DM Bob & Carla d20+7=14 d20+7=21 d8=3 d8=2 d20+6=21 d6+1=5 Monday October 11th, 2004 11:37:53 PM
As Elerinn and Bralin head towards the stacked barrels at the back of the room two humans (S1 & S3) step out from their hiding places and confront them. At exactly the same time, two kegs careen down from the loft above. The first strikes the gnome solidly on the shoulder[Hit AC=14; 3 hp] while the second glances off the back of the dwarf [Hit AC=21; 2 hp]. A third assailant steps from behind the stairs to Alkali's left and strikes him across the back with a club and sends him reeling forward towards the saw table [Hit AC=21; 5hp].
S1 glares at the assembled party members as he steps forward. "You've been asking questions where you've got no business!" he rasps.
[OOC Map being sent by e-mail]
Harvest (AC 17, Dodge 18 vs S2, HP 28/28) d20+8=22 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 12:42:48 AM
A very deep and stubborn frown pulls down upon the brown girl's face. She slides to her left, and as she moves, the spiked chain slides from her haversack into her hand. She squeezes between Andrath Silverhand, and the halfling Alkali, moving to just within 10 feet of the man. (S2)
"You. Go," she commands with the flat simplicity of conviction. And to lend credence to conviction, Harvest sends the end of the spiked chain flying forward. It wraps the man's club. Then with a flick of her wrist, she sends a wave of spiked metal chain forward in a move designed to disarm.
[Disarm 22]
Lorth Tuesday October 12th, 2004 8:17:03 AM
Waits... [OOC: Just Posting, that I'm waiting cause we are supposed to post everyday. Otherwise I'd just wait till something happens at the inn.]
Bralin (ac 20, 43/45 hp, expertise[1]) d20+8=20 d10+5=8 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 8:57:12 AM
Bralin is able to step forward just in time to avoid the brunt of the falling barrel.
S1 starts to parlay, but it is too late. The dwarf is under attack and he moves purposefully.
Without breaking stride or saying a word, Bralin moves up to S1, bringing his axe around at the man's chest. [Hit ac 20, 8 hp damage]
Elerinn AC: 12 HP: 25/28 2d4(4+3)+2=9 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 10:28:41 AM
When Elerinn is hit by a barrel on one of his small shoulders, he looks up for a moment to see if there are any more people inside the building. He notices Harvest has disarmed one of the assailants. Perhaps this man will surrender himself, so the gnome turns to the man in front of Alkali(S1). The sorcerer quickly gestures with his hand and targets the man with the two shining bolts that appear in his hands.
OOC: Casting Magic Missile at the man who hit Alkali for 9 damage.
Alkali AC: 14 HP: 9/14 d8=1 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 1:28:10 PM
Caught unaware by the assailant, lost in the rapture of curiosity, Alkali recieves a painful blow to his back falling down slightly dazed. Quickly comprehending the situation, Alkali runs over to Bralin whispering an incantation and pulling hairs from a pouch. "As strong as a giant you shall grow, the spirits I call to defeat this foe, a bull's power I bestow, to repeat the pain given ago." Feeling the connection with the lay line, Alkali feels a rush of power flow through him. The aching pain felt before is diminished by the sheer joy drawing upon the Woldsblood's power.
OOC: Casting Bull's Strength on Bralin, no spells used. +4 Str
Andrath (AC24, 30/30 hp, Shield) d20+11=18 d100=56 d20+17=19 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 8:42:42 PM
Andrath sees that his friends have things pretty much in order downstairs, and heads upstairs. He tumbles past foe S2 [OOC: tumble check of 18], and climbs as far as the top of the stairs, or his full 30' move. Once he reaches the top of the stairs (or the limit of his 30' move), the elf will call on his new magical skills, and cast shield on himself. [OOC: armour spell failure of 56%, so spell is successful.]
He quickly looks around, figuring out what to do next. [OOC: Spot roll of 19.]
DM Bob & Carla d20+7=27 d20+7=22 d20+7=18 d20+7=9 2d6(2+1)=3 d6=5 d20+7=21 d8+1=3 d20+10=13 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 12:24:47 AM
Harvest Moon successfully tears the club from S2's hand with her spiked chain but he remains undeterred and draws his long sword. Bralin's attack also draws blood but the man manages to sidestep the worst of the blow. Elerinn's magic missiles whiz through the air and strike S3 sending the man in studded leather reeling backwards. Alkali successfully casts Bulls strength on Bralin who can feel the energy coursing through his veins.
Meanwhile, Andrath darts up the stairs and arrives at the top step in time to see three men standing behind a row of casks and throwing them down on those beneath. The rogue casts his spell but can do no more in this round.
The first keg hits Bralin [Critical for 3 hp]while a second keg strikes Alkali [Hit AC 18 for 5 hp]. The third keg smashes on the floor at the witches feet.
S2, with his longsword in hand, takes a step towards Harvest Moon and lashes out [Hit AC=21 for 3 hp]. S3 drops his club and draws his sword but is unable to reach Elerinn in this round. S1 stabs half-heartedly at Bralin with his rapier. "So you want to play for keeps" the apparent leader of the thugs replies. "Well for keeps it is."
The inside of the cooperage is strangely quiet except for the breathing of combatants and the occassional cask hitting the floor. Dust hangs in the air, sticking to the blood and sweat that begins to stain the participants.
Alkali AC: 14 HP: 14/14 d8=5 d8+4=12 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 12:33:18 AM
The power of the lay line plays Alkali once again of guard. A barrel smashes across his back sending him to the ground in sheer agony. A second barrel barely misses the halfling has he stops to recover his breath. Praying to Flower, Alkali's blood soaked body slowly begins to clean up. Bruises and aches become memories as he regans his stanima and stands up on guard. (Cure Light Wounds, for 12 hp)
OOC: Accidently rolled d8 for spell failure, but realized that the rule only applies to arcane spells.
Lorth Wednesday October 13th, 2004 7:30:25 AM
waits...
Harvest (AC 17, Dodge 18 vs S2, HP 25/28) d20+8=22 d20+5=20 2d4(3+4)+1=8 d20+10=26 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 7:57:34 AM
As the man moves toward her, Harvest flicks the chain again. (AoO: Disarm 22) It flies upward, striking the man's sword near the hilt with a forced gauged to numb and drive the weapon from his hand.
Then he's on her, and, perhaps her blow had come a little too late. The brown girl's dodge is late as well, and a cut appears across her forehead.
Her attack is made in silence. Harvest's arm rises up in an arc, and the chain follows in a snaking wave. Near the top of the arc she quickly shifts direction, drawing her arm downward and across her body sending links of weighty spiked chain out and into the man's face. (To Hit 20, Damage 8hp)
Then a quick controlled backwards roll puts her at 10 feet again. (Tumble 26)
"You. Go." The words are spoken with the same flat conviction.
[[ OoC: One point about the spiked chain. It has a 10 foot threat range. The man would have had to move over five feet to have attacked Harvest with his last move, drawing his sword as he came. Moving through a threatened area would draw an AoO. I took the AoO, but tried to leave the situation open enough for you to resolve later should you wish to disallow this. Does he drop the sword or not?
BTW DM's Bob & Carla, do you post AC's for opponents? ]]
Al-We usually post a few combat rounds, then post AC's, and a few rounds later, HP's.
Bralin (ac 21, 40/45 hp, bulls strength, expertise[2], power attack[1]) d20+8=19 d10+8=17 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 10:59:18 AM
Bralin feels the strength course within him as Alkali's spell takes hold. A confident grin appears on his face, which the barrel only partially removes.
The axe twirls again [Attack S1 hit ac 19 for 17 hp damage]
"You may yield," the dwarf replies to the leader. [If the leader is down, the statement is directed at S3, who's next.]
Andrath (AC24, 30/30 hp, Shielded) d20+11=20 d20+7=27 d20+7=18 d8+5=11 d8+5=6 2d6(5+4)=9 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 12:44:12 PM
Andrath spots the 3 figures dropping barrels on his friends' heads, and moves quietly over beside the closest one, drawing his shortsword as he moves (he already holds his longsword). [OOC: Silent move check of 20.]
The elf stabs his longsword at the closest foe, striking true. [OOC: Critical threat with a 27, maybe confirmed with an 18. Does 11 hp damage if no critical, and 17 hp total damage if the critical is successful. Also, if the target is surprised by Andrath's attack, sneak attack damage of 9 hp.]
Elerinn AC: 12 HP: 25/28 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 5:02:23 PM
Elerinn is approached by the man who hit Alkali earlier and the gnome realizes he is an easy target. To defend himself somewhat from the man's attacks, he starts casting another spell. Once he is finished, nothing seems changed.
Like some of his companions, Elerinn wants to give the men the change to surrender and yells: "Surrender while you still can! Wardd is with us, the Swords of Light and frowns upon you!"
DM Bob & Carla d20+6=24[S4 listen] d20+7=18[S4 attack] d20+9=19{S3 attack] d20+12=23[S1 attack] d6+1=5[S1 dmg] 2d6(3+4)=7[S1 SA] d20+7=11[S2 attack] d20+7=9[S5 attack] d20+7=27[S6 attack - threat] d20+7=24 [S6 Critical] 2d6(6+3)=9 [S6 Damage] Wednesday October 13th, 2004 10:12:47 PM
At the top of the stairs Andrath sneaks forward as the man turns to pick up another cask and spots the elf advancing. He raises a cask to defend himself but the rogue's blade strikes home and blood immediately begins to spread across the edges of the rent in his leather armor. He cries out in pain and pulls his longsword to defend himself but fails to break through Andrath's defences.[Hit AC=18] Small bubbles of blood appear on the man's lips, a sure sign that Andrath's blade has punctured a lung.
Bralin's axe once again slices into the leader drawing yet more blood from his battered foe. S3 sees the danger of the situation and and charges Bralin with his longsword however the dwarf is able to deflect the blade with his axe [Hit AC=18]. Seeing an opportunity, the leader (S1) slides into a flanking position and stabs at the dwarf as he defends himself from S3. His rapier slides deep into the dwarf [Hit AC=23 for 5 hp + 7 hp sneak attack].
S2 reels as the chain snakes across his face.[OOC he only advanced 5' so no AoO]. Wiping the blood from his face, he leers suggestively at the small woman, "you're going to have to do more than parlor tricks li'l missy". Lurching after the nimble monk he swings wildly with his sword and misses [Hit AC=11].
Up in the loft the two remaining humans each hurl casks down upon Harvest and Elerinn. The first cask splinters at Harvest's feet [Hit AC=9] while the second strikes Elerinn squarely in the head with an ominously loud crack [Hit AC=27/24 Critical for 9 HP]
The leader of the bandits or smugglers, or thugs, or whatever they are, calls up to the loft "Get down here now!" as he prepares to ward of the next blow from the dwarf.
Meanwhile, back at the Shadfly Inn, Lincoln approaches the lonesome paladin and suggests that he move outside while the rooms are cleaned. "It is a fine day outside" suggests the halfling.
