his opponent results in the poor halfling wearing the flour that had been meant for one of the rampaging paladins. Other than looking extremely...strange, however, Bill doesn't suffer any blinding effects (OOC: made a Fort save roll for ya, Bill!)
Gone is the levitating Sontra/Sunblaze--instead is the human figure of Domi...with a horse..? The two paladins who'd been attacking the disguised bard/wizard blink in awe, completely convinced that they are beholding their patron deity in the flesh. They cry out for joy and prostrate themselves--or try to. They STILL remain Webbed, however, so they can't quite do that.
Draax and Renik work on the remaining paladin on their side of the building, and--though the rogue misses, Draax's blow is true. Unfortunately, the paladin shakes off the effects of the strike and counterattacks and attempts to hit back, but fails miserably.
Ferrak continues to hold onto his opponent, and even manages to land an additional blow...below the man's waist. The paladin's eyes bulge and his voice becomes a croak, but he doesn't keel over from the pain. (OOC: made his Fort save, Ferrak--sorry! ;D) Darkfang's jaws snap again, but miss the paladin's leg, and so the paladin remains standing.
The dancing sword also misses the awestruck paladin gaping up at "Domi".
'Domi': Sunblaze: Steven Tuesday November 6th, 2001 10:45:22 AM
'Domi' walks forth on his horse. Towards the Paladins. His hands outstretched, as if to accept them. He watches them only, not the battle.
"Cease this!" He tries to sound as brave as possible. He grabs the sword from the air, dropping it to the ground.
"You have believed I am dead, yet as most things are...this was a test. Not to see your faith in me, to see it within yourself."
(OOC: Donna, i've already noticed a few things wrong with my character sheet. I'll fix it up and send again.)
Renik d20+2=9 d20=4 Tuesday November 6th, 2001 6:25:50 PM
Pointing with one hand at Sontra/Domi, Renik cocks back his sword arm again. "Look, it's Domi!" he exclaims innocently. (Bluff-9)
If the knight falls for it, then Renik is gonna let him have it. If the paladin doesn't fall for it he is still gonna let him have it. (Except I rolled a four.)
Ferrak d20+3=7 Tuesday November 6th, 2001 6:37:04 PM
Clambering up onto the mad paladins armor while they wrestle around the church grounds, Ferrak tries his best to obscure the knights face plate as he batters him about the head. (Att+3=7)
"Trip him now Brrother, NOW!" he growls, hanging on tightly as the big bi-ped totters back and forth.
Draax d20+7=26 d8+7=8 d20+7=14 Tuesday November 6th, 2001 9:42:32 PM
Draax swings again with the flat side of his blade toward the paladin (roll natural 19, no crit, 8 subdual dmg). He knows that with him and Renik alternating attacks they should be able to take this one down too.
After he connects, he follows Renik's eyes to the disguised Sunblaze and his eyes almost fall out of his head. He takes a breath as he remembers about his party's ability to alter their appearances and sighs in relief or disappointment, he is not sure which.
Bill Troublefinder d20+3=21 d20+7=21 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 12:42:53 AM
Bill pulls a two pound block of cheese, wrapped, out of his bag. He opens a corner of the wrapping, and takes a bite. Ah, aged cheese! Then he notices the Domi figure. [Sense motive 21] He senses it's not really Domi. Who is it? He decides to figure this out, just as soon as he launches his next missile downward. The block of cheese heads toward the paladin who looks just about to escape from the net. Plaf! [What kind of damage does a block of cheese do, DM Donna? Aiming for the head. AC 21]
Some white powdery dust drifts down off the hobbit following the hurling of the cheese block.
Arien d6=5 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 12:50:53 AM
Arien glances about the area for a big stick or something along those lines that he could use to club the mad paladins without hurting them too badly.
(OOC:Roll was HP for new level)
Who IS This??? (DM Donna) d20=6 d20=18 d20=6 d20=2 d20=17 d20+2=7 d20+1=10 d20+2=4 d20+3=22 d20+5=8 d20+1=2 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 6:25:25 AM
"Domi" gets the attention of every conscious paladin--except for the one that Ferrak is wrestling with, since the feral gnome is blocking that guy's view. One of the paladins still entangled by the Web spell scowls.
"That's NOT Domi!!!" he scoffs, then strains mightily against the strands that hold him (to no avail, however.)
The paladin facing Renik and Draax--while momentarily distracted by the sight of the "god of courage"--nonetheless also disbelieves Sontra's bluff, and tries to strike at Renik once more. He misses, and Draax's smack upside his head knocks him out! (OOC: he failed a Fort save, you lucky dawgs!)
"Rrrrwwweeee, brrrrrrvrrrrrsssss, RRRRWEEEEEE!" The muffled voice of the face-hugged paladin is nowhere near as effective as the unobstructed urging he'd been doing earlier. Exasperated, the holy warrior manages to grab hold of Ferrak and tosses the feral gnome towards the Web holding his fellow paladins to the left of the door! (Ferrak needs to make a Reflex save versus DC15 or land squarely in the middle of the Web, becoming as entangled as the two paladins within it.
Darkfang snarls, because the paladin's sudden heaving of Ferrak causes the wolf to miss the tall man's leg yet again!
"Ah-HA!!!" cries the paladin next to Arien, who is looking for a weapon that won't hurt the mad guards too badly. Arien blinks as he registers a naked sword in this warrior's hand--he managed to free himself from one of the nets finally and has caught the spellcaster/rogue flatfooted..!
Or so it seems--because, suddenly, a missile smacks the paladin on the very top of his head. Arien sees the man's eyes roll up and the paladin keels over. The high elf's eyes drop to the timely weapon that saved his bacon--it's a brick...with a bite taken out of one corner..?
Ferrak d20+3=17 d20+10=15 d2+3=5 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 8:36:32 AM
Twisting in the air, Ferrak manages to control his flight enough to end up safely out of the webbing. Landing, for the most part on all four appendages, the feral gnome growls deep within his throat.
"GGGGGGGRRRRRRRR!"
Then quickly springing from his semi-prone position, Ferrak charges the knight in leaps and bounds. Like a wolf going in for the kill, he pounces at the knight that threw him, trying to hit him so that he falls over Darkfang. (Att+10 w/charge=15 Dmg=5)
If looks were weopons, this knight would have fallen over just from the sheer determination set in the wild gnome's diminutive glare.
"Flugdhfgkifajfn fall down!" curses Ferrak in Druidic.
Renik Wednesday November 7th, 2001 9:25:02 AM
Moving over to help cover the knight that Ferrak is battling. Renik watches as the feral gnome flies past his face in slow motion...
Hearing strange words coming from the gnome's lips as he flies past the savvy spy, Renik pauses and thinks to himself.
'Now there's something you don't see everyday.'
Witnessing the chaos of greasy, flour soaked, webbing, as Domi rides again, and a brick with a bite in it hits a mad paladin of Domi in the head. Renik shrugs his shoulders, crouches, and readies himself for whatever comes next.
'Domi': Sunblaze: Steven Wednesday November 7th, 2001 10:20:19 AM
'Domi' starts to float (Potion of levi still working) towards the Webbed Paladin, hands outstretched. Yet he never goes into the web area.
"You try to, to be brave, to fight the evil. Yet do you know what you've become? Yes, that is what you are. The evil you so dearly fought. My child...Have courage. If you wish to turn your back on me that is fine. I know you will be...safe." He sighs, going towards his steed (Phantom Steed).
Bill Troublefinder d20+6=18 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 1:13:12 PM
Bill clears his throat of glutenous flour and cheese, then sings a song to the paladins in his fine tenor voice. [Perform 18]
"You have gone -- crazy We are not -- demons I'm just a -- hobbit Who could ask for anything more?
"Please quit your -- madness Leave off your -- ravings Come to your -- right minds Who could ask for anything more? Who could ask for anything more?"
He reaches again into his bag.
Draax Wednesday November 7th, 2001 1:59:24 PM
Draax lays the two unconscious paladins side by side. He takes a rope out of his backpack and ties them both together without removing their nets. After he is satisfied that the two are secured he will look around to see if any of the other paladins still need to be restrained.
Arien Wednesday November 7th, 2001 4:53:52 PM
Arien picks up both the brick and the sword the now unconcious paladin had wielded. He tosses the weapon away from where any of the paladins could retrieve it with any ease. Arien then looks in the direction that the brick had come from in an attempt to discover who his unknown benefactor was.
Rond d20+9=18 Wednesday November 7th, 2001 10:47:52 PM
Wishing no ill will, Rond engages one of the closest Pallys to the door. Swinging his sword, he grunts as he swings the flat of his blade around, and tries to halt its arc, after he misses.
STOP the INSANITY!!! (DM Donna) d20=16 d20+5=22 d20=3 d6=6 d20+5=25 d20+2=3 2d6(3+1)+3=7 d20=1 Thursday November 8th, 2001 7:54:27 AM
Ferrak charges the leader paladin, slamming into the man with enough force to make the human grunt and teeter precariously, but the determined yet misguided paladin remains on his feet.
Darkfang's teeth once more sink into the struggling warrior's leg and the wolf gives a mighty YANK on the appendage--NOW the man loses his balance, toppling over onto the ground! (Ferrak, make a Reflex save versus DC10 to jump clear or suffer 3hp of falling damage.)
Renik and Arien look around, and the high elf sees Bill floating up in the air. Arien's eyes return to the "brick"--and he sees it's a brick of cheese. (Roll an Intelligence check versus DC10 to make the leap of logic that it's Bill's cheese.)
Draax ties up the unconscious paladins as "Domi" continues to try to convince the remaining conscious ones to cease hostilities. (OOC: I rolled a Bluff check for ya, Sunblaze--the result, unfortunately, is a natural 1.)
"False demon--preying upon the innocent!" yells the one paladin left standing. "Taste steel yo--OOOOOF!"
The "oof" is a result of Rond's blow from the flat of his sword (OOC: the 18 result did NOT miss!) on the back of the distracted chevalier's head. The ranger's strike results in the paladin falling to the ground, unconscious.
Quick battle tally: all but two of the paladins are out cold--one of them is hopelessly stuck in the Web to the left of the door, and the other is flat on his back thanks to Ferrak and Darkfang.
'Domi': Sunblaze: Steven d20+2=4 d20+2=7 Thursday November 8th, 2001 10:42:38 AM
(Bluff Check, +2 is charisma. I don't know if anything else should be added other then that)
'Domi' grabs the sword again, getting ready to slice the paladin. Then he gets off the horse, telling it to charge at the Paladin who's stuck in the web.
'Domi' then walks over to Ferrak's paladin, trying to get near him enough to have the paladin look at him. (Rolled another bluff check, because I don't think he was part of the other, if so then...pah!)
Bill Troublefinder Thursday November 8th, 2001 5:43:33 PM
Bill sinks down a little ways.
"I know Domi. You are NOT Domi. GO AWAY, FALSE ONE! Do NOT seek to beguile further these noble knights who are beguiled ENOUGH! You would wield the edge of the sword against those who served the true Domi? I stand against thee!"
And Bill interposes himself between the paladin in the web and the Domi-impersonator, holding darts in each hand to threaten the poser.
He hopes the hint is taken.
Ferrak d20+3=21 d20+12=30 d2+3=5 d20+8=12 Thursday November 8th, 2001 6:31:08 PM
Wild and agile, the little gnome avoids the falling paladin, scrambling off to the right.
"Yes Darkfang, you're the best!" he barks in wolven as he bares his teeth in a grin.
Rolling up and moving quickly, Ferrak clambers up onto Darfangs shoulders for extra elevation. Then momentarily holding both arms up for balance, the feral gnome jumps down on the prone paladin in what I believe is called a flying suflex.
"Grr!"
(Att+8+4 for prone=30! Dmg=5 any bonuses for a classic wrestling move? The last role is a ride check in case I needed it.)
Renik Thursday November 8th, 2001 6:43:16 PM
Not quite sure if the wild gnome needs his help or not, and fairly amused by what he is now witnessing, Renik steps closer to see if this paladin is finally 'down for the count'.
Kneeling next to the two combatants, the canny thief slaps the ground near the paladin's head to see if he is still kicking.
Once...
Twice.....
?
Draax Thursday November 8th, 2001 11:39:14 PM
Draax takes one last look at the secured paladins just to ensure himself that they are not going anyway. He turns to looks at the play that is unfolding before him. He has identified all the actors, but has no idea of the name of the play. He holds back and waits to see what happens.
Rond Friday November 9th, 2001 12:58:28 AM
After delivering his blow, Rond hears Bill seemingly take charge of ths situation. While there is a quick lull in things, Rond checks the area out. He does his best to stay quiet, and not to distract things.
Arien d20+4=21 Friday November 9th, 2001 1:50:24 AM
Arien looks at the cheese, then at Bill and then back at the cheese again. Then, shrugging he tosses the cheese over his shoulder and begins collecting the weapons from the unconcious or incapacitated paladins.
All Over But the Shoutin' (DM Donna) d20+5=22 Friday November 9th, 2001 7:12:42 AM
The paladin upon whom Ferrak & Darkfang have repeatedly executed several WWF-style maneuvers is FINALLY down for Renik's count!
As the rest of the party begins to realize that the only paladin left conscious is one of the two in the Web, that warrior begins to weep...for joy.
"I knew you couldn't have forsaken us, my lord," he sobs, "I knew it! See how many of the vile natives of the lower planes we have slain in your name? See their cursed remains...never will they threaten the Wold again! Great is Domi! Great is Domi..!"
And all around the Wind Hamleteers, the dead and dying citizens of Plateau City lay as the poor, mad paladin blubbers on with the utmost sincerity and pride about the scores of devils and demons dispatched back to the realms of evil.
'Domi': Sunblaze: Steven d20+6=23 Friday November 9th, 2001 10:39:57 AM
'Domi' sheathes the sword and walks towards the last Paladin. His hands outstretched (Reflex save, to avoid the webs). He smiles, continuing onward.
"Come with me..." He looks into the paladins eyes for a minute, before ripping away the shreds of web holding him there.
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=19 d4+2=6 Friday November 9th, 2001 6:02:54 PM
'Domi' will first have to get through Bill, who already had positioned himself in front of the webbed paladin. Seeing that the imposter is not heeding his words, but instead is coming toward him and the paladin, Bill launches his first dart, aiming for the false Domi's sword shoulder. [+9 ranged weapons, -4 for called shot, hits AC 19, 6 hp damage.] [He does not know this is Sunblaze - just that it is not Domi.]
"I said Go Away!" He draws his sword with his left hand, dart in the right hand, cocked to throw. His stance is sideways, most attention on 'Domi', but with the webbed paladin in his peripheral vision.
Renik Friday November 9th, 2001 7:15:29 PM
Three.
Sighing with relief, Renik stays slumped near to the ground, resting his eyes from the horrors around him.
Feeling a bit hysterical, the thief takes a few deep breaths, fearing that he too will soon go mad.
And in this corner... Ferrak! d20+7=8 d20+7=23 d20+9=10 d20+9=27 d20+9=25 Friday November 9th, 2001 7:30:09 PM
"Yeah! We did it, Darkfang." Yells Ferrak elated with his unarmed victory.
"I couldn't have done it without you." says the feral gnome proudly, as he scruffles the big black wolf roughly around the neck.
His celebration is short lived however, as the cries of the not yet dead reach his sharp ears.
Reaching into his backpack for his healing mud and herbs, Ferrak rushes over to try and help any of those who might yet be saved.
For those beyond help he does his best to ease their pain. (Two rolls without healer's kit two rolls with, for the more serious cases. One roll for luck. I rolled two natural ones after all, OUCH.)
Arien Friday November 9th, 2001 10:22:35 PM
"Hurry up with that one will you." Arien says impatiently. "We need to get these guys off the street and some place where they, and everyone else, are safe from thier madness." Then Arien does his best to secure the weapons, covering the bladed parts to prevent any accidents.
Draax Saturday November 10th, 2001 12:40:22 AM
Watching the action of Bill and the false god Sunblaze, Draax relaxes against a wall. "Oh, now this is good." A smile comes to his face as he tries to figure out what game the two are playing. Draax is amazed at how good an actor Bill is, if he wasn't so sure that Sunblaze and Bill were acting on some private plan of theirs, he would think that Bill would actually attack the bard. He figured that all the undercover work that the halfling has been doing must have been perfecting his acting abilities.
Draax counts the members of the group again and thinks in his mind, 'Yup, the only one that is missing is Sunblaze, so he must be disguised as Domi'.
He is also amazed at the fake dart that Bill throws at the image of the god. "These guys are amazing, it looks so real."
Draax knows that Arien is right and that the two actors are wasting precious time, but their performances is so good, he cannot wait to see how it ends.
Taking another look around to make sure that all the down pallys are secure, Draax turns his attention back to the play.
Epilogue to Scene 2 (DM Donna) Saturday November 10th, 2001 8:27:54 AM
Bill intercedes between "Domi" and the Webbed paladin, but the holy warrior is beyond noticing--he's salivating heavily and lost in what could be classed as religious ecstasy...or madness. Take your pick.
Sunblaze reveals herself to Bill, negating the need for the dart. The Hamleteers help where they can--securing the delusional paladins, bandaging the wounded, calming the trapped survivors after assuring them they've been rescued...relocating the bodies of the slain.
It's long, hard, dirty work...and it's close to midnight before the party returns to the safe house to drop into an exhausted sleep.
Bill Troublefinder Sunday November 11th, 2001 1:35:49 AM
"Whoa, that was a close call," Bill says as he halts the launch of his dart at the last second. Then he whispers to her, "Sorry 'bout that, Sunblaze. Didn't know it was you. Where'd you get the horse?"
Bill works hard to help the wounded, reassure the frightened, and enlist the help of some of the townsfolk in caring for the injured. He works at learning the names of as many as he can, and seeks to find out if any know any of the names of the woeful paladins. He asks if any of them were at the Golden Arena the night before. If any indicate they were, Bill engages them in conversation as they work together, and, if he finds one who he senses has a measure of discretion, will ask if they recognize the girl whom Domi held, and if they have any idea where she might live. If worthwhile information is forthcoming, he (discretely) offers a potion of healing (1-8) and a dozen gold pieces.
He recovers the battle nets, cleaning them off and folding them neatly. "Hey, I was thinkin'. You guys who use arrows - maybe you can fix up a few so that instead of sharp tips, you give 'em blunt ends. That way, when you hit someone, instead of pokin' 'em and slicin' 'em up, you'll just bruise 'em, maybe knock 'em out. Whaddaya say when we get back 'home' we fix up some like that? Cause, like today - or is this still tonight? - sometimes ya wanna disable someone without killin' 'em."
"Ferrak, remind me never to wrestle with you. You are one tough gnome!" He tells DarkFang that he, too, is ferocious and valiant. He asks Ferrak how to say that in the wolf's language. "I'd like to learn what you two are saying. I can talk with moles and badgers, but have never learned a canine tongue." Asking permission first, if Ferrak and DarkFang don't object, Bill begins to try to imitate the growls and whimpers and barks he hears exchanged between the wolf and gnome. He observes them for clues about body language, too.
As they walk home, Bill asks his friends what they thought of the tactics everyone used, and, if they were to come across a similar situation, if there are any things they might do differently next time. He apologizes for singing that silly song. "I just was trying to figure out *some* way of getting through to their scrambled brains. I think Sunblaze made that guy in the webs happy, at least."
Back at the safe house, Bill washes up as best he can, grabs a bedtime snack, then spends several minutes logging highlights of the dark day's events in his journal. Yet, overcome with exhaustion, he falls asleep in the middle of a paragra....
Darkest Before the Dawn
The Morning After (DM Donna) Monday November 12th, 2001 6:03:32 AM
Sunlight tickles your eyelids as you stubbornly cling to the gray area between sleeping and wakefulness. Dammit--you were working your tail off all through the dark day yesterday...you've earned this rest! Now the sun has to come along and--
The SUN??? You sit bolt upright, your eyes going to the blessed shafts of light streaming in through the windows of the safe house. The sun--it's risen! The Neverending Night...has ended!
Springing over to the window, however, kills the initial joy of the moment. The bleak state of Plateau City is all-too-easily revealed in the harsh, unrelenting light: rubble where any buildings dedicated to Domi once stood...damage and smoking fires dot the landscape...and, worst of all, far too many bodies of people killed during the chaos of the last 48 hours.
You almost wish the darkness to come back and hide the accursed view from your eyes.
Almost.
As you all sit down to break your fast, the back door opens--it's Marcus. The mayoral aide looks like he hasn't slept at all in the last 48 hours. He sits down with neither ceremony nor invitation, grabs a biscuit and a cup of whatever you're drinking and begins to talk in a hoarse voice:
"Anybody who dedicated themselves to Domi--cleric, paladin, ranger, even the odd druid--has been stripped of all divine abilities. Many of those who initially went...mad...have recovered their senses now that it is light again. Too many, however, have not." Marcus sighs, then swallows more food and drink before continuing.
"My sources tell me that the Dark Lord and his cronies have been having a field day since--" Marcus draws in a sharp breath, then continues, obviously changing his phrasing, "--for the past couple days...there are reports of mass conversions and even...of temples springing into being all over the City in the various districts. The Golden Arena and Gladiator Park are now...no longer normal, either."
Rond Monday November 12th, 2001 9:19:22 AM
Having witnessed the morning, Rond is a little surprised with Marcus comes a calling. Sitting down at the bed, Rond decides to chew on a biscuit or two as Marcus tells his story.
"Do you think this madness is normal? I only ask, because for a second while we were fighting the paladins, the group of them seemed to fight the madness somehow. Because all of them paused for a second, while I was trying to get some sort of reaction from them."
When Marcus ends Rond asks, "Is there anything more that we can do right now?"
Bill Troublefinder Monday November 12th, 2001 5:33:01 PM
Bill awakens with the morning light. He puts water on to boil. He greets his friends, gently shaking any who still sleep. He prepares tea for all, with sugar for those who like it sweet. He takes in the view of the city. "Darkness may triumph for a time," he comments, then turns away, shaking his head.
He greets Marcus, and listens to him as he slowly eats his breakfast. Beside his plate, on a piece of parchment he sketches the faces of the girl whom Domi held, and of her mother. He holds the parchment up, and shows the spy master. "I want to find this girl and her mother. Do you know them? Domi saved her."
[OOC: Did anyone at yesterday's cleanup indicate they had been at the stadium? Did any know anything of the girl? See Bill's 11-11-01 post.]
DM OOC: My apologies--I'd forgotten that Bill had inquired about that.
While some of the people the party rescued were, indeed, at the Arena, none of them personally know the girl or her mother--although one of them seems to recall seeing a female who resembles the lady elf in the company of a lieutenant of the City Guard. Can't remember the name of the lieutenant (also an elf) however.
[Bill would then have given the person who mentioned the connection with the lieutenant the healing potion (1-8) and 12 gp. -Kim]
Ferrak Monday November 12th, 2001 6:35:53 PM
(Last night.) Ferrak enjoys the idea of teaching Bill the wolven tongue. In fact he is surprised that his new pack doesn't already speak it. Passing strange indeed. Without much time to go into it in depth the first thing Ferrak teaches Bill is the bare basics of lupine grrrammar. "Woof."
(The morning after.) Sleeping outside under the sky, the feral pair great the morning sun ecstaticlly. Loud barking and crashing through the streets and back alleys near the safe house, can be heard as they celebrate through the early morning.
However, as the horrors of the city present themselves to the brothers, their celebrations soon turn sour and they return to the safe house shortly.
Finding a ray of sunshine to sit in, Ferrak and Darkfang lie quietly together until Marcus shows up. Sitting up attentively, the wolven brothers listen to what Marcus and the others have to say.
Renik Monday November 12th, 2001 6:40:55 PM
"Five more minutes," grumbles the tired rogue when he's nudged by Bill. He turns over to put a pillow over his face to keep the sun out of his eyes. It takes him a few seconds for what he is doing to register.
"I'll be..." he says as he jumps out of his cot. Getting dressed quickly, Renik is ready for business when Marcus shows up.
Draax Monday November 12th, 2001 9:06:06 PM
Over a light meal Draax listens as Marcus updates the group on current events. He is not happy about the advancement of the Dark lord, but he is not surprised either. He waits for Marcus to answer Rond's questions before asking one of his own. "For a moment I thought that we were going to be stuck in darkness forever. Did you have anything to do with the return of the sun, or was the long darkness just a temporary side effect of the arena event?"
Bill T Tuesday November 13th, 2001 2:03:16 AM
When Draax asks Marcus if he were responsible for the return of the sun, Bill inadvertently spews tea out his nose. Very embarrassed, he grabs a cloth and quickly cleans up. He tries to cover his faux pas by asking, "Temples to which cult gods? What do you know about these religious pretenders?"
Tea & Sympathy (DM Donna) Tuesday November 13th, 2001 7:19:49 AM
The spymaster's smile in response to Rond's first question is bitter and brittle.
"Is this madness normal?" Marcus echoes, almost mocking in his tone. "Is the death of a major deity normal? Is the sudden rise of gods that were banished and all but forgotten normal???" The mayoral aide gives a short, sharp laugh--one that may well be tinged with madness itself. However, he looks more tired than ever, rubbing his eyes as his voice lapses into a factual, fatigued tone:
"It's insanity born of having what they most believed in literally killed. Many have recovered...though I dearly wish more of them had. Those who have not may yet regain their right minds...however, none of them will ever be the same again." Marcus turns bleary eyes to each of you in turn. "Heh...I daresay none of us shall, either." His attention is snagged by Bill's request about the elf mother and child.
"Hmmm...I'll work on that, then..." Marcus tells the halfling, pocketing the parchment, "...it will be almost a kind of...vacation from my regular duties." The man's smile is brief, but this time is not the brittle grimace from before.
"Oh, and I'll have to come by again with something for Ferrak and his...brother here..." Marcus reminds himself out loud, "Now--more than ever--I'll be needing you all to maintain your cover identities...hmmm...giving YOU two aliases will be a challenge..." He eyes the feral gnome and Darkfang, who yawns and then begins to groom himself. "...yes...a challenge indeed..."
Draax's question has just about the same effect on Marcus as it does on Bill. The man coughs a time or two and then--wonder of wonders!--actually grins!
"Well, while I'd just LOVE for you all to think that the sun rises and sets on me, I have to plead innocent to this one, Draax..." Marcus says with a chuckle, "...no...the theologians mostly seem to agree that the extra-long night--I've heard it referred to as 'the Day of Darkness' and 'the Neverending Night', amongst other things--was the reaction of the Wold itself to...the death of Domi. None can be sure how this is, only that it IS." Marcus swallows the last of his tea, then gets to his feet.
