DM Jan Monday February 4th, 2002 6:56:27 PM
Over at the quayside, Rand and McIntley are seen handing over their prisoners to someone in their boat, and then appear to be holding some kind of hurried conversation. Rand is seen throwing his arms aloft for a moment, while McIntley shakes his head.
Not long after, the boat leaves without them. 'Normal life' at the docks is starting to get back to what it was before the big cleric fight, and everyone seems to be returning to their own particular business. After all - this is the Fence level, and in particular - the docks. There are always fights aplenty here. No big deal.
Rand approaches the group once more, just as they are about to set off back to the Orphanage. "Well," he says, with an apologetic grin. "With that lot on board, there isn't any room for us, so - we're going to have to stay here overnight." McIntley can be seen watching the departing boat, still shaking his head.
"Tell you what," continues Rand. "Can we take you out to lunch tomorrow, by way of thanking you? We'd really like to do that. How about if we meet at the Brass Toad Tavern, at midday?"
McIntley lets out a sharp whistle, and Rand winks at Miranna and says "See you all tomorrow," before turning and following McIntley, who has by now disappeared into the crowd.
Polaris Monday February 4th, 2002 7:16:45 PM
Polaris looks at the others and then looks at the men leaving. She sees the path towards home, and realises how much she misses it, even if they have only been gone a short while. She walks in that direction hoping the others will follow.
Miranna Monday February 4th, 2002 9:51:22 PM
Miranna casts her eyes down as her face does an imitation of a ripe tomato. It is a sight none of her family has seen for many months. The elf can still blush! The events of the past months have not totally erased the innocence of youth from her after all.
She sees Polaris walking off and quickly follows, eyes still downcast. At least Polaris seems not to have noticed her reaction to... the lunch invitation... perhaps none of her family has noticed...
[OOC: Rand is a human, right?]
Tiree Monday February 4th, 2002 10:51:59 PM
Tiree agrees to meet the men tomorrow for lunch at the Brass Toad Tavern before turning and heading home.
Jezebella Tuesday February 5th, 2002 8:06:31 AM
Jezebella looks from the investigators to her friends as they speak. An invitation to lunch? Something bothers her, but she can't quite place her finger on it.
After the investigators leave, she slides her way to Miranna's side. She nudges her slightly.. "Hey, daydreamer.." she says with a small smile. "Have you heard of the Brass Toad Tavern? Do you.. or anyone.. know how to get there? What the place is like? That other agent seemed to think Rand's invitation was noteworthy..."
Drew Tuesday February 5th, 2002 8:32:28 AM
Drew steps in silently with the rest of his siblings quietly following along. It seems that if there is no life and death battle going on Drew seems a bit lost.
DM Jan Tuesday February 5th, 2002 10:14:52 PM
The night at the Orphanage is peaceful and relaxing. Next to a crackling fire in the hearth, Flaust tells stories of green dragons in faraway lands, while everyone feasts on a hearty stew.
The atmosphere makes for a peaceful night's slumber. Eljer and Drew have their own permanent beds now and are firmly considered part of the family.
In the morning, chores include laundry, peeling potatoes and fixing the roof. All this is completed by midmorning leaving the group with plenty of time to keep their lunch date.
Drake knows where the Brass Toad Tavern is. "Out onto Cutpurse Lane, across the street and two blocks down," he says. "It's full of sailors usually. Turtle men."
Outside, the sun reflects indirectly from the ceiling onto the street. For all intents and purposes, it looks like it's going to be a nice day.
Miranna Wednesday February 6th, 2002 12:20:52 AM
After the morning chores are done, Miranna disappears into her little private study. If Jezebella goes to join her - as has become their common mid-morning ritual - she finds the door locked. Miranna at first refuses to answer her knocks, but will relent if Jezebella is persistent.
The elf emerges just before the group sets out for their lunch date. She is dressed in what looks like a new sky blue robe, cinched at the waist by a sash of darker blue. Her long golden hair is loosely held in a ponytail by a blue ribbon matching her sash. Anyone coming close can get a whiff of a mild rose fragrance. But what immediately grabs everyone's attention is the flaming stone orbiting above her head.
[Miranna cast Prestidigitation on her clothing to make it look new and smell nice. The orbiting stone is a dull gray ioun stone with Continual Flame cast on it.]
When everyone has been startled by the flaming stone, Miranna giggles and raises a hand to grab the stone. Her hand appears to be wreathed in flames as it holds out the stone for her family to admire. "This is one of my new spells. Now we have a magical light that will never go out."
With a flourish, Miranna produces a small square of black cloth and wraps the flaming stone in it before dropping it into her belt pouch. The others can only wonder what has got into the usually quiet and self-effacing elf. She seems to be out to impress today.
Syr Wednesday February 6th, 2002 4:11:30 AM
Syr drops down from the repaired roof with a florish. "I don't think I can finish my chores any faster. What say we all go get some lunch?"
Jezebella Wednesday February 6th, 2002 7:53:45 AM
Jezebella seems truely taken aback, should anyone notice, when Miranna's door is locked to her. She only knocks twice.. more timidly the second time... and then backs away from the door slightly, and returns to her room.
She leaves her room once she hears Miranna exit.. following behind her, not attracting her attention. She notes the finery, and her nose detects the delicate perfume.. she takes very little notice of the stone. Her face is strangely blank, and she says little.
Drew Wednesday February 6th, 2002 9:28:36 AM
Rising early works out in the yard, heavy and fierce. Anyone paying attention notices that his axe is new and seems to speed and dance almost on its own. It seems to natraly flow where he wishes it to and to do what he wants. His control seems to have improved as if by magic.
After his work out he does his chores, takes a quick bath and then stands out side the front door waiting on the rest.
Plink Wednesday February 6th, 2002 8:10:01 PM
Plink completes his fair share of the work, and amuses the party during their breaks with some juggling tricks here and some riddles there. After this comes to that, and lunch time rolls around, he slips out of his work clothes and into something more casual, and heads off towards the tavern as requested, a spring in his step.
DM Jan Wednesday February 6th, 2002 10:40:53 PM
Everyone sets off, with Miranna a little more spruced up than normal. The Brass Toad Tavern is exactly where Drake said it was on Cut Purse Road. Inside, it's about three quarters busy, with only a few chairs empty. However, Rand and McIntley can plainly be seen toward the rear of the tavern. Rand waves the group over where they have some spare seats set around an oval table. McIntley gets the drinks in while Rand stands and offers everyone a seat. "Hello again, my dear" he says to Miranna and kisses her hand.
Conversation ranges from 'What does everyone want for lunch?' to a few worried comments on the state of Plateau City and Floating City relations. McIntley seems concerned about the effect it will have on trade and free movement of people across the water. (All this time, Eljer still has the belief that these guys seem honest enough).
Then, a man rushes through the main door, and crouches beside someone at a neighbouring table. He begins to whisper furiously to those sat there, and after a few moments - smiles fade and a look of horror is seen on some of their faces. ((Listen check please DC11))
Tiree d20+3=12 d20+3=22 Thursday February 7th, 2002 12:44:15 AM
Tiree sits quietly watching the people around her more than the people she is with. Always a people watcher, she notices the hurry in and begin to whisper. Straining through the crowd, she can just make out what is being said (Listen 12). She takes a quick look around to see what the reactions of other people are (Spot 22).
Eljer d20+5=7 Thursday February 7th, 2002 12:52:25 AM
Eljer finds himself momentarily distracted from the amusing scene of flirtation being played out between Miranna and Rand. He strains his senses towards the newcomer to see if he can glean any tidbits.
Listen Roll 7
Apparantly, Eljer is too consumed by the small talk between Rand and Miranna to fully focus on the newcomer. Alas, he hears nothing.
Jezebella d20+5=16 Thursday February 7th, 2002 7:58:00 AM
Jez sits, still quiet, watching Miranna's reactions to Rand's affectations. She is not so focused on them as to not hear the urgent whispers of the new arrival. (listen 16)
Expecting trouble, she reaches into her component pouch, and murmers the incantation which encases her in her mage armor.
(ooc : Aleyna .. your charrie would now be wearing + 1 bracers of armor... a gift from Jez, given last night. Meant to put it in my 'turn' but forgot.)
(ooc :
Drew d20+2=16 Thursday February 7th, 2002 8:49:46 AM
Drew bored out of his mind has been allowing his attention to wander through the conversation and around the room, he is especialy intrested in the new commer and his haste and horror.
listen 16
Miranna Thursday February 7th, 2002 11:40:49 AM
Miranna blushes and curtsies gracefully to Rand before taking her seat - beside him. She lets him order for her, and listens raptly to everything he says. She wonders why she never found politics interesting before, and quietly resolves to start reading on the subject. Her eyes and ears are closed to anyone and anything else. [Voluntarily giving up Listen roll.]