OOC: AC for bad guys = 16
Andrath (AC24, 30/30 hp, shielded - 8 rounds remaining) d20+5=9 d20+5=21 d6+2=8 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 11:00:21 PM
Andrath swings his two swords at the barrel-thrower that he hit last round. His longsword misses the mark [OOC: hit AC9], but his shortsword successfully bites into his target's side. [OOC: hit AC21 for 8 hp damage.]
He smiles at the three thugs on the top floor, and says, "No, stay up here and play! There is plenty of fight up here, you'll see! Or, you may just want to drop those barrels and lie facedown on the ground, and save your blood from being shed."
He calls down to Alkali, "Alkali, can you send Karee to get Lorth? We may need him quickly!"
Harvest d20+8=19 Thursday October 14th, 2004 12:38:53 AM
A dimple of discontent forms at the side of Harvest's mouth as the man refuses to be reasonable. Instead of his face, she again targets his weapon. This time the chain swings upward from her left in an arc that she pulls back on at just the right moment, wrapping the blade near the hilt. Continuing the rightward movement of her arms, she pulls at the sword. (Disarm: 19)
Then she moves five feet to put herself deeper under the hang of the loft above.
Lorth Thursday October 14th, 2004 7:39:29 AM
Lorth smiles at Lincoln, "Of course", he says. Then he immediatley gathers up his gear and goes outside to wait on the front porch.
Bralin (ac 22, 28/45 hp, bulls strength, expertise[3]) d20+8=24 d10+7=9 Thursday October 14th, 2004 9:26:03 AM
Bralin winces from the rapier's strike. In combination, these men are proving dangerous foes.
The dwarf concentrates a bit more on the defense, but only a bit.
He continues to swing at the leader (S1). [hit ac24 for 9 hp damage]
Alkali d8=5 d20+10=15 Thursday October 14th, 2004 10:18:23 AM
Alkali seeing Bralin being attacked by two, he decides to even the odds. He starts casting Blindness on S3 when he hears Andarth call. Concentrating on the spell, he realizes that he and Bralin are not the only people here. After the spell is over, Alkali commands Karee to find Lorth quickly.
Karee does one quick scan and leaves as fast he can. (Spot: 15)
OOC: 60ft/sec is Karee's flight speed. Not sure how many rounds it would take.
Elerinn AC: 16 HP: 16/28 2d4(4+4)+2=10 Thursday October 14th, 2004 1:47:44 PM
OOC: I forgot to post that the spell Elerinn cast in the last round was a Mage Armor spell, so I have a AC of 16 now.
Elerinn yells in pain as one of the barrels hits his little head and looks up at the two bandits standing on the second floor. Realizing these man are pretty dangerous up there, he decides to target one of them with another Magic Missile spell.
OOC: Magic Missile on one of the men standing on the second floor, for 10 damage
DM Bob & Carla d20+7=15[S3 AoO] d8+1=8[S3 dmg] d20+4=23[S3 Fort Save] d20+9=21[S3 attack] d20+12=22[S1 attack] d6+1=3[S1 dmg] 2d6(6+4)=10[S1 SA] d8+1=4 [S4 Clw] d20+4=20[S5 jump] d20+4=13[S6 Jump] d20+9=28[S5 attack] d20+9=15[S5 critical] d8+1=4[S5 dmg] d20+9=12[S6 attack] d6=2 [S6 falling dmg] Thursday October 14th, 2004 11:17:28 PM
The human attacking Bralin sees the halfling casting his spell and slashes at him with his sword [AoO Hit AC=15 for 8 dmg] and the spell washes over him with no effect [Fort save = 23]. He then turns his attention to the dwarf and once again his sword is turned aside [Hit AC=21].
The leader of the group is struck again by Bralin's axe and fresh blood mixes with the stain that already spreads across his leather armor. Clutching his wound he thrusts forward once again with his rapier and strikes the dwarf [Hit AC=22 for 3 hp + 10 sneak attack] before retreating out of the range of the dwarf's axe.
Harvest Moon's chain rips the sword from her opponent's hand and it clatters to the floor. Weaponless, he has no choice but to try and retrieve it. [AoO for Harvest Moon]
Up in the loft, Andrath's blade finds it's mark again and his opponent stumbles backwards away from the dangerous rogue. He reaches into a pouch on his belt and consumes some liquid from a flask. Fear is clearly in his face as he tries to stay out of the elf's range. The other two men draw their swords and jump down from the loft onto their opponents below.
S5 jumps down on Ellerin and slashes down hard with his longsword as he does so, striking the gnome [Hit AC=28 for 4 hp].
S6 attempts to jump down on Alkali but is struck by Elerinn's magic missiles and misjudges his leap to land hard on the floor next to the witch. He lets out a grunt of pain as his leg buckles under the force of his awkward landing.
Outside, Alkali's hawk flies rapidly towards the Shadfly Inn and the paladin. [It will arrive in 2 more rounds] It's hurried wingbeats carry it just above the rooftops. A small boy on the street points out the raptor to his mother who pays no attention to the gesticulating child.
Lorth enjoys the peaceful solitude of the porch outside the Shadfly Inn.
Andrath (AC24, 30/30 hp, Shielded - 7 rounds remaining) d20+5=21 d8+5=12 d20+5=11 Thursday October 14th, 2004 11:40:28 PM
Andrath shifts forward and attacks the thug.
His longsword finds the mark, and again bites into the thug's torso. [OOC: Hit AC 21 for 12 hp damage.] His shortword swing goes wide. [OOC: Hit AC 11.]
He calls down, "Bralin, try not to kill all of them! We will want to ask a few questions, once they are all down! Maybe we can keep the leader alive enough to answer some questions!"
Harvest (AC 17, Dodge 18 vs S2, HP 25/28) d20+8=19 d20+5=20 d6+1=4 Thursday October 14th, 2004 11:50:21 PM
Harvest keeps the downward circular momentum of the chain moving as her opponent's weapon drops to the floor. Metal links lash the floor and then continue on in their arc, coming up and over from behind. Then, as the man (S2) bends for his weapon, the heavy links rain down upon the sword again. (AoO: Disarm 19)
Harvest follows the circular motion of the chain as it continues on in another rising arc. She pivots on the chain's momentum, bringing her elbow around in a backwards strike to the man's temple, and catching him before he can rise from stooping for his weapon. (Stunning Fist/Fort vs DC15 : To Hit 20, Damage 4)
She fights in silence, no longer interested in seeing the man go.
Lorth Friday October 15th, 2004 7:33:03 AM
Lorth stretches out in a comfortable position on the front porch, soaking up the sun.
Bralin (ac 22, 15/45 hp, bulls strength, expertise[3]) d20+8=18 d10+8=14 Friday October 15th, 2004 10:12:38 AM
The leader's rapier pierces Bralin yet again. Andrath's call elicits a slight upturn of the left corner of his mouth. Who's killing whom is still much in doubt. The dwarf starts a continuous hum of a single bass note.
While continuing this low noise, Bralin steps to the north side of S1 in an effort to keep the leader and S3 in front of him. And then slams down on S1 again with his axe. [hit ac18 for 14hp damage]
The man must go down. Soon.
Alkali AC: 14 HP: 6/14 2d8(8+6)+4=18 Friday October 15th, 2004 10:46:45 AM
Alkali holds his side and realizes his horrible prediement. Both him and Bralin are surrounded by 3 men and on the verge of death. "Well, one of us has to get out of this mess. Sorry my curiosity got me there." Alkali casts cure moderate wounds on Bralin hoping for the best. He starts to wonder about what the next life will be. Perhaps an insect? Maybe a troll? Or perhaps one of those gigantic lizards.
Alkali Friday October 15th, 2004 10:49:44 AM
OOC: Oops, didn't mean to post. Alkali also moves up behind Bralin to put Bralin between himself and the thugs. And the heal is for 18 damage.
Elerinn AC: 12 HP: 12/28 d20+12=28 2d4(1+3)+2=6 Sunday October 17th, 2004 6:02:01 PM
Elerinn looks at Bralin and Alkali, who are both surrounded by bandits and pretty wounded. The gnome doesn't feel very good himself, after several crates and the man in front of him have hit him. Elerinn decides to target the man in front of him with another pair of Magic Missiles. He succesfully tries to cast the spell while remaining in a defensive stand.
OOC: Elerinn casts a Magic Missile on the bandit in front of him while on defence Concentration check: 18 Magic Missile Damage: 6
DM Bob & Carla d20+10=22[S1 AoO] d6+1=5[S1 dmg] d20+4=19[S1 Tumble] d20+4=17[S1 Tumble] 2d8(1+6)+3=10[S1 CMW] d20+4=20[S2 Fort] d20+5=11[S2 Atk] d20+9=20[S3 charge] d20+4=21[S3 Str] d10=8[S4 stabilization] d20+7=16[S5 atk] d8+1=7[S5 dmg] Sunday October 17th, 2004 8:00:10 PM
Bralin's axe again bites deep into the armor of his opponent and the man's face goes ashen as the extent of his wounds begins to take their toll. When Alkali advances to cast his spell on Bralin the leader (S1) hacks at the witch as he prepares his magic [AoO Hit AC=22 for 5 dmg; Alkali must make a concentration check of DC 15 or the spell is ruined.] S1 then tumbles away from both Bralin and Alkali [Tumble =19, 17] and pours a flask of liquid into his mouth.
S2 is once again disarmed of his sword by Harvest Moon's chain and then knocked to one knee by her elbow. Fear begins to take hold and in desperation the man reaches for a handful of dirt and sawdust from the floor and flings it towards the silent monk's eyes [Fort Save 20, Hit AC 11]
S3 sees Alkali trying to cast his spell and charges towards him [S3 is too far away for an AoO on Alkali, but both Bralin and Alkali can take an AoO on S3]. The man bull rushes the halfling and drives him back onto the saw table [Atk=20 and str = 21]
S4 vainly attempts to deflect Andrath's blade but fails and drops to his knees, blood spills quickly onto the dusty floor and his eyes glaze over as he loses consciousness and slumps over.
Elerinn targets S5 with his spell and two bursts of energy slam into the thug's chest causing him to shudder under the impact. He snarls something incomprehensible at Elerinn and lunges forward with his longsword, piercing the gnome's thigh [Hit AC 16 for 7 dmg].
S6 reaches down and pulls at a large wooden lever, unlocking the mechanisms that drive the huge saw blade. Above the skirmish the elaborate arrangement of belts and pulleys creak and groan under the added load as the mechanism is engaged. Then the belts begin to move and the huge blade begins to turn. It picks up speed and begins to emit the characteristic whine of a saw adding to the noise created by the moving web of belts above. Alkali lies prone on the saw table some 5 feet from the spinning blade with S3 pinning him to the surface of the table.
"Shove him in Roblek!" S6 roars above the growing din. The leader (S1) shouts, "Rand, help me with this dwarf."
Meanwhile a boy, somewhere between 8 and 10 years old, rounds the corner in front of the Shadfly Inn and races by towards the bridge and a small patrol of the castle garrison that patrols it. "Quick!" he yells out, "There's some kind of fight goin' on at the Coopers!"