"The details on what these Cult God appearances mean, and what they are all up to are still sketchy," he says, "I'll doubtless have more missions for you in regards to that later...however, for right now, the city needs all the people who can do so to help in the rescue and recovery efforts. Far too many casualties and too much damage was done. Get yourselves over to Captain Thalis of the City Guard--she needs extra muscle." Marcus gives you the directions to where the Captain is located.
"She is one of my operatives, too--show her the coin you have, and she'll recognize it and know that I've sent you." Marcus goes to the door.
"Don't use your cover identities. Just go as yourselves." he adds, then yawns. "Good luck. I sincerely hope you don't find too many more bodies."
Ferrak Tuesday November 13th, 2001 6:35:39 PM
Ferrak is eager to go. Feeling that the balance of nature has gone too far off the scale to rest for long, he realizes the pit in his stomach can only be filled by helping more.
Riding Darkfang, the feral pair circle the house a few times to let out some of the ants from their pants.
Renik Tuesday November 13th, 2001 6:38:24 PM
Unable to match the wolven brother's enthusiasm, Renik downs a couple of coffees before he is ready to once again face the troubles of the day.
But to be sure, he most certainly is, ready.
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday November 13th, 2001 8:25:55 PM
Bill eats bread, and sausage, and slices of cheese. He shares with his friends. He longs for pie, but that will have to wait. "Oh, Marcus, sir, yesterday someone told me they thought they saw the girl's mother with one of the lieutenants of the guard, also an elf. Didn't get more of a description than that."
He downs his last cup of tea. "Anything you want us to pass on to Captain Thallis?"
[OOC: Please let us know where on the map we can find the captain. Thanks! Regarding the battle with the Paladins, I found the War Cathedral (Temple of Domi) in the Outcast Quarter of Plateau City - building 20, but couldn't find a 'Chapel' of Domi - unless that was a subset of the War Cathedral.]
Draax Tuesday November 13th, 2001 9:35:51 PM
Draax openly laughs at Bill's and Marcus' reaction to his question. "No, No, I did not mean to imply that you have the power to make the sun rise. I was only wondering if the dread was using something to keep it dark and did you or one of your operatives stop them. If I thought you had the power to raise the sun, the first thing I would ask you for would be a raise in pay." Still smiling Draax takes a drink of juice and double check his equipment before heading out with the others.
He watches the wolf brothers as they circle the house a few times and remembers that he has not be over to check on his horse in awhile. He promises himself to do so at the first opportunity.
Arien Wednesday November 14th, 2001 2:03:06 AM
Arien rubs a hand over his mouth for a moment, as if to rid himself of a bad taste. Then he responds to Marcus' final comment before leaving with the rest of the group. "Indeed there have been too many deaths so far. Sadly I doubt that the true horror of the events in the Arena have yet to come to pass."
Helping Hands (DM Donna) Wednesday November 14th, 2001 6:40:37 AM
"Thalis is already up to date on whatever information I have," the party's employer tells you, "Just go and help out--like I said, at THIS point, she needs the muscle."
Marcus leaves, and the Hamleteers--as per orders--troop on over to the Noble District, where Captain Thalis is in charge of the garrison of City Guard stationed in that part of the city. She's a sturdy-looking half-orc, and--true to Marcus's word--she recognizes the coin.
Helping Thalis and the guards is tiring, physically and emotionally, because much of what they need to do is restrain still-insane Domi worshippers, erractically-behaving citizens claiming to be converts to "the truth of The Raven!" or "the Love of The One" or whatever...
There is a LOT of work to do--the party assists Thalis & the guards nigh unto midnight. Just about then, the guardpost is visited by an elf lady, whom Thalis greets as Kianimar. The Hamleteers recognize her as the mother of the girl whom Domi saved.
Thalis introduces the group, and Kianimar seems to recognize you, too. When Thalis has her attention diverted by some of her guards making a report, the pretty elf explains she's a fledgeling wizard, you see--so she had already done some scrying to see if the heroes who helped her out were doing all right.
Kianimar thanks you all for her daughter's life, and explains that her husband is Frellin, Thalis' lieutenant. He was home, with their daughter Shianna, because he had a run-in with last night with some looters--but then rose about a half-hour ago or so and left the house...apparently taking Shianna with him.
"Have you seen him?" she asks you eagerly. "The only thing I could think of was that perhaps he came to see his Captain and comrades-in-arms...?"
"No, Ki," Thalis says as she steps back over to the hopeful elf mother, "Frellin hasn't been by here, has he--" The half-orc turns to the guards that she had just been speaking to--only to see that they've all drawn their weapons and are advancing menacingly upon you all!
Everyone must roll a Spot check versus DC15 to avoid being surprised. (As it is, you are all considered flatfooted.) There is one guard for every party member, plus Thalis and Kianimar; you are all easily within melee range as you are all inside the guardpost's receiving room at the moment.
Roll for your attacks (if applicable). Those who made their Spot checks get their attacks in first; otherwise the guards get their surprise attack in first. Good luck!
Bill Troublefinder d20+3=21 d20+6=8 d4=1 d20+14=31 Wednesday November 14th, 2001 12:50:20 PM
Bill is so happy to meet Kianimar, and to learn her little girl's name is Shianna. But, hearing the news of the absence of Lieutenant Frellin, her husband, and their daughter, he grows concerned.
Nevertheless, the halfling is alert enough, and shouts, "Ambush!" to warn his friends as it becomes obvious the guards are posed to attack. When he tries to stomp, however, his timing is off (attacking guards only fall if they fail vs DC 8 on Reflex save, and take only one point of subdual damage if they fall). Bill uses his boots to leap back to land neatly on the desk (Jump 31). He pulls a stick out of its case at his hip.
[OOC: That is, if there is a desk. Otherwise he'll aim for a chair or an unoccupied spot away from the guards.]
[OOC #2: How many guards oppose us? How large is receiving room? How many doors? Any windows? How high is ceiling? How is room lit? Where are people in relation to each other? What furniture is in room? What is outside the room? What is building made out of - wood, stone, brick, something else? Do we know any of these mutinous guards, having been working with them today?]
Ferrak d20+2=21 d20+4=13 Wednesday November 14th, 2001 5:08:31 PM
Ferrak's hackles rise as he senses danger.
Worried that his sentient spear will damage one of the guards, Ferrak grabs the wooden chair that he was using. Unsure as to whether these people are also under some kind of compulsion he rushes up to bash one of them with his improvised weapon. (13 w/-4 as a chair is not intended as a weapon.)
Renik d20+2=15 d20+3=16 d6+5=8 Wednesday November 14th, 2001 5:12:50 PM
Renik also keeping his eyes open, notices the attack.
"Halt in the name of Domi!" he yells trying to provoke some response from the assailants, so he can figure out whether or not to draw blood.
Until he's sure Renik once again cocks his arm back for another punch. (Att 16 Dmg=8)
Draax d20+1=6 Wednesday November 14th, 2001 10:13:19 PM
Draax is surprised to see Kianimar and is happy to hear that she made it safely away from the arena with her child. He is distressed to hear that her husband and child are missing. He listens as she talks to Thalis determined to help her in someway. He is so focused on their conversation that he does not realize anything is wrong until he hears Bill's shout.
Rond d20+2=17 Thursday November 15th, 2001 1:18:29 AM
Rond follows the orders he was given, and reports the Captain. He's glad to be temporarily out of the yoke of command. Spending the day just using his muscles helps to relax him during these troubled time.
When the group meets the elfen Lady, Rond is surprised that she was able to recognize the disguised Hamleteers as her daughters rescuers. Rond stores the scrying information for later, when he has a chance to ask someone about it. For when he goes to ask the young elfen Lady about his concern about detection, it seems that once again the Hamleteers are in the middle of ......something. Spotting the impending attack Rond barks, "Guard yourselves. Protect these two. " indicating Thalis and Kianimar " Thalis, any chance your people are going to stand down?" Rond holds his attacks, and simply defends any attackes directed at Thalis or Kianimar.
Arien d20+6=19 Thursday November 15th, 2001 2:22:02 AM
As Thalis and Kianimar talk a small bell of alarm goes off in Arien's head and a moment before the others he draws his rapier and turns to face the approaching guard. Weaving his rapier in a defensive pattern he shouts for the guards to surrender or they will be shown no mercy.
(With Uncanny Dodge and doing Total Defense this round with more than 5 ranks in Tumbling Arien's AC = 21)
Have At You! (DM Donna) d20=3 d20=16 d20=3 d20=15 d20=5 d20=11 d20+1=5 d20+2=11 d20+2=6 d20+8=18 d10+5=15 d20+2=17 d10+5=10 d20+5=8 d4+1=3 d4+1=3 Thursday November 15th, 2001 7:09:32 AM
"What's the meaning of this???" demands Thalis, drawing her own sword (a very large bastard sword). "Stand down, you fools, and expla--"
The treacherous guards leap to the attack, though more than half of them fall to the disruptive force of Bill's stomp. Thalis brings her sword around in a deadly arc, literally slicing open one of her foes and skewering another.
Darkfang lunges at one of the attacking people, but misses the leg he's aiming for.
Kianimar fires off a couple Magic Missiles at another guard, doing a total of 6hp damage to him, but is herself injured in spite of Rond's efforts to protect her.
Though mostly surprised, the Hamleteers' quick reflexes and expertise (and the assistance of Thalis and Kianimar) overcome the nine guards that were suddenly attacking you all.
Bill points out that all this is just SO puzzling--the party had been working side-by-side with most of these people all day long...why in the Wold would the guards attack them now? Thalis growls and hauls up one of the guards by his hair, aiming her blade so that she would be able to run him through in a split-second if she chose.
"Tell us what this is all about, Dykun!" the City Guard captain orders through gritted teeth. "Tell us, or so help me...!" The man is immediately cooperative, explaining in a rushed voice the exact circumstances:
These nine are converts to the Dark Lord! They feared the Hamleteers' interference in their commander's plan to give Marteaus his very first sacrifice, which must take place before sunrise--that of the life Domi had cheated from Marteaus in the Golden Arena.
Kianimar screams and faints--Thalis explains that these specific guards were commanded by none other than Frellin--and this means that Frellin doubtless plans to take the child to the Dark Lord's new temple on the north bank--and throw her to the sharks that swim around it now!
"You have to go after them--save Shianna..!" Kianimar begs the party. "Frellin was acting so strangely...how could I have known...? Please save her...please.."
"I will look after Kianimar," Thalis says, tying up the converted guards, "And also get those of my troops who aren't under the Dark Lord's sway to escort these jerks to the holding cells. YOU lot had best go after Shianna."
"The wolf..." gasps the wounded wizard, "...he knows Shianna's scent...he can track her...please save Shianna..." Kianimar faints away again.
"Go!" orders Thalis. "Hurry...sunrise will be in a matter of hours..!"
Ferrak Thursday November 15th, 2001 6:24:28 PM
"The little girl, that the God saved Darkfang!" Ferrak relays to his brother in wolven. "We must find her before she is sacrificed at dawn. Can you find her scent brother? Quickly -- the sun will chase the moon away soon!"
Taking his brother over to the little girl's mother, hoping that the scent is still strong on her, Ferrak looks up to the brave woman and says, "Don't worggry maaam, we WILL, save her. This pack is stronggg, and swift on the hunt."
When Darkfang finally picks up the scent, Ferrak mounts his brother for speed, and the two of them track the girl as fast as possible.
Renik d20=8 Thursday November 15th, 2001 6:36:27 PM
Moving to catch Kianimar as she faints, Renik gently places her and supports her in a chair. (8+9 Ref save)
Trying to rouse her, as the wolf brothers move over to pick up the girl's scent, the savvy rogue asks gently, "Do you have something that belongs to the girl? A piece of clothing or a toy or anything like that, Kianimar? It will make tracking her that much easier."
Slapping her lightly on the face he says, "Don't worry we'll stop them, we just need to strengthen Shianna's scent."
Bill Troublefinder d8=7 d20+4=19 d20+4=16 Thursday November 15th, 2001 8:41:19 PM
Bill gives Kianimar a potion of Cure Light Wounds (1d8), which heals 7 hp damage. Then he takes a moment to cut a 50' silk rope into 12.5' lengths, and tie them to the four corners of a battle net. As he works quickly (use rope 19), he tells Kianimar, "We will find Shianna. Is there anything we should be aware of concerning her or your husband?" He folds the net, coiling the ropes, and carefully tucks the bundle into his belt. If the girl's mother or Capt. Thalis have anything to add, he listens. He makes sure they have directions to the new temple, then he joins his friends as they head to the north bank.
On the way there, he takes a second 50' length of silk rope, and begins to knot it every 2.5', with a (human) wrist-sized loop every third knot, resulting in an overall length of ~40 feet when done (use rope 16).
"Anybody have potions of water breathing, or something that allows you to move well in the water? How about flying? Rond, you ever fly before? Here's what I'm thinking," and he whispers to Rond for a moment.
A bit farther along, Bill forms loops at the end of each of the twelve foot sections of rope he tied to the net. The halfling seems to have no trouble keeping up with the rest of the party. He occasionally gets out ahead a little ways, stops for a moment to fix a knot, then resumes moving again.
Draax Thursday November 15th, 2001 9:34:18 PM
Remembering the love that his own father showed him when he was young; Draax becomes angry at the thought of a father sacrificing his child. As they go to save the girl, the half-elven warrior is looking forward to meeting Frellin.
On the Hunt (DM Donna) d20+5=23 Friday November 16th, 2001 6:49:11 AM
"Frellin is about 4 feet, eight inches in height," Thalis describes for your benefit, "Tanned complexion, dark brown hair and green eyes. I don't doubt that the Dark Lord's methods of 'conversion' have brainwashed him into doing this. He's extremely good with short swords--he fights with two of 'em."
Darkfang snuffles all over Kianimar, (who really can't seem to snap out of her shock long enough to say anything coherent) recognizing the scent of the cub this pack must track and save.
Come, big brother--I have the scent! the wolf bays eagerly, running to the exit of the room and practically whining to be let out so that the hunt may begin.
The normal time it takes to traverse the city streets is practically doubled for the chaotic milling about of the displaced, the looters, the dazed, the mad and the "converted", as well as whatever property damage was done during the last two nights. The Hamleteers near the North Bank--the site where they recall Marcus telling them of a new temple dedicated to Marteaus--and enter a courtyard-like set-up that appears to lead to a private dock that seems to be the one closest to the island temple.
(Everyone rolls a Spot check versus DC15...add a +2 bonus because you are all extra-alert and attempting to locate Shianna and Frellin. Those who make the check will spot father and daughter at one end of the dock--as well as the other armed converts of the Dark Lord that are between your party and them! A map will be forthcoming.)
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=24 d20+6=10 d4=4 d20+14=22 d4=1 d4=3 d4=4 d4=2 d20=19 d20=6 d20=12 d20=18 Friday November 16th, 2001 10:03:35 AM
On the way to the North Bank, Bill tells Ferrak he has a wand of cure light wounds, and shows it to him in his wand case (next to the wand of levitation). He tells him the command word to activate it. "I'll hang on to it for the moment, but want you to know about it."
As they near the North Bank, Bill casts levitate on himself with his wand. He offers to do likewise to any of his companions who desire it [just mention in your post that you ask Bill to levitate you]. He hands Rond the potion of flying.
The plan he had whispered to Rond involved having Rond fly, and Bill causing Shianna to levitate. If necessary, she could be caught up and carried in the net, up and away from her captors. Maybe not the most comfortable of conveyances for her, but it should secure her safely for aerial transport.
Bill hands out a thunderstone to any member of the party who wants one (he has several), and makes available two tanglefoot bags (one for Renik, one for whoever asks first) and two flasks of alchemist's fire. "Give people things to be busy with while we get the girl."
In addition to the items he offers to others, in a small bag, he places two thunderstones, two flasks of alchemist's fire, two tanglefoot bags, and two flasks of acid. One battle net he drapes, folded, over his shoulder.
[So, if you want one of the items - thunderstone, tanglefoot bag, or alchemist's fire, or to be levitated - mention it in your post, or forever hold your peace.]
The halfling happens to look in the right place at the right time (love that dice roller!), and alerts his fellows to the location of the girl and her father. "I'll go first. Confusion to our enemies." Bill runs up to a point just in front of the lead guards. He plants his feet for an instant. A rainbow wash of light jets from his eyes, and a sharp boomlet of sound issues forth. Any guard who fails a reflex save of DC10 falls to the ground, and takes 4 hp subdual damage.
Small sack in hand, he aims his leap to take him directly toward the father and daughter at the end of the dock. As he rises in the air, momentum and the strength of his leap (jump 22) carrying him forward, be begins to sprinkle the contents of his bag down upon the heads and bodies of the milling guards and participants in this unholy ceremony.
First a thunderstone (AC 19), then a tanglefoot bag (AC 6), then a flask of acid (AC 12), followed by a flask of alchemical fire (AC 18) land below as he shakes half the contents of the bag in an arc below him. [Not using ranged attack bonuses, as he is just randomly scattering them, not individually aiming them. Looks like the tanglefoot bag landed on the ground. Touch attack should be used for the items, and splash damage for fire and acid is possible, along with area of effect for thunderstone.]
He is not much one for discussion with cultists today.
Bill Troublefinder - Ack! Friday November 16th, 2001 3:04:37 PM
[I posted before I saw the map. A little oops, there. I had in my mind a larger, tighter group of folks. Figure that the bomblets rained down on the first group of three, and it'll probably take until next round for Bill to reach the next group by the docks. May, or may not, have him touch down.]
Arien d20+6=26 2d4(2+2)=4 Saturday November 17th, 2001 3:28:06 AM
Not about to be as civil as he was with the paladins the day before, Arien lets loose with a well aimed bolt of acid at the closest of the converts (7) for 4 points of damage.
Rond d20+2=18 d20+12=15 d20+12=28 Saturday November 17th, 2001 10:53:59 PM
Rond listens to what Bill has planned. After Bill tells of his plan, Rond gives him a thumbs up. As they quickly reach the docks, Rond spots the father and girl. Too suspicious of those people that are around, Rond does his best to disappear into the background, before anyone can spot him. (Move Silently=15, Hide in Shadows (if available)=28). From there, Rond uses his Slippers of spider climing, to go right up the wall of the building next to the group. As he heads up the wall, he does his best to keep an eye on Bill, in order to time swallowing the potion, and to begin flying, in order to snatch the girl up. If needed, he'll throw a punch, or a tackle, to separate the two, in order to get to the girl. -------- [The potion of flying should last at least 50 minutes, so Rond can take it immediately, and have plenty of time - that's 500 rounds. Also, once the duration ends, it will let the imbiber down gently, with a descent of 60'/round for 1d6 rounds. You can fly at a speed of 90 feet (ascend at 45, descend at 180), and you can carry up to your maximum load (see PH p. 142). Oh, if Rond wears medium or heavy armor, his speed will be 60 feet, 30 feet while ascending, and up to 120 feet while descending. -Kim]
Ferrak d20+4=21 d20+11=28 d8+5=10 d8+5=10 Sunday November 18th, 2001 10:08:32 AM
On the hunt, Ferrak spots his prey as they enter the dock area. Urging his brother to speed, the two make a bee line straight at the human in chainmail. (#7) Hoping to take out one of the combatants quickly, and approving of Arien's choice of first targets, the feral gnome readies his spear for blood. (Spirited charge +2 to hit & Dbl dmg = 20pts. Yes!)
Tearing into the man viciously, the brothers barely break stride as they continue their charge. Moving on, to a distance roughly ten feet from the female gnome standing stage right of Shianna. (Ride by attack to a point somewhere between #8 & #4)
As the brothers put the brakes on, Ferrak snarls at the gnomish female in their native tongue. "Leave this place Kobold kin, or...or..orrraaOOOWWW!" spitting this insult at her, Ferrak gives up on using words to describe the rage he feels. His voice breaks, as he growls into a soul shaking, screech of a howl.
Seeing another gnome standing in front of him as a part of all this, ready to sacrifice a child brings flashes of his true mother unbidden to his mind's eye. His vision blurring with tears and blood, he remembers being carried through a forest, being chased, being put into a dark hole, as his mother sacrificed herself to save her only son.
Shaking with rage and emotion, Ferrak simply can not even bear the idea of a female gnome acting this way. Demanding almost calmly in crystal clear gnomish, "Help that child, or I will ERASE you!" Ferrak burns like a flame.
Renik d20+7=18 d20+9=21 d6+5=9 Sunday November 18th, 2001 6:39:30 PM
Playing close attention to what Bill has to say as they follow the wolf on the scent, Renik grins in acknowledgement.
"You guys take the high road," he says with a wink as he takes the tanglefoot bag from Bill. Briefly glancing at Ferrak, he realizes that the feral gnome is too wrapped up in the hunt for planning.
"I'll back up the wild one," says the rogue as he draws steel.
Alert as ever, Renik spots the group of cultists as they turn the bend. Watching, as Bill flies over the three warriors in front, and as Ferrak charges the right flank, Renik decides to take the left.
Approaching the elf carefully (#5), Renik feints left, then lunges straight at the bugger. (Att +9 = 21 Dmg =9)
Moving with his lunge, the agile scout bends low to the ground. Then in a surge, Renik leaps over the unsuspecting elf in an amazing summersault. (Spring Attack)
Now behind the elf, Renik moves quickly over to where Ferrak and Darkfang are crouched, before the elf fighter can react. Determined to cover the brothers' back as he keeps his eyes peeled, Renik watches the enemies now at their rear. (#8, #6, & #5 hoping #7 is dead.)
Draax d20+3=17 d20+11=19 d8+7=15 Monday November 19th, 2001 12:53:27 AM
Draax nods his head as a gesture of thanks as he takes a thunderstone from Bill. Equipped with longsword and shield he takes a direct line for #6 and swings his longsword at his opponent's head (hit AC19, 15dmg if hit).
Combat Round #1 (DM Donna) d20=17 d20=2 d20=9 d20=13 d20=4 d20=7 d20=20 d20=1 d20=17 d20=19 d20+15=29 d20+3=14 d20+5=11 d20+3=11 d20+3=20 d6+3=6 d20+3=7 d4+1=5 d4+1=2 Monday November 19th, 2001 7:30:13 AM
Bill can't help but grin as five of the seven foes fall down (Numbers 1,2,4,5 and 7) before him, and then 5, 6 & 7 suffer the effects of the thunderstone, acid and fire-stuff! Mwuhahahaha! (OOC: well, I know that I'd laugh! ;D)
Arien's acid does even MORE damage to #7!
Rond begins to scale the wall west of the party.
Ferrak & Darkfang are holy terrors as they launch themselves at the evil people who would harm a little girl--severely mangling the human they'd targeted! The female gnome just stares, wide-eyed, at the wild-looking pair.
Renik also soundly strikes his target (#5).
Draax gets his blow in on the unknown fighter with the bastard sword in its hands (#6).
Bill suddenly gets a most peculiar feeling...(OOC: I rolled for Bill's Knowledge: Psionics/Arcana--he made it...for all the good it will do him now. Heh heh...)
...why aren't any of their foes making any sound? No grunts--no armor jangling on impact--no "ka-thud" of them landing on their kiesters..? No smell of sizzling flesh?
Uh oh.
The people attacked by the Hamleteers disappear, leaving Bill, Ferrak, Darkfang, Renik and Draax grouped together in one nice, convenient area for the counter-attack:
As the illusion dissolves, it becomes apparent that only #1 and #2 accompany Frellin and Shianna on the private dock; numbers 3,4 and 5 were lurking in the southwestern corner of the courtyard, while numbers 6, 7 and 8 had been in the southeastern corner, just waiting for some do-gooders to come along and try to stop them!
#1 tosses a flask of oil at the south end of the dock, while #2 takes aim with his hands and sets fire to the oil with his Burning Hands spell. There is now a big, roaring fire blocking the south end of the dock.
#3 swings a mace at Renik, clipping the rogue a resounding blow! (OOC: take 6hp damage, Renik.)
#4 takes aim at Bill, hitting the halfing with two Magic Missiles for a total of 7hp of damage.
#5 stabs at Draax, but his sword meets only air.
Darkfang manages to dodge the incoming mighty swing of that huge bastard sword of #6's (hmmm--looks more like a full-fledged two-hander to the feral gnome from THIS angle..!)--thus keeping himself and Ferrak from getting hit.
#7 comes barreling up to Arien and swipes at the elf with his longsword, but the human's aim is also off (thank goodness!)
Bill finds himself on the receiving end of #8's attempt to brain him with a nasty-looking morningstar. (She misses!)
Nobody seems to have noticed Rond.
Frellin continues to escort his daughter towards the north end of the dock. Shianna, however, is now tugging against her father's grip, asking excitedly if there's a wizard duel they're missing "back there..!" (Obviously referring to the courtyard.)
An updated map will be sent out to you all.
Draax d20+11=29 d8+7=13 Monday November 19th, 2001 1:28:54 PM
Mentally Draax commends his adversaries for the success of their ambush; he also commends himself and his comrades for their abilities to get through the initial attack.
While avoiding the longsword that was swung in his direction, he turns to face his opponent. Knowing that he has never set eyes on the elf before Draax smiles as his says, "So, we meet again, this time you will not be so lucky." Draax waits for the split second that it takes for the elf to try to recall if he has met the half-elf before. Thinking that he has seen a slight hesitation in the elf's eye, the half-elven fighter swings his magical long sword with all his might at #5 (hit AC 29, 13 dmg). Draax smiles to himself thinking, "That is the oldest trick in the book and it always seems to work."
Ferrak (Oh, now he's really pissed!) d20+9=20 d8+5=8 Monday November 19th, 2001 6:18:51 PM
Blind with rage the feral gnome doesn't realize what has happened for a few moments. Luckily, his brother isn't as prone to emotional outburst.
"Grrrr..."
Spinning in response to this new threat, Darkfang keeps the brothers from harm. Ferrak still red with rage, twirls his spear around his head to get it angled at this new target.
"rrrrr..."
Jabbing at the attacker's legs, the brothers move in quickly, hoping to finish this guy in time to help the child. (20 Dmg=8)
"rr!"
Renik d20+8=17 d6+5=9 Monday November 19th, 2001 6:33:06 PM
Thinking quickly, and reacting like a cat to the blow he receives, Renik ripostes. Moving five feet closer to Shianna and her father as he does so. (Att 17 Dmg=9)
After his counter attack, the canny spy tries to spring away once again. Hoping to move up close enough to the docks to threaten what the man intends to do.
In his mind, he his glad for the wisdom of their leader, and the preparations that his clever companions had hurried together.
Trying to keep his eyes on the attacker that he has left and the innocent child on his right, Renik yells a distraction.
"What on earth do you think you are doing man!? That is your child, you fool--your own flesh and blood! Throw yourself in for pity's sake, if you think there is something these cult gods can do for you. Go and join them," he says, desperate for something to slow the man down for a few seconds.
