DM Jan Monday November 22nd, 2004 11:26:24 AM
It is 7 days later, and late at night, as the Dirt City adventurers return home.
There is wind and driving rain; the last few days have left the group utterly exhausted, as the two captured slavers have continually tried to escape, disrupting the watches and wearing everyone down.
The rescued slaves are bewildered and cold, looking at the perimeter of the City with trepidation.
Typically in this kind of weather, all the guards are hunkered down in their respective Towers. Torches flicker wildly in the wind, and in the distance, the sea can be heard, pounding on the harbour wall.
Theodore and Macaw Monday November 22nd, 2004 12:03:49 PM
Theodore's spirits are perked at the sight of his home. His pace quickens after displaying the wolf insignia upon his neck for any guards to see.
"Home again, home again, jiggity-jig-jig!" he comments as his master Geoffrey would do upon returning from his own little excursions.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Monday November 22nd, 2004 1:45:46 PM
Before the group leaves the forest, Vauhwyt makes sure to thank Priscilla for all her help, and to say that she hopes they will meet again. And Warwick, too!
Vauhwyt makes it her personal duty to guard the slavers. She remains tied to them for the entire trip, and sleeps on them at night. She uses her Intimidate skill to keep escape attempts to a minimum. She beats them soundly (nonlethal damage, mostly) after each escape attempt.
If the slavers threaten her or get fresh, she beats them into unconsciousness using her fists and lethal damage.
Each evening, she studies the Big Book of Evil, hoping for clues into the Cult and its activities.
She shares what she learns with the group. Especially Zayne. "With this information, we can save many many lives," she tells him. "Even if you do not like the Prince, giving him this book will help so many people!"
"So Zayne, can we trust you to not annoy the Prince? Or should we leave you at the apartment when we get home? Or should you stay outside the town? Whatever you think best. I trust you to remember that we are saving lives by going to the Prince. Okay?"
Rose Monday November 22nd, 2004 3:46:25 PM
Rose is happy to be going home, and worried that they might be late. She makes good time after they picked up the mules from the inn and she didn't have to keep yelling for people to slow down and to remember some people dont have long legs.
When Vauhwyt reminds her of what happened last time she suggests "Zayne, if you do go with us to see the prince could you please not open your mouth? I don't want to die today."
Olyn Monday November 22nd, 2004 9:33:13 PM
worn, cold, wet, and extremely tired, when the town of Dirt City looms ahead, a faint smile reaches the Half Elf's lips, but only for a moment when a sharp wind passes through his soaked cloak.
holding his cloak about him tightly, keeping one hand on his newly filled coin purse, and the other holding the flaps of his cloak closed, backpack upon his back and a well wrapped sword attached to it, he trudges onward, towards the gates to the city.
Vorelle d20+6=22 Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 1:17:01 AM
Vorelle tries to be happy to be home, but her spirits sink as she enters the filth and squalor of Dirt City. Since her companions seem to be geniuinely happy to return, she does her best to conceal her sense of dismay.
Too shy to speak to the former slaves, she tries to reassure them with her presence alone, watching out for them and keeping an eye out for trouble.
[Spot 22]
DM Jan Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 12:35:11 PM
Theo's wolf insignia gets everyone out of the rain and into the Wolf Tower entrance (the nearest).
The guards look at the rain-sodden group. Now its time to revert to life back home, as in -
What is to be told, and what is to be kept a secret?
"So, where have you lot been, and who are these people?" asks one of the guards, a burly dwarf with a no nonsense expression.
Warm air drifts up the Tower steps, carrying with it the scents of the lower city below.
Dietrich Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 1:22:28 PM
Feeling the cold and all misfortunes of a long journey though the wilderness, Dietrich is genuely happy to reach Dirt City. He thinks at their achievements, the battle and the Wildcards and the rich loot and is proud and satisfied.
Arriving at the Wolf-tower, Dietrich is reminded that danger isn't restraint to the wild lands and stays on his guard. The black-and-white world of hunting MArteus servants and orcs passed and now they are entering this shadowy place again, where smiles hide poisoned daggers.
The fighter will let others talk to the guards and stay behind, taking care of the prisoners and looking tough.
Theodore and Macaw Tuesday November 23rd, 2004 3:26:02 PM
Macaw is perched on Theodore's shoulder, looking generally miserable as his master steps up to speak with the dwarven guard.
"We were sent out on an errand for the Prince. We have returned with important information and need to see him right away. Do you think you could provide us with a few of your men so that we're not hassled on the way to the Prince's?"
Zayne d20=12 Wednesday November 24th, 2004 12:41:07 AM
"Well if you are going to see the prince right now,I'll head to check on the apartments and let Jerraldh know we are home." Looking thoughtfully at the rest of the group,"This whole trip has been pretty tough on me and I don't know if I can keep my temper in check around him. Not to mention we need to see what's going on in the city politically."
Without waiting for a reply from the group he dashes off into the city.(Gather Information 12)
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+7=17 d20+11=12 Wednesday November 24th, 2004 6:45:59 AM
The liontaur does her best to appear confident and strong. "Our mission is none of your concern -- but since there are few liontaurs in Dirt City who are Wolf-friends and who work for the Prince, I think I reveal little when I tell you that I am Vauhwyt, and these are my companions. We have returned from the Prince's business, so you would do well to let us pass. An escort would indeed be welcome, since we have a couple prisoners with us as well."
[OOC: 17 Bluff and 12 (Nat one) Intimidate]
Vorelle Wednesday November 24th, 2004 10:31:35 AM
Careful not to draw attention to herself, Vorelle keeps her head down and stays near the back of the group.
Rose Wednesday November 24th, 2004 12:39:47 PM "Zayne, wait a moment. Rose rummages around for a moment. "Here take this stuff to the apartment and dont forget to go by and let my family know I'm home and alright."
DM Jan Wednesday November 24th, 2004 1:28:41 PM
At the mention of a "Prince", the rescued slave Diana does her best to detangle her hair and make a fuss over her wretched, torn and muddy garments. The other slaves look apprehensive.
Having been kicked around like footballs, the two slavers are very subdued.
The Wolf Tower guards are obviously intrigued, and there's no problem in getting four of them to accompany the group to the lower entrance of the 'castle'. It doesn't take long, and the passages are quiet, save for the occasional dwarven lamp tender.
Soon, the entire group, with the exception of the Wolf tower guards (who Th'Ayvanen orders to stay outside) are stood before a bewildered Suran Corell. As usual, the tall, human prince's red hair is ruffled, his shirt is hanging out, and he looks to be on the wrong side of a bottle of wine.
"So! my adventurers have returned!" he exclaims with an affable grin. "With what news?"
Th'Ayvanen stands close by; attentive, and VERY sober.
Meanwhile, Zayne heads back to the apartment. Jeraldh, the landlord appears, in a nightshirt covered by a robe. He wants to know if everything is all right, and more to the point, whats been going on. As trade, the albino tells tale of an apparent plot against the Temple of Wardd while Zayne was away - foiled by a strange bird flying in with a map that covered the whole enterprise.
((OOC - There was a point, when that map was found, I had Olyn go back with it, and when Tim discovered he could play after all, I had Warwick fly to Dirt City with the map instead, so Olyn could get back into the game. It's in the archives somewhere.))
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday November 24th, 2004 3:33:10 PM
The liontaur bows and apologizes for interrupting the Prince. "We have returned from your mission with news and more, lord."
"We discovered that the same cult that plotted to kill the Wolf Alpha's daughter had other plans to hurt Dirt City. We found that they were trafficing in slaves. Here are two of the slavers with whom they dealt, and these people are freed slaves."
She points out the slavers and freed slaves in the group.
