The Happy Harpy Tavern (DM Donna) Thursday February 6th, 2003 8:53:07 AM
In the heart of Safeport lies a popular tavern. Geographically speaking, the Happy Harpy lies only a few streets beyond the docks that the pirate ships use to offload their hard-won booty and hove to for repairs and such.
The Tavern itself is neither too small nor too big--it can hold about a hundred Pirates of Jack as long as all of them remain friendly. The proprietor--Smilin' Pete--ensures that all remain friendly...or they end up with a few bruises in unmentionable places before ending up back in the street outside the place of business.
This evening finds the tavern hosting a near-capacity crowd as the Wildcards of the Sword of the Sea walk in--the taproom's dozen or so longtables have seamen (and women) sitting along them with tankards in hand and engaged in various activities that range from good, old-fashioned debates to chugging contests to singing some off-key (and slightly off-color!) chanties.
The Wildcards spot an appropriately-sized booth off to one side of the tavern (thanks the fact that the former occupants have just grabbed up one of their number and have carried him off while chortling about seeing how well he can swim) and head for it, passing by a large carved panel that is host to several handbills.
The first handbill announces that tonight is the night of Smilin' Pete's THIRD ANNUAL WILDCARD TREASURE HUNT, where the Wildcards of all ships in port can compete for the Fame, Honor and Glory of their vessel (as well as possession of the coveted Golden Rose trophy!) Anyone curious about this (or any other handbill on the panel) is urged to ask any bar personnel about it.
(OOC: I didn't include a copy of this particular announcement when I sent out the file with the signs in it, players.)
Other announcements plastering the board:
1. A reward for the return of a lost pet. 2. A call from the King of Cups to find out why traders are heading west. 3. The King of Coins is looking for a ship to discover the fate of another missing ship. 4. A rather stuffy-looking caricature of a mayoral candidate on a campaign poster. 5. An announcement by the King of Swords that Aisilduran traders are running the South Kings Channel without escorts, and that such ships must be ripe pickin's.
The party reaches the booth just as a pretty barmaid finishes wiping off the table there. She straightens up and flashes you a smile.
"I'm Jami." the brunette girl introduces herself. "Welcome to th' Happy Harpy! Are you here for the ale...or the contest..?"
Appolo Thursday February 6th, 2003 10:33:17 AM
Appolo takes his seat and when the barmaid arrives he returns her smile with a beaming smile of his own and says, "We're here for both, of course, and some food as well. Ale for everyone as well as some bread, salami and cheese, if you please." He fishes around in his pockets and produces 5 gold pieces, Appolo then hands her the gold. "Where do we sign up for the Treasure Hunt?" he adds with a bright-eyed smile.
Ashira Thursday February 6th, 2003 12:47:31 PM
Ashira takes a seat at the table with the others and smiles as Appolo places his order with Jami. With a motion of her hand, Ashira tries to grab Jami's attention. "A nice pot of tea for me please." She smiles at Rigging. "Well, hubby, should I go put us down for the treasure hunt? Sounds like everyone's interested."
Bart Thursday February 6th, 2003 1:25:51 PM
"Indeed my dear, tell us about the contest before you get our drinks and food," Bart requests.
Rigging Thursday February 6th, 2003 9:53:01 PM
Rigging smiles at his wife and replies, "Of course we will try our hand at the treasure hunt. I believe it says something about the honor or your ship at stake. I suggest we win this treasure hunt or our Captain might have us sanding the deck with our fingernails."
Akerin Thursday February 6th, 2003 10:06:43 PM
Akerin goes for some tea, as well. He enjoys the fellowship of his companions.
Ari Thursday February 6th, 2003 11:40:16 PM
Hoping things will go well tonight, for the break the family needs. "Wine for me please"
Akerin Friday February 7th, 2003 2:08:22 AM
Akerin quietly hands to Ari the wand of cure light wounds given him some time back. "You can use this to help heal those who need it, Ari." He explains briefly how to use it, then sips more tea.
Keep Your Day Job (DM Donna) Friday February 7th, 2003 6:54:12 AM
Before Jami can answer your inquiries about the contest, the slightly-slurred but nonetheless on-key baritone of Captain Hawley sounds from a table that is quite near your booth:
"Ohhhhhhhhh... Yo ho ho an' a kegger to boot! We sink us a ship An' we divvy the loot! Warships come An' we blow 'em to bits! To top off th' day Here's a wench with big--"
"Captain Hawley!" Jami interrupts the singing half-elf, who leers at her politely (as much of an oxymoron as that may sound! ;D) "I do believe that these are the Wildcards you were telling me about between, ahhh, songs..?"
"Why bless me barnacles, so they arrrrrre..!" the highly-tipsy captain of the hammership agrees. "Lissen...I'm in me cups, so I'll be shufflin' off to th' ship to sleep it off...but before I do, would you all be so kind as to pick us a mission to get ready for..?" Hawley waves his nearly-empty tankard towards the bulletin board with the announcements. "Just let me know which one of them signs interests ya the most, an' I'll be able to stock the ship for that kind o' mission."
(OOC: Two of the signs--the lost pet and the campaign poster--aren't missions for a ship; the others are. Pick which one you would like to follow for the upcoming module.)
Valanthe Friday February 7th, 2003 9:57:49 AM
Valanthe wished she some wine. Right now she would even settle for ale. It was a great preliminary to bedchamber activities. Ashira and Rigging's actions of late has inspired certain behavior in the young elf. Behavior which Appolo seems to enjoy a great deal
"Well plundering unguarded trade ships sounds like a good idea and a trap as well. But military ships usually have valuable things on baord as well."
Rigging Friday February 7th, 2003 2:06:57 PM
Rigging listens to his Captain ask for suggestions on the next mission and he speaks up, "I think we should forgo the chasing down unguarded merchant vessals. There must be a reason that they aren't being guarded...like the ships are guarding something even more important. Let the lesser pirate ships take those easy pickings." Rigging pauses and takes a sip of his drink and then continues. "The mystery of why the merchant ships are heading west is intriguing but I think we should go look for our lost ship. First they might be in trouble and need assistance. Second we might find the warships that are supposed to be guarding the merchants are responsible and I want to know what they are guarding. It must be important. The third and final reason I have is we might be able to find more worthy victims to give Alemi's blessings to than we would on merchant ships."
Appolo Friday February 7th, 2003 2:10:26 PM
"Let's not worry about that right now. Eat, drink, be merry, enjoy tonight -- and let's win that treasure hunt." When the waitress comes back, Appolo orders the finest elven wine avialable, two bottles of it, and doles out another 20 gold pieces.
Ashira Friday February 7th, 2003 2:14:03 PM
The half-elf heads over to the bar area and signs up the Wildcards of the Sword of the Seas for the treasure hunt. She returns just in time for discussion about the next mission. "I don't like the idea of plundering trade ships. I don't think it's very sporting. Our last mission was a little different since we had those priests to deal with. The assignment from the King of Coins sounds interesting."
Sensing that Valanthe is a little thirsty, she motions to the ale on the table from Appolo's order. Moving in close, she whispers to the elf, "So, you want to tell me what's going on with my armor, or do I need to torture the information out of you?!"
Akerin Friday February 7th, 2003 2:35:50 PM
"Yes, Rigging," Akerin agrees. "Perhaps some of the crew on the missing ship are yet alive, and in need of help - especially if in the clutches of the Ga'alians. I'll cast my vote, if a vote I have, for answering the King of Coins."
Rigging Friday February 7th, 2003 7:33:16 PM
"Sorry Appolo, but the Captain asked for an answer now. He wants to get the ship repaired, provisioned and ready." Rigging takes a quick scan around the table and adds, "If there isn't any dissent in the ranks, why don't we try to find our missing comrades, Captain."