Jezebella might have observed that Miranna does not have her Weasel with her. At least, the familiar leather pouch is not swinging from Miranna's shoulder.
DM Jan Friday February 8th, 2002 2:45:45 AM
With all the chatter going in the pub, only Tiree and Drew catch anything of what's being said at the other table.
The news is shocking indeed. Someone has assassinated the Underlord of Floating City. ".... found him with his throat slit, so I heard." "Who did it?" "...dunno, guards are out looking, could have been anyone." "I bet it was someone from Plateau City. It'll be the Overlord next - THEN where will we be?" "Wish I could get my hands on 'em."
One of the men at this particular table is beginning to cast glances at Rand and McIntley, and is starting to nudge the man next to him and whisper.
McIntley looks as pale as a ghost, he's obviously heard too. "Oh no," he says quietly, and taps Rand (who's asking Miranna about what it's like living here) on the shoulder. "I think we'd better get out of here - and fast."
In moments, the news has leapt from table to table like wild fire. It looks as though someone has overheard the two men from Plateau City as they talked to the group, has attempted to put two and two together, and now things are starting to look potentially ugly.
The main door of the Tavern is about 40 feet ahead, three tables of patrons lie in between. To the left is large, slightly open window, with a view of an alley. To the right is the bar. To the rear is the back door.
((OOC, purely as a matter of interest - for details of the actual murder - take a look at Game 1, the Storm Dragons where the event took place))
Drew Friday February 8th, 2002 9:03:29 AM
Drew looks at the men at the table and wonders, could they have done such a thing? Could they have killd a man and tehn casualy come here to flirt with one of his sisters and eat lunch with them. Drew pushes back from the table slightly and casualy loosens the binds on his new axe.
Tiree d20+3=5 Friday February 8th, 2002 4:57:14 PM
"Look, I don't know if you guys did it or not, and right now I don't care, but we gotta get out of here."
She looks around for the easiest way out (spot 5).
"How about the back door folks?"
No matter which way they are heading, Tiree pulls her rapier and quickly and lovingly touches her new bracers she got from Jez.
"Looks like these are about to come in real handy Jez. Thanks!"
(OOC: Bracers+1 raise Tiree's AC to 14. Will send updated sheet to you Jan by Monday.)
Jezebella Friday February 8th, 2002 10:09:35 PM
Jezebella scans the room.. seeing the mob mentality quickly growing... she decides to feed the fire, and hope it rages as she wishes. She reaches into her pouch yet again, pulling forth a bit of wax. She murmers arcane words... quietly as she can...
Voices appear to come from outside.. behind the front door...
A mans voice, gutteral and outraged.. "They went that way! Murdering bastards!"
Another... "C'mon!"
A womans scream pierces the ears of the crowd... "So much BLOOD!" she cries.
.. footsteps race down the street... perhaps four people.
Jezebella gestures for her friends to slide out the back.
[ghost sound : sounds of up to four humans per caster level]
Syr Saturday February 9th, 2002 2:19:57 AM
Looking at Rand suspiciously, he starts to form a question when he notices the mood of the crowd suddenly shift.
Syr casually rises and simultaneously places a hand on his axe. With a slow movement, he begins edging his between Jezebella and the crowd.
Miranna d20+11=20 Sunday February 10th, 2002 12:40:17 PM
Miranna pouts as Rand turns to McIntley, then frowns at the expressions of the two Plateau City men. She looks around at her family and finally realizes that something is wrong. "What is the matter? Jezebella, what -" Her delicate brows crease. Her little sister is casting Ghost Sound. (Spellcraft check 20, enough to identify spells up to fifth level.)
Not fully comprehending the situation, Miranna waits for someone's lead on what to do. She slips a hand into her spell component pouch and brings the spell Minor Image to mind...
Plink Sunday February 10th, 2002 2:14:50 PM
Plink, nodding to the rest of the group, heads toward the back door, and glances around to see just how many people are watching back there. If he deems it a safe route to take, he opens the door and glances to see who is in the alley, closing it quickly if threats are apparent.
DM Jan Sunday February 10th, 2002 6:07:51 PM
Plink and Tiree determine that the back door seems the best way out. McIntley is already on his feet, and after conferring with them both, slips out the back door and into an alley.
"I swear by everything I hold true, we had nothing to do with this," says Rand, reacting to Drew's and Syr's expressions. "Please, believe me."
"I'm sorry," he says to Miranna, "but I think we'd all better get out of here, and fast. This mob looks ugly."
Amidst the general clatter of gossip, half truths, partially drawn weapons and whispered accusations, Jezebella's spell (recognised with relief by Miranna) goes into effect, creating the much needed confusion. Some faces start to look elsewhere for the moment.
Out in the alley - to the left is CutPurse Lane; to the right is a dead end.
On the opposite wall are two doors. One has no sign above it, the other has a peeling board hung from a nail on the door. The board is a sign declaring - PARADE SUPPLIES.
McIntley is frowning. "If we get out into CutPurse Lane, we'll be stopped for sure."
Syr d20+4=16 Monday February 11th, 2002 1:01:44 AM
Looking both directions down the alley, his eyes lock on the 'parade supplies' door.
Syr snarls at Rand, "It really doesn't matter whether we believe you or not. Everyone in there now links us to you." His face softening, "Well, if we are in the same boat together, I may as well help row."
Cracking his knuckles, he moves his axe to his back. The elf moves to the door and tries to jerk it open with both hands on the knob (Strength 16, or push if that is how).
Drew Monday February 11th, 2002 4:01:28 PM
Drew looks at Syr and says "Perhaps you should let some of our more deft and quiet familysillks handle the door?"
Eljer Monday February 11th, 2002 4:53:00 PM
Eljer follows the rest of the party out the back door into the alley. He draws his crossbow and prepares a bolt, ready to fire if someone comes down the alleyway from Cutpurse Lane. Hearing Drew's remark, he responds.
"Normally, my gruff but lovable brother, I would agree with you. But now is not the time for subtlety. We need a place to hide fast so we can regroup and plan our next move. I say, give Syr a hand, Drew."
Eljer continues to focus his eyes and bolt on the far end of the alley.
Jezebella Monday February 11th, 2002 8:46:09 PM
Jezebella waits to see if the door is open, or can be forced... she draws her daggers, even though it is clear she does not wish to use them. She spares Rand one withering look, but no more attention then that.
Tiree d20=20 Monday February 11th, 2002 9:08:47 PM
Not waiting to see if Drew helps, Tiree throws her small body against the door (if help is needed Str 20!).
(If not,) Tiree pushes the others through the door and runs through after the last of her family, but before Rand and McIntley.
Miranna Monday February 11th, 2002 9:25:32 PM
"We believe you," Miranna says to Rand. She has no real idea what the cause of the commotion is, but trusts the others' judgement that they need to hide from the mob.
Her eyes scan the alley for potential trouble as Syr tries the door. Her hand clutches a bit of wool, presumably a component for one of her spells. It strikes everyone that Miranna is not wearing any weapons. (Weapons would have spoilt the look, you know.)
Polaris Monday February 11th, 2002 10:14:47 PM
Polaris follows the others, almost as she had been asleep for awhile. Anyhow, she has no opinion on any matter, and follows the crowd.
DM Jan Tuesday February 12th, 2002 12:11:44 AM
Syr is in the midst of forcing the door handle when Tiree goes *whack* against it, forcing it open sharply. Luckily the door bounces inward against what looks like a coat rack piled high with garments.
Out in the alley, Eljer and Miranna hear someone shouting from around the corner, but can't see anyone as yet.
Rand seems rather troubled by Jez and Syr's looks and reactions as he makes his way quickly out of the Tavern, making sure everyone is out safely. "C'mon - " he whispers urgently to Polaris and Plink. McIntley dives past Drew and through the open door of the Theatrical Supply store.
Beyond the door is a shadowy room, full of boxes. It's about 15ft square, and boxes are stacked high. There's also a rack full of clothing. On examination it all appears to be women's clothing of all sizes.
At the opposite end of the room is another door, muffled voices can be heard beyond it. ((Anyone approaching this door - Listen check DC 12))
Tiree Tuesday February 12th, 2002 12:49:07 AM
"Polaris, somebody! Go see if you can hear what is going on on the other side of the door." Tiree whispers.
She moves over to the women's clothing and begins rooting through it.
"Come here you two and find something to put on. They are looking for two men, not two women. You'll probable want something to cover your faces, too. The rest of the guys might want to think about changing too. A group of women won't be as noticable, I think."
Plink d20+6=22 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 8:14:04 AM
Plink, cautious that someone might be coming, heads toward the door in an attempt to hear who is on the other side. A smile crosses his face, even in a time of trouble such as this, when Tiree recommends they all dress up like women. Her logic can't be beaten, however, and he considers it a likely option. However, the door is a more pressing issue at the moment, and he gets close, pressing his ear to the wood to see what he can hear.