"We tracked the cult to the Aisildur borderr. We found the cult on an island in Blackbird Lake. We saw a she-fiend that was working with the cult. We stole a book of their evil plans. And we killed some and saw others die in a catastrophe on that island."
"Here is the book of evil plans." She brings it out.
Vauhwyt then pauses, so that others in the group can talk, and to let the Prince ask questions.
Mookie, knowing for once what is good for him, keeps quiet.
Olyn Thursday November 25th, 2004 2:11:24 AM
standing back so that the others might tell the tale, he is anticipating the return to the temple to turn over the map gained from the slavers.
Vorelle Thursday November 25th, 2004 2:26:26 AM
Doing her best to be invisible, Vorelle keeps to the back of the group.
Dietrich d20+2=3 Thursday November 25th, 2004 12:18:45 PM
Dietrich is tired from the march and would like to have a bath, hot food and a shaving, but remembering the way they left Dirt City, the fighter agrees with going directly to the Prince and convey him the information gathered. He bows to Th'Ayvannen and to the Prince and continues behind, but ready to answers any question they may ask.
He is amazed with Vauhwyt's capacity to resume their adventure and observes the effects on both powerful men (sense motivatio, natural 1).
Theodore and Macaw Thursday November 25th, 2004 11:16:25 PM
Theodore steps forward after Vauhwyt has spoken. "We don't know if the plan will continue or not. Most of them perished in the waters."
Macaw bobs about from the perch on his master's head.
Zayne d20+5=19 d20+5=12 d20=4 d20=5 Friday November 26th, 2004 2:52:22 AM
Zayne runs out before Rose can give her a load to carry. He listens carefully to Jeraldh's account of recent events,and does his best to fill the albino in on what he can. He of course tells the tales of battle,and about him sharing a drinking table with a troll. After a few stories he tells Jeraldh that he is tired after the long trip and that he is heading to rest.
He heads to the apartment given to them by Jeraldh. He looks around and sets his stuff down and then gives the apartment a quick once over for any obvious signs of intrusion. Then heads over to the apartment that he purchased to repeat the inspection. Careful to stay aware of his surroundings.(Listen 19 Spot 12)
After dropping off the bulk of his gear he makes a quick trip around town to check in with his contacts with the cloaks,nothing specific,just anything else that Jeraldh might have forgotten to mention.(Gather Information 4) As an after thought he asks about the group of elves that recomended they investigate the forest. Hopefully they did pay a visit to the Blue Eel. After the quick check in he heads back to his apartment to unwind,but as he travels back home he realizes that he missed this,all of it the crazy politics,the constant barrage of soot,or whatever this crud is,and the feeling of being HOME.
As he sits and waits for the group he strips down to some normal clothes and looks at his armor,and sets it in the closet and puts his remaining weapons along side it.
He would like to think that this was the last time he would ever have to touch the blasted things but this trip proved to him more than ever the weak need someone to lookout for them,to protect them from thr drudges of society. In nature the weak are often hunted by the strong,but no matter how strong you think you are there is something out there that can and will prey on you.
DM Jan Saturday November 27th, 2004 12:26:22 AM
Corell and Th'Ayvanen waste no time pouring over the book. They ask a lot of questions.
"Perished, you say?" asks Th'Ayvanen of Theodore, raising an eyebrow.
"This parchment feels like ski - hey, wait a minute," growls the Prince, "there's a name here I recognize. Insiders?!"
There's a moment of silence, and then Th'Ayvanen closes the book. "I think, what we have here, is something that needs careful handling." He looks at the group. "I suggest you say nothing about this book or its contents. It seems the external threat has been lessened a great deal, but there are obviously some loose ends..."
And so -
In the early hours of the morning, the group finds itself in the Main Sewer tunnel with a sizeable pouch of cash, courtesy of the Prince's treasury. It amounts to 700GP each. With only half the lamps lit, the tunnels look dark and full of shadows. It was the end of another mission, one that would have repercussions for sure. The next few weeks would certainly be interesting.
At this particular point, the taverns will be closed, and Zayne perhaps might think twice about turning up casually at the Cloaks tower in the dead of night. Tomorrow and the next few days however, might yield some answers to his questions.
Olyn might find that he has answers to questions currently baffling everyone over at the Temple of Wardd. The clerics there already have the map (courtesy of the vulture) and they did discover the tunnel and stopped a plot to destroy the Temple. However - what they don't know - is where the map came from, who devised the plot, and where the vulture came from.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d100=94 Saturday November 27th, 2004 8:29:16 AM
Vauhwyt makes sure she takes a reward -- 700 gp -- for Zayne. She surrenders the slavers to the Prince, too. She does not want to have to deal with them any more!
Outside, in the sewer, Vauhwyt breathes deep and says, "Home at last!"
She urges the freed slaves to stay with them for the night; she'll help them get home tomorrow.
The next day she talks with her friends at the WLA and tries to arrange passage home for the former slaves. She has Ashira's 300 gp contribution (plus the proceeds of the sale of mundane goods) to help with that.
When all former slaves are gone and the whole group is together, Vauhwyt talks about treasure division.
"We each have 1,000 gold and a ruby of our own. Olyn, Zayne, and Dietrich won magic items. I suggest that the other four of us roll dice to split the remainder this way: Ring of Protection; Ring of Swimming; Gold Necklace; Two Onyx Gems and Unholy Symbol."
"Plus there was a rapier that Theo took and four Giant Lizard Teeth. I'd like a giant lizard tooth, if no one minds."
Vauhwyt gets out her dice and rolls high [a 94]!
Mookie laughs. "Dumb luck, huh Boss!"
========== ==========
OOC: Here are my notes and proposal for Loot Division:
Dirt City Individual Treasure:
From Orc Isle: 300 gp and one ruby From the Prince: 700 gp
========== ++++++++++ ==========
Other Loot:
Giant Lizard Skeleton Loot
--- A rather ugly pendant on a ten-foot-long tarnished chain. Set into the pendant is a very well cut star ruby. The whole thing looks like some kind of dinosaur-sized cat collar. The gem was appraised by Theo at about 1,000 gp.
--- Four 9-inch-long giant lizard teeth.
Diseased Orc Loot
--- Two shiny black stones of onyx.
--- Medallion worn by diseased orc's neck, stamped with the symbol of Marteaus. (Could be melted down for cash value?)
========== ++++++++++ ==========
Proposed Treasure Division:
--- Olyn -- +2 Longsword --- Zayne -- Ring of Sustenance --- Dietrich -- Ring of Feather Fall --- Person A -- Ring of Protection +2 --- Person B -- Ring of Swimming --- Person C -- Giant Lizard Necklace --- Person D -- Two Onyx Gems and Unholy Symbol
I suggest that Rose, Vorelle, Theo, and Vauhwyt all roll to be Person A, B, C, and D.
========== ++++++++++ ==========
Note: Theo also picked up a nonmagic rapier. Vauhwyt would like a Tooth.
Olyn Saturday November 27th, 2004 9:55:14 AM
after the meeting with the Prince, Olyn excuses himself from the group siting: unfinished business that must be handled immediately.
bowing to the group Olyn darts off to the temple where, upon arriving, will seek audience with the Father and begin telling the Whole tale, from the meeting with the Prince to the just now meeting with the Prince.
*and Jan, I tell the Father EVERYTHING*
Olyn will spend the night at the temple, and in the late morning will head to the Catacombs, with sword in hand, and $$.