Valanthe Friday February 7th, 2003 9:15:39 PM
Valanthe smiles and takes a sip of Elven wine. It was nice of Appolo to order the wine but she hoped that everybody knew their limits. Elven wine was powerfull stuff, even for elves. Valanthe didn't want to be carrying everybody back to their rooms.
"I don't think it's my place to say anything," Val replies.
Ari d20=2 Friday February 7th, 2003 10:01:19 PM
(d20 roll accidental)
Sitting back and listening to the others speak. Ari relaxes as he waits for everyone to speak. Once everything is done and Riggings is done Ari commetns, "It's nice to have fun, but we probably want to think about always getting our business out of the way first so we can have more fun and not have to worry about any immediate decisions in the morning.
Anyhoo. I agree with you Riggings that we should probably go for the missing ship. Because it's for the King of Coins we might want to ask about both his missions and see if they are somehow related, or keep the other in the back of our mind as we search for the missing ship."
Once he's had his say Ari just leans back into his chair and listens to the din of the Harpy. He's not listening for anything particular its just that there's not been much occasion to relax. Being the life of a Wildcard.
Redux Friday February 7th, 2003 11:37:57 PM
"You're right, Rigging, following the missing ship does seem more like what this group should find itself doing." Redux then adds, "However, the lone ships are tempting, and would be following the namesake of our ship's notice for assistance (King of Swords -- Sword of the Sea). And, speaking of finding things, does the treasure hunt have anything to do with the missing pet?"
Appolo Saturday February 8th, 2003 12:09:51 AM
Appolo quietly listens to the others and waits. When Ashira returns and announces that she has signed the group up, he asks, "So, when does it begin?" He then makes sure Valanthe gets her wine, then he quietly slips the extra bottle into a cloth sack and hides it under his cloak.
Bart Saturday February 8th, 2003 6:05:27 AM
"I like the idear of rescuiong the ship and helping our comrades," says Bart. "Let other ships huntdown the merchants. I think with the wayfinder we are the perfect crew to locate the missing ship."
Explanations All Around (DM Donna) Monday February 10th, 2003 7:21:01 AM
"Find th' ship...nooooo pro'lem..." the tipsy half-elf nods and staggers out of the Happy Harpy. Jami shakes her dark blonde head at the retreating captain of the hammership and sighs.
"The weirdest thing is that he'll make it back to his ship AND remember what you told him--but he STILL can't remember my name." she comments with a wry grin. "Now--first off, if I recall correctly, you wanted to know about the contest...well, it's a scavenger hunt, really. Starts at midnight, ends at dawn. Smilin' Pete hands out a list of items for Wildcards to go out an' get...you're only supposed to scrounge 'em from Ayorsa Island itself. You can use any means necessary for getting any item short of bodily harm, but if the item in question is already in the possession of a conscious person, then you can't force 'em to give it up...you can only try to persuade 'em to lend you the item for the scavenger hunt. Mages aren't supposed to use charms on them--and neither are they supposed to get stuff from other lands or planes or wherever." The young woman stops to think.
"Other than that, anything goes--even swiping stuff other teams have already collected." Jami says with a nod. "The only way to safeguard your booty is to come back here to the tavern and have Smilin' Pete check it off your list."
The meal that is served at the tavern this night is a rather hearty venison stew (with meat you can not only taste, but actually SEE!), dumplings, some decent dwarven ale (with separate water for those who can't drink it undiluted), and some stale round dinner rolls.
"They're ammunition." Jami explains. "Nobody ever eats 'em--but they make for fun food fights. Smilin' Pete fancies a good brawl now an' then, but he doesn't stand for unnecessary bloodshed, so he provides non-lethal weapons." The barmaid makes sure that the round, brown ceramic teapot that also goes with the meal remains full.
"Any questions you have about any of them notices can usually be answered by someone here in the tavern," Jami tells you, "I happen to know that ol' Peg-leg's pet is really a rather grumpy hippogriff...she tends to take off for a few days every now an' then, so he worries an' offers that reward. NObody in their right mind would go lookin' for a hippogriff in heat, though--so I don't think that Fluffy is going to be used for this year's scavenger hunt.
"I'll go see if Starr is around--she's the rep for the King of Coins in this part of Safeport. She'll be able to give you more details on that missing ship. Now...is there anything else that you'll be needing..?"
Ashira Monday February 10th, 2003 8:56:29 AM
The half-elf smiles at Jami's description of the event. "Sounds like fun, could even be tailor made for us. Glad we've signed up!"
Ashira nuzzles up next to Rigging, and whispers in his ear, "I could use a couple of minutes of private time with you." She gets up and tries to find a semi private place in the crowded Inn. If Rigging moves to join her, she hands him a small box. Ashira looks lovingly up into Rigging's eyes as she opens the box for him. "You know, when we got married, everything was kind of a blur, and I didn't get a chance to give you what I wanted. I thought I might lose you that last mission, and so I decided not to wait." Rigging finds a small feather token and his wedding ring inside the box. "I went ahead and had our rings enchanted. They are now both +1 rings of protection." Ashira blushes a little, and her eyes drop to the floor. "It was all I could afford. I'm hoping to make them stronger in the future. The feather is in case you get in a pinch like back on the ship. Just rub it gently, and a large whip will appear and attack your enemies for you." Ashira nudges Rigging playfully. "I figure you can use all the help you can get when it comes to defending yourself!"
OOC: Rigging is now in possession of a +1 ring of protection, and Quaal's feather token (whip) - please add them to your sheet. :)
Ari Monday February 10th, 2003 10:49:57 AM
"How many of these Scavenger Hunts have there been and has there always been a winner? Do they usually go quickly or take all night long?"
Getting into the spirit of the possible chase Ari starts pondering what he might be able to do to help.
(OOC: Can I reserve the right to change my spell list a little bit? ;) and by how much due to time restrictions?)
You have until 6am Eastern Time this Friday, February 14th, to get me your CS, though I would like it sooner. Whatever the spell list is on the CS that I have in my possession by that time will be the spells that Ari has available to him... and I have your old, old CS on my Mom's computer, so if you don't have your updated sheet to me by then, I'll be using THAT one--whether or not Ari may have gone up a level.
This goes for the entire group of characters.~~DM Donna
hehe. I was talking in game time. But I'll take this answer. -Todd :)
Rigging Monday February 10th, 2003 4:59:08 PM
Rigging is touched by the gift from Ashira and gives her a passionate kiss and hug. As he breaks away, he will say, "Dearest, thank you for this. I will always wear it and cherish it like I cherish you."
Akerin Akerin Tuesday February 11th, 2003 1:34:38 AM
The normally somewhat reserved monk finds Jami's remarks and observations amusing. He smiles at her comment regarding the captain. He chuckles at the brawl-biscuits. He outright laughs as she explains the situation with 'Fluffy.'
"Jami, you are priceless," the cleric says, his face alight with delight. "Though Cap'n forget your name, I doubt I will. Thank you for your running commentary, and our compliments to the kitchen." In addition to the cost of the meal, he adds a pouch with 20 gold pieces. "Half's for you, the rest for the kitchen. I expect we'll drop by from time to time, as circumstances allow. I'm Akerin."
He looks around the inn, then indicates that she should lean forward a bit, as he wishes to be discreet. "You wouldn't have an idea, would you, who might present our stiffest competition?" he asks quietly.
Pubside Gossip (DM Donna) Tuesday February 11th, 2003 7:08:03 AM
"Why...why thank you, sir!" the serving maid is beaming as she quickly tucks away Akerin's hefty tip. Then she leans down and whispers confidentially to the healer:
"Well, I can definitely put you wise to last year's winners of the hunt--they are the Wildcards for the ship called the Coppersworth. Bunch of bad pennies, if'n you ask me, though--they only won because they ambushed an' swiped a bunch of items from the frontrunners of the time, the guys from the Stiletto. The Stiletto group cried foul because the Coppersworth bunch supposedly gave one of 'em a concussion, but none of the Stiletto guys could prove it, so the Coppersworth Wildcards won."