Bill Troublefinder d20+12=22 d8+5=6 d8+5=9 d20+7=24 Monday November 19th, 2001 6:34:48 PM
Bill, knowing that being fifteen to twenty feet in the air makes it difficult for the lady in chainmail to bash him in the head (unless she throws the morningstar), is not too worried about her at the moment. Those magic missiles sting, though, but do not cause him to lose his concentration (22). He allows the momentum from his earlier leap to carry him forward toward the docks. [I think he'd be traveling at a speed of about 40 in the direction of the docks.]
He sends a psionic missive (DC 24) to the little girl. "Shianna - Remember Bill? Wanna levitate again? You can watch better!" He pulls a potion of cure light wounds from a pouch and drinks it down (rerolled following 1, regains 7 hp - back to max), obliterating the hurt of the magic missiles as he approaches the area where the fires now burn, levitating up to about twenty five feet in the air, and holding his breath against the rising heat. Not wanting to litter, he slips the empty potion bottle back in the pouch. He gives Shianna a little wave.
[OOC: Bill's Knowledge: Psionics/Arcana add should be 16, not 15. Do you have his latest CS? As you pointed out though, not that it matters at the moment. :-) ]
Arien 6d6(5+6+4+5+4+6)=30 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 2:36:21 AM
Arien snarls to himself for being fooled by the illusions and vents his anger at the human attacking him. His dagger materializes in an outstreched hand and a moment later discharges its lethal energy into the unfortunate human.
(I'm not entirely sure how saving throws vs. spells cast off an item work but I'm assuming that they are just the basic base 10+ spell level. If so its spell DC 13; if for some reason they work as if cast by the user then it would be spell dc 18)
Combat Round 2 (DM Donna) d20+5=12 d20+3=6 d4+1=2 d4+1=2 d20+5=12 d20+5=13 d20+2=11 d20+3=11 d2=1 d20+3=8 d20+3=13 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 7:47:03 AM (OOC Kim: DOH! I misread your secondary post and thought that Bill did, indeed, touch down! LOL--hey, she missed him anyhow..!)
Darkfang snaps at the ankles of the armored unknown that is attacking him and his big brother, but misses.
Rond hesitates on the wall, apparently unsure as to the best way to procede.
Renik's riposte only succeeds in generating some sparks as his weapon scores a barely-glancing blow to his opponent's (#3) breast plate. The man speaks a phrase that sounds ominous to the elf's ears--the mace with which the man is armed pulses with an evil, dull red aura. Luckily, the blow aimed at Renik misses by a mile!
The female gnome at the southwestern set of doors (#4) switches her attention from Bill to Arien--discharging two Magic Missiles at his back for a total of 4hp damage.
The elf (#5) battling Draax suffers a goodly amount of damage, enough to make his counterattack swing wide.
Ferrak's Viscious Half-spear pierces the well-armored foe he faces (#6), resulting in some blood and an invective in a foreign language. (Anyone who knows Orcish will recognize it.) Darkfang once more tries to trip the person up, but misses the combatant's feet again.
The man facing Arien (#7) fails his Reflex save, and screams involuntarily as his entire system is lanced with electricity. The horrible smell of burnt flesh overwhelms the elf...but the human still stands--or, rather, staggers. He jabs instinctively at Arien, but the attack falls woefully short.
The woman with the morning star (#8), finally admitting to herself that trying to hit a flying halfling isn't a good idea, instead turns her attention to Ferrak, but her aim hasn't improved any--she misses the wolf-riding gnome by a very wide margin...almost hitting her armored colleague instead!
Meanwhile, both Draax's words and Bill's missive cause Shianna to pull against her father's grip, saying something in the musical language of the elves:
"Papa...where's the Bright Man? You said you were taking me to see him? Where is he..?"
Frellin ignores the child, instead glancing at the half-elf and the human (#1 & #2 respectively) with him. The half-elf gestures and chants, concentrating on the water beside the dock (OOC: Bill can attempt a Spellcraft check to identify what the half-elf is doing--versus DC 18; succeeding means that Bill realizes that the half-elf is summoning...something). The human looks up at Bill, a knowing smile on his face, and casts a spell. Immediately an Obscuring Mist pops up and surrounds himself, the half-elf, Frellin and Shianna...hiding all of them from view.
Rond Tuesday November 20th, 2001 8:09:31 AM
Having waited for Bill's diversion to finish up, Rond decides that it might be time to move. Still wanting to be cautious, Rond brings himself off the wall he was walking up. He then proceeds 30' up, and then heads out about 30'. He's planning to come down on the other side of the dock, hoping that he can catch Frellin offguard, though he might be expecting Rond.
Ferrak d20+9=26 d8+5=6 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 8:19:50 AM
A blur of fury, the feral gnome stabs, and jabs at his opponant relentlessly.
Att-26 Dmg=6
Renik d20+8=26 d6+5=9 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 8:32:50 AM
"Now Rond, NOW!" Yells Renik, hoping that their leader is near, listening.
Thinking that a dull red auras doesn't bode well for his brainpan, Renik lunges at the elf, finding a gap in his armor, he draws a bit of blood. (A-26 Dmg-9)
Hoping to help the girl in any way he can, Renik then springs away from his assailant and dives into the gathering mist. (Spring attack)
Renik d20+8=16 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 9:55:54 AM
Well what do you know, a critical threat.
Have at you!
(16) Oh well.
Bill Troublefinder d20+10=25 d20+7=21 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 11:05:19 AM
Bill recognizes the half-elf's summoning spell [spellcraft 25]. As he tucks the bag into his belt, Bill draws his sword, points it toward the area where the half-elf (#1) and human stand (at least, where he last saw them standing), and says, "Slip slide." The sword casts grease on that area of the dock.
He activates the power of clairvoyance [DC 21] to look to where he last saw Shianna. He reaches for his wand of levitation. Bill's altitude lowers to eighteen feet, as his momentum continues to carry him along the length of the dock.
"The 'Bright Man' is Marteaus - the evil Lord of Darkness who killed Domi," Bill says in the tongue of the elves as he passes over the girl. "The 'Bright Man' hurt your father's mind."
Draax d20+11=30 d20+11=29 d8+7=10 d8+7=10 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 12:52:59 PM
Still smiling in the elf's face Draax says, "You are as poor at this as the last time we met. Do you remember me yet? Maybe this will remind you."
Believing that he has #5 totally confused now, Draax decides to press his advantage. The half-elven warrior bashes his shield against his opponent's shield as if to create an open on the elf's right side. He waits until he feels #5 try to compensate by bringing his shield to protect his right side. Draax uses the pressure to from the elf's shield as a springboard, spinning to his left, doing a 360 and attacking his opponent's left side with his longsword. Draax is rewarded as he feels his sword bite deep into his opponent's side (AC 30 critical hit, 20 dmg).
No matter if the blow kills the elf or just hurts him very badly, Draax looks into the elf's eyes before pulling his sword out and says with a smile, "Remember me now?"
Arien d20+7=27 d20+7=21 d6=5 d6+1=4 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 4:35:06 PM
"Still standing huh." Arien mutters to himself, "Well let's see if we can't correct that matter." After finishing his mutterings he suddenly buries his rapier in the human's chest and withdraws it just as quickly. (9 pts of damage)
Combat Round 3 (DM Donna) d20+5=19 d10+5=15 d20+5=24 d20=9 d6=4 d20+3=21 d8=4 d20=7 d20+3=4 d100=64 d100=56 2d6(6+3)=9 d20+6=19 Wednesday November 21st, 2001 8:33:14 AM
Ferrak's attack does more damage to his opponent(#6), who finally lands a blow of his own on the scrappy gnome! (15hp damage on Ferrak.) Realizing that his big brother has just been hurt, Darkfang snarls and chomps down the armored foe's lower leg and yanks the fighter's feet out from under... whoever the person was inside the armor. (OOC: total damage to #6 this round: 10hp; total damage so far: 18hp.) Ferrak is then clobbered by the woman with the morningstar (OOC: another 4hp damage).
Renik stabs at his own opponent (#3), drawing blood, then leaps away from the encounter towards the billowing mist that obscures the southern end of the dock--and right into the fire that still burns there! (Take 16hp damage from the flames, Renik.) The flames, however, are dying down fast--the oil is all but gone. In spite of all this, Renik cannot see more than five feet in front of him while within the mist. Renik's opponent runs after him, but only gets as far as the edge of the mist this round.
Draax has the satisfaction of seeing the elf he's engaging (#5) gasp and then curse before slowly slumping to the ground.
Arien's foe (#7) is made of extremely stern stuff--first taking that horrendous amount of damage from the lightning and now suffering from the rogue/wizard's well-aimed blow... yet he still has the wherewithal to swing at Arien once more! (He misses, but heck--it's still rather impressive that he's still on his feet.)
However, since Arien has his back to the gnome female(#4), he suddenly finds himself on the receiving end of a Flaming Sphere that rolls at him from behind. (OOC: Make a Reflex save versus DC15 to suffer only 5hp damage... but since Arien was concentrating on #7 so very hard, no Dexterity modifier is allowed on this roll.)
Bill descends into the mist, though his head and shoulders still remain above the swirling cloud of obscurity. He can hear cursing from the area that probably has the half-elf and human companions to Frellin--his Grease spell sounds like it was effective!
While his Clairvoyance showed Shianna initially surrounded by mist, Bill sees the girl and her father emerge from the obscuring miniature bank of fog. The halfling can tell that Frellin is having to forcibly drag his daughter towards the end of the dock now.
"What do mean--the Bright Man hurt Papa's mind..?" demands Shianna as she looks around, trying to find the source of the strange voice.
"Do not listen to strangers, Shianna," Frellin replies, "I am your Papa--and you know that I would never lie to you."
"Okay, Papa..." Shianna says trustingly. The love and trust in her voice seems to affect Frellin--and for a moment, Bill can see that there is genuine inner conflict in the elf's handsome face.
But the moment passes, and Frellin's face becomes set.
"I know it's late, my sweeting," the elf tells his daughter, "...but we're going to have to swim if we're to get to the place where... where the Bright Man is..." Frellin bends down and picks the youngster up in his arms...
Rond flies to the center of the courtyard and sees the father prepare to throw his little girl into the river--then he sees the result of half-elf #1's summoning from last round:
#9...a Huge shark, swimming through the air straight at him, as though it were knifing through the water for its highly-anticipated meal--a meal named ROND..!
(There will be an updated map forthcoming.)
Bill Troublefinder d4=2 d3=2 d2=1 d20=2 d20=14 d20=12 d20=15 d6=6 d20+7=21 d20+8=22 Wednesday November 21st, 2001 10:51:44 AM
Bill pulls the bag on the left side of his belt out, and in one motion upends the contents on the cursing voices below:
The alchemical fire (AC 2) goes wide, splashing against the very edge of the dock, with most of the flask's contents landing in the waters below. The flask of acid (AC 14) finds a mark (damage 6); the thunderstone bangs out its report (AC 12) (those within 10' who fail a fortitude save are deafened, -4 penalty to initiative, and spells with a verbal component have a 20% chance of failure); and the four pound tanglefoot bag (AC 15) may ensnare one of the obscured fellows. The now empty sack, released, flutters into the mist.
Bill's heart grieves as he sees how close Frellin came to casting off the yoke of deceit that binds his heart. Aiming his wand of levitation at the trusting sacrificial offering, he discharges it, giving the girl the ability to levitate.
"Frellin, you know what is in your mind is twisted, and against your race, your honor, your own flesh and blood," Bill speaks in elvish. "Repent and awaken, else Marteaus devour your soul. Kianimar sends her love and concern. She whom your own men attacked, Lieutenant. Shianna's own mother, and the wife of your youth."
He returns his wand to its spot, and reaches for the net. He prepares to send a missive to Shianna should she be tossed into the river. "Float upwards, Shianna, into the air. There are sharks below." [Held, conditional action. DC 21]
[Note: last roll of DC 22, including +2 from a hero point, for diplomacy skill check on Bill's words to Frellin.]
Bill [OOC] Wednesday November 21st, 2001 11:07:27 AM
[Sorry about the grease, Renik.]
Renik d8+1=6 Wednesday November 21st, 2001 5:00:55 PM
Lay low, Renik thinks to himself as he pulls a potion of healing from his belt.
Downing the thing in one the crafty thief crawls over to the edge of the dock and turns his head as he yells. "Oi, I'm over here bonehead!" Then like a trapeze artist he lets himself over the edge while holding on to the side.
Dangling over the water hanging on to the docks Renik thinks quietly to himself, with a grin. 'Let's see if this guy can swim in armor.'
Ferrak d20+13=19 d8+5=7 Wednesday November 21st, 2001 5:05:35 PM
Not sure where Renik, Rond, and Bill are as he loses them in the mists and the confusion of battle. Ferrak is concentrating mostly on staying alive.
Having no problems with hitting a man or a whatever while he's down Ferrak does the hokey POKE-y. (Sorry, it's early in the morning for me.) Att +9 +4 =19 Dmg=7
Arien d20+3=20 d20+10=28 d20+7=20 d6+1=7 Wednesday November 21st, 2001 11:42:30 PM
Once again Arien's instincts and dexterity save him. Somehow sensing the Sphere behind him Arien throws himself into a roll... right between his opponent's legs, putting the man between him and the sphere. Coming right up to his feet behind the human Arien spins back to face him and using the momentum, stabs his rapier right into the nice large back presented to him (damage 7).
(Rolls are reflex save, which when combined with Evasion = no damage from sphere. Tumble vs. dc 25 to go between 7's legs as part of a normal move and attack and damage rolls.)
Draax d20+11=17 d8+7=14 Thursday November 22nd, 2001 4:28:17 AM
Seeing his opponent go down, Draax fights the urge to cut off the elf's head and ensure that he is dead. He looks up from the elf and takes a quick assessment of the situation. Seeing #8 harassing Ferrak, Draax moves up behind the woman and swing his sword at her back (hit AC17, 14 dmg if hit).
"Hey, it's not nice to interfere with a private fight and besides why don't you pick on someone your own size?"
Combat Round 4 (DM Donna) d100=22 d100=4 d20=9 d20=10 d100=52 d8=1 d20=5 d20=5 2d6(4+3)=7 d6=3 d20+1=21 d6=3 d20+3=22 d8=6 Thursday November 22nd, 2001 7:59:11 AM OOC: oops, sorry about the bad math, Ferrak! #6 has 20hp of damage on... it.
Bill hears two different shouts, plus the acrid sizzle of acid comes wafting up from within the mist--neither voice belongs to Renik, so the halfling can be sure that the damage was not accidently done to his fellow Hamleteer. The thunderstone's effectiveness will take a bit of time for the metamind to figure out since all who may have been affected by it are still within the mist. (OOC: Renik doesn't have to roll a Fort save--he was just far away enough to not be affected by the explosion.)
Once more Bill sees that his attempt to persuade Frellin's fatherly instincts to the fore almost work, but Marteaus' magic control is stronger--the elf lifts his arms to toss his daughter into the river. The halfling manages to enchant Shianna and urge her to levitate instead of fall... which she does, with a delighted peal of laughter.
"Papa...Papa, look! I'm flying! Look! Weeeeeeee...!" the child cries happily, bobbing higher and higher into the air. (OOC: easily twenty-five feet or so by the end of the post.)
Meanwhile, Renik's pursuer (#3) follows the canny rogue into the fire & mist. He is fast enough through the dying flames so that he suffers a mere 1hp of damage... but in his haste he runs right off the dock, plunging into the river below!
The gnome female (#4) who is siccing her Flaming Sphere on Arien screeches in frustration when the nimble elf manages to completely evade her rear attack--while her teammate (#7) does not. Between the Flaming Sphere and Arien's follow-up attack, the man is felled. The gnome screams in anger and sends the Sphere at Arien again. (OOC: normal Reflex Save, Arien; failure will cost you 7hp--success means you completely avoid the rolling fire.)
Ferrak and Darkfang continue to harry their foe (#6), with Darkfang adding another 3hp to the total damage done to the... person. (OOC: if I didn't screw up my math THIS time, the total damage done to #6 is now 30hp. He/she/it's hurtin'.) However, the armored fighter manages to kick Darkfang with a metal-shod foot, causing the wolf to yelp (and suffer 3hp of damage.)
The woman with the morningstar executes a roundhouse swing with both hands on her weapon, thwapping Draax for a total of 9hp damage!
Rond freezes at the sight of the Huge flying shark (#9), noting that it possesses red glowing eyes--but the shark suddenly turns abruptly away. The fighter wonders why for a moment before the horror dawns upon him--
--the shark is "swimming" directly at the happily-laughing Shianna..!
(OOC: there's another updated map in your email, players.)
Rond Thursday November 22nd, 2001 10:05:13 AM
Feeling the seconds slow to a crawl, Rond is upset with himself for freezing in the midst of battle. Berating himself for forgetting that Shianna is the goal of this battle, Rond does his best to use his full movement (90 feet) to get to Shianna and protect her, or carry her off, if he's faster than the Shark. Rond wonders about how Marteaus can control time.
Arien d20+7=27 d20+6=22 2d4(4+3)=7 Thursday November 22nd, 2001 7:11:05 PM
Arien easily avoids the sphere and quickly returns with one of his favorite spells, acid arrow. (7 damage)
Renik d20+9=15 d8+1=3 d6=2 d6=4 Thursday November 22nd, 2001 9:05:53 PM
"Bon Voyage!" as Renik sends his new friend of to an ocean voyage. Chuckling to himself the Fighter/rogue decides to make some good use out of his slippers of spider climbing.
Attaching himself to the bottum of the Dock. Renik decides that this is the best way to maybe catch Shianna as she falls off the docks or if nothing else, ovoid the mist and see what's going on, up topside.
Waking to the underside edge of the pier, Renik has a look around and notices...a big flying Shark! Reacting in a flash to the dangerous situation that has presented itself. Renik draws his bow and lets an arrow fly at the beast. (Att-15 Dmg=3 Sneak Attk+6) (Not sure what minuses there'd be shooting upside down but it's worth the shot.)
As he sends the shaft out, he calls a warning to his friends. "Shark, big bloody shark. Ummm... fellas... hugemongous bloody, flying tail flickin SHARK!!!"
Ferrak d20+8=21 d20+9=25 d8+5=11 Thursday November 22nd, 2001 9:33:48 PM
First things first, Ferrak, as he notices the attacker on the ground go for Darkfang, urges his brother out of the way. (OOC Using the Mounted Combat feat to try and negate the hit. Ride Check=21)
"Don't mess with my brotherrr!" yells the feral gnome as he jabs again, and again, at the prone soldier. (Att-26 Dmg=11)
As the battle thickens, Ferrak doesn't fail to notice big bad Draax, coming in to cover his back. Grinning in a wicked snarl of thanks, the wild gnome's eyes shine ferociously.
Taking a moment to check that Arien has got the rear guard well in hand, Ferrak's spirits rise as he sees his new packmates in action. Brandishing his spear up in the air, Ferrak belts out a hunting howl.
"Ow...ow...Ouuuuuuuuu!"
Draax d20+11=29 d8+7=13 Friday November 23rd, 2001 1:07:32 AM
Draax cringes as the morningstar connects, but his smile immediately returns to his face. Anyone looking closely would think that the half-elf is having the time of his life. He takes a moment to analyze his adversary, looking for any obvious openings and for ways that he can create a few. He starts again with his meaningless banter, "Here I am thinking that we were finally communicating and you go and hit me with your morningstar. If I did not know any better I would think that you did not like me."
Draax slowly moves his eyes to the side as if he was looking over the human female's shoulder. Using the magic of his sword, Draax opens his eyes wide as if surprised. "Look over there." As the last word exits from the fighter's mouth, he swings his sword at his opponent (AC29, dmg 13).
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=15 d20+6=25 d20+5=15 d4+1=5 Friday November 23rd, 2001 2:56:10 AM
Bill's motion has continued carrying him forward, and he reaches the end of the dock just as Frellin casts his daughter out into the waters of the river - then sees her instead begin to soar into the air. Bill tosses the net that had been resting on his shoulder down upon the father - a bit of sloppiness to the throw (AC 15) in his haste to focus most of his attention on intercepting the now-levitating little elf girl. But, almost as if choreographed, Bill manages to take hold of the waist of Shianna's clothing at her lower back (AC 25 to grasp firmly). His forward momentum is slowed somewhat [to maybe 30? 25? 20?], as she was not moving horizontally as fast as he, yet his well-timed and nimble grasp helped keep her from experiencing a sharp jolt.
"Whoa - Gotcha - Gotta watch that going up too fast," he starts in the common tongue, then switches back to elvish. "Don't be afraid. Your mother sent me, Shianna. I am Bill -- we met at the Golden Arena." As he speaks, he turns her around so she can see him. "Your father is right to warn you against strangers -- but I'm no stranger. I'm here to help you, and to try and help your father." Because he has not dropped his clairvoyance power, Bill's eyes shine brightly, seeming to burn like points of silver fire.
Over the other sounds of ongoing battle, Renik's shout just manages to catch Bill's attention (Listen DC 15). "Flying shark?" He turns his head to look over his shoulder.
Ready for Din-Din..! (DM Donna) Saturday November 24th, 2001 8:08:57 AM
(OOC: sorry about the delay in posting; and my apologies about the map turning out blank for some of you players--apparently AOL is mucking around with file attachments and my stuff is being "erased". The Campaign DM has had the same problem, too, it seems. Well, I'll just have to resolve this whole thing, so here we go:)
Rond's speed is faster than that of the shark as it attempts to close in on its intended sacrifice and the halfling holding her; the flying fighter reaches the pair first and manages to snatch then in a desperate embrace. Rond turns back towards the south--maybe he can find a building or some secure cover to fly all three of them into..?
The Hamleteers on the ground deal more damage to the converts they are battling: Arien pelts the gnome female (#4) with acid; Ferrak's spear finally stills his prone opponent (#6); the magic of Draax's weapon Dazes the woman with the morningstar (#8). Renik's upside-down shot arcs toward the Huge Shark, but bounces harmlessly off the creature's hide. The rogue-fighter's curses are joined by those of the two Obscured foes (#1 & #2) after the telltale sounds of people sliding in Grease and falling onto the wooden dock.
The shark is in hot pursuit of Rond and his charges--one would think that there's some otherworldly force at work, increasing its speed and causing the Hamleteers to have to work all the harder for their victory. It's almost as though some malevolent intelligence infused the shark itself, so that the impossibly Huge beast is gaining more and more on the fleeing trio, leaving little hope for any of them to avoid the yawning maw with it hundreds and hundreds of razor-sharp teeth.
All three people in the air can now smell the overpowering fish-breath of the shark as it zooms in for the kill, in spite of Rond's dexterous attempts to outmaneuver it.
Rond debates releasing the halfling and the elf and attempting to fight hand-to-hand with the shark, but he knows that the huge thing is too close and too fast for him to be able to offer more than a slight distraction to the creature before it would simply continue onward to swallow up Bill and Shianna.
"Where's the Bright Man?" wails Shianna, clasping Bill in fright. "The Bright Man can save us! He can, he can!!!"
SUDDENLY
The shark stops in mid-flight--it's as though the great fish slammed into an invisible brick wall. It screams--a high-pitched, horrible warble--and writhes wildly...and disappears! Bill, wide-eyed, looks around to see if perhaps the other Hamleteers managed to cast a spell or fire some missiles or something.
Out of the corner of his eye, the halfling sees a telltale flash of light. Bill smiles knowingly as he turns his head to confirm the notion he has:
The sun has just dawned. The Hamleteers managed to keep the intended sacrifice from occurring until after the deadline set by the Dark Master!
On the ground, the others of the party easily subdue the remaining converts. Frellin stands on one end of the dock, confused. He doesn't even remember anything that's happened since he and his patrol ran into a tall dark man wearing a skull mask that had one ruby in one of its eyes.
The Hamleteers summon the City Guard to take care of the converts. As the party exits the courtyard to return the somewhat-shocky Frellin and the now-sleeping Shianna to Kianimar, there's an ominous rumble of thunder that comes from the Temple of Marteaus across the river...but nothing more happens.
Perhaps it was just a fluke...or perhaps the Dark Master has bigger fish to fry...for now.
Rond Sunday November 25th, 2001 10:19:28 AM
Rond reflects on the days happings as soon as the group gets a chance to relax. Rond considers the fact that the Hamleteers are not doing a good job of welcoming Marteaus to the heavens. He supposes that Marteaus is not going to very please to know he's involved with Hamleteers again.
Draax Sunday November 25th, 2001 3:23:41 PM
Draax takes time to relax after the days events. He feels better hearing that Frellin was under a spell and did not know what he was doing. The idea that a father would sacrifice his child does not sit well with the half-elf, but putting another thorn in the side of Marteaus makes the fighter very happy.
Ferrak Sunday November 25th, 2001 6:42:14 PM
The battle over, and the adrenaline spent, Ferrak looks at all of the terrible waste of life. The hunt is finished but to what end.
Understanding that mind control is the chief tool of this new evil presence in the world, Ferrak feels bad for the those who were under his spell. The sharks in the water and the poor man Frellin, who'd almost sacrificed his own daughter.
Taking the time to collect all of the broken and charred remains of the cultists, Ferrak tosses the bodies into the sea, wishing the best for the spirits of those who'd passed and hoping that their bodies help fill the need of the sharks in the water who must have been summoned far from their natural hunting grounds.
Ferrak, sends a quite prayer to the Earth Mother.
Bill Troublefinder Sunday November 25th, 2001 6:55:14 PM
About to activate mirror image on young Shianna, then throw whatever he could find - soap, darts, cooking kettle - into the approaching shark's maw, Bill is greatly relieved that the sun rose in the nick of time. Greatly relieved. He talks to Shianna, and praises her for her buoyant personality. "Wow, that was exciting, wasn't it? Kinda scary, too. Are you okay, Shianna?" He tells her that her father got a little mixed up with someone who was trying to confuse him about what he should do. "See, I suppose he thought he was doing something right - I don't know if he knew about the sharks in the river today. And I didn't know about a shark in the air - that half elf fellow seemed to summon him." He asks her about the Bright Man, and what her father or others told her about him.
As the rays of the sun spread over the city, Bill gives thanks for the timely breaking of the dawn. Once Rond sets them back on land, Bill keeps Shianna away from Frellin until after they reunite with Kianimar, not sure her father is worthy of trust at the moment. He wishes he could read minds somehow.
He checks his friends to see if they are in good health, as well as their opponents. He uses his healing skills to bind wounds where he can. If any are near death, he asks Ferrak to use the wand of cure light wounds (1d8+1) to keep them alive.
"I heard a splash, but I see we're all here. Did their guy who fell in manage to keep away from the sharks?"
Bill looks at each of their opponents, and memorizes their faces. He gets their names. He wants to know who would participate in such a hellish action. And he asks the guard to report any findings to them.