*Cayzle, I dont think your recommendation for loot split is actually fair to those who didnt get magic. I think for Magic items there should be a list. Some of us have magic items now and some wont til the next adventure. Instead of giving a couple people a chance to roll for non magical items and the next time we do find magic, we all get to roll you should just sell and split the $$ items with the group, and with next Magic item we run across, the people who didnt get magic are the ones that get to roll.*
Rose Saturday November 27th, 2004 5:10:15 PM
Rose quietly listens as the others talk to the prince. Later on when Vauhwyt suggest dividing the treasure she suggests that they wait until tomorrow and get the items appraised first, either at the catacombs or rose will use the spell barnums appraisal, then the group can see if they want to sell the items and split the money or just split the items. She also reminds them that although there are 4 large teeth from the lizard Rose has 15 of the small teeth (see post august 3rd)
Theodore and Macaw d20+6=25 d20+6=24 d20+6=18 Saturday November 27th, 2004 8:27:44 PM
Theodore is also happy to be headed home. After dropping off his gear, he visits Geoffrey to catch up on things.
Later that evening, Theodore returns and scrutinizes the ruby he acquired from the divided booty. He also appraises the two onyx stones and the holy symbol taken from the dead orc cleric.
In response to Vauhwyt and Olyn's conversation over the division of items, "I'm not overly concerned in whether we roll dice or sell everything and divy the money. Either way works fine for me. Just let me know when you've come to an agreement."
(Appraise ruby = 25, onyx stones = 24, and unholy symbol = 18)
Vauhwyt (illegal second post) Saturday November 27th, 2004 9:08:49 PM
The liontaur listens to Olyn and nods her head. "I suggest that we use my division, but the two people who did not get a magic item are the first to get the next two we find. How's that sound?"
"The problem with selling items is that the Catacombs takes a ten percent cut -- I know 'cause I used to work therre. On a good item, that's a lot of gold to lose. Especially for things we would use."
[OOC: Wow! Great appraise rolls, Shegger!]
Vorelle Sunday November 28th, 2004 7:22:21 PM
"I d-d-d-don't n-need more m-magic," Vorelle says, absently running a light hand over her +1 longbow.
Dietrich Monday November 29th, 2004 12:54:47 PM
Dietrich is very satisfied with the way the audience with the Prince went. He is starting to really like to do business with this guys!
When the group goes home, DIetrich doesn't want anything more than a little comfort and rest after a so long time far from civilization, but before he leaves to the baths to get a sauna and some massage, he listens to the arguments about the distribuion of the loot. The warrior doesn't have any preference for a specific system, but would like to avoid selling (and loosing money) the magic items. Vauhwyt's last propose sounds good for him.
DM Jan Monday November 29th, 2004 3:15:47 PM
Zayne's tour of the apartments in the night proved that both of them were secure.
During the following day -
Olyn tells the head priests at the Temple of Wardd everything he knows. His words are met with astonishment, and clerics set to work with ink and parchment, wanting to record it all.
Zayne is unable to find out where those elves got to. They didn't go to the Blue Eel, that was for sure. Of course its the usual story at the Cloaks - the more info given, the higher up the rankings you go.
Vauhwyt accompanies the rescued slaves to the WLA, and in no time, Fiedel the halfling has organized passage on a reputable caravan, bound north for New Elenna and Plateau City. Commander Kent wants to know if there's anything to report.
As for the Slavers - who knows what their fate might be. Currently they languish in a dungeon and are chowing down on a bowl of gruel.
Good for some, bad for others - families await, as do taverns and everything else Dirt City has to offer.
Dietrich hears plenty of gossip at the bath house, but on this day, it doesn't appear to hold any consequence. Compared to what he's been up to, all this is nothing.
Rose's family will no doubt be relieved and pleased to see her. For Vorelle, that might be a different story.
Theo hunkers down for a spell of appraisal:
The onyx pieces look in reasonable shape, with a book value of 50GP each. He reckons they'll fetch that.
The rubies, although of good quality, are very rough cut, butchered in fact. Left alone, or re-cut, they come in at about 500GP each.
The lizard teeth - who knows? There isn't an obvious market for them. Their value would depend on who wanted them, and why. Maybe they'd be good for barter.
The Marteaus medallion - the 'medallion of wrong', it just sits there and stews, giving Theodore a headache, and uncannily appearing to draw light from the surroundings. Sitting next to it is like wallowing in a puddle of gloom. No market for something like that. Unless you were into gloom, of course.
Toward the end of the day, rumour goes around like wildfire - the guards have set upon old Toomey, the baker in the Main Sewer tunnel, near the halfling quarter. The store's all closed up and he's been dragged off for questioning.
All the taverns are abuzz about it. Why? He was only a baker, right? Rose will remember seeing Toomey's name in the book they captured. And so it begins.
((Folks, I'd like us to do some 'in city' day to day posts for this week. Real time - a week, game time - about three weeks. So feel free to pick up any threads you left off the last time we did this. Jamie is going to be taking over this week, also.))
Rose Monday November 29th, 2004 7:09:29 PM
Rose heads to the girls apartment with Vauhwyt and Vorelle, she washes up and changes, then gathers her dirty clothes to leave at a laundress. "Are you two going with me? My parents want to meet you. Dont worry, there will be room. My parents made sure we could have big people visitors."
Rose heads for her parents house (after dropping off clothing at laundress) and just walks in the door. "Mom Dad I'm home." If Vauhwy and Vorelle came with her she makes sure that they're comfortable.
Zayne d20+8=23 d20+8=12 d20=10 Monday November 29th, 2004 8:09:51 PM
Zayne spends the next day in the streets trying to make sure he has found out everything that has gone on since the group left town. As always he is alert to any surprises that might pop up along the way.(Listen 23 Spot 12 Gather Information 10)
He is really liking the new magic ring,his urges to devour every last morsel in sight are no longer the normal bi-hourly occurance.
Zayne d20+8=23 d20+8=12 d20=10 Monday November 29th, 2004 8:09:52 PM
Zayne spends the next day in the streets trying to make sure he has found out everything that has gone on since the group left town. As always he is alert to any surprises that might pop up along the way.(Listen 23 Spot 12 Gather Information 10)
He is really liking the new magic ring,his urges to devour every last morsel in sight are no longer the normal bi-hourly occurance.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Monday November 29th, 2004 11:41:15 PM
Vauhwyt puts the Ring of Protection and the Ring of Swimming on the table at the apartment. She claims the gold necklace from the giant lizard (value: 1,000 gp) and puts 1,000 gp of her own money on the table. She puts 500 and an onyx (worth 50) in one pile and 500 and an onyx in a second pile. She gives one pile of 550 to Vorelle, saying, "You get first dibs on the next magic item we get."
The Ring of Protection, the Ring of Swimming, and a pile of 550 gp are on the table. She hands the dice to Rose and to Theo. "Roll, my friends! Try to beat my ninety-fourr!"
"Yeah, good luck with that!" says Mookie.
"And whoever rolls the lowest gets the pile of gold and dibs, with Vorelle, on the next magic items that we get!"
After the treasure is divided, Vauhwyt and Mookie go have a talk with Liam Kent, local WLA commander. She makes a full report, similar to the one Olyn gives his spiritual mentor at the Temple of Gargul.
Speaking of temples, Vauhwyt also heads to church to spend a few hours praying and meditating.
Olyn Tuesday November 30th, 2004 12:39:45 AM
after spending countless hours at the temple, going over everything he did, saw and remembers to the scribes, Olyn will head back to the apartment. looking tired and ragged, and seeing some of the others sitting at the table with the stuff laid out on it, he smiles and starts to pass on by until he notices the foul symbol to Marteaus.
looking at Theo he says: exactly what did you have in mind for that blasphemous item? I suggest that you and I leave this very second, and take that item straight to the temple and turn it over to those who know what to do with such filth.