Harvest (AC 17, Dodge 18 vs S2, HP 25/28) d20+3=12 d20+3=16 d6+1=5 d6+1=7 Sunday October 17th, 2004 9:06:31 PM
Moving through her reverse elbow strike, Harvest Moon plants her left foot. Pausing only briefly to pull back her head and allow the cloud of sawdust to fly harmlessly by, she executes a quick double snap kick to the man's head with her right foot. (S2) The first kick comes up under the man's chin, the second, with a turn of her hips, changes angles and catches the man from the side, just behind the ear. With the second blow, the little monk aims for the bundle of nerves at the top of the spine. If he will not go, he will sleep.
[[ Flurry of blows. To hit AC12, AC16 / If the man is prone as the description "on one knee" and his ability pick an improvised weapon up off the ground without an AoO suggest, then Damage is 5hp Lethal, 7hp subdual. Otherwise it's 7hp subdual. ]]
Andrath (AC 24, 27/30 hp, Shielded - 6 rounds remaining) d20+11=14 d6=3 Sunday October 17th, 2004 11:46:24 PM
Andrath watches the thug upstairs fall to the ground unconscious, and moves to the edge of the loft. He slides north, and then drops down to the floor below, between thugs S3 and S6. Unfortunately, he stumbles upon landing, and falls prone. [OOC: Missed the tumble roll to stay on his feet, so took the 3 hp damage.]
He stands up and grips his swords tightly, calling to S3, "Fight someone your own size!"
Lorth Monday October 18th, 2004 8:35:54 AM
[OOC: I'm taking for granted that Lorth hears the child, if not Lorth continues to sit on the porch.]
Lorth looks up when he hears the child's words. By Gargul, that is one of the places my friends where going to stop, he thinks as he grabs his equipment and hurries towards the coopers. (Lorth runs, he also keeps an eye out to see if the patrol on the bridge is coming to investigate.)
Bralin (ac 19, 33/45 hp, bulls strength, power attack[3]) d20+8=26 d10+10=18 d20+10=13 d20+10=12 d10+10=17 Monday October 18th, 2004 9:20:07 AM
Bralin feels his wounds close. As a caster himself, he knows both he and Alkali are too closely pressed for the halfling to do that unmolested.
The leader rolls away, and Bralin lets him go. The dwarf takes a swing at the charging S3. [AoO - hit ac26 for 18hp damage]
The man ignores Bralin to continue his attack on Alkali!?! A fatal error.
Bralin steps in behind S3, and brings his axe down on the man's back. [Flanking attack +2?, hit ac 16 (hero pt reroll of 13, and then spent two more hero points on the reroll to up the 12 to a 16) for 17hp damage]
Elerinn AC: 16 HP: 5/28 d20+12=18 2d4(2+4)+2=8 Monday October 18th, 2004 6:17:05 PM
Elerinn screams as the bandit slashes his thigh with his sharp longsword. He is feeling badly wounded right now and silently asks Wardd for help in his dangerous situation. Because he realizes that the God's help might not be enough, he calls out to his teammates if they can heal him.
Realizing that the man in front of him must be defeated quickly, he shoots two bolts at the bandit, again.
Concentration check for Casting on defence: 18 Magic Missile damage: 8
Alkali HP:1/14 AC:14 d20+7=21 d20-4=16 Monday October 18th, 2004 11:01:21 PM
Alkali screams silently in pain after the magic leaves his body. Vision blurring, he feels his whole body being pushed at violently. Using the last of his strength, Alkali fights back.
OOC: Sorry about the late post. College kidnapped me. Alkali's spell succeeds. Do bullrushes cause damage or at least knock you out if you have one? If so I'm knocked out. And do natural 20's affect this outcome? If so I got one, other wise I'm pushed back.
DM Bob & Carla d20+7=15[S5 AoO] d20+7=15[S5 Atk] d20+7=27[S6 AoO] d20+7=11[S6 Atk] d8+1=6[S6 dmg] d20+7=16[S6 Atk] Monday October 18th, 2004 11:50:07 PM
'Roblek'(S3) feels Bralin's axe slice across his side a micro-second before slamming into the witch. His momentum carries them both onto the saw table. The small witch is pinned to the table. The last thing Roblek hears is the saw starting up. He does not feel the axe blade split his spinal column as Bralin strikes a second time.
Alkali feels the large figure go limp on top of him and manages to push the bloody corpse aside. The witch is covered in blood and can barely stand. [OOC no damage from bull rush, new take 10 rules for special attacks in effect but you were able to push aside the corpse]
The brown haired monk kicks out twice at the crouching human, (S2) connecting with her second kick. [OOC: -2 to AC for being in a kneeling or sitting position] She sends the man sprawling to the floor. He manages to scramble to his feet and retreat some 10 feet away from her.
Elerinn fires his magic missiles directly into the chest of S5 at close range causing the man to swing wildly and miss. [AoO and atk both Hit AC 15]
The man called Rand (S6) stabs at Andrath as he regains his feet, his sword penetrates the rogues defences [Standing promotes AoO, Hit Nat 20 no critical for 6 hp]. He withdraws his sword and slashes at the elf but fails to connect
S1 can only watch in horror as Bralin finishes S3 in spectacular fashion. "To me lads! To me!" he yells.
Lorth begins to run towards the Cooper's as fast as he can and from the corner of his eye sees the small patrol from the garrison organize itself to move out. As he runs up the street past the stables he notes Alkali's hawk coming towards him.
Andrath (AC 24, 21/30 hp, Shielded - 5 rounds remaining) d20+5=22 d8+5=12 d20+5=16 d6+2=3 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 12:20:47 AM
Andrath winces in pain as the man called Rand slashes the now-standing elf. A fierce look enters his eyes, and a nasty grin crosses his face. "For that, Rand, you will pay with your life." He swings both swords at the thug, sliding past the thug's defences with both blades. [OOC: Hit AC22 for 12 hp damage, and AC16 for 3 hp damage for a total of 15 hp damage.]
"Bralin, keep after the leader! He can give us answers!" he calls out to the stout dwarf.
Lorth Tuesday October 19th, 2004 7:37:20 AM
Lorth spies Alkali's bird and anxiety washes over him. They must be in a tight spot if the sent the bird to find me. Hoping for the best he hurries on...
Bralin (ac 20, 33/45 hp, bulls strength, expertise[1]) d20+10=12 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 10:32:56 AM "Keep after the leader"
Bralin's eyes shift from the two halves of Roblek over to S1. "Aye," he growls in response.
The dwarf pursues the ambusher's leader around the table, swinging hard as he catches up to the man. [atk ac12. Third 2 in a row. geez]
Harvest (AC 17, Dodge 18 vs S2, HP 25/28) d20+8=20 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 11:53:08 AM
Harvest Moon's eyes draw down to slits and her bottom lip pushes out ever so slightly as the man withdraws. Stepping forward, she places herself over the man's fallen weapon.
Then the chain flicks out again. This time it strikes to the north, wrapping the weapon of the one threatening the gnome. (S5: Disarm 20) A quick jerk pulls the blade from the man's hands.
"Elerinn, come by me. It is protected here," she says, her voice flat with concentration.
Elerinn AC: 16 HP: 5/28 d20+3=14 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 12:11:28 PM
Elerinn attacker's sword flashes in front of his face two times, just barely missing the gnome's small face. Cheerfully, he thanks Wardd and then the bandit's longsword is pulled from his hands by Harvest's quick chain. Immediatly, the gnome retreats from his dangerous enemy and walks to the relative safety next to Harvest. While his eyes remain fixed on the man he hit two times with his Magic Missiles, he says: "Thank you, Miss Moon! I didn't feel very comfortable near that man's sword." Then, the young sorcerer addresses the disarmed enemy and shouts: "Hey you, you're wounded and unarmed! Surrender now or die like Roblek did!" Elerinn holds back any spells and waits for the man's reaction.
Untrained Intimidate: 14
Alkali HP: 7/14 AC:14 d8+1=6 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 4:48:08 PM
Dancing on death's door, Alkali remains dazed as he pushes the body off of him. His face is flushed as the blood of different people soaks his clothes. Sliding his hand down subconciously to a wand at his side, Alkali summons the magic upon himself. Taking deep breathes he tries to then survey the field.
(Cure Light Wounds on Self for 6)
DM Bob & Carla d20+3=15[S5 Dex check] d20+7=11[S6 Atk] d20+3=18[S1 Tumble] d20+10=19[S1 Atk] Tuesday October 19th, 2004 8:50:49 PM
Harvest Moon steps over the sword of her first opponent, Korlin (S2), preventing him from reaching it. Her spiked chain cuts through the air but is unable to reach S5 who is outside it's 10' range, but it does provide significant deterrence to any advance on his part.
Instead, the thug rolls across the end of the saw table and moves to join his leader in battle against the stout dwarf. "On the way Torrell, get behind him!"
Rand (S6) begins to realize that he is in over his head against the elven rogue and takes a half-hearted swing at Andrath as he backs up [Hit AC=11].
S1 tumbles behind Bralin [Tumble=18] and stabs again with his rapier [Hit AC=19]. "Galt, get over here and help me finish this orcbait"
Korlin (S2) scurries over to the pile of wood against the west wall of the building and pulls out a makeshift club from the stack of materials from which barrel staves are cut. "In Wardd's name Torrell, what have you gotten us into?" he calls out accusingly. The man remains outside the immediate reach of the monks chain.
Lorth runs towards the Cooper's. As he turns the corner he can see the large warehouse against the river, it's side door open. [OOC still two rounds away]. Alkali's hawk circles overhead.
Harvest (AC 17, Dodge 18 vs S2, HP 25/28) d20+8=26 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 10:42:11 PM
The side of Harvest's mount tugs to one side in annoyance as she misjudges the range. With a look of warning at the man who has just gone for a piece of wood, (Koril/S2) she steps to within 10 feet of the one backing toward her (Rand/S6). Her chain snakes through the air again, handily knocking his weapon to the floor. (Disarm 26)
"Andrath Silverhand, help the Stoneminder."
The brown crested girl stands in the medium ground between the two downed weapons, the spiked chain whirring in the air.
Lorth Wednesday October 20th, 2004 7:31:35 AM
Lorth runs...
Bralin (ac 20, 33/45 hp, bulls strength, expertise[1], power attack [2]) d20+8=17 d10+9=14 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 10:00:20 AM "orcbait" rings in Bralin's ears.
"Stoneminder," he corrects S1 in a flat tone.
His axe comes down to emphasize the distinction. [hit ac 17 for 14hp damage]
Andrath (AC 24, 21/30 hp, Shielded - 4 rounds remaining) d20+11=30 d20+9=15 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 5:22:59 PM
Andrath moves and tumbles behind thug S1, flanking the foe with Bralin on the other side. [OOC: Tumble roll of 30, so no AoO.] Unfortunately, he does not properly regain his feet before swinging, and misses the thug. [OOC: Hit AC15.]