Valanthe Tuesday February 11th, 2003 8:29:43 AM
Val relaxes and sips her wine. There was no need to drink to much and do something foolish. Not with this lot around. She wondered when Redux would get around to explaining what he did. Val would give the mage a little time before she spilled things.
Rigging Tuesday February 11th, 2003 11:59:21 AM
Listening to the advice of the bairmaid, Rigging says, "I wonder if we should split up into teams for this little adventure or stick together. Sounds like some of the wild cards would rather sit around and take the items away from the other contestants rather than working. It would be a lot tougher to take on our whole group but we wouldn't be as efficient."
Ashira Tuesday February 11th, 2003 1:41:28 PM
Ashira smiles as she returns to the table with Rigging. Leaning over Valanthe, she whispers, "Ok, then I guess it's going to be torture. You just let me know when you're ready to start talking." She stands up on the table and begins to sing in an ear-splitting off-key voice.
"What do you do with a drunken pirate? What do you do with a drunken pirate? What do you do with a drunken pirate? Early in the mornin?"
Bart Tuesday February 11th, 2003 4:57:17 PM
"Well we need a fast and agile runner and someone to protect him or her," says Bart. "I can do the last part. Maybe Redux and Talon can do the comminications between the runner group and the search group. Talon could guide us back to the rest of our party."
Appolo Tuesday February 11th, 2003 6:23:27 PM
Appolo is quietly eating and drinking while watching and listening to those around him. When Ashira comes back and says something about torture to Valanthe, then gets up on the table and starts singing, Appolo starts laughing and throws a couple of gold pieces at her feet. "Hey - who ordered the entertainment? Now let's see you dance!" He then begins to sing along with her.
Ari Wednesday February 12th, 2003 1:54:22 AM
"We can also use Talon as possible overhead scout to advise us of ambushes. I've been wondering whether I could contact some of the local animals and have them help us out or not."
Valanthe Wednesday February 12th, 2003 3:51:38 AM
"I can be the runner. I am fast and can make myself faster when the occasion calls for it." Affected by the wine Valanthe figures why not and gets up on a table. She starts dancing, flashing some leg now and then.
Akerin Wednesday February 12th, 2003 4:11:08 AM
Akerin thanks Jami. "Hope you'll root for us," he says to her with a smile. He makes sure the rest of the party is made aware of the information she provided him.
Observing the interactions and antics of his friends, he arches an eyebrow. "Was something strange going on while I was working on the wand?"
Food Fight! (DM Donna) d20+4=5 d20=14 d20=15 d20=15 d20=16 d20=13 d20=1 d20=5 Wednesday February 12th, 2003 7:52:14 AM
"I surely do hope your group wins!" Jami tells Akerin, then is summoned away by some pirates at another table.
Ashira's serenade draws attention from more than just Appolo--by the time her song mercifully ends, there is a total of about 12 gold pieces, 27 silver pieces and 33 copper pieces that have been tossed her way.
Then--arcing high from across the taproom--a lone dinner roll lobs towards Ashira...but ends up smacking a large half-orc one table over in the back of his head.
The burly pirate leaps to his feet with a roar, seizes a handful of biscuits from the basket on his table, and proceeds to hurl them in the general direction of the unknown attacker.
"To battle! To battle! Bomb's awayyyyyyyyyyy..!" shrieks someone else, and suddenly the air is full of almost-edible missiles...
(OOC: in order, I rolled to see if any rolls have hit Ashira (5), Rigging (14), Akerin (15), Valanthe (15), Appolo (16), Bart (13), Redux (1), and Ari (5). Compare the results with your PC's AC--as long as the result isn't a natural 1 (as in the case of Redux), you can actually opt to allow that your PC did get hit by the buns, since you know there are dozens of the things being flung around now.
Your PCs can start throwing rolls, too, but you only need to make a combat roll of the dice IF you wish for your bun[s] to hit a SPECIFIC target.)
Rigging Wednesday February 12th, 2003 1:27:38 PM
Rigging feels a roll bounce of his back and turns around to see what happened to have one bounce of his forehead. He dives for cover and scoops up some ammo of his own. He starts chucking them indiscriminately around the room, while trying to dodge any that come his way. He yells to Ashira, "See what your singing caused! You need to stick to your day job."
Ashira Wednesday February 12th, 2003 3:52:41 PM
Deftly managing to dodge the rolls chucked at her, Ashira hops down from the table top, and ducks under cover. She smiles at Akerin's comment. "Yes, some hanky panky occured, and I'm trying to pump the information from Valanthe. Haven't been too successful so far, though." Ashira grabs several rolls and throws them in the general direction of her first assailant.
Ashira pouts a little at Rigging's comment. "Are you saying you don't like the way I sing?! Besides, I just earned you some ale money!" Adopting a more serious look, Ashira says, "You know, I've got a plan for this treasure hunt. Why don't we give Redux one of the invisibility rings, and have him be a stationary drop off point. Then we could have Val be an invisible runner. That way we wouldn't have to worry about them getting jumped. What do you think?"
Rigging Wednesday February 12th, 2003 10:14:56 PM
Rigging ducks another flying pastry and winks at his wife. "Honey, Have you ever heard that great minds think alike? We are definitely on the same wave length"
Redux d20=9 Wednesday February 12th, 2003 10:45:20 PM
(ooc: roled one for Talon)
Feeling somewhat above the 'common' food fight but still wanting to observe (and laugh at) the mayhem, Redux gathers his robes and finds cover near the wall that will give him a good vantage point. He will root for his friends when he sees them attacking. He even finds himself watching where the food originated and calls out to them the origin of the successful hit so that they may retaliate with more precision. He gives Talon permission to attack any food thrown at him, but not the thrower.
Valanthe Thursday February 13th, 2003 5:15:34 AM
Being slightly drunk and dancing on a table, Val makes a fine target. By the time she figures out what's going on and gets behind some cover, Val got hit a few times. Making the most of the situation Val scoops some of the icing off her body and licks it off her finger.
Akerin Thursday February 13th, 2003 5:49:57 AM
This reminds Akerin of missile-dodging practice back at the monastery. What fun! He gets into the spirit of it, catching rolls and lobbing them back, aiming the buns at buns, and laughing when he takes a hit. One comes through the air, and his uses his head to deflect it in a new arc. He tumbles, and rises with a kick of the leg to spike a passing biscuit up over the chandelier.
Ari Thursday February 13th, 2003 8:52:29 AM
With the first few rolls just being UFO's Ari finally catches on and grabs his drink and moves out of the way of the main fray. Not sure if this is some kind of distraction due to the comments about the other Wildcards. Ari decides to keep an eye out to see if it is all fun or not.
Appolo Ac21 d20+9=24 d20+9=22 d20+11=12 Thursday February 13th, 2003 7:52:05 PM
Appolo ducks under the table aftwer gathering all the extra coin and grabbing the wine bottle. He then pulls out a small knife and starts hollowing out some of the bread rolls. He then pours the wine into the roll, putting the pieces of bread back in as a stopper once it is full. He does this to a few of the bredrolls.
Then he hurls one saturated bredroll at Redux, and another at Ari. He then hides under the table, luaghing the time after nailing the both of them with a splat. "Well that was funny!!" he exclaims. "Thought they'd get out of this."
Attack Rolls 24 and 22 hide 12
Bart Friday February 14th, 2003 4:12:27 AM
Bart grabs all the buns he can and starts throwing them around, not aiming in particular at anyone, but with a great speed.