*if theo agrees, Olyn will return to the temple with Theo, and hand said item right over to the Father, apologizing for leaving out that part of the story. afterwards, Olyn will return to the apartment, excuse himself, take a hot bath and go straight to bed, not waking up til the next morning*
Vorelle Tuesday November 30th, 2004 1:10:28 AM
Vorelle supresses a shudder as she looks at the malignant Marteus token. For a moment, she entertains a wild thought of claiming the foul thing and handing it over to Lisenne.
Here, Mother. A prize from my travels--a valuable magic medallion.
She shakes off the though. Extortionist or no, Lisenne is still her mother. With a sigh, she instead counts out twenty gold pieces and places them in a twist of cloth. Then, remembering how long she's been gone, she counts out another ten and adds it to the total. She tucks the bundled cloth into her pouch with a few odd copper and silver pieces, carefully leaving the rest of her funds in the apartment where they will be safe. She gathers some clean clothes and heads for the bathhouse.
Like Rose, she gets cleaned up and drops her traveling gear off to be laundered. She accepts Rose's invitation to visit the Gladstone clan, glad to have some excuse to put off her reunion with her own family.
DM Jamie Tuesday November 30th, 2004 5:41:54 AM
Over the next few days, a storm comes in from the sea, bring heavy rain and high winds. Waves pound over the harbour breakwater, and two children drown during a game, trying to run up to, and away from the waves as they crash against the walls. Two fishermen see the tragedy, as a great curl of water knocks the two kids off the top of the wall and into the unforgiving sea. As yet, there are no sign of the bodies.
Because of the storm, the underground levels are packed with citizens. No one wants to go up top, get soaked, and trample through the mud bath unless they have to. All the ships are stranded in the harbour. The upper level taverns are packed too, and steam rises from folk's cloaks as they dry off while having a beer or four.
Pickpocketing is naturally at an all time high. Volunteers are called for to fill sandbags to stop flooding around the Towers.
The fate of poor old Toomey is forgotten as another rumour hits the mill. Poison. Extract of some leaf or other, in huge quantities, found hidden outside one of the wells by the Keys Tower. This rumour brings fear, rather than outrage, to the pubs and bathhouses.
OOC: I am jumping in today. I still need character sheets from some of you. If I happen to do something not normal for the group and you have concerns email me. I take constructive critisism well. If you have something to discuss about your character email me and we'll chat about it.
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+4=7 Tuesday November 30th, 2004 6:51:36 AM
Vauhwyt is quick to remind the group that she had suggested (on Nov. 27) melting down the medallion for its value in gold. She tries to guess how much it would be worth melted down (Appraise check 7 oh well).
"Olyn, please don't just steal that away! It might be worth something melted down!"
She is glad to visit Rose and her family as well, and over the next few days stays close to home. She is big as it is, and in the crowded tunnels, does not like getting jostled. She is also afraid of being pick-pocketed -- she empties her pockets before leaving the apartment when she does go out (and then only to go to church and the WLA).
[OOC: Welcome Jamie! I was going to wait for the final disbursement of treasure before finishing my PC sheet. But some people (with the initials of S(T) and L(R)) still have to make their d100 rolls! I'll send it to you today!]
Olyn Tuesday November 30th, 2004 9:28:09 AM
Vauhwyt my dear child, melting down that blasphemous symbol may result in a new design, but the filth that it carries will just go into whatever you create.
if $$ is all you see with this item, then (placing his 300gp and the ruby on the table) take that and split with whomever, as for me, I feel it is better to dispose of such degredation rather than reforming such items.
Theodore and Macaw d100=10 Tuesday November 30th, 2004 9:30:18 AM
Theodore rolls a pathetic ten on his die. "Hmmm, oh well. Money will buy magic."
Macaw shakes his head in jest at his brother Mookie.
When Olyn suggests taking the symbol to the temple, Theodore agrees with his friend. "There is something...not right...about this symbol, Vauhwyt. I don't think we should have anything further to do with it," he tries to explain to the wemic. "It might be better to give it to those who better understand the godly magics."
Supposing everyone else consents to Olyn and Theodore's idea to hand over the symbol to the temple of Wardd, the mage will accompany the cleric to his temple.
After things begin to settle down, Theodore spends more time at his master Geoffrey's house studying books of magic and theories.
(OOC - I have an updated sheet, but I was waiting on a money total so I can pay a visit to my friendly neighborhood catacombs. We still have that big ruby found on the dead lizard to sell, right?)
Vauhwyt (Illegal second post) Tuesday November 30th, 2004 9:42:30 AM
Vauhwyt agrees with Theo and Olyn. "What do I know from evil unholy symbols? If you two think that melting it down is a bad idea, then take it away!"
"And Olyn, please keep your money." She hands it back to him, even though Mookie is cawing, "Hey! Keep it!"
"Hush Mookie," the liontaur says. "We are a team, and we share equally! No one has to pay extra! If we are getting rid of this thing, then we are all getting rid of it!"
[OOC -- Shegger, the giant lizard necklace with the gemstone is worth 1,000 gp. Vauhwyt took it and put 1000 gp on the table, split into two 500 gp piles. The two people who do not get a magic item -- you and Vorelle, unless Rose rolls really low -- get one of those 500 gp piles and a 50 gp onyx. Okay?]
[And Tim, keep in mind that the individual gold totals are 700 gp from the prince, 300 gp from the slaver chest, and a 500 gp ruby from the slaver chest. Olyn also got that +2 longsword.]
Dietrich d20+4=6 Tuesday November 30th, 2004 12:35:47 PM
Dietrich had a good night after hot baths and massage and swears at the bad weather the next day. Nevertheless, the warrior will spend his time in the taverns up-city, though he lets most of his money in the appartement. He is realy eager for some revellry, beer, girls, perhaps a bar-fight...
He also visits the shrines or temples of DOmi and Gargul and makes a donation of 30 gp each and some prays thanking Domi's blessing and recomending the people Dietrich's killed to GArgul.
Dietrich approves the destruction of the evil symbol and is glad to be as far away from it and similar things as possible.
Finally, Dietrich offers his help with the sandbags (stonemasonry 6).
Vorelle Tuesday November 30th, 2004 9:22:21 PM
After leaving the warmth of the Gladstones' hearth, Vorelle reluctantly turns her steps toward her own family's home.
It's near the surface, of course, along a cramped, narrow tunnel that just now is sloshing under about four inches of filthy runoff. It's in a part of town that would be claimed--if anybody claimed it--by the Teeth. The Teeth have so far declined the honor.
Vorelle sloshes up to the door and thumps it with a fist. "No need to go bangin' on doors!" a querulous voice complains. "I heard ya comin'!"
The door is yanked open, and Vorelle is face to face with her father. "Why, Vorelle!" he says, suddenly all smiles. "Little Relly! Aren't you a sight for sore eyes! Come in, come in!"
Cautiously, Vorelle steps over the threshhold--built high on purpose to keep out the flooding--and stands dripping in the foyer. The house is just as she remembered it. Small, crowded, cluttered, smelling perpetually of damp and mildew. No smells of cooking to mask it, or make the place seem more welcome. Lisenne was an indifferent cook at best, and both Vaun and Ulbrect felt the chore beneath them.
"Come sit down!" Ulbrect says now, leading his daughter into the tiny front room. "Mother, look who's here!"
"Hello, Vorelle," says Lisenne calmly from her place near the fire. She gives her daughter a tight smile. "Back safe and sound, I see." The smile turns hard. "Targo will be glad to hear it."
"H-h-h-h-here," Vorelle fumbles into her pouch and pulls out the twist of cloth. Hastily, she shoves it at her mother.
"Why, Vorelle. How sweet." Lisenne opens the bundle and quickly assesses the coins within. She seems satisfied with the amount, and Vorelle heaves an inward sigh of relief. "Such a thoughtful daughter, thinking of her family," Lisenne continues.