(Listen Result 22)
Eljer Tuesday February 12th, 2002 8:56:00 AM
At Tiree's suggestion, Eljer wrinkles up his face in displeasure and mutters something underneath his breath about "being beaten to the punch" as he begins to try and find appropriate attire.
Eljer Tuesday February 12th, 2002 8:59:05 AM
OOC: My wife had the same idea I did as to what the party should do and she posted at work before I did and STOLE MY IDEA!!!!
But hey, I just can't help but love her and it is wonderfully comforting to know you and your spouse think so much alike.:)
Drew Tuesday February 12th, 2002 11:20:30 AM
Drew closes the door to the outside and leans against it in an attempt to guard it and keep anyone from using the now broken door.
Jezebella d20+5=20 d20+5=16 Tuesday February 12th, 2002 9:00:32 PM
Jezebella purses her lips as she surveys the costumes and such.. she disappears among the racks for some time before appearing with an armload, including some masks. She assists the men disguise themselves. (disguise check 16) She includes a mask in each of thier costumes..
"It is not terribly uncommon for ladies of stature to travel these streets in masks, if I am not mistaken?"
[Jan.. check your email please.]
Syr Tuesday February 12th, 2002 10:40:30 PM
"Geezzz, I already have enough trying to grow facial hair", says the elf. "And now you want me to dress up like a woman???"
Grumbling to himself, he pretends to tolerate Jez's advice and begins donning clothing.
"If I must do this, can we find a bag to keep my clothes in? Also, what about my axe?"
DM Jan Wednesday February 13th, 2002 2:51:53 AM
Searching amongst the racks and boxes, Tiree gets everyone organised. The clothing is extremely feminine, lots of gaudy colours, frills and flounces - as for the shoes... they're high heeled in a variety of colours.
Meanwhile, as Drew guards the door, Plink sneaks up to the other interior door and listens. He hears the following -
"Okay - I can keep it overnight, but it's gonna cost you a favour or two. If this stuff is as good as you say it is. Where did you get it?"
Muffled response.
"Hmph, typical. Alright. Make sure you're back tomorrow. I don't want stuff this valuable left here too long."
There's a sound of a bell ringing, and a door closing, and a *THUD, right next to Plink's door.
McIntley gets dressed quickly in something lavendar coloured, and stumbles into the shoes. He smirks at Rand who looks absolutely mortified at having to dress this way.
"Hey, that pinches," he whispers to Jez who's helping him dress. "Isn't there anything bigger? And how am I supposed to walk in these shoes?" He rolls his eyes and looks most embarrased. McIntley just laughs silently.
((Along with your actions, tell me who's dressing up, and how. The theme is Mardi Gras. Go wild.))
Plink Wednesday February 13th, 2002 8:15:57 AM
Plink walks up to the rest of the group, relaying what he heard, in a whispered voice, "Psst, hey. I heard some people talking. Apparently the owner of this establishment is holding something...illegal, for someone else. They also mentioned, 'If this stuff is as good as you say,' which makes me wonder what they're storing. There was a thud next to the door, presumably whatever is being stashed here."
Plink then, with the aid of the more knowledgeable females, begins getting dressed. He puts on a bright purple dress, and sports a bright green hat. All over, there are golden sequins (spelling?) and feathers, presumably 4 large feathers sprouting from each side of the hat. He attempts to find a veil to cover his face, preferably gold.
Polaris d20+8=28 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 9:23:01 AM
Polaris, excited about playing dress up, smiles and nudges he head in the opposite direction to let them aware that she is going to change clothes.
Polaris begins to dig through the clothes looking for the perfect outfit that will be sensual and make her attractive looking.(Disguise check 28)
After about ten minutes, Polaris pops out in a "Ta Da!" type manner. She appears in a elegant (and possibly outlandish)bright red gown. It is sleeveless with a low cut neck line. Because of her height, the dress makes a train behind her. On top of the dress, Polaris has a bright blue boa and about 30 bead necklaces around her neck. Over her eyes she wears a silver mask outlined in blue and red feathers. She shakes her head to make her hair swoosh.
"How do I look?" She asks the group with a giggle from all the excitement. She is unsure whether she is more entertained by getting dressed up herself, or at the boys getting dressed as women.
Eljer Wednesday February 13th, 2002 11:10:07 AM
Eljer gets out of his leather armor and rumages around until he stops short and smirks to himself. Soon, he is adorned in an exquisite little black dress. He spins for the group.
"Divine, wouldn't you say? Now then, let's see what's behind door number two...shall the best lockpicker make their way to the door?"
Drew Wednesday February 13th, 2002 12:11:26 PM
Drew asks someone to find him a simple black cloak and a bundles of rags. With it he throws the cloak over his shoulders places the raggs under the cloak as a hunch and puts his mask back on making him look magicaly like a Praying Mantis. "I can in no way look like a woman and this at least will allow me to keep armor and axe on and near."
DM Jan Wednesday February 13th, 2002 1:48:23 PM
OOC - Gung Hay Fat Choy, Viv! (Hope I got that right.)
Tiree d20+6=20 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 6:39:05 PM
Tiree begins to rummage around in the clothing herself looking for something for herself. Not taking the time for modesty, she quickly dons a long, flowing white gown. She adds to that a huge hat with a large flowing feather. You can hear her muttering something about fitting through doors. She puts something over her face and when she turns around, her face is completely covered by a black and white mask. Half the mouth is turned up and the other turned down (comedy/tragedy mask). (Disguize 20).
"What do we need a lock picked for? I thought we were just going to go back out the way we came in and saunter down the street?"
Jezebella d20+5=23 d20+7=26 Wednesday February 13th, 2002 9:21:46 PM
Jez bites back a smirk when Rand complains about the costume. "oh, I'm TERRIBLY sorry... Don't try to run in those shoes, you'll break your pretty ankles, dear." She can't hide her snicker, at that point.
She costumes herself in a fox mask, and a fur coat... the coat is clearly fake, as it is extremly fuzzy and fluffy, and bright red, orange, yellow and white.
She answers Tiree.. "Plink heard that there is something valuable.. and possibly illegal.. just behind that door. Perhaps we could 'liberate' it."
Jez gently tries the door.. if it is locked, she will pull her tools from her pouch and try the lock. (open locks 23) Upon opening the door, she will ease it open, just a crack, to peer at whatever Plink heard thump. If she can sneak it through the open door, she will. (move silently 26)
Miranna Wednesday February 13th, 2002 10:08:34 PM
Miranna starts to giggle when Rand dresses up, then bites her lips to stop herself when she sees Rand's expression. She moves closer to help him with the costume (but mostly gets in Jezebella's way), taking the chance to whisper to him, "Thank you for agreeing to dress up. I will not feel so silly and childish then."
The elf chooses an oversized, bright red, straight cut dress with a phoenix sewn on it in gilded sequins. It is matched with an oversized headdress looking like a porcupine completely covered with glittering beads. Down the front of the headdress, strings of beads cover the face. As an afterthought, Miranna cuts a small hole in the side of the dress near the waist, so she can access her spell component pouch in a pinch. She keeps her own shoes, which are covered by the long dress.
[OOC: Gong Xi Fa Cai, Jan! Yup, you got it right, yours is the Cantonese (Hongkong) version. Mine is the Mandarin one. The words are the same, just pronounced differently in the various Chinese dialects.]
DM Jan Thursday February 14th, 2002 1:52:57 AM
As Syr ponders his clothing choices, Plink tells quietly of his discovery at the other door before dressing up. He emerges looking absolutely fabulous, as does Polaris who looks positively 'wow'! Eljer looks like a tiny 'tres chic' terror, and Tiree looks wonderfully sophisticated in black and white. Rand looks approvingly at Miranna's lovely slinky red number, and seems to be put at ease slighty by her comments. McIntley is trying to walk in high heels. Oh boy....
Decked out in remarkable flambouyant fuzzy regalia - Jez sneaks over to that other door and manages to open it a little. At the other side of this door is what looks like a shop, and she's just in time to see what looks like the shopkeeper leave, shut the front door firmly behind him, and lock it.
There's a sign hung in the window which - facing Jezebella says OPEN. Just in front of the door, behind the counter - is a medium sized wooden trunk. It looks reasonably heavy.
Meanwhile at the back door, Drew looks er..... er..... quite fabulous in his own inimitable and intimidating way. So far all seems quiet at that side of the building.
Plink Thursday February 14th, 2002 8:32:43 AM
Plink nods to the rest of the group, having acknowledged that they will try and see what the goods are. "If the way seems clear, go check it out. I'll stay back here, in case someone comes in the back while you guys are up front. I'll just yell if someone comes, but I'll try and hold the door."
