Here it comes (DMJK) d20+3=18 d20+10=13 Thursday February 27th, 2003 9:42:02 AM
Hobbes spell fails, and he shouts at the bartender. The bartender is not amused, "Who you think you are coming into my place and talking to me like that? I think I'll just let Groyle and his cronies throw you out."
Groyle throws his first punch. Lucky for Feng, the tubby guy has had a bit much to drink and lardo's fist swings through empty air.
Groyle's cronies spread out toward the rest of the group. One of them noting Bill's flight takes a magnificent leap straight up, catches the balcony railing, and vaults himself onto the balcony. He grins wickedly at the halfling and beckons him with a curving finger. Bill notes that this one looks tough, clearly tougher and smarter than Groyle. He's lean and muscular, and his clothes are loose fitting, just the thing for an unarmed fight. With the shaved head and earring Bill can't help think of Mr. Clean, whoever that is.
The other toughs move toward the rest of the group.
There's no sign of anyone looking like a wizard, so unless Woodcock is dressed like a merchant, then he's not here.
[We're in combat now. Post accordingly.]
Rond d20+9=27 d20+4=9 d3+2=4 Thursday February 27th, 2003 10:02:56 AM
Seeing the events unfold him like a bad b movie, Rond grumbles to himself about the futility of talking about Sontra.
Talking to the bartender, "I apologize for my companion's treatment. He doesn't seem to get about that much."
Talking to Groyle, "Obviously you have not been to a farm anytime recently. Seems you might want to go back to school and learn what a pig looks like. Plus you would know that it is not possible to do anything with a pig. Though if you were interested in one I would pity the pig."
If Rond can get to Groyle he will do his best to do two quick jabs. (AC 27, 9) for 4 points.
Renik (AC 25 (Expertise +2), 26 (Dodge) vs T8) d20+12=23 d20+16=32 d20+9=24 d6+4=9 d20+16=29 Thursday February 27th, 2003 11:35:11 AM
(OOC: Sorry folks, missed last post, Grrr)
Renik shakes his head as things turn nasty, and pulls a concealed sap from beneath his belt (see character sheet).
"So you ladies want to dance do you?" he smiles at the advancing thugs. "Well it would be my pleasure. You there sweetheart, yes you with the simian jaw and floorboard splinters in your knuckles, how about we have the first dance? You look like the sort of girl who knows how to show a man a good time!" (Bluff 23 to enrage his opponent, T8).
He stands his ground, then when his opponent gets within 10 feet of him he explodes into action (Readied Action).
With a diving roll he hurdles the table in front of him (Tumble 32), lashes out at the approaching thug (hits AC 24 for 9HP), then darts away, rolling back and away from the thug a full 20 feet (Tumble 29).
"Has anyone ever told you you're beautiful when you're angry?" he asks, beckoning his foe forward. "No, I didn't think so!"
Arien d20+10=26 Thursday February 27th, 2003 12:02:25 PM
Arien throws himself into a roll, tumbling right past the fat drunken brawler Groyle and next to Feng whom he casts Enlarge on. He smiles briefly as the paladin grows again to a towering nine and a half feet tall.
Feng (Enlarge) d20+14=27 d20+9=23 d3+6=9 d3+6=8 Thursday February 27th, 2003 12:13:11 PM
Feng looks down on the much smaller man. "You brought this upon yourself." Feng says right before he pounds Groyle with his now massive fists.
[hit ac 27 for 9 dmg and ac 23 for 8]
Bill Troublefinder (Flying, Blinking) d10=5 d6=5 Thursday February 27th, 2003 3:57:52 PM
Bill activates his ring of blinking as he glances in the direction of the balcony's latest arrival, "Hi! You sure can jump, mister!" He then sinks beneath the floorboards (taking a 5 hp nip if the thickness of the balcony floor is greater than 4'), and flies diagonally over to the rectangular table next the wall that the party's new opponents just vacated - the one closer to the door. He stands atop the table, straddling a half-empty mug of beer, and looks back up toward the balcony, to see how Mr. Clean is doing. He is ready to fly up and back should muscular-man-wearing-an-earring leap his way.
Hobbes Friday February 28th, 2003 5:08:13 AM
Hobbes sighs, "Sir, I didn't mean to direct anger at you. Time is of utmost importance to us that we find this Woodcock person. Not because we wish him harm but we wish to hire him."
Upon saying this, Hobbes sets a sack of coins on the bar under his hand.
"Now if you were to remember where we can find him before these ruffians get us thrown out for a barfight... and this money would be yours for your identification services."
Draax d20+12=30 d20+7=18 d3+4=6 d3+4=5 Friday February 28th, 2003 6:23:09 AM
Draax leans casually on the bar until one of the thugs comes within punching range and then lashes out with two quick jabs. (hit AC 30 for 6 dmg, AC 18 for 5 dmg)
JK Friday February 28th, 2003 10:12:35 AM
[ooc: I'll be posting a little late today. It's hard for me to run a combat from work. I'll delete this message when I make the post and send the map.]
Will it be bar map 2 or bar map 3 when you send it? I have bar map 1 and 2 after one round of combat?! Todd
Somebody call the cops (DMJK) [groyle's attacks] d20+12=31 d20+7=21 d3+5=6 d3+5=7 [thug 1] d20+9=27 d3+2=4 [thug 5] d20+8=13 [thug 2] d20+8=13 [thug 4] d20+13=19 d3+6=9 [thug 6] d20+16=34 d3+6=9 [thug 7] d20+4=12 Friday February 28th, 2003 3:56:13 PM
Groyle may have started it, but the party is going to finish it...
Rond comes to Feng's aid and punches Groyle right in the nose. As the big bully's hand comes up to his face for protection, Arien enlarges Feng, and the extra large paladin retaliates with a couple of pounding blows.
Groyle's fat jiggles from the impact, but he's not finished. He gets his dukes up and punches giganto-Feng twice, once in the face, and once where he really shouldn't have. [AC31,21: dmg6,7]
Meanwhile Renik spews a stream of insults at thuggie 8, and the man rushes the nimble rogue. He's ready to crush Renik, but he gets a lump on his head for his trouble as Renik performs a smash and dash.
Renik should have watched his flank a bit better though. Thuggie 1 comes at him from the side, and his large hairy knuckles unhinge the handsome thief's jaw [AC27:dmg4].
Thuggie 3 and Jared get into it near the doorway as Bill flies down from the balcony to taunt the high-jumping Mr. Clean. Mr. Clean clearly isn't amused and he dashes over to the table of patrons nearby, grabs one of their ale mugs and hurls it at Bill. Clearly the mug isn't his weapon of choice, and it crashes to the wall behind Bill. Bill stays unharmed but gets splashed with a healthy amount of ale. Mr. Clean definitely has some rage issues, and he spews of string of curses down from the balcony. The insult about Bill and his mother was particularly foul.
Thuggie 2 charges Draax and gets a black eye for his trouble. He's caught off guard and fails to connect with his own swing.
Thug 4 makes it to Arien and manhandles the poor mage with his neanderthal fists (AC19:dmg9).
Thug 6 flanks giganto-Feng, and he hits the paladin with a balled up fist that feels like a hammer. (AC34,dmg9)
Finally, thuggie 7 makes it around to Rond and tries to punch him, but his shot slices thin air. Rond notices that thuggie 7 is pretty scrawny compared to everyone else.
Meanwhile, Hobbes tries to have a conversation with the bartender who is shouting at the guy on the balcony about not throwing his good mugs around. Between insults he finally looks at the priest and delivers a frank answer, "Look buddy, I have no idea who this Woodcork fellow is."
Renik (AC 25 (Expertise +2), 26 (Dodge) vs T8) d20+16=29 d20+11=30 4d6(5+3+5+3)+4=20 Friday February 28th, 2003 5:53:19 PM
Renik grits his teeth as the Thug's fist slams into his jaw. "Getting jealous pumpkin? Don't worry, there's plenty to go around" he grins, as he backflips away from the two approaching louts (T1 & T8) (Tumble 29).
His gymnastic retreat leaves him directly behind the meathead pounding on Feng (T6), and in a position to launch a sucker punch (Flank, Sneak Attack +3d6). His blow is aimed right at the thug's unprotected neck, and has immense force behind it (Hits AC 30 (-2 on attack for Expertise, +2 for flank), 20 HP).