"And not a moment too soon," Ulbrect adds. "Another business venture gone south, I'm afraid, my dear," he explains to Vorelle. "Still, all's well that ends well. And one day...one day we'll be the envy of everyone in Dirt City. I just need to hit upon the right scheme..."
Some time later, Vorelle finally makes her way back to the apartment, looking pale and drawn--yet somehow relieved.
DM Jamie with an out of order post Tuesday November 30th, 2004 9:45:37 PM
Zayne, while you are out getting the scoop in the city for what you have missed while you were gone you get alot of the same. This happened and this house and that happened at that. One thing that does prick your ear is there is a new alchemist in town. He is a rather large gnome with a rather high interest in the cloaks. In fact he has been going around asking about them since he arrived in town. Seems his name is Berlon and he has a store in town.
When Vauhwyt and Mookie finish their report to Liam he seems slightly interested in what they had to say. "This will warrant some attention... I will have someone find you if I require more information."
Rose d100=36 Wednesday December 1st, 2004 12:26:18 AM
Rose has fun at her parents, before heading back home. "I'll come see you again tomorrow, dont worry She says as she leaves.
Rose keeps her promise and visits her parents at least every other day for a few hours, the days she doesnt go to her parents she'll go to her another relatives.
ooc: jaimie I'll get the sheet to you after I go shopping, I already sent you the bio so dont forget it's your job to npc Rose's family and friends :)
DM Jamie Wednesday December 1st, 2004 6:04:53 AM
A few days later -
The search goes on for the drowned children. As yet - nothing.
The storm has gone inland, leaving behind spoiled crops, dirty streets, and masses of detritus on the shoreline. Folk are out there, picking through the debris, just in case something valuable or useful has washed ashore.
Rumour and gossip are beginning to gather momentum - the storm, the poison threat, even the dead children - it's all being brought upon Dirt City by Ga'al and Aisildur. Suddenly the realm of Aisildur is the new bogeyman - a focus. And that focussed wrath erupts one night in Garotte Square, as a wandering Ga'alian missionary is torn apart by a mob of around 50 people. Lurid tales of his heartseed, squirming to stay alive, fill the taverns at night.
Volunteers are called for to help rescue crops, and sluice out streets filled with mud.
Rose, your family is extatic that you have once again returned home safely. Over the next few days you help out around the house and do odd jobs for your family members. Aluthrya asks you if you would like to go shopping with her. She is in need of some spell components and their is a new alchemist in town that is supposed to have some good deals.
Dietrich's help with the sandbags is much appreciated as you ended up spending about 16 hours filling sandbags. About every hour or so someone would come by to offer watter or a snack. Funny how in a city of thieves that when the city itself is threatened that everyone pulls together for a common good.
Packages are delivered today for several members of the party. They are tightly wrapped in lambskin with goose down as packing materials inside.
(OOC: I know people still are making purchases and such from the catacombs so for the sake of arguement everyones stuff showed up today. I think about half of you have sent me updated character sheets. Just make sure I have them COB Friday.)
(OOC: By the way the alchemist is our new character Berlon who will be played by Dave)
Olyn Wednesday December 1st, 2004 9:30:46 AM
fully rested after a few days of lounging around the apartment, Olyn decides its time to stop being lazy and gets to work.
grabbing his warm rain gear he heads up top and to the shore to assist in the search and recovery of the lost children. praying to wardd all the time for the slightest chance that the children can be found, alive.
perhaps his luck will shine through once again.
Cayzle OOC Wednesday December 1st, 2004 10:00:02 AM
Final disbursement of loot, and we're done:
Everybody gets 1,000 gp* and a ruby worth 500 gp.
--- Olyn -- +2 Longsword --- Zayne -- Ring of Sustenance --- Dietrich -- Ring of Feather Fall --- Vauhwyt -- Ring of Protection +2 --- Rose -- Ring of Swimming --- Theo -- 500 gp and a 50 gp onyx --- Vorelle -- 500 gp and a 50 gp onyx
Vauhwyt is strongly of the opinion that Theo and Vorelle get dibs on the next two magic items the group gets.
Also note that there was a mundane rapier claimed by Theo, four big giant lizard teeth claimed by Vauhwyt, and many small giant lizard teeth claimed by Rose. If anyone else wants a big giant lizard tooth, just ask -- Vauhwyt is more than pleased to share. The teeth don't seem to have any value.
*Vauhwyt got the giant lizard necklace and gemstone, worth 1,000 gp, instead of cash.
Mookie says, "Now go shopping, and get those PC sheets to Jamie! No excuses!" :-)
Zayne spends the next couple days in town looking for this Berlon person. He doesn't make any contact with him he just wants to observe the gnome.(Gather Information 11 Hide 21 Move Silently 25)
After findong him he will report the information to Vauhwyt and the rest of the group. Not to mention stopping to pick up a four quivers of arrows,runnig so low on the last adventure was not something he is willing to repeat.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Wednesday December 1st, 2004 5:32:26 PM
Vauhwyt tells Liam Kent that she is, as ever, looking forward to hearing from him.
She spends a couple days shopping and going to church. She spends about 140 gp on supplies for herself (new rations, repairs on gear, etc), on the apartments (furnishing, housewares, food, taxes, etc), and on donations when they pass the plate at church.
She feels bad about the drowned kids, but it seems like it was an accident, not an act of evil. Sometimes kids just do crazy stuff, like playing in waves during a storm. Vauhwyt herself has a very healthy respect for water (and is thinking about taking swimming lessons one of these days).
Vauhwyt thanks Zayne for keeping a good eye on things. She joins Dietrich for a cider when work is through, and talks with Theo about his magic studies.
She enjoys visiting with Rose and her family once or twice. Vauhwyt would never say so, but more than that would be too much -- just sitting in Rose's mom's parlor makes her dizzy, the way those folks bustle around! She is careful to put Mookie in his pouch when visiting in polite company!
Vauhwyt also volunteers with Olyn and in the effort to help with the crop-saving and street-sluicing. She always looks neat while doing that, though, thanks to her Prestidigitation cantrips.
Finally, Vauhwyt is careful to keep an eye on Vorelle and to invite her shopping and volunteering. She feels more than a little protective towards the ranger -- more so than towards Rose, who despite her small stature has always seemed to Vauhwyt to be strong of will and able to look out for herself!
Vorelle Thursday December 2nd, 2004 1:45:37 AM
Vorelle, too, does some shopping, and returns from the Catacombs with a Quiver of Ehlonna. She delights in showing it to her friends, demonstrating how 50 arrows and her bow itself will fit right inside! Like Zayne, she stocks up on arrows. She also replenishes her healer's kit.
She gladly pitches in to help with the crops, but is less enthusiastic about mucking out the flooded tunnels. She does find the time to look in on the Strays and practice some more of her healing arts--after which, she replenishes her healer's kit again.
DM Jamie Thursday December 2nd, 2004 6:06:43 AM
A few days later.
Still no drowned children.
Cold, glittering sunlight and a sharp breeze has dried the mud to dust once more, and the dirt reverts to its usual behaviour, carried by the wind, getting under peoples fingernails, skin creases, and generally becoming its usual unpleasant self.
The bath houses start to get busy.
One of the news-sheets states that the Emperor of Aisildur is no longer controlled by a heartseed. This confounds previous rumours and has the merchants all abuzz. A less controlled realm could make for better trading, perhaps.
The first ships to arrive after the storm bring more news along with the goods they carry - that the Gold Dragons of Plateau City have exterminated ALL real dragons. There isn't a real dragon to be had in the entire Wold. A favourite punch bag of the average tavern raconteur, the GD's reputation is gleefully dragged through the mud once more, with accusations of greed, and how could they just exterminate an entire species, just like that?