Plink then plants himself firmly next to the door, holding it the proper way. (If it opens towards him, he'll spike it with a high heeled shoe. If it opens away, he'll just have a loose grip on the handle until he needs to hold firmly.)
Eljer Thursday February 14th, 2002 8:39:53 AM
Eljer nodds as Plink tells the group his plans.
"And while you're doing that, I' ll look around the store in general and see if there is anything that might be of use to us."
Tiree Thursday February 14th, 2002 9:13:09 AM
Tiree sidles up by Jez and looks into the shop as well.
"Looks like the coast is clear. What say we go on in and see what is in this thing."
So saying, she opens the door just enough to allow her thin frame through and begins a thorough examination of the chest.
Jezebella Thursday February 14th, 2002 9:22:21 AM
"I don't think we have the time to examine it as throughly as we might have to... if its valuable.. and illegal.. the chest may be locked and trapped." the gypsy girl whispers. "We know its not trapped by motion, as we just heard it dropped solidly. I say we grab the whole thing, and open it at home.. before the shopkeep comes back.. Drew? Do the honors?"
Drew Thursday February 14th, 2002 11:45:32 AM
Drew crosses to the chest and lifts it, holding itunder the cloak.
Syr Thursday February 14th, 2002 8:48:12 PM
Syr eyes the chest trying to determine it's weight and seeing if Drew needs help. "Instead of the orphanage, how about we try Drew's old place. I'm concerned that any traps can affect the little ones."
Looking at Plink in the doorway, "I guess the next questions is do we leave by the front or back?
Miranna Thursday February 14th, 2002 9:05:47 PM
"We leave by the front..." Miranna says, eyes on Rand, "I mean the back. Perhaps we should dress up the trunk too."
DM Jan d20+4=11 d20+4=22 Friday February 15th, 2002 12:11:45 AM
Plink moves to the back door to take over guard duty from Drew. From what he can tell, there's no one at the other side for the moment. Tiree moves quickly into the store front and checks the chest. It's locked. Meanwhile Eljer moves quickly around the store in search of anything of interest. There are masks, costume jewellry and clothes, of quite good quality, but nothing else, particularly.
Jezebella asks Drew if he will pick up the chest. As he does so, Syr notes the way he hefts it on his shoulder - it looks heavy. Drew's superior strength is definitely coming in handy here.
McIntley throws a blue cloak to Syr. "That should keep the chest covered, if you mean to take it." He seems for the moment to want to turn a blind eye on the chest's appropriation.
Rand however, seems to want to say something to Miranna, but for the moment keeps his mouth shut. "Please," he says to everyone. "Let's go,before someone comes back and discovers us."
He asks Plink to check the way out back, and once all is clear, steps out in full regalia.
Everyone is soon out on Cutpurse Lane. Although everyone has seen women dressed like this before, a few cat calls are heard every now and then.
Walking along in those high heels is rather difficult for those who are not used to wearing them, although McIntley seems to have taken to them with aplomb.
Rand is in big trouble, stumbling along, his heels catching in the cobble stones, as everyone heads south along the busy street toward the docks.
((Anyone wearing high heels - DC 17 against Reflex, any less and you're staggering along.))
Eljer d20+3=19 Friday February 15th, 2002 1:25:46 AM
Eljer seems to take quite well to the heels he's wearing as he's walking along with the rest of the party. It should be noted that while rummaging around in the shop, he grabbed a mask and it now adorns his face. The mask is that of a lioness.
Miranna Friday February 15th, 2002 10:52:53 AM
Seeing Rand in trouble, Miranna moves to help him. She lends him an arm over particularly rough spots. Fortunately, the strings of beads hide the colour of her face as they walk side by side on the busy street.
Drew Friday February 15th, 2002 11:34:15 AM
Drew does his best to cover the chest and look like a servent to the entarogue of women.
Syr d20+4=5 Friday February 15th, 2002 12:00:27 PM
Syr spreads the blue cloth over the chest and pats it, "Yup, blue is your color."
Syr stays near Drew in case he should need help with the chest. As he moves along side, he locks a heel into the street and is sent flying.
Leaving the shoe stuck in the street he reaches down in frustration. He takes the other one off and sends it flying down an alley. Now barefoot, he walks gingerly down the street.
Jezebella Friday February 15th, 2002 9:31:00 PM
Jezebella steadys Syr as he stumbles, and walks along with her family. She casts many a worried glance at Miranna and Rand, however.
Tiree d20+3=22 Saturday February 16th, 2002 2:57:25 AM
Tiree follows the rest of the group, keeping an eye out for people possibly following them and other sorts of not good things (Spot 22).
Steve Saturday February 16th, 2002 3:01:47 AM
Must appologize for Aleyna's post-I just worked her for three hours setting up tables and chairs for 250 people. Additionally, since 3AM this morning, she's only had about three hours sleep. Essentially, she's sleep-posting.:)
DM Jan Monday February 18th, 2002 11:46:40 AM
The folks on Cut Purse Lane seem amused and in some cases delighted to see the group wander past in full carnival regalia. Some people seem puzzled, but don't approach. As to whether its because of the tall hunchback (because of the chest) praying mantis that keeps them away, or the shoe throwing maniac, or the fact that a masked gnome looked just too good in those heels was beside the point. Miranna, Polaris, Tiree and Jezebella in particular get plenty of wolf whistles.
Still - it's just another day, and there's other more urgent gossip on the streets - like the murder of the Underlord, who did it, etc etc. Someone is heard saying with a lot of surity that it was a lone female from some mysterious assassins guild.
Rand and McIntley are seen glancing at one another at that remark.
At the docks, a small boat is waiting in amongst a group af larger turtle cargo barges. Knowing winks are passed between some of the sailors as two tall and buxom "girls" are quickly helped aboard.
Because of the subterfuge, there's no time and no opportunity for thank you's and goodbyes. It's a very strange moment as the group watches the two adventurers escape. Will they ever be seen again? Time will tell.....
Meanwhile - it's time to get that chest back to base, crack it open, and find out what's inside. Oh yeah - and someone has to come up with one heck of a reason as to how it came into their possession, if Flaust sees it.
One of the turtle sailors yells out with a grin - "Hey - we could do with some girls on here too! We have a long sail tomorrow!"
Eljer d20+4=17 d20+3=19 Monday February 18th, 2002 2:03:00 PM
Feigning a woman's voice, Eljer calls out to the crude sailor.
"Oh, that's so sweet. But from what I can see, I just don't think you'd be man enough for me, not to mention any of the rest of my sisters. After all, sisters share everything, don't you know."
Hoping that this renders the sailor flustered from his own imagination, Eljer turns to leave and follows the rest of the group, swinging his hips back and forth seductively.
After leaving the docks, he speaks up to the rest of the group.
"It occurs to me that the crafting of a convincing story is in order if we are to not arouse Flaust's ire as to our possession of this chest. Anyone have any ideas?"
Bluff Roll 17
Reflex Roll 19
OOC: Thought these two rolls would be the ones needed to see if I not only successfully swing my hips in a convincingly suggestive manner that the fairer sex seems oh so capable of doing, and secondly, to see if I'm able to do so without falling on me arse.
Tiree Monday February 18th, 2002 5:09:59 PM
Tiree watches the boat sail away for a moment before turning to the other members of her family.
"I don't want to take that chest back to the orphanage. I want to open it somewhere else. What if whatever is in there places Flaust and the others in danger? That wouldn't be good."
She looks at the others to see what their reaction is.
Miranna Monday February 18th, 2002 8:25:01 PM
Miranna stares wistfully after the boat as it sails off. With a soft sigh, she turns and follows her family from the docks.
"Yes, we should not take the chest back to the orphanage. Let us find a deserted alley somewhere."
Jezebella d20+7=12 d20+5=23 d20+5=13 Monday February 18th, 2002 9:35:01 PM
Jez watches Miranna as she stares out to sea. She asks quietly, "Do you wish you had left with him, Miranna?"
At the suggestion of the deserted alley, she nods, all business. Travelling with the group to the aforementioned alley, she suggests they change out of their costumes. She folds her overly fuzzy coat as neatly as she can into her pack, wrapping it around her vulpine mask.
"Someone keep watch," she murmurs as she runs her fingers over the chest, looking for traps (search 12). If she finds any, she attempts to disarm them (disable device 23), finally opening whatever locking mechanism there is (open locks 13).
Drew Monday February 18th, 2002 9:46:54 PM
Drew suggests his old home, although it is rotted through with fire, it should still be a safe hidden place to check the chest. No matter the decision he carries it there and sets it down.
Syr d20+2=6 Tuesday February 19th, 2002 5:04:28 AM
Syr proceeds to lead the group back to Drew's old home (int check 6). After getting the party lost twice he sheepishly heads to the rear and allows Drew to lead the way.