Arien d20+10=29 Saturday March 1st, 2003 4:03:29 AM
Arien launches himself into another roll, this time coming up behind Rond. Arien turns about and enlarges Rond as well.
Bill Troublefinder (Flying, Blinking) d20+8=26 Sunday March 2nd, 2003 1:03:33 AM
"What great dignity you reveal," Bill tells the raging man on the balcony, his tenor voice ringing clear. As he speaks he flies slowly upward toward the rafters of the tavern until he is above the table near the center of the room [the one behind T1 & T8], and in line with the door. "Folks," he says, addressing the patrons at the tables below. "Please move to a safe corner. Or perhaps beneath the balcony would be prudent." He readdresses himself to Mr. Clean. "Would you like to settle down? And explain why you attack me?" As he says this, he uses telempathic projection on Mr. Clean, so as to encourage him to let go his rage. [Will save vs. DC 26, or calm down somewhat]
OOC from Bill (Kim) to everyone else in the party (when you have a minute) - check out Bill's list in the Catacombs Sunday March 2nd, 2003 4:55:02 AM [OOC: Please take a look at what Bill is planning to buy in the Catacombs. He intends to share quite a bit with the rest of the party, as well as to use some for himself. -Kim]
Wow! I pity the poor Catacombs staffer! Way to go Kim! - Carl
I'm the poor catacombs staffer. Incidentally, I'm planning to go through the list tonight. -jk
Hobbes Sunday March 2nd, 2003 7:09:16 AM
Hobbes looks towards the heavens for strength in toleration.
"Very well," he says as he counts out 5 go and places it before the bartender. "This should cover any damage caused because of my friends. Get the rest from the ones who started it."
We turns and meanders out of the bar through the clearest route, not stopping or looking at any of the fighters. He stops at the weapons check rack to retrieve his scythe.
"Yes, that one, the big black one. I'm not fighting, don't worry. I'm leaving."
He nods his head to the man and exits the bar.
Feng (enlarge) d20+6=19 Sunday March 2nd, 2003 10:50:25 AM
Irritated at the unprovoked assault Feng smashes a nearby table taking the leg as a club. This fat human and his friends seemed to enjoy starting fights when no weapons were allowed. Feng grew up around orcs. He will educate the portly man in how to win a bar fight.
Draax d20+12=17 d20+7=18 d3+4=5 d3+4=6 Sunday March 2nd, 2003 1:10:53 PM
Draax keeps hands high and balances on the tips of his toes as he tries to deliver a couple of more jabs to T2's face. (hits AC 17 for 5 dmg, AC 18 for 6 dmg)
Rond d20+9=23 d20+4=23 d3+2=4 d3+2=5 Monday March 3rd, 2003 2:02:54 AM
Turning towards the T7 Rond begins the punching match with him, knowing that Feng should have things relatively well in hand. He keeps to himself that the enlarge might be an unfair advantage if this tactic of the bully is somehow meant to judge the group.
Moving quickly in he jabs twice at T7. (AC 23 for 9 points of dam.)
Boys, you're getting out of control. (DMJK) [thug 8 attk] d20+13=33 [T8 crit roll] d20+13=32 [t8 dmg] d3+6=9 d3+6=7 [Groyle aao] d20+12=16 [t6aao] d20+16=20 d3+6=9 [T2]d20+8=14 d20+3=5 [T4] d20+13=17 d20+8=16 d3+6=7 d3+6=7 [T6] d20+16=30 d20+11=16 d20+6=12 d3+6=7 [groyle] d20+12=29 d20+7=19 d3+5=7 d3+5=7 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 10:54:24 AM
Renik springs into action and pops thug #6 in the back of the head.
Arien rolls and enlarges Rond.
Bill flies about the room and encourages the patrons to move out of the center of the room. They needed little encouragment after the breaking mug and all are out of the way. Bill tries to calm Mr Clean (T5) down. The trick works. The tough thug calms down and calls out to Bill, "I don't have a problem. It's just a bit of sport." He's not venting, but he's not ready to back down from the fight. He runs down the stairs and toward the main fight. He's headed for Feng.
Hobbes heads over to get his scimitar, but before he can get it back, thug 8 moves away from Renik, comes over, and punches Hobbes in the middle of the back. He hits hard too (16dmg).
Feng moves to fetch a table leg and provokes attacks of opportunity from Groyle and thug 6. Groyle misses, but thug 6 gets a blow in (9 dmg). The now gigantic half-orc has little trouble smashing up the table and getting himself a club.
The bartender is clearly not happy about the damaged table and starts looking under the bar for something.
Draax lands two jabs on thug 2 and bloodies the man's nose. The man tries to retaliate but can't see through the pain well enough to land a blow.
Enlarged Rond jabs at Thug 7. He hits the little man hard enough to knock him down, and the guy lies on the floor whimpering.
Thug 1 turns and calls up at Bill, "Come on down and fight unless you're chicken!"
Thug 3 and Jared continue to duke it out near the entrance.
Thug 4 catches Arien rolling around on the floor and kicks the caster twice [14 dmg].
Thug 6 starts to ignore Renik and go after Feng, but Mr Clean (T5) coming down the stairs shouts out, "That big one is mine!" And Thug 6 rounds on Renik in a full attack. He only lands one glancing blow on the wiry thief, but it's a powerful enough shot that Renik can well imagine the puffy bruise that will follow (7dmg).
Groyle listen to Thug 5 too and rounds on Rond with a full attack. He lands two solid blows on his extra big target, and Rond feels a stab of pain in his kidney (14dmg).
It's the party's turn.
[sorry about missing yesterday -jk]
JK Tuesday March 4th, 2003 11:03:04 AM
I put the map on the web: bar fight map #4
Bill Troublefinder 5d4(2+1+1+1+4)=9 d20+7=14 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 1:17:40 PM
"Ah, sport. Okay! You do it your way, and I mine." And as the thug beneath him questions his courage, Bill responds by dropping down to a level just a little above his head, but between the two tables (i.e., back a bit toward the door). "Hear me cluck!" he answers T1. And he lets forth a sonic blast - catching T1, T5, T2, and there's a chance that Draax will be caught in the blast, as well, for 9 hp sonic damage - Reflex save for half vs. DC 14. He then rises five feet higher in the air.
Renik: HP 46, AC 28 d20+12=25 d20+8=18 4d6(2+6+2+1)+4=15 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 6:11:48 PM
"What was that for?!" cries the rogue, staggering back and clutching his cheek, staring at T6 in amazement. "I'm on your side you idiot!"
(Bluff 25 (feint), to deny opponent Dex bonus to AC)
He waits for that fractional second of hesitation in his opponent before whipping the sap he has palmed into his grip and up towards the thug's exposed chin.
(AC 18 for 15 HP)
"Oops! Sorry partner!"
Throughout this charade he carefully maintains just the correct distance from those hairy knuckled fists (Expertise +5 to AC).
Draax d20+5=20 d20+12=16 d20+7=11 d3+4=6 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 6:58:44 PM
Draax smiles at his opponent and dances around him. He throws little feints and is delighted as he sees the thug jerk his head away at from each one. Draax starts to throw a couple of real jabs into the man's face, when out of corner of his eye he spots Bill opening his month. Not sure exactly what happening, but he know well enough to get out of the way when Bill has that look in his eye. He moves with the jab and gets just far enough out of the way to catch the tail end of the blast (saved for half).
He raises one of his eye brows and gives Bill a hard look before turning his attention back to his opponent, not even sure if he hit the guy. (Hits AC 16 for 6 dmg)
Feng (enlarge) d20+13=32 d20+8=15 d6+6=9 d6+6=10 Tuesday March 4th, 2003 10:11:06 PM
Feng takes his club and smashes Groyle on the head. His companions may display fancy moves, but that wasn't Feng's style. He's more of the smash you in the head kind of guy.
[hit ac 32 for 9 and ac 15 for 10]
Rond (enlarge) AC 16 HP 65 d20+9=13 d20+4=7 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 2:49:58 AM
Hoping that this doesn't take too much longer and that there isn't that much damage to the bar. Rond resigns himself to the fact that nothing in life is ever easy. He then does his best to take his frustration out on Groyle. His frustration builds when the ugly pain in the butt won't stay still to receive his blessing.
(ooc how much enlargement so I can figure out strength enhancement, if there is any?!)