Good news on the crop front, although the wheat has suffered, the potatoes and other root vegetables have not, although volunteers are now required to help gather the crop before it spoils in soggy ground. Bags of spuds, carrots and turnips, in great quantities, are seen being carried here and there. Being on 'Turnip Patrol' cracks a smile on folk's faces, and gets you a free beer in the pubs.
Olyn, after mucking up and down the shoreline for several hours alot of the other volunteers turn in for the day to help out in other areas. Before you turn in as well you see two couples standing on the harbor breakwall. Their cold blank stares have lost any glimmer of hope that once might have been there.
Zayne, apparently this Belone is a hard fellow to find. He was around and now he is not. Although you may catch a glimpse of him today if you are lucky.
Vauhwyt, you are always a welcome at the church and your donation to the plate makes several patrons tear up. "Such a nice young person", you hear one elderly patron comment about you.
Those of you that help with the crops are quite dirty by the end of the day (even with Prestidigitation cantrips, although you are cleaner than most). The street slucing brings on games of who can slide the longest and mud slinging.
Those of you that are out on the surface at any point in the last few days (I would assume everyone) make a spot check.
Olyn d20+4=5 Thursday December 2nd, 2004 10:01:49 AM
natural 1 for spot check
as Olyn turns to go back to the apartment, he spies the obvious parents of the young children. walking up to them, and with his holy symbol dangling from his neck, and a tear rolling down his cheek, he hugs them both, without saying a word.
back at the apartment, and during suppertime, Olyn will ask if anyone would like to join him in searching for the lost children. I know the search has been called off, but the parents, they need something and if I or we can find something, even their bodies, they can grieve like they are suppose to. and something inside me just wont let me stop for a couple days more.
the next morning, and for the next few days, Olyn will continue to search the shoreline, going further and further down and up, away from the city in search of anything that belonged to the children, if not their bodies.
*Olyn will rent a small cart, with 1 oxen, for trasnport in case they are found*
Dietrich d20+4=5 Thursday December 2nd, 2004 11:34:38 AM
Dietrich has had some well deserved good times and also replenished his equipment, buying new clothes, arrows, rations etc. Together with the donations he spent 150 gp. He also looks with wonder at the new stuff his friends are buying.
The fighter is glad his work with the sandbags is appreciated and trys to find some guys he met before at the reform of the citywalls. If so, beer will flow! He is also happy with Vauhwyts company in the taverns and shares the good sides of civilization with her.
After their last adventure, Dietrich isn't sad at all when Gaal's missionair is killed by the angry people and he hopes this will keep the fanatics far from here. New emperor or not, as a man from the Windbourne Hills, DIetrich has no niceties for Aisildur.
The warrior doesn't like very much Olyn's appeal to search for the dead children, sharing VAuhwyt's views about the incident. He fights against evil and protects the weak, but looking after bodies is not very glorious... Nevertheless, if the cleric insists, Dietrich will help.
OOC: DIetrich took a lizard tooth 'in loco' NAtural 1 for spot test too!
Zayne d20+8=13 d20+8=28 d20+7=22 d20+7=23 Thursday December 2nd, 2004 2:32:56 PM
Zayne refusing to give up until he has gotten a good look at his fellow stalks the area where he is reputed to be.(Spot 13 Hide 22 Move silently 23 Spot 28 for the required one)
He is careful not o make himself too obviuos so he moves with the flow of the crowds,taking caution not stand anywhere for any extended periods of time.
Theodore and Macaw d20+2=10 Thursday December 2nd, 2004 2:43:01 PM
One day, a rather disgusting looking orc waltzes into the men's apartments, probably giving anyone there quite a start. Before any can act, though, the hunched monster smiles widely and poofs into Theodore.
"Ha! I gotcha, didn't I? I'm learning new spells!" He seems quite taken with himself.
"Watch this one!" Theodore points two of his fingers towards a fly lounging on the wall of the apartment. But, whatever he meant to do, didn't happen. Instead, the wizard finds himself stuck to the wall beneath what appears to be a giant spider's web.
At first he looks confused, apparently not concerned with being plastered to the wall, rather baffled that the fly is still quite comfortably perched where it was to begin with. Only then does he notice his predicament and begin to wail and wriggle until someone cuts him free or the spell dissapates.
After his embarassing episode, he assists Olyn in looking for the two lost children.
(Spot check of 10)
Berlon d20+10=23 Thursday December 2nd, 2004 6:18:57 PM
Berlon finds his shop busy, but not in a good way. Common colds are running rampant, with cases of strong flu passing from resident to resident Below. Townsfolk keep dropping by for flasks of Red Juice, knowing that it will be a quick, free cure for whatever ailments the recent downpours have generated. The customers leave whatever money they can for the flasks, a silver piece here, a few coppers there, sometimes nothing at all.
Berlon frowns as he looks at the crate that normally contains healing potions that get distilled down into the vials of Juice. He furrows his brow: the crate is empty. He's had to use a month's worth of potions this week alone. "It's time again," he mutters to himself as his eyes wander to the chest that contains his armor and weapons. His eyes then settle on the plain cloak Great Uncle Knobby left to him. "Why did he leave it to me?" "When will this weather finally break for good?" "How long will I have to close my shop?" All these questions and other bounce around in Berlon's mind.
His face lights up to its normal happy expression. "But Alemi has destined a new adventure for me!" he exclaims, almost waking up the child whose intense sickness requires supervised bedrest. Berlon reminds himself to keep quiet, pulling the covers up over the sick child. (Heal check 23 DC 15) Berlon knows the child will be able to return home tomorrow, but he also knows the child's parents won't be able to pay the normal healing costs. He wants to make it so no parents have to worry about paying for their sick child ever again...
Vauhwyt and Mookie d20+3=16 Thursday December 2nd, 2004 6:31:58 PM
The liontaur hears the stories about the Gold Dragons destroying all the dragons in the Wold, and she defends the famous heros to her friends. "I dunno. The Gold Dragons are the greatest adventurers in the entire Wold. I'm sure they did what they did out of noble motives."
She congratulates Theo on his new magic. "Nifty!" she says.
Having finished her mundane chores and been to church and the WLA, Vauhwyt feels free to help out. She gladly goes with Olyn to help look for the lost kids, although she is privately doubtful.
"The best I can think of," Vauhwyt says, drawing on her memories of the days she worked at the Catacombs, "Is to buy a scroll of Locate Object. Theo can put it in his book, and then we can walk with him near where the kids fell in, searching for their shoes or clothes or something the parents could tell us about that they had with them."
"A scroll like that would cost 150 gold pieces. I would chip in 50 gp for that. It might be even less if we can find a wizard locally who would let Theo copy it out of his book. Theo, does your master have Locate Object in his book? Would he let us buy a look at it for you?"
[OOC: Spot check 16]
Vorelle d20+7=23 Thursday December 2nd, 2004 6:56:58 PM
As Vorelle sees it, there are two main advantages to Turnip Patrol: 1) it takes place outside of Dirt City, and 2) it takes place outside of Dirt City. She joins in with a will, and if she is not precisely cheerful about coming home covered in muck, she at least seems content.
As always, she keeps her eyes open when Above or outside the city.
[Spot 23]
Rose Friday December 3rd, 2004 2:22:10 AM
Rose spends some time with her family every evening, she also takes time to go shopping and copy some spells into her spell book.
She then assists with turnip patrol and child finding.
does anyone have expeditious retreat or feather fall? if so I wont have to buy the scrolls.
occ: I'm in the catacombs & black genie now.
DM Jamie Friday December 3rd, 2004 5:57:02 AM
A few days later.