[OOC: Not being at home, I can't see the map, so I will assume that Andrath can tumble and move up to 30' to be in a flanking position with Bralin against S1. If not, then move Andrath to the closest position to attack S1.]
Alkali AC: 14 HP 7/14 Wednesday October 20th, 2004 9:33:01 PM
Alkali slowly goes over the scene. Bralin? Good. The girl? Minimal injury. Elerinn? ... Alkali has his target in sight as he back up behind Andarth to reach Elerinn. He mutters so the elf can here, "Elerinn needs a little healing, I need to get around this guy." His face carries a grim smile as he fiddles with the wand. Blood is what governs his thoughts. Too much blood...
DM Bob & Carla d20+12=16 [Int check S5] Thursday October 21st, 2004 7:53:44 AM
Rand (S6)looks on in astonishment as the spiked chain rips the sword from his hand. Elerinn appears equally astonished as the chain narrowly misses his face. Andrath makes it around to where Torrell(S1) stands just in time to watch the leader of the thugs fall to the floor, bleeding from multiple slashes of the dwarf's axe. Of those remaining, only Korlin (S2) reacts to the new circumstances by bolting for the open door, club in hand. Galt (S5) drops his sword and backs away from the dwarf.
Lorth continues to make haste and is now some 40 feet from the door. To his astonishment a human bolts out of the door and directly towards him. He appears to be carrying some kind of stave.
Harvest (AC 17, Dodge 18 vs S2, HP 25/28) d20+1=8 Thursday October 21st, 2004 8:43:30 AM Two left.
Harvest starts the end of the chain whirring once more. Her brown eyes turn to the man near the table.
"You. Go. Now," she says again, her tone simple yet adamant.
[[ Intimidate 8 ]]
Bralin (ac 20, 33/45 hp, bulls strength) Thursday October 21st, 2004 10:32:10 AM
Bralin watches the leader slump to the floor, and turns his gaze on the retreating S5.
"Lie down," he commands the man.
Either the man will comply or Andrath will deal with him. He is not a threat.
The dwarf kneels next to the fallen leader, and lays a hand upon him. [Used Light slot to cast Cure Minor Wounds - healed 1 hp]
Lorth Thursday October 21st, 2004 12:13:51 PM
Lorth looks around to see if the guard patrol is around. If they are he points at the man running and shouts, "He just came from the coopers." Either way he doesn't try to stop the man but continues on, more intent on making sure his friends are ok.
Andrath (AC 24, 21/30 hp, Shielded - 3 rounds remaining) Thursday October 21st, 2004 10:39:17 PM
Andrath approaches the thug named Galt, brandishing both swords, and says as forcefully as he can, "Lie facedown on the ground, and don't move. If you don't lie down, I figure you plan to attack us, and I will drop you where you stand!" He holds his attack, just in case the thug does something other than he is commanded.
Alkali AC: 14 HP 7/14 Thursday October 21st, 2004 11:15:15 PM
Alkali waits for his chance to reach Elerinn staring at each blood drop that drips from the gnome. Anguish awashes his eyes as he sees the chain fly towards the poor fellow. It didn't hit? Wonderful. He stays on guard watching all around him.
Elerinn AC: 16 HP: 5/28 Friday October 22nd, 2004 6:08:14 AM
Elerinn looks at Alkali, gratefull that the halfling is trying to help him. He realizes that he is indeed not very far from unconsciousness. He looks at the various bandits and sees the situation seems to be under control. Silently, he thanks Wardd for his help and awaits the leader's reaction.
DM Bob & Carla Friday October 22nd, 2004 7:38:15 AM
Rand (S6) obeys Harvest's command and runs for the door. Galt (S5) a look of absolute defeat on his face, lies down on the floor. Torrel (S1) remains unconcious but Bralin is able to determine that the man is no longer bleeding profusely thanks to his healing efforts. The unfortunate Roblek (S3)is beyond any healing that can be offered in this plane. Another of the band lies dead in the loft.
Lorth finally arrives at the side door of the Cooper's just as Rand slips through the door.
Lorth Friday October 22nd, 2004 8:06:28 AM
Lorth looks over the situation, "Is everyone ok?", he asks quickly. "And another thing, the city guard is coming, I'm not sure if that is good or bad."
Bralin d8+1=7 Friday October 22nd, 2004 8:51:20 PM
Bralin looks up at Lorth's entrance. "We are alive," he responds. The relative health of his companions are evident from their wounds.
The dwarf stows his axe, pulls out his healing wand, and strides over S5. As he passes Elerin, he activates the wand. [Cure Light Wounds - 7 hp healed]
Standing over S5, he orders the man, "State the reason for your actions."
Harvest d8+1=7 d8+1=6 Friday October 22nd, 2004 10:06:23 PM
The whirring song of the spiked chain winds down and dies. Harvest Moon turns away, hiding her face as though ashamed as she retires her weapon to the haversack.
Moving from Elerinn to Alkali, she touches each of the small people, drawing closed their wounds.
[[ OoC ]]
Burned Bless/CLW: Elerinn 7hp Shield of Faith/CLW: Alkali 6hp
Alkali AC: 14 HP 13/14 Friday October 22nd, 2004 10:23:59 PM
Blood. Blood. Blood... ... Alkali slightly loses focus as he stares into space, where Elerin once was. His intent on healing the gnome lost, as he is unable to free his mind. Everywhere, is blood. A tremor in the lay lines. A soul has passed away. More blood.
Karee notcing all the comotion outside, swoops in and perches on Alkali's shoulder. Trying to communicate his observations to his master, he only sees red, dark thoughts.
Elerinn AC: 16 HP: 19/28 Sunday October 24th, 2004 8:05:15 PM
Elerinn thanks Miss Moon and Bralin when they cure most of his wounds and bruises. There is no reason to relax yet, however, because cityguards are on the way and one of the bandits is still around. The gnome looks at S5 and awaits his reaction after Bralin orders him to tell him about the attack.
DM Bob & Carla (Bralin's Intimidate) d20-1=14 Sunday October 24th, 2004 11:57:24 PM
Lorth arrives with news that the detachment from the garrison are close behind. This worries Elerinn who nonetheless waits to hear what Bralin's captive has to say for himself. (Rolled Intimidate = 14 for Bralin) Cowering and sputtering the man gets out, "boss said we was to scare ya, ta get ya ta go back where ya's from. Wanted ya ta stop nosin' 'round town. Paid gold, we was, ta do the job. " The severely wounded man blubbers unintelligibly, and daubs at his wounds.
Meanwhile, Harvest Moon ministers quietly and efficiently to the wounded, while Alkali descends into a dark mood.
(OOC: 2 rounds before the detachment from the garrison arrive)
Lorth Monday October 25th, 2004 7:59:20 AM
Seeing his friends have the situation under control, Lorth returns outside to wait the guard.
Harvest d20+6=17 Monday October 25th, 2004 8:44:31 AM
Harvest ducks her head with a shy smile at the gnome's thanks.
City guard? The smile becomes a frown.
"I go upstairs," she announces quietly, and turns for the stairs behind her.
Andrath Silverhand was fighting up here. There is, perhaps, someone who requires assistance; either assistance in stopping the slide from this world, or assistance passing through to Gargul's realm. A quick examination should determine which. And then, perhaps, we shall see.
[[ OoC: If Harvest can get to the one upstairs in time, burn Read Magic to stabilize with CMinorW. ]]
Bralin Monday October 25th, 2004 4:20:56 PM
Bralin's comrades seem concerned about the guard's approach. "Have we need to be wary of the local guard?" he asks Andrath.
Turning back to the sniveling captive, his voice becomes hard again. "Name your employer."
Alkali Monday October 25th, 2004 4:48:40 PM
A gentle peck on the ear shakes Alkali out of his state. Tired both mentally and physically, Alkali's legs buckle from under him and he sits down, seemingly falling. He watches the enquiry of Bralin and the captive, but is reminded by Karee of the situation. Alkali then begins to survey for all possible places of egress while still seated.
Elerinn Monday October 25th, 2004 6:26:35 PM
Elerinn looks at Bralin with a concerned look on his face and says in a soft voice, so the captive bandit cannot hear him: "Bralin, there are no witnesses who saw who attacked who first. We know that we fought these bandits to defend ourselves, but these city guards don't."
When Elerinn sees Alkali collapse after the fight is over, he kneels next to the exhausted halfling and asks if everything is allright.
Andrath d20+17=34 Monday October 25th, 2004 11:18:17 PM
Quickly assessing the situation, Andrath says, "Each of you quickly search the fallen thugs for anything that might connect them to whatever is going on here. Bralin, use the wand or your spell to get that boss conscious; we need to ask him what he knows. I will look around for any sign of what is going on. Harvest, let me know if you find anything upstairs. From what I remember, it was just barrels and a fallen thug."
He calls out softly so hopefully only Lorth can hear, "Lorth, if you can stall the guard for a few minutes, you need to try. Maybe say that you saw some thugs run away down the alley, or whatever you think might work."
Andrath quickly scans the room, looking for an office or other place where information might rest, or anything else of interest that might catch his eye. [OOC: Spot roll of 34.]
DM Bob & Carla Tuesday October 26th, 2004 12:43:38 AM
Elerinn expresses a legitimate concern before attending to a fatigued Alkali. The witch is able to locate two ways out, the doors by which they entered, and the large double doors that open out towards the river. There are some windows, too, but they are all located at the loft level.
Bralin's prisoner groans, and sways on his knees. "On'y the boss ever talked to her, and he's out cold," he says, gesturing weakly towards the unconscious Torrell.
Harvest makes a reconnaissance of the loft, but finds only the dead smuggler amongst disturbed stacks of finished barrels and kegs.
Andrath suggests a plan, and scans about for a place that might provide some information. He doesn't find anything that would lead him to believe the cooper's is anything other than a place for the making and repairing of barrels and casks.
Meanwhile, Lorth takes up a watch at one of the exits. (Lorth, if Spot Check DC 8 Highlight to display spoiler: {The paladin notices a small detachment of guards led, this time, by a woman in a tunic with the insignia of a captain. A steel helm protects her head, and there is a long sword strapped to her waist. Behind her trails a man, a lieutenant, by the looks of things, and half a dozen uniformed men. They are still about 40.ft away.}
(OOC: S2 and S6 got away, S3 and S4 are dead, S5 is being questioned, and S1 is unconscious.)
Harvest d20+9=12 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 7:47:31 AM
The little monk kneels over the fallen man.
"This one is dead, Andrath Silverhand," Harvest Moon reports in a voice full of studied detachment.
She examines the loft area as she continues. (Spot 12) "Please ask the man how he comes to speak of the woman that only his boss has ever talked to as a 'she'," Harvest requests from the loft. Her voice though quiet, is penetrating in the still air of the cooperage.
"Also, please notice that their intention to scare us implies that they were either following us, they knew that we were coming to the Coopers, or they have mistaken us for someone else. Have you come across others 'nosing around'? Others not from this town? 'Go back from where we came from' implies they sought people not from here. That is either us or the Woldian League adventurers. I have seen no others."