Hobbes Wednesday March 5th, 2003 6:23:04 AM
Hobbes clenches his teeth as he is pounded from behind. He growls and steps to the Bartender with the weapons.
"I would like my scythe please. I wish to leave."
[Hobbes enters total defense = +4 to AC]
Upon receiving the scythe he backs out the door with it saying to the thug. "If you wish to complicate matters, sir, I will be out here. You hit an unarmed man without provocation. Remember your soul is judged for acts such as these. Right now Gargul has decided where to place you."
DMJK [T1save] d20+2=15 [T2save]d20+2=16 [t6save]d20+10=19 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 9:48:54 AM
The party dishes out their damage and then...
Groyle drops flat to the ground when the giant Feng clubs him. Blood pours out his mouth and eyes.
Thug 7 bends down and checks his buddy and cries out, "He's dead!"
The rest of the opponents scatter and there is a cacophony of people for the town guard. Mr. Clean is the last to make it out the door and offers one parting quip, "We'll meet you all again later."
The bartender comes up from behind the counter with a club in his hand. He motions it at Feng, "You my friend are going to wait for the police. I can overlook a bit of vandalism but not murder."
The other bar patrons are quick to extract themselves and cries of murder echo out in the streets.
Hobbes manages to get his scimitar back about the time a wizard walks into the bar and looks around with a sour frown on his face.
Bill Troublefinder d8+5=7 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 2:17:18 PM
Bill flies to the fallen bully when his friend proclaims him dead. From his pocket he pulls a potion of cure light wounds [note: listed on CS as 'potion of healing 1d8+5'], and pours it down the man's throat, healing 7 hp of damage, and stabilizing him, if there is any chance of saving him. He calls out, "Hobbes! Somebody! Can he be revived?"
Renik d20+12=18 Wednesday March 5th, 2003 5:56:01 PM
Renik, so gleeful in the throes of lighthearted battle one minute, is seized by icy fear the next. Should they run? But he looks at the paladin and thinks it unlikely that the half orc will leave. Whichever way you look at it, things have taken a serious turn for the worse.
He moves to the barkeep, hiding his sap as he does so, and says, "Now then sir, let's not be too hasty. We don't know the man is dead yet, and even if he is, it was plainly self defense. You saw how they attacked us without provocation, we acted to defend ourselves and this was the tragic outcome. A regretable accident, certainly, but hardly murder. By all means call on the guard, but at least tell them the facts as they occurred."
Renik does his best to put a positive spin on events, hoping to influence the barkeep's account to the authorities (Bluff 18).
Feng (enlarge) Wednesday March 5th, 2003 7:35:17 PM
Feng drops the bloodied table leg to the ground. "You can put away your club. If I wanted to leave you could not stop me. I shall wait for the authorities." Feng feels some guilt over Groyle's death, but not much. Groyle showed himself to be a vile person who would prey on those weaker and different than he was. Feng feels terrible about his own failure -- his lack of self control and the ease he gave in to his orc herritage. The circumstances were not exactly clear. Groyle and his men picked a fight and knew very well what could happen. To Feng that is all irrelevant. That had nothing to do with his own failure.
Draax Wednesday March 5th, 2003 8:04:28 PM
Hearing the cry, Draax quickly turns around and is somewhat relieved that it is not one of his companions on the floor. Then he realizes the situation they are in. He berates himself for his initial desire to leave the scene and hopes that they will not regret staying to face the music. Listening to the bartender's comments does not make him feel any better.
Draax heads toward the weapon rack to retrieve his weapons when he spots the wizard by the door. Going over to the man, Draax says, "Are you Nyrashal Woodcock?" If the man identifies himself as the wizard the group is looking for Draax will say the following, "A messenger from Gordo's Transport say to meet you here. There has been a little trouble, but I still would like to negotiate a lift to-and-from the Scab for me and my friend." He waits for the wizard's comments and hopes the wizard is not scared off by the situation.
Rond d20=4 Thursday March 6th, 2003 12:07:16 AM
Coming down from a battle high, Rond dives down to use his healing skills to assist. Though he seems to be at a loss as to what afflicts the man.
Hobbes d20+5=21 Thursday March 6th, 2003 4:00:23 AM
Hobbes backs to the door and backs into a person instead. He turns around quickly.
"Oh....OH! Hello, you must be---" Then he is interrupted by Bill and sighs. "Coming!"
He turns quickly to the wizard at the door, "Wait right there, please good sir. We are in need of your services."
He hastens over to find Rond fumbling with that body. He pauses for a second then bends over and tries to stop the bleeding from the man, "Rond, erm... his problem is that he's losing large amounts of blood from this hole in his head."
[Heal Check 21 to stabilize]
Deader than a doornail (DMJK) Thursday March 6th, 2003 8:56:06 AM
Despite the best efforts of Bill, Rond, and Hobbes, the man is dead. It's quite clear what happened. Feng hit him in the back of the head after he had turned his back on the paladin to engage Rond, and the blow crushed his skull.
Feng drops the bloodied club to the floor and advises the bartender to do the same. The bartender nearly laughs outloud when Feng says the man wouldn't be able to stop him. "That's a bold statement."
Renik tries to fast talk the bartender, and Draax meets with the man who does in fact identify himself as Nyrashal Woodcock.
Woodcock replies, "I've encountered Groyle and his cronies before, and his death doesn't particularly bother me. However, I will not do business with criminals. I will sit over here and wait for the town guard. If they clear you, we may do business." He goes and takes a seat on the other side of the room.
After a minute or two, two members of the town guard walk in. One walks over to the body and one heads to the bartender. "Let's hear what happened."
The Bartender's Account (DMJK) Thursday March 6th, 2003 9:33:44 AM
"Well Groyle here," he points at the body, "picked a fight with that giant half orc there. Then Drummond got his whole crew entangled with that bloke's friends." He points out the entire party.
"They were fighting, fists only save for 1 mug that Drummond threw at the halfling. Then the half orc upturned one of my tables and ripped the leg off. While he was ripping the leg off, I ducked down behind the bar to get my own club. When I came back up, Groyle had turned and started fighting that other tall fellow there. Then the half-orc clubbed Groyle in the back of the head when he wasn't looking. Groyle fell over and that little runt that follows Drummond around... Parcheck, I think, called out that Groyle'd been killed, and Drummond's gang and most of the other patrons scattered." The guard nods a few times as he listens, and the other one waits to hear the party's account.
Renik Thursday March 6th, 2003 5:18:20 PM
Seeing the law enter, the rogue quietens down. He walks to Feng's side, and claps him on the shoulder (or as near to the shoulder as he can reach). "Don't blame yourself, big guy. Those creeps were looking for trouble, and couldn't handle it when they found it. It was just a tragic accident, and I'm sure it will be cleared up soon. Why don't you take a seat?"
He looks to his companions to explain matters to the law.
Draax Thursday March 6th, 2003 6:31:03 PM
Draax frowns at Woodcock's comments, but after thinking about it for a second he nods his head in understanding. "That seems reasonable, hopefully this unfortunate incident will be resolved soon."
Draax goes over to hear what is being said to the town guard. He stands off to the side not offering any comments, but will answer questions if he is asked.
Bill offers his testimony (Fly; stopped Blinking) d20+18=22 Thursday March 6th, 2003 7:44:08 PM
Bill gets up from where he was kneeling, holding the now-empty vial of the healing potion. His countenance shows sorrow.
"Sirs, we entered this establishment. I went looking for a table - it was pretty full in here up until a minute or so ago. Found one over there," he says, indicating the corner table. "I heard a fellow back by the bar who raised his voice say," and, changing his voice so as to roughly approximate that of Groyle in intonation, he quotes, "'What'd ya do that for? Probably cause your mother was a pig! Where you get a nose like that anyway, Piggy?'" [Autohypnosis 22 to recall what he heard.]
Bill pulls out a piece of paper and a pen and starts sketching as he talks. "So, I turn around and this fellow who now lies on the ground gave my friend here, Feng, a big shove in the chest. Well, Feng doesn't do anything back to him. So then, this man - you say his name is Groyle?" he asks the barkeep. "OK, Groyle - we've never seen him before in our lives, by the way, takes some swings at Feng. Meanwhile, I notice a bunch of men get up from the table over there," and he points to the middle two rectangular tables next the wall, "and start heading this way, fists clenched. Mind you, we hadn't done a thing to any of these people. Well, I decide to head up to the balcony, to get a better picture on things.