Just as things are beginning to simmer down... The bodies of the two children are found by Olyn, washed up on the shoreline; bloated and partially eaten by fish. A funeral is held at the Temple of Wardd, and in a sorrowful mood, people throw flowers from the harbour wall, into the sea.
And the day after the funeral - a hanging. On a bright, sunny morning, old Toomey the baker swings from a gibbet in Garotte Square, having been declared a traitor and an enemy of the City. Folk can't believe it's true, until a tiny shrine to Marteaus is found in the back room of the now defunct bakery.
And the day after the hanging - along comes the biggest rumour of all. It rages through the City like a forest fire, bringing yet another storm, only this one is made up of terror and suspicion.
The Book.
Toomey's name was in 'The Book'. What was The Book? Where did it come from? Who's name is in it? Are there more traitors to be found? Is your neighbour a traitor?
More arrests are made. Tunnels are found. The dung really starts to hit the fan, and the City finds itself in complete and utter shock. The Houses scramble to defend and protect their own interests. The Game is played like never before. Throats are slit, people just disappear. Death threats fly hither and thither, and there are two assassination attempts on the Prince. Both fail.
It is a time of terror and for now, it seems to be gathering momentum.
Zayne, you are able to observe Berlon at his small shop. You see numerous people going in and out all day long. It is mostly women and children and one more tihngs strikes you as odd, you almost never see money exchange hands. People merely go in to receive medications of all types and then leave. Only once in a while does someone actually pay for something.
Vorelle, your stink outside the city on turnip patrol truely reveals to you how bad the storm must have been. There are plants strewn about across the landscape.
Berlon, the child makes a speedy recovery under your watchful care.
Those of you with a DC of 23 or higher you notice that when you are on the surface that there is no sound of little creatures. One one side it is quite calming, but on the other side you don't really know the cause. You would assume it is that most of their homes were destroyed during the storm, but there is always that nagging at the back of your head....
Olyn Friday December 3rd, 2004 9:54:05 AM
sitting at the dinner table with the others one evening. (after the Book rumor)
while all are eating Olyn pushes his half eaten plate of food away. drains his glass of wine. pulls out a pipe, stuffs it with tobac, stokes it with a stick from the fireplace, blows a smoke ring into the air and says:
we need to watch our behinds. we did something notable a week ago, and if we continue to do the same thing openly we will become targets ourselves. and I for one like breathing over being covered with dirt.
*holding up a hand to stop any replies*
what I am talking about is that Book. we did what we were paid to do. and because of what we did people are losing their lives. not just those people in the Book. and eventually the information will come out as to Who brought that Book into this city and Who turned that Book in to the prince. maybe the people who lost their lives, or those who fled for their lives deserved it, but do we really want to make more enemies than friends?
I propse that from here on out, and since we are now a team per say, that All matters regarding adventures that we sit down at this table before anything is accepted and we All talk it out. we also need to put down some rules regarding turning over information. my thoughts on this is we need a chain of command in this group. I mean we all are equal shareholders in this adventuring business of ours and like all businesses you have a chain of command. even though we are all equals we need to have people assigned for certain things.
my examples are as follows: information minister: this is someone or someones who goes out and finds information and brings it back to the group to be utilized in whatever we are doing. team spokesman: this is the person or persons who go out and actually gives out information that is found or suspected. like when we got back from the last adventure, this would of been the person or persons who would of taken that book to the prince and filled him in on what we found out. leader: the name says it all. strategists and tacitician: when we go into combat, I think we would be better in said situations if we had someone or someones who could better show us the proper and efficient ways of dealing with said enemies. the way I see things, when we are going into combat right now, we are unorganized. we just attack whomever we feel like. to be more efficient when the time comes, someone needs to form us us, whether it be a word or code, and we react appropriately. and lastly, we need 2 other spots filled. minister of health and minister of magic: these 2 spots are pretty simple if you look at it the way I do. it is the responsibility of these 2 people to gather magic. whether it be divine or arcane, to better help the group.
now, I propose this list: Vorelle and Rose - information ministers Zayne and Deitrich - stategist and tacticians Theo and Olyn - ministers of magic and health Vauhwyt - leader
one more thing. after my spending spree at the catacombs it has come to my attention that not everyone was as fortunate as me to get new gear so I offer this: *laying a pouch of gold and a ruby on the table* here is a bag of 1000 gold pieces and that ruby we got in the last adventure, appraised at 500gp. that is 1500gp to go towards getting one of the fighters a new, magic weapon or suit of armor. if we can get both Zayne and Deitrich outfitted before we head out next, the group can be better utilized in whatever situation arises.
*sitting back down after walking about the room for said speach, he relights his pipes, takes another long drag, and blows out 3 smoke rings in succession, then sits back and listens to the upcoming debate.
Vauhwyt and Mookie Friday December 3rd, 2004 11:28:17 AM
"Hear! Hear!" caws Mookie. "Listen to him, you lot! The man is right on target!"
Vauhwyt grabs the bird but agrees. "That first part I think is one hundred percent correct. We do have to keep a low profile. No murals outside the apartment, no name or reputation for us if we can help it, and no fame!"
"I agree that we should talk among ourselves before blabbing all over. We talked to the prince. I talked tothe WLA. I bet Rose talked to her family. Maybe Olyn talked to the church. Frankly, we have no secrets! That has to change! We live in Dirt City, for Pete's sake! We have to keep our mouths shut!"
"So do we agree? No talking to anyone outside the group unless the whole group agrees?"
"And we are way too obvious. I'm sorry, you guys, that I stick out like a sore thumb. But Olyn is right! We have to watch our backs, keep our heads low, and consider getting out of town for a while, until this book thing dies down. I also suggest that we go out only in groups of three or morre, until we can vamoose."
"As for the rest of what Olyn says, about each person having a permanent job, well, sorry, but I don't think that's a hot idea."
"I was pretty impressed with Rigging and the Swords, and he was their leaderr. But I don't think what was good for them would be good for us."
"We are too strong willed, too independent. What if I were the leaderr, and I executed a captive? You guys wouldn't much like that."
"Olyn, not too long ago you said to me about Rigging ..." the liontaur pauses a second to remember ... "I hope you won't be mad at me for bringing this up ..." Then she recalls ... "You said that if I admire Rigging, then you pity me because he is becoming what he despises. You said you won't travel with Rigging one step further, and if I can't understand and respect your feelings, maybe it is time to part company."
"Well, I do respect you! I respect you too much to want to boss you around. I trust you to be straight with us, and to give us your opinion. Then I trust each of us to do what is right."
"I think it is better if we are all equals who respect each other and no one tells anyone else what to do."
"I think we have been doing pretty well with no leader so far. I think that when a job comes up, we should pick someone for the job who would do it best."
"When we need information in the woods, Vorelle and Zayne would be the information ministers. In the city, it might be someone else. At a temple, someone else."
"The minister of health might be Olyn, or it might be someone else with a wand of healing, like a ranger or even someone who can Use Magic Devices."
"I think we should decide jobs on an as-needed basis."
"I don't want a leader to tell us what to do. I don't want to boss anyone around, except for Mookie."
"Hey!" the crow caws, and then Vauhwyt stuffs him in his pouch.
"I like how we decide things. We talk about them until everyone agrees. Nobody tells anyone else what to do. We just make suggestions. Everyone is free to do what they think is right. Why do we need a general? We work together really well without one."
After this very long speech, Vauhwyt sits down and looks around. Then she gets up again for a moment, to add, "I want to thank you, Olyn, for bringing this whole thing up. We live in a dangerous place, and we need to stick together to survive. I think conversations like this one will help keep us strong."
Then she sits down to see what other people have to say.
Theodore and Macaw Friday December 3rd, 2004 11:35:30 AM
Theodore spends some time shopping with his new money.