Plink Tuesday February 19th, 2002 8:12:21 AM
Plink, feeling he would give his disguise away if he talked, chooses to keep silent most of the time spent travelling. He decides to set up watch in the alley, amongst some shadows, keeping his eyes peeled as the rest of the group, Jezebella in particular, try to open the chest. He wonders what its contents may be, but assumes they'll be something illegal, and the group will need to take them to some local authorities.
DM Jan Tuesday February 19th, 2002 11:55:17 AM
The sailors suitably chastized, the group sets off with the chest. After the decision is reached via Tiree and Miranna to take the chest elsewhere, Drew sets off toward his old den. Plink keeps watch as Eljer sashays along, some of the girls talk about the adventurers, and for some strange reason, Syr keeps walking down the wrong street.
Drew's "den" smells like a stale barbecue, but it's sheltered, and once the chest is set down, Jezebella sets to and tries to open it.
There doesn't appear to be a trap, but as she continues to examine it, there is a sudden sharp *click* - and a small dart fires out, shoots past everyone and pins Plinks shirt to the door frame.
The chest pops open. Nestled in between folds of black velvet are the following items:
2 finely cut emeralds 2 silver rings carved with strange runes 1 pair of bracers 1 shortbow 50 arrows in a quiver 4 DARK BLUE potions 6 LIGHT BLUE potions 1 purple leather glove 1 polished wood wand 2 bandoliers, each containing 2 runed daggers 5 PINK potions 1 ORANGE potion 1 PURPLE potion 1 LAVENDER potion 1 BURGUNDY potion 2 WHITE potions 2 BLACK potions
Tiree Tuesday February 19th, 2002 2:08:42 PM
Tiree moves over and looks into the chest. Seeing the daggers, she lovingly runs her hand along them.
"Oh my! It looks like we've hit the jackpot with this load. I wonder what all these things are! Miranna can you identify any of this? Can any of you? Or do we need to take these somewhere? I don't want to keep anything that might be evil. Eljer, can you tell if anything in there is evil?"
She looks at the others to see what their reactions are.
Eljer Tuesday February 19th, 2002 2:11:12 PM
Eljer lets out a long, slow whistle as the chest is opened and the contents inside are revealed.
"My, my, my. We've seemed to have done very well for ourselves this day. However, before we dive in, allow me to have just a moment to see if I can divine of what nature these items are."
Eljer casts Detect Evil
Drew Tuesday February 19th, 2002 2:51:44 PM
Drew rushes over to the chest and slams it shut hopefuly before anything can be removed from it. "There is stealing to make Mother and the others comfortable, there is stealing that we do because those we steal from are evil and will do nothing but evil with what we take from them and then there is stealing that will bring war down uppon our heads. the amount of treasure within this chest is the third kind I would wager. this is too much and from what we overheard was destined for some purpose that we may have brought evil notice upon all of us...." Drew then sits quietly in lost contemplation tring to figure out what to do now. Then suddenly "We must find the Jester and gain his advice."
Polaris Tuesday February 19th, 2002 4:36:47 PM
Polaris looks at Drew with "puppy dog" eyes. "These things are more than we could have ever dreamed to have. I say we take it. By the time we seek the advice of the Jester, it might already be gone." She looks at the others for their opinions.
Jezebella d20=20 Tuesday February 19th, 2002 9:32:46 PM
The gypsy girl makes a startled sound as the dart flys past her... sounding strangely like "gah!" She traces the path of the projectile, and moves to Plink.
"Oh, Wardd! I'm sorry, Plink.. don't move!" She carefully unpins his shirt, holding only the blunt end of the dart, and even then with a fold of her tunic. She murmers something under her breath.. she holds her breath as her spell searches the dart for poison.
If poisoned : Jezebella's face grows ashen, as she carefully places the dart in the corner.. she commands, her voice thick with emotion.. "Plink... off with your shirt, NOW.. check for even the slightest scratch. This dart was poisoned with <insert poison name here>" (wis check nat 20 to check for type of poison. needed a 20.)
If not poisoned : Jezebella hurls the dart at one of the burnt out walls, where it sticks there quivering. She spins upon Drew, her slight build almost comical compared to his as she vents her frustration, fear and anger. "You don't even know who's this is! Plink heard it was stolen.. would you rather leave it with the theives!? We already have enemies, maybe even a war! We are going to need things like these to survive in this city! By WARDD, would you STOP throwing things away and running for help?!" She huffs with the force of tantrum, face red and fists at her hips... after a few moments, she manages to look abashed, and mumbles.. "sorry." as she moves to the corner and sulks.
Syr Wednesday February 20th, 2002 3:53:48 AM
The elf looks down at the chest with wide eyes, "As much as I may regret it. We do not know enough about the owners to speculate on what their mtives are..." Nodding at all the potions, "This is not a taste test. We should find out a bit more about this before exploiting it."
Plink Wednesday February 20th, 2002 8:12:36 AM
Plink, all treasure aside, and in fear for his life, rips the shirt from his chest. He didn't think he felt a prick, but one can't be too certain with poison. He immediately searches his smooth half-elven chest for any marrings, scanning for the littlest mark. If he finds a spot, he immediately shows it to Jez, and informs her, even if the wound appears deadly, "Don't fret it, it happens to the best of us..." as he searches for some way to remove the poison. If there's no wound, he simply pats Jez on the back, and with a large grin says, "Ahh, no fear, m'lady, no harm done. Now, about this chest..." as he saunters over to examine the group's newest findings.
DM Jan Wednesday February 20th, 2002 11:06:15 AM
Eljer detects evil on the chest as Jez rushes over to Plink in order to discover if the dart has done any damage.
Luckily - it hasn't, apart from a tear in the shirt which, becomes inconsequential after the damage Plink does to it.
The chest has no aura of evil.
It IS quite a haul. This suggests that someone might wish to know of it's whereabouts. It also suggests that discretion will be needed when attempting to discover the properties of the items.
Perhaps the only way to find out, would be to test the items in some way. Risky to be sure, but then - nothing ventured, nothing gained.
The 5 pink potions - they look remarkably like the cure light wounds potions some of you already possess. As for the rest.....
Miranna and Weasel Wednesday February 20th, 2002 1:36:39 PM
[OOC: Sorry, all. I got distracted by... err... a computer game.]
Miranna is very quiet on the way to Drew's den. She watches Jezebella in silence as the girl examines the chest. The flying dart elicits a gasp from her. She springs to Plink's aid, but Jezebella is faster. Suddenly she knows the answer to Jezebella's question at the docks. Moving to the girl, she puts a hand on her arm and says softly, "You asked me if I wished I had left with Rand, Jezebella. I would be lying if I said the thought never crossed my mind. But my place is here, with my beloved family. When that dart flew out, my heart screamed out that each of you is more important to me than any Rand."
She might have said more, but a tiny figure suddenly darts into view and skitters to a stop before her, chattering excitedly. Surprised, Miranna stoops to let her Weasel climb onto her left arm. Weasel, what are you doing here? - I was never far away, Mistress, but your mind was closed to me until now.
Miranna has the grace to blush, but Tiree's question prevents further (mental) conversation with her Weasel. "I am sorry, Tiree, I do not have the ability to fully identify all these items beyond detecting if they are magical or not. I know the Identify spell, but it needs a 100 gp pearl per item, and will only reveal the least power of each item."
"Drew is right, this treasure is too much. If we keep it, trouble will surely find us."
Although she suspects all the items will be magical, Miranna casts Detect Magic anyway, concentrating long enough to determine the strength of magic involved.
Tiree Wednesday February 20th, 2002 1:56:11 PM
Tiree starts when Drew slams the lid shut on the chest. She listens to the objections from both Drew and Miranna before replying.
"Frankly, I think we already are in trouble. Putting the chest back or throwing it into the ocean is not going to stop that. And the trouble we are in is more than what this chest could mean. A god is dead! and others are changing sides and we no longer know who to trust besides outselves most of the time. That is trouble. These things could help us! We have to fight. You all know that! And these things in that chest could help us, help Flaust, and keep the other orphans safe."
Tiree pauses a minute to take a deep breath before continuing in a much calmer voice.
"I don't mean to imply that what you say means nothing, only I don't agree with it. If nothing else, the more mundane items, such as the potions should be easy to get someone to name for us. The other stuff...I wonder if Flaust herself would know of anyone who could. I hate to bring her in, but she seems to know everyone."