But he focuses most of his attention on the one he thinks of as Domi's little girl. And, because she is, for the moment, quite light in his arms, the halfling insists on carrying the now snoozing little elf girl back to her mother -- unless Draax wants to, in which case he'll keep a real sharp eye out as they head back.
He asks Rond and his friends for leave to follow up with the family of elves. "This event has gotta create some problems for them. I'd like to see what we might do to make sure, somehow, that Frellin gets as far away from Marteaus' influence as he can. I didn't want to drive a bigger wedge between father and daughter than he was ready himself to do. I think that Shianna and her family bear watching. Domi would want us, I think, to keep that girl under protection. I mean, think of the healing power that he ran through her to all in the stadium! I even heard that there were people here in the city healed of various things at the same time. No wonder the Dark Lord wants her dead!"
He explains that he does not want to bag out on his responsibilities to his teammates, but just wants to take steps to ensure nothing like this happens again. "Maybe you guys have some ideas of things we can do. I want Frellin to face up to what he almost did. I saw the conflict on his face - he was fightin' a battle inside, and he lost, and almost lost his daughter, too. We gotta somehow make him see that he should be his daughter's best guardian. Anyone who cops to following Marteaus is gonna end up as dead meat one o' these days." Bill ends this grave pronouncement with a very big yawn for a small halfling. ------ [Addendum, after I read Ferrak's simultaneous post.]
He counsels Ferrak, if he must toss the bodies to the sharks, to first remove their items from them. He would join him in this moment of solemnity, but does not wish to expose Shianna too closely to the results of the recent action. Her little self has enough to deal with as it is.
Bill also asks Rond if he'd like to have the rest of the group make sure that their opponents are disarmed, any magic items, spell books, what have you, catalogued and held pending determination by the authorities as to the disposition of these people.
Arien Sunday November 25th, 2001 8:45:05 PM
As Arien helps loot the captives and the bodies he reflects to himself that there is at least one thing good about winning a fight, getting some loot. While not greedy the sense of discovery and the experimenting with new items he had always enjoyed.
Renik Monday November 26th, 2001 5:31:43 AM
Watching the flying shark take its leave, Renik manages to hoist himself up onto the dock without too much trouble.
Sitting there till it's time to leave, he chucks rocks and bits of dirt into the water.
"Zounds, am I knackered," he mumbles as he tries to skip a flat one.
Just A Walk in the Park
Back to Life...Back to Reality... (DM Donna) Monday November 26th, 2001 7:02:59 AM
Bill learns, through careful dialogue with Shianna, that the "Bright Man" she refers to is not Marteaus, but Domi. The girl (the human equivalent of a 4-year-old toddler) is apparently unaware that the god of courage is dead.
Frellin is most distressed to discover that he had been forcibly converted to the cause of the Dark Lord, and doesn't object to Bill carrying his daughter back to where Kianimar and his captain await them.
Kianimar is ecstatic to find her family reunited, and also much distressed when Frellin speaks to her of the mind control that he'd been acting under. They both thank the party heartily and Kianimar vows to bring her husband to the temple of Teresalia straight away--the clerics of that goddess are particularly effective in removing all types of charms and mind controlling-effects. She also gives Bill a piece of parchment with the family's address on it, inviting him to look in on them any time he wishes.
Thalis also thanks the group, dismissing them so that they may go back to their safe house and get some well-earned rest.
The pickings from the converts are mighty slim--from what little you could get them to talk about, they, too, were "converted" on the night Domi died--as a proof of their devotion, they were required to give up practically all their magic items and certainly all the money they were carrying. Of the items that the party managed to retrieve from the converts, only the bastard sword actually remains intact...the rest of the weapons, armor and various bits of what had once been magic jewelry and such have mysteriously become pitted and corroded. The female gnome of the group grumbles that this happened when the thunder was heard from the Temple of Marteaus--the Dark Lord has little love for minions who fail him, it seems.
The Hamleteers go back to the safe house and sleep until mid-day.
When the group wakes up and has their noontime breakfast, there's a knock on the door. It's Marcus! He has two special collars for Ferrak and Darkfang--they work like Hats of Disguise, only they'll make their wearers look (and smell) like different breeds of dog. He suggests that Ferrak and Darkfang become breeds akin to those used as guard dogs, for Marcus is having the pair be presented to the innkeeper as her new, improved canine security for the establishment. (Note to Ferrak: these collars only project the look/smell of a guard dog--neither Ferrak nor Darkfang actually metamorphasize into dogs. Be careful where you'd leave tracks...because Ferrak's will still look like the tracks of a gnome!)
"You're expected back at the Beer & Bath today," Marcus tells you, "So as soon as you're ready, you should report to work." With this, the aide leaves you all to get ready for work.
Sunblaze Monday November 26th, 2001 10:43:17 AM
Sunblaze, just before the Hamleteers eat, saunters in. A huge grin on her face, she greets everyone. Questioning of what happened while she was gone.
She grabs the small Jeweled Knife out of her belt pouch, wiping some blood off of it. Then she takes out her sword, wiping it down as well. It is less bloodened, yet still, a dirty sword is a sad sword.
When the group finishes eating, she changes into her 'Sontra' costume. Then heads towards the Beer and Bath.
Ferrak d8+3=11 d8+3=6 d4=3 d4=2 Monday November 26th, 2001 6:44:34 PM
Not wanting to waste the magic of Bill's wand, Ferrak uses his own magic to heal any who needs it. Heal-11 for me, Heal-6 for Renik, & 5 good berries for Draax and Arien.) (I think Renik, Ferrak, & Draax were wounded the worst? Did I succeed in negating that hit on Darkfang? Did anyone else take damage, that wont be healed by a rest? I know Arien took some damage, Bill healed himself with a potion. Rond?)
Not quite sure what the others are doing to the bodies of the dead, and after making sure they aren't eating them, Ferrak goes along with the looting. Although what he finds of interest, the others probably wouldn't want to know about.
The next day finds Ferrak & Darkfang wrestling with the idea of new necklaces for them both. Not exactly excited about the prospects of wearing a collar, Ferrak understands the concept of duty. He struggles with Darkfang for most of the next day trying to convince the big black wolf that it's necessary. "We are still free, we only pretend to be collared!" is what he yells as they wrestle through the morning.
Renik sleeps soundly. Monday November 26th, 2001 6:45:09 PM
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Bill Troublefinder d20+17=18 Monday November 26th, 2001 6:52:55 PM
Bill tells their defeated opponents to quit their following of Marteaus. "Whoever were to keep following the so-called 'Dark Lord' is a fool, or evil. In some cases it's hard to tell the difference." To the female gnome, in gnomish he suggests she take her talents and see what she can do to work and adventure to help people, rather than to follow the dead-end path of serving Marteaus.
He resolves to talk with Shianna at some point about Domi. Now is not that time. He thanks Kianimar for the open invitation. He tells Frellin that he will keep him and his family in his prayers. "Any other gem-eyed creatures show up, kick 'em where it hurts and then run away!" he suggests.
On Marcus' arrival, Bill asks how things are going elsewhere. "With all the chaos in the city, how is Sturdavent doing? He must have some people really complaining. When things go well, the politicians take credit. When things go poorly, the citizens blame the politicians."
The halfling again prepares tea for those who wish it, takes a decent-sized snack, and asks, "How's the food at the Beer & Bath? Do you suppose they'll have a place for me to help out?" He washes up, and spends some time to change into Lake - the halfling with a crooked smile. His friends might recall it's the disguise he wore at the Golden Arena on the night of Marteaus' coming out party. Despite his efforts, though, it's obvious to his friends that too much of Bill is showing through (rolled a 1 on disguise). Maybe someone will point this out, so he doesn't make too much of an ass* of himself the first day.
*ass - an animal. Not referring to any particular body part.
He greets Sunblaze, and recaps what they went through. He asks how the blood came to be on her weapons.
And he listens to Ferrak and Darkfang as they romp, trying to pick up more of the language of wolves.
The halfling rousts Renik. "Enough sleep, lazy boy." He drips cool water onto Renik's nose, ready to dart backwards should the nimble rogue start suddenly.
Sontra-Sunblaze-Steven d20+2=20 d20+2=8 Monday November 26th, 2001 8:43:23 PM
(OOC: I thought since we've having an RP moment, I would post again. If you don't like me for it, delete it =))
Sontra looks towards Bill with a saddened face. His eyes seem to well up with tears. He gathers his words up and speaks. "Many had lost their minds with the death of Domi. Some couldn't even begin to reason. I was forced to lay my sword on them. I've been helping to fix up the temple so much, that I haven't gotten around to cleaning them."
After he perfects his disguise, (Nice, a 20...How did I manage that) he watches Bill for a moment. After realizing he's trying to change his look, laughes. "Bill, You might want to fix yourself up. Your still you. Well actually you look like...a carriage hit you. Want some help?" He grins, then walks up to him, fixing some of his figures, poorly though (Dang 8's).
"Maybe you should fix yourself up, Bill..."
Bill Troublefinder aka 'Lake' d20+17=25 Monday November 26th, 2001 9:11:43 PM
Bill listens to Sunblaze, er, Sontra, intently. "I'm so sorry to hear about that. Yes, lots of people have gone over the edge since the Arena."
Bill looks at himself in the mirror, and at first wonders what Sontra is talking about. He gets out his disguise kit again, and uses the lighted mirrors in combination with his hand held mirror. "Oh!" is all he says. He takes things off, adjusts his hat, and starts over again. Better done. "Thanks for the warning," 'Lake' the halfling tells Sontra.
He adds to his friends, "I don't want to show up as Greener again, maybe for some time. Especially when I found out what that one Dread mage did to that dwarf."
Draax Monday November 26th, 2001 10:14:41 PM
Draax welcomes Sunblaze back with a nod of his head. He thanks Farrak for the goodberries and collapses in the bed for a well deserved rest. He gets up for the late breakfast and continues to eat as he listens to Marcus. He smiles as he recalls that Marcus seems to always show up while the group is eating.
After Marcus leaves, Draax puts on his leathers and transforms into his Steps personality. He looks at Bill and smiles, "I do not think that it will be a problem getting you a job at the Beer and Bath, the food is OK and before you ask I have not tried any of the pies. Is there a specific position that you would like to work? The choices are Bartender, Bouncer, Toter or maybe the Preparation Staff. Chenna will probably put you where she needs you, but if you apply for a specific position, she may decide to put you where you have the most experience."
Lake (Bill) Monday November 26th, 2001 10:53:16 PM
"Hmmm. Well, I'll find out about the pies myself, then," he grins lopsidedly at Steps. "I think that toter or bouncer would be the best for me. Or maybe I can help her in ordering stuff. I like to order stuff."
Rond/Roger Tuesday November 27th, 2001 4:37:26 AM
As Bill talks with the converts about Marteaus, Rond backs him up with what stories he convey from their time in chase of the ring. The fact that Marteaus is a manipulator of words.
Rond, looking the picture of health (no dam), lets Bill talk with Sunblaze, when she returns.
Doing his best to do his leaderly best, Rond walks over to Ferrak and welcomes him and Darkfang to the group. "Very Good Job". (keep in mind Rond is a Ranger. Does that mean an automatic good reaction by Darkfang? Or just that I can use Animal handling if I wanted to?
Once reminded of their work, Rond will put on the hat, become Roger, and introduce himself to the newest members of the group.
Everybody Loves a Party! (DM Donna) Tuesday November 27th, 2001 6:37:49 AM
Chenna (the boss) is very happy to see her employees--that accursed Neverending Night scared the footwrappings off her! Business is still a little slow, but "happy hour" has more people in it now, and so the boss sure can use the Hamleteers, yessirree!
Chenna is delighted to have two guard dogs, and is happy to offer Lake his choice of whichever position he would like.
Three or four weeks go by with the Hamleteers working in their undercover guises. Eventually Darkfang tolerates the collar, though he never shows a love for it. Life at the B&B returns to mostly normal.
News, of course, filters through the patrons of the place--especially worthy of gossip is the rise of the Cult Gods. There have been many conversions since the Day of Darkness...especially notable is the fact that several members of the City Council seem to have adopted the worship of various Cult Gods. What will this mean to Plateau City?
One day, an out-of-breath halfling lass arrives at the inn, with a parchment message for the innkeeper: a very affluent client of Chenna's wants a whole lot of food and wine delivered to his house on Gold Street (in the Gold Quarter)--along with the rental of a magical bubbling tub. The man is throwing a party to honor the fallen Domi and to celebrate the fact that his family is still here & healthy. There is enough of the requisite supplies to make the things that the client wants...but it takes most of the day to make them.
After assembling the disguised Hamleteers together, Chenna shows them several large hampers of food (enough for everyone in the party save one person to carry), plus the two-foot square crate that houses the bubbling tub.
"You all have to deliver the party goods," the woman tells the party, "Careful with this stuff--Borisun is a very generous client of mine and I want him to be happy, happy, happy! You are to set up the buffet, and then find a nice ten-foot-square level area to place the bubbling tub in. Once the crate is in place, step back and say the magic word to trigger the transformation..." Chenna follows her own instructions as she speaks, moving to one side and then saying in a loud, firm voice:
"Jack-KOO-zee!"
Sproing! Suddenly the crate is gone, and in its place is an eight-foot-round circular tub of wood, surrounded by a bench that allows people to sit on the edge and ease into the comfortably-hot water. Chenna points to a series of jeweled buttons that are easily reachable by someone in the tub.
"Borisun has had some experience with a bubbling tub, but remind him that he can control the speed of the bubbles with these." she says. "Transforming the tub back to the crate goes like this..." Chenna claps her hands twice and repeats "Jack-KOO-zee!"
Poof! The crate returns.
"Now, you all are going to have to hustle--I do NOT want to lose Borisun's business." the proprietress says firmly. "The only way you can take all this stuff to his house in time is to cut across Gladiator Park...and you don't want to get caught in the park after sundown these days. We've all heard nasty rumors about what lives in the park now." Chenna turns away, then turns back.
"You can take one of the guard dogs with you for protection." she says. "But the other one has to stay here."
Bill Troublefinder - The General Doin's Post Tuesday November 27th, 2001 1:11:14 PM
[OOC: Wow! A whole month's worth of posting ... coming up. Or, more reading than Donna wants to do!]
To build a library: Bill asks his fellow party members, after they've been working the Beer & Bath for a few days, if they'd each be willing to kick in some funds to start building up a library for the group. "We need to get to know more about this area, its history, and books are places you can find out more about different skills, and ways of doing things." He says he's going to put in 250 gp himself toward the library. "Do you each think you can put in 250 gp, too? Or less? Or more?" He'll get receipts where ever he can for the purchase of books, and, during some of his time off, will begin to frequent different bookstores and scroll shops. He'll work on making friends with as many booksellers as he can. And anyone who wants to come with him, that's great, as far as Bill is concerned. He reads from some of the purchased books.
Lake at work: At the Beer & Bath itself, 'Lake' offers to be a toter, and also allows as how he can help out with shopping and finding things, as need be. He keeps his use of his psionic skills from time to time as hidden as possible from patrons of the Beer & Bath. If circumstances seem to warrant it, he may use clairvoyance or clairaudience once in a while. But in general, he applies his energy and his mind to helping the Beer and Bath be a place that people like to come to - within the limits of his own sense of what is proper. No doubt he gets embarrassed from time to time. Regardless, he works hard to please their boss, Chenna, even when she's not looking. And, he picks up what tidbits he can about the goings-on in town, learning about the inn's patrons as he is able.
Wolfie things: Bill works as well at learning the language of Darkfang and Ferrak. After a few weeks, he can carry on a decent conversation, although certain things still puzzle him until clarified by Ferrak. He even sees if he can start joining in their playtimes - tentative at first, but later getting as rambunctious as the two old friends. He enjoys the challenges and counters, the dodging and dancing. And tries to learn when a growl is real, and when it is play.
Magic and psionic stuff: "Say, guys, I've got an idea. How about a few of us go in together to buy a Heward's Handy Haversack? Then here's what I'd like to do with it. It has two pockets, that each look to hold a quart worth of stuff, but really can hold more. I'd like to have those sewn onto a pair of pants that fit me, then, the rest of the sack - it should hold about 80 pounds, but only weigh maybe 5 or 10 - someone else in the party could carry. Tell you what, I'll check over at the Catacombs, and see if they think such a plan would work. Maybe have them do the work. Anybody wanna go in with me on it? I'll pay, say, 800 or 900, 'cause I'll get the smaller parts, and whoever gets the bag pays 1,100 or 1,200? Boy, it'd be great for bombs from the sky!"
The excited halfling looks around to see if any is interested in yet another way to spend their money. Then he remembers, "Oh, with this haversack, whatever it is you want to get, you just think of it, reach in, and there it is, right the first thing you grab! Of course, you had to put it there in the first place, along with whatever else you wanna store inside," he explains.
Bill, during the month, needs at least twice to take two days off. "Workin' on a project." When he is done, he shows his friends a new crystal ring - "This here helps me to learn and remember certain things better, and other stuff." And, on his forehead, he places a blue gem. "This here helps keep me focused - it helps my concentration. Professor Abulek calls it a 'Third Eye', though I can't claim to see anything better, but, I don't get very distracted if there's something important to do."
He doesn't wear the gem on his forehead in his role as Lake, but does wear the crystalline ring.
Domi's girl: Bill tries to go see Frellin's family once a week. Again, if any want to come with him (especially one of the group's elves or half elves) he is happy for the company. He brings the first week a toy for Shianna, flowers for Kianimar and a good blueberry pie for Frellin. He asks her parents, when out of the little girl's earshot, whether they have had a chance to explain to her what happened to Domi. If they haven't yet, and are willing, Bill asks if they'd like to handle that themselves, or if they would like for Bill to talk with her about his passing. "I've heard some say he will come back. Others quote his words that as long as one of his children lives, so he lives on in them. But all of us should remember his final words: 'Have courage.'"
Bill takes these matters slowly, though, not wishing to overstep his bounds, but also wanting to do what he can to be as much of a friend to them as they are willing, and time will allow... a step at a time. Some weeks he brings a trinket, or a little songbook, or a little puzzle for the girl, and something for her parents. But sometimes he brings nothing but himself. If the little girl asks him what he brought, "Why, myself! Isn't that enough?" He sees if Frellin is open to going for a walk. He asks him how he came to be a lieutenant, and how he likes the work, and answers the lieutenant's questions as he is able, without betraying any confidences.
On bothering Arien, and his other adventuring friends: Bill asks Arien his favorite color, and what kind of animal he would be if he could choose to be one, and what kind of tree he would be, and what his favorite foods are, and whether he has ever fallen in love. He works hard to exasperate him. They've been traveling together off and on for some time now, but the hobbit feels he hardly knows him. So, he works on remedying that.
And similarly with his other friends.
Correspondence Bill writes letters to his family every few days, but a minimum of once a week - filling his letters with observations about interesting people, good pies he has tasted, a silly joke or two, and conversation in family code they used to use to talk about others in their presence without the others knowing they were discussing them. He is careful not to reveal anything about what they are doing for Marcus. He asks about how things are back in Windhorn Hamlet, and everyone's health, etc. His letters are models of joie de vivre and careful discretion.
He also keeps a near-daily journal, in a code he forms for himself.
Roger Tuesday November 27th, 2001 3:21:14 PM
As things start getting back to normal, Roger reminds everyone to return the gear that they were using for the last assignment, if it wasn't used up. "We'll keep these items on reserve, or trade them in, as we see fit when the next item comes up."
At Bill's comments Roger adds, " I have a place already where we can store our gold at least. We also may be able to store items, but I have to check with them to see if I can or not."
Ferrak (Don't take it the wrong way, I'm RPing) Tuesday November 27th, 2001 6:40:54 PM
When Ferrak & Darkfang are greeted by their leader Rond, they each smell his hand in turn.
Ferrak, when he realizes that Rond is the Alpha of this pack, and that the man has some experience with nature, decides to greet him as a wolf would.
First, after shaking his hand firmly and acknowledging the compliment he offers, Ferrak steps close to Rond and steps on his foot. Not forcibly mind you, just to see what Rond does. Ferrak still has a firm grip on Rond's hand. (We could play this out through e-mail, if you wanted.)
When this is finished Ferrak, offers up the slippers of spider climbing that were given to him. As far as a library goes, Ferrak has a gem that was given to him in the Red Wyrm Inn. He offers that to Bill as well. He has nothing else of value, to give.
Spending as much time with Darkfang as possible before it is time to go on this mission, Ferrak is melancholy to say the least. The brothers have never been separated in their lives. The prospect of doing anything without his brother depresses him intensely.
Renik Tuesday November 27th, 2001 6:47:06 PM
"GADZOOKS!" yells Renik when he rises to Bill's water treatment. "I almost had a heart attack there."
All business as the group gets ready for their new mission, as Renik prepares to don his Gullion disguise he notices the morose behavior of the wolf brothers.
"What's wrong with them?" he asks.
"Oh...well. Say, why can only one guard dog come on this mission anyway? Surely there is little difference with two. Aww come on, buck up Ferrak, I'm sure this rich guy has plenty of big juicy bones."
Sunblaze - AKA Sontra - Steven Tuesday November 27th, 2001 10:51:42 PM
Sunblaze willingly donates 100 platinum pieces (1000 gold) towards the library, laughing at Bill's idea. "I was thinking very much the same thing. We might be able to recover some stuff from the Temple of Domi. I don't know if they are going to attempt to keep it up. As well, we'll need a permanent housing. We could buy a place, but is anyone willing to do that? It would be very interesting. Adventurers, with a home, nobody can say it won't be fun." She says with a grin. She checks at the temple, once a week, making sure everything is ok, and checking to see if there is anything she can salvage. She doesn't take anything the group wouldn't need, but she tries to get scrolls and books on whatever topics she can, to help create the library. She even goes with him to the Bookstores, often asking if they need any minor help around. She hopes to make friends with them, like Bill, to get cheaper prices as well as help those who are in need.
"Sorry Bill, I've already got myself a Haversack like that one, but if nobody else wants it, I'll buy it. It would be a good idea, to carry extra things, in case anything happens to the first. Or maybe we could trap some of our enemies inside it. That would be fun to watch. I can just imagine, that bird thing, suddenly trapped inside of the bag." Grinning openly she laughs.
When Bill asks if any want to join him to visit to see Frellin and the other children, Sunblaze goes along. She doesn't exactly know these people, but since Bill says they're ok, they are ok. She seems to have lots of fun with them, and after a while she starts to feel more comfortable with them (only if Bill still wants her to come).
Occasionally, Sunblaze grabs her belt pouch, looking at Bill with a gleam in her eye. When the rest of the group isn't around she pulls out her gems. Nine small ones, red, blue and green gleaming with light. Five slightly larger ones, all yellow. Finally she shows him a fist sized one. It's quite heavy. It shines all the colours of the rainbow, when held up the light properly. She lets Bill see it for a bit, then packs them all away, in her Haversack.
While at the Beer and Bath she works just as hard as before, trying to keep up with her old contacts, including the thieves and such. She tries to sing a song for the crowd, when it's a bit slow, yet she can hardly remember how to keep a proper tune. Perhaps her magics are helping her forget her lesser skills. Yet still she tries to hold on to it.
Steps aka Draax Tuesday November 27th, 2001 11:05:02 PM
During the down time and when not in his Steps disguise, Draax will occasionally visit his light warhorse stabled at Red Dragon Inn. He will ensure that the horse is being treated well and still knows its master. Whenever possible he will take it for short rides.
Steps listens to Chenna as she gives instructions about the delivery. He likes the bubbling tub, telling himself that one day in the far future he will get one for himself. Hearing that they will have to go through the Gladiator Park, Steps is anxious to get started and out of the park before it gets dark.
Lake (Bill) d20+18=37 Tuesday November 27th, 2001 11:51:29 PM Rond's cache "Sounds good, Roger. Sure, check with them." At some moment when the two are alone he asks, "Any place I know?"
Renik's heart "Don't worry, Renik. We have a potion of cure light wounds," Bill assures him. "A heart attack is a light wound, isn't it?"
Interlude catchup Bill thinks his first visit to the elves would be better alone, but for some later visits, he's happy to bring along Sunblaze.
"Thanks, Sunblaze. Just to be sure is that 200 platinum pieces (1,000 gp), or 100 platinum pieces (500 gp)?" he asks the generous elfin mage.
Regarding the haversack, he thanks her again. "I'll let you know what we need to do once I get the info from the Catacombs, or the Black Genie if necessary."
And he 'oos' and 'aahs' over her collection of gemstones. -------
Have bathtub will travel "Very well, Chenna, ma'am," Lake says. "We'll get it there as expeditiously as we are able, for Borisun's sake." Bill memorizes her instructions just about as perfectly as he is able (DC 37).
He wonders about her instructions to have one of the two 'guard dogs' remain, but chooses not to gainsay her. But he does ask, "Uh, what kind of rumors? About the park, I mean?"
Once they leave, and are heading toward the park, Bill places the gemstone on his forehead. He prepares a bag with one each of acid, thunderstone, alchemical fire, and tanglefoot bag. The latter, being the largest, he places at the bottom of the bag. He comments to his friends, "I'm not sure I'm too excited about going through the park that contains the arena in which the Dark Lord made his appearance. Bad taste that left in my mouth. Any ideas on things we might do to prepare?"
Tamosvar (Arien) Wednesday November 28th, 2001 1:56:17 AM Catching up
"Ah, I was always partial to green, and gold as the colors go. Green because when surrounded by the near universal gray of the city," Arien says while gesturing outside with one hand. "I can remember the smell of the forest, the sounds and its aura. Gold is another matter completely though, gold to me represents opportunity, chance, and adventure. As for an animal, maybe a weasel, I respect their cunning and resourcefulness. After all," he adds with a chuckle, "they are almost as good as me. I was always partial to the willow, where the oak will be shattered in the storm the willow will bend and live. A most useful trait I would say, one that would come in very handy in the current time. Well I always liked a block of well-aged cheese, and I suspect you are as well, seeing how you bludgeoned someone unconscious with a block. Love, my friend, is a very broad term. I love the thrill of battle, of testing wits and abilities against others. I love adventure, the discovery and flinging our fate to fortune, and the freedom of choice. I love a good tune and a well-written piece of poetry. As for attaching my affections upon another to the degree I believe you mean, nay, I have not. I suspect that I will not be given the luxury of doing so at least until the actions of that night have run until their full conclusion."
Present
"I would hate to be in that thing if someone tripped the spell by accident, it would definitely be a tight fit." Pulling Bill aside, "How many charges are left on that wand of yours? I think that if you can manage it that you should, before we enter the Park that you should use a charge on each of our burdens. It would be bad form to just drop them and harder than a chunk of mithril to fight while carrying them, and I suspect that we will be attacked there. A good chance for you know who to get revenge on us."