The little brown monk's eyes settle on the dead man again. Scare us. What a price they have paid. She draws a slow sigh, and then turns to look out the window at the sunlight beyond.
Lorth d20+1=20 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 8:34:03 AM
Lorth dismisses Andrath's suggestion to lie to the guard, although he can still stall them, by bringing attention to the men who escaped.
Lorth heads towards the guard and meets them halfway. When he gets there he hails them and says, "Two of the men who where fighting in the coopers ran that way..." He points in the general directions where he saw them go.
Lorth then starts addressing the Captain about what he saw, "I was sitting over at the Inn on the front steps when that boy that I beleive alerted you, ran by me screaming about a fight over here. So I came to investigate. When I approached, I saw these two men, who I did not recognize exit that door." He gestures towards it... "One went that way and the other that way." He gestures again. "I would think it would be important to find and question those men, no?"
Bralin d8+1=8 d20=17 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 9:50:33 AM
"Aye," Bralin replies, although its hard to tell who he is answering.
The dwarf crosses to the leader, pulling out his wand. He taps the unconscious man. [Cure Light Wounds - 8 hp]
As the leader awakens, Bralin hauls him up off of the floor by the front of his shirt. Getting the wounded man just high enough to look him eye to eye and nose to nose, the dwarf growls, "Name your employer and your mission." [Intimidate 17]
Alkali Tuesday October 26th, 2004 2:59:35 PM
Alkali thanks Elerinn for the concern. "Blood brings bad memories... I can't look at it to long. I'll be fine though." He gets up and starts walking towards the double doors facing the river. Pushing the doors open, he grabs a little water to wash his face.
Elerinn Tuesday October 26th, 2004 5:04:37 PM
Elerinn realizes that the guards will be here in a moment and he starts to panick a bit. The cooper's look pretty messed up after the fight and there are several bodies lying on the ground. He looks around nervously and awaits the prisoner's answer, hoping he is somehow the solution to the problem before the guards arrive.
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday October 27th, 2004 12:01:31 AM
"Never saw her face...always wore a dark cloak...meetings were at night...too dark to see anything...200 GP upfront...said to get rid of the nosey elf and the l'il folk following him around." Torrell's eyes slide from Bralin to take in those of the party he can see, then he rasps out, "seems you found us, before we found you."
His tongue loosened by his fear of the dark dwarf, S5 adds, "it were her hand what gave her away. So fine and white, with a big gold ring."
Moving some barrels around, Andrath notices that some of them are really quite heavy.*
Harvest finds the loft empty and quiet. As she looks out the window she sees Lorth gesturing animatedly and a female in armour signaling her party. Two guardsmen move quickly towards the narrow path that parallels the river, taking a direction that leads away from the coopers. Harvest, if Spot DC 15 Highlight to display spoiler: { recognizes the man with the captain and Lorth is the same man who accosted Andrath in the alley during his vigil two nights back.}
"Lieutenant Orrin had just suggested we investigate the coopers when that child made his appearance," announces the captain to Lorth. "He suspected smugglers might be operating in the area, and seeing as no one has seen the cooper in a couple days..." she lets her voice trail off. Meanwhile, the lieutenant surveys the paladin, a sour look on his face.
Lorth has bought the party some time.
Elerinn watches nervously as Alkali pushes one of the large double doors open enough to slip through. Kneeling at the edge of the water, the witch is able to wash off some of the blood and starts to feel better. The halfling's spirit animal watches from a nearby tree.
*(OOC: Sorry about not acknowledging the Spot=34 in the last DM post-Carla)
Lorth Wednesday October 27th, 2004 7:59:48 AM
Lorth looks at Lt. Orrin and marks his face. How would he know to investigate the coopers at this exact time, before being told by the boy? Lorth smells a setup, hopefully his friends will vacate the premises before the guard enter the coopers, or I may be bailing them out of jail, he thinks.
Lorth continues to address the captain, "Smugglers? well I suppose they could be anywhere. Oh, I forget my manners, I am Lorth Paladin of Gargul", he bows slightly, "I have some business north of here and have just stopped in your fine town for a few days before I take to the road again. Can I be of any more assistance?"
Bralin Wednesday October 27th, 2004 1:09:27 PM
The dwarf's eyes flick from their leader to his leader. "We will learn no more," he states.
Bralin continues to clutch Torrell in his unwavering grasp, waiting for Andrath's decision.
Harvest d20+9=13 d20+2=6 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 2:11:22 PM
Harvest frowns as she looks out the window. The look of discontent, though, is less for the scene outside than it is for the answers from the man below.
"The paladin is now speaking with the guard. He has successfully engaged them for the moment," she reports
"There is nothing else of note up here, Andrath Silverhand." Again she frowns. "But ... if it is indeed we who came upon them in this cooperage as this man suggests, then what were their intentions here before we arrived? And where are the people who work here. This does not have the look of a place long abandoned. There should be people working here."
Harvest leaves the window and kneels once again by the dead man in the loft. Her hands move over his clothing and through is possessions in search of, as Andrath Silverhand had requested, something that might connect him with whatever is going on here.
[[ Spot 13, Search 6 ]]
Alkali Wednesday October 27th, 2004 8:25:58 PM
Alkali sighs as he thinks upon the immdiate past. His curiosity, it seems, has gotten himself and others into a mess. All he wanted to know was what the Coopers looked like. Nothing about theives or conspiracies. Then after all of that, he places himself in a horrible scenario, with barely surviving the incident. Perhaps, he thinks, perhaps I should just keep my curiosity to myself.
Andrath d20+9=18 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 9:21:39 PM
"Good job, Lorth. Keep them busy." the elf thinks to himself. He pulls a dagger and pries some of the lids off the heavy barrels, to see what is inside.
He looks over and listens to what the lead thug says to Bralin, trying to figure if the guy is telling the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. [I think my sense motive roll is 18.] "Bralin, since you managed to get him talking, ask him what he was doing here at the cooper's? Also, ask him what is going on here in town. Who are he and his crew? Do they just hang around this small town, waiting to be hired to hurt people?"
(OOC: Sense Motive D20+8, so would be 17. Good enough!)
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday October 27th, 2004 11:32:18 PM
"Arista Greenblade," announces the half-elf politely holding out a gloved hand. Lorth takes in her dark almond shaped eyes, chestnut hair tied back in a short tail, "and this is Lieutenant Orrin," she adds indicating the dour looking man in need of a shave. The Lieutenant makes a grunt of acknowledgement, looking past Lorth at the door left ajar. "Anyone in there?" he asks, his gaze never wavering.
Lorth has secured more time for the party.
Torrell doesn't say anything, but glares past Bralin at Andrath as the elf pries open some of the barrels. They are filled with basic, but new weapons and armor, the type one might use to stock a garrison. The leader of the smugglers remains tight lipped, and Andrath figures he'll stay that way. S5 however, hoping for leniency volunteers, "two of the fellas, them what got away, worked for the cooper, but worked for the boss too. They let us in at night an' tol us when the cooper'd be gone. He's gone for good nowt."
In the loft, the brown monk gently searches the fallen man in studded leather. She locates an ordinary longsword near the body, and a small pouch (containing 15 GP, 10 SP). The fellow looks like he lived rough, availing himself little of niceties such as soap and water.
Pondering recent events, Alkali stares down river. Alkali and Karee Spot DC 12 to Highlight to display spoiler: { see a bloated body floating face down, stuck in the reeds growing along the bank alongside of the river, just a little way down from the cooper's.}
Lorth Thursday October 28th, 2004 7:57:57 AM
Lorth addresses Arista Greenblade directly, not even turning to look at Orrin. "I beleive there are people in there", Lorth leaves out the fact that he knows who they are ,"I'm not sure what went on, as I only poked my head in for a moment. I'm sure that they will be able to relate their own story. May I come along and watch your investigation?" Lorth thinks, by now his friends must have decided if they should have left or stay put to face whatever consequences the guard brings.
Alkali d20+3=19 d20+10=24 Thursday October 28th, 2004 10:34:26 AM
Karee notices something odd and in the reeds and flies out low, to go unnnoticed. Alkali looks up at the fleeting hawk and sees a body floating face down. He turns around and says with the usual curiosity and vigor, "Did any of us dump a body in the river? There seems to be one floating down..."
Bralin Thursday October 28th, 2004 1:31:37 PM
Bralin doesn't say much, and his methods are brutally straightforward, but that doesn't mean he's stupid.
S5's "gone for good" comment coupled with Alkali's discovery add up quickly.
"Tis the cooper," he answers the halfling.
Turning to Andrath, he states, "We must present these miscreants to the guard, that they may mete out justice."
Harvest Thursday October 28th, 2004 2:29:48 PM
"This one up here has only his weapon and some monies, Andrath Silverhand," Harvest Moon calls down. She places a hand upon the dead man's cheek and recites a silent prayer to help him on his way to the Open Eye.
When she stands, she walks to the edge of the loft and looks down.
"Have you experience with the law in this place, Bralin Stoneminder," she asks. "Do you trust them to be ... lawful?"
Elerinn Thursday October 28th, 2004 6:56:57 PM
Elerinn looks at Alkali and shakes his head slowly when the halfling asks if anyone is resposible for the body floating in the water nearby. The sorcerer looks at the door of the cooper's, anxious about the guard's reaction.
DM Bob & Carla d20+2=13 d20+3=16 Thursday October 28th, 2004 11:38:41 PM
Inside the cooperage, the interrogation of Torrell and Galt continues and the party pieces together the facts and circumstances that surround their deadly encounter. The discovery of what they surmise to be the body of the cooper, weighs heavily on Elerinn.
Alkali remains at the open outer doors as Karee hovers over the floating corpse.
Outside, Captain Greenblade listens to the paladin's story and upon hearing that the building is occupied turns to her Lieutenant. "Lt. Orrin" she issues her orders calmly and quietly, "secure that building". The shadowy lieutenant signals two of his guards to circle behind the building and two more to accompany him to the door. He gives Lorth a singularly malignant look as he passes.
"Lorth, Paladin of Gargul" the Captain places her gloved hand on his arm, "you can remain here with me."
[Alkali spot check vs DC 13 or listen vs DC 16 to notice guards making their way around the back of the building]
Lorth Friday October 29th, 2004 8:16:21 AM
"Of course, my lady.", Lorth hopes his friends have everything under control.
Andrath Friday October 29th, 2004 12:52:50 PM
Andrath dumps two of the barrels of weapons and armour out onto the floor of the cooper's workshop. He looks over at Bralin, and says, "Seems like they were making and moving more than just barrels, doesn't it?"
Then he calls out to Alkali, "Can you bring the body here into the shop? It seems that we are going to need some answers."
"When they come in, we will truthfully lay out what we have seen, except we don't mention what Alkali overheard last night. We were travelling the town, and we saw the open door and heard rough voices, and moved to investigate to see what was going on. We were jumped by the thugs, and the rest of the information will be the truth from there." Then the elf turns and waits for the guards to enter.