Smilin' Pete Appears (DM Donna) Monday February 17th, 2003 1:00:16 PM
The food fight goes on for a while, evoking competition as well as laughter. By the time the clock ticks to ten of twelve, nobody in the tavern has escaped being the target of flying dinner rolls, though clearly some of the patrons are the worse for wear. Still, it's all good, clean fun...
"Your attenSHUN!!!" bellows a bass voice that cuts through all the noise. Suddenly you can hear a pin drop within the Happy Harpy... or, rather, one last errant roll lobbed from a corner that happens to bounce off one of the moose heads that hangs on a wall before falling to the floor at the feet of a tall, scrawny-looking human male with stringy dark hair pulled back in a careless ponytail. His dark brown eyes are serious and his face is set into an almost grim mask.
"They call me Smilin' Pete...for obvious reasons," he announces to the crowd, evoking a smattering of laughter. "It's time to start this year's annual Wild Card Scavenger Hunt. Competing for the purse of 1,000 gold and the prestigious Golden Rose award are four teams, the Wildcards from the ships the Stiletto, the Little Brown Jug, the Sword of the Sea, and, of course, last year's champions, the Wildcards from the Coppersworth."
The various crews of each ship named stand and acknowledge the applause of the rest of the tavern customers as Smilin' Pete introduces them. When the crew from the Coppersworth are announced, there is a slight rise in the volume of the applause, but there are a goodly number of hisses and grumbles as a lithe human man bows with a great flourish, his perfect white teeth in contrast to his perfectly tanned skin.
"Yes, yes, Blackjack," Smilin' Pete says a bit testily when the roguish Wildcard hams it up a bit longer than the barkeeper would like, "We all appreciate how clever you were... last year. This year, we will see whether the Coppersworth continues to reign supreme as the holder of the Golden Rose, or whether you will have to fork it over to any other crew."
Jami appears, handing out rolls of parchment to the teams, ending up with handing one over to Rigging as Smilin' Pete continues to speak about the competition:
"Okay, the rules are simple: you get stuff from the list, and it MUST come only from Ayorsa Island--no kind of magic allowed to 'import' the item nor to 'export' yourselves to any other place but Ayorsa, y'hear? You can otherwise use any means short of causing bodily harm to another person to get the item... unless whoever has possession of it is conscious. You can only use your powers of persuasion--your natural powers, that is!--to get the other person to let you have the item in question.
"Once you get an item from the list, it won't be considered 'gotten' by YOUR team unless you bring it here and present it to me, so's I can cross that item off your team's list.
"We'll count down to midnight--then, the teams have until dawn to get their particular list checked off... the quicker you find and turn in your items, the more points they'll be worth!" Smilin' Pete says.
"Any questions..?"
Rigging Monday February 17th, 2003 10:21:56 PM
Rigging takes the list and gives it a quick scan. "OK team...Let's take a quick look at this list and see who should go after what?"
Akerin / Kim Tuesday February 18th, 2003 3:23:40 AM
Akerin waits to hear, or read, the list of items to be scavenged.
========= [Folks - I'm swamped this week. Would someone like to post for Akerin through Thursday? - Kim]
Ari Tuesday February 18th, 2003 11:23:20 PM
Ari counts down to midnight then quickly works with his teammates to see what things are on the list.
Akerin Wednesday February 19th, 2003 4:36:08 AM
Akerin again tries to read the list of items the teams are to recover.
Ashira Wednesday February 19th, 2003 8:26:25 AM
Ashira glances over the list, mentally working through where she could find some of the items on the list. She whispers to Rigging in Elven "So, you want me to give him my ring?"
Redux Wednesday February 19th, 2003 8:31:10 AM
Taking a towel and quickly moping up the wine off his head (amazingly his robes remain spotlessly clean!) from Appolo's little grenade, Redux scowls at the young man. "I have half a mind to web you to the floor of the next temple of Ga'al that we come to and let the priests figure out what to do with you. Be careful who you make enemies of, young man!" There is a note of humor in the mage's voice, but not much of one. Redux too moves in to take a look at the list.
Appolo Wednesday February 19th, 2003 10:33:25 AM
Appolo replies to Redux, "Hey, just didn't want you and Ari to feel left out of the fun." He then sits down and pours himself and Valanthe the last of the wine. "Here you go Sunshine. Cheers." With that he slams his home.
Countdown (DM Donna) Wednesday February 19th, 2003 12:21:54 PM
The list that the Wildcards hold has the following items on it:
1. a blonde wig 2. a barrel of molasses 3. a stuffed animal 4. a gold goblet 5. a child's doll 6. a gnome's tool set 7. a live snake 8. BONUS ITEM WORTH 500 points: a blue rose
"Each list has seven items on it...each of those items is worth 100 points--IF it is the very first of that item to be brought here to me. Otherwise, the regular items are worth only 50 points. From midnight to dawn is about six hours, so I'll be taking away ten points per hour that you do not bring in an item on the list. Being first is best, but being quick DOES count, too...as well as getting ALL the items on your list. No penalties are taken against the bonus item--but I have to add that the blue rose MUST be natural...NO artifice involved in its creation. Heh heh...oh, the clock, mates, the clock..!" Smilin' Pete points at the large wooden clock that ticks above the main door into the tavern. It is almost at twelve.
"Here we go, then--" yells the ex-pirate, "Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one...LET THE SCAVENGER HUNT BEGIN..!"
Rigging Thursday February 20th, 2003 12:38:22 AM
Rigging pulls his group aside. "OK I would bet we could get the barrel of molasses right here. Ari you are in charge of the snake. If a druid can't find a snake on this island then no one can. Anyone have any ideas? We need gatherers and protecters."
Appolo Thursday February 20th, 2003 2:00:11 AM
Appolo looks at the list then reaches into his pack and pulls out a one-foot tall figurine or wooden doll of Valdor complete with sword and movable arm. "Well, I have the doll right here," he says, showing it to everyone. "And we should have molasses on the ship as well as a gnome's tool set." He says all of this quietly, trying not to be over heard. He then takes the doll over to Smilin Pete and says, "One doll - this is mine, and when this is over I want it back. I am Appolo representing the Sword of the Sea and its wildcards." He then heads back to his table.
"Well, let's get going."
OOC:Valdor Doll gift from The Toymaker. Giggling Ghost/Red Wyrm Inn
Walter Thursday February 20th, 2003 9:07:32 AM
Sorry about my absence but work has been keeping me busy. I will try to catch up later today or tomarrow.
Ari Thursday February 20th, 2003 9:34:07 AM
"You might try seeing if you can get Valdor's hair to count as a wig" As Ari points to the doll
First Item Found! (DM Donna) Thursday February 20th, 2003 11:45:21 AM
Smilin' Pete looks at Appolo with surprise, then actually almost twists his lips with a nod.
"Very clever, young man!" he says, holding out a hand. "100 points to the Sword of the Sea for their submission of one child's doll. Hereafter any other dolls turned in have a base worth of 50 points... minus the time penalty." This announcement brings applause from the spectators, some grimaces and/or impressed glances from the Wildcards from the Stiletto and the Little Brown Jug... and glares from the crew representing the Coppersworth.
"Time's a-wastin', mates, let's go..!" one of the hunters says, which results in the other three teams streaking off in different directions.
"Where's your list--I must check off the doll from your list, or it won't count." Smilin' Pete says.
You will have to designate who has the list, as well what kind of location and/or idea you may come up with for securing the other items you're looking for. I'll let you know how each idea and/or tactic pans out.