Satisfied that he conveyed his feelings on the matter Arien returns to the group and claps his hands together and rubs them for a moment. "Right right, well then I shall carry a basket of foodstuffs and worry not about me dropping a bit milady, why I hit a grape at twenty paces with my dagger once. Come on now lads lets get a goin' no need to dawdle." Arien walks over to one of the hampers and picks it up. Then, throwing a meaningful glance at Bill, he waits for the others with an air of distraction as he is fully into his disguise as Tamosvar.
La la la la Life Goes On (DM Donna) Wednesday November 28th, 2001 7:35:36 AM
Interlude Resolution:
Lake is hired as a toter and Chenna is very pleased with the halfling's (OOC: Lake IS a halfling, right?) work ethic. The rest of the Hamleteers find the routine of their cover jobs a welcome change from the life-and-death situations they'd been finding themselves in lately.
While the word on the street is all a-buzz about the rise of the Cult Gods (most notably of Marteaus), there is also a persistent current of information that says that the Sons of Dread are, themselves, all but gone from the City. The pyramid that the Hamleteers had traced the organization to was definitely deserted, and all the various spellcasters that were present at the site of Domi's death have disappeared. The mysterious disappearances of the poor and homeless have, by and large, stopped.
Shianna and family--now free of the Dark Lord's influence--thrive happily in their home. The little girl has been told, very carefully, that Domi is dead... but, apparently, chooses to completely disregard the facts. Shianna often expresses the hope that she will get to meet the "Bright Man" again. And, always, the child is happy to see Bill whenever he comes to visit.
There are many places that a permanent library/laboratory for the Hamleteers can be located. Careful research into the market and locations is recommended for the best place for the best price. Many of the sites, sadly, were former places dedicated to Domi. There is not much left of anything in any of those places.
Bill finds that speaking Lupine is an acquired Skill. (OOC: gotta spend that Skill point if you wanna know the language!)
As the finishing touches are made to the portable feast that the Hamleteers are charged with delivering and setting up, Darkfang consoles his brother:
Don't mope, big brother! You know as well as I do that not every member of the pack always goes on the hunt... SOMEbody must stay and guard the den while the others are away. This just happens to be one of those times that I have to guard instead of hunt. The disguised wolf sits on his haunches and scratches behind one ear. Besides... YOU'RE the one who'll be present when the other pack feeds--what I wouldn't give to pick over the leavings after they're done..! Darkfang licks his chops.
Lake / Bill Troublefinder Wednesday November 28th, 2001 2:04:41 PM Language progress. 'Woof woof!' Bill's progress in learning vulpine seems relatively unhindered. [OOC: Look at the last character sheet I sent you, Donna - you'll see under the Skills that he did spend a skill point on the language of wolves.]
Appreciation, and change, and books Shortly after Ferrak gives Bill the gem, Bill runs into him over at the Red Wyrm Inn. "Hey Ferrak, Darkfang." In the tongue of the wolf, he asks how they are doing. He tells Ferrak, too, that he found what the gem was worth. "So, because I want to honor your desire to help buy some of the books, I'll keep a small portion of it. It was worth 100 gp, and I got it changed. But you can't be without funds. Here's 90 gold pieces, so you've got at least something to spend. And that 10 gp should get us a good book or two."
So, armed with 760 to 1,260 gp (depending upon whether Sunblaze gave him 200 platinum pieces or 100), Bill sees what sorts of books are available. He holds some in reserve for good, solid bookshelves.
'Return the gear'? Lake is puzzled at Roger's request to 'return the gear' they were using for the last assignment. "What gear do you mean? Did we borrow something from somebody? The stuff I gave to you guys you can keep and use if you want. If you don't want it anymore, I'll take it back, but not if you wanna hang on to it. Was there something else you were talking about, Roger?"
Money matters "Hey, I'm thinking something else. With the announcements about Sturdavent stepping aside for the Council, maybe if anybody has anything they're keeping at the castle ought to go there and withdraw their money, and get any certificates changed into gems or gold or something worthwhile, because who knows whether someone won't say, 'All right, that was while Sturdavent was High Lord Mayor, but now the money's ours'? I already got my certificates, and cashed 'em in."
Finding our own place? Bill will make discrete inquiries here and there, in various guises (as a halfling, gnome, or dwarf), trying to learn two or three of the best available places. He'll report back to his friends. Maybe they can do some checking, too.
A Sudden Insight On A Child's Faith About two weeks after the rescue, Bill mentions to Rond, "Hey, remember when Shianna said," and he switches to the elvish she used, "'The Bright Man can save us! He can, he can!!!'?" The halfling looks at Rond. "Remember what happened next?" He pauses a beat. "The sun appeared. Nice and bright. Just when she called upon Domi - the 'Bright Man'. Oh, sure, you can call it coincidence, fortuitous timing. But I would hesitate to deny that her faith was somehow tied into the perfect timing of the sun's rising." Another pause. "Just a thought, Rond, just a thought." He waggles his eyebrows and goes back to work. He mentions this thought to Frellin and Kianimar when next he sees them.
Green-Gold-Weasel-Willow-Cheese-liker-Adventure-lover-Poetry aficionado Arien Bill really likes Arien's answers to his questions.
Lightening the Load Regarding Arien's/Tamosvar's question about his wand of levitation, Bill reports he has 16 charges left. "And after that, it'd be nice if we could buy another one. It's handy!" But he agrees to cast levitation on the heavier burdens. "Actually, if we stack several things and tie them down, then levitate the whole bundle, maybe I can do it with one charge. I'm gonna do it to myself, too, just in case we run into trouble." Before they leave, Bill empties some of the bulkier things from his bag of holding, and places some of the things they need to carry in that. On their return he plans to replace them to the bag.
He will not do the levitation where others outside of members of the party will be able to see them. "Okay, let's get across Gladiator park before sundown, like our boss told us!" And 'Lake' sets off at a brisk walk.
Ferrak Wednesday November 28th, 2001 5:10:03 PM
Listening to his brother, Ferrak nods his head and goes through the motions to convince his brother that he understands. He is a wolf after all, but deep down he isn't convinced. In the middle of a city, leaving his brother behind when that city is crawling with evil, falling apart. The natural balance of things is way off here, he can smell it, and Ferrak just does not feel comfortable without his brother by his side.
Once again however, Ferrak is reminded of his duty. Placing the collar around his neck so as not to arouse suspicion, Ferrak sits next to the parcels to be carried and keeps his eyes peeled.
Renik d20+8=14 Wednesday November 28th, 2001 5:16:49 PM
Enjoying his guise as Gullion, Renik oversees the preparations, as the group gets ready to leave. (Disguise-14)
Stooped over as only the truly unhealthy do Gullion sips from a bottle of wine as they get ready to go. Picking at the flakiness of his skin, the repulsive business man smiles greasily at any who walk past. Renik chuckles inwardly at the effectiveness of his disguise. Nobody looks twice at a scumbag.
Steps (Draax) Wednesday November 28th, 2001 9:56:50 PM
Seeing Tamosvar lift one of the bags, Step goes over and tests the weight of the crate before picking it up. He waits for the others to pick up their burdens before departing.
Mean Mr. Mustard (DM Donna) Thursday November 29th, 2001 8:22:37 AM
(OOC: Topics like searching for sites & stocking a research lab/library will have to wait until after this particular Scene finishes.)
Chenna busily doublechecks the hampers of food and how the assigned employees (a.k.a. the Hamleteers) are organizing themselves to carry the food and the crate that turns into the bubbling tub.
"Just about done..." she trills in anticipation, then turns to the group, "...just one more tray of elven-style pate appetizers and you'll be ready to go." She bustles off to the kitchen to get the munchies in question.
You'll do well on this hunt, big brother! Darkfang assures Ferrak. I think I smell liver..!
Ferrak Thursday November 29th, 2001 6:24:51 PM
Smelling the air, Ferrak gives a few barks for luck as the group gets ready to go.
"Woof! Woof! Woof!" Bill understands most of it although I'm sure it will take him some time to master this strange new language.
(The full moon shines on us brother, where ever we both might be. Take care, I love you, and save the biggest bones for me.)
Renik Thursday November 29th, 2001 6:28:42 PM
While it looks like Gullion is drinking massive amounts of wine on this early morning, Renik is taking little sips and keeping alert.
Stumbling along with the packs he makes a few lewd comments here and there just to get in the swing of things.
"Come on you slackers let's get this show on the road." Not a likeable fellow at all, this Gullion. Renik chuckles to himself.
Bill Troublefinder Friday November 30th, 2001 1:02:14 AM
"Ooooh - elven-style pate. Do they raise fat geese, too?" Bill assists. The consolidation and levitation of the things he will do once out of eyesight of the Beer & Bath, and before the Gladiator Park.
[No problem on waiting until after this delivery & party for resolution of additional things. I just didn't want Bill to appear idle ;-) ]
I've Got My Mind Set On You (DM Donna)(not a Beatles song title, but one supplied in respectful memory of the late George Harrison Friday November 30th, 2001 7:07:50 AM
Chenna makes sure that last tray of pate is secured and reiterates how VERY important pleasing Borisun is to her--he's a very wealthy man, and knows a majority of her wealthier clients, so a bad opinion from him will have a ripple effect and impact her reputation with the others.
"Go quickly now," she bids the group, "Be mindful of the food and that tub... be polite and accommodating to Borisun... and, most of all, get in andout of Gladiator Park as soon as you can. I want his business--but I also want my employees live and in one piece, too! Now, go!" Chenna shoos the Hamleteers away, lest you all think she's being sentimental.
Roger (Rond) Friday November 30th, 2001 2:40:13 PM
Helping out as best he can, he helps with the final preps of gettiing the group underway. "Steps, you're with me on the tub". Roger decides to let the others make their own decisions about what to carry and what not.
Lake (Bill) d20+4=21 Friday November 30th, 2001 5:01:04 PM It ain't heavy, it's my bundle Lake (as mentioned twice earlier), once out of eyesight and earshot of the Beer and Bath, and in a reasonably secluded spot, lays his already roped battle net down, has his friends assemble the various things together on top of it. Some items he places in his backpack (amazing what will fit in there). The grouped items he ties down together with silk rope and the second of his three battle nets on top, and casts levitate on the lot. On the front he has a long loop of rope, tied down at the two front corners, and on the back, likewise, a long loop of rope attached to the back two corners. [Use rope 21.] He has the whole thing levitate (Bill, as he cast the spell, controls the rising or falling of the load) to a few feet off the ground. Someone can be in front to pull, and someone behind to help guide and apply the brakes as necessary. (An object in motion tends to remain in motion. An object at rest tends to remain at rest.) "Roger, Tamosvar, Gullion, Steps - maybe one of you can take the front, and one the rear. Sunblaze and I are kinda small for this. C'mon, boy," he says to Ferrak, and in the lupine tongue says, "Sorry, friend - we have to play our parts. Maybe you can sniff out what might be ahead of us in the path we take."
Delivery prep Lake has his third battle net properly folded and draped over his shoulders. Tucked into one side of his belt is a bag of goodies. He adds a flask of holy water to the other four items in the bag. In the other side he tucks one of his pouches with flasks and potions in it, and spends a few minutes as they walk along organizing them for easy access. He doublechecks his darts, too, then casts levitation on himself. He places a gem on his forehead, and releases his two ioun stones from his pouch, so that they take up orbits around his head. "Okay, let's go get this party started." Lake walks near the front, and lets the bigger guys move the levitated load. As the group walks up and down little hills, Lake will make sure the altitude of the load changes to accommodate the variance.
Contingent light If it starts getting dark enough out for them to need light, Lake will activate the power he calls 'my light' (20' cone of light emanating from Lake's eyes, lasts one hour). In the area surrounding the halfling with the crooked mouth, a 60-Hz quiet hum is evident, notable only if the environs are fairly quiet. [It's not dark yet, is it, Donna?]
(Hey Bill, it's a good thing that you learned how to speak wolven! It'd be even worse with Darkfang left behind and nobody to talk to.)
Circling the group a few times with nervous energy, Ferrak runs ahead of the group runs back , runs ahead again, and sits waiting with his tongue hanging out of his mouth.
"Woof. Woof?" (My brother's nose is better than mine. I have to rely on my eyes & ears. It isn't as good but it will have to do, eh?)
Then in his broken common. "Rrrond, do you want me to hunt ahead, or follow behind." For now Ferrak tries to accomplish both and expends some of his nervous energy running around the group.
Steps (Draax) Sunday December 2nd, 2001 11:09:19 AM
Following Lake's suggestion, Steps goes to the front of the floating bundle and make it look like he is carrying it, but he uses his hand to help steer it.
He is glad that he will be able to take his hands away from the bundle in the hurry if the need arises without damaging it by dropping it.
As they journey to the destination, Steps cannot stop himself from smiling as he watches 'Ferrak the dog' running around the group.
Gullion (Renik) d20+23=34 d20+13=30 Monday December 3rd, 2001 5:51:23 AM
Still playing the part of the unsavory Gullion. Renik decides that it might be a good idea to have somebody hidden in case of ambush. Saying as much to the others in a whisper or with thieves cant if anyone understands the secret language of rogues.
Pretending to relieve himself upon a wall, Renik hides in the shadows of the alley. With the help of his cloak he dissapears from sight. (34)
Pulling his bow, and notching an arrow, Renik follows stealthily. (30)
With a Little Help from my Friends (DM Donna) Monday December 3rd, 2001 7:39:18 AM
Between the organizing and Lake/Bill's use of his levitation wand, the food and crate with the tub in it are relatively easy to transport, and the delivery force makes pretty good time across the city and into Gladiator Park, which--surprisingly enough--still appears to be a favored location for walkers, children and the odd picnicker.
Physically, the park is pretty much the same as it always was, but there's something in the air that makes it obvious to you that the park is no longer the playground of just the living. The sound of the wind reminds you of the sigh of eternal longing. The shadows cast by the trees and statues seem to shift--but when you look directly at them, they are still. Nothing seems threatening--but neither does everything appear to be 100% normal.
A trio of children are playing Monkey-in-the-Middle, tossing a cap between two of them as the third attempts to snatch the cap... but upon closer observation, it becomes apparent that all three of the laughing youngsters are the "monkeys"--an invisible hand teases them by dangling the cap just out of reach of the three.
None of the children are alarmed by this. In fact, when a voice calls them home to supper, the trio are very disappointed. They ask for the cap back from their spectral friend, who obligingly tosses it to them, and run out of the park. As they pass you, they shout that sunset is coming, so you'd better hurry, 'cuz all the friendly ghosts go home when it gets dark!
Indeed, the party is only two-thirds the way through the park when there is a decided chill in the air. It isn't quite sunset yet, but the rapidly-approaching twilight is beginning to transform the vaguely-spooky atmosphere of the park to a place that has a subconsciously-threatening air. Just about everyone who had been in the park either is gone or hurrying to leave.
"Liiiiiiiiverrrrrrrrr..." sighs a ghostly voice, "...I smell liiiiiiiiverrrrrr..."
"Pate!" replies a different voice. "It's elven-style pate..!" Nobody is in sight.
"It's been 300 years since I've had pate!" a third speaker, still unseen, chimes in.
A half-elf man, hand-in-hand with a pretty human woman, hurries past you all.
"If you're carrying food, you'd better run with that stuff for the exit!" he calls to you, obviously having overheard the ghost voices. "The spirits will want the food--but they slime everything they touch! They ruined the last picnic we tried to have heeeeeerrrrrrre..." He and the woman are practically running out of the park now, not wanting to caught within the area once it truly becomes dark.
The Hamleteers find themselves three-quarters of the way through the park now, but the spirits they've been warned about suddenly materialize between them and the exit gate.
"Fooooood... delicious, scrumptious foooooood...!" the spirits sigh, making clear their intent to get your food BEFORE you get out of the park!
(OOC: I have attempted to publish the map of the area and your relative positions on the web. The link to the site is supposed to be:
OOC: Note from Kim about map address Monday December 3rd, 2001 9:40:18 AM [OOC: For the map address, try: http://hometown.aol.com/donnlap/myhomepage/ which will then redirect you to: http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/donnlap/myhomepage/
I tried printing the page, but it wouldn't work from my home computer - which may not be the page's fault. Am occasionally having printing problems on this PC.
One more note: In general, and according to lore, some spirits are earthbound, and some are not.]
Renik Monday December 3rd, 2001 6:27:59 PM
Stepping out of the shadows, reaalizing that his arrows probably would have little effect, Renik yells to his companions. "If they want food give them food!" then grabbing the wine that he was drinking before, Renik tosses it off to the left out of their way. Then grabbing some bread and cheese that he was saving for later, Renik launches them far to the right.
"Woof, woof, woof!" It's just what you are supposed to say when spirits are about.
Ferrak has no food on him, and so is watching the spirits to see what they do. He pulls out his spear and gets ready to move.
Arien Monday December 3rd, 2001 8:29:07 PM
As the ghosts appear several thoughts run through Arien's mind. "What I wouldn't give for a good cleric right now." and "They're not getting MY liver." and finally, "Marcus better give us a nice big fat bonus for this."
Then seeing what Renik is doing Arien follows suit and start pitching whatever food he can dig out of his pack off to right as far as he can, hoping that the travel rations will distract the spirits long enough for the party to get by and in the clear.
Steps (Draax) Monday December 3rd, 2001 8:42:37 PM
Noticing the ghostly figures and hearing Renik's yell, Steps cringes at the thought of throwing away his food. Seeing Arien following Renik's lead, Steps does likewise reaching into his backpack and chucking his food far to the side. His thoughts follows the same pattern as Arien, 'If they only had a cleric or he would even tolerate a Paladin at this point.'
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) Monday December 3rd, 2001 10:11:32 PM
Just a wee bit earlier, as the ghostly voices began calling for food, Lake initiated my light, causing his eyes to shine brightly, illuminating the air before him - although such illumination may not presently be necessary since there still seems adequate light. Immediately after that, harkening to the spirits' call for food, he pulled his block of cheese out. He began digging divots in it with his dagger, forming little pockets inside. As they moved quickly down the path, he stuck the dagger into the cheese, poured liquid from some of his flasks into the hollowed out places, then covered the tops over with some of the cheese he had dug out. Just about the time that the famished spirits materialize, he had nearly unstoppered his third flask. No more time to finish that task.
The big guys have been moving the load briskly, obedient both to Chenna and the half-elf back there. Lake, his eyes blazing bright above his crooked smile, takes a quick step behind, then bounces up just above the load of food. He wedges his toes beneath the top net, and causes both the load and himself to levitate upwards, the mass maintaining its forward movement. "Wait below, and I'll send you food from the sky! First, this fine aged cheese. Tell me, fine spirits, who will sample the cheese? I'll send it your way."
[OOC: Donna, I figure we were moving at least at a trot, heeding the half-elf's admonition to hurry. So allowing for the movement of the slowest character, that would likely be movement of 40-50 - maybe you can clarify the speed in your next post. Thanks - Kim]
Help! (DM Donna) Tuesday December 4th, 2001 6:50:00 AM
(OOC: D'OH! I'm VERY new at this website/page/html crap...Kim is right, though, the addy to get the map site is:
http://members.aol.com/_ht_a/donnlap/myhomepage/
Now...on with the game...)
"Cheese..!" sighs spirit #4--a female dressed in clothes that were the height of fashion about 150 years ago. "How long it's been since I've nibbled at an aromatic cheddar..!"
"It IS the perfect appetizer." agrees #5, a dwarf whose fine attire looks as though it has been stained in the front.
"Bah! I want that pate!" insists #1.
"I smell fresh rolls!" chimes in #7.
All eight spirits close in on the food that the Hamleteers are supposed to deliver to Chenna's best client--the one that she has given you very specific orders to make sure is pleased with her spread. It's rather doubtful that any living person will want slime-covered food.
(OOC: the webpage (and I'm assuming that it's supposed to be the address above) has been updated to reflect that the spirits are closer to the food now--the party is going to have to do something drastic, it looks like.
Oh--and I suppose that the group's top speed is about 30 feet...that large bundle isn't heavy, but it's still kind of unwieldy, and I'm sure that one of the party members with his feet on the ground has his hands on the bundle in order to make sure that it doesn't just float away, too.)
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) d20=14 Tuesday December 4th, 2001 9:24:24 AM
Using the handle of the embedded dagger to provide leverage and thrust, Lake flips the two pounds of spiked cheese over towards spirits #1 & #2. "Appetizer for you - catch." The liquid inside the large cheese cube is from two flasks worth of holy water. [Rolled unadjusted 14 - don't know whether to add bonuses 'to hit' as he's not really throwing it with full force as a attack per se, but rather more gently, so as to make it easy for one of them - more likely #2 - to catch it.] Lake tucks the dagger away, and unstoppers the flask he was working on a moment ago. That in one hand, he pulls out another flask, unstoppering it with his teeth.
[Lake/Bill's map position should have changed to be between where Draax and Renik are on the map - as that is where I picture the netted food bundle being. He is on top of it, and is trying to levitate upwards, again, his feet thrust under the netting on top.]
[Shawn - go to the Loot 'n Booty, and roll 5d100. In honor of your fine play of Renik, I'm passing on the fruits of my d100=100 roll to you. -Kim]
Gullion/ Renik (Carl) d20+2=15 Tuesday December 4th, 2001 9:25:40 AM
Addressing the rapidly approaching ghostly contingent, Gullion pipes up "Well of course you want pate. Displays wossname, culture, that does, don't it? Always a pleasure to meet cultured members of the respiratorialy challenged community like yerselves. But if might be so bold; bein' folks of culture, like, ye'll be aware that nothing prepares the wossname, palate, like a good drop o' red. An' just over there" Gullion gesticulates towards the discarded bottle of wine over to his right "is the finest drop o' red you are ever likely to 'ave the pleasure o' tastin'. That, my friends, is Chateau de la Mont St Rompigny, '46! Only 500 bottles were ever made! That stuff retails at over 200 GP a bottle! Men have been known ta sell their entire families for just one sweet taste! Now if you really want to make that pate taste like wossname, nectar of the gods, ye'll be wanting a splash o' the old Rompigny afore you tuck in, am I right? Eh? Eh? But one at a time, ladies an' gents, no jumping the queue!"
He leers cheerily at the spectral gastronomes, hoping against hope that they fall for his ruse (Bluff 15), and make a mad dash to be first to the bottle. In case they don't his hand settles surreptitiously on the hilt of his concealed rapier...
(OOC: I'm back! One MCP passed! Many, many thanks, Shawn, you've done a fabulous job with Renik (with the possible exception of "Gadzooks!" ;-) I owe you one!)
Not sure whether his spear will affect these apparitions, Ferrak readies his spear for their coming.
(Hip, Hip, Hurrah! The real Renik has entered the building. Odds bodkins, it's good to have you back. Now I can drop my really bad English accent, I was hoping it would hurry you up.:-)
Steps (Draax) Tuesday December 4th, 2001 11:18:53 PM
Noticing that the food he discarded is being ignored; Steps becomes very upset with himself and the ghost. With himself for throwing away the food and the ghosts for not have the decency of taking his offer.
Of all the things that Steps expected on this delivery, he never expected that he might have to fight ghosts to protect the food. As he listens to the others formulate their plans he hold back from pulling his sword. He is relieved as he feels the bundle being lifted out of his hands, if he does have to fight at least he will not have to worry about food.
Strawberry Fields Forever (DM Donna) d20=12 d8=8 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 7:40:43 AM
(OOC: I've made adjustments to the map again and changed the positions of the Spirits and the Hamleteers a bit. Take a look and plan accordingly.)
"Wiiiiiiine..!" the spirits are equally divided, it seems, between snagging the wine and fielding Bill's cheese, not noticing that Bill and the bundle have levitated up to a height of about 15 feet so far.
Spirits 1 through 4 orient on Bill's cheese--with #4 grabbing the aromatic dairy product up and attempting to eat it. The slimed cheese falls to the ground--but the holy water within the stuff does 8hp damage to the Spirit, who screams in surprise.
Spirits 5 through 8 all try to jump on the wine Renik/Guillon has offered--#7 lucks out and snags the wine, gulping at it, but the liquid simply splashes through the spirit's incorporeal body, landing as a puddle of slimey wine.
None of the apparitions are interested in the preserved foodstuffs that were offered--apparently it's just the freshly-prepared food that is getting their attention.
That and the wine.
Spectral hands claw at the bundled-up food, the spirits intent upon assuaging their eternal hunger...
Lake (Bill) - Splish-Splash d20+7=17 d20+5=18 2d4(2+4)=6 2d4(2+1)=3 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 9:04:08 AM
Lake unstoppers the second flask, then tosses flasks and contents - holy water - down upon spirits #1 (AC 17, ranged touch, 6 hp damage) and #2 (AC 18, 3 hp damage). "The rest of the food is not for you. If you leave us be tonight, we can make arrangements for a feast for you tomorrow night. Otherwise, we oppose you." He draws out something else.
[Holy water does 2d4 damage per flask.]
OOC: Hey, if you'd rather, I can just rule that the Holy Water missed altogether... ;D
Gullion d20+2=17 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 12:02:51 PM
"Ah, true conny-sewers" grins Gullion, as he shoves mightily at the bundled floating food parcel, attempting to keep it moving past the ethereal figures towards the exit.
"Them that want to taste a drop more o' that good stuff, there's a fella back thataway" (he indicates back down the path, the way they came) that was sellin' the stuff. That an' the finest single malt I ever did see, too pricey for me, but then maybe you folks could persuade him ta part with a dram. An' the smell o' the wossname, fwah grargh he was sellin' (you know, that fancy foreign pate, wot they get out o' stuffin geese with normal pate), well I tell ya, I damn near sold the clothes off me back for a taste. Smelled like wossname, ambrosia or whatever you call it. Not like this old muck" (he gesticulates at the floating food parcel) "this was real prime grade quality tucka, an' no mistakin'. Not ta mention his selection of rare Woldian cheeses. If you hurry you might catch him."
Gullion continues to babble away, desperate to deflect the attention of the ghosts long enough for the group to make their gettaway (Bluff 17).
Ferrak d100=88 Wednesday December 5th, 2001 5:10:13 PM
Not sure what to do Ferrak uses the innate ability of illusion deep within him. From the direction that Renik/Gullion is pointing come the smells of fine wine & cheese. (Armor check 88 for Prestidigitation)
"Mmmm...they're grrreat!" he yells sniffing at the air to get the spirits' attention.
Steps (Draax) Wednesday December 5th, 2001 10:51:50 PM
If the ghosts take the bait and gives the group a clear path through them, Steps will move quickly up the path staying need or under the bundle taking caution to avoid touching any of the ghosts.
If a path is not cleared Steps will put his hands to on his sword and pull it halfway to out of its sheath to follow-up on Lake's threat of opposing them.