Drew Wednesday February 20th, 2002 3:21:05 PM
Drew angry at the responses from his family pulls himself up to his full heighth. "You all look at this with greed in your eyes. I understand that temtation remember I lived of the scraps thrown into rubish bins for most of my life. Until recently I had no family so listen carefuly to one how remembers most recently what it would be like to loose what you are risking. Think on what the men who own this will do to get it back. Will they stop with us? Will they take it out on little Becky who we all risked our lives recently to save. You say they were thieves well so are we, would it be ok for someone else to steal from us just because we stole it? Do not call me a coward because I seek the councle and wisdom of those older thay us. I am NO coward. But this chest will mean that death comes looking for us and not just us, our family as well. Are you willing to risk everything until you know how safe this pile of metal is? What is the worth you place on the blood of those you love." Drew then shakes his head and walks to the crawl door of his old house. "I want none of what is in that chest if this is the way we go about our lives, grabbing up whartever we find with out a known reason or a thought." With that he crawls out of the room and waits in the alley.
Plink Wednesday February 20th, 2002 4:44:34 PM
Plink, seeing the dispute as for keeping the items, walks up to the chest. He reaches and grabs one of the rings, as well as the glove. He seems to have regained some of his nonchalant manner, and says, "You see, however, that there were many cases of theft seen this day. None will know it was us who took these items," he casually flicks the ring into the air, and catches it once again, "And we could very well need the items for the troubles to come. Drew, also, you are comparing our thieving manners to those of the thefts of this chest. From the words I heard, they sounded not like those stealing from rich, and giving to needy. They were out for their own good. I, for one, plan on keeping what I see fit."
He places the caught ring on his right hand, and slips the purple glove on his left. He doesn't really know if they will have any effects, but he knows the best way is to simply try. He dances around, jumps in the air, tumbles around, trying all sorts of things to active the possible rings.
Jezebella Wednesday February 20th, 2002 9:07:59 PM
Jez sighs softly, her eyes wet, as she smiles at Miranna's words.. the further argueing over the treasurechest breaks her from the moment however.
She purses her lips in thought. "Perhaps we SHOULD seek Flaust's advice. We could be honest in how we came upon the chest... that we took it from people whom it didn't belong to anyway. I would really value her advice on this. She knows more then she lets on, anyway, Im sure of it."
Polaris Wednesday February 20th, 2002 11:18:48 PM
Polaris pouts a bit and gives in, not verbally though, just in her actions. That's the way life goes, she supposes.
Eljer d20+5=21 d20+5=20 Wednesday February 20th, 2002 11:42:45 PM
Eljer frowns in consternation at the sudden rift that has formed among his friends.
"As enticing as all this is, we must keep the most important thing in perspective-each other. We stand on the brink of possibly losing one of our own because of this chest and the contents therein. We must find a solution to this problem. Do not mistake me-I most assuredly want to keep the items in this chest. But I want to keep Drew more. To follow up on something Tiree said, I propose we present the chest to Flaust and tell her how we came to have it-that we took it from men who did not sound as if they had the best intentions and ask Flaust what she thinks we should do. AND THEN ABIDE BY WHAT SHE SUGGESTS. If this is an acceptable compromise to the rest of the group. then I will step outside and try to persuade Drew of the merit of this plan. But whatever we decide, we need to decide NOW."
Diplomacy Roll 21
At this point, Eljer awaits the opinion of the rest of the party. If the rest of the party agrees to his plan, he's goes to talk to Drew.
Diplomacy Roll 20
Steve Thursday February 21st, 2002 12:08:52 AM
OOC: Section in all caps is not meant to be shouting-meant to convey slow, strong emphasis on what Eljer was saying and couldn't think of any better way to do that.:)
Miranna Thursday February 21st, 2002 3:16:36 AM
"I think Eljer has the right idea. We need Drew more than we need the items in this chest."
Jezebella Thursday February 21st, 2002 7:45:44 AM
Jez nods, as Eljer echos her sentiment that Flaust would have the most sound advice on this matter.
DM Jan Thursday February 21st, 2002 11:11:08 AM
At the centre of an understandable moral debate - the chest sits there, revealing to Miranna that yes... there is magic here.
Plink takes the glove and one of the rings, trying this and that, in an attempt to discern their properties.
The glove fits snugly, and seems like a normal glove - but when Plink tosses the ring into the hand wearing the glove - the ring disappears. It doesn't reappear until he snaps his fingers. (GLOVE OF STORING)
As for the ring, wearing it makes him feel more protected somehow, not exactly invincible, but as though something watched over him. (RING OF PROTECTION +1 to AC)
Eljer d20+5=14 Thursday February 21st, 2002 4:20:20 PM
Eljer walks outside to wherever Drew is.
"First of all my friend, please accept our apologies for difiling that which was once your home with this discord. Such was never anyone's attention. I understand your sentiments and as much as I personally desire that which we have found, I want none of it if the price I must pay is to lose you as a member of this family. But Drew, these are dangerous times. I know that I would feel safer the more protected I and my family was. These items could provide that. Nothing in and of themselves is evil in that chest. That I know for sure. As to whether or not this chest and it's contents could draw trouble to us, I must confess it is a possibility. The value of the items therein are, by my estimation, immense. However, our options at this point remain few. We could take the chest back but doing so would be VERY risky. It is quite possible the chest being missing has already been noticed and we could be caught trying to return it. On the other hand, we could dispose of it in some manner but what if someone with ill intentions comes across it. Think of the havoc that could be wrought if it falls into the wrong hands. At least in our hands, you can make sure these misappropriated items are used for good, and not evil. However, if I have not persuaded you due to my own self-interest in wanting to keep the items, would you consent to presenting the items in the chest to Flaust, telling her how and where we came to possess them, and seek her counsel and abide by what she says? I believe the others have agreed to this but above all, they, like me, desire more than anything that our family remain intact. So, what say you my brother?"
Diplomacy Roll 14 if I can't use the second Diplomacy roll i rolled in prior post. (it was rolled for this conversation )
Miranna Thursday February 21st, 2002 10:30:15 PM
Miranna watches Plink's antics with interest, then walks over and lifts the wand from the chest. She briefly considers trying to activate it, but decides it will be too dangerous in the confined space. With a wistful sigh, she replaces the wand. A thought strikes her.
"Oh no. Lots of people saw us in the vicinity of the shop this chest came from. We were not particularly... hard to notice or remember. We need to dispose of these costumes somewhere where they will not be traced to us or Flaust. Not here definitely. Perhaps we should burn them? Can we get the chest back to the orphanage without anyone seeing us?"
Tiree Thursday February 21st, 2002 10:51:06 PM
Tiree watches Eljer leave and go after Drew, nodding her head as he goes. As Miranna moves forward to the chest, Tiree thinks about stopping her, but since nothing bad happened to Plink, she doesn't. In fact, she moves forward herself and lifts out the daggers, hefting them in her hands and getting a feel for them.
"I hope we get to keep this stuff. But, Eljer's right, it's not worth the family. If we do keep it, why don't we leave the chest here and just load the stuff into our packs and such. I think we should be able to carry it all between us."
Jezebella Thursday February 21st, 2002 10:56:55 PM
Jezebella, having already removed her costume, suggests... "if you wish to burn them... lets unload the chest as Tiree said, then burn the costumes in it. This place probably can't burn any more."
Drew Thursday February 21st, 2002 11:11:31 PM
Drew looks at his new found, very small brother. "It was not my intent to make such a fuss, however I do feel that it will draw problems for Flaust and the children. We are to much connected to them in these times. I think it is time we found our own place, away from them. We seem to be attracting attention like a lighting rod as of late and I wish none of it to come down upon the little ones. I am sorry for my outburst. My temper is short and I have to much pride for my size. I left to cool off so as to not loose my temper. I think Flaust is a bad idea, she will neither understand nor approve, however the Jester is another matter. he is wise and has offered us patronage should we prove worthy and we did secure the first key."
Syr Friday February 22nd, 2002 3:19:58 AM
"One thing is for sure, we can't return the chest now. Given what we have discovered so far, there is no way that someone won't miss it."
Poking the chest with his toe, "If we are resigned to use the items then by all means... Let's carry the items and toss the chest in the lake. Before we do that, Mir, can you see if the chest itself is magical?" With that he empties the contents of the chest and also checks for any hidden compartments."
Syr nudges Drew, "Correct me if I'm wrong but didn't we misplace the Jester a while back? Any suggestions on how to find him?
Plink Friday February 22nd, 2002 8:07:19 AM
Plink takes off the ring he's wearing, offering it up to any others in the group, saying, "If there are no objections, I would like to keep this glove. It could be quite handy at all times, if you know what I mean. Also, seeing as how I'm not combat oriented, perhaps I could examine the shortbow and arrows? I'm not positive in the use of them, but I'm very close, I believe. Anyone who wants the armoring ring may have it."
(OOC: I don't have proficiency shortbow, but I'm going to get it next level)
"Also, about all these potions, is there some way to identify them besides complex magical spells? Perhaps this will work, a small sampling?"
If no one directly intervenes, he steps forward and picks up the Lavender, the Burgundy, and one of the white potions, taking the smallest of sips, to see if he can get a hint at their effects.