Ashira Thursday February 20th, 2003 2:25:55 PM
The half-elf whispers to her husband as she prepares to sprint out the door. Let's split up into groups of two. How about Bart & Appolo, Ari & Akerin, you and I. That way if we are jumped, we'll stand a better chance of comming out. We'll station Redux about 20 feet away from the Inn with his two rings. Let Val be a runner with her ring. Then we can use Talon to act as a go between for all of us. Ashira takes out a piece of red cloth from her backpack and tears it into four pieces. She gives one to each group. Whispering she says when you find an item, hold up your cloth. Talon will be looking for you, and Redux will tell Valanthe to run toward your group. Val will run the items back and forth. Redux should hold the list, since he'll be the one turning in the items. Ashira looks over at Rigging. "What do you think?"
Ashira Thursday February 20th, 2003 2:27:23 PM
As an after thought, Ashira takes the list from Rigging and hands it to Happy so that he can mark the doll from the list.
Redux Friday February 21st, 2003 1:00:14 AM
Keeping close to the conversation and voice low, Redux nods at Ashira's suggestion. "Yes, that's a good plan. I could even give Talon the bag of holding and use him as a courier if we needed to; he should be able to fly without being encumbered by it. If we split up, we should give each group a specific task, like one head to the ship for the tool set and another to the castle for the goblet. We might need to give up some gold in order to get some of the items, but be wary of overpricing. Oh, and the castle probably has some stuffed trophies hanging on the walls or somewhere, right?"
Akerin Friday February 21st, 2003 1:51:48 AM
The monk walks to the wall, steps up on a chair, and removes one of the moose heads that adorns the wall of the tavern.* He walks over to the sponsor of the scavenger hunt. "Here is a stuffed animal, Pete. Does this qualify?"
If it qualifies, great. Whether or not it does, Akerin next talks to Ari. "Valdor's hair is light brown, not blond. Let's go, druid, and find a flower, or snake, or molasses. Even all three." He goes out with Ari, and begins seeking, asking, and poking around with great energy. "Grass, and under porches, are good places to look for snakes, right?"
* For the origin of the moose head, see post: Smilin' Pete Appears (DM Donna) Monday February 17th, 2003 12:00:16 PM
Another First Item Found! (DM Donna) Friday February 21st, 2003 6:59:53 AM
Smilin' Pete puts a big "X" mark with the number 100 next to item number 5 on the Wildcards' list...then eyes the moose head Akerin offers up to cover the "stuffed animal" entry.
"Hmmm...well, I was figurin' that you'd all have to go OUT and look for the stuff," the bartender says, but his quill moves over the parchment once more, "However, I didn't say that the bar was off-limits, so you got yourself one less thing to look for." When he hands you back the scavenger hunt list, it looks like this:
1. a blonde wig 2. a barrel of molasses 3. a stuffed animal X 100 pts. 4. a gold goblet 5. a child's doll X 100 pts. 6. a gnome's tool set 7. a live snake 8. BONUS ITEM WORTH 500 points: a blue rose
Ashira Friday February 21st, 2003 8:23:50 AM
Looking as if she just stumbled onto a great idea, Ashira lowers her head and mumbles a few words (Casting Summon Nature's Ally-Tiny Viper into her hand). After she is done, she removes her invisibility ring and hands it to Redux. Then she says to Ari "Hold on a second, I need you to tell me if the snake I summon is indigenous."
Rigging Friday February 21st, 2003 9:10:13 AM
A huge grin spreads across his face as pride fills his heart at his team's intelligence and resourcefulness. He claps both Appolo and Akerin on the back and says, "I am supposed to be the genius. Good work gentlemen."
He turns to the waitress Jami and asks, "Dear, Is it possible that we could get barrel of molasses from your storeroom? I figure we will give it back and I you will get a very nice tip out of it. How does 10 gold sound hmmmm?"
Ari Friday February 21st, 2003 3:07:49 PM
Glad to see his fellow cards are on the ball about things around them, Ari feels a little out of sort that he has nothing to offer right away. When Ashira talks about the Viper Ari quietly adds, "It just depends upon whether the spell is interpreted as interference or not, I think."
Ari also starts to ponder what kind of environment the blue rose would live in and where that might be here on the island. (Nature sense)
Akerin Saturday February 22nd, 2003 11:14:45 PM
The healer smiles at Rigging, and gives Appolo a friendly punch on the shoulder.
As Ashira and Ari discuss the poisonous little serpent, he says, "No, it depends upon whether or not the viper is from Ayorsa. C'mon, let's go see what else we can get. Check with Jack to see if it qualifies, Ashira - unless Ari can verify it's a local. Don't these ones leave after a few minutes? If not, great. If so, we'll look for another. And that flower. Keep an eye on each other's back."
Akerin heads out with Ari, with the knowledge that the rest of the teams have a head start in looking for the other items. Snake? Flower. Molasses. Blondes. And other teams' members heading back to the tavern.
Valanthe Sunday February 23rd, 2003 7:55:51 AM
Valanthe is caught off guard by the whirlwind of events that just took place. One minute she's getting mentally ready for the task at hand and then items are being crossed off their list. Valanthe watched the other contestants. No weapons were allowed but there will be fighting. Lucky for her mental assaults were not made illegal.
Redux Tuesday February 25th, 2003 1:58:33 PM
Redux removes the ring of protection and puts on the ring of friendship invisibility. To Val he says, "You're not going to activate yours, are you? I don't want to pop out and get tagged by someone floating up in the air." If she is planning on using hers, he will ask for one of the other rings to activate once he's outside. He shows Talon the cloth and does his best to impress his feathered friend what he needs to look for and what he should do.
Appolo Tuesday February 25th, 2003 6:45:26 PM
Appolo looks around. "Come on Bart, let's go find us a golden goblet!" He then heads toward the door.
What Qualifies (and What Don't) (DM Donna) d20=11 d20=7 Wednesday February 26th, 2003 6:49:40 AM
(OOC: Ari's Knowledge: Nature check roll [which he forgot to roll for] is 11 in regards to identifying the viper summoned--he needs a 15 or better to be 100% sure whether the snake IS a local one.)
Ari is reasonably sure that the snake is, indeed, from Ayorsa Isle...but he has to admit that he could be mistaken about it.
Jami is off like a shot to see about the molasses, but the look on her face is rather crestfallen when she comes back.
"The only molasses in the kitchen are a couple of jugs...no barrels." she tells Rigging. "You'll have to think of some other place to get it."
Ari's attempt to ponder the proper environment for a blue rose comes up quite short (OOC: check result [which Ari also neglected to roll for himself] is only 7. Anyone trying to fathom this specific horticultural information must make a Knowledge (Nature) check versus DC18.)
Talon eyes his master with a bit of skepticism, but eventually gets the idea that he will be on the lookout for the Wildcards to be signaling with the bits of cloth.
Smilin' Pete is topping off tankards of ale if anyone wants to show him the snake.
Ashira d20+2=3 d20+2=21 Wednesday February 26th, 2003 9:29:33 AM
The half-elf checks the snake out herself (nature knowledge a nat. 1!!), but has no clue as to whether it comes from the island or not. She looks at Rigging inquisitively as the snake wriggles in her hand. "I don't know if this comes from the island or not. Ari thinks it probably does. I think it's worth a shot to give it to Pete. What do you think?" If Rigging agrees to give it to Pete, then Ashira does. If not, then she keeps a hold of the beasty, and prepares to head out into the wild blue yonder with Rigging, making sure to hand Redux the list before she leaves.
As the goings on with the snake are settled, Ashira ponders on where to find a blue rose. Her eyes bolt (nature knowledge=21!!!), and she nudges Rigging insistently and desperately. "Come on, I need to show you something!"