The Long and Winding Road (DM Donna) d20=13 d20=18 d20=8 d20=8 d20=12 d20=10 d20=2 d20=19 Thursday December 6th, 2001 7:18:23 AM
The party takes the initiative to head for the exit, their intention to get this movable feast out of the slimey clutches of the ever-hungry ghosts obvious to some of the spirits...but most of them are fooled by the bluff about the merchant Gullion spoke of.
"Fois gras! I MUST have some!"
"But there's elven-style pate right HERE..."
"Bah! Pate! It's been an elven dog's age since I had a decent single malt!"
"More cheese? OOOOOOO..."
"Better than THIS yucky stuff, I should hope!"
"Malt 'n' cheese? Sign ME up!"
"My kingdom for a decent Brie..!"
"Isn't that why you died the first time around..???"
The party is off and running even as the spirits argue amongst themselves--and even as numbers 1 & 2 suffer more damage from the holy water that Bill launches at them.
It's getting darker, and the exit gate that leads to the Gold Quarter and, ultimately, to Borisun the very wealthy client. Another thirty or forty feet and you'll be out of the park.
Lake (Bill) Thursday December 6th, 2001 10:36:29 AM
As the ghosts stop to argue, once the load moves forward enough, Lake lowers it down to where his friends can push and pull it. He remains on top of the load, alert for any more obstacles, eyes still alight, sweeping around like a beacon. He holds a dart in one hand, a flask in the other.
Gullion d20+7=17 Thursday December 6th, 2001 11:37:43 AM
Keeping quiet so as not to disrupt the spectral debate, Gullion continues to push the parcel along as fast as he is able towards the exit, keeping a wary eye out for any further trouble (Spot 17).
Ferrak d100=86 Thursday December 6th, 2001 6:40:51 PM
Watching the groups escape, Ferrak wants to make sure none of the ghosts follow them.
To go along with Renik's excellent bluff, the smells of wine, food and cheese that the prestidigitation is creating, Ferrak once again falls back upon his innate gnomish abilities.
Scrunching his face up in concentration, the feral gnome points back into the park. Sounds of a party going on are heard, as wine glasses tinkle together and bottles of champagne start popping off all over the place. (Armor check = 86 Ghost sound 35 ft behind the group. I just wanted to use a 'Ghost' sound:-)
Just before they leave the park, Ferrak pauses to feel the grass beneath his feat. Rolling around for a bit he wishes he were here for pleasurable reasons and had Darkfang with him to enjoy them.
Steps Thursday December 6th, 2001 8:02:12 PM
Steps will begin to help pushing the bundle toward the exit as soon as it is low enough for him to get his hands on it.
Something... (DM Donna) Friday December 7th, 2001 6:38:24 AM
The Hamleteers know there's a time to fight... and a time for flight--and it's flying time now. The party takes this opportunity to haul their load out of the park... just in time, too, because now the sun has completely sunk out of sight, and the sounds that emanate from Gladiator Park are decidedly less amusing than an argument over the merits of elven-style pate.
Steps Sunday December 9th, 2001 4:53:53 PM
Steps takes a looks back at the exit to the park just to ensure himself that none of the creatures followed them.
"That was good thinking back there guys, lets get this stuff to Borisun. With everything going on in the city, I wonder if Chenna is charging her customers extra for the risk it takes to deliver." Steps says the last part as if he was just thinking out loud.
Steps scans the area to make sure that nothing else is around to harass the group.
Gullion d20+7=22 d20+23=33 Sunday December 9th, 2001 5:15:36 PM
Gullion grins at his companion. "If she is charging extra, do you not think it would be 'in character' for us to ask for danger money? I confess, a little extra gold is always welcome, and I think this night we've earned it!"
Looking back towards Gladiator Park, shrouded now in deepest shadow as night falls, the grin fades and an unreadable expression settles over the disguised spy's features for a moment. Then, with a slight shake of his head he frowns, as if trying to clear his thoughts, and smiles once more at Steps. "I agree; let's get this stuff delivered. These are dangerous times, and night most dangerous of all. Let us complete our task and return as swiftly as we are able."
He pulls his hood up over his head, his face vanishing into shadow, and slips on ahead of the group, keeping a keen eye out for potential trouble (Spot 22) whilst seeming to melt into the night (Hide 33).
Tamosvar Sunday December 9th, 2001 6:33:29 PM
Looking back the way the party has just fled from Tamosvar shakes his head in relief and concentrates for the moment at guiding his package. At the mention of danger pay he puts in his own opinion on that matter, "Well the lady isn't really the one we should be asking for money here. We should ask our...real employer if he ever plans to pay us. I mean after the hideout, the arena showdown, the mad paladins, and now with this group of pate craving spirits I suspect we are in line with a good deal of pay."
Ferrak Sunday December 9th, 2001 6:44:11 PM
"Woof."
Translates to: 'I trust not the grin of that rascal moon, especially on this night when spirits move against us.'
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) Monday December 10th, 2001 12:14:45 AM
Bill is relieved to pass out the gates of the park at last. "Well, you know, now we get to come here tomorrow night at dusk, with more food," he says, the crooked smile bent upward beneath his shining eyes. "I told the ghosts if they left us alone, that I'd see about getting them some tomorrow. Though in a way I now regret the promise, I do not wish to break it. If anyone wants to come with me then, just let me know."
Following the directions that Chenna gave, he makes sure the party travels out to Gold Street, to the house of Borisun. Assuming no further obstacles, Lake knocks at the entryway of the manor.
From Us to You (DM Kim) Monday December 10th, 2001 1:00:45 AM
Borisun's house is on Gold Street proper, and a model of modern Plateau City architecture - sound construction, solid lines, but with artistic points, and pleasant to behold. If it took any damage from the recent rioting, none is in evidence to the Beer & Bath delivery crew.
A servant greets the group as they arrive. As he learns you are from the Beer & Bath, he says, "Master Borisun is expecting you. Come this way, please."
[Each character make a spot check, DC 12.]
As the servant leads you in, other servants are seen busily making last minute preparations, polishing, cleaning areas that already look clean, and carrying burdens to and fro. "He did well on his last two shipments of spice, and is throwing a party for some of his best customers, as well as others in his ... oh here we are," the servant says, cutting off his comments as you arrive in a hexagonal room, 30' across, with six passages leading into it. A half elf in the center of the room directs others, answering questions, all with a jovial, yet efficient air. He wears fine clothing such as the merchants who deal with high-end clientele might wear.
"Ah, welcome, welcome. Chenna sent you all, right?" he asks. "I am Borisun. Welcome to my home. She tells me she would send some WONderful dishes, and that special surprise, eh? Well, come this way, come this way. Jules, you introduced yourself? No? This is Jules," he nods towards the man who met you at the entrance, "and he'll show you where to set things up."
Walking down the western passage, the crew is lead into a room festooned with exotic plants, some with blooming flowers, and pleasant arboreal scents. Jules indicates what looks like a freshly built and strong wooden platform. "I am told that the Beer and Bath sent a special item, and we built the platform to Chenna's specifications." As a matter of fact, a carpenter is finishing up the sanding down a railing along the edge of the platform.
"Go ahead and set things up, and we will help you as we are able." He calls over three of the four servants in the room. "This is the group from the Beer & Bath. I will allow them to introduce themselves to you," he says to his crew. But he introduces the present members of his staff, "This is Blueberry," he nods towards a pretty half elf, who gives a shy curtsy, "Grady," the human carpenter, who blows some dust off the railing, and offers a friendly salute with his index finger, "Zalaza," another half elf, a female with handsome features, who nods her head towards Steps, "and Peppo," and the gnome gives a polite half bow to the party, winking at Lake as he concludes his bow. Peppo claps his hands together. "All right, the food goes on these two tables."
Jules stops to speak with Borisun, who watches over the proceedings with good grace and an air of anticipation. Then the head servant excuses himself to return to the entrance.
Gullion d20+7=24 d20+7=15 d20+2=10 Monday December 10th, 2001 5:56:32 AM
The hunched and crooked form of Gullion enters the wealthy merchant's abode grinning ingratiatingly. To the servant who greets them he says "Ah, my thanks, friend, 'tis unsafe these days to walk the streets at night. Cut throats an' bandits and the dead come back to life an' all manner o' evil an' wickedry walks the streets in these strange times. It's fair enough ta turn a fella ta drink! Am I wrong? Eh?"
He grins and nudges the fellow annoyingly in the ribs, winking and gurning, but this meaningless wittering serves merely as a cover. Gullion uses the distraction caused by the other man's distaste at his physical state, atire and breath to get a good look at the servant and the building in which the party find themselves (Spot 24).
Gullion falls silent as they are brought into Borrisun's presence. When told that the servant's name is Jules Gullion grins at the fellow again, elbowing him in the ribs once more. "Jules, is it? Powerful thirsty work it is, Jules, fetching parcels o' food at this time o' night!" he whispers, winking again.
As they are led into the plant room and told of the 'special item' Gullion's face falls. "Special item? Special item? Boss, ya never told me about no special item!" His voice takes on a whiney, nasal quality. "Nobody never tells me nuffin'! 'Oh, it's only Gullion, no need ta tell him.' S'not fair, I tell ya!"
He wheedles his way up to Jules' side and grins again; "Well at least you're me pal, eh Jules? Wass this 'special item' then? Eh? Eh? Wass the platform for? What does it do?"
Once again his actions cover a cool, analytical appraisal of the room and its contents (Spot 15, Int 10) as he attempts to work out what the platform might be for.
When introduced to the Blueberry, Grady, Zalaza and Peppo he smooths his greasy hair, wipes his hands on his filthy robes, and bows creakily. "Evenin' all, Gullion's the name. Fair pleasure to make yer wossname, acquaintance." He winks lasciviously at Blueberry, a filthy smirk on his lips.
Once Jules leaves he turns to the newcomers. "Well now, which o' you fine folk can point me at the booze? I wouldn't ask, only me old throat is crustin' over, like, an' I tend ta get a bit wossname, phlegmy, without the occasional splash o' wine. Purely medicinal, you unnerstand."
Ferrak Monday December 10th, 2001 6:40:30 PM
Not sure if a guard dog will be wanted in this rich persons house, Ferrak hesitates at the door.
Looking for guidance he whines softly at the others. Ferrak then moves over to wait next to the levitating crates. Cocking his head to one side, the feral gnome decides that it's best to just sit tight until somebody tells him what to do. Trying to be as much like a real guard dog as possible.
"woof"
Steps d20+3=18 Monday December 10th, 2001 8:35:36 PM
As members of the group mention their pay, Steps nods his head as he agrees. "It has been awhile since we received any income from our employer."
When they arrive at their destination, Steps thanks the servant as he lets them in (spot check 18).
Before walking through the door, Steps addresses Jules, "Pardon me, but would it be OK to bring our guard dog inside? He is very disciplined and well behaved. I would not want to leave him on your doorstep."
When introduced to the other servants, Steps nods in greeting to each one. "Well met all, my name is Steps." He smiles at Zalaza as he says his name. After the introductions are completed he will help with setting up the food. While setting up, Steps tries not to laugh at Gullion's antics with the servants.
Tamosvar d20+6=20 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 2:03:55 AM
As the party enters the Borisun home, and as they unpack and prepare the stuff, Tamosvar gives the place a good look over while acting as if he is merely appreciating the decor of the place. As they work he says quietly to Gullion, "I suspect he meant that strange bubbly bath that folds into a box that Chenna gave us."
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) d20+3=5 d20+18=25 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 2:35:27 AM
[Bill doesn't manage to spot whatever there was to spot -DC 5.]
Lake quickly dropped the light shining from his eyes. After leaving the park, just before reaching the house, he had hopped off the netted load, and taken down his pair of ioun stones, and removed the gem from his forehead.
At the door he identified the group to the one we later learn is Jules. He looked around as the group was lead into the large dwelling, mentally mapping the layout and appointments. [Autohypnosis DC 25.] He enjoys Renik's artful playing out of the role of Gullion.
He also calls Ferrak to come along, answering the disguised gnome's "woof" with his own "woof - woof!" in which he communicates to him that maybe he'll get some good table scraps later.
As he and his friends finish unbundling and placing the foods with the help and direction of Borisun's servants, he gets a few of the bigger guys to help move the compressed hot tub over to the center of the new platform - making sure it is at least a ten-foot-square area. He makes sure it is properly centered, then begins to walk around the box, moving his fingers in intricate patterns, saying a few words he remembers hearing the sahuagin speak some months ago, and mixing in nonsense syllables and such. At the end of the third pass around the box, he brings his voice down low, then, gently waving his fingers himself rises into the air just slightly - about a foot off the ground, and his voice raises to a crescendo, "Fabrita Scorzi Lak, Jack-KOO-zee! Bippity boppity ZOO!" And his fingers and arms go from a gentle wave to a burst of staccato action, his hands mirroring the opening of the hot tub.
He then invites Borisun over to show him the controls, reminding him how they work. "The left knob controls the motion of the water. Setting zero is for still water. One is for light underwater motion, five is medium, and setting nine makes for strong underwater streams shooting from the sides. You can use the in between settings, too. This next control over here is for the bubble action. And you can gradually bring the temperature up or down - it takes a few minutes to heat or cool - with this last dial here."
Hey Jules (DM Kim) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 5:22:22 AM
Jules took Gullion's ribbing fairly well. "Why, the water device, I believe I was told," he answers the talkative B&B employee when asked about the 'special item.' He explains that the platform was built a certain size so it would fit. "I assumed you all, having brought it, might have an idea," he comments evenly.
"Of course your hound may accompany you, as long as it remains, as you say, well behaved," he answers Steps. "There's a small room off the kitchen where he might enjoy some scraps and leftovers a bit later."
Jules does look askance at Gullion's request for booze. "Perhaps if you remain in the kitchen after the food is prepared and the guests arrive, your thirst can be attended to. They will begin arriving quite soon, you see."
As indicated, Jules leaves just after the introductions are complete, and before the food and such are set up.
On the way in to the house, Gullion noted a few small holes along the entryway, and caught a glimpse through one of someone's eye looking at them as the party passed. Steps noted the fine seam of a concealed door along the left side of the entryway passage. Apparently some security measures have been taken here.
Ain't She Sweet (DM Kim) d20+3=17 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 5:32:43 AM
Zalaza turns away from Steps' eyes when he introduces himself, as though she really hadn't noticed him that much. Or did she?
Blueberry does not appear to register Gullion's lustful appraisal, as, aside from an occasional darting glance, she keeps her eyes averted, focusing on the task of helping to lay out the food. There is a slight, though perhaps endearing, awkwardness about her. Picture a deer which moves with grace, but starts with a jerk when it hears a noise out of place.
Tamosvar, though, observes a narrowing of the carpenter's eyes as the man notes Gullion's leer.
Zalaza accidently brushes Steps on the arm with the sleeve of her puffed blouse as she carries a tureen of gravy to the table on the right.
Sgt. Peppo's Lonely Hearts Club Band (DM Kim) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 5:43:04 AM
The gnome bustles about, making sure that everyone got his name, and he got everyone else's, He efficiently directs the placement of the dishes - the still steaming rolls, the fine pate, the fresh tossed salad, the little cakes and dainties, the perfectly cooked and presented assortment of meats, and so on. In an aside to Grady, Tamosvar overhears the gnome say, "Wipe that green look off your face. He's harmless, I tell ya. Now look - that halfling - Lake, yes, that's the spot - help him out, Grady."
Peppo spreads the good news to the servants from the Beer and Bath that some pleasant food is available in the kitchen once the set up is complete here. "Our own staff will take care of the serving of the guests, but we'll see you don't go hungry yourselves - or thirsty," and he winks at Gullion. "Besides, you might be able to hear at least some of the goings-on from the kitchen, maybe get a peek or two over the balcony. Any of you know how to wash dishes?"
Oooh - Aaah. Uh-oh (DM Kim) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 6:04:28 AM
All the servants, and Borisun, watch with curiosity as Lake goes through his little ceremony. When the hot tub opens up full when he gets to the command word, "Jack-KOO-zee!" there are gasps, and Blueberry gives a little squeal of delight, clapping her hands together. Grady seems impressed, and just nods his head up and down several times in approval. Borisun, by the time Bill gets to the third device, takes over the description of how it works, "Ah, yes, now I remember! Why, everyone will want to try it!" he predicts, and laughs with pleasure as he runs his fingers through the already steaming water. Blueberry gasps as though she just remembered something, leaves the room, and returns with large, soft green towels, which she begins to lay neatly over the railing, then brings another stack of towels, and sets them next a wall.
Zalaza asks Tamosvar if he has used this bath before, and of Steps, "And how about you?" She also asks Roger the same question.
Just then, a matronly woman wearing an apron sticks her head into the room, and announces, "The first guests are arriving, Master Borisun. One of the city's assistants to the Council, Subassistant Bareth and his new fiancee, Syntyche," she says. "You said I should tell you when the first ones got here, sir," she explains, then disappears back towards the entrance.
Borison thanks her, then tells the B&B staff, "I am pleased with Chenna's work. Oh, and yours, of course. Please, Beppo will show you to the kitchen - it's right up that stairway over there," and he points to a side door, to the left of which is an opening for passing dishes through. Through the door are stairs leading up. A balcony, interrupted by pillars, covers a good portion of the next floor up, and overlooks the great hall below with its flora, food, and bubbling tub.
Gullion d20+7=8 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 10:40:45 AM
Gullion winks back at Beppo. "Lead on, sir, let's take a look at this kitchen o' yours, eh?"
Surveying the scene from on high Renik starts to relax a little; everything seems normal enough. He takes a step back from proceedings and loses himself in thought, largely oblivious to events around him (Spot 8: natural 1!).
Ferrak d20+2=5 Tuesday December 11th, 2001 6:42:24 PM
"Woof." says Ferrak in obvious gratitude towards the disguised forms of Draax and Bill.
Walking in on all fours Ferrak tries to remain out of the way.
If something goes wrong, he thinks to himself, then hopefully they'll underestimate the guard dog.
Unfortunately he doesn't pay much attention to what is going on around them. (Spot=5)
Steps (Draax) Tuesday December 11th, 2001 11:02:54 PM
Steps hides his disappointment as Zalaza turns away, thinking to himself that he had obviously misinterpreted her interest. He reminds himself that even if she were interested in him, it would have been his alter ego that had caught her attention. As she accidentally bumps into him, Steps smiles as he apologizes to her for getting in her way. "Excuse me, I did not mean to get in your way. I will try to keep my eyes on you so that I can be sure that I do not hamper you in any way." In answer to her inquiry about the tub, Steps answers, "No I have never had the pleasure, yet."
As Lake begin to go through the elaborated steps to activate the tub, Steps looks at him confused at first, but then smiles as he catches on.
After entering the kitchen, Steps remembers the accidental bump of Zalaza. Before he realizes what he is doing, he quickly does an inventory of the items on him. He thinks, 'I must be working too hard to be this suspicious.' Laughing at his foolishness he waits until the group is alone and then tells them about the door outline that he spotted as they entered the house.
Lake (Bill) d20+18=33 Wednesday December 12th, 2001 3:26:58 AM
"Who's this Bareth - and Syntyche?" Lake asks Peppo as they ascend the stairs. "Oh, I know how to wash dishes. But my sister is faster. I like to dry them, better. And our guard dog can lick clean some of 'em, especially if they have some leftover meat on 'em." More quietly, he asks, "Say, is Grady sweet on Blueberry? Didja see the look he gave our friend there?"
He listens with interest to Steps' report of the hidden doorway. Since Tamosvar hasn't told anyone what he saw at the entrance, there's nothing for Lake to hear in that regard.
Lake looks around the kitchen, making a mental inventory of the pots, pans, knives, spatulas, any oven, stove, counter, sink, water source, as well as any oddities about the kitchen that may stand out. [Autohypnosis 33 to remember kitchen details.]
Life in the Kitchen (DM Kim) Wednesday December 12th, 2001 1:23:21 PM
"In my way?" Zalaza asks Steps. When he tells her he's going to keep his eyes on her, she says, "You do that, then," with a twinkle in her eye. "But I doubt you're quick enough to hamper me." She doesn't explain what she means by this. Any response she might have had regarding his lack of use of the hot tub is interrupted by a flurry of last-minute activity in the room as the arrival of the first guests is announced.
Peppo says that Bareth assists one of the members of the Council of Lords - he can't remember which one. But Syntyche - his new fiancee, and quite stunning, is the third winsome lass Bareth has been engaged to in the last year and a half. "They say that he stays engaged to them just long enough to get what he wants, then drops 'em for someone new."
Guests continue to arrive. The food and the hot tub are both big hits, according to reports from servers who pop up into the kitchen from time to time. A pimply-faced teenager who is helping out tells how one guest was filling his hands with water, then squirting passers-by. "Then he squirted Carmen - she's a priestess of Caeroldra - and she walked over, sat in the hot tub next to him - clothes and all, then gave him a kiss that lasted a minute!" The boy, after telling this story excitedly, suddenly blushes as he notices everyone looking at him. He grabs a tray of cookies and heads back downstairs.
A few moments later Blueberry enters the kitchen. Wide-eyed, her natural shyness swallowed up in her astonishment at the goings-on, she says, "Master Borisun invited one priestess of Caeroldra, and his wife, Mistress Chaunacy, invited another one. One got all wet, and the dry one started to call her names, even called her a ... a ... oh, I can't say it!" She sees Ferrak standing in the corner. "But it rhymes with mutt, and starts with the same letters as, let's see - slug!" Blueberry says, "You can see it from the balcony. C'mon!" And she leads the way to the servants' vantage point above the great hall.
On leaving the kitchen, mixed sounds are heard. "You dry inkwell - the goddess inspires passion - and don't you deny it, Sylivia!" comes from the lips of a beautiful and nubile wet-bloused woman - an elf.
"You are as randy as a bitch in heat, Carmen! Where is your self-control?" screeches another gorgeous young woman, a human. "Learn from the Hands of Love!" she says, demonstrating her own self-control by slapping Carmen across the cheek.
Meanwhile, many of the forty to fifty guests begin to take note. Some smile, a few frown, others watch with acute interest. Carmen, after a stunned look crosses her face, her left cheek turning a bright pink, narrows her eyes and says, "Why, I'll just show you the service of passion!" And she lunges for her clerical opponent, grabbing Sylivia's wavy golden hair.
Tamosvar Wednesday December 12th, 2001 10:28:30 PM
"Hmm...anybets on when they'll fall in the tub?" Tamosvar asks only half joking. "I pity anyone who tries to break up that little encounter." As everyone is together for the moment Tamosvar takes this time to tell everyone what he's seen during the course of the evening.
Gullion Thursday December 13th, 2001 4:51:41 AM
Gullion leans over the balcony and hoots, slapping his thigh. The leer on his face is anything but wholesome. Any of his companions who note his 'performance' might think that his acting is rather too good.
"Yeeha! Inna tub! Thassit, girl! Pin 'er down! Full Nelson! Atomic Piledriver! Someone fetch the mud! 10 GP on the wet one! Woo-hooo!"
Gullion seems to be thoroughly enjoying himself.
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) d20+6=13 d20+6=23 Thursday December 13th, 2001 3:17:26 PM
Lake, pulling up a stool from the kitchen to look over the railing, sees what's going on. Not sure that they'll pay any attention, nevertheless he sends a missive to the one called Sylivia. "Caeroldra is saddened that her own priestesses are brawling, Sylivia." [DC 13]
He then sends a similar psionic telepathic message to the other. "Caeroldra's honor is not upheld by your behavior, Carmen." [DC 23]
Ferrak Thursday December 13th, 2001 6:02:15 PM
Doing what any self respecting dog would do at a time like this, Ferrak barks loudly.
"Woof! Woof! Woof!"
Loosely translated as: "Hey, did somebody say 'as randy as a bitch in heat!?!'"
Steps Thursday December 13th, 2001 6:09:10 PM
Steps smiles and gives a small laugh at Zalaza's comment about him not being quick enough to hamper her.
He joins everyone on the balcony and enjoys the show. He tries to figure out which is the better show, Gullion or the girls.
And in this corner... (DM Kim) d20+8=25 d20+7=24 d20=2 d20=4 d20=19 d20=5 d20=19 d20=5 d20=7 d20=1 d20=13 Friday December 14th, 2001 2:01:02 AM
"Sylvan slut! Why not mate with ORCS?!" Sylivia screams. "You've tried everything else!" The elf and human representatives of the goddess of faithful love twirl about. Neither seems to pay any mind to whatever Lake was trying to say to them.
Sylivia has the advantage in weight, Carmen better balance and grace. The elf sticks her foot out, and Sylivia bumps the table, from which two things fly. One of the bowls of pate arcs through the air, and lands on the bald pate of an older gentleman. And a dish of jam splats Syntyche just above her, um, sternum, sliding into the upper nether regions from there. "My white satin gown!" Bareth bends down to pick up the offending dish, just as Carmen's hip collides with his. He goes flying, and the dish, still having a bit of jam in it, discharges the remainder of its contents towards the wife of a paladin of Alemi. Protecting her honor, the paladin picks up a piece of frosted cake, hefting it. "Stand and take it like a man!" the noble knight challenges the budding politician. Trying to keep the peace, a cleric of Alemi goes to stay the hand of his paladin brother - but manages to cause the cake to fly towards the master of the house, Borisun, who ducks, so that the cake strikes instead the chief librarian of the wizard's college in the side of his head. Pandemonium breaks loose, with food beginning to fly left and right! The young servant who reported the beginnings of this fracas calls out with delight, "Food fight!" and begins tossing his cookies.
Kersplash! The tussling women of holiness land in the water. Towels, food, a shoe, a wig, a - things are flying! The librarian wipes a bit of the frosting off his cheek, tastes it, and a smile spreads across his frosted face. He turns towards the table, trips on a towel, and falls into the roiling hot tub himself.
[OOC: Go ahead and describe a few rounds of (intended) actions for your characters. Make appropriate rolls for your success. Have fun! Oh, and please email me your current character sheets, to BillTFind@hotmail.com and kimmccoy52@attbi.com -DM Kim]
Lake (Bill) d20+6=24 Friday December 14th, 2001 2:30:57 AM
"Woof woof, woof!" Lake replies to Ferrak. 'That's what it sounded like to me!'
Bill is sorely tempted to join in the fun and frivolity. However, as Lake, an employee of Chenna, and in service tonight to Borisun, what should he do? Hmmm. He notes a guest about to sit down. Using far hand, he scoots a pie over a few feet to soften the landing. Sploof! [DC 24] No, no, he should not do this. What a waste of good pie!
"Let's see what we can do to help, friends."
Lake leaves his knapsack upstairs, jumps off the balcony, feather falling downward, and moves over to see if he can get somebody to help him break up the catfight. He grabs a towel.