Miranna Friday February 22nd, 2002 11:08:23 AM
[OOC: DM, was the chest itself magical when Miranna looked at it with her Detect Magic spell?]
Miranna looks at Plink with surprise. "We have not yet decided to keep the items, have we? If we do decide to keep them, I feel that Syr or Drew will have greater need for the glove. It would help them conceal their huge axes when we need to be disguised."
DM Jan Saturday February 23rd, 2002 12:34:45 AM
The group debates the pros and cons of the treasure haul. Should they talk to Flaust who - because of her integrity, may tell them to take it all right back to where they found it? Or try and find the Jester? Where was he last seen?
There are other decisions to be made - get rid of the costumes? Find a place to stash the stuff? Find somewhere else to live? or perhaps find a secure 'den' they could stow things and meet up. Syr empties the chest, and it seems to Miranna that the now empty chest loses a little of it's sparkle. That wand has a tell tale tingle, though.
As Tiree takes a look at one of the bandoliers, she notices that the daggers look very finely crafted, and on the flat of the blade, a tiny arrow that seems to curl in on itself, has been carved.
Plink - either very brave or very reckless, takes a sip at three of the potions. The LAVENDER potion gives him the idea that he'll have nothing to fear from sipping a little of the other two. ((Potion of Heroism - +2 competance bonus to attacks, saves and skill checks for 1 hour))
On to the BURGUNDY one - where he suddenly gets the urge to start climbing the walls. ((Potion of Spider Climb))
Feeling positively superhuman by now - he takes a sip of the WHITE one. Er.... wait a minute, why aren't his feet quite touching the ground? ((Potion of Levitating))
((OOC - excellent role playing this last few days BTW. Good work.))
Tiree d20+5=22 Saturday February 23rd, 2002 9:18:18 AM
Tiree takes a good look at the carvings on the daggers. Looking around, she makes sure no one is nearby, she throws one of the daggers at a piece of word to get a feel for the balance of them (att 22 just to be safe.).
"You might want to be careful with those potions Plink. Since we don't know what they are, you might get a 'bad' one and we don't want that to happen."
After playing with the daggers for a bit, she begins to take off the costume and stuff it into the trunk.
Jezebella Sunday February 24th, 2002 7:27:42 PM
Jezebella moves out of the building, crawling through the exit in a catlike manner. She slides next to him, and touches him lightly on the elbow..
"If we wish to contact the jester ... perhaps we could use the lump of coal and the incantation that he gave us originally..." she murmers softly, almost an appology.
Plink Sunday February 24th, 2002 7:53:02 PM
Plink, with a nod, hands the glove over to Syr, and gives the ring to whoever wishes it. He keeps the potions, after relaying their affects, unless anyone says otherwise. Having dubbed himself the "tester" for most of the items, he, unless anyone stops him, pulls out the bracers. He places them on, trying their effects, and then prepares to hand them to whomever needs them most.
Miranna Monday February 25th, 2002 1:59:04 AM
Miranna follows Tiree's example and stuffs her costume into the emptied chest.
She looks at Plink with perplexity, then shrugs and tucks the wand into her belt. "I will keep this wand safe until we decide what to do with all these items. Syr, the chest itself does not appear to be magical. Anyone has oil or something for starting a fire?"
Syr Monday February 25th, 2002 2:43:26 AM
Grabbing Plink by the sleeve as his feet leave the ground, "Whoah there, guinea pig, don't float away on us. What's it feel like to be floating around?"
Syr's head whips as he follows Jez's dagger toss, "Nice throw. Remind me not to play darts with you?"
Sliding his right hand into the glove and making his axe disappear, "The big guy does have a point, I think we should look for some place else to stay. We've already brought too much attention on Mother. As no one really knows where the Jester is or what hapened to him... What if we went to her for advice on who to see for a new place?"
Drew Monday February 25th, 2002 10:10:48 AM
Drew waits quietly.
Polaris d20+7=14 d20+7=14 Monday February 25th, 2002 10:14:55 AM
"Ummmmmmm, Im really good with a short bow and if its magical I'd be even better!!! Plink I have this old one if you want it, if I can havve the new one, if its magical or anything." Polaris picks up the new bow and shoots an arrow or two into the wall to test it out.
Eljer d20+5=12 Monday February 25th, 2002 4:12:47 PM
Eljer thinks for a moment and then speaks up.
"So then, we seemed to be of one mind-try and locate the jester and try to secure new lodgings. It would seem best if we try to contact the Jester via the method proposed by Jez. Likewise, it would seem wisest if on the issue of trying to find a place to live, we first approached Mother on the idea, got her blessing, and sought advice as to who we might go to that is reputable in these manner. I would only like to add to the latter issue that we try and get something near the orphanage, perhaps even in sight of it, where we can continue to keep an eye on the other children. As for these items, I say we divide them up between us to put in our backpacks, and then, as others here have suggested, burn the trunk along with our costumes."
Diplomacy Roll 12
Eljer begins to slip out of his costume and back into his own clothes that he had put in his backpack.
DM Jan Monday February 25th, 2002 7:20:38 PM
The group starts to make decisions and Eljer sums up - contact the Jester? Has Jez found a way? A new Den, close to the orphanage perhaps, after talking to Flaust?
Surprises are still in store as some of the other items are checked -
Tiree discovers that the daggers are very finely balanced and throw well, but also - to her amazement - a moment after they hit the target, they disengage and return to the bandolier. ((2 Bandoliers. 2 daggers of +1 Returning in each bandolier))
Plinks feet touch the ground and Syr grabs a hold of him and then tries the glove, to the same effect. As for the bracers - they 'look' normal, apart from the design etched on their surface. It looks like a stream of flame, circling the wrist end of the bracers and flowing backward.
Miranna takes the wand for safe-keeping, while Polaris tries her skills with the bow. And a very fine bow it is, enabling the user to aim with above normal accuracy. As for the 20 arrows - one of them flies, hits the wall, flashes with light and sends sparks everywhere. Tiny flames erupt, searching greedily for fuel. ((Shortbow +1, with 20 Arrows of Shock (1d6 lightning damage) ))
It is now late afternoon, and the ceiling shadows on the Fence level are getting longer.
Jezebella d20+2=22 Monday February 25th, 2002 8:50:49 PM
"Polaris? Do you still have the jester's lump of coal? I think I remember his rhyme..." (crit success on a voluntary INT check to recall the rhyme)
"Hold this rock above your head. Think of nothing but the color red. Then chant three times the word of bay. After that then nothing say. If you haven't then made a sound. Throw this rock on to the ground. Turn yourself about and face the rear. By then the Yorick will apear"
Tiree Monday February 25th, 2002 9:47:54 PM
Tiree is a bit amazed as the dagger returns to her hand.
"Wow! Hey Jezebella! Look at this!"
She shows the second of the two bandoliers to Jez and the daggers.
"I figure you and I could probably get the most out of these. How about you take one set and I'll take the other? That is, if no one objects."
She listens as Jezebella repeats the rhyme for calling the jester.
"I think it would be a good idea to get out of here before we call him. Let's get rid of these costumes, gather up the new stuff and get home. We ask Flaust about a new place for ourselves tonight and start looking tomorrow. I don't want to call him before we find a safe place away from the orphanage. I have a feeling that Yorick might get us into a bit of trouble."
She pulls out a pint of oil from her pack and when the others have put their costumes in the chest, Tiree pours the oil over it and the clothing. She pulls out one of the dresses partway out of the chest and toward the door. When the others have left the room, she will strike her flint and steel and set fire to the dress. After she has made sure that it will burn to the chest, she will leave.
(OOC: All that is assuming that we decide to leave.)
Miranna and Weasel Monday February 25th, 2002 11:36:33 PM
Miranna sighs softly as the others continue to test and divide up the items. She thought they had agreed not to keep the items until they consulted either Flaust or Yorick. Drew will not be pleased.
Without a word, she crawls out of the den with the Weasel close behind her. She goes up to the waiting half-orc and stands quietly beside him.
Syr Tuesday February 26th, 2002 3:55:31 AM
Syr collects everyone's costum and deposits them in the chest. He pushes the chest out of the den and stands up. Then with a grunt, he swings the chest up onto his shoulder.
Plink d20+3=22 Tuesday February 26th, 2002 8:43:21 AM
Plink begins mentally taking a roll count of the items taken, so as to make sure they don't leave anything behind.
He gathers the emeralds, placing them in his backpack for safekeeping. If anyone else wishes to carry them, he more than willingly hands them over.
2 finely cut emeralds-Plink (at least temporarily)
As for the moment, noone has claimed either of the rings, and Plink is trying to hand them to anyone who wants them.