Harvest Friday October 29th, 2004 1:15:49 PM
Harvest looks down from the loft as the weapons spill from the barrel with a clatter. She glances around the cooperage from above.
"The tools here, Andrath Silverhand, appear to be mostly woodworking. The scraps and leavings as well. There may be a different place in town in which the weapons are actually made. Or, perhaps there is a forge somewhere else, hidden on the premises."
Standing on the edge, she calls down. "Do you wish me to descend? Or should I remain up here?"
Alkali d20+3=15 d20+12=23 Friday October 29th, 2004 8:11:08 PM
Looking at the corpse, noises pass by Alkali's ear. A quick glance reveals a shuffle of movement. He then walks over to Andarth and announces quietly about the noises. "Someone is coming around the corner. Guards? Either way, I'm too small to be swimming with corpses..." (Listen 23, Spot 15)
Karee flies away from the corpse above the guards and perches. He catiously observes the guards.
Bralin Saturday October 30th, 2004 9:01:19 AM
Harvest's question startles the dwarf. The guards are duly appointed, are they not? Surely they must uphold the law.
Bralin nods in agreement with Andrath. "Lie down," he commands Torrell. He stows his axe, and stands over the prone smuggler, awaiting the guard.
Alkali Sunday October 31st, 2004 11:39:54 AM
OOC: It's Halloween. Do I get any special bonuses? Happy Halloween! :p
Elerinn Sunday October 31st, 2004 4:42:27 PM
Elerinn nods when Andrath suggests to tell the guard's the truth minus the conversation Alkali overheard yesterday.
Anxiously, the gnome looks at the cooper's entrance and waits for the guards arrival.
DM Bob & Carla d20+8=18 Sunday October 31st, 2004 10:58:08 PM
Andrath tips a number of the barrels over. A variety of swords, battleaxes, morningstars, assorted pieces of armor and crossbow bolts spill out over the floor. Alkali arrives without the corpse and reports that he has heard someone coming. Harvest finds no sign of metal working capabilities in the loft and ponders her options for when the guards arrive. Elerinn and Alkali seem to be in agreement with Andrath's suggested strategy for dealing with the guard when they arrive, while Bralin secures the prisoner at his feet.
The 2 guards at the rear of the building spot Alkali re-entering the Cooperage and react with haste, closing the distance to the large double doors and blocking any exit through it with their crossed halberds. "Drop your weapons" they shout, almost in unison.
Lieutenant Orrin signals the two guards at the side door to barge through. He follows immediately behind, longsword drawn. "And just what do we have here?" he asks in a most unpleasant tone. He scans the lower floor of the Cooperage as he advances and quickly notices the corpses on the ground and Torrell, prone at Bralin's feet. "Tsk, tsk, tsk. Looks like some killin' here."
Outside the cooperage the Captain engages Lorth in pleasant conversation. "Tell me, paladin, what business is it that brings you here?"
Harvest Sunday October 31st, 2004 11:37:08 PM "Drop your weapons." The call comes from the back.
Harvest Moon weighs the command and then complies with the spirit of the request, slipping the spiked chain back into her haversack. That done, she sinks quietly to the floor and sits with her back to one of the many barrels. Harvest listens, awaiting the outcome of the encounter.
Law is structured. It provides for peace and order. Those who enforce it, sometimes do not.
Alkali Monday November 1st, 2004 1:41:37 AM
Turning around, Alkali sits down and faces the guards. Realizing he has nothing to say, he just waits as others take charge.
Lorth Monday November 1st, 2004 8:09:50 AM
"Actually, some traveling companions of mine had some business in town. One was here to see the local alchemist, and the rest heard about the adventurers league meeting and wanted to attend. I just came along for company, but since we have gotten to town, I have met an old friend of my fathers, so the trip has turned out wonderfully for me. I was actually waiting for him this morning, when the boy ran past." ... Lorth glances at the sky ... "Come to think of it, I should probably head back soon so I don't miss him."
Bralin d20+3=20 Monday November 1st, 2004 11:40:24 AM
Bralin stands over Torrell. He had already stowed his axe at his side.
The officer seems unpleasant. Could the girl's evaluation be correct? [Sense Motive 20]
Nonetheless, the dwarf responds calmly to the question of "what we have here".
"We entered seeking the cooper. These have killed him and ambushed us. We stopped them."
Andrath Monday November 1st, 2004 5:59:30 PM
Andrath sheaths his weapons, and says, "Thank goodness you are here. My terse friend speaks the truth. We were passing by, and noticed the open door, and heard some rough voices inside. As we entered the building to see if everything was alright, we were assaulted by a number of thugs. The leader lies there, between the dwarf's legs. My friend Alkali here, has discovered a body outside behind the shop, which we suspect is the cooper. Also, we have discovered a number of barrels containing weapons. Any idea what is going on here?"
Elerinn Monday November 1st, 2004 6:57:22 PM
As the guards enter the cooper's and command the Swords of Light to drop their weapons in the name of the law, Elerinn shows his hands so the guards can see there are no weapons there. The gnome only nods when Bralin and Andrath explain what have happened, too startled to give his own reaction. He is quite suspicious about the guards and hopes their intentions are good.
DM Bob & Carla d20+4=14 d20+4=12 Monday November 1st, 2004 8:25:46 PM
Lieutenant Orrin listens briefly to the answers provided by the assembled adventurers. "You...check upstairs, you...secure this floor" The lieutenant snarls orders at two of the guards and motions them to begin sweeping the loft and the rest of the main floor for any further evidence.
"So" he stares at Andrath, "You hear a few rough voices and decide to take matters into your own hands, and now there are dead bodies in here and another outside?" Bralin detects a considerable degree of suspicion in the lieutenant's demeanor.
Two more guards return through the rear door. "No sign of anyone else, Sir" the first reports breathlessly. "Must have slipped away, Sir" the other joins in. The officer glares malevolently at them and orders one to go with Alkali and "fetch the body".
The guard searching the lower floor stoops to examine the spilled weapons and notes their origin [Spot=14]. "Sir, take a look at these. They carry the mark of Strongwind, Sir. Must be from our own armory."
The guard sent to the loft arrives at the upper step and discovers the dead thug near the landing. He scans the rows of barrels for anything suspicious [Spot=12]
Outside, the captain listens to Lorth's carefully crafted answer, but at the suggestion that it is time for him to return she shakes her head. "I would prefer it if you would join me in seeing what our Lieutenant Orrin has discovered" she speaks calmly and guides the paladin towards the door, her hand gently gripping his upper arm.
[OOC Harvest discovered 15 GP, 10 SP in the pockets of the dead thug upstairs - now she must make a hide role or be spotted DC=12]
Harvest d20+7=25 Monday November 1st, 2004 8:57:18 PM
Harvest Moon makes no attempt to hide. If she is hidden, that is simply the state of things. She sits unmoving with her back to the barrel ... deciding.
These men seem rough. But sometimes the law must deal harshly with those who would break the law. They seem ... diligent.
Wait. Listen.
As long as time permits.
[[ Hide 25 ]]
Lorth Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 8:36:44 AM
"If you wish, I will stay, hope I don't miss my friend, he will probably wait anyway.", Lorth says quickly. He follows the captain around wherever she goes.
Bralin Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 10:15:20 AM
Unpleasant, indeed.
Yet, the officer posed a query. Indeed, three queries - " (1)You hear a few rough voices and (2)decide to take matters into your own hands, and now (3)there are dead bodies in here and another outside?"
Bralin answers them. "Aye. Nay. Aye."
Alkali d20+10=21 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 10:21:19 AM
At the motion of the soldier, Alkali walks with the officer towards the dead body. "I belive I saw it here sir." Alkali gestures towards the corpse with his hands. "I would have retrieved it myself, but being the small person I am, it would have been a daunting task."
Karee remains vigilant in his task of observing the area outside the Cooper's. He tries to look for any suspicious actions. (Spot 21)
Elerinn Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 5:41:31 PM
Elerinn looks at the ground and feels like a little boy who is being punished by his teacher. He remains silent as Bralin answers the guards' questions in his stoic manner.
DM Bob & Carla d20+4=15 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 12:31:42 AM
The guard at the top of the stairs takes one last look at the lines of barrels [Spot=15] before dragging the corpse back down the stairs, his own arms under the dead man's arms and across his chest. The thug's boots thump noisily on each step. He does not notice Harvest Moon sitting behind the barrels.
Alkali accompanies the guard to the river and points out the cadaver floating face down in the reeds. The guard looks back over his shoulder as he wades out to the dead body, "I wouldn't get on the Lieutenant's bad side if you know what's good for you." He calls back. "He's got a nasty streak". The guard turns over the corpse to expose the now bloated and discolored flesh of the man's face. "It's the Cooper all right," he says, and drags the man's body back up the bank. Cold dead eyes look up into Alkali's face.
Lieutenant Orrin confronts Andrath and Bralin over their uninformative response to his accusations. "Aren't we the bright one" he glares at Bralin, mocking his one word answers. "I suppose you have an equally compelling explanation for these stolen weapons" The Lieutenant waves his arm at the overturned barrels, his voice growing louder and nastier with each sentence. "Maybe some time in a lower cell will loosen your tongues".
Lorth and the Captain enter the cooperage and approach the saw table. She quickly examines each of the dead men before getting a good look at the leader of the thugs who continues to lay prone at Bralin's feet. "Lieutenant" she raise her voice just enough to be heard above the Lieutenant's before lowering it again, "I recognize that one by the table and the one at the dwarf's feet. Torrell isn't it? Are they not the same men you believe to be smugglers?" The officers's face twitches and his face reddens slightly as his superior officer takes control of the situation.
"Perhaps you had better explain yourselves" she says to the assembled group, "before the Lieutenant here has you in irons for not cooperating with his investigation. What were you doing in here, what do you know of these weapons, and what is your business here in Magpie Crossing". Her eyes move from Bralin to Andrath to Elerinn to Lorth and finally back to Elerinn who stands head bowed and eyes averted.
Lorth Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 7:31:47 AM
"By Gargul's word the story I already told you is true. I wasn't here for any of this.", Lorth replies to the captain. "I was waiting at the inn, like I said." Lorth tries not to make eye contact with any of his friends, no one needs to know that they are his traveling companions.
Bralin Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 10:46:53 AM
Bralin stands unmoving, perplexed at Orrin's accusations.
It slowly dawns on the dwarf that the officer does not believe his words. Despite the blue badge of the WLA clearly displayed, despite the findings of his own men, the officer does not believe Bralin.
This defies belief. No one, EVER, has accused Bralin of untruth. His mind searhes for a response, and finds none. He does nothing, therefore, but remain in place, his gaze fixed impenetrably on Lt. Orrin.
The Captain's questions provide a diversion. Bralin's eyes slide over to her. His responses are flat and emotionless.
"We came seeking the cooper. The building was empty. Being day, we found it unnatural. We investigated. These men attacked us from ambush. We defended ourselves. We know not of weapons. We journeyed hence to deliver messages of import, and to learn of the Woldian League."