Bart Wednesday February 26th, 2003 10:23:49 AM
"Well a golden goblet it is Apollo, and maybe we can find the wig too. I suggest heading to the richer part of town. If there is a goblet we sure can find one there," says Bart. "Maybe we find an an goldsmith and if we are lucky a gnomish one. Let Domi guide us!"
Appolo Wednesday February 26th, 2003 6:56:14 PM
"All right, back to the palace, then we'll head for the ship if that doesn't pan out," Appolo says.
Rigging Wednesday February 26th, 2003 9:25:43 PM
Rigging guides Ashira to Pete and says, "Ah Pete, We have a snake here for your inspection. Make off our 100 points please so I can go find a blue rose."
After Pete makes his decision, he will go with Ashira to see what she wants to see.
Akerin Thursday February 27th, 2003 3:18:44 AM
"Come on, Ari. Any ideas as to where to look?" says the monk, doing his own looking as Ari walks about with some sort of faraway look in this eyes. "We've got to find some of the other things."
More Items Found (DM Donna) d20=18 Thursday February 27th, 2003 6:48:52 AM
Smilin' Pete squints at the little viper the Wildcards offer as their latest entry. He harrumphs over it for a moment or two, then he nods.
"Yup, it's local." he says. "Where's your list..? You guys are really rolling with these submissions..!" (OOC: remember, troops, you have to post that you're giving Pete both the item AND the list in order to have him award your points for the hunt!)
Ashira's concentration on the blue rose matter inspires her with the fact that, since a blue rose would be VERY rare, one of the best places that a person could look for one would be where a person grows plants for a living...like Minton's Apothecary Supply, which she recalls having seen when the party was first on its way to the Jack's palace. It was less than a mile away from the Happy Harpy, too...
Right at this point, however, a member of one of the other teams comes hurrying into the bar--a half-elf with sandy brown hair to his shoulders and an eyepatch over his right eye. You all recall that he was one of the Coppersworth's crew. He approaches Smilin' Pete and presents a well-worn ragdoll with red yarn hair and a glittering gold cup, along with a piece of parchment that is obviously the Coppersworth's scavenger list.
"Ah, Reed, yer group finally decided to join the hunt, eh..?" the bartender teased as he checked off the doll and the goblet. "Better hurry, though--the Sword of the Sea has gotten a big lead on yer group!"
The one-eyed monk turns rather glacial hazel eye upon the party, then snatches the list from Smilin' Pete's hand and hurries from the bar, all while both the bartender and the other patrons have a hearty laugh at Reed's behavior.
"Your list, Wildcards," Smilin' Pete says again, "So's I can check off that snake and you all can go on your way." He holds out his hand.
Rigging Thursday February 27th, 2003 9:14:25 AM
Rigging hands the bartender his list with a smile. He says to Ashira, "I better stay here with the list. If the others come back with items, they won't count without it. If you see the others, let them know where I am."
The young seven gives his wife a kiss on the lips and a quick hug. "Be careful out there. I know you can protect yourself, but don't hurt anybody." He tempers his cautions with a warm smile.
Ari Thursday February 27th, 2003 9:38:56 AM
"Sorry Akerin I was trying to figure out if with all the training I'd had whether I could recognize that blue flower. But it seems that though I can probably identify 90% of the flowers and animals in the surrounding area, I don't recall ever seeing or being told about that blue flower. I'm half tempted to believe that it's a magic artifact of some sort.
"Maybe we should try to figure out where we might find the barrel of molasses."
Ashira Thursday February 27th, 2003 11:22:28 AM
Ashira hands the list to Rigging (she was the last one to have it) who then hands it to Pete. She smiles at her husband's suggestion and flattery, but shakes her head. "No, remember the plan, Redux keeps the list and submits the items. We travel in twos so we're not as easy to jump. That way Redux and Talon know what's going on with the other groups. But if you want to change the plan...." Ashira lingers a couple of seconds, awaiting Rigging's decision.
Regardless of which way Rigging wants to go, Ashira makes sure that the list is in good hands, fishes out and downs her invisibility potion (since she doesn't have her ring) and then runs as fast as she can toward Minton's.
Ashira Thursday February 27th, 2003 11:24:40 AM
OOC (Oops, if Rigging decides to go with Ashira, she quietly whispers in Elven the place where she thought she saw Minton's so he can follow her while she's invisible. If not, then she does not reveal the location of the valuable rose.)
Valanthe Thursday February 27th, 2003 12:18:04 PM
Since Rigging is staying behind with the list, Valanthe runs out of the tavern and back towards the palace. Along the way she activates her invisibility ring. One can never be too careful.
Akerin Thursday February 27th, 2003 2:16:59 PM
On their way through the town, Akerin says to Ari, "Molasses. Fine. It's past midnight - taverns and stores would be the best places to look. Might find a blonde wig in a tavern, too. Or a house of ill repute," he says, and spits to the side. "Let's hit the taverns and the like, and see if we can find either object - or even a gold goblet."
Rigging d4+1=4 d4+1=3 Thursday February 27th, 2003 9:29:24 PM
Rigging looks for Redux and sighs, "Redux is already gone my love. I think it would best if I stayed, but wait a few moments and let me aid you." Rigging quickly casts 2 spells on his beloved. "The first will make you stronger. I doubt it will be necessary but you can never be too careful. The second will make you more agile.
OOC: Rigging cast Bull's Strength and Cat's Grace on Ashira. +4 to Strength score and +3 to dexterity score.
Redux Thursday February 27th, 2003 9:58:12 PM
Apparently invisible to Rigging, Redux steps forward. ;) "You know Rigging, I'd still be happy to take care of the list for you. If not, I guess I'll try and find Ashira. Don't like the idea of being all by myself." Redux manages a shakey smile, but it is obvious that he is concerned about bodily harm coming his way.
Rigging Friday February 28th, 2003 8:46:10 AM
Rigging jumps, grabbing his chest, and spins around. He whispers, "Redux! Is that you? You scared me!" The young mage recovers and says, "OK. You stay here with the list. I am going to catch up with Ashira."
Rigging hurries out of the bar calling for his wife to wait if she has left without him.
Ashira Friday February 28th, 2003 9:04:17 AM
The invisible half-elf waits patiently for her husband, relaying the location of the store to Rigging in whispered Elven (like I posted before). She continues to whisper in Elven, "Give Redux your ring so he can be invisible, and drink your invisibility potion that we got from the wedding. Let's go!" As soon as Rigging is invisible, Ashira runs as fast as she can towards the store.
Appolo Friday February 28th, 2003 4:07:21 PM
Appolo sprints off toward the palace with Bart following behind, he is looking for a golden Goblet and some molasses. He figures he should be able to find it there.
Bart Saturday March 1st, 2003 4:38:27 AM
"Appolo keep your eyes open for an gnoome too. We go to richer part of town, there we can surely find a gnoome," Bart suggests in his unique accent.
The List Updated (DM Donna) Monday March 3rd, 2003 8:25:12 AM
Smilin' Pete takes the Wildcards' list and makes his marks, handing the list back to Redux. It now reads:
1. a blonde wig 2. a barrel of molasses 3. a stuffed animal X 100 pts. 4. a gold goblet 5. a child's doll X 100 pts. 6. a gnome's tool set 7. a live snake X 100 pts. 8. BONUS ITEM WORTH 500 points: a blue rose
"There ya are--an' QUITE a whoppin' lead ya have there!" the bartender points out. "I think your group is gonna have a pretty good chance at knockin' the Coppersworth crew off their perch!"
"Place yer bets, people--place yer bets..!" yodels a nearby half-elf with a big voice and a bigger waistline. He is immediately mobbed by people betting for various teams and specific outcomes.
Please post precisely which item your specific PC is looking for and what kind of ideas they have for finding their particular object...also confirm whether your PC is alone or partnered up with someone, too, please.