"I get there, and another fellow, shaved head and an earring," and here he shows the town guard his quick sketch of Drummond, showing his fists clenched, a mean smile on his face, and a little sparkle coming off his earring, "he just launches himself into the air, grabs the railing, and lands on the balcony over yonder. He wants to fight me. He waves his finger at me. Well, sirs, I don't want to hurt him, and certainly don't want the patrons up there to get hurt, so I fly over to the table those guys left, and look back up to see what Mr. Earring was going to do. He cusses up a storm, throws a mug of beer he steals from a couple of people sitting up there, and says things about my mother that let me know that he really has never met her before, because she just would never even think of doing the bad things he said. It makes me feel sorry for him, because maybe he had a bad time growing up.
"I fly up to there next - while all of these guys are attacking my friends, and I suggest to the patrons who are not joining in the fracas that they might want to move to a safer corner or something. I was worried some of them might get hurt. Anyway, I ask the earring man if he won't just settle down, and why is he attacking me?"
Bill scratches his head, showing his bewilderment at such comportment. "Well, my father used to tell me that soft words can turn away wrath. This guy, who seems to have a lot of wrath, did seem to calm down a teensy bit, and he said, 'I don't have a problem. It's just a bit of sport.' But then he ran down the stairs to try to gang up on Feng. What kind of sport is that, I wonder.
"Meanwhile, Groyle and another man are ganging up on Feng, who I see is leaning over a table. One of the guys punches him in the kidney while his back is turned, but Groyle misses him that time. And another goon calls up to me, asking if I'm chicken. I think that is funny, so I come down a bit, and make a real big sound, like I was a monster rooster. You should've seen the guy's hair fly back a bit at that. I mean, who are these guys?
"My friend Arien is knocked to the ground, and they start kicking him. I'm about ready to suggest we all just stop this. My friends are getting beat up, and are just trying to protect themselves. Groyle hits my friend Rond from behind right in the kidneys while another one gangs up on him. Then Feng has enough of Groyle and his gang, and decides to knock him out before he causes more damage. But I guess the fellow's skull wasn't as thick as it seemed. We tried to heal him up after he fell down, but he was too far gone."
Just as it looks like he is done with his testimony, the halfling holds up his finger and says, "Oh, and Mr. Earring says on his way out - they all decided to clear out before you gentlemen arrived, rather than to remain here as we have chosen to do - huh, talk about who's chicken - and he says, 'We'll meet you all again later.' What? For more so-called 'sport'? How do we file charges against these men? We did not come here looking for trouble."
Feng (Enlarge) Thursday March 6th, 2003 9:33:31 PM
Feng stands still and stays quiet as Bill recounts the events. He would accept whatever decision was made, regardless of the consequences. He did not know the laws here or how severe such a crime could be. Even if he was sentenced to death, he would accept it. He serves the gods and all that is good in the wold. He cannot hold himself above what he preaches.
Hobbes Friday March 7th, 2003 6:42:01 AM
Hobbes places the head of the hulking man gently back on the ground and closes his eyes.
"Oh great Gargul, take this thy spirit, a man whose time has come to greet you into thy wisdom and caring and transport him to his final home."
He raises his holy symbol aloft and sprinkles a few drops of the holy water on the brute, then rises.
"I do not envy him the place Gargul is taking him, but then he chose both the time and the place of his departure."
He begins quietly walking over to the the bar.
"Sir?" he inquires of the barman, "Might you have a sink with which I could rinse off my hands?"
Rond Friday March 7th, 2003 7:40:07 AM
Rond lets Bill fill the area with his words. Rond fills in where he can but he doesn't worry about Bill mising much. Bill has a knack for that. Rond will keep an eye on the bar keep and the surrounding area just to watch things as Bill recites his story.
The guards (DMJK) Friday March 7th, 2003 11:33:43 AM
The guard talking to Bill nods along at first, but he ends up staring at the little halfling who doesn't seem to ever stop talking.
Finally, he stops and the guards compare notes and the one talking to the bartender turns to the group and specifically to Feng. "I take it that none of you is disputing the fact that this man here," he points to Feng, "killed that man there." He points at the body.
"I just have a few more questions. First, did any of you, especially Feng here, ever feel that your life or the life of your companions was in danger from this bar fight? Second, did any of these ruffians use weapons? And the last question is for Feng alone, why exactly did you decide to club Groyle here?"
Bill Troublefinder (Flying - but standing on the ground) Friday March 7th, 2003 12:28:09 PM
"Yes, I thought that the lives of my friends were definitely at risk," answers Bill succinctly.
Draax Friday March 7th, 2003 8:18:21 PM
Draax gives the question some thought and then answers, "Yes, I thought our lives were in danger, only because we had no idea who these men were and because of how quickly they came at us. We are new to the city and do not know its customs, but in most places I have been, it is very unusual for a group of men to attack you as soon as you enter a place if they do not wish to do you harm. At first I thought the unfortunate man was a big mouth who was trying to impress his friends, but when his friends came at each of us, the next thing that entered my mind was that this is an ambush. There was no way to know what their intentions were. Were they trying to kill us or just beat us to a pulp? So to answer your question again, yes I thought our lives were in danger."
Renik Sunday March 9th, 2003 5:45:21 AM
The rogue nods vigorously. "I'll say! A six foot bruiser comes at you without provocation, and is followed up by a gang of his friends, I'd say it's time to defend yourself. We had no idea who they were or why they were attacking. We all sought to defend ourselves, and in the process one of the attackers died. It's unfortunate, but the responsibility lies ultimately with the instigators of the attack.
"Now I myself didn't see any weapons, though that doesn't mean there were none. Things happened pretty fast."
Bill Troublefinder Sunday March 9th, 2003 5:33:36 PM
"Oh, yeah - the earring guy tried to mug me. I mean, threw the mug at me," Bill adds, helpfully. "One of those tavern-type weapons, y'know."
Arien Sunday March 9th, 2003 9:36:25 PM
Rubbing a quickly forming bruise Arien grimaces and sits down nearby, taking a moment to catch his breath. When asked the questions Arien responds, "You don't need weapons to be lethal, I could've easily ended the fight myself. However, I decided to enlarge my friends here to intimidate the thugs and maybe scare them off. I believe that Feng did not intend to kill the man but merely knock him unconcious as to end the fight then and there. As for feeling if any of our lives were in danger, you can die from tripping on a stone, you can die from the shallowest of cuts, you can die from a single well aimed punch. So do I feel our lives were in danger? Yes."
Hobbes d20+4=16 Monday March 10th, 2003 3:03:41 AM
Hobbes tidies his hands, then walks slowly toward the guard, "My statement, sir, if I may."
He turns to his companions, "Could I have some assistance taking off the upper part of this armor?"
Hobbes shudders as the breastplate and backplate come off, revealing quite a wound there on his backside.
"Sir guard, this wound I did not give to myself. I was attempting to walk from the bar to the weaponcheck bar to retrieve my weapon and leave. As I crossed the room I was hit with full force from behind causing the quite large wound you see on my back."
Hobbes turns slowly with his back to the guard, still wincing from the pain, then reveals the large dent in his armor as well.
"A wound of that size can only be caused by quite a force, either from weapon or by enormous amounts of strength, probably magically enhanced. And it was caused by one of the deceased's friends in much the same manner that the deceased walked up to Feng and began assaulting him. We were fighting for our life, sir. Barfight or not, this damage was real. And all because we came here seeking THAT gentleman's aid (he points to Woodcock) to help us achieve a goal for the good of the whole nation."
[Diplo Check 16]
Rond Monday March 10th, 2003 6:22:10 AM
When asked by the Guard Rond comments, "Me personally? I don't think we'd had enough time to assess that. But like has been pointed out we're new in town. We don't normally get attacked the first thing when we get in town. Bad for our health." Rond smiles with that comment, "It doesn't help that we were made to believe like we'd get no help from anyone, since it's his word," and he indicates the bartender, "that Groyle's related to the owner, and evidently he's done this to anyone he chooses to."