When Olyn brings up the topic of group orginization, Theodore nods his head respectfully through his friend monologue. "That sounds like a good idea. Only thing is that I wouldn't limit us to those roles. I know that Zayne has been a good source of information for us. He has a lot of contacts throughout the city. Also, Vauhwyt and Rose both practice magic as well as I." He takes a bite of his meal and chew thoughfully.
"I guess what I'm saying is we should keep everything loose. I believe one of our strengths as a group is our versatility. If we hold to a rigid way of things, we might actually hamper ourselves."
Berlon Friday December 3rd, 2004 12:33:04 PM
Berlon opens the wood-and-metal shutters of his lab a little later than usual this morning. This act, showing that his services are available, was late due to Berlon starting the brewing of what would likely be the last Healing Potion he would create for quite a while. Only when the large glass flask is bubbling does he open his window. He will have to tend to the potion between customers and during the time he normally takes for a quick meal, but it will be worth it.
A customer mentions that Berlon is working very hard these past few days. Berlon chuckles and smiles broadly. "Dear Friend! We Gnomes have a saying: 'Glandeb na glandor, raddeb na raddor' It means 'Work for those that can't, help others for those that won't' if that makes sense. I am happy to do whatever I can to help my Friends."
Berlon closes his shop earlier than usual, as well. He bundles some scrolls and potions up and is off to the Catacombs. As almost an afterthought, he slips on the cloak left to him by Great Uncle Knobby. Berlon still doesn't know why he was left the cloak and signet ring by Knobby, but he does know the cloak will help keep him dry if the weather acts up again...
Rose d20+8=16 d20+8=12 Friday December 3rd, 2004 2:33:39 PM
Rose listens to the others at the meeting. "I agree with Vauhwyt. No leader is necessary and I'll start discussing what I should and shouldn't tell my family before I tell them. Now, anyone who got items at the catacombs can I have the lambskin and goose down? Has anybody seen the sword I bought a while ago? I havent been able to use it until I learned how at the WLA."
Rose will show everyone a nice bastard sword that has a green and red rose dyed onto the scabbard and a rose in green and red gold on the hilt.
Vauhwyt and Mookie (illegal second post) Friday December 3rd, 2004 2:55:03 PM
Vauhwyt pipes up with some thoughts on spending money.
"Word on the street is that good adventurers stock up on potions and wands of healing. Maybe we should check out this gnome and buy some potions."
[OOC: "Word on the street" means the Loot N Booty! Jerry has a real good post there about how to work as a team at low levels. Please check it out. Funny that we were talking about the same thing!]
Vorelle Friday December 3rd, 2004 6:46:36 PM
Vorelle listens to Olyn's suggestion. She is astonished at the role he suggests for her.
Gathering information? From people? Has he met me?
As the conversation goes on, though, a new thought occurs, and she feels the heavy burn of shame start in the pit of her stomach. He had to include you somewhere, fool, she tells herself viciously, and you're obviously no good for anything else. What can you do, after all? Lead? No. Battle tactics? No. Magic? No. Healing-- She breaks off her internal tirade. She can heal--but not as well as Olyn.
She sighs, resigned. At least, when she messes up with getting information, it won't kill anybody. Right away.
She listens to what the others are saying in response. Vauhwyt and Theo are making some good points, but...
"W-w-we really sh-should have s-somebody in ch-ch-charge of b-battle t-t-tactics," she says. "There's no t-t-time for d-discussion in a f-f-fight."
Vauhwyt Friday December 3rd, 2004 6:53:15 PM
Vauhwyt listens to Vorelle. "That's a good idea. We could have a battle leader for fast fights. We could take turns being the battle leader and see how that works. Dietrich would be a good person for that. I'd like to try, too. We all could."
"I'd make a great battle leader," caws Mookie.
Olyn Saturday December 4th, 2004 8:41:51 AM
looking at Mookie: yes, you would make an awesome battle leader, then, whispering to Theo, if we battled mice or mosquitos.
and smiles at Mookie.
Deitrich, Zayne, Vorelle, there is 1500pp, each of you have 1500pp from the split and payment from the prince. I am sure others will give you some money to to get a new suit of armor or a magical weapon.
Olyn gathers up a few things and follows Vauhwyt out the door to see this Alchemist.
Dietrich Saturday December 4th, 2004 12:27:42 PM
When the rumours about 'the Book' appear and terror brakes loos, Dietrich stops going out and keeps at home, waiting to see what happens. He feels no sorry for the real traitors, like that baker, but is well aware of the renewd danger of civil war, especially remembering the former incidents between the wolves and the Prince. He absolutely agrees with the group taking a common stance in it.
The warrior is very glad a discussion about organization has been started by Olyn, as he too feels the groups actions to be a little too chaotic. He listens and than says:
"I agree with the need of better organization, but also to keep it flexible. I think the real problem arises in two situations:
1. When the party doesn't have time to discuss, like in emergency situations; and 2. When the party doesn't reach a consensus.
In the other situations I like the way we do it, holding a war council untill we agree to a solution. So I'd like to propose the following for the mentioned problems.
1. In a situation where we don't have the time to reach consensus, people should have pre-determined roles, including 'leader', like Vauhwyt for spoke-person and Olyn as deputy spoke-person, Theo for arcane magic etc. and me, if you agree, for emergency situations in battle. Only in this emergency situations, the appointed person would have the last world. In all other matters of importance, the party should deliberate and decide as a group.
2. In the case we discuss something and don't reach an agreement, I think we should hold a formal voting about it and bind the minority. To be free doesn't mean to do whatever one likes, and colective action requires that decisions taken by the group as a hole or, if impossible, by the majority, are accepted and executed by all.
Finally, I think we could fix some of these procedures, like emergency-leaders, voting, issues remaining completely individual choices etc., so we avoid discussions in future "
OOC: Tim, Dietrich didn't buy anything at the catacombs because I don't have any manual or so available about magic items etc. (I'm in England and without gaming infra-structure) He has some reserves and, if you could help me, proposing stuff, should be able to buy it without your generous offer. Thanks!
**BigTim** Saturday December 4th, 2004 8:17:21 PM
Deitrich, send me a copy of your character sheet at clangden_milo@hotmail.com.ill see what you might benefit from the most.
Vorelle [illegal second post] Monday December 6th, 2004 1:33:17 AM
"I h-h-ave a m-magic b-b-bow," Vorelle reminds Olyn.
DM Jamie Monday December 6th, 2004 6:07:47 AM
I have to work for a group of generals today so my post will be either when they give me a lunch break or after I get home from work. And then to continue with some modem of continuity I will continue to post at that same time the rest of the week.
Berlon d20+12=13 d20+12=30 Monday December 6th, 2004 7:56:20 AM
Berlon counts his miscellaneous income last week from some of his minor concoctions. Six gold, five silver (Craft: Alchemy check 13 / 2) He scratches his head as he tries to figure his next step. He knows he needs to do more good works for Alemi, and to do that he needs to generate more income. It will mean closing the shop temporarily, but eventually Berlon hopes to have the store open around the clock, even having someone run the store for him when he is out of town.
Berlon continues to help those who need it, and is encouraged when he sees fewer flu cases this week. In what little spare time he has, he starts working on a Tanglefoot Bag. He doesn't like what they are for, but he learned while fighting the goblins that attacked his village that sometimes drastic measures are needed. Berlon gathers the materials needed (17 gp worth) and starts work. (Craft: Alchemy DC 25, skill check 18+12=30) After a long first day's work, he is more than pleased with the result: it will be finished in one week.
OOC: Tanglefoot = 500 sp (page 70 PHB) Skill check = 30*25= 750 out of 500, object complete. Added 6 gold, 5 silver, then minus 17 gold)
LOG ON