Gullion Friday December 14th, 2001 9:28:04 AM
Gullion grins at the chaos that has erupted below. He notes Bill entering the fray, but holds back. No-one seems at risk of getting hurt, so Gullion decides to leave them to it. He pulls up a chair and sits, applauding the entertainment below.
I Don't Want To Spoil The Party (DM Kim) d20=7 d20=2 d20+3=23 d20+6=11 d20+9=18 d20-2=0 d20-1=6 d20+5=21 d20+7=23 d20+2=7 d20+9=13 d20=3 d20=3 d20=10 d20=20 d20=19 d20=15 d20=9 d20+5=25 Saturday December 15th, 2001 2:26:04 AM [chide on] [24 hours Real Time - two posts? -] [chide off]
Borisun somehow manages to escape unstained - the paladin, formerly of the cake, a few folks who early on stepped out of the room as the food began to fly and, remarkably, Lake all managed to have the food miss them (really!). The halfling did, nevertheless, manage to get splashed quite a bit as he assisted some of the more responsible servants - Zalaza among them - in breaking off the tussle of the two clerics.
Though those in the balcony missed most of the direct effects of the flying frosting, a few young people - two young men and the young ladies in their company, noticed those calling down from above, and aimed some fruity missiles in their direction. Most fell short. Gullion, after watching one tort fly well over his shoulder, turned to taunt the inept attackers just in time to meet a perfectly timed spinning slice of juicy beef right on his forehead. Ferrak seemed to take an interest as this item slid to Gullion's feet.
Amidst great hilarity, it's apparent that a large part of the party goers think this unplanned episode well worth their coming, despite the fretting of a few of the more fastidious at fresh stains on exquisite fabrics.
Carmen and Sylivia are escorted out, and where some seem to regret their departure, others appear to feel it is good riddance.
The chief librarian, dripping wet and apparently happy as a schoolboy with a box of candy, says, "Remarkable! Wonderful! Not since fourteen years hence, at Yarbo's graduation have I had such -- Marvelous!"
The servants work on cleaning up where they can, and the wizards' librarian does have the presence to note and assist with a few spells, making the cleanup a snap - and earning him the gratitude of several of the upper crust or up-and-coming whose sartorial splendor is salvaged.
Borisun was heard to remark that such behavior--while highly amusing and quite the diversion for his other guests--does NOT bode well for the Temple of Caeroldra. An older guest, a man with floofed-out sideburns along his jowls, intones, "A house divided against itself will not, yes, that is, division is the, that is, dissension among a host will lead to... Is there any more pate?"
The tub is enjoyed by many.
Zalaza remarks to Steps in passing, "I noticed you seemed to have trouble deciding just what you were going to keep your eyes on, tonight."
Peppo the gnome tells the B&B crew that he gets the days of the dog, the hawk, the jackal and the skunk off every month, and he'd be happy to stand the B&B crew a round of drinks sometime on one of his days off. "You seem like fair folks. And I'm sure I'd like to hear more of Mr. Gullion's stories."
Ferrak has LOTS of scraps to choose from.
The party winds down just before midnight, and the Hamleteers are free to pack up the tub. Borisun tips each of them 100gp and advises that they take the LONG way around Gladiator Park to go back to the Beer & Bath.
"Extend my gratitude to Chenna, won't you? The food was fantastic. Our guests' enjoyment of it was unorthodox in part, but all was tasty. And, the tub!" and Borisun claps his hands together. His wife, Chaunacy, thanks the B&B staff as well, giving each a small silk scarf as a memento of their service.
The party may take their leave ... and return to the B&B, the long way, uneventfully. What do you tell Chenna?
OOC: XP & upcoming [DM Kim] Saturday December 15th, 2001 2:50:57 AM [OOC: 400 xp for each one who played through the encounter with the ghosts in the park, and 200 xp for those who played through Borisun's party.]
Now we start the three week holiday slowdown. I, and perhaps Todd (once his internet service is restored) will still post almost everyday, and we'll look to get some good stuff in. If you want to do a little research, find a spot for your characters to establish their own place, buy books for the library, stretch your legs and find out more about the situation in Plateau City, or something similar - go for it.
And one more reminder: Please email me your character sheets, to: BillTFind@hotmail.com and kimmccoy52@attbi.com
Each of you who get your character sheet in to me by 11:59 pm on Tuesday, Dec. 18 will get a minor gift for your character. -DM Kim
Steps Sunday December 16th, 2001 9:13:29 PM
Steps stays out of the way of the festivities, but finds himself a good spot where he can watch it all unfold. He smiles and laughs openly at the antics of the party's guests.
In response to Zalaza's comment he replies, "Aye my lady, I have always had a talent for letting my eyes roam to fascinating sights, but for some reason tonight my eyes kept coming back and fixing on your beauty. So I guess out of everything that was going on tonight you were the most fascinating sight. Maybe if I am lucky I will have the opportunity to grant my eyes the pleasure of your beauty again."
He also thanks Borisun for such a fun evening and his wife for the memento.
The first thing that Steps/Draax is going to do during the down time is see about the group's back pay from Chenna and Marcus.
Gullion Monday December 17th, 2001 8:08:12 AM
Gullion rubs his forehead and momentarily ponders joining the fray. But by then it is too late. The protagonists are led away, protesting loudly, and it is time to return to the Beer and Bath.
Upon their return Gullion launches into an elaborate tale of high adventure, of ghostly manifestation and a park filled with unspeakable dangers. He talks of selfless sacrifice in the face of insurmountable obstacles, of how personal items were cast aside to placate the spectral horde, and how, at the last, the party escaped by the skin of their teeth, their precious cargo intact.
He goes on to tell Chenna of Borisun's delight at the food and tub, of how incredibly succesful the party turned out to be, and of the general feting Chenna recieved for providing such fabulous fare, delivered with such skill, aplomb and professionalism by her loyal, hardworking staff.
Then he grins widely, takes a swig of wine (or so it would seem; Gullion's wine is in fact simple grape juice; he likes to keep a clear head, whilst projecting the image of a sot), and lets others talk of matters financial, his groundwork laid.
Lake (Bill Troublefinder) Monday December 17th, 2001 2:35:34 PM
Lake helps in the clean up, and takes the opportunity to meet the Wizards College chief librarian, and asks for advice in finding good books. "Yes, I would like to build up a little library, as well as learn to gather and share what knowledge I might from existing book collections such as the marvelous library you oversee." As it comes time to go, he thanks Mistress Chaunacy for the scarf, Master Borisun for the employment and generous tip, and Peppo for helping them figure their way around. He reprises his earlier performance when reducing the hot tub, making sure that the actual command words are surrounded by obscuring nonsense and gesticulations, so that the average observer would be hard pressed to replicate the feat.
He does not levitate the now lightened load on the way back to the B&B. He enjoys chatting with his friends about the party and the people they met, and he teases Steps about Zalaza.
Back at Chenna's, he enjoys Gullion's rendition of events. He also tells her of the promise he made to the ghosts - and tells of the diversions his friends made, as well. "They did, after all, leave us alone - so the feast for Borisun was salvaged." He offers her his 100 gp to go toward paying for the food, since he's not sure that she should be responsible for what he offered. Even though he used four flasks of holy water and gave up a block of his favorite cheese, and expended two charges from his wand. He doesn't tell her about the wand, though, unless Gullion has already given that information away.
Settling In
Chenna (DM Kim) Monday December 17th, 2001 2:51:53 PM
Chenna, looking at first a little tired in the early hours of the morning, thanks her faithful employees for a job well done, and perks up as the stories are told. "It sounds as though you have gone above and beyond the call of duty. I am proud of you."
Concerning Steps' question of pay, Chenna asks for time to go over the books. "I will bring you current in two days, if that will work for you."
She also says that, as Borisun paid very well for the foods and services rendered, "May Wardd continue to give him such luck!" she will provide food to be taken to the ghosts in the park, in order to keep the apparent bargain made with the spooks. "But I want you all out of there BEFORE sunset. I'll just chalk this up to the cost of doing business."
Marcus can be reached via the coin given to Rond, aka Roger. He lets the party know that he is willing to meet with them, but is tied up for a few days, and requests patience. He says, "The situation is complex, and flowing."
Ferrak Monday December 17th, 2001 7:03:39 PM
Seeing that the ruckus was being made by big bipeds with over-sized mammary glands, Ferrak soon looses interest in the struggle.
He soon finds that the food left over for him is much more satisfying. There is always such a waste at parties. When he is sure that people aren't looking he takes scraps of meat and other good food and stuffs them in his backpack and belt pouches.
When it's time to go home Ferrak is ecstatic. What bi-peds consider fun is far from entertaining to his wolven tastes. Ferrak literally flies through the park on the way home. Running back and forth, and back and forth to hurry up any of the stragglers, until somebody says it's ok for him to run on ahead.
When they finally get home. Ferrak spends all of his time with his brother. Not caring about any other thing in the Wold while they are together, having fun.
Aside to Players in Game 2 -DM Kim Monday December 17th, 2001 8:01:10 PM
Seems the next three weeks Real Time (up until Jan 7) will be covering five to six months Game Time. So, feel free, in your upcoming posts, to let me know what kinds of things you're up for doing.
Second, I'm wondering if we might be able to schedule an online gaming session - something to run our characters through one Friday night or Saturday, on line in a chat mode, or, better yet, using a good gaming client. I'm running the flag up the mast here to see who'll signal back. For me, it would need to be after Christmas sometime.
Third - Get your character over to Game 2 - Storm Dragons - if you want to give him a chance to compete among the best in the Wold. The Storm Dragons are hosting a competition - in three categories: melee, magic, and ranged weapons. Bill is entering all three - he figures he'll lose at least two of them, and has a distant shot at one, but just wants to test his mettle, and get to know who else is out there. Arien, Draax, Ferrak, Renik, Rond - what do you say? Get your entries in right away, as the Melee competition begins tomorrow. Don't worry, your character can still be here, doing Game 2 stuff - we'll figure the Storm Dragons' competition is sandwiched in somewhere early in those six months.
Renik Dacour, International Man of Mystery Tuesday December 18th, 2001 5:01:19 AM
Over the course of the next few months Renik seems to grow slowly distant from the party. Though he continues to act the goat when dressed as Gullion, it seems as though he is becoming increasingly withdrawn and serious when he removes his disguise. Consequently the difference between the two personae seems doubly marked. He seems extremely focused, perhaps even haunted, but is not forthcoming when questioned over his taciturn behaviour. He is seen some nights, sitting on the roof of the Beer and Bath, cross legged and straight-backed, reciting some whispered mantra that none can comprehend.
The mystery is compounded further by Renik spending a great deal of his free time away from the Beer and Bath, although he refuses to divulge where it is that he goes to. Indeed, if any think to follow him they swiftly discover that he is a difficult man to tail; with his elven cloak and natural talent at concealment he is practically impossible to see, let alone follow.
His withdrawal does not entirely remove him from the group, however. He is still willing to assist his comrades in any task they feel is necessary, over the course of the coming months.
Bill Troublefinder aka Lake aka Greener Tuesday December 18th, 2001 6:58:52 PM
Lake will be hunting for real estate. A place where the party can buy a dwelling, or build one.
He wants something with a couple of above-ground entrances, and at least one link to the complex of underground tunnels which riddle Plateau City. He asks his friends about pooling their funds to buy a such a place. He uses his limited knowledge of architecture and engineering to help determine how solid, how safe, how defensible such a dwelling might be, or might be made.
Bill, during time away from the B&B, spends time with his fellow Hamleteers. He recounts stories from his youth and early adventures, and seeks to learn more about his friends' backgrounds, as well. If Renik is not forthcoming when others are around, Bill seeks to spend some time with him alone. He wants to get to know him better, too, and find out where he came from.
He also looks to find someone who can tutor him in the Troglodyte language. He does some checking to see if there are any in Plateau City who speak the dialect of K'isst's tribe - the elvish / trog blend.
He frequents the bookstores, looks for good deals, interesting topics, rare finds. He builds up a network of contacts among booksellers. He also sees about obtaining collections of works from some of the families who lost members during the days of darkness following Domi's death, knowing that some who died no longer use them, and those left behind, or their heirs, may need money more than books and scrolls.
Once a week Bill visits the young elf whom Domi held. Talking to her mother and father one day, he mentions, "She is convinced she will again see the Bright Man. Now, I was there, as you," and he nods to ... [more] ...
Draax/Steps Tuesday December 18th, 2001 11:50:58 PM
Draax will use some of his off time to familiarize himself with his light war horse and practice mounted combat techniques.
Draax will also use various disguises to keep an eye on a few of the evil temples that has popped up in the city. If he spots any Son-of-Dreads and have an opportunity to get off a shot without being seen; he will shoot an arrow from his bow at long range and then disappear not waiting to see if the arrow hit or not. He will also use his disguises and a small amount of his funds to pay different groups of street thugs to harass the temples, never talking to the same group twice or hitting the same temple twice in the same week. Draax will try to cause the temples as much discomfort as possible without taking any serious risks.
(OOC: I am gamed for the online gaming session, but my schedule changes constantly and I will not know if I will be available until the week of the event(s).)
Chenna tallies the funds - DM Kim Wednesday December 19th, 2001 12:02:27 AM
Two days after Borisun's party, Chenna says she has caught up in the accounting, including regular pay, some overtime, and tips, less expenses, for the past few months. The total for the group comes to 2,100 gp.
[I've subtracted off the pay for Sunblaze already, figuring that would go directly to her; and figured also that the party, though paid differing amounts, might just split evenly the funds. Split six ways, it comes to 350 gp each. The party can discuss how they wish to divide it. Each month will bring in from 700 to 1200 gp, so let's just say 960 a month during the course of the next six months, or 160 per character, at present.]
Arien Wednesday December 19th, 2001 3:19:19 AM
Arien's first order of business is to acquire what most mages have, a familiar. Other than that he can be found helping Bill with the Library and looking for a place. Other than that he can be found working or keeping his sword and magic skills from getting rusty. On the matter of a building or land Arien puts forth that they should consider leasing a warehouse on the docks and converting the interior for their needs.
(For the familiar we can do that by email if you like or you can just surprise me, I don't really care what it is... as long as it's not a Toad.)
Vacationing DM Donna: Those PCs wishing to get themselves a familiar that they didn't start out in the Wold with must roleplay the acquisition of such an animal at the Black Genie board.
Renik Wednesday December 19th, 2001 6:36:36 AM
Despite Bill's interest, Renik fails to open up. It seems that he wants to talk of what is effecting him, to share something, but for some reason cannot bring himself to do it.
Instead, when the mood takes him, and he is able to shake off his introversion, he tells Bill tales of his past over crackling flames and mulled wine. Tales of his father, the forest warden Gradik, of the great bear Ul Ru Khier, and of the unusual circumstances of his birth.
(OOC: Story will follow as a seperate post)
"I like the docks idea, my friend." Renik comments at Arien's suggestion. How about Riverside Road, in the Rogue quarter? There's an old warehouse there that I believe has been disused for some time. Perhaps we could try to locate the owner, or failing that simply move in.
"It's on the waterfront, near to two bridges, and not a long walk from the Beer and Bath. It might serve a a suitable headquarters. If you like I could visit the site, determine its suitability. See if it can be easily defended against attack and so forth.
"One other consideration; I will need to check if there is a rear exit and a cellar. And if so whether or not it might be possible to tunnel a short distance from the cellar, in order to create a secret entrance or escape route out into the alleyways behind the building."
Assuming the others are happy with the location, he will set off to reconoitre the premises, and to attempt to track down the owner to determine the asking price.
(OOC: The building I am looking at is directly below the first "R" of Riverside Road, in the Rogue Quarter.)
Vacationing DM Donna: there is a group email forthcoming about this.
Renik's fireside tale (Part 1) Wednesday December 19th, 2001 6:59:55 AM
"You want to know of me, Bill Troublefinder, about my life? Very well, I shall tell you a tale, but to understand me, you must understand the tale of the bear. Your drink is charged? Good, well let me think, how best to tell it?"
......
"The great brown bear, known as Ul Ru Khier (Death Claw) by his dwarven masters, had in his day been the most feared of all the Ursine Outriders. Reared and trained to carry Dwarven raiders into combat, clad in gleaming plates of spiked armour, Ul Ru had been a truly awesome opponent, treated with respect by his masters and deference by the other bears in his unit.
"Many had been the foes who had fallen to his terrible claws, or been crushed between his awesome jaws. Legendary was his strength and ferocity in battle.
"But as he grew older, the great bear grew dissatisfied with this life of servitude. Though his dwarven captors respected him, it was a respect born of fear, not love. And in time his simple thoughts turned bitter and vengeful towards them. The Black Dwarves had enslaved him, tortured him in the name of training, forced him to fight in battles that were not his own. Finally they took his chosen mate from him, and he could bear his servitude no longer. In a night of savagery and bloodshed he broke free, killing many of his erstwhile masters before leaving the dwarven caverns forever.
"For many months he traveled, forever pursued or attacked by creatures intent upon his destruction. Until at last, exhausted, half mad with rage, bitterness and isolation, he came upon a quiet area of woodland that he might call home. And yet before him, clutching an axe, stood a human, one more enemy to strike down in his unending search for peace.
"That human was my father, Gradik Dacour. He had been warden of the Tenslade Forest since his eighteenth year, as had his father before him, and his father before him. So it had been for generations; the Dacours acting as forest wardens for the Baron of Dunskeep, in return for freedom of the forest and a place in the Baron's council of advisors.
"When he was thirty five years of age, and three years married, he left his infant son Tarl and my mother, then great with child, in order to perform his daily patrol. And on that day he came across the wild and wounded bear in the forest. The great beast reared to its hind legs, and would have killed him with a single sweep of his mighty paw, had it not been for my father's utter fearlessness and compassion. Standing there, face to face, he and the bear stared at one another for over an hour, neither moving. And something passed between them, an understanding and a bond that neither had ever experienced before. Gradik could not know that at that moment, far away in their forest cabin, my mother passed away giving birth to me.
"From that day forth the bear, who Gradik named Elyuson (Heart of the Forest, in the language of the Dryads) became Gradik's constant companion. He became peaceful, placid and content, and so things passed for almost fifteen years until both the bear's shaggy coat and my father's bristling beard were touched with grey . In time the legend grew up amongst the villagers and farmers of the Barony of Dunskeep that Gradik's wife, somehow seeing that her husband was about to be killed, gave up her own life in order to spare his, her spirit mingling with that of the bear. It was for this reason (so they claimed) that the two became lifelong companions. Consequently the great bear was treated with an even greater reverence than would be normally afforded to one such as he.
"My brother Tarl and myself grew up to be strong and healthy, and in time it fell to Gradik to choose which of us would become warden in his place. Normally the decision would have been simple, the responsibility would be passed to the eldest son. But Gradik faced a dilemma. My elder brother, Tarl, though stronger and faster than me, had grown knotted and twisted like the vine. There was a darkness and anger in him that forever precluded the forming of the forest bond. Though it flew in the face of tradition, Gradik was forced to select me, his younger son to succeed him."
"But it is late, and I have bored you long enough. To bed, good Bill, and should you wish to hear more of my tale on the morrow, you have but to ask. Good night, my friend."
Bill Troublefinder Thursday December 20th, 2001 4:58:33 PM
Bill thanks Renik for the story. He buys Renik's drink and meal the next night so he can hear more.
"Okay, so your father, and grandfather, and great grandfather, and so forth, had been wardens of Tenslade Forest. Then you were appointed as the next warden by your father, skipping ahead of your brother. Well, what did Tarl think about this? Did he just acquiesce, or did you run into troubles? I've been thinking about that all day while toting things for Chenna." He takes a bite of pie, makes a small noise of appreciation, then adds, "Obviously, with you here in Plateau City, it doesn't look like you're warding the forest at the moment. So, what happened next? Hey - there's a bear over in - no, two bears - over in the Druids Quarter. Remind me, I gotta take Ferrak and Darkfang over there. Some of the druids are pretty nice. There's one guy who'll talk to you about herbs until you want to stuff his ears with a tossed salad, though.
"Oh, anyhow, tell me more, Renik."
Renik's fireside tale Part 2 Saturday December 22nd, 2001 7:52:10 AM
My, Bill, but you're a curious one. Well, I shall continue, and the answers to your questions will become apparent.
Now I told you that my brother, Tarl Dacour, had become a sour child, resentful of my father, his life and myself. Perhaps in some way he blamed me for the loss of our mother, perhaps it was simply his nature to hate. But my selection over him by our father proved to be the final straw. Though we knew it not, his heart turned irredeemably black, and he plotted terrible revenge against his family.
His opportunity was not long in coming. The elderly Baron of Dunskeep had been ill for some time, and now, with his death, his son took control. The old Baron had been widely known for his compassion and generosity, and although there were some reservations about his son, they were over his excessively retiring, bookish nature. None could have foreseen the change that was about to take place.
Within days of gaining power the new Baron gave an indication of events to come. Taxes were suddenly raised, the militia expanded, and a new hard line adopted toward debt defaulters and petty criminals. The retiring son was proving to have teeth. The changes continued over the coming months, and before long the villagers grew to dread the name of the Baron. His rule was brutal and tyrannical.
This suited Tarl perfectly. He grew close to the new Baron, offering council that met with the approval of his despotic master. It was not long before he was firmly installed as the baron's right hand man. He collected the taxes, commanded the militia, and poured further poison into the already poisonous mind of his master.
There came a time when the Baron decided that my father, the Warden Gradik would have to be removed. He was proving too vocal a proponent of the villagers' rights, and stood in the way of the Baron's plans for the leveling of the forest to provide wood for barracks and land for his growing army to train. The problem was twofold. Firstly the great bear Elyson. Whilst Gradik was under his protection, none dared assault the Warden. And secondly his standing amongst the villagers. It was now that Tarl's true capacity for evil became apparent.
He informed the Baron that, unbeknownst to any save we Dacours, the great bear had an uncontrollable fear of fire, and that with this information he had hatched a foolproof plan to destroy his own father.
First livestock was found slaughtered, huge claw marks in their sides. And though careful examination of the corpses might have revealed throats carefully slit, few questioned the Baron when he announced a wild bear was loose in the woods.
Next my father was called to the Baron, ostensibly to discuss tracking the marauding bear. Of course Gradik knew that no such bear existed; there had been no evidence of such a creature. Though he suspected the Baron was laying some form of a trap, he was unable to determine its nature, and was forced to play along with whatever game that he was playing.
In his absence a team of Tarl's most bloodthirsty and cruel soldiers surrounded the forest cabin where Elyuson kept guard. Using long, flaming poles, they were able to drive the terrified beast into a deep pit on the outskirts of the village. Then, circling the pit the soldiers drew their bows and fired arrow after arrow into he who had once been the greatest of his kind. Elyson died, alone, trapped and betrayed, and it was not a death becoming to so great a warrior as he.
Ah, but I miss him, Bill. A true friend, a primal spirit. His murder was a terrible, evil act. It saddens me deeply to think of it. I think perhaps that we should continue another night. It grieves me horribly to speak of such evil, and yet before my tale is done I will have told of more, and worse. Goodnight, my friend, sleep well.
Renik Saturday December 22nd, 2001 8:00:04 AM
"Well, you've had all the details on those properties in the Rogue Quarter (OOC See Donna's email). What do you folk think? And how much can we gather between us? I myself can probably scrape together 400 GP." Renik looks to his companions, and awaits their response.
Arien Sunday December 23rd, 2001 8:53:49 PM
"Well we still need to get a hold of our employer to discuss the matter of pay so perhaps we should do that first and see what we can afford after that. Of course if we do purchase one of those it will cost a bit of money to remodel it to our liking as well. This will likely be expensive, but, seeing as what we've done for him in the past he's most likely to be generous with the funds, at least he better be."
Marcus - DM Kim Monday December 24th, 2001 11:31:05 AM
Marcus meets with the Hamleteers late one morning. He spends a little time explaining aspects of the political situation, with the Council of Lords firmly in power, and High Lord Mayor Sturdavent not officially dethroned, but definitely at a disadvantage at the moment.
"My access to funds has been curtailed. However, I have managed to dig up something in the way of compensation, and to handle your expenses." He gives them a rusty little strongbox, takes a key and opens it up. It has gems and a few coins, with a total value, he tells you, of 3,000 gp. You notice that there is dirt clinging in places to the sides of the box.
He asks how things are going with the group.
"Ah, there is something you need to know regarding Sunblaze. She asked me to send you her goodbyes. It perhaps would not be prudent to go into detail, but it was felt her skills would better be applied elsewhere. She is no longer in Plateau City, but asked me to assure you she is doing fine."
He also discusses the rising influence of the new cults on the populace, and the Council. He recommends that members of the group do what they can to gather information on the cults. Disguises could be handy in the course of doing so.
"The Council, to the best of my knowledge, is not aware of your existence as a group working on behalf of the city. It would be best to keep things that way. There is only one member of the Council whom I unconditionally trust, but she is one against many."
Bill Troublefinder Monday December 24th, 2001 6:03:13 PM
"The Lady Shanleigh?" Bill asks Marcus. "Is she the one you can trust? What about Lord Valino and the elf, Lord Leunenon? You don't think you can trust them?" ========== When the group is alone, Bill points out that one of his ioun stones causes regeneration. "I know a ring of regeneration goes for about 90,000 gp. This ioun stone heals [and, placing it in game terms here - 1 hit point every twenty minutes, or 3 per hour]. Even if you get a leg or somethin' chopped off, as long as you were wearing the ring when it happened, it'll grow back over a few hours. I think the Catacombs might charge 30 to 45 thousand for one like this, but wouldn't pay as much. I'd be willing to trade it in for gold, though, and we could pay for the places with that."
He looks around at his friends and asks, "Well, what do you think? Should I sell it?" ========== Bill offers to take Ferrak and Darkfang to visit the Druid Quarter - and anybody else who wants to come along is welcome, too. ========== The halfling looks for books on history (local, regional, national, Wold-wide); astronomy / astrology; engineering; carpentry; psionics (skills, feats, items, theory & practice); religion (especially whatever he can find dealing with the cult gods, and the other gods of the Wold); the planes (especially Ravenloft, about which he wants to learn more, following their encounters with the evil devices from that plane); and whatever other topics of interest he may find; and he polls his companions to see if they desire books or scrolls dealing with specific topics.
Renik Wednesday December 26th, 2001 5:45:35 AM
"Friend Bill, that is a powerful magical item you are proposing to sell. Can you really afford to part with it? Can we not gather the funds between us instead? It seems a little unfair to have you finance everything... Still, if you are truly willing to part with it, and if we cannot raise sufficient funds amongst ourselves, then perhaps that is the best course."
Renik listens with interest to Bill's questions regarding the Council. It always pays, he has often found, to keep abreast of political developments.
Renik's fireside tale Part 3 Wednesday December 26th, 2001 5:47:49 AM
Renik continues his story that night.