Bill Troublefinder Monday March 10th, 2003 1:17:15 PM
At Hobbes' decision to make the man who appears to be Woodcock a topic of the conversation, then to claim that what they are aiming to do is for the benefit of the whole nation, Bill inwardly winces. Telepathically, and via William the psicrystal, he tells his friends, 'No, don't tell them about the dragon. It will not be to our benefit if you start talking about the dragon, or Hororot. And what if they ask which nation - this city moved, remember? Let's not make this a political hoo-ha.'
Then telepathically, to Feng alone, he suggests, 'Tell them you weren't used to the added strength the extra size gave you, big guy.'
Waiting (DMJK) Monday March 10th, 2003 3:10:51 PM
The guards note everyone's responses with what appears to be approval, but they're still waiting for Feng to speak. After all, he played the big part here this afternoon.
Feng (Enlarge) Monday March 10th, 2003 7:57:51 PM
Feng glances at Bill and shakes his head negatively.
"Sir I did nothing to provoke such an attack. During the fight, I did not fear for my life. My soul is pure and I am ready for death whenever it shall take me. However the threat was genuine, hence the magical enhancement. I might not have feared for my own life, but I feared for the lives of my companions. The punches I took were extremely hard, even through my armor. I didn't want to give them an opportunity to hit Bill or anybody else not prepared for such a blow."
All right, move along (DMJK) Tuesday March 11th, 2003 10:17:51 AM
The guard nods and writes it all down while his buddy speaks up, "All right, the thing you adventurer types got to figure out is that you can't go around killing people even if they might deserve it. Getting punched in the eye three or even five or six times doesn't rate getting your skull fractured with a table leg. I doubt Groyle or his buddies thought anyone would end up dead even though they probably expected a missing tooth or two, a few black eyes, and maybe even a broken arm or leg. And if you guys go around dressed up like you're looking for a fight, what do you really expect? What kind of normal person walks around wearing armor and flaunting so much wealth? You're a target for any down and out local that wants to make a name for himself. Knocking out this tough guy here would have made Groyle a local hero for at least a year. Well, he's not much of a hero now is he?"
The guard's starting to get red in the face, and he pauses for breath for a second before he starts up again, "I have some work to do. I get to go convince Groyle's wife that she and little Evan are better off without him. He drank most of his earnings away anyway and didn't do much to support them. He was a real jerk, but he deserved better than having his brains beat out in a bar. So while I personally hope that you all rot in hell, the law of this magnificent city is pretty clear about it. They started the fight, and it was self defense.... You're all such heroes. I bet your mothers are proud." The guard turns and storms out.
His friend smiles sheepishly and says, "Have a nice day." Then he follows his buddy.
The bartender stares at the dead body on his floor wondering when someone will come take care of it. He mutters something about this all being really bad for business and heads into the backroom to look for something to clean up with.
Woodcock is still sitting in the corner with a rather bemused look on his face.
Bill Troublefinder Tuesday March 11th, 2003 2:37:16 PM
Just before the second guard leaves with his anemic farewell, Bill says, "Wait just a second." He takes off and reaches into his backpack. In a moment he withdraws a pouch, filled with 25 gold pieces.
"Sir, you can let on that you and the other guards took a collection, or somethin'. But this is for Groyle's wife and son, Evan. It's not much at all, I know, but it's a start. And, just for clarity's sake, I have ways of seeing whether you give them the money or not. I'm not worried, though - you seem the honest sort. Give it to them quietly. The whole neighborhood doesn't have to know. I will see what I can do to help them out more in the near future, but don't tell them that. I might die before I can do anything." He hands him an additional six gold pieces. "This is for the trouble you and your partner had to take. I hope the balance of your day is better, sir."
He turns to his friends, and looks sadly around the area of the fight. "We'll want to see to healing up a bit, I think."
Since the barkeep is out back, Bill pulls out of his pocket a wand and invokes prestidigitation to quickly clean up the blood-soaked area around Groyle's head. Then he approaches the barkeep, once he returns, and asks, "Sir, what do we owe you for the table, and anything else?"
Rond Tuesday March 11th, 2003 2:58:06 PM
Rond listens to the guard as he makes his judgement call to the group. Hearing the guard's pronouncement about how wealthy they look Rond's eyebrows shoot up in surprise. Rond begins to wonder whether is life as a uncover agent might come back and haunt him as he might have to learn to hide that he doesn't belong to the town. Just so that he can enter town without anyone making snap judgments about him.
Rond then begins to wonder about the quality of city life if Groyle could ever be considered a hero. With some of the company that Rond has met and been with he wonders what the guard considers a hero.
What little bit of happiness Rond can muster comes when Bill offers some loose change to the family of Groyle's.
Not feeling very heroic when all is said and done, Rond looks to Woodcock to see if he'll talk with the group now.
Renik Wednesday March 12th, 2003 2:11:59 AM
Mentally sticking his tongue out at the retreating backs of the law, Renik backflips out of the chair he had sat in, and heads to the bar. "Sir, a bottle of Aisildurian red if you please," he smiles smoothly, and then sidles over to Woodcock.
"Well, apologies for all the excitement, friend. Seems some of the local goons were just a little too confident in their abilities.
"So, how about we get down to business. I take it Gordo has indicated where we need to go? If not we have a map. What we need to know is how much it will take to get us there and then back, and a risk assessment for the journey. And of course any additional advice you have would be welcome. Now then, let me offer you a drink."
Arien Wednesday March 12th, 2003 3:42:21 AM
Arien ignores the first guard's tirade and waits until he leaves before saying. "He was a drunken bully whose attitude couldn't match his abilities. Sooner or later he would've picked a fight with the wrong group and a lot more people would've been hurt, probably killed. While I don't consider his death to be good thing I doubt many people will miss him."
Hobbes Wednesday March 12th, 2003 5:21:26 AM
Hobbes shakes his head as the guards leave through the door.
"They do not understand. A pity. When it is their time they will still blame others, when everyone answers Gargul's call when they wish. It is up to him whether he will take them." He turns and slowly makes his way over to Woodcock and gently sits in a chair opposite him.
"Now, as I was saying, good sir," he says politely, "We wish to hire you."
Woodcock (DMJK) Wednesday March 12th, 2003 9:53:09 AM
Woodcock dismisses the incident with Groyle with a wave of his hand, but he graciously accepts a glass of wine from Renik - incidentally, the bottle cost Renik 3 gold.
He says, "Gordo showed me your map. I'll be able to put you down within a few miles of where you want to go. It's better than you're likely to find someone else willing to do. People do not routinely go to the Scab because it's freaking dangerous. There are giants, winter wolves, griffons, wyverns, rock tigers, and worse all over the place. I've seen two different dragons flying near the southern coast too. I think it should cost you at least 1,000 gold, but Gordo's limit is 300. I value his brokerage service, so that's all I will charge.
"As for the return trip, if I pick you up in the same location at a specified time, the return trip will cost the same. But if I have to wait around in the Scab, then the price could escalate pretty quickly. If there's a pack of giants on your tail, or if I have to transport something extra back, then your price will increase.
"I also have one other condition on taking you besides the price. The thing that concerns me most is that I have business in the area, and I'm afraid that whatever your gang is there to do might louse up my affairs. So, I'd like to hear why you want to go to this particular area in the Scab."
Bill Troublefinder (Flying, feet on the ground) Wednesday March 12th, 2003 1:34:24 PM
Bill joins Rond, Renik, Hobbes & Woodcock as plans are discussed. He catches up on what's been said. "Well, sir, from what you've said, it does not sound as though what we intend to do should impinge on your business activities. We need to help an old man by picking up something taken from him a while back. We don't have any plans to deal with giants or the like. We'll be doing a bit of mountain climbing.
"If you could tell us the types of business deals you're involved with, or let us know anything in particular you'd like for us to watch out for or avoid, I'm sure we can come to some agreement.
"You don't suppose there's a more secure place to discuss matters, do you?"
Woodcock (DMJK) Wednesday March 12th, 2003 3:35:29 PM
Woodcock starts to laugh at Bill, "I'm not suggesting that you want to meet giants. I'm saying that if you go to the part of the Scab, you WILL fight giants or you'll at least hide from them."
The mage looks a bit testy as Bill tries to find out about his business, and he looks like he's about to tell the halfling that he can find another mage then Bill bursts in about finding a more secure location.
"More secure? What for? What kind of trouble are you mixed up in? I'm just teleporting you. I expect to find nasty things in the Scab, but not here at home. If somebody's going to shoot arrows at me for this from a rooftop, then you can find someone else!"