2 silver rings carved with strange runes-Plink again, but still temporarily
Plink has donned the bracer, with no apparent effect. However, with the flames imprinted on them, they seem to hint of something with fire. When the blaze of the chest is started, he gets near, so that he might see if he doesn't get overly warm. He even chances swiping a hand through the flames, perhaps seeing if that has something to do witht he effect.
1 pair of bracers-Plink
Polaris, the true archer of the party, has stepped forth and gathered the bow, as well suits her. Her aim will become even more deadly with such a potent weapon.
1 Shortbow and 48 arrows (two were fired)-Polaris
Syr, having many times been forced to try and hide his huge axe somehow, has finally found the best ruse of all-a Glove of Storing. He has donned it upon his hand, and placed his axe therein. No more questioning glares from commoners while this man walks around still armed.
1 purple leather glove-Syr
Miranna, the most adept spellcaster in the party, has stepped forth and staked claim to the wand that has been found, it's arcane powers still a mystery. Plink tries to remember if he's heard any drastic stories about such a wand (Bardic Knowledge check result 22. This grants him the knowledge equivelant of a local priest's shady past, or legends about a powerful magical item)
1 polished wood wand-Miranna
Thw two mistresses of the dagger, Tiree and Jezebella, have willingly taken the potent bandoliers and their respective daggers for some hefty tossing that they might be capable of. Good items indeed these shall be for the two madams.
2 bandoliers each containing 2 runed daggers-Tiree and Jezebella
Then to the potions, those which there are a lot of. Plink himself has already identified three of them, and he gives each of them to whom he deems most appropriate, but they might not be the final owner.
The lavender potion (of heroism)-Drew, if he accepts. If not, Syr can keep it for safekeeping, or using.
The burgundy potion (of spiderclimbing)-Tiree, for perhaps some stealthy infiltration
The 2 white potions (of levitating)-Polaris, for possible success with her new bow. She'll be able to stay out of harms way, and still be deadly.
5 pink potions, of CLW-Plink takes one, as he has no other healing potions on him. Another each to whomever wants them. Plink is handing them out now.
"Everyone, this still leaves 4 dark blue potions, 6 light blue potions, an orange potion, 2 black potions, and a purple potion. Their uses are unknown, so I am unsure how to divide them. Also, there are 4 extra healing potions to be claimed."
And then to Plink's final point of reasoning for the day, reasoning no one else will like, but Plink feels is important, "Perhaps we shouldn't go back to mother. I know, I know, I love mother just as much as each of you. But seeing her face one more time would make it nearly impossible for me to know I was leaving her, probably forever. And the children, as much as they love us, think how many would cry for days at our loss. Perhaps a simple note left for mother to know we are alright would suffice. As has been stated, the items we have attained here today would attract much attention to mother, and the farther away from her we are, the better. I think this would be the best course of action. If anyone agrees with me, I am glad you see my reasoning. If you don't, I understand that as well."
Drew Tuesday February 26th, 2002 10:25:24 AM
Drew leans down and scratches the Weasel behind the ears and then hugs Miranna briefly. "All life is a trial and a river, things flow and go against or with us."
Polaris Tuesday February 26th, 2002 11:35:27 AM
"I believe I still do have the lump of coal", Polaris says as she produces the lump of coal from her belt pouch. She thanks Plink for the potions and hides them in her backpack and holds her new shortbow with glee. "Also, I wouldn't mind taking a healing potion, just in case."
Eljer d20+5=14 Tuesday February 26th, 2002 5:52:31 PM
Eljer nodds in acknowledgement of Plink's remark.
"The idea has merit, though I still believe it best that we get Mother's blessing as well as her advice on how to move forward on finding our own place. Mother has known this day was coming from the day each of you moved in. Do you not recall others who grew up, left, and began their own lives away from the orphanage? It is a natural part of the process. Mother understands that and accepts that. True, tears will be shed but I believe more will be shed if we simply leave a note and disappear into the night. This is the moment Mother has been raising you for all your life. It would be unfair to deny her the joy and pride to see her own take flight."
Diplomacy Roll 14
DM Jan Tuesday February 26th, 2002 9:31:31 PM
Costumes are stuffed in the trunk, and when Syr tries to lift it, Tiree stops him - and sets fire to it.
Everyone has to get outside and quickly join Drew and Miranna because of the smoke, but not before Plink has had a few moments to test the bracers, enabling him to get a little closer to the fire than he would normally have dared. ((Bracer of Fire resistance +2 to Armour against fire)) He still has no clue about the wand though.
Pol finds she still has the coal needed to complete the summons that Jez began.
It is beginning to get dark now, as Eljer and Plink offer more suggestions to what to do next - summon the Jester? Go home? What?
Eljer Wednesday February 27th, 2002 12:56:29 AM
Eljer turns and looks up to the rest of the group.
"Now then, it is late, and we have all had a very full day. I humbly suggest we make our way back to the orphanage so that we can face the morrow completely refreshed and in a much better position to decide on the matters we have discussed tonight."
Turning to Plink, he smiles warmly.
"Perhaps you could hum a tune for us as we make our way home-to lighten our step and lift our spirits?"
Drew Wednesday February 27th, 2002 9:39:50 AM
Drew waits.
Miranna and Weasel Wednesday February 27th, 2002 11:44:42 AM
"Polaris, try to summon the Jester now? It would be better for us to have some advice on these treasures as soon as possible."
Miranna plays with her Weasel while waiting for the result of the summoning.
Syr Wednesday February 27th, 2002 12:55:40 PM
Syr nods at Miranna, "Yes, I don't feel too comfortable going home with so many questions still unanswered."
Tiree d20+3=20 Wednesday February 27th, 2002 6:09:57 PM
"I feel uncomfortable summoning the jester out here in public and it is a bit too warm back inside right now. But, I'm not going to stop the summoning. I agree that we need some answers."
Tiree keeps an eye out for anyone watching them (spot 20).
Jezebella Wednesday February 27th, 2002 7:56:38 PM
Jezebella watches as smoke begins to curl out from the crawlhole of Drew's old abode. She adds to the conversation.. "We should leave here, before attracting any attention. We have enough coin to rent a room at an inn.. I suggest we do so and summon the Jester there. Any objections?"
Plink Wednesday February 27th, 2002 9:45:30 PM
Plink puts his thoughts into the bundle, "I agree with Jezebella, her plan seems quite sound. Let us find an inn close by into which we could go. Perhaps we could find a room therein, and have a matter of privacy for discussion with the Jester. By the way, we've still got these two rings," he holds up each hand, displaying the 2 rings, "As well as many potions. All could use a warm home."
DM Jan Wednesday February 27th, 2002 11:55:26 PM
The democratic consensus appears to be to consult Yorick the Jester somehow, before going home to Flaust. As for a tavern - The Giggling Ghost comes to mind, up on Dagger Point Lane.
Out on the street, twilight blends the shadows and the street lamps begin to come on, compensating for the lack of light. People are walking home, or on their way out for a night of revelry. The atmosphere seems subdued however, as though folks are waiting for the worst to happen.
Syr Thursday February 28th, 2002 2:43:54 AM
Syr impatiently leads the group to the Giggling Ghost. Once there, he arranges a room with the barkeep and leads the others to it.
Drew Thursday February 28th, 2002 12:16:15 PM
Drew follows his family to the giggling ghost helping Syr get a common room for the night, not knowing what will happen or how much room they might need when summoning the Jester.
Polaris Thursday February 28th, 2002 7:20:43 PM
Polaris follows quietly behind the others waiting for a go in order to summon the Jester. "Jezebella, how did that rhyme go again. I really don't want to mess this up."
Miranna and Weasel Thursday February 28th, 2002 8:36:18 PM
Miranna allows her Weasel to go and hunt for rats in the kitchen of the Giggling Ghost while she stands around with her family. A familiar dreamy expression comes into her eyes...
Plink Thursday February 28th, 2002 9:19:26 PM
Plink calmly follows the group to the appointed tavern, and doesn't do anything out of the ordinary. He'll step up to try and acquire a room for the next hour or so, if no one else does, and head towards the room if successful
Jezebella Thursday February 28th, 2002 9:26:34 PM
Jezebella recites the rhyme.. "Hold this rock above your head. Think of nothing but the color red. Then chant three times the word of bay. After that then nothing say. If you haven't then made a sound. Throw this rock on to the ground. Turn yourself about and face the rear. By then the Yorick will appear."
She hesitates after carefully reciting the ritual... she pulls forth the daggers she received. "Let's be careful, friends... we may have technically 'failed' the tasks which were HIS tests. He might not be our ally any longer."
She thumbs the hilts of her daggers, waiting for the summoning.
Tiree Thursday February 28th, 2002 10:44:30 PM
Tiree goes with others. In the room, she takes up position in front of the door so that no nosy people can "accidently" walk in on what they are doing.
Taking Jez's advice, she pulls one of her new daggers out and holds it at the ready.
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