"So, when last we spoke I told you of how the great bear Elyson had been cruelly murdered by my brother. But that was to be only the beginning of his foul plot.
Tarl then instructed his soldiers to drag the bear's corpse into town, claiming it had attacked the goat left as bait, and fallen into the pit. Here was the marauding bear that had terrorized the villagers and taken the farmers' animals from them. Tarl, however, did not accompany them.
At the moment the great bear died my father must have known with terrible certainty his old friend was gone. He ran from the keep, praying that he might be mistaken, but in the main village square he saw his fallen comrade, surrounded by laughing soldiers, boasting to the villagers. With a terrible roar of loss and fury he drew his axe and charged at the soldiers, and before they knew what was happening one lay dead and another gazed in dumbstruck horror at the spurting stump of a severed arm.
But even his great fury was insufficient to overcome all the soldiers. He was swiftly overpowered, beaten until he could not stand, and dragged before the Baron.
The Baron ruled that for harbouring a murderous animal, and for murdering one militiaman in cold blood, and grievously wounding another, Gradik had to be punished. He turned to the villagers and called out "How shall he be punished? Shall he be executed, in accordance with our laws, or shall he be set free to bring more death-dealing beasts of the forest to our fair village?"
And the mob, many of whom had known my father for decades, who had been helped or cared for or supported by the Dacour family over some matter or another, called back as one "Execute him! Execute him!" And so it passed that my father, Forest Warden Gradik Dacour, with the popular support of the villagers and farmers, was beheaded before the Keep gates, as Tarl looked on, smiling in triumph.
I... I am sorry, my friend. I must stop for now. This is too painful... Tomorrow night I shall continue, and speak of my own part in these tragic events. But for now, goodnight...
Bill Troublefinder Thursday December 27th, 2001 8:45:15 PM
Bill, whose eyes had grown very misty on the previous night, having heard of the killing of the bear, breaks down and weeps when he hears what befell Renik's father. He has trouble sleeping that night, as mental images of the story pass through his dreams.
Ferrak Friday December 28th, 2001 2:33:37 AM
Enjoying Renik's story and the company of the others, Ferrak is nevertheless uncomfortable within the city limits. And while spending the day with Bill at the park was indeed fun for the feral gnome, it left him wanting more.
So that night almost without thinking, Ferrak found himself astride his brother as they raced off into the night. An alley cat crossing the road nearly loses a life or two as the wolf brothers blur past it.
(Minutes Later) Loping through the tall trees, freedom incarnate, the brothers are one. Silent, as they run through the snow filled night, an owl screaches somewhere in the distance. As the brothers break into a clearing the waxing moon shines a grinning face at them. Calling to their ancestors the brothers tear into the night with reckless abandon, savoring each silver sweet breath, as they race the wind.
Bill Troublefinder - Free enterprise zone Friday December 28th, 2001 6:34:18 PM
Bill hires a reasonably competent editor at 30 gp per month to work with the garrulous druid who specializes in the flora of the Wold - the herbologist who nearly talked Farlonger's ears off some months ago. He asks the editor to begin work on a series of publications, based upon the collected knowledge of the druid. [OOC: I'm trying to find the druid's name - thought it was in the archives, but apparently it was only recorded in emails from a while back ... through which I will wade as I have time.] Bill gets biweekly reports on the progress, and inspects the work as it stands every two to four weeks. He also donates some funds out of each month's pay from Chenna to the druids. He also looks into funding a poor but talented artist at 20 gp per month to provide illustrations - approved by the druid - to accompany the text. And he spends some time thinking about how to publish the work in quantities. Wood blocks press? He contacts some gnomes, with a copy of his sketch of the scroll copier they lifted from the pyramid, to see if one of them might come up with some gizmos that would aid in the mass production of the printed page - without the taint of evil possessed by the machine used by the Sons of Dread.
Prior to the hirings and consultations, he writes up some agreements to be signed by those with whom he talks that, in exchange for his funding of their efforts, that he will have ownership of the works ... without going into all the legalese in this post, he is looking for some sort of copyright / patent protection. He thinks there are some great ideas that can benefit many.
Bill Troublefinder - Real Estate Saturday December 29th, 2001 12:38:26 AM
Bill agrees with Renik. "Look, Marcus gave us 3,000. That'll take care of the brick wizard's place. And I'll pay for the former clubhouse, at 6,500 gp. If the rest of you can swing the rest of the funds, we can get the third place, with a kitchen, even, for 6,000. Sound good to you?"
Renik Saturday December 29th, 2001 8:35:15 AM
"Works for me Bill, if you're happy to part with so much cash. So, here's my 400 towards the third place; what can you fellows contribute?"
Renik is looking slightly guilty as he says this, and it doesn't take long to work out why. Later that day he can be seen, repeatedly drawing back the string on a magnificent new bow. It looks like it must have cost him a pretty penny.
Renik's fireside tale part 4 Saturday December 29th, 2001 8:39:31 AM
That evening, once again, Renik resumes his tale, noticing that it is no longer only Bill who is listening. He offers any who care to listen a glass of warming mulled wine, and continues.
"So, we come to my own part in this sorry tale.
I returned to the village that same afternoon, having found no sign of my father or Elyson at the woodland cabin. The sight that greeted me as I approached the keep near drove me mad. There, alongside the decapitated heads of executed criminals, were the heads of my father and Elyson the great brown bear, mounted on iron spikes over the keep gates. I might have lost everything then, had I not seen a group of evilly grinning militiamen approaching. To their amusement I fled, first collecting what few family heirlooms I had from home. Then I vanished into the forest, and nothing was heard of me for many weeks.
Tarl and the Baron thought their victory complete. Dunskeep had lost her only defenders, and what's more it had been accomplished with the complicity of the local populous. Their power was now unchallenged, save by a grief-stricken boy probably dead in the forest. The Baron ordered the woodland area nearest town felled, and the area beyond that cleared by fire. Work began building a standing army, barracks and training grounds.
But my time in the forest had not been spent wallowing in grief, or struggling to survive. It had been spent in communion with the forest spirits, plotting dark revenge against those who would defile the forest and murder her human protector.
At first it was wagons leaving town that were raided, but soon even the soldiers feared to travel the woodland roads. Attacks were swift and deadly, and the occasional terrified survivor told of an invisible foe, a figure appearing from thin air and dealing death like some terrible avenging angel. As the attacks increased in intensity over the ensuing months Dunskeep became virtually isolated from the surrounding countryside of Crescent Valley, and The Baron grew angry and fearful as the villagers seized on the mysterious vigilante as a hero come to deliver them from tyranny. They named him variously the Shadow in the Forest, the Shade, and Renik the Green, depending on whether they believed the attacker to be the Spirit of the Forest itself, the vengeful ghost of Gradik, or myself, somehow grown powerful beyond imagining.
The Baron commanded Tarl to lead his army into the forest, and not to return without the head of the outlaw. The army entered the forest the next morning, one hundred men led by Tarl and his six lieutenants. Fourteen hours later seven men, Tarl amongst them, stumbled out of the forest, half mad and quaking with terror.
Tarl was at once summoned before the Baron. He tried to explain how the woods themselves had closed around his men, how his army had become hopelessly lost and fragmented. How for hours and hours all they could do was fight their way through undergrowth that seemed to fight back like a live thing, waiting for the next distant scream as another man died. How finally, reduced to just his lieutenants, he had seen a tree come alive before him, and had been given this message to take back to his master; 'The Wood is awoken. It ends tonight.'
"But it grows late once more, and I have talked long enough. Let us continue this tomorrow night, if you are willing. Good night, my friend."
Arien Saturday December 29th, 2001 5:00:05 PM
"Ah the call to adventure burns brightly within me this night my friends." Arien says one night when the group is gathered. "I feel the need to do something, I miss the thrill of discovery, yes even the fear one feels during an adventure. Of course it was not always so. When you and I first met Bill I was indolent, lazy, and even greedy. I first felt the call after the incident with the Sentinel Head. Perhaps it was its call in my mind as I lay there against the wall. My spirit hung there between this world and the next and the Sentinel Head brought me back. But I stray, I merely wished to make some small talk about the relative calm period we are in." Arien swirls his cup of wine a bit and takes a sip. He then takes a seat and sits looking into the fire and the past for the rest of the evening.
Ferrak Sunday December 30th, 2001 12:30:49 PM
Late at night, a farmer plodding along the road in his horse and cart, pauses to light up his pipe. Looking up at the full moon, he fails to notice the blur of darkness that passes close past him. His old roan Midge nickers nervously as she shies away.
"Steady..." he soothes, as he pulls on the smooth wooden pipe.
Meanwhile Ferrak, now miles away, grins a feral grin as the wolf brothers continue to run wild through the night.
Renik's fireside tale part 5 Monday December 31st, 2001 7:18:10 AM
Renik settles down once more to continue his story.
"So, Tarl had met the Heart of the Forest, and brought back its dread message to his black-hearted master; "It ends tonight".
The Baron had screamed with rage, and hurled his wine goblet away, hitting a guard in the face and soaking two retainers. And at that moment of confusion, melting from the shadows behind the Baron's chair, I appeared. Pausing long enough to whisper, "For my father, murderer," I plunged my blade in deep under the ribs and up into the Baron's heart.
And yet, astonishingly, the Baron did not die. Though gravely wounded he somehow stood, and turned to glare at me with uncontrollable hatred. His features shimmered and blurred, and suddenly I was staring into my father's eyes! "You would not kill your own father, would you, son?" said Gradik Dacour. I fell back horrified. I was too stunned to notice my 'father' slip a long silver dagger from his sleeve (I carry that dagger to this day), and things would have gone ill for me had my brother Tarl not acted in that moment. Seeing our father returned from the dead Tarl screamed in terror, and drawing his sword he plunged it deep into our father's skull.
And as we two brothers gazed down upon our father's body, a change came over it. The skin turned white and translucent, laced with a network of blue veins. The eyes grew larger, the nose and mouth smaller, until the creature lying between them bore little if any resemblance to a human.
"Doppelganger!" Hissed Tarl, and we both understood at once the mysterious change that had come over the son when his father the Baron had died. No doubt the son had died at about the same time. We stared at one another over the loathsome corpse. All in the room were frozen with horror.
Tarl acted first. Seeing his master gone and horribly discredited, certain that without his army and the authority of the Baron behind him he would be arrested and executed, he fled, taking his six loyal lieutenants with him. As he left he swore horrible vengeance on Dunskeep and me in particular. I have not seen him since. I often wonder if he survived the events that were to follow on that fateful night...
But once again I have talked too long. Let us conclude this tale tomorrow night. Good night!
Bill Troublefinder d20+5=19 d20+5=15 d20+5=18 Monday December 31st, 2001 11:36:51 PM
Since no one has said no to his suggestion to use the funds Marcus provided for one of the real estate deals...
During the day, Bill counters the wizard's nephews' request for 3,000 gp with 2,400. "There's just so much trash to pick up, and it's gonna take a lot of work." He'll bas his response on theirs. He may appear to stand fast at first, but is willing to go to 2,600 or 2,800. If they really push beyond that, he says, "If you clean it up entirely, then I might be willing to go for your full asking price." [Diplomacy 19.] But, in truth, he's hoping they don't clean it up, because he thinks that maybe, just maybe, there's something worthwhile yet to be found beneath the rubbish. Okay, 2,900 (or even 3,000), and they provide a cart for hauling away the stuff that Bill and friends clean up.
Assuming the deal goes through... Responding to Arien's stated wish for adventure, Bill says, "I'll show you adventure tomorrow. You'll be up to your knees in it. Up to your elbows! Meet me early, at 8:00 o'clock, and be prepared for some dirty work. Dirty, but necessary. And you think Marcus is bad. Ha!"
He also speaks with the owners of the other two buildings. It'd be nice to have Renik or any of his other friends with him. Well, maybe Ferak would not be the best resource during negotiations. (No offense, Ferak :-) ). He asks about the neighbors, and tries to find out who is where in the nearby buildings. He will probe to see how much wiggle room there is for negotiating the prices. (Diplomacy check for negotiations on 6,000 house 15, on 6,500 former club house 18). If they'll budge on the price, that's great. If not, he may see if they'll cover a few light improvements to sweeten the deal. He also does some checking with local authorities to make sure that the people who represent they can sell the places indeed possess the deed (or its Plateau City equivalent).
-------
Listening to Renik's ongoing saga, Bill gets a look of horror in his eyes as he hears of the transformation of the Baron. Then he gets confused towards the end. "Wait - you mean Tarl was replaced too, by a doppleganger? Or you mean he died figuratively, in a way? I don't understand that last part."
Arien Tuesday January 1st, 2002 7:06:04 AM
"Well I'm not sure that that's the same type of adventure I was talking about it but well it's something different so I'll meet you, 8:00 clock sharp."
Real Estate Deals - DM Kim Tuesday January 1st, 2002 11:44:42 AM
The nephews will only go down to 2,950 gp for the brick building, but they do provide several dozen oversized bags and a handcart to help haul away the debris. They want the handcart back within a week, though. They also stipulate, "If you find a necklace with a ruby gem, that was our uncle's, and we want it back." If the party finds it, they offer a 150 gp reward. "Maybe it's not there, though."
The owners of the clubhouse are firm at 6,500, but they do offer to provide paint and brushes for the interior. "Could use a little touch up."
The owners of the third building are willing, after discussions, to lower the price to 5,600 gp. They will not offer to do anything extra to fix up the place. "It's good enough, we think."
Documentation for the transactions is in order. A government clerk is available to ratify the sales, with a 15 gp fee per transaction. "In whose name will the property reside?"
Will the Hamleteers be buying the place with the kitchen, in addition to the clubhouse and wizard's place?
Renik (Karnak) d20+2=9 d20+8=21 Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 4:48:30 AM
Renik joins Bill on his real estate trip, in yet another disguise. This time he looks like a middle aged merchant of moderate means (Disguise 21). He allows his 'partner' Bill to do all the talking, simply keeping an eye on the proceedings. From time to time he will interject with comments about neighbours, local crime rates, and so forth (sense motive 9).
Regarding the location with the kitchens, Renik's offer of 400 GP towards the purchase stands, if any other Hamleteers are willing to put money forward.
Renik's fireside tale part 6 Wednesday January 2nd, 2002 4:57:15 AM
Renik continues his tale the following night, attempting to clarify the issue of his brother for Bill. "No, my brother discovered he had been working for a Doppelganger, who had taken the place of the son of the old Baron. No doubt the creature had caused the death of the old man also. I assume my brother escaped that night, but I cannot be sure, as the conclusion of my tale will make plain.
"So, with the Baron unmasked and dead, my brother fled, I walked stunned from the great dining room and into the cool night air. By the time I reached the Village Square a great crowd had gathered the story of the night's events having spread like wildfire. There was celebration and joy in the air. There were calls from the crowd for me to lead them, others to become Warden in my father's place. With a brusque gesture I silenced them, and spoke these words.
"'Men and women of Dunskeep. The tyrant is dead, and you are free. But do not rejoice too soon.
"'You had it in your power to free my father when the Baron unjustly accused him. By your word he died. Perhaps I should tell you a little of this man you condemned to death so readily.
"'Gradik Dacour, like his father and grandfather, was the Warden of Tenslade Forest. Do you know what that meant? Did you never ask yourselves why a Warden was required?
"'When Dunskeep was founded, many generations ago, it was at the edge of Culverwood, the area of land we call today Tenslade. A great woodsman, Elyan Dacour, approached the Lords of the Forest, and requested permission to build a settlement there. That permission was granted, on the condition that from that time forth a representative of the villagers would maintain peace in the forest, allowing no harm to come to her. And so it was that the Dacours, for generation after generation, preserved this peace, and the forest slept.
"'By your action, by the Baron's foolish attack on the woodland, that peace is now at an end. Dunskeep has declared war on the Forest.' I pointed behind the crowd, up the hill towards the treeline. The villagers stared, first in disbelief, then in horror. The trees were closer, and growing closer still. I continued, 'And now the Forest is fighting back.'
"The first seeds of panic grew amongst the villagers, and they begged me to save them, to turn the trees back. But all I could do was shake my head and say;
"'Even if I were so inclined, I could not. My father died before he passed custodianship to me. Though the Forest will tolerate me, it will not accept my commands. I cannot help you.' I looked up, and the villagers did likewise; the entire village of Dunskeep was surrounded on all sides by dense, dark forest, and it was pressing in fast. And I told them, with heavy heart, 'No-one can help you now.'
"Dunskeep disappeared from any map of the Wold that night. There was only one path through the Trees, and only I was able to walk that path. Those few inhabitants of Dunskeep that did survive emerged from the forest many weeks later, terrified and starving, some with their eyes poked out, others shredded by thorns, near all driven mad by the experience. The trees took Dunskeep apart, stone by stone, until all evidence of the human invasion was gone. And when all was peaceful, the trees slept once more.
"Well. My tale is done. Of course I have had many adventures since, and my life has been shaped by all manner of curious encounters and desperate battles. I became first a scout, then a spy, first in the employ of private individuals, then the Church. But if you would know me, Bill Troublefinder, you need look no further than those events that first set me on my winding path."
Bill Troublefinder Thursday January 3rd, 2002 2:29:21 AM
"Well," he says to Renik, "it looks like no one else wants, or is able, to advance more funds towards real estate. But I think having two places'll be just fine. Why don't you keep the 400 gp to help us build a kitchen? 'Course, you're free to withdraw it, or use it for whatever you want. Just an idea, there."
When the whole party is present (likely just after a shift at the B&B), Bill makes sure everyone knows of the two newly acquired properties. "I'm thinkin' we should clear out the brick place first, then paint the former clubhouse next. What do you all think about using the brick place for research. Maybe have an alchemical mixing place, and some goodies for you spell casters - maybe a little scriptorium - Arien, you know how to make scrolls, right? You spending any time on that lately?
"Then, the other place we fix up to live in, and entertain. I'd like to have a room in the basement, if that's okay with all of you. Maybe dig out a bit extra for a little root cellar. Make it more homey." He gets a faraway look in his eyes, and starts rocking back and forth in his seat. A moment or two later he asks, "Who wants to help with making a kitchen? And we'll want to choose a good spot for our library."
===========
"Renik - just swallowed up by the forest? What a gloomy doom." He sits quiet for a while. It's times like these that he almost thinks about taking up smoking a pipe again. It's been quite a while.
"Was that magical - that Dunskeep disappeared from all the maps? Or is that just a figure of speech, there, Renik? I mean, it'd be amazing if trees could not only swallow up a whole town, but also figured some way of erasing a little spot of ink from scrolls and maps all over the Wold. Wouldn' it?" He sits thinking a little more.
"Hey, how did you manage to do so much against those folks? Your father musta taught you some fearsome tactics. Say - I was just thinkin' the other day. Y'know, I used to be able to move through the shadows. Just kinda become a shadow myself. Back just when I met K'isst - oh - you don't know her, do you? She's the most beautiful, powerful lady elfy troglodyte you've ever seen. Anyway, back by Windhorn Hamlet, the Sons of Dread were messin' with some dark magic - necromancy. Well, I was able to just become a part of the shadows, and sneak right by a whole room of Dread thugs who were hidin' and waitin' for us. But I got on one side of 'em, while the rest of my friends came up the other side. When some of the thugs tried runnin' away to warn the mages, I was there, and 'tween me and my friends, we stopped 'em all. Then went to where the mages were, in Donyra's old temple. A fish helped save us. Rainbow trout. Ask Rond or Sedar - oh, Sedar's off doin' somethin' still for Marcus, I think. I hope. Haven't seen him in a while. Arien'd know, too." He scratches his head.
"'Bout movin' through the shadows though, and some other stuff, not so long ago, all these things I used to know how to do, suddenly, I forgot a lot of 'em. It's like I sorta know, but just lost some important ingredient. But now, there's other things I've picked up. One day, I'm hopin' to remember the old stuff better."
Bill gets permission to use the B&B kitchen, and he bakes up pies. Two each of blueberry, mincemeat, shepherd's, apple crumble, strawberry and cream, and peach cobbler. He gives one on each kind to Chenna to sell to her guests. The other five he takes for his friends. "This is in honor of Renik's story. Not that it has anything to do, really, with the story. But just 'cause he told it, and I liked it. So, here, Renik, eat up, and we'll help you. Here, Darkfang, bet you like the shepherd's pie." Then he translates the last sentence into the lupine tongue, and gives the wolf half of the shepard's pie. "Ferak, try some mincemeat. Arien, Rond, Renki - I mean, Renik - take as much as you want!" Bill chooses a piece of blueberry, and one of peach cobbler.
Renik Thursday January 3rd, 2002 4:32:40 AM
Renik smiles at the halfling's habitual barrage of questions, and fields them as well as he is able.
"Just a figure of speech, my friend, nothing quite so arcane as Wold-wide map adjustment! And as for my success against the soldiers, well much of it was nothing to do with me. The trees themselves, along with invisible or shadowy woodland creatures carried out many of the attacks. Certes, my father taught me many ways of the wood, and the forest dwellers more, but my part in the events was not so mystical as perhaps it seemed."
"Although... what you say about the shadows, the way you were able to actually become as one with them... Well I always thought that to be a figure of speech, and yet lately I am not so sure..."
Renik seems on the verge of saying more, of sharing a confidence, but then seems to stop himself, changing the subject. "Well, it is time I was about my nightly training, Bill. Thanks for listening, it feels good to get that off my chest. See you in the morning!"
In the morning Renik tucks into the pie gratefully, and assures Bill that his 400 GP are available for whatever repairs and decorations the team decide. "Though I still like the idea of a tunnel between the two locations," he muses.
Draax Thursday January 3rd, 2002 2:32:14 PM
While working out his light war horse, Draax takes the horse through the various commands, comes, stop, stay, guard, attack, and go home. The 'go home' command cost Draax a long walk first time he used it. He takes his horse on long rides and will often let the horse run until it tires itself out. Most of his riding is done in the park during the day, so he often takes a large amount of food with him and at the end of the workout he leaves the food as an offering to the ghosts.
Practicing mounted combat, Draax uses some of the new evil temples for target practice. Riding by at full speed, Draax (in one of his various disguises) practices shooting his bow from horseback by putting arrows in the structure of one of the temples. He thought about shooting at some of the evil worshipers, but he remembered that Marcus likes to place spies in with the enemy and did not want to mistakenly hit an ally.
Listening to the preparation for purchasing of the buildings, Draax offers what he can spare out of his funds. "Sorry, my funds are low and I can only contribute 600 to the cause."
The disguised warrior spends a small portion of his day watching the various evil temples grow in wealth. He thinks that a good raid on one of these temples would take care of a lot of their money problems and cause some discomfort to the enemy, if only he had some skill at thievery.
Arien Friday January 4th, 2002 10:18:21 PM
"Well yes I can make scrolls but obviously only from spells that I have access to, which are limited really at the moment. That would be something I would be interested in getting, a wider selection of spells. Of course I cannot cast, nor scribe spells from the schools of Divination, Enchantment or Necromancy."
Bill Troublefinder Saturday January 5th, 2002 11:16:14 AM
"Well, Arien, if you want a wider selection of spells, then go to the Catacombs and buy some," Bill says. "It's like 25 gp for first level scrolls, 150 for second level, 350 for third level spells, I think. If you need some money, let me know. Here's 500 gp for starters. Go there today, take a number, and someone should help you soon."
DM Kim d20+5=21 d20+5=16 d20+5=14 d20+5=23 d20+5=25 d20+5=25 d20+5=20 Saturday January 5th, 2002 9:31:51 PM
OK, let's figure the places were purchased about two months from the time of the hot tub party.
Allowing a week or so for the cleaning out of the rubbish from the mage's place, and another week or two for painting the clubhouse, the dwellings are basically ready for moving in.
Via some investigation, it is learned that existing underground passageways go quite near to the brick building - just the next building away from the river. From the clubhouse, one must go across the courtyard before arriving at an underground connection. Of course, with enough time, effort, engineering, bracing, a more or less direct route between the buildings could be dug. [An earth elemental might speed things up. ;-) Watch out that the structural integrity of intervening edifices are not compromised by the digging...
Essential kitchen gear - New: a stove, oven, plumbing, and starter utensils can be had starting at 400 gp, with decided increases in quality at double the price and above. However, a higher quality stove and oven are found, albeit used, which bring the costs to 550, including the move and installation.
Ferak, Bill & Darkfang prove to be pretty good diggers, and a tunnel between the two dwellings is finally completed, in a manner of speaking, just a few days before the end of five months. 'In a manner of speaking,' because, although the diminuitive gnome and halfling can pass more of less upright through the whole passageway, those of greater stature must stoop severely much of the way. Those over ~5'8" will have to crawl in spots. The diggers do excavate a few wider areas, with enough room for Rond to stand almost straight in the exact center of two of them, and a few more places to pass here and there. More time and work will be needed to clear out a broader passageway. A separate tunnel is made from the brick building to barely short of the existing nearby tunnel complex. Bill's knowledge of architecture and engineering are sufficient to leave a thin crust of earth to separate the new from the existing tunnel. A few rounds of digging would be sufficient to effect a passable opening - large enough for the larger party members.
Vacationing DM Donna Sunday January 6th, 2002 7:41:21 AM
This is an entirely OOC post, whose subject is about the real estate dealings that I started you all on but then lost track of over the holidays as I forgot to keep an eye on this board while I was gone. (Sorry about that.)
DM Kim--while doing a FANTASTIC job in my absence--didn't have ALL the facts, and so I am modifying the real estate negotiations by letting you all know these rather relevant facts:
1. The properties are being sold through the same real estate representative--once you let him know you were interested in all three, he immediately began to move heaven & earth to try to get the prices down to something you could afford, because he wants his commission something awful.
2. The ex-clubhouse can be bought for a deposit of 1000gp now and 200gp per month for the next 30 months.
3. The vacant family residence has been haggled down to 5000gp.
4. The wizard's nephews--once mention of having to clean up the old place was made--immediately dropped their price to 1500gp. You get the feeling that they do NOT want to have to go into the building ever again.
5. The wizard's place is filled top-to-bottom with knick-knacks and...well, junk...so much so that accurately judging the structural integrity of the entire building is extremely difficult to do with 100% accuracy before cleaning it out.
Ferrak Sunday January 6th, 2002 6:47:25 PM
Refreshed from his explorations of the great outdoors, Ferrak helps with the real estate acquisitions as much as possible. Using the always handy prestidigitation spell to help clean up. Create Water and Summon Nature's ally also come in very handy at times.
Getting help from burrowing animals whilst digging the tunnels, makes it possible for Ferrak to take a rest now and again when the others aren't watching.
Ferrak also starts to work on his gardening skills. A natural green thumb, he starts a few saprolings, and puts plenty of bushes in the yards, where possible. Doing most of his work at night he tries to get as much wild vegetation going as he can.
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