He starts to get up.
Hobbes d20+4=16 Wednesday March 12th, 2003 4:41:26 PM
Hobbes sighs and covers his eyes and immediately stands as the wizard prepares to leave.
"Good sir, we beg you. I am sorry for the forked tongue of my diminuative companion. Why he insists on LYING to everyone we meet," he glares at Bill for the second time in as many days, "is beyond me. I think he is trying to protect our ... erm... client as it were. But I totally feel that in a mission of this gravity, you as potential aid must know the truth of our quest."
Hobbes tries to non-threateningly stand in front of Woodcock so he doesn't leave as he also tries not to raise his voice too much to let it drift to other tables, "We discovered the tomb of a very ancient and great king, a king whose soul is trapped within due to a theft of his property, a crown and a sword. Somehow... his soul is connected to their loss and only upon their return can he be freed and allow Gargul to guide him into his proper resting place. The items in question, he has determined, are at the scabbed and, as far as he knows, are in possession of a young white dragon's horde. That is our quest. To retrieve these items one way or the other. We do not ask that you put yourself in danger, in fact we were wondering of the possibility of an item or command which might trigger our return without you having to go with us. That is the truth, sir, but we humbly accept your decision to leave if you wish."
[Diplomacy Check 16 again]
Renik Wednesday March 12th, 2003 5:11:36 PM
Renik drains his wine and watches with amusement as his companions try out their differing approaches with the wizard.
Saying nothing he tops up his own glass and that of Woodcock (with a wink), and waits for the next person to speak.
Rond Wednesday March 12th, 2003 6:10:55 PM
Rond quietly begins to run his hands through his hair as he begins to wonder what Sontra is upto these days. He briefly wonders whether Sontra might be in disguise in this bar.
Draax Wednesday March 12th, 2003 6:14:53 PM
Draax's eyes opens so wide that they nearly shoot out of his head when Hobbes begins to tell this total stranger about their mission and the dragon horde. In his mind he thinks that now the man is surely going to charge them more than the 300 gp. He prays to whatever god that is listening that Woodcock is an honest man or the group will have a hard time returning with any treasure. At first he only had to worry about a dragon, some giants and maybe a few other nasty creatures, now he has to add Woodcock to the list. He quickly goes over to the bar. "Give me a cup of the strongest drink you got."
Feng Wednesday March 12th, 2003 8:51:59 PM
OOC: Sorry about my absence yesterday. None of my browsers would load any woldian web pages.
Feng digs into his pouch and hands the guards an additional 100 gold pieces. If they were honest, Groyle's wife and child should be able to live off of it for a while. Long enough to figure out what to do. At some point in the future he will have to come back and check on them.
Feng tosses the barkeep two gold pieces for the table. Considering how easily it broke, the wood couldn't have been that good. The half-orc chooses to stand off to the side and let the other negotiate with the mage.
Bill Troublefinder Wednesday March 12th, 2003 9:36:44 PM
"'Forked tongue'? 'Lying'?" Bill looks at Hobbes, incredulous.
Then he turns his attention to the mage. "You asked us our business, and how it might affect your own, then grow offended when I ask you your business, and how we might avoid impinging on it. Security? We were attacked, unprovoked, in here."
He turns to the holy man. "Hobbes, if you think of me as a snake and a liar, there is little hope for us to work together. I am neither. Goodbye."
The normally unbristly Bill stands up, and walks briskly for the door, his ears burning red.
Renik Thursday March 13th, 2003 2:30:05 AM
Swiftly the rogue hops to his feet and intercepts the furious halfling.
"Come now, Bill, don't take it so seriously. Hobbes is not one of nature's diplomats, to be sure, but forgive him his rather blunt attitude and religious zealotry and you'll find a stalwart team-mate lurking down there somewhere. Here, take a drop of wine with me and we'll talk it over."
As he tries to steer the halfling back to a table he shoots a dark glance at Hobbes. "And you, you swore loyalty to this group. That in part means doing what is best for the group, and that is not shooting your mouth off every time someone does something you disagree with. We all have our own ways of working, and being a team means understanding that and working to accommodate it, even if you don't agree. It does not mean insulting and offending your team-mates, the folks who will be looking out for your back when the blades and arrows and claws start flying, to the point where they no longer want to work with you. I know I may be asking the impossible, but try to reign in the self-righteousness, Hobbes."
Bill Thursday March 13th, 2003 3:47:46 AM
"Thank, you Renik. But I've got to walk this one off. Bluntness I can forgive. Baseless slander is another matter. A liar. Pfft. Hold that drink." He looks up at his friend, and gives him a nod of gratitude, but is resolute. He pushes open the swinging doors, and Bill's little legs churn up the walkway.
Woodcock (DMJK) Thursday March 13th, 2003 8:55:04 AM
Woodcock seems happy that Bill is gone, and he nods at Hobbes, "There, that's something good to know. That a dragon's involved. I can't imagine that anyone would even consider involving someone else in a situation with a dragon without providing them with some foreknowledge. Your little quest certainly shouldn't interfere with my experiments either."
Woodcock thinks about it all for a second and smiles at Hobbes, "300 gold each way then, and I'll be certain that I'm prepared for a white dragon to be chasing you to the rendezvous point. Had I not known about the chance for it, I would have left you there when I saw it."
"So what about details? When do you want to go? How long til we meet back up? If it's ok with you, I'd like to get the money for the transport to the Scab before we leave. Usually, the end of the journey would be fine, but I make it a point not to extend credit to people who are about to fight a dragon."
Draax Thursday March 13th, 2003 5:36:36 PM
Draax watches the confrontation between Hobbes and Bill. He could see why Bill got upset and was happy to see Renik step in to play the part of peacemaker. He nods his head as the halfling leaves realizing that the walk will do the halfling some good.
The fact that Woodcock knows about the treasure horde puts an uneasy feeling in the pit of Draax's stomach. Although he does not trust the stranger, the wizard's words puts him a little at ease. He gives a smirk at Woodcock's last statement and thinks to himself that if the dragon is chasing them then they are already dead.
DMJK Thursday March 13th, 2003 9:30:12 PM
[I'm going to be out of pocket Monday through Wednesday next week. Anybody want to have a 3 day stint as DM? I imagine that it won't entail much but roleplaying Woodcock and getting the group to the Scab. Technically, Todd is the Assistant DM, but I know he's been busy lately. -jk] ======= [I think I could pull that off, JK, if you'd like. If possible, just email me a quick sketch of the details. -Kim]
Arien Friday March 14th, 2003 1:16:26 AM
Arien snorts in disgust at Hobbes' words and swallows a few choice words that leap to mind. Arien turns his chair about so that he is facing away from Hobbes and ignores the rest of the conversation, instead thinking about how he'd like to take that dragon down.
Bill Troublefinder Friday March 14th, 2003 4:38:15 AM
The halfling moves with tremendous energy back up to the level on which the party first entered the Floating City, letting the pumping of his blood serve to cool him down emotionally a bit as his body warms up.
Nevertheless, about sixty seconds after leaving the tavern, Bill empowers clairaudience in order to listen in to the conversation with his friends, and Woodcock and Hobbes, in the bar.
Hobbes Friday March 14th, 2003 7:34:52 AM
"But of course, sir," he says to the old man and reverts to his backpack to get out a larger portion of gold than he had in his coinpouch. After a short time he places the correct amount in a separate pouch and gives it to the gentleman, "300 gold pieces it shall be...and I do like your policy about the upfront payment from dragonseekers. Terribly amusing." He says this without breaking even a hint of a smile.
"Yes, Renik, I agree. Lying was indeed an incorrect term to use. But as I am not fortunate enough to be blessed with the ability to edit words as they come out of my mouth, I cannot take it back. Although, I don't believe a word exists for withholding important information which could put someone's life in danger whom you are trying to hire."
To the old man, he replies again, "We would like to leave as soon as possible I believe," he waits and looks at the others, "unless anyone has anything else they'd like to say or do first."
Woodcock (DMJK) Friday March 14th, 2003 9:15:20 AM
Noting the tension in the group, Woodcock says, "Perhaps you all need a little time to talk without me around. I'll wait up at the bar."
Renik Friday March 14th, 2003 5:50:26 PM
The rogue scowls at Hobbes' riposte, but he holds his tongue. He pours the last of the bottle into his glass, drains it, then takes both the bottle and glass back to the bar, where he hands them to the barkeep.
To Woodcock he says "Sir, your tact is noted and appreciated. I see no reason to delay unduly, this mission has already dragged on long enough. I need battle, preferably with a foe and not with one of my own team-mates. So as soon as our companion returns (which I am sure he will shortly) I believe we can depart. That is, if you yourself are ready."
Bill Troublefinder Friday March 14th, 2003 6:21:11 PM
It takes about fifteen or twenty minutes for Bill to return to the tavern. When he returns, he has a smile on his face. "Hey, I picked up some things I ordered," Bill announces to his friends, as he pats himself on his ribs. "The Catacombs has an outlet here in the Float."
He walks up to the mage. "Mister Woodcock, sir, will you forgive me? My intention was not to be offensive, nor to pry unnecessarily into your affairs. We had just met, and I had hoped to get a feeling for who you are, as you were about us. It just seems wise to know who you are dealing with, before opening the showroom. He," and he moves his head to the side to indicate the table at which Hobbes sits, "told you plainly and clearly our purpose and goal. If I appeared overcautious - well, maybe I am. But, sir, it's clear I overstepped your bounds in returning to you a similar question you asked of us. Will you forgive me my lack of tact and discernment? I meant no ill will, Mister Woodcock." The halfling awaits Nyrashal Woodcock's response with an air of humility.
Woodcock (DM Kim) d20=9 Saturday March 15th, 2003 10:40:39 PM
Woodcock answers Renik, "I can leave within half an hour, or later. Wait more than two and a half hours, though, and it will be getting dark in the Scab."
The mage regards Bill with diffidence. "Fine," he curtly replies to the apologizing halfling.
Bill Troublefinder Saturday March 15th, 2003 10:52:47 PM
Bill's apologetic but hopeful face changes to downcast after Mister Woodcock responds with apparent distrust.
He looks up at Renik sadly, then walks over to the table at which the others sit. Rebuked and rebuffed so much in such a short amount of time. He looks up after a moment. He turns toward Hobbes. "Do you really think I'm a liar? I'm trying to figure out when I've ever lied, at least in the last few years. My folks taught me it's not right to lie, but also that there are times you've gotta be discrete. I said we need to help an old man by picking up something taken from him a while back. That was no lie." He just looks away for a moment, then adds in a low voice, "Hobbes, you hurt my feelings. And I don't understand you."
Draax Sunday March 16th, 2003 7:11:12 PM
Draax half listens to what everyone has to say, but sits with his back to the wall and continually cuts his eyes toward the door. When Woodcock tells them how soon he can leave Draax voices his opinion. "I vote to leave as soon as possible. I do not want to wait for the dead man's friends to start looking for revenge."
Feng Sunday March 16th, 2003 10:36:25 PM
Feng stands off to the side contemplating his recent actions and how to repent for them. He will be happy with whatever decision his friends make.
Rond Monday March 17th, 2003 12:54:57 AM
Watching and waiting until given a time to respond. Rond comments once Woodcock steps aside, "... and how did you happen to determine that this Woodcock character was completely trustworthy in knowing the full intent of what we are doing?"
Bill Troublefinder Monday March 17th, 2003 1:15:23 AM
Remembering something from his youth, Bill adds, "My uncle told me you can call a spade a spade, or you can call it a shovel, or an excavating tool, or a scooper. But if you call a spade a fork, you're lying if it has no tines. Well, Hobbes, when have I called a spade a fork?"
Renik Monday March 17th, 2003 4:28:49 AM
Renik is starting to lose patience with the group's infighting. Swallowing his anger he says;
"Come my friends, enough of this dispute. We are shortly to face the most deadly foe we have ever encountered. We go into unknown territory to fight a dragon to the death, and if we do not fight and think as one, we will die as one. Come, Hobbes, admit your words were harsh, and apologize to Bill. Bill, let the matter drop, accept that Hobbes' words were spoken in anger and not truly meant, and move on. Let us agree to disagree over how much information we should have offered our wayfarer, and prepare ourselves for the real fight ahead. With the stakes as high as they are we simply cannot afford this sort of petty distraction. This is a matter of life and death; ours!"
Hobbes Monday March 17th, 2003 6:41:07 AM
"Indeed," says Hobbes through clenched teeth, "I would very much LOVE to get on with this mission, but since I'm being badgered on all sides for it... Bill, as I had just told Renik, my 'lying' word was mischosen out of frustration, impatience, and the dull ache in my back and now HEAD at both the fight and the guards business. I didn't create the situation, I'm dealing with it. If that man would have left, then our mission would have been over as far as we knew as he was our only link to getting there. I said what I thought would work to get him to stay and what he deserved to hear."
He wheels around to Rond, "And as for that comment, Sir, I took as much time to decide about Woodcock as you all took to believe Hororot to begin with. It's very simple. Either Hororot was telling the truth, or he's lying. If he was telling the truth, then he's so old no one will have heard of him or they will think us daft. If they HAVE heard of him, then their reactions and information could only help us, especially if Hororot was lying. If you DON'T trust Mr. Woodcock at all, then what in the Wold are we doing here? If you aren't going to trust anybody you're told to meet, then you may as well attack everybody. All we can do is trust that most people are good, trustable folk like we hope ourselves to be treated. If they prove themselves as foes, then it gets sorted out there and we know where our enemies are. Thinking otherwise means your enemies are everywhere, which I refuse to believe."
He stops and heads to the bar where the mage is, "Now, let's act like professionals and see this job through."
Bill Troublefinder Monday March 17th, 2003 5:31:14 PM
"Oh, okay, I understand, Hobbes. So, you lied about my honesty, because it seemed expedient to you, so that we did not miss our transport. Kind of a spur-of-the-moment, 'Oh, no! What am I going to do!' type of thing. Okay, I forgive you for that, Hobbes. I was just worried that you really thought I was some sort of habitual liar. I understand you've got a bad ache there, too. We need to get you and everyone healed up, I'd say. Then let's go."
Bill joins those who head over to talk with Woodcock, and says, "Looks like we're ready, sir."
Woodcock (DM Kim) Monday March 17th, 2003 7:38:25 PM
"Well, I've heard enough of you say that you are ready to go. Fine. You know the way to the teleport platforms. I need to pick up a few of my own things, and will meet you there in half an hour. It takes about seven to ten minutes to get to the platforms from here." He looks at Hobbes and Renik. "A pleasure doing business with you gentlemen. Dress warmly." Woodcock turns and leaves.
Bill T d8=7 d8+1=6 d8+1=4 d8+1=6 d8+1=5 d8+1=6 d8+1=7 d8+1=8 d8+1=7 d8+1=9 d8+1=9 Tuesday March 18th, 2003 12:37:24 AM
Bill psionically heals himself of the light damage he took when dropping through the balcony floor earlier.
"I've got a wand of cure light wounds. Shall we use up some charges on it here, to bring us all back up to snuff, or is there enough other type of healing to take care of us before we go?"
Bill will expend up to ten charges to help heal people up. First come, first served, in order: 6 hp, 4, 6, 5, 6, 7, 8, 7, 9, 9 of cure light wounds. Take 'em apply 'em, and feel better fast. If any are left unused, then Bill did not discharge whatever remains unused. Bill telepathically communicates with his friends what the command word is for the wand of cure light wounds.
Once that is done, unless anybody has another thing they want to do, the halfling suggests they ascend to the next level, and enter the platform area. He retrieves his bandolier and darts as he leaves the tavern, checking to ensure that each dart is there. He checks for magic on the one dart that is magical.
He pulls out a list of things he purchased at the Catacombs, and lets anyone see it who so desires.
Telepathically, via William, he communicates to his comrades, 'I've got some ideas for tactics, using oil-soaked canvas tarps, and alchemist's fire, and tanglefoot bags, plus flying with another person holding on to one end, and giving the dragon a nice, warm blanket to cuddle up in.' After a pause, he adds, 'Most of the stuff I bought I put into a portable hole. It's a magic handkerchief that, when you place it on a flat surface, it opens into a six foot diameter by ten foot deep space inside. Anybody want to see if the breathing tubes I have inside will work? Gotta have one end poking out of the top of the handkerchief when it opens, I think, but I haven't tried it yet. Hey, and if you have any magical storage devices, like, what are they called? Gloves of storage? Not sure on that one. Or Heward's Handy Haversack, or a bag of holding, or, like, my special pants, then you don't want to put it into the portable hole, or you and everything in it, and maybe just near it, gets sucked into some place like the astral plane, wherever that is. Hard to get back from. Maybe lost forever.'
Once up in the platform area, Bill puts on his nice, warm clothing. After a few minutes, he announces, "It sure is hot here."
Bill's Catacombs purchase list for party to look at, if they want to Tuesday March 18th, 2003 12:40:28 AM Magical: 1 Amulet of Natural Armor +2 8000 = 8000 gp 1 Portable Hole 14000 = 14000 1 Gloves of Dexterity +2 4000 = 4000 1 Wand of Cure Light Wounds, 50 charges 750 = 750 1 Wand of Prestidigitation (for light cleaning, sorting and organizing) 375 = 375 4 Quaal's Feather Token (Tree) 100 = 400 1 Quaal's Feather Token (Fan) 200 = 200 1 Quaal's Feather Token (Swan Boat) 450 = 450
Potions: 1 Haste 750 = 750 1 Protection from Elements (Cold) 750 = 750 1 Cat's Grace 300 = 300
Other: 2 sets: Halfling-sized cold weather clothing 6 = 12 2 Frigid weather sleeping bags, halfling size 1 = 2 4 Frigid weather sleeping bags, for someone about 6' tall 2 = 8 2 Frigid weather sleeping bags, for someone about 8' tall 4 = 8 8 Large sized down pillows (The size humans like to use) 5 = 40 2 Halfling sized down pillows 2 = 4 50 sets: Kindling for starting fires (or whatever you have that's good for getting a fire going, especially in the cold and wind - I already have tindertwigs - but want something good for lighting the core of the fire) 0.02 = 1 50 bundles: Wood for fires 0.01 = 1 48 Flasks of lamp oil (in boxes of 12) 0.1 = 5 1 3' tall steel tripod for use over fire (for hanging pots and the like) 5 = 5 1 5' tall steel tripod for use over fire (as above) 8 = 8 8 5' long metal tubes (for breathing through) (a metal safe for the mouth, and smoothly rounded at the ends) 1 = 8 1 300' silk rope (a continuous length of rope), on a rewindable spool 70 = 70 2 Canvas tarps, 15' x 20', with metal eyelets in each corner and every two feet along the edge, and 12.5' of silk rope tied to each of the four corners, and 12.5' of silk rope tied to each of the two midpoint eyelets on the long side 50 = 100 2 Canvas tarps, as above, but without ropes 40 = 80 10 1-ounce lead weights with small hole for fishing line to pass through 0.1 = 1 10 1-pound lead weights with hole for rope to pass through 0.2 = 2 10 2-pound lead weights with hole for rope to pass through 0.5 = 5 10 5-pound lead weights with hole for rope to pass through 1.2 = 12 8 Large towels 2 = 16 8 Small towels 1 = 8 2 Large trunks with handles 15 = 30 2 Medium trunks with handles 5 = 10 4 Small trunks with handles 2 = 8 5 Spools of fishing line (100' each) 0.5 = 3 20 Fishing hooks 0.1 = 2 5 Sewing needles 0.5 = 3 20 Spools of thread 0.1 = 2 20 Small bags 0.05 = 1 20 Medium bags 0.1 = 2 20 Large bags 0.2 = 4 6 Buckets 0.5 = 3 2 Shovels 2 = 4 2 Snow Shovels 4 = 8 2 Spades 2 = 4 2 Trowels 0.5 = 1 1 Hourglass 25 = 25 1 Blank book 15 = 15 1 Set of Thieves' Tools, Masterwork 100 = 100 1 Healer's Kit 50 = 50 5 Vials of Ink 8 = 40
Food & Related: 40 days trail food 0.5 = 20 2 Cinnamon, pounds 1 = 2 2 Ginger, pounds 2 = 4 1 Hot pepper, pound 1 = 1 2 Pepper, pounds 1 = 2 6 Salt, pounds 5 = 30 10 Assorted cheese, pounds (in 1 or 2-pound blocks) 0.2 = 2 10 Beef jerky, pounds 1 = 10 16 Waterskins, full 1 = 16 16 Wineskins, full 4 = 64 8 Sets: Durable plates, bowls, and eating utensils for use on the trail 2 = 16
Renik Tuesday March 18th, 2003 6:40:06 AM
Changing into his cold weather gear, Renik reads the halfling's list with incredulity. "Gods' blood, Bill, did you leave anything in the shop? I'd say we're well stocked!"
He takes the first three charges of the Cure Light Wounds wand, feeling his bruises heal up nicely.
"As for tactics; that canvas tarp sounds like a good idea. But we need to be sure that we are able to approach the beast undetected. Has everyone got everything they need to achieve that?"
Feng Tuesday March 18th, 2003 7:27:26 PM
Feng politely declines the healing. The pain will only last a short time and he should bear that and more. Feng walks out of the tavern, retrieving his weapons, and over to his horse where he dons his cloak.
OOC: Holy Crap
DM Kim - quick note Tuesday March 18th, 2003 8:13:11 PM
[OOC: Walter - I thought that Feng did not bring his horse when we teleported. Am I mistaken?]
Bill T - while he is apologizing to everybody Tuesday March 18th, 2003 8:18:49 PM
"Draax - sorry about catching you in the sound cone, there. But it was either that, or getting one of the non-combatant patrons," Bill explains. "But, I'm sorry. Here, let me help heal you up a bit with the wand. Will you forgive me?"
Woodcock at a platform of Gordo's Transport (DM Kim) Tuesday March 18th, 2003 11:17:56 PM
Nyrashal Woodcock shows up at Gordo's Transport on the Gold level. He wears a fine fur collar and a warm hat, with fur flaps - one covers an ear, and the other is buttoned up on the side of the hat. He wears layers of warm clothing. A bead of sweat forms on his forehead.
"Very well. All who wish to come, gather up on this circle." On one side of the circle is a strong wooden box tied firmly on to a small sled.
If anyone does show up with a horse, Woodcock says, "I cannot do horses on this trip. Besides, the terrain is not too friendly for them. Especially if you mean to climb mountains. One of Gordo's people can stable your horse. Last I heard, they charge 5 silver a day. Not too many horses here on the Float."
He looks impatiently at any stragglers. "Let's go, let's go. Think I have all day?"
Draax Tuesday March 18th, 2003 11:42:25 PM
Glad that the bickering has been put aside, Draax takes a look at Bill's list and lets his lower lip fall to the floor. "Wow, I agree with Renik, but well stocked is an understatement." He take a hit from the wand bringing him back to full health.
Draax laughs as Bill apologizes, "Bill, you honestly sound like this is the first time I was caught in one of your area damaging attacks, I am starting to get used to it. Don't let it worry you, no harm done, but I would have had no objections to you getting the non-combatants instead of me. Just kidding."
Draax follows Woodcock's directions and stands on the circle.
Rond 65 hp Wednesday March 19th, 2003 12:02:30 AM
Waving away Bill's helpful healing Rond quietly joins the rest of the group and moves towards the teleport area. Once there Rond will grab some of the heavy winter gear that Bill has brought along. Anything that is not used he'll help Bill with to pack.
Renik Wednesday March 19th, 2003 7:20:59 AM
Fastening his hood tightly and pulling on fur-lined gloves the rogue steps up to the platform. He checks he can still draw both swords, swings his pack onto his back and nods at the wizard. "Ready when you are sir," he says.
Arien Wednesday March 19th, 2003 4:32:05 PM
After getting healed by Bill, accepting three touches of the wand, Arien quickly changes to his cold weather gear and goes to the circle and stands ready.
Feng Wednesday March 19th, 2003 10:44:55 PM
Feng heads off to stable his horse. He would have like to take him along. There will probably be times when a brave steed would be of considerable use.
After saying goodbye to his horse, Degg, feng heads back to the platform.
Bill Troublefinder Thursday March 20th, 2003 2:57:45 AM
When Feng returns, Bill says, "Here, take at least one of these little healing nips, Feng. What if a big bear attacks us when we first get there?" Unless Feng stenuously objects, he gives him one cure light wounds from his wand (7 hp back, Feng - see previous post). [Note 50-8=42 charges left in wand.]
"Okay, all ready!" the halfling happily announces.
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