It is quite possibly Bralin's longest speech in weeks.
Alkali Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 10:48:20 AM
Eyes. Dead eyes... Alkali almost falls into a trance again, but quickly steps out of it as the soldier wades back to shore. "A nasty streak on an officer? Shouldn't they be kind to those that obey the law?." A quick glance at the cooper, and Alkali feels a bit of sorrow. "Thank you for retrieving the body. We were about to do so, as it would very sad if the family never got to bury the body."
Harvest d20+9=23 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 11:48:09 AM
The shuss of soft and yielding dragged across the wood of the floor. The creak of stairs. A muffled thum-thum-thum as soft and yielding bumps down each step.
The woman's voice recognizes one of those they fought. Smugglers. That fits the circumstances. Weapons taken from the armory of the guard. Weapons gathered and stored at the coopers where it is convenient to pack them into barrels for concealed (no, disguised) transport.
The middle of a story.
In one direction, Harvest Moon sees the barrels full of weapons travel toward an unknown destination. A place of war, perhaps, where such things would be needed in quantity.
In the other direction, she watches the play of fragments from the beginning. These guards seemed surprised to see the weapons. The officers also show little recognition through voice or word. This dispells the notion of a raid upon the armory. Rather, in the shadows of her imagination, she sees a figure from within the guard itself. The figure arranges a silent theft. Altered records might ensure that the loss would not be known for a long time.
One in the guard. Harvest Moon decides that it is, perhaps, best to remain seated for now.
[[ Listen 23 ]]
DM Bob & Carla Thursday November 4th, 2004 12:09:13 AM
Harvest Moon, her nimble mind at work, remains silent and hidden in the loft. Bralin says more than is his wont without actually divulging anything, while Elerinn and Andrath remain strangely silent. Lorth tries to distance himself from the party, and Alkali engages the man set to guard him.
After fishing the body out of the water, the young soldier escorts Alkali back inside the building. "'twas the cooper alright," he confirms, this time addressing the captain, "been dead a day or two if you ask me."
With a sigh Captain Arista Greenblade pushes her steel helm back on her head, revealing chestnut colored hair, dark almond shaped eyes, and lightly tanned skin. Her slender, athletic body and slightly pointed ears give testimony to her part elf heritage. "Your story rings of the truth, for these men are not unknown to us." The half-elf fixes the surviving smugglers with a stern look before continuing, "this band of cut throats have been plying their trade using a number of ruses to avoid the authorities. Posing as fishermen and woodsmen, they have avoided us by keeping to the wilds outside of town. But now, with your help, we have them."
"You are free to go" she adds. Lieutenant Orinn takes a step forward, red faced, his hand twitching over the hilt of his sword. "Free to go!" repeats the captain, her voice strong and clear.
Greenblade turns from the party, and directs the lieutenant to have the men round up carts to transport the prisoners, the stolen equipment, and finally the bodies. For the moment, the Swords of Light are forgotten.
Andrath d20+17=27 Thursday November 4th, 2004 12:38:02 AM
Silent for the discussion, Andrath looks closely at the Captain's hands, looking for a large gold ring. [OOC: Spot roll of 27] He calls out, "Wait Captain Greenblade, I might have more information, but I was waiting to see how this meeting played out. I am sorry that I have held my tongue so far, but please take a minute to hear what else we have to say! And make sure that your lieutenant stays to hear this!"
He motions Bralin to let the lead thug stand up, but keep a close eye on him.
Lorth Thursday November 4th, 2004 10:50:27 AM
Lorth starts to head outside, then says loud enough for his companions to hear, "I best be getting back to the inn." With that, he walks out the door.
Harvest Thursday November 4th, 2004 2:07:24 PM
She must mark these and know them in the future. The brief glimpse through the window may not have been enough.
Harvest Moon begins the turn that would bring her onto her stomach, a position from which she could crawl to the edge of the loft and look down.
Then Andrath Silverhand speaks. He talks of waiting. He talks of listening. Harvest belays her movement. She waits and she listens.
Bralin Thursday November 4th, 2004 2:34:17 PM
Bralin steps back to let the guards have their prisoner. He waits patiently for Andrath to have his say.
Gold ring on a female hand.
Bralin shakes off the thought. His companion's fears are leading his mind astray.
Alkali Thursday November 4th, 2004 2:56:21 PM
Alkali takes a look at the bloody scene and decides that perhaps it woulc not be wise to stick around. Walking out of the Cooperage, Karee flies down and rests on Alkali's shoulder. Finding a good area to rest, Alkali sits back down again. He mentally starts trying feel the laylines around himself.
DM Bob & Carla d20+8=13[Lt. Orrin Spot] Thursday November 4th, 2004 9:38:26 PM
Captain Arista Greenblade stops to listen to Andrath. "Tell me more" she says and folds her arms across her chest. Andrath notes that she wears black leather gloves and any ring she might wear would be hidden from view.
The lieutenant takes Torrell and Galt into custody and two more of his guards pile the dead smugglers and the cooper near the door where they will be easily moved to a wagon once one has been sent for. Both of the officers will stay long enough to hear Andrath out.
Alkali and Lorth quit the premises while Bralin and Elerinn remain with the rogue. Harvest remains undetected despite her creeping to the edge of the loft for a better view.
Andrath Friday November 5th, 2004 12:41:37 AM
The elf says, "Thank you, Captain Greenblade, for your patience. Now, I must ask you for a very small favour before I finish detailing what I know. Would you be so kind as to remove your gloves, and show me your hands?"
Elerinn Friday November 5th, 2004 8:36:24 AM
Elerinn is surprised but overjoyed when Captain Greenblade realizes that the Swords of Light are innocent and says they are free to go. He looks at Bralin, who seems quite upset by the fact that his honesty was questioned. When Andrath says he has some more information, Elerinn patiently waits.
OOC: I'm sorry I missed two days, but I was having some major internet connection problems. They're fixed now, though...
Harvest d20+7=19 d20+8=23 d20+9=17 Friday November 5th, 2004 12:59:04 PM
From the edge of the loft, Harvest Moon raises a hand to smooth back the brown crest of hair topping her head. With one hand holding it down to lower her visual profile, the little monk raises her head to glance over the side.
Below, the tops of people's heads. She strains to catch each of their features for future reference.
Hide =19 Move Silently =23 Spot =17
Bralin Friday November 5th, 2004 1:27:13 PM
The dwarf waits for the captain's response to Andrath's entirely reasonable request.
Alkali Friday November 5th, 2004 8:41:50 PM
Alkali rests.
DM Bob & Carla d20+6=23[Lt Orrin listen] d20+6=25[Cptn Greenblade listen] d20+8=27[Cptn Greenblade spot] Saturday November 6th, 2004 10:16:36 AM
The Captain's pleasant demeanour begins to sour when Andrath requests she remove her gloves. "What removing my gloves has to do with hearing your 'new' information, I don't know" she replies. The impatience in her voice is palpable.
Nevertheless, she carefully removes each glove and neatly folds them, one over the other. Her hands are strong and tanned, the nails clipped short and unadorned. A series of rough callouses provide evidence to many hours of weapons practice. A single heavy gold band encircles one finger of her left hand.
"Now, what is this information?" she begins, but her attention is diverted by a scraping noise from the loft. Her eyes dart to the source of the noise where she discovers the small brown eavesdropper above.[Listen=25, Spot=27]
"Orrin" she motions quickly to the loft, "Fetch that spy. As for the rest of you, I don't take kindly to trickery and dishonesty." She fixes Andrath with a cold stare as she puts her gloves back on. "If you don't want to be arrested for interfering with a lawful investigation you will explain yourselves immediately!"
Orrin heads for the stairs to the loft but manages to cast a smirk towards Bralin and Andrath. He clearly takes some small degree of pleasure from the predicament they have found themselves in, or is it that for once it will be someone else who is on the recieving end of his Captain's ire?
Harvest Saturday November 6th, 2004 1:49:37 PM
Harvest Moon rises. There is no more utility to be had from remaining unobserved. She heads for the stairs of her own accord. Descending, she gets a good look at those present. Better, certainly, than she would have from the loft above.
"I think she can be trusted, Andrath Silverhand," she says as a plain statement of fact. "Yet, it may be prudent to be cautious with the others. It is likely that there is at least one in the guard that has willfully transgressed the law." Harvest Moon states no more than is readily apparent, yet she indicates the barrel full of weapons none the less.
"That one may not now be here. Yet, that one may still be warned by one here, if by nothing more than an inadvertent word. And it would not serve the cause of lawful justice to allow that one to flee or to obscure evidence that may lead to a peaceful and secure outcome."
Andrath Sunday November 7th, 2004 6:19:55 PM
The elf takes a close look at the Captain's hands, and says, "Thank you for taking off your gloves. My little friend upstairs was waiting to see how our meeting would turn out, before she showed herself. Here is what we know in full:"
While recently travelling in the Culverwood, we came across two dead half-elves that were carrying a letter that identified themselves as the sons of the local woodworker here in Magpie Crossing. When we confronted the woodworker and his wife, the sons were alive and well, and much younger than the two bodies that we found."
Something has caused the closure and forced movement of Lady Brightsong, and the Brightsong Trading Company. When we asked what was wrong, she would not say."
Last night, one of us overheard your lieutenant Orrin giving orders to his patrol that he was going to the cooper's and to make sure that he was not disturbed."
Today, we came to the cooper's as part of our travels around town, and partly to see what your lieutenant's business was here. When we got here, we were jumped by six thugs. As a result of our defending ourselves, two of them ran off, two were killed, and two are captured, including the thug leader."
In questioning the thugs, we have learned the following:"
The thugs were hired to scare us, to get us to leave town. Apparently someone didn't want us nosing around and asking questions about fake ID letters, and closing trading companies. They were hired by a lady, but they never saw her face, since it was always covered by a cloak and they met after dark. However, she had fine, white hands, and wore a large gold ring."
That is why I asked you to remove your gloves: we think that your lieutenant Orinn is somehow involved in what is going on here, and we wanted to know if you were the lady that hired the thugs. But obviously, your hands are warrior's hands, not the fine white hands that were described to us. I suggest you ask Torell here for more information, since we were not able to get any more out from him. And you may want to ask your lieutenant what his business at the cooper's was last night, and why he left orders not to be disturbed."
And finally, it appears that the cooper's body was found out back behind the shop. If you have access to a cleric that can question the dead, he might be able to provide more information about his death."
Also, I understand that clerics can cast a spell that requires everyone to tell the truth. My companions and I would gladly submit to questioning under such circumstances, if it becomes necessary."
Alkali Sunday November 7th, 2004 10:46:27 PM
Alkali, getting bored very easily, decides to walk around for a bit.
Elerinn Monday November 8th, 2004 6:08:49 AM
Elerinn looks at Andrath observing the Captain's hand and is pretty impressed by his companion. The gnome nods as Andrath tells the Captain everything he knows about the recent events.
Lorth Monday November 8th, 2004 10:47:28 AM
Lorth heads back to the inn, when he gets there he restarts his vigil.
