DM Jan Thursday April 22nd, 2004 12:37:59 AM
Over the next few months, the City goes about it's business, and the group has the opportunity to experience the hum drum, if it could ever be called that, life of Dirt City. For those who are new to the City - there's a 'reputation' to be cultivated. For everyone here lives by their reputation. It is their identity, and the shell that protects them from what can be a tough and sometimes brutal life here. There's also that 'walk', and that look in the eye that says 'don't mess with me.' It's unique to Dirt City, and illicits a mixture of derision and awe from outsiders, who see it as being cocky and slightly hostile.
Life is reasonable underground - but everyone has to go 'up top' sometime, and so to be known as a good healer, or a scribe that doesn't cost an arm and a leg, a winner - more often than not - in a bar fight, good with a sword, good with a knife, good at holding secrets, a person who 'knows' just about everyone, good with horses, very skilled at carpentry - more often than not, affords some kind of protection.
There's an 'up top' superstition - you don't kill a healer, you might need him or her some day. Having a decent bar fight reputation is a double edged sword of course. Someone might think twice about swinging a fist, but then someone else might consider it a challenge. On the whole, the halflings have an easier time of it than most. They're small (thugs have their pride), and they're inventive (always useful). Dirt City might be tough, but it is profoundly practical.
Coin can be earned at various trades. Coin puts food on the table, repairs armour, etc etc.
MONTH OF COLOURS (Autumn)
A couple of weeks after the Crescent Moon Market incident, the group recieve a note to the effect that - if they don't come up with 3 silver pieces pretty soon, the stable master up top next to the Keys Tower will be selling their mules for recompense. The weather is getting colder, and over the next few weeks it does nothing but rain. This means flooding. Serious flooding. Damage is done, kids need rescuing, extensive repairs are needed to some of the lower tunnels. A third of the harvest and livestock is lost due to torrential rain. Food becomes expensive. A small but annoying leak appears in the roof of the apartment. Young Billy and Timmi from next door are on the doorstep nearly every day, getting in everyone's way, asking tons of questions about everything one could imagine. No news yet about the Marteaus symbols.
It sounds as though Olyn is going to have to spend more time at the Temple on cleric business. Devlin pops his head around the door. He apologises about not being able to accompany the group on their last adventure, and tells them he's just got a job on a ship for the next few months. Hopefully when he gets back, he'll see everyone then.
rose d20+6=8 d20+6=21 d20+6=13 d20+6=8 d20+6=10 d20+6=7 d20+3=9 d20+3=14 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 1:16:01 AM
rose sends the money to the stables. During the first month she is quite busy. After doing some shopping. She starts studying the spell book and copying the spells she can learn into her book. (one day each to learn + 1 day to copy if learned)
Day one: shocking grasp, failed. Day two: endure element, learned. Day three: endure elements, copied. Day four: feather fall, failed. day five: floating disk, failed. day six: scorching ray, failed. day seven: bulls strength, failed.
At the end of the week she is very discouraged having only been able to copy one spell, and having bought materials for alot more. however the materials should work for making scrolls as well.
week two and three she gets a temporary job sewing, however it will only last two weeks. (check was 9 and 14)
week four she takes a class in out door cooking.
during this entire time she is talking to vauhwyt and others about the leage of adventurers.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Thursday April 22nd, 2004 10:17:01 AM
Vauhwyt is happy to return to her old place of employment to sell the loot and come back with cash for the party.[OOC: I'll report back our profits asap.]
For a few days, Vauhwyt is happy to lounge around and sleep off the wasp poison. Then she gets antsy.
Vauhwyt contributes 5 gp to the cost of the mules. She spends 50 gp this month on food and expenses.
During the days of the month she goes out, without telling anybody where. She comes back sweaty and exhausted.
Rose, being the naturally curious type, seems especially interested in what Vauhwyt is doing. At first Vauhwyt seems shy about it, or reluctant, but Rose's enthusiasm wears down Vauhwyt's resistance.
"Just tell her, Boss, so I can get some sleep in peace!" says Mookie.
So Vauhwyt reveals that she has been spending her time at a kind of club she joined. It is called the Woldian League of Adventurers. It is mostly people who go out on adventures and do good deeds. Vauhwyt seems a little defensive -- "I guess most folks in Dirt City would think us a lot of tom-fools who throw away good money. But I like it."
Dietrich Thursday April 22nd, 2004 10:34:41 AM
Dietrich is pleased that Vorelle liked the gift and is very satisfied with life as a whole. The first days heīll just enjoy walking around and consuming all the good things heīs used to dream of during his hard times.
But soon he returns to his routine, doing exercises to keep his body hard and flexible and his senses sharp like his blade. He invites his friends to participate, specially Vauhwyt and the rangers.
The flood doesnīt affect him very much, for strange behaviour of nature is pretty common at the Windbourne Hills and he even likes to see itīs power.
Dietrich pays the silver for the stables and spends some of his time with the mule. He also trains his skills in the building sector, helping for free by the repair works of the tunnels.
The fighter wishes his comrade in arms Devlin farewell and that Domi may protect him. He also visits Olyn sometimes at the temple, using the opportunity to make some contacts there.
Zayne Thursday April 22nd, 2004 5:30:01 PM
Glad to have some downtime,Zayne is very rarely seen at or near the apartment,during the first month. Whenever he is aked about his whereabouts or what he has been up to he replies,"I am working on something,I'll tell you about when I am finished."
During the floods he is not seen at all. It is as if he has disapeared entirely,but as the repair crews begin to settle in he shows up mysteriously in the night. When finally confronted about his dealings he gives the same reply.
He begins to stay at the apartment more often but,still on most nights he does not come home. He can usually be found in the apartment around mealtimes though.
Vorelle Thursday April 22nd, 2004 5:52:23 PM
The group's recent adventures have given Vorelle an interest in healing, which she begins putting to good use as the group settles into a routine. She can often be found lingering--and pitching in--at Dirt City's temples and hospices, learning about tending to the sick and injured.
She puts the blue dress away, wrapped carefully in paper. Every once in a while (when her hands are clean), she takes it out and runs a calloused hand over the fine silk, wondering at its silky, delicate touch.
One day when nobody is about, she bundles up the dress, along with some ordinary clean clothing, and goes to the local bath house. After bathing carefully head to toe, she shakes out the blue silk and slips it on over her chemise, then stands staring at the stranger in the bath house mirror. The girl's still-damp hair straggles over her shoulders, but that cannot detract from the beauty of the dress. It turns her eyes to silver and makes her pale complexion look positively luminous.
It also, she notices with a flush, hugs her curves rather more emphatically than she likes.
Shaking her head at her own folly, she removes the dress and sets it aside, changing instead into her own clean clothing. Dirt City was no place for the fanciful blue silk, and Vorelle the Grubber was certainly not the woman to wear it.
And yet, she doesn't sell the dress, or get rid of it. She packs it safely home, wraps it just as carefully as before, and tucks it away.
Just in case.
Theodore and Macaw d20+7=15 d20+7=25 d20+7=27 d20+7=18 d20+7=16 d20+7=24 d20+7=27 d20+7=13 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 8:30:50 PM
Theodore spends a lot of time studying with his master Geoffrey. He also purchases several canvases, paints, and brushes and tries his hand at art. Most of his paintings are distorted and bizarre. These he promptly tosses away. A couple, he decides are worth keeping and wraps them in cloth and stashes them under his bed.
(Spellcraft checks to learn spells from book: Bull's Strength = 15 (no good) Darkness = 25 (learned) Endure Elements = 27 (learned) Feather Fall = 18 (learned) Hypnotism = 16 (learned) Scorching Ray = 24 (learned) Shocking Grasp = 27 (learned) Tenser's Floating Disk = 13 (no good))
Vauhwyt Thursday April 22nd, 2004 11:11:35 PM
Ooh! Just thought of something! Soon after meeting the Prince, Vauhwyt goes to check out Kernorn's place. Maybe she knows someone who wants poisonous bugs. Maybe the equipment left behind is worth a chunk of change!
[I'll post as sub DM early in the a.m. -- Cayzle]
rose Thursday April 22nd, 2004 11:38:56 PM
rose goes with theo.
ooc: i thought that in 3.5 the spell is now floating disk, not tenser's floating disk :)
cayzle are you running any non woldian games online? if so i want to join.
Substitute DM Cayzle Friday April 23rd, 2004 6:22:30 AM
Dear friends, over the course of the next four posts, I want to award each of you a rank in a craft or profession skill, per Jan -- one rank per post for four posts. What you earn it in is up to you, depending on your actions. You could do the same thing for four months or do different things. Please give me a clear indication of what you are mainly doing for each month.
Also, Loretta asked about costs for eating out, etc. Check out the DMG, page 130. If you pay one monthly upkeep fee, then you can forget about rent, food, entertainment, your normal gear, and other expenses. Per the DMG: -- 2 gp per month: self sufficient (like a farmer or day laborer, destitute) -- 5 gp per month: meager (eat little, frugal, very poor) -- 12 gp per month: poor (basic food and shelter) -- 45 gp per month: common (eat in inns and taverns every day) -- 100 gp per month: good (jaunty, stylish, good things in life) -- 200 gp per month: extravagant (only the best, parties, servants, rich)
MONTH OF COLOURS ==========
Rose copies a spell before Vauhwyt sells the spellbook. Her luck is not great, and she hands the book to Theo when she is done.
Rose's work as a tailor earns her 11 gold pieces. Her cooking "class" consists of finding a local cook to tutor her. She can get cooking help from someone in her family for free, or pay a fee to a professional cook -- how much would you offer?
Vauhwyt checks out Kernorn's "shop" and finds that it has been locked down. A member of the Prince's guard stands in front, telling anyone who comes by that the place has been sealed pending an investigation by the prince.
The liontaur otherwise works hard all month practicing her skills at her adventurer's club as well as with Dietrich.
Vauhwyt pays 50 gp per month upkeep, since she eats a lot more than anyone else. All that sparring makes her work up an appetite. She drinks a small cask of cider every day!
Dietrich spends some time relaxing and goes off on his own private errands [with some success -- e-mail me if you want details.] He spends time keeping his adventuring skills sharp too.
The mules are well provided for.
Zayne goes here and there, and is often out. He seems busy with a project.
Vorelle spends her time volunteering (and learning from) several healers in Dirt City. She finds that the folks at the Temple of Wardd are the most responsive and welcoming. Most other healers work for money, and are suspicious of Vorelle's motives. Was she trying to learn so that she could set up a competing business?
At the temple, though, there are other volunteers and they seem glad of the help. There is a clinic of sorts that people visit for healing. Vorelle is also asked to help out with the Strays. Those are folks who have no home, or who have weak or damaged minds and no place else to go. Wardd is the patron of those folks -- people who are mad or who are down on their luck.
Theo copies some spells and tries his hand at making art.
MONTH OF THE LADY (Winter starts) ==========
The weather starts to get even colder. Herd beasts are brought closer to the City towers and coralled. Food is getting more expensive.
News from abroad -- the legendary Teucri-built Floating City has been found. Last seen floating off the lake next to Plateau City, the Big Float is now way off to the west - across the Scab, and beyond two magical forests that could both 'eat a man alive', or so the travelling caravans bringing the news would have it.
Dietrich Friday April 23rd, 2004 9:44:21 AM
Dietrich continues doing his common routines and trys to use the contacts established while helping with the repair works to learn carpentry and masonry (2 months each) by working for free as an apprentice.
He spends 45 gp the first month and 15 gp each futher month, totalizing 90 gp with food and a little entertainment.
Heīs glad to train with Vauhwyht and trys to learn something about fighting from her feline dexterity and hunting instincts. If she mentions something about this league, heīll ask her more about it.
Dietrich also proposes Vorelle to teach him a little about shooting with a bow, against some classes with the sword. Heīd like to see her wearing the dress he gave her and, as he realizes she is too shy to do it, invites her one evening to a party where sheīll have to wear it. The fearsome, scar-faced soldier trys his best not to frighten her.
He doesnīt really understand Theo and Rose keeping locked in their rooms studying, but doesnīt bother them. Dietrich finds Zayneīs regular disappearence strange too, but respects his need for privacy, as he likes it himself too.
Zayne d20+3=6 d20+3=17 d20+3=10 d20+3=15 Friday April 23rd, 2004 12:29:45 PM
(OOC, Zayne is fairly self sufficient,but he eats a lot so I guess he spends about 12 gp on food,and at four weeks in a month he makes 48gp during the first month,in his new profession)
Zayne's in and out of the apartment continues, he is often gone for days and even weeks at a time.
On particular time he comes in nearly covered from head to toe,in dried mud. When asked about it he peplies,"I wanted some ham,and I picked the wrong one."
Sometimes he comes in and heads straight to his bed without a word,occaisionally without even eating.
His bow begins to show signs of frequent use.
rose d20+3=13 d20+3=23 d20+3=8 Friday April 23rd, 2004 6:52:00 PM
Rose spends time with her aunt learning more about cooking (her aunt is a professional cook, see bio) and even gets a job with her aunt as an assistant for a few weeks. She keeps talking to Vauhwyt about the adventurers guild and one day goes and signs up. She spends several evenings with her aunt irienys and when the cook she was replacing comes back starts to study with her. Her family began complaining that they never saw her so each evening she would spend at either her parents, a siblings, or an aunt or uncles.
upkeep last month: 30g, she made her own breakfasts and took a sandwich for lunch, but ate dinner out as she was to tired to cook after working.
upkeep this month: 10g, she made her own breakfast but ate lunch with the aunts she was with and dinner with her aunts, parents, or other relatives
weeks 1-3 work & study as cook with aunt arathana (rolls are 13, 23 nat 20, and 8) week 4 study magic with aunt irienys
Theodore and Macaw Friday April 23rd, 2004 7:20:04 PM
Theodore spends more time with his painting, having been instructed by Geoffrey that the concentration required for art would help with his magic. He also spends a lot of time at Geoffrey's, going through musty tombs.
At the apartments, he practices his magic, sometimes with amusing consequences, such as when he accidently blasted himself with his favorite spell, color spray, knocking himself unconcious for hours. And then there were some not so interesting predicaments, such as when he summoned a demon badger and lost control over the creature. It took the fighting prowess of both Dietrich and Zayne to beat the animal into submission, with Theodore spewing apologies and blasting spells the whole time.
Vorelle Saturday April 24th, 2004 11:46:56 AM
Since she isn't earning anything, Vorelle is careful with her money, eating out but rarely. She goes out hunting when she can, bringing back game for the table about once a week.
When Dietrich asks to be shown archery, she begins bringing him along on these excursions. She shows him how to set up targets for practice, and encourages him to try his hand at living targets when she tracks game.
Her studies in swordplay have mixed results. Her technique with the longsword is all right, but its size and weight negate her quick hands and nimble feet, and tend to put her at a disadvantage. She does much better with the short sword, especially when she can get one in each hand.
When asked to attend a party, she reacts as if she had been asked to an execution--her own. She begins stammering excuses just as fast as she can think of them, and cannot be persuaded to go.
In the meantime, she continues to work with the healers of Dirt City, especially among the Strays.
One day she returns to the apartment when none of her friends are about. She goes to unlock the front door and finds it already unlocked. Curious, she pushes it open, then gasps at the sight of the woman sitting inside.
She is a human woman of forty or so, with blonde hair similar in color to Vorelle's and hard, cunning blue eyes. "Hello, Vorelle," she says.
"M-M-M-M-M-" Vorelle stutters.
Lisenne shakes her head. "Still have that stutter, I see," she says. "I can't imagine how you came by it. I speak clear enough, and Wardd knows your father has the gift of gab."
"H-h-h-how d-d-d-did--"
"--I get in? Sweetheart, I'm insulted. You know a shoddy little lock like that can't keep me out." Lisanne smiles, a look that doesn't quite reach her eyes, and pats the chair next to her. "Sit down, daughter, do. We have much to catch up on. For example, I hear you're quite the adventurer-hero these days."
Automatically, Vorelle sits as invited. "I-I j-j-j-just--"
Her mother waves a hand. "Oh, sweetheart, I know how modest you are. But everyone's talking. Shy little Vorelle, taking up with adventurers, saving the Alpha, solving the Crescent Moon Market deaths, meeting the Prince..." A hard smile. "Finding treasure, earning big rewards...."
Vorelle shakes her head in protest, "N-n-n-n--"
Lisenne continues as if her daughter hadn't spoken. "And I must say I'm a little hurt. Here you are, living the high life with your adventurer friends, without a thought for your poor family and what we're going through. So many expenses, sweetheart, and your poor father suffering setbacks in all his business affairs...well, it's been hard."
Vorelle sighs. Useless to inquire whether her father's "business setbacks" had involved time in jail, because most of them did. Equally useless to suggest that her mother get a job; she had stolen from every employer she'd ever had and was now unemployable. She decides to stick to the salient point. "I-I-I'm n-n-n-not g-g-g-giving you any m-m-m-m--"
Lisenne's smile is pure malice. "I ran into Targo the other day," she says silkily. "He was asking about you."
Vorelle pales.
Lisenne looks around and sighs. "I don't think he'd like this, sweetheart. You living with other men and all. Oh, I didn't say anything to him at the time. But---well, my family needs money and my daughter seems unwilling to provide it. Perhaps if I went to him with information..." she lets the sentence trail off.
Almost in tears, Vorelle raises a hand to forestall her. "N-n-no, I-I-I-I'll---I-I-I-I've g-g-g-g-ot s-s-s-s-ome--"
"Well, be quick about it," Lisenne says harshly. "I can't hang about here all day."
Hastily Vorelle goes into her room and counts out twenty gold pieces. She returns to the common room and hands it over to her mother.
Lisenne looks disappointed. "A famous adventurer and this is the best you can do? I mean, it's not as if you've spent it all on tavern wenches."
Vorelle begins to stammer an explanation, but Lisenne cuts her off with a wave of her hand. "It will do for now, I suppose." She gives her daughter a pleased smile. "No need to go to Targo at any rate. Yet." She stands and makes for the door. "I'll be in touch, sweetheart. Bye."
Fighting tears and trembling all over, Vorelle remains sitting where she is for a long while after her mother leaves.
Zayne d20+4=9 d20+4=5 d20+4=10 d20+4=11 d20=17 Saturday April 24th, 2004 3:43:43 PM
As the seasons move on and winter begins to show it's head buisness for Zayne begins to slow down considerably. He is begining to be in or around the apartment more often,and is proving to be a miser with his money. This seems odd since he seems to be such a free and giving person,but he would rather spend all day foraging for food than paying to eat well.
One evening after a long day he approaches Vauhwyt,"Could you sell something at the Catacombs for me? I don't really know how much it's worth and I don't want to get cheated out of any money."
As his free time is becoming more abundant,he begins to check in with his ties with the Cloaks the get news of what has been going on since he has been spending so much time out of the City.(Gather Information 17) And maybe see if he can make some spare coin. Hoping his newfound standing with the house of Wolves helps him rather than hinder him.
(Upkeep 12gp, earnings by week 9gp,5gp,10gp, 11gp)
rose Saturday April 24th, 2004 10:54:11 PM
Rose comes home early one day to get ready to go visit her aunt darstine at the temple (everyone should remember her scolding rose at the temple when we thought we might have been poisoned) She comes in and sees that Vorelle has been crying. "What's wrong! what happened?" She goes and gives vorelle a big hug and tries to find out what the matter is.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Sunday April 25th, 2004 9:10:54 AM
Vauhwyt spends her days sparring with her friends or off at the WLA. Since that cat is out of the bag, she tells Dietrich whatever he wants to know.
When Rose says she wants to join, Vauhwyt blushes red. "Um, Rose, uh. It is very expensive. Like, two thousand gold pieces."
rose Sunday April 25th, 2004 1:26:36 PM "That's ok. I sold that oversized dagger and got me a +1 short sword in my size and have enough money to join up." (or at least presumably it didn't take months to sell my stuff)
Substitute DM Cayzle Monday April 26th, 2004 7:24:25 AM [Friends, please remember -- just one post per day. Also, if you want to work your trade, per the PHB, you can make HALF your check in gp per week. Also, please keep track of your own expenses and income, and at the end of the module (this week) please give me the grand total of change in your funds.]
[Later -- friends, I checked Jan's original e-mail. She said you could take "Craft or Profession - on anything that's listed in those sections of the PHB. Remember a cross class will give you only two." That means you have to pick things that are listed in the PHB. So no Profession(nurse) for Vorelle and no Profession(adventurer) for Vauhwyt!]
MONTH OF THE LADY
Dietrich's work pays off, and he learns the basics of carpentry. [gain one rank, Craft (carpentry).]
Zayne's work with his bow gives him a growing expertise as a hunter. [gain one rank, Profession (hunter). Is that what you had intended, David?] Zayne's month of labor nets him 24 gp (not 48).
Rose spends more time with her family in both professional mode and personal mode. [gain one rank, Profession (cook).]
Theo's skill as a painter improves. [gain one rank, Craft (painting).] He enjoys it, but is not sure that he sees the relevance to Concentration on a practical level. One time Theo wonders if Geoffrey suggested the pastime in order to get Theo out of his hair! But as the month goes by, Geoffrey is glad to have the young mage nearby (see below).
Vorelle continues her good work at the Temple, where she is mostly unnoticed except by the folk she helps and one cleric there -- Sanden, by name, who oversees the mad, cursed, and those with bad luck. [Kathy, not sure what rank to give you. Profession(herbalist)? Please post or e-mail me. You can make it up next post.]
Vauhwyt's month gives her no skill. [Oops, no Profession(Adventurer) for me. I'll make it up next post.]
MONTH OF PILGRIMAGE
The mood of the City takes a dive as the food shortages continue. Someone's put out a rumour that the autumnal downpour was due to 'a couple of wizards, messing about'. The rumour spreads to the point where Peregrin's Potions store in the Merchants Quarter gets its windows put in, Theo's master -- Geoffrey, is pelted with a rotton tomato, and anyone who looks like they can cast a spell, who wanders up top, without a serious team of bodyguards, gets beat up pretty badly.
Geoffrey starts to send Theo on most of his errands, and hires three guards when he himself has to go out.
The days become long, dark, and mean.
Dietrich Monday April 26th, 2004 10:07:56 AM
Dietrich keeps doing as the month before. He enjoys the training sessions with Vauhwyt and specially to accompany Vorelle in her excursions outside the city. He likes the quite moments in nature, though itīs getting pretty cold, with her a lot, feeling her presence disarming and so different from what heīs used to. For some times at least he hasnīt to think about war and thoughness, and her quite, but internaly strong and feminine way is a great contrast to the rude manlike behaviour he knows from years in battlecamps and dirty pubs and from the girls he met there. Also, there is something mysterious and fragile about her that raises his curiosity and protective instincts. The day he trys to invite her to a party, he immediatly regrets it and doensīt press her any longer, satisfied to leave her the way she is, that is after all what he likes. Than, one day Dietrich comes back form his carpentry work and sees her trembling and obviously upset by something. He gaves Rose an asking look and takes place besides her, holding Vorelles hand and trying to calm her down with his strong presence, not saying much, but waiting for an answer to Roseīs question.
Also, Dietrich spends some time helping his friend Theo to catch demons, protect him from rotten tomatous and other day-to-day stuff. Wizardry is a really strange business and it actually frightens the warrior, though of course he doesnīt show it to his buddy. In their conversations, Dietrich asks Theodore if he knows about the classical strategy works and history of battle and people, a matter the soldier knows a little and is very interested in.
The League of Adventures seems very interesting, but for now itīs really beyond his possibilities and goals.
As Rose and Zayne are only seldom at the appartement, he trys to arrange that the group eats together at least once a week, to talk and exchange ideas and plans.
Zayne d20+3=6 d20+3=13 d20+3=14 d20+3=9 Monday April 26th, 2004 12:03:10 PM
(OOC Sorry about that I guess I read it wrong. Zayne is not a hunter but a guide,he is just doing a lot of hunting to save money. I sent you and Jan e-mails.)
As witner steadily approaches,Zayne's income is dwindling,but he is spending nearly nothing so he is able to save most of his money.(Income 23 gp Expenses 12gp)
His ties with the Cloaks just aren't as profitable as they once seemed.
Theodore and Macaw d20+8=23 d20+8=16 d20+8=12 d20+8=28 d20+8=22 d20+8=17 d20+8=17 d20+8=11 d20+8=11 d20+8=10 d20+8=27 d20+8=22 d20+8=18 d20+8=22 d20+8=25 d20+8=19 d20+8=19 d20+8=26 d20+8=21 d20+8=9 d20+8=19 d20+8=22 d20+8=13 d20+8=9 Monday April 26th, 2004 12:14:11 PM
Theodore continues his studies with Geoffrey, and even runs about for the elder wizard on several errands. He appears either oblivious to the nasty looks he receives or chooses to ignore them in his daily travels.
One day, he comes home with a satchel brimming with scrolls, and carrying a simple iron rod in his left hand. For the next few weeks, he spends a lot of time at Master Geoffrey's dwelling reading over the scrolls and trying to grasp their concepts and store them away in his own magical stash.
Talking with Dietrich, the young mage admits his ignorance of battle lore, but is eager to discuss the logistics of evocation versus transmutation magics.
(Rolling for learning spells: Alarm = 23 (Learned) Animate Rope = 16 (Learned) Cause Fear = 12 (No good) Charm Person = 28 (Learned) Chill Touch = 22 (Learned) Detect Secret Doors = 17 (Learned) Detect Undead = 17 (Learned) Disquise Self = 11 (No good) Enlarge Person = 11 (No good) Erase = 10 (No good) Expeditious Retreat = 27 (Learned) Grease = 22 (Learned) Hold Portal = 18 (Learned) Jump = 22 (Learned) Magic Weapon = 25 (Learned) Mount = 19 (Learned) Nystul's Magic Aura = 19 (Learned) Obscuring Mist = 26 (Learned) Protection From Good = 21 (Learned) Protection From Law = 9 (No good) Reduce Person = 19 (Learned) Shield = 22 (Learned) Sleep = 13 (No good) Ventriloquism = 9 (No good))
Vorelle Monday April 26th, 2004 7:43:35 PM
When Rose asks her what the trouble is, Vorelle only shakes her head. She has recovered a little by the time Dietrich arrives back, and will not let him hold her hand.
This, by the way, has always been pretty much par for the course with Vorelle. She will occasionally suffer displays of affection from Rose or Vauhwyt, but she doesn't seem to want the men of the group to touch her, even backing away from harmless Theo.
In the days that follow, she seems anxious and worried, especially concerned about money. She spends less time with the Strays, and more time outside the city hunting. She tries to sell her surplus game to local inns.
Lisenne returns, again when nobody else is around, and Vorelle gives her more of her hard-earned cash.
(OOC: okay, we'll write off those first two months, and now I'm going after Profession (Hunter).)
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20=14 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 8:04:32 AM
Findig time heavy on her hands, Vauhwyt goes to a fortune teller, and asks for a general fortune. The fortune teller says, "You must shape your own life of the clay that you find." Vauhwyt is inspired by this to pay a potter to teach her to shape clay.
Mookie says, "Boss, you're nuts."
Vauhwyt says, "Yeah."
Substitute DM Cayzle Tuesday April 27th, 2004 8:14:40 AM
MONTH OF PILGRIMAGE
Dietrich gains another rank of Carpentry.
Zayne gains another ranks of Hunter, and other projects keep him busy.
Theo spends a lot of time learning arcane lore. (Do you continue your painting? If so, gain another rank.)
Vorelle works hard and gains two ranks of Hunter.
What does Rose do this month?
Vauhwyt takes up a new hobby and gains two ranks in Pottery.
[Oh! Anyone who makes a Catacombs purchase can receive it now.]
MONTH OF ENDINGS
The cold lessens. The wind comes. Parties are sent out to rescue/salvage a wrecked ship caught on the rocks before it could get into the harbour.
Rumour. One that is passed quietly on shifty-eyes, and reaches members of the Cloaks and a few chosen confidants. Apparently there was a big disagreement in the upper hierarchy of the House of Darts, and maybe, just maybe, this house of assassins may have a new leader. And also maybe - this leader is 'different'. How different - no one will say, but one careless bard who sang something along the lines of -
He only comes out at night, The lean and hungry type...
- was found with his throat cut the following morning.
There's another rumour going around that hordes of dragons are on the loose, and will sweep down, destroying everything in their path. This stops the wizard persecution in its tracks. Hey, you need magic to fight dragons. And so anyone who can wave a stick in the air and sound 'arcane' is wined and dined on the last of the venison.
Potato soup of dubious heritage becomes the staple for everyone else. Belts are tightened a couple of notches, and the beat goes on.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Tuesday April 27th, 2004 11:29:07 AM
Vauhwyt continues with her pottery lessons and ignores rumors of dragons. She does visit the Catacombs to sell loot -- and gives every person, including Olyn, 483 gp each. That's on top of the 800 from the Prince.
Vauhwyt continues to spend about 50 gp per month on expenses.
Zayne d20+5=8 d20+5=6 d20+5=8 d20+5=23 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 1:59:58 PM
After another slow month as a guide Zayne manages to save an additional 10gp.
Despite his meager earnings he is still in good spirits.
One day while everyone is actually together,he stands up,"Everyone, I have an announcement to make. I know you haev all been wondering what I have been up to and,I didn't want to talk about it because I didn't want anyone to make a fuss about it. So to answer all your'e questions I was trying to buy a house and I found one just down the street. It's nothing fancy,and it's about the same size as this one and it's only about a two minute walk away. I think we should go take a look at it what about the rest of you? The whole time his nose is twitching excitedly and there is a smug grin on his face from ear to ear.
Dietrich Tuesday April 27th, 2004 5:41:32 PM
Dietrich is sorry that Vorelle closes herself so vehemently against him. He just stands around, waiting for an answer and than goes and bring her a glass of water. As she doesnīt say anything even to Rose, Dietrich hopes that time may make Vorelle less reclusive and more confident in her friends. The days after the incident, Dietrich behaves as if nothing had happened, going out to train with her and not mentioning anything about it.
The warrior is a little disappointed that Theodore doesnīt know about battle and strategy, and explains the young wizard that the essence of battle is a much broader principle, that reaches in all areas of live and deserves Theoīs attention as an object of study. Than, as to avoid listening about 'logistics' and similars, Dietrich talks with Theo about things every man likes: fast horses, girls, football...
As winter continues, Dietrich is eager to hear about any rumours and the rescue action, for heīs beginning to get bored and misses the adrenalin of real battle. The training sessions are ok, but nothing like a good sword fight. He imagines the legendary dragons to be fought, though he doesnīt really believe in that story. The rumours from the House of Darts, on the other hand, seem very much more interesting. That was the house that tried to use Edgar and apparently their misfortune have had some effects on their leadership. Dietrich doesnīt like it at all.
The bad food available bother him, but he motivates himself to eat it by thinking at it as part of the training. You wonīt get it much better in war times.
Dietrich thanks VAuhwyt a lot for the money and is really amazed how an adventure that didnīt look like bringing on any reward could be so fruitfull.
As Zaynes disclosure his mysteries, Dietrich gets excited and approves the idea of taking a look at the house. They live very well at the appartement, but itīs a little small and also only a favour.
fose d20+6=17 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:12:23 PM
ooc: sorry i didnt post yesterday. I was waiting for vorelle's post and then forgot i hadnt posted.
last month Rose continues to eat with her family, luckily they know many ways of making potatoe soup. She spends time sewing, knitting, ect; usually with her mom or other relative. But most of the time she studies magic with her aunt and in the league's libraries. She does spend a weekend training at the league...sore, so very very sore. (add 1 rank climb and ride, two ranks swim per league which says 2 ranks per level)
expenses: 20, ate at relatives most the time, but had to buy materials for clothing. Rose now has 5 new pairs of socks, a charcol grey shirt, pants, and cloak for sneaking around in.
this month
Rose is getting worried about Vorelle. Vorelle seems upset and is staying away. Rose is determined to find out what is upsetting her. Rose spends an entire week with Vorelle in the woods. Rose tries to get Vorelle to talk as she practices cooking out of doors and catches food. For the rest of the month Rose will go out with Vorelle at least two days a week. When she's not with Vorelle she will be popping back into the house at all hours of the day even sometimes just a few minutes after leaving, if she leaves at all. Rose does spend some time away from home as she researches a way to make cooking outside easier, in fact she spends an entire week either at her aunts, the league library, or studying books she brought home with her. When Zayne mentions the house rose gets excited. hopefully it will be bigger than this place, with 8 people and a bunch of animals this two bedroom one bath apartment is a bit cramped.
spellcraft check: 17, passed Rose has now researched her temperature control spell. cayzle could you please add it to oshirr house. Rose also spends seven days making scrolls of the spells. She will give everybody who wants one a scroll and let them use her spell book to copy spell to their book.
let me know if you take a scroll.
expenses: 20, bought and cooked food.
cayzle does rose catch vorelle's mom? I think it's a dm call.
Vorelle Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:55:11 PM
Vorelle welcomes the extra money from Vauhwyt, and her anxieties seem to ease somewhat. She is puzzled when Rose seems to spend so much time with her, but is happy to show her what she can of tracking and hunting game. And of course it's nice to have somebody who can cook what she brings down.
She is surprised by Zayne's announcement. He bought a house? A whole house? Vorelle had never deamed of such a thing; owning actual property had always seemed laughably out of reach, something only the very wealthy could manage. She is all for going to see the new property.
She continues dropping in to help with the Strays, going on occasional hunts, and sparring with her compansions for practice.
One day she is walking near the group's lodgings when a shadowy figure steps out, grabs her, and pulls her into a deserted side passage. Vorelle struggles, but cannot break free.
"Hello, Sis," a familiar voice says.
Vorelle doesn't exactly relax, but she stops struggling. "V-V-V-V-"
"Ma told me where you was living," Vaun explains, relaxing the hold on his sister. "What's the matter--too good for us now?" He smiles as if he were merely joking, but there's a vicious bite to his tone.
Vaun is tall and broad-shouldered, handsome in a brutish, petulant way. He tends to affect a carefree, easygoing manner, but Vorelle knows as well as anyone that this merely serves to disguise his pettiness and cruelty.
"Anyway," he continues, "I've run into a spot of trouble. Nothing too serious, but it's best that the Knives not know where I am for a few days." He smiles. "I need a place to stay, and here's my sister with this sweet adventurer's setup..."
Vorelle shakes her head. "I-I c-c-can't. Th-th-they d-d-don't kn-kn-know ab-b-bout--"
Vaun shrugs as if unconcerned. He also tightens his grip. "No matter, then, I'll just put up at an inn. Of course, I'll need a little cash to cover my expenses."
"N-n-n-n-"
Vaun releases his grip, only to backhand her. Then he grabs her again and pins her to the wall. "Now, 'Relle, be reasonable," he says genially. "I don't want to have to hurt you."
Trembling, Vorelle does not fight back. Tears well in her eyes, and a reddish-purple splotch blooms one one cheek.
Vaun pauses a moment, as if considering. "Or maybe it won't be you. Maybe it'll be one of those friends of yours." His tone is stil mildly chiding, and there's still a faint smile on his face. "That little halfling girl doesn't look like she can defend herself too well. Or that stripling mage who never seems to look where he's going. You wouldn't want to be responsible for anything happening to them, would you?"
Still trembling, Vorelle shakes her head. She reaches into her belt pouch and withdraws her purse, handing the whole thing over to her brother.
He is all charm. "Thanks, 'Relle," he smiles. "Be seeing you." Jauntily, he tosses the purse in the air, catches it, and walks off whistling.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday April 27th, 2004 10:13:02 PM
Theodore continues his painting, becoming more confident in his abilities. He also continues his studies with Master Geoffrey, sometimes spending days at a time away from the apartment. His knowledge of the arcane improves, and his library of spells also increases.
When Rose offers a scroll with her newly researched spell on it, Theodore eagerly takes her up on the offer and compliments her creativity. He also offers her a few scrolls of his own, "I am unable to commit these spells to my own collection, unfortunately." He looks upset. "But perhaps you will have more luck."
Theodore spends 50 gold pieces to maintain himself.
(Theo is giving Rose 1st level scrolls that he failed to learn. These scrolls are; protection from law, sleep, disguise self, ventriloquism, cause fear, enlarge person, and erase.)
Substitute DM Cayzle Wednesday April 28th, 2004 6:50:21 AM
MONTH OF ENDINGS
[Friends, there's a lot going on this month, so rather than breeze through it, let's stay another day in the Month of Endings.]
Vauhwyt gains another rank in Craft(pottery).
Zayne gains another rank of Profession(hunter). He proudly shows off his secret -- another apartment nearby. (E-mail me if you are unsure of the total cost. Make sure you adjust your PC sheet.) It has two bedrooms and a common room, and it is very close -- 1,200 feet from the apartment that Jeraldh lets them rent for free. So far it is unfurnished.
Dietrich interacts with his friends and gets excited about the new apartment. [OOC: What profession/craft does Dietrich pursue this month?]
In the Month of Pilgrimage, Vauhwyt is happy to recommend Rose for membership to the WLA. [OOC: When Jan gets back, please confirm that this is okay. Rose may have to role play a membership application (that's what Vauhwyt did). Also, I'm not sure that that's how the skill ranks work. I have asked for advice in e-mail and am awaiting an answer.] Rose and Vauhwyt both spend time with WLA trainers -- Rose more so. Rose also gains another rank in Profession(cooking) this month.
In the Month of Endings, Rose spends more time with Vorelle. [Loretta, do you want Rose to gain a rank of Profession(hunter) this month? Or Profession(cook) with all the game she has dressed and prepared?] Despite the halfling's natural curiousity and concern, so far she has failed to figure things out. But she is worried. Rose also researches her spell this month and gives her friends copies. [OOC: Dominic or I will post it in the Oshirr House soon.]
Vorelle continues to learn the nuances of hunting [gain another rank in Profession(hunter)]. She enjoys a lot of Rose's company. And she is as excited as Dietrich about Zayne's place. But the intrusions of her family continue to mar her happiness -- and may prove difficult to keep from her friends. [Kathy, please e-mail me about options for continuing this RP -- since I think it will be harder, if not impossible, to keep this story line apart from the other PCs.]
Theo and Rose continue to discuss matters arcane. [Does Theo continue with painting? I asked that yesterday too! What profession/craft is he pursuing, if any?] The young mage seems oblivious to the events around him.
[Let's spend the day posting about Zayne's place, Rose's spell, Vorelle's shiner, or whatever your heart desires! :-) ]
Dietrich d20+2=19 d20+2=15 d20+2=17 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 8:47:13 AM
After working with a carpenter he has known during the floods, Dietrich begins working with masonry. When he goes with Zayne to see the new house, he analyses the carpentry work there (carpentry 19). He also trys to fix that annoying hole in the roof of their present appartement (carpentry 15).
The fighter continues accompanying Vorelle, and now Rose too, in her excursions and perceives that whatever was affecting her is still going on (sense motivation 17). One day, he talks secretly with Rose about it and offers to help the halfling getting information by distracting Vorelle.
Dietrichīs impatience with the weather and the all too pacific life is growing and he starts going to bars in bad quarters, waiting if someone wants to get a broken nose by challenging him.
Theodore and Macaw Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:28:28 AM
Theodore is also interested in the new apartment that Zayne has discovered. "Is it bigger than the one we're currently in? Is it for lease or sale? How many bedrooms does it have?" He blurts these questions out, not waiting for the ranger to answer.
Theodore also begins to send Macaw up above Dirt City to get some exercise and see what events are happening up above. Every few days, Theodore has Macaw fly in a different direction as far as he can, while giving himself enough daylight to get home that same day. After Macaw returns, Theodore and his familiar have a peculiar chat, as Theo is still trying to teach the raven his language.
(Cayzle, Theo continues with the painting. I did say as much in my last post, the first sentence. You must have missed it, but that's okay. :))
==========
[Sorry! Thnaks! -- Cayzle]
rose d20+6=12 d20+6=22 d20+6=12 d20+6=20 d20+6=8 d20+6=22 d20+6=10 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 11:38:32 AM
ooc: unless said otherwise rose is only learning sewing and cooking crafts.
Rose goes and looks around the house with the others (did zayne buy it or does he have an option to buy it? if he bought it can we add on and make it larger?) If zayne hasn't bought the place yet she suggests that maybe they should get a three bedroom two bath place, there are alot of people and animals in the group. If he did buy it she is very enthusiastic and thinks up ways to decorate the place.
Rose is VERY upset when she see's the big bruise on Vorelle's face. "Who did this to you!!! What is going on?!!!" Rose will try to get an answer out of Vorelle. If Vorelle refuses to answer she will say "I'm going to find out what happenned whether you like it or not!" And storms out of the place.
Rose will speak to her relatives who have alot of contacts and get help finding out what is happening to her friend. Rose's relatives are very worried when rose goes to them, because something that affects a person living with rose could also affect rose and will use everything available to find out what is going on.
ooc: cayzle rose's relatives include an aunt and brother who are clerics of wardd, an uncle who's a guard, a sister who is a sorcerer, a brother who makes weapons, a sister who owns a shop, an aunt who's a rogue, and an aunt who's a wizard. not only will they use resources at their disposal, including spells, they will use the halfling network of friends and stuff to gather information.
ooc: will email a copy of rose's spell to everybody
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday April 28th, 2004 2:00:17 PM
Vauhwyt's interest in her own pursuits is ruffled when she sees Vorelle with a bruise on her face and Dietrich looking like he's been brawling.
Frankly, she is much more concerned about Vorelle. She doesn't think that Rose's indignation is the way to get Vorelle to open up. The liontaur finds or makes a private time with the bruised ranger and asks her what happened. She makes it very clear that she is angry at the idea of Vorelle getting into trouble alone -- the way her tail twitches and the tapping of claws on floor reveal Vauhwyt's emotions.
"You know that the city is dangerous. We should stick together in pairs at all times. And you know that you have friends to help you."
Vauhwyt tries to stay closer to Vorelle in general, especially in Dirt City, since Rose is staying close out of doors.
Depending on what Vorelle says, Vauhwyt talks to Rose in private too. "Rose, we are both worried about Vorelle. But she is a private person. Please don't make her more unhappy by prying. But let's keep a closer eye on her, you and me."
Vauhwyt also mentions Dietrich's scratches to him one morning when they are sparring. "Been taking extra lessons in unarmed attacks?" she says, looking at his raw knuckles. "Or just having a good time at bars?"
But frankly, the personal level of violence reminds Vauhwyt of some unpleasant memories of her own, and she spends more time than usual at church, when she isn't potting around or hanging with Vorelle.
On a more pleasant note, Vauhwyt thinks Zayne's new apartment is great. "Excellent idea, Zayne! We were a little crowded. Now, between the two places, there is lots of room for everybody!"
After she surveys the apartments, Vauhwyt asks, "How about girls in the old place and boys in the new? Just because I'm a big oaf, maybe I should get one room if Rose and Vorelle don't mind sharing the other. Zayne should get his own room since he bought the place, and Theo can bunk with Dietrich."
"Now let's get this place fixed up!" She sets to cleaning with lots of energy ad enthusiasm. (And Prestidigitation cantrips!)
Also, Vauhwyt is very impressed with Rose's spell. "Wowsy! You made this up all by yourself! That's incredible! Congratulations!" The stores away the scroll, intending to frame it and hang it on the wall of her new bedroom.
Zayne d20=16 d20=1 d20=20 d20=10 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 3:22:44 PM
Relieved that a great deal was not made of his actions,he begins staying at home and getting to know his companions better.
The sight of Vorelle's bruise brings out a set of emotions that he is not very comfortable dealing with. So he spends the next few days looking and talking to his contacts with the Cloaks,and the Wolves,trying to discover if someone saw,or knows anyhthing about who hurt Vorelle.(OOC all untrained)
Vorelle Wednesday April 28th, 2004 4:30:19 PM
Vorelle is smart enough to realize that she'll need to explain the bruise to her companions. So any time she is asked about it, she responds readily enough that she was mugged (technically true, if somewhat incomplete). She also claims to have reported the incident to the authorities (not true).
When Vauhwyt talks to her about traveling in pairs, she acknowledges, "Y-you're r-r-right," and seems perfectly willing to have somebody with her when she goes out.
Her worries about money seem to have lessened. She goes back to the more infrequent hunting expeditions, spending more time at the hospice and among the Strays, and pitching in to help re-decorate.
Substitute DM Cayzle Thursday April 29th, 2004 6:56:37 AM
Of course, the word "house" has many meanings. In Dirt City Below, a "house" is a connected set of rooms, set private and apart, so that they are also called an "apartment." A "house" or "apartment" is carved out of rock, with a main door that opens on a "street" -- that is, a huge common public tunnel that most folk call a "sewer." Meanwhile, real sewers, carrying waste from the City Below, run under the tunnels and apartments.
So when Dietrich applies his new carpentry and masonry skills to Zayne's new house, what he is doing is checking for structural soundness of rooms carved out of rock. He is checking the fireplace for a clean, good connection to the City ventilation system, and the bathroom facilities for a good connection to the City sewer system. He checks out the big water tanks that are refilled by the Water Sellers who stop by daily. And so on.
As for the group's original apartment, Dietrich repairs and reapplies the waterproof compound that coats all the insides of rooms and tunnels in Dirt City Below. Some people call it "sealing compound"; others call it "ceiling compound."
Few people leave their stone walls exposed. Most cover their surfaces with mats (the cheapest option), tapestries, rugs, and wood panels (the priciest option). Dietrich's carpentry skills come in handy for doors, wood panels, and furniture.
Between the work on the apartments, getting into the odd bar fight, and helping with Vorelle (see below), Dietrich is pretty busy.
Theo is busy, too, with painting, spending time with his familiar, and with the new apartments. Each apartment has a common room, two bedrooms, and a washroom. The common rooms have fireplaces. They are about the same size.
Theodore notices that the murals outside both apartments are somewhat lacking. The ones outside the original apartment are faded and chipped. They are typical for the City Below -- a forest scene with lush growth and animals peeking out from behind tree trunks. Outside the new apartment there are no murals at all -- just stone (coated with sealing compound).
Rose is curious about the new apartment too. It turns out that Zayne bought it outright and has the deed. The proceedure to expand is very difficult, since there is the danger of damaging nearby apartments, if you are not careful. It would require wading through a lot of red tape to get the right permissions -- if you were lucky.
Rose is very concerned about Vorelle, and the shy ranger's answer -- a mugging -- does not completely satisfy her. She does some investigating of her own. (see below)
Vauhwyt is also concerned about Vorelle, but leaves well enough alone -- except to be more careful about travelling in pairs wherever she goes.
The liontaur has ideas about the apartment and pitches in to help.
Zayne is not so much of a stranger, now that his secret is out of the bag. He spends more time at home. But he too is concerned about Vorelle and makes some investigations of his own.
Vorelle's explanation -- the mugging -- answers some questions. She finds herself with more company than usual. Which is fine, since there's a lot to do around the new place. She seems more relaxed, as well. Although with Vorelle that's not always easy to tell.
Rose and Zayne do their best to check on what happened to Vorelle. It turns out that one passer-by did see Vorelle getting roughed up by some low-life. This witness saw the hood drag Vorelle into an alley, and then saw him run out a short time later with a money purse. Vorelle emerged a bit later with the bruise. So her story about a mugging seems to check out. It's a little surprising for such to happen in Dirt City Below, but at least the hood didn't draw a weapon. That can get you banished!
MONTH OF BEGINNINGS
Spring comes with more rumours. Is Aisildur on the brink of civil war?
Brave and enterprising teams set out into the Izen wilds and bring back any dead orc armour and weaponry that hasn't already been lifted from the haunted battlefield. It's transferred to wagons - and exports to the western border begin.
Dragon rumours intensify, and a period of hard work begins for the citizens of Dirt City, for not only are there fields to cultivate, and pastures to be found for the animals, but the Prince has also ordered fortifications to be built that protect the upper level Towers and their stairwells.
At some point, as the seas become more navigable, two ships arrive carrying cured meats, citrus fruits and grain. Their sailors are treated like kings and given free run of the brothels.
Bacon, corned beef, fresh bread and lemonade are back on the menu!
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+5=19 Thursday April 29th, 2004 7:07:08 AM
Vauhwyt uses her new pottery skills to make new plates and cups for both apartments. Their quality is surprisingly high [rolled a 19 on my check].
When she hears that folk are plundering the old battlefield, she urges her friends to join the plunderers.
"Maybe we'll find some ghouls to fight," she says, seemingly looking forward to battle. "And with detect magic spells, we might find a magic item!"
"Boss, are you sure that's a good idea?" asks Mookie.
"Don't be such a coward!" the liontaur rogue and sorcerer replies. "What does everybody else think? We're more likely to find ghouls if we go at night!"
Dietrich Thursday April 29th, 2004 10:21:28 AM
Dietrich likes the new appartement and congratulates Zayne for his acquisition. Heīd be satisfied with VAuhwytīs suggestion to split the group in the two accomodations, but of course itīs Zayne who has to decide if he wants them living in his house at all!
When the fighter sees Vorelles bruise he gets quite angry and when heīs told what happened heīs not satisfied with the explanation. From what he knows about the ranger, she wouldnīt let some nobody steal and hurt her without punishment. It also doesnīt explain why Vorelle was upset and in tears before the suppose mugging. Dietrich shares this oppinions with his other friends (not Vorelle) and ask them to investigate more.
When VAuhwyt asks him about having fun in bars Dietrich grins and asks her to come with him. Then, as weather and food gets better, his mood improves too and he diminish the frequency of bar fights. When the ships arrive, he goes to see if Devlin came back too and listens in the bars about any news from abroad.
But when Vauhwyt suggests to make some excursions to the battlefield too, he approves the idea imediatly. He actually hates undead and has still tense memories of the battlefield, but his eagernes to do something is greater and he canīt stand the adventurers in the bars mocking about his inactivity anymore.
This last month he helps by the fortification efforts, improving his understanding of masonry and defense measures.
Theodore and Macaw Thursday April 29th, 2004 12:33:44 PM
Theodore happily moves his many items into the house bought by Zayne. Out of gratitude for the ranger's gift to their group, Theodore does his best to keep the place spick and span. Probably cleaning more than necessary, and never letting Zayne do any chores as long as the young wizard is there.
On the side he continues his painting. Often times he can be seen standing outside of the two apartments with a thoughtful finger on his mouth. "This is really quite bland," he says to himself. "Perhaps I could touch it up a little?"
He also continues to send Macaw out every few days to collect news from abroad. He practices more of his spells, every day gaining more confidence in his abilities.
At Vauhwyt's suggestion to scavenge at battlefields, Theodore says, "I will go if the rest of you do." As noncommittal as ever.
(Cayzle, how much would it cost in materials and such to paint both apartments? And what else would be involved that I should take into consideration?)
Zayne d20=20 d20=11 d20=7 d20=3 Thursday April 29th, 2004 1:06:52 PM
Having discovered that Vorelle's story checks out,and knowing that stranger things have happened in Dirt City. Zayne focuses his efforts on finding this hoodlum. There are some things that just are not done,you do not take from those who are weaker than you,especially by force.
Zayne knows how to hunt,and the hunt is now on.
Zayne Thursday April 29th, 2004 2:34:43 PM
OOC: The rolls in the previouos post are Gather Information checks. I forgot to say what they were for. Sorry
Vorelle Thursday April 29th, 2004 5:01:27 PM
Vorelle's earlier anxiety is all but gone, and she begins to exhibit the same kind of restlessness the others are feeling. It's time, she thinks, to be out and doing something again.
She shudders when Vauhwyt begins talking about going after the ghouls again, remembering the vile touch of those undead hands. Still, if that's the adventure that's offerred....
"I-I'm w-willing to g-g-g-go," Vorelle says.
rose d20+3=18 d20+3=13 d20+3=10 d20+3=21 d20+3=6 Thursday April 29th, 2004 5:49:48 PM
Rose isn't really satisfied with Vorelle's explanation. She could have been mugged but what had happened before that to upset her. Her family and their friends (including almost the entire halfling community) continue to gather information and watch the apartments.
Rose looks around both apartments and tells the others she will make cushions, and other cloth items for the apartments. She asks everyone what colors they would like and asks Theo if he could paint a "window" in some of the rooms that she could decorate with curtains and make look more realistic. She asks Vauhwyt to make her a spinning whorl and some good sized mixing bowls.
At the mention of fighting ghouls, Rose agrees but says that everyone needs a day or two to prepare. ie: buy holy water, clw potions, and other stuff.
sewing checks for making various things: 18, 13, 10, 21, 6
Substitute DM Cayzle d100=39 d20=17 [secret DM rolls] Friday April 30th, 2004 5:04:53 AM
Vauhwyt and Dietrich visit a few bars. It turns out Vauhwyt has a fondness for cider -- soft or hard.
Dietrich, Zayne, and Rose are not satisfied with Vorelle's explanation -- or if they are, it does not diminish their desire to hunt the hoodlum down who mugged her.
Their diligence pays off, and Zayne and Rose both discover the name of an inn at which the mugger has been living pretty well for himself. The inn is The Dark Jungle, and it is easy to find by the dark jungle murals painted on the walls of the sewer outside the place. It is a bit seedy, frequented by gamblers, but underground, part of the Arena Below.
Since it is underground, you know what that means ... all weapons peace-bonded, and violence underground can get you fined or exiled (a legal point the Prince ignored given the party's battles in the sewers last autumn!)
The investigators have a name, too, sort of -- "Faun or Corn, or something or other," says one drunken source. But is there time to pay this fellow a visit before heading off to scavenge the battlefield?
Theo looks at the disgraceful walls outside the apartments and thinks the amount you could spend to fix them up is directly proportional to the quality desired. But spend less than five gold per mural and he'll take a -2 penalty on his craft check from shoddy materials. Spend more than 50 gold per mural and gain a +2 bonus from using good materials.
Everybody pitches in and -- after a thorough spring cleaning -- both places sparkle in no time. The residences, helped by varied Craft skills, are looking quite homey, although with the furniture spread between the two places, it seems a little sparse. A few chairs and a table for the new place might be handy.
Billi and Timmy, Jeraldh's boys, hang out to watch, and offer to "help" when moving stuff around. They want to know if the group had a fight, and it they are splitting up?
The spring air gets everybody feeling a little restless, and the group pretty much decides to try battlefield scrounging. Anything you all want to do before setting out?
Anyway, Vauhwyt keeps up with her pottery, gaining a total of four ranks of Craft(pottery). Theodore gains four ranks in Craft(painting). Vorelle and Zayne gain four ranks of Profession(hunter). Dietrich gains two ranks of Craft(carpentry) and Craft(stonemasonry). Rose gains four ranks in Profession(cook). [Loretta, there is no Craft(sewing) skill listed in the Craft description, and there is not Profession(tailor) either. Per Jan, we are limited to the skills listed in the PHB descriptions. That's why Vorelle could not tale Profession(nurse) and Vauhwyt could not take Profession(adventurer).]
If anyone is unhappy with the skill rank distributions above, please let me know asap! Also, please send me your latest PC sheet with your skills adjusted and money accounted for after these several months have gone by (I already have PC sheets from two of you, thanks!) -- Cayzle
Dietrich d20+2=5 d20+2=3 Friday April 30th, 2004 11:06:39 AM
Dietrich is glad Vauhwyt comes with him to the bars and enjoys the time with his funny friend. The only problem is that, now with a huge lion on his side, nobody dares to challenge him to a good bar fight! Itīs really time to get out of the city and have some action!
To have two appartments now lets the fighter very satisfied and he loves to have a little more place. He trys to build some furniture, but fails twice and thinks he has better things to do with his time, desisting from that idea for now (ooc: cayzle, please put a price for the waisted material). When the group is together, he asks Zayne if he wants to have the new house as group property, if so, everybody should pay him his part, for Dietrich doesnīt find it fair to have Zayne paying the whole cost of it alone.
Finaly, when his friends discover the mugger, Dietrich is eager to teach the guy some lessons and also to ask some questions, for the thing seems to be more than it appears. Tensioning his muscles, Dietrich talks with Rose and Zayne to keep an eye on the guy and wait till he get uptown. Than heīll see what it means to hurt a friend of Dietrich the Bear.
Before leaving the city, Dietrich will buy some stuff for the adventure. He asks his companions: "Perhaps we could hire a cleric too?"
Theodore and Macaw Friday April 30th, 2004 1:13:03 PM
At some point, when everyone is together, Theodore throws out a proposal. "I was thinking of painting the outsides of our apartments. The original paint is faded and ugly. I don't really know what to paint, though, and I wanted to see what all of you thought. Perhaps we could come up with a party name, like the Gold Dragons? Then I could paint a theme using that name."
Vorelle Friday April 30th, 2004 7:34:24 PM
Vorelle, too, is eager to be out adventuring again.
Oblivious to the plotting of her companions to get to the bottom of her "mugging," she finds the time to visit her parents and bring them more money. She slips away and does this alone if she can, and if she can't, she goes with Vauhwyt or Rose, confident in her mother's ability to pretend that everything is just fine, thank you. What, after all, could be more natural than an adventurer providing for her loving parents?
When Theo suggests that the group find a name, she suggests "Hawks."
Zayne d20+5=23 Saturday May 1st, 2004 1:28:59 PM
Glad to see that his connections with the Cloaks are't all dried up,the young ranger begins to think of a good way to teach this piece of filth a much needed lesson.
Asking Dietriech if he will go with him to The Dark Jungle,he makes sure he goes there at least once a week.
he does not ask any questions about anyone he just makes it a point to meet and talk to everyone. Careful not to get lost in drink he only brings a handful of silver each time he goes.
He makes it a point not to start any fights,but in any seedy tavern,there will be a scuffle or three. He often comes home with a new bruise or cut,and always with a smile."One step closer." is always what he say when he comes back from these excursions.
Spending time with the group scavenging the ghoulyard,is not exactly what Zayne calls using one's time constructively,but he goes along anyway. It's a change of pace and more than likely it wont require a long soak in hot water,or medical attention.
He is not at his usual place at the head of the group instead he has decided that he wants to bring up the rear and is at the rear of the column alone with only his thoughts to keephim company.
Thinking of the way things are going and what exactly he is going to do to the culprit that accosted Vorelle,keeps his mind occupied. As they travel,he begins to ask himself why is he so concerned with Vorelle's safety. She is older than he is and quite capable of taking care of herself just fine. Then it hits him,he nearly he has been keeping himself so busy fighting one crusade after another,to justify his actions that night they all met.
Whispering to himself as he follows along"He deserved it...didn't he? Who am I to say that a man DESERVES to die. I am a man just like him.Does that make me a hypocrite? How can I say that this person deserve to live and that one doesn't? What about my dad? He has killed,he admitted it but,he raised me and taught me not to hurt others,doe that make him a hypocrite?" Walking ahead not paying attemtion to anything but the many "Whys?" he has been avoinding these last few months,brings him nearly to tears.
Still walking and questioning his actions,he asks the air,"How does that make me any better than that monster,The Prince? Is that why I don't like him,is it because he reminds me of part of myself that I don't like?"
He is suddenly overtaken by a cold fury,he begins tolook around for something,to take his new found rage out on. He begins to use teh more colorfl side of the language he has been picking up,hanging out in seedy taverns.
His carefree stroll has become,an icy march of death. No longer is he asking himself questions,now he is looking for,an outlet of his pent up emotions. He begins to search his surroundings withi his eyes looking for something,anything to unleash this rage on(Spot 23)
rose Sunday May 2nd, 2004 1:39:57 PM
Rose is busy preparing for the trip and not letting vorelle out of her sight. She hauls Vorelle and Vauhwyt around with her picking out fabrics for the apartment, buying food, meeting Rose's family, visiting the temples (and more of rose's relatives). When shopping for fabrics for cushions, curtains, ect Rose also sees some fabrics that are good for traveling (sturdy yet comfortable) and makes sure to get an opinion which is the nicest from both vorelle and vauhwyt. Rose will then sneak back and buy some of the fabric with matching ribbons to make things for the girls. Rose does go with Vorelle to visit her mom.
(ooc: cayzle can I just say that she buys some holy water at the temple and the food and cloth at the market instead of spending another week at the catacombs?)
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Sure, spend up to 100 gp from the PHB if you want -- just send me a revised PC sheet with everything detailed. -- Cayzle]
Vauhwyt and Mookie Monday May 3rd, 2004 11:14:55 AM
Vauhwyt likes the idea of Theo's new murals, but she is not too keen on the idea of a group name -- alone or part of a mural.
"When you have a name," she says, "you become a target. People think you are proud and full of yourself. Frankly, we were in the middle of too many events last year -- the assassination plot, the mines, the bug hunt -- we need to keep our heads down."
"I don't see why we should advertise ourselves. And why put our names on our doors? That's like putting out a sign ... 'so-called heros live here! they are often away from home, out collecting gold they leave here! come rob them!' Bad idea. Very bad idea."
Vauhwyt spends 100 gp of her own money on a really good lock for the girls' apartment. She also picks up her latest package from the catacombs.
Then she and Mookie are ready to head out! "Let's go a-treasure hunting!"
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