Ashira (Bull's Strength, Cat's Grace, Invisible) in search of Blue Rose with Rigging Monday March 3rd, 2003 8:52:31 PM
Running as fast as her half-elf legs will take her with Rigging by her side, Ashira hopes and prays that they are able to make it to Minton's Apothecary Supply before anyone else thinks of the store.
Valanthe (Invisble) Monday March 3rd, 2003 10:29:53 PM
Valanthe heads for the palace knowing that her room there will grant her entrance. She knows there will be at least a golden goblet as well as a barrel of molases in the store room.
Appolo At the Palace Golden Goblet, Molasses,With Bart. d20+3=11 d20+3=12 d20+3=13 Monday March 3rd, 2003 10:58:32 PM
"Bart, find the the molasses. I'll search for the golden goblet. Let's search the kitchen and dining as well as the food storage area." Appolo then starts his search of the kitchen pantry and dining room.
OOC: I rolled three search rolls, one for each location. 11 12 13.
Redux d20+4=21 d20+4=18 d20=12 d20+6=25 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 12:03:10 AM
Redux rubs the ring now on his hand. He knows it is for invisibility but, in all the confusion he thinks he has the wrong one. 'If this one is connected to Val's and I activate it,' he thinks to himself, 'she'll be running along and become visible; that wouldn't be good. Let's wait a while and see if that is necessary; I think there's a scroll that'll do the job if I need it to.'
Redux takes a good look around him, turning slowly (spot=21, 18 -- didn't know how many to roll). He looks especially hard at patrons who might be blond (to try to see if they might be wearing a wig) and at the area around the bar (to see if there are any gold goblets on hand, sitting out in the open where no one sees them). If he sees any possibilities, he will approach and strike up a conversation with the person/barkeep as to confirm if they might be used for the Sword's list (diplomacy=14+4(forgot bonus)=18). If no possibilities are available, he will simply ask the bartender where a balcony might be found (given that there's a 2nd floor to the establishment) where he can sit and wait for his team. He'll purchase a bottle of wine to take with him.
To Talon: Take flight and circle the island, looking out for our friends; especially if they are giving a signal (spot=25).
Akerin the reluctant d20+1=15 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 3:10:35 AM
"Ari, are you even alive? Keep up, man!" Akerin makes a few inquiries as to where one might find a house of women - who stay up late, and don't mind company. If someone in this town responds to his line of questioning, the monk drags the befuddled Ari along. He lets it be known, once in the target area, that he is looking for "as many blondes as possible. Even blondes whose eyebrows are not blonde. I like wigs, if you know what I mean." He is not really sure he knows what he means, himself. [Diplomacy check, DC 15. He is not gifted with great natural charm, but he has cranked up more that he generally displays.]
Nevertheless, should he find, among the blondes, any who have access to a blonde wig ... he offers 30 gp for the use of the wig for the evening. He will try to return it by the next evening. If 30 is not adequate, he will negotiate upwards to 40, 50, 70 ... even 100 gp if necessary. More than that? Ari will have to chip in.
And if any complain that he said, 'as many blondes as possible,' he will give each 5 gp - up to the first ten. "No one I know could want more than ten," he says. What would his bishop say if he knew of this? He will NOT engage in any improper behavior with any of the women, even should they offer.
The moment he has the wig, the monk hides it under his shirt, and takes off running. "You'll have to keep up, Ari, 'cause I'm not slowing down." He runs in the middle of the streets, so that any who might try to impede progress will have to step away from the shadows and alleyways in order to get to him. He holds a thunderstone in one hand, and has a tanglefoot bag at the ready in the other. He has great endurance, so maintains a good and steady pace back to the tavern.
The Game is Afoot (DM Donna) d20+10=28 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 6:48:24 AM
Redux sees many different blonde heads in the tavern, but none of them look to be the result of fake hair pieces. Smilin' Pete eyes the mage and tells him that the Happy Harpy doesn't have outdoor balconies, but there's a set of doors over yonder (here the bartender points) and they do lead to a terraced outdoor area to one side of the tavern. (Once Redux goes through the indicated doors, he can see that the terrace has tables and seating for an additional 40 or so customers. He can find himself a seat in several different spots, though, as all of the tables aren't quite full.)
Akerin and Ari travel a mere three blocks before a sign advertising "The House of Woo-Woo" beckons to them... literally, since the sign is carved to resemble a winking, buxom human beauty with the additional animation of one of her fingers crooking repeatedly in an enticing fashion as she blows kisses.
It's quite a feat of magic, obviously--and VERY effective, too, as there is a steady stream of clientele in and out the doors.
Going inside, the monk is immediately greeted by a woman in a tight-bodiced gown who vaguely resembles the girl depicted on the sign, though she is older and not so well-endowed.
"Welcome to my House!" she says, fluttering her eyelashes at Akerin (and Ari, if he's along for the ride). "I'm Woo-Woo... what is your pleasure this night..?" Once Akerin lets her know what he is seeking, the woman gapes at him for a moment, then a rather canny look comes across her face.
"Ohhhh... I'll bet it's that stupid Scavenger Hunt thing, right?" she asks, then nods. "Yeah, you don't even have to say anything--I thought it was weird when old Able came in here and went right up to Trixie's room without giving me so much as a 'how-do-you-do'! Trixie's the... ah... specialist here with a wig assortment. She was with a customer, but I think she's done now. You just go ask her about the wig." The madame points Akerin over to where an exotically-made-up brunette is sitting, waiting for a customer.
Trixie, for her part, frowns when Akerin makes his proposition.
"I'd love to accommodate ye, sir," she says, "But Able busted in on me, grabbed my entire wig case, an' then just high-tailed it outta of the room. All's he left behind was a handful of gold coins and some words about a hunt or somethin'..."
At the Jack's palace, Appolo and Bart make their way towards the kitchen, intent on getting a goblet and/or that molasses... both of these two characters need to make a Spot check versus DC28 to notice the furtive figure leaving the area.
Valanthe should make the check, too, but since she's a bit behind the pair and invisible as well, the furtive figure isn't as careful once he reaches where she is located, and so the Spot check DC for her is only 23.
Beat the Spot check by 4 or more to recognize the sneaky individual as Blackjack of the Coppersworth Wildcards.
Ashira and Rigging make their way towards the location of Minton's... so far it doesn't appear that they are being followed.
Ari Tuesday March 4th, 2003 7:25:46 AM
Coming out of his reverie, "Do you have anyone here locally that you might get or make wigs from or for? Are there any playhouses around here?"
When Akerin and Ari are alone again Ari ponders to him, "Since you're throwing around gold and we've not been here that much. Is there anything in the rules that we can't bribe Pete about where everything is?"
Rigging (invisible) Tuesday March 4th, 2003 7:58:17 PM
Rigging sprints along side his wife, holding her hand so they don't become seperated. When they get to Minton's he will whisper, "Should we play it straight up or get sneaky? Might be tough to negotiate invisible," he adds.
OOC: I am on the road and I forgot my laptop. I will try to find computers to post with but won't be home until Wed. If I haven't posted by 8 pm est someone post for me please.
Valanthe d20+3=23 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 10:16:17 PM
Valanthe rushes into the palace searching for a goblet or anybody who may have one.
OOC: spot check 23 ::dances for joy::
AppoloAt the Palace Golden Goblet, Molasses,With Bart. d20+6=16 d20+3=18 d20+3=10 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 2:53:09 AM
Appolo doesn't spot anything and continues his search.
OOC:Spot Roll 16, Search rolls 18,10
Bart d20+3=4 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 5:57:48 AM
Bart enters the kitchen and looks for the door of the storeroom.
Ashira (Bull's Strength, Cat's Grace, Invisible) in search of Blue Rose with Rigging d20+9=13 d20+10=17 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 12:40:18 PM
The invisible half-elf runs down the street as she hold onto her husbands hand. She whispers as her feet pound the ground "I wonder if they're even going to be open. If they are, then maybe we should just lay down some gold. If it comes right down to it, I'm not willing to steal, but maybe we can come up with a creative trade." Once she arrives at Minton's, Ashira begins to search for the rose (Spot=13, Search=17).
Redux d20+4=12 d20+6=9 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 11:04:12 PM
Redux takes his wine and glass to the indicated outdoor area. He looks around the area to see who might be out their and what their business might be (especially members of other teams) (dc=12). He finds a safe looking spot to relax.
To Talon: Where are you at? Fly back down this street towards the palace. We are working now, so be sharp (dc=9). What's that? No, there is not a blond mouse on the list, that was a wig, they are not the same.
Akerin Thursday March 6th, 2003 12:55:11 AM
Akerin gives Trixie eight gold pieces for the information she shared. "Half is for you, and half for Woo-Woo. Can you describe Able?" If she does so, he gives her two more gold pieces, and he tries to put her description together with the crew members of the other teams that were there at the inn before the contest began.
He also waits to hear if Trixie answers Ari's question about local wigmakers.
If she identifies one in the area, he asks her for directions, then takes off with Ari to the wigmaker. If she does not, then he suggests, "Let's see if we can wrangle at least one blondish wig from the surplus Able carries," and sets off running back toward the tavern in an attempt to find the man with the box of wigs.
The Hunt Continues (DM Donna) Thursday March 6th, 2003 3:54:38 PM Ari & Akerin: "Able..?" Trixie echoes incredulously. "Why, ever'body knows Able--he's the head honcho of the Coppersworth Wildcards!" The working woman goes on to describe the man as 6'6" tall with a 200-pound athletic build who wears his black hair in a ponytail and has THE most intense blue eyes. Able appears to be in his early 20's, is dressed rather flamboyantly and usually totes a lute or guitar across his back.
"Oh, aye--there's a nice old stage just east of here by about two blocks..." Trixie says of Ari's inquiries as she banks her newly-acquired gold pieces by depositing them quickly within her bodice, "...can't miss it--it's a big, round building called 'The Indoor Ampee-Theater'...or something like that."
Akerin and Ari will have to choose to either chase after Able OR go to check out the Amphitheater, since the Happy Harpy lies in the completely opposite of the ultimate location of the Indoor Amphitheater.
Rigging & Ashira: Minton's is easily recognized by a hanging sign that declares it to be Safeport's Premiere Apothecary (Home of The Wold's Freshest Ingredients!) It looks like your typical medieval-styled shopfront with a square window of slightly-wavy glass on either side of a heavy wooden door.
The shop is dark (there is no way to easily Spot a blue rose from outside the store) and the door is locked...and the rest of the buildings on this side of the street are crowded together so that it is obvious that Rigging and Ashira must choose to either pick the lock on the shop door or look for a back way into Minton's in order to enter the shop.
Appolo, Bart & Valanthe: Val recognizes the rival Wildcard called Blackjack hurrying away from the area of the kitchen--he has a smug look on his face...but--more disturbingly--he has absolutely nothing in his hands.
If Blackjack wasn't here at the palace to take something for the Scavenger Hunt, then what was he sneaking around in the kitchen for..?
Appolo and Bart--who have entered the kitchen unawares--must each make a Reflex Save versus DC25. Failure means that they have walked into the boobytrap that Blackjack set on the door...a barrel of molasses that up-ends onto them from above followed by a pair of sacks that bust open and spill flour from one and rolled oats from the other..!
Redux: As Redux attempts to get his familiar to answer him, he sees a tall, athletic bard (human man with his black hair in a ponytail) carrying a large box towards the bar to where Smilin' Pete is. He puts the brass-bound case on the bar and removes a curly blonde wig from the box, showing it to the bartender.
"Great!" Smilin' Pete says with a nod. "Now...where's your list..?"
The wig-bearer looks stricken--he doesn't HAVE his team's list! He scowls at the laughter from the surrounding patrons, looks in the box, then departs, taking the blonde wig with him. Money exchanges hands, as it appears that some of the customers bet that somebody would try to turn in scavenger hunt items without remembering to include their team's list.
Rigging d20+8=23 Thursday March 6th, 2003 4:28:54 PM
Rigging slides a lock pick out from his boot and approaches the door. He inserts the pick and fiddles for a moment. As the door clicks open, he will whisper to his wife, "Look dear, the door is open. Let's take a quick look inside and see what we can find."
I forgot to post a DC for the lock, so I'll award you guys that you managed to pick this one. Ashira can try another Spot and/or Search check. --DM Donna
Akerin (Wiggy hunt) d20+1=19 Thursday March 6th, 2003 8:20:55 PM
Out on the street, Akerin quietly suggests to Ari that they head for the Amphitheater. "I wish to play fairly. If Able gets there first, so be it. We might still earn our 50 points fairly. Regarding getting the info from Pete, well, it may be a little late to ask him," he concludes with a smile.
Unless Ari objects, he races toward the new target. Once there, he will see if any are about. And explain the need [amazing, he's getting even more diplomatic - 19], and offer a rental fee, and, should success ensue, return with the wig to the Happy Harpy. If no one is about, he'll ask Ari for his further thoughts on how they might obtain it.
Ashira (Bull's Strength, Cat's Grace, Invisible, Detect Plants) in search of Blue Rose with Rigging d20+9=17 d20+10=17 Thursday March 6th, 2003 8:51:22 PM
The half-elf smiles invisibly as the door opens in front of her...what luck! She moves into the store quickly and begins murmuring the words to a spell (Detect Plants). She turns to her right and begins to concentrate on finding a blue rose. She prays that Alemi will bring them success quickly. As she does so, she quickly scans the room (Spot=17, Search=17).
Redux d20+4=15 Thursday March 6th, 2003 9:07:50 PM
'Humph,' Redux says with a smile and sipping his wine, noticing that it just got a lot sweeter and better. He sets down the wine and slides over to the box he just witnessed being brought in. 'Let's see what we have here.' With that he re-opens the box and searches its contents (dc=15), looking for a blond wig (or something close) or anything else on the list. If he finds another, he will confidently present his list and the item to Smilin' Pete. He says, "Too bad that poor chap was un-able to present you with the very first wig to be checked off," unaware of the pun he just uttered. Depending on its contents, Redux may have other items to present or not. He then pulls out a brown sack (type 1 bag of holding) and manages to, quite easily, store the entire box inside (for safe keeping, of course).
Valanthe (Invisible) d20=15 Thursday March 6th, 2003 9:26:18 PM
Valanthe watches the man try to make his escape. His smug looks riles her anger. Normally she would beat the man senseless - but physical violence is against the rules. With a devilish smile, Valanthe unleashes a psionic attack against Blackjack.
[OOC: Mind Thrust has a -8 DC modifier against non psionic individuals. I am betting that BlackJack gets caught flat footed which gives a bonus of +8 unless I am reading the chart wrong. I hope that I am right when put down, Will save DC 16 vs stun.]
Appolo d20+9=14 Friday March 7th, 2003 2:00:23 AM
As Appolo enters the kitchen he gets creamed by molasses and flour. He also gets knocked to the floor. When he gets up he is angry and cursing, "When I find out who did this, I'm going to kill the son of argh!!"
Ari Friday March 7th, 2003 7:43:52 AM
"The amphitheater is fine," answers Ari. "I don't think we really need to worry about the others unless they decide to jump us for some reason.
"I'm also thinking that if we get the chance to talk to other people that we might as well ask them whether they know where to find any of other items as we go. We don't know where we'll find some unanticipated help."
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