Bralin Monday November 8th, 2004 3:23:53 PM
The dwarf stands impassively. But, his eyes track the progress of Orrin.
Mayhap that man will react without thought due to Andrath's accusations.
DM Bob & Carla Monday November 8th, 2004 7:27:26 PM
Lorth and Alkali wisely make their way back to the Shadfly Inn without a backward glance. The sun is past it's zenith, and long shadows stretch across the road.
The small monk creeps down from the loft under the stern gaze of Lieutenant Orrin. Harvest's cryptic pronouncements are met with a cool reception by the Captain but any reaction on Greenblade's part is forgotten as Andrath makes a detailed revelation of recent events.
"I know not what transpires in the Culverwood, but the affairs of Magpie Crossing are my concern. Of Lieutenant Orrin's investigations I am familiar. He has kept me apprised of his suspicions regarding a group of brigands operating in the area, and he acts on my authority in his dealings within the community. Of failed businesses and such, well, this is a small town, a farming town. Folks are unsophisticated and dislike change. They imagine the worst. Perhaps living on the border of the Dreadlands accentuates their fears." Arista Greenblade makes a dismissive shrug of her shoulders before continuing. "Much as I am obliged for the role you have played in the capture of Torrell, I can not say that I approve of your methods. The Garrison and the Reeve are the legally constituted law enforcement in this area, and there is no role for the vigilante."
Turning her back on the party, the Captain signals her men to get on with their job. Speaking over her shoulder she advises "you would be best to leave now, and tarry not overly long in Magpie Crossing."
Lieutenant Orrin gazes dispassionately ahead.
Andrath Tuesday November 9th, 2004 7:47:46 AM
Recognizing the brush-off when he hears it, Andrath says, "Thank you for listening to what we have to say. We will not carry out any vigilante actions in your fine town, but we will defend ourselves to the best of our abilities if we are attacked again. We are leaving tomorrow morning, first thing."
Not remembering anything else that they needed to look into, Andrath heads back to the inn.
Lorth Tuesday November 9th, 2004 7:54:02 AM
Lorth gets lunch if possible, then waits some more.
Bralin Tuesday November 9th, 2004 9:19:02 AM
The discussion is at an end. Bralin falls in beside Andrath as they return to the Shadfly. His expression is typically unreadable, but his mind is working hard to grasp a new concept - deceipt.
Andrath, the Harvest girl, even Lorth - in fact, all his companions expect deceipt on the part of newly met nobles. Bralin has always assumed truth. Prior to leaving the clan, he has always met truth. And yet, the Wold proves otherwise. Deceipt amongst beings of the noble races appears so common as to be expected.
Bralin resolves to be more viligant in anticipating deceipt. Tis the prudent choice.
Harvest Tuesday November 9th, 2004 10:09:26 AM
Harvest Moon's face is clouded in thought. As the others leave the cooperage, she instead approaches the Captain of this Guard.
"I would like to apologize," she says quietly, her hands folded within the depths of her oversized robe. "I began with little faith in your commitment to the law."
She pauses. Groping for more. Feeling a gap that should be filled with ... explanation?
"Where I am from those who claim to represent the law often do so badly or not at all. You bolster my faith." Harvest raises her eyes to those of the Captain. She blinks. Her look is tentative, almost shy. "Thank you."
Her hand, small within the folds of the oversized robe lifts towards the Captain. In it is a pouch containing various coins.
"This, I found upon the deceased one in the loft. It seems to have little significance."
Harvest takes a step backwards and bows.
"Thank you," she says again, and then departs.
Elerinn Tuesday November 9th, 2004 11:11:28 AM
Elerinn quietly leaves the cooper's, after the Captain has made clear she doesn't want him or his companions around. While walking alongside the other Swords of Light towards the Shadfly, he feels pretty bad about the fight. Although the Captain believed their honest story, Elerinn feels like he has done something bad.
DM Bob & Carla Wednesday November 10th, 2004 6:03:20 AM
Greenblade collects the small purse from Harvest Moon, and slips it inside her jerkin.
Quietly the party makes their way back to the Inn. The chill of the early evening shadows is warmed slightly by the smell of sausages and baked apples from the Shadfly Inn. Inside, Lorth and Alkali are offered a dinner of sausages, mashed potatoes, and a baked apple stuffed with raisins and brown sugar. There is a solitary setting at the table in the shadows of the hearth. It is the usual table reserved for the paladin, Caerthon.
A few locals gossip over their beer, turn to watch the returning adventurers, and then return to their own business. The visitors from the League are absent. It is a quiet night in the common room as Lincoln Horncroft makes the rounds, a pitcher of ale in one hand and some empty mugs in another.
Lorth Wednesday November 10th, 2004 8:39:42 AM
As the time for dinner passes Lorth begins to get worried about the were abouts of Caerthon. Although he says nothing he looks up expectantly every time the inn's door opens.
Bralin Wednesday November 10th, 2004 1:35:13 PM
Bralin's musings concerning the nature and need for folk to deceive each other evaporates in the face of the home cooked meal.
Flashing a grin of appreciation at the innkeeper, the dwarf sets to. He is a swath of destruction among the sausages and baked apple.
Harvest Wednesday November 10th, 2004 2:34:42 PM
What an interesting day. Harvest puts a finger to the cut on her forehead as she walks back to the inn through the wan early evening light. More practice with the chain would ... But, then again, there is the curfew. And ... Harvest sighs as she walks along ... there is only so long one can put things off, there are scrolls to study.
Back at the inn, the smell of cinnamon and sugar is irresistible. She waits quietly to be served. From the corner of her eye, Harvest cannot help but notice the way in which the paladin looks to the door. Her eyes drop to the unblinking eye on his shield.
When dinner arrives, she eats slowly, savoring each mouthful. Still, when she is finished, she looks for those who might not desire to finish their meal in its entirety. Especially the baked apple.
Andrath Wednesday November 10th, 2004 11:59:49 PM
Back at the Inn, Andrath helps himself to a second helping of sausages and mashed potatoes. "Umph...combat always makes me hungry," he says with his mouth still full of food.
He sees Harvest Moon eyeing his baked apple, and not being a fan of raisins, he pushes the dessert towards the little lady. "Here you go; I am too full of supper to fit this in. One of the other city guards that I used to work with was fond of saying 'I may be full, but my dessert side is still empty', but I think that I have filled both sides!"
As Licoln stops by to refill the ale jugs, Andrath asks, "Have you seen Caerthon yet tonight? We are supposed to meet him here, and my friend is starting to get a little concerned about his whereabouts. If we don't see him in the next couple of hours, do you know where he lives? I think that we might pay him a visit, if he doesn't show up here."
Alkali Thursday November 11th, 2004 12:50:01 AM
A quick glance at the sausage, and Alkali's thoughts turn to the scene early in the day. His thoughts are abruptly ended with the smell of apple. He eats all but the sausage and goes to rest.
DM Bob & Carla Thursday November 11th, 2004 8:34:46 AM
Lincoln finishes pouring a mug of ale for the elf before answering his question. "Caerthon spends most of his time riding the border. He stops in every now and then for a meal and a bath and we keep a place set for him. He must have a permanent encampment in the hills somewhere but I do not know where." Lincoln leans in and speaks in a low conspiratorial voice, "I like the old blodger and we look after him in respect for his past service to the valley, but he may not be all together if you kin my meaning. He's not dangerous, mind you but he does seem a bit obsessed."
Lincoln continues on to the next table and pours another mug or two of ale before dissappearing behind the counter again.
The party finishes it's meal, extra desserts and all, and some begin to make their excuses, but before they can leave the old paladin makes his way through the door and over to their table.
"Good" he says in a serious tone. "You are still here. I have brought the maps as I promised. There is still no word from Hugo and Langdon and I fear the worst." Caerthon deposits the maps on the table and removes his soiled cloak before taking a seat. He brushes aside the accumulation of cups, plates, and dinner ware before spreading apart the first of two hand sketched maps.
As he speaks he points out the particulars on the map with the tip of his dagger and his voice grows quieter. "This here is Strongwind Castle" he points to a large square on the map some 3/4 mile north of Magpie crossing. "There is a suitable ford across the river about 2 miles north of here, you can't miss it." His dagger traces it's way up the Magpie River until it reaches an "F" marked on the map. "If you head due east of here for one day you will reach a dry river valley heading Northeast. The terrain from here gets much more difficult. The evil that spreads from the dread has killed all the vegetation and only bare soil remains. The earth is scarred by gullies and ravines and there is little in the way of food or sustenance. There are no safe places to rest once you enter the dead zone!" He looks at each of you as if to emphasize the point he has just made, or perhaps he seeks to determine your mettle.
If there are no questions, he unrolls a second map, this one shows a rough layout of the Crimson Fort.
Lincoln approaches the table, a plate of sausages and potatoes in one hand and a mug of ale in the other. "Not now man" the paladin says in an exasperated tone. "Can't you see we're in the middle of something important."
Elerinn Thursday November 11th, 2004 9:35:28 AM
Elerinn observes the maps and feels quite excited about travelling into the area infested by the dread, despite the danger the paladin warns for. He eats pretty much tonight, for a gnome, because today has been a heavy day.
Lorth Thursday November 11th, 2004 10:06:25 AM
Lorth watches and tries to remember Caerthon's every word. Although he lets Andrath do the talking as he is better with words. When Caerthon mentions that there are no safe places in the dead zone, Lorth doesn't even flinch. I will go whatever the cost he thinks.
Bralin Thursday November 11th, 2004 10:18:19 AM
Bralin scans the maps, getting a feel for the terrain and defenses. Safety is not an issue.
There is a question though, concerning the nature of the quest.
"Our quest be threefold?" he asks, looking for confirmation from Lorth and Andrath. "Recover the bones of our Paladin's sire. Determine the fate of the two scouts. Determine the intent of the denizens of the Crimson Fort. Aye?"
Harvest Thursday November 11th, 2004 1:32:22 PM
Maps. Maps are so much easier to understand than scrolls. They show real places. Places to which you can go.
Harvest removes her boots and stands barefoot on the seat of the chair, leaning over the table for a better look.
Quest. The word echoes in her head as it is stated by the straight forward dwarf. A quest. Tomorrow they leave upon a quest.
Alkali Thursday November 11th, 2004 6:24:48 PM
Alkali sleeps, unaware of the eventsun folding downstairs.
Andrath Thursday November 11th, 2004 10:58:36 PM
The elf rogue looks at the map, and says, "The dead zone? That sounds like a really fun place to visit." He looks at the clerics and says, "This dead zone sounds like a place that undead would likely be found. Can you do anything special to get us ready for undead?"
When Lincoln brings over the food, and Caerthorn speaks so abruptly, Andrath adds, "Lincoln, thank you for bringing over the extra food. Can you just put it at the corner of the table, here? Sir Caerthon is explaining where we need to travel tomorrow morning, and I am certain that he meant no offense." Then the elf reaches into his belt pouch, and hands 2 gold pieces to the innkeeper.